Guyana: Iwokrama and Beharry Holdings Establish Multi-Year Conservation Agreement

The Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development (Iwokrama) has entered into a multi-year agreement with Beharry Holdings Inc (BHI) to support biodiversity conservation efforts. The agreement, valued at GY$150 million, was officially signed on June 1, 2026, following its announcement during the 30th anniversary celebration of the Iwokrama Act on May 18.

According to Dane Gobin, the Chief Executive Officer of Iwokrama, the pact will provide GY$50 million annually over an initial three-year period. The funding will primarily support the Centre’s monitoring programme in its first year. Future discussions between Iwokrama and BHI will focus on additional areas of support, including education and awareness, research and science, and community relations.

Gobin expressed gratitude for the partnership, noting that it represents the largest local private sector contribution in the Centre’s history. He emphasized the importance of biodiversity conservation and encouraged other local businesses to follow Beharry Holdings’ example. This initiative aligns with the goals of the Global Biodiversity Alliance, which has been endorsed by President Dr. Mohammed Irfaan Ali.

In recent weeks, Iwokrama has gained recognition as one of the top 50 eco-tourism destinations worldwide. Suresh Beharry, Chairman of Beharry Holdings Inc, highlighted the company’s long-standing commitment to Guyana’s development while balancing it with the protection of the country’s natural resources. He acknowledged Iwokrama as a respected model for conservation and sustainable development, expressing pride in supporting its mission through this partnership.

The Centre also expressed appreciation for the ongoing support from the Government of Guyana, which has been instrumental in its operations.

Source: demerarawaves.com