Minister Sukhai engages interior communities on development needs

Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Pauline Sukhai, has met with residents and Community Development Councils (CDCs) in Hauraruni/Yarrowkabra, Tiger Bone/Banakari, and Circuitville to discuss pressing community concerns and outline planned government interventions.

The visits, held on September 24, are part of Minister Sukhai’s ongoing outreach programme aimed at strengthening collaboration with local leadership, identifying service gaps, and connecting communities with national agencies. Director General Anand Persaud and CDC representative Somwar accompanied the minister.

At Yarrowkabra, residents raised issues regarding postal services and pension access. Minister Sukhai assured that these matters would be referred to the relevant authorities.

In Tiger Bone/Banakari, housing and infrastructure dominated discussions. The minister reaffirmed the government’s $3 million allocation for housing materials this year and committed to following up with Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) on expanding water distribution. She also highlighted potential solar energy initiatives in collaboration with the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA). Additional commitments included linking the CDC to women’s development programmes, repairing the community school bus, and providing agricultural support through the Ministries of Amerindian Affairs and Agriculture.

During the Circuitville engagement, residents requested a nursery school, improved water access through well construction, and additional rainwater tanks. Part-time employment opportunities were also noted. Director General Persaud addressed road improvement concerns, pledging to coordinate with the Ministry of Public Works on temporary fixes for Circuitville roads and road shoulder upgrades at Yarrowkabra. He also urged the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) to compile an inventory of tools and equipment to support community works.

Minister Sukhai encouraged CDCs and residents to be accountable, monitor development projects closely, and ensure that government investments benefit all households. She stressed that collaboration between communities and government agencies is key to sustaining development.

The visiting team thanked residents for their support and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equitable service delivery in hinterland and rural areas. Officials noted that the outreach aligns with President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s pledge to improve quality of life across all regions of Guyana.