President, Dr Irfaan Ali announced last evening that the government has finally completed the model for Guyana’s first smart and sustainable housing development, Silica City. While delivering the keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Building Expo, Ali said the model will be showcased during the four-day exhibition.
Designed to resemble a tree, Silica City he said incorporates energy-efficient building materials tailored for the tropical climate, and will feature smart technology for managing wastewater, energy, and water conservation. The city aims to encourage walking, enhance family connectivity, and support well-being through green spaces, recreational areas, and advanced healthcare facilities.
While delivering his speech, President Ali highlighted that Silica City is not just a model of architectural ingenuity but also a commitment by the government to integrate eco-friendly technologies and smart infrastructure. “Many closely knitted families and neighborhoods,” he noted, “will benefit from a city designed to encourage walking and integrate digitalized transportation, electricity grids, and multi-specialty healthcare.”
The design also includes provisions for recreation parks, and community centers. Ali said the city’s development is a showcase of how urban spaces can merge environmental protection with green economic growth.
Moreover, President Ali reported that since taking office in 2020, the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government has made substantial investments in housing, significantly improving shelter for thousands of citizens. “To date, 128,000 citizens have benefited from enhanced housing conditions,” he stated.
He said the government’s commitment to housing is reflected in its substantial financial outlay, as over the last four years, the administration has allocated over $240 billion to the housing sector.
This investment has not only led to the regularization of 17 squatter settlements but also facilitated the delivery of approximately 35,000 plots and nearly 2,000 new homes. President Ali pointed out the reversal of housing gains seen between 2015 and 2020, when squatter settlements had increased. Addressing this issue, he said the current administration has worked diligently to stabilize and advance housing development.
He added that the financial impact of these investments is significant and the total housing subsidies provided—amounting to $94 billion, represents a substantial wealth transfer to households.
Additionally, the government has increased the mortgage interest relief from $15 million to $30 million, benefitting approximately 70,000 homeowners. This measure has resulted in a direct financial benefit of over $2.7 billion, enhancing affordability and access to home ownership.
