Upgraded Kwakwani Workers’ Club recommissioned
― handed over to community
DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, November 12, 2019
The Kwakwani Workers’ Club, a central meeting place for residents of the community located in the Upper Demerara-Berbice Region, has been commissioned and handed back to the community.
During a simple thanksgiving service held on Sunday last, both residents and guests; Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Raphael Trotman and Minister of Finance, Hon. Winston Jordan expressed satisfaction that the project was undertaken and finally completed.
For Minister Trotman, who was behind the project from inception, it was a moment of appreciation.
“When I first entered into this building some years ago, there was actually a church service taking place, it was a Sunday like today and I was given the opportunity of speaking to the gathering after the service and I have said to the people where ever I have been, that something happened in this building on that day, that left me a changed person and it would appear that it left Kwakwani a changed place as well.” Recounted Minister Trotman.
The minister had committed then to working on renovating the building. Earlier in March this year, a meeting was held with residents to discuss the way forward on the project, during this time an approximate cost of $10M was given.
At the time, Minister Trotman had stated that he was seeking donors. On Sunday, he expressed his gratitude to; Variety Woods, International Imports and Supplies, Metallica Incorporated and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) for supporting the project.
The rehabilitation of the club, which served as a recreational facility for bauxite workers in the 70s and 80s, is today an official meeting place and a venue for community events. It also serves as a research centre and a hub for community development.