Chinese Govt donates $21M in flood response equipment to CDC

The People’s Republic of China on Friday handed over US$100,000 in flood response equipment to the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) as part of an effort to increase countrywide resilience to flooding.
The items handed over comprised two Argo Aurora 950 Huntmaster amphibious vehicles, four 14-foot aluminum boats, and four Mercury outboard engines.

During the handing over ceremony, held at the CDC Headquarters in Thomas Lands, Georgetown, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Guo Haiyan, along with Prime Minister Brig. (ret’d) Mark Phillips and others, was briefed on the capabilities of the products and the significant positive impact they would have on disaster management. Encore Power Inc., Farm Supplies Ltd., and SEBCO/Automotive Art would provide maintenance services on these pieces of equipment when necessary.

Director General of the CDC, Colonel (ret’d) Nazrul Hussain, underscored the importance of quality resources to manage hazards and diminish vulnerabilities in flood-prone areas. And Prime Minister Phillips emphasised the longstanding relationship between Guyana and China, while referencing the aid that the Chinese Government delivered during the El Nino season.
These resources would be deployed to flood-affected areas across the country, and would be utilized by trained personnel.

The La Nina season has officially begun, and consistent rainfall is expected throughout its duration. As a result, residents are urged to be cautious, and to report any impact to local authorities or the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) on telephone #600-7500 at any time.