Sanasa Development Bank extends services to EP

The Sanasa Development Bank (SDB) will extend its services to the Eastern Province to support people with livelihood and community development programs, said Chairman, SDB Dr. P. A. Kiriwandeniya.

The Bank which has over 32 branches islandwide will set up branches in the East to assist people to develop their livelihood which had been shattered due to the war.

Dr. Kiriwandeniya said the aim of the Bank was not only to provide financial assistance but also to promote social integration and community development.

The bank will open branches in Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Kalmunai this month. Seven branches were opened this year and 18 are to be opened next year.

SDB which commenced operations with 10 branches in 1997 today supports over 3.2 million people with micro financial assistance for livelihood development, community empowerment and mobilisation. The bank has invested Rs. 165 million on construction work in the East. Over 100 houses were built by the bank for tsunami affected families in the province this year.

He said the SDB plans to extend its services to the Northern province next year. The bank's performance this year has been outstanding with a 57 per cent growth in net interest income.

LF