Rupununi residents demand voice mining permit decision

Mar 20, 2026 News

A mining operation in Marudi Mountain, Region Nine

Kaieteur News – The South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) has called for formal inclusion in all future mining-related agreements affecting the South Rupununi.

The position was outlined during a meeting held on March 15, 2026, hosted by the SRDC and was attended by key stakeholders including the Rupununi Miners Association (RMA), the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), the Guyana Forestry Commission, and the Regional Democratic Council.

According to the SRDC, the engagement served as a platform for open dialogue, transparency, and shared responsibility on issues affecting mining activities in the Marudi area and surrounding communities, as well as broader concerns such as infrastructure, environmental monitoring, and community welfare. A key outcome of the discussions was the Council’s insistence that it be formally involved in any future negotiations or agreements concerning mining operations in the region.

It was further emphasised that the current operational framework and earlier agreements concerning mining activities were originally established between state agencies, companies, and other stakeholders, prior to the involvement of the SRDC. The Council said it is actively contributing recommendations to ensure that future agreements incorporate the voices and concerns of the communities.

SRDC stated that it must be included in any dialogue prior to any future agreements and will be part of any such agreements going forward.

Moreover, environmental oversight also featured prominently during the meeting, particularly in relation to tailings pond management and ongoing monitoring programmes. Following site visits, SRDC noted improvements in environmental management systems but stressed the need for continued vigilance. To strengthen oversight, it was agreed that monitoring sites would be jointly identified by the SRDC and the GGMC, with the Council also being granted unrestricted access.

In reinforcing its position on land use, the Council has also made it clear, “that only one designated area has been approved for mining, and there must be no expansion of mining or logging activities beyond the established concession.” SRDC statement follows call by Opposition parties, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) requesting that the government of Guyana to disclose its intentions regarding the Marudi Mountain mining area in Region Nine particularly the expanding mining operations there by leasing lands to a foreign entity.

Moreover, on environmental monitoring, the Council further emphasised accountability and access, stating that “the SRDC must have unhindered access to all monitoring sites.”

SRDC said the meeting was viewed as productive and constructive, marking a meaningful step forward in strengthening cooperation between communities, miners, and regulatory authorities. “At the same time, all parties acknowledged that there remains room for improvement, and further discussions are already planned to continue refining the monitoring of activities in Marudi,” it was stated

Further, the Council reiterated its resolute commitment to protecting the lands, environment, and rights of the people of the South Rupununi. “Development must proceed with responsibility, respect, and accountability. As custodians of our lands and stewards for future generations, we believe that true progress is only possible when economic activity, environmental protection, and community well-being move forward together,” it was stated.

A section of the meeting

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Commission, GGMC, Regional Democratic Council, SRDC, The Guyana Forestry

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