Govt to build new homes, establish $34M well at Murawau

The remote community of Murawau, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) will see significant development as the Housing Ministry, in collaboration with the Village Council, moves to fast-track the construction of ten new homes and initiate the drilling of a crucial new well.

These projects, long-awaited by residents, are set to dramatically improve living conditions and access to essential services in the village.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, recently engaged with Murawau residents at the village benab, underscoring the government’s commitment to hinterland development. This marks the Minister’s first visit to the community, a fact acknowledged with gratitude by Gilbert Anthony, a Murawau Senior Council.

“This is the first time the Minister has visited, and we are extremely thankful,” expressed Councillor Anthony, highlighting the significance of the engagement.

Minister Rodrigues, accompanied by Orlando Shuman, a representative from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, and Khemraj Persaud, Senior Engineer from Guyana Water Inc. (GWI), emphasized her pleasure in making the journey despite the challenging road conditions.

“I’m very pleased to be here this morning. I have engineers from Guyana Water Inc., and we had an adventure coming into your community. I was able to see roads and bridges coming in, and it’s clear we have some work to do there. I’m extremely pleased to make this journey.”

The highlight of the Minister’s address was the confirmation of the housing project. “We know you, and we made provision; we have selected this community to benefit from the housing project. Ten homes will be built in this community.”

Minister Rodrigues also noted the proactive participation of the villagers, stating, “The villagers are in the process of cutting the wood, and the Ministry will make the first payment to the village.” The beneficiaries of these new homes will be determined by the Murawau Village Council, ensuring a community-led allocation process.

Beyond housing, the critical issue of access to potable water was addressed. While Murawau currently lacks a potable water system, Minister Rodrigues assured residents of the government’s commitment to extending coverage to unserved areas.

The Minister announced that a contract for a new well in Murawau has already been awarded. “We have already tendered for the well, the contractor has been awarded, and the contractor is expected to start work in two weeks,” she confirmed, bringing immediate relief and anticipation to the community regarding improved water access.

The well will be done at a cost of approximately $34M.