The newly commissioned Lethem Business Incubator and Agro-Processing Facility is set to drive significant economic development in Region Nine by opening new opportunities for agro-processors and small businesses.

Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues highlighted the transformative potential of the 181-million-dollar investment.

Minister Rodrigues emphasised that the facility will not only benefit Lethem but also neighbouring communities, serving as a platform for opportunity and empowerment. She described the initiative as part of a broader national strategy to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises and expand economic participation across Guyana.

“It forms part of a broader national strategy to strengthen small and medium size enterprises and expand economic participation across Guyana,” she said.

The Lethem Business Incubator and Agro-Processing Facility is expected to support more than 30 entrepreneurs and create at least 50 jobs, with room for further expansion.

It features modern equipment and upgraded systems and offers a range of free services through the Small Business Bureau—including training and capacity building—to help entrepreneurs launch businesses and become successful agro-processors. The Ministry of Agriculture has been engaged to assist farmers with transporting raw materials to the facility.

“This facility now has the capacity to support large scale agro-processing – this means farmers, entrepreneurs can move beyond selling raw materials, creating value added goods that are market ready and competitive both locally and internationally,” she added.

Meanwhile, new trade opportunities with Brazil are being explored to improve market access and create pathways for products made in Lethem to reach wider markets.

Minister Rodrigues called Saturday’s opening a landmark achievement and a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to delivering real results for the people of Region Nine.