By: Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News|
Preliminary findings from Guyana’s 2022 National Population and Housing Census indicate a notable demographic shift, with males now slightly outnumbering females for the first time in over a decade.
According to the data released on Monday, Guyana’s population stood at 878,674 as of September 2022. Of that total, 50.18 per cent were males (440,882), while 49.82 per cent were females (437,792). This results in a sex ratio of 101 males for every 100 females, an increase from a ratio of 99 males per 100 females recorded in the 2012 census.
The census also highlights regional differences in population distribution. In hinterland regions, the sex ratio is significantly higher, with 113 males per 100 females, compared to 99 males per 100 females in coastal regions. Both geographic areas recorded an increase in the male population when compared to the previous census.
In terms of nationality, the census shows that 96.93 per cent of residents are Guyanese, while the foreign-born population accounts for 3.07 per cent. This represents a marked increase from 2012, when foreign-born residents made up just 1.10 per cent of the population.
Minister with responsibility for Finance in the Office of the President, Ashni Singh, noted that much of the foreign-born population comprises individuals from neighbouring countries, including investors and students, as well as migrants.
He explained that cross-border migration has become a growing reality for Guyana, particularly in recent years. Beyond investors and students, many migrants—especially Venezuelans—have relocated to Guyana due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in their home country, settling in communities across the country.
The census further revealed that Region Four (Demerara–Mahaica) remains the most populous, accounting for 39.58 per cent of the national population. Region Eight (Potaro–Siparuni) continues to be the least populated, with just 1.55 per cent. Meanwhile, Region Seven (Cuyuni–Mazaruni) recorded the highest annual population growth rate at 5.14 per cent.
Overall, coastal regions are home to 87.16 per cent of Guyana’s population, while hinterland regions account for 12.84 per cent.
Housing data from the census shows 271,946 households, an increase from 204,625 in 2012. The average household size declined from 3.65 persons to 3.23 persons, reflecting changing family structures. Population density also rose, increasing from 3.47 to 4.09 persons per square kilometre, with Region Four identified as the most densely populated area.
Officials say the preliminary findings will help inform future planning and policy development, particularly in areas such as housing, infrastructure, migration management, and social services.
