The jaguar stars at the new Eccles/Haags Bosch roundabout

A life-size figurine of the jaguar, Guyana’s national animal, stands tall as the centerpiece of the new Eccles/Haags Bosch roundabout, East Bank Demerara, commissioned by President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Saturday.

The entire junction is a masterpiece on showcase, put together by talented Guyanese architects, engineers and contractors.

The opening of this junction signals the completion of the second phase of this massive highway that runs from Nelson Mandela Avenue in Georgetown to Silica City on the Linden/Soesdyke Highway.

Works on the highway began on April 15, 2021, and the first phase – Mandela to Eccles – was completed on April 13, 2022.

The second phase of the highway is from Eccles to Diamond and the third and final phase from Diamond to Soesdyke.

Dr. Ali said he looks forward to the full completion of the highway which now boasts two roundabouts. At the Mandela junction, a monument with a depiction of the Harpy Eagle serves as an attraction.

Dr. Ali said these are all significant parts of the larger infrastructural transformation of the country.

As his government builds a new modern prosperous Guyana, the President looks forward to the further advancement of national pride.

“We wish to reignite that sense of pride that all citizens must feel proud to be called Guyanese and proud about what we can build here at home together,” the President said moments after cutting the ceremonial red ribbon.

Residents from nearby communities flocked to the brightly lit intersection, enjoying an evening of dance and music in addition to the newly installed fountain.

“This is one of the most important junctions that the next generation of Guyanese will live and see.

“As Guyanese, we ought not only to benefit from this development and feel a sense of pride but we have an important duty and responsibility of protecting these assets,” the President admonished.

Along with the opening of the roundabout was also the commissioning of a mobile containerized Police outpost.

Dr. Ali said this is part of improving the security architecture while modernizing the country and changing the mindset of its people.