By: Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News |
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand has announced that municipal markets across Guyana are set to undergo major rehabilitation as part of the government’s plan to modernize public marketplaces and promote eco-friendly, hygienic spaces for both vendors and consumers.
Speaking exclusively with Nightly News on the sidelines of the 13th Sitting of Parliament, Minister Manickchand explained that the rehabilitation initiative will target all municipal and village markets, aligning with Guyana’s vision of modernization and sustainable development.
“All of the markets have to be rehabilitated and brought into the era that Guyana is heading into — a modern municipal or village market,” the Minister stated.
She emphasized that the goal is to create pleasant, environmentally responsible spaces where vendors can operate comfortably and consumers can shop safely and with dignity.
“Vendors could sell comfortably and consumers can buy comfortably in a pleasant space. That’s going to require a culture change — not only in infrastructure but also in how markets are used by all stakeholders,” she said.
The announcement follows Nightly News’ earlier report, which highlighted the unsanitary conditions at the Industry/Plaisance Market, where fish vendors have been struggling for weeks amid overflowing drains, stagnant water, and a lack of access to potable water. The conditions have driven customers away, resulting in financial losses for several small-scale vendors.
When explicitly asked about the deplorable state of the Plaisance Market, Minister Manickchand assured that the matter would be investigated and addressed promptly.
“I will visit and find out whatever is happening in that particular market — the Plaisance Market. A lot of these markets are itinerant; people go and sell there, then move to another market on another day,” she explained.
Minister Manickchand reiterated that the Ali-led administration remains committed to creating a new culture of accountability, service, and sustainability in municipal management.
“If we say we will do something, we will get it done. That is how our government operates, and I really want to see a new culture in service,” she affirmed.
While long-term rehabilitation is on the agenda, vendors at the Plaisance Market continue to endure challenging conditions. The Minister also hinted at broader development plans that will see improved delivery of health, education, and social services across the regions as part of the government’s ongoing modernization efforts.
