President Dr. Irfaan Ali has urged Guyanese to enter 2026 with “strong conviction” and national unity, outlining a broad agenda that includes a national digital backbone for public services, reduced taxation, and major infrastructure and energy projects.
In his New Year’s address to the nation, the Head of State said Guyana’s story is no longer framed by “potential alone,” but by “progress made real,” pointing to what he described as tangible improvements in 2025 such as expanded and modernised hospitals, new schools and classrooms, improved water access from treatment plants and wells, increased household incomes, and a reduction in serious crime.
The President also highlighted major infrastructure works, including the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, describing it as “a symbol of the transformation that is taking place” and a sign of a more connected country.
Ali said Guyana moved forward “steadily” in 2025 despite global uncertainty and what he called a cloud hanging over the Essequibo region, emphasising that economic expansion must translate into better living conditions and greater security for citizens.
Looking ahead, he said 2026 will focus on reshaping how national growth serves communities, with government services to be improved through a “national digital backbone” aimed at making interactions with the state simpler, faster and more transparent. He said services would continue to move closer to communities to make efficiency a “daily reality.”
The President signalled measures to increase disposable income, including “direct support, higher wages, and reduced taxation,” and said a modern national E-ID system will be introduced to simplify access to services.
He also promised an accelerated housing drive, geared toward “building a nation of homeowners grounded in security and dignity.”
Ali outlined community-level upgrades, including improved roads, lighting, playgrounds and sporting facilities, alongside initiatives to strengthen manufacturing, expand tourism and support enterprise.
He also pointed to plans to grow the “Orange Economy” by investing in artists and cultural entrepreneurs to convert creativity into sustainable livelihoods.
On energy, the President said the administration will push ahead with bringing gas to shore to generate “cleaner, cheaper electricity,” while promising new hospitals and water treatment plants to expand healthcare and water access.
He added that road safety would be strengthened through firmer enforcement and modern technology, and that the Disciplined Services would receive greater resources, training and technology to protect citizens and Guyana’s borders.
“These are not promises for some distant future,” he said, describing the plans as already in motion.
The President made a direct appeal to young people, telling them they “matter,” are “needed,” and must be placed at the centre of national life through education, skills training, entrepreneurship, employment, culture, sport, technology and service.
He said productivity should be viewed as a pathway to “dignity, independence, and prosperity.” The Guyanese Leader also issued a personal pledge to govern with “integrity, discipline, and compassion,” to listen before deciding, and to prioritise the national interest.
He said his government would guard the country’s resources, expand opportunity, and ensure development reaches “every region and every community.”
On national security and sovereignty, the President said Guyana will remain prudent and alert, supporting security services and preserving peace through diplomacy, readiness, partnerships with allies and national unity.
He reaffirmed support for peaceful resolution “in accordance with international law,” while stressing that preparedness allows the country to move forward “with confidence, not fear.”
He closed by urging Guyanese to reject division, embrace cooperation, and pursue a prosperous 2026 with unity as the country’s “shield.”
“Onward, upward together to a brighter, stronger, and more prosperous 2026,” he concluded.
