Latest update September 24th, 2026 10:31 AM
PSC, GCCI welcome govt’s ‘Rescue Georgetown’ initiative
Kaieteur News – The Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce (GCCI) on Friday expressed their support for the government’s launch of ‘Rescue Georgetown’.
An overhead shot of a section of Georgetown (PSC)
On Monday, President Ali reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transforming Georgetown into a sustainable, modern capital while preserving its unique heritage and identity.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Office of the President, the head-of-state said the initiative will form part of a broader national strategy for sustainable urban development, starting with the capital and its surrounding region.
“The mismanagement and inefficiency through which the city is managed can no longer be tolerated. It is time for us, as citizens and as a country, to take charge of the situation. We are advancing the rescue of Georgetown,” President Ali declared.
The government has invested billions in drainage upgrades, road improvements, housing expansion, and a high-span bridge over the Demerara River over the last five years, all aimed at improving the quality of life and supporting economic growth.
These works will now be complemented by the City Revival Plan, launched in collaboration with the King’s Foundation.
In a statement, the PSC said that the initiative represents “a critical intervention to restore dignity to our capital city and position Georgetown as a modern, vibrant, and sustainable hub for business, culture, and national pride.”
“For decades, Georgetown, once hailed as the Garden City of the Caribbean, has suffered from neglect and chronic mismanagement. Years of partisan obstruction and administrative failures have left behind clogged drains, garbage-strewn streets, deteriorating roads, dilapidated markets, and neglected public spaces. These conditions have not only undermined the quality of life for citizens but have also constrained investment, trade, and the ease of doing business,” the PSC said.
The PSC said it welcomes the ‘Rescue Georgetown’ project as a timely and necessary response. “Its focus on improving waste management, rehabilitating canals and drainage systems, upgrading markets, modernising infrastructure, and restoring parks, boulevards, and heritage landmarks will significantly enhance the city’s functionality and attractiveness.”
The commission said that the organisation of vending zones and improved urban order will create a safer and more efficient environment for commerce.
“As businesses, we know that Georgetown is the first place most investors will see in Guyana, and we only have one chance to make a good first impression. That means putting every effort into ensuring our capital is clean, safe, and modern, sending the right message to investors and visitors alike,” the statement said.
Similarly, the GCCI in a statement issued on Friday said it noted that the initial plans by the government include keen focus on sustainable urban development, heritage preservation, biodiversity, citizen engagement, upgraded drainage networks, architectural restoration, waste management and city upkeep.
“These areas are crucial factors in the creation of an attractive investment and tourism destination. The GCCI readily supports the efforts of the government to improve the standard of living, access to services and quality of life for the people of Guyana,” GCCI said.
Additionally, the Chamber welcomed the government’s focus on efficiency and modernisation through the introduction of electronic identification cards (e-ID), online applications for passports and the renewed enhancement of the city. The Chamber, as a business support organisation, has long-advocated for the advancement of digitalisation in Guyana; as such, the GCCI is pleased that e-IDs will be implemented by the end of this month.
“This initiative can also support transparency during electoral seasons as it provides a platform for identification of voters through biometrics and for the authentication of ID cards. The decentralisation of the passport application process and introduction of an online process will provide a time-saving and convenient procedure for citizens, while increasing accessibility of services. As Guyana’s business landscape continues to evolve, the drive to enhance the city will also lend to a more investor-friendly environment.”
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