By Josiah Williams
In a significant move to boost both residential and agricultural development, President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced that 500 families along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway will be allocated land for both housing and farming purposes.
This initiative aims to transform the lives of residents in these communities.
The government is set to develop farmsteads and a production area along the highway, focusing on integrating climate-smart agriculture with new housing developments.
The announcement was made by President Ali on Monday during a land lease distribution event for various communities along the highway.
President Ali emphasized the need for innovation in land allocation and usage, stating that 500 individuals interested in modern farming will be given an acre of land each.
These farmsteads will be established even in mined-out areas, with the government providing assistance in building shade houses and necessary infrastructure to support sustainable livelihoods.
The President highlighted that these shade houses will enable the production of high-value crops, which can be processed at a nearby facility, ensuring competitive costs and market viability for the produce.
Addressing the issue of squatters along the highway, President Ali noted that there are currently 2,300 squatters, with ongoing efforts to regularize these areas.
However, due to space constraints, not all squatters in the Circuitville area will be able to remain within their community.
Instead, some will be relocated to Hararuni, where 800 new lots have been created to accommodate them.
Additional developments are underway to create a further 800 lots, providing a total of 1,600 lots equipped with essential amenities such as schools, water, and roads.
Moreover, the government is developing 500 house lots at Loo Creek, further expanding residential opportunities for the citizens along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.
This comprehensive approach aims to enhance the quality of life for residents by combining modern agricultural practices with well-planned residential development, thereby fostering sustainable growth in the region.