President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Sunday signalled plans for a nationwide preventative health drive that will place mosques, churches and temples at the centre of public education and early screening efforts.
Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Ramadan Village, the Head of State said Guyana must shift focus from treatment to prevention, particularly as more citizens require dialysis due to chronic illnesses.
“We must lead a revolution in public health education, against diabetes, against all the primary healthcare challenges and issues that we have. Too many persons are going on dialysis,” he said, adding that government intends to work closely with religious bodies to promote healthier lifestyles and early intervention.
The President explained that under the new initiative, places of worship would host basic health checks, counselling and education programmes aimed at reducing the incidence of non-communicable diseases. He said communities would also be encouraged to adopt healthier habits and take responsibility for their well-being.
“We are going to create in every single area with these religious institutions, [a] primary healthcare facility where we can do checks, where we can do corrective healing, where we can do counselling, and where we can change living style and living habits from the ground up,” he said.
Dr. Ali pointed to recent outreach activities at the Eccles Masjid as an example of how faith-based organisations can support public health initiatives and community awareness. He added that proposals are being developed to involve religious institutions in maintaining clean and healthy neighbourhood environments.
The President also emphasised personal responsibility, linking ethical and religious teachings to social outcomes. He urged citizens to apply religious principles in everyday life, including caring for those in need.
“God-fearing is how you apply the principles of Islam in every aspect of life. You can’t be God- fearing and be praying five prayers and then see someone that you can help starving,” he said.
Now in its third year, the Ramadan Village continues to draw large crowds from across the country and the diaspora. The event is organised through collaboration among the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana, the Guyana Islamic Trust and the Muslim Youth Organisation.
Head of Education and Dawah at CIOG, Shaikh Moeen ul-Hack, highlighted the country’s religious freedom and the ability of Muslims to gather openly for worship. He said this year’s theme, “grateful at home, compassionate to the world,” reflects the spirit of unity and reflection that defines the event.
