- say they have benefitted from rapid development, several initiatives - President Ali announces, says initiative will foster national wealth creation as gov’t expands financial grants Hard work, determination, dedication, coordination by bridge-construction teams lead to early reopening of EBD carriageway
children undergo open-heart surgeries, interventions in 2024 under GOLI surgical programme Gov’t eyeing community-based financial literacy programme
- President Ali says, outlines opportunities for malls, apartments
Big potential for diaspora investment in Silica City Phase Two
- President Ali says, outlines opportunities for malls, apartments
NOW focused on diaspora investments, the second phase of Guyana’s premier smart city - Silica City - will commence soon, President, Dr Irfaan Ali disclosed on Sunday while addressing a mammoth gathering at
a community engagement in Belle West, Canal #2 in Region Three.
“You know, we have people in the diaspora. They want [to] know how [they’re] going to be involved. The second phase will be opened up within two weeks. And that second phase will be for diaspora investment. You can come there, build your mall, build your apartment complex and you will have the opportunity to own your own homes in the next phase of Silica city,” the Head of State said.
This new phase will allow those investors to build malls, apartment complexes,
ica City realised by 2030. Nothing will stop us. We are going to continue engaging and working with the best planners,” President Ali had stated.
The city will represent a significant step forward in Guyana’s developmental strategy for a sustainable and climate-smart future. It is set to emerge as the most desirable area for ecologically conscious living.
Recreational parks, community centres, buildings, an electrical system, and multi-specialty healthcare will all be part of the city, creating an atmosphere that improves enjoyment, produc-
A significant step forward in Guyana’s developmental strategy for a sustainable and climate-smart future is Silica City, which is set to emerge as the most desirable area for ecologically conscious living
and even own homes within the city, as part of a broader vision to create a modern urban centre that accommodates 15,000 families.
Dr Ali emphasised that Silica City will not only be a place to live but also a transformative "way of life," focused on improving mental health, wellness, technology and self-sufficiency through innovative infrastructure. “It will extend life expectancy, naturally,” he said, underscoring the project’s long-term benefits for residents.
“It's not only a city, it's a way of life, it's going to be a way of life. It's going to extend life expectancy naturally, because of the infrastructure and [the] way in which the city will be built, focusing on mental health, wellness, technology, self-sufficiency,” he reiterated.
Back in August 2024, the government partnered with the University of Miami to complete the comprehensive plan for Silica City. It was during the building expo when the master plan for the city was unveiled, showcasing all the cutting-edge technologies and other amenities it will have.
“We will have this Sil -
tivity and well-being.
The ambitious undertaking will address the impacts of climate change and sea-level rise, as well as the issues associated with the growth of non-coastal urban settlements.
Already, the first 110 young professionals’ houses being constructed at Silica City are nearing completion.
Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, has since expressed satisfaction with the progress of works, following an inspection during a November site visit.
She had previously disclosed that all the infrastructural works have been completed, including road and drainage networks and the installation of utility services.
There are 75 flat housing units and 35 elevated ones. The flat houses are priced between $25,200,603 and $25,290,178, while the elevated ones cost approximately $33,980,153 to $34,450,145.
Once completed, Silica City will be outfitted with the newest energy-saving technologies for wastewater management, energy management and water conservation.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali addresses residents during the Region Three meeting on Sunday (Delano Williams photo)
- President Ali announces, says initiative would foster national wealth creation as gov’t expands financial grants
BY Naomi Parris
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Sunday outlined a bold plan to transform Guyana's economic landscape by prioritising financial literacy and empowering communities to build wealth.
Speaking at a community engagement session in Belle West, Canal #2, Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) , he revealed that the government will focus on educating citizens at community levels to ensure that increased financial grants are ef-
by community. So, as we increase the grants that will come to you, as we increase it, you must see the importance of investing it to build prosperity in your future and build more wealth from those investments.”
As the government continues to expand its financial support to local communities, President Ali highlighted the importance of using these grants to build lasting prosperity.
The President emphasised that the goal is to create opportunities for wealth generation at multiple levels.
fectively used to drive long-term prosperity and equitable growth across the country.
“We're going to invest in financial literacy. We're going to educate the population by village, by street,
“So, we want to create the mechanism, and that is a big task before us in the next five years… to build and create these opportunities that will generate wealth at the individual, household,
community, region and national level, so that there'll be an evenness in the growth.”
President Ali reiterated a strong affirmation of the government's vision for the country’s development. "We have a very clear
and defined strategy. We have great clarity in what we want to do," he said, assuring citizens that the administration's plans are set to create a more prosperous and equitable future for all Guyanese.
Since assuming of-
fice in 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government has invested heavily in the social welfare of Guyanese, while also building out the country’s infrastructural landscape to enable long-term growth and sustained development.
Among the plethora of measures are the re-introduction and increase of the education grant to $55,000 per child; the increase in old-age pension to $41,000; increase in public assistance; targeted cash transfers, including the ongoing $100,000 cash grant distribution exercise, the grant for persons living with disabilities, health and eye-care vouchers, the removal and reduction of taxes, along with other targeted tax-deduction measures.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali, while previously referencing the investments geared at enhancing the lives of all Guyanese, had said:
“This is how the resources and revenues of this country is being spent every single day; to uplift the lives of people, to expand national wealth, to expand personal wealth, to expand community wealth. This is what the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic government is all about.”
These measures, he noted, are real policies and actions taken by the government to bring relief to citizens.
“We don’t demonstrate our love and commitment to people by noise; we demonstrate our love and commitment to people by real action, real policy, real intervention,” he added.
Consumer spending power in Guyana has also increased significantly, with statics showing consumption expenditure rose from $71 billion in 2015 to $1.465 trillion in 2024, reflecting a rate of increase of 20.6 times, representing 8.1 per cent of the GDP in 2015 and 26 per cent of GDP in 2024.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali during the community engagement at Belle West, Canal #2 on Sunday
A section of Sunday’s gathering (Delano Williams photos)
West Demerara residents confident PPP/C, President
Ali can take Guyana forward
By Michel Outridge
DESPITE rainy conditions
on Sunday, residents of Belle West, Canal Number Two Polder, West Bank Demerara, came out in their numbers to praise the good work of President Dr. Irfaan Ali and his People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government.
During a community meeting held at Belle West, Canal #2 Polder, several residents took turns in giving their approval of the work done by the current administration for the past four years. According to them, they have benefitted greatly from many of the initiatives and development works.
Captain Cleroy Heywood used the opportunity to encourage others to support visionary political party since according to him the development across Guyana is evidence of its continued progress.
“I don’t have an issue today, all I want to say is that this government has been
doing tremendously well, in the areas of health, education, and infrastructure and as such, I want to encourage all of you here to continue to support this young and vibrant administration that has the vision to take this country forward,” he said.
Heywood reported that he has seen rapid development in the marine sector, where the ports of Georgetown were dredged so ships can navigate safely to and from our ports and elsewhere in Guyana.
“I was selected to go to India to bring back MV Malisha. The government’s vision is a working vessel to ferry people and that vessel is plying the North West District. The locals can attest to that. They are happy with the state-of-the-art vessel, they don’t have to tie up hammocks no more since the vessel is outfitted with air conditioning,” he said.
He emphasised that progress must continue as he endorsed the PPP/C and encouraged
- say they have benefitted from rapid development, several initiatives
others present to help the party win the upcoming elections.
“I endorsed the party, wholeheartedly, Long live the PPP/C,” Heywood said to loud applause.
Meanwhile, some farmers, who were present at the community meeting expressed their gratitude for the dredging works completed to improve drainage for the cultivation.
One farmer related that he is very pleased with the tractor that was gifted to him.
Another farmer said they are also very happy with the farm-to-market road, the
cash grant relief for farmers and other initiatives they have benefitted from thus far.
A Belle West resident was elated to speak at the meeting. He related that the work of the current administration ‘must return to power’ based on the development in the country.
He rated President Ali as the people’s leader, who is down-to-earth and who is on the ground constantly to meet and listen to the concerns of the people.
The resident during his remarks al endorsed the PPP/C before confidently stating that Dr. Ali will re-
turn as the president since he has their support all the way.
The resident stated that he once planted cane in APNU time and after the industry collapse he still had to pay his loan. The man stated that he was encouraged by his friends, to join the party to provide for his family and he made the right choice to switch and is staying with the PPP/C.
“We are with you, Mr. President. We meet you on the ground and always open to listen to the people,” he said as he was cheered on by other supporters of the party.
Another resident of Belle West said he has been living in the area for some 60 years and has never had a chance to speak publicly or to meet the president.
