Dear Editor,
During election season, the spotlight is often on the “Leader” rather than “leadership”. True leadership means doing the adaptive work needed to address national challenges and bridge the gap between our current state and our goals and objectives. His Excellency Dr Ali exemplifies this type of leadership.
Since taking office, Dr Ali has prioritised Guyana’s development through practical solutions to national issues. He actively engages with communities to address concerns and answer questions. Unfortunately, some have used this open-door policy and leadership style to detract from his accomplishments. However, President Ali’s undeniable achievements underscore his effective leadership of the nation. Here is a brief overview.
Housing & Water
Over 50,000 house lots were distributed: 47 per cent to women, 54 per cent to young adults aged 21–35, and 90 per cent to low, moderate, and middle-income families.
Access to water in indigenous communities increased from 46 per cent five years ago to 90 per cent today.
Education
Dr Ali introduced the GOAL scholarship programme. This was a flagship programme which only promised 2000 scholarships over five years. By 2023, in just three years, that number had been surpassed. Today that number stands at 39,000, of which over 70 per cent are women.
Effective January 1, 2025, there are no tuition fees for new or continuing students pursuing diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, or PhDs across UG’s campuses and online platforms.
Infrastructure
The country now features an extensive network of roads and numerous construction sites distributed throughout its regions. In addition, the construction sector grew by 29 per cent in 2021, 26.3 per cent in 2022, 26.8 per cent in 2023 and 30.8 per cent in 2024 for an average of 28 per cent over a four-year period.
Financial
In December 2024, the Government enacted the Security Interest in Movable Property Bill, paving the way for easier access to credit. Bank deposits grew by over 20 per cent between 2023 and 2024.
Earlier this year, following bilateral discussions between His Excellency President Irfaan Ali and the Bank’s President Mr Benedict O. Oramah, the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) launched a US$1 billion oil services financing facility to support local businesses in the oil and gas sector in Guyana. Its objective is to strengthen economic trade and partnership between Caribbean countries and Africa.
Moreover, there have been ongoing discussions with foreign companies doing business in Guyana to encourage and allow Guyanese to purchase shares in those companies. This would allow Guyanese to participate directly in the development and transformation through equity participation. In addition, President Ali has created an environment of financial stability and incentives that has attracted foreign direct investments at unprecedented levels.
Foreign relations
Under President Ali’s leadership, Guyana has strengthened relationships with our Caricom neighbours, leading the way to ensure food security in the Caribbean. He has been a strong advocate for food security in the Caribbean, actively promoting initiatives and policies to address the region’s challenges. He is a key figure in the CARICOM 25 by 2025 initiative, aiming to reduce the Caribbean’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025, now extended to 2030. This initiative has seen progress with increased food production and private sector investment in agriculture.
Beyond the Caribbean, Dr Ali has established direct bilateral trade relationships with several other countries. Under his leadership, there are now direct flights between Colombia and Guyana and the Dominican Republic and Guyana.
Finally, through his unwavering commitment to national unity and development, Dr Ali has spearheaded initiatives that have revitalised Guyana’s infrastructure, stimulated economic growth, and uplifted marginalised communities. His administration has prioritised investments in education, healthcare, and renewable energy, laying the foundation for a sustainable future. Beyond policymaking, Dr Ali’s ability to inspire and mobilise diverse sectors of society has fostered collaboration and innovation, driving Guyana toward new heights of prosperity.
Yours sincerely,
Floyd N. Haynes
