The new branch commissioning on Wednesday in Brikama, marks BSIC’s fifth across the country as it contributes to expanding the Bank’s portfolio with the aim of supporting a broader spectrum of economic activities, from small enterprises to large-scale industrial ventures, ensuring that BSIC’s clients have the financial tools they need to thrive.
In his opening remarks, the Managing Director at the BSIC-Gambia Ltd, Hani Ezgalei, said banks play a pivotal role in the economic landscape, serving as key driver in mobilising resources, stimulating the economy, and activating trade and industry.
By channeling savings into productive investments, he states, banks provide the necessary capital for businesses to grow and innovate and facilitate trade by offering financial instruments and services that enable smooth transactions both domestically and internationally.
“Banks support industries by providing loans and credit facilities that help businesses expand, create jobs, and contribute to overall economic development,” he said, adding that their role is crucial in ensuring a stable and dynamic economy, where resources are effectively utilised to foster sustainable growth.
MD Hani said intensified competition is driving innovation and improving the quality of services offered, which ultimately benefits consumers and businesses alike.
“In such a competitive landscape, Sahel and Sahara BSIC Bank is committed to differentiating itself through a strong focus on customer services, financial solutions, and a deep understanding of the local market's needs,” he said.
“We are confident that our unique blend of regional expertise, innovative services, and unwavering commitment to our clients will position us as a distinguished player in the Gambian banking sector.
“By continuously enhancing our offerings and expanding our reach, we aim to not only compete but to thrive in this vibrant and challenging Market.”
He said Sahel and Sahara BSIC Bank is committed to playing a transformative role in the regions it serves, with a clear focus on both horizontal and vertical expansion.
Geographically, he remarked, the bank’s horizontal expansion plan aims to broaden its presence across key areas within The Gambia, ensuring that BSIC’s services are accessible to a wider population.
This growth strategy, he added, is driven by the desire to bring financial inclusion and opportunities to underserved communities, contributing to regional economic development.
Alhagie Numo Sanneh, Managing Director of Gambia International Airlines, who served as the guest speaker on the occasion, called on businesses and enterprises from Brikama and its surrounding to do business with the bank.
The new branch will open wider doors for businesses to thrive in the market through the bank’s productive financial services, especially for micro, small and medium-size enterprises, he said.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Ms Haddy Jallow, Director of Human Resource and Admin at BSIC-Gambia Ltd, said Brikama has always been central to their lines of operations.
As a bank, they are also looking at the micro, small and medium-size enterprises in Brikama, adding that BSIC has a corporate social responsibility, out to contribute and give back to building the resilience of business operations in the community.
