VICE PRESIDENT Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has reaffirmed his commitment to advancing $1 billion in developmental projects and road restoration efforts in C Field Sophia, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to enhancing local infrastructure and community livelihoods.

Reflecting on a recent visit to Sophia alongside Vice President Jagdeo, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, emphasised that these substantial investments are part of a deliberate strategy to improve living standards for Guyanese citizens.

“Vice President Jagdeo’s investment of $1 billion in Sophia’s infrastructure is not arbitrary; it underscores our government’s commitment, alongside President Dr. Irfaan Ali, to create safer, more comfortable environments for all Guyanese,” Minister Indar stated.

He highlighted that these initiatives aim not only to upgrade physical infrastructure but also to significantly improve the quality of life for residents of Sophia.

Minister Indar underscored the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government’s overarching goal since 2020 to uplift the nation from its grassroots. He noted that community-driven projects across Guyana, including Sophia, are designed to generate local employment opportunities and empower residents economically.

“Our commitment remains steadfast: community development projects prioritize local employment and sustainable growth,” Minister Indar affirmed.
He emphasised Vice President Jagdeo’s assurance to Sophia’s residents regarding ongoing city and local road renovations, highlighting plans to address infrastructure challenges promptly.

Revealing that there are 95 small contractors that are employed through this initiative, Minister Indar also called upon them to expedite the project completion so as to minimise inconvenience for residents. He also outlined specific road rehabilitation efforts across ‘A’, ‘C’, ‘E’, and ‘D’ Fields, including over 90 primary roads and numerous cross streets.

Minister Indar said, “I am pleased to say that rehabilitation works are being done on 96 roads throughout Sophia and 50 roads for A, CD, and E Sophia. Let me also say that out of the 95 small contractors that are employed, most of them are coming directly from the community.” Minister Indar also noted that while progress is ongoing in Sophia, only ‘B’ Field is yet to be tendered.

During his engagement with Sophia residents, Vice President Jagdeo reaffirmed the PPP/C government’s strategic investment approach across various sectors, particularly in social development. Addressing misconceptions about oil revenue, Vice President Jagdeo clarified that while current budget allocations are conservative, future revenues are expected to significantly contribute to national development goals.

“People think we are flooded with oil money, but the reality is different,” Vice President Jagdeo explained. “Our budget projections reflect a cautious approach to oil revenues, with substantial benefits anticipated in the coming years.”

In closing, Vice President Jagdeo reiterated his commitment to realising comprehensive improvements in infrastructure and living conditions for all Guyanese citizens, emphasising a vision for sustainable economic growth and social progress.