Wellness project launched to reduce chronic conditions in 150 persons

Last Updated on Wednesday, 6 September 2023, 16:34 by Denis Chabrol

Left to Right: Project Manager of the Enhancing Community Wellness Project
Stephen Patterson, Socioeconomic Manager of ExxonMobil Guyana Susan Scott and Director of the
Roraima Learning Trust Kojo Parris

The Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI)-funded Enhancing Community Wellness Project, which aims to reduce the prevalence of chronic health conditions in 150 participants was officially launched August 30 at 3t EnerMech, Lusignan, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

This project is being led by the Roraima Learning Trust (RLT) and aims to reduce the prevalence of chronic health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension by encouraging participants to adopt and adhere to healthier lifestyles. The project encourages participants to consume healthy foods, lead an active lifestyle and monitor their physical health.

Socioeconomic Manager at ExxonMobil Guyana, Ms. Susan Scott stated, “We believe that healthy citizens are the greatest asset any country can have and that is why we were keen on supporting this project with the Roraima Learning Trust which aims to encourage citizens to eat well, move well and feel well,” she was quoted as saying in a statement.

The objectives of this project include providing relevant dietary and lifestyle information through convenient and accessible platforms and also utilising the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and healthcare networks.

Project Manager for Roraima Learning Trust, Mr. Stephen Patterson stated that they have already seen positive results from this project and he encouraged all the participants to continue to use and share the information. He noted, “The whole idea is to use the information that we’re sharing, that they can use it for their own benefit, the benefit of their family, communities and by extension, the country as a whole”.

Director of the RLT, Mr. Kojo Parris highlighted that peer-based support is a crucial aspect in the execution of the project. “An integral part of how this project is structured is so that people operate in groups and so they can help each other, they can encourage each other,” he stated.

The GGI is a US$100 million, 10-year investment made by the Stabroek Block partners ExxonMobil Guyana, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited. It is geared towards development of the local workforce, building human capacity, advancing education and improving healthcare, all in an effort to promote sustainable economic diversification for a growing Guyana.