Department of Public Information, Guyana

Tag: Region Ten

  • Press Release: New Wismar-Mackenzie Bridge in Linden 97% complete

    Press Release: New Wismar-Mackenzie Bridge in Linden 97% complete

    – with secondary connections accelerated

    The Ministry of Public Works is pleased to announce that physical works on the New Wismar-Mackenzie Bridge in Linden, Region Ten, are now 97% complete. This update was provided to the Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, on Friday, 6 March 2026, during a targeted assessment visit to the project site.

    The Minister held a multi-stakeholder meeting which included technical staff from the Ministry, contractors China Railway Construction (Caribbean) Company Ltd. and GuyCo Construction Inc., and the consultancy firm, Politecnica.

    During the visit, Minister Edghill and representatives from various stakeholders conducted an onsite walkthrough of the 233-metre-long concrete bridge, where concrete placement is currently at  97%. The walkthrough also included an inspection of the secondary connections leading to and from the bridge.

    A project debrief revealed that works on the Western End (Wismar side)—specifically the West Watooka Connector and Dacoura Haul Roads—are 33% complete. For these two main arteries, subgrade preparation, subbase, crusher run base, and curbing are 100% finished. The foundation works for the roundabout are also 100% complete, with curbing at 50%. Additionally, work on the Burnham Drive approach is advancing, with subsurface works at 38%, curbing at 39%, and culvert works currently underway.

    Meanwhile, the Eastern End of the bridge is 27% complete, accounting for foundation and retaining structures. At the time of the visit, 3,750 prefabricated vertical drains had been installed and geotextiles laid, with the contractor currently placing white sand and crushed stone as part of the subsurface works.

    A new culvert at the Washer Pond Road approach at Noitgedacht has been successfully installed, and construction is underway for the retaining wall of the main embankment. Excavation and geotextile installation are complete, with backfilling ongoing to prepare for final surfacing.

    The project remains on track to be fully operational by June 2026, pending the completion of the connector roads. When finished, the toll-free crossing will feature two barrier-separated pedestrian walkways, modern lighting, and two new roundabouts on both the eastern and western sides of the bridge.

    The Ministry of Public Works remains committed to delivering high-quality infrastructure that meets the growing demands of Region Ten and the wider country. The Ministry thanks the residents of Linden and commuters for their continued cooperation and patience as we execute these transformative works.

  • Amerindian communities receiving LCDS, Forest Carbon Credit funds – Min Benn

    Amerindian communities receiving LCDS, Forest Carbon Credit funds – Min Benn

    Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn, refuted the opposition’s claim that communities did not benefit from the Low Carbon Credit Development Strategy (LCDS ) and the Forest Carbon Credit Funds.

    She said while addressing the National Assembly that in 2023, communities in Region Ten, like Wikki/Calcuni, which benefitted from the LCDS, used their funds to purchase a Lucas Mill for $5 million, a log trailer for $1 million, and provided transportation and accommodation for their residents at a tune of $1.7 million

    Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn, addressing the National Assembly on Wednesday

    She noted that the funds also provided a stipend of $140,000 for the committee members.

    These communities also purchased a log loader, part payment for $100,000, and provided transportation for residents.

    Also from Region 10, Hururu in 2023, they bought a skidder for $15,300,000.

    They constructed a shade house at a tune of $5,756,400 and backfilled their play field to the tune of $2.5 millions.

    Carbon credits provide financial incentives to preserve forests and biodiversity

    The allocations of the forest carbon credits programme for 2025, Wikki/Calcuni, with a population of 135 residents, were allocated $15 million.

    Another community, Puruni benefitted from $18 million.

    In the village of Hururu, $24 million was allocated.

    Meanwhile, Minister Benn noted that she has the full list of those villages and communities that have submitted their village sustainability plans as of the current date.

    She highlighted that these communities have the right to self-determination and village general meetings on how they wish their Forest Carbon Credits to be spent.

  • Mabura Health Centre opens with new staff quarters

    Mabura Health Centre opens with new staff quarters

    As part of the government’s ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen healthcare delivery across Guyana, the Mabura Health Centre and adjacent staff quarters in Region Ten were officially commissioned last Friday.

    The commissioning now marks a significant step in ensuring all regions have equitable access to quality healthcare services.

    The newly commissioned Mabura Health Centre

    The newly constructed $54 million Mabura Health Centre is fully staffed and equipped to provide essential primary healthcare services to residents of Mabura and surrounding communities.

    The facility will enhance access to medical care, offering a range of services, including outpatient care, maternal and child health services, basic emergency care, and health education programmes that support preventive healthcare and early intervention.