He said he was elated to be able to give his views and share his concerns.
According to him, he is very grateful for the upgraded roads and drainage system in his community.
He stated that he would like to create jobs for residents with the re-establishment of his business, if the access road can be upgraded. He also called for the establishment of a recreational space in the community.
Meanwhile, another resident related that he was happy to see President Ali ad he like other who spoke
before him, declared himself a staunch PPP/C supporter.
The residents noted that due to the PPP/C they now have good roads in Belle West, and farmers have benefitted from cash grant relief. According to him, they are all overjoyed the President Ali took time out of busy schedule and met with them despite the unfavourable weather conditions.
“You will be the leader again, after the upcoming elections, as true leader of the people,” he said.
A female villager said she is very happy about the upgraded roads in Belle West while another gave her testimony stating that because of this government, her sister is alive today.
“Because of you President Ali, my sister is in her own home and my mom and aunt who were not on speaking terms were able to reunite at a housing initiative held and I am happy that you brought people together to come to terms with their issues and be family again,” she said.
Other residents also expressed their thanks and pledged their support for the PPP/C for their improved lives and the rapid development that is taking place in all the regions in Guyana
Residents turned up in their numbers to listen to President Ali on Sunday (Delano Williams photo)
‘We don’t deny anyone their rights’
- President Ali says as he rejects claims gov’t is targetting the Mohameds - emphasises GRA’s duty to act in the interest of the country
PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali on Sunday addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the Guyana Revenue Authority’s (GRA) efforts to recover taxes on luxury vehicles belonging to businessman Azruddin Mohamed.
The Guyanese leader rejected claims that the government is engaging in victimisation, suggesting that the narrative surrounding the issue is being spun to fit a particular agenda.
“The GRA made it very clear that there is something called post audit, and they made it clear that our international partners, international tax agency, were working with them and they have a duty and responsibility when information comes before them to act in the interest of the rule of law, to act in the interest of the country,”
the Head of State said during a community engagement in Region Three.
President Ali's comments were aimed at clarifying the government's position on the matter, assuring the public that no one is being denied the opportunity to challenge actions through the courts if they so choose.
“We don't deny anyone their rights. They can go to court and challenge it. How is that victimisation by the government? ...it suits a particular narrative.”
About a week ago, Attorney-General Anil Nandlall SC, confirmed that Guyana had received a ‘sufficient volume of information’ from the United States Department of Justice on the alleged transgressions of Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed.
On Saturday, the GRA said its officers encountered an ‘angry mob’ during an attempt to enforce the law by taking possession of several vehicles, decrying the intimidation.
The GRA noted that the officers were forced to “retreat in fear for their lives.”
Later reports disclosed that a High Court Judge granted a temporary order against the GRA’s seizure of a fleet of luxury vehicles from businessman.
Judge Gino Persaud has fixed Thursday, April 10, for the GRA to file responses to Azruddin Mohamed’s application for a judicial review and full application, following two virtual hearings.
The GRA has since vowed to press on with its processes in accordance with the law and reminded the public that the sei-
zure and possession of vehicles for taxes and breaches to remigrant and duty-free agreements are nothing new.
“Hundreds (100s) of such cases are carried out yearly when there are breaches by re-migrants, public servants, breaches to Investment Agreements and even when Tax Exempt Agencies and diplomats do not abide by the agreements by which such vehicles are entered free of, or subject to reduced duty. This particular activity results in hundreds of millions of dollars in tax collections on an annual basis”, the GRA said.
Back in June 2024, the United States Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned the father and son duo pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13818, which builds
upon and implements the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act and targets perpetrators of serious human rights abuse and corruption around the world.
U.S. State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller has said that between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10,000 (10 thousand) kilogrammes of gold from import-and-export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.
According to the GRA, the details of the vehicles to be seized are as follows:
one 2020 Ferrari PAD 5000 in the name of Hana Mohamed, with additional taxes of $479,743, 489 for breach of the re-migrant requirements,
one 2023 Land Rover Range Rover PAC 9000 in the name of Leslie Khan with additional taxes of $61,485,982 for breach of the re-migrant requirements, one 2023 Rolls Royce PAE 5000 in the name of Bibi Mohamed with additional taxes of $320,064,246 for breach of the re-migrant requirements, one 2020 Lamborghini Roadster PZZ 4000 titled to Azruddin Mohamed with additional taxes of $371,775,168 for false declaration of value, one 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser PAB 4000 titled to Azruddin Mohamed, with additional taxes of $24,641,272 for false declaration of value and one 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser PAB 3000 titled to Azruddin Mohamed with additional taxes of $24,641,272 for false declaration of value.
23 children undergo open-heart surgeries, interventions in 2024 under GOLI surgical programme
IN 2024, Gift of Life International (GOLI) conducted three surgical programmes at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).
As a result, a total of 23 children were able to have a “new lease on life” through the successful completion of open-heart surgeries and interventions.
It was stated by the GPHC that globally, 90 per cent of children with heart defects do not have access to the surgeries they need.
The hospital posted a short documentary on its Facebook page to capture heartfelt reflections from parents, the dedicated GOLI team and its very own GPHC representatives.
In the documentary, Dr Rodrigo Soto, a Paediatric Cardiac Surgeon with GOLI, explained that from March 2023 to August 2024, in only four visits, they have seen significant progress in the way the local team at the GPHC is performing, especially in the Intensive Care Unit.
Dr Rodrigo stated, “We have a first phase in which we were here in Guyana from 2015 till 2018. During those three years, we provided assistance to over 150 children between surgeries and interventional catheterisation.”
Further, he said, “So when we come, many of those patients are re-echoed and we revisit every single case and so on. And then we make the decision which patient will be having surgery. Since there is an important backlog of patients, we have a lot of sick kids that are awaiting surgery and that's our priority. So, the priority is to address the most urgent, the most sick kids that need surgery more urgently.”
GOLI’s Paediatric Cardiac Intensivist, Dr. Travis Vesel was also featured. He explained that every case involves a major change in a child’s life. He said, “They're getting heart surgery where they're having their chest open. You know, the surgeons are working in their heart and taking a child who will have a shortened life because of the heart defect they were born with.”
Dr. Vesel said that thanks to this initiative all the children will have normal lives.
The goal of GOLI is to not only perform surgeries, but to build sustainable programmes. GOLI’s Nursing Supervisor Kari Guffey underscored this.
She said that more than anything, it was more than simply going to countries to do things. It was about going to countries to build
sustainable programmes that they could continue to grow and develop over the years.
Dr. Guffey believes the collaboration with GOLI has influenced the care at the GPHC, not only improving critical care, but also raising the standards at the hospital.
“Now for the missions, what I get to do, which is such pleasure to me, is to work alongside the nurses and teach the nurses. So, every month or two we have Zoom education sessions where we go over certain
critical aspects regarding taking care of not only children that [sic] have had heart surgery, also critically ill children,” the Nursing Supervisor said on the documentary, adding that through this, they are able to talk about diabetes in children, head injuries and ventilation.
The goal, she said, has all been developed in order to meet the ultimate goal, of having an intensive care unit in the capital city.
She affirmed, “We want the children to be able to have their own space, a paediatric ICU where they can run that 24-7 when we're not here. And then, of
course, we'll come in and do the heart surgeries while we're here.”
Additionally, Paediatric Ward Manager at the GPHC, Nurse Simone Tieschamker, stated that working with GOLI has been a great learning experience for the local nurses.
“In terms of the nurses, it somehow boosts their confidence, wanting to be more a part of this and also elevating themselves in their nursing career. So, it has been a good journey and a great learning experience," Nurse Tieschamker said.
She pointed out that one of the main things learned is how to calculate medi-
cations. The nurse said that with the mission, the nurses have to do these calculations themselves.
“The doctors just say what they want, and we got to know what we have to do. Of course, they would have had educational sessions with us before so that we can be able to do that. And I must say that we've been getting better with that,” The nurse expressed.
The first mission for 2025 was set to begin on March 5, 2024, where another set of paediatric patients will benefit from the complex open-heart surgeries performed by the visiting GOLI team.
Broadening Horizons
PRIME Minister Mia Mottley's recent call for CARICOM to strengthen ties with Africa, Central and Latin America and revitalise ties with traditional partners is visionary and timely.
As the global economy stands on the brink of a trade war, her address underscores the need to diversify the economic partnerships of the Caribbean to minimise vulnerabilities related to its small-scale economies and import dependence.
The American tariffs, such as the 10 per cent floor tariff on imports, are a direct threat to Caribbean economies because they already
have pricey goods and services.
