The Government of Guyana is taking steps to strengthen Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) to serve as the first line of response for community needs, according to Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance local governance and community engagement across the country.

Key points of the government’s efforts include:

1. Training Programs: The Ministry has launched training programs for NDC councillors and overseers, focusing on legal affairs, financial management, community involvement, and record management.
2. Emphasis on Community Service: Minister Parag stressed that NDC officials must prioritize serving the people and communities that elected them, emphasizing good governance, transparency, and accountability.
3. Strengthening Democracy: The initiative aims to bolster democracy at the grassroots level by encouraging greater community participation and engagement.
4. Nationwide Implementation: While the initial training targeted Region Four, similar programs are expected to be rolled out across all regions of Guyana.
5. Addressing Community Issues: NDC officials are being encouraged to be proactive in addressing residents’ concerns and to maintain a visible presence in their communities.

Minister Parag emphasized the importance of NDCs in national development, stating, “You cannot gain or maintain the confidence of the residents if you do not appear… Engagement with communities and residents is very important. Come out of your offices, make visits to the community, and engage with the community.”

This focus on strengthening NDCs aligns with the government’s manifesto promises and reflects a commitment to enhancing local governance structures to better serve Guyanese citizens at the community level.