On Tuesday, Hon. Susan Rodrigues, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, met with residents of Central Mahaicony, Region Five, accompanied by Member of Parliament, Mr. Faizal Jaffarally, and local representatives. The meeting allowed residents to engage directly with officials, ensuring their concerns were heard and addressed firsthand.
The Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to national development and democracy, while implementing policies that align with its five-year manifesto. She highlighted that all commitments made to the Guyanese people are being fulfilled and that no community has been neglected along this journey.

Minister Rodrigues assured residents that the Ministry of Housing and Water is actively addressing the backlog of housing applications across the country. In Region Five, approximately 1,900 lots were allocated over the past four years. She noted that this year the Central Housing and Planning Authority is working to clear the existing backlog in most regions and significantly reduce that of Region Four.

Recognizing the challenges with water quality in the region, the government has undertaken several initiatives to enhance water treatment facilities. The Bath Water Treatment plant is set to become operational soon, significantly improving supply. Major upgrades to the Cotton Tree treatment facility, along with an extension of the distribution network will also further enhance access. To ensure more efficient coverage in widely dispersed areas, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is installing smaller treatment systems in several communities, including De Hoop, Strath Campbell, and Perseverance. Upon completion of these projects Region Five will achieve 100% treated water coverage.

Minister Rodrigues further highlighted the transformative impact of government programmes in creating employment opportunities and improving lives. She referenced the Pathway Workers Project, which provides part-time employment and can be used as a stepping stone to long-term success. She proudly noted that twelve individuals who initially joined GWI through the programme have since secured full-time employment, contributing to the country’s water sector development. She also emphasized the housing sector’s role as a major driver of employment, generating thousands of jobs across Guyana. All government initiatives, she affirmed, are strategically designed to complement each other, fostering economic growth and enhancing the well-being of all citizens.