Five years of steady growth for Guyana’s non-oil sectors
Finance Minister says as gov’t focuses on inclusive, sustainable model to cushion oil dependence
WITH Guyana’s economy recording 7.5 per cent growth in the first half of 2025 and the nonoil economy expanding by 13.8 per cent, the government says it remains firmly focused on sustaining inclusive, diversified growth.
According to the 2025 Mid-Year Report, the administration is continuing to build on the policy direction outlined in Budget 2025, which emphasises broad-based development across all sectors.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, had said the government will continue to leverage this period of rapid transformation and expansion to accelerate investments that support the diversification of the non-oil
economy.
“The first half of the year has once again reconfirmed Guyana’s position as one of the fastest growing economies in the world, and has demonstrated more importantly, government’s commitment to building a growth model that is inclusive and sustainable, and that is consistent with government’s drive to diversify the country’s economic base,” a release from the Ministry of Finance said.
The report underscored that non-oil activities continue to provide strong momentum, even as the petroleum sector expands rapidly.
The agriculture, fishing and forestry sector grew by an estimated nine per cent in the first half of 2025, driven by increased output in other crops, rice,
livestock, forestry and sugar.
Within the extractive industries, the mining and quarrying sector expanded by 5.9 per cent, supported by growth across all subsectors — bauxite, gold, other mining, and oil and gas.
The manufacturing sector also recorded robust growth of 26.8 per cent in the first half of the year, with all subcategories performing strongly. The sector is now projected to grow by 14.9 per cent by year-end.
“The services sector is estimated to have expanded by 6.6 per cent in the first half of the year, primarily supported by growth in wholesale and retail trade and repairs, administrative and support services, financial and insurance activities, pro-
Ashni Singh
fessional, scientific and technical services, and information and communication, while the overall 2025 growth target for services is now 8.6 per cent,” the Ministry said.
However, the construction sector is estimated to have grown by 29.9 per cent in the first half of 2025, supported by government’s expanded
Public Sector Investment Programme, along with robust private sector investments across several sectors. The sector is now expected to grow by 26.2 per cent in 2025.
Government’s housing drive over the last years not only impacted the construction sector but has been growing considerably with addition -
al demand from citizens for their own homes and many accessing lower interest rates at commercial banks for mortgages.
According to the Ministry, the 2025 Mid-Year Report shows that real estate mortgages expanded by 11.4 per cent to $173.5 billion, driven by increases in mortgages granted for private dwellings and industrial and commercial properties.
Additionally, the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) 2025 Manifesto notes that the agenda of the Party is consistent with a robust and viable macroeconomic framework with government’s aim continuing to be the realisation of strong and sustainable economic growth.
“Our policies therefore ensure that the current period of high economic growth is navigated in such a manner as to mitigate the risk of Dutch Disease, contain inflationary pressures, secure competitiveness, and ensure that economic growth results in meaningful and lasting improvements in the wellbeing of all of the people of our country,” the Manifesto further highlighted.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr
Clearing, levelling of city parapets to commence soon
–– As part of first phase of government’s aggressive city-improvement plan
THE clearing and levelling of parapets across Georgetown will commence immediately as part of the first phase of the government’s aggressive city improvement plan aimed at tackling long-standing drainage and infrastructure challenges.
This was announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali on Tuesday, following a meeting with a multi-agency team comprising representatives from the Ministry of Housing, the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), and the Georgetown City Council.
According to President Ali, the team has developed a comprehensive Georgetown Drainage Development Plan designed to deliver immediate, short-term, and medium-term improvements.
“The Georgetown drainage development plan would have immediate, short- and medium-term investment, not only to improve and expand the drainage of this city, but to also cater for the massive transformation, development and expansion that is taking place,” the President said.
He further explained that it will not only cater for the massive transformation and development taking place but also enhance the city’s overall capability to deal with related issues such as parking, parapet upgrades and beautification which is also integrated within this framework.
As it is currently, President Ali highlighted that the plan identifies the existing, and in some cases outdated, physical drainage infrastructure in the city, along with key hotspots and the underlying factors contributing to flooding and poor drainage.
The next step, he said, will be the design phase of the action plan.
“Immediately, they will start with clearing and levelling of parapets throughout the city, because what we have found is that many of the parapets are overgrown or encumbered by bridges and other kinds of encumbrances on the roadways and parapets.”
He appealed to residents and businesses across Georgetown to co-operate with the team as they roll out this first phase. The initiative will be followed by community consultations across several areas of the city beginning next week.
Additionally, President Ali revealed that the government plans to modernise the sewerage system in Georgetown. Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) will be engaged to design and construct a new system for the treatment of sewage generated within the city.
While this initial focus is on the capital, the President said similar drainage and
urban improvement initiatives will be implemented in other urban centres under the framework of the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).
“This team will also work with the regions to ensure that drainage systems in other urban areas meet the growing demands brought on by rapid economic and physical transformation,” Dr Ali added.
In suburban and rural communities, the President noted that a parallel plan is already advancing, featuring Hope-like canal projects and the installation of approximately 16 new pump stations, both mobile and fixed,
to further strengthen the national drainage network.
Back in September, President Ali launched ‘Rescue Georgetown,’ a comprehensive city-revival plan, developed with the support of the Kings Foundation, aimed at restoring Georgetown’s status as a source of national pride.
Over the past five years, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic government has invested billions of dollars in infrastructural projects across the city, including upgrades to drainage systems, roads, and public spaces.
These efforts, President Ali said, are part of a broader national strategy for sustainable urban development,
with Georgetown as the focal point.
Key initiatives include the development of recreational spaces, the enhancement of architectural heritage sites, and the integration of biodiversity into the urban landscape.
The President highlighted the planned rehabilitation of the historic Transport building and train station, transforming it into a museum and training centre, as well as immediate work on the Stabroek waterfront and improvements to markets and shopping areas.
The government’s vision for Georgetown is rooted in the city’s identity as the “Garden City,” with a focus on green infrastructure, climate resilience, and the celebration of cultural heritage.
The First Lady’s efforts to beautify both urban and rural areas were also recognised as part of this movement.
The urban framework plan identifies priorities such as sustainable growth, improved housing and transport, heritage protection, sanitation, and climate resilience.
Collaboration will be key to the city’s transformation, with the private sector, city council, and various government ministries all playing critical roles.
President Ali reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making Georgetown “one of the finest capital cities in the world,” with plans for further development in surrounding areas and a focus on low-carbon, sustainable growth.
President Dr Irfaan Ali (centre) with some members of the multi-agency team, during Tuesday’s meeting
Georgetown, also known as the ‘Garden City’ ( John Greene photo)
We are committed to helping Jamaica –VPJagdeo ... after the nation was devastated by Hurricane Melissa
VICE PRESIDENT
Bharrat Jagdeo has said that the Mohamed Irfaan Ali Administration remains committed to doing all it can to help Jamaica, which was devastated by a hurricane over a week ago.
Dr Jagdeo was, at the time, speaking to the media on Monday afternoon. The vice president warned against comparing the assistance provided by the government to victims of disasters at home, regionally or abroad.
“…You must never try to compare when people face tragedy around the world. Jamaica has been devastated. Our prayers are with the people of Jamaica”, he said.
According to Jagdeo, “It’s unbelievable devastation caused by the hurricane”.
Dr Jagdeo, a former president, stated that Jamaicans are an integral
part of the Caribbean and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
“We have a duty to help as much as we can, as we would help with anyone else, including people locally, who would have faced disasters. But we must not, in situations of disaster, try to compare who gets one screw more than the other”, he said.
The government, through the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), in coordination with key national agencies and private sector partners, has been mobilising emergency relief supplies to support the Government and people of Jamaica in the aftermath of the natural disaster.
President Ali, on Sunday, said that Guyana has
Guyana has deployed its first shipment of relief supplies for Jamaica after the island-nation was battered by Hurricane Melissa last week
dispatched its first shipment of essential equipment and materials to aid in the immediate recovery and humanitarian response efforts in Jamaica.
The head of state had previously reassured Jamaican Prime Minister (PM) Andrew Holness of Guyana’s full readiness to offer support to the country and its people.
He also mandated the Permanent Secretary, Sharon Roopchand-Edwards, to engage Guyana’s Honorary Consul and students and other Guyanese living in Jamaica to ensure their safety and prepare care packages, if necessary.
Jamaica’s death toll
from Hurricane Melissa has risen to at least 28 people, the country’s government said Saturday. Some of the areas hit hardest by the Category 5 storm remain unreachable as crews work to clear roads and debris.
The hurricane, one of the strongest ever recorded in the Caribbean, also carved a path of destruction through Cuba and the Bahamas last week, and left 30 people dead in Haiti. (DPI)
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
Seven charged with terrorism to appear in court today
SEVEN individuals—four Venezuelans and three Guyanese—are expected to make their court appearance this morning at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer to terrorism charges for the deadly explosion at Mobil fuel station on Regent Street Georgetown which claimed the life of a six-year-old girl and left several others injured.
The accused are Venezuelan nationals Daniel Alexander Ramirez Poedemo, 33; Jennifer Rodriguez, 33; Johnny Boodram, 27; and Alexander Bettancourt, 44, along with Guyanese citizens Wayne Corriea, 44; Ramesh Pramdeo, 51; and Krystal LaCruz, 33.
On Tuesday, they were each charged with the offence of terrorism, contrary to Section 3(1)(a) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01.
The charges follow an extensive multi-agency investigation and legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
According to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the case marks one of the most significant national security prosecutions in recent years.
The Force has maintained
that the investigation was conducted “with professionalism, integrity, and strict adherence to due process,” while reaffirming its commitment to public safety and the rule of law.
The defendants are scheduled to appear before a city magistrate on November 5, 2025, at 09:00 hrs for the formal reading of the charge. Authorities have confirmed that Peodomoo, the prime suspect, confessed to planting the explosive de -
vice that killed six-year-old Soraya Bourne and injured four others.
The suspects were held at various secure locations, with heightened joint security presence across the country and reinforced monitoring at border points and ports of exit, following directives from the Police Commissioner and the National Security Council.
Investigators continue to work with regional and international partners, in -
cluding INTERPOL, to verify the suspect’s background and possible affiliations with criminal networks.
Speaking at a joint press conference recently, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said the identification was made by one of the suspect’s accomplices, effectively eliminating any doubt about his involvement.
“The prime suspect was positively identified by one of his accomplices. Moreover, the suspect, as I mentioned
before, confessed his involvement in this particular crime. There is no issue about identification any longer,” Blanhum stated.
Peodomoo, was arrested on October 28, during a coordinated operation in Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo.
According to investigators, Peodomoo entered Guyana illegally on the morning of the explosion and is believed to be affiliated with a Venezuelan criminal network known as the Syndicato gang.
