GWI leading Caribbean’s water security efforts – Croal

Guyana’s sole water utility company, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), through its strategic leadership, has been recognized as one of the key agencies spearheading the Caribbean region’s water security efforts.
On Thursday, GWI hosted its 23rd awards ceremony at the Royal International Hotel, Georgetown.
The annual event brings together company leaders from across several administrative regions, and highlights the commendable work they have done for the organization over the years.
Delivering the feature address at the ceremony was Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal, who spoke about GWI’s participation in several key water security forums and engagements within the Caribbean region.

Minister Croal boasted that GWI did not only attend these events but has also solidified itself as one of the main contributing agencies towards the region’s water security agenda.
“It also gave voice to a shared regional vision; one where the Caribbean nations lead boldly in water policy, water technology, and the protection of this most precious resource, and it was GWI that stood out at the centre of those conversations – not as a passive observer but as an active, respected leader in the Caribbean. We must now, therefore, carry that momentum forward.”
Moreover, according to Croal, more than 97% of Guyana’s urban population, and more than 91% of communities to date enjoy access to potable water, providing first-time access to potable water to over 40,000 residents nationwide.
On this point the minister informed that with the construction of several water treatment plants across the country and several other initiatives, the dream of achieving full water coverage will soon become a reality.

“We are steadily advancing towards full national coverage. To further strengthen water management, more than 87,000 meters have been installed to date, increasing meter coverage to 76% at the end of 2024. Treated water coverage moved from 52% to close to 70% at the end of 2024. And by the end of this year, we will be very close to 90% – and at the same time, water losses reduced from 69% in 2020 to 63% at the end of 2024, with a further reduction of non-revenue water to at least 60% in this year.”
The minister added, ““This therefore brings a total investment to about $70 billion over a five-year period; an unprecedented allocation aimed at delivering equitable access to clean, affordable water for all Guyanese.”
Meanwhile also speaking at the event was GWI’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaik Baksh who spoke about the importance of excellent customer service as the organization continuities to expand.
“So, billions and billions of dollars, never before in the history of this country, has been put into the water sector to deliver quality water to the people of our country. And I must add that what is required – and this is a work in progress – what is required is dedication by the employees. You have a role to play in all of this.”
“We have many employees doing a great job, but still, we need to have more out of you if we are to continue serving the population with quality water; with a high level of service, so quality is the buzzword, and this can only happen if you, in your interaction with the customers out there, pay special attention to your tasks in ensuring that you treat the customers with courtesy, that we deal with the complaints coming forward.”
The 2025 budget earmarked $23.1 billion for advancements in the water sector, with a particular focus on increasing access to clean and safe water. This includes $2.2 billion for new water supply systems in hinterland communities. The government also plans to invest $15 billion to expand drainage and irrigation projects.