Sustainable tourism must be at the heart of Guyana’s development strategy, Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) President Mitra Ramkumar said on Saturday in a message marking United Nations World Tourism Day 2025.
“In Guyana, sustainability is not a trend; it is a necessity,” Ramkumar said, pointing to the country’s globally recognised biodiversity, intact rainforests, and Indigenous cultures.
This year’s World Tourism Day is observed under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” Ramkumar said the message aligns with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, which aims to turn the country’s natural and cultural assets into long-term livelihoods while conserving its ecological resources.
Over the past year, THAG has partnered with the government, local communities and the private sector to strengthen eco-tourism offerings, build capacity within villages, promote community-led experiences, support small businesses, encourage green infrastructure, and champion responsible travel.
“These efforts are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable tourism sector—one that brings value to all ten regions of Guyana,” he said.
Ramkumar cautioned that despite progress, “the journey toward sustainable transformation is far from over,” urging greater investment in human capital, forward-thinking policies, and leadership that balances environmental protection with economic growth.
“At its core, sustainable tourism means putting communities at the center of development,” he said. “It means ensuring that the stories of our people and landscapes are told with integrity, respect, and authenticity,” the THAG president added.
He called on local and international partners to support Guyana’s green tourism movement through investments in renewable energy, waste reduction, and water stewardship.
“Let us use this opportunity to reimagine the future of travel: a future that empowers our people, protects our environment, and leaves a lasting legacy we can all be proud of,” Ramkumar said.
