Works to develop La Parfaite Harmonie in Region Three into a model village are expected to begin within a month. Drainage improvements are set to be the first phase of works.
Minister of Housing Collin Croal made the announcement during the commissioning of a multipurpose community facility at Onderneeming in Region Three on Friday.
“You will see work commencing within a month,” he said.
He added that the housing ministry will oversee the works, which will include hardened road shoulders, followed by lighting installation, improvements to public spaces, fire hydrants and security cameras.
La Parfaite Harmonie is among 23 communities identified for the pilot initiative following consultations led by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
The initiative builds on infrastructure improvements carried out under the Adequate Housing Programme on the West Bank of Demerara.
Minister Croal said better roads will improve access and mobility, while drainage improvements will significantly reduce flooding.
“Together, these improvements contribute to safer, more accessible, and more resilient communities,” he said.
Additionally, the programme has supported families seeking better housing. More than 280 core homes have been completed across the programme, including 106 on the West Bank of Demerara.
Further, some 242 home improvement subsidies were disbursed to West Bank households, while several access bridges were replaced.
Beyond housing and infrastructure, the programme provided cash entitlements to 14 persons affected by the project.
Ten business owners also received training through the Small Business Bureau and the Guyana Revenue Authority to strengthen their business skills.
The housing minister said providing support to help residents improve their financial stability is an important part of community development.
Women accounted for approximately 75 per cent of core home beneficiaries and 67 per cent of those receiving home improvement subsidies across the programme.
The minister said the programme also included safety measures for women and girls, alongside provisions for young people, older residents and persons living with disabilities.
“As we continue to develop our communities, we must also ensure that we build inclusive neighbourhoods,” he said.