“We are the most fortunate generation of Guyanese” – Dr Ashni Singh

…says previous generations have never had as many opportunities

Describing modern Guyana as an era of opportunity with the record-breaking economic growth and new public and private investments, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh has contended that no other generation of Guyanese has had it as good as current generations have it.
The Finance Minister was at the time addressing the 580 master’s degree graduates from the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme at the National Cultural Centre. He urged them to take advantage of the numerous opportunities, making it clear that this is the most fortunate generation of Guyanese to ever exist.

“We constitute perhaps the most fortunate generation of Guyanese ever to have lived. We are living in a Guyana that has the fastest growing economy in the world, where new investments are materialising on a daily basis. Where demand for goods and services are expanding at an exponential rate.”
“Where new skills and skill types are demanded at a rate that has never been seen before. And where entrepreneurial opportunities exist at a level that has never been seen before. So, you are literally living in an era of opportunity in Guyana,” Singh added.
In its April 2025 outlook, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projected that Guyana’s real gross domestic product (GDP) will grow by approximately 10.3 per cent this year, with non-oil GDP expected to expand by around 13 per cent — the highest in the region. The IMF also forecast a further 23 per cent increase in overall GDP for 2026.
Earlier this year, a staff team from the IMF completed their 2025 Article IV Consultation with Guyana. The consultation, held both virtually and in-person in Georgetown from February 24 to March 7, 2025, involved discussions with high-level Government officials as well as stakeholders from the private sector, labour unions, and banks.
In a subsequent statement, the IMF team commended Guyana’s impressive economic progress and transformation over the last few years, driven primarily by rapidly expanding oil production, robust non-oil output, and significant public infrastructure investments.
Guyana’s commitment to sustainable development was also highlighted, particularly its pioneering work in climate policy. The country is advancing its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), focusing on forest conservation and biodiversity.
The IMF also supported Guyana’s efforts to diversify its energy sources, including the Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Project, which is expected to bolster electricity provision and contribute to a cleaner energy matrix.
The IMF’s statement noted recognition of Guyana’s strides toward inclusive growth and economic diversification. With a strong emphasis on upgrading labour skills, addressing labour shortages, and increasing women’s participation in the workforce, it said the Government is positioning the country for sustained economic expansion.
Guyana is also rapidly approaching 2025 General and Regional elections, with General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, expressing confidence recently that the governing party is entering the 2025 general and regional elections with both momentum and a proven record of delivery.
Speaking just days after President Dr Irfaan Ali announced the election date for September 1, 2025, Jagdeo said the PPP/C is running on a foundation of transformation, competent leadership, and results.
“We’re not afraid of these elections. In fact, we welcome them,” Jagdeo had stated. “We’re ready because we have led with vision, substance, and accountability. Our track record speaks for itself—not just in words but in tangible achievements.”
In 2024, the PPP/C Government achieved significant milestones across multiple sectors. More than 3000 community roads and 200 bridges were constructed, while major highway expansions reduced traffic congestion and boosted economic zones.
The energy sector advanced through ongoing work on the transformative GtE Project, alongside investments in solar energy for electrification in multiple hinterland communities. Employment surged with the creation of over 60,000 jobs, while increased public sector salaries boosted disposable incomes.
Approximately 38,000 house lots were distributed, and affordable housing programmes improved living standards. Education saw the distribution of 50,000 scholarships and expanded cash grants for students, while healthcare infrastructure grew with ongoing efforts to construct 12 new hospitals and expand telemedicine services.
The agricultural sector benefited from billions of dollars invested to enhance food security and exports, while social welfare measures included increased pensions and bonuses for members of the Disciplined Services. In response to global increases in the cost of living, citizens also benefited from several interventions throughout the year, including the $100,000 cash grant.
Successful carbon credit agreements injected billions in direct support to over 240 Amerindian village economies, alongside advancements in the LCDS 2030, highlighting Guyana’s environmental leadership. Tax reforms alleviated financial burdens, and initiatives in technology, tourism, and digitised public services further modernised the country.