By Kurt Campbell
An upgrade to its manifesto promise to build a multipurpose facility in Berbice, the government, led by President Irfaan Ali, on Friday launched the construction of a 10,000-seat stadium and multipurpose building at Palmyra, Region Six.
It was a historic day for the region, proven by the thousands of people who showed up for the activity and Dr. Ali and Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo who addressed the gathering, noted that the turnout was indicative of the region’s desire for development.
Urging the residents to reject naysayers, the President promised more opportunities for the region’s economic, cultural and sporting expansion.
Construction of the stadium will start immediately with a completion date of mid-2024.
And while the total cost for the project was not released, ExxonMobil announced that it will be donating $3.7 billion from its 10-year $20 billion ‘Greater Guyana’ initiative.
Construction is in the capable hands of Owen Steel Company Inc and Caribbean Green Building Inc which is currently building the Four Points by Marriott Hotel on the East Bank of Demerara.
According to the Company’s Director, Andres Botero Torro, with difficulty in finding personnel and raw materials, they will be using prefab materials to construct the stadium and multipurpose building.
The facility will be built to ICC standard for cricket and will allow for 10, 000 spectators and is deemed multipurpose because with minor changes it can easily accommodate other sports disciplines, concerts and major events.
GRAND PLAN FOR REGION SIX
Meanwhile, apart from the construction of the stadium, Dr Ali spotlighted what he said what the government’s grand plan for the region.
“Not saying everything is perfect but we are working to make things better every single day.
“Development has no face,” the President said as he noted that the entire Guyana was being developed for all Guyanese regardless of race or political persuasion.
For Region Six, he said the government was developing a healthcare system second to none with a level five hospital to be constructed and the upgrading of regional and district hospitals.
He said too that there are plans already in train to ensure that the Berbice River is completely accessible throughout the banks. He also hinted at the possibility of a new high-span bridge across the Berbice River.
On the business front, the President talked up the creation of an industrial, manufacturing and agro-processing hubs. New lands for agriculture and housing development will be opened.
The government is also expanding the four-lane highway from New Amsterdam to Moleson Creek, supplementing the plans to physically connect Guyana and Suriname by way of a bridge across the Corentyne River.
Additionally, there is the development of water treatment plants, the creation of new jobs, the construction of much-needed facilities and training centres and overall a push to ensure greater access to better education.
“We are not con artists. We will deliver to this country what we promised,” Dr. Ali assured those gathered.
Speaking directly about the construction of the stadium, he said, “today we turn the soil on transformation and build hope for future generations.”
