Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has assured that no Guyanese will be excluded from receiving cash grants due to the lack of a bank account, even as the government encourages citizens to open accounts for more convenient access to funds.
Speaking about ongoing efforts to expand financial inclusion, particularly in remote and underserved areas, Jagdeo stated, “Nobody will be denied their cash grant because they don’t have a bank account. But it’s good to do that.”
He emphasized the government’s commitment to connecting all Guyanese to the financial system, highlighting the importance of inclusivity. “When you talk about obsession, it’s not with money… it’s how do we get all of our people connected to the financial system, even those living in the most remote parts of our country,” he explained, referencing hinterland regions as a priority.
Jagdeo discussed the role of FinTech, mobile banking, and internet banking in enhancing access. “You could be in a remote area, and because there is now internet connection, you can check your account, have an account, have your money paid into it, and track it,” he noted. The government is also exploring the establishment of central terminals in sub-districts where residents can conduct banking transactions without needing full-scale bank branches.
He reflected on past challenges with physical disbursements, recalling issues faced in Region One where many people were unable to cash their checks. “People became a little dissatisfied because we gave the checks but they couldn’t get their money. We then had to work out all sorts of arrangements to make that happen,” he said.
This assurance follows announcements by President Dr. Irfaan Ali regarding upcoming cash grants for various vulnerable groups, including the elderly, persons with disabilities, children, women, small businesses, and farmers. These grants are part of broader measures aimed at empowering every Guyanese throughout the government’s five-year term and will be distributed in a more organized manner.
Jagdeo encouraged citizens to take advantage of the easier online account openings available at local banks. “Let us use this period to put the mechanism in place and finalize the system of delivery,” he urged, reiterating that while bank accounts facilitate smoother payments, no one will be left out of the program.
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