COMMUNITY markets are frequently dubbed the hub of local economic activity and in an effort to enhance local government services, the government has allocated $1.2 billion to complete and rehabilitate several markets.

Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh in his budget presentation remarked: “This government will continue to provide support to all municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), including institutional assistance to foster accountability and transparency and advance infrastructure development and enhancement across communities.”

A total of $417.2 million was spent in 2023 to continue works at five community markets at Charity, Hydronie, Leonora, Mon Repos, and Parika.

This year, a budget of $1.2 billion has been allocated for the completion of these markets and rehabilitation of Corriverton, Kumaka, and Suddie markets.

Notably, it was reported, earlier this month that the construction of a state-of-the-art multimillion-dollar market at Charity, Region Two, has commenced and is progressing smoothly.
This was confirmed by Regional Vice-Chairman Humace Oodit, who informed the Sunday Chronicle that fabrication works have started.

The market, when completed, will measure 152×164 feet. It will cost $286 million and is being constructed by Builders Hardware and General Supplies Construction.

Oodit said that 22 vendors were relocated by councillors of the Charity/Ursara Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) to facilitate the smooth execution of the project. They will return to the location when the structure is finished.

The Regional Vice-Chairman said that two vendors were not complying and as such they had to be written to. Vendors are now operating in an area next to the Charity Magistrate’s Court.
Oodit said he is satisfied with the pace of work and called on all vendors to cooperate. He said that the new market will provide a comfortable space for vendors.

Chairperson of the Charity/Ursara Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Chandrawattie Comal, said that the construction work was being monitored by the NDC and regional officials.
“We are happy for the prompt actions and we commend the government and the Ministry of Local Government for this move. We are thankful for this intervention,” Paula Simon, a vendor said.

A fire of electrical origin on July, 6, 2023 destroyed 25 stalls in the market. The Guyana Police Force had disclosed that ranks and fire responders observed that sparks and smoke were coming from an electrical meter.

Moreover, as it relates to Mon Repos Market on the East Coast of Demerara, vendors can look forward to a modern structure equipped with a food court, washroom facilities, security and other amenities that will enhance the comfort and quality of life for the vendors and consumers.