‘We are building stronger families’–President Ali says
–– as Gov’t commissions $93.8M Day and Night Care and Early Childhood Development Centre
GUYANA’S first Day and Night Care and Early Childhood Development Centre was commissioned on Thursday, with President Dr. Irfaan Ali hailing the $93.8 million facility as a model for holistic child and family development that will be replicated nationwide.
“If you look at the facility itself, it’s about an environment that is conducive for the development of the children. It’s about their mental development. It’s about their skills development. It’s about their educational development,” President Ali told parents, educators and other stakeholders during the opening ceremony.
Constructed under the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, the centre is designed as a hybrid model that integrates with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education, the Guyana Police Force and other agencies. The government intends to establish similar centres countrywide across local neighbourhood democratic councils (NDC).
The aim is to create a connected ecosystem
that provides continuous support throughout the life cycle of a child, while also identifying and addressing gaps in families and communities.
“An important aspect of this work is also to recognise gaps that exist within the society and within the family itself, so that we can help those families to overcome some of those gaps also, so that we are building through this facility stronger children, stronger families, stronger community and stronger country,” the President said.
The initiative also envisions the use of digitisation and artificial intelligence to track health and social indicators.
“Take, for example, the support in healthcare. We can now identify children who might be more at risk in their teenage or older age for diabetes or other conditions and start educating those children, educating them, maybe helping them with lifestyle changes that would create healthier adults and a healthier population down the road,” Ali explained.
In the coming years, the government plans to
construct similar centres across Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), with integration into churches, mosques, and temples. The centres will be coupled with other policies promoting healthy family life, education, skills training, and poverty reduction.
“One of the things that we’re going to invest heavily in in the next five years is an ecosystem to support the full economic empowerment and deployment of every individual in our country,” Ali stated, adding that thousands of part-time workers under the National Pathway Workers Programme will be upskilled to work in these facilities.
The President stressed that investments in infrastructure, treated water, roads, drainage, and disease prevention are directly tied to strengthening families.
“Every time we invest in giving you treated water, every time we invest in giving you a better road, giving you better drainage, reduce the risk of malaria, reduce the risk of typhoid, reduce the risk of dengue, all those investments help
in family development,” he said.
MENTAL HEALTH, EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Meanwhile, Human Services and Social Security Minister, Vindhya Persaud described the centre as the first of its kind in Guyana and said it was conceptualised with the country’s expanding economy and growing needs in mind.
“It has really been conceptualised, looking at our expanding economy, looking at our growing needs, and looking at how we can holistically and comprehensively work towards the benefit of our youngest and most valuable treasures in our country, and by extension, their parents and families,” she said.
“It blends the kind of concept that globally, we are working on as a world to ensure that every child is safe and cared for.”
Minister Persaud added the importance of catering to children’s mental health, emotional development, and inclusivity, especially for those with special needs.
“We understand that families are the bedrock of the nation and if we really want to develop social transformation, we must work too on developing the psychology and the psyche of the families to understand what it is to bond with children, to understand what it is to care for children, and because we believe in inclusivity and accessibility, children with multiple needs, including children with special needs,” the Minister said.
Another facility will be built in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) to the tune of $94 million and will provide services free of charge.
Human Services and Social Security Minister, Vindhya Persaud and President Dr. Irfaan Ali tour the new facility which will provide comprehensive care and education for small children
US increases reward for arrest of Venezuela’s Maduro to $50 million
(AP Press) The Trump administration is doubling to US$50 million a reward for the arrest of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro, accusing him of being one of the world’s largest narco-traffickers and working with cartels to flood the U.S. with fentanyl-laced cocaine.
“Under President Trump’s leadership, Maduro will not escape justice, and he will be
held accountable for his despicable crimes,”
Attorney General Pam Bondi said Thursday in a video announcing the reward.
Maduro was indicted in Manhattan federal court in 2020, during the first Trump presidency, along with several close allies, on federal charges of narco-terrorism and conspiracy to import cocaine. At the time, the U.S. offered a $15 million re-
ward for his arrest. That was later raised by the Biden administration to $25 million — the same amount the U.S. offered for the capture of Osama bin Laden following the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
Despite the big bounty, Maduro remains entrenched after defying the U.S., the European Union, and several Latin American governments, who condemned his 2024 re-election as a sham and recognized his
opponent as Venezuela’s duly elected president.
Last month, the Trump administration struck a deal to secure the release of 10 Americans jailed in Caracas in exchange for Venezuela getting home scores
of migrants deported by the United States to El Salvador under the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Shortly after, the White House reversed course and allowed U.S. oil producer Chevron to resume drilling in Venezuela after it was previously blocked by U.S. sanctions.
Bondi said the Justice Department has seized more than $700 million in assets linked to Maduro, including two private jets, and said 7 million tons of seized cocaine had been traced directly to the leftist leader.
Maduro’s office didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro
Construction ‘steadily advancing’ on Young Professional Homes at Silica City
CONSTRUCTION is progressing on the first 100 Young Professional Homes at Silica City, Guyana’s first smart urban centre located on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.
According to an update from the Ministry of Housing & Water via its official Facebook page on Monday, construction is “steadily advancing” on the project, which is being overseen by the Planning and Settlement Development Department and Projects Department of the Central Housing and Planning Authority.
“Each flat unit features three bedrooms with built-in closets, a spacious kitchen and dining area, and a designated laundry space. Simultaneously, key infrastructure works, including roads, drainage, and electrical networks, are also progressing,” the Ministry said.
Back in August 2024, the government partnered with the University of Miami to complete the comprehensive plan for Silica City. The master plan for the city was later unveiled, showcasing all the cutting-edge technologies and other amenities it will have.
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 con -
scious living.
Recreational parks, community centres, buildings, an electrical system, and multi-speciality healthcare will all be part of the city, creating an atmosphere that improves enjoyment, productivity 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.
There are flat housing units and 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.
FLASHBACK: The photo was taken back in May as construction was progressing
One of the Young Professional Homes at Silica City Inside one of the Young Professional Homes at Silica City
GECOM’s Timely Warning
WITH less than a month to go before Guyanese cast their votes on September 1, 2025, the Guyana Elections Commission’s warning about the spread of fake news and misinformation is crucial. GECOM’s public advisory serves not just as a precaution but also as a necessary defence of democratic integrity in a time when false narratives can easily outpace the truth.
The Commission’s worry about disinformation campaigns harming “public trust, the electoral process, and the democratic fabric of the nation” reflects a serious issue facing democracies around the world.
In Guyana’s heated political environment, where memories of the contentious 2020 election still linger; that election took five months to finalise due to attempts at rigging. GECOM’s focus on maintaining credibility is especially important.
What makes this advisory stand out is its acknowledgment of how misinformation works in modern campaigns. False narratives do not require malicious intent to cause harm; they can “create widespread confusion, undermine confidence in State institutions, and possibly discourage citizens from voting.”
This understanding places GECOM in the role of not just an election administrator but also a guardian of democratic participation.
The Commission’s request for citizens to treat GECOM as “the only credible and official source of information related to the electoral process” may sound authoritative, but it reflects important lessons learned. In an information landscape where social media can magnify distortions and traditional media can misstate facts, having a single, verified source is crucial for upholding electoral integrity.
GECOM’s approach of sharing information actively through official channels, including its website, verified social media pages, and press releases, shows how the institution is adapting to challenges in the digital age.
The Commission urges Guyanese to “think critically and responsibly when engaging with information.” It recognises that fighting misinformation requires both vigilance from institutions and responsibility from citizens.
However, GECOM’s warning also highlights weaknesses in Guyana’s information ecosystem. The fact that such an advisory is needed suggests that misinformation campaigns are already in motion, possibly coordinated efforts to sway public opinion as the elections near. This reality should concern all citizens dedicated to democratic governance.
The timing of this advisory comes
when six political parties are now approved to run in the elections. This underscores the urgent nature of the battle for accurate information ahead. As campaigns ramp up and political rhetoric becomes sharper, the temptation to use false information will likely increase. GECOM’s proactive stance recognises this inevitability and provides citizens with tools to resist manipulation.
Ultimately, GECOM’s warning goes beyond just election logistics; it serves as a call for democratic growth. In a nation still developing its democratic institutions, the ability to tell apart real and fake information is a civic duty.
The elections on September 1 will test not only political choices but also Guyana’s collective commitment to a democracy based on truth. GECOM has given the warning; now it is up to every Guyanese to listen.
Government, GMSA tariff deal deserves praise, not condemnation
Dear Editor,
I WOULD like to add a contribution to the debate raging in the op-ed pages of Stabroek News regarding the government/ Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) negotiations with the USA regarding the tariffs. On 4 August 2025, Mr. Bulkan was incensed because some of his questions went unanswered.
A number of letters followed his; they were all sympathetic to Mr Bulkan
and even attempted to paint a picture that the government/GMSA was incompetent. I disagree. The government/GMSA did a great job-15 per cent tariff on non-oil exports from Guyana.
One ought to read the 3 August 2025 letter, in Stabroek News, by the perennial government critic, Professor Dr Andre Brandli, to appreciate what a great job the government/GMSA did.
He asked, “Why, then, was Liechtenstein spared from Trump’s punitive tariffs while Switzerland faced a 39 per cent levy? The answer lies in Liechten-
stein’s membership in the European Economic Area (EEA). As such, the two other EEA members – Iceland and Norway – also received the same 15 per cent tariff rate.”
He posits, “This is exactly the rate the EU recently negotiated for its 27 member states. Liechtenstein thus benefits directly from its integration into the EU’s internal market – a path Switzerland has deliberately chosen not to follow.”
According to the learned professor, a 15 per cent tariff is arrived at by
teaming up with larger players. The Guyana government/GMSA, “negotiating” without being a member of a CARICOM or some other trading bloc, got 15 per cent.
According to him, Guyana got a better deal than Switzerland and did this on its own. Incidentally, this disproves his thesis. Kudos to the government/GMSA.
Sincerely, Roger Ally Fort Lauderdale, FL
Fed up with some police personnel and magistrates
I DON’T think I will end up in front of a magistrate.
Even though I am old, age does not prevent me from getting charged. If someone hurts my cats and dogs, I probably would like to hit them, but I don’t think I will ever do so.
I am a pacifist. I will never strike another person. Please let me clarify my position on pacifism. Pacifism for me does not cover a complete rejection of war. I support the efforts of Hamas and Hezbollah to help the Palestinian people. I believe if the world accepts that each nation has security interests that they will protect, then Russia has security interests just like NATO and other big countries.
For the decades that I have been driving, I have never been involved in an accident. If I strike another vehicle and I am wrong, I will willingly pay the cost rather than allow myself to be charged. So, I don’t know in what circumstances I will end up being questioned in a police station or placed before a magistrate.
Should that happen to me at the station, I will get additional charges and in the magistrate court, I will be charged with contempt. The reason being I will raise my voice and the decibels will reverberate if some police officers and magistrates do nonsense.
Station bail and magistrate bail are areas of injustice in Guyana that need to be urgently confronted by public intellectuals. The stations and magistrates put people on bail for reasons that cannot
be located in the normality of the mind. We start with Guyana Chronicle columnist Leonard Craig. Mr. Craig is a wellknown Guyanese academic and a figure in politics.
By what logic will Mr. Craig not attend his trial? Craig reversed and slightly struck the front of a lady’s car. Craig agreed to get it fixed right away. The woman accepted the settlement route. That is what normal people do.
Meanwhile, a banker from Citizen’s Bank reversed and struck my vehicle. She had her baby in the car and there and then I took a benign stance. I told her I would go to my bodywork guy and get it fixed and tell her the cost. It was $30,000. I asked her to pay $10,000. End of story. Craig refused the enormous amount the woman was asking for and he was charged and placed on $40, 000 bail. As all police officials and all magistrates know, bail is denied for three compelling reasons: that the person will not attend court to answer the charge, tampering or intimidating a witness or when the accused is a flight risk.
Why put Craig on $40,000 if none of the criteria for denying bail applies to him? And why not put him on self-bail? Getting back that bail money is an impossibility. I asked Shell Mohamed three times to stand station bail for people.
On two occasions, it was $50,000 each and the other time it was $60, 000.To get back your bail money, you have to go to Eve Leary. After the terrible time I had, I
simply gave up. Shell never got back his $160, 000.
If you think police personnel are unreasonable then you have to see how magistrates assess bail money. Two examples should suffice. Last week, a woman stole a cell phone and was charged. Her bail is $100, 000, which she cannot raise and she is still on remand. Commonsense should have instructed that magistrate that if she could steal a phone where is she going to get $100,000 from?
