-thousands become landowners

By Faith Greene
UNDER the theme “Building on the Foundation of Sustainability and Unity,” the annual International Building Exposition, hosted by the Ministry of Housing and Water, has become a hallmark event reflecting the infrastructure transformation of Guyana. Held at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, the expo draws spectators eager to witness the progress of a nation rapidly evolving in its pursuit of sustainable development and community building.

The event serves as a powerful reminder of the government’s commitment, under President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s administration, to provide 50,000 house lots by 2025. With over 30,000 house lots already distributed in the past four years, the expo stands as a testament to the realisation of a dream that once seemed distant but is now the reality of many Guyanese.
As National Spoken Word Artist, Daniella Araujo, eloquently expressed in her performance, the transformation from wetlands to thriving communities is a dream that has come to life. The Building Expo, she noted, is not just an event but a platform where innovation meets opportunity, showcasing the vision of a progressive and sustainable Guyana to both local and international audiences.
Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, highlighted the significance of the expo, describing it as an event that has become a household name in Guyana. “There is something here for everyone,” she remarked, emphasising the expo’s focus on sustainable, environmentally friendly concepts aimed at improving the experiences of both visitors and exhibitors. The expo’s wide range of exhibitors present the latest developments in affordable, low-carbon building techniques and solutions, catering to every construction need.
One of the event’s highlights was the ‘Dream Realised’ housing drive, during which approximately 2,000 individuals became proud landowners. Three of these allottees—Jewell Ingles, Sima Singh, and Neville Lesli—shared their experiences, expressing satisfaction with the housing programme.
Ingles, who had been waiting since 2011, finally received her houselot in Non-Pariel, East Coast Demerara. She recounted the joy of receiving the call from the Ministry of Housing, acknowledging the long wait but celebrating the eventual outcome. Singh echoed similar sentiments, expressing happiness after a decade-long wait, while Lesli noted that while the process was lengthy, he was thankful to have finally reached the stage of ownership.
The Ministry’s efforts extend beyond land allocation, with 427 land distributions, 85 outreaches, and 134 business permits granted as part of their broader mission to foster development across Guyana. The expo, which runs from August 8 to 11, 2024, features 500 exhibitors from Guyana, the Caribbean, and international companies, representing both the public and private sectors.

The International Building Expo is more than an exhibition; it is a celebration of Guyana’s ongoing journey toward sustainable growth and community development. As thousands of Guyanese continue to receive the keys to their future, the event underscores the importance of unity and innovation in building a prosperous nation.