– steel-framing methods expected to support affordable housing drive
The introduction of modern steel-framing technology in Guyana is expected to support efforts to expand affordable housing, reduce construction timelines and improve building efficiency as the government pursues its target of constructing 40,000 homes by 2030.
Minister of Housing Collin Croal and Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Dr Martin Pertab, on Wednesday attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for US Frame Factory at its warehouse in Cove and John, East Coast Demerara.
The facility showcases modern construction technology aimed at supporting the delivery of affordable homes, particularly for low-income households, while creating opportunities for local employment and skills development.
United States Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot, along with representatives of the private sector, construction industry, engineers, contractors and Ministry of Housing staff, also attended the event.
In his remarks, Croal described housing as a critical pillar of national development, noting that the government continues to prioritise access to affordable homes, improved living conditions and the development of communities where families can establish secure futures.
He said the target of delivering 40,000 homes by 2030 requires attention not only to the number of houses being constructed, but also to the efficiency of delivery, construction methods and the quality and resilience of the structures.
The minister identified steel-framing, modular construction and prefabricated housing as methods that could help streamline building processes, improve quality control and create opportunities for more durable, energy-efficient and climate-resilient homes.
He noted that the establishment of US Frame Factory introduces additional options for Guyana’s growing construction sector, allowing modern manufacturing techniques to complement traditional building methods as housing demand increases.
Croal also stressed the importance of ensuring that Guyanese benefit directly from the introduction of the technology.
He said the investment could generate employment, strengthen technical expertise and help local contractors develop the capacity to participate in major construction projects. Local suppliers and service providers could also benefit from opportunities created by the expanding use of modern building systems.
The minister further described the investment as an example of the potential for Guyana-United States cooperation, with commercial partnerships and technological innovation contributing to national development.
During the ceremony, attendees viewed a steel-frame home structure designed for the low-income category of Guyana’s housing programme. They also toured a three-storey building constructed using the company’s technology.
Meanwhile, Golden Shield Homes plans to establish a manufacturing and training facility in Guyana, with the potential to produce components for 10,000 houses.
The proposed facility could further expand the local capacity for modern construction methods while providing opportunities for training and technical development.
As Guyana’s housing programme continues to expand, the adoption of alternative construction systems could provide additional options for delivering homes, subject to considerations such as affordability, material availability, building standards and long-term durability.
The establishment of US Frame Factory adds another dimension to efforts to increase housing supply while encouraging innovation and greater participation by local businesses in the construction sector.
