Residents of Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, have welcomed the government’s plans to transform their community through the Model Community Initiative, describing the proposed upgrades as long overdue and beneficial for future generations.
The initiative, unveiled by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali during a community engagement, will see major improvements to roads, drainage, waste management, recreational spaces and the overall aesthetics of the village as part of the government’s vision to create safer, cleaner and more modern communities.
Long-time resident Shanta Dowler-Brown said she was encouraged by the plans and hoped they would be fully realised.
“It was very good [and] very commendable. I, as a resident here, do appreciate that, and I hope they will follow through.”
Having lived in Mon Repos all her life, she said she is particularly excited about the upgraded road network and the village’s overall facelift.
“I was born and grew [up] here, and it is heartening to know and to see now that something is being done for an area where people have lived since the 1930s.”
The programme also complements broader development planned for the East Coast corridor, including the transformation of nearby Enmore into a major industrial and manufacturing hub that is expected to generate thousands of jobs.
Resident Maheeda [the only name given] also praised the president’s vision, noting that it addresses several issues affecting the community.
“He touched on plenty of areas which he will do for the community.”
She said she is looking forward to new playgrounds, improved roads and the beautification of the village.
Another resident, Gowkaran Singh, welcomed the focus on improving drainage and waste management.
“We’re going to look after the drains, get rid of the garbage… Very nice. I appreciate what the government is doing,” he said.
The Model Community Initiative forms part of the government’s wider strategy to improve neighbourhood infrastructure and quality of life while supporting economic growth across the East Coast of Demerara.
With nearby Enmore earmarked for a 50-acre industrial and manufacturing hub, residents are expected to benefit from both enhanced community infrastructure and expanded employment opportunities in the years ahead.