More than 200 households in Akawini, Region Two, will benefit from a housing improvement programme as part of a series of development initiatives spanning housing, agriculture, education, healthcare, infrastructure and sport.
President Dr Irfaan Ali unveiled the commitments during a Cabinet outreach today, saying the evolving needs of communities reflect the government’s sustained investment in improving access to essential services.
Under the housing initiative, the government will help families improve their homes by providing support for building materials, while creating economic opportunities for local producers of timber and other construction materials.
On agriculture, Ali said the Ministry of Agriculture will collaborate with the soon-to-be-established Guyana Development Bank to support farmers through beekeeping, honey production and expanded coconut cultivation. The National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) will immediately deploy equipment to clear the main access creek and drainage channels, while the Guyana Forestry Commission and NDIA will work together to clear roads used by farmers.
Responding to calls for improved access to secondary education, Ali directed that work begin immediately on the design of a secondary school for the area.
“Today you’re asking for your own secondary school. Years ago, communities were asking for basic education, healthcare, and roads,” Ali said, adding that construction would begin before the end of the year or be prioritised for next year.
In the health sector, he instructed officials to fully assess the community’s health facility for upgrading, while committing to examine improved vaccine storage through solar-powered refrigeration.
Ali also addressed delays in processing birth certificates and old-age pensions, directing senior officials from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security to remain in the community until all eligible residents receive their documentation and benefits.
Additional commitments included upgrading the sports ground, providing sporting equipment, improving internet connectivity, enhancing facilities for Community Service Officers, and assessing the need for a boat engine.
