-under Model Village Initiative

-President Ali announces 89 kilometres of drainage works, 1,500 streetlights, and 168 security cameras as community transformation begins

Residents of La Parfaite Harmonie are set to benefit from a major infrastructure upgrade programme focused on improving drainage, road networks, safety and public spaces, as the community becomes one of the first pilot areas under the government’s Model Village Initiative.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali made the announcement during a public consultation in the community on Monday, where he outlined plans to transform the area into a safer, more resilient and better organised community.

The initiative will see upgrades across the 757-acre community, which comprises approximately 3,946 households, 34 kilometres of roads and 89 kilometres of drainage infrastructure.

One of the major components of the project will be the rehabilitation and expansion of the community’s drainage network, with concrete drains designed to improve water management and reduce flooding risks.

The President said the upgraded drains will also help address other challenges associated with poor drainage, including mosquito breeding and environmental issues.

“We want to have a drainage system that allows as much as possible communities to be safeguarded from the vulnerabilities of climate,” President Ali said.

Road improvements will also form a key part of the initiative, with plans to upgrade internal roads, strengthen road shoulders, improve access routes and introduce better pedestrian spaces.

The President said the goal is to ensure communities across Guyana receive infrastructure comparable to what is available in more developed areas.

“We want every community to be anchored in this type of transformation. We want communities that are safe and structured, where families can grow, children can play, and the elderly can walk,” he said.

To improve safety, 168 security cameras will be installed throughout La Parfaite Harmonie and connected to the national security system, while 1,500 streetlights will be installed to improve visibility across the community.

President Ali said the cameras will assist law enforcement in responding to incidents and creating a safer environment for residents.

The initiative will also include the installation of 16 bus stops, fire hydrants throughout the community, and improvements to public facilities, including schools, health centres and recreational areas.

The President said the creation of green spaces and family-oriented areas is also a critical part of developing communities where residents can connect and enjoy their surroundings.

He also called on residents to play their part in maintaining the improvements once completed, stressing that community cooperation would be necessary to protect the investments.

The Model Village Initiative is being rolled out in selected communities across Guyana, with La Parfaite Harmonie among the first areas identified for the pilot programme.