WHEN Dr. Richard Van-West Charles was appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) in October 2015,it was not without some public criticism as to how he got the job, and more importantly whether he brings to the post any level of competency. The results of his performance over the period, for those paying attention, have seen improvement in the delivery of water in several communities across the country.
For instance, there were communities that were receiving 10-14 hours of water supply per day that are now receiving 24 hours supply, which not only makes this vital service accessible but also reduces the necessity of purchasing or building storage facilities. In the said communities there have also been improvement in the water pressure and communities that were not in receipt of potable water are being targeted in a sustained and systematic manner to benefit. These actions have led to reasonable assumption that there is focus on equity in the delivery of water, as is evident in communities in the hinterland and rural areas that are attracting attention and service.
Water is an essential commodity and considered a public health issue, given the diseases it could carry and its vital nature to sustenance and health, making it also a human right. According to the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) ‘Sanitation and Water: Evidence for public policies focused on human rights and public heath results’ Report “Lack of drinking water and basic sanitation has a devastating impact on development processes. It is the second largest cause of morbidity and mortality for children under 5 years of age in the Region, and the largest contributor to the burden of environment-related disease.”
It is understood that one of the major objectives of the present GWI management is to end dependency on the black tank and other forms of storage. Outside of economic consideration to the consumers through savings in dollars, and some may argue improvement of the aesthetics, what cannot be ignored is the sense of a vision with a purpose.
In the day-to-day management of water it cannot be ignored that GWI is moving to improve service through the use of technology, where efforts are presently undertaken to create two apps that will facilitate interaction and feedback between consumers, public and contractors with the company. This approach to management is new to Guyana.
The pursuit of e-technology in service delivery in this Information Age could influence positive behavioral change, not only from the standpoint of citizens’ involvement in the management of this vital resource, but also aids in improving the management of the service. This form of grassroots’ involvement in decision-making bodes well for cultivating the needed sense of ownership that could not only result in ensuring preservation but also strengthening the system of delivery.
The idea of having multiple wells in the communities, which GWI refers to as “water field,” in that when one is down there are others to ensure continuity of service, is profound. It will not be surprising if this same perspective is applied in the management of liquid waste, which is another aspect of its operation, to bring Guyana in line with the Cartagena Convention.
Undoubtedly,an examination of Dr. Van-West Charles’ international experience in public health is being brought to bear in the planning, development, and execution of GWI’s activities. At the same time it is instructive to note he is also bringing a refreshing culture in dealing with the public. It is being observed his hands-on approach to public engagement, in seeking the communities’ input in refining the organisation’s activities, preparedness to treat the public with respect, and also demonstrating it is not beneath a CEO to apologise for service not rendered or hiccup in the system. It should be said such is a marked departure from the old mode of intolerance, finding excuses, and laying blame on others.