REGIONAL consultations on Guyana’s Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) concluded last week with the final consultation being held in Kato, Region Eight, a media release from the GSDS stated.

There were 33 consultations spanning all 10 administrative regions of Guyana over a period of six months (April – September). The consultations were done by teams of experts from the Government of Guyana Department of the Environment and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The teams were assisted by the World Wildlife Fund Guianas (WWF).

Meetings were held in the following cluster areas: Aishalton, Annai, Anna Regina, Bartica, Belladrum, Bush Lot, Charity, Corriverton, Diamond, Georgetown, Kamarang, Karasabai, Kato, Klien Pouderoyen, Kwakwani, Lethem, Linden, Mabaruma, Mahaicony, Mahdia, Matthew’s Ridge, Moraikobai, Moruca, New Amsterdam, Orealla, Parika, Port Kaituma, Rose Hall, Shulinab, Soesdyke, St. Cuthbert’s Mission and Number Eight Village.

According to the release, the main objectives of the consultations were to raise awareness of Guyana’s GSDS. The consultations were also aimed at encouraging meaningful participation from communities by identifying and prioritising the needs and expectations they have for their regions; participants were asked to share their ideas and visions for how they desire development in Guyana over the next twenty (20) years. The inputs from these consultations will influence and guide the final strategy submission.

Some of the main priorities highlighted in both hinterland and coastal consultations were: infrequent solid-waste management; inadequacy of infrastructure; concerns regarding health and education services and lack of suitable facilities; domestic violence and substance abuse (alcohol, drugs etc.)

The GSDS is Guyana’s national development plan that sets out investment priorities for economic and social development over the next 20 years. It is based on the principles of a ‘green economy’ which are to improve standards of living; ensure social equity and reduce reliance on resource-intensive sectors and open new and sustainable income opportunities for Guyanese citizens.

The GSDS will focus on guiding Guyana along a path of development that delivers a clean and healthy environment; and which provides opportunities to earn a decent wage and enjoy standards of living that promote happy, healthy and wholesome individuals, families and communities.