THE community of Swan, situated along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway, is steadily evolving, thanks to ongoing government initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life of its residents.
On Monday, March 24, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, met with local leaders and residents to discuss major development projects and address key concerns affecting the area.
Minister Rodrigues commended the progress made in Swan over the past five years, particularly the shift from reliance on unpaved tracks to the emergence of a more cohesive community.
“Swan is evolving,” she declared, emphasising the collaborative efforts between the government and residents in fostering this transformation. She highlighted that the Ministry of Housing and Water has already allocated over 41,000 house lots as part of the national goal to distribute 50,000 lots, making homeownership more accessible to Guyanese.

Water accessibility remains a top priority for the government. Minister Rodrigues pointed out that since 2020, more than 140 wells have been completed, significantly increasing water supply in hinterland areas from 46 percent to over 90 percent. The government aims to achieve 100 percent water access in every community by 2025, ensuring that no household is left behind.

Looking ahead, she outlined key projects that will further shape the region’s landscape, including the ongoing Soesdyke/Linden Highway project and the construction of 200 houses in Silica City. She also noted plans for 500 housing units in Yarrowkabra, specifically designed to support single mothers.
Road infrastructure was another major point of discussion, with Minister Rodrigues revealing that over 80 roads have been earmarked for upgrades. More than 50 of these have already been completed or are currently under construction. The improvements are expected to enhance connectivity, facilitate economic growth, and improve daily commutes for residents.

One of the meeting’s highlights was the announcement of a $24 million investment from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs (MOAA) for the construction of a new market square. This facility is expected to become a central hub for commerce and social interaction, further strengthening the community’s cohesion.

Michelle Drepaul, Chairperson of the NDC for Lamaha/Yarrowkabra, praised the government’s development initiatives, noting their tangible impact on Swan’s infrastructure and community life. She echoed Minister Rodrigues’ sentiments, emphasising the collective spirit of progress shared by the residents.

The meeting also served as a platform for residents to voice their concerns. Among the issues raised were water shortages at One Mile Turn and ongoing power supply problems on Tower Road. Minister Rodrigues assured residents that these concerns would be addressed, pledging further discussions to find practical solutions. One resident, who has faced personal hardships, sought public assistance during the forum, prompting Minister Rodrigues to personally offer her support.
The meeting was attended by several key officials, including Fenton Tagnauth, Chairman of the Swan Community Development Council (CDC); Lawrence Singh, Treasurer of the Swan CDC; Michelle Drepaul, Chairperson of the NDC for Lamaha/Yarrowkabra; Deputy Director of the Community

Development Department – CH&PA, Mrs. Donel Bess-Bascom; and representatives from the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission and Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).
As Swan continues on its path of transformation, residents can anticipate a future characterised by continued development, stronger community ties, and improved infrastructure. The government’s commitment to holistic progress ensures that Swan’s evolution remains an ongoing success story, benefitting all who call it home.