Guyana is Rich in Mineral Resources, Here’s a Detailed Overview of The Main Mineral Resources Found in Guyana

Guyana is rich in mineral resources, with mining being one of its key economic sectors alongside oil and agriculture. Here’s a detailed overview of the main mineral resources found in Guyana:

Main Mineral Resources in Guyana

1. Gold

• Most important mineral export.
• Found primarily in the interior regions: Regions 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), 8 (Potaro-Siparuni), and 9 (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
• Both large-scale operations (like Troy Resources and Zijin Mining) and small-scale alluvial mining dominate the sector.

2. Bauxite

• Guyana was once among the world’s top producers.
• Key mining areas include:
  • Linden (Region 10)
  • Aroaima and Kwakwani
• Used in aluminum production.
• Major companies: Bosai Minerals Group (China), RUSAL (Russia).

3. Diamonds

• Found mainly in alluvial deposits in the interior, especially:
  • Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni)
  • Region 8 (Potaro-Siparuni)
• Typically extracted via small-scale mining operations.

4. Manganese

• Recently revived — previously mined in Matthews Ridge, Region 1 (Barima-Waini).
• Manganese is used in steel and battery production.

5. Sand and Stone

• Widely available and mined for use in construction and infrastructure projects.

6. Other Resources (under exploration or less developed)

• Copper
• Rare earth elements
• Uranium (exploratory only, not currently mined)
• Iron ore (under exploration)

Mining Industry Overview

• Governed by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).
• Mining contributes significantly to employment and GDP.
• Environmental concerns and regulations are growing, especially with increasing deforestation and river pollution from artisanal mining.

Summary