-from infrastructure and tourism investments
-by Kimberly Giddings
Significant upgrades to infrastructure and increased tourism efforts have transformed this year’s Rupununi Rodeo, with government officials highlighting major improvements to facilities and road networks aimed at enhancing the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues made the revelation at the 2026 Rupununi Rodeo in Region 9 on Saturday evening.
She noted that the rodeo dates back to the 1950s and said the longstanding tradition has helped it grow into a nationally recognised cultural event.
“If any of you came to rodeo in the previous years, you can do a comparison and you will know that this year is the best year so far for rodeo. There’s been tremendous improvement here,” she declared.
Meanwhile, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill assured residents of Lethem that his ministry has committed to improving infrastructure in the region with plans to construct new roads and upgrade existing ones to boost tourism.
“We’re also very grateful that you could be able to traverse with much safety. We have already built out the bridges and we want to assure you the same way the road is right now from Linden to 58 heading to Mabura,we want to be able to bring that same quality of road all the way into Lethem and we want to be able to do that sooner rather than later,” he assured.
The Public Works Minister also highlighted the Monkey Mountain to Karasabai Road Project, noting that it will strengthen connectivity between Regions 8 and 9 with all 29 bridges slated for construction. He further assured residents that the ministry will continue working closely with communities to ensure improved daily experiences and easier access to Lethem.
Meanwhile, at the rodeo, President Irfan Ali did a walkabout where he interacted with attendees.