Guyana’s economic oil-based boom is in full swing and no less so than the construction sector which is at the forefront of the country’s infrastructure transformation. This has resulted in manufacturers of building materials, particularly concrete components, having to increase production to keep pace with some constantly seeking to enhance the quality of their service and products.
Those that do usually seek some certification of quality for their products, and according to a Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) stakeholder feature, one such company, Kares Engineering, has become a cornerstone of construction excellence in Guyana.
The GNBS states that the company was established in November 1996 by brothers Radesh and Krishna Rameshwar, both civil and electrical engineers. In 2011, the company took a step up to another level by launching its Pre-Cast and Pre-Stressing Division known as Bushy Park Redi-Mix and Pre-Stressing Inc. This was done in response to acquiring a contract funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to build bridges and culverts in Region Five.
“At that time, there was only one contractor offering pre-cast and pre-stressing services, and their prices were very high. That is what prompted me to invest in my own equipment and technology, and lead Kares Engineering to become the largest producer of piles and concrete components in Guyana, with a production capacity of 100 piles per week,” Managing Director Radesh Rameshwar was quoted as saying.
The GNBS said Rameshwar explained that his vision for Kares Engineering was driven by a deep desire to contribute to the growth and development of Guyana and despite the challenges over the years, he remained committed to his goal of building and developing his homeland. As a result, the company grew its operations from a small staff of just 15, to a workforce of 350 employees. The company has also expanded its services to encompass a wide range of civil engineering projects, including the construction of bridges, wharves, schools, components for shore base projects, hospitals, restaurants, culverts, and roads, it added.
In its quest to pursue continued development of its products and services, the company approached GNBS in 2023 to join the GNBS-approved Made in Guyana Certification Mark programme. “This certification was driven by the need to meet the stringent requirements of the expanding oil and gas industry and international companies operating in Guyana,” Rameshwar was quoted as saying.
It was reported that he lauded the GNBS team for facilitating a smooth process. “The process, facilitated by the GNBS, was smooth and efficient. The GNBS team provided invaluable guidance, ensuring that we met all the necessary standards,” he was quoted as saying.
So far, the certification has had a profound impact on Kares Engineering. While the company has always prioritised quality, the certification introduced new practices, such as a Customer Feedback Form, which has enhanced their customer service. The positive feedback received through these forms underscores the company’s commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction, the GNBS said.
Rameshwar opined that certification from the GNBS is crucial for all local businesses and encouraged others to get certified. “It not only fosters trust and confidence among customers but also helps businesses to meet and exceed minimum standards. I encourage other companies to pursue certification to improve their standards and ensure their customers benefit from high-quality products and services,” he was quoted as saying.
Kares Engineering is participating in the International Building Expo 2024 which runs from August 8 to 11 at the Providence National Stadium, East Bank Demerara, where the company will be showcasing its GNBS certification.
GNBS also has a booth at the location where entrepreneurs can sign up to get certified under any of the GNBS certification programmes. Individuals and companies needing more information on the GNBS certification can visit its website at gnbsgy.org or call 219-0064-66 or the GNBS Hotline at 219-0069 or WhatsApp them at 692-4627.
