Guyana is undergoing a profound digital transformation, with an ever-increasing portion of its population actively engaging with the online world. In 2025, the country’s digital culture is not just about basic connectivity but encompasses a vibrant ecosystem of social interaction, creative expression, educational pursuits, and growing economic activity. This surge in digital engagement is underpinned by significant advancements in technological infrastructure and a population eager to leverage the opportunities the internet provides.
The Connected Citizenry: Bridging the Digital Divide
By early 2025, a remarkable 81.7% of Guyanese individuals were using the internet, equating to approximately 681,000 users. This figure reflects a substantial leap in connectivity, with the number of mobile connections also mirroring this upward trend, reaching around 700,000, representing 84% of the total population. More than 85% of these mobile connections utilize broadband technology, indicating a growing capacity for richer online experiences. Projections suggest this upward trajectory will continue, with internet penetration anticipated to reach 75% by 2030. This expansion is vital, connecting previously underserved rural areas and bridging the digital divide that has historically limited access for many.
Social Spheres and Digital Tribes: Beyond Basic Communication
Social media platforms are central to the online lives of Guyanese citizens. In early 2025, an estimated 528,000 individuals identified as social media users, a number that grew to approximately 577,000 by late 2025. Facebook remains the dominant platform, used by over 80% of the population, serving as a primary hub for news, community interaction, and social discovery. Instagram follows as a significant visual-centric platform, particularly popular among younger demographics. Beyond these, WhatsApp is ubiquitous, functioning not only as a personal messaging tool but also as a critical channel for business communication and customer service. Emerging trends, such as the increasing integration of AI in social media for personalized content and enhanced user experiences, alongside the continued dominance of short-form video content on platforms like TikTok, are shaping how Guyanese connect and consume information.
Entertainment, Education, and the Rise of Online Commerce
Guyana’s digital landscape extends far beyond social networking. For those interested in arts and music, the internet has become an indispensable tool, fostering independent artist growth, facilitating viral music releases, and enabling collaborations with local dancers for music videos and performances. This aligns with broader trends in the Caribbean, where digital platforms empower creators. The online realm also offers significant avenues for entertainment and personal development. eSports and iGaming are gaining traction, with online gambling platforms providing a variety of games, often appealing due to favorable exchange rates for players. Furthermore, the internet is democratizing education, offering access to a wealth of tutorials and e-learning platforms like Udemy and Coursera, making knowledge acquisition more accessible than ever.
The e-commerce sector in Guyana is experiencing robust growth, projected to increase by 10-15% in 2025. While challenges persist, such as lower traditional banking penetration and logistical hurdles, businesses are increasingly adopting digital strategies. Restaurants are integrating food delivery apps, retailers are launching e-commerce websites or leveraging social media marketplaces, and service providers are managing appointments and payments online. The adoption of digital payments, including mobile money and card transactions, is also on the rise, signaling a shift towards a more cashless economy. Electronics currently lead as the top product category in online sales.
The Engine Room: Infrastructure and Economic Opportunities
This digital expansion is powered by a concerted effort to bolster infrastructure. Investments in fiber optic cables, cell towers, and Wi-Fi hotspots are enhancing connectivity nationwide. On a broader scale, significant infrastructure development is underway, including power plants, advanced data centers, and subsea cable landing stations. The government’s focus on energy infrastructure, such as the Gas-to-Energy project, aims to provide competitive energy prices, creating a lucrative market for AI-driven data centers and fostering industrial development. This infrastructure push is not only enabling enhanced digital services but also opening doors for Guyanese individuals to offer freelance and remote services to international markets, earning in stronger currencies. The country’s advertising market is also seeing a rapid expansion in digital formats, with social media advertising playing a pivotal role.
A Caribbean Digital Ambition
Guyana’s digital journey is occurring within a broader regional context. The Caribbean nations are collectively recognizing digitalization as a key enabler of economic growth, investing in resilient digital infrastructure and fostering tech-driven industries. This regional vision aligns with Guyana’s efforts to modernize its digital services, attract investment, and build a more interconnected and future-proof economy.
Looking Ahead: A Digital Future Forged
As 2025 progresses, Guyana’s online landscape continues to evolve at an impressive pace. The increased internet penetration, sophisticated social media engagement, growing e-commerce sector, and strategic infrastructure development are collectively reshaping daily life and economic opportunities. The nation is not merely adopting digital tools but is actively integrating them into its social fabric and economic engine, positioning itself for sustained growth and innovation in the digital age. This transformation highlights a population that is increasingly digitally literate and an economy poised to capitalize on the global digital economy.