With Budget 2026 positioned as a service-oriented, people-focused plan to improve the daily lives of Guyanese, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand outlined the government’s approach to national development.
According to her, the budget places strong emphasis on strengthening community-level services, with a focus on safer neighbourhoods, more reliable public services, and improved access to education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure nationwide.
Minister Manickchand also highlighted some key areas, including improved garbage collection, repaired schools and health centres with medication available, better roads and drainage, street lighting, and the creation of play parks and green spaces, along with well-organised markets designed to serve both vendors and shoppers.
In outlining the budget’s intent on her social media platform, the minister said residents have been clear about their expectations.
“What is it people want? What do you tell us you want when we were talking to you, and when we are talking to you?
You tell us you want neighbourhoods where service providers provide service that is reliable and effective and predictable, you tell us that you want safe communities, wholesome communities,” she related.
“You tell us you want cities and neighbourhoods where you can live happily while you access services like education, housing, utilities and good healthcare.”
The local government minister further emphasised that Budget 2026 lays the groundwork for the second term of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, with a deliberate focus on strengthening and enhancing the functionality of local services.
Moreover, Minister Manickchand acknowledged the longstanding concerns of citizens regarding the performance of Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs).
“I know you’ve said to me, and you continue to say to me under my posts as well as in person, that you don’t feel like your neighbourhood democratic council is working for you,” she said.
As a result, the Minister explained that the government plans to build capacity within NDCs, introduce standard operating procedures, and forge a stronger habit of service so residents know what to expect when issues arise.
In addition, she added that a help desk system is being developed to allow citizens to reach the government directly when services are not working as they should.
Noting that development must be realistic and sustainable, the local government minister stated that implementation depends on available human capacity over the five-year term.
Nevertheless, she assured all citizens that visible improvements will begin to take shape as the year unfolds.
Finally, Minister Manickchand urged every citizen, regardless of their geographical location, to view the budget through a people-centred lens.
“I want you to see Budget 2026 as a budget that is service-oriented, people-oriented, where we’re putting people first, we’re putting you first, and no neighbourhood is left out. No sector is left out.”
