— outlines transformation agenda for Region Seven
His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali said that his Government is implementing tailored regional action plans across the country, developed through years of consultations with residents.
These plans are designed to address the specific priorities and development needs of communities within each region.
“Over the years, we have visited communities, taken notes, and recorded your needs. Today, every region has a comprehensive action plan ready for implementation.”
The President outlined a series of development initiatives for Region Seven, including tax incentives to encourage local investment.
He urged residents to establish tourism facilities, hotels, restaurants, mechanic workshops, and service hubs, emphasising that the Government will provide support to ensure profitability and inclusive transformation across all communities.
He told residents of Bartica at a community meeting that infrastructure upgrades are a key component of the plan.
Investments in a new ferry, stelling, and the Sandhill Road are expected to improve connectivity, making travel faster, safer, and more efficient.
Over the next five years, the Government will focus on creating employment opportunities and enhancing sectors such as mining, forestry, infrastructure, treated water supply, electricity reliability, and affordability.
President Ali also announced the establishment of an educational hub in Region Seven, equipped with facilities to support students pursuing careers in medicine, pharmacy, teaching, engineering, computer science, and nursing, without the need to relocate.
The Government’s digital strategy aims to extend educational and public services to all areas of the country.
A comprehensive food and agriculture ecosystem is also planned to meet regional demand and to supply mining and logging communities.
This initiative will prioritise the involvement of single mothers and indigenous populations.
Meanwhile, transformational infrastructure projects are high on the agenda as the Government intends to construct bridges across the Kurupukari and Puruni rivers to reduce travel time.
He explained that road links to mining and forestry areas will also be developed to support small and medium-sized operators. Loggers will receive equipment and financial assistance to collaborate with the Government on road construction and maintenance, thereby reducing transportation costs.
Over the next five years, the Government will prioritise access to land for forestry, mining, agriculture, and housing. Investments will be made to identify and implement appropriate technologies to maximise productivity in these sectors.
The President said, too, that the Government will work with stakeholders, particularly miners, to develop a comprehensive safety plan.
Meanwhile, a special development fund will be established to provide small businesses with access to capital through government co-investment at low interest rates.
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), the Honourable Mark Phillips; Vice President, the Honourable Dr Bharrat Jagdeo; Cabinet Ministers and Government, and regional officials were also at the event.