and Public Works and Spatial Planning Minister Stephen Tsang have the starting signal for the construction of 350 houses at Reeberg. The housing project is a gift from the Chinese government and the Chinese people to Suriname. President Simons expressed her gratitude for the Chinese support and emphasized that housing is currently one of the biggest needs of the people in Suriname. The government wants to expand access to affordable houses and has therefore opted for various housing programs and financing possibilities. It will help to keep social houses affordable by making the land ready for construction and by providing electricity, water, internet and infrastructure. President Simons explained that the housing project also provides jobs and therefore urged people to apply for a job in the construction sector. “We must not only be grateful. We must also seize the opportunity. I am also talking to the people who will help to build these houses”, said President Simons who added that the construction workers will gain the skills and experience that will help build the nation. The head of state urged citizens to follow the updates from the National Housing Program Suriname so that they can what is required to be selected for the state housing program. She pointed out that people can get financing at an interest rate of 3.5% and 7%. Minister Tsang pointed out that all 350 houses must be built within the next two years. The entire project will last four years because the contractor will spend two additional years on the maintenance of these houses. “We want to give people a roof over their heads”, said Minister Tsang. Council Advisor Faizal Abdoelgafoer explained that the president wants the housing projects to be a reflection of the diversity within the Surinamese community. “She does not want one target group at one location but a mix of everything”, said Abdoelgafoer.