The newly rehabilitated Main Street in Hopetown was re-commissioned by Minister of Social Cohesion, Amna Ally on Sunday afternoon at a small dedication ceremony hosted at the location.
According to a Ministry of the Presidency press release, Ally commended the community on their collaborative effort. She also expressed hope that these efforts will be emulated as initiatives such as these can foster social cohesion in communities.
“I am quite certain that persons who were involved in rehabilitative work can tell stories about how this activity has brought them together and further established and strengthened relationships…When people have the chance to get to know each other, they focus on what they have in common, rather than the differences,” she said.
Meanwhile, Carol Smith-Joseph, Councillor of Region 5 read a roll call of persons who contributed to the success of the exercise, including the Region Five Democratic Council, Deputy Regional Officer and others.
She singled out Hopetown resident Asquith Hamilton, who built the road; Saj Rice Mill, who paid for the seats; James Nicholson, who paid all the labour costs. The Mahaicony, Abary Rice Development Scheme also came in for special mention. Smith-Joseph purchased all the lights for the street, the release stated.
She also extended gratitude to the Minister and other dignitaries for participating in the commissioning noting that their presence signifies that “Hopetown, a village with a rich and enduring legacy of achievement in academia, sport and culture is undoubtedly deserving of this aesthetically beautiful and modern thoroughfare we call Main Street.”
