—President Ali announces, outlines ‘defined strategy’ to improve access to minimum services, propel development
ERUPTING in roars of approval, hundreds of jubilant residents of Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) signalled their support for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) ahead of the September 1 polls, as President, Dr Irfaan Ali laid out plans to slash air-freight costs and establish banking services across the region.
The Head of State, accompanied by his prime ministerial running mate, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and several other candidates, addressed a mammoth gathering on Friday night at a public meeting in Mahdia.
“We have defined a clear strategy for the economic empowerment, for infrastructure development and advancement of Region Eight,” President Ali said while outlining what he describes as a ‘defined strategy’ to further the continuity of development in the region.
He noted that there will be greater integration of villages in Region Eight, with improved infrastructure to facilitate easier transport to Georgetown.
“We’re going to reduce the air freight coming into Mahdia and Region Eight, we are investing in infrastructure, investing in assets that are going to reduce the cost of goods and services coming into the region and that is going to put more money back in the people’s pockets.
“I want you to know that development is not only about coming and cutting ribbons. It is about making sure you have the tools and access to improve your life. Development must be people-centred and project-centred,” the President added.
Meanwhile, to improve residents’ financial accessibility, the government has already begun engaging with the local banks to establish automated teller machines (ATMs) and outlets.

Ultimately, the government aims to improve access to minimum services, creating a central terminal where residents can access government services.
To this end, residents will no longer have to travel out of the region to acquire passports and other legal documentation.
MORE GENERATING CAPACITY
President Ali further outlined plans to boost the region’s generation capacity, ensuring that residents across the region have a sustainable electricity supply.
In the new month, new generators are expected to come on stream in the region, while works are underway on a solar farm that will add to the region’s energy capacity.
“We are not a party that walks away from challenges, and I want to assure you that in the coming weeks and the coming months, we are working towards reducing your cost of electricity here in Mahdia so you can save more,” the President said.
Highlighting investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic diversification, President Ali noted that over $1.5 billion was invested in healthcare, more than $4 billion in education and $300 million in agriculture in the region.
More than $3.5 billion is being spent to build concrete roads and upgrade other infrastructure.
Building on these investments, President Ali said that residents can look forward to the continuity of development as the PPP/C government intends to further establish new housing areas and examine those that need to be regularised, ensuring that citizens can become homeowners.
“Let me assure you, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic government sees you, we hear you and we will never neglect you. We are here to serve, support and stand with you, because under the PPP/C, no community is forgotten. We are here to build.”