Red Hill Residents to Receive First-Time Access to Potable Water

-Through New Well Installation

June 10 2025

The riverine community of Red Hill, located along the Barima River in Region One (Barima-Waini), is poised to receive first-time access to potable water, marking a significant milestone in efforts to improve living standards in remote areas.

This development comes following the successful drilling of a new well in the community, a move that will drastically reduce reliance on rainwater harvesting and unsafe river water.

The new water supply system is expected to benefit around 95% of households in Red Hill’s central area, while also delivering clean water to key facilities, including the village school and health centre.

The initiative is part of the government’s continued drive to ensure equitable access to basic services across all regions. Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, visited the community alongside Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley, Regional Executive Officer Mr. Sewchand, and GWI’s Director of Hinterland Services, Mr. Ramchand Jailal, to engage with residents and assess progress on the project.

With the well already showing promising water output, focus has now shifted to completing the distribution network. In a move that supports both development and local livelihoods, residents will be employed to assist with laying distribution lines. According to GWI, work on the network is set to begin before the end of the week, with water delivery expected by the end of June.

Since 2020, potable water coverage in Region One has risen from 36% to 89%, reflecting the government’s broader commitment to achieving universal access. In the Mabaruma sub-region alone, nearly a dozen new wells have been awarded this year to communities including Hobo Hill, Barasina, Black Water Savannah, Canal Bank, Morawannah, Three Brothers, Five Star, Waicabari, Aruka Mouth, and Unity Square.

The water project in Red Hill is one component of a wider development agenda in the region. Since 2020, the government has invested over $150 million in the community through Presidential Grants and the installation of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) hubs. Additional investments have been made in healthcare, education, and transportation infrastructure.

Highlighting the scale of support, the Regional Democratic Council of Region One has been allocated over $8 billion to fund improvements across sectors such as public works, agriculture, education, and administration. Among the ongoing infrastructure projects is the construction of a road linking Waruta to Red Hill, aimed at enhancing mobility and access for residents.

With sustained investments and strong community engagement, Red Hill is on a clear trajectory toward improved services and inclusive regional development.

(Ministry of Housing)