Iwokrama, Tourism Authority sign MoU to boost North Rupununi Ecotourism

The Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance community-based tourism in the North Rupununi, Region Nine.

The agreement focuses on marketing, product development, and capacity building through the creation of a community tourism training institute at Iwokrama River Lodge.

Dane Gobin, CEO of Iwokrama, said the MOU aligns the centre’s initiatives with GTA plans. “Iwokrama remains the only internationally certified area for recreational services in the region, a testament to our commitment to best practices. Our Good Travel Seal certification, first awarded in 2023, was renewed in 2026 following continued work in sustainability,” Gobin said.

Kamrul Baksh, Director of the GTA, said the collaboration underscores Guyana’s focus on sustainable tourism that benefits both communities and visitors. “By working together, we will continue to strengthen Destination Guyana’s position as a global leader in nature-based tourism,” he said.

Guyana has seen rising tourist arrivals, with 34,923 visitors recorded in January 2026, a 17.2 per cent increase from the same month in 2025.

The centre acknowledged support from the Government of Guyana, the North Rupununi District Development Board, and its local certification team.