- President Ali says as he announces roll out of $10B initiative - beneficiaries to get as
‘I fight for justice not personal gains’
- Figueira defends handshake with President Ali, says ‘basic courtesy shouldn’t be political’
President, Dr Irfaan Ai held a community engagement in Canal Number One on Thursday afternoon which attracted scores of persons. In his address, he made several announcements that will benefit farmers, women and residents as a whole. He later engaged individuals one on one (OP photo)
Guyana among 75 countries engaging U.S. during tariff pause -
GUYANA is ready to present the facts to its long-standing ally, the United States (U.S.), in view of the current tariff pause, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo has disclosed.
He said this to reporters during a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House.
The Vice-President said: “So we still believe that it is through engagement with the United States of America that we have to resolve this matter, and that will be the approach. We have all
the facts ready to present.”
Despite the opposition and other voices having a hostile approach to this matter, Dr Jagdeo emphasised that this is not the way that Guyana will act.
He underscored that there should be no behaviour that is antagonistic.
“President Trump has announced that the reciprocal tax has been put on hold for 90 days, so that every country in the world now would pay the 10 per cent across-the-board tariff… The United States of America [now] is prepared to have discussions with countries about the recipro-
cal acts, and that 75 countries have already reached out to the United States of America to address the question of the reciprocal tariffs.
“We’re one of those countries,” the VP said.
In a dramatic change of policy just hours after levies against roughly 60 of America’s trading partners kicked in, Trump said he was authorising a universal “lowered reciprocal tariff of 10%” as negotiations continued.
Dr Jagdeo once again noted that the tariff announcement does not come as a surprise, since Presi-
Finance Minister to meet affected domestic exporters today
dent Trump had spoken extensively about trade during his election campaign, highlighting how he planned to use it as a vehicle to rebalance trade
between his country and the rest of the world
He also stated that the Guyana Government is meeting with domestic exporters, and he used the
opportunity to reiterate that there should not be any panic.
The Vice-President further noted that Senior Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh will meet with those domestic exporters on Friday.
While Guyana’s top exports are exempted from the tariff, Dr Jagdeo explained that fish, shrimp, and agricultural goods are among the exports that could be affected.
He said these exports are “smaller in magnitude but very impactful on people’s lives.”
EOI out for massive drainage, irrigation structure in Canal No. 1 – President Ali
THE Expression of Interest (EOI) for the construction of a Hope-like canal to service more than 9,800 acres of farmland between Canal No 1 and 2 Villages has been advertised.
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali made the revelation during a massive community meeting in Canal No 1 Village on Thursday.
The canal is designed to be a new irrigation channel that supplies both villages with the necessary water to furnish the farmlands.
The new structure will store water for dry sessions, and in rainy seasons will facilitate a constant discharge of water, regardless of the tide, on a 24-hour basis.
The current system only allows for discharge at low tide.
“The B-line canal is linked to your future [and] to your sustainability…Today, the expression of interest was opened to have this project start long before the end of the year,” President Ali announced.
This, he said, is part of a long-term vision to proactively support agricultural development in the Essequibo Islands-West Demerara Region.
The president further announced the delivery of several critical pieces of equipment, including an excavator and a well-equipped fire truck, which will be handled by the community’s Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC).
These equipment are expected to be delivered in a matter of weeks.
He said that while there are still some challenges that the government must overcome, they weigh minimally in comparison to the magnitude of development unfolding across the country.
“We are not perfect in any way. There are still challenges; there are still weaknesses. But when you put the challenges and the weaknesses [against] the scale of development, development outweighs the challenges and the
weaknesses by far,” the head of state noted.
President Ali reassured the residents that his government remains committed to engaging, listening, and being responsive to the people at the grassroots level, coining the phrase “grassnomics” to describe his government’s posture.
“That is what a government must be; responsive, caring. A government that listens. A government that understands. So, whilst we could’ve sat back in our offices and be happy that we’ve already accomplished everything we said we’ll do in the Manifesto, we said ‘No! Let us push the agenda forward!” President Ali affirmed.
