HONOURING the patriotism and unwavering dedication of several iconic individuals, the Government of Guyana will soon reveal the renaming of national infrastructures across the country to recognise and celebrate these individuals.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali made this announcement on Thursday evening as he commissioned the new four-lane Schoonord to Crane Highway in Region Three (Essequibo Islands- West Demerara).

He further revealed that massive plans are in store to honour popular Guyanese calypsonian Dave Martins, who passed away earlier this month at the age of 90.

“National infrastructure will be named after national icons. We have already made a decision, and we are negotiating on something special for Dave Martins that would include a recording studio in this region for young people,” President Ali said.

On Thursday, two massive roundabouts were unveiled at the commissioning of the $15.1 million highway.

The first roundabout, which features a colossal totem pole at its centre, greets commuters just as they disembark the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

The articulate structure crafted by Winslow Craig is a symbolic tribute to Guyana’s Indigenous peoples.

“There’s a totem pole that will be unveiled at the Demerara Bridge roundabout. This totem pole was done by one of our finest, Winslow Craig. It is a masterpiece of art. It must be safeguarded for generations upon generations. It is of immense value,” President Ali said.

The totem pole features faces of an eagle, a jaguar and an owl. Totem poles are very symbolic, and are used to commemorate ancestry, histories, people, or events.

Just a few miles ahead, at a second roundabout, a soaring bronze harpy eagle was also unveiled.

Considered one of Guyana’s most majestic birds, the harpy eagle is one of the world’s most powerful birds of prey and the largest raptor on the South American continent. Often on birders’ wish list, it is seen in the Kanuku Mountains and the Iwokrama Rainforest.