![Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge [right] and Ambassador of Brazil to Guyana, Lineu Pupo de Paula cut the ribbon to officially hand over the wells. (DPI photo)](https://s1.stabroeknews.com/images/2018/11/wells1.jpg)
Eighteen officers from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and four officials from the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) yesterday received certificates from the Brazilian Army for their training in well-drilling.
The theoretical and practical training exercise which lasted for two months was facilitated by the Sixth Construction Battalion of the Brazilian Armed Forces.
According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) press release, the exercise formed part of the project where the Governments of Guyana and Brazil collaborated to drill eight wells in eight communities usually affected by drought, in the Deep South Rupununi District, Region Nine. The eight wells were officially commissioned yesterday.
At a ceremony yesterday morning, hosted at the Regional Administration compound in Aishalton, Lieutenant Colonel Vandir Pereira Soarey Jnr. said the training has provided the necessary knowledge needed to conduct new drilling in Guyana. He congratulated the team and charged the officers to continually practice well-drilling to improve their perfection in the art, the DPI added.
“We have successfully completed our test to drill eight deep wells to minimise drought in the communities. One year ago, we couldn’t imagine that this was possible. Today, we are here and we are proud to share our knowledge, culture, friendship and work. It’s our great honour to have worked you. Thank you all, GDF, CDC (Civil Defence Commission), GWI, communities and other agencies for your support throughout the journey, as we worked to achieve one common goal,” Colonel Sorey was quoted as saying.
Director-General (Ag) of CDC, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig, said the project was a collaborative effort with all parties working to achieve one goal. He explained that there was detailed planning prior to the drilling which meant the team worked together for approximately two years identifying the various locations and coordinating to ensure that the project was successful, the press release added.
“The language wasn’t a barrier to getting the work done and this was an excellent opportunity for the two countries to demonstrate their fifty years of friendship. There were systems in place to alleviate and reduce all anticipated challenges. We overcame any difficulties with ease and were able to complete the project on schedule and surpass deliverables and expectations,” Lt. Col. Craig explained.
The Director-General commended all parties involved including the Ministries of Communities and Public Infrastructure, GDF and the Regional Democratic Council for their role in making the project successful.
Commander of Engineering Corps of the GDF, Colonel Gary Beaton, in brief remarks, expressed appreciation to the Brazilian Army for partnering with Guyana to reduce the effects of drought in Deep South. He noted that GDF has undeniably received valuable training not only in the construction but development and maintenance of wells.
“I’m certain with your training you are able to conduct such operations on your own. I know that during this mission not only did we share working knowledge but also shared our cultures and forged new lasting friendships,” the Colonel was quoted as saying.
The DPI disclosed that during the course of the project, the Brazilian military also conducted a medical outreach where 69 persons received attention. They also distributed toys to children in several communities.
