“Tourism is a way of valuing who we are as a people” – Minister pledges commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive sector

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, has underscored the importance of tourism in preserving Guyana’s identity and driving economic growth, while pledging Government’s commitment to building a sector that is sustainable, inclusive, and transformative. Delivering remarks to mark World Tourism Day 2025, observed this year under the theme ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation’, the Minister described tourism as a vital force that strengthens Guyana’s story, creates opportunities, and protects its heritage.

“Tourism creates opportunities across every region. It provides work for guides, hospitality staff and artisans. It sustains farmers, fishers, and transport providers whose services are essential to the industry. With the arrival of every visitor to Guyana, income circulates through our villages and towns, giving families the chance to improve their lives and communities the chance to invest in their future,” Rodrigues stated. She emphasised that tourism benefits go far beyond individual jobs, impacting entire communities and strengthening cultural traditions. “Tourism is also a way of valuing who we are as a people. When communities share their languages, crafts, food, and traditions with their visitors, they preserve and strengthen them. These exchanges give our cultural practices renewed meaning, ensuring that future generations inherit them with pride,” she explained.
According to Rodrigues, sustainable tourism demonstrates that development can reinforce, rather than erode, culture and the natural environment. She pointed to Guyana’s forests, rivers, and wildlife as central to both its identity and its tourism product. “Visitors seek out these landscapes and, in so doing, contribute to conservation efforts that safeguard them. This connection supports both growth and preservation, ensuring our natural heritage endures,” she added. The Minister further highlighted how the sector is opening doors for youth and women, empowering them to take leadership roles in guiding, hospitality, and entrepreneurship. Their contributions, she noted, are adding resilience and creativity to Guyana’s development story. As the country joins the global observance of World Tourism Day, Rodrigues reaffirmed Government’s pledge to support a sector that uplifts people and protects heritage while showcasing Guyana’s unique character to the world. “On this World Tourism Day, I reaffirm our commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive, and transformative tourism sector. Together, we will continue to support our people, safeguard our heritage, and protect our environment while sharing with the world the spirit of Guyana,” the Minister affirmed.