A HYDROPOWER project for Region Seven is one of the major proposals being made by the Upper Mazaruni councillors for inclusion in the 2017 National Budget, Region Seven Chairman Gordon Bradford has said.The proposal by the region’s Councillors is in keeping with government’s plan to create a green economy, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported. Bartica, located in the region, received township status earlier this year, and is pegged to be the model of a green town.

President David Granger, in October 2015, announced a five-point plan aimed at creating the green economy. The plan includes promotion of sustainable exploitation of the country’s natural resources.

During an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA), Bradford noted that the aim of the project is to improve the standard of living of residents of the Upper Mazaruni, as hydropower would benefit several communities.

“A hydro project, we feel, would supply Paruima, and maybe even Kamarang and Waramadong, with electricity; and so, once we get that on board, that is really going to boost development,” the chairman cited.

Further, the chairman pointed out that once the hydropower project comes on board, it would not only be beneficial in providing electricity, but would also have additional spin-off benefits, including agro-processing.

“In Paruima and other villages, the land is very fertile, and so the agricultural output is enormous and the potential is enormous,” the chairman stated.
GINA noted that $200M have already been secured by government to set up a hydropower facility in Moco Moco, Region Nine, and work is expected to commence by the end of 2016.