Guyana’s petroleum sector is rapidly progressing with first oil expected in 2020 with an estimation of 500,000 barrels per day. Hence, in the first decade, assuming that oil price remains stable at the US $50 per barrel, GDP could reach GY $2 trillion or US $9.7 billion. Therefore, Guyana will be in a financial position to truly transform itself into a country all Guyanese can appreciate. That is why both government and international agencies have attempted to engage persons in discussions on oil and gas revenues. Unfortunately, their seminars focused primarily on technical persons but these natural resources are owned by all Guyanese. That is why having opinions from anyone from the towns across Guyana is truly important. It is probably the first opportunity that regular persons have to voice their concerns on the Oil and Gas sector. 

In the months of September, October and November, Policy Forum Guyana organized three open space events in Georgetown, Linden and New Amsterdam under the theme “How can Oil & Gas Revenues contribute to shaping a secure and fulfilling future for all Guyanese?”  The Georgetown open space was held on the September 1, 2018, and there was a total of 26 persons present from 16 organisations. On October 6, 2018, we had the open space in Linden where 28 persons from 16 agencies in attendance. However, New Amsterdam open space had the largest turnout with a total of 72 persons from 14 NGOs present on November 3, 2018.