Residents of Skull City and Area L, Patentia, will soon benefit from the communtiy’s first recreational park, following the official sod turning ceremony by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development on Friday.
The project marks the first park initiative under Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, who described it as “the first of scores” as the Government continues its efforts to create more community spaces.
Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Minister Manickchand noted that community development goes beyond roads, bridges and buildings, added that public spaces play an important role in strengthening communities.
The minister explained that properly designed recreational areas contribute to physical health, mental well-being, social interaction and a stronger sense of community pride.
“There will be a day when you’ll be able to sit in this park and ‘gyaff’ about long ago, discuss the happenings of the present, make important decisions through conversation and learn about one another,” Minister Manickchand told residents.
She added that such spaces become part of a community’s shared history over time.
“These spaces help us to develop stronger families, communities and a nation,” the Minister said.
Meanwhile, Minister Manickchand highlighted that while Guyana continues to advance through major infrastructure development, equal attention is being placed on improving the daily lives of citizens as part of building “a people-centred country.”
To this end, she encouraged residents to take ownership of the facility, the Minister said, “You will always have the distinction of being the first,” adding that the park should remain a source of pride for generations to come.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Uitvlugt/Patentia Neighbourhood Democratic Council, Mark Khan, welcomed the project, describing it as a reflection of the Government’s commitment to meaningful community investment.
“This is our park. We’re going to care for it, we’re going to beautify it, and we’re going to make sure everyone has a part in it,” the Chairman said.
Also present at the sod turning ceremony, project manager responsible for Parks, Recreation and Public Spaces, Saeed Zameen, noted the Ministry recognises the wider importance of such facilities.
“At the Ministry, we recognise that parks are much more than open spaces. They are places where children can play safely, where families can gather, where young people can engage in healthy recreation, and where communities can come together to build stronger social connections,” Zameen said.
Minister Manickchand concluded by urging residents to work alongside the government to preserve the facility.
She said, “Partner with us as we do this. We need each other.”
The initiative forms part of the government’s wider commitment to improving public infrastructure while developing spaces that encourage healthier lifestyles, stronger community connections and an improved quality of life.
The park itself is part of the ministry’s continued investment in community infrastructure aimed at promoting healthier living, strengthening neighbourhood ties and creating safe public spaces for citizens across Guyana.