    Residents at the commissioning ceremony of the new Mabura Health Centre

    A building to accommodate staff, valued at $30 million, was also commissioned to provide safe, comfortable accommodation for healthcare workers and is expected to improve staff retention and ensure the consistent presence of medical personnel at the centre.

    Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony, speaking at the commissioning of the new health centre

    Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony stated that the Mabura Health Centre will play a critical role in saving lives, especially in responding to accidents and medical emergencies in the area.

    “What we are trying to do is something extraordinary. We want to ensure that the same services accessible on the coastland are also accessible in the hinterland,” the minister said.

    Dr Anthony also highlighted that telemedicine services will soon be introduced at the facility, allowing patients to benefit from specialist consultations and advanced medical support without having to travel long distances.

    Additionally, opportunities will be created for residents interested in pursuing nursing and other healthcare training programmes, further strengthening the human resource capacity within Region Ten.

    Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony, along with residents and staff participating in the ribbon cutting

    The commissioning of the new facility forms part of the government’s integrated strategy to modernise healthcare infrastructure, enhance working conditions for healthcare workers, and improve access to quality healthcare services nationwide.

  • Region Ten to benefit from large-scale solar farms under renewable energy push

    Region Ten to benefit from large-scale solar farms under renewable energy push

    Residents of Region Ten are set to soon benefit from large-scale solar farms aimed at easing the growing demand for electricity while improving the reliability of the power supply in the area.

    The initiative forms part of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s broader drive to expand renewable energy across Guyana.

    Consultation engagement with residents of Region Ten on Solar Farm programme

    The project is being implemented under the Guyana Utility Scale Solar Photovoltaic Programme. It will integrate a total of 15 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic power, supported by at least 22 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery storage, into the Linden isolated system.

    Three sites have been identified for the region: Dacoura, which is expected to receive 3 megawatt at peak (MWp), Retrieve 8 MWp, and Block 37 with a further 4 MWp.

    The programme is intended to reduce government subventions, cut greenhouse gas emissions, lower dependence on fossil fuel power generation, and improve electricity services to support new infrastructure.

    Job creation for local communities is also among the anticipated benefits.

    On Tuesday, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), in collaboration with GUYSOL, hosted a public consultation in the region to outline the scope of the project and address concerns from residents.

    Speaking to the Department of Public Information (DPI), Linden Younge, a resident, stressed the importance of community engagement.

    Resident, Linden Younge

    “It is very important that the community understands initiatives like this and is informed, so they can give their input.

    This should be well-received because it introduces a new type of energy infrastructure that will help offset daily power consumption and reduce reliance on diesel engines. It creates more available power, especially for those looking to invest,” he stated.

    He added that improved reliability and availability of electricity would support the growth of small and medium-sized businesses, while also offering environmental benefits.

    Resident, Keron Williams

    Resident Keron Williams described the project as a timely and welcome development.

    “Any initiative that enhances renewable energy is welcomed in today’s world, especially given the global environmental challenges. Diversifying the power source in Linden is incredible. It’s good to see this has moved beyond talk to action, with contracts already in place,” Williams said.

    He added that the consultations provided clarity on how solar power would supplement existing sources, offering greater security in electricity supply following periods of instability in recent times.

    Resident, Norris King

    Another resident, Norris King, also expressed support for the initiative, noting that his main concern was whether residents would be negatively affected by costs.

    “There was some clarity in that our realities would not be affected negatively, and therefore, for me, I think it is a plus for all involved, the community, the government, and everyone else.”

    The construction of the solar farms is being carried out through a joint venture between SUMEC Complete Equipment and Engineering Co., Ltd. and XJ Group Corporation.

    The project is valued at US$22.6 million and is expected to generate approximately 6,707 megawatt-hours annually per site.

    Construction is scheduled to take 18 months, with full integration into the power system anticipated by the first quarter of 2027.

  • Bamia Primary School officially completed

    Bamia Primary School officially completed

    PRESS RELEASE | Bamia Primary School officially completed and opened, liability period still ongoing.

    January 5, 2026 – Today marked the official completion and opening of Bamia Primary School, a long-anticipated regional education project delivered under the mandate of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development.

    The opening of the school reflects the government’s continued commitment to strengthening regional infrastructure and improving access to essential services at the community level.

    Bamia Primary School is a modern, purpose-built facility designed to provide a safe, inclusive, and conducive learning environment for children in Bamia and surrounding communities. The school includes spacious classrooms, administrative offices, sanitary facilities, and supporting infrastructure aimed at enhancing teaching and learning outcomes.

    Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Honourable Priya Manickchand, expressed her happiness at “the completion of the school for the pupils and teachers” and said it was “a major and consistent effort that had to be employed to get this school finished.” She emphasised that “every time stakeholders fail to realise the government’s vision for universal access to education, it is our children and teachers who suffer, and that is the opposite of what the Government intends and desires.”

    As a regional project, the completion of Bamia Primary School highlights the role of local government in identifying community needs, implementing development works, and ensuring that residents benefit directly from public investment. It also aligns with the Government’s wider education agenda, which prioritises equitable access to quality education across all regions of Guyana.

    With the school now open and operational, students will benefit from improved learning conditions closer to home, while educators are supported by a modern and functional facility.

    The completion and opening of Bamia Primary School demonstrates the practical outcomes of effective regional governance. Through the local government framework, this project responds directly to community needs and ensures that public investment translates into real, accessible services for families in Region Ten. We wish our pupils and teachers of this school and those who will be educated here all the very best.

  • US$35M Wismar/Mackenzie bridge 92.3 per cent complete

    US$35M Wismar/Mackenzie bridge 92.3 per cent complete

    ─the new bridge is set to deliver lasting benefits to residents, commuters

    As the Wismar/ Mackenzie bridge draws closer to completion, it will provide lasting economic, social, and environmental benefits to residents and those travelling in and out of the mining town of Linden.

    According to a report from the Ministry of Public Works, the US$35 million bridge is currently 92.3 per cent completed.

    Installation of formwork for the casting of the bearing plinths at Pier One

    The large-scale infrastructure project will feature four lanes as compared to the previous two-lane bridge that existed.

    This small but deliberate change will cut travel time in half and reduce traffic congestion.

    It will also generate substantial annual savings for commuters and businesses, as this bridge, too, will be toll-free.

    It reflects a decision by the President Ali-led government aimed at making travel more affordable between regions.

    Ongoing site preparation works for the construction of the toe retaining wall at Pier 0

    The new 220-metre-long precast concrete bridge is also being built to accommodate a wider range of vehicle sizes and weights, as well as higher speeds and uninterrupted passage for vessels, facilitating safer and easier passage to commuters.

    Contractor China Railway Construction (Caribbean) Co Ltd is ahead of schedule, having completed 47 concrete girders to date.

    The completion of girder production is anticipated in the first week of December, with the final 42m span girders to be produced at that time.

    Currently, girder diaphragm and slab connections are in progress on three east spans.

    The toe protection wall on the downstream side of the P0 abutment slope continues along the remaining third, with part of the base concrete already poured.

    Completion of the casting of the bent cap at Pier Two

    At P2, bent cap and plinth construction were completed.

    For context: P stands for Pier, the vertical supports that hold up a bridge, or sometimes Pier/Abutment, depending on its location.

    The numbers (0–6) identify each pier or abutment’s position along the bridge, starting from one end.

    Upon completion, the bridge will feature a prestressed, post-tensioned concrete box girder design, comprising four vehicular lanes and two barrier-separated pedestrian walkways.

    The modern bridge is expected to mirror the design of the new Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge. It is set to become an iconic landmark of the region, providing a sense of pride and identity to the residents.

    It will also position the region as a key hub for international commerce and economic growth.

  • Wismar phase one all set for home construction by year-end

    Wismar phase one all set for home construction by year-end

    Persons who have been allocated land at Wismar Phase One in Linden, Region Ten, would be able to start constructing their homes by the end of the year.

    Minister of Housing Collin Croal made the announcement on Wednesday during his visit to the new housing scheme to inspect the ongoing infrastructural works. He was accompanied by Minister within the Ministry, Vanessa Benn.

    Minister of Housing Collin Croal and Minister within the Ministry Vanessa Benn inspect the housing development plan

    “Phase One, I am happy to say that all persons allocated there will be able to access their land and start building before Christmas,” the minister announced.

    The two major housing projects, Wismar Phase One and Two, are transforming the housing landscape in the mining town with total investments valued at approximately $5.5 billion.

    While Phase One will be completed by November, the deadline for Phase Two is slated for next May.

    However, Minister Croal has asked the contractors to finish the work ahead of time, so that persons who were allocated lots can also access theirs. The ministry plans to meet with all contractors in a week to reiterate its stance on speeding up the process.

    Both ministers expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring quality and timely completion.

    Wismar Phase Two works are underway

    In addition, Minister Croal disclosed that the government is committed to establishing another housing development in Region Ten.