The other example is a dental technician. Charged with assault, she was put on $30,000 bail. She wore her uniform in court and is attached to a well-known workplace. What is bewildering is what goes through the heads of these magistrates? Are they insensitive or mentally crude or incompetent? If she is a dental technician, why is she going to allow herself to be arrested and denied bail for not attending court?
Why is a prominent politician, columnist and academic like Craig going to jeopardise his employment by refusing to attend court?
One of the huge missing links in this bail conundrum is the de-recognition of self-bail by the stations and the magistrates. This remains a mystery in this country. Why aren’t people given self-bail when their entire career will be ruined if they do not attend court and will be arrested?
Last year, the government employed 7 new magistrates and I thought there would be a new era in our magistrate courts, but the more things change, the more they remain the same.
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.
Dear Editor,
LELON Saul complains that many of his friends are abandoning him.
While he may be baffled, the average citizen in the street would have no problem determining that Saul’s claims of oppression are so ridiculous that people do not want to be associated with him.
The truth is, no one wants to be connected to a man who appears to be actively cultivating division in the Disciplined Services. Lelon Saul should know better. When you serve in the military, you have a lifelong obligation to defend the institutions that are tasked with the nation’s national security. To do otherwise is patently unpatriotic.
Saul has every right to support the political party of his choice. That is a fundamental right when you live in a democratic society. But he must know that the PNCR-led APNU is indeed the party with the sordid record of rigged elections, assassinations, catastrophic economic performances, nepotism, and an amalgam of depravations that were placed on the backs of the hardworking Guyanese people.
Former friends of Lelon Saul have done the right thing.
That is a good indicator of the change that is occurring in Guyana.
Sincerely Dr Randy Persaud
Nandlall hits back at opposition over accusations of extra-judicial killings
–– reminds of unfulfilled CoI promises
ATTORNEY General and Minister of Legal Affairs
Anil Nandlall, SC, has rebuffed ongoing accusations from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and Alliance For Change (AFC) regarding extra-judicial killings.
He called out what he described as their failure to deliver on long-standing promises to hold public inquiries into politically sensitive killings — including the murder of former People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government minister Satyadeow ‘Sash’ Sawh, and political activist Courtney Crum-Ewing.
Speaking on his weekly programme ‘Issues in the News’, aired earlier this week, Nandlall took direct aim at what he said was the constant narrative by the opposition, accusing the PPP/C of being connected to or responsible for a number of high-profile killings.
“They campaigned heavily on this platform going into the 2015 elections. They said they would do Commissions of Inquiry (CoIs) and reopen investigations into what they described as extrajudicial killings…” Nandlall said.
Sawh, who served as Minister of Agriculture under
the PPP/C government, was gunned down along with his siblings and a security guard at his La Bonne Intention (LBI), East Coast Demerara (ECD) home in April 2006.
Despite repeated claims by opposition members that justice was never served in his case, successive inquiries have not been conducted.
According to Nandlall, the promises made by the coalition to address such matters fell flat once they assumed office.
“They said within 100 days in government, they would launch these CoIs. I remember calling on then President David Granger and the coalition numerous times to hold a Commission of Inquiry into the killing of Courtney Crum-Ewing,” the Attorney General said.
However, Nandlall pointed out that the coalition took no action during its time in office.
Crum-Ewing, a political activist who had vocally opposed the PPP/C, was shot dead in Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD), in March 2015. His killing sparked national outrage and was cited by the coalition as a symbol of political violence during the PPP/C’s tenure.
But Nandlall reminded
viewers that the case was addressed through Guyana’s criminal justice system. “A man was arrested, charged, and committed to stand trial,” he said.
Regan Rodrigues, also known as ‘Grey Boy’, was charged, stood trial, and was ultimately acquitted by a jury for Crum-Ewings’ killing.
“That is how the justice system of Guyana works,” Nandlall added, “When you say you want justice, that’s what justice looks like. Somebody has to be charged, and they go through the criminal justice system. So, when you’re calling for justice, I don’t know what else they want.”
The Attorney General also expressed frustration over what he sees as continued attempts to tie him and the PPP/C to Crum-Ewing’s killing, despite no evidence linking them to the crime.
He said he had called on the coalition government to hold the CoI, but they did nothing, and noted that in 2019, Granger stated a lack of evidence and witnesses had prevented investigations into these killings and the killings that followed the 2002 jail break and the ensuing crime wave.
Nandlall sharply rebuked
Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC
the opposition, condemning what he described as blatant dishonesty and political posturing. He accused them of brandishing these killings like a badge of honour and using them to score political mileage.
Moreover, Nandlall also addressed the killings of 16-year-old Isaiah Henry and his 18-year-old cousin Joel Henry, who were found brutally murdered at Cotton Tree Backdam, West Coast Berbice (WCB) in 2020, as well as the killing of Dartmouth businessman Orin Boston, who was shot dead in his sleep by a policeman in 2021.
Recalling the murders of the Henry cousins, the senior counsel said APNU supporters and leaders spread a vicious rumour that PPP/C supporters were responsible,
sparking unrest along WCB.
He reminded that the Regional Security System (RSS) was brought in to lead the investigation, which resulted in two men — Anil Sancharra, called “Dan-Pole” and “Rasta”, and Vinod Gopaul, called “Magga” — being charged and committed to stand trial.
“This is the criminal justice system at work. What more justice [do they want]?” Nandlall questioned. He described the opposition’s fight for justice as “fictitious” and “figmented,” adding that in their view, “because it doesn’t implicate the PPP/C, there is no justice.”
He also referenced the murder of 17-year-old Haresh Singh, also known as ‘Raj,’ of Lot 8, Number 3 Village, WCB, who was discovered on September 9, 2020, along the Number 2 Backdam with head injuries and chop wounds.
He noted that four individuals, including a relative of the Henry cousins, were charged with Singh’s murder and later committed to stand trial.
“So, the justice system is delivering,” he asserted, reprimanding the opposition for exploiting the deaths of these people.
He said the coalition falsely claimed that the neighbouring village of Cotton Tree “had something to do with the Henry boys murder”, when the alleged
perpetrators were actually from other communities, in an effort to fuel their racist and political narrative.
In July, Police Constable Sherwin Peters was sentenced to 25 years in prison for manslaughter in the death of Boston, after a jury returned a guilty verdict. Nandlall said the opposition also sought to use the death of 11-year-old Adriana Younge, who was found dead in a hotel pool at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), to score political points.
He highlighted that three independent forensic pathologists concluded the child’s cause of death was drowning, yet the opposition continues to insist that the child was murdered.
“Because those three professionals expressed a view that contradicted the narrative that the opposition concocted, they turned their attack guns on these professionals.
They wanted a political connection to the PPP/C and the government, but they found none,” the Attorney General declared.
With elections approaching, Nandlall urged voters to “condemn this level of stupidity” displayed by the opposition. He stressed that they must stop overwhelming the electorate with “fictions and falsehoods” and cease insulting their intelligence.
Fernandes pleads guilty to 2002 murder of estranged partner
MORE than two decades after brutally killing his estranged partner and evading capture, Gautier Jerome Fernandes, on Tuesday, pleaded guilty to the 2002 murder of Taijwantie ‘Roshanie’ Sooklall.
Fernandes, 53, entered the guilty plea before Justice Zamilla Ally-Seepaul at the High Court in Demerara. He will be sentenced on August 26, 2025, at 9:00 a.m., pending the submission of several reports and statements ordered by the court.
According to the case presented by State Counsel Christopher Belfield, assisted by State Counsel Praneta Seeraj and State Counsel Nelissa Peterkin, the murder occurred sometime between January 26 and 27, 2002, at Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD). The victim, a 22-year-old mother of three, had left Fernandes after enduring years of abuse and was living with her brother at the time.
On the night of the murder, Sooklall had spent the
day at a friend’s house. As she walked home late that night, accompanied by a friend, Fernandes ambushed her along a dirt road and slashed her throat. Her friend managed to escape and raise the alarm. Fernandes fled the area and successfully evaded law enforcement for 20 years.
The case remained unsolved until June 2022, when police, acting on information, arrested Fernandes at Onderneeming, Region Two— while he was preparing to be married. Police later confirmed that investigators were
able to secure a confession in which Fernandes admitted to killing Sooklall and injuring her friend, Williams.
Following his guilty plea, Justice Ally-Seepaul ordered the preparation of several documents ahead of sentencing, including a prison conduct report, victim impact statements, psychiatric evaluations, and submissions of aggravating and mitigating factors.
Defence attorney Adrian Thompson is also expected to submit character witness statements on Fernandes’ behalf.
Taijwantie Sooklall Jerome Fernandes
Parika sees major reduction in water losses
- GWI records sharp drop from 80 per cent to 49 per cent in six months
WATER wastage in Parika and several surrounding communities in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) has seen a sharp decline, thanks to the combined efforts of residents and the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).
At the commissioning of the $850 million new water treatment plant in the community, on Wednesday, GWI’s Head Shaik Baksh reported that water losses, also known as non-revenue water, have dropped from 80 per cent to 49 per cent over six months.
“I must commend
the residents of Parika and surrounding areas, because the GWI team visited house to house and we encourage them to conserve water and not to waste it. The water losses here were 80 per cent six months ago, and this week the water losses were reduced to 49 per cent,” he said.
Baksh explained that these efforts are a part of a broader initiative which has been undertaken by GWI and the government to increase the treated water coverage to 90 per cent.
Already, the government is constructing seven new, larger water
treatment plants and eighteen small plants, upgrading twelve existing plants and installing 200 kilometres of transmission mains to improve water quality.
According to Baksh, the newly commissioned plant at Parika is one of three new facilities that have been constructed in the region. While the plant has the capacity to treat five million litres of water per day, continued efforts to save water will see residents being able to have a reliable and sustainable water supply.
“We need to bring down the water losses to ensure the sustainability of the level of water service,” Baksh pointed out.
He further outlined the government's future plans to continue improving water services, including balancing the network and ensuring a high-pressure water supply.
These projects, including the newly commissioned plant at Parika, are equipped with advanced filtration systems that reduce iron levels to meet international standards.
The improvements aim to deliver clearer, safer water to communities long affected by a discoloured and poor-quality supply.
GWI’s continued investments in infrastructure are focused on ensuring consistent access to clean water that meets both health and quality benchmarks. These plants will essentially remove the iron content from the water supply, which is required for potable or drinking use to have an iron concentration of below 0.03 mg/L of iron.
The new plant is delivering a water supply with a concentration of 0.01 mg/litres.
In addition to this, the government plans to revamp the mandate of GWI, making it more agile and reactive to ensure that citizens across the country have access to a clean water supply.
The government in the past four years, invested over $65 billion in the water sector, increasing countrywide access to about 98.3 per cent of the population.
The $850 million Parika Water Treatment Facility
GWI’s Chief Executive Officer, Shaik Baksh
Jagdeo receives warm welcome in Region Two ––
as residents voice hopes, support for
ongoing development
RESIDENTS
of Region
Two turned out in large numbers to welcome Vice President and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secre -
tary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during a two-day outreach that spanned communities from Supenaam to Charity.
The outreach, which
covered Good Hope, Aurora, Hibernia, Adventure, Onderneeming, Maria Lodge, Golden Fleece, and Cullen, provided a valuable oppor-
tunity for villagers to engage directly with the Vice President, expressing their concerns, aspirations, and appreciation for the government’s de-
velopment agenda.
Residents consistently highlighted issues related to drainage, housing, road improvements, and youth employment. Many described the outreach as a meaningful and necessary initiative, offering citizens a direct channel to voice their needs.
“I’m happy he came here to listen to us,” said a resident of Golden Fleece. “We want better drainage and more job opportunities for our children. It feels good to know our voices are being heard.”
There was also strong support for the government’s ongoing and planned infrastructural developments, including the four-lane highway and the soon-to-be-commissioned Lima Regional Hospital. Farmers, in particular, welcomed these investments, saying improved transportation and healthcare access would greatly enhance their livelihoods.
In addition to infrastructure, residents praised the PPP/C’s social support initiatives, including the “Because We Care” cash grant and pension increases. “Every little bit helps, especially for families and the elderly. It shows
the government is thinking about us,” noted a mother from Adventure. Community members also offered suggestions and feedback for the upcoming General and Regional Elections, calling for continued engagement and participatory governance. Their optimism was tempered with calls for accountability and follow-through.
“We see the work happening, and we believe more is coming,” said a resident of Hibernia. “What we want is for the government to keep talking to us and delivering on its promises.” The outreach ended on a positive note, with many residents expressing gratitude for Dr. Jagdeo’s presence and attentiveness. “We are very happy with Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s visit— it shows he cares, and we appreciate him spending the day with us,” said Mala Persaud of Golden Fleece.
