Final batch of homes under IDB–Govt US$28M Core Home Programme handed over

Some 24 families on Thursday received the keys to their new homes, marking the final batch of houses constructed under the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)–Government of Guyana Core Home Support Programme. Speaking at the ceremony, Housing Minister Collin Croal said the project fulfilled its objective of making homeownership accessible to citizens who otherwise may not have been able to achieve it.
“This project has truly lived up to its goal of making homeownership accessible to all. When you secure a home, you are not only investing in yourself but in generations to come,” Croal stated.

He noted that while the programme has now reached its conclusion, the lessons learned will guide future initiatives aimed at supporting low- and moderate-income families. “This brings a culmination to the project, but the lessons we have learned will certainly help as we implement other housing support initiatives. Too often, we fail to acknowledge the vulnerabilities associated with renting, and initiatives like these highlight the importance of Government support in securing stable housing.”
Minister Croal emphasised that the core homes constructed under the project represent more than just buildings; they represent opportunities for families to build secure futures. In addition, Minister within the Ministry of Housing Vanessa Benn highlighted the human-centred approach taken during the implementation of the programme.

“We looked at the more humane aspect of the project. Seeing beneficiaries receive their keys is exactly what this initiative was designed to achieve. These efforts have made a tangible contribution to people’s livelihoods,” she stated. Benn also noted that a significant number of the beneficiaries are women, describing it as a commendable outcome that reflects the programme’s impact on empowering families and communities. However, representing the IDB, Chief of Operations Ivan Gaviria described the handover as a significant milestone for both the programme and the beneficiaries.
“Today is more than just a milestone in a project; more importantly, it is a milestone in your lives. Every key handed over represents a story of patience, perseverance and hope,” Gaviria stated. He added that the initiative was grounded in the belief that every family deserves not just a structure but a safe and dignified home. The project, he noted, also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the global commitment to ensuring access to safe and adequate housing.
The programme was implemented with support from the IDB at a total cost of US$28 million (approximately GY$5.8 billion) and ran from December 2017 to March 2026. It comprised three main components: Affordable and Sustainable Housing, Consolidation of Existing Housing Schemes, and Institutional Strengthening. Under the Core Home Support Programme, the target was revised from 323 to 283 homes in November 2025 due to the deaths or withdrawals of some approved beneficiaries. In total, 378 beneficiaries were initially selected, with 282 homes completed, 250 handed over, and 194 currently occupied. One home remains under construction, while the remaining homes were handed over during Thursday’s exercise. The project also included a Home Improvement Subsidy Programme, which assisted 927 beneficiaries, with 855 subsidies disbursed and 649 home improvement projects completed.
The initiative represents one of the Government’s key efforts to expand housing opportunities and improve living conditions for vulnerable families across Guyana.