announces country’s first robotic surgery will be conducted next year
systems activated to deal with impact of rainy season
- President Ali says at launch of One Guyana Christmas Village and Supermarket - reaffirms commitment to helping vulnerable groups, desire for citizens to be part of country’s rapid transformation
By Faith Greene
EMPHASISING that everything promised shall come to pass, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Friday night assured Guyanese of betterment while bringing a message of unity, strength and hospitality.
“We never deviate from our journey, and it is always better,” he said in his feature address at the launch of the highly anticipated One Guyana Christmas Village and Supermarket on Main Street, Georgetown.
In his remarks to a sizeable crowd, he reaffirmed his government’s continued commitment to investing in programmes that not only protect, but empower and uplift the vulnerable, the elderly, differently abled, and children who look to society for support.
Noting that society is judged by its compassion to its most vulnerable, and not by celebrations, he said the well-being of these persons is not charity, it is a duty.
According to Dr. Ali, the mark of a great nation, the President said, is how it treats its most vulnerable.
Speaking on compassion for each other, he remarked, “But we must ensure that compassion is not temporary, it must extend beyond the season, because goodwill
should be a lifetime habit, not a seasonal tradition.”
He added, “Guyana is rising with unprecedented momentum. We want citizens to be part of this transformation, as development must never be confined to head-
and Supermarket was created so that every young and old person from every region and walk of life can attend and feel, see, taste, and celebrate what makes Christmas in Guyana so uniquely magical.
President Ali said this space
ity wraps around you like a Christmas embrace, since nowhere in the world celebrates Christmas quite like Guyana," President Ali said.
According to the President, the village is a physical symbol of closeness, as it is closeness that
Scores gathered for the launch of the One Guyana Christmas Village and Supermarket which will be open to the public throughout the Christmas season (Delano Williams photos)
lines, it must be felt in households. This progress is not accidental - it is intentional, it is built on planning, investment, and belief in our people.”
As we usher in the Christmas season, the President indicated that the One Guyana Christmas Village
allows families to gather and strangers to become friends as they enjoy local food, music, creativity, and traditions.
"It is a place where our national spirit shines brightest, where unity becomes visible, and where the warmth of Guyanese hospital-
strengthens community and community that strengthens a country.
He said that like the story with shepherds, wise men, and the holy family, Guyana is also a gathering of many backgrounds, and one shared hope. He stated that a message for us is that many
backgrounds can still form one destiny.
"As you walk around tonight sharing greetings, stories, and laughter, remember that unity is not automatic. It is a choice we make through respect, patience, and kindness. And let us remember that nation building begins with loving each other,” the President charged.
Moreover, the Head of State noted that unity must not be a Christmas emotion, but a national standard; one that we must strive for every day, despite disagreements that may arise
By Feona Morrison
PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday heralded the Guyana Digital School (GDS) as a transformative national and regional investment, declaring that the newly launched platform will help forge a unified Caribbean where learners share one learning space and one future.
Speaking at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), the President said the initiative represents one of the most important steps the region has taken toward educational equality and integration.
“This is a day when children from Barbados, Belize, St Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat— wherever in the Caribbean—and Guyana could be in one classroom, one environment, sharing one story,” he told a packed audience of students, teachers, government officials and regional representatives.
“We are building a future where our children not only see themselves as one Guyana, but one region, uplifted by each other.”
Describing the event as both historic and emotional, President Ali said the digital school is rooted in values of dignity, equity, and love—principles
he believes must underpin the society Guyana is now shaping. Many generations before, he said, lived lives constrained by poverty and lack of opportunity. Today’s learners, however, are being given access to tools and platforms their grandparents could scarcely imagine.
“This is about dismantling barriers and removing differences,” he said.
He indicated that a child from Parika or Leonora, or from Regions Six or Ten, should no longer face different treatment when they come to Georgetown.
He emphasised that the country is dismantling barriers of accent, culture, style and background in pursuit of one Guyana with one mission and one future.
The President emphasised that education must not become a space shaped by negativity or division, telling learners that their school life should be a place of friendship, encouragement and collective learning—not competition, conflict or comparison.
“Life is about building friendships. It’s about learning about each other. It’s about supporting.
It’s not about fighting. It’s not about guns. It is channelling your energy in the right direction. It is about using every moment before you to uplift yourself and
those around you in a positive way.”
Calling the launch a “landmark moment in our nation’s long journey for educational excellence, Dr. Ali saluted teachers, stakeholders and generations of Guyanese who, despite difficult circumstances, helped pave the way for today’s achievements.
The digital school, he said, ensures that learners—regardless
of income, geography, background or circumstance—gain access to the tools required for the future economy.
The initiative, he argued, is not merely an education project but a national and regional development project, an economic transformation programme, and even a “survival project” for the Caribbean. With the world undergoing rapid technological change, Guyana, he said, cannot afford to fall behind.
He explained that the world is now in the age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by data, automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, connectivity and digital integration. He warned that countries unable to master this new wave risk being left behind.
To illustrate the point, he highlighted advances in medicine, including robotic surgeries now conducted remotely, and said similar technological shifts are occurring in agriculture, manufacturing, finance, transport, and governance.
Guyana will perform its first robotic-assisted surgery next
year, with United States-based specialists using advanced technology, President Ali revealed at the launch.
The Guyana Digital School, he said, is designed to prepare students for this world by exposing them to digital labs, virtual learning, and practical experiences in simulated high-tech environments.
President Ali noted that for decades, developing nations carried the weight of a profound digital divide, one that limited the ability of citizens to compete globally. In high-income countries, he said over 90 per cent of households have reliable internet access.
In low-income nations, that number can fall below 40. Many learners in advanced economies have multiple digital devices before age 18, while millions in developing regions encounter their first computer only after secondary school.
“These gaps must be closed, not gradually or casually, but quickly, intentionally and comprehensively,” he stressed. “Digital education is not optional. A digital workforce requires digital skills, and digital skills require
digital learning.”
The President acknowledged the challenges exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, when teachers, students and families struggled with limited connectivity and unfamiliar online tools. Yet, he said, the experience was a lesson in the importance of preparedness and accelerated Guyana’s recognition that digital learning is essential for resilience.
With dozens of hinterland and riverine communities across the country, the President said investments in connectivity, infrastructure and digital platforms are now being fortified by the Guyana Digital School, which functions as a central hub for content creation, training and delivery.
One of the most significant features of the Guyana Digital School is its digital library, which will house all textbooks required for exams administered by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) and other levels of study. President Ali said this will eliminate barriers caused by limited access to learning materials.
“All our children will now have no excuse when it comes to textbooks,” he said, “and imagine the power of that.”
He added that the platform will also support adult learners, out-of-school youth, teachers seeking training, and persons with disabilities. Ultimately, he said, the school is designed to close both the digital and opportunity divides.
President Ali urged students to appreciate the moment they are living in, explaining that the country is preparing the economic and technological foundation they will inherit in 2050.
According to him, data centres, innovation hubs, and advanced industries are part of the long-term vision, and the Digital School is among the investments that will define Guyana’s future competitiveness.
“The jobs our children will compete for may not exist a decade from now,” he said. “The technologies they will use may not be invented. The school is not simply a response to the present; it is an investment in the future. It is the declaration of a country that knows where it’s going and refuses to be left behind.”
He concluded by thanking the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Public Service and all agencies and individuals who worked “tremendously hard” to bring the Guyana Digital School to life.
“This is just the beginning of an era,” President Ali said. “We will walk this journey together, strong, united, with dignity, honour and love.”
SEVERAL regional leaders joined Guyana in celebrating the launch of the Guyana Digital School (GDS) on Friday, praising the initiative as a transformative step for education across the Caribbean.
The platform is designed to provide students in Guyana and throughout the region with access to high-quality learning resources and innovative digital tools, ensuring equitable opportunities regardless of location.
Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, welcomed the launch, noting the initiative’s potential to empower Caribbean children.
She said: “I would love to congratulate and thank President Dr. Ir-
faan Ali for his bold and innovative vision that seeks to put in the hands of our Caribbean children the opportunity to learn. Whether it is in the coastlands or hinterlands of Guyana, or in Barbados, Saint Kitts, or Saint Lucia, we want to ensure that our chil-
dren have that ability to learn at their fingertips.”
Mottley extended gratitude to those who contributed to the project, including regional ministries of education, as well as parents and children who have embraced the platform. She emphasised the importance of regional co-operation, stating, “We look forward to more [students] doing so. Congratulations as we celebrate this new day in our education regionally with cooper-
ation at the center of it. For after all, we are one Caribbean people.”
Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell, described his own experience with the school as transformative. He noted that students will benefit from features such as artificial intelligence, which allows them to engage with chatbots to improve learning outcomes.