The two-day outreach reaffirmed the PPP/C’s commitment to grassroots connection and community-driven development, reinforcing residents’ trust in the government’s vision for Region Two.
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo speaks to the gathering at the Maria Lodge meeting
‘PPP ministers not on any sanctions list’ – Jagdeo
- calls out Azruddin Mohamed for misleading public on US sanctions - warns of repercussions those affiliated will continue to battle
EMBATTLED business -
man Azruddin Mohamed has been called out by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo for masking the grave reality of the United States (US) sanctions that have been imposed on him, his father Nazar Mohamed and their businesses.
During a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, Georgetown, Dr. Jagdeo opined that the businessman, now turned politician, is spewing a “series of lies.”
Based on numerous news reports quoting the businessman and online videos circulating of him speaking, Mohamed has attempted to paint the Office of Foreign
Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Department of the Treasury as a political ploy.
Azruddin, along with his father, Nazar Mohamed and their businesses, namely Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing, on June 11, 20 24, were sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which oversees sanctions against individuals and entities tied to illicit activities and hostile foreign governments.
In a June 2024 statement, the OFAC stated, “Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise evaded Guyana’s tax on gold exports and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues
by under-declaring their gold exports to Guyanese authorities.
Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 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.”
“He is mentioned in the sanction; he’s number one. When it says designating, it means you are sanctioned,” Dr. Jagdeo emphasised as he read from the OFAC statement on Thursday.
As a result of the OFAC sanctions, the Mohameds’ business licences were revoked, and their bank accounts were closed.
Dr. Jagdeo accused Azruddin of attempting to seek sympathy by parading as a victim of political persecution all while he continues to expose those in his political party, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), to risks.
The PPP General Secretary who also serves as Guyana’s Vice-President slammed the presidential hopeful for comparing his serious sanctions to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Guyanese President Dr. Irfaan Ali.
“Modi was never OFAC sanctioned, never. Irfaan Ali was not sanctioned by any foreign government. It's APNU who put the 19 charges vindictively against him. So, he (Mohamed)
shifts the focus from himself to other people...It's a total lie,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
Dr. Jagdeo further highlighted the repercussions of the US sanctions, which includes the closure of bank accounts.
Several local banks- Demerara Bank, GBTI, Citizens Bank, and the New Building Society- in an attempt to prevent finan -
cial collapse, have closed the accounts belonging to candidates of Mohamed’s WIN’s party.
Dr. Jagdeo also strongly dismissed the baseless and mischievous claim that several government ministers will be hit by sanctions.
“It’s a lie. No PPP minister is on any sanction list or to be sanctioned,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
Jagdeo calls for ‘strong enforcement’ against electoral lawbreakers
THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has called for strong enforcement of electoral laws as the country heads to the polls on September 1, warning that offences such as vote buying should be met with a tough crackdown.
He made these remarks on Thursday at a press conference at Freedom House
the September 1, 2025, General and Regional Elections that they all have a statutory duty and civic responsibility to contribute to the elections being conducted in a free, fair, transparent, and credible manner.
In this regard, the Commission took the opportunity to strongly emphasise the need for voters and other concerned stakeholders to
as he emphasised the importance of upholding Guyana’s democracy.
“I hope that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is vigilant and the Police too, because there are lots and lots of cases where we have seen this happening. They need to take strong enforcement action against people who transgress elections laws, including paying people for their vote because this is a crime,” Dr Jagdeo said.
On Monday, GECOM reminded all stakeholders in
be informed of the following provisions as enacted in the Representation of the People Act Cap: 1:03: –“It is an offence for any person, including the voter himself, to communicate at any time to any person, any information about the political party for which any voter has voted on his behalf or as a proxy on behalf of another voter; Similarly, it is an offence for anyone to influence, by any means, a voter to display his ballot paper, to make known the political party for whom
he has voted on his behalf, or as a proxy”.
Further, GECOM in a release said that it also an offence for any person, directly
or indirectly, to offer any money, gift, and/or a loan, to any voter to secure the vote of any voter at the elections. Any person who commits
any of the above offences shall be liable on summary conviction to pay a fine and to imprisonment for six months.
“Persons convicted for any of the above offences may also be prohibited from participating in future elections,” GECOM said.
PPP General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
FLASHBACK to 2020 Elections in Guyana
Gov’t to engage public transport operators on fare hikes – Jagdeo
— Despite lower fuel prices and toll-free bridges
VICE-PRESIDENT
Dr.
Bharrat Jagdeo has signalled that government will meet with minibus and taxi operators to address recent fare hikes, despite major cost-saving measures already in place, including toll-free bridge crossings and the low-
est fuel prices in the region.
While responding to questions from reports on Thursday, during his weekly press conference, Jagdeo acknowledged that public transportation operators also need to make a living but noted that dialogue is necessary to bal-
ance their needs with those of passengers.
“I think we should have a discussion with them. We should constantly have discussions, because we want them to do well too. We want people to have low fares, but we want the taxis and the drivers and
passengers
GUYOIL current prices for gas and diesel everybody to also do well; they should be able to earn a decent living.
“But that was a complaint I got a lot from Berbice, a lot that people said, you know, well, the tolls are gone. Now, we used to be told that tolls are causing high costs coming to Georgetown, and now it's gone, but we haven’t seen any changes. But I agree with the discussions,” Jagdeo said on Thursday.
FARE INCREASES
Despite the removal of tolls from Wismar, Berbice and Demerara bridges and Guyoil’s all-time low pump prices, $170 per litre for Super 95 gasoline, $190 for ultra-low sulphur diesel, and $168 for low sulphur diesel, minibus and taxi drivers have been quietly increasing fares across the country.
Commuters report that fare hikes are most common during peak hours and at night. On the Route 44 minibus park, the fare from Melanie on the East
Coast to Georgetown remains at $160 in the morning but jumps to $200 or more in the afternoon and evening. Meanwhile, minibus operations on Route 42 hiked their fairs from $100 to $200 more during peak hours
Other increases have been noted on Route 31 and 32 services from Parika and Patentia, where fares have surged from $160 to as much as $500 at night.
Meanwhile, Passengers at the Route 31 bus park near the Georgetown–Vreed-enHoop Stelling told the Guyana Chronicle that a shortage of minibuses often leaves them waiting in poor weather, only for arriving drivers to set their own fares, which passengers must pay if they want to get home.
On the East Coast, private “off-the-road” taxis are charging between $500 and $600 per person for short village trips, with fares changing frequently.
In Melanie, Roots Taxi Service charges $300 for short drops into nearby villages, a $100 increase but still lower than many private operators.
In Georgetown, Enterprise minibus commuters report paying $200 per trip for overcrowded buses with loud music and verbally abusive staff. One city taxi driver told this newspaper that short drops now cost $1,500 due to higher car part prices and maintenance costs.
Passengers warn that taking an unregistered taxi during emergencies often results in inflated fares, sometimes amounting to thousands of dollars depending on the distance.
While some zones have not yet raised fares, the practice has become widespread enough that government intervention, through discussions with operators appears imminent.
Taxi drivers sourcing passengers outside of Demico House, Stabroek (Delano Williams photos)
Stranded
awaiting the arrival of minibuses during rush-hour downtown at the route 31/32 bus park
National Literacy Programmes launched to close education gaps
THE Ministry of Education has flipped the switch on what it calls the most ambitious literacy push in Guyana’s history, the National Literacy Programmes, a countrywide, no-child-left-behind plan to close education gaps, raise standards and ensure every learner can read and write with confidence.
The programmes, designed to improve access and inclusivity for all learners regardless of religion, political affiliation, or ability, were described by Minister of Education Priya Manickchand as a game-changer for the education sector.
“Today, it gives me great pleasure to commission for Guyana the historic literacy programmes, so that each of our children will leave grade four reading, learning, literate and able to comprehend what they read. So that each child in the school system who exists right now, post grade four, is going to have an intervention that allows them to exit either primary or secondary school reading,” the Minister declared at the launch.
The National Literacy Programmes, which can be accessed online via https:// nld.gov.gy, represent the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Gov -
ernment’s commitment to ensuring every child in Guyana can read with confidence, write with clarity and dream without limits.
Built on the foundation laid by past education leaders, the renewed literacy journey began in September 2023 with a high-level meeting led by Minister Manickchand, setting in motion a bold national movement to transform literacy outcomes at all levels of education.
The programmes are rooted in the science of reading and supported by culturally relevant materials that cater to the unique needs of Guyanese learners.
Whether building phonetic awareness and fluency at the nursery level, improving comprehension at the primary level, or
delivering targeted interventions to students in secondary school, the programmes are designed to ensure literacy instruction is deliberate, structured and impactful.
Assistant Chief Education Officer (ACEO) for Literacy, Stembiso Grant, noted that a significant increase in the budget for the National Literacy Department has resulted in the development of rich resources, including printed books, digital e-books, instructional videos, and teaching guides.
With this boost, the Ministry has expanded its workforce to include 87 National Literacy Officers and a greater number of Regional Literacy Officers.
For the first time, literacy committee members have been assigned
to nursery schools, with 161 now in place, and 165 serving at the primary level.
These efforts will be further strengthened when schools reopen on September 8, as Literacy Support Teachers are deployed across the country to execute the intervention programmes in full.
According to Grant, the initiative is not just a series of scattered interventions, but a well-structured sys-
daily, structured foundational literacy instruction for the first time.
This includes the introduction of the “Adventure Through Letters and Sounds” teacher-training co mponent, which emphasises rote learning and repetition while aligning every literacy skill with national standards and benchmarks.
Minister Manickchand also alluded to the broader vision behind the
learner who is behind receives a tailored intervention to catch up.
The programme’s reach extends beyond the classroom, with a renewed push to revitalise school libraries, establish reading clubs, strengthen community libraries, and collaborate with local and international partners.
The Government has also expressed hope that Guyana’s Carib -
tem of support that brings intentional literacy teaching into every classroom.
She explained that the Ministry has revised the nursery curriculum to ensure all children receive
programme, noting that it is the Government’s intention that every child exits primary school with the ability to read and comprehend, and that every secondary school
bean neighbours will benefit from the digital literacy resources available online, reinforcing the country’s role as a regional leader in education innovation.
Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand (Delano Williams photos)
Some of the literacy resources rolled out by the Ministry of Education
Gov’t redefining access to education for every Guyanese child – Manickchand
— over 100 new schools, 9,000 trained teachers, expanded literacy and nutrition programmes rolled out nationwide
THE Peoples’ Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) has made good on its promise to transform the education sector, with the construction and expansion of over 100 schools, the training of more than 9,000 teachers and the nationwide rollout of key literacy and nutrition programmes.
This was reaffirmed by Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, during the launch of the National Literacy Programmes on Thursday, where she outlined the sweeping changes and achievements made over the past five years in alignment with the PPP/C’s 2020 manifesto.
Manickchand highlighted that the education sector plan was built around expanding access to quality education at all levels, improving the conditions for learning and teaching and creating equitable opportunities for students across Guyana, especially in rural and hinterland areas.
The Minister pointed to the heart of this effort which is expanding school infrastructure.
“If you look at me and
tell me building a school means nothing, then I will tell you, you don't know the people you are serving. Because for them, they have to start with getting into a school before we can begin anything else that is fancy,” she said while stressing the importance of physical access to education.
Over the last five years, the Ministry has constructed 42 new secondary schools and extended many more including the Yarrowkabra Secondary School on the Soesdyke Highway, which now accommodates 1,100 students.
“We’ve opened the school. It has 1,100 children in it right now and we're doing a 12-classroom extension; because where you build schools, children move. Their lives are changing, and their children's lives will change because of that,” she explained. Additionally, the Ministry is building 54 nursery schools, reconstructing 13 and expanding 39, bringing Guyana closer to universal nursery education. The primary level has seen similar investments with 24 new
primary schools built, 20 reconstructed and 39 extended nationwide.
Alongside infrastructure, the Government has focused heavily on the quality of education. More than 9,000 teachers have graduated from the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) in the last four years, con-
tributing to a trained teaching population of nearly 15,000 educators across the country.
Support to families has also been central. Manickchand reminded that the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant, now valued at $55,000 per child, has benefitted families nationwide
with a total investment of close to $11 billion.
This, the Minister said, is what was “promised and delivered.”
Manickchand further disclosed that a transportation grant is soon to be introduced for students, further easing the cost of
education.
Nutrition and literacy are also top priorities. The school breakfast programme, which provides meals for Grades Three to Six, now serves 47,000 breakfasts daily. The meals are designed by dieticians and prepared by single-parent mothers, promoting both child nutrition and women’s employment.
Acknowledging some public complaints, the Minister encouraged feedback, stating that all schools now have a QR code where parents and stakeholders can scan and submit suggestions.
