As the 2025 budget debates entered their fourth day in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill dismissed the opposition’s misleading claims regarding Guyana’s significant infrastructural advancements.
Minister Edghill highlighted the government’s commitment to upgrading roads across the country, addressing long-standing infrastructural issues neglected by the former APNU+AFC administration.
Road Development Across Regions
The minister emphasized that road construction is actively underway in almost every region. In Kwakwani and Ituni, numerous roads have been completed or are currently under construction. Similarly, Linden has 505 contractors engaged in road rehabilitation, while in New Amsterdam, over 100 contractors are working to enhance road infrastructure.
In Georgetown and other areas of Region Four, 947 contractors are involved in road development, with multiple projects already finalized. Approximately 300 roads are currently under construction along the East Coast of Demerara.
Region Two has also seen extensive infrastructure work, with 171 contractors actively engaged. The ministry’s Special Projects Unit (SPU) has already completed several roadworks, including in Onderneeming.
Between 2020 and 2024, the government successfully completed 4,322 kilometers of road upgrades and improved 2,583 kilometers of sea and river defences.
Bridge Construction to Improve Connectivity
Minister Edghill announced that bridges will be constructed across various locations, from Karasabai in Region Nine to Paramakatoi in Region Eight, to enhance mobility and accessibility.
“The cost for a sack of cement in Lethem is about $2,900; by the time it gets to Paramakatoi, it is $14,000. Do you know what that means? Because of that transportation link that would become more accessible, the cost of development would be significantly reduced. People would have better homes, there would be better infrastructure, and the livelihood of people would be improved, and the cost of food would also go down,” he explained.
Additionally, the long-awaited bridge across Bonasika Creek is set to be completed this year, while the contract for the Makouria Bridge has already been awarded.
Expanding Maritime and Air Transport
Minister Edghill revealed that the government will introduce additional vessels this year to further improve riverine transportation. The MV Kimbia will be designated for cargo transport in Region One, and another ferry will be added to the Parika-Supenaam route.
Infrastructural upgrades are also advancing. The Bartica Stelling is scheduled to open before March, while Leguan Stelling is now fully operational.
Additionally, the government continues to enhance air transport connectivity, maintaining 51 airstrips nationwide. The 2025 budget includes funding for further upgrades to these airstrips, ensuring better access to remote interior regions.
Minister Edghill urged the opposition to take a responsible and constructive approach, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in Guyana’s ongoing development.