Guyana’s government investment in the water sector has yielded remarkable results, extending access to potable water to over 35,000 citizens across the nation in the past three years.
During a recent press conference, the Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, presented a comprehensive overview of the progress made within the water sector.
Rodrigues shared that national access to potable water has reached an impressive 97.3 per cent, reflecting the strides made over the last three years in enhancing water availability.
Coastal and hinterland developments
She added that last year, significant efforts were made to provide first-time access to potable water for more than 435 households along the coast, spanning Regions Two to Seven.
The hinterland regions have also seen notable improvements, with the proportion of the population having access to potable water supply rising from 75 per cent at the end of 2022 to 82 per cent at the end of 2023.
This was achieved through the construction of over 60 new wells.
Future strategies for enhanced water supply
The Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, outlined the future plans to further enhance water access. These include the drilling of 14 new water distribution systems along the coastland and the upgrading and construction of new water treatment plants.
Croal emphasized that these efforts aim to ensure at least 90 per cent access to treated water by the end of 2025.
Investments and transformations in the water sector
The ministry has invested billions of dollars in the past three years to guarantee access to potable and treated water for every household in Guyana.
These investments have not only improved water access but also significantly transformed Guyana Water Incorporated.
Rodrigues highlighted the company’s stable financial position, lack of debt, and various investments in infrastructure, employee training, and technical enhancements.