He was accompanied by Minister of Education Priya Manickchand; Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar; Member of Parliament Tandika Smith; Regional Chairman Inshaan Ayube; and several other government officials. (DPI)
PPP General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
A section of the crowd that gathered to engage President Ali
25,000 seniors with insufficient NIS contributions to get one-off payments from today
- President Ali says as he announces roll out of $10B initiative
- beneficiaries to get as much as $650K
By Naomi Parris
PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali on Thursday announced a mammoth $10 billion one-off payout for senior citizens who would have contributed to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) but do not have enough to qualify for pensions.
During a live announcement, the Head of State explained that the payout will provide financial support to those NIS contributors.
“This is yet another fulfilment of something we did not even promise, but something we heard from you when we visited you, when we talked to you, when we interacted with you. And that is what this government is about; delivering better, delivering bigger and delivering every single day for the people of our country,” President Ali said to the group of senior citizens and NIS staff seated in front of him.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE
TO RECEIVE THE PAYMENT?
To qualify for the payout, the contributors must have been at least 60 years old on or before December 31, 2024.
Further, they must have between 500 to 749 contributions in the scheme. The full pension requires 750 contributions.
HOW MUCH WILL BE PAID?
According to the information provided, 500-549 contributions will attract $260,000. Those with 550-
President, Dr Irfaan Ali
599 contributions will receive $390,000, while those with 600-699 contributions and 700-749 contributions will receive $520,000 and $650,000 respectively.
Back in October 2024, during a special sitting of Guyana’s National Assembly, Dr Ali had revealed plans to provide a $10 billion financial support to the NIS to address the challenges the institution was facing.
Provision was later made in the 2025 fiscal package, allowing for much-needed support to be provided to contributors who had fallen marginally short of the 750 contributions required for eligibility for pensions from the NIS.
“In our outreaches and in talking to pensioners across the country, there are those who contributed to NIS, and may have had 550, 575, 600, 650 contributions and beyond, but they were
getting absolutely nothing because they fell short of the contribution that was required to give them a pension. And this has been a problem and a challenge faced by our pensioners, by the elderly, and also by the staff of NIS,” President Ali said, highlighting how senior citizens can now benefit from the government’s initiative.
WHEN WILL MONIES BE PAID?
Payments are scheduled to commence today. The NIS will be using its existing records to identify eligible persons who would then be contacted or invited to visit the NIS office.
“The NIS would have already had a database of pensioners within the various categories. So, beginning on Friday [today] using that database, they will commence the payout of this initiative.”
President Ali further
urged contributors who have not yet submitted their documents to do so at their respective NIS offices or provide their information at joint outreaches that are being conducted by the Ministry of Finance and the NIS.
SUITE OF MEASURES
President Ali reminded his audience that the announcement is part of a suite of measures the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government has implemented within its first
“Our unwavering commitment to you, the people of this country, is that we will continue to implement such measures that improve the lives of every single Guyanese. And make no mistake of it, we will continue to do so through our next term of office, in 2030 and throughout our subsequent terms of office beyond 2030,” he said.
Since assuming office, the government has doubled old-age pension
Guyana who have given their best years in service to our country, can retire with dignity and the respect they deserve.” The President also mentioned the ongoing investments in the public healthcare system, including the construction of 12 new hospitals and telemedicine centres in remote communities.
“Our senior citizens in particular will be served by these and other in -
The NIS will be using its existing records to identify eligible contributors, who will begin receiving their one-off payments today
term in office.
With policies ranging from providing financial support to improved access to healthcare, he noted that the government has been guided by a philosophy of service to the people.
from $20,500 to $41,000. This has benefitted over 76,000 pensioners at the cost of $37 billion.
“I wish to reiterate that my government remains fully committed to ensuring that the senior citizens of
vestments we are making in the health sector, so that they can all live long, healthy, fulfilling and dignified lives. This is the promise of your government,” President Ali emphasised.
Gov’t to also cover exam fees for CAPE subjects
THE Government of Guyana will now fund the examination fees for the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC)’s Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). This announcement was made by President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Thursday, less than 24 hours after he revealed plans to cover the cost of up to eight Carib-
“I will ensure that no child is compelled to limit the number of CSEC subjects they write on account of the financial circumstances of their parents. And this initiative goes beyond CSEC; it will also include the CAPE students, and they, too, will benefit from this initiative,” President Ali said in a live broadcast.