Blanhum said Peodomoo arrived in the country at around 08:00 hours on Sunday, carrying the explosive device used in the attack. Surveillance footage captured him walking into the Regent and King Streets gas station compound with two bulky black plastic bags.
Moments later, the explosion ripped through the area, killing Bourne and injuring four of her relatives-Jenica Hooper (27), Yvonne Jonas (71), Seddia McIntosh, and Reshard Lord (11)—who were seated in the vehicle.
The blast also damaged several other vehicles and nearby buildings.
The Crime Chief had confirmed that the suspect has been co-operating with investigators and provided
DEAD: Six-year-old
details of the incident, including how he activated a switch to detonate the device after leaving the scene.
“Among other things that he mentioned to us is that the device… he brought it in from Venezuela to Guyana. He also indicated that the device had a switch, which he activated when he exited the vehicle, which was parked within the vicinity of the gas station,” Blanhum said.
Prior to his capture, police had issued a Wanted Bulletin for Peodomo and announced a $5 million reward for credible information leading to his arrest.
Destination Guyana to be showcased at World Travel Market 2025
AS part of the national strategy to strengthen the country’s visibility within the global tourism marketplace, Destination Guyana will be taking centre stage at the grand World Travel Market 2025.
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, is leading this year’s delegation to the event, which will be opened in London, England on Tuesday and runs until Thursday.
The goal is to build connections between international travel professionals and partners as Guyana prepares to highlight the unique and diverse tourism experiences and investment opportunities.
Held annually, the World Travel Market is one of the largest and most influential events in the global tourism and hospitality industry.
It brings together thousands of tourism professionals, travel agencies and investors from across the world to explore new products that are shaping the world of tourism.
Joining the Guyanese delegation are the Tourism and Hospitality Associa-
tion of Guyana (THAG), Wilderness Explorers, the Guyana High Commission in the UK, Travel the Guianas and Iwokrama.
These agencies will spotlight Guyana’s rich tourism product, ranging from retreats in lush eco-lodges to culturally
embedded experiences in indigenous communities.
The exhibition will feature vibrant booths with cultural displays, business-to-business (B2B) meetings, panel discussions and networking events, designed to be
fully immersive.
Guyana’s unwavering commitment to authentic travel experiences makes it an exceptional tourism hotspot with close to 400,000 visitors so far in 2025 alone.
Guyana’s participation
in the World Travel Market reinforces the government’s long-term plan to promote responsible tourism that benefits its local communities, protects its biodiversity and contributes to economic growth and sustainability. (DPI)
The seven persons charged with terrorism
Soraya Bourne
Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, along with the President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana, Mitra Rajkumar, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kramrul Baksh and a delegation at the World Travel Market
Carl Browne, representative from the Guyana High Commission in London at the World Travel Market
Modernising Tax Compliance
THE Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) launch of three new Excise Tax Stamps represents more than a procedural upgrade — it marks another stride in Guyana’s broader effort to modernise its revenue collection systems, strengthen border control, and promote fair business practices.
Coming into effect on November 1, 2025, these new stamps, developed in partnership with the Canadian Bank Note Company (CBN), are emblematic of the country’s ongoing drive towards greater transparency and efficiency in public administration.
At its core, the excise stamp system ensures that every bottle of imported liquor or packet of tobacco on the market bears a verifiable seal of legitimacy, a guarantee that the correct taxes and duties have been paid.
This may seem a small detail, but its implications are far-reaching. By closing loopholes that allow for tax evasion and smuggling, the GRA not only safeguards government revenue but also levels the playing field for compliant businesses that contribute fairly to the national coffers.
The move also reflects a deepening maturity in Guyana’s tax governance. Since the excise stamp system was first introduced in 2017, it has been a key weapon in the fight against illicit trade, a problem that undermines both the economy and public health.
The latest phase, supported by an automated monitoring system, strengthens the GRA’s capacity to trace and verify goods, significantly reducing the risk of counterfeit products slipping through the cracks.
It is worth noting that Guyana’s alcohol and tobacco sectors are not isolated from
regional challenges.
Across the Caribbean, governments have grappled with the infiltration of untaxed, unregulated goods that not only erode revenues but also expose consumers to unsafe products.
By tightening compliance and adopting advanced technologies, Guyana is positioning itself as a model for its neighbours in combating these perennial issues.
The GRA’s clear stance on non-compliance, including the forfeiture of goods and potential legal action, sends a necessary message.
However, enforcement must be balanced with engagement. The Authority’s decision to offer awareness programmes and training sessions is commendable and essential. Many small-scale retailers and distributors, particularly in rural commu-
nities, depend on guidance to understand and meet evolving regulatory requirements.
Ultimately, this initiative is not simply about stamping bottles and boxes; it is about stamping out inefficiency and unfair advantage.
Every dollar collected through proper taxation contributes to public goods, roads, hospitals, schools, and strengthens the foundation of Guyana’s development agenda.
As Guyana continues to expand its economy and attract foreign investment, a robust, transparent tax administration system will remain indispensable.
The GRA’s excise stamp modernisation is therefore a welcome development, one that reaffirms the importance of accountability, fairness, and technological progress in nation-building.
APNU’s selective outrage on the Mohameds signifies internal decay
Dear Editor,
IF you’re looking for a textbook example of obfuscation, then look no further than APNU’s Friday Press Release on the Mohameds’ Arrest.
One would’ve thought that, in the process of demitting the Office of Opposition Leader, Mr. Norton would’ve seen it fit to take a long-overdue, hard-line stance on said issue. Instead, what emanated was a shoddy compendium of narrative shifts, reeking of compromise.
The (naturally) unsigned Press release sought to frame the arrest of Messrs Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed as “authoritarian” with “blatant disregard for due process.”
The release insists that the issue is not of the arrest itself but rather, “how it was done.” The letter proceeds to misrepresent the relatively standard arrest of Azruddin, known for mobilising persons to create standoffs with law enforcement, as a “heavy-handed” spectacle intended to “drive fear.”
This curiously echoed Azruddin’s
contemporaneous statements outside the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court: Claiming that he felt his life was in grave danger and that he would be shot, painting a scenario akin to a street-level execution.
One must genuinely examine the manner in which APNU is twisting itself to show this misplaced sense of solidarity to its newfound Oppositional victor. While, on the surface, it reads as some misplaced lofty call for political maturity it reveals itself to be woefully prevaricatory upon basic review.
The extradition proceedings serve to facilitate the Mohameds’ having their day in the U.S. and answer to an 11-count Grand Jury Indictment. How has APNU actually responded to said indictment? Another nameless, faceless Press Release urging Mr. Mohamed to vindicate himself by presenting evidence to the public.
Nothing about the indictment. Nothing about the fact that the investigation period covered more than three and a half years of the Granger Government. VP Jagdeo has firmly stated that all culpable actors, under successive administrations,
must be held accountable. In contrast: Not a word from Norton on this. Why?
And nothing about the damning allegations levelled by Special Prosecutor Terrence Williams, on America’s behalf, accusing the Mohameds of financing domestic terrorism in Guyana and expressing fears of witness tampering. Nothing. Nothing at all has been said. Instead, the nature of the arrest is being decried with little else.
This makes sense when you look at Mohameds’ defence lawyers: APNU Candidates Roysdale Forde and Darren Wade, as well as Nigel Hughes, former AFC Leader, whose wife served in the Granger Cabinet within the period of said offences.
This makes sense when one revisits Darren Wade’s public statement in October, revealing that his legal representation for WIN, notwithstanding the ongoing election period, was instructed, sanctioned and approved by Congress Place and Norton himself.
If nothing else, this speaks to obsequious coordination. And APNU’s Friday
release can only be seen as an attempt to distract from that coordination.
A few days ago, Norton claimed that vote bribery took place in Linden, yet he refused to divulge details. Why he waited beyond the 28-day post-declaration period to substantiate said claims in an elections petition, quite frankly, speaks for itself. Why he refused to give any iota of information further should also speak for itself. His initial calls for a recount in PPP won districts instead of strongholds like Linden, literally named after the Kabaka, where they brought second to WIN, are telling. These newfound accusations of compromise read as woeful confessions of his own.
Norton has totalled the People’s National Congress.
If he genuinely wants to save face at this crucial juncture, there is one imperative and one imperative alone: To resign in shame.
Yours faithfully, Nikhil Sankar
Imperialist confusion in Guyana
NO matter how much you try to use political theory to understand who is anti-imperialist and who is pro-imperialist in Guyana, analytical cobwebs get in your way.
The thing is either comical or confusing.
Let’s start with David Hinds and Henry Jeffrey, who appeared on Hinds’ podcast called ‘Politics 101’.
When you look at these two men, you can’t help feeling sorry for the PNC. They are both attached to the PNC. Jeffrey is Guyana’s leading advocate of an imperialist invention named liberal democracy. No post-colonial social scientist accepts that there is a theory called liberal democracy. This is a colonial narrative that the imperialists invented to show ‘Third World’ people what type of governmental behaviour they should adopt.
Jeffrey, almost each week, tells newspaper readers and listeners on David Hinds’ podcast that Guyana lacks the features of a liberal democracy. But he never and will not dare outline the requirements of liberal democracy. He also avoids naming any country that has a liberal democracy.
Jeffrey will not do that because if and when he does, he will appear as a comic in the eyes of most teenagers in Guyana who know a little bit of the outside world. If a country is a liberal democracy (whatever that is), then it cannot conspire with a fascist nation to perpetuate genocide against a harmless race of people.
How can a country be a liberal democracy and support genocide? That is equivalent to a pastor telling his parishioners there is no God.
Hinds, on the other hand, is a huge aficionado of Forbes Burnham and Walter Rodney, both of whom would deride the existence of liberal democracy in any Western country. Now it is comical to watch Jeffrey telling Hinds, who says he is both a Burnhamite and Rodneyite, that
liberal democracy as it exists in the Western world is what Guyana needs. Hinds just listens and refuses to tell Jeffrey that he, Jeffrey, is an imperialist sycophant.
Then there are The Usual Suspects (TUS). They have now formed themselves into a group with the name Boycott, Divest and Sanction (BDS). This is an effort directed against Israel. I joined a march and, on another occasion, I joined a picket exercise sponsored by BDS because I support any effort to expose genocide in Gaza. But I am not a fan of BDS. While it is true that denouncing genocide in Gaza is anti-imperialist in nature, the BDS people are also pro-imperialist.
The BDS group has embraced a narrative invented by imperialist nations to keep the Third World in neo-colonial subjection. The West has financed climate groups in the Global South to push the discussion of fossil fuels being an enemy of the global future. The TUS in Guyana is the purveyor of this imperialist strategy.
They say Guyana and other developing countries must eschew the fossil fuel industry because it damages the environment, but it was the fossil fuel industry that made these countries rich beyond imagination and their phenomenal wealth they refuse to share with the Global South.
