Govt focused on improving quality of national events – Rodrigues

As part of its strategy to advance the local tourism sector, the Guyana Government is focused not only on introducing new attractions but also on improving the quality of traditional events.
This is according to Tourism, Industry, and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues.
“The Government of Guyana is also focused on strengthening the quality and visibility of our national events calendar. Through the Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), we are working to professionalise, expand and elevate events that have long been part of our cultural and sporting landscape,” the Minister said on Saturday during the opening of the Plaza Court Hotel on Main Street, Georgetown.
A clear example of these efforts, she said, is the ministry’s direct involvement in this year’s Rupununi Rodeo – an event that has been a part of the country’s cultural history for some 57 years.
The ministry now holds a seat on the organising committee, and according to Minister Rodrigues, the Government is committed to elevating the event as a key tourism and economic driver of the Rupununi and the entire country. She said, “This approach reflects a broader strategy, not only to introduce new attractions but to enhance the quality, visibility and economic impact of those that already define our national identity.”
President Dr Irfaan Ali has already announced that Guyana’s 60th Independence anniversary will be observed as a grand homecoming for the Guyanese diaspora and a bold launchpad for the country’s Orange Economy, with major investments planned in culture, tourism, film, entertainment and national infrastructure.
Mashramani 2026 is also being elevated. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson, has announced that the Government will invest over $120 million – the largest investment to be made – in making this year’s celebration a truly remarkable national experience.