The Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing of Suriname has unveiled an ambitious plan to address the nation’s housing crisis through a comprehensive social housing program. Deputy Minister Danielle van Windt-Beeldsnijder announced during a press conference that the government will deliver 312 social housing solutions throughout 2026, with funding allocated in the upcoming national budget.
This initiative marks a significant revival of social housing construction, which had remained largely stagnant in recent years. The Housing Directorate confirmed the program represents a restart of essential housing infrastructure development, aiming to both alleviate housing shortages and restore public confidence in national housing policies.
The diversified housing program will include:
– 250 social rental units
– 37 apartment complexes
– 25 specially adapted residences for people with disabilities
Construction will commence in April with the Koela project in Pontbuiten, which will eventually provide 94 social housing solutions, with 34 units completed in the initial phase. All properties will be managed by the Foundation for Social Housing in Suriname, with an independent, transparent committee overseeing allocation to ensure financially vulnerable families gain access to affordable and secure housing.
Complementing new construction efforts, the existing building subsidy of SRD 100,000 remains available for citizens seeking to renovate, expand, or complete existing homes, demonstrating a dual approach addressing both new construction and improvement of current living conditions.
The Directorate acknowledges that social housing development has seen minimal progress over the past decade. The new strategy emphasizes public-private partnerships as crucial to expanding construction capacity and responding more effectively to growing housing demands. Deputy Minister van Windf-Beeldsnijder emphasized that “trust is restored through actions,” highlighting the government’s commitment to tangible results.
To strengthen institutional capacity, the Directorate has established a dedicated registration unit. Citizens can obtain information through the official WhatsApp channel at +597 897 9601.