On Wednesday, the Head of State told a community meeting in Re -
gion Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) that the initiative reflects the government’s care for their communities, the future, and the country’s education
In 2024, 721 students wrote various CAPE units from 13 secondary schools and four private centres across the country. The overall pass rate (students attaining between Grades One to Five) was 92.57 per cent.
Meanwhile, in relation to CSEC, a total of 11,612 students wrote the
exams, and an analysis of the preliminary results has shown an overall pass rate of 67.23 per cent. The country had copped the top spots in the Caribbean in both the CSEC and CAPE examinations. In the past years, students have been receiving subsidised costs for reportedly up to eight subjects.
Local gov’t bodies to play ‘greater’ role in tackling community issues
THROUGH collaboration with central government, all Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) will finally be able to tackle the issue of garbage collection head-on as People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said on Thursday that landfill sites in communities will be developed.
He told reporters this during a press conference at Freedom House.
“If you’ve been following, you’d recognise that it's part of a bigger picture, part of a bigger plan to have NDCs, local government bodies generally, play a greater role in addressing many of the problems we face in the community, where the region and the central government can’t reach people at the household level,”
the PPP General Secretary said.
He stated that the government has asked the NDCs to focus on a few areas, to fill the gaps that the region and central government cannot close, especially in the areas of small drainage and irrigation works in the villages.
Although there has been heavy focus by the government on the outfalls, water management and flood control, internal drainage systems are clogged up.
Because of this, excavators have been handed over to NDCs for them to deal with the issue.
However, the recent injection of an increased subvention to NDCs and municipalities will further help them to better the services provided in their areas.
Further, Dr Jagdeo, who also serves as Guyana’s Vice-President, stated that appropriate
locations for landfill sites will be identified in communities. These locations will be created appropriately, so that NDCs can collect waste and dispose of it on site rather than incurring additional costs to transport it to landfills.
He said: “We are going to spend a sum of money working with them to ensure that in every local government body area, they have their own landfill site that they can manage and offer decent service to people.”
- central gov’t will work with NDCs to develop landfill sites, Jagdeo says
Vice-President Jagdeo last Friday announced that every NDC will receive $30 million as their new annual subvention, while every municipality will receive $50 million as theirs.
“We want to equip you with the tools to ensure that, going forward, that a part from what we focus on at the national level, you can deliver better services,” the Vice-President had said during an engagement with some councillors and other representatives from the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs) at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.
Previously, NDCs got subventions of about $5 million, while municipalities got about $18 million.
“We expect this money to be well spent. I asked the Minister of Agriculture to ensure that some
of the communities got excavators. So, already, 68 excavators have been delivered or are in the process of being delivered to the NDCs and the towns, so you can now have equipment there,” Dr Jagdeo said.
Owing to the series of community engagements conducted by the government, Vice-President Jagdeo had previously said that Budget 2025 will focus on community issues and on further bettering the lives of Guyanese. He had highlighted how the government has been able to get a more in-depth understanding of what the people want because of its people-centred approach.
Since assuming office, the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has focused on ensuring Guyanese live more comfortable lives.
Intermittent blackouts to cease after modern power grid established
- GPL says technical fault caused
THE government is firmly on the track to providing a modern power grid for Guyana, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said on Thursday.
– Jagdeo
During a press conference at Freedom House, he stated that there is adequate power in the system and he was told that it was a bat - tery-related issue.
“It has nothing to do with the availability of power, because we have enough power gener-
Following a technical fault at the Kingston Plant, which according to the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) triggered Thursday’s power outage, Dr Jagdeo pointed to the outdated power-generation system that the PPP has been left with.
ating in the system, but they developed a problem at Kingston today. But this is part of as I said to you before, until we have a modern grid with the redundancies, we're building out now, we're not going to be able to stop these intermittent blackouts, and that's what we have focused on heavily, on modernising the grid,” he said.
He also pointed to the investments by the government to upkeep the power-generation system.
Meanwhile, in a press release, GPL said that with the addition of the second power ship generating 60 MWs, its transmission and distribution
system has remained relatively stable, aside from a few minor network issues.
