In a recent development, 22 residents of Essequibo have received financial assistance through the government’s steel and cement subsidy programme. This initiative, part of a broader effort to support homeownership across Guyana, aims to alleviate the financial burden of construction costs for first-time homebuilders.
Key points of the programme include:
- Subsidy Details: Beneficiaries constructing homes valued at $6 million or below receive one sling each of cement and steel. Those building homes valued between $6 million and $25 million are eligible for two slings of cement.
- Economic Impact: The distribution of these subsidies is expected to inject significant funds into the local economy, stimulating growth in the construction sector.
- Application Process: To apply, residents must provide documents including TIN certificates, proof of identification, marriage certificates (if applicable), approved house plans, and proof of land ownership.
- Broader Initiative: This distribution in Essequibo is part of a larger national programme, with the government having invested approximately $700 million in the steel and cement housing subsidy programme overall.
- Beneficiary Reactions: Recipients have expressed gratitude for the initiative, with many stating it will allow them to start or complete their home construction projects more quickly.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, emphasized the programme’s role in transforming communities and improving living conditions. He stated, “This programme will greatly assist in developing the Region and the people living there.”
The steel and cement subsidy programme reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to making homeownership more accessible to Guyanese citizens, particularly in light of rising global prices for construction materials.
