Two Corentyne Coast families, one headed by a widowed mother of four and another that lost its home in a fire, received fully furnished homes on Saturday.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha handed over the houses under the Men on Mission programme.

The first, a two-bedroom home, went to 25-year-old Amrita Singh, whose husband drowned in March. Berbice businessman Rondell Lewis funded its construction and furnishing, while the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) donated the land.

Shenieza Yussuf and her family, who lost their home in a fire last year, received a fully furnished three-bedroom house. Businesswoman Sita Gumani bought a plot of land at Number 76 Housing Scheme, Corentyne, and financed the construction.

The handovers provide stability and security for both families as they rebuild their lives.

Member of Parliament Zamal Hussain, Regional Chairman Junior Basant and Regional Vice Chairman Wajid Saheed Khan also attended the ceremonies.

President Dr Irfaan Ali launched the programme in October 2022 to mobilise men to support community projects. It builds homes for vulnerable people, including the elderly, persons with disabilities and single parents, with materials and labour provided by the private sector.

Government allocated $500 million in 2023 and the same amount in 2024, while Budget 2026 provides $900 million for home construction, repairs and building-material assistance across all 10 regions.

Amrita Singh with three of her children
Amrita Singh with three of her children
Minister Mustapha also presented a home to the family of Shenieza Yussuf
Minister Mustapha also presented a home to the family of Shenieza Yussuf