THE Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Health, has once again extended its support to the residents of Kamwatta, providing essential eye care services to the community. A total of 159 elderly individuals and children have benefitted from the initiative, receiving spectacles as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare access in remote areas.

Leading the distribution exercise, Parliamentary Representative for Region One, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, visited the village in the Moruca Sub-region on Tuesday. Minister Croal highlighted that the Ministry of Health has been distributing spectacle vouchers to individuals aged 65 and older, as well as to children under 18, with the programme in Kamwatta alone amounting to a $2.4 million investment. This initiative was made possible through a partnership with Optique Vision Care.

During his remarks, Minister Croal underscored the significance of healthcare and education in fostering a well-developed nation. He emphasized that the initiative is an investment in both those who have contributed to the country’s growth and the next generation.
Further strengthening the community’s healthcare system, Minister Croal noted the ongoing upgrades to the Kumaka District Hospital, along with other targeted initiatives to support vulnerable populations. Additionally, the government has outlined future plans for infrastructural improvements in Kamwatta, including enhancements to the nursery school and upgrades to the health hut.

The Minister also provided updates on national development initiatives, particularly those under the 2025 budget. Residents had the opportunity to raise concerns and propose solutions for issues affecting their community.
As part of his visit, Minister Croal, accompanied by Vice Chair Ms. Anansha Peters, District Education Officer Mr. Orlando Domingo, and other regional officials, donated footballs to the village, promoting youth engagement in sports.
Focusing on broader developments in the Moruca Sub-region, Minister Croal highlighted extensive investments in education, including the construction of new schools and the rehabilitation of existing ones. Additionally, significant investments were made in healthcare services aimed to ensure that residents can access

essential medical care without having to leave their villages. He also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to training medical personnel within the community.
Water accessibility was another critical area addressed. Minister Croal noted that since 2020, the government has drilled 18 wells to enhance potable water coverage, increasing accessibility from 40 per cent to 80 per cent. However, recognizing the need for further improvements, the government plans to drill an additional 16 wells this year to achieve 100 per cent coverage.

The government remains steadfast in its commitment to improving the lives of all Guyanese, ensuring that essential services in healthcare, education, and water access continue to be expanded and enhanced for the benefit of communities like Kamwatta.