We are building an energy mix of gas, solar, hydro – and eventually wind. In hinterland areas, microgrids, mini-hydro plants and solar farms power villages and critical services. On the coast, our flagship Gas-to-Energy project will add 300 MW to the grid, essentially halving current electricity costs. A planned second phase will deliver another 300 MW within five years. Meanwhile, we are constructing 33 MW of solar capacity along the coast, with the first installations expected to come on line by late 2026.

We have gone to tender twice for the Amaila Falls hydropower project and are now evaluating submissions. Once a developer is selected, the Amaila Falls facility will add 165 MW of renewable energy to the grid. We aim to sanction and commence construction within this term, between 2025 and 2030.

Our partnership is at its strongest; it is the best it has ever been. US oil majors’ early investments have deepened ties, and the full liberalization of our economy and a floating currency have made Guyana an attractive destination for American investment. The USA remains our largest trading partner, and we welcome ongoing trade delegations and investment. Beyond trade and energy, our security cooperation has also intensified. The USA has stood firmly with Guyana, particularly in response to external sovereignty threats.

We see the potential for American investment and partnership in nearly every sector. We are using oil revenues to modernize infrastructure, including roads, bridges and a deep-water port. We are expanding housing, healthcare and agro-processing. There is scope for data centres, renewable-energy projects, manufacturing for export and more. We remain fully open for business and actively court US firms at trade fairs and investment missions.

Guyana offers a fully liberalized economy with respect for the rule of law and clear local-content legislation that balances foreign expertise with Guyanese employment. Investors can repatriate profits, operate under stable tax and labor frameworks and partner with a government committed to maintaining a safe and transparent business climate. We welcome partners to invest, create jobs and grow alongside us.

I spent 36 years in uniform, beginning as an officer cadet in the Guyana Defence Force and retiring as Chief of Defence Staff. This career required me to study Guyana’s geography, politics and economy in depth. As I rose through the ranks, I pursued university studies in public management in Guyana, followed by a master’s degree at Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra in Santo Domingo.

I finally received a professional military education at the United States Army Command and General Staff College and the Inter-American Defense College. These experiences taught me leadership, disciplined analysis and the importance of civil-military collaboration, all of which have guided my transition into civilian government and shaped my approach as prime minister.