So, while they remain rich, we in Guyana and the rest of the post-colonial world must save Planet Earth by living in poverty. The West gets richer and continues to damage the global ecosystem through the financing of wars, of which Ukraine and Gaza stand out. There has been more damage to the climate by three years of European-supported war in Ukraine than by 20 years of oil production in Guyana.
The anti-imperialist scenario gets more confusing because anti-imperialist activists are not supposed to be racist. TUS and BDS can be accused of practising racism in Guyana.
Judge to rule on no-case submission in Bacchus murder trial
POLICE Lance Corporal Kristoff De Nobrega, indicted for the capital offence of murder, is awaiting Justice Gino Persaud’s ruling on a no-case submission at the High Court in Demerara. The decision is scheduled for Thursday at 10:00hrs.
De Nobrega, 24, represented by attorney George Thomas, has pleaded not guilty to the charge of murdering 23-year-old Quindon Bacchus, who was fatally shot on June 10, 2022, at Haslington, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
With the prosecution having closed its case, the defence, in a no-case submis-
They wrote a letter to President Ali in November 2022 demanding that Guyana, with immediate effect, stop oil production. They informed the President that oil production harms the climate and kills African people.
Only one race was mentioned. Now, why if greenhouse effects kill humans, TUS only mentioned one race? The definition of racism includes the assertion of the superiority of one race over another. By mentioning Africans only, is TUS preaching racial superiority?
Finally, BDS is calling for a boycott of products from Israel in Guyana and the products of Guyanese companies that are associated with Israel. But BDS has re-
fused to call for a boycott of the pro-imperialist newspaper in Guyana that takes the side of Israel – the Stabroek News (SN).
The SN, unlike the Kaieteur News and Chronicle, does not carry news about Gaza.
To date, it has not interviewed any international Palestinian personality, but the paper interviewed the Israeli Ambassador to the UN in what was clearly a pro-Israel interview. So, who in Guyana is anti-imperialist and who is pro-imperialist?
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
sion, contended that the evidence presented was insufficient to sustain a conviction.
The police reported that Bacchus, a father of one, was shot and killed during a police operation in Haslington. According to investigators, the incident occurred during an exchange of gunfire after Bacchus allegedly attempted to flee while armed.
He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
An autopsy confirmed that Bacchus died from multiple gunshot wounds.
Quindon Bacchus
Guyana leading the world in climate and forest solutions – President Ali
– Says Guyana will call for fairness and science in global energy transition at COP30
PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed that Guyana stands as a global model for forest protection and sustainable development, as the country prepares to showcase its low-carbon achievements at the upcoming United Nations COP30 Leaders’ Summit.
The Head of State made the remarks during a meeting of the new-term Multi-Stakeholder Steering Committee (MSSC) of the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, on Tuesday, where he emphasised that Guyana’s success demonstrates that “development and environmental protection are not opposing goals, but the twin pillars of a new model for prosperity.”
Describing Guyana’s transformation as a success story built on cred-
ibility, partnership and persistence, President Ali highlighted the nation’s landmark achievement of earning approximately US$400 million from the sale of carbon credits since the LCDS 2030 was finalised in 2022, a feat unmatched by most developing countries.
“Because of our record, we can speak with integrity and conviction. We can speak about success,” the President said, adding that Guyana’s model is now being studied globally for how forest protection can drive real economic development.
He further underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that revenues from carbon credits directly benefit the Guyanese people.
To date, over 20 per cent of the earnings, more than $15 billion, has been
distributed to Amerindian and hinterland communities to fund thousands of locally chosen projects, including eco-lodges, youth initiatives, cultural ventures, and small-business development.
President Ali also referenced a series of major national investments being financed through LCDS revenues and other resources, including largescale solar power systems, drainage and irrigation upgrades and the Wales Gas-to-Energy project, which is expected to cut electricity costs by half, while reducing emissions.
“These are real investments, not just words,” Dr Ali said, stressing that Guyana’s low-carbon growth model is strengthening resilience, protecting livelihoods, and improving quality of life across every region.
As Guyana takes its message to the global stage, President Ali said the country’s delegation to COP30 will advocate for sensible policies, guided by science and fairness in the global energy transition.
He pointed out that even in a net-zero world, oil and gas will continue to play a role, with the defining question being who
produces them and under what conditions.
Dr Ali cautioned against extremism and misinformation in global climate debates, calling instead for pragmatic, data-driven solutions.
“For too long we have allowed the climate forum to be a battle of extremism… The time is now for practical and real solutions to define the debate, not
extreme positions by any group,” he said.
President Ali reaffirmed that Guyana’s leadership on climate and forest solutions will continue to be inclusive, science-based, and results-oriented, showing how a small developing country can shape global policy through innovation, performance, and integrity.
Guyanese Muhammad Ibrahim elected Director General of IICA
– To lead hemispheric agricultural body for 2026–2030 term
GUYANESE agricultural engineer Muhammad Ibrahim has been elected as the next Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Co-operation on Agriculture (IICA), securing the position for the 2026–2030 term.
The election was decided by majority vote of the Ministers of Agriculture of the Americas during the 23rd Ordinary Meeting of the Inter-American Board of Agriculture (IAB) IICA’s highest governing body, currently being held in Brasilia, Brazil, in partnership with the Brazilian government.
Ibrahim, who was nominated by the Government of Guyana, competed against Fernando Mattos, Uruguay’s candidate, wo graciously congratulated him following the announcement of the results.
“We will work with all the nations of the Americas to forge a future of co-operation. I am honored and grateful to have been chosen to lead this great institution. I acknowledge the remarkable work done by Director General Manuel Otero,” Ibrahim said upon accepting the position.
Ibrahim brings to the post over 35 years of international management experience in agricultural development and resilience building across the Americas. His career has been dedicated to expanding networks and partnerships aimed at boosting productivity, food security, and sustainable land use in the region.
“I would like to express my gratitude to the President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali; to acknowledge Dr. Manuel Otero for his outstanding leadership of the Institute; and to thank all the countries that took part in this election, as well as my family, colleagues, and friends for accompanying me on this long journey.
“As Director General of IICA, we will work with humility and commitment alongside all the countries of the continent to strengthen the institution, mobilise resources, and deliver concrete responses to the challenges facing our agriculture: price volatility, environmental threats, and the resilience of family farming,” he said.
He will officially assume
Guyanese Muhammad Ibrahim has been elected as the next Director General of the IICA
office on January 15, 2026, during a formal ceremony at IICA’s headquarters in San José, Costa Rica.
Ibrahim will succeed Dr. Manuel Otero, an Argentine veterinarian who has led the organisation since 2018 and was re-elected for a second term in 2021.
The election marks a historic achievement for Guyana, placing a national expert at the helm of one of the hemisphere’s most influential agricultural and rural development institutions.
Faith, family, and fortitude: Husband, wife overcome trials to graduate together from UG
WHEN Isaiah and Thilia Somerset walk across the University of Guyana’s graduation stage this month, it will not just be a celebration of academic achievement, it will be a victory over adversity, sacrifice, and perseverance.
For this young couple, the journey to earning their degrees was anything but easy. Between raising children, battling illness, facing financial hardship, and balancing full-time work, their path to higher education was filled with obstacles that would have discouraged many.
Yet, Isaiah and Thilia chose resilience, leaning on faith, family, and each other to reach the finish line.
From November 20 to December 6, as UG hosts its annual Convocation exercises, Isaiah will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the Faculty of Natural Sciences, while Thilia will proudly receive her Bachelor’s Degree in Education (Early Childhood Education) from the Faculty of Education and Humanities.
A DREAM ALMOST LOST
Isaiah, who grew up in Linden and now lives in Lodge with his wife and children, had always dreamt of becoming a doctor. “
I always wanted to become a doctor from a young age. I am a people person and I love to help,” he shared.
However, his academic journey almost came to an abrupt end when his early struggles in Chemistry led him to withdraw from the University. “My grades were not good… I decided I was not going to study again. My dad has a gold business, and I was prepared to take up that mantle,” he recalled.
But marriage brought a renewed sense of purpose. Encouraged by Thilia, Isaiah re-enrolled—this time in the Biology programme.
Yet, life was quick to test their commitment. He was juggling taxi work, long hours, and the demands of a young family. “We had a baby in my first year, and another in my final year,” he said.
Things began to change after the return to in-person classes. A lecture from Ms.
Ruth Daniels reignited Isaiah’s drive. “The way she spoke about what it means to have a bachelor’s degree made me realise how serious this is. She really made this degree sound like it mattered,” he said.
For Thilia, a teacher at St. Gabriel’s Primary, balancing school, work, and motherhood often felt overwhelming. “It was chaotic. During my pregnancy, I would have nightmares. I had to step away from
were hospital visits, sleepless nights, and moments when giving up seemed tempting—but they persevered.
Their teamwork was unwavering. “We had one computer. Once, we had an exam at the same time, but he let me go first and risked missing his. He sacrificed his grade for me,” Thilia said.
Isaiah laughed as he recalled another moment: “Once I was on a taxi job to
work for a month because I couldn’t manage,” she shared.
Tragedy struck during her final pregnancy. “My last pregnancy was a twin, but we only got one baby. I believe it was the pressure I was under that affected the other baby,” she said softly. Yet, even through heartbreak, she pressed on.
“I wanted to be someone respectable in society—for my children and my husband.”
SHARED STRUGGLES, SHARED STRENGTH
Illness was another battle. Isaiah contracted malaria during fieldwork in the interior. “When I was writing exams, the symptoms started showing. I was allergic to one of the medications and was in class scratching all the time,” he recalled.
Thilia added, “At one point we were both sick, sharing a container and throwing up at the same time. We had a new baby and still had to study.” There
For the Somersets, graduation is more than an academic milestone— it’s a story of triumph. “
People see our pictures and judge us based on what they see, but they don’t know what we went through,” said Thilia.
Isaiah agreed, smiling. “After writing my final exam, I could not believe I was done. I could jump for joy. My wife is my biggest cheerleader.”
As they prepare to don their caps and gowns, both have their eyes set on the future. “I don’t want to stop here; I want to do my PhD,” said Thilia.
Isaiah is weighing his next steps: “I’m between two worlds—thinking about business, but also thinking about becoming a dentist.”
Their story is one of courage, love, and endurance—an inspiring testament to what can be achieved when two hearts move in faith and unity toward a shared dream.
The University of Guyana, in its 62-year history, has produced more than 70,000 graduates who continue to contribute meaningfully at home and abroad. Among them now stand Isaiah and Thilia Somerset—proof that with perseverance and purpose, no dream is out of reach.
Berbice, but I didn’t want to miss my presentation. I pulled over with the passenger in the car, did the presentation, and then continued the trip. Thankfully, the customer understood.”
For the Somersets, faith was their compass. “Put God first and everything will fall into place,” said Thilia. “The devil tempted us a lot, but we kept pushing. Some days we didn’t know how we’d make it, but God is good.”
