By Gwen Evelyn
Guyana’s oil and gas sector is roaring ahead, with the country rapidly becoming one of the world’s largest crude producers per capita.
At the heart of ensuring that this historic wealth benefits local communities is Michael Munroe, the newly appointed Director of the Local Content Secretariat. Energy Magazine sat down with Michael to discuss his vision, the challenges, and the immense opportunities ahead for Guyanese businesses and professionals.
A New Voice with Deep Roots in Local Content Michael Munroe, 30, brings a fresh and youthful energy to his role but with a strong foundation. Formerly a legal officer at the Ministry of Natural Resources’ Petroleum Department, he was intimately involved in drafting and advising on the Local Content Act – a key piece of legislation aimed at maximizing local participation in the industry.
“I feel humbled but responsible,” he shared, emphasizing that his leadership represents the government’s commitment to empowering youth in pivotal roles.
Having worked closely with the inaugural Director, Dr. Martin Pertab, Munroe is uniquely positioned to build upon a solid foundation. “Local content is about facilitating collaboration between oil and gas companies and local businesses,” he explained. “It’s about ensuring locals move from spectators to active participants and beneficiaries.”
Unlocking Opportunities
Guyana’s oil production is expected to exceed 900,000 barrels per day in 2025, with major projects like the upcoming second Gas-to-Energy phase and new upstream developments promising even more growth. Munroe is optimistic: “Every new project means more opportunities for Guyanese companies across 40 identified sectors in the Local Content Act.”
The Secretariat serves as the vital bridge, helping local companies get certified, understand procurement opportunities, and engage meaningfully with international oil companies. As new players enter the Guyana basin, strict adherence to local content obligations will remain a priority, ensuring sustainable benefits.
Local Content Framework
Acknowledging the Act’s relative newness, Munroe revealed plans for adjustments based on stakeholder feedback and operational experience. Key issues include tackling fronting practices and expanding the list of sectors open to local participation. Encouragingly, companies are increasingly moving beyond the act’s existing confines to invest more broadly in local suppliers. He also highlighted the Secretariat’s commitment to transparency and support.
How businesses can benefit
“We have an open-door policy and now a Local Content app that posts real-time opportunities, making it easier for businesses to connect with projects,” Munroe said. He encourages business owners to engage actively, leverage technology, and collaborate with industry and support organizations to maximize growth.
“We will try to increase our awareness so persons get a sense of what’s going on, what we’re seeing and some of the trends that we’re discerning from the data that’s coming in. So I would encourage those persons to be a bit more patient with us but at the same time to keep your ears to the ground because you know there are bountiful opportunities for locals to participate from the professional side in terms of employment as well as from the business side in terms of procurement of goods and services,” Munroe said.
Data-Driven Decisions and Digital Transformation
One of Munroe’s top strategic priorities is harnessing data. “We have a treasure trove of information,” he said. By analyzing spend, sector participation, and business activity, the Secretariat aims to provide evidence-based recommendations to government and industry—ensuring policies evolve to incentivize participation where it’s needed most. Technology also plays a critical role, with plans underway to digitize application and reporting processes, enhancing efficiency and responsiveness.
A Humble Leader with a Vision
When asked about himself, Munroe shared a grounded perspective: “I value humility and solutions-oriented dialogue. I believe the local content story is bigger than me; it’s about collective collaboration for future generations.” With a background in oil and gas law and legislative drafting, he remains focused on delivering meaningful impact during his tenure
Looking Ahead
As Guyana’s petroleum sector continues to surge, Michael Munroe and the Local Content Secretariat play a pivotal role in ensuring that local businesses and professionals share in the wealth. With a strategic focus on data, technology, inclusivity, and active collaboration, the Secretariat aims to set a global example of successful local content implementation—one that benefits not only today’s generation but those to come. Energy Magazine will continue to monitor and highlight the Secretariat’s impactful initiatives as Guyana’s oil economy unfolds.