Mottley's appeal to President Trump is realistic, because she calls for co-operation and diplomacy rather than aggression. Her suggestion that Caribbean economies are too small to upset the American markets is an emotional plea for empathy and co-operation. However, Mottley's vision goes beyond the mere reaction to impending threats. Her emphasis on forging improved ties with Africa is particularly pleasing. The expanding economy of Africa, which is powered by projects such as the African Continental Free
Trade Area ($6.7 trillion in 2035), holds huge promise for CARICOM.
Recent agreements, such as the Memorandum of Understanding between the African Union and CARICOM, create a framework for expanded trade, investment and people-to-people contacts.
Enhancing infrastructure—such as air and sea transport—will be central to unlocking this potential. Similarly, CARICOM's connection with Central and Latin America is promising. Shared problems such as climate change and facilitation of trade offer room for collaboration.
The police force, an
abusive rank, 20 roaming youths
WHEN I was 10, 12 years old or thereabouts, my friends and I from Wortmanville would try to sneak into the pit section of the Globe Cinema to see Johnny Braff perform. Given the pandemonium in the pit section, the ticket man would be confused and in the wild rush, you get past him.
In those days, vehicles on the roads were scarcer than elephants in downtown Georgetown so there would be no traffic confusion outside the cinema. But each time Johnny Braff performed, there was a police presence. Commonsensically of course – crowd control and detection of pick-pocket thieves.
When I became an early teenager, I would visit the annual Diwali fairs at Gandhi Youth Organisation sports ground on Woolford Avenue. Again, there would be no traffic confusion but there was always police presence
and my dog
in the ground. From that early age, you know while living in Georgetown that entertainment events would have police ranks. I would think that is the standard police procedure.
Last Saturday evening, I left the seawall around 7 PM with my dog to head home. I travelled from the Bandstand east on the seawall road and turned south into Camp Road where the large buildings that house the head office of the Guyana Police Force are located. Going south on Camp Road was an impossibility.
Everest Cricket Club had a huge entertainment event on the ground. I am a “seawall dweller” so I know the chaos on Camp Road outside Everest whenever there is a big fete there. Patrons were parked on both sides of the road so you cannot go south, and traffic cannot go north. It is an angry situation to be in. Saturday night was no different. You were stuck in
traffic right outside the police head office, right outside the barracks that house dozens of trainees.
I could understand traffic confusion at a place ten miles from a police station but not right outside the station. There were no traffic rank, and no anti-crime ranks outside Everest. Suddenly about 20 youths darted from Everest and began harassing drivers, most of which had their windows up, but I always drive in a tropical country with my windows down.
One youth poked his head way into the passenger’s front seat and my dog almost took his nose off. My dog is always in the front seat when I leave the seawall. He screamed and ran furiously away while the others ran after him. It would have traumatised me if he was bitten because my dog is genetically harmless, but the dog reacted to the sudden intrusion.
The prospects of a Free Trade Agreement between CARICOM and Central America could be a driver of economic complementarity to both areas.
In addition, CARICOM's connections to historic allies such as Canada, Europe, and the UK remain paramount. The alliances have through time provided stability through instruments of trade preference and aid, such as the Cotonou Agreement.
Mottley's appeal for regional autonomy also rings true. Initiatives such as CARICOM's "25 by 2025" agricultural plan aim to reduce food- im -
port reliance by 25%, a sign of greater resilience. Investments in agriculture and light manufacturing are not just an economic imperative, but also a path towards empowering local producers—a perspective supported in her call for unity among CARICOM leaders.
However, the achievement of these goals will mean taking some radical steps. Trade-partnership diversification is one matter, but infrastructure such as transport pricing and visa systems must be broken down. Beyond that, geopolitical realities—e.g., declining interest from
previous allies—prompt CARICOM to reaffirm its agenda internationally while navigating complex relations with other partners.
Mottley's vision is an act of visionary diplomacy in a period when global uncertainty threatens regional stability. Her call is clear: CARICOM must diversify, be autonomous and present a united front to ride out external shocks and create a brighter future. The Caribbean cannot stay behind, it needs to move assertively to increase its vision in an increasingly interdependent world.
It took a while to get out of the concrete jungle and all the while I was there, I did not see a policeman - either a traffic rank or one from the anti-crime squad. May I remind you this was right outside Eve Leary. It was an unlucky night for me on Saturday. As I drove home east on the Rupert Craig Highway, I saw a police vehicle with flashing lights.
Apparently, the ranks stopped a woman with her children and were interrogating her. It was a two-man party. One policeman was inside the police open back truck while anther was at the side of the woman’s vehicle. I know cars. It was a cheap car similar to the one I drive so the lady was no petty bourgeois socialite.
I said to the officer sitting in the front seat that he needs to go to Everest as there was frightening traffic chaos there. Once more in my life I was faced with the Freddie Kissoon syndrome. He knew who I was. He was in no mood to entertain me. Immediately he said: “Mr. Kissoon, why yuh telling me dis? Go call 911.” Then he said something that got me deeply annoyed. He said: “Go put it on social media.”
Then he carried on directing his remarks to my social media presence. I thought it was time to record the conversation (I don’t have a smart phone so I couldn’t capture his behaviour) but the police are now outfitted with cameras. I asked his partner to record how this
rank was behaving. Here is the part you are not going to believe.
His colleague said to me that he has to turn off his camera because he cannot record his colleague saying those things. Guess what happened next. Because he turned off his camera, his colleague went on and on. While he was carrying on, I asked him: “Is that to intimidate me? I am not easily intimidated.” With those words, I got into my car and drove off.
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.
Vincent Alexander wants Africans to support Black leaders even when they are acting against their own self interest
FOR decades I have heard derogatory labels attached to Afro-Guyanese who choose to support the PPP. The labels seemed ubiquitous and perpetual. However, the more recent attacks have been more targeted and savage than I have ever heard them.
I took the position that Afro-Guyanese in the PPP should keep their focus, serve in sincerity and do not respond to the labelers. However, I recently ran into Vincent Alexander and what came out of his mouth was flabbergasting. He had some strong theories that are very divisive and if allowed room to grow can gnaw away at our social fabric and masticate our fragile ethnopolitical social order. For this reason, there needs to be a strong fight back against the dangerous racially charged outpouring of Alexander.
The Freddie Kissoon Show for this evening was prerecorded and Vincent Alexander is our guest. Alexander zeros in on James Bond, who he claims to know very well and has taken the time to study his behaviour enough to make an informed comment and analysis. He concluded that Bond’s support for the PPP is as a result of him suffering from two classes of trauma: historical trauma suffered by all Guyanese Africans that was handed down from the plantation system and, with it, certain traits and proclivities that was eventually burned into our DNA; and secondly, Bond is responding to more specific and personalised trauma that pushed him into the arms of the PPP.
Alexander concluded that Bond is politically wretched because he took a negative view of certain PNC leaders while choosing to praise President Ali, who has taken an anti-African stance, and by merely doing so, has hurt the African community. He further concluded that Africanness is coterminous with PNCness. In other words, Africans have no business being outside of African-led formations. Bond by his actions has traumatised Africans like
David Hinds. As such Hinds and others are justified in responding to this trauma with savage condescending racial epithets.
Alexander has descended to levels lower than the recent notorious Hinds outrage; this is a more deeply dangerous, revulsive, racist and socially divisive political pathway. Why? Because Alexander is essentially attempting to formulate this racist mumbo jumbo into a formal socio-scientific academic theory. It is also apposite to note that Terrence Campbell, AFC’s option for Presidential candidate, spoke on a recent GlobeSpan programme in similar vein as Alexander. in undeniable support for Hinds’ racial invective.
To save Guyana from this kind of destructive racial contortions of Campbell, Hinds and Alexander, it must be met with repeated robust responses, simply ignoring them into oblivion will not work. Their theory has to be stoutly confronted with alternatives especially from the very “community” of Africans who believe that Guyana can thrive in unity.
Campbell’s justification for the use of racialised attacks on Afro-Guyanese who support the PPP is the “diabolical use of resources” by the PPP and Alexander claimed that President Ali went to Mocha-Arcadia to open a new road and took sundry other actions while refusing to engage or consult with the Chairman of the NDC. These are the two examples in their specificity that warrants Africans to keep away from the PPP. There is a lot to unpack here. If these gentlemen were making these statements from an honest place, then the corollary to their postulation would mean that Africans should equally abandon the PNC if it committed similar offense against Africans as the PPP is being accused of; 2015 to 2020 is repleted with examples. Or is it one of those traits burned into the DNA of Africans to be self-defeating and to act against their own self-interest when a leader from their community does not act in
their interest. Or is it more honourable to perish under African leadership than to seek unity and thrive under non-African leadership?
