-under Model Village Initiative
Residents of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, are set to benefit from a modern community market as part of the Government’s Model Village Initiative.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali described the project as a key investment in supporting small businesses, improving community infrastructure and strengthening local food production.
The announcement was made on Monday during the third public consultation on the initiative, held at the Tuschen Secondary School.
Addressing residents, President Ali said the proposed market forms part of a broader vision to transform communities in ways that extend beyond physical infrastructure.
“It’s about a transformation of every citizen’s life. It is about creating a community where there is trust, where there is faith, where there is love, where there is opportunity and where there is a better quality of life.” the president said.
He explained that the market is intended to provide a dedicated, clean and organised space for vendors while creating greater opportunities for entrepreneurship within the community.
“We want to build a proper market where all of those who are selling along the roadside can come together in one safe, clean and modern environment,” President Ali told residents, noting that the facility would improve conditions for vendors while making it easier for consumers to access fresh produce and other goods.
The President added that the initiative will also support greater food production by exploring financing opportunities and modern agricultural technologies to help communities become more productive and economically resilient.
He underscored that residents will play a central role in shaping the project through the consultation process.
“We are here to consult with you. We are here to listen to you because this is your community,” he said, adding that residents’ feedback will help refine the plans before implementation begins.
Tuschen is among the first communities selected for the pilot phase of the Model Village Initiative, which the Government intends to replicate in villages across Guyana.