GWI partners with Matthew’s Ridge to undertake Water Supply Improvement Programme

The Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) yesterday (Thursday, May 18, 2017) inked a contract with the Matthew’s Ridge/Arakaka and Port Kaituma Neighbourhood Democratic Council to undertake remedial works in the Matthew’s Ridge community, Region One.

It is estimated that the project will provide improved water supply to almost 1500 residents.

Addressing officials and residents of the region at the Mathew’s Ridge Community Centre, Managing Director of GWI, Dr. Richard Van West-Charles said GWI has noted the urgency of upgrading the water supply system in the region. He added that works will be done with the Ministry of Public Health to test and treat the water sources regularly to prevent the occurrence of water borne diseases.

“We will place kits at the hospital and train staff to monitor and test the water quality on a weekly basis so as to ensure that it is safe for use in hospitals, schools, restaurants and in the community”, the Managing Director posited.

Residents were also urged to report leaks to prevent any compromising of the quality of water distributed to them. “By August 2017, residents will see a significant improvement in their water supply and will receive improved supply of water”, Dr. Van West-Charles assured.

Additionally, in Region one, GWI will be drilling a well in Oronoque and Yarakitato provide water to residents there for the first time and rehabilitating the water source in Port Kaituma. The Hosororo Falls is also being utilised to supply residents with improved service and this project is currently ongoing.

Dr. Van West-Charles called on the Regional Administration and residents to identify areas without water access, noting that “We take equity serious so we need a “stakeholdership” approach with the community”. The Managing Director also proposed quarterly meetings to address arising issues in the community.

Chairperson of the Matthew’s Ridge/Arakaka and Port KaitumaNeighbourhood Democratic Council, Ms. Margaret Lambert thanked GWI for its investment and noted that the community participation will see jobs being created for villagers.

Region One Chairman, Mr. Brentnol Ashley also expressed his appreciation for GWI’s intervention, noting that this water supply improvement project is part of government’s plan for the improvement of the livelihoods within the region.