GPL currently has approximately 250 MWs of available generation. The current peak demand is approximately 180 MWs.
The power company said the technical issue that occurred Thursday morning is not generation related.
“At approximately 07:25hrs this morning, a technical fault occurred at the Kingston Power Plant. The Direct Current (DC) Control System failed on the Busbar, triggering the disconnection of all breakers on that Busbar, including three critical feed-
ers, two generators, and a main 69kV transformer. As a result, the Kingston Plant went offline, causing a cascading shutdown across the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS).
“Engineers immediately began assessing the failure at the Kingston Plant, while System Control Engineers promptly initiated power restoration efforts, starting from the Garden of Eden location.
“An investigation found damaged components at the Kingston Plant, and immediate efforts are being made to secure and install replacements. Further investigation and analyses are ongoing,” the release added.
The government has been pursuing the gas-to-energy project which when complete will bring significant benefits to citizens, including reliable and
cost-effective power.
Together with CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited and Hess Guyana Exploration, its co-venture partners on the Stabroek Block, ExxonMobil Guyana is working with the Government of Guyana to advance that project.
The project will see a 200km 12-inch diameter pipeline channelling natural gas from the Liza Phase One and Liza Phase Two FPSOs to a power plant NGL facility that will be built at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD). That pipeline will be landing on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) shore, continuing approximately 25 kilometres to the NGL and power plant facilities. It has an estimated total cost of US$1.8 billion and is cost recoverable.
PPP General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo addressing representatives of local government bodies at a recent engagement held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre
‘We will make major injections’
- Jagdeo says gov’t pledges to increase NIS pension during next term in office
By Trina Williams
SENIOR citizens who collect pension through the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) will receive a major cash boost, as People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has promised a higher NIS pension during the party’s next term in office.
He made this announcement during a press conference on Thursday at Freedom House.
“We will make major injections from the Treasury, and that will be one of the things we have already done… [but] we will do that in a major way in the next term to ensure that the NIS pension can also be increased periodically.”
Following President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s announcement of the landmark $10 billion financial support initiative aimed at giving financial support to senior citizens who contributed to the NIS but did not meet the full pension threshold, Dr. Jagdeo underscored that the administration is one that cares and listens to the people.
Although the government has resolved nearly 10,000 NIS cases where people were treated unfairly, according to Dr. Jagdeo, there were still instances where persons did not qualify for NIS pension because they had insufficient contributions.
Dr. Jagdeo stated that the government deemed it “grossly unfair” that persons who made more than 500 contributions to NIS
but less than 750 were not getting any money back.
“That's why we set aside, through a special initiative, this sum of money, so it doesn't become a burden to the National Insurance Scheme because it’s funded fully by the Central Government,”
he said, adding: “They (NIS) would start implementing this almost immediately.”
This one-off payment would aid 25,000 persons, he explained.
Further, Dr. Jagdeo said: “… And then I want to also say to people, because many of them believe the NIS is government, the government is a contributor to the NIS, but not private contributors. The funds are not government funds.”
The government will
distribute $10 billion to some 25,000 seniors who had attained the age of 60 on or before December 31, 2024, and have not met the minimum requirement of 750.
NIS will begin processing payments, starting today, using their existing pensioner database.
“My government remains fully committed to ensuring that the senior citizens of Guyana who have given their best years in service to our country can retire with dignity and the respect they deserve,” President Ali stated while making the announcement.
President Ali pointed out that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government is committed to improving the lives of Guyanese cit-
izens, particularly seniors, noting that this is part of a broader effort to enhance social support and financial security for older populations.
The programme represents a significant step in addressing pension gaps and providing additional financial relief to long-standing NIS contributors.
“This is yet another fulfilment of something we did not even promise, but something we heard from you… And that is what this government is about; delivering better. Delivering bigger, and delivering every single day for the people of our country,” the President added during the announcement, which was broadcasted live on his official Facebook page.
Striking the Balance
GUYANA stands at a crossroads in its history, propelled by the explosive growth of its energy sector. As the country opens its borders to foreign capital and seeks international alliances, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has made it crystal clear that Guyanese businesses and workers will not be left behind.
