— Under Model Village Initiative

-by Kristin Josiah

Port Mourant is set for major upgrades under the Government’s Model Village Initiative, with plans targeting housing, infrastructure, security and public spaces.

 President Dr. Irfaan Ali also announced new support for vulnerable families and business opportunities through the Guyana Development Bank.

Port Mourant, Region Six, is the latest community to benefit from the Government’s Model Village Initiative, with residents engaging today at the University of Guyana Tain Campus on plans to improve and transform the community.

President Irfaan Ali said today that the Government is working to address 100 percent of the housing needs in Region Six by the end of 2026, with households that have existing housing applications expected to receive allocation letters before the end of the year. The President also announced plans to introduce a social housing programme targeting persons living with severe disabilities, single parents.

facing extreme circumstances and other vulnerable groups, with approximately 300 persons with urgent housing needs targeted initially.

He also outlined measures to assist families who have received land but require support to begin construction, including affordable assistance with establishing the foundations of their homes.

In Port Mourant, the initiative will focus on upgrading roads, road shoulders, walkways and drainage, alongside improved street lighting, CCTV cameras, fire hydrants and other safety measures.

Plans also include upgrades and expansion of the Port Mourant Market to create safer and more hygienic spaces for vendors and small businesses, as well as improvements to public spaces, parks and recreational facilities. The plans further include tree planting, the development of a children’s play park and the construction of a Port Mourant Recreational Park.

Meanwhile, President Dr. Irfaan Ali also announced that clusters will be formed within the next two weeks to ensure residents of Region Six can maximize the benefits available through the Guyana Development Bank, which is expected to come on stream soon.

The President explained that the initiative will help residents access business financing through the development bank. The Guyana Development Bank will offer zero-interest loans of up to $3 million without the need for collateral, providing residents with greater access to financing to establish or expand businesses and pursue other productive ventures.