
The government has defended its significant investment in infrastructure, saying it is crucial for long-term economic resilience and prosperity.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, told the BBC World Service programme World Questions that the government is pursuing a dual strategy: addressing immediate needs while laying the foundation for sustainable development.
“We have to ensure the resilience and sustainability of our economic growth and invest in areas that matter for long-term competitiveness, stability, and prosperity,” he said.
Dr. Singh noted that infrastructure investments are intended to support the country’s competitiveness and stability as it manages wealth from its rapidly expanding oil sector.
However, other panelists cautioned that infrastructure alone cannot guarantee inclusive development. Entrepreneur and women’s advocate Ayodele Dalgety-Dean said national wealth must also be translated into stronger social systems.
“Yes, we need infrastructure, but we also need stronger schools, functioning child protection services, mental health support, and effective justice systems,” she said.
Private sector representative Clinton Urling emphasised the need for equitable distribution of economic gains to address persistent challenges, including poverty and inequality.
Dr. Singh informed the BBC that over the past five years, more than 100,000 jobs have been created, cash grants have been allocated to citizens, more than 50,000 house lots have been distributed, and more Guyanese are now homeowners and car owners.
Guyana has also experienced average real growth of about 36 percent between 2021 and 2025.








