Community involvement is critical – As 38 more communities receive Covid cash grant

Community involvement is critical – As 38 more communities receive Covid cash grant

The need for community involvement has been underscored as another 38 villages in the Mabaruma Sub-region, Region One, received cheques for their Covid cash grant.

Village leaders, today gathered at the Mabaruma Primary School where they were presented with their cheques for the implementation of sustainable projects over the coming months.

Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Collin Croal delivers his remarks to the indigenous leaders

Minister of Housing and Water, the Hon. Collin D Croal who is also the Parliamentary representative for Region One joined with other regional officials for the distribution exercise.

The ceremony was also attended by, Management Development Officer- John Ramsingh, Regional Chairman, Region One – Brentnol Ashley, Regional Vice-Chairperson – Ms. Annansha Peters, and Regional Executive Officer – Mr. Tikaram Bisesar and Mayor of Mabaruma Township- His Worship Chris Phang.

Regional Chairman, Mr. Brentnol Ashley (left) hands over a COVID-19 village grant to a village leader

There was a common call by regional officials, for community involvement, transparency, and accountability all of which are key for the successful implementation of the proposed project.

In his delivery of the feature address, Minister Croal also reiterated the call for community involvement.

He told the village leaders that consultation will serve as the best guide for project proposals as through consultation each citizen will have a part in the rebuilding of their village economies. Among the villages to received grants, today are, Wanaina, Khan’s Hill, Three Brothers, Mabaruma Settlement, Morawhanna, Thomas Hill, Hoboodeia, Hotoquai, Bumbury Hill, Wauna, Tobago, St. Anslem, Koborimo, Almond Beach, Black Water Savannah, Aruka Mouth, St. Domonic, Barabina, Imbotero, Smith Creek, Arukamai and Unity Square.

Regional Vice-chairman, Ms. Annansha Peters (left) hands over a COVID-19 village grant to a village leader

Over the last few days, a total of over $542 have been distributed in communities across the three sub-districts in Region One.  In Moruca 27 communities benefitted from grants totaling $222M, Matarkai 11 communities $99M, and Mabaruma 38 communities $221M.

The grants are to be used for three components, including infrastructure development, the setting up of an ICT hub, and a sustainable economic project.

A total of $1.73 billion in COVID-19 relief funds will be distributed to the hinterland and Amerindian villages and communities.

Other Government Ministers and Cabinet members have fanned out across the country to aid in the distribution of the Covid-19 relief fund.

Images: Sydel Thomas CHPA PR Dept.