Mitchell said, “It is a truly transformative initiative, not just for
Guyana, but for [the region] and more importantly, for students who will benefit from this initiative. During this morning’s launch, you will hear all the wonderful features, the subject areas that the school covers, as well as the AI features that allows for students to guide my chatbot to improve their results and their performance.”
Mitchell emphasised that the Digital School would extend learning opportunities to students who might otherwise have limited access to technology and educational guidance.
“Critically, this will allow students who otherwise would not have access to knowledge, guidance, or technology to be able to use the technology to support their learning, and to support their work and development,” he said.
He added that Grenada’s government is committed to participating in the initiative and supporting its integration into the region’s education systems.
Belize also expressed strong support for the new platform.
In a letter to President Dr. Irfaan Ali, Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs,
Foreign Trade, Culture and Immigration, congratulated Guyana on the launch.
He highlighted the school’s potential to benefit students preparing for Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams. Fonseca said, “Belize recognises that the GDS is an important initiative and will offer students preparing for CSEC exams access to high-quality and targetted learning resources.”
Fonseca noted that Belize’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology sees significant potential for collaboration between the countries.
“We look forward to sharing this opportunity with our education stakeholders and partners, strengthening the cooperation between Belize and Guyana as we work to enhance teaching and learning across our nations,” he said.
The Guyana Digital School was launched as part of a broader effort by the government to integrate digital education into classrooms and provide students with tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
By Feona Morrison
THE Guyana Digital School, officially launched on Friday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, has already registered 20,368 students from Grades 10 and 11 across Guyana and the wider Caribbean region, Minister of Education Sonia Parag revealed.
The programme, which will expand to Grades Seven through Nine by early 2026, represents a transformative step toward providing equitable, technology-driven learning for all students, regardless of geography or circumstance.
Minister Parag described the launch as a historic moment, emphasising the critical role education plays in shaping the nation. She reflected on her experience as former Minister of Public Service, noting how national initiatives like the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme demonstrated the power of opportunity on a broad scale.
“I saw firsthand how access can change the trajectory of a country. GOAL was a landmark achievement in our government's first term as an expanded learning into places and into lives that have been long overlooked,” she said, highlighting how such programmes allowed tens of thousands of Guy-
anese to reimagine their potential.
She explained that the Digital School is designed to continue this tradition of access and opportunity. “The Digital School recognises the geography of our country and ensures that the child in a riverine village receives the same level of instruction as a child in Georgetown or in Anna Regina. That is what true access means,” she said.
The platform is intended not only for local students but also for learners across the Caribbean, reflecting the government’s commitment to regional collaboration and development.
According to Minister Parag, the school provides an holistic, quadrant approach to learning that combines technology, content, engagement, and hands-on experience.
This includes interactive online classes led by trained educators, a rich library of on-demand digital resources, programmes to develop skills beyond the standard curriculum, and practical, activity-based projects that allow students to apply what they learn.
She stressed that these features would unlock new opportunities for students, supported by artificial intelligence tools that personalise learning and help strengthen areas of weakness.
Underscoring the innovative nature of the pro -
gramme, Minister Parag said the Digital School does not replace traditional schooling but strengthens it.
“This is not an abandonment of the traditional schooling technology. It introduces new avenues for learning so that no child falls behind because of distance, circumstance, or pace,” she said.
She recalled the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, when students experienced interruptions in learning due to reliance on a single mode of instruction. “In Guyana, the Digital School is designed to guard against that vulnerability. It stands beside our classrooms as a resilient, flexible partner, giving teachers, parents, and students consistent support, even in times of uncertainty,” she added.
The minister highlighted the importance of digital literacy in today’s world, noting that it has become a fundamental requirement. She praised the adaptability of young people, observing that students can navigate technology with remarkable ease. “Our children can move through technology with an ease that tells us they’re ready for a world
that rewards curiosity, confidence, and adaptability,” she said.
She emphasised that the Digital School allows the education system to keep pace with this rapidly changing environment, adopting technology responsibly and deliberately to prepare students for the future.
Minister Parag also outlined the government’s broader achievements in education since 2020. She noted that free education has been instituted from nursery through tertiary institutions, including the University of Guyana (UG), and that over 13,000 students have benefited from the University of Guyana loan write-off programme. The teaching workforce has been strengthened, with over 1,345 teachers graduating in 2025 alone, and nearly 92 per cent of teachers in hinterland regions now fully trained. Learning spaces across the country have been expanded and upgraded to ensure that no child’s education depends on where they live.
She highlighted improvements in the administration and management of schools through the Education Management Information System, which tracks
attendance and performance, frees teachers from administrative delays, and identifies learning gaps early.
Additionally, the upcoming rollout of the National Anti-bullying App for schools is intended to create safer learning environments where students feel protected and supported.
“The modern education system is not only about technology; it’s also about safety, accountability, and clear support for every child,” Minister Parag said.
She emphasised that the Digital School is part of a broader effort to build an education system that matches the nation’s aspirations.
“Together, we are shaping a future where every child can stand tall, and guided by the leadership of His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali, we will deliver world-class education to our people as they deserve,” she said.
The launch also includ-
ed a demonstration of the Digital School platform, showing how students can access teachers, resources, and practical learning experiences at any time. Minister Parag invited all students to register, highlighting the global potential of the platform. “I look forward to all of you registering on the Guyana Digital School because it is the future of education, not only in Guyana but globally, and you will be a part of that journey,” she said.
In her remarks, Minister Parag reflected on the broader vision of the government’s education agenda from 2025 to 2030. She noted that the Digital School aligns with the People's Progressive Party/Civic government’s manifesto commitment to world-class education for all, translating policy promises into concrete action.
WHEN President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced at the Christmas Village launch that "everything the government says shall come to pass", he wasn't just using festive language; he was stating a fact supported by five years of real results.
The change of Main Street into a centre of unity and commerce reflects the wider change happening across Guyana, where promises have consistently turned into prosperity.
The PPP/C administration's history shows a strong commitment to follow through. Since 2020,
the government has provided $100,000 cash grants to every adult citizen, reintroduced the "Because We Care" school grant, and significantly raised wages and pensions.
These steps are not mere symbols but also represent real wealth sharing from extraordinary economic growth.
The Ministry of Finance's 2025 mid-year report indicates an overall real GDP growth of 7.5 per cent and a non-oil sector growth of 13.8 per cent, the fifth consecutive year of growth outside the oil sector.
Infrastructure develop-
ment offers clear proof of promises kept. The opening of the new Demerara River Bridge, named after Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, stands alongside new roads, hospitals, schools, and housing projects being developed across the nation.
The Christmas Village has also transformed into the "One Guyana Supermarket", providing a space for small and medium businesses to display local products and talent, showing the kind of practical economic support the administration values.
Critics who doubt the
THERE is no other nationality that irritates the soul, lacerates the psyche and burdens the mind as the Guyanese nationality. Who are these people? Where did they come from? What is inside their objective mind? What shape is their subject mind? What essentially comprises their psychological essence?
I read that the European Chamber of Commerce Guyana (ECCG), had a luncheon and the feature address was given by businessman, Harold Hopkinson. I wanted to know if Mr. Hopkinson was one of several main speakers or the only featured speaker. I visited the website of ECCG and pressed on the tab – “contact us.”
There were three names to communicate with for information on ECCG – its president, Alista Bishop, who has a business consultancy firm up the East Bank, Greg-
ory Dean who is the former Chief Executive Officer of Digicel, and the Finance Controller of DDL, Vasudeo Singh.
I rang Ms. Bishop. I asked if she could tell me if there were other guest speakers apart from Mr. Hopkinson. She said she cannot give me that information. I was drinking hot coffee and her response caused me to jerk back on my chair and the coffee spilt and burnt my leg.
Now how can any normal human being host a luncheon, have a featured guest and simply cannot answer a media question as to if there were other speakers. Where did the ECCG get Ms. Bishop from? Can someone like Ms. Bishop advance the cause of ECCG? One thing for sure, if I open a business, the last person I would consult is Ms. Bishop. Next, I rang Mr. Dean. He told me that as far as he
knows Mr. Hopkinson was the only featured speaker. But there was a “but”, but Mr. Dean said he would not like to be quoted giving me that information since he is not the spokesperson for ECCG. I said two things to Mr. Dean. Firstly, that the information he gave me is a trillion times a harmless item that has absolutely no implication for him, the ECCG and Guyana.
Secondly, I told him the website of ECCG has no spokesperson but three persons that people are advised to contact: him, Ms. Bishop and Mr. Singh.
I helped myself to another cup of hot coffee before I called Mr. Dean and again the coffee spilt on my leg and burned me for the second time in minutes after I got the reaction of Mr. Dean.
