Bourda and Stabroek Markets set for major upgrades

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Sonia Parag has underscored the vital role markets play in fostering both economic growth and social cohesion in communities.

Speaking during a recent episode of the Starting Point Podcast, the minister highlighted that the government, through her ministry have been rehabilitating certain markets and, in some cases, building new ones.  Among the major projects in the pipeline are upgrades to Bourda and Stabroek markets in Georgetown.

Already, two rounds of consultations have been held with vendors about plans for development at the Bourda Market. Parag said funds will be allocated in the 2026 budget for the rehabilitation of the facility. The proposal includes a two-storey structure to maximize space and accommodate more vendors.

“Where you have less space you have to creatively use that space to have more persons be included,” Minister Parag said as she stressed the need for robust consultations, noting that market development is vastly different from housing projects.

At the Stabroek Market, the government has already completed the renovation of 30 washrooms. Attention is now turning to the roof, which has long been a problem. A comprehensive redesign for the entire area is being developed in collaboration with the King’s Foundation.

The King’s Foundation will play a key role in restoring green spaces and preserving Guyana’s historic buildings.

“We can have places such as Stabroek [Market] rework it, but also maintain and preserve its historical features. One, it becomes an economics hub and, two, it becomes a place where families feel safe,” Parag said.

She explained that the transformation at the markets will have to be done in a way that does not disrupt vendors plying their trade.

The government’s vision for the markets aligns with Guyana’s broader sustainable urban development agenda. The market revitalisation plans are expected to unfold over the next five years.