Region Three farmers begin registration for development bank loans

August 13 2026

Farmers in Tuschen and surrounding communities in Region Three have begun registering for financing through the newly established Guyana Development Bank as Government moves to expand access to capital for small businesses and agricultural ventures.

The bank is offering interest-free, collateral-free loans of up to $3 million to registered small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including farmers and entrepreneurs.

The registration exercise was held Tuesday at the Tuschen Radha Krishna Mandir, where Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation Zulfikar Ally outlined the opportunities available through the new financial institution.

Ally said the initiative is aimed at addressing longstanding challenges faced by persons seeking financing, particularly high interest rates and the difficulty of accessing capital.

He said the establishment of the development bank followed concerns raised with President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali about the need for more accessible financing to help people establish and expand businesses.

The programme will extend beyond providing loans, with technical officers expected to assist applicants in developing business plans and identifying potential challenges that could affect their ventures.

Financing and technical support will be available for businesses across various sectors, including agriculture, agro-processing and tourism.

The Government is encouraging farmers and entrepreneurs to take advantage of the programme as it seeks to increase access to affordable capital, stimulate entrepreneurship and support economic activity in communities across Guyana.