Pres. Ali outlines strategy to eradicate poverty, address cost of living over next five years

In a Sunday afternoon address live on Facebook, President Dr. Irfaan Ali laid out what he described as a “deliberate and clear strategy” to reduce poverty across Guyana, committing to a multi-pronged approach that targets every layer of vulnerability in society—from the unemployed to pensioners, schoolchildren, and indigenous communities.

The President stated that the next five years will see expanded social welfare programs and strengthened safety nets to move vulnerable groups toward economic empowerment.

“We have to build systems that don’t just address short-term challenges, but holistically tackle the long-term issues linked to poverty,” he stated.

Among the key poverty alleviation measures to be expanded or introduced are:

• Higher old-age pensions and public assistance grants
• Targeted financial aid to single parents and persons living with disabilities
• Increased cash transfers and salaries for public servants
• Access to free education—including textbooks, transportation, and digital learning tools
• Healthcare subsidies covering treatments like dialysis, cancer care, and maternal services

Dr. Ali emphasised the importance of reaching families “where they are” by continuing programmes such as school feeding, free spectacles and dental care for those in need, and support for home construction.

Notably, the government also intends to reduce taxes on low-income earners and simplify the tax system to increase disposable income. The President said this holistic system will “empower the poorest segments of our communities” and bring them into the productive economy.