Bartica tourism strategy: “It is time we take the regatta global” – Govt mulling plans for expansion

President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced bold plans to elevate the Bartica Regatta into a world-class event, declaring it is “time we take the regatta global” in the same way Guyana has successfully marketed cricket to the world.
Speaking at a People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) rally on Saturday in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), the Head of State laid out a sweeping development agenda that ties tourism, infrastructure and social investment together, promising to transform the region into a competitive hub for sports, leisure and economic growth.

Tourism strategy
Major investments will also be made in drainage and irrigation, with Bartica set to benefit from a modern drainage system featuring concrete drains and pumps to prevent flooding during heavy rainfall. The President underscored that sanitation is a crucial part of the tourism strategy, noting that if Bartica is to be developed as a premier tourism hub, it must be kept clean.
This includes cleaning river ways and creeks, and constructing recreational facilities such as modern community grounds, multi-purpose facilities, and world-class night venues capable of hosting football, cricket and concerts.
Central to the tourism plan is the expansion of the Bartica Regatta. The President said the annual event — the oldest regatta in Guyana — should be marketed not just nationally but across the Caribbean and globally, making it a calendar highlight for international visitors. “You don’t build tourism by empty talk,” he stressed. “You build tourism by investing in infrastructure, in facilities, in people and in events. We will work with you in Region Seven to build your tourism product strong and marketable.”

Security, more enhancements
Security will also be enhanced, with plans for expanded street lighting and comprehensive CCTV coverage to protect residents, families and visitors. Recognising the social challenges often associated with mining towns, President Ali pledged Government support for churches, temples and mosques to help address community issues with direct funding to religious organisations to aid in fostering positive social development. In education, the President highlighted the need for at least 15 school extensions across Region Seven, promising to complete all of them. He also emphasised expanding technical education in collaboration with the private sector, to train operators, mechanics and electricians — building the skilled workforce needed to drive the regional economy.
Dr Ali said the Government has already identified the top priorities for each village in Region Seven, including economic expansion and diversification, construction of all-weather access roads for farms, mining and forestry, as well as expanded housing support. He committed not only to building homes in Bartica, but also to helping every family in the region own their own shelter, in part by directly transferring funds to assist with construction.

Bartica Regatta
The annual April Bartica Regatta has long been a vibrant showcase of Guyanese culture and sporting talent. Featuring thrilling powerboat races — from small engine classes to the roaring 200-HP beasts — the event draws massive crowds to the banks of the Essequibo River. It is also a major economic driver for the community, boosting hotel bookings, guest house occupancy and local business revenues. Beyond the iconic boat races, other programmes are included such as this year’s dominoes matches; football; powerboat racing; a river swim; grass track events and athletics competitions. With the Government’s new vision to market and upgrade the Regatta, coupled with planned infrastructure and community development, Bartica appears poised to not only host Guyana’s most colourful water festival — but to turn it into a truly global attraction.