“Positive Vibes, Positive Living”: President Ali Pledges Major Infrastructure Overhaul for East Ruimveldt
By: Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News
EAST RUIMVELDT, GEORGETOWN — President Dr. Irfaan Ali, accompanied by a high-level ministerial team, took to the streets of East Ruimveldt on Thursday to engage directly with residents. The walkabout led to a comprehensive commitment to upgrade the community’s drainage, sanitation, markets, and recreational spaces, with a strong emphasis on youth development.
While highlighting the “positive vibes” of the neighborhood’s youth, the President did not mince words regarding the current state of the community’s infrastructure.
A Society of “Positive Living”
During his interactions, President Ali noted with satisfaction that the majority of children he encountered were actively enrolled in school and engaged in constructive activities.
- The Vision: The President stated that the goal of these interventions is to create “communities with positive living,” where the environment supports the aspirations of the next generation.
- Wholesome Spaces: The administration aims to transform neglected plots into “fulfilling environments” for families to enjoy in the early afternoons.
Bypassing the City Council
Addressing the visible infrastructural decay, President Ali took a sharp jab at the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC), under whose jurisdiction the area technically falls.
- The Neglect: The President identified internal drainage, clogged alleys, and dilapidated sports facilities as primary concerns.
- Direct Intervention: He alleged a “disinterest” from the City Council in developing such communities, prompting the Central Government to step in directly. “We aren’t waiting on the City Council anymore,” the President asserted.
The “Master Plan” for East Ruimveldt
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, and Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Steven Jacobs, outlined the technical specifics of the intervention:
- Market Upgrades: Plans are underway to revamp the local market, including improvements to roof structures to create a better environment for vendors and shoppers.
- Sports & Culture: Minister Jacobs emphasized the redevelopment of the community playfield to foster cohesion and provide a “wholesome” outlet for athletes and youth.
- Sustainable Drainage: Technical teams will conduct follow-up surveys to create a long-term plan for the community’s drainage and sanitation systems.
“We are Here Forever”
Minister Manickchand reinforced that the visit was not a “one-off” political stop but the start of a permanent partnership. She assured residents that the government would remain engaged through ongoing consultations to ensure the lives of every resident get better.
“We are your friends and we are here forever… You can count on us for that.” — Minister Priya Manickchand
Action Items for East Ruimveldt (March 2026)
| Priority Area | Planned Action |
| Drainage | Clearing internal alleys and desilting drains. |
| Recreation | Complete overhaul of the community playfield. |
| Commerce | Structural repairs and upgrades to the local market. |
| Youth | Ongoing vocational and sports program consultations. |