Next, I rang Mr. Singh. He was polite and forthcoming. He said he cannot say if
government's promises overlook measurable improvements in various sectors. The education budget has risen from $53 billion to $185 billion, funding free tuition, scholarships, and training programmes like the Board of Industrial Training.
Over 60,000 new jobs have been created, and more than 300 taxes and fees set by the APNU+AFC dministration have been removed. Rice farmers receive millions in support, while the tourism sector has grown with hundreds of new airline seats and more flights from existing carriers.
Vice-President Jagdeo rightly notes that "the real test comes in who delivers".
The PPP/C's careful planning, seen in national development strategies and low-carbon projects, has restored economic stability, and allowed for continued success.
When President Ali promises that commitments will be met "faster, better, and greater", he does so from a place of proven capability, not hope.
The government's agenda involves much more than cash transfers.
It also includes low-interest business loans, ex -
panded school feeding programmes, women's health services, and homeownership opportunities. This comprehensive approach to prosperity shows that promises are not made lightly; they are supported by real expertise and thoughtful planning.
As Guyanese celebrate this Christmas season, the lights on Main Street represent more than just holiday joy. They highlight a government that has consistently turned words into deeds. The evidence is clear, the PPP/C doesn't just make promises, it fulfills them.
Mr. Hopkinson was the only speaker because he was not there at the luncheon and if Mr. Hopkinson was the only speaker or there were others and he was asked that question, he would have answered because he sees nothing wrong with the question. I don’t think any human on Planet Earth would see anything wrong with such a prodigiously harmless question. I will always remember Ms. Bishop and Mr. Dean because I am in 38 years of journalism and I don’t think I have ever asked someone such a jejune, harmless, ordinary question. How can any human on Planet Earth host a luncheon, invite a featured speaker and when the press asked the sponsors if there were other main speakers, they declined to answer that
simple question?
Now let’s come to Mr. Hopkinson and the EU Embassy in Guyana. Guyana is the fastest growing economy in the world and has the fastest rate of investment in the CARICOM area. I would have thought Mr. Hopkinson’s delivery would have been on business prospects and the business future in Guyana, but it was on homosexuality.
In delivering his speech on homosexuality Mr. Hopkinson descended to irritating levels of fiction.
He posited that discrimination exists against homosexual people in Guyana and secondly said Guyana suffers from skills deficiency when homosexual folks migrate because of their treatment in Guyana. Both points are
non-starters. This country has one of the highest levels of tolerance for male and female homosexuals. Homosexual males and females occupy high places in every sphere of life in Guyana. Secondly, the rate of homosexuals leaving Guyana and taking their skills elsewhere is infinitesimal and has absolutely no effect on Guyana’s skills bank.
The ECCG luncheon was no doubt facilitated by the EU Embassy. Did the Embassy recommend Mr. Hopkinson as the main speaker?
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.
IN a direct charge to the nation’s law enforcement body, Minister of Home Affairs
Oneidge Walrond on Friday reminded ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) that public trust is the currency on which policing survives and that trust is easily lost if misconduct is allowed to contaminate the institution’s progress.
Delivering remarks at the Force’s Annual Awards Ceremony, held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Police Headquarters, Eve Leary, the Minister said the government’s unprecedented investments in modern policing must be matched by accountability, integrity, and leadership at every level.
“Public trust is fragile. One act of misconduct can undo months of hard work, yet one act of honesty or compassion can restore the confidence of an entire community. There will be zero tolerance for malpractice, abuse of authority, or any behaviour that dishonours this uniform. Every officer must commit to the highest standards of integrity, accountability and service. The people of Guyana deserve nothing less,” Walrond told the packed hall of officers, awardees and family members. Her message set the tone for an event that recognised excellence across the Force, but also challenged officers to confront hard truths as Guyana’s policing landscape modernises at an unprecedented pace.
MASSIVE INVE STMENTS, HIGHER EXPECTATIONS
Walrond noted that under the leadership of President Dr. Irfaan Ali, the government delivered 37 new and upgraded police facilities along with five new command centres in 2025 alone transforming the operational environment across Regions One through 10.
Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond presents the coveted Best Cop title was awarded to Deputy Superintendent Fiona Fredricks, the Head of the Narcotics Branch, whose leadership and operational results have positioned the unit as a national standout (Delano Williams photo)
“These investments are not symbolic. They are designed to ensure that you serve from safe, modern, functional environments and that equality of policing matches the pace and expectations of a rapidly developing nation,” she said.
But she was firm, infrastructure alone cannot drive transformation.
“Leadership can’t rest in the office. It must be visible at every outpost, on every patrol, in every call for service, and in every interaction with the public.”
Walrond said that while the nation witnessed officers who responded bravely in life-threatening situations, supported victims of violence, and solved complex cases with skill and persistence, there were also incidents of individual malpractice that cast shadows over the organisation.
“This year, we have seen both. But today, we celebrate those who represent the best of policing. Excellence is not an occasional act. It is a habit, a culture, a commitment demonstrated consistently over time,” the Minister added.
TECHNOLOGYDRIVEN POLIC-
ING RESHAPING
ENFORCEMENT, CRIME-FIGHTING Meanwhile, Commis-
sioner of Police Clifton Hicken, outlined the Force’s sweeping modernisation in 2025, as he reported that technology has become “a lifesaving tool” in road-safety enforcement. The Safe Roads Intelligent System, coupled with the installation of 30 speed cameras, has radically shifted compliance on roadways.
“E-tickets rose from 837 in 2024 to 24,793 in 2025. Traffic cases increased by 10 per cent, driven by real-time detection. Although fatal accidents rose by 2 per cent, overall accidents fell by 15 per cent, demonstrating that data-driven enforcement and targeted education are protecting our citizens,” he explained.
In crime-fighting, the Force recorded a 25.22 per cent reduction in serious crimes and a 61.76 per cent clear-up rate, outcomes Hicken credited to strengthened intelligence capabilities. Regional and District Intelligence Committees, established across all divisions, expanded real-time information flow, enabling officers to “detect, prevent, and respond to emerging threats with greater precision.”
Focusing on the pillar of “Developing Our People,” the Commissioner said the GPF invested deeply in training, edu-
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken presents the first runner-up Best Cop title to Assistant Superintendent Johann Henry of the Criminal Investigations Department in Regional Division Six
cation, and professional development throughout the year. He explained that 3,510 were promoted under a fully merit-based system, while 1,961 officers benefitted from scholarships and sponsorships. He also noted that 43 ranks were granted study leave and 53 received educational allowances inclusive of masters and doctoral-level programmes. Additionally, 105 ranks were trained in Spanish, Portuguese, and Mandarin to strengthen the Force’s capacity to serve Guyana’s increasingly multilingual society.
Hicken added that the GPF also expanded its welfare infrastructure through initiatives such as the Therapist Unit at Headquarters, the decentralisation of welfare support programmes, and the establishment of daycare facilities in Regions 4B, Six, and Three developments he framed as essential to supporting officers not only as ranks but as human beings.
“We took policing beyond language barriers and invested in our officers as people not just as ranks. This is central to the modern Force we are building,” he said.
The Commissioner said this investment in the human element was matched by a comparable transformation of the physical and digital
systems that support policing.
He reported that the GPF now operates 6,685 body-worn cameras, 55 CCTV sites, and 942 digital workstations, alongside an enhanced national 911 platform that has strengthened real-time response capability. He further outlined the establishment of new command centres across Regions Two, Three, Five, Six, and 10, which he said have significantly improved surveillance and operational coordination.
He noted that the Force advanced maritime policing by commissioning or refurbishing boathouses across Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Six, Seven, and 10. In 2025 alone, the GPF delivered 83 newly built or upgraded stations, living quarters, outposts, boathouses, and IT facilities, while strengthening mobility with 120 new vehicles and vessels that include modern pickups, motorcycles, ATVs, and marine assets.
According to Hicken, these advancements demonstrate that “in 2025, we were not just constructing buildings, we were building capability.”
EXCELLENCE
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) was singled out for its robust work in removing guns, ammunition, and narcotics from the streets while securing strong arrest and charge rates in serious crimes, including murder and robbery under arms.
The Narcotics Branch received over $4 million in cash incentives for its outstanding accomplishments throughout the year.
Youth groups attached to all Regional Police Divisions were also recognised, acknowledging their contribution to community engagement and youth empowerment.
The coveted Best Cop title was awarded to Deputy Superintendent Fiona Fredricks, the Head of the Narcotics Branch, whose leadership and operational results have positioned the unit as a national standout.
Assistant Superintendent Johann Henry of the Criminal Investigations Department in Regional Division Six was named first runner-up. Sportsman of the Year was awarded to Quentin Sampson, while the Sportswoman of the Year title went to Aaliyah Moore.
The ceremony, traditionally held at yearend, spotlighted officers whose performance strengthened public safety, security operations, youth engagement, and investigative outcomes.
