Paramaribo, Suriname – The Latour ressort within Paramaribo district has initiated its formal planning process for the 2027 development agenda through a groundbreaking community hearing session. Held on Wednesday at the Saamaka Community Association building, this participatory gathering marked the first in a series of consultations designed to incorporate citizen input into the forthcoming Ressortplan 2027.
The proceedings commenced with a comprehensive review of previously implemented projects within the ressort, followed by detailed presentations from various ministry representatives outlining proposed initiatives and activities for the upcoming policy period.
Community members actively identified several critical challenges requiring immediate attention in the new development plan. Primary concerns included the deteriorating road infrastructure, absence of systematic roadside maintenance, and persistent environmental pollution issues. Participants particularly emphasized the severe shortage of recreational facilities for youth, which community representatives directly linked to rising instances of negative leisure activities among young residents.
In a significant procedural development, ressort councils have established a monthly meeting schedule—convening every first Monday—to regularly monitor implementation progress and continuously gather additional community feedback.
All recommendations and proposals presented during the hearing will be systematically integrated into a draft Ressortplan 2027, scheduled for submission to the district council by late February as part of the comprehensive districtsplan. The finalized district development blueprint will be formally presented to the Minister of Regional Development by end of March.
The landmark session saw participation from Ressortraad members, Health Minister André Misiekaba, National Assembly representatives Edgar Sampie and Tashana Lösche, District Commissioner Wennys Vijfhoven, and numerous community stakeholders.