THE Community Infrastructure Improvement Project (CIIP) conducted works to enhance communities which are contributing to the reduction of vector-borne diseases in Region 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Deoramdeen Persaud, Region 3 Environmental Health Officer highlighted.

According to Persaud, the elimination of vector-borne diseases is one of the main environmental health concerns of the region. He believes that the CIIP is a good initiative that is complementing the efforts of the Regional Environmental Health Unit in this regard.

“Community Enhancement Workers (CEW) are cleaning drains and burial grounds, which are breeding grounds for vectors and other pests…I had approached Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) in the past to clean the burial grounds, because they were overgrown with bushes but nothing was done until CIIP was implemented…I am pleased about this,” Persaud said.

“Works done by the project plus recent fogging exercises executed by the Unit have resulted in the reduction of vector-borne diseases in the region,” he added.

Persaud said that with most breeding grounds for mosquitoes destroyed, the environment looks cleaner and more beautiful. He noted that the project’s design to have burial grounds cleaned periodically would definitely help to prevent the spread of diseases.

He stressed that residents have a major role to play in maintaining a healthy environment. Dead animals and garbage were some obstacles community enhancement workers faced as they cleaned drainage networks in the region. He noted that as part of the Unit’s education awareness component, residents are sensitised about proper sanitation.

“The works done by the workers are important for healthy communities…while we go around talking to residents,the workers are the persons on the ground making a big difference,” Persaud said.

CIIP is a Government of Guyana Project which is being implemented by the Ministry of Housing & Water and is aimed at improving aesthetics and access in communities while creating employment in the said communities.