Guyana is experiencing its most significant demographic surge since World War II, with new census data revealing a nation on the cusp of a major population milestone. According to preliminary findings from the 2022 Population and Housing Census released by the Bureau of Statistics, the country’s official population stood at 878,674 as of September 2022, with estimates projecting growth to approximately 956,044 by the end of 2024.
The comprehensive survey, presented by Chief Statistician Errol La Cruez and Deputy Chief Statistician Vanessa Profitt, indicates an 89% household coverage rate despite challenges in reaching certain segments of the population. La Cruez attributed the coverage success to sophisticated statistical methods while acknowledging difficulties in accessing some migrant communities, particularly undocumented individuals who may avoid official engagement.
This demographic expansion represents a dramatic increase from the 746,955 residents recorded in the 2012 census, marking the highest population growth rate in over seven decades. Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh highlighted how regional migration patterns, particularly from neighboring countries, have substantially altered the nation’s demographic composition. The foreign-born population has increased to approximately 3%, while the percentage of locally-born citizens has experienced a corresponding slight decrease.
Region Three (West Demerara-Essequibo Islands) has emerged as a particular growth hotspot, with its population now surpassing that of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) due to extensive new housing developments and land openings. This residential expansion is reflected in a 42% increase in building stock in recent years, signaling a nationwide construction boom.
The census also revealed evolving household dynamics, with average family size decreasing significantly from 4.7 persons in 1991 to 3.23 in 2022. Minister Singh credited this shift to increased home ownership stimulated by government incentives, including the removal of Value Added Tax on certain building materials.
While the political opposition has called for more immediate and comprehensive data release, government officials emphasized that both private sector stakeholders and public infrastructure planners will find the census information invaluable for future development strategies. A more detailed preliminary report is scheduled for publication on the Bureau of Statistics website, with a final comprehensive analysis to follow in due course.