The funny thing though, is that apart from sporadic outbursts, occasional letters to the press and many failed attempts at administering groups with quasi reference to African interest, none of these gentlemen can point to any specific body of work, use of resources or set of policies enacted by the APNU in government or left for the PPP to follow that were responsible for indelibly changing the circumstances of “the
community.” In fact, I would be happy if they can point to definitive plans of the current PNC or AFC formation, either jointly or separately, that is designed to advance African interest if they were to take power tomorrow.
The PNC was handed a gift by the UN when it came to office, in the form of a programme called “International Decade of People of African Descent.” Why was this a gift? The PNC if it cared about the interest of Africans would have used this moniker to set in motion some form of affirmative action programme and used their majority enact
laws that would enshrine African development and craft budgets to ensure the circumstances of Africans are set on a path to irreversible positive changes.
Instead, the PNC leadership instigated the formation of a private company called IDPADA-G and funneled money to it, in the vicinity of G$100M per year, and there is little or nothing to show for it.
This double standard and racialised sputum coming from the likes of Alexander must be confronted. They want us to keep faith with a group of leaders who has
not demonstrated a capacity to represent the interest of Africans outside of sporadic theories of division. I will stand against this double standard and entreat young Afro-Guyanese to break from the du ngeon of divisiveness these old men are trying to suck us into.
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.
World Health Day: Obesity
WHILE on the move in the city and getting on and off mini-buses as I travelled around, I have made a disturbing observation. There are a lot of overweight people in this city and many are women.
What concerns me is the fact that the majority of overweight women I have spoken to seem unaware that they are even carrying excess pounds and are therefore quite comfortable with their size.
I realise that this is in part due to our culture, which refers to women as being 'thick', rather than fat, even when they are undoubtedly well over what their body mass index (BMI) indicates that their weight
should be in relation to their height.
However, this is not just a local concern, but one which has been observed internationally.
Recently, during the celebration of International Women's Day, the question of obesity was raised.
Dr Athul N C Peters had this to say in an interview with the Hindustan Times of India: " Obesity is a serious health challenge - more than just a number in the scale...It increases the risk of chronic illnesses, destroys reproductive health and is the cause of people being subjected to social stigma."
Obesity is clearly on the rise and is often
a result of improper eating. Too many of us in Guyana still consume high-carbohydrate meals, along with heavily oily foods. While we may also eat vegetables, we invariably overcook - over fry – these, destroying their nutritive value.
In my area, in Golden Grove / Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara, there are four fast food restaurants in the space of less than a quarter of a mile on the main road, and a fifth is scheduled to open its doors shortly.
So, the Guyanese diet in my area will definitely be augmented by more fried foods, with large doses of saturated fats, usually served with
an aerated drink loaded with sugar.
If this is a reflection of what is happening nationally, then we are in deep trouble when it comes to weight gain.
The health cost is explosive in a nation already plagued with hypertension and diabetes -- two of the leading causes of death -- which can both be easily traced back to improper diets.
I often watch with concern, overweight people getting on and off mini-buses, puffing and panting and sweating profusely as they try to squeeze themselves through the doors and into their seats.
In the same way, I watch overweight women struggling to walk along our parapets, often carrying heavy bags loaded with groceries, vegetables and other items.
It is not a happy sight, particularly because the 'greens' in those bags will generally be overcooked and fed to our children, who will then be in danger of becoming obese themselves.
Perhaps the theme of today's World Health Day says it best, ' Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures.'
In addition, the World Health Orga -
nization states, "The health of mothers and babies is the foundation of healthy families and communities, helping ensure hopeful futures for us all."
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.
Water-supply systems commissioned in three remote Region Nine villages
RESIDENTS of the far-flung villages of Rukumuta, Tiperu and Yurong Paru in the South Pakaraimas, Region Nine, are the latest beneficiaries of improved access to clean and reliable water following the commissioning of new water supply systems by the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal.
Simple commissioning ceremonies which were held on Thursday, saw the attendance of Regional Vice-Chairman Mr. Bertie Xavier, Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI) Hinterland Services Director Mr. Ramchand Jailal, and other officials, who joined residents in celebrating the latest intervention by the current administration to improve the lives of Guyanese living across Guyana.
evated storage, and service connections across the community resulting in 95 percent coverage of water supply in the villages, which previously experienced water woes.
Meanwhile, in Tipe-
In Rukumuta, located about 28 miles from central Karasabai and home to 329 residents, only about 50 per cent of the population previously had access to potable water via a drilled well, elevated storage, and natural springs.
The new water-supply system is a $30 million investment by the government, a project executed by Q&A Construction. The project included the installation of a distribution network, construction of el-
ru, the oldest village in the Karasabai sub-district with a population of about 350 natives, the water coverage has increased from an all-time low of 32 per cent to a whopping 95 per cent. Previously, residents depended on surface water sources, and a drilled well with elevated storage.
The new $22M government-funded project involved drilling a new well, expansion of the distribution network, and installing service
connections in partnership with the Village Council.
Minister Croal, who was on-hand to commission the new water supply systems in both villages emphasised the government’s continued commitment to bridging development gaps and promoting equity in infrastructure across Guyana.
"The work we are doing reflects our government’s commitment to bridging development gaps and empowering communities," remarked the Minister.
In addition, to Rukumuta and Tiperu, a third
system was also commissioned in Yurong Paru during the minister’s visit to the region, bringing water coverage in that community to 95 per cent, as well. The project was completed at a cost of $23M bringing much-needed water supply to locals.
These developments form part of a broader effort by the Ministry of Housing and Water to enhance water access in hinterland communities, ensuring that all citizens—regardless of location—benefit from basic and essential services.
Minister of Housing and Water, Colin Croal as he commissions the new and improved water-supply system in Tiperu Village
The new water-supply system in Rukumuta Village
‘Stay the course’
- Thandi McAllister pledges full support for President Ali’s re-election bid
IN a passionate endorsement of President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s leadership, former People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) executive member and youth leader, Thandi McAllister, on Sunday declared that the Guyanese leader is a “man of the people, by the people, and for the people.”
McAllister, who resigned from the PNCR in 2021, threw her full support behind President Ali’s re-election bid, urging voters to trust him with another term to continue the transformation of Guyana.
Standing beside the President at a mid-morning public meeting in Belle West Canal #2, Region Three, McAllister emphasised the significance of the upcoming elections, calling them pivotal for the future of the country.
“These elections that are upcoming will determine the future of our country,” she said, before adding, “I want to encourage you to stay the course with my friend and brother.”
The attorney, who has known President Ali for many years, spoke passionately
about the strides the country has made under his leadership.
“You have seen first hand the development from 2020 to date. Imagine what he will do with another term. I trust his vision; I trust his word. His word is his bond, and I have proven that. I have known him for many years, and I am saying to you to trust him with another term, trust him with Guyana’s future. He has demonstrated that he is a man for all seasons. He has demonstrated that he is a President of the people, by the people and for the people and Region Three, in these elections, your votes are critical,” McAllister stated.
McAllister went on to praise the President’s unwavering commitment to the people of Guyana, describing him as a “man for all seasons” who has consistently demonstrated his dedication to the nation’s progress.
Prior to her resignation from the PNCR, McAllister held the position of Chairman of the party’s Region Three arm. Her endorsement on Sunday signals a significant shift in political allegiance.
Standing beside President Ali at a mid-morning public meeting in Belle West, Canal #2, Region Three, Thandi McAllister highlights the significance of the upcoming elections
WIIN participants in Regions Two, Four receive rigorous one-week training
OVER the period of one week, participants of the Women Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) from Regions Two and Four were involved in a rigorous curriculum, designed meticulously to demystify the complexities of crafting a professional business plan.
The training was about cultivating a vision, articulating it with clarity, and building a robust roadmap for sustainable growth.
This initiative, according to the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, signifies more than just skills development. It represents a profound investment in the potential of women as drivers of economic innovation and social change locally.
The ministry said that by empowering women with the knowledge and confidence to
translate their ideas into viable businesses, WIIN is fostering a ripple effect of prosperity, creating opportunities not only for individual participants but for their families and communities as well.
The training served as a catalyst, igniting the entrepreneurial
spirit within each woman and providing a supportive network to navigate the challenges and celebrate the triumphs of business ownership.
Just a few weeks ago, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Human Services, Arianna Beharry represented
Women, where she underscored that the collaborative efforts between governmental agencies, civil society organizations, international bodies, United Nations agencies, and the private sector resulted in more inclusive policies that promote gender equality.