His administration's backing of local content to be further enhanced shows an important balancing act: being in favour of international co-operation while making sure the fruits of growth are equitably shared with local players.
The strategy of the government is pragmatic as well as future-oriented. Through the fortifying of local con-
tent legislation, Guyana is not merely protecting its private sector but also proactively placing it at the vanguard of the country's economic development.
The facts speak for themselves—since the Local Content Act was enacted, over 1,100 local Guyanese businesses have secured contracts worth in excess of US$1.5 billion. These achievements verify the way effective policies can produce tangible opportunities for local businesses alongside building national capability.
But remarks made by President Ali at the recent Local Content Summit indicate a further determination to tackle unfinished business. Loopholes in current
law have been taken advantage of by some operators whose intent is on circumventing its spirit.
The government's assurance that these loopholes will be plugged and compliance forced sends a firm message: Guyana's welcome to foreign investment is not a licence for exploitation. Instead, it is a call for equitable partnerships that respect and empower local industry.
The emphasis on upskilling and building capacity is another cornerstone of this strategy. By investing in worker development and improving service standards, Guyana is laying the foundation for sustainable growth that transcends oil and gas.
The desire to diversify into manufacturing, agro-processing, and industrial development is visionary, which seeks to insulate the economy against the uncertainties of energy markets. It is a step that should be taken by any resource-rich nation seeking to avoid the pitfalls of overdependence on a single sector.
Opponents of the local content regulations can point to a possible deterring effect on foreign investment or delay to progress, but the rationale that President Ali marshals in favour of the regulations is convincing.
Such initiatives far from being hurdles to development, are imperative in securing that prosperity finds
Region Two police work on strengthening relations with public through community engagement
IN an effort to deepen community relations and build lasting partnerships, Regional Division No. 2 Police Commander, Senior Superintendent Khemraj Shivbaran, led a vital outreach initiative on April 2, at La Belle Alliance on the Essequibo Coast.
During the outreach, the commander engaged residents. He was accompanied by Assistant Superintendent Garnett, Sergeant Mohamed, and Pandit Chandrasekhar Sharma, a member of the Anna Regina Station Management Committee.
The gathering created an open forum where community members were able to voice their concerns, ask questions, and gain a clearer understanding of the role of the police in ensuring safety and service.
Commander Shivbaran emphasised the importance of restoring and strengthening trust between the police and residents. He highlight-
ed the steps being taken to improve the quality and efficiency of service delivery and shared updates on decentralising key services—such as passport applications, police clearance, and the online driver’s package—to better serve people within their own communities.
He also spoke about ongoing efforts to educate and empower citizens through
programmes offered at the ZARA computer centres. Topics such as family violence, noise nuisance, child abuse, and child labour were discussed openly, with a strong focus on protection and prevention.
Recruitment efforts to expand the police force and improve human resource capacity were also highlighted
The police commander
expressed his commitment to improving infrastructure and the overall quality of service across the region.
He used the occasion to encourage residents to support the formation and growth of Community Policing Groups (CPGs) and youth-focused initiatives, which, according to him, play a key role in maintaining peace and fostering civic responsibility.
Residents responded warmly to the session, expressing appreciation for the timely intervention and the commander’s willingness to engage them directly.
Contact information was shared with all in attendance, ensuring that the dialogue between police and community remains ongoing.
This outreach marks a meaningful step toward unity, transparency, and collaboration—hallmarks of a safer, more connected Region Two.
wide-spread dispersal across people as opposed to confining itself amongst select individuals.
The government's call for sustaining sustainable business models over subsidised and artificially sustained industry complements further the desire to cultivate long-term robustness.
Guyana's path as a potential energy superpower offers other countries in its wake valuable lessons. Guyana's commitment to keeping people and business first, yet still capitalising on global opportunities, sets a pattern of inclusive development.
As President Ali aptly described, "We will not let the oil and gas dividends
bypass our workers, our businesses, and our people by."
It is a belief that should ring far broader than the Guyana borders as a template of how resource wealth can be used in national interest without offending global engagement. Ultimately, Guyana's success will hinge on its ability to maintain this delicate equilibrium. By continually refining its policy of local content and establishing a climate in which foreign investors as well as homegrown businesses may thrive, the country has the opportunity to create a path of shared prosperity—where no one is left behind in the rush for progress.
