Govt deepens engagement with East Ruimveldt residents, advances plans for community transformation

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, yesterday led a follow-up engagement with residents of East Ruimveldt, accompanied by Cabinet colleagues, Keoma Griffith and Steven Jacobs. The meeting comes on the heels of a recent community walkthrough conducted by President Dr Irfaan Ali, as part of a sustained effort to address longstanding issues and accelerate development within the community.

This latest engagement reflects the Government’s continued, hands-on approach to governance, with Minister Manickchand reminding residents that the visit is part of an ongoing process rather than a one-time intervention. She noted that since her initial visit at the end of January, multiple assessments have been conducted, including walk-throughs of the community and its market, to better understand the needs of residents and identify practical solutions.

Opening her remarks, the Minister expressed appreciation for the strong turnout despite inclement weather and a busy pre-Easter period, describing it as a powerful demonstration of civic pride and community interest.

“Your presence here tells us that you are invested in your community and willing to be part of the process to make it better. That kind of engagement is critical if we are to achieve real, lasting change,” she stated.

The Minister emphasised that at the heart of the Government’s efforts is a commitment to improving the lives of ordinary citizens, particularly by expanding opportunities for young people.

“You want your children to have more than you had. You want them to grow up with access to education, to opportunities, and to be able to pursue whatever path they choose. Our job is to create the conditions that make that possible,” she said, underscoring that modern aspirations among youth now span a wide range of careers, from traditional professions to creative and entrepreneurial pursuits.

Minister Manickchand also used the opportunity to provide context on the roles and responsibilities of central and local government, noting that while systems exist to deliver services at the municipal level, many communities have faced persistent challenges over the years.

“For too long, there has been a cycle of blame, with different bodies pointing fingers while communities are left without the services they need. Residents are not concerned with who is responsible, they simply want their roads fixed, their drains cleared, their garbage collected, and safe spaces for their children,” she explained.

She stressed that both she and President Ali are committed to breaking this cycle by prioritising results and collaboration over conflict.

“We are not prepared to spend years in office without delivering meaningful change. The people deserve better, and we are determined to ensure that services reach them in a timely and effective manner,” the Minister asserted.

Reflecting on engagements with local officials, Minister Manickchand highlighted efforts made to foster cooperation, noting that while there have been challenges, the Government remains focused on ensuring that development is not hindered by division.

“The greatest risk is that division results in inaction. When that happens, it is the people, especially the children, who lose opportunities. That is something we cannot allow,” she said.

Turning her attention to East Ruimveldt specifically, the Minister outlined a comprehensive vision for the community, one that builds on its history while positioning it for future growth. She referenced the legacy of housing development initiatives in the area and acknowledged the resilience of residents who have maintained and improved their homes over the years.

Looking ahead, she detailed a series of targeted interventions designed to significantly enhance infrastructure, public services, and community spaces. Among the key initiatives proposed are the transformation of the community playground into a modern, multi-purpose recreational facility, including a walking track, upgraded basketball court, and improved amenities for both young people and senior citizens, the preservation and enhancement of open spaces for football and other sporting activities to support youth development and healthy lifestyles, the rehabilitation and expansion of the East Ruimveldt Market, with improved design, increased vending space, better traffic flow, and enhanced facilities for vendors and customers, the upgrading of drainage systems to address flooding, stagnant water, and associated public health concerns and the introduction of increased garbage collection services, moving from once weekly to twice weekly, to better meet the needs of the growing population.

Minister Manickchand highlighted that the proposed market redevelopment aims to create not just a functional space, but a vibrant economic hub that supports small businesses and community life.

“We want a market where vendors are comfortable, where customers can access fresh produce and services with ease, and where the entire space reflects the pride of the community,” she noted.

In addition to physical upgrades, the Minister emphasised the importance of community involvement in shaping the final outcomes. Residents were presented with preliminary designs for the playground and market, and were encouraged to provide feedback to ensure the developments align with their needs and aspirations.

“This is a collaborative process. We are bringing ideas and resources, but you are bringing lived experience. Together, we can create something that truly works for East Ruimveldt,” she said.

The Minister further underscored that the Government’s approach is rooted in accountability, noting that tangible improvements in areas such as education, healthcare access, sanitation, and infrastructure are essential to building trust and securing long-term development.

“We know that to earn your confidence, we must deliver. That means ensuring schools are equipped, healthcare is accessible, drainage is effective, and communities are clean and safe,” she added.

Concluding her remarks, Minister Manickchand reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to sustained engagement and action, assuring residents that the plans discussed will be pursued with urgency and purpose.

“We have come back because we are serious about getting things done, and we will continue to work with you every step of the way to ensure East Ruimveldt reaches its full potential,” she said.

The engagement forms part of a broader national effort to strengthen communities through direct consultation, strategic investment, and a results-driven approach to governance.