GUYANA’S estimated population has surpassed the one-million mark for the first time, reflecting the country’s continued demographic growth and underscoring the need for sustained investment in housing, healthcare, education and employment opportunities.
According to the Bureau of Statistics, Guyana’s estimated population reached 1,025,334 by the end of 2025, up from 956,044 at the end of 2024. The figures were released on Friday as part of the country’s observance of World Population Day 2026.
In his World Population Day message, Chief Statistician Errol La Cruz said the latest estimates highlight Guyana’s evolving demographic landscape and reinforce the importance of reliable population data in guiding national development.
“Official statistics provide an objective foundation for measuring progress and improving the well-being of our young people, whose aspirations will shape the future of Guyana,” La Cruz said.
The Bureau noted that Guyana has experienced steady population growth over the past decade. The 2022 Population and Housing Census recorded a 17.63 per cent increase over the 2012 Census, with a population of 878,674.
The latest estimates also point to the country’s youthful population. At the end of 2025, 61 per cent of Guyana’s population was below the age of 35, while 42 per cent was under the age of 25. The largest age group for both males and females was those between 25 and 29 years.
According to the Bureau, this demographic profile presents significant opportunities to expand the workforce, strengthen innovation and accelerate economic and social development. However, it also increases demand for essential services, including housing, healthcare, education, transportation and employment.
The Chief Statistician said recent labour force data reflects encouraging progress, with overall unemployment declining from 14.5 per cent in the third quarter of 2021 to 6.8 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2024. Youth unemployment also fell sharply during the same period, dropping from 31.9 per cent to 12.1 per cent.
La Cruz emphasised that timely, reliable and accurate official statistics remain critical to evidence-based policymaking, enabling the government to anticipate future needs, identify emerging trends and ensure resources are directed where they are needed most.
“As we commemorate World Population Day, I encourage all stakeholders to continue supporting the production and use of quality data, recognising that every statistic contributes to a deeper understanding of our population and a stronger foundation for Guyana’s sustainable development,” he said.
World Population Day is observed annually on July 11 to raise awareness of global population issues. This year’s theme is “Realising the hopes and aspirations of young people – today and for the future.”
(EXRACTED FROM THE GUYANA CHRONICLE)