Isaiah added, “Support each other, love each other even when things look hard. Be your partner’s motivation.”
Their family was their anchor through it all. “My mother-in-law is the biggest supporter,” Isaiah said, while Thilia credited her father Mark Fraser and brother Takyle Fraser for their unwavering encouragement. They also expressed deep gratitude to their lecturers and classmates who offered help along the way.
Isaiah and Thilia Somerset with their graduation gowns
Isaiah and Thilia Somerset with their children
Relief rebuilding efforts underway for Lima storm victims
By Indrawattie Natram
RELIEF efforts are moving swiftly for residents of Lima Housing Scheme, who were left counting their losses after a freak storm on Monday morning damaged several houses and displaced multiple families.
Leading the coordinated response is Regional Chairman, Devin Mohan, supported by teams from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Guyana Police
Force (GPF), Guyana Fire Service, CDC groups and the Men on Mission (MoM) initiative. The group has been working tirelessly to assist affected residents, clear debris, and begin rebuilding damaged houses.
Chairman Mohan said the regional administration was mobilised immediately after the storm struck.
“Our focus is on restoring stability and ensuring every affected family receives the support they need,” he stated.
“The partnership between the GDF, GPF, and Men on Mission has been remarkable; everyone is working together for the good of the community.”
The GDF has dispatched skilled personnel to assist with carpentry and masonry, while Men on Mission has taken charge of rebuilding the two houses that suffered the worst damage.
The GPF continues to maintain a presence in the area to safeguard residents’ belongings and maintain
Swift regional response to assist displaced families
order as the cleanup continues.
Mohan expressed appreciation to all agencies and volunteers who responded swiftly, noting that their efforts reflect the unity and resilience of the Region Two community.
“These families have faced a terrible ordeal, but they are not alone. Together, we are rebuilding stronger and better,” he affirmed.
Beneficiaries said that they are happy with the quick response and the care and compassion that was offered by the regional team.
“We are happy for this and the frequent visit is something we appreciate” said affected Abdool Hafeez Haleel.
Another affected person, Deodat Samdat, welcomed the repairs and said that his family welcomed the move.
On Monday morning, the storm caused havoc, leaving six houses damaged and nearly thirty residents, including children, displaced and distressed.
The incident occurred around 07:50 hours on November 3, 2025, when strong winds and heavy
rainfall battered the area.
“I received a distress call from a resident in Lima Housing Scheme who reported that several houses had been severely damaged.
I immediately proceeded to the location and activated our regional emergency protocols to ensure residents received immediate help,” Regional Chairman Mohan recounted during a press briefing on Monday.
Upon his arrival, the scene was one of destruction—roofs ripped apart, furniture strewn across yards, and frightened families gathered outside their houses.
According to Mohan, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) was promptly contacted to suspend electricity in the affected zone to prevent electrocution, while the Regional Enhancement Team was dispatched to provide on-site assistance.
“The CDC was notified immediately and arrived within hours with relief supplies, including janitorial hampers and tarpaulins to offer temporary shelter.
The Community Infrastructure Improvement Project (CIIP) team was also mobilised to assist with the clearing of debris and the removal of damaged materials.
Accompanying the Regional Chairman were the Regional Vice Chairman (RVC), Deputy Regional Executive Officer (DREO) and several technical officers who began assessing the extent of the damage. The Superintendent of Works carried out an initial evaluation, which confirmed that six houses were damaged, two of them extensively.
“Thankfully, there were no fatalities. Two individuals sustained injuries, but both were treated at the hospital and have since been discharged,” Mohan reported.
The Guyana Police Force was instructed to conduct regular patrols to protect the belongings of affected residents, as several houses were left exposed after the storm,” Mohan had said.
Following his visit to the affected area, an emergency coordination meeting was convened at the Regional Administration Office.
Present were the Regional Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit; Regional Executive Officer, Susan Saywack; DREO Omesh Sasenaryan; AREO, Joint Services, and other key stakeholders.
According to the Chairman, the RDC has committed to providing daily meals to all affected families from Monday, November 3rd, while temporary accommodation was offered to those displaced.
However, most families chose to stay with relatives for comfort and proximity to their homes.
Regional Chairman, Devin Mohan, speaks with affected residents in Lima Housing Scheme
Men assisting with roof repairs on one of the damaged houses
Indigenous youths empowered through craft training at Bina Hill Institute
— Initiative promotes entrepreneurship, sustainable livelihoods and preservation of cultural heritage
By Michel Outridge
INDIGENOUS youths from remote hinterland villages recently benefitted from a hands-on craft training programme aimed at equipping them with entrepreneurial and life skills to foster self-employment and community development.
The training, funded by an overseas partner during a recent visit to Guyana, was held at the Youth Learning Centre of the Bina Hill Institute, Annai, North Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu–Upper Essequibo).
According to Principal of the Youth Learning Centre,
prior experience in plaiting, found the technique to be accessible and engaging.
Abraham told the Guyana Chronicle that during the demonstration the presenter elaborated on the abundance of the Cuffa vine in the Pomeroon and other forested areas of Guyana.
“He shared insights into his family’s entrepreneurial journey, highlighting how they have built a thriving business centred on sustainably harvesting the Cuffa vine and skilfully transforming it into exquisite furniture tailored for homes and social events,” Abraham explained.
He noted that the initiative not only showcased
Cuffa chair represents a significant artefact of Guyanese cultural heritage, symbolising comfort, creativity, and tradition.
“These distinctive pieces of furniture are frequently featured in eco-lodges, tourist attraction places, restaurants and hotels, playing a vital role in various events aimed at captivating visitors,” he said.
The Bina Hill Institute, established in 2001 through the vision of former Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs and Vice President, Sydney Allicock, provides technical and lifeskills training for Indigenous youths aged 18 to 25 from
Medino Abraham, the twoday session featured impactful activities centred on forestry and Guyana’s timber and non-timber value chains. The programme included interactive demonstrations and expert-led presentations by both Canadian and local forest and craft specialists.
Abraham highlighted that a key feature of the event was a cultural showcase where artisans from North Rupununi exhibited locally-made art and craft items.
Among those was a standout demonstration on weaving chairs from the Cuffa /Kufa vine — a natural material abundant in Region Nine’s forests.
The session was led by a skilled group from the Pomeroon, Region Two, who shared their traditional techniques and business journey in transforming Cuffa vines into elegant furniture for homes and social events.
He pointed out that students, particularly those with
innovation within Guyana’s hinterland but also demonstrated the potential for community-based enterprises built on traditional craftsmanship.
Abraham added that the
Regions Seven, Eight, and Nine.
The institute, which receives subvention from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, currently has 26 students and five staff members
under Abraham’s leadership.
A native of Santa Rosa, Moruca, Region One, Abraham has long been engaged in youth development work in Aishalton, South Rupununi, before assuming his current role.
He explained that after completing training, students are encouraged to return to their villages to apply their new skills—creating and marketing craft products that generate income while preserving Indigenous traditions.
Students of Bina Hill Institute along with their tutor observing the presenter making the Kufa chair
Students assisting in plaiting of Kufa chair
Specialist outreaches to begin at Lima Hospital
–– advanced services to benefit residents along the Essequibo Coast
RESIDENTS of the Essequibo Coast, Region Two, will soon have greater access to specialised healthcare services, as the Ministry of Health prepares to launch community specialist outreaches at the newly-commissioned Lima Hospital.
The announcement was made by Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo, during a recent visit to the facility.
He was accompanied by Adviser to the Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, and Chief Medex, Carleen
Howard-Mohabir.
“The hospital is fully functional, doing all the surgeries and all the tests including CT. The number of transfers to Georgetown has declined significantly,” Dr. Mahadeo noted. “They are now going to start doing the
community specialist outreaches, and soon we will be training the health advocates here at Lima and Suddie too,” he added.
The specialist outreaches are expected to bring a range of medical expertise closer to residents, improving access to quality care without the need for lengthy travel to the capital city.
Officially commissioned on August 23, 2025, the $6.6 billion Lima Hospital is one of the most modern medical facilities in the country. The 75-bed institution was designed to transform healthcare delivery across Region Two, providing advanced
diagnostics, surgical, and emergency services.
The hospital features three fully equipped operating theatres, a maternity suite with a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and High Dependency Unit (HDU), and a 12-chair dialysis unit — the first of its kind in the region. It also boasts a blood bank, an advanced laboratory capable of conducting over 150 diagnostic tests, and a full suite of digital imaging services, including CT scans, X-rays, ultrasounds, and mammograms for early detection of breast cancer.
Additional services in -
clude dental, ophthalmology, and audiology departments, a 24-hour emergency unit and pharmacy, an on-site oxygen generation plant, and comfortable, air-conditioned wards with nurse call systems.
The Lima Hospital forms part of the government’s wider effort to decentralise healthcare and deliver worldclass medical services to every region of Guyana.
This initiative is aligned with President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s vision of ensuring equitable access to high-quality healthcare for all citizens, regardless of geography.
Corporal granted $500,000 bail for causing schoolboy’s death at Success
A 35-year-old police corporal was, on Tuesday, released on $500,000 bail for causing the death of 15-year-old schoolboy, Navindra Mahes, who was killed while crossing the Success Public Road, East Coast Demerara, last week. Yonelle Cumberbatch, of Eastville Housing Scheme, Annandale, East Coast Demerara, appeared before Senior Magistrate Abigail Gibbs at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court and was not required to plead to the indictable charge, which alleged that, on October 30, 2025, at Success Public Road, she drove motorcar
PAB 214 in a dangerous manner, thereby causing the death of the teen.
Mahes, who attended Annandale Secondary School, was struck as he attempted to cross the pedestrian crossing at Success around 07:30 hours on the day in question.
Cumberbatch was granted bail in the sum of $500,000. As conditions of her bail, she is required to report to the Police on the first Monday of every month and surrender her passport to the court.
The matter was adjourned to January 6, 2026.
According to police investigations, the corporal
was proceeding west along the northern carriageway when the collision occurred. Video footage showed that the pedestrian was standing at the median, facing north, before attempting to cross the road.
As he did so, the left front portion of the car collided with him.
Public-spirited citizens rushed the injured teen to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he was treated for head injuries and a fractured right leg. He succumbed to his injuries at 09:56 hours while receiving medical attention.
Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr.Vishwa Mahadeo and team meet with officials at Lima Hospital, Region Two
Navindra Mahes
Guyana-born entrepreneur expands home-care empire in New York
WHAT began as a small home-care service in a Queens office has grown into one of New York’s largest caregiving agencies, with ambitions that now stretch across the United States.
According to a press release from Cottage Home Care Services, the company, which was founded by Guyanese entrepreneur Navin Shivpal just before the pandemic, recently celebrated the grand opening of its newest branch on Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn, a facility designed to serve as both a care hub and a cultural home for the borough’s Caribbean community.
