Residents of Bethany and Supenaam Riverbank in Region Two are experiencing enhanced access to water with the recent distribution of 180 water tanks. On Tuesday, these 450-gallon tanks, valued at $6 million, were handed out as part of a commitment made by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali to Toshao Sonia Latchman back in January.
During the event, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, announced plans for a more permanent solution, stating that a new well will be drilled in the community starting in March, which will significantly improve residents’ access to clean water. “The support from the tanks is essential, and that is why we initiated this process,” he emphasized.
Other communities, including St. Monica, Dredge Creek, and Karawab, will also benefit from new wells. The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) in-house team is set to drill wells in St. John’s, Jacklow, Abraham’s Creek, and St. Denny’s.
Region Two has already seen the completion of wells in Akawini, Wakapoa, Hackney, Friendship, and Malborough. Currently, a well is being drilled in Siriki, with Wakapoa, Kabakaburi, and Mainstay also slated for similar projects. These initiatives are part of the government’s extensive program aimed at ensuring 100 percent access to potable water for all communities by the end of the year.
Minister Croal reiterated the government’s dedication to equal access to essential services, highlighting the 2025 budget that includes funding for a new nursery school in Bethany. Additionally, a state-of-the-art hospital is set to be commissioned in Lima, further improving healthcare access in the region.
Toshao Sonia Latchman acknowledged the community’s benefits from the government’s various initiatives over the years, which have positively impacted residents’ livelihoods. She also mentioned that development will gain momentum in 2025, with $57.5 million in grants allocated to Bethany through the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs. Over the past four years, Bethany has received more than $94 million in grants for various developmental projects.
The distribution of water tanks marks a significant step towards improving living conditions in Bethany and surrounding areas, with residents actively participating in transporting their new tanks.
