The first 25 homes under the Yarrowkabra Homestead Project along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway are on track for completion by the end of July 2025. This afternoon, Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Collin Croal, and Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Hon. Kwame McCoy, conducted an inspection of the ongoing works, along with technical staff of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA). Mr. Edward Pillay, Operations Manager of DuraVilla Homes, the company constructing these housing units was also on ground.
The Yarrowkabra Homestead project is part of an innovative $6 billion housing initiative announced by President Dr. Irfaan Ali last year. This initiative will see the construction of 500 homes at Yarrowkabra, integrating agricultural development and solar energy solutions. The Ministry of Agriculture is spearheading development of shade houses, while the Office of the Prime Minister is overseeing the installation of solar power systems.
The initiative is aimed at supporting single mothers and promoting economic empowerment. The shade houses will be utilized for income generation that can assist homeowners in meeting their mortgage obligations. Each housing unit currently under construction spans 625 square feet and features two bedrooms, a kitchen area, and a bathroom.
First-phase infrastructure development in the area is also progressing steadily, with an 800-meter concrete road currently under construction. Electrical networks are in the area, and drilling of a new well will be done to provide potable water to residents.
Minister Croal expressed satisfaction with the progress of the project, noting that a list of interested applicants has already been compiled. These applicants are moving to the pre-qualification stage, with a particular focus on individuals along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway and East Bank Demerara areas.
This is an example of what we mean by ensuring that no one is left behind and that the prosperity and the development of our country happens for all,” Minister Croal stated.
The Ministry of Housing and Water is also exploring the replication of this housing model in other areas. Minister Croal highlighted other significant projects along the highway, including Silica City and the Hauraruni development. With the increasing population along the highway, these developments will help address both housing and employment needs.
The beneficiaries will be the overall winners but on the way we also have families that are earning and have employment opportunities,” said Minister Croal.
Minister McCoy lauded the housing program, calling it a major improvement in the lives of the beneficiaries.
This is all one big empowerment program from our government, and it is a continuation of what our vision is about altogether—that our people, at the end of the day, would have meaningful benefits to their lives, and that the things they will be able to achieve are measurable,” Minister McCoy remarked.
DuraVilla Homes’ Operations Manager, Mr. Pillay, indicated that the first home is expected to be completed by mid-June, with the remaining units finalized by the end of July. Despite an initial three-week delay, the company has been able to recover lost time and is now on schedule. He also noted that similar housing projects are currently underway in Barbados (60 homes) and St. Vincent (50 homes).
The Yarrowkabra Homestead project is a testament to the government’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive housing solutions, ensuring economic opportunities for its beneficiaries while advancing Guyana’s housing agenda.
Photos: Sydel Thomas, Central Housing and Planning Authority PR Department.