Budget 2026: CIOG, MYO welcome strong focus on people, cost-of-living measures

The Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) and the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana (MYO) have welcomed the National Budget for 2026, presented in the National Assembly on Monday, January 26, citing its focus on improving the quality of life of all Guyanese.
In a joint statement issued on January 27, the organisations said the theme of Budget 2026, “Putting People First”, reflects a people-centred and inclusive approach to national development. They noted that the budget outlines measures aimed at supporting families, strengthening communities, and advancing development across sectors, including agriculture, mining, public service, education, health, housing, and infrastructure.
CIOG and MYO highlighted the continued emphasis on welfare support and equity through cash grants, including increases in old-age pensions, enhanced public assistance, and the “Because We Care” cash grants for schoolchildren. They also welcomed the introduction of transportation grants for pensioners and schoolchildren.
The statement pointed to home construction grants, support for small businesses, and the increase in the low-income mortgage ceiling as measures that will assist families, encourage first-time home ownership, and improve housing security.
“These initiatives provide meaningful relief to families and vulnerable groups, while contributing to social cohesion and shared prosperity,” the organisations said.
The organisations also welcomed the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on vehicles below 1500cc, the increase in the income tax threshold, and the reduction of duties on double-cab pickups, describing these as measures that help reduce transportation and living costs for working families and small businesses.
CIOG and MYO further noted the injection of US$100 million into the Guyana Development Bank, saying it will expand access to financing for small enterprises, farmers, and entrepreneurs and support wider economic participation.
The organisations said significant allocations for healthcare, education, infrastructure, housing, and agriculture demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development and human capital growth.
As faith-based organisations, CIOG and MYO said they support Budget 2026 and believe it will benefit both present and future generations of Guyanese.