GUYANA’S growth in the global oil and gas arena is set to take centre stage at the fifth Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, which is set for February 17-20, 2026.
This was disclosed on Friday at the official launch of the Energy Conference, which took place at the Aiden By Best Western Hotel, during which it was noted that while Guyana remains a new player in the petroleum industry, it has quickly distinguished itself worldwide.
Speaking during the launch, Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat stated, “This is our fifth Energy Conference, and we are still considered to be a baby in the oil and gas sector. We are still considered to be one of the new producers in the world, but yet we are here, launching the fifth Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo.”
He emphasised that the success of the conference mirrors the rapid development of the sector itself,
with each reinforcing the other. “Because of what is taking place and the rate of which it is taking place in the oil and gas sector, we have seen tremendous success at these conferences,” he added.
The minister noted that Guyana is now recognised as one of the largest producers of hydrocarbons per capita in the world, a distinction he says the country must promote.
Against this backdrop, Minister Bharrat further highlighted the government’s efforts to establish a strong governance
framework as the industry expands. “Guyana is rated and seen as one of the best-managed oil and gas sectors in the world, among new oil-producing countries,” he said, adding that the local content framework and environmental sustainability initiatives will remain key areas of focus when the conference convenes.
The minister described the event as a premier international platform that has consistently attracted global leaders, a trend he expects to continue.
“More and more, the
- fifth edition to highlight updated vision for oil, gas and supply chain expansion
interest keeps building in what Guyana has to offer. And we say to them, if you want to know what Guyana has to offer, then come on February 17, because you will hear everything that Guyana has to offer,” he added.
Meanwhile, President of ExxonMobil Guyana Alistair Routledge reflected on how quickly the industry and the conference have evolved. “Time passes so quickly that we’re already talking about the 2026 edition of the Guyana Energy Conference and supply chain Expo. It only
THE top brass of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Friday credited the country’s ranks for delivering what they described as one of the most peaceful and orderly elections in Guyana’s contemporary history, highlighting the quiet, disruption-free conduct of the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
Speaking at the GPF’s Christmas Awards Ceremony at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken said the security services demonstrated exceptional discipline and coordination throughout the electoral period, a performance he de-
scribed as historic.
On August 22, led by the heads of the respective Disciplined Forces, members of the GPF, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and Guyana Prison Service (GPS) cast their votes in a peaceful and orderly manner at the various designated and fully secured polling stations across the 10 administrative regions of Guyana.
For the GPF, 6,999 ranks were eligible to cast their votes; 3,106 for the GDF, and 466 for the GPS. The Disciplined Services members were allowed to vote in the districts where they are assigned to work and not in the district where they are
registered to vote, as clarified by GECOM.
“The joint services election was free and fair. General and Regional Election was free and fair. For the first time ever in the history of Guyana since I've known myself, the election was quiet,” Hicken said, adding that ranks deserved a “round of applause” for their execution.
Hicken stressed that the environment of calm, order, and public confidence seen during the 2025 polls reflected the maturity of the security architecture and the professionalism of the ranks deployed across the country.
Meanwhile, Deputy
Commissioner (Administration) Ravindradat Budhram echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the year tested the Force’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard democracy.
“2025 tested our ability to safeguard democracy itself. The 2025 General and Regional Elections were conducted peacefully and without disruption. That success belongs to every rank who stood on duty, often unseen, ensuring calm, order, and public confidence,” Budhram said.
He underscored that the quiet success of the elections was not accidental, but the result of intentional prepara-
place since then.
He went on to note that the 2026 edition will provide an opportunity to update that vision, and outline the progress made.
Discussions are expected to cover the investments required to sustain the sector’s expansion, from infrastructure and financing to human capacity and collaboration.
seems like yesterday that we were at the Marriott, enjoying getting together and talking about where we are in the development of the energy industry in Guyana,” he said.
Routledge noted the enthusiasm generated by the vision presented at the 2025 conference.
“We shared a vision; introduced a vision of what more could be possible as we look not just to develop the oil resource, but also the gas resource in Guyana,” he recalled, adding that numerous follow-up conversations have taken
“I really look forward to the Energy Conference coming together in February for us to have those vital conversations about what is needed, and how we’re all going to get together to continue to propel the industry, but also the country forward,” Routledge said.
Routledge urged stakeholders to join the conference as Guyana continues its rise as a regional and global focal point. “What more reason could we have, and to look forward to the Guyana Energy Conference and supply chain exhibition… to continue these vital conversations,” he said.
tion, operational resilience, and the personal commitment of ranks across every division.
“Behind every badge is a person who has chosen to put the safety of others above their own… your perseverance, your empathy for the vulnerable, and your commitment to building safer communities made this possible,” Budhram added.
Both leaders affirmed that the Force intends to build on this momentum as it strengthens national security systems heading into 2026.
Several local and international reports like the European Election Observer Mission to Guyana’s 2025 elections (EU EOM) have all reported that the country’s September 1 polls were ‘peaceful and well-run.’
“The 2025 elections showed important improvements in the way voting and counting were conducted, and Guyanese citizens, once again, demonstrated their commitment to democratic participation,” the EU EOM Chief Observer, Robert Biedron had said.
AHEAD of the busy Christmas season, the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) is set to undertake maintenance works today on the country’s second
of GPL, Kesh Nandlall, who engaged members of the media on board the power ship on Friday.
During the engagement, Nandlall disclosed that the
constructed to link the vessel to the country’s grid.
What is expected to happen today, he explained, is that the power ship will be disconnected from the grid
power ship, docked at the Demerara Sugar Terminal, Ruimveldt.
This was disclosed by the Chief Executive Officer
power company has recognised that there were some hotspots in relation to the connection of the power ship and the 69kv line, which was
as such a decision was made to have maintenance done to correct issues before they worsen. Officials onsite noted that if it persists without maintenance, it can cause a
for maintenance to be done on the lines.
The “hotspots” it was disclosed were discovered using thermal imaging and
total shutdown of the system.
“So, we will be taking off this power ship, the L10 transmission line, the new Georgetown substation will
be disconnected from the grid from 6 am to 12 noon,” he said while noting that during that time, the works will be conducted.
Against this backdrop, Nandlall addressed readiness for the holiday season and stated that this is all part of preparedness for the season.
“This is all part of us being prepared. We have been doing a lot of maintenance works, which requires some amount of outages. We apologise for that. We need to do maintenance works so that we can have reliable power and distribution for the holidays,” he added.
Further to this, he noted that the peak demand for the year came around 221 megawatts just around September-October, which is usually the peak demand period.
With this, Nandlall sought to clarify the misconception that the Christmas season is the peak demand season for power here, stating, “Christmas is not really
our peak, and it’s something we need to clarify, our peak really is in the hot season, which is September-October.”
To this end, the CEO stated that they expect demand for the holiday season to peak around 210 to 215 megawatts, even as the current generation capacity is around 250 megawatts. He emphasised that presently, the company is in a comfortable position.
As a result of the maintenance works, areas expected to be affected by an interruption in electricity supply include South and North Ruimveldt, Tucville, Lamaha Park and Springs, Guyhoc Park and Gardens, Roxanne Burnham Gardens, Shirley Field Ridley Square, Cane View Avenue, Industrial Estate & Industrial Site to Agricola, Republic Park and Gardens, Nandy Park, Continental Park and Anaida Avenue and Ubani Avenue, Eccles.
tourism sector continues to grow with strategic partnerships, government’s leadership - GTA head says
GUYANA’S tourism sector has taken a significant turn in recent years, from the addition of hotel rooms and more tourism experiences being created, to the marketing of ‘Destination Guyana.’
This year alone, Guyana has seen strides that will ensure that the country’s economy, and communities where tourism is promoted,
leadership.
benefit.
During the Guyana Tourism Awards and Gala 2025 on Tuesday, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Kamrul Baksh in his remarks acknowledged the architect of Guyana’s new tourism frontier and framework, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, saying, “He has not only given us the vision, but he has clearly articulated all of the stepping stones that we, as the implementing agency need to implement so that we can achieve the mission that has been set out.”
Baksh added, “And, of course, the Minister Rodrigues, the effervescence, and the individual that has the innate passion and drive, and I think that passion has reverberated all across the tourism community.”
According to the GTA director, Guyana is well-positioned for a great future with this
Further, he stated that for Tourism Awareness Month, several sensitisation programmes were held locally and internationally. These included media familiarisation trips to the heartland of ecotourism, and the hallways of the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, where new connections were established, reinforced and strengthened.
Noting that artificial intelligence (AI) is good for efficiency and visitor management, the director said people are what make the tourism industry think. “there’s nothing that can replace the human interaction,” Baksh said.
