GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – President Irfaan Ali has outlined plans for a future in Guyana to be at the forefront of innovation and development as the country celebrates its 53rd Republic Anniversary on Thursday.
Addressing the nation on Wednesday evening before the anniversary, he declared that Guyana is advancing rapidly towards modernity, with his government laying the groundwork for a post-2030 era.
He spoke of his administration’s plans to establish a healthcare system that provides swift and effective care to all citizens and creates a space where every senior citizen can live with dignity.
President Ali said the government intends to build a Guyana in which every child will be able to have access to and benefit from a quality education in classrooms that are safe, non-intimidating and enable them to realize their full potential; and will also prioritize providing young people with the necessary opportunities to pursue productive careers.
He further affirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring women have equal opportunities and are treated with respect.
President Ali said the country would be one “where every family will be allowed to own their own home; where there is an efficient, customer-friendly and responsive public service; where growth is tempered with equality and where no person is denied opportunities because of where they live; and where our people and communities enjoy a harmonious and inclusive future under the One Guyana banner.”
The President reflected on the resilience of the Republic of Guyana following an epic struggle that lasted almost 25 years and saw the restoration of democracy.
He noted that the democratic dividend has been maximized with the restoration of international creditworthiness, the pursuit and securing of debt relief, the rebuilding of infrastructure, and the expansion of social services.
“Things had improved. Life had gotten better, and our country’s international reputation was boosted. Guyana became a global leader for the protection and preservation of the environment through the launch of its model Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS),” President Ali underscored.
President Ali highlighted that the most ambitious housing drive was launched, providing tens of thousands of Guyanese with dignity and a roof over their heads. The country’s sports and cultural infrastructure was also expanded by establishing the National Stadium and athletic track.
The standard of living has improved, he said, with the economy prudently managed to constrain inflation and to keep exchange and interest rates stable.
“Things have gotten better in the Republic. But that would not have been possible had democracy not been maintained and devious attempts to dislodge democratic elections repelled. This is why we must continuously safeguard our democratic gains,” the President reiterated.
He noted that Guyana is making significant strides in education, healthcare, national security, housing, and economic development.
The head of state said national security is being enhanced, with the security services being recapitalized to preserve internal law and order and deter external threats.
Additionally, by the end of 2025, 50,000 house lots will be allocated to Guyanese, and a smart city is under planning and development. Local democracy is also being renewed with the holding of Local Government Elections this year.
President Ali noted that Guyana is also making strides in economic development, with significant investments in energy infrastructure that will make it the energy capital of the region while protecting and preserving the environment and the services the country’s varied ecosystems provide.
Guyana achieved independence from the United Kingdom on May 26, 1966, but became a republic on February 23, 1970.
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