By Khamisi Slowe
The Guyana Port Inc (GPI) yesterday commissioned its new US$4m cutter suction dredger during a ceremony at its headquarters at Support, East Bank Demerara.
The event, celebrated under the theme “Shaping the Future of Guyana’s Maritime Industry,” underscored GPI’s commitment to investing in sustainable dredging operations for Guyana’s future.
During the ceremony, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill highlighted the dredger’s significance in the evolving maritime landscape of Guyana.
“This investment demonstrates our commitment to modernizing our ports and ensuring they meet international standards,” Edghill stated. He further emphasized the dredger’s critical role in keeping waterways navigable, facilitating trade, and supporting the rapid growth of the economy. He noted that effective dredging of rivers and creeks is vital for improving shipping efficiency, promoting economic growth and advancing tourism.
The minister also recognized the pivotal role of the private sector in major investments like this one, urging other privately-owned companies to follow suit and invest in the economy.
Prittipaul Singh Jr., Managing Director of GPI, shared his vision for the company’s future with the new acquisition, expressing gratitude for the attendees’ participation in this transformative moment for GPI. He described the US$4 million investment in dredging operations as a commitment to a sustainable future for Guyana.
“This is more than just a dredger; it symbolizes our dedication to ensuring that Guyana remains competitive in the global marketplace. With this advanced equipment, we can enhance our capacity to handle larger vessels and improve operational efficiency,” Singh stated.
Designed for both shallow and deep-water operations, the new dredger will primarily be deployed along key shipping channels to remove sediment build-up and improve water flow. Its commissioning coincides with Guyana’s rapid growth in trade and exports, primarily driven by its burgeoning oil and gas industry.
“This investment isn’t solely about infrastructure; it’s about empowering our workforce and creating opportunities for professional growth,” the Managing Director added, emphasizing the company’s mission to cultivate individual talents that contribute to national development.
GPI has achieved milestones, including acquiring ISO certifications that affirm its commitment to quality management and safety. The company has also implemented advanc-ed training programmes to nurture the next generation of leaders within the organization, fostering a proactive and innovative workforce.
Singh further outlined GPI’s vision to expand into shipbuilding, which is seen as essential for meeting local maritime needs and reducing reliance on foreign vessels. This move would position Guyana as a competitive player within the regional maritime industry. Community impact remains a cornerstone of GPI’s strategy, prioritizing job creation and the development of local talent—currently, 95% of the workforce comprises Guyanese nationals.
Meanwhile, Joan Nadal Sastre, Head of Co-operation for the EU Delegation to Guyana, expressed pride in this significant milestone.
“Today marks a new chapter for our maritime sector. I remember when Mr. Prittipaul visited the Netherlands; he expressed his vision of bringing such technology to Guyana,” Sastre recalled. “This dredger will not only enhance port efficiency but also ensure Guyana is prepared for future demands. It exemplifies the vision and leadership propelling Guyana forward,” he added.
The event was attended by Bram van der Plas, Area Manager Caribbean, DAMEN Shipyards Group, Dr. Vishnu Doerga – Chairman of the Suriname Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC), maritime sector representatives, and other stakeholders in the private sector. The ceremony included a walkthrough of the dredger, showcasing its capabilities in efficiently clearing sediment while adhering to environmental best practices.
Established in 2019, Guyana Port Inc. was founded to address the market gap created by the country’s emergence as an oil-producing nation. In 2021, the company commenced operations, becoming the sole provider of a 2000-metric-ton floating drydock in Guyana. GPI aims to empower and equip local talent with the resources and opportunities needed to deliver innovative maritime solutions, revolutionize manufacturing through cutting-edge technology, and pioneer clean energy initiatives.
