In a promising development for regional connectivity, the much-anticipated ferry service linking Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago is slated to commence operations within the next three months.
Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali, recently delivered this update during his address at the opening ceremony of the XII annual IDB consultation with Caribbean Governors.
The ferry service is expected to facilitate the seamless movement of containers and passengers, presenting a significant opportunity to bolster trade relations and advance efforts toward ensuring food security in the region.
A boost for trade relations
President Ali emphasized that beyond facilitating trade, the initiative also aims to engage the regional private sector, encouraging similar ventures to fortify the supply chain and logistics landscape.
“We have launched the first phase of this. In another two or three months that ferry will begin operations, and we are hoping that this will instill confidence in the private sector, and for the IDB investors, this is an excellent opportunity to bring a regional consortium together,” he said.
Addressing shared challenges
Ali shared that this collaborative venture underscores the readiness of the three nations to address shared challenges within the Caribbean region.
He outlined the approach as part of a joint effort, referred to as ‘the coalition of the willing,’ clarifying that proactive participants would forge ahead with innovative projects while others could join when they are ready.
Establishment of a common ferry service
Discussions earlier in the week laid the groundwork for establishing a common Ferry Service within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
It was determined that the three involved countries would establish a company dedicated to driving the process of introducing the regional ferry service.
This company would comprise directors from each country to oversee operational aspects.
Technical inspection and collaboration
During the meeting, it was agreed that a delegation of technical officials from Trinidad and Tobago would visit Guyana and Barbados within the next two weeks.
Their mission is to inspect port infrastructure and assess the feasibility of accommodating the proposed ferry service, marking a crucial step forward in realizing this transformative regional initiative.
