The health sector was recently given a boost with the commissioning of two new health centres at Krakrana and Kurikack in Region Nine (Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo).

Minister of Health, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Mr. Harripersaud Nokta and Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Ms. Carolyn Rodrigues, commissioned the buildings, which were constructed by the Regional Democratic Council, during a recent four-day visit to the region.

Minister Rodrigues, in her address to the residents of Kurikack, stated that though the building is small, it is a significant accomplishment and urged residents to utilise it so that they derive maximum benefits.

At Krakrana, the minister pointed out that the health post was another addition to the list of developments in the Amerindian communities in the region, where such facilities did not exist before.

Rodrigues noted that the communities had been starved of such facilities for a long time and encouraged residents to take care of the building and ensure that the Community Health Worker performs his job.

Minister Ramsammy told residents of Kurikack that the health centre belongs to the people and expressed the hope that residents would take care of the building.

He pointed out that the Government was bringing health services to the people, so that they would not have to travel far to access such facilities.

The minister noted that about 96 per cent of the children were vaccinated which is a significant achievement for Guyana. He also encouraged residents to ensure that their children receive the necessary vaccines.

Minister Nokta stated that the occasion though simple was significant, since the Government has been investing resources in human development.

He assured residents that the Government will continue along the path of development and will work to provide necessary services, so that residents can have better lives.

The ministers were accompanied by Director of Regional Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsarran and several officials from Regions Eight and Nine, including Regional Executive Officer of Region Nine, Mr. Deolall

Rooplall, Regional Chairman of Region Eight (Potaro/Siparuni), Mr. Senor Bell and Regional Executive Officer of Region Nine, Mr. Peter Ramotar.

The team visited several villages in Region Nine where they commissioned a new Primary School at Kaicumbay, bridges at Markarnata and S-Turn, Karasabai.

Nokta and his team then embarked on an historic journey to Region Eight via Land Rover.