She pointed out that programmes such as WIIN have benefitted from strong partnerships, where women's empowerment programmes are designed with inputs from multiple stakeholders, ensuring that they are holistic and impactful.
Approximately 23,700 women have been trained since
2020 through WIIN and Board of Industrial Training initiatives. According to previous reports, billions of dollars have been invested under the present administration to fund initiatives which expand educational and skill-building programmes, increasing women’s workforce participation.
The courses offered by WIIN aim to empower women and girls in Guyana with accredited technical and vocational education and training (TVET), entrepreneurial skills and access to financial opportunities, leading to a path of financial independence.
Guyana at the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of
WIIN participants during one of the training sessions (MOHSS photo)
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd), the Honourable Mark Phillips attended a commemorative church
service on Sunday to mark the 11th anniversary of the Guyana Veterans' Legion (GVL) at St
James-the-Less Anglican Church. The anniversary commemorates the merger of the Guyana
Legion and the Ex-GDF Association into the GVL. Also in attendance were the Chief of Defence Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Omar Khan; the President of the GVL, Lt Colonel (Ret'd) George Gomes; and other members of the Legion.
EBD carriageway reopens ahead of schedule
- Minister Edghill says hard work, determination, dedication, coordination by bridge construction teams made this possible
MINISTER of Public Works Juan Edghill announced on Sunday afternoon that the section of the East Bank corridor that was closed to facilitate works on the New Demerara River Bridge (NDRB)
was on schedule to be reopened to vehicular traffic at 00:00hrs (midnight) on Monday instead of the publicised 03:00 hrs.
The minister made this announcement at the bridge’s Peters Hall construction site during a briefing with members of the media.
He said that the reopening ahead of schedule will allow persons traversing the airport route and those traversing and living on the East Bank carriageway, from the Demerara Harbour Bridge to Red Road, Providence, to drive freely on the thoroughfare.
The road closure was announced last week to facilitate the placement of girders on the NDRB.
This early reopening, according to Minister Edghill came from the hard work, determination, dedication and the coordination of the entire team.
The minister said, “We knew that an interruption of this carriageway would cause great inconvenience. And a lot of planning was put into it. And the execution was seamless, without incident and we are very, very happy about that.”
Stating that this significant achievement had to be accomplished, he recalled that there were issues in the section that was closed which caused some project delays.
He mentioned the removal of the houses that were in the path of the bridge and said that since then, a significant amount of work has been done on the bridge.
“These girders are made in two factories on both ends of the bridge and they have to be transported from the factories to this mechanism, which is quite a new thing here, and placed. When they put the cable stake on the section, which is the high section where the ships have to pass underneath, they have to put the cables in and cast that section,” he explained.
Continuing, Minister Edghill said that when this is finished, it has to be given a certain amount of time to cure before they are able to move on to another section.
On the western side of the NDRB, four cables out of 17 have been installed, while on the eastern side three cables out of 17 have been installed.
EBD carriageway...
FROM PAGE 16
Speaking on the manpower needed for completion of the bridge, the minister said they have worked with the Chinese contractor and the consultants to increase their teams.
I can't come here and make noise about why you're lazy, why you're not working, why things are not moving. They are literally working around the clock, Sunday to Sunday.
“And like I said, with the consultants, they have to ex-
Works at the new Demerara Harbour Bridge’s Peters Hall construction site
He said, “If the contractor is working, the consultant also needs to have more resources on the ground to supervise and ensure that everything is in order. So we have to increase the size of the consultant's team, and we have to increase the size of the workers.”
The minister stated that more than a hundred persons have been added to the team to ensure the August 2025 deadline is met.
Acknowledging the hard work of the contractors, he said, “The contractors have been working around the clock, Sunday to Sunday. So,
pand their team to make sure that they are able to supervise around the clock as well.”
Construction of the NDRB is being done by the China Railway Construction Company (CRCC). Works initially commenced on the bridge in May 2023.
The public works head expressed that this is indeed a transformational project that all Guyanese are anticipating, while also acknowledging that the work has to be done right, made safe and ensure that they are getting value for their money. (Faith Greene)
More than a million children in
the Gaza Strip
deprived of life-saving aid for over one month
- aid continues to be blocked from entering, in breach of international humanitarian law and with dire repercussions for children
THE blockade of humanitarian aid is having terrible consequences for one million children in the Gaza Strip.
No aid has been allowed into the Gaza Strip since 2 March 2025 – representing the longest period of aid blockage since the start of the war – leading to shortages of food, safe water, shelter, and medical supplies. Without these essentials, malnutrition, diseases and other preventable conditions will likely surge, leading to an increase in preventable child deaths.
“UNICEF has thousands of pallets of aid waiting to enter the Gaza Strip,” said UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Edouard Beigbeder. “Most of this aid is lifesaving – yet instead of saving lives, it is sitting in storage. It must be allowed in immediately. This is not a choice or charity; it is an obligation under international law.”
Children receiving malnutrition treatment are at serious risk. Twenty-one treatment centres —15 per cent of total outpatient facilities — have closed since 18 March 2025 due to displacement orders or bombardments. The 350 children relying on these sites now face worsening malnutrition, which can be life-threatening.
Complementary food for infants—crucial for growth when food stocks are low— has run out in central and southern Gaza. Only enough ready-to-use infant formula (RUIF) remains for 400 children for a month. UNICEF estimates nearly 10,000 infants under six months require supplementary feeding, so without the RUIF, families could be forced to use alternatives mixed with unsafe water.
In addition to nutrition services, UNICEF has been forced to scale back mental health and psychosocial support, mine education, and child protection case management due to ongoing hostilities and mass displacement.
During the cease-fire, UNICEF began repairing critical wells and water points to increase the availability of safe drinking water. With the ceasefire collapsed, many remain unrepaired or are at risk of further damage.
In the north, families now rely entirely on water trucking. In central and southern areas, power cuts to the southern desalination plant have slashed water production by 85 per cent, and the main water pipeline has been
damaged and cannot be accessed for repairs. Drinking water access for 1 million people, including 400,000 children, has plunged from 16 litres per person per day to just six. If fuel runs out in the coming weeks, this could drop below 4 liters, forcing families to use unsafe water and increasing the risk of disease outbreaks, particularly among children.
The blockade has also prevented UNICEF from delivering inclusive recreational kits for 1,000 children with disabilities.
“For the sake of more than 1 million children in the Gaza Strip, we urge the Israeli authorities to ensure, at a minimum, people’s basic needs are met, in line with its obligations under international humanitarian law,” said Beigbeder. This includes their legal responsibility to ensure that families are supplied with the food, medical and other essential supplies they need to survive.”
Despite an extremely challenging situation, UNICEF and its partners are keeping a critical presence, delivering services like the resumption of neonatal health care services in the north and providing 21 respiratory machines to save the lives of 150 newborns; increased access to drinking water for hundreds of thousands of people; addressing malnutrition, with more than 7,800 children under 2-years-old reached with Ready to Use Complementary Food (RUCF) and more than 33,500 screened for acute malnutrition; prevention of family separation with more than 300 children reunited with their parents after having been separated by displacement orders and intense strikes.
U NICEF continues to call on parties to cease hostilities and reinstate the ceasefire. Humanitarian aid and commercial goods must be allowed to enter and move freely across the Gaza Strip. Sick and injured children must be evacuated for medical care. Civilians, including children and humanitarian workers, and the remaining essential infrastructure must be protected, and the hostages must be released.
UNICEF also urges states with influence to use their leverage over the parties to stop the conflict and ensure their respect for international law, including the special respect and protection due to children affected by armed conflict. (UNICEF)
Aid cuts threaten to roll back progress in ending maternal deaths
UNPRECEDENTED aid cuts are putting hard-won global progress in ending maternal deaths at risk, three UN agencies warned in a new report that calls for greater investment in midwives and other health workers.
The Trends in maternal mortality report was published by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO) and UN sexual and reproductive health agency UNFPA, in observance of World Health Day on 7 April.
It shows that maternal deaths declined by 40 per cent between 2000 and 2023, largely due to improved access to essential health services.
However, the pace of improvement has slowed significantly since 2016, and an estimated 260,000 women died in 2023 due to complications during pregnancy and childbirth, or roughly one death every two minutes.
URGENT ACTION NEEDED
As aid-funding cuts force countries to roll back vital services for maternal, newborn and child health, the UN agencies call for urgent action to prevent maternal deaths, particularly in humanitarian settings where numbers are already alarmingly high.