Truck driver dies in freak accident at Kamechara Creek
A 57-YEAR-OLD EMPLOYEE
Timbers Concession
Limited tragically lost his life on Tuesday at Kamechara Creek, Lower Pomeroon River, after he ended up under the wheel of his truck as it rolled down a hill.
The accident which occurred around 07:00hrs involved an unregistered 6x6 logging truck owned by the timber company.
At the time, the driver, Rohan Persaud, was accompanied by 47-yearold porter, Deonarine Warren
Police said that initial investigations revealed that the truck’s brakes failed while climbing a hill, causing the vehicle to rapidly roll backward.
Warren, who was seated in the front passenger seat, said he jumped out when the truck began to
move.
Warren later saw the truck come to a stop in mud and rushed to check on Persaud. He found the driver pinned under the left front wheel and attempted to free him but was unsuccessful.
Warren then went to seek help and encountered workers on a tractor. With their assistance, they were able to remove Persaud’s body and transport it to Charity Cottage Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Warren was treated at the hospital before being transferred to Suddie Hospital for further medical attention.
Persaud’s body is currently at the Charity Cottage Hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
of Barakat
Commander Khemraj Shivbaran and his team during the community outreach at La Belle Alliance, Region Two
We need a big debate on journalism in this country
THERE is a journalistic binary in this country – anti-government and pro-opposition - and it has taken journalism into the gutter. I am proud of how I shaped the Freddie Kissoon Show. Not a soul on Planet Earth could say that it is pro-government or anti-government.
The programme is not infused with my current political perspectives. I support the re-election of President Ali. But I have provided opposition guests with opportunities to echo their political elaborations.
Opposition MP Ganesh Mahipaul cited an interview with Minister of Education as the show being pro-PPP, but Mahipaul appeared three times and on each occasion, he had a mouthful to say against the government. Last Monday, the guest was Vincent Alexander.
Here is how the binary works. The private media target state officials and the well-intentioned plot is to frame questions that the private media feel would make ministers look awkward or embarrass them. But no biting questions are put to opposition politicians and civil society groups that are overtly anti-government.
This column will offer a few examples and those examples are so many that the rest of this analysis here is about those examples. The private media are not interested in surveying the thoughts on those in civil society. Each month, the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) issues a press release which is devoutly carried by the Stabroek News.
No journalist engages the GHRA and inquiries about its ontology. What issues have
the GHRA taken up last year, the year before etc. Here is something I knew that often happened in the 1970s.
The Guyana Bar Association, the GHRA and many other organisations used to print little booklets and distribute them freely to citizens about knowing their rights under the law.
The GHRA, I assume, is in receipt of foreign funding (all Guyanese NGOs get foreign funding and funds from Western embassies here).
There is an area of police abuse in this country that the GHRA needs the attention of organisations like the GHRA. Last month, the Police Commissioner and the Attorney-General informed the nation that the traffic ranks cannot conduct random stops and request documents.
Since that announcement, each day, I repeat each day, I see traffic ranks stopping motorists at random requesting documents. The GHRA needs to tone down its anti-government obsession and do human rights work in general. It should print a booklet informing drivers to keep it in the glove compartment and produce it when they encounter random stops.
The private media seem to think that the only organism living in this country is the Government of Guyana. All the private media do is question state officials as if news only comes from the government. No journalist in the private believes that there is compartment in Guyana named civil society and many of these civil society groups have widely controversial existence.
Red Thread wants the government to get out of oil production. No journalist has ever
questioned Red Thread why is that a sensible position. Many civil society groups, included Red Thread, called for the 20 counts of murder to be dropped against the accused in the Mahdia dormitory fire and instead a charge of arson be substituted. No journalist has asked these groups to explain this madness.
Let’s go over to the weekly press conference of the Alliance For Change. From the time, Nigel Hughes became head of the AFC, the private media have abandoned any interest in his political past. Even though Hughes resigned from the AFC in 2017 after a torrid retreat at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, his reason was never made public and it remains a
secret.
