IN a significant stride towards affordable housing in Region Ten, the first group of residents received their house lots on Friday at the New Wismar Housing Development.

The allocation event, held at the Christianburg Community Centre Ground, was part of the Ministry of Housing and Water’s ‘Dream Realised’ Housing Drive in partnership with the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA). The initiative aimed to allocate 600 houselots by the end of Friday, providing new opportunities for home-ownership.

The development will include essential infrastructure, schools, recreational and health facilities, and access to basic utilities to ensure a well-rounded community for future residents.

Leading the initiative were the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, and Minister within the Ministry, Susan Rodrigues.

Also in attendance were Permanent Secretary Mr. Bishram Kuppen, CH&PA Chief Executive Officer Mr. Sherwyn Greaves, Regional Executive Officer (REO) for Region Ten, Mr. Dwight John, and other senior officials.

For many residents, the allocation marked the end of a long journey and the start of new beginnings.

Tomeka Adams, a recipient from the Wismar Housing Scheme, expressed her excitement, saying, “I was overwhelmed; I wasn’t expecting a call because waiting for 11 years…I got frustrated, and I decided to forget about it, but with this unexpected call, you get back that joy, knowing you will finally own a house lot. This will benefit us because this means we will be able to be in our own space and no more renting. I am currently living with siblings, and I am in the process of moving, but with my house lot plans have changed, and this is a great relief.”

Another new landowner, Sharon Tortman from Christianburg, Linden, shared her gratitude, saying, “I received the call on Tuesday. I applied in 2013, and they told me I should be at the ground for 8 today. I am very happy this morning that after applying for so long, today, I am the owner of a house lot, and I am very grateful for it; it means I don’t have to pay rent. I have two children, and they can benefit. This is something I can pass on to them.”

The ‘Dream Realised’ Housing Drive exemplifies the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to housing across Guyana, especially in regions with growing demand. By developing this new housing scheme, the government seeks to foster sustainable communities and enhance the quality of life for residents of Region Ten.