“While this report shows glimmers of hope, the data also highlights how dangerous pregnancy still is in much of the world today – despite the fact that solutions exist to prevent and treat the complications that cause the vast majority of maternal deaths,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
“In addition to ensuring access to quality maternity care, it will be critical to strengthen the underlying health and reproductive rights of women and girls – factors that underpin their prospects of healthy outcomes during pregnancy and beyond.”
PREGNANCY AND THE PANDEMIC
The report also provides the first global account of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on maternal survival.
An estimated 40,000 more women died due to pregnancy or childbirth in 2021, rising to 282,000 in 2022, and to 322,000 the following year.
This increase was linked not only to direct complications caused by COVID-19 but also widespread interruptions to maternity services, highlighting the importance of ensuring that this care is available during pandemics and other emergencies.
INVEST IN MIDWIVES
“When a mother dies in pregnancy or childbirth, her baby’s life is also at risk. Too often, both are lost to causes we know how to prevent,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. With global funding cuts putting more mums-to-be at risk, especially in the most fragile settings, “the world must urgently invest in midwives, nurses, and community health workers to
ensure every mother and baby has a chance to survive and thrive,” she added.
INEQUALITIES AND SLOW PROGRESS
The report also highlights persistent inequalities between regions and countries, as well as uneven progress.
With maternal mortality declining by around 40 per cent between 2000 and 2023, sub-Saharan Africa achieved significant gains. It was also among just three UN regions to see significant drops after 2015, with the others being Australia and New Zealand, and Central and Southern Asia.
Yet, sub-Saharan Africa still accounted for approximately 70 per cent of the global burden of maternal deaths in 2023 due to high rates of poverty and multiple conflicts.
Meanwhile, five regions saw progress stagnate after 2015: Northern Africa and Western Asia, Eastern and South-Eastern Asia, Oceania (excluding Australia and New Zealand), Europe and North America, and Latin America and the Caribbean.
A GLOBAL RESPONSIBILITY
Dr. Natalia Kanem, UNFPA’s Executive Director, upheld that access to quality maternal health services is a right, not a privilege.
She stressed the urgent responsibility to build well-resourced health systems that safeguard the lives of pregnant women and newborns.
“By boosting supply chains, the midwifery workforce, and the disaggregated data needed to pinpoint those most at risk, we can and must end the tragedy of preventable maternal deaths and their enormous toll on families and societies,” she said.
CHILDBIRTH IN CRISIS SETTINGS
The report also highlighted the plight of pregnant women living in humanitarian emergencies, who face some of the highest risks globally. Nearly two-thirds of global maternal deaths now occur in countries affected by fragility or conflict.
In these settings, a 15-yearold girl faces a 1 in 51 risk of dying from a maternal cause at some point over her lifetime compared to 1 in 593 in more stable countries. The highest risks are in Chad and the Central African Republic (1 in 24), Nigeria (1 in 25), Somalia (1 in 30), and Afghanistan (1 in 40).
Beyond ensuring critical services during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period, the report emphasized the importance of efforts to enhance women’s overall health by improving access to family planning services, as well as preventing underlying health conditions that increase risks, such as anaemia, malaria and noncommunicable diseases
Furthermore, it is also vital to ensure that girls stay in school, and that they and women have the knowledge and resources to protect their health. (UN)
Beverly Chan, a trailblazer in family-life education, leadership, social work
By Michel Outridge
OUR very own Beverly Chan was recently recognised by the Guyana Metropolitan Relief Organisation during International Women’s History Month 2025 for her role in leadership, family-life education, and social work.
She was surprised but at the same time was honoured to be recognised, since it is evident that people are taking time to follow what she has been doing over the years and are grateful to GuyMetro for their input.
Chan spent 20 years in the noble teaching profession, five years of which was as an educator in the hinterland communities before she stepped away to focus on family-life education, leadership and social work.
She is a mediator at the Georgetown High Court Mediation Centre and has been the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Davis Memorial Seventh-Day Adventist Hospital in D’urban Backlands for the past 12 years.
The mother of two and a grandmother of three recently told the Guyana Chronicle that within one month, she was the recipient of two different awards and she feels both elated and humbled by the gestures.
Chan on Saturday received the Trailblazing Woman in Project Management Award from Green State Oil and Gas Services Inc. in the HER Project Guyana and the Distinguished Service Award for Family Life Education from the Caribbean Union of the Seventh Day Adventists.
She is a Guyanese who grew up in Georgetown and has lived there all her life. She is from a renowned and prominent family that was known to the Seventh-Day Adventist Church for being musicians, pastors, teachers, and businessmen and women.
Over the years, Chan has impacted her community in many significant ways. She can be considered multi-talented since she has developed skills as a teacher, business leader, counsellor, and family-life educator.
The multi-talented woman’s greatest achievement in life is that of teaching and mentoring her children in the power of prayer, the role of faith in one’s life, and the benefits of living with an attitude of gratitude.
Chan has coordinated the establishment of the Diabetes Clinic and the development of the memorandum of under-
standing between GuyMetro and Davis Memorial Hospital.
She has synchronised and invited government and community organisations to participate in the work of Davis Memorial Hospital and does so with pomp and splendour.
Further, Chan has played a strategic role in keeping the hospital functioning and relevant, engaging missionary doctors from across the world to serve at the hospital.
Her involvement with GuyMetro dates back to 2014. She received and assigned the appropriate use of the hospital beds and a water- filtration unit, along with other items and financial donations Guy Metro had provided over the years.
Chan believes in GuyMetro’s vision and has pledged continued support to the organisation.
She sees herself supporting GuyMetro by sharing with others on social media the importance of the work that GuyMetro is doing at Davis Memorial Hospital. She is using social media and the Seventh-Day Adventist community to spread the word.
Chan is a trained first-class teacher (Teachers’ Training College), a professional Social Worker and Development Practitioner (UG/ Dalhousie University, Canada, a CIDA Scholarship Programme). Certified Family Life Educator (Andrews University, USA), Leadership Healthcare System Certificate (LLU, USA), Emotional Intelligent Leadership Training (Molina Institute of Applied Neuroscience University/LLU), Trained High Court Mediator (ADR/USAID) and Appreciative Enquire Approach to Learning (USAID).
This multi-award recipient which includes a Woman of Distinction Award for her outstanding work in the area of leadership and socialintervention skills spent 18 years working in the area of sexual and reproductive health and gender equality at the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (Western Hemisphere region) where for four years she represented that organisation at the United Nations at the Conference on the Status of Women and served as a Committee Member of the UN Global Spotlight Initiative on Domestic Violence.
Chan is a mother, wife, grandmother and home-maker. She loves to read and travel and continues to represent Guyana in many roles in both the region and internationally.
Certainty of China valued amid turbulence of global economy
Editor's note: Mei Qingping is a commentator on international affairs for CGTN. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily those of CGTN.
HAVING barely recovered from the pandemic, the global economy is reencountering headwinds, led by a new wave of reckless tariffs and protectionism. The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development has lowered its forecasts for global growth to 3.1 per cent in 2025. As the unpredictability of some major countries' policies piles up anxiety, the global market is desperate for certainty
From a global perspective, it's not all doom and gloom.
Recent policies and signs from the Chinese economy indicate that once again, China can provide certainty to the turbulent global economy. In 2024, China achieved 5 per cent GDP growth, one of the highest rates among the world's major economies. The recently concluded Two Sessions announced another 5 per cent growth target for 2025, showcasing the Chinese government's confidence in stable growth despite difficulties and rising global challenges. The certainty of China's growth stems from a healthy interaction between the government and the market. Earlier this year, Chinese leadership reiterated its commitment to boosting the private sector
during a high-level symposium with entrepreneurs. Thanks to favourable policies, millions of enterprises are showing great vitality.
Higher-quality vitality extends the certainty of the Chinese economy into long-term prospects. Cutting-edge technology has become an increasingly distinctive feature of the Chinese economy. With 4.76 million valid domestic invention patents, China has become the first country to surpass four million
patents. Startups in Hangzhou, known as the "Six Little Dragons," are attracting global attention with breakthrough products like DeepSeek and AI robotics. This signals the emergence of a new tech hub in East Asia with significant development potential.
A robotic arm is being used for smart manufacturing /VCG. Openness remains another distinctive feature of the Chinese economy. Unlike the obsession with so-called reciprocity in some countries, China has voluntarily opened its doors for years. Its commitment to opening up has remained unchanged throughout its development stages.
In meetings with international business representatives, the crucial rule of foreign businesses in China's modernisation and global integration is highly acknowledged. This process has undoubtedly achieved winwin results. While economic
globalisation faces temporary challenges, it remains an unstoppable trend.