“The Government's intention is to give your children a healthy, nutritious meal, and anyone who gets in the way of that cannot be your friend, cannot serve with us and so we're very clear about that,” she said.
In parallel, access to learning materials has been significantly improved, with textbooks provided to all students as part of the drive to strengthen readin g and literacy skills.
Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand shares a light moment with students (Delano Williams photo)
106 Region Five residents receive cement and steel vouchers
ONE hundred and six residents of Region Five received steel and cement vouchers from the Ministry of Housing and Water on Thursday.
The distribution exercise was held at the office of the Regional Democratic Council, Fort Wellington Village, West Coast Berbice.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, spearheaded the distribution and said it demonstrates the government’s commitment to making homeownership more affordable and accessible.
Minister Croal pointed out that the initiative is a brainchild of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
He stated that it is part of a larger national housing plan that emphasises land allocations and provides support for construction with practical subsidies.
“We started by ensuring we inject the resources that are required for infrastructure. Now with that, we’re able to do more with the steel and cement support programme,” the minister stated.
He noted that this initiative lends support to low and middle-income families who are building their homes
for the first time, as well as renovating existing property.
The minister underscored that prior to Thursday’s distribution, the ministry had given out 189 vouchers in the region.
Those who benefited expressed gratitude, many stating that this brings them one step closer to their dream of owning their own home.
Faizul Ishmail said that he is pleased with the assistance of the voucher and thanked the government for its support.
“I feel happy because now I can make a start to building my home. This steel and cement will go a far way, thanks to the government. It’s a great initiative,” he said.
Similarly, Claud Ross of Number 41 Village, West Coast Berbice, said that the steel and cement subsidy is a great intervention by the government and expressed gratitude.
“I am pleased with this voucher, I have peace of mind, and I want to thank the government for assisting us,” Ross said.
Meanwhile, an emotional Michelle Mingo expressed her joy and gratitude for the help she received, saying it was the encouragement she
needed to start building.
The subsidy provides families with one sling of cement and steel to construct the foundation of their homes when the overall construction cost totals six million dollars or less.
The vouchers can be used at hardware stores nationwide.
Since its launch, the steel and cement subsidy programme has helped many Guyanese and continues to grow, aligning with the government’s aim of providing house lots and promoting sustainable housing development.
(DPI)
Beneficiary, Faizul Ishmail
A bid for ‘relevance’
–– Dr. Jagdeo rejects Amanza’s claim that PPP/C wanted her as PM candidate, –– says PM Phillips remains party’s
PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has rejected opposition politician Amanza Walton-Desir’s attempt at relevance, claiming that the ruling party is seeking her as its prime ministerial candidate- a position which has already been confirmed for Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips.
Dr. Jagdeo, during a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House, Georgetown, said that the party has no interest in handing the keys of such a prestigious position to someone who has no “capacity to manage anything.”
His remarks come after Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) leader, Walton-Desir, in a recent video, alleged that the PPP/C wanted her to run alongside President Dr. Irfaan Ali in the upcoming September 1 General and Regional Elections.
Dr. Jagdeo, however, dis-
missed the claim as her looking for “relevance,” stressing that current Prime Minister Phillips remains the party’s firm choice.
Prime Minister Phillips stands firm as the trusted Prime Minister for Guyana’s future, as Dr. Jagdeo has already confirmed that he will return as the prime ministerial candidate in the upcoming September 1 General and Regional Elections.
“Now we have Mark Phillips, who has been announced as our prime minis-
pick
terial candidate, a person of great quality, former head of the army, who served for five years in very difficult circumstances- throughout COVID and then thereafter with distinction. Why would we ever want an Amanza Walton to replace him? Nobody is in her inbox. She’s just looking for relevance.
“It is just a game. Nobody pays attention to what she does. They don’t believe she has a capacity to manage anything... She’s not demonstrated any capability to man-
age anything, and even the things that she promises have no resonance with Guyanese,” Dr Jagdeo said. Phillips was sworn in as the 9th Prime Minister of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana under President Dr. Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020. He served as the Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) from 2013 to 2016.
Brigadier Phillips has two Post-graduate Diplomas: One in Advanced Defence and Security Studies from the Inter-American Defence College in Washington D.C., and another in Defence Studies from the United States Army Command and General Staff College (CGSC) in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
He also earned a Bachelor’s of Social Sciences
Degree in Public Management from the University of Guyana and a Master of Science in Public Sector Management from La Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra in the Dominican Republic.
Phillips was chosen as the running mate of People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Presidential Candidate Dr. Ali in the Guyana 2020 General and Regional Elections.
On August 2, 2020, the PPC/C was officially declared the winner of the 2020 General and Regional Elections in Guyana. On that same day, Dr. Ali was sworn in as the 9th Executive President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, and as his first official act as President, appointed Phillips as Prime Minister of Guyana.
Following his appointment as Prime Minister, Phillips was assigned the energy sector, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), the information sector, and the telecommunications sector.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and President, Dr. Irfaan Ali
Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) leader and presidential candidate Amanza Walton-Desir
Every eligible officer will be promoted
–– Dr. Jagdeo assures GPF — says there will be a review process for those who feel aggrieved
VICE-PRESIDENT
and People’s Progressive Party (PPP)
General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has assured all police officers that “everyone who is eligible will receive the promotion.”
He made this firm statement on Thursday during a press conference at Freedom House, Georgetown, where he addressed concerns raised from officers and their families about perhaps being overlooked in the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
More than 2,000 ranks of the GPF received long-awaited promotions effective August 1, 2025, as part of a comprehensive package of reforms.
Dr. Jagdeo noted that there are many officers who have served Guyana with distinction and possess an unblemished track record.
However, some for one reason or another were not promoted, but with President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s recent appropriate directions to the Commissioner of Police, 2,800 officers are being promoted. Already about 2,000 of those have been notified. Another 800 will receive their notification soon.
“I want to assure all of the police…. Everyone who is eligible will receive the promotion, and there shall be a review process for those who feel aggrieved that they have been overlooked or bypassed; their case will be examined and once confirmed, they too will receive their promotion,” the Vice-President said.
Speaking to officers at the GPF Headquarters recently, the Commander-in-Chief outlined an aggressive strategy to
professionalise the police service, one that includes automatic promotions, free access to higher education, improved working conditions, and a new performance-based accountability system.
The President said the long-overdue promotions will apply to ranks across all levels, correcting decades of stagnation where officers with 10, 20, or even 30 years of service retired without proper recognition.
Ranks with five to seven years of service, currently at the constable level, will be promoted to Lance Corporal. Those with eight to 10 years will be placed at the highest salary scale for their rank.
Ranks with 10 years or more of service will move to Corporal and those with 10–30 years will be promoted to Sergeant. Officers with 20 plus years and a clean record will be automatically upgraded to Inspector.
“We have officers who served for decades and retired as constables. That ends now…This government is giving you what you’ve earned,” the President affirmed.
The sweeping promotion exercise will affect over 2,000 officers across the GPF, with new salaries and ranks taking effect from August 1. The move is one of the largest mass promotions in the history of the Force and is part of the government’s plan to boost morale and build a modern, agile, and accountable police institution.
Another major reform announced is the removal of academic restrictions on professional development. Previously, only senior ranks could pursue higher education through the Force.
Now, every officer,
regardless of rank, can pursue diplomas, degrees, or master’s-level education at no cost.
“There’s no excuse anymore…Upgrade yourself. The opportunities are there and fully funded,” President Ali said.
Training helps to empower Global South…
Over 500,000 professionals have gained skills from China’s programmes
By Zhou Jin
(China Daily) WHEN
Joseph Njane, a railway training officer from Kenya, boarded for the first time a high-speed train from Beijing to Wuhan and then Guangzhou, he was captivated by the speed, safety and technological sophistication of the country's railway network.
The three-week training session in 2019, provided by Beijing Jiaotong University, allowed Njane, who works for Afristar, the company that operates the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway, to learn about China's scientific approach to railway planning and construction, control and monitoring systems.
"Seeing China's railway network firsthand was really eye-opening," he said, adding that the field trip ignited his desire to bring the advanced technology back to help modernise Kenya's railway systems.
"The knowledge that I acquired, the scientific methods and models, can be used for our railways in Africa to improve the capacity and utilisation of our lines."
Three years later, Njane participated in an online course also provided by the Beijing Jiaotong University, which he said enhanced his understanding of railway systems, from the structure of the railroad to dispatching technologies.
The most valuable takeaway of the training was China's emphasis on integrating technology with education, he said.
"The two training courses enabled and in-
spired me to come up with something that can be used in Kenya to train our staff and ensure their access to railway knowledge."
When he returned to Kenya, Njane established an online system where he uploaded the training materials from his visits to China and online training.
Now, any employee can log in and access those training materials within minutes, even though they did not get a chance to study in China, Njane said. "This accelerates technology transfer from Chinese experts to Kenyan workers."
The type of training that Njane received, as part of China's international human resources development co-operation, is seen as an important aspect of the country's foreign aid.
Over the past 70 years, China has carried out nearly 15,000 training programmes for over 180 countries and organisations through various forms such as
short- and medium-term training programmes in China, overseas expert consultations and youth volunteer services.
These programmes have covered 17 fields and trained more than 500,000 professionals in total, according to Li Ming, a spokesman for the China International Development Cooperation Agency.
China's foreign aid training programmes focus on cultivating and enhancing the recipient countries' self-development capabilities, playing a vital role in international economic and technological exchanges and co-operation, he said.
Li shared examples such as a Rwandan trainee who founded a Juncao production company upon returning home, after learning about Juncao (mushroom and grass) technology in China, thereby helping to lift over 50,000 local farmers out of poverty.
An Iraqi trainee brought back China's "checkerboard" sand
control method to combat desertification in Iraq, Li said, adding that another trainee from Afghanistan used emergency response training to prevent an explosion in Kabul.
The agency plans to launch over 2,000 training programmes for more than 50,000 participants in 2025, he said, adding that China will continue to design development co-operation projects and provide 100,000 training and study opportunities to Global South countries over the next five years.
TWO-WAY EXCHANGE
Jing Guoqing, a professor at the highway and railway engineering department of Beijing Jiaotong University, said that sharing China's railway development philosophy and experience allows participants to share insights into their countries' railway challenges and expectations.
"Teaching is a twoway process," Jing said. During the training, the trainees share their
experiences, concerns, questions and aspirations, and such feedback is valuable for Chinese companies operating overseas, helping them to navigate cultural differences and improve their projects, he said.
"Foreign aid training plays a crucial role in bridging Chinese enterprises and international stakeholders, ensuring smoother co-operation," Jing said.
Such training helps to enhance local engineers and officials' understanding of China's technical expertise and project management approaches, he said, adding that as the locals become more familiar with Chinese standards, they trust Chinese companies more and feel more confident in adopting those standards.
"In this way, it will help China to promote its technology and standards overseas," he added.
Jing said that China should focus more on vocational training such as railway technology, new energy vehicle-related skills and photovoltaic installation, areas that will efficiently boost local development while fostering longterm partnerships with developing countries.
KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER
Liu Xian, a research associate at the Institute of International Development Cooperation at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation of the Ministry of Commerce, said that the fundamental mission of human resource development cooperation is to "teach people how to fish" rather than me-
chanically export China's model.
"It is about unreservedly sharing China's experience and technology, enabling partners to grasp not only the 'how' but also the 'why' of the country's development practices through interaction," Liu said.
Stephen Ndegwa, executive director of South-South Dialogues, a Nairobi-based development communication think tank, said that by providing actionable knowledge, recipient nations will be able to adapt Chinese methods to their unique contexts, focusing on long-term planning and development models.
Ndegwa said that the impact of China's training programmes is evident in their ability to strengthen development capacity and promote modernisation in recipient nations.
Through skill development, policy learning and South-South co-operation, these programmes equip participants with the tools needed to enhance local industries, improve productivity and develop homegrown policies inspired by China's success, Ndegwa said.
He noted that lessons from China's experience, such as prioritising public investment in critical sectors, offer valuable insights for African countries seeking to balance tradition with innovation while pursuing their development goals.
As the Global South pursues its modernisation journey, co-operation with China is expected to focus on inclusive growth, technology-driven devel -
An instructor guides a Pakistani student majoring in electrical automation, during a training session at the Luban Workshop of Tianjin Modern Vocational Technology College, on June 16 (SUN FANYUE/XINHUA)
Over 500,000...
opment, and resilient infrastructure, he added.
Ndegwa stressed that China's approach to foreign aid training is practical and results-oriented.
domestic affairs, offering flexible knowledge that countries can adapt to their own governance structures, he said.
