—says investment signals confidence in Region Seven’s future
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Friday commissioned the new facility now housing Citizens Bank in the township of Bartica, describing the investment as a strong vote of confidence in the future of Region Seven and Guyana’s expanding economy.
Addressing the opening ceremony, the President said the modern facility would enhance access to banking services for residents and businesses while supporting the region’s continued growth.
“This new facility can only enhance the quality of service provided not only to the people of Bartica but also to the surrounding communities. It signals confidence in the future of this region and confidence in the future of Guyana,” he said.
The new branch marks a major milestone for Citizens Bank, which first established operations in Bartica on April 3, 2000, from a modest 938-square-foot office staffed by eight employees.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Clifford Reis said the opening represented more than the commissioning of a new building.
“This is a celebration of progress, confidence and partnership,” Reis said.
He noted that Bartica serves as the gateway to the hinterland and remains a critical centre for commerce, mining, tourism, agriculture and entrepreneurship.
According to Reis, the branch has disbursed more than $5.5 billion in loans over the past 26 years to support housing, transportation, equipment purchases, businesses and other productive investments throughout Region Seven.
Of that figure, approximately $1.8 billion was approved within the last five years alone, highlighting the region’s increasing economic activity.
Today, the Bartica branch serves about 7,000 customers across Region Seven.
The newly commissioned facility features expanded customer service areas, upgraded banking technology, a drive-thru ATM, enhanced accessibility features and a dedicated digital support zone to assist customers with online banking services and financial education.
The investment has also resulted in additional employment opportunities, with staff numbers increasing from nine to 17 employees.
Reis noted that the operation remains largely locally driven, with many employees originating from Region Seven and returning to serve their communities.
As part of the ceremony, Citizens Bank also announced measures aimed at making home ownership more affordable.
The bank reduced its mortgage interest rate on loans of up to $30 million from 4.95 per cent to 4.6 per cent and will absorb legal and registration-related costs for qualifying borrowers.
President Ali said the expansion of banking services in hinterland communities remains important as government continues efforts to deepen financial inclusion, increase access to financing and create opportunities for entrepreneurship and investment across the country.
“The greatest measure of any banking system is confidence. Do people trust it? Do businesses trust it? Do investors trust it? The answer is clear. Public confidence in our banking system remains high…I expect, given the dynamic leadership of Citizens Bank and their proactive approach to service, to see a strategic plan laid out for Region Seven — how we can drive financial inclusion in all of the villages and communities across Region Seven,” he said.
The new branch comes as Bartica and the wider Region Seven continue to experience growth driven by mining, tourism, infrastructure development and expanding business activity.
