-residents to benefit from upgrades to drainage and irrigation, more training opportunities 

A range of initiatives is set to be implemented in Mocha, East Bank Demerara, with the goal of enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
The critical concerns were addressed by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy, Minister within the Ministry of Public works Deodat Indar, and Local Government Minister Sonia Parag during a community engagement.
The ministers reaffirmed that regardless of political affiliation or location; the focus remains on solutions and improving the community’s livelihood.

Minister Indar revealed that several community roads have already been rehabilitated and another $150 million will be expended to fix additional roads in the community.
In the company of technical officials and residents, the public works minister undertook an inspection of several roads that were neglected during the prior administration.
Tipped for construction are First Street (from Mocha Health Centre), Palm Street, Water Lily Street, Morning Glory Street, Plantation Prosperity (continuation) and Nelson Road.

Meanwhile, the Agriculture Minister committed to upgrading the drainage systems in the residential and cultivation areas. These works, he explained, will be done by residents from the area.
Minister Mustapha also told residents that a 40 cusec pumps will be installed in the area, a commitment made by His Excellency President Irfaan Ali.

He further disclosed that the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) is currently working with farmers in the area to clear internal drains.
To date, 27 internal drains and beds were cleared and lifted for phase one of the programme.

Farmers will also receive planting materials to boost their production.
In addition, residents were updated about ITC training opportunities and various free training initiatives offered by the government, ensuring that Mocha benefits from the national development agenda.
Several other interventions are underway to improve agriculture and capacity building for youths, among other areas.