His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali emphasised his Government’s commitment to ensure that national transformation is not only achieved but felt in every village and by every citizen.
During public consultation on the Model Villages Initiative at the Mon Repos Primary School on the East Coast of Demerara today, the Head of State spoke of the importance of enhancing the lives of all Guyanese.
He said that while development is advancing across the country, communities must also benefit from standards of infrastructure, services, recreation, safety and beauty comparable to what is available in urban centres.
“The transformation that is taking place in Guyana must be felt and lived by every single person, regardless of where you’re going. The quality of life, quality of infrastructure, quality of services, quality of recreation, the beauty, and everything that is enjoyed at the level of the city must be enjoyed at a basic level in the villages.”
The Government’s vision, the President underscored, is to build safe, sustainable and resilient villages with improved infrastructure and services, green spaces, play parks, opportunities for dignified retirement, and stronger support for mental health, wellness and an improved quality of life.
He stressed the importance of preserving the values that define Guyanese society, including faith, culture, tradition, community and a close connection with nature.
He also called for a renewed spirit of community care, patriotism and service, where individual challenges are treated as collective responsibilities and citizens play a greater role in keeping their surroundings clean, caring for vulnerable persons and strengthening families and communities.
The President explained that the proposed village development plans were prepared following months of assessments, community visits and technical evaluations by engineers, planners and other specialists. Community profiles and preliminary proposals have already been developed, but residents’ feedback will be critical to refining and advancing the plans.
Residents were encouraged to share their ideas, raise community-specific concerns, and actively participate in the open consultation session.
Technical officers from the National Insurance Scheme, the Ministry of Housing, Guyana Power and Light, Guyana Water Incorporated, and other agencies were also present to address individual complaints, technical matters and service-related concerns.
President Ali urged residents to make full use of the agency booths and to contribute meaningfully to shaping development plans that reflect the needs, aspirations and identity of their communities.
President Ali had also met with residents of Melanie Damishana during the day.