THE recently-rehabilitated Kwakwani Workers’ Club, which is deemed one of the most historic and multi-functional buildings in Kwakwani, and also is located in the heart of the community, was commissioned on Sunday and handed over to the community.

The ceremonial ribbon was cut by Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman and Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan. It was followed by a simple thanksgiving ceremony, where residents expressed gratitude to Minister Trotman, who undertook the project with the help of donors. These were Variety Woods, International Imports and Supplies, Metallica Inc. and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission.

The rehabilitation of the club, which served as a recreational facility for bauxite workers in the 70s and 80s, was one of the burning issues for residents and on Sunday, they expressed delight that the project was undertaken and the building was rehabilitated.
In fact it will not only serve as an official meeting place and a venue to host community events, but as a research centre and a hub for community development, so all residents, including youths, women’s group and the elderly can benefit.

Chairman of the Kwakwani Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Elsie McPherson, described the day as a blessed one for the community. To see the club beautified was a desire on the hearts of many, she said. Therefore she urged the residents to maintain its standard and not encourage any form of defacing and vandalism.

Resident Edgar Mendonca said that the previous state of the club was not looking good for the image of the community and he is happy that Minister Trotman stepped in and rendered the needed assistance to get it rehabilitated.

Minister Trotman focused his expressions on thanking God for enabling the project to see fruition. He also donated furniture and other articles for the Club. The rehabilitation included repainting, changing of the roof, ceiling, construction of an indoor balcony, complete overhaul of the floor, amongst other major areas.