Continuous inspection as Yarrowkabra Homestead Project advances

– Housing Ministers tour site

Minister of Housing Collin Croal, along with Minister within the Ministry Vanessa Benn, on Thursday toured the Yarrowkabra Homestead Project site, where they were joined by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing Bishram Kuppen and Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) Dr Martin Pertab. The visit allowed officials to assess construction progress and examine the materials and methods being employed.
According to the Ministry, the project is being executed by Duravilla, which is utilising at least fifteen locally available timber species to date. These species – burada, bulletwood, darina, greenheart, kabukalli, mora, purpleheart, shibidan, simarupa, silverballi, iteballi, lemonaballi, tatabu, tauroniro, and wallaba – have significant potential to improve livelihoods within the forestry sector while also supporting biodiversity protection through diversified timber use.
The incorporation of these timber species is evident across multiple phases of construction, including the first 50 houses which have been completed, an additional 25 homes currently at various stages of completion, and the construction of shade houses within the development.
This approach, the Ministry said, highlights the practical application of sustainable building practices and the value of Guyana’s forest resources in modern housing solutions.
The Yarrowkabra Homestead Project was conceptualised to provide affordable housing opportunities for low- and middle-income families while promoting planned and orderly development along the Soesdyke–Linden Highway corridor. It forms part of the Government’s wider housing programme aimed at reducing the housing deficit, expanding home ownership, and fostering resilient communities.
The project is expected to benefit single mothers and low-income families seeking secure home ownership, particularly first-time homeowners. In addition to meeting housing needs, the development contributes to economic growth through job creation and increased demand within the construction and forestry sectors.
Minister Croal reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to housing solutions that are affordable, durable, and environmentally responsible, while Minister Benn emphasised the importance of on-site monitoring to ensure quality standards and timely delivery.
The Yarrowkabra Homestead Project continues to make steady progress as part of the Government of Guyana’s commitment to delivering affordable, sustainable housing solutions while supporting local industries and environmental stewardship.