Gov’t exploring ways to support the development of religious leaders

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has said that the government is discussing ways to support the development of pastors, pandits and Imams in Guyana.

The president was at the time speaking at the commissioning of South America’s largest Lord Shiva statue at the Badrinaath Aashram on the Essequibo Coast on Wednesday.

The towering structure, called the Bhagwan Shiva Murti was founded by Pandit Munesh Dhanraih.

“We may have to collaborate with the religious leaders and find institutions through which we will support their development, and we are committed to doing that, because faith and spirituality are essential pillars of a grounded nation,” he underscored.

He explained that the aim is to ensure that Guyana’s religious tapestry remains rich and multifaceted.

The president also spoke of the significance and importance of the Aashram, and the collective effort it represents.

The head of state said that the Aashram reinforces a sense of belonging and connection, signifying deeper values like faith, consciousness and reconnecting with one’s heritage.

Infrastructural investments 

President Ali pivoted to his administration’s dedication to investing in infrastructure to foster regional prosperity.

The government is working with a team of technicians and specialists to procure another ferry service for the Essequibo region to meet growing economic demands.

This service will be able to accommodate more passengers and vehicles, enhancing the link between Essequibo and the other regions.

According to President Ali, this is part of the government’s forward-thinking and proactive approach to development.

He disclosed that work is also underway to procure another ferry to service the Northwest route.

In 2023, the MV Ma Lisha, a partnership with the Government of India, was commissioned, drastically enhancing transportation, trade, and tourism between Georgetown and the North West district.

“Since we have launched that, the production has come back. The market has come back, and the demand for the ferry service has increased exponentially, and now we have to get another one,” he said.

Cabinet has also requested that a team of engineers come up with an estimated cost for this new ferry (Republished from the Department of Public Information)