The training programmes emphasise respect for sovereignty and noninterference in
Participants often highlight the focus on tangible outcomes, such as improved infrastructure and poverty reduc-
tion, he added. According to a survey regarding China's foreign aid training by the Institute of International Development Cooperation at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, which
was conducted among over 1,400 participants from 32 countries and regions, 75.89 percent of participants believed the training significantly improved their professional knowledge or skills.
The survey found that 75.23 percent of participants feel that the training greatly enhanced their career competitiveness, while 75.38 percent find the experiences gained in China highly applicable in their home countries. FROM PAGE 18
World Youth Peace Initiative
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the United Nations.
Eighty years ago, in face of the dark and evil forces of fascism, people from different countries, nations, social systems, and ideologies united together and, through tremendous sacrifice, secured the triumph of justice and peace, marking the beginning of a new chapter in rebuilding post-war world order and the pursuit of lasting peace for humanity.
Over the past 80 years, under the themes of peace and development and propelled by waves of scientific and technological innovation, human civilization has enjoyed unprecedented prosperity, the world has become more interconnected than ever before, and humanity has increasingly become a
community with a shared future that shares weal and woe.
Today, 80 years on, transformations of the world unseen in a century are unfolding at a faster pace. Changes of the world, of our times, and of the historical trajectory are taking place in ways like never before.
Once again, humanity has come to a crossroads of unity or division, dialogue or confrontation, win-win cooperation or zero-sum games.
As representatives of the youth from around the world, we deeply cherish peace and understand the responsibilities borne by our generation. Only by treasuring peace and upholding unity can humanity embrace a brighter future. To this end, we solemnly issue this World Youth Peace Initiative, calling on young people across the globe to unite in safeguarding peace, promoting development,
and shaping our shared future.
We call on youth to defend world peace. History must not be distorted; justice must be upheld and peace be safeguarded. Young people of all nations should draw wisdom from history and take concrete actions to defend peace, oppose all forms of war and violence, and reject unilateralism, hegemonism, and protectionism. Together, we should defend the hard-won outcomes of the victory in World War II, safeguard the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order based on international law, and put true multilateralism into practice, to contribute youthful strength to the cause of global peace.
We call on youth to pioneer mutual learning among civilizations. To safeguard world peace, we should first construct
defenses of peace in our minds. Young people of all nations should uphold the principles of equality, mutual learning, dialogue and inclusiveness among civilizations, and let cultural exchanges transcend estrangement, mutual learning transcend clashes, and coexistence transcend feelings of superiority, to contribute youthful wisdom to fostering harmony among civilizations and deepening friendship among peoples.
We call on youth to advocate win-win cooperation. Development is the cornerstone of peace. Young people of all nations should adhere to the philosophy of win-win cooperation and common development. By making full use of multilateral and regional mechanisms and platforms, we should deepen and expand youth cooperation, actively participate in the implementation of the United
Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the outcomes of the Summit of the Future, to inject fresh momentum into bridging global development divides and promoting inclusive, equitable global growth.
We call on youth to tackle climate change. Climate change poses a threat to our shared home on Earth. Young people of all nations should act on the spirit of “promoting global solidarity” and actively engage in global climate actions, to demonstrate commitment of the youth in delivering innovative solutions to the climate crisis, improving global ecological governance, and addressing international challenges hand in hand.
We call on youth to promote “technologies for social good.” While technological advances bring opportunities for peace, they also pose
new challenges. Young people of all nations should stand at the forefront of emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, shoulder responsibilities, and work for the goal that technological advances benefit the entire humanity, and that digital development remain inclusive, to contribute youthful solutions to improving global tech governance and building an inclusive, fair, and sustainable global future.
Eighty years ago, our predecessors illuminated darkness with unity. Eighty years later, it is up to us—the youth—to define the future through action. Let us take the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the United Nations as a new starting point, unite for peace and work hand in hand for the shared future of mankind!
126 Mosquito Hall residents begin title processing
MORE than 120 residents of the Mosquito Hall Old Housing Scheme and part of Plantation Plot A in Mahaica are now on the path to receiving legal ownership of their lands, finally closing a decades-long chapter of uncertainty.
The process, led by the Ministry of Housing and
Water, through its Community Development Department, was lauded by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin D Croal and Minister within the Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, who joined residents in commemorating the long-awaited moment.
According to the Ministry, the regularisation proj-
ect targets Block LVIII of Mosquito Hall (Old Housing Scheme), comprising 42 lots, and Plot A, part of Plantation Mosquito Hall, consisting of 84 lots.
Director of the Community Development Department, Mr. Gladwin Charles, is spearheading the initiative, which seeks to bring
Families from the Mosquito Hall Old Housing Scheme and a section of Plantation Plot A, Mosquito Hall, as they started the process of securing their Certificates of Title
closure to a title processing issue that has spanned several years.
Though surveys were completed in 2001 and 2004 and many verified occupants had already received allocation letters and made payments, challenges in verifying ownership had stalled the title issuance process.
However, a breakthrough came in August 2025 when, following extensive research by the Surveys Unit, the
necessary data was submitted to the Corporate/Legal Secretariat, resulting in the issuance of a Block Title.
This development paved the way for the final phase of the regularisation process.
A recent verification exercise was also undertaken to update the records of occupancy, setting the stage for the signing of Agreements of Sale and the processing of individual titles.
A total of 126 lots will be
processed, with associated costs ranging from $20,000 to $58,000 per lot. Residents are also required to pay $8,000 for the title and $3,000 for the survey fee.
The Ministry of Housing and Water said the initiative represents a crucial step toward providing long-awaited security and legal ownership to the residents of Mosquito Hall, also known as River View Mahaica.
Wendy’s eyes 10 restaurants in Guyana, over 400 jobs in the pipeline
WENDY’S, the globally renowned quick-service restaurant, is serious about solidifying its long-term investment in Guyana with plans to open 10 locations across the country over the next five years, creating more than 400 direct jobs and dozens more through supply chain and service partnerships.
During an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Iman Khan-Cummings, Founder and Franchisee of WenKai Inc.—a Guyanese company— revealed that they have already begun staffing the first outlet, which will be located at the former KFC building on Vlissengen Road in Georgetown, with a target of 45 new hires ahead of its grand opening later this month.
“Each restaurant will employ about 40 to 50 team members, depending on size and service format. With plans for 10 restaurants in Guyana, we expect to create more than 400 direct jobs, plus additional opportunities through local suppliers, contractors and service partners.” Khan-Cummings said.
Following the flagship launch, Wendy’s will expand to MovieTowne, Pattensen and Sheriff Street before year end.
Khan-Cummings confirmed that those additional locations are already in the planning and development stages. It was also revealed that WenKai Inc., has plans to open three Wendy’s restaurants in Guyana by the end of 2025.
Beyond Georgetown, expansion will continue in phases, with locations strategically selected to meet growing demand for premium fast-food offerings in both urban and emerging communities.
“We are proud to be contributing to local employment and skill-building for people across the country,” Khan-Cummings stated.
Wendy’s in Guyana will offer its full suite of fan-favourite menu items, including the signature square hamburgers, spicy chicken sandwich, crispy chicken nuggets, bone-in fried chicken, and the iconic Frosty dessert.
All meals will be
made fresh to order using high-quality ingredients, in line with Wendy’s global promise of bold flavour and premium quality.
South America.
Diners can expect all-day service, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drivethrough and delivery options with each location outfitted to meet modern convenience and foodservice standards.
This means that Wendy’s fans in Guyana will enjoy customisable options and bold, familiar flavours served in a welcoming, modern setting, designed with local tastes in mind.
This was emphasised by Dawn Ng See Quan, Head of Operations, who said, “At WenKai, we’re committed to delivering excellence in every detail- from sourcing and operations to customer experience… Wendy’s is a perfect match for today’s Guyanese consumer: fresh, flavourful, and fast- but never ordinary,” she said.
Part of a broader market expansion, the agreement also includes plans to develop new Wendy’s restaurants in Suriname. This signals significant regional growth for the brand in northern
Senior Vice-President, Managing Director, LAC at the Wendy’s Company, Carlos Ribas said, “Latin America is a stronghold for Wendy’s, and with experienced partners like WenKai Inc., we’re accelerating our momentum and expanding our presence across the region.”
Ribas continued, “The opening of the first Wendy’s restaurant in Guyana marks an exciting milestone in our journey to bring our fresh, famous food to fans throughout Latin America, and it reflects our commitment to accelerate growth in high-potential markets while delivering exceptional hospitality to local consumers.”
It was mentioned that Wendy’s expansion into Guyana aligns with the brand’s broader strategy to accelerate global growth, which includes the Latin America and the Caribbean region.
Guyana’s increasing demand for high-quality international food brands and innovative quick-service experiences makes it an ideal market for Wendy’s.
Almost complete! Wendy’s restaurant on Vlissengen Road which is set for opening soon (Japheth Savory photo)
Min. Edghill pledges smoother commute as East Bank roadworks advance
MOTORISTS and commuters using the Lower East Bank corridor will soon experience smoother traffic with the near completion of ongoing roadworks.
Based on an update given by Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill, a paved surface along the 1.6-kilometre eastern carriageway is expected to be completed by the weekend.
Works are
“The commitment is that the contractors are working every day and every night. We intend to, by the end of this week, have hard surfaces so that we can get two lanes of traffic flowing,” Bishop Edghill affirmed.
On Thursday, Minister Edghill conducted a site visit along the Diamond to Good Success stretch of the East Bank Demerara corridor. The site visit was intended to inspect the progress of the work being carried out. The road upgrade and expansion are being undertaken by a total of five contractors.
Inconsistent weather conditions have caused some delays, but the Public Works Minister assured commuters that contractors are taking the necessary steps to complete the work promptly.
“We are battling the weather, we are battling the rain. The trucks are battling the traffic, and we are still seeking to work in a safe environment. Our commitment remains, and we want to thank everybody for
their patience. And we want to assure them that leadership is being provided at the highest level,” he stated.
Minister Edghill’s visits came as a follow-up to a meeting held on Sunday by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, where commitments were made to fast-track the project.
“On Sunday last, two meetings were held that involved His Excellency. We made some commitments and an undertaking that we will give to the people of Guyana by the end of this week, a hard, paved surface on this [eastern] section of the carriageway, so that the traffic could move more smoothly and rapidly,” the minister said.
The minister also stated that he had issued letters on behalf of the government to each household and business along the corridor, thanking them for their patience and co-operation.
“On behalf of the PPP/C government, I have written a letter and distributed it to every household and every business along the carriageway, apologising for the inconvenience and committing that we will get this fixed,” Minister Edghill explained. (DPI)
currently underway along the Diamond to Good Success route
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill speaking with representatives
Australia’s hopefuls eye
Ashes auditions on India tour
SAM Konstas has been named in the 14-member Australia A squad that is scheduled to tour India in September to take part in two red-ball matches.
Fellow opener Nathan McSweeney also makes it to the squad in a bid to fight for a place in The Ashes squad.
Konstas' poor form with the bat continued in the recently concluded West Indies series, where the youngster wasn't able to cross the score of 30 after a successful debut against India.
Australia A squad: Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Jack Edwards, Aaron Hardie, Campbell Kellaway, Sam Konstas, Nathan McSweeney, Lance Morris, Todd Murphy, Fergus O'Neill, Oliver Peake, Josh Philippe, Corey Rocchiccioli, Liam Scott.
Australia chair of selectors, George Bailey, feels he is dealing with the situation well and hopes the Australia A series will help him regain his touch.
"After his return (from the West Indies), he has reflected on that (his performances), put a few things into his training and has launched himself back into getting ready for India," Bailey said.
The Aussie captain Pat Cummins, however, continues to back Konstas, who Australia would hope can solve their top order hitch before the big Ashes series, which will also be Australia's first home series in the new World Test Championship cycle. Talking about the squad A selections, Bailey said that the team has been picked with a lens on the upcoming two to five years.
"We have got a Test tour to India in 2027 and we hope repeated experiences in these
conditions will assist players in developing an effective method and understanding of their game for future sub-continent tours," Bailey added. "We are trying to strike that balance and trying to be upfront with the lot of players around that, depending on when and where they fit in the schedule, sometimes the design around them is slightly different."
Jake Weatherald was not included in the squad after a good Australia A series against Sri Lanka, but remains in contention for an Ashes spot after piling on a mountain of runs in domestic.
"He is doing a lot of things right, isn't he? His performance in the Australia A series has been awesome," Bailey noted. "The clear focus for him is to just continue that and be consistent.
"A lot of selection is potentially being at the right place at the right time, and the easiest way to combat that is to be scoring runs consistently. If he starts the year as he had last year, he will be well in the mix (for The Ashes)."
