Foulis resident: The president is doing well for everybody. I like the way things are going
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali recently visited the community of Foulis, East Coast Demerara, where he engaged with residents in a walkabout and community meeting.
His visit, part of a larger effort by the government to address key concerns across the nation, was met with enthusiasm as the president listened to local issues and promised solutions aimed at improving the livelihoods of citizens.
One of the major highlights of the president’s visit was the announcement of a comprehensive waste management programme, set to be included in the 2025 national budget. As part of this initiative, the government plans to enhance the capacity of Local Democratic Organs (LDOs) to manage garbage collection and disposal effectively.
An important part of the plan is to procure 25 additional compactor garbage trucks to address the growing waste management challenges across the country. The president also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding the national street lighting programme.
“We are putting in resources to continue the street lighting programme so that all large communities, especially, will have proper street lighting,” Dr. Ali explained.
This move aims to make communities safer, while also improving visibility for residents, particularly during the nighttime hours.As part of his visit, President Ali addressed a number of concerns raised by residents. Many expressed frustration over road obstructions, a shortage of burial spaces, and inadequate garbage disposal systems.
The president assured that these issues would be prioritized in the upcoming budget, with a focus on finding both immediate and long-term solutions.Safety concerns were also brought up by residents, particularly regarding speeding vehicles in their neighborhoods. In response, Dr. Ali promised to look into the installation of speed bumps to make the roads safer for everyone.
Residents were quick to express their appreciation for the ongoing work the government has been doing to improve their community. Bibi Lalbahadur, a local resident, praised the government’s support for youth and highlighted the positive changes seen under President Ali’s leadership.
“The president is doing well for everybody. I like the way things are going, and I’m happy to see him here,” she said.Another resident, Mohamed Hussein, shared his gratitude for the improvements in infrastructure, such as road repairs and the construction of a new hospital in Enmore. “More things are coming, and I’m very grateful that the president listened to all our concerns,” Hussein said.
The community has seen significant infrastructural development in recent months. Nearly 20 roads in Foulis have been rehabilitated, and the newly completed Foulis Nursery School stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to improving educational facilities. Additionally, work is underway to fence the school, and a new learning lab is set to be constructed soon.
The development of a community sports ground is also underway, bringing a long-awaited opportunity for residents to engage in recreational activities. Seon Williams, Chairman of the Paradise Housing Scheme, expressed his gratitude for the government’s efforts, particularly the inclusion of small contractors in the development process, which has created employment opportunities for local residents.
“This means more jobs for the community, and I’ve seen this happening not just in my village, but across many other villages in Guyana,” Williams said. Foulis community leaders, including Councillor Vanetta Singh, echoed these sentiments, noting that the area is benefiting from much-needed infrastructural improvements that are enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
During the outreach, President Ali was accompanied by key figures, including Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues, and Ron Rahaman, Head of the Works Services Group at the Ministry of Public Works.
The president’s visit underscored his commitment to engaging directly with communities and ensuring that their concerns are reflected in national policies. Through continued investments in infrastructure, waste management, and community safety, the government aims to uplift the lives of citizens and create stronger, more sustainable communities across the country.