Sharing that our strategic partnerships have been strong, he emphasised that each of these partnerships have played a pivotal role in developing and promoting Guyana’s tourism economy.
During the ceremony, it was said that 2026 will mark an escalated push in the tourism sector. It was also emphasised by various officials that the government’s approach will be even more aggressive, with focus on those areas that have shown the greatest potential for expansion and longterm impact.
- residents say upgrades to infrastructure, social amenities have improved their lives
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
RESIDENTS living in West Canje, Berbice, once considered a distant and often forgotten area, are now singing praises for the tremendous transformation their communities have experienced over the past five years.
From improved infrastructure to enhanced social amenities, residents said that the level of development has significantly improved their quality of life.
Diane Shines of Sandvoort Village, West Canje, Berbice, shared her satisfaction with the progress made in her community, stating, “thus far the development taking place in Sandvooort is really great. The reason I am saying this [is that] over the years, all the development we got in that area is every time PPP take office they would have done something for that community and we move from mud road to pitch road, we move from a small building which was the primary school to a larger one where the children get more space where they can learn; the learning capacity is far more better. The health centre in the community, we are grateful for it because we don’t have to go all the way out in New Amsterdam. In case persons get ill it easier for you get help.”
She further highlighted the addition of critical utilities and recreational facilities that have brought new opportunities to residents, especially young people and women in the area. “We get electricity. So far we get a ballfield there and it is very good and normally we got to come all the way to Locaber for the kids to do sports, now we can get that done right in the community. In the after-
noon we can go and the children can play football and cricket, and females can play circle tennis, it’s one of the exercises I love, and females can go and play. So, the development is vast, we have so many other opportunities and I am grateful for it.”
Residents from neighbouring villages have also expressed similar sentiments.
Andrew (only name given) of Locaber Village, West Canje Berbice, welcomed the improvements taking place and shared his hopes for continued progress.
He said, “We are really happy to see the development that has happened in the community. We have seen they [are] doing a lot of things; they extended the play park, the ballfield a lot of work, things are doing for the first time and I hope that they continue.”
The developments across West Canje reflect a renewed focus on rural communities, with residents now enjoying better roads, improved education facilities, access to healthcare, electricity, and recreational spaces. For many, these changes represent long-awaited progress and renewed hope for even greater opportunities in the future.
Meanwhile, over in Betsy Ground, East Canje Berbice, Monique (only name given) said that she has seen improvements in almost all of the cross streets in her area while adding “now we get good water too.”
Another young resi -
dent of Betsy Ground said, “for the first time in Betsy Ground we have a proper bridge where vehicle can drive over. Plus, we never had good water [and] now we have good water from GWI, and they doing a lot of roads, the crossroads them vehicle can cross comfortable.”
Gudwattie Kuldip of Betsy Ground also shared glowing praise for the ongoing works in her community, describing the level of development as tremendous and long overdue.
She noted that the improvements have brought greater ease and comfort to residents, particularly with the upgrading of road infrastructure that has improved accessibility and daily transportation.
Expressing her appreciation, Kuldip said, “They are doing a great job. They build the cross streets, and I really admire them.”
According to several residents, the upgraded streets have significantly reduced flooding and mud related inconveniences that once plagued the community, making travel safer, smoother, and more convenient for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike.
They further noted that Betsy Ground is home to a large number of elderly residents who now enjoy easier and safer access to run their daily errands, attend to medical appointments, and move about the community with greater independence.
THE Ministry of Health (MoH) on Friday received a significant batch of medical equipment under the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Project, funded by Global Affairs Canada, and implemented in partnership with that country’s McMaster University and Giving Help to Kids, a Canadian charity organisation.
The handing over ceremony was held at the ministry’s Kingston Bond, Georgetown, where Minister of Health, Honourable Dr Frank Anthony, officially
accepted the equipment.
The donation, valued at CAD$183,000 (GUY$27.5 million), includes critical items such as HbA1c analysers, hepatitis B test kits, haemoglobin analysers, portable steam sterilisers and urine test strips, all of which will directly strengthen maternal and newborn services in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
In his remarks, Minister Anthony highlighted the long-stand-
ing partnership between Guyana and Canada, noting the significant progress the collaboration has brought to maternal and child health.
“Just this week we had the close-out of another project supported by Canada in the area of mental health, and now we are here with this initiative that has been contributing tremendously to maternal and child health,” he said. “We have a number of exceptional partners in Canada, including Giving Help to Kids and McMaster University, who
have worked with us for many years.”
Dr Anthony also announced ongoing training opportunities through McMaster University.
“Over the next few years, we intend to have at least 35 Guyanese doctors trained at McMaster. We also have strong partnerships with other Canadian institutions in Calgary and York, all helping us advance our health system,” he said.
The minister emphasised that the new equipment will support early detection of complications,
especially diabetes in pregnancy, improve antenatal screening, and enhance the management of highrisk mothers.
He noted that the equipment will directly support the Ministry’s successful initiatives in remote regions, including maternal waiting homes that
preventable maternal and neonatal deaths and strengthening clinical readiness across Guyana’s most remote areas,” she said.
Ms Faria explained that, for over a decade, Giving Health to Kids has worked with the Ministry of Health to improve neonatal and paediatric care, train special-
Some of the critical medical items that were donated to the Ministry of Health on Friday to enhance maternal and newborn care in hinterland communities
have contributed to achieving zero maternal deaths in several hinterland regions.
The minister expressed appreciation to the Government of Canada, Giving Help to Kids, and McMaster University for their sustained collaboration and commitment to improving maternal and newborn health in Guyana. “This partnership continues to strengthen health systems, improve access, and save lives especially in remote hinterland communities,” he said.
Also attending the handing over ceremony was Director of Primary Health Care, Dr Ertenisa Hamilton, who noted that the donation comes at a crucial time, as the ministry continues expanding access and improving the quality of MNCH services, particularly in Hinterland regions where geographic and cultural barriers pose unique challenges.
“This donation is a major boost for our hinterland regions, where early testing and timely interventions can save lives. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that every mother and newborn receives the highest quality of care, and we are now seeing the results of these efforts,” said Dr Hamilton.
She pointed out that the equipment provided will help sustain the gains the Ministry has made and ensure that women, regardless of their location or cultural barriers, receive the services they deserve. “We thank our partners for recognising the importance of mothers and children to the Government of Guyana,” she added.
Speaking on behalf of Giving Health to Kids, Senior Manager of Administration and Projects, Ms Aruna Faria, highlighted the substantial progress made under the MNCH Project and reiterated the organisation’s long-standing partnership with Guyana.
“Today’s donation, valued at CAD$183,000, is part of our shared commitment to reducing
ists, and expand critical services.
“We are grateful to Global Affairs Canada, McMaster University, and the Ministry of Health for their strong partnership, and to our donors for believing in this mission. Together, we continue to give health and hope to the children of Guyana,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Canadian High Commissioner, Mr Sébastien Sigouin, reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering commitment to improving maternal, newborn and child health globally and in Guyana.
“MNCH has long been a priority for the Government of Canada because we have seen, all over the world, how investing in health is a gift that keeps on giving. By investing in MNCH, we are investing in the people and the future of Guyana,” he said.
Mr Sigouin also commended the Ministry of Health and frontline workers for their dedication. “It is not about Canada it is about you. You are the ones making a difference in a mother’s or a child’s life every day,” he said.
The MNCH Project (20232028) aims to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths through strengthened clinical readiness and referral systems, capacity building for health workers, gender-responsive and adolescent-friendly health services, community engagement, expanded outreach services, and improved neonatal emergency care.
The list of equipment procured through the donation are 24 boxes of Urine Test Strips (URS 10-in-1), 20 Portable Pressure Steam Sterilisers (18L, YX-LM), 20 Hemocue 301 Hb Analysers, 45 boxes of Hemocue Cuvettes, 45 boxes of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Rapid Test Kits, 10 HbA1c Analysers and 15 HbA1c Reagent Kits. (MoH)
PHENOMENAL Women of 2025 returns for its fifth consecutive year to shine a spotlight on the remarkable women who continue to uplift, inspire, and transform Guyana.
Created and hosted by Macaela Cameron, the series continues its mission of honouring five exceptional women yearly who have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and impact in their fields, a press release said. It added that this year’s honourees across the five categories: health, sport, arts/culture/education, business/entrepreneurship, and oil &
gas, add another five exceptional women to the growing Phenomenal Women alumnae.
Episodes will air from December 15th to 19th, bringing viewers inspiring stories of achievement, resilience, and leadership.
The release said that persons can tune in on Facebook via the News Room and ENet pages immediately following the news broadcast.
The episodes will also be aired on E1, E3 and SKAR TV channels.
“For the past five years, Phenomenal Women has been a platform to amplify the voices
and journeys of women who are shaping our nation,” says creator and host Macaela Cameron.
