The Managing Director of the Guyana National Shipping Corporation (GNSC), Andrew Ashwood, Announces the Death of His Predecessor, Marks End of an Era
Georgetown, Guyana – In a solemn and emotional statement released Monday morning, Andrew Ashwood, the Managing Director of the Guyana National Shipping Corporation (GNSC), confirmed the passing of his predecessor, Mr. Harold Mentore, who served the corporation with distinction for over two decades.
Mr. Mentore passed away peacefully at his residence in Georgetown on Sunday evening, surrounded by his family. He was 76 years old. The announcement triggered an outpouring of tributes from both the public and private sectors, honoring a man widely regarded as a stalwart of Guyana’s maritime industry.
Andrew Ashwood, who succeeded Mentore in 2021, paid a heartfelt tribute during a press briefing held at the GNSC headquarters. “Today, we mourn the loss of a visionary, a mentor, and a devoted servant of Guyana’s shipping industry,” Ashwood stated. “Mr. Mentore’s contributions to the modernization of our port operations, employee welfare, and maritime safety will never be forgotten. His legacy is one of dedication, integrity, and patriotism.”
During Mentore’s tenure, GNSC saw a transformative shift in how it conducted business. From the digital modernization of shipping documentation to the expansion of port services, his leadership propelled the corporation into a new era of efficiency and regional relevance. He also championed environmental initiatives, promoting greener shipping practices long before it became a global mandate.
Ashwood also announced that GNSC will officially rename one of its key logistical warehouses in Mentore’s honor, in recognition of his impact. A book of condolences has been opened at the GNSC’s main office, and employees are encouraged to leave messages and memories in tribute to the late leader.
The late Mr. Mentore began his career at GNSC in the late 1970s and steadily climbed the ranks, eventually becoming Managing Director in 1998. Known for his hands-on leadership style and his ability to build bridges between government agencies and international shipping firms, Mentore helped position Guyana as a viable logistics hub in the Caribbean and South America.
His death comes at a time when the shipping industry in Guyana is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by the country’s booming oil sector. Many believe that the solid foundation he laid is now bearing fruit.
Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill also released a statement expressing deep sadness over the news. “Harold Mentore was more than a public servant—he was a national treasure. His knowledge, humility, and commitment to excellence have touched every corner of our maritime and transport sectors.”
Funeral arrangements are currently being finalized by the Mentore family and will be shared in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to maritime education initiatives—causes Mr. Mentore passionately supported throughout his life.
As Guyana mourns the loss of a maritime giant, the GNSC pledges to carry forward his legacy with the same passion, focus, and patriotism that defined his career.
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