Minister Manickchand engages Skeldon market vendors as Region Six leads national beautification effort

Leaking roof, clogged drains & bond dispute resolved

Region Six continues to be at the forefront of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development’s national beautification and waste management drive, with Minister Hon. Priya Manickchand visiting the Skeldon Market this week to directly address vendors’ concerns.

The engagement with vendors formed part of a wider clean-up and improvement initiative currently being rolled out in the region, which includes the removal of decades-old unserviceable items from schools, health centres, and administrative buildings.

At Skeldon Market, vendors raised issues such as a leaking roof that had caused flooding, clogged drains, and limited access to Town Council officials. Minister Manickchand confirmed that a contractor has been identified to repair the roof, and that a roster system will now allow vendors weekly access to councillors. Disputes over bond space, insufficient toilet facilities, and unauthorized vending outside the market were also resolved.

Speaking with the media following the meeting, the Minister highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses in Region Six.

“We want to make sure vendor’s businesses can grow and thrive, and that they can provide for their families from their hard work. Every single concern raised today was addressed, with timelines agreed upon in the presence of myself, the regional administration, and the Mayor and Town Council,” she said.

The Minister also tied these interventions to the broader improvements happening across the region as part of the national phased clean-up programme. Health centres are currently being cleared of long-stored, obsolete items, with schools and administrative buildings next in line.

She stressed that markets, too, are a central part of the government’s commitment to building safe, orderly, and efficient public spaces.
“Fixing markets around the country is a priority for us. These spaces are essential for Guyanese to shop, socialize, and access fresh foods. Markets are central to our communities, and we are committed to improving them,” she added.

The Skeldon Market engagement is one of several direct consultations Minister Manickchand is holding with stakeholders in Region Six, which has been identified as a lead region in implementing the government’s wider development agenda.

The beautification and clean-up initiative is expected to bring lasting benefits to both employees and citizens who rely on these public spaces.