$880M Charity Wharf a long-term investment in people, regional development – Ramraj 

– as project advances to improve river transport, trade, flood protection

The Government of Guyana is moving steadily ahead with the $880 million Charity Market Wharf project, a major infrastructure initiative expected to significantly enhance river transportation, trade, livelihoods and flood protection for communities across Region Two and the wider Pomeroon area. During a site visit, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj underscored the importance of the project as part of the administration’s broader agenda to modernise transport networks while strengthening climate resilience. According to the Minister, the facility goes beyond physical infrastructure, representing a long-term investment in people and regional development. He explained that improved docking facilities, reinforced river defences and designated spaces for commercial activity will directly support income generation, encourage trade expansion and open new opportunities for investment in Region Two.

The Charity Market Wharf project entails the construction of a modern, climate-resilient marine facility designed to serve the largest community on the Essequibo Coast. Works include the installation of 160 stressed concrete foundation piles, each approximately 130 feet long, along with a reinforced concrete wharf deck and superstructure.
The design also incorporates a floating dock to accommodate vessels of varying sizes, provision for a future GIP crane to assist with offloading and cargo handling, a covered passenger deck and waiting area, administrative facilities, parking spaces, and upgraded river defence works to protect the wharf frontage from flooding. Additionally, two separate sections of river defence 500 feet upstream and 500 feet downstream of the wharf will be upgraded under a parallel contract, further strengthening flood protection along the Charity waterfront.

Safer, more efficient access
Minister Ramraj noted that the new wharf will provide safer, more efficient access to markets for farmers, traders and riverine communities, while also laying the foundation for increased economic activity and tourism development along the Essequibo Coast.
He further highlighted that the project aligns with the Government’s commitment to climate-resilient development, particularly in flood-prone coastal and riverine areas.

“This wharf is not just a structure; it is an investment in people, in farmers, in businesses and in the long-term development of Region Two. When we improve docking facilities, protect the riverbank and create space for commerce, we are directly improving incomes, encouraging trade and opening new opportunities for tourism and investment in this region.” he said
Minister Ramraj further explained that the facility is designed as a modern, climate-resilient structure that will provide critical flood protection for the community, while at the same time expanding transport services and stimulating economic activity, reflecting the type of development being advanced by the Government. Project Manager for Sea and River Defence, Jermaine Braithwaite, explained that the facility is expected to significantly expand marine services and commercial activity in Charity. He noted that the wharf will support the docking and off-loading of agricultural produce and passengers, while also stimulating tourism and broader economic growth. Braithwaite added that, over time, the development is expected to transform the Charity waterfront into a vibrant business hub, bringing sustained benefits to the community.
“This wharf is intended to expand docking and off-loading services for agricultural produce and passengers and to boost tourism and economic activity to a great extent… In the long term, we envisage this entire portion of the Charity waterfront being developed as a business hub, facilitating commercial activity and bringing tremendous benefits to the community,” he said. Chief Sea and River Defence Officer Kevin Samad indicated that the Government is keen on accelerating the construction timeline, particularly as the most challenging phase, driving the 160 foundation piles, is currently underway. He explained that once this phase is completed, the remainder of the construction is expected to progress more rapidly. Samad also noted that a significant portion of the work, including fabrication of concrete piles and components, is being completed off-site and transported by barge from the Pomeroon, which may not be immediately visible at the project location. “Driving the 160 piles is the hardest part of the work. Once we complete this phase, the remainder of the construction will progress much easier, and we are pushing the contractor to have this project completed in 2026,” he noted. He explained that all concrete piles and structural components are being fabricated at the contractor’s yard and transported by barge from the Pomeroon, noting that due to limited on-site storage, materials are delivered as needed, which makes the extent of progress less visible at the project location at this stage. Regional Vice-Chairman Humace Oodit welcomed the project, noting that it will have a far-reaching impact on farmers, traders and riverine communities throughout the Pomeroon. He pointed out that improved access to markets and increased trade will encourage higher production levels and greater investment in agriculture and business across the region.
“We want to thank His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali and Minister Ramraj. Charity residents will feel more secure and confident with this important project in their community.” Regional Vice Chairman said. The project is currently at approximately 14 per cent completion, with substantial progress anticipated by the second quarter of 2026 and completion targeted for the last quarter of 2026.