By Deneita Fredericks
Hundreds of people assembled at the National Stadium yesterday to witness the opening of the 2023 International Building Expo hosted by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA).
It was held under the theme “Building for All: One Guyana, Many Opportunities”
According to CHPA Chief Executive Officer, Sherwyn Greaves, this year has seen an unprecedented 100 per cent increase in the number of exhibits which he said is evidence of the innovative mindset of over 300 local and international exhibitors.
The exhibition aims to showcase Guyanese talent.
Stabroek News visited the expo yesterday and spoke with several potential home owners. The venue resembled a bustling marketplace with each booth offering a glimpse into products and services tailored for prospective homeowners. Cutting-edge technologies, ranging from energy-efficient systems to smart home solutions, were showcased, allowing visitors to envision homes where comfort and sustainability intertwine seamlessly.
Susan Johnson, a young professional, shared her excitement. “This expo is a beacon of hope for people like me who dream of having a home to call their own. The range of affordable housing solutions is inspiring.”
In another corner of the venue, Michael Rodriguez, a retiree, expressed his optimism about the variety of options. “It’s comforting to know that the industry is evolving to cater to different needs. As retirees, we seek not just a house, but a haven for the years ahead.”
Amidst the bustling booths and presentations, attendees took a moment to reflect on the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The grand visions of sustainable cities, affordable housing, and economic growth were intertwined.
The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including government officials, industry leaders, and international delegates. In his opening address, President Irfaan Ali acknowledged a pressing concern that resonated with the attendees: the rising demand for housing that outpaces the current supply.
“Although we have gotten monumental gains there are still challenges that need to be addressed. However, the level and scale of opportunities in the coming years for contractors are substantial”, he said.
Additionally, he addressed the surge in demand for 43,000 house lots which necessitates an estimated investment of $170 billion. This allocation is intended not only to address residential needs but also fund the construction of a vital 20-kilometre, four-lane highway to accommodate the burgeoning population.
It was also highlighted that currently, 57,000 active applicants are seeking housing solutions, compared to the 90,000 applicants in 2020. This statistic is said to serve as a stark reminder of the escalating urgency of the housing crisis.
During his speech, he articulated the aspiration to increase arrivals in the country from 700,000 this year to 2.5 million by 2030. This influx of visitors is expected to infuse new wealth and vitality into the economy.