“Each season reminds us of the incredible talent and power that Guyanese women possess. I’m honoured to celebrate another group of trail blazers in 2025.”
The 2025 series is supported by an esteemed group of sponsors, including ExxonMobil Guyana, ENet, News Room, Always, Republic Bank, Wendy’s, Caribe, King’ s Jewellery World, Jewelz by King’ s Hotel, HJ 94.1 and Ogle and Stone, the release added.
THE Georgetown American University (GAU), a local private university, on Friday hosted a commencement ceremony for the 2025 batch of Doctors of Medicine, Nurses, Registered Nurses, and Nursing Assistants.
At the National Cultural Centre, Georgetown, where the simple but very important ceremony was held, GAU board member Rudolph Cummings said strategies are what are steering the GAU forward. He added that these strategies depend on what is evolving globally in the field
of healthcare, and the university recognises the health status of all populations that should benefit from the training graduates receive.
Speaking on the evolution of moving to paperless (digital) means of recording data, Dr. Cummings said the GAU is striving to have a digital platform for learning and administration.
“The university is anxious to have in place, as soon as possible, its own campus. It is also in the process of setting up a campus, a satellite campus in Atlanta (USA), and both of these campus -
es will benefit significantly from the digitisation of all the processes, both learning and administration, that are availing themselves to teachers, students, and administrators,” Dr. Cummings announced. Additionally, he revealed that the board is at the forefront of trying to support the school by finally helping to source the resources necessary for new technologies and to improve the performance of the GAU’s studentship.
Meanwhile, Dr. Melissa Varswyk, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and
President at the GAU in her brief remarks stated that this batch of nursing students was part of the GAU’s pilot programme for the Nursing School. The first of many trials, errors and challenges, the graduating class had a total of six students.
Dr. Varswyk told the graduands that they all saw their various obstacles as stepping stones to this very moment.
“Every examination, every sleepless night of study, every moment you questioned your own strength. Those were not setbacks.
Definitely not because you are here today. They were confirmations. They were proof that you were moving, you were growing, and you were advancing,” she said.
Dr. Varswyk emphasised to them that if there is no challenge as they move to the next chapters of their lives, it means that they have stopped moving, growing and achieving.
In her charge, the institution’s president challenged the graduands to create a five-year goal for themselves. These goals, she said, can be achieved if
they believe and work towards accomplishing them.
“I want you to remember this. A challenge is not a wall, it's a door, and only those who dare to push it open will discover how powerful they truly are. Graduates, as you go forward, embrace every change, expect challenges, and when challenges appear, smile, because it means you are on the path to growth and towards creating the true you,” Dr. Varswyk stressed.
MINISTER of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, on Friday disclosed that Guyana is set to ink an agreement with Ghanaian-based Cybele Energy Limited for exploration activities in the country’s shallow water block.
Minister Bharrat made this known while fielding questions from members of the media on Friday, during which he noted that the block awarded to the company is
the S7 block and, as such, the agreement will be signed in the new week.
“The block that was awarded to Cybele [is] S7, that’s the agreement that we are signing next Tuesday,” he said.
When asked about a partnership which Cybele has with another company, he noted that Cybele is the company that will be signing the agreement.
“Cybele has advanced the
negotiation with us to a stage where we have finalised the agreement with them, and that is the company we’ll be signing with,” he said.
He disclosed that the agreement will follow the conditions of a new petroleum licensing agreement.
“The delay that we had in signing these agreements is because we wanted one PSA for all the companies that are signing blocks in the shallow water, so we have a
FOLLOWING several hours of heavy rainfall in Georgetown on Friday, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has assured the public that everything possible is being done to prepare for the rainy season and limit instances of flooding.
When contacted, he told this publication that work is being done ‘behind the scenes’ and that in the new week his ministry will update the media on the plans for this period.
The minister stated that all 13 drainage pumps in the city and its immediate environs were in operation on Friday following reports of flooding.
Further, he said that all kokers and sluices are working as they should and the engineer was checking all interlocking areas to ensure there are no issues at the outfalls.
Minister Mustapha emphasised that the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has certain responsibilities to fulfill to reduce flooding in Georgetown. However, he pointed out that where City Council falls short, his ministry will have to step in and assist to ensure all pumps are working and all other flood prevention measures are in place.
He visited Main Street and other areas in Georgetown on Friday to assess the situation firsthand.
Ahead of the launch of the Christmas Village on Main Street, a drainage pump was installed to drain the area. The heavy
rainfall caused the drains to overflow, flooding the street and submerging the pavement.
The flooding in the city on Friday caused traffic jams in the busy downtown area. Pavements were flooded, forcing pedestrians to walk on the roadway.
In flood prone areas, a large quantity of empty bottles and other waste materials were noticeably clogging drains, hampering the free flow of water. Additionally, trenches and drainage canals were overtopping.
When this publication visited the Liliendaal Pump Station and several other pump stations, the pumps were in operation. Even though the tide was high, water was been pumped into the Atlantic Ocean.
The Guyana Chronicle also visited the pumps located in Kingston, Kitty and Lombard and Princes Streets and they were all
shallow water PSA and not different PSAs for different companies,” he explained.
He went on to add that it took some time for all companies to agree to the conditions in one PSA.
The conditions on this agreement include modernised fiscal terms—a 10 per cent royalty rate, a 10 per cent corporate tax, and a reduced cost recovery ceiling, while profit sharing remains an even 50/50 split between
the government and contractors.
“The fiscal regime, as we mentioned, will not change, that will not change, the 10 per cent tax… that will not change in any agreement… There are just a few administrative issues that would have been negotiated with the team,” he said, while adding that further details will be divulged during the signing.
actively working to help reduce the flooding in the city.
Additionally, this publication visited several areas in Georgetown. Among the flooded areas were Bel Air Park, Regent Street and Avenue of the Republic.
In the Smyth and Quamina Streets area, persons were observed wading through almost ankle-high water while motorists navigated potholes and other obstacles that were on the flooded roadway.
At Lombard and High Streets, Georgetown, the water was a bit stagnant causing the roads and drains to look like they were one.
On the lower East Coast of Demerara, some areas had substantial amounts of water, but the situation was not as bad as it was in the city.
Once the rain stopped, the flood water began to recede.
Saturday, December 06th, 2025
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD -
83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Ojay Shields (WI) (2) 347 players
Today’s Quiz:
(1) How many players have now represented the WI in Tests against NZ?
(2) How many players have now represented NZ in Tests versus the WI?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue.
THE Inter Guiana Games Volleyball action served off on Friday evening at the National Gym-
nasium with a pulsating contest in front of a vocal and vibrant crowd. Guyana’s national junior
women’s team started slow in the opening match of that segment.
The local’s lost the first set against their French counterpart 25-10 before losing the second set 25-18 in the best of five match-up.
The locals would mount a valiant comeback in the third set leading 13-8 at one
point but a couple of substitutions gave the French Guyanese ladies the revival they needed.
They came back to level the scores 13-13 before eventually closing out the set 2518 and sweep the five-match series.
Games continue tomorrow at the same venue.
THE message from officials at the opening ceremony of the Inter-Guiana Games (IGG) was pure competitive fire, urging the nearly 500 student-athletes to “perform with pride” and honour the tri-nation event’s legacy.
Persistent rain forced the opening ceremony at the National Track and Field Facility in West Coast Demerara to be scaled back dramatically.
Still, the focus quickly shifted from weather delays to the significance of the competition itself.
The IGG, revived in 2022 by President Dr.
Irfaan Ali’s administration after a hiatus since 2017—remains a vital regional platform, nurturing diplomatic and sporting ties across Guyana, French Guiana, and Suriname for nearly six decades.
The tri-nation contingent of 14-to-18year-old competitors received a powerful call to action from Guyana’s political leadership.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., rallied the athletes to seize the moment, emphasising that the Games extend far beyond the medal tally.
“These Games are a platform for unity, not just competition,” Ramson Jr. said.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The 2026 World Cup will kick off on June 11 with joint-hosts Mexico playing South Africa at the Azteca Stadium - iconic venue of the 1970 and 1986 finals - followed by South Korea against a playoff winner after the complex draw was made on Friday.
“We want you to showcase the best of your talent and produce your best performances, but we also want you to forge bonds that reinforce us as a people.”
The message of regional camaraderie was echoed by Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Steven Jacobs, who focused on the inherent cultural exchange.
“As these three Guianas meet, we see a blending of cultures and a celebration of our shared Caribbean heritage,” Jacobs noted.
“Take this opportunity to learn from one another and use this platform to grow.”
Suriname’s top sports official, Minister
Lalinie Gopal, reiterated the importance of diplomatic respect.
“The Inter-Guiana Games is more than sport; it’s about friendship,” said Minister Gopal.