If there was any occasion to ask Hughes about this was when he assumed leadership of the AFC last year. This is the kind of story journalists all over the world hunt down. What happened at the Conference Centre to cause him to leave the AFC?
Mr. Raphael Trotman wrote a book that informed readers that when the AFC came to power in 2025, he was not assigned a Cabinet position.
Mr. Trotman is currently
General-Secretary of the AFC and appears often at the weekly press conference. No journalist from the private media has ever asked him to explain his revelation. Nigel Hughes was the deputy leader of the AFC when it came to power in 2015. Should he not be asked about the snubbing of Trotman for a Cabinet position?
The head of the PNC, Mr. Aubrey Norton, said the PNC will not negotiate with Mr. Alston Stewart, lead negotiator
for the AFC on the consensus candidate issue. No journalist has inquired of Mr. Norton why this is so. The reason why the private media will not ask is because they accept their role of being anti-government.
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.
Consequences will be felt by those involved in killing of Linden men
- Jagdeo says, raps opposition for politicising tragedies, trying to create division
During his Thursday press conference at Freedom House,
NO stone will be left unturned in the impartial and independent probe into the killing of both Ronaldo Peters and Keon Fogenay, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has promised.
he spoke candidly to the families. “I assured them again that the People's Progressive Party and the government will not cover up anything in relation
to these cases, that we are interested in [a] full, impartial investigation, whatever the outcome, consequences will be felt by those involved.”
While this is a sad moment for the country, the opposition’s attempt to politicise such devastations have left a bitter taste in the mouths of different sections of the society and Dr Jagdeo has grilled them for this.
“So as predicted, every time we have a tragedy in this country, every time we have an incident of this nature, you can almost predict what will happen. The opposition will show up there, not to even listen to the families; they show up there to start division. They don't go there because they love the victims of these families. They show up there to exploit the situation, to create division in our country and to generate street protests or mislead people into thinking that no action would be pursued,” he said.
While the opposition has accused the ruling PPP of stoking ethnic insecurity, Dr Jagdeo said that historically, it has been the opposition that has done so.
“We're [PPP] the only
multi-racial party. We're the only party that does not have an interest in stoking ethnic insecurity because we are working at broadening the base of our party, and we've been successful at doing this, people of every race are all prominently represented in the People's Progressive Party and they are part of our family. We're the only party that has no interest whatsoever to stoke ethnic insecurity,” he said.
The ongoing investigation is being led by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), with additional support now pledged from the RSS to ensure independent oversight.
Tuesday saw protests in Linden following the shooting death of Peters, who was shot by a police sergeant on Monday afternoon during the sergeant’s attempt to arrest him (Peters).
Keon Fogenay was shot and killed during a protest in the mining town. The situation escalated after Fogenay was shot.
According to a police statement, Peters was wanted for questioning in connection with the alleged rape of a minor.
The police claimed he was spotted at Shabba Bar in One
Mile, Wismar, and upon seeing the approaching officers he fled and attempted to scale a fence.
The sergeant who confronted Peters alleged that while attempting to subdue him, his service pistol discharged resulting in his being shot in the lower right abdomen. He subsequently died.
CCTV footage circulating on social media appears to contradict aspects of the police’s version of events.
The video shows Peters standing near the roadside with a group of men when a heavily tinted minibus pulled up.
Several men dressed in plain white T-shirts and black pants—reportedly officers— exited the vehicle. Peters is then seen running. He was chased, subdued, and dragged back toward the minibus by the neck.
Contrary to the police claim, the video does not show the ranks in full uniform.
The sergeant involved, identified only as Kendell, is currently under close arrest as the investigation proceeds Reports indicate that he was recently transferred back to the Linden district.
Griping, negative voices obstructing national pride, consciousness
By Trina Williams
THE lack of accentuation regarding the positives in Guyana and the continuous propping up of those griping and pessimistic voices are hindering national consciousness and pride, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has emphasised.
He said this during a press conference on Thursday at the party’s headquarters, Freedom House, while responding to a Stabroek News editorial which claimed that there is no cultural policy in existence.
“Every day, it seems as though some people are working to create this national consciousness, and to bring people together, and there are others who are trying to break that asunder,” he said.
