Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Collin Croal, attended the regional observance of Guyana’s 55th Republic Anniversary today, culminating in a grand Flag-raising Ceremony at the Anna Regina Market Square, Region Two.
Ranks of the Guyana Defence Force conducted the ceremonial hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead in the presence of the Minister, Regional Chairman, Ms. Vilma DaSilva; Vice-Chairman, Mr. Humace Oodit; Mayor of Anna Regina, His Worship Devin Mohan; Member of Parliament, Ms. Yvonne Pearson; Prime Ministerial Representative, Mr. Arnold Adams; members of the disciplined forces; and other officials.
Delivering the feature address, Minister Croal emphasized that Republic celebrations ignite national pride and serve as a reminder of the collective strides made toward development.
“This vibrant festival, filled with music, dance, and creativity, showcases the diversity that makes us unique as Guyanese. Today, as we hoist the nation’s flag—the Golden Arrowhead—let us look ahead with optimism and a renewed sense of purpose. Let us all continue to work together—government, private sector, and you the citizens—to build a stronger, more prosperous Guyana,” said the Minister. He also underscored the pivotal role of the Ministry of Housing and Water in shaping Guyana’s future, reaffirming that access to housing and clean water is a fundamental right that empowers families and drives economic growth.
Since 2020, the current administration has made substantial progress in expanding housing—allocating close to 40,900 across the country, improving infrastructure, and ensuring sustainable water supply. In Region Two, a total of 800 house lots have been allocated in Onderneeming and Charity. To support this growth, $1.6 billion has been invested in the development of the housing schemes, while an additional $1.4 billion has been invested for community road upgrades.
Looking ahead, Minister Croal announced that approximately 500 new house lots will soon be allocated in Onderneeming, with title distributions planned for previous allottees. Additionally, the Ministry is advancing efforts to regularise five areas—Lima Sands, Paradise, Jib, Maria’s Lodge, and Walton Hall—benefiting nearly 100 residents.
In the water sector, the Minister highlighted that the soon-to-be-commissioned Onderneeming Water Treatment Plant will provide treated water to half of the Essequibo Coast’s population. A second plant is also in development, ensuring 100% coverage in the coming months.
Minister Croal further noted that Guyana’s progress is evident across multiple sectors, including agriculture, education, health, and finance. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive development, with Essequibo experiencing significant growth in entrepreneurship, women-led businesses, and emerging industries such as oil and gas, technology, tourism, and agro-processing.
Regional Chairman, Ms. Vilma DaSilva, and Vice-Chairman, Mr. Humace Oodit, also commended the government’s developmental agenda, highlighting the remarkable transformation seen in Region Two under the leadership of H.E. President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.