Guyanese businesses must take a more active role in developing local talent if the country is to fully realize the benefits of its expanding economy, Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith said on June 3.
Griffith explained that national development depends on shared responsibility between government, industry, training institutions, and the private sector.
“History will not judge us solely by how much wealth we generate. History will judge us by how effectively we transformed the wealth into opportunities for our people, stronger communities, competitive businesses, and a workforce capable of thriving in an increasingly complex global economy. That is why collaboration remains so important,” Griffith said on day two of the fourth annual Local Content Summit.
The minister said Guyana’s rapid economic transformation has created unprecedented opportunities, particularly in oil and gas and related industries, but stressed that the true measure of success lies in how widely those benefits are shared.
He explained that meaningful progress requires sustained investment in people, enterprises, and innovation across all sectors.
“I therefore challenge every stakeholder gathered here today to continue investing in Guyana’s talent, strengthening local enterprises, supporting worker development, promoting innovation, and embracing the principles that underpin our local content framework. Together, we can build a workforce that is skilled and competitive and prepared for the future. Together, we can create opportunities that reach every region and every community,” he said.
Griffith reminded businesses present that the Local Content Act was designed to ensure that national resources translate into local advancement rather than exclusion.
“The Local Content Act was not simply a piece of legislation. It was a declaration of national intent… It is value creation. It is about creating opportunities for Guyana’s own businesses to enter supply chains, expand operations, access finance, develop expertise, and compete successfully within a rapidly evolving economy. It is about creating pathways for Guyana’s workers to acquire internationally recognized skills and secure meaningful employment,” he explained.