“This isn’t just about business,” Shivpal said during the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony. “It’s about helping humanity. We’re expanding across states not to make a profit, but to give people opportunity, training and stability.”
Under Shivpal’s leadership, Cottage Home Care has grown from three staff members to employing more than 3,000 caregivers across New York alone.
The company has built a reputation for pairing compassion with cultural competence, an approach that resonates with New York’s diverse neighbourhoods.
“For a company that we have, we started Cottage Home Care pre-pandemic with just three of us. Now we’re one of the largest companies,” Shivpal told attendees. “And that’s because of my team. It’s not because of me. It’s because of all the talented staff I have.”
Shivpal’s vision goes beyond home care.
The company operates two state-certified training programmes, the Brooklyn Institute of Vocational Training in Queens and the Care Guide Training Institute in Brooklyn, which equip aspiring caregivers with professional certifications and career skills.
“The reason I open up these schools, we don’t make money on it,” Shivpal said. “I’m happy when I have people who take our training, go to work, make money, drive Mercedes and BMW out there. It makes me feel proud because we can give back to them. They don’t have to
depend on anyone else. They can actually work and take care of themselves.”
Chief Operating Officer, Nusrat Shova, echoed Shivpal’s mission, adding,
“We started with three people, and now we’re one of the biggest,” she said. “But the goal has always been the same; to lift people through care and opportunity.”
Beyond New York, Cottage has already expanded into New Jersey, Maryland, and Michigan, with plans to open new branches in Delaware, St. Louis, and Connecticut next year.
The Brooklyn branch ribbon-cutting drew elected officials, health leaders, and Caribbean community advocates to celebrate Cottage’s impact.
Council Member Rita Joseph, who represents Flatbush, praised the personalised approach the agency offers her 90-year-old mother.
“When it comes to home care, everything is not cookie-cutter; it’s customised to the needs of the patient,” Joseph said.
Claire Patterson-Monah, interim executive director of the Guyana Cultural Association of New York, emphasised the role of cultural understanding in caregiving.
“When caregivers know their clients’ favourite foods, music and traditions, from roti to reggae, it transforms the experience,” she said.
“Culturally competent care brings comfort, joy and connection.”
Deputy Brooklyn Borough President, Kim Council, described Cottage’s work as
“the intersection of culture, compassion, and community.”
She added, “Brooklyn’s Caribbean community is the heartbeat of this borough. Through organisations like Cottage Home Care, we see what it means to care for people not just with skill but with soul.”
State Senator Kevin Parker, who represents Brooklyn’s 21st District, praised the company’s investment in the neighbourhood.
“When you look at what drives neighbourhoods, it’s businesses like this,” Parker said. “You’re not just creating jobs; you’re doing God’s work.”
Branch Manager Sharmella Persaud credited Shivpal’s leadership for inspiring both staff and caregivers.
“Many of us are immigrants and see him as a role model. He built this from scratch just five years ago, and now Cottage is one of the top home care agencies in the state,” she said.
Cultural performances added vibrancy to the event, with Caribbean entertainer Michael Ignatius highlighting the healing power of creativity and compassion, followed by a high-energy performance from chutney singer Fiona Singh.
Looking ahead, Shivpal shared plans for further expansion and innovation in healthcare.
He envisions opening a clinic and research centre in Guyana focused on stem cell treatments within the next decade, drawing on the company’s international expertise and resources.
Navin Shivpal, Guyanese entrepreneur and founder of Cottage Home Care Services
Chief Operating Officer of Cottage Home Care Services, Nusrat Shova
Tree of Hope, acts of kindness mark
GLASS Group’s Pinktober drive
IN observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the GLASS Group of Companies reaffirmed its commitment to health, compassion, and community through a vibrant month-long campaign themed “Act Now, Live Strong.”
Throughout October, employees of GLASS Group and its subsidiary, Global Manpower & Training Inc. (GMT), joined forces to raise awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and to extend support to individuals and families affected by the disease.
The campaign began with the symbolic initiative “Think Pink Fridays,” where employees wore pink each week to express solidarity with cancer survivors and patients.
A major highlight of the observance came on October 24, when the company hosted a Health Awareness Session at its Barrack Street office. The session, led by licensed medical practitioner, Dr. Angela Binda, emphasised the importance of early screening for breast and prostate cancer and the benefits of maintaining a proactive approach to health and wellness.
During the event, employees were presented with cancer screening vouchers and invited to take part in a personal commitment exercise through the “Pledge to Check” booklet, encouraging continued vigilance and regular health check-ups.
Adding a personal and emotional element to the campaign, GLASS launched its “Tree of Hope” — a symbolic display representing
unity, care, and encouragement. Staff members from both GLASS and GMT signed heartfelt messages of hope, which will be donated to the Cancer Institute of Guyana as an expression of solidarity with patients undergoing treatment.
In addition to promoting awareness, the company extended its efforts to the youngest cancer patients through a Paediatric Oncology Toy Drive. Employees contributed toys, books, and games for children receiving treatment at the Cancer Institute’s Paediatric Oncology Unit. Representatives from both companies personally delivered the gifts later in the month, spreading smiles and comfort to the young patients.
The campaign culminated with GLASS’s participation in the One Communication Pinktober Walk on October 26, where employees joined hundreds of participants to show their support for cancer awareness and survivorship.
Reflecting on the success of the campaign, Managing Director, Mr. Glenn Low-A-Chee, highlighted
the importance of fostering a culture of care and wellness within the organisation.
“These initiatives reflect our company’s belief that health, unity, and compassion go hand in hand,” Mr. Low-A-Chee said. “Through Pinktober, we not only raised awareness but also deepened our commitment to supporting the well-being of our employees and the communities we serve.”
The GLASS Group’s Pinktober Campaign 2025 stands as a testament to the company’s corporate philosophy of care, collaboration, and community impact. From awareness drives and education to emotional support and outreach, GLASS continues to demonstrate the values that define its people — compassion, responsibility, and the power of collective action. Through initiatives like these, the company not only honours those affected by cancer but also reinforces a powerful message: when businesses and communities unite for a cause, they create ripples of hope and healing that reach far beyond the workplace.
GLASS launched its ‘Tree of Hope’ — a symbolic display representing unity, care, and encouragement and the company extended its efforts to the youngest cancer patients through a Paediatric Oncology Toy Drive
Charting the next leap: China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030)
By Zamir Ahmed Awan
CHINA’S five-year development plans have long stood as the foundation of its economic and social progress. More than just policy documents, they offer a disciplined, visionary governance approach — aligning national goals, market mechanisms, and local execution within a coordinated framework.
The upcoming 15th FiveYear Economic and Social Development Plan (2026–2030) marks another decisive phase in China’s long journey of modernisation.
It arrives at a time of global economic turbulence and geopolitical rivalry, yet it reaffirms China’s commitment to sustainable, people-centred, and high-quality development.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CHINA’S FIVE-YEAR PLANS
For over seven decades, China’s five-year plans have functioned as powerful tools of governance — converting the leadership’s strategic vision into
measurable action. Their significance rests on three pillars.
First, the plans provide macroeconomic direction without suffocating market vitality. They identify priority sectors, define key targets, and set the tone for public investment while allowing the private sector to thrive within a predictable policy environment.
Second, they foster policy coherence across ministries and provinces. By using a unified performance language — targets, key indicators, and timeframes — the plans ensure alignment from the central government to the local levels.
Third, they act as stabilisers in times of global uncertainty. Whether facing trade frictions, supply chain disruptions, or financial shocks, the five-year plans reaffirm policy continuity and long-term commitment, giving businesses and citizens alike a sense of confidence.
Thus, the five-year framework is not merely an economic management tool but a social contract, ensuring that China’s col-
lective advancement remains steady, structured, and resilient.
CONSULTATION AND CONSENSUS: THE MAKING OF A NATIONAL BLUEPRINT
The preparation of each five-year plan is a meticulous process of consultation, research, and consensus-building.
Experts across disciplines contribute studies, forecasts, and scenario analyses. The plan undergoes multiple revisions based on inputs from ministries, enterprises, and regional authorities. Public consultations and expert symposiums enrich the draft with perspectives from diverse sectors of society.
The drafting of the 15th Five-Year Plan has been particularly inclusive. Policymakers have focused on technological innovation, green transition, industrial modernisation, social welfare, and other key areas.
The CPC Central Committee has set the following major objectives for the 15th Five-Year Plan period:
significant advancements in high-quality development; substantial improvements in scientific and technological self-reliance and strength; fresh breakthroughs in further deepening reform comprehensively; notable cultural and ethical progress across society; further improvements in quality of life; major new strides in advancing the Beautiful China Initiative; and further advances in strengthening the national security shield.
IMPLEMENTATION: FROM VISION TO REALITY
China’s success with previous five-year plans lies in its ability to translate strategic goals into operational mechanisms.
The implementation model of the 15th Five-Year Plan combines centralised direction with local flexibility.
Targeted public investment: The central government will channel fiscal resources into strategic infrastructure, R&D programmes, and green projects. Innovative financing tools — such as special bonds and development funds — will attract private participation in national priorities.
Institutional coordination: The NDRC, Ministry of Science and Technology, and other agencies will synchronise policy actions with measurable key performance
indicators. This co-ordination ensures that sectoral policies reinforce rather than overlap with each other.
Local empowerment and policy experimentation: Provinces and municipalities will be encouraged to develop locally tailored strategies — from industrial clusters to technology parks — in line with national objectives. Successful pilot projects will be replicated nationwide.
Human capital and talent development: Education reforms and targeted talent programmes will support the growth and upgrading of emerging industries.
Monitoring, evaluation and periodic policy adjustments will ensure that implementation remains adaptive and results oriented.
The plan’s architecture builds confidence among domestic and global investors alike, showcasing China’s capacity for longterm, disciplined policy execution.
NAVIGATING A COMPLEX GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT
China’s development trajectory unfolds amid increasingly complex geopolitics. Trade restrictions, technology bans, and strategic containment efforts by some major economies have sought to impede China’s development.
Yet, the 15th Five-Year Plan represents a measured and confident response to
these external challenges. By strengthening technological self-reliance, fostering domestic demand, and diversifying international partnerships, China aims to secure strategic autonomy without isolation.
China’s economic fundamentals — its vast domestic market, skilled labour force, and deep industrial ecosystem — provide a strong foundation for continued growth. As the plan unfolds, China is expected to maintain steady expansion, anchored in innovation and resilience, despite the shifting global environment.
A CONFIDENT AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
The 15th Five-Year Plan reaffirms China’s unwavering belief in planning with purpose and progress through reform. It fuses industrial modernisation with environmental responsibility, and social welfare with economic ambition. This is not merely a document of policy targets; it is a statement of intent — to sustain growth, uphold stability, and secure the nation’s long-term prosperity. The 15th Five-Year Plan sets the tone for a new chapter — one defined by confidence, competence, and continuity.
