President Dr. Irfaan Ali has announced an ambitious revival plan titled Rescue Georgetown, outlining a clear vision to transform the capital city into one of the world’s finest capitals. Speaking at a press conference, he acknowledged decades of inefficiency and mismanagement, declaring that the current state of the city could no longer be tolerated. The plan, developed in collaboration with the Kings Foundation, aims to restore Georgetown’s status as the “Garden City” and serve as a model of sustainable urban development.
Over the last five years, the government has invested billions of dollars in drainage upgrades, roads, and public spaces. Building on that foundation, the new framework will focus on climate resilience, cultural heritage, biodiversity, and modern infrastructure. Projects already identified include the rehabilitation of the historic Transport building and train station, which will be converted into a museum and training centre, upgrades to the Stabroek waterfront, and improvements to markets, shopping areas, and recreational spaces.
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President Ali emphasized that the transformation of Georgetown will require more than infrastructure. Public education campaigns and new school programs will teach citizens and visitors to appreciate the city’s history and inspire responsibility for its upkeep. He highlighted that the initiative also integrates broader national objectives, such as sustainable housing, improved transportation, heritage protection, sanitation, and the preservation of green spaces.
The President also recognized the contributions of First Lady Arya Ali, whose ongoing beautification efforts across urban and rural areas align with the revival strategy. Collaboration with the private sector, city council, and multiple government ministries will be crucial in achieving the ambitious goals of the plan.
Ali reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to an “aggressive” phase of implementation, insisting that the city must not only be revitalized but reimagined. He stressed that Georgetown’s transformation will be anchored in low-carbon, sustainable development, ensuring that growth benefits future generations. Declaring that Georgetown will once again be a source of national pride, Ali said his government is determined to make it one of the finest capital cities in the world, signalling a new era in Guyana’s history.
