Cummings Lodge residents praise housing development

Residents of Cummings Lodge New Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara, on Wednesday, expressed their gratitude for the improved living conditions during a walk-through visit by the President, Dr Irfaan Ali, where he engaged with citizens during a walkabout on the progress of the Government’s housing projects.
During the interaction, several residents highlighted how this initiative has transformed their lives, providing them with access to homeownership, improved infrastructure, and better community services.

One resident shared that through the Government’s housing support programme, he was able to complete his studies and secure his own home in the area.
“I was able to graduate [with] my Master’s from the GOAL project. Further to that, I was able to now have my own home here in the Cummings Lodge, and I’m truly grateful for that opportunity,” he said.
The resident went on to recall the earlier challenges faced by the community, noting that when families moved in, there was a lack of basic infrastructure and roads were not easily drivable. He highlighted that there have been significant improvements to the daily necessities of the community.
He expressed, “Whilst there was construction, the roads were not [up] to par, but if you could look now and see that now we’re in a place where we’re able to drive comfortably and we’re able to be in a comfortable position, I’d be grateful to see that at least that promise was fulfilled that we will have a community where there’s accessible, potable water, a good lighting system, and we have all that we require.”
Residents also raised concerns about sanitation and security, calling for the continuous support of Government agencies. In response, President Ali committed to addressing these issues, including an immediate request for fogging exercises conducted by the Ministry of Health.
“I’ll call the Ministry of Health to come into the area and do a fogging exercise. Let it start today, and they have to have a programme in all these communities to do the fogging,” the President assured.
Several young professionals also spoke about the benefits of living in the area, highlighting easier access to employment opportunities in Georgetown and a diverse community environment.
She said, “I get to work in less than half an hour, so it’s absolutely amazing. It’s a blessing that I come from Berbice and have the opportunity to come to Georgetown and come here to pursue my dreams.”
President Ali noted that the development reflects the Government’s commitment to inclusive growth and national unity, emphasising that people from various professions now live side by side in the community.
The visit forms part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to monitor housing developments and engage residents directly, as it continues to expand access to affordable housing across the country.