UNDP Resident Representative for Guyana and Suriname, Gerardo Noto, concludes tenure

Mr. Gerardo Noto, who concludes his tenure on 30 November 2024, reflected about the warm reception he received when he began his journey in Guyana as the Resident Representative in July 2023. During his time in this role, Mr. Noto has been instrumental in driving forward initiatives that have made significant contributions to the development of both countries, as well as the broader goals of the UNDP’s sustainable development agenda.

Reflecting on his tenure, Mr. Noto emphasized the importance of collaboration and confidence in the exceptional capabilities of the UNDP Country Office team.

“I am convinced of the tremendous potential that lies in maintaining the strong, strategic partnerships we have cultivated together. Our partners represent the driving force behind Guyana’s ongoing transformation” said Mr. Noto.

During his service as Resident Representative, the UNDP added to these collaborative efforts through several key initiatives and projects that have made significant strides in strengthening and supporting human development through governance and institutional strengthening, digitalisation, inclusion and sustainable development in both Guyana and Suriname.

Governance and Institutional Strengthening

•    Democracy Talks: In 2024, through the Democracy Talks, UNDP in partnership with the European Union, diplomats, the Office of the Resident Coordinator, and the University of Guyana fostered dialogue among citizens, policymakers, and civil society leaders in Guyana. This initiative played a crucial role in enhancing understanding of democratic processes, elections and the strengthening of governance institutions.

•    Digital Kit for Democracy: The introduction of the Digital Kit for Democracy and the eMonitor+ system to the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) so that the ERC can leverage artificial intelligence to track and analyse hate content across various online platforms.

•    Training: UNDP provided conflict resolution training opportunities to the ERC.

•    Support the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) in its preparation for the November 2025 elections through the deployment of a Needs Assessment Mission.

Digitalisation

•    Digital Readiness Assessment – UNDP partnered with the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) and the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) to conduct a Digital Readiness Assessment (DRA). The DRA is a survey-based tool offering rapid, high-level insights into Guyana’s digital strengths and opportunities. The results of the DRA will offer strategic information for drafting a National Digital Strategy (NDS).

•    Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Development: As part of the continued drive to embrace technological innovations for development, the UNDP focused on improving ICT infrastructure in indigenous and rural communities that had no access to ICT previously. UNDP worked across the country’s 10 Administrative regions to improve the ICT infrastructure through solar energy, ICT hubs and technical training.

•    Systems for Governance (SIGOB): UNDP provided support to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) with the digitalisation of records and provided support in the strengthening of institutional capacities for the management of criminal case backlogs with the technical guidance of SIGOB.

Inclusion

•    Amerindian Land Titling (ALT): UNDP has supported the government’s efforts in ALT by providing technical assistance, funding, and capacity building to facilitate recognition of land rights for indigenous communities.

•    Being LGBTI in the Caribbean (BLIC): For other vulnerable populations in the country, UNDP engaged in the regional BLIC initiative to address human rights violations, negative attitudes and lack of social and economic inclusion faced by LGBTI individuals.

•    Women Empowerment and Gender Equality: UNDP is collaborating in the development of a Scorecard for the Women and Gender Equality Commission, and partnering with the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security for the achievement of a Gender Seal for Public Institutions.

Sustainable Development

•    Mainstreaming Low-emission energy technologies: UNDP has contributed to the mainstreaming of low-emission energy technologies such as solar PVs to support Guyana’s transition towards a green, low-carbon economy. Recently, 8 solar plants for potable water distribution were installed. Training was also provided in energy auditing and energy efficiency.

•    Solid Waste Management: UNDP has started a Solid Waste Management Project to diagnose the current state of solid waste in Guyana, analyse the existing regulatory frameworks and conceptualise a strategic and actionable plan for waste management at the national level.

•    Small Grants Programme (SGP): Through the SGP which is funded by the Global Environmental Facility (GEF), the UNDP supported grassroots initiatives that promote sustainable development, foster local innovation and empower communities to take action on issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, and poverty alleviation.

New initiatives will be coming on stream some of which will see the UNDP supporting the Ministry of Health in the management of an enhanced health system.

A Time for Reflection and Gratitude

Mr. Noto expressed his gratitude and pride to have had the opportunity to contribute to the development of Guyana.

“Beyond the remarkable achievements, I have discovered countless treasures: this nation’s extraordinary natural beauty, the richness of its cultural, social, ethnic, and religious diversity, and the warmth and resilience of its people. These are the true gems of Guyana.”

He encourages the government, UN colleagues, and all stakeholders to continue working together in the spirit of collaboration and shared purpose, “The principles of inclusion, equality of opportunity, and the commitment to leaving no one behind must remain our unnegotiable guides.” While he also expresses his appreciation for their collaboration and unwavering commitment to the shared goal of sustainable development.

"Though my mission in the country is coming to an end, I hope this is not a goodbye. I will continue to follow with pride and hope the journey of the UN family and most importantly that of Guyana´s incredible people,” he concluded.

The UNDP looks forward to continuing its work in both Guyana and Suriname, building on the work done by Mr. Noto and his team, and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals in the region.

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This story was first published by UNDP Guyana.