Windsor Forest sea defence works advance into second phase

The Ministry of Public Works is advancing the second phase of sea defence works at Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara, as efforts continue to strengthen protection along Guyana’s low-lying coastline.

According to the ministry on Wednesday, the latest phase covers an additional 225 metres of sea defence and follows the completion of 300 metres of works in the community in 2025.

The intervention is intended to further strengthen the area against coastal erosion, tidal overtopping and flooding, which can threaten homes, agricultural lands and critical infrastructure.

With much of Guyana’s population and economic activity concentrated along the low-lying coastal plain, sea and river defence remains an important part of the country’s climate resilience programme.

The government has been investing in both new structures and the maintenance of existing defences across vulnerable coastal and riverain communities.

More than 35,300 metres of new sea defence were constructed over the past five years, while more than 425,800 metres of existing structures were maintained.

Additionally, over 6,000 hectares of mangroves were also restored and developed as part of efforts to improve shoreline protection.

Approximately $12.6 billion was spent on sea defence works in 2025, including projects at Amsterdam, Bengal, Buxton, Den Amstel, Moleson Creek and Onderneeming.

A further $11.3 billion has been allocated in 2026 to continue the development and reinforcement of marine defences nationwide.

The government has also been carrying out phased interventions in areas where continued erosion has weakened natural coastal barriers.

Earlier this year, an additional 200 metres of rip-rap protection was being installed at Cullen on the Essequibo Coast.

Chief Sea and River Defence Officer Kevin Samad said approximately 750 metres had already been completed there over five years, with the latest phase bringing the protected stretch close to one kilometre.

The ongoing 225-metre extension at Windsor Forest builds on the recently completed works and forms part of the wider programme to improve the resilience of communities exposed to coastal hazards. [DPI]