PRESIDENT David Granger has reiterated that his administration will continue to strengthen and support communities to create jobs in agro-processing, so that commodities can be produced for local corporations.He has praised Banks DIH Limited as a pioneer in manufacturing in Guyana, even as he addressed the staff of that company following a recent tour of the Thirst Park facility. After touring the factory and getting a first-hand look at the various products being made and packaged, the President said the company is a pacesetter and a pioneer in industry, and he is convinced that Guyana’s industrial and business future is being led by a corporation that has a vision and the interest of Guyanese at heart.

“When I look around: the Guyanese employees, the engineers, the expertise, the care they exercise in giving citizens quality products, I really feel very, very proud of you, Banks DIH,” President Granger declared.

“This is not just a profiteering company; it is a company that is going to enhance the relationship with communities,” the President said.

Communities and villages are very capable of producing raw materials, like fruits and milk and other agricultural commodities that could be supplied to companies like Banks, President Granger said.

“Communities are where people live, and if we can provide employment in the communities, Guyana will not only be a happier country, but this will be a richer company…. I do believe that from what I’ve seen today, you will continue to lead us into a realm, an era, of economic prosperity,” the President said.

Guyana’s economy has been heavily reliant on the traditional sectors: rice, sugar, timber, bauxite, gold and diamonds. These sectors are, however, subject to the perils of price volatility on the world market. As such, the country must venture into non-traditional areas, like agro-processing and manufacturing.

President Granger said Government is looking to increase the supply of meals to more than a quarter of a million school children, and that Banks DIH can play a significant role in this process.

“I would like to guarantee them healthy Guyanese meals, and what I saw convinces me that this is going to be one of the vanguard companies in providing cheap, nutritious food for our children and our adults,” he said.

At a little over 60 years old, Banks DIH is home to popular household brands like Trisco, I-Cee, Homestyle, Demico Ice Cream, the finest rum, and a host of other quality products that are produced under the highest standards and are ISO certified.

More than 800 Guyanese are employed at the Thirst Park facility alone, and the company has branches, outlets and distributors across the country.