Reg 9 landowners benefit from steel, cement subsidies

The first 58 landowners in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) on Saturday received their Steel and Cement Housing Subsidy vouchers from the Housing and Water Ministry’s Central Housing and Planning Authority.

Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal and Permanent Secretary Andre Ally led the distribution of the vouchers at the Regional Housing Office in Lethem.
The Steel and Cement Housing Subsidy programme is the brainchild of President Dr Irfaan Ali, to provide support for Guyanese seeking to construct their own homes, whether on Government or private lands. Persons building homes estimated at $6 million and below will receive steel and one sling of cement; while homebuilders with estimates above $6 million to $25 million will receive two slings of cement.
Minister Croal noted that the programme will provide a number of economic spin-offs in the region. The first distribution will see over $13 million being directly invested. It will also promote occupancy within housing schemes and boost homeownership in the hinterland.
Beneficiary, Ekema Glenn applauded the Government for the initiative, as he said the voucher places him in a better position to construct his home.

“Currently, I’m living with family and I’m renting. Renting can be very burdensome so this will give us a great boost in starting my home,” Glenn said.
Beverly Rodrigues, another beneficiary, stated that she is living with her family and said that the voucher presents a life-changing opportunity.
Rodrigues expressed, “Without this, I wouldn’t have started building my house. I’m so overwhelmed that I get this.”
Suppliers in Region Nine thus far are R&R Hardware, Fabra Enterprise, M&U General Store, Nicholson Trading, Anil’s Shop and Sucil Kissoon. All suppliers are required to sell the building materials at the predetermined cost set by the Ministry.
Two tenets must be in place before the subsidy is released – ownership and an approved building plan. Persons occupying private lands can also apply.