Bailey reiterated that he is aware of the interest around The Ashes series and thinks it puts players in a really good position with expectations from both the public and themselves.
Earlier, former Australia captain and ICC Hall of Famer, Ricky Ponting, also wanted the team to be patient with Konstas while throwing in names of McSweeney and Jason Sangha, who he thinks would be in the selection radar for The Ashes. Sangha has been named in the A squad, alongside pacers Xavier Bartlett and Lance Morris, who are both a part of the ODI series against South Africa.
Australia A v India A schedule: 1st match: Sept 16-19, Lucknow 2nd match: Sept 23-26, Lucknow (ICC Media)
MUSSELBURG
08:50hrs Ocean Odyssey
09:20hrs Mission Classified
09:50hrs Social Exclusion
10:20hrs Gressington
10:55hrs Al Hussar
11:30hrs Simple Star
12:05hrs Sandret
NEWMARKET
12:20hrs Al Zanati
12:55hrs Evolutionist
13:30hrs First Time
14:05hrs Dashing Dick
14:40hrs Lafy Mariko
15:14hrs Something Splendid
HAYDOCK
12:40hrs Silent Applause
13:15hrs Saligo Bay
13:50hrs Respond
14:25hrs What's The Plan
15:00hrs Moonshine
15:30hrs Rascal Recknell
SOUTH AFRICA RAC -
08:10hrs Indebe Mayibuye
08:45hrs Bonjour La Ville
09:23hrs Concerto
09:58hrs Master Forrester
10:33hrs Words Worth
IRISH RACING TIPS
TIPPERARY
11:40hrs Stella Alpina
12:12hrs Best Suggestion
12:47hrs Brussels
13:22hrs Empress Artemis
13:57hrs Ms Olivia
14:32hrs
Australia batter Sam Konstas
Matt Henry picks five as New Zealand dominates day one of second Test
MATT Henry's five-wicket haul and a composed fourfor from debutant Zakary Foulkes set the tone for a dominant opening day for New Zealand in Bulawayo, as Zimbabwe were bundled out for just 125 in 48.5 overs before the visitors cruised to 174/1 by stumps.
Brendan Taylor, return -
early in his nine-over opening spell, removing Brian Bennett with a beautiful outswinger and then trapping Nick Welch lbw in the 15th over with a nip-backer.
Foulkes picked up Sean Williams with a delivery that straightened off the seam and added the wicket of Ervine on the stroke of lunch to leave
ing to Test cricket after over three years, was the only Zimbabwe batter to resist for long with a gritty 44 but his dismissal after lunch triggered a collapse that saw the hosts lose their last six wickets for just 42 runs.
Zimbabwe’s captain, Craig Ervine, won the toss and opted to bat first on a dry-looking surface but any hopes of a strong start were dashed as Henry struck
Zimbabwe in trouble at 67 for 4. Taylor held one end for a while, mixing caution with the occasional drive but once he fell to Henry off a loose shot outside off, Zimbabwe's lower order folded quickly.
Foulkes struck twice in an over, first having Sikander Raza caught at leg gully and then trapping Trevor Gwandu in front with an in-ducker to reduce Zimbabwe to 83/7. Henry, bowling a six-over
spell this time, then knocked over Vincent Masekesa and Blessing Muzarabani with late outswingers to complete his five-wicket haul. Matthew Fischer picked his maiden wicket when Tanaka Chivanga holed out to mid-off, bringing an end to a 25-run partnership for the last wicket.
In reply, New Zealand's openers Will Young and Devon Conway batted through the final session largely untroubled and brought up the team’s fifty in eight overs.
Young brought up his half-century off only 49 balls but was offered a reprieve next ball, when Raza dropped a tough chance off Tanaka Chivanga at mid-wicket.
Conway, the steadier of the two, brought up his half-century in 81 balls and rode his luck along the way, first when Ervine put down a low chance in the slip cordon on 42 and later when he survived a close lbw shout from Vincent Masekesa on 72.
The 162-run opening stand was broken by Gwandu late in the day when Young under-edged a pull shot on 74. With lights fading, Zimbabwe bowled spinners from both ends but failed to strike again as New Zealand finished the day firmly on top. (Cricbuzz).
Tendulkar lauds India’s star...
go one up against them.”
The top centurion in Tests also lavished praises on Indian pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep and Prasidh Krishna. “Out of the three matches he played, Bumrah picked fifer twice. He has been a consistent performer, with exceptional quality, I will put him right on the top than anyone else.
From page 28
“Akash Deep I felt was mentally in control when he was bowling, especially in the second match of the series when he bowled Joe Root, that was the turning point of that Test. Not to forget his batting in the final Test where he scored 66 runs, which pumped India up and demoralised England.
CRICKET QUIZ
(Friday August 08, 2025)
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD
83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Sherfane Rutherford & Jewel Andrews-71 runs
(2) Saim Ayub-130 runs
Today’s Quiz:
(1) What was the highest individual score made by a WI batsman in the recent T20 series against PAK?
(2) Which PAK made the highest individual score in the series? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Dominant Scotland qualify for the Men’s U-19 World Cup 2026
SCOTLAND will take part in the ICC U-19 Men's World Cup after defeating the Netherlands by 20 runs in the final Qualifier game.
Remaining unbeaten in the Europe Qualifiers, the hosts booked their tickets to Zimbabwe and Namibia for the main event early next year. Chasing 238 for a World Cup spot, Netherlands were well-placed at 108/3 despite losing two early wickets to Finlay Jones (4/41), who was the main architect of the Scotland win. Off-spinner Manu Saraswat (3/43) arrested the runflow of the visitors and Ollie Jones removed the crucial wicket of Tom De Leede (67), who was threatening to run away with the match.
Fittingly, Jones grabbed the final Dutch wicket as they were bowled out for 217, which enabled the qualification of Scotland.
Speaking about the World Cup qualification, captain Thomas Knight expressed his relief and happiness after having edged past the Netherlands in a close encounter.
"Unbelievable! Could not be happier and especially doing it in that manner, winning a tight one there at the end," he said.
"This whole week has been building up to the one game today. There has been a lot of learning we have taken from game one against Sweden all the way through to now."
Man of the moment Jones felt like it was a dream coming true to be a part of the World
Cup. "When you start playing cricket, though you always dream of playing the World Cup you never think that it is actually going to become a realisation. But now we have a World Cup in January and it is something to look forward to.
"It has been a journey and it has all paid off." Scotland remained unbeaten in the tournament and will head to the main event set to be held in January next year in Zimbabwe and Namibia. (ICC Media)
Rickelton hoping to seal opening slot for T20 World Cup 2026
SOUTH Africa’s Ryan Rickelton is hoping to make a mark with the bat in the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia with an eye on a place in the squad for next year's ICC Men's T20 World Cup.
The 29-year-old, who has made an early impression across formats for the Proteas since his international debut in 2023, is keen to seal his spot up the South African batting order. "I'm still trying to establish myself in the T20I side but I don't think there'll be any expectation for me to change anything that I've been doing in these last two years," Rickelton told reporters ahead of the T20I series.
“Krishna struggled with his rhythm early in the series, but was a different bowler in the last Test wherein he bowled a lot of wicket-taking deliveries, getting important breakthroughs. He was controlled and disciplined, more in the batter’s face with few verbal exchanges, and I really liked that.”
Tendulkar also acknowledged the vital contributions of Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair, adding that he was impressed by what little he saw of the former while appreciating Nair’s pivotal role in the final Test. (ICC Media)
"It's just an opportunity for me to hopefully claim that opening spot for this South African side, going into the World Cup and further on past that.
"The way the team is structured fits the
mould of how they want me to play too, so I'm pretty comfortable with what's required.
"I am always looking to land that first punch and get the side off to a good start no matter who's alongside me at the top."
Recently crowned the ICC World Test Champions at Lord’s, South Africa will now turn their attention to white-ball challenges.
Ryan Rickelton concedes his emotions after South Africa's WTC win at Lord's.
The Proteas will be taking on Australia in three T20Is and as many ODIs followed by a white-ball tour of England and an all-format tour of India.
Rickelton believes playing against the top-three sides in the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings presents a perfect opportunity to prepare for next year’s T20 World Cup on the sub-continent.
"If you look at the fixtures lined up for the T20 World Cup, we've got some big competition and some big rivals," he said.
"If we can put a good foot forward and play quite well and match what we want to try and replicate in a few months' time, especially against quality opposition, that's really important to the team and the individuals as well. “We spoke about it as a group; we have an opportunity to try and win a series in Australia, which doesn't come around that often, and we're looking forward to obviously cementing our own places and playing well for South Africa."
South Africa and Australia face-off in the first T20I on July 10 in Darwin. (ICC Media)
Matt Henry bagged 5 for 40, his sixth Test five-for • (Zimbabwe Cricket)
Scotland’s bowler, Finlay Jones, took 4/41
South Africa batter, Ryan Rickelton
Combined Forces of Guyana face-off with T&T’s Hibiscus tomorrow at Malteenoes ground
By Sean Devers
WEATHER permitting, tomorrow all roads will lead the Malteenoes Sports Club ground on Thomas Road for the opening of a five-match women’s cricket series between Guyana’s Combined Forces and Hibiscus Women’s Cricket Club from Trinidad and Tobago.
The T20 series has been organised by Precision Sports and is the brain child of Trinidadian lass, 28-yearold Nidia Andrews.
The Trinidadians were scheduled arrive yesterday Evening and were expected to have a warm-up game at Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) LBI facility today.
However, the National U-17s will play a practice match at that venue today.
The Trini Ladies will now arrive in the morning, go directly to ground and then to LBI Hostel where they will
be accommodated during their stay here.
But apart from the adverse Weather which disrupted their training sessions leading up the selection of the team, Precision Sports, who has the blessings of the GCB, has had the cross many hurdles leading up to tomorrow’s game which is scheduled to commence at 14:00 hours.
A brief opening ceremony will be held at 11:00 hours where the teams, the sponsors and representative from the GCB should be present.
“Alot is lacking when it comes to Women’s cricket in Guyana, so I decided to step in and do something valuable and needed for the ladies.
Back home we have a women’s tournament in which several teams participate.
“When I came to Guyana, there was very limited cricket here for the ladies so I approached the GCB to start
a programme which will help them to get a higher level of players for inter-county competition which last just four days…the ladies need far more games than that if they are to develop into International players,” reasoned Andrews who actually played in GCB’s senior Women’s Inter-County last year.
“We’re trying to put it in place now because we don’t have any loyalty from the GCB who keeps making commitments and going back on them.
That’s why I suggested that the GCB appoint someone to run women’s cricket. I was told that Miss Emily Dodson, an attorney, played that under a previous Administration,” added Andrews.
Prizes will be distributed to the best-performing players in the series, including Player of the Match awards (plaques and a Moonwalkr thigh guard).
The Player of the tourna-
ment will be awarded with a trophy and full Moonwalkr kit. The ones who gained the most runs and most wickets will receive a trophy each. With the championship trophy up for grabs, medals will be given to players of both teams. Andrews informed that Precision Sports has gathered support from PC Consultants, Lexie-Ville Airbnb, Kai Water, Superbet, Acado, Essequibo Cricket Board, Dave’s West Indian Imports Inc,
Stabroek Prints (GuyLanta), Alstrom Consulting, Osbert Nurse, Trophy Stall, Gafoors, Joel Barnes (Queens of the Pitch), Anil Beharry, Star Sports (Sheikh Mohammed), Starbucks Guyana, Moonwalkr, and Pink Flower Embroidery Designs Limited. PJM Creations, Hand in Hand Fire & Life Insurance Ltd, Jacob’s Jewellery, Marathon Development Group Inc, PRINT IT, Alyssa Bhola, Chelsea Construction & General Services Guyana and AGN Customs Brokerage & Logistics Services Inc.
The Hibiscus Women’s Cricket Club squad includes Jerveena Pollucksingh (Captain), Sian Ramnarine, Shanella Mohammed, Rosemary Samaroo, Zahra Mohit, Chelsea Simmons, Zaheera Mohit, Trisha Hardat, Jada Fraser, Renita Ramdeo, Sherica Campbell, Matana Cambridge and Temica Wilson.
Tendulkar lauds India’s star performers in England series
THE Tendulkar-Anderson Test series was one for the ages as nothing separated both the sides post the five-Test series after a thrilling finale at The Oval.
Even Sachin Tendulkar, who shares his name on the series trophy with former England seamer James Anderson, was on the edge of his seat till the very end, gushing about the overall result.
The ICC Hall of Famer praised both the sides for producing a classic series to remember while sharing a word of praise for the Indian cricketers who were crucial in helping the visitors to level up with England, despite the shortcomings they faced throughout the series.
