Residents of Region Seven are set to gain easier access to various government services with the upcoming operational launch of a new government service centre in the region. President Dr. Irfaan Ali made this announcement during an engagement with residents of Karrau Village. The facility will provide access to services such as National Identification cards, Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) transactions, National Insurance Scheme (NIS) services, licensing, and birth certificates, all at a single location. This initiative aims to minimize the need for residents to travel outside the region for official business, thereby saving time and costs.
The Toshao of Karrau Village, Shane Cornelius, will oversee the new facility. The President was joined by Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally, whose ministry is responsible for this initiative. Government service centres have already been established in Regions Two, Three, and Five as part of a broader effort to enhance access to public services nationwide.
In addressing transportation issues, President Ali announced the addition of a second vessel to the Bartica-Parika route to improve travel along this corridor, which has historically posed challenges for commuters. This new ferry will complement the existing vessel operating on the route.
Furthermore, the President outlined plans for hinterland and Amerindian communities to access financing opportunities through the soon-to-be-established Guyana Development Bank. This bank aims to provide soft loans for small businesses and support larger projects through consortiums. It will also offer business support, including mentoring and financial management training, once the necessary legislation is approved by the National Assembly. An allocation of US$100 million has been set aside in the 2026 National Budget for the establishment of the bank and its seed capital.
During the outreach, the President addressed various community concerns, including infrastructure and electricity needs. Assessments are currently underway to determine suitable power solutions for Karrau. Additionally, residents were informed that a permanent dentist will soon be attached to the health centre, with a dental chair already purchased and being installed.
President Ali noted a significant decline in complaints from Karrau over the years, with residents now focusing on expanding development projects already in place. He emphasized that the outreach would also serve to evaluate the performance of technical personnel in the region, indicating that any lapses would have consequences.
Separately, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, along with Labour and Manpower Planning Minister Keoma Griffith and Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Pauline Sukhai, met with residents and leaders from Imbaimadai and surrounding communities. Issues raised included street lighting, old-age pensions, land titling, road and bridge rehabilitation, healthcare, education, agriculture, mining, a proposed solar farm, and community facility development. The Prime Minister assured residents that their concerns would be reviewed and addressed through the appropriate government ministries and agencies.
Source: snn.gy
Follow us on Instagram: @news.tringlobe
