Fund for hinterland housing programme to be included in 2026 budget – Min Croal

– says contract for this electrification expansion project already been awarded

The Government is finalising a new initiative in line with its manifesto commitments to improve homes for vulnerable Guyanese in the hinterland, Housing Minister Collin Croal told residents of Kamwatta, Region One (Barima-Waini) during an engagement on Sunday. He related that funds for the program are expected to be introduced in the 2026 National Budget while at the same time assuring residents that the Government remains committed to fulfilling its promises. He referenced ongoing projects such as road construction, education and skills training, healthcare improvements, and an incoming well to expand water access in Kamwatta.

In addition, he revealed that the electrification programme is being extended to provide more residents with access to electricity while noting that the contract for this expansion has been awarded and the contractor has begun mobilisation.
“These are all commitments that we made that we will deliver on,” Croal affirmed.
On the other hand, newly minted Amerindian Affairs Minister Sarah Browne-Shadeek also emphasised the Government’s dedication to equitable development, stressing that Government projects will ensure even the most remote communities have access to essential services and opportunities. During the engagement, an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) was handed over to the village to support the Village Council in executing its official and administrative duties within the community. Meanwhile, a new bus, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), 100 water storage tanks, and an outboard engine were handed over to the residents of Yarakita, aimed at improving daily life and community development. The 100 water tanks were pledged to residents by their parliamentary representative, Collin Croal, during a previous outreach and will significantly enhance water storage and access across the community, following the successful drilling of a new well. The new bus will provide transportation with priority given to schoolchildren and pensioners, while the outboard engine will further support the transport of schoolchildren via boat, and the ATV will assist the Village Council in carrying out its official duties. During the handing-over ceremony, Croal underscored the Government’s commitment to putting people first, noting that these interventions reflect the administration’s focus on improving the quality of life for all Guyanese, particularly in hinterland communities. Browne-Shadeek, however, highlighted that the assets were provided in direct response to requests made by residents, a testament to the Government’s commitment to listening to citizens and addressing their needs. Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley further pointed to additional improvements coming to the community, including enhanced electricity access. He also shared that a community health worker will receive overseas training in telemedicine operations-part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to boost healthcare delivery across the region.