As the government continues to make significant changes to ensure the development of Guyana, Bartica in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) is implementing this vision under stalwart leadership.

Deputy-Mayor, Nageswari Kamal Lochanprasad made her entrance into the mayoral race minus any political background; with just her dedication to improve the lives of Barticians, she outshone her competition.
Lochanprasad said such a prestigious title is not one that she expected to hold, however, she plans to use her post to further the empowerment of women.

“Being the first Deputy-Mayor as well as a single mother is a great achievement of course but I hope (from this position) I will be able to influence other women and girls… I believe when women are empowered they can play a significant role in the development of not only of their communities but the country, as a whole,” Lochanprasad said.

She firmly believes women are strong individuals who are able to withstand any challenge or obstacles in life hence, it is her aim to show the women and girls in the region that dreams can be achieved with hard work and dedication.

Providing better healthcare, education and telecommunication services are among the objectives of the deputy mayor. This also includes providing employment opportunities to young Barticians who have benefitted from STEM programmes and other government initiatives.

“This makes me feel proud knowing that Bartica has moved from a period where opportunities were so limited to a place where progress is not only focused on infrastructure, health, agriculture among others but giving the young people of this community opportunities to develop themselves, to be a part of what is happening nationally so that we can proud of what we would accomplish,” the deputy mayor added.

Since taking office in 2016, the Bartica Town council has executed a number of projects and addressed several issues facing residents. This includes the rehabilitation of the Byderabo dumpsite, between 2016 and 2017, approximately $50Million was allocated for the project to make the facility environmentally friendly. The construction of the town’s first ‘Green’ Park to the tune of $31Million.

The council has also focused on the modification of the town hall, upgrading internal roads, and offering scholarships to residents of Bartica. The council has also spearheaded construction of the town’s first boulevard.

It was highlighted by the Deputy-Mayor that will be utilising resources to target youth empowerment, construction of a disability centre to support the programmes of the local disability organisation, capacity-building for small businesses and awareness sessions on mental health, depression and domestic violence, this year.

Source: DPI