China’s story continues to evolve — steadily, strategically, and with a sense of historic purpose.
Zero-tolerance policy for sexual misconduct in Police Force –MinisterWalrondwarns
MINISTER of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, has reaffirmed the Guyana Police Force’s zero-tolerance policy for sexual misconduct. Her statement comes on the heels of allegations involving senior male officers and their female subordinates.
Addressing the issue on Monday, the minister said that, from the outset of her tenure, she had made it clear that a much higher standard of ethical conduct was required of senior ranks.
“I have had this conversation already with the Commissioner…wherever these allegations may arise, especially when it relates to subordinate female officers, it will be dealt with very, very seriously,” Minister Walrond stressed.
Referencing the Sexual Offences Act, the minister emphasised that consent cannot exist where
there is a power imbalance.
“If the person who has… an alleged relationship, the consent element does not exist if you are in a position of power. That power dynamic removes the element of consent where sex is concerned,” she explained.
She added that this principle mirrors provisions concerning minors, “because of her young and tender age, the element of consent does not arise.”
On the subject of officers who are being investigated at the Police Training College, the Minister confirmed that those implicated have been removed from their duties pending disciplinary proceedings.
“The matter is before the Office of Professional Responsibility, and they were removed immediately after the report came to our attention,” she said.
The Home Affairs Minister acknowledged that while such instances are not the norm, they must nevertheless be addressed decisively.
“We have many young and senior female officers who serve with integrity. These instances are not the norm, and when they do arise, we will deal with them very strongly. It should not prevent our female officers from coming forward.”
Minister Walrond urged women in the force to speak up, reminding them that the administration stands ready to support and protect their rights. (DPI)
Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond
51 women survivors graduate from WIIN entrepreneurship programme
FIFTY-ONE women survivors of gender-based violence have taken a major step toward financial independence and empowerment after successfully completing the Entrepreneurship Certificate Course offered through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN).
The graduation ceremony, held on Tuesday at the Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute (GWLI) at Cove and John, celebrated the women’s resilience and determination to rebuild their lives and pursue their dreams. The programme was supported by the Ministry’s Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SO&DVPU).
According to the Ministry, the participants were among a group of women who have shown exceptional courage in overcoming personal challenges and are now equipped with the tools to start or expand their own businesses, creating pathways to financial
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud presents Ms. Persaud with her Certificate
stability and independence.
Among the graduates was 24-year-old Sunita Persaud, a mother of two and full-time care worker, who described her participation in the programme as a transformative experience.
“Being a part of this business-driven programme was truly amazing. It taught me leadership, discipline, and
how to approach my goals with confidence,” Persaud said. “I want to expand my business and create a stable life for myself and my children — a life I’ve always envisioned as a passionate young woman still growing.” Persaud added that the course reignited her belief in her potential, reminding her that she was “born to win,
Fifty-one women-survivors received certificates of completion from the Entrepreneurship Certificate Course offered through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s WIIN programme
lead, and inspire.” She described herself as “a woman of purpose, belief, and big vision,” determined to rise above any circumstances that seek to hold her back.
The Entrepreneurship Certificate Course forms part of WIIN’s broader mission to
empower women and youth across Guyana through skills training, entrepreneurship, and personal development initiatives. Since its inception, WIIN has trained thousands of Guyanese in diverse fields, helping to promote self-reliance, job creation, and com-
munity development.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to expanding such initiatives, which not only provide economic opportunities but also foster healing and empowerment among survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
100 ranks graduate from GPF academy’s junior, senior leaders’ courses
ONE hundred ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), on Tuesday, proudly graduated from the Junior and Senior Leaders Courses during a formal ceremony held at the Officers’ Training Centre, Eve Leary.
The seven-week training, which began on September 15, 2025, formed part of the GPF’s continuous efforts to strengthen leadership capacity and enhance professionalism within the Force.
According to Course Coordinator, Inspector C. Ross, the comprehensive programme focused on critical areas such as Conflict
Management, Case Management, and Crime Scene Management, among other topics essential to modern policing.
“As the Guyana Police Force continues to transform, these programmes were carefully developed to equip ranks with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the changing demands of law enforcement,” Inspector Ross explained.
He further underscored the importance of lifelong learning, stating that “continuous learning is the minimum requirement in every field.”
BUILDING LEADER-
SHIP AND INTEGRITY
Director of the Police Training Academy, Woman Senior Superintendent Sonia Herbert, congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to lead with integrity, humility, and discipline.
“As you take up leadership roles, remember that leadership is not only about giving orders but also about inspiring confidence and fostering teamwork,” she told the gathering. Ms. Herbert also urged the graduates to continue demonstrating professionalism and to serve as role models within their respective divisions.
Delivering the feature ad-
dress, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) Ravindradat Budhram commended the ranks for their dedication and perseverance throughout the course. He encouraged them to go beyond the expectations of their rank and to carry themselves with dignity and purpose.
“Carry yourselves with dignity as you climb the ladder of success,” Deputy Commissioner Budhram advised. “Let your actions reflect the pride and purpose of the Guyana Police Force.”
RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE
Several ranks were rec-
ognised for outstanding performance during the ceremony.
In the Senior Leaders Course No. 1/2025, Sergeant Yasin placed first, followed by Sergeant Edwards and Sergeant Gibson in second and third positions, respectively.
For the Junior Leaders Course (1) 4/2025, Woman Lance Corporal Jones emerged as the top performer, with Woman Lance Corporal Singh and Lance Corporal Fortune taking second and third places.
In the Junior Leaders Course (2) 4/2025, Woman Corporal Singh claimed first place, followed by Corporal
Simple and Woman Corporal Herber.
Woman Sergeant Yasin, who also topped her course, was named Valedictorian of the 2025 cohort.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates and trophies to the top performers, followed by a vote of thanks.
As the newly-trained leaders prepare to return to their divisions, they pledged to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and integrity — reaffirming their commitment to the Guyana Police Force’s mission of serving and protecting with honour.
One hundred ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), on Tuesday, proudly graduated from the Junior and Senior Leaders Courses during a formal ceremony held at the Officers’ Training Centre, Eve Leary
Minister Mustapha urges youths to see agriculture as career opportunity
MINISTER of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, is encouraging young people to embrace agriculture as a modern, rewarding, and vital career path, one that plays a crucial role in Guyana’s food security and regional development.
Speaking at Honey Fest 2025, Minister Mustapha emphasised that the government was actively “harnessing the potential of our young people” to strengthen the local food system and transform perceptions about farming and agri-entrepreneurship.
“Don’t see agriculture as a menial activity,” the Minister urged. “Don’t see agriculture as an activity for people who never went to school or people who don’t have a proper education background.
See agriculture as the main activity in our country — an activity responsible for food production and food security.”
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF FARMERS
The Minister noted that the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) has become a hub for regional agricultural education, attracting students from Jamaica, Grenada, and St. Lucia, with learners from St. Kitts, Barbados, and Trinidad expected to join in the near future.
He pointed out that this growing interest from across the Caribbean underscores Guyana’s emerging leadership in agricultural innovation and education.
Minister Mustapha also addressed the need for greater inclusion, highlighting a policy within the Ministry of Agriculture that ensures at least 35 per cent participation of women and youth in all ministry-led projects.
“This is not just a number — it’s a commitment to ensure that women and young
people are directly involved and benefitting from agricultural development,” he said.
He added that the once male-dominated sector is evolving rapidly, with women and youth now playing increasingly important roles in food production, agribusiness, and technology-driven farming.
Minister Mustapha further revealed that Guyana was on track to achieve self-sufficiency by next year, citing significant growth in the production of high-value crops such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and lettuce.
Since 2021, under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, Guyana and other CARICOM member states have renewed their focus on agriculture, driven by the need to reduce food imports and strengthen regional food security.
“Countries whose economies were built on oil and gas, tourism, and other activities are now embracing
agriculture because of what they have seen Guyana doing,” Minister Mustapha explained. “We are not only producing food on a large scale — we are giving leadership to the Caribbean.”
With initiatives promot-
ing education, inclusivity, and innovation, Guyana continues to position itself as a model for sustainable agricultural growth in the Caribbean.
Through policies that empower youth and women and the government’s push toward self-sufficiency, the agriculture sector is emerging not only as a source of food and employment — but as a driver of national pride and regional progress.
Caribbean Mega Bounce Theme Park to bring family fun to Georgetown this weekend
THE YMCA Ground at Thomas Lands, Georgetown, is set to be transformed into a vibrant hub of excitement and family entertainment this weekend when the Caribbean Mega Bounce Theme Park opens its gates on Friday, November 7, 2025.
The four-day event — the first of its kind in Guyana — promises “loads of fun for the entire family,” according to organisers, Jonathan Beepat and Dominic Weekes of Wildfire Entertainment. The park will run from November 7 to 10, featuring a variety of inflatable attractions, rides, games, and entertainment suitable for all ages.
At a media briefing ahead of the event, Beepat explained that Caribbean Mega Bounce was created by a group of Jamaicans who wanted to provide more wholesome entertainment options for families and children across the region.
“They realised there aren’t many family activities like this in the Caribbean, so they invested in
this travelling theme park,” Beepat said. “It has been held successfully in Jamaica for more than a decade, and also in Antigua and Barbados. Now, we’re bringing that same experience to Guyana.”
Originally scheduled for October 31 to November 3, the event was postponed due to Hurricane Melissa, which caused travel disruptions for key members of the Jamaican technical team responsible for setting up the park.
ONE TICKET, UNLIMITED RIDES
Co-organiser Weekes assured attendees that once they enter the park, all rides are included with the price of admission.
“With your ticket purchase, you get unlimited access to all the rides,” Weekes explained. “It’s a one-time cover charge — you pay once, and you can enjoy everything inside the park.”
He added that a re-entry policy is in place for those who wish to leave and return later in the day. “You
can bounce as long as you like, go home, recharge, and come back for another session within the same day,” he said.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the organisers have put comprehensive safety measures in place.
Weekes noted that there will be over three dozen ushers, along with private security, and support from both the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Fire Service.
Beepat added that the event will also feature a food court area, allowing families to relax and enjoy meals while children play. Vendors will offer a range of refreshments and local treats throughout the day.
The event’s title sponsor is Beepats, with support from brands under its umbrella, as well as Sterling Products, Cevon’s Waste Management, and other partners.
Gates open from 15:00 hours to 22:00 hours on Friday and Monday, and 11:00 hours to 22:00 hours on Saturday and Sunday.
This weekend only, the YMCA Ground at Thomas Lands, Georgetown is expected to come alive with the opening of the highly anticipated Caribbean Mega Bounce theme park, an event that promises to be loads of fun for the entire family (Sachin Persaud Photo)
Ticket prices are as follows: Children: $4,000; Adults: $5,000; and Family Bundle (2 adults + 2 children): $16,000.
