Gy$15B Mazaruni River resort will boost Guyana’s tourism sector

By: Devina Samaroo

The suspense is over, the luxurious Aruwai Resort, conveniently located on the Mazaruni River, is finally opened for all and sundry to escape from the everyday hassle of life and enjoy nature at its best at the perfect getaway destination.

Named after one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Mazaruni district, the Gy$15 billion Aruwai Resort White H2O (Water) was officially opened on Saturday afternoon in the presence of government officials, the business community, and friends and family of the visionary proprietor and renowned Bartica miner Chunnilall Baboolall.

The project was approximately four years in the making and even amid the detrimental slump in gold prices worldwide, the Bartica businessman remained steadfast and determined to transform the small insignificant island into a beautiful edifice.

Baboolall noted that it was a challenging task, especially having to diversify from mining to tourism. He expressed sincere gratitude to former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds who had encouraged him to invest in other sectors of the country. Baboolall thanked his family for their support and the government for their contributions towards the development of the world-class resort.

Tourism Minister Cathy Hughes was in awe as she marvelled at the surroundings, unable to conceal her excitement. She was positive that Aruwai Resort had set the standard for quality and excellence to the country’s tourism product. She envisioned the magnitude of benefits this development will eventually contribute to Guyana’s tourism product and pledged her commitment to continue to market Guyana: South America Undiscovered.

Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Director Indranaugth Haralsingh joined in lauding the Baboolall family for their remarkable achievement and encouraged other miners to follow suit and invest in a sector that is sustainable.

Economic benefits

State Minister Joseph Harmon in his brief remarks, focused on the tremendous economic benefits this development will reap for neighbouring communities; and the entire country at large.

“It must be the fate that Mr Baboolall has in the future of this country that has driven him to this junction… Another important development that was a result of this resort is that it has produced a magnificent multiplier effect that ripples through the local communities,” Harmon said.

Already, Baboolall has constructed a new road from Bartica airstrip to the island. He also intends to construct an airstrip on the island and is in the process of developing the nearby White Water Falls to add to the nature experience.

As a result of these investments, Harmon noted that the real estate value for nearby lands will increase significantly; it will create new employment opportunities for local residents, opportunities will crop up for businesses through the supply of goods and services and the expected flow of revenue will contribute to the economic development of the region.

Regional Chairman Gordon Bradford also recognised the tremendous economic benefits this investment brings to the region.

The luxury resort contains 38 high-class suites and boasts a fabulous pool; and soon to come are spas; boutique; gift shop and gymnasium.

Vacationers will also enjoy exhilarating boat rides on the Essequibo, Cuyuni and Mazaruni Rivers and visit wonderful landmarks like Fort Kyk-over-Al and the local mining camps, the breathtaking White Water Waterfalls located right across the river from the resort.