Shubman Gill:
Tendulkar felt that the top run-getter of the Test series was calm, composed and organised.
"His thought process was good and that reflected in his footwork as well. "His footwork was precise and he respected a good ball, his front foot defence was solid as well.
"Captaincy I feel it has a lot to do with how bowlers are bowling, how disciplined they are and how much they stick to the plan even if things don't go according to your plan sometimes. Since it is important to not get tensed and change your plans completely.
"Against England it is import-
ant to dry runs, almost play boring cricket, I felt he controlled the team well against probably the most attacking batting side in Test cricket currently."
Rishabh Pant:
The all-time highest run-getter in Tests lauded India vice-captain Rishabh Pant as a great team man, with no dull moment when he bats at the crease.
"I have enjoyed his batting a lot, especially his reverse scoops. He gets under the ball and has the planned fall to get the length right for those reverse sweeps.
"If you see the opposition, only in the first few minutes they are looking to get him out, after that are
just looking to dry runs against him.
"I feel players like Rishabh should be left alone, he has a gameplan, executes it brilliantly and most importantly was there when the team needed him despite injury. He knows how to attract eyeballs."
Mohammed Siraj:
The ICC Hall of Famer felt the Player of the Match in the final Test, Siraj displayed big heart, and called him as someone with immense passion to have bowled 90kmph deliveries with the same energy even on the last day of the tour after bowling 1000+ balls in the series.
"He was just unbelievable and had a superb approach and attitude. I loved the spring in legs.
"His body language was great no matter what the team score was and mind you no batter will like that a bowler keeps bowling with the same intensity coming on your face even after you are doing well.
"The way he got out at Lord's despite defending and the way he dropped the catch (of Harry Brook) in the final Test, I felt that he will do something special to get rid of the disappointments and the bunch of setbacks he faced.
"He was instrumental in playing a key role when India needed him and I feel his contributions are underplayed and he doesn't get the praise he deserves for all that he
does for the team."
Ravindra Jadeja:
Tendulkar was of the opinion that the ICC No.1 Ranked Test all-rounder doesn't get enough credit for his contributions towards the team as well.
"He has the ability to rattle the opposition either through his fielding or batting or bowling and can make something happen in every match. "He has an organised gameplay, knows what to play when and uses his experience brilliantly.
"He is right up there as my crucial player in the series, was amazing with the bat throughout. Simple game, great results!"
Washington Sundar:
The former India skipper was in awe of Sundar's ability to switch gears and his contribution towards the team whenever he was given the chance.
"The series was alive when he was getting his maiden Test century and it was fine that they (Sundar and Jadeja) continued to bat.
"They didn't come in to bat thinking they will score hundreds, they came in to bat with the mindset of drawing the Test. Bowling (Harry) Brook wasn't his (Sundar's) fault and he didn't face Brook when he started to bat. "They also had to tire out England players going into the last match since the series didn't
have a result yet.
"In the last Test, he accelerated, giving India crucial runs to defend. So he knows when to bat slowly and when to accelerate, not to forget his wicket-taking abilities during vital moments."
The openers: Tendulkar praised openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul and believed their innings laid the foundation for the rest of the Indian batting to capitalise in England.
The icon termed Jaiswal as fearless who knew when to shift gears, while also motivating others (nightwatchman Akash Deep) to contribute with the bat.
"Jaiswal knew when to be aggressive, when to rotate strikes and when to just defend. The hundred he got in the final Test was on a difficult track wherein he showed a lot of character, maturity and determination."
Conceding that this series was the best he had seen of Rahul, Tendulkar praised the stylish opener for frustrating the England bowlers by consistently leaving the balls outside the off-stump.
"When it was in his striking range, he hit magnificent shots and his footwork was precise. He forced England to change plans against him and that immediately made him Turn to page 27
The top centurion in Tests-Sachin Tendulkar
Nidia Andrews receives balls for the tournament from former Berbice all-rounder and businessman Anil Beharry
Uncertainty looms over Women’s World Cup matches in Bengaluru
UNCERTAINTY looms over Bengaluru as a venue for the upcoming Women's ODI World Cup.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and International Cricket Council (ICC) are fretting over potential disruption of schedule as the local Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) is yet to obtain permission from the State Government to host the 50-over World Cup matches.
The city is, in fact, slated to host the inaugural game of the eight-team tournament, which is to run from September 30 to November 2. A blockbuster clash between joint hosts India and Sri Lanka has been scheduled at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on September 30. But that game is now uncertain as are three other games, including a semifinal, which have been
allotted to the city.
The uncertainty is in view of the tragic stampede in June when 11 fans died as Royal Challengers Bengaluru were celebrating their IPL success. The matter has since gone to the courts, and the State Government has not yet given permission for the matches. The KSCA has shifted the Maharaja Cup T20 tournament from the city to Mysuru and is awaiting a nod on the Women's World Cup.
"We've written to the State Government and are awaiting a response. It's not as if they've denied permission. If that were the policy, they wouldn't have allowed the Maharaja Cup in Mysuru. So, we're waiting," a KSCA official said. "There is some more time for this and we're going step by step."
Apart from the first match, England-South Africa
Barcelona strip keeper
Ter Stegen of captaincy
BARCELONA have stripped keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen of the club captaincy following disciplinary proceedings against the Germany international.
The 33-year-old, who last played when he turned out for his country in June, underwent a back operation at the end of July.
According to reports, his dispute with Barcelona arises from his unwillingness to allow them to share his medical data with La Liga, which could allow the club to register new players depending on his length of absence.
Ter Stegen recently published a post on social media saying he would be out for three months whereas La Liga rules require a player to remain sidelined for at least four months to be considered a long-term absentee.
The La Liga champions' summer signings have included the arrival of keeper Joan Garcia from Espanyol and England striker Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United.
In a statement, Barcelona said that, "following the disciplinary proceedings opened against player Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and until this matter is definitively resolved, the club, by mutual agreement with the sporting direction and the coaching staff, has decided to temporarily withdraw his role as first-team captain".BBC Sport).
Samson asks to be released by Rajasthan Royals ahead of IPL 2026 auction
..ESPNcricinfo has learned that the franchise has not yet given him a definitive answer
RAJASTHAN Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson has told the franchise he wants to be released ahead of the upcoming auction for IPL 2026. ESPNcricinfo learned that Samson informed the RR management of his intention immediately after IPL 2025 ended.
(on October 3), India-Bangladesh (on October 26) and second semifinal (on October 30) have been marked for the Chinnaswamy. ACA Stadium in Guwahati, Holkar Stadium in Indore, ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam and R Premadasa Stadium (Colombo) are the other four venues for the eight-team ODI World Cup.
The eight competing teams are Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Bangladesh and Pakistan besides hosts India and Sri Lanka. There are 31 games in all in the competition, including 28 league matches, two semifinals and the final. (Cricbuzz)
The team, which had its 2025 season review meetings in June, has not yet given Samson a definitive answer and the option of convincing him to stay with the team is still open. The franchise's lead owner Manoj Badale offered no comment when asked about the development. The final decision will be taken by him in coordination with RR head coach Rahul Dravid.
If RR decides to release Samson, they could either trade him to another franchise or send him into the auction. As per the IPL contract, the final say in such cases lies with the franchise. As far as a trade is concerned, it could be a player swap or an all-cash deal.
Samson, 30, first played for RR for three seasons from
Emmanuel Lewis benefits once more from ‘Project Cricket Gear’
SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD
national junior all-rounder, Emmanuel Lewis, has once again benefitted from “Cricket gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana,” the joint initiative between Anil Beharry of Guyana and Kishan Das of the USA.
Lewis was the recipient of one brand new cricket gear bag which was purchased with funds from the project. The prolific batsman, who also bowls medium pace and leg-spin, recently participated in the prestigious annual Sir Garfield Sobers tournament in Barbados with great success. He is also set to represent Guyana in the 2025 Regional Under-17 tournament to be held in Trinidad & Tobago later this month.
Lewis is a student of Carmel Secondary School and represents Transport Sports Club at all levels. Total cricket related items received/
purchased so far: $730,000 in cash, 13 coloured cricket uniforms, one set of stumps, two trophies, 36 pairs of cricket shoes, 38 pairs of batting pads, 47 cricket bats, 42 pairs of batting gloves, 29 thigh pads, three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest pads, two boxes, 14 gear bags, 13 bat rubbers, seven helmets, one fiber glass bat, one pair of floppy hat, one pair of inners, 16 boxes and four of white cricket balls, 13 boxes of red cricket balls, one bat cone and 28 footballs.
To date, 99 players from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted directly from cash, nine gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, 36 bats, four boxes, six helmets, 37 pairs of cricket shoes, 21 pairs of batting pads, 26 pads, one bat grip, 40 pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicket-keeping pads and
IPL 2013 to 2015, and then rejoined them in 2018 after two years at Delhi Daredevils. He was appointed captain in 2021 and, in 2022, led RR to the IPL final for the first time since they won the inaugural edition in 2008.
However, two of their key players - Jos Buttler and Yuzvendra Chahal, who won the Orange and Purple caps in 2022 - were released ahead of the 2025 mega auction.
Samson was one of six players retained by RR ahead
of last year's mega auction; his price was INR 18 crore ($2.14 million approx. then). The other players retained were Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Sandeep Sharma and Shimron Hetmyer. Samson played only nine of RR's 14 matches in IPL 2025 due to a side strain, with Riyan Parag standing in as captain. They finished ninth with just four wins.
ESPNcricinfo learned that Samson is currently at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for a routine training programme designed for a targeted pool of players shortlisted by the national selectors. He will likely be picked for the Asia Cup which starts in the UAE from September 9. Before that Samson will play a few matches in the Kerala Cricket League where he was recently picked by Kochi Blue Tigers for INR 26.8 lakh, making him the most expensive player in the tournament.
RR have another two months to make a decision on Samson before the IPL's retention deadline in November. (ESPN Cricinfo)
four pairs of wicket-keeping gloves with one pair
Sanju Samson has been the Rajasthan Royals captain since 2021 • (Getty Images)
The City is scheduled to host four fixtures, including the tournament opener between India and Sri Lanka
Emmanuel Lewis poses with new gear bag
Two-tier model for Test cricket - ECB wary, CA ‘open’
..ICC last month formed a working group, to look into, among other things, improving WTC ahead of 2027-29 cycle
THE ECB is not keen on a two-tiered World Test Championship (WTC) in which relegation could lead to England not being in the same division as Australia or India, thus potentially depriving them of their two most lucrative rivalries.
The ICC last month formed a working group, led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose, to look into, among other things, improving the WTC ahead of the next cycle, which begins in July 2027. A two-tier system was among the most significant topics discussed at the ICC annual conference in July. Twose, NZC's representative on the ICC Board, is expected to make recommendations to the board.
Two-tier Test cricket has been debated for more than 15 years, with the ICC showing its willingness to the idea as far back as in 2009, though Full Members have been split on the issue for various reasons.
Speaking to BBC's Test Match Special on the opening day of The Oval Test between England and India last week, ECB chairman Richard Thompson said the value of bilateral cricket was dropping because of a "congested"
play Australia and India? That couldn't happen. There has to be a sense that common sense needs to play out here."
Thompson believed that a better solution could be tinkering with the existing WTC itself. He cited South Africa's defeat of Australia to become WTC 2023-25 winners as an example, where, with the right support, smaller countries could emerge as strong contenders.
if it was improved upon and certain changes were made, maybe you don't need two tiers of Test cricket. What you do need is a schedule that makes a lot more sense than it currently does, and that must include the volume of bilateral cricket that you play, white-ball and red-ball, and recognising that from 2028, we have an Olympics.
"So what happens in 2028, when we have an Olympics,
representation from non-Test nations as well. Sanjog Gupta, the recently appointed ICC CEO, is also likely to be on the group. Having clarity over the two-tier model is key for ICC, with countries already having started conversations for bilateral series that will be part of the next WTC cycle (2027-29). With the media rights for the new commercial cycle (2027-31) expected to be put out to tender next
"The World Test Championship could work better than it does. It has definitely improved the narrative, [and] it has created a relevance,"
calendar overwhelmed by T20 leagues, and that in most countries, Test cricket had taken a big hit. Thompson said that while a two-tier model for Test cricket was being discussed by the ICC, he was not sure if it was perfect.
"There's a lot of options that we've got to look at - tiers would be one of them," he said. "We wouldn't want, as England, we may go through a fallow period, and that means, what, we fall into Division Two and we don't
Thompson said. "Seeing what it meant for South Africa to win - who are crushed by rugby in their own country - and seeing players I know really well, like Graeme Smith, in tears on the outfield, that was a real moment seeing them win. As much as I was critical that they turned up with a 'B' team when they played New Zealand [in 2024], it was still good for the game when the underdog wins.
