Country Profile: Guyana
Guyana, located on the northern coast of South America, is bordered by the North Atlantic Ocean, Brazil, Suriname, and Venezuela. It boasts a diverse population of approximately 794,099, with significant East Indian and African descent groups shaping its culture. The country's economy has been rapidly transforming since the discovery of offshore oil in 2015, with a focus on hydrocarbon exports and sustainable forestry practices. Governed as a parliamentary republic, Guyana has experienced a turbulent political history since gaining independence from the UK in 1966, with recent leadership focusing on enhancing economic growth and social equity.
Geography
Guyana is situated in Northern South America, characterized by lush rainforests and a variety of geographical landscapes including rolling highlands and coastal plains. The country covers a total area of 214,969 square kilometers, making it the third-smallest in South America. Its natural resources include bauxite, gold, and diamonds, with significant forest coverage remaining intact.
- Area: 214,969 sq km (2023)
- Coastline: 459 km
- Land Boundaries: 2,933 km (Brazil 1,308 km; Suriname 836 km; Venezuela 789 km)
- Natural Hazards: Flash flooding during rainy seasons
People and Society
The population of Guyana is estimated at 794,099 (2024), with a rich tapestry of ethnic groups, predominantly East Indian (39.8%) and African descent (29.3%). The official language is English, making Guyana unique in South America. The country has a youthful demographic, with a median age of 28.7 years and a significant portion of the population living in urban areas, primarily in the capital, Georgetown.
- Ethnic Composition: East Indian 39.8%, African descent 29.3%, Indigenous 10.5%
- Urbanization: 27.2% of the population is urban (2023)
- Literacy Rate: 85.6% (2020)
- Life Expectancy: 72.4 years (2024)
Economy
Guyana's economy is experiencing rapid growth, primarily driven by the oil sector, which has significantly increased its GDP per capita. The economic landscape also includes agriculture, with rice and sugarcane as key products. The country aims to leverage its vast natural resources for sustainable development while facing challenges such as unemployment and inflation.
- Real GDP (PPP): $58.423 billion (2024 est.)
- GDP Growth Rate: 43.4% (2024 est.)
- Unemployment Rate: 10.2% (2024 est.)
- Imports: $10.956 billion (2023 est.)
Government
Guyana is a parliamentary republic, with a legal system based on common law and a constitution that has been in effect since 1980. The political landscape reflects a history of ethnic division and power shifts, with recent elections resulting in the presidency of Irfaan Ali since 2020. The country has a unicameral legislature and allows universal suffrage at age 18.
- Current President: Mohammed Irfaan Ali (since August 2020)
- Parliament: 72 elected members
- Next Election: August 2030
Military and Security
The Guyana Defense Force (GDF) consists of ground, air, and coast guard components tasked with territorial defense and internal security. With approximately 3,500 active-duty personnel, the military is equipped with a mix of older platforms and is focused on addressing regional security challenges, including illegal fishing and narcotics trafficking.
- Military Expenditures: 0.9% of GDP (2024 est.)
- Active Personnel: Approximately 3,500 (2025)
Energy
Energy generation in Guyana is primarily from fossil fuels, although there are efforts toward diversifying sources with renewable technologies. The country has made significant strides toward electrification, achieving 93% access overall, with urban areas at 98% coverage.
- Electricity Consumption: 1.07 billion kWh (2023 est.)
- Installed Capacity: 259,000 kW (2023 est.)
- Petroleum Production: 391,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Environment
Guyana is rich in biodiversity and is home to some of the largest unspoiled rainforests in the world. However, environmental challenges include deforestation and water pollution. The government is engaged in various international environmental agreements aimed at promoting biodiversity and combating climate change.
- Forest Coverage: 87.1% (2023 est.)
- Carbon Dioxide Emissions: 2.639 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)
Transportation
Guyana features an adequate transport network, with 55 airports and a significant merchant marine fleet. The transportation system is crucial for both domestic connectivity and trade, especially given its reliance on exporting natural resources.
- Airports: 55 (2025)
- Ports: 3 (with oil terminals)
Communications
The communications landscape includes a mix of fixed and mobile telephony, with 82% of the population using the internet. Government control influences broadcast media, with a few private entities operating under strict regulations.
- Internet Users: 82% of the population (2023 est.)
- Mobile Subscriptions: 856,000 (2021 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 794,099 | Estimated for 2024 |
| Area | 214,969 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $58.423 billion | Estimated for 2024 |
| Unemployment Rate | 10.2% | Estimated for 2024 |
| Life Expectancy | 72.4 years | Estimated for 2024 |
| Birth Rate | 16.68/1,000 | Estimated for 2025 |
| Energy Consumption per Capita | 46.045 million Btu | Estimated for 2023 |
| Electric Access | 93% | Total population electrification (2022 est.) |
| Agricultural Land | 3.4% | Land use as agricultural land (2023 est.) |
| Literacy | 85.6% | Estimated for 2020 |
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