-to assist in road works, boost agriculture
GOVERNMENT is committed to bridging the development gap between the hinterland and the coast. Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds visited Region Nine at the weekend, where he handed over 18 tractors to the residents of the various satellite communities. Each tractor is complete with a trailer, plough and scraper, and cost approximately $3M, to benefit residents in areas such as Karasabai, Tiger Pond, Rokomoto, Pipang, Yurong Paru, Kopinang, Kanapang, Waipa and Tiperu.
The Prime Minister said that during a previous visit, the constraints faced by residents with regard to transportation were highlighted. He added that while revisiting a road project for the hinterland, a decision was made to provide each village with a tractor to enable residents to assist with the road works, as well as to bolster agricultural activities in those areas.
He discussed the plans to establish centers in the regions, where residents can get access to training in maintenance and operation of the equipment, which is also seen a means of transforming the village economies.
“We are taking some bold steps forward; and once we keep working together; we will make it,” Mr. Hinds posited.
He said that improved condition of the roads will give way to more economic activities, as it would be easier and less costly to transport agricultural produce to the coast, thereby enhancing trade within the country.
Government has commenced advertising for tenders to work on the road from Karasabai to Monkey Mountain, Lethem to Aishalton, and Linden to Lethem, as well as roads in Region One.
The Prime Minister also commended Hinterland Coordinator, Harripersaud Nokta, who, during his tenure as Local Government Minister, with the support of the villagers, took the initiative to establish trails between villages. This led to the much talked about annual safari.
Mechanics will be sent into the various areas to assist villagers in operating the equipment. They will also be provided with some basic tools and a grease gun. (GINA)