Head of State – One-month bonus, free cement and steel for GDF officers

President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Wednesday as he addressed the force’s annual Christmas lunch at Camp Ayanganna, Georgetown said the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) officers will receive a one-month bonus.

President Ali disclosed that government would provide free steel and cement to soldiers who were allocated lands. The Commander in noted that government wants all Guyanese to own their own homes. Dr Ali speaking specifically to the soldiers, stressed that his administration is keen on making the process easier for obtaining a loan.

He said that already, the government was able to negotiate with three commercial banks and the New Building Society (NBS) to allow soldiers to repay at an interest rate of 3.5 per cent for loans below $4M GUY and an interest rate of 3.75 per cent for loans below $8M GUY.

The President encouraged the officers to sign up and take advantage of the services and disclosed that on December 28, ranks will have the chance to meet with bank officials at Camp Ayanganna.

“We will help you with the plans and the design free of cost. You will get the cement and steel for the foundation and the banks will approve your loans right here so in the new year you can move to home ownership,” President Ali said. 

“This afternoon I salute you and your families for the sacrifice, commitment, dedication and love you give for country and people,” he noted.

President Ali noted that the GDF must be committed to giving its all for the good of the country.

“Your sacrifice is not only about yourselves, it’s about your families supporting you and allowing you to make this sacrifice to commit to any outcome that could deprive them of you.”

The head of state assured all present that going forward every day in their lives will get better and prosperity will prevail.

He disclosed that government was able to send more than 500 soldiers to develop their academics and skills internationally over the year.

President Ali said that as a result of good relationships with several foreign companies, said more training opportunities are becoming available to the GDF.

Dr Ali reminded that the GDF is a brand that represents democracy, rule of law and a collective vision of a ‘One Guyana’.