-by Kyler Rollins

Persons living with disabilities have been assured of their access to the benefits of the soon-to-be-launched Guyana Development Bank, following a recent engagement with Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally, in Region Six.

The engagement sought to inform persons with disabilities about the opportunities available through the bank, including financial support they can access to start or expand their businesses.

As preparations continue for the launch of the Guyana Development Bank, Minister Ally spearheaded a meeting at the Empower Guyana Centre for Equality, Opportunity and Innovation at Palmyra, where he engaged with persons living with disabilities.

He reminded the gathering of President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s commitment to greater inclusion, encouraging participants to form groups to maximize their access to loans, which will be available at zero interest and without collateral.

“If ten of you come together, and we will sit and we will work with you, and all of you take three millions dollars from the bank, that’s thirty million dollars that you now can put into a venture together that you can cooperate. A venture that you can run together. That’s thirty million dollars to start a business that you would’ve not had access to before,” he said.

To further simplify the process, Minister Ally said persons interested in accessing the financing will receive step-by-step assistance to turn their business ideas into reality, including guidance throughout the loan repayment process.

“We’re going to help you to set up that business plan, that business model or that idea that you have or that venture that you want to do. We’re going to train you too on financial management, how you’re going to manage this money, how you’re going to invest it in the business, how you’re going to reinvest it into the business, what will be your profit and what will be thing you’re going to do with the money,” he explained.

Persons were also given the opportunity to ask questions and engage one-on-one with the minister to receive additional information about the bank.