Residents of Wakapoa and Akawini (Baracaro), Pomeroon, Region Two will soon receive first-time access to potable water with the drilling of new wells in the villages.

Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Collin Croal made this announcement on Friday, during a meeting in each of the communities. Regional Vice-chairman, Mr. Humace Oudit; Director of Hinterland Services at the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Mr. Ramchand Jailal and other technical officials were at the meetings.

Currently, the villagers mainly source water from nearby creeks and through rainwater harvesting. Minister Croal stated that the government is investing to ensure that hinterland and riverine communities received 100% access to potable water by 2025.

The wells will be drilled through GWI with a new PAT Rig acquired by the water company. The rig is expected to arrive in March and drilling of two wells will begin at Wakapoa in April, before moving to Baracaro for the drilling of another well. GWI also aims to connect three nearby islands at Akawini to the system.

“That well will provide a better quality of life for our people. It will help you to reduce some of your hardships that you may be faced with in the dry season,” Minister Croal told residents.

Additionally, two Community Service Officers (CSOs) will trained to assist GWI with the operation and maintenance of the systems upon completion.

With the both villages also set to benefit from monies earned from the sale of Guyana’s carbon credits, the Minister also urged them to be innovative and embark on projects that will foster sustainable economic growth and job creation.

During the meeting, residents also took the opportunity to highlight issues affecting them in their communities. These issues will be addressed by the relevant subject Ministers and agencies.