Mocha Arcadia squatters begin processing ownership documents

The Ministry of Housing, through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), continues the regularisation of the Arcadia (Mocha) squatting area, offering security of tenure and bringing relief to dozens of families.
CH&PA commenced the processing of ownership documents with the issuance of Allocation Letters and Agreements of Sale on November 27, 2025, continuing the exercise on November 28. Director of Community Development Gladwin Charles presented ownership documents to several beneficiaries.
This latest step follows consistent engagement, on-the-ground assessments, and months of collaboration between the Government and residents.
One beneficiary, Jocelyn Ambrose, expressed her appreciation for the Ministry’s direct involvement and sustained support throughout the process, noting that the effort has brought ease to her family.
“We worked together, and it was good all the time,” she stated, commending the Government for the transparent execution of the regularisation process.
Occupation of the Arcadia area reportedly began approximately ten years ago, with a noticeable increase in squatting activities between 2015 and 2020. Following necessary groundwork, CH&PA began regularisation in 2024.
Survey works were completed in early 2025, providing the foundation for allocation, planning, and document issuance. Of the 104 lots containing structures, 68 are occupied. To date, 36 of the occupied lots have met the eligibility requirements for allocation and processing of Agreements of Sale.
This ongoing intervention forms part of President Ali’s Operation Clear-Up, a national initiative designed to ensure that families residing in informal settlements that can be regularised are transitioned into secure, sustainable, and fully formalised communities.
According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) report, the area comprises five fields and falls under the purview of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).
Outlining the regularisation plan back in 2023, the Housing Minister had stated that the three fields, which are densely populated, will be regularised. Those residing outside of the three fields will be moved within the designated alignment. Additionally, a number of persons who fall within the buffer zone of the four-lane highway will be moved further inward.
The progress at Arcadia reflects the Government’s continued delivery on its promises, its proactive approach to community development, and its commitment to ensuring that every Guyanese family has access to land, dignity, and opportunity as the country advances, the Ministry noted.