-President Ali rallies Albion with clarion call for continued development in Region Six
-announces US$200M fund to support small businesses, improve access to capital
-promises more family-friendly policies for disposal income, agriculture development
THE Albion estate road was on Sunday blanketed by scenes of fiery red as thousands of Guyanese from all walks of life gathered under the blazing afternoon sun for a singular purpose, answering President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s call for unity, progress, and consolidation.
“This is a movement, this is power, the people’s power and the embracing of the People’s Progressive Party’s philosophy,” the President declared, his voice rising above thunderous clapping from a crowd that stretched far beyond the community’s streets.
The rally marked a significant moment in the ongoing mobilisation of the PPP/C’s support base with President Ali underscoring the importance of sustained governance and strategic investment.
“There is only one party that has demonstrated to you that we have clear plans and big policies for you,” the Head of State declared amidst cheers.
With repeated appeals to maintain logic and legacy, President Ali urged supporters to reject political experimentation and champion the stability of the PPP/C as the foundation for growth.
“Now is not the time about experiment, now is not the time to give somebody the chance, now is time to consolidate,” he told the enthusiastic gathering.
SUPPORT FOR SMALL, MICRO BUSINESSES
Dr. Ali also formally announced a substantial US$200 million fund to support small and micro businesses. The fund, he explained, will expand access to capital and unlock entrepreneurship.
Under this initiative, a new development bank will be established, and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) will benefit from 0 per cent equity-matched support.
Borrowing costs will be reduced from six per cent or seven per cent to three per cent interest and collateral requirements will be eliminated, making capital more accessible.
President Ali stressed that the fund would create a more level playing field, allowing every Guyanese with a viable idea to access financing and grow.
“We are not waiting for global investors alone. We are co-investing in our people,” the President said.
This announcement follows the government’s continued efforts to build a diversified economy and ensure all Guyanese benefit from the country’s transformation.
The government too will look to transform the ancient county into a major logistical hub, making it the country’s second oil and gas hub, where gas can be processed and further distributed through a deep-water port around the Caribbean.
President Ali further informed the gathering that the government will leverage these investments to further connect Guyana to its neighbour, Brazil, unlocking greater opportunities for trade.
Emphasising the participatory nature of development, the President reminded citizens of their pivotal role in shaping Guyana’s future. “All of these plans depend heavily on you,” he stressed.
RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
He further revealed that his government will continue massive investments in infrastructure, including state-of-the-art recreational and sporting facilities across Region Six. These initiatives aim to uplift communities, provide safe and modern public spaces, and enhance the quality of life for families.
“We are going to establish a high-performance centre so that athletes can have the best opportunity and access to the best facilities so that they can be the best they can.”
“The future we are building is one in which our people will see prosperity,” Dr. Ali affirmed.
Already a state-of-the-art multi-million-dollar stadium is being built at Palmyra.
The facility once completed is expected to provide a major boost to sports development in the region and serving as the premier venue for cricket, concerts, and other major events in the Region.
In line with a people-first approach, the President also committed to pursuing more family-friendly policies to increase disposable income in Guyanese households, promising relief and support to help families thrive amid the country’s economic rise.
AGRICULTURE
President Ali also revealed plans to accelerate the Region’s agriculture sector, opening up some 6,000 new acres of land and building massive infrastructure to support self-sufficiency.
He noted that the government will invest in feed plants, agro-processing and storage facilities, including a cold storage plant.
The government will also invest in a fertiliser plant ensuring affordable and accessible supplies for local farmers, President Ali said.
