GVT Pushes Modern, Sustainable Communities at Yarrowkabra, Silica City
September 22, 2025 — The Government’s flagship housing developments along the Soesdyke–Linden Highway are progressing steadily, with significant strides being made at both the Yarrowkabra Homestead Project and Silica City.
Over the weekend, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, and Minister within the Ministry, Vanessa Benn, conducted site visits to inspect ongoing works and engage with technical teams.
At Yarrowkabra, 200 prefabricated homes are being constructed as part of President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s $6 billion housing initiative. To date, 24 houses have already been completed and handed over to beneficiaries. Each unit, valued at $6.5 million, represents the government’s push to provide affordable, modern housing while supporting inclusive growth.
The project goes beyond housing alone, combining residential development with agriculture and renewable energy. Shade houses and solar power systems are being integrated to promote economic empowerment, particularly targeting single mothers and women-led households.
Infrastructure such as roads, water systems, and electricity is also advancing to support the growing community. The homes, built by Duravilla Homes, are designed with sustainable materials and modern techniques to ensure both durability and environmental responsibility.
Meanwhile, at Silica City, construction of 110 homes is underway at varying stages of development. The ministers, joined by officials from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), carried out a familiarisation tour to assess construction quality and progress.
Minister Croal emphasised that ensuring high standards remains a top priority. He noted that while demand for elevated house designs is strong, these take longer to complete. Allocations have already begun, and beneficiaries will soon be able to sign their agreements of sale.
Minister Benn, who recently assumed her portfolio, outlined her focus on improving efficiency and embracing innovation. She highlighted the importance of digitising systems to reduce delays in land applications and building approvals, as well as the need to “green” construction spaces and link the housing sector with forestry. This includes diversifying the use of local timbers beyond traditional species, opening new opportunities for forestry, joinery, and community development.
Both ministers reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the Soesdyke–Linden Highway corridor into a hub of sustainable residential and economic activity. With hundreds of homes under construction and systems being modernised, the housing drive is on course to deliver not just shelter, but thriving communities that blend modern living with economic opportunity.