China's openness is comprehensive and institutional. Rather than fearing imports, China embraces them. The China International Import Expo (CIIE) has run for seven consecutive years. With an average tariff rate of 7.3 per cent, China is lowering tariffs on pharmaceuticals and medical equipment. Meanwhile, the U.S. government's escalating tariffs are disrupting global supply chains.
Beyond fully opening manufacturing, China is further opening telecom and medical sectors to foreign investors. Supported by visa-free policies, China is building international consumption centers for foreign visitors.
Facts demonstrate the value of opening up. Beyond its growth miracle, China has built the world's most complete industrial chain. This foundation, coupled with consistent policies,
continues to attract foreign investment.
According to the China Business Climate Survey Report issued by the American Chamber of Commerce in China, over 50 percent of surveyed U.S. companies plan to increase their China investments in 2025. Despite tightened U.S. investment reviews, American CEOs formed the largest delegation at the China Development Forum (CDF).
Businesses act based on market principles.
This spring hosted major business forums like the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference and the CDF. Global CEOs shuttled between Beijing, Hainan Province and other cities and provinces, with many announcing new investments in China. Their confidence reflects the value of a stable and open economy in today's uncertain world.
SRH suffers batting malfunction to Gujarat Titans
(ESPNCRICINFO) - Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) suffered another batting malfunction, this time on a slow, black-soil surface at home, crashing to their fourth successive defeat in IPL 2025. Having lost Travishek in the powerplay, SRH waited until the 13th over to see the first six of the innings, and managed only one more after that. Mohammed Siraj caused irreparable damage right from the start, ending with his career-best IPL figures of 4 for 17.
Pat Cummins' cameo (22* off nine balls) and then his dismissal of Jos Buttler for a duck in Gujarat Titans' (GT) chase of 153 gave SRH some hope, but that faded away once Washington Sundar clattered 23 off
nine balls in the powerplay. Earlier in the day, GT didn't need Washington with the ball, but his attacking enterprise at No. 4 settled their chase on a slow pitch. Washington fell agonisingly short of a maiden IPL half-century, but his captain Shubman Gill ushered GT home, with an unbeaten 61 off 43 balls, along with Sherfane Rutherford.
Travishek vs Siraj Siraj had sparked the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to life when he gave Travis Head a send-off in Adelaide last December. Four months on, Siraj was bowling to Head for the first time in T20s, and the battle lasted just five balls. After Head scored two fours off Siraj, the fast bowler struck with his trademark wobble-seam
delivery, having him chip a catch to midwicket for 8.
Abhishek Sharma hit four fours before Siraj had him miscuing a catch to mid-on in his third over of the powerplay. It was Siraj's 100th wicket in the IPL and sixth in the powerplay, the most by a bowler in that phase so far this season, with an economy rate of 6.27.
Siraj then returned in the death to york both Aniket Verma, the last recognised batter for SRH, and Simarjeet Singh, their Impact Player.
Contrasting outings for Rashid and Sai Kishore
With both Head and Abhishek gone early, Rashid Khan, who was coming into this game on the back of figures of 4-0-54-0, could
afford to ease himself in. He started fairly well by giving away just 10 runs in his first two overs, but when he erred in length, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Heinrich Klaasen dispatched him to the fence. Rashid finished with 4-031-0, going wicketless for a third successive game, and with tournament figures of 1 for 143 in 14 overs at an economy rate of 10.21 Left-arm fingerspinner R Sai Kishore, on the other hand, showed remarkable control over his length and variations. He claimed the big wicket of Klaasen by knocking him over with a quick dart, which skidded off the pitch, for 27 off 19 balls. Sai Kishore also had Reddy holing out for 31 off 34 balls and finished with 4-0-24-2.
That SRH passed 150 was down to Cummins' late blows. He was the only SRH batter in the top eight to have a strike rate of over 160.
Washington at No.4
It appeared like GT had handed a franchise debut to Washington to primarily match his offspin up with SRH's left-hander heavy top order. But with Siraj dominating the powerplay and Sai Kishore taking care of the middle overs, GT ended up not using his offspin.
Washington then walked out to bat at No. 4 after his childhood friend B Sai Sudharsan and Buttler fell cheaply in successive overs. Washington took advantage of the last over of the powerplay, smoking Simarjeet for two sixes and two fours.
It provided a throwback to Washington of 2016, when he opened the batting, alongside Abhinav Mukund, in the TNPL and showed the intent to hit over the top. Just like that, Washington dumped SRH's Impact Player out of the attack. Washington continued to attack even after that. When the ambidextrous Kamindu Mendis darted one on the stumps with his right hand, Washington manufactured swinging room and laced him over extra-cover for four. Washington seemed set for a fifty until he holed out one shy of the landmark in the 14th over.
Gill, who had already crossed 50 by that point, finished the job along with Rutherford, who hit an unbeaten 35 off 16 balls.
places
THE battle lines have been drawn as eight schools earned places in the quarter finals of the Milo Massy Schools Football Championship at the Ministry of Education ground.
Chase’s Academic Foundation led the qualifier with Charlestown Secondary, Dolphin Secondary, Waramuri Secondary, Three Mile Secondary, Yarrowkabra Secondary, West Ruimveldt and President’s College.
Three Miles Secondary got the better of Abram Zuil Secondary, 2-1, after goals by LeBron Mendonca and Travin Benjamin.
Bushlot Secondary went down to Yarrowkabra Secondary 3-2.
John Bartholomew, Leroy Evans and Antwan
Vyphuis scored a goal each in the win.
West Ruimveldt then took a 2-nil win over Hope Secondary.
President’s College took an upset win over Santa Rosa 1-nil with a Kenan Petrie strike.
While on Saturday, Bartica Secondary had their sternest test when they locked horns with Chase’s Academic Foundation at the Ministry of Education ground.
Chase’s Isaiah Ifill was the delivery man as he put four goals past Bartica with strikes in the 33rd, 43rd, 50th and 58th minutes.
However, it was Nee -
iaz Baksh who opened the scoring in the 17th minute before Tyrell Walcott and Kemron Pellew made it 3-nil.
Ifill would dominate the second half of the game to guide the champs to a 7-nil victory.
Charlestown Secondary beat New Amsterdam Secondary 3-1 to advance. Goals by Charlestown Malcolm Hendricks and Nicholas Nieuelder in the first half gave Charlestown the edge before New Amsterdam Secondary Feaad Hussein made it 2-1.
Malakai Gowen would add to Charlestown’s lead in the 58th minute as they ended 3-1 winners.
Dolphin Secondary bested Ann’s Grove Secondary 4-2.
Colin Frank David put Dolphin in the lead in the 29th minute of play before Ann’s Grove
equalised off the boot of Keevin Austin before Kennard Halley gave them the advantage.
Second-half goals, Seon Grant, Ezekiel Frank David and Jomal Williams would be the difference makers for Dolphin as they came from behind to take a 4-2 victory.
Waramuri Secondary also edged South Ruimveldt Secondary 3-2, Denzell Abrams scored a 15th minute scorcher for Waramuri.
Waramuri doubled the lead in the 35th minute off the cleats of Erwin Booker
South Ruimveldt’s Carlon Robinson and Devonte Gaime scored second-half goals to make it 2-2.
An Orwin Abrams
68th minute goal put Waramuri up 3-2 which they held on to for the victory.
Milo/Massy
New Era Ent./ ExxonMobil Region 10 U-18 Schools Football
...LTI hammer Harmony 8-0
Linden Technical Institute
crushed Harmony Secondary 8-0 as action in the 3rd annual New Era Entertainment/ ExxonMobil Region 10 Under 18 Football Championship continued in Linden.
Last Saturday as play resumed, Linden Technical Institute showed ruthless form in disposing of Harmony Secondary 8-0 in a Group A match.
Mackenzie High and New Silvercity Secondary saw their Group B match ended 1-1.
Playing on the opening day last Friday in Group A, Linden Foundation edged past Christianburg Wismar
Secondary (Multi) 1-0, while Wisburg Secondary secured victory on home turf with a 2-1 win over Kwakwani/ Arima Combined in a Group B encounter.
The eight contesting schools are playing round robin matches in two groups to determine the four semifinal teams.
Group A has Christianburg Wismar Secondary, Linden Foundation Secondary, Linden Technical Institute and Harmony Secondary, while Group B comprises Mackenzie High, New Silvercity Secondary, Wisburg Secondary and Kwakwani/ Arima Combined School. At stake in this tourna-
ment are cash prizes which will be used for projects chosen by the top four schools.
The winners prize amounts to $400,000, second place $200,000, third place finishers $100,000 and fourth placed gets $50,000.