“Despite our different languages, we are united by the spirit of competition and mutual respect.”
The IGG competition runs from Friday to Sunday and caters exclusively to student-athletes aged 14 to 18.
This year’s competition features six core disciplines: Swimming, Athletics, Basketball, Volleyball, Futsal (Boys only) and Chess.
THE Caribbean Boxing Organization (CBO) announced the postponement of its highly anticipated “Boxing Day Showdown,” originally slated for December 26, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
The event has been rescheduled to January 24, 2026, following unforeseen issues affecting the availability of several key fighters on the card.
In a statement issued to partners and stakeholders, the CBO noted that the decision was made after extensive consultation with its board members.
While acknowledging the disappointment that often accompanies schedule changes, the organisation stressed that the shift was necessary to ensure the integrity and quality of the event.
According to the release, the absence of prominent fighters, central to the evening’s marquee matchups, made it clear that proceeding as initially planned would compromise the standard of entertainment the CBO aims to deliver.
The rescheduled date, they said, will allow the CBO to present a card befitting fans’ expectations and sponsors’ investment.
The CBO reaffirmed its commitment to staging a world-class night of boxing, highlighting that their priority remains the well-being of the athletes, as well as maintaining strong relationships with supporters across the region.
They also expressed appreciation for the patience and flexibility shown by fans and partners as logistical adjustments are made.
Despite the postponement, anticipation remains high as the new date promises an electrifying start to the 2026 boxing calendar.
Mexico’s co-hosts the United States and Canada will join the biggest-ever World Cup party the following day. The U.S., courtesy of their top seeding, got a dream draw and will play Paraguay, Australia and a playoff winner.
Canada, also a top seed despite a world ranking of 27th, have it tougher against a playoff winner - possibly Italy - Switzerland and Qatar.
The draw for the expanded 48-team tournament, with six berths still to be filled via a series of playoffs, was hugely complicated due to various geographical sub-clauses.
Former England defender and MC Rio Ferdinand routinely returned balls to the metaphorical pot after “computer said no’.
Defending champions Argentina were grouped with Algeria, Austria and debutants Jordan, while five-times winners Brazil will play Morocco - semi-finalists in 2022 - Haiti and Scotland.
The Scots are appearing in the finals for the first time since 1998, when they lost to Brazil in the opening game, while Haiti’s only previous appearance came in 1974.
France’s first game will be versus Senegal in a repeat of one of the biggest tournament upsets, when the Africans stunned the then-holders in their first game of the 2002 tournament. Norway and one of the playoff winners complete their group.
England will start against Croatia, who beat them in the 2018 semi-finals, and also face Panama, who they thrashed 6-1 in the group stage in the same tournament, and Ghana.
Debutants Curacao, with a population of 150,000 making them by far the smallest country ever to reach the finals, face Germany, Ecuador and the Ivory Coast.
World number-one-ranked Spain have a dream draw alongside first-timers Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
The Netherlands are with Japan, Tunisia and a playoff winner, Belgium have Egypt, Iran and New Zealand, while Portugal face debutants Uzbekistan, Colombia and a playoff winner.
The teams outside the hosts’ groups will have to wait until Saturday to find out the venues and kickoff times for their games after FIFA attempts to optimise them relating to the various worldwide TV markets.
A newly introduced seeding system ensured that the current top four in the world - Spain, Argentina, France and Englandcannot meet until the semi-final stage if they win their groups, but that has not ruled out a host of potential blockbuster clashes along the way.
FRANCE COULD FACE TOUGH ROUTE TO FINAL
France, runners-up in 2022, might like the look of their group but, if results go to form, once they reach the last 16 they can expect a potential run of Germany, the Netherlands and Spain to reach the final.
England’s pathway to the showpiece match has a very Latin - and difficult - look with Mexico, Brazil, who they have never beaten at the World Cup, and Argentina in the
way of a first final appearance since their sole triumph in 1966.
Mexico have a favourable group but will be looking beyond that in the hope of at least matching their performance as hosts in 1986 when they reached the quarter-finals.
Since then they suffered a remarkable seven consecutive last-16 exits and then failed to get out of their group in 2022.
“There are no small opponents. We must not get complacent, we have to work hard,” said Mexico coach Javier Aguirre. “We’ll be repeating our opening match from 15 years ago and we’ll have to be ready.”
The U.S. have a winnable group and their Argentine coach Mauricio Pochettino sounded upbeat.
“We need to be strong in our belief, keep improving, thinking big of course and to go and to win the World Cup,” he said. “But before that we need to play and be motivated with these guys that are going to be really tough.”
Remarkably, despite playing each other 106 times, Brazil and Argentina have met in the World Cup knockout stage only once, when the Argentines won 1-0 in the 1990 Round of 16, but they could be on course for a seismic semi-final showdown next year.
On Saturday, the Ministry of Education ground will witness a ground breaking contest with the finals of the U-11 football tournament.
The tournament, sponsored by MVP Sports and organised by the Petra Organisation will see Waramuri playing Santa Rosa.
The clash will not feature a Georgetown side for the first time in the competition’s finals history as the hinterland sides have dominated thus far.
Santa Rosa eliminated defending champions Marian Academy in a tense semifinal encounter that went to penalty kicks en route to the finals while the other semifinal saw Waramuri Primary taking a 2-nil win over St John the Baptist.
Organiser Troy Mendonca speaking to Guyana Chronicle anticipates a special final with two worthy teams as he urged persons to turn up in their numbers to show their backing for women’s football.
“We are expecting one of the most thrilling and exciting final, we already know what these schools give, these hinterland schools and the beauty of it they are both from Region One, so it is a battle of champions of Region One, all should come out to support the young women in their quest for sporting excellence and success on the field of play.”
Along with the top team, there are also prizes for the top eight schools which include trophies, medals, television, tablets etc.
A fighting, unbeaten century from Shai Hope coupled with Justin Greaves’ stellar half-century in their second innings against New Zealand, yesterday, has forced the opening Test into its final day.
Hope, who finished on 116 not out, along with Greaves, who is unbeaten on 55, have so far added 140 runs for the fifth wicket to guide West Indies to 212 for four, still a mammoth 319 runs away from their target of 531.
The pair rescued their side from the perilous position of 72 for four, with the Kiwis seemingly in position to wrap up the match on the fourth day.
However, stellar batting from the two Barbadians kept the home side in the field for the majority of the day, while giving them hope of pulling off what would be the highest successful run chase in Test cricket history. The Windies currently hold that record, having scored 418 for seven to defeat Australia in 2003.
New Zealand will still be favourites to win the contest, despite being two bowlers short with Matt Henry only able to bowl 11 overs before pulling up with a calf injury, while Nathan Smith, who is suffering from a side strain, has yet to bowl in the second innings. After the hosts declared on 466 for eight in the morning session, openers John Campbell and Tagenarine Chanderpaul carried them to 20 without loss at the luncheon interval.
On resumption though, things fell apart when first innings hero Jacob Duffy had Campbell caught low down at second slip by Michael Bracewell for the addition of only four runs. Duffy struck again in his next over when he had Chanderpaul caught behind for six to leave the visitors 25 for two.
Alick Athanaze only scored five before he toe-ended his attempted pull shot off spinner Michael Bracewell straight to mid on,
and when captain Roston Chase feathered a catch behind to wicketkeeper Tom Latham off Henry’s bowling, West Indies were in danger of being bowled out at 72 for four.
However, Hope and Greaves came together to rescue their side and push the match into a fifth day. Hope was his usual aggressive self, hitting Bracewell for two sublime boundaries to move to 49 off 69 balls. He reached his second half century of the match two overs later by pulling Bracewell to mid on for a single.
They carried the score to 107 for four at tea and on resumption they nullified New Zealand’s bowling attack with solid defensive play mixed with occasional aggression. Hope smashed Duffy for three boundaries to move into the 90s, with another four off Bracewell carrying him to 98.
He subsequently brought up his fourth Test century off 139 balls by driving spinner Rachin Ravindra through cover for a single. Greaves was the more defensive of the two, but when Duffy continually peppered him with short deliveries, he rocked back and pulled him through midwicket with disdain to reach his second Test half-century off 123 balls.
The two finished the day with little alarm, but will know they will have to bat for a large portion of today’s final day if the Windies are to avoid a heavy defeat.
Earlier, veteran Kemar Roach picked up three of the four New Zealand wickets to fall before the declaration, to capture his 12th five-wicket haul in Tests. The 37-year-old had both Bracewell and Henry caught behind by Tevin Imlach for 24 and eight, respectively, and then held on to a return catch from Duffy on the second attempt, to move within nine wickets of 300 Test scalps.
