Dear Editor,
PLEASE permit me a space in your letter column to share what took place last Friday during the Vice-President’s outreach in Region Five.
Firstly, I would like to thank the Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, M.P., and his team for visiting Region Five, the largest agriculture-producing region in Guyana.
Residents, both young and old, turned out in large numbers to share their concerns and have them examined, addressed, and, where possible, resolved.
As an agricultural region, many farmers—including those involved in cash crops, rice cultivation, cattle rearing, and poultry production—had the opportunity to voice their concerns and frustrations regarding issues affecting them within the Ministry of Agriculture and its regional departments.
All of the farmers in attendance had the opportunity to engage directly with Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha, M.P., and his team. They were able to raise their concerns, face-to-face, and I can confidently say that many of their matters were addressed immediately, leaving them satisfied and encouraged.
The day was well organised, and flowed smoothly as residents sought assistance from various ministries and agencies, as well as the opportunity to meet Vice-President Jagdeo.
Hon. Collin Croal, M.P., Hon. Vanessa Benn, M.P., and representatives from the Ministry of Housing were on hand to address concerns related to the housing sector.
Residents were able to receive updates on their house lot applications, and gain valuable information regarding the Home Construction Assistance Programme and other housing initiatives.
The ministers and their teams worked diligently to resolve issues, with some residents receiving allocations, and others obtaining immediate assistance that would help them begin building their homes.
Also present were representatives from GWI, GPL, the Small Business Bureau, and several other agencies. Residents took the opportunity to raise concerns and seek assistance, and many matters were addressed on-the-spot.
Hon. Dr. Ashni Singh, M.P., and his team also did an excellent job in ensuring that pensioners and residents experiencing issues with NIS received the attention and guidance they needed.
Residents were likewise able to engage with officials from the Ministry of Public Works. The ministry’s team, led by Hon. Madanlall Ramraj, M.P., along with Permanent Secretary Mr. Vladim Persaud and regional staff, listened attentively to concerns, and provided assurances regarding infrastructure improvements throughout the region.
I must commend all of the ministers and their teams for the excellent work they did in listening to and addressing the concerns of the people of Region Five.
Many residents had the opportunity to meet one-on-one with the Vice-President himself, discuss their issues, and either have them resolved immediately or referred to the relevant agencies for prompt action.
This visit was wholeheartedly welcomed by the people of Region Five. The outreach provided an avenue for residents to raise concerns that, in some instances, had not received adequate attention from regional agencies. As a result, many issues were finally brought to the forefront and addressed.
I also commend the Regional Chairman, the Regional Executive Officer (REO), and their teams for ensuring that the day’s activities were conducted in an orderly and professional manner, creating an environment where everyone felt welcomed and heard.
For many years, this region has lacked outreach initiatives of this nature, where ordinary citizens can directly engage ministers and senior government officials. Too often, communities feel disconnected from decision-makers, and concerns remain unresolved.
I therefore encourage the Regional Chairman and the newly appointed REO to continue working for the people by organizing regular community outreaches—not only political engagements, but genuine opportunities to listen to residents and address their concerns. Greater oversight should also be exercised to ensure that NDCs and regional agencies effectively carry out their responsibilities within their communities.
This outreach should serve as an eye-opener and a model for future engagement. The positive outcomes achieved on Friday should continue throughout the region through regular visits to villages and communities, allowing residents to be heard and assisted.
Once again, on behalf of the people of Region Five, I extend sincere gratitude to the Vice President and his team for what was undoubtedly a successful and beneficial regional outreach.
Mr. Vice-President, I must also commend you for the tremendous effort you continue to invest in these outreaches, ensuring that our people have a voice and access to those who can help address their concerns.
Through initiatives such as these, we can continue building a better Guyana—one where all citizens are treated with respect and dignity as we strive toward the vision of One Guyana.