Prime Minister of Jamaica, Dr Andrew Holness, has lauded Guyana’s rapid transformation and expanding housing sector, describing the country’s development trajectory as “fantastic” and a model for the wider Caribbean region.
The Jamaican leader delivered a heartfelt address at the opening of the International Building Expo 2026 on Thursday evening at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, where he joined President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and thousands of Guyanese for the commencement of the four-day event.
Addressing attendees, Prime Minister Holness reflected on his last visit to Guyana nearly eight years ago and noted the remarkable changes that have taken place since then.
“The development can only be described as fantastic. As Guyana marks 60 years of independence, this expo provides an opportunity to recognise the country’s remarkable progress and to consider the decisions that will shape its development for decades to come,” he stated.
The Jamaican prime minister commended the Government of Guyana’s housing programme, noting that access to secure housing is critical to economic independence, community development and national prosperity.
He emphasised that home ownership empowers families to make long term decisions regarding education, savings and investments while creating stronger and more sustainable communities.
According to Dr Holness, Guyana’s housing strategy extends beyond the construction of homes and includes investments in roads, drainage, water, electricity and other essential services necessary for building thriving communities.
“Your housing programme has involved not just houses, but serviced land, roads, drainage, water, electricity and above all, from what I have seen and heard, you are investing in building communities,” he said.
The prime minister further highlighted the importance of integrating housing development with transportation networks, sanitation systems, healthcare facilities, schools and digital connectivity.
He also praised the government’s efforts to modernise and streamline approval processes within the housing sector, noting that reducing approval timelines significantly demonstrates strong leadership and effective governance.
Drawing comparisons with Jamaica’s own housing initiatives, Dr Holness disclosed that his country is currently working to address a housing deficit of approximately 150,000 housing solutions.
While financing remains available, he explained that Jamaica’s primary challenge lies in overcoming supply side constraints, including access to contractors, skilled labour and efficient approval systems.
Against this backdrop, he identified opportunities for greater cooperation between Guyana and Jamaica in the areas of housing construction, workforce development and emerging building technologies.
“I believe there are opportunities for Jamaica and Guyana to collaborate in the housing development sphere, particularly as it relates to labour and the deployment of new technologies in construction,” the Jamaican leader stated.
Prime Minister Holness also expressed gratitude to President Ali and the people of Guyana for the support extended to Jamaica following the devastating Category Five hurricane that impacted sections of the island.
He recalled President Ali’s visit to the affected communities and Guyana’s swift commitment to provide building materials and deploy members of the Guyana Defence Force to assist with reconstruction efforts.
The Jamaican PM said the gesture reflected the true spirit of regional solidarity and cooperation.
Turning his attention to the future, Dr Holness urged Caribbean nations to embrace innovation and modern technology to accelerate development and improve public service delivery.
“This is the era of getting things done at the speed of thought. We must move with speed and intent to ensure that we are not left behind by the changes in technology and that we don’t miss out on the opportunities created,” he said.
He noted that advances in artificial intelligence, construction technologies and modern materials are reshaping the pace at which governments can deliver projects and services to citizens.
Prime Minister Holness concluded by congratulating Guyana on its 60th Independence Anniversary and commending the organisers of the International Building Expo for bringing together stakeholders from across the housing and construction sectors.
He expressed confidence that Guyana’s continued growth and development will serve as an example for countries across the Caribbean and wished the nation continued success in the years ahead.
Held under the theme “Guyana at 60: Building Strong Foundations for a Sustainable Future,” the expo showcases the country’s progress in housing, infrastructure and construction as Guyana celebrates its 60th Independence Anniversary.