The Ministry of Public Works last Saturday announced that various stakeholders have agreed to several community enhancement activities, including clean-ups, as part of its 55th independence anniversary programme.
During a virtual consultation, the ministry said, participants were told that the intention is to do more than the norm, and to seek the participation of Local Autho-rities, community based groups, Private Sector bodies, Religious Organizations, Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), and citizens in general, to improve the aesthetics of their communities.
In a press release, the ministry said various proposals were endorsed, and some of these include cleaning of parapets and drains; cleaning of shorelines, sea and river defences; flagging and decorating of light poles; erection of motivational banners; painting of community bridges; cleaning and painting of community open spaces; painting of pedestrian crossings; and enhancement of bus stops and surroundings.
Stakeholders raised concerns about maintenance and emphasised aggressive public education and enforcement by statutory bodies.
In response, the ministry indicated it will be engaging dozens of small contractors in the clean-up exercises as part of its road and sea defence maintenance programmes, while representatives of the Private Sector pledged to support the initiative at the local level. Works Minister Juan Edghill also urged stakeholders at the consultation to serve as cells to create a wider movement for the beautification of Guyana.
It was further noted that a “Best Village” competition at the regional level and the erection of decorative frames, where selfies can be taken to showcase Guyana’s independence on social media platforms, were also floated. The use of bumper stickers, already produced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs- Communica-tions Taskforce, with messages of patriotism will also be encouraged, it added.
Persons who are interested in being part of this initiative can contact the Ministry of Public Works for more information on 231-8127 or 231-8128.