Muneshwers Limited and John Fernandes Limited, through their collaborative venture Cranes Guyana Inc., are set to inject over US$285 million into the development of a state-of-the-art port facility in the Berbice region of Guyana. This significant infrastructure project was initially unveiled during this year’s Local Content Summit, signaling a major boost for the nation’s shipping and logistics capabilities.
The ambitious port development is projected to generate approximately 1,000 jobs, providing a substantial economic stimulus to the Berbice region and contributing to overall employment in Guyana. Beyond job creation, the modern port is expected to significantly enhance Guyana’s capacity to handle increased shipping volumes and streamline logistical operations, addressing long-standing challenges in the country’s trade sector.
During a community engagement meeting held in New Amsterdam on April 12, President Irfaan Ali announced the imminent commencement of the project, stating that the sod-turning ceremony is scheduled to take place within the coming weeks. This announcement underscores the government’s strong support for the initiative and its commitment to infrastructure development.
“This is the type of transformational investment that we are proud to see coming to region six. The consortium has already begun raising capital, and the project will bring with it not only jobs but a complete shift in economic opportunities for this region,” President Ali emphasized. His remarks highlight the broader economic impact anticipated from the port, extending beyond direct employment to create new avenues for growth and prosperity in the Berbice area.
The Berbice port is an integral component of a comprehensive national infrastructure and economic expansion agenda being actively driven by the Guyanese government. A key objective of this broader strategy is to decentralize economic development across the country and strategically position Region Six (Berbice) as a vital hub for logistics, shipping activities, and manufacturing industries. This strategic positioning aims to reduce reliance on the capital city and foster growth in other regions.
Chandradat Chintamani, the General Manager of Muneshwers Ltd., revealed last week that significant progress is expected within a relatively short timeframe. He indicated that within 18 months – contingent upon the finalization of all necessary agreements – the first few berths of the deepwater facility are anticipated to be operational and available for vessels to navigate Guyana’s waters for transshipment purposes. This rapid timeline suggests an efficient and focused approach to project implementation.
The development of this modern port will address a long-standing infrastructure deficit that has hindered Guyana’s trade and shipping ambitions for decades. Historically, the country has been largely dependent on regional ports located in Trinidad and Jamaica to accommodate large cargo vessels. This reliance has led to increased shipping costs for Guyanese businesses and has frequently resulted in logistical delays, particularly during periods of peak shipping activity. The new Berbice port aims to alleviate these challenges, making Guyana a more competitive player in international trade and reducing its dependence on external port facilities.
SOURCE: Oilspot Suriname