The Ministry of Housing and Water, through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), commenced training today for prospective concrete block-makers under the Community-based Employment Stimulation Project (CESP).

Held at the National Library, the session brought together participants from Section ‘B’ and Plum Park, Sophia, as well as De Kinderen and Den Amstel on the West Bank of Demerara. The training focused on Small Business Awareness, with a special emphasis on Financial Management, Record Keeping, and Entrepreneurial Awareness, facilitated by the Small Business Bureau (SBB).

Addressing the participants were Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Collin Croal; Permanent Secretary, Mr. Bishram Kuppen; CH&PA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Sherwyn Greaves; SBB’s CEO, Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim; and CH&PA’s Deputy Director of Community Development, Mrs. Donell Bess-Bascom.

Minister Croal highlighted the significance of this training in enhancing the development of these communities. CESP offers these groups the opportunity to produce blocks for contractors under the national housing initiative. The Minister underscored the need for maintaining high-quality block production to retain consumer trust and noted that the Ministry would offer startup support to help participants succeed.

“We as a Ministry are committed to providing that connection for you,” Minister Croal stated, adding that while the initial support will come from the Ministry, the goal is for the groups to grow and pursue larger opportunities.

Permanent Secretary Kuppen emphasized that CESP is designed to uplift vulnerable populations and promote economic independence in various communities. He encouraged participants to take full advantage of this opportunity for personal and professional growth. Meanwhile, CH&PA CEO, Mr.Sherwyn Greaves pointed out the growing demand for blocks in the construction industry and said this initiative would allow block-makers to establish a strong foothold in the market. He also urged participants to set their sights on becoming contractors in home and road construction, citing one of the previously trained groups that has already transitioned from block production to home construction.

The SBB CEO provided insights into the resources available for small businesses, including access to grants and loans, and offered advice on financial management.

The training program will continue until October 4 and will include sessions on Life Skills Training, Job Readiness, and Practical Block-Making Training and Production.

CESP is the brainchild of President Irfaan Ali, and was launched in 2021. The Ministry has successfully trained several groups, including the North Ruimveldt Parent Support Group, which includes individuals living with disabilities.

Communities targeted under CESP include Tiger Bay, Albouystown, East and West Ruimveldt, Agrícola, Mocha, Lusignan, Buxton, Victoria, Leopold Street, North Ruimveldt (Region 4), Canje (Region 6), and Linden (Region 10). Startup packages have also been provided to the Guyana Society for the Blind, North Ruimveldt Parent Support Group, and S.B. Building Supplies and Construction. A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed with the Guyana Prison Service for the production of 500,000 blocks.