Residents of Wakapoa and Akawini (Baracaro) in the Lower Pomeroon and Karawab and Kabakaburi in the Upper Pomeroon will receive first-time access to potable water with the drilling of new wells.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal made this announcement during a two-day outreach in the areas on February 17-18, 2023.
A release yesterday from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) said that regional Vice-Chairman, Humace Oudit; Director of Hinterland Services at the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Ramchand Jailal and other technical officials accompanied the Minister.
Currently, the villagers who are predominantly Amerindians, tap water from the river and by rainwater harvesting. Croal stated that the incoming systems are in keeping with a commitment by President Irfaan Ali. Croal also said the government is heavily investing to ensure that hinterland and riverine communities receive 100% access to potable water by 2025.
The wells will be drilled through GWI with a new PAT Rig acquired by the utility. The rig is expected to arrive in March and drilling of two wells will start at Wakapoa in April, before moving to Baracaro for the drilling of another, the release said. GWI also aims to connect three nearby islands at Akawini to the system. The rig will then move to the other areas.
Two Community Service Officers will be trained to assist GWI with the operation and maintenance of the systems upon completion.
With the villages also set to benefit from monies earned from the sale of Guyana’s carbon credits, the Minister also urged them to be innovative and embark on projects that will foster sustainable economic growth and job creation.
During the meeting, residents also took the opportunity to highlight issues affecting them in their communities. These issues will be addressed by the relevant subject Ministers and agencies.
