Another bridge commissioned in Wakapoa

DPI Guyana, Friday, June 21, 2019

A $1Million bridge constructed in Upper Koria-Yarshirmima, Wakapoa, Region Two was commissioned to allow for easier access to the school and health centre in the Pomeroon-Supenaam village.

The bridge will allow the over 300 residents residing on the islands to have easier access to the Myrie area which is the commercial zone. The road leading to the Yarasharima Primary School was also rehabilitated.

According to Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock the project delivers on a promise made to the community. “It is a historic moment as we commission another new bridge to ensure the children get to school easier and faster. We are very happy that we can continue to deliver what you have asked for and what we have promised you.”

According to Minister Allicock, though there is a lot more work to be done, the Coalition government is pleased with its delivery thus far. “We have a lot of work to do and with your support, we can continue to deliver,” he reiterated. Urging the villagers to collaborate to ensure the continued development of their community he reassured them of the administration’s continued support in their efforts.

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock and Regional Executive Officer (REO) Region 2, Dennis Jaikran during the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon to commission the Wakapoa bridge

An aerial view of the Wakapoa bridge

Students of the Yarshirmima Primary School traversing the bridge

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, Regional Executive Officer (REO) Region 2, Dennis Jaikran and Toshao Howard Cornelius along with residents of Wakapoa

The construction of the bridge was catered for by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Capital Project. This allowed for the structure to be built by the villagers who also provided the necessary materials.

Regional Executive Officer (REO), Dennis Jaikaran explained that the project forms part of a programme that allows communities to be a partner in the developmental process. It is a clear indication that “we are a caring government,” he noted.

“It is important for us to understand that as we commission this bridge, it is bridging the gap between two areas and we can use this as a reference to also bridge the gaps that exist between us,” Jaikaran told the residents.

Toshao of the village, Howard Cornelius thanked the government for its support with the project and commended the residents for their construction of the bridge.

This project comes just three months after a $16Million walkway was commissioned in the community to link the Myrie and Borada Islands.

Images: Marceano Narine