Housing is a cornerstone of national development, not something incidental or separate from it, Housing Minister Collin Croal told the United Nations, as he disclosed that more than 56,000 house lots have been allocated in Guyana since 2020.
Croal made the disclosure while delivering Guyana’s statement at the United Nations High-Level Meeting on the Mid-Term Review of the New Urban Agenda, where he highlighted the country’s approach to sustainable urban development, climate resilience and affordable housing.
He said housing must be viewed as a key driver of national development, creating pathways for wealth creation and improved access to education, healthcare and employment opportunities.
“For Guyana, housing is a national priority and a cornerstone of national development. It has created opportunities for families to build wealth, support access to education, healthcare and employment, strengthen communities and contribute to social stability,” Croal said.
The minister told delegates that Guyana’s housing strategy extends beyond the distribution of house lots, with significant investments being made in infrastructure and services to ensure the creation of sustainable communities. He pointed to continued investment in roads, drainage networks, water systems, sanitation infrastructure, recreational facilities and other amenities aimed at improving quality of life for residents.
“As a result of the Government of Guyana’s commitment from 2020 to present, Guyana has allocated more than 56,000 house lots, which is a testament to our commitment to expanding homeownership while creating sustainable communities supported by the infrastructure and services that improve the quality of life for every beneficiary of subsidised housing,” Croal said.
He said the housing programme is aligned with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030, ensuring economic growth is balanced with environmental protection and climate resilience, and continues to target communities across urban, rural and Indigenous areas.
Croal also highlighted the planned development of Silica City, describing it as a climate-smart urban centre that will help reduce development pressures along Guyana’s vulnerable coastline while strengthening the country’s ability to adapt to climate change. He noted that approximately 90 per cent of Guyana’s population resides along the coast, making climate-resilient planning a critical part of future housing and urban development.
The minister stressed the need for stronger international cooperation, financing mechanisms and partnerships to address housing challenges globally, arguing that countries must move beyond policy commitments and focus on implementation.
He called for greater collaboration among governments, international organisations and development partners to support the creation of inclusive, resilient and sustainable communities.
