In a significant move to bolster the safety and security of its citizens, Guyana has allocated a substantial budget of $90.6 billion in the National Budget for 2024.
This investment aims to fortify the capabilities of the police force, integrate advanced technology, and uphold the rule of law effectively.
A major portion of this allocation, amounting to $30.3 billion, is dedicated to the Guyana Police Force.
Within this allocation, $1 billion is set aside for the expansion of the Force’s land and water fleet, contributing to improved mobility and response capabilities.
Another $2 billion is earmarked for enhancing technology and crime-fighting initiatives, while $5.4 billion will be utilized for infrastructural expansion.
Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr. Ashni Singh, outlined specific plans for the police force’s infrastructure.
In 2024, there will be focused efforts on the construction and rehabilitation of various police stations, including Kitty, Mahaicony, Sans Souci, and Weldaad.
Notably, a state-of-the-art twelve-story Brickdam Police Station is set to commence construction, symbolizing a significant advancement in the Force’s infrastructure.
The budget for the Guyana Police Force also includes allocations of $250 million for increased training across various fields and $152 million for community policing initiatives, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to law enforcement.
In addition to the police force, the Guyana Prison Service is slated to receive $6.5 billion, covering provisions for prison infrastructure and the training of prison officers.
The Guyana Fire Service is also a beneficiary, with allocations of $572.8 million for rehabilitating fire stations, $500 million to augment the service’s fleet, and $60 million for servicing and installing more fire hydrants.
Minister Ashni Singh highlighted specific goals, including the completion of Diamond Fire Station and additional fire stations at Charity, Parika, Soesdyke, Linden, Wisburg, along with extensions to existing fire stations at Linden, Rosehall, and Timehri.
Comparatively, this budget reflects a significant increase from the $72.6 billion allocated to the security sector in 2023, indicating the government’s commitment to reinforcing security measures and infrastructure for the well-being of the Guyanese population.