November 28, 2024
Efforts are underway to begin the distribution of the $100,000 cash grant, which is set to benefit every Guyanese.
However, Vice President and PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has clarified that not all recipients will receive their grants by Christmas.
The $30.5 billion allocation for the initiative was recently approved by the National Assembly, with public servants and pensioners expected to be among the first beneficiaries.
Dr. Jagdeo addressed the matter during a press conference, explaining that while the government is making efforts to expedite the process, it could take up to five months to complete the distribution for all eligible citizens.
The initial disbursement will cover approximately 300,000 Guyanese, specifically targeting the categories identified, and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
However, Dr. Jagdeo noted that the full distribution could not proceed until the remainder of the funds were appropriated in the national budget, which is anticipated to pass by February next year.
While acknowledging the complexity of the task, Dr. Jagdeo emphasized that once the necessary database is in place, future distributions would be streamlined, making the process more efficient.
The cash grant initiative, which was announced by President Irfaan Ali in October, is aimed at providing financial assistance to all citizens aged 18 and above.