Investments in housing, water changing lives in Region Five

Water infrastructure upgrades, as well as the allocation of some 1,900 house lots in Region Five over the past four years, have been transforming the lives of residents there.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, made this disclosure during a meeting on Tuesday with Central Mahaicony residents.

During the meeting, she said the Central Housing and Planning Authority is working to eliminate the backlog in most regions, particularly in Region Four.

Residents also raised several concerns, including water quality, which were addressed by the minister, who was accompanied by Member of Parliament Faizal Jaffarally.

She acknowledged the water quality challenges in the region and noted that the government has undertaken several initiatives to improve water treatment facilities.

The Bath Water Treatment Plant is set to become operational soon, significantly enhancing the water supply. In addition, major upgrades are being made to the Cotton Tree treatment facility, along with an extension of the distribution network to further improve access.

To ensure more efficient coverage in widely dispersed areas, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is installing smaller treatment systems in several communities, including De Hoop, Strath Campbell, and Perseverance.

Once these projects are completed, Region Five will achieve 100 per cent treated water coverage.

The minister also highlighted the transformative impact of government programmes in creating employment opportunities and improving lives. She referred to the Pathway Workers Project, which provides part-time employment that can serve as a stepping stone to long-term success.

She proudly mentioned that 12 individuals who initially joined GWI through the programme have since secured full-time positions, contributing to the development of the country’s water sector.

Minister Rodrigues also emphasised the housing sector’s role in generating thousands of jobs across Guyana and affirmed that all government initiatives are strategically designed to complement each other, driving economic growth and improving the well-being of all citizens.