Roach claimed 5-78 to finish with match figures of 7-125, while Ojay Shields took 2-74. (Trinidad Express)
NEWCOMER to the chess scene, FIDE Master Rawle Allicock, played unbeaten in the eight-round classical style I-CEE sponsored competition, which concluded last Sunday at the School of the Nations. The fifty-five-year-old Guyanese by birth returned home to join the local ranks in the chess arena. Allicock finished with an astounding 7.5 points after playing unbeaten in the Open Category. His only point drop was his draw against fellow FIDE Master Anthony Drayton.
Woman Candidate Master (WCM) Aditi Joshi, and National Women’s Chess Champion, also played unbeaten in her category, finishing with 7.5 points, with her only draw in the tournament coming against young Kataleya Sam.
In the open category, second-place winner FM Drayton settled for a draw after the duel with his counterpart CM Sachin Pitamber.
Keron Sandiford took third place, finishing with six points, losing to FMs Drayton in the fifth round and Allicock in the penultimate round of the tournament.
Sandiford’s game with Allicock ended after 45 moves. Allicock’s Rooks posed a serious threat to Sandiford’s King and threatened checkmate. Sandiford resigned soon after, giving the FM the full point.
CM Sachin Pitamber placed fourth with 5.5 points after a surprising loss to Prince Dunn early in the competition in Round 2.
In the final Round of the tournament, Allicock faced Pitamber, and both players displayed aggressive intent.
The intense battle between the two was evidently a clash of generations. The young Candidate Master (CM) experienced severe time trouble as he resisted his FM opponent and fought to hold his King’s delicate position.
In the final move of their match, Allicock’s extra pawn was poised for promotion to a stronger piece and to execute checkmate. Pitamber resigned on move 53.
His half point resulted from a draw against Drayton in the sixth round.
Kyle Couchman (5 points) also went down to Allicock and Drayton in the sixth and eighth rounds, respectively. Couchman suffered a crushing defeat against Joshua Gopaul in the second round.
Couchman lost in an endgame with Drayton in the final Round as well. The National Junior Champion played with only a pawn down but resigned after just over 60 moves to Drayton’s decisive position.
Gilbert Williams, Prince Dunn, Alexander Zhang, Micaiah Enoe and Alex Ubaldo-Singh rounded up the top ten positions with 5 points each.
WCM Joshi scored a full point in her match with former Women’s Champion WCM Jessica Callender in Round Six. Callender’s King was lured and entrapped on her opponent’s side with no defence against checkmate. Their hard-fought battle ended after 40 moves.
Earlier in Round Three, the reigning Women’s Champion met WCM Sasha Shariff, who was outplayed and conceded after losing a Rook to her opponent.
Ciel Clement finished with an impressive second place with 6.5 points. Her only lost game was against Joshi in the fourth round. Her draw was against Shariff.
Shariff took the third spot with 5.5 points, with her only loss against Joshi.
Kataleya Sam, the National U-12 Girls Chess Champion, performed splendidly with 5 points, with her only loss against Ciel Clement. Sam drew with Joshi, Shariff, Callender and Italy Ton-Chung.
Callendar also finished on 5 points, and Italy Ton-Chung 4.5 points, while Saura Ruplall, Parnita Kishun, Sana Sreebalakumar, Olivia Rajmangal and Maliha Rajkumar all finished on 4 points each.
The tournament was overseen by FIDE Arbiter John Lee, who also live-streamed the top twelve boards for viewers at home. Results were published on chess-results.com.
Cash prizes, sponsored by I-CEE, totalling $100,000 were awarded to the top three players for each category.
The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) would like to extend its gratitude to I-CEE for once again coming on board to support chess in Guyana and to the School of the Nations for providing the venue.
Interested persons can follow the GCF on Facebook and Instagram. All information about chess clubs and how to join the federation can be found on guyanachess.gy.
GUYANA went down to Suriname on Friday’s opener of the Inter Guyana Games basketball segment at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
The Guyanese Women’s junior side lost 77-52 to Suriname as the muti-discipline tournament opened in Georgetown.
They Guyanese had no answer for the neighbors as they trailed from start to finish.
At the end of the first quarter, they were down by 11 points 22-11.
The local ladies were unable to keep up with the Surinamese scoring ability and were outplayed in the third quarter staying down 64-37 as Suriname were brutal going to the board.
Guyana struggled in defense and transition.
The Surinamese was led by Braisha Daniels who dropped 15 points in the victory.
She had good support from Candice Doomkamp with 14 points while Brianna Benjamin led the host with 13 points in a losing effort.
At the half Suriname had put a huge gap between the two sides, leading 39-28 despite fight back form the hosts.
Wismar Secondary School was the top relay side when North Ruimveldt Multilateral Secondary School Alumni on Friday staged Clash of the Multilaterals Relay Road Race championship on Heroes Highway.
The winning school, also known as ‘Linden Multi’ was made up of Bryson McBean, Joseph Charles, Akeem Blucher, and Mikael Antigua with girls Alkila Blucher, Tesianna Harris and Angel Jeffrey.
The linden side won it in 12 minutes 26.84 seconds beating off competition from second place Bladen Hall who finished in a time of 13 minutes 27.99 seconds.
Bladen Hall was made up of Abicke Edwards, Brandy Phillips, Anya Rose, Jamol McDonald, Alonzo Edwards’s girls Kylan Smartt, Lashanna knights
and Jevon Easton.
Anna Regina Secondary was third place followed by New Amsterdam Multilateral, Bygeval and North Ruimveldt multilateral.
Each team included seven runners, four boys and three girls with the race kicking off at Houston on Heroes Highway before heading to the Jaguar roundabout and back onto Heroes Highway to finish on Mandela Avenue opposite the school’s entrance.
Earlier in the day, the school’s alumni also hosted a 5K Road Race featuring only students from North Ruimveldt Multilateral.
Airel Barratt won the male race followed by Dane Bouyea and Rapheal Morrison.
In the girl’s category Kayla Jones won it in front of Shakaia Williams and Delicia Moore.
Organiser Ivor Thompson
says the event was a success and a win for the old Students’ Association.
“We have done something that is unique and we are hoping that it continues. We have brought together all the multilateral schools to partake in that exciting road relay race where all the boys ran 800 metres and the girls ran 400 metres.
“I’m saying this is the first time even though they had other road races before because this is the first time the multilateral schools only took part in this race.”
Thompson says that Linden has committed to hosting the next edition.
“We have learned during the presentation ceremony that Christianburg Wismar Secondary School they will host the 2026 edition, so I’m proud of the togetherness we had there to pull off this massive event,” he added.
TEAM Guyana delivered a resounding statement on day one of the Inter-Guiana Games (IGG) athletics competition, treating the relentless rain and the National Track and Field Facility’s slick surface as mere inconveniences.
As expected by local observers, the host nation dominated the track and field slate, leaving French Guiana and Suriname searching for answers and often settling for bronze.
The Guyanese contingent established an early, commanding lead by frequently locking up the top two spots in key sprint and middle-distance events—a consistent one-two punch that decimated the medal count.
The 100-metre dash set the tone for the day. In the Boys’ 100m, Ezekiel Millington blazed the track, securing gold in 10.80 seconds, narrowly edging out his teammate Dequan Farrell (10.88s) to complete the 1-2 sweep. Nathan Noyon (11.10s) of French Guiana was relegated to third.
The Girls’ 100m was a mirror image: Quinyla Burnette seized the gold in 12.30s, followed by Nyah Gravesande (12.40s) for the silver, holding off French Guiana’s Jozuana
Dawane (12.60s).
The most decisive performance came in the 400 metres, where star athlete Tianna Springer lived up to the hype. Springer obliterated the field in the Girls’ 400m, clocking a dominant 57.40s—crossing the line in the pouring rain ahead of teammate Joanna Anthon (1:03.80s). The gap was a staggering 6.4 seconds, showcasing elite speed in suboptimal conditions.
Not to be outdone, Tishawn Easton (49.07s) and Ade Sealey (49.81s) solidified Guyana’s command in the Boys’ 400m with another top-two finish. Suriname’s Gjord Aloeboetoe (54.10s) managed to snag the bronze.
The host nation capped its spectacular track display by winning both the Boys’
and Girls’ 4x400m relays, reinforcing their dominance in team events.
The field events offered a slight reprieve for the visiting teams, though Guyana still claimed key victories.
French Guiana earned gold in the Girls’ High Jump (Melinae Dufay –1.45m) and the Girls’ Triple Jump (Janaika Ringuet – 11.03m).
However, Guyana answered emphatically in the boys’ category, with Courtney Haynes taking the High Jump (1.90m) and Duel Europe soaring to gold in the Triple Jump (14.37m).
Guyana’s Beyonce Chandler was a powerhouse in the throws, winning both the Discus (28.06m) and the Shot Put (9.59m).
Track and Field will conclude today.
