Matthews Ridge is a small mining community located in the Barima-Waini region of Guyana, South America. It is situated near the border with Venezuela, deep within the rainforest. The city was established in the 1980s due to the discovery of bauxite in the area, which led to the establishment of a mining operation. The mining company, Guyana Industrial Minerals (GINMIN), operates in Matthews Ridge.
The city has a relatively small population and basic infrastructure. It primarily consists of mining facilities, employee housing, and support services. The main economic activity of Matthews Ridge revolves around bauxite mining, with GINMIN being the major employer in the area.
Due to its remote location and rugged terrain, access to Matthews Ridge is primarily through air or river transportation. The city is surrounded by dense rainforest, offering opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.
Despite being a small community, Matthews Ridge has a rich cultural heritage with a diverse mix of ethnicities, including Indigenous peoples, Afro-Guyanese, and Indo-Guyanese. This diversity is reflected in the local cuisine, music, and traditions.
Overall, Matthews Ridge is a secluded mining community with a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial activity.