The Government of Guyana’s drive for affordable home construction accelerated in Region One today, as the first 21 residents received building materials vouchers through the Steel and Cement Housing Subsidy Programme.

The official presentation took place at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Boardroom, and was led by the Minister of Housing, Hon. Collin Croal and Regional Chairman, Mr Brentnol Ashley.

The impact of the subsidy was immediately evident in the recipients’ reactions. Shonella February, a mother of two, shared her excitement, stating, “I’m so happy because it will be able to help me to build my house… I’m a single parent, and I’m so grateful for the initiative that the Government offers us.”

Dorothy Aduilar of Koberimo, who has started building her home, expressed happiness that the materials would push construction. She also emphasized the personal joy of securing her own residence rather than living with others.

Minister Croal underscored the direct, immediate benefit of the vouchers, stressing that the financial aid provides tangible relief to ease the burden of material costs for citizens across the region and help them attain homeownership. He highlighted that the programme is part of the Government’s comprehensive housing strategy and is specifically “geared towards helping or kickstarting the construction of your own home.”

Each voucher is valued at $300,000, with this first distribution totaling approximately $6 million. Recipients must redeem their vouchers at Small’s Enterprise within a six-month window.

The nationwide impact of this effort is already substantial. Prior to this distribution, 2,915 vouchers, valued at approximately $655.8 million, had been successfully distributed across Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 10. The programme was launched under the leadership of His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, with the overarching aim of supporting affordable home construction and enhancing the quality of life for families across all of Guyana.