Georgetown: On Monday, the Central Housing & Planning Authority launched its Community-based Employment Stimulation Project (CESP), aimed at providing job opportunities for residents in vulnerable communities through the housing drive.
Minister of Housing and Water Colin Croal told Tiger Bay residents that the government has recognized the need for improved standard of living and the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the lives of citizens countrywide. He said the project is therefore a fitting response and will see the employment of hundreds over the next few years. He further noted that project was conceptualized by H.E. Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, during a visit to Tiger Bay in August 2020. At that time the President promised the community that the government would explore ways for community enhancement and job creation.
Susan Rodrigues Minister within The Ministry of Housing & Water stated that the project is not only a fulfillment of the President’s commitment but also manifesto promises to provide 50,000 jobs during the 2020-2025 tenure.
The project will run from 2021-2025 at an estimated cost of $20 million, however, $3.9M has been allotted to pilot the project in 2021. Phase One will span from May to November, 2021, with an expected 80 direct beneficiaries. CH&PA will be partnering with vulnerable communities, block makers, Guyana National Bureau of Standards, contractors, hardware suppliers and sand suppliers to execute.
CEO of CH&PA, Mr. Sherwyn Greaves, explained that the agency will be giving start up support including block making sheds, tools, organizing credit for sand and cement, as well as, transportation. To date ten contractors have agreed to purchase blocks from the project to aid in the construction of 290 homes being built by CH&PA in Prospect, East Bank Demerara and Cummings Lodge, Georgetown.
Target communities identified thus far are Tiger Bay, Albouystown, East Ruimveldt, West Ruimveldt, Sophia, Agricola, Mocha, Lusignan and Buxton in Region Four. Canje, Region Six and Linden in Region Ten have also been identified.
You must be logged in to post a comment.