    Meanwhile, as part of the day’s outreach, the ministers made brief stops at Wismar Block 43 and Prosville, where they spoke briefly about the ongoing regularisation of the areas.

    The ministers issued a clarion call to residents to desist from occupying government reserves, reminding them that such actions are illegal and can disrupt planned community development and infrastructure works.

    “We recognise that there are some persons who, unfortunately, perhaps, would say they had no other option, but it is still an illegal activity, and so the course of the law has to be implemented,” Minister Benn underscored.

    “Our ministry has an enforcement arm, and they’re going to do their work, but contiguous to that and complementary to that is our community development unit that is engaging every householder, squatter, to examine their circumstances, and see how we can help to address the issue,” she stated.

    Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn

    The projects and regularisation efforts form part of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration’s broader commitment to deliver 40,000 housing units during its second term, while ensuring equitable and sustainable development across all regions.

    These developments are part of the government’s continued efforts to expand homeownership opportunities and improve living conditions for Guyanese across the regions.

  • No more delays – Min Manickchand warns Bamia Primary School contractors

    No more delays – Min Manickchand warns Bamia Primary School contractors

    Newly appointed Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, has delivered a firm ultimatum to contractors working on the Bamia Primary School in Linden, Region Ten, warning that the government will terminate the contract if they do not meet the October deadline.

    During a site visit on Sunday, Minister Manickchand met with the contractor, St8tement Investment Inc., and their subcontractors, stressing that the finishing phase must move at full speed. 

    Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, during a site visit at Bamia Primary School on Sunday

    She explained that someone will be assigned to oversee the project.

    “The contractors have been told that it’s either they finish [the project] or come off the project. We are very clear about what we want for the children who are going to attend here,” the minister noted.

    She said that while previous updates suggested that the school was near completion, she has seen other projects stall at the final stage.

    The minister highlighted the overcrowded conditions that pupils currently endure, attending classes in shifts and sometimes sitting three or four on a bench.

    Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, during a site visit at Bamia Primary School on Sunday

    When completed, the new Bamia Primary will accommodate hundreds of pupils, significantly improving access to quality education in the area.

    The contract for the school was signed in November 2021, and it is one of several schools being built nationwide as part of the government’s commitment to ensuring every child receives quality education.  

  • Gov’t commits to rebuilding Kwakwani Secondary School

    Gov’t commits to rebuilding Kwakwani Secondary School

    The PPP/C government has committed to rebuilding the Kwakwani Secondary School in Region Ten, which was destroyed in an early Sunday morning fire.  

    Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill announced the construction plans on his official Facebook page, saying it was agonising when he received the “painful news” of the fire.

    Photo from GPF: Kwakwani Secondary School was engulfed in flames early Sunday morning

    “Whatever is the cause of that fire, it is regrettable. Children need to be served. A community needs to be served, the minister said before saying, “I am proud to announce that the President Ali-led administration, now, and the one that will be elected on September 1, will rebuild Kwakwani Secondary.”

    He also committed that the school’s reconstruction will be completed quickly: “Parents, children, and the community of Kwakwani, please be assured that your pain, suffering, and loss will be remedied swiftly.”

    To prevent learning loss, the government will team up with local authorities to ensure that alternative arrangements are ready for the children when classes start again.

    Kwakwani, like any other community, will continue to benefit from the government’s development programme and thrive, Minister Edghill said.

  • Region Ten gets $33.9M Command Operations Centre

    Region Ten gets $33.9M Command Operations Centre

    Safety and security are on the rise in Region Ten following the commissioning of a whopping $33.9 million Command Operations Centre on Wednesday.

    The state-of-the-art facility is designed to enhance crime-fighting efforts by enabling real-time surveillance, better incident monitoring, and faster operational response across the region.

    Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn commissions the new Command Operation Centre

    It is a critical component of the ‘Safe City to Safe Country’ expansion project and will provide an eagle-eye view of the region through advanced technology.

    Importantly, the command centre aligns with the PPP/C government’s broader efforts to improve the security sector.

    New Command Operations Centre

    Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn reiterated the government’s commitment to modernising law enforcement by improving infrastructure, expanding surveillance capabilities, and equipping the Guyana Police Force (GPF) with the required tools and equipment to build safer, stronger communities countrywide.

    Command centres have proven to strengthen forensic and criminal investigative techniques of the force, as well as its capacity in crime detection, through the use and application of cameras strategically placed around the country.

    Officers receive thorough training to combat crime and use the center effectively, in addition to learning about technology.