— Hails new GDB initiative as legislation awaits parliamentary approval

By Bebi Oosman
MEMBER of Parliament Zamal Hussain has underscored the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s continued commitment to ensuring that every community across Region Six contributes meaningfully to the country’s development and economic growth.
Speaking during a series of community meetings along the East Bank of Berbice, Hussain said the government is focused on creating opportunities that will allow residents to become more productive and self-sufficient.
He emphasised that the government is rethinking development strategies to ensure that progress reaches every village and community.
According to the parliamentarian, the PPP/C administration wants every community and “every area” to produce, whether through agriculture, small business development, agro-processing, livestock rearing, tourism, or other economic activities. He noted that communities possess unique resources and potential that can be harnessed to improve livelihoods and stimulate local economies.
Hussain explained that significant investments are being made in infrastructure, education, healthcare, drainage and irrigation, and community development projects to create an environment that supports growth and productivity. These initiatives, he said, are designed to empower residents and provide them with the tools and resources needed to succeed.
The MP further encouraged residents to take advantage of government programmes and opportunities aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and expanding income-generating activities. He stressed that community participation remains critical to the success of the government’s development agenda.
Hussain, who met separately with residents in Jermaniah, Upper East Bank Berbice; Mara, East Bank Berbice; Mara Scheme; Macaw; and Lighttown, East Bank Berbice, spoke extensively about the proposed Guyana Development Bank (GDB), through which persons will be able to access up to $3 million in interest-free loans.
“You notice that besides agriculture in this area, where we are helping to clear land, soon the minister will be giving the citrus plants. All these investments that we are making — a couple days back we were here to look at an all-weather road straight down to the back here to bring out more produce — and we are always encouraging farmers to grow more. We want every area to produce,” Hussain said.
He continued: “We said we will implement a new development bank which will enable you, the residents here, to do small business. Right now, the Bill is in Parliament, so as soon as we pass that Bill, everybody who has the opportunity to establish a business or generate income will be able to access that loan.”
Hussain pointed out that the interest-free loan facility has the potential to transform lives.
“You as an individual, if you are setting up an agro-processing business or any kind of business, or you want to buy a vehicle to carry out your produce, this is the right opportunity. But you want to get a plan, so you can help yourself and produce from whatever investment you make,” he said.
Breaking it down further, Hussain told residents: “Then when you pay it off, you get another opportunity to reinvest and take another loan. That is like a savings that you have there that you can tap into. So this is something big for the country.”
He stressed that Guyanese must make full use of the opportunities being created by the government.
“Too many times, Guyanese don’t tap into the opportunities that are being given to them,” he said.
During the engagements, residents also had the opportunity to raise concerns, discuss challenges affecting their communities, and offer suggestions for future development. Among the issues highlighted was the need for works to be carried out on the main access road leading to the area.
Hussain assured residents that their views would continue to inform the government’s plans as it works to improve living standards and create sustainable economic opportunities throughout the East Bank of Berbice and the wider Region Six.