President Irfaan Ali has unveiled a bold vision for Guyana’s Orange Economy, aiming to transform the country into a hub of culture, digital innovation, and creative industries alongside traditional sectors such as oil. His plan includes leveraging oil wealth to build infrastructure, develop human capital, and create opportunities for youth and women, particularly in Region Six (Berbice), through projects like the Palmyra Stadium, new beach cabins, and tech investments.
The government’s stated objectives are ambitious. They aim to turn cultural and creative skills into income, accelerate digital integration, expand technical training in hospitality and trades, and diversify the economy away from reliance on energy markets.
But there is a glaring question many are asking. How does this Orange Economy work when the lights keep going out?
Not a day passes in Guyana without significant sections of communities experiencing power outages. These blackouts are not minor inconveniences. They disrupt businesses, damage goods and electrical appliances, and halt the very industries the government says it wants to grow. Arts events, digital startups, hospitality services, and cultural festivals all rely on consistent energy supply. Without it, how can Guyana expect creative and digital sectors to flourish?
The vision emphasises empowering youth and women, integrating them into new business opportunities, and using oil profits to build a “future-ready” economy. Yet on the ground, many aspiring entrepreneurs and creatives face the stark reality of an energy infrastructure that fails to support the ambitions being broadcast from State House.
President Ali’s plan includes a “whole-of-government” approach, coordinating ministries to deliver services and opportunities across new sectors. Yet if power outages remain pervasive, no amount of coordination can shield small businesses from the consequences of spoiled goods, interrupted services, and frustrated talent.
An Orange Economy cannot flourish in the shadow of constant blackouts. The promise of culture, innovation, and opportunity is meaningless if electricity fails daily, leaving businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs to struggle in darkness while the government talks about a bright future.