Tickets are available at Bad Monkey Merch (Giftland, Movietowne, Amazonia, and Leonora locations),
Beepats on Regent Street, N&S Mattai on Water and Hope Streets, and at the YMCA Ground on Thomas Lands.
As anticipation builds, organisers say they expect a strong turnout for this family-friendly event — one that
promises to combine the joy of play, the thrill of rides, and the warmth of community.
“The guys brought the rides down here, and we’re expecting everyone to come out, have fun, and make memories,” Beepat said.
Pakistan overcome late scare to go 1-0 up in ODI series
(ESPNCRICINFO) - Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed inflicted a late collapse on South Africa to bowl them out for an under-par 263 in the opening ODI in Faisalabad.
On a dry, flat batting surface, it allowed Pakistan to control the tempo of the chase, one in which they further tightened their grip with an 87-run opening stand in the first 15 overs.
South Africa battled hard through the middle overs to drag the hosts back, but Mohammad Rizwan, freshly stripped of the ODI captaincy, shepherded his side calmly through the middle overs with 55, while Salman Agha chipped in with a half-century of his own.
But it wasn’t without a dramatic late stumble that almost derailed Pakistan right at the death, needing a late Mohammad Nawaz six to see Pakistan through to a final-over two-wicket win that should have been more comfortable than it ultimately was.
Pakistan appeared to have complicated a chase that - at the outset - looked especially straightforward.
With 12 overs to go, Pakistan needed just 69 with seven wickets in hand and their two most reliable batters, Rizwan and Agha, having compiled a 91-run partnership. But Corbin Bosch, Pakistan’s tormentor-in-chief this series, struck when Rizwan flicked straight to deep backward square, and Pakistan suddenly began to find run-scoring hard. However, they retained wickets as Hussain Talat and Agha kept counting the runs down, albeit a little
more conservatively than Pakistan might have wished. The upshot, however, was a run-a-ball 45-run stand that took Pakistan to less than 30 runs away from a series lead. But when Talat misjudged a slower ball and looped one to mid-off, George Linde took a stunning catch diving forward, and threw the ball and the game back up into jeopardy.
Linde would come back into the attack, ball turning square by this stage, and send back Hasan Nawaz,
who saw fit to come down the crease against the turning ball and attempt a straight slog, already halfway down the crease when he was stumped.
Pakistan’s plight became even drearier when, 12 runs shy, Agha holed out to Donovan Ferreira, who covered a huge chunk of the Iqbal Stadium before taking a catch that dismissed Pakistan’s anchor.
With the equation suddenly ten in seven, it was thanks to a straight
hit from Nawaz down the ground of the final ball of the 49th that brought the game irrevocably in Pakistan’s control. There was time enough for Nawaz to be dismissed with the scores level, with Pakistan limping over the finish line - quite literally - when one thudded into Naseem’s pads as they scuttled through for a legbye. It seemed an apt metaphor for the ultimate unconvincing manner of Pakistan’s win.
Naseem Shah picked up 3 for 40 in his 9.1 overs • Associated Press
Indies full of confidence ahead of New Zealand series, says Hope
CMC – WITH a win over Bangladesh in their last T20I series, West Indies white-ball captain, Shai Hope says his troops are bursting with confidence ahead of their matchup with New Zealand.
The Windies, who are coming off an impressive 3-0 series win over Bangladesh, will take on the
fourth ranked New Zealand in the first of five T20Is on Wednesday.
It was just their second bilateral T20I series win in nine outings and halted a losing slide following defeats to Nepal, Pakistan and Australia.
The regional side has not defeated New Zealand in a T20I series since 2012 and
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CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Wednesday November 5, 2025)
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83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Akeal Hosein-3/22(2) Mustafizur Rahman-3/21
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Answers in tomorrow’s issue
has lost three consecutive series to the Black Caps.
However, speaking in a pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Hope said the West Indies were still on a high and were hoping to carry that momentum into the New Zealand series.
“Coming off that 3-0 victory that we had in Bangladesh is a great confidence booster for us as a team, so it’s just to keep challenging ourselves and testing ourselves to see where we’re at as a team and building to that World Cup.
“…You have to take a lot [of pride], especially going into conditions that you may
not have faced ever in your career and getting the success that we’ve had says a lot about the unit, the strength of the unit and like I said it’s a great confidence booster going into this series,” Hope said.
“It’s a place I’m sure the batters and even the bowlers will be much happier to be playing on these surfaces, but yes, confidence booster from Bangladesh, and hopefully we can turn things around in New Zealand and get a lot more success here.”
Hope acknowledged that the conditions in New Zealand were expected to be much different than the ones
they faced on the Asian subcontinent.
Therefore, he said it would be important for the players to adapt to those conditions as quickly as possible.
“Slightly different conditions, maybe totally different conditions, but as we all know it’s one of the biggest things of being a professional cricketer; you have to be able to adapt to the conditions you go into.
“Like I always speak about, conditions, dimensions, adaptability, and in this particular situation you have to understand that I don’t just expect the New
Zealand bowlers to put it in the slot for the shorter straight boundaries either, so it’s about understanding what you’re going to get and formulating those plans to be as successful as possible, whether with bat in hand or ball in hand,” Hope explained.
“On the back of that success in Bangladesh it’s about trying to repeat. We want to be a very good team and it’s about consistency and if you want to be the best you have to beat the best in their home territories, so it’s something else we need to tick off our boxes.”
Boards set to discuss Asia Cup fallout during ICC quarterly meeting
(ESPNCRICINFO)
- The fallout from the Asia Cup 2025 fracas between India and Pakistan, the governance crisis at USA Cricket (USAC), and tensions between the ICC and the World Cricketers’ Association (WCA) over player-image rights are set to dominate discussions across various forums at this week’s ICC quarterly meetings in Dubai. Cricket’s chief executives will meet on November 5, before the Board meeting - of all board heads - takes place on November 7.
ASIA CUP FALLOUT
Though the issue is not officially on the agenda, it is likely to come up at the Board meeting on November 7, and is likely to be the subject of informal discussions on the sidelines. Tensions between the BCCI and PCB have mirrored those between the governments of India and Pakistan this year, and mat-
ters came to a head during the Asia Cup, where the teams met three times. The games were marred by a no-handshakes stance instigated by the BCCI and four players - Haris Rauf, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah and Sahibzada Farhan - were censured by the ICC for gestures or comments deemed to be political in nature.
Arguably the thorniest issue will be of the Asia Cup trophy itself. India won it, beating Pakistan in the final, but refused to come out and accept the trophy from Mohsin Naqvi, the PCB chair and Asian Cricket Council (ACC) head. The trophy has not been seen since, with reports suggesting it is in an ACC office in the UAE.
Naqvi has insisted he, and only he, will hand over the trophy as ACC head.
ICC-WCA NIL rights tussle
Among the ICC’s more important strategic initiatives
is its mobile game offering, for which it is looking for a partner. Plans to launch the game, compatible on mobile, PC, and games consoles, have been in the works as the ICC taps into what it believes will be a fast-growing revenue stream.
While it remains optimistic about the project, the ICC has run into a potential dispute around the Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) rights for the game with the World Cricketers’ Association (WCA).
The WCA recently wrote to the 600 players registered with it globally - Indian and Pakistani players are notably not its members - saying the ICC was developing the mobile game “built on your name, image, likeness (NIL), without agreeing to terms with players collectively.”
At the ICC’s annual conference in July, some members suggested that the boards should deal directly with their players over image rights, a
move the WCA said was a breach of an agreement it had signed with the ICC.
The WCA has accused the global governing body and some member boards of wanting to own the players’ name, image and likeness (NIL) rights beyond terms already agreed. The CEC (chief executives’ committee) will hear an update from members on their progress in terms of securing those rights on Wednesday.
Olympics qualification pathway
The CEC is expected to get an update on the detailed qualification model for Los Angeles 2028, where cricket will feature at the Olympics for the first time since 1900. While the ICC Board had given its nod to a continental qualification system, the CEC is likely to get a broader idea on how the qualifying teams - six each in the men’s and women’s categories - will be shortlisted.
The CEC will also get operational updates on cricket’s inclusion at the 2026 Asian Games and the African Games, Pan Am Games and European Games of 2027.
The CEC will likely review and approve proposed qualification pathways for four forthcoming ICC events: the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup (to be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia), the 2028 Men’s
T20 World Cup (to be held in Australia and New Zealand), the 2027 Women’s Champions Trophy and the 2029 Women’s ODI World Cup. It will also consider a recommendation to retain the 50-overs format for the Under-19 World Cup, which would allow Associate Members to strengthen their domestic structure in the longer white-ball format.
USAC and its future
On September 23, the ICC Board took the unanimous decision to suspend USAC with immediate effect for serious “breaches” including bringing cricket and the ICC into “disrepute” as well as failing to fulfil ICC membership criteria. In the suspension letter, accessed by ESPNcricinfo, the ICC charged USAC with “reneging on the commitments it made” to the ICC Board at the annual conference in July.
USAC escaped suspension in July having committed to fulfil the conditions set by the ICC Board by October 20 including holding fresh board elections.
But USAC first terminated its contract with long-term commercial partner American Cricket Enterprise (ACE), and then initiated bankruptcy proceedings, which it said was part of the financial restructuring of the organisation. The ICC did not take kindly to this, especially
since it had been working closely with the US Olympics and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) to secure National Governing Body status for USAC (which is necessary for the USA to participate in the LA Olympics).
The USOPC had already warned the ICC that it would not allot NGB status to USAC in its current form unless its governance structure was overhauled and the current board replaced with a new one.
In October the ICC sent another email to USAC spelling out the steps needed for the suspension to be lifted. Among the various conditions it set, the ICC told USAC that filing for bankruptcy was a violation of membership criteria, but recommended it “exit” the proceedings in a “satisfactory” manner.
It is understood that under bankruptcy law, USAC has to provide the court with a financial plan for the next six months.
With the ICC suspension halting its funding, the USAC management has been talking to the ICC about a way out. The ICC has told USAC that it will only fund cricketing operations for now, and nothing else.
USAC is expected to write to the ICC Board, which is expected to discuss the issue on Friday, to understand the next steps.
MCYS partners with Petra for regional KFC Goodwill series
MINISTER of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr has signaled his Ministry’s support for the 6th Annual KFC Goodwill football Tournament set for later.
The 2025 KFC Goodwill U-18 International Schools Football Tournament takes place from December 14–21 at the Ministry of Education ground.
The ministry will support a cultural presentation as well as offer other support for the arriving teams and the competition as was revealed yesterday when the two bodies held a press conference.
Director of the Petra Organisation Troy Mendonca said, “Today is a very Special day for us, because it signifies Corporate Guyana and Government of Guyana coming together to deliver one of the most unique sporting events within the Caribbean. We are very proud to know the minister would have given us the opportunity. This tournament belongs to Guyana and it is very important for us and the government come together to do this because I don’t think it has ever happened in the Caribbean and it is a good opportunity for us to showcase what we
can do for citizens of Guyana.”
