President Irfaan Ali on Friday commissioned a new recreational park located along the Backdam road in New Amsterdam – a development which he said is expected to provide a green space for families to come together with the possibility to improve mental health and community wellness.
The park which caters to differently-abled people was developed by the Ministry of Public Works along with the Office of the First Lady, Arya Ali.
Ali at the commissioning stated that his government has been working very keenly on the development of the town of New Amsterdam as he stressed that he is happy to see a “full army” comprising young people, business owners, and political persons coming together under the banner of One Guyana “wanting the best for New Amsterdam and putting themselves out there.”
According to Ali, in order to become a great country there must be a transformation of the mind, behaviour, and thinking of citizens stressing that such projects aid human transformation which is a critical part of the “human transformation umbrella.”
He said that the facility which is still undergoing some transformation was conceptualized only one year ago. He said that there are additional installations which are currently being shipped.
Ali then reminded those gathered that mental health is linked to community health.
“So mental health is closely linked to community health, community health is linked to wellness, fitness is linked to wellness, fitness, and wellness goes hand in hand”, he stated.
According to Ali, with such a family-oriented space a better and more conducive environment can be created around the region, as he reminded that the park must be treated with respect. “It’s a family-oriented space, this is not a space for abuse, liming, and all the other types of activities that do not come with a family-oriented space.”
He stressed, “This is not a rum shop or beer garden or a minibus or taxi music blazing competition square, this is a family-oriented space.”
In order to build community spirit, Ali pointed out that families utilizing the facility and communicating with each other will then enable counseling indirectly. “You will be sharing challenges and experiences, you will be able to know your neighbours and that is what we want.”
According to the President, people should come out with their baskets and “eat with their families.” He said that they should also bring out their children to enjoy the fresh air and complete their homework as the facility is also equipped with WiFi.
He also encouraged young adults and professionals furthering their studies to make use of the facility.
Ali urged the regional administration and businesses to offer financial support to youth groups to come out and perform during the weekends. “So the children can find an environment in which they can showcase their talents. This is what we want here… Cultural stage, community stage, this is what will uplift the life here in New Amsterdam.”
He pointed out that the facility is outfitted with bright lights and called on the police to ensure that there is a presence at the location.
Also present for the commissioning were the First Lady and son, Zayd.
