$84M development projects to enhance public access at Wismar

In fulfilling a recent promise made by President Dr Irfaan Ali to Wismar, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), an $84 million community development package was on Friday set in motion.
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips led a ministerial delegation at the contract signing, which included Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, Minister within the Public Works Ministry Deodat Indar, and Minister within the Local Government Ministry Anand Persaud.
Contractors in Linden are the beneficiaries of several community development projects that will see the further enhancement of public accesses at Victory Valley.
These projects will include the construction of six concrete footpaths and three concrete drains totalling $50 million.

Another $34 million was invested to construct and rehabilitate the ‘Block 22’ Wismar bridge. This project went to public tender and was awarded to the most competitive bidder.
At a contract signing ceremony on Friday, several youths indicated their interest to work on the development projects as a form of being meaningfully employed.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill explained, “These contracts are being executed under the Procurement Act in a category that is called community engagement. This is not just something we’re doing here in the Valley. We’re doing this in various parts of the country.”
“It is not just about getting the work done. It is about getting people meaningfully employed and meaningfully engaged. The truth about it is all the workers who will be working on these contracts should really be people from this area,” he added.
Speaking on the investments, the Minister expressed that this injection of funds and opportunities has never happened before.
“All across Guyana, what you are seeing with your own eyes, is what we’re doing…We are prepared to work with every community that is prepared to work with us.”
On the other hand, Prime Minister Phillips assured that development will continue for the regions, be it through better facilities for education, health and accessibility.
“We just want you to play your part by being part of this whole thrust to develop all of Guyana. When they come to you and try to tell you nonsense, I would say listen but keep the focus. This is not about racial politics. The Government has the mandate to run the affairs of this country until the next election. What we’re focusing on now is bringing development to all the people in Linden, Region 10 and all the other nine regions,” Phillips expressed.
The works to be executed will complement numerous projects that have been initiated by the Ali-led Administration to enhance the quality of life for Lindeners.