The competition continues on Wednesday with another double header in Group A.
At noon, Christianburg Wismar Secondary will face Harmony, and at 14.00hrs Linden Foundation Secondary match skills with Linden Technical Institute.
After Wednesday’s encounters the competition will continue on Friday with two more round robin matches at the Wisburg Secondary School ground.
Alfred edges Jackson in 300m Miramar Invitational
CMC – While the 300m is seldom the headline event at a track meet, the electrifying showdown between Julien Alfred and Shericka Jackson at the Miramar Invitational here in Broward County, Florida, came down to a nail-biting battle.
In the end, Alfred held off a late charge from Jackson to claim victory in the women’s three-quarter-lap race.
Competing in what was likely her final over-distance race of the season, Alfred blazed to a 36.05-second finish, smashing her own Saint Lucian national record and climbing to 28th on the all-time list.
The reigning Olympic 100m gold medallist had previously clocked 36.16 indoors in February, but
this time, she faced a stiffer challenge from the Jamaican Jackson, the world’s premier 200m sprinter, who was returning from an injury.
Drawn in Lane 4 with Jackson beside her in Lane 3, Alfred exploded from the blocks and quickly reeled in Ivory Coast’s Jessika Gbai by the 50m mark.
Jackson, a seasoned 400m specialist, steadily closed the gap, pulling level
Verstappen holds off McLaren duo for fourth consecutive Japanese GP win
Max Verstappen scored his first victory of the 2025 season with a masterful drive to P1 in the Japanese Grand Prix, the World Champion holding off the McLaren pair of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to claim a fourth consecutive win at the Suzuka Circuit.
After making a strong start from pole position, Verstappen held a decent lead over the McLarens throughout the early stages. Drama then ensued during the pit stop phase when the Dutchman’s slightly slow stop saw Norris – who had pitted on the same lap – try to go side-by-side at the pit exit, resulting in the McLaren man having to take to the grass while Verstappen remained ahead.
While both drivers voiced their unhappiness about the incident over the team radio, the stewards opted not to investigate and Verstappen remained ahead of Norris as the race progressed, building a gap back to the Briton.
However, the battle ramped up in the final 10 laps as Piastri closed in on Norris – leading the latter to up his pace and begin to
with Alfred, the Paris 2024 200m silver medallist, as they rounded the bend.
But in a display of sheer determination, the younger star found another gear in the home stretch, surging ahead to seal the win.
Jackson crossed the line in 36.13 for second, while Gbai finished third in a time of 36.24. Barbados’ Sada Williams clocked 36.49 for fourth.
cut into Verstappen’s advantage. It was ultimately not enough, though, with Verstappen crossing the line ahead of Norris to claim his 64th Grand Prix victory.
Norris’ second place looked to potentially be under threat from his team mate in the closing stages but, as the Australian’s challenge fell away in the final tours, the positions remained the same, with Piastri having to settle for third on his 24th birthday.
Charles Leclerc claimed fourth for Ferrari, ahead of the Mercedes pair of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, the latter of whom enjoyed an impressive run in the lead during the pit stop phase after going long for his opening stint.
Lewis Hamilton added to the Scuderia’s tally in seventh, while rookie Isack Hadjar clinched his first points of the season with a solid drive for Racing Bulls in eighth. Alex Albon followed in ninth for Williams, with Haas’ Ollie Bearman claiming the final point on offer in 10th.
Just missing out was Fernando Alonso, though the Aston Martin driver will
undoubtedly be pleased to be classified after failing to finish during the opening two rounds of the campaign.
Yuki Tsunoda took P12 on his Red Bull debut, a result that the Japanese racer will perhaps be unhappy with after failing to score points, though he did still earn the Driver of the Day accolade from the fans.
Tsunoda’s former team mate Pierre Gasly was 13th for Alpine, ahead of Carlos Sainz in the Williams and the other Alpine of Jack Doohan in 15th. Nico Hulkenberg followed in 16th for Kick Sauber, while Racing Bulls returnee Liam Lawson crossed the line in 17th place.
Esteban Ocon claimed P18 for Haas, while Kick Sauber’s Gabriel Bortoleto and the Aston Martin of Lance Stroll rounded out the order in P19 and P20 respectively.
In terms of the championship, Verstappen’s victory means that he is now just one point behind Norris at the top of the standings, with Piastri moving up to third ahead of Russell.
Julien Alfred
Race Winner Max Verstappen
GFF Elite League
Den Amstel FC shock GDF in thriller
Den Amstel Football Club pulled off a spectacular win on Saturday when they faced off against defending champions the Guyana Defense Force at National Training Center as the Guyana Football Federation Elite league continued.
Former GDF and Slingerz star striker Deon Alfred showed his skills against his former teammates with a superb effort in the 16th minute to put the west coast side ahead.
The lead remained until Chris Macey came to the fore in the 33rd minute to give GDF the equalizer with the soldiers started to pick up momentum.
The remainder of the first half and the start second half saw the two sides battling back and forth but both proving wasteful in front of goal.
A 60th minute goal by Jomal Robinson would
break the deadlock to help Den Amstel pull ahead of GDF 2-1.
GDF would then go on a strong offensive effort but could not break Den Amstel defense as the west coast side held on for the narrow victory.
Meanwhile, Slingerz also put in a solid display but was only able to manage a needle victory over Guyana Police Force.
Darren Niles solitary effort in the 66th minute was all that separated Police FC from Slingerz who won it 1-nil.
The league features 90 games over a 6 months period with the top side in Season 7 of the Elite League collecting two million dollars and being awarded an automatic qualifying spot at the CONCACAF/Caribbean Shield Championships.
The 2nd place team collects $1,200,000, 3rd Place $800,000 and 4th Place 500,000.
Regal/New York Hustlers defend Over-50 crown
Regal/New York Legends successfully defended their title in the Legends Over50 category, whipping nemesis New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) in yesterday’s final, played in Orlando, Florida.
The victory was sweet revenge for the Guyana-based team who lost to the same opponents in the preliminary round on Friday.
Asked to take first strike, Regal/New York Legends rattled up a challenging 193 all out in their allotted 20 overs. Skipper Uniss Yusuf led the way with a top score of 42.
In reply, NYSCL stuttered to 159 all out in 19.5 overs, going down by 33 runs. Manoj Kumar, batting at number seven struck 45 with three fours and fours sixes. Yusuf crowned a fine all-round performance,
bagging four for 33 in four overs. In Saturday’s semi-final, the Guyana-based team dished out a sound thrashing on Orlando Legends, whipping the home team by eight wickets in a lopsided affair at the Airport ground.
Set a challenging 206 for victory, after asking Orlando to take first strike, Regal/ New York Hustlers reached target in 15.4 overs.
The run chase was engineered by openers Asif "Ganguly" Ally who blasted a boundary-studded 86 and
skipper Uniss Yusuf with and even half century. The two added 91 in a mere six overs as the Orlando bowlers seemed shell shocked from the attacking nature of the two openers.
The left-handed Ally lashed seven fours and an equal number of sixes in his brilliant knock while Yusuf’s innings contained nine fours and a six.
Ally also shared a second wicket stand of 101 with Jagdesh Persaud who stroked three fours and three sixes in 39 before retiring hurt.
Earlier, Sham Veerasammy slammed a polished 57 for the home team, decorated with four fours and five sixes for the eventual losers who reached 206 for nine in their allotted 20 overs.
Bowling for Regal/New York Hustlers, Jagdesh Persaud took two for 32, John
Sumair two for 40 and Roy Persaud two for 42.
Earlier in the day, Regal/ New York Hustlers defeated Shaw's Realty Legends by two wickets to qualify for the semis in a must win contest.
In a closely fought encounter, Regal/New York Hustlers prevailed with two balls to spare in a nail-biting finish.
Set 208 for victory, after Shaw’s Realty reached 207 for six in 20 overs, Regal/
New York Hustlers were indebted to a fine undefeated 61 from Khemchand Dindial (five fours and three sixes) and a supporting knock of 36 from Quayaam Farrouq. NYSCL Legends who lost their opening match on day 1 bounced back to beat Regal-Hustlers Legends and Long Beach to book their semi-final ticket. They then defeated Guyana’s Trophy Stall of Guyana to advance to the final.
Den Amstel Football Club
Skipper Uniss Yusuf, after slamming a hundred on Friday versus NYSCL
SRH suffers batting malfunction to Gujarat Titans
Sherfane Rutherford remained unbeaten on a 16-ball 35 (Apr 06, 2025 BCCI)
The final eight teams in the 2024 Milo Schools Football tournament have been decided (Japhet Savory photo)
