– over $7.5M invested in homebuilding subsidy programme

TWENTY-FOUR new beneficiaries in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) are now one step closer to homeownership following the distribution of steel and cement vouchers under the Government’s housing support initiative.
The disbursement, which took place during a house lot allotment exercise in Anna Regina on Friday last, forms part of the Ministry of Housing and Water’s ongoing Steel and Cement Subsidy programme. This initiative is designed to ease the financial burden on low- and middle-income Guyanese constructing homes on Government-allocated lands.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, speaking to residents, disclosed that the new batch of vouchers represents a direct investment of $5.5 million in Region Two residents.

To date, the region has seen 189 vouchers distributed, with an overall investment of $7.3 million, Minister Croal revealed.
Launched in 2022, the Steel and Cement Subsidy programme provides eligible persons with either cement only—for foundation works—or both steel and cement, depending on their income level and stage of construction. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to accelerate home construction and promote sustainable development.
Nationally, more than 2,000 vouchers have been issued under the programme, with the government investing over $500 million into the local homebuilding sector.
“When you ask where your tax dollars are going, this is where. Over half a billion dollars have already been invested to help more than 2,000 families across Guyana begin building their homes,” Minister Croal emphasised.
He added that the initiative complements the government’s wider housing programme, ensuring that house lot allocations are not merely symbolic but the beginning of actual home construction.
“This programme helps families transition from allocation to action,” he said. “It provides the materials they need to start building not just houses, but futures.”
The Minister of Housing reaffirmed the government’s commitment to rolling out the subsidy across other regions in tandem with ongoing infrastructural development and land allocations.
Meanwhile, Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva praised the initiative as a transformative measure that empowers residents of Region Two.
De Silva said that the assistance is very impactful, especially to single mothers and those who are starting their lives. De Silva said that the project aims to improve lives through targeted, meaningful investments.
“There’s much more in store to help our citizens live better, more comfortable lives. This is real, visible progress for Region Two,” De Silva concluded.
Beneficiaries said they are very thankful because the voucher will be used to purchase items so that they can start their foundation.
“I heard of it and I went to the office and applied and got through. I really wanted to start something on my own; rent is high for me. Thanks to the government,” Neelam Goutam said.