Minister within the Ministry of Sport, Steven Jacobs outlined the benefits of such a competition on the country’s shores, saying, ‘To have this public private partnership in creating opportunities for our young sports men and women, in particular football is important. Many people would say football is the most popular sport in Guyana. We see a lot of interest in football and to have it from the grass root level and having an organisation like Petra, who has been successful in organising football and now having a consistent regional tournament is very important, so we have a premier schools football tournament in Guyana and that says a lot in terms of what we are doing for sports and what the government is doing for sports in terms of investment. From a government perspective we will continue to support.”
Minister Charles Ramson Jr commended Petra for the work over the years in youth football development and outlined the ministry’s support.
‘When you have a lot of distracted young people, it means the pool of tal -
ent shrinks and that is why in youth sports particularly where schools are concerned, this tournament is unique. This is our schools Champions League and our involvement is to secure Guyana’s consistent hosting. We want to build this tournament to become a regional championship tournament and we want to do this in the best possible way moving forward. So, the ministry will have a strong role in its organisation moving forward because of its potential for growth in something special,’ Ramson said.
The winning team from the ongoing Republic bank Secondary Schools League along with the second-placed side will earn the right to face teams from Suriname, Brazil, Jamaica and Trinidad in the KFC Goodwill International football series set for December.
The teams are Montiero Lobato School from Boa-Vista Brazil, Kingston College – Jamaica, Anglican Central Educational Authority (ACEA) – Bahamas, Defending Champions Chase Academic Foundation, Annai Secondary-Region Nine along with the Winner or Runner-up of the League.
DEFENDING champions
YMCA will this year be sending a double barrel attack as the ExxonMobil Guyana sponsored Linden 4th annual futsal tournament kicks off this Friday with the official march past and four matches at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden.
Sixteen teams are slated to contest in four groups where the two teams with the best record will emerge to play in the quarterfinals knock out stages, ahead of the semifinal and finals.
The 2025 champions YMCA will field two units, A and B, which are placed in separate groups. Group A
has YMCA B, Hard Knocks, Bomberz and Hardball Management, Group B comprises YMCA A, Spaniards, HH Ballers and Figgy FC, Group C teams are Young Gunners, Silver Bullets, Foundation Family and Westside Ballers and Group D contestants are DC Ballers, Salah Family, Stabroek and Fearless.
When the tournament kicks off Friday the first game is scheduled for 18:30 hours when Group D teams Fearless and Stabroek meet. This game will be followed with the official march past of the sixteen contesting teams and the second game of the night at 20:40 hours will see Young Gunners
and Westside battle it out in Group C. Then Hardball Management and Bomberz take the field from 21:30 hours and the final game at 22:20 hours brings together Group B teams YMCA A and HH Ballers.
On Saturday and Sunday, five more matches will be played each day in this group playoff round, to determine the teams to advance to the knockout stages, which begin on Friday, November 21, and the semifinals on Saturday, November 22.
The final will be played on Saturday, November 29 at the tournament venue, the Retrieve Hard Court in Retrieve, Linden.
Nandu to captain Harpy Eagles squad for CG United Super50
-1
6-year-old Apple earns maiden call-up
THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) successfully concluded the Queensway Super50 Inter-County Cup over the weekend at the Joe Jagmohan Ground, Hampton Court, Essequibo Coast.
The two-week-long tournament featured seven competitive matches that provided selectors with a valuable opportunity to assess performances ahead of the regional CG United Super50 competition.
Following the conclusion of the tournament, the GCB selection panel headed by Chairman Ramnaresh Sarwan, named the Guyana Harpy Eagles squad for the upcoming CG United Super50 tournament.
The 14-member squad includes Matthew Nandu (Captain), Raymond Perez, Kevlon Anderson, Mavendra Dindyal, Kemol Savory (Wicketkeeper), Richie Looknauth, Zeynul Ramsammy, Ronaldo Alimohamed, Gudakesh Motie (Vice-Captain), Thaddeus Lovell, Sylus Tyndall, Keemo Paul, Junior Sinclair, and Shamar Apple.
Apple, who is just 16 years old, has been rewarded for his performances at the regional under 19 and under 17 levels and the selection panel feels his aggressive nature is something the team can benefit from.
The reserves are Kevin Sinclair, Antony Adams, Isai Thorne, Kevon Boodie,
Tomanni Caesar, Romeo Deonarain, and Joshua Jones.
Meanwhile, Niall Smith (injured), Ashmead Nedd, Romario Shepherd, Sherfane Rutherford, Shimron Hetmyer and Quentin Sampson are all unavailable for selection as they are set to participate in the Abu Dhabi T10 League, while Tevin Imlach was not considered as he is expected to represent the West Indies. Jonathan Van Lange will also be on West Indies Under 19 duty.
The Queensway Super50 Inter-County Cup once again highlighted the depth of talent in Guyana, as the GCB continues its commitment to player development and regional competitiveness.
- Chanderpaul, Imlach attending CWI hosts high-performance camp to prepare for test series against New Zealand
Academy
CRICKET
West Indies (CWI) has announced the start of a high-performance preparation camp in Antigua, running from November 4-18, as part of the build up to the December 2-22 three-match test series leg of the West Indies men’s tour of New Zealand.
The camp will feature a select group of senior and developing players identified for their potential to feature in the series and future international assignments.
It will focus on technical and tactical refinement, match simulation, and mental readiness to adapt to New Zealand’s challenging conditions.
Training sessions will be held at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG), with support from CWI’s high-performance coaching and sports-science teams. Players will also undergo structured load monitoring, wellness oversight and gym-based strength and conditioning programmes, all aligned with CWI’s high-performance protocols.
The camp will be led by Ramesh Subasinghe, Head Coach of the West Indies Academy, and Rohan Nurse, Assistant Coach, who will oversee tactical and technical development.
CWI’s Senior Talent Manager Jamal Smith, along with developing pathway coach, Shane Dowrich, will
provide additional coaching and coordination support over the two-week period.
CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe commented, “This camp is designed to give players a focused opportunity to prepare for the specific challenges of playing in New Zealand. For the batsmen, it’s about targeted work on areas where they’ve shown vulnerability and adapting to the conditions they’ll face.
For the bowlers, it’s about managing their workloads effectively and identifying the lengths and areas that have proven successful in New Zealand.”
“It’s a practical, purposeful camp — one that allows the group to refine key aspects of their game, while building cohesion and clarity ahead of the tour. The goal is to make the most of this preparation window, so the players are ready to compete with confidence and intent.”
Participating in the camp will be recent test match selectees Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Tevin Imlach, Anderson Phillip, Johann Layne, Kevlon Anderson and John Campbell, who scored his maiden century against India in the second test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Dehli on October 9.
Other participants include Ojay Shields, Kavem Hodge and veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach.
Assistant Coach Rohan Nurse with opening batter Tagenarine Chanderpaul in the nets
Seejatan highlights team work following Race of Champions haul
FOLLOWING a massive haul last weekend at the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) Race of Champions, Group two champion Shan Seejatan placed the glory at the feet of his team.
The multiple time Group 2 champion, who also participated in two other classes was not shy about the hard work put in by his team over the weeks leading up to the event.
Vitz Cup
“I of course have to thank Balram (Ramdeo) and his team for putting together the Toyota Vitz (for the Vitz cup). I think the work that went into that car to get it where it was on race day was amazing.”
He picked up two wins and one second place finish in the class including some dicing with longtime rival Rameez Mohamed. “I have to say that I enjoyed the Vitz Cup for this weekend. There was a lot of close racing in that class and I can safely say that we for sure had to work hard for those wins. Again, I can’t thank the team enough because of the work they put in.”
Sports Tuner
couldn’t afford to get it wrong. And that’s where Brian (Ten-Pow) and his team came in.”
“We were able to ensure that we bettered our lap record from earlier this year by close to half a second which shows that we found improvements in the car. To do that on a weekend where we were also trying to remain consistent isn’t easy,” he added.
Shan’s 1:23.937 unofficially replaces the 1:24.681 second time set in the April race meet this year.
Of there are other guys I need to thank, Rajiv Rajaram, my tuner for the cars was able to root out some key issues leading into the weekend that could have been disastrous and the other guys Ravi, Stefan, Anthony, Bomber, all of them put their heads together and made sure that we came out on top at the end of the day and I owe it to those guys.
“Sports tuner stared off badly for us as we had a DNF in the first race when we had a ‘touch-up’ with one of the guys in one of the corners, which resulted in the tyre coming off the rim and forcing us to retire from that one.”
to clock the fastest time of that race, albeit I finished second but I was still happy with that.”
“Race two I came back strongly against a stacked field and managed
The final race of that class was where I got that all elusive win in the class and that felt good considering where we had started the day.”
Group Two
GSA Trophy Stall skill-level tournament underway
THE Guyana Squash Association (GSA) skill-level Squash Tournament got underway yesterday.
This six-day celebration of athleticism, community, and youth development, sponsored by Trophy Stall, will run until Sunday, November 9 with approximately 40 players across all skill levels competing in a spirited showcase of squash at the National Racquet Centre, Woolford Avenue on the first three days.
The action switches to the Georgetown Club Courts, Camp Street from Friday where spectators are invited to attend to cheer on athletes - from emerging juniors to seasoned competitors- and some dedicated parent participation to provide juniors with diverse competition.
According to a release from the
GSA, “tournaments like these are more than competition - they are the cornerstone of junior development. They offer young players the chance to test their skills, gain confidence, and learn from experienced athletes.”
The GSA pointed out that “every match is a step toward building Guyana’s next generation of squash champions.”
The GSA extended heartfelt thanks to the Ramesh Sunich and Trophy Stall for their generous support and look forward to partnering with them again in the future. “Their commitment to sport and community development continue to uplift Guyana’s squash family and empower our youth.”
The final day will feature a fundraiser barbecue in support of youth squash programmes.
Seejatan was not shy about thanking his group two chief mechanic either, with the Honda Civic being the ‘car to beat’ in that class.
“Again, we knew that coming into this weekend, we would have a target on our backs and a lot of guys would be gunning for us so we
Seejatan picked up two wins from two races on the day as the third race in the class was cancelled due to fading light.
His sponsors last weekend were Special Auto the Filter Shop, Top Power Racing, Transpacific Motor Spares and Blue Springs water.
The Group two Honda Civic that reset the lap record
MCYS partners with Petra for regional KFC Goodwill series
Ministers of MCYS presenting the cheque to Petra’s Troy Mendonca (Japhet Savory photo)
Shan Seejatan (Centre) with his team and trophies
The Vitz cup proved hard work at times (Photo from Mike.592)
Pacers Jayden Seales (left) and Matthew Forde during their final training session on Tuesday (Photo courtesy CWI Media)