But the reality of it is, the World Test Championship,
and our best 11 cricketers have got to go to LA for two weeks in the middle of July? That is going to throw up some challenges."
Details of the composition of the working group to improve the WTC, as well as a more specific brief, have not been announced. Some reports have indicated an eight-person committee, with
year, the ICC is keen to find a solution to make the WTC more meaningful. But, even at this nascent stage, there are a lot of reservations being expressed
Majority of the Full Member countries have always been split on the two-tier Test model for various reasons: some feared loss of revenue from the ICC's annual distri-
Getty Images)
bution of money in case their country gets relegated, some don't want to be relegated to a lower tier, and some plainly rejected the idea as an ego basis every time the ICC Board discussed the topic.
Todd Greenberg, Cricket Australia's CEO, who is expected to be another influential voice on the subject, said the bigger countries had the responsibility of keeping smaller countries competitive, including by having a strong first-class system.
"The real challenge here is what role do we all play," Greenberg told SEN Radio on Wednesday. "When I say we, those three countries that [are] putting resources and energy into Test cricket, what role do we have to help others make sure that they step up because it's in our interest to see a strong West Indies, a strong Pakistan, New Zealand, [and] South Africa. We want those countries being strong in this format of the game, but clearly they're going to need help. They can't do it alone. It's
Officers, TSU victorious in latest rounds of COP Inter Regions T20
OFFICERS and the Tactical Services Unit (TSU) are the latest winners of the Commissioner of Police (COP) Inter Regions T20 tournament, being contested at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary.
In an exciting contest, Officers defeated the Guyana Police Force Academy (GPFA) by 26 runs after posting a competitive 164 for nine and limiting their opponents to 138 for nine in their allotted 20 overs.
Winning the toss and electing to take first strike, the Officers’ innings was built around strong contributions from Ronald Ali who spanked three fours and two sixes
in a top score of 39. Trevor Benn supported with a fine 38 which was decorated with three fours and an equal number of sixes.
Bowling for the GPFA, Collis Harcourt took three for 28 from four overs while Siphon Corbin ended with two for 14 from three.
GPFA got off to a good start but lost wickets at regular intervals which haltered their progress. Simeon Gafoor hit a steady 35 which included four fours while Marsh King and Noel Haynes contributed 19 and 18 respectively.
Troy Benn led the way for the Officers with an excellent spell of three for 14 in his four overs and got valuable support
from Joshua Budhram who claimed three for 18. Trevor Benn crowned a fine all-round performance, chipping in with two for 33.
In the opening match of the day, TSU blasted their way to a commanding 208 for eight in their 20 overs with Adrian Welcome hitting a brilliant 58 which contained five fours and four sixes. Opener Colis Burnett, 30, and Felbury Wiburg, who hit 29 with five fours and a six were also among the runs.
The top bowlers for President Guards were Kareem Naughton (2 for 26) and Mark Jeffers (2 for 37). In reply, President’s Guard kept up the fight, finishing
incumbent on all of cricket to help."
"Talking to CEOs of the West Indies and other [boards], when I was with them recently, everyone's got a very open mind to this because they know that we're going to need some level of change in order to extract value in this part of the game."
Todd Greenberg Greenberg said he was keeping an "open mind" on the two-tier Test model subject to certain conditions.
"My open mind is in reference to, if it helps grow the opportunities for those other countries to be stronger, and have better resources in Test match cricket, if it does that, then I'm open for it," he said. "But if it doesn't achieve that, and it actually affects the opposite, then I wouldn't be supportive."
Greenberg pointed out that several CEOs who attended the ICC's chief executives committee meeting in Singapore echoed the same thinking. (ESPN Cricinfo)
Troy Benn took three for 14 for the Officers
on a respectable 173 for five, with Jason Heyliger lashing one four and five sixes in a top score of 58. Gavindra Jagnarine (39) and Kemo Mayers (28) lend support.
The tournament was set to continue yesterday but was hampered by the inclement weather.
“We wouldn’t want, as England... we fall into Division Two and we don’t play Australia and India? That couldn’t happen,” ECB chair Richard Thompson • (
South Africa won the WTC 2023-25 by beating Australia in the final • (ICC/Getty Images)
Todd Greenberg, Cricket Australia’s CEO, says “it’s in our interest to see a strong West Indies, a strong Pakistan, New Zealand, [and] South Africa” • AFP/Getty Images)
Shai Hope: Morale still high despite recent results
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Despite a string of bad results across all formats in recent times, West Indies white-ball captain Shai Hope has given the assurance that spirits within the team are still high as they prepare to face Pakistan in a three-match One Day International series beginning today at the Brian Lara Cricket Stadium.
The 10th ranked West Indies will face a daunting task against a Pakistan team that is not only ranked six places higher, but they have not defeated their opponents in a bilateral ODI series since 1991 when they prevailed 2-0.
In their two preceding ODI series, the regional side
was thumped 3-0 by England and drew 1-1 with Ireland after the second match was rained out.
West Indies ODI captain Shai Hope
and vibe amongst the dressing room, especially with some of the recent results that we’ve had in different formats.
“I think the guys are really looking forward to this one, especially the core group of ODI guys who we’ve had for the last two years or so. We’ve shown that success especially in our own home conditions, so it’s something that we’re definitely looking forward to,” Hope said in an interview on Thursday.
that while there had been some progression, he said there was some concern in the bowling department.
“We must commend the work that the batters have been doing for the last couple of seasons and it is important that we highlight those good performances as well…
growing as a batting group…
“Our bowling is something that is a slight bit of a concern, but having said that, we have been showing progression as well. There are areas that we have been improving on and it’s just for us to keep getting better.
However, Hope has maintained that the team is anxiously looking forward to the Pakistan series with high hopes.
“There is a positive mood
The West Indies have lost three straight series; 3-0 and 5-0 to Australia in their Test and T20I series respectively, and 2-1 to Pakistan in the recently concluded T20I series.
Jamaican champion Megan Tapper signs professional deal with Adidas
JAMAICA’S national 100m hurdles champion and 2020 Olympic bronze medallist
Megan Tapper has signed a professional contract with global sportswear giant Adidas, marking another significant milestone in her career.
The 31-year-old sprint hurdler has been in scintillating form this season, producing a lifetime best 12.34 seconds to win her fourth national title at the Jamaican Championships in Kingston on June 29. Tapper, who previously won the national crown in 2016, 2021 and 2023, faced a slight +0.1 m/s tailwind in the final and crossed the line well clear of the field.
Less than two weeks later, she matched that lifetime best in vastly different conditions, clocking 12.34 into a -1.1 m/s headwind at the prestigious Meeting International d’Athlétisme Herculis EBS Diamond League in Monaco on July 11, underlining her consistency and world-class form.
“At 31, I'm not slowing down, I’m levelling up,” Tapper told Sportsmax.TV. “Honoured to sign a fouryear deal with Adidas as we chase greatness, stride for stride in three stripes.”
Earlier this season, Tapper displayed her versatility and speed at the Grand Slam
Track meet in Miramar, Florida, where she clocked a lifetime best 11.33 (+0.9 m/s) to finish second in the 100m flat while also 12.50 (+2.0 m/s) for fifth in the 100m hurdles. Those performances set the tone for a campaign that has been her most consistent and dynamic to date.
The partnership with Adidas comes at a time when Tapper’s profile is on the rise globally. Her combination of
competitive excellence and charismatic personality has made her one of the sport’s most marketable athletes. With the backing of one of track and field’s biggest brands, she will aim to build on her Olympic bronze from Tokyo 2021 and challenge for more global honours at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September. (Sportsmax)
“Tomorrow starts another journey, some history that we can create as well, so a lot to look forward to from a leadership standpoint and certainly from the guys who have been around for quite some time.”
With Pakistan expected to test the Windies’ batsmen with spin, Hope praised the team’s batters for their improved performances in recent outings.
However, he admitted
“It’s good to see the way [Sherfane] Rutherford has been very consistent, I think he scored five or six consecutive 50-plus scores over a period of time, Keacy [Carty] who pretty much averages 50 in ODI cricket has been showing that constant progression,” Hope pointed out.
“We’re also getting a lot more starts from the openers. Evin [Lewis] came back in and showcased his skill and class, Brandon [King] is doing his thing at the top, so I think our top six have been providing that stability that we’ve been seeking for a little bit of time, so it’s just for us to continue learning and
“This is not an overnight fix, it’s something we have identified previously in terms of the stats, the planning, the strategy that we need to go into each series, so I think we’re certainly getting there but it’s nice to see the batting really coming to the fore,” the skipper added.
Squad
WEST INDIES: Shai Hope (captain), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Johann Layne, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd.
Jamaica national 100 M hurdles champion Megan Tapper
Host, Saint Lucia, retains team title at OECS Boxing Championships
CASTRIES, Saint Lucia, Aug 7, CMC – Host, Saint Lucia, successfully defended its team title at the 2025 OECS Boxing Championship which concluded over the weekend.
At the end of the threeday tournament held at the Rodney Bay Pavilion, Saint Lucia finished on 24 points after copping four gold, five silver and two bronze medals, well ahead of second-placed Jamaica on 16 points, inclusive of four gold and two silver medals. Guyana was a close third on 15 points after capturing five gold medals. Fourth place went to Antigua which
finished on nine points with two gold, one silver and one bronze medal, while Martinique ended in fifth position on eight points with two gold and one silver medal.
Saint Lucia also boasted of the Best Junior Boxer in Nacham Alex and the Best Elite Boxer in John Didier.
Meanwhile, Guyana’s duo of Akeelah Vancooten and Terron Wintz were named Best Female Boxer and Best Youth Boxer respectively.
Now in its second year, the competition brought together youth, junior and elite athletes from across the Eastern Caribbean.
St Lucia retained its team title at the OECS Boxing Championship
Sir Andy, Murray humbled by tributes offered by St Vincent
KINGSTOWN, St Vincent, (CMC) –
Two giants of West Indies cricket, Sir Andy Roberts and Deryck Murray, have expressed heartfelt thanks to the people and government of St Vincent and the Grenadines after being honoured during the island’s Emancipation Cricket Festival.
The duo, part of the West Indie’s 1975 World Cup-winning team, said they were honoured to have the majestic ‘double decker’ stand at Arnos Vale renamed the Legends Stand, and to be granted Vincentian citizenship.
“I am not really someone who worries too much about these kinds of things, but I’m truly touched,” said Sir Andy, the legendary Antiguan fast bowler who was pivotal to West Indies’ rise in the 1970s. “To be honoured in this way, on a ground away from my home country, is a tremendous honour. It shows how cricket can unite our region.
“I have been coming to St Vincent for a very long time, and this is the best time I have spent there. Thank you to the Vincentian people. This means a lot to us.”
Sir Andy also took part in a youth cricket clinic for close to 100 children aged six to 19 alongside fellow legends, where he spent time offering tips to young fast bowlers.
Legendary West Indies player, Deryck Murray
“To see the eyes of young boys and girls light up when you share a tip, or show them how to grip the ball, that’s priceless. If even one of them believes in themselves a little more after this, it was worth the trip,” Sir Andy said.
Meanwhile, former West Indies wicketkeeper and vice-captain, His Excellency Deryck Murray, a key architect behind the team’s success in the 1975 campaign, also expressed his gratitude.
“It’s a humbling moment. You play
the game never thinking about what might come decades later, but this recognition in St Vincent, the stand, the citizenship offer, the love from the children, it’s deeply moving,” Murray admitted.
“We came here to share our knowledge. We hope the young cricketers we met were able to benefit. We also hope this is something that continues in St Vincent and the Grenadines and across the region.”
Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Tournament shifts to November
THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) has announced the postponement of the 8th Annual Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Tournament, originally scheduled for August 15–17, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
According to a release from the GBA, the championship will now be held at a date to be announced in November, due to unforeseen circumstances beyond its control.
In a letter to presidents of the boxing associations throughout the Caribbean, the GBA explained that it recognises and appreciates the time, effort, and preparation that athletes, coaches, and officials from across the Caribbean have dedicated in anticipation of the presti-
gious event.
“Please accept our sincerest apologies for any inconvenience this necessary adjustment may cause,” the GBA said.
Led by president Steve Ninvalle, the GBA noted, that the new dates for the tournament will be confirmed and communicated shortly, along with updated logistical details to support all planning efforts.
The GBA said it remains committed and unwavering in delivering a world-class event that not only upholds the standards of excellence the tournament has become known for, but also continues to serve as a vital platform for the growth and development of young boxing talent throughout the region.