Guyana’s National Water Council holds first official meeting

– seeks to strengthen water resource management

Guyana’s National Water Council (NWC) was reconvened Wednesday at the Ministry of Agriculture, marking an important milestone in the country’s commitment to the sustainable management and protection of its water resources, an NWC press release announced Thursday.

Established under the Water and Sewerage Act (2002; Cap. 30:01), the NWC is a statutory body responsible for the oversight, coordination, and integrated management of Guyana’s water resources.
According to the release, the first official meeting brought together representatives from key institutions, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Studies and the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at the University of Guyana, Guyana Water Inc., the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority, the Private Sector Commission, and the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Dr Garvin Cummings, Chief Hydrometeorological Officer and Chair of the Council, emphasised the critical role of the NWC in shaping a secure and sustainable water future for Guyana.
“Water resources are vital to national development, public health, food security, and environmental resilience. Through the National Water Council, we will foster cross-sector collaboration and advance policies that safeguard this essential resource,” he stated.
During the meeting, council members outlined initial priorities, including a comprehensive national review of water usage trends and the formulation of a National Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) policy.
Furthermore, the Council intends to strengthen collaboration with regional and international water agencies, research institutions, and civil society partners to encourage innovation and best practices in water management.
As Guyana faces the dual challenges of climate change and rapid economic development, the NWC will serve a strategic advisory and regulatory function to ensure that the nation’s water systems remain resilient, inclusive, and prepared for future demands.
The Council is scheduled to hold several meetings in the coming months as it seeks to deliver on its mandate in areas such as water quality standards, governance, and public outreach.
An early 2024 news report had noted that in response to the pressing need for efficient water management amid challenges posed by climate change, the Government of Guyana was considering the establishment of a National Water Council.
By mid-2024, the official gazette listed the Cabinet-approved appointment of persons to the Board of Directors of the NWC.
The NWC’s primary objectives include ensuring sustainable allocation and equitable access to water across all sectors; developing national policies and strategies for water resource management, including addressing climate-related challenges such as flooding and drought; enhancing water quality monitoring and regulatory standards; promoting education and public awareness on water conservation; and advising the Government on water-related legislation, governance, and strategic interventions.