He further stated that if there is so much interest by those voices to create national consciousness, then they should call out the perpetrators who are hindering the progress.
Highlighting the positives, Dr. Jagdeo said that there are numerous features that make the people feel proud about being Guyanese.
These include the “visible” changes in the Amerindian communities under the PPP, he said, while pointing to the LowCarbon Development Strategy
- Jagdeo says, pushes for more emphasis to be placed on Guyana’s development and the elevation of citizens
(LCDs) and its significant benefits such as the allocation of funds to indigenous villages.
“So far, in two years, they received $10 billion, 242 communities. They've done, on their own, over 1,500 projects in their communities,” he said.
He also pointed to the attempts to derail the developments, and even attempts to silence the appraisals by over 200 toshaos, who lauded the initiative.
The Amerindian Act, the Indigenous People's Commission and land titling are also strides that have bettered Amerindian communities, he highlighted.
While Guyana is one of the countries that upholds human rights, and promotes press freedom, Dr. Jagdeo pointed to the attempts by well-known PPP critics to cast doubt on those facts.
He stated: “Our human rights record can stand up to any country in the world…You look at our law, the Constitution of this country, the ERC…where in any country in this hemisphere, anywhere in the world, that you have a constitutional body that has the powers of sanction over the executive, can prevent a political party from running at an election if they use race or people's gender, etc., as a divisive campaign?
“Very few countries in the world have five rights commis-
sions built into their Constitution where you have to have two-thirds support to sit on one of those commissions.”
As he continued to highlight the attempts to hinder the efforts to build national consciousness, he asked how could this goal be achieved if the country has influential politicians attempting to use the Guyana-Venezuela controversy to score political mileage.
“No condemnation of it. How do you build pride and a cultural policy and national unity when you try to tear down, every day, all the positives about our country by giving out. I'm not saying don't give it. It’s your editorial policy, but outlandish outsize space to the naysayers, the people who are negative about our country, they get the bulk of it in newspapers,” he said.
The constant griping and inadequate focus on government interventions that are aimed at providing a better quality of life for all citizens is also obstructing the goal of national pride, the General Se cretary highlighted.
“It’s just disruption all the time, never accentuating the positive things about our country that people feel when they get a plot of land and move into a house for the first time, or find a job or something of that sort every day,” he said.
Region Two health centres now offering ECG, increased laboratory testing
- over 50 nursing assistants to graduate soon
THE Regional Health Officer (RHO) of Region Two, Dr. Ranjeev Singh has stated that ECG testing and increased laboratory testing are now available at some health centres in the region.
While expressing his gratitude to the medical personnel for their professional and compassionate service, the RHO related to the Guyana Chronicle that patients have conveyed their appreciation to the Minister of Health and the People's Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government for their investment in health centres.
He told this publi -
cation that the PPP/C administration is not only rehabilitating and equipping hospitals with cutting-edge technology and services, but they are also ensuring that health centres are not forgotten, and we must applaud that.
“We have all our hypertensive and diabetic drugs readily available at our community health centres. While we have trained nurses who attend to our patients on a daily basis, most of our facilities have doctors that see the chronic disease patients once a week,” the RHO explained.
He added that they
have implemented new services, such as ECG testing and increased laboratory testing at the health centres in Anna Regina, Devonshire Castle, and Wakapau.
To ensure that individuals are cared for on a community level, the RHO stated that they have been sending medical staff to health centres to "take off" blood samples from patients who need them.
He also stated that a physiotherapist visits the health centres once a month to check up on the ‘physio’ patients, and ensure that they are being cared for and evaluated.
Dr. Singh said, “We
have increased a lot of services, and I must say that all the medical vouchers from the Ministry of Health are available at all of the health centres and health facilities in Region Two.”
The RHO also explained that while all their medical facilities are catered for currently, he is pleased to share that over 50 nursing assistants (NAs) will be graduating in the upcoming week in Region Two. According to him, the batch of NAs will also be assigned to various medical facilities, including community health centres. (Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay)
Regional Health Officer (RHO) of Region Two Dr. Ranjeev Singh
Betsy Ground residents to get new GWI network connection
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
RESIDENTS of Betsy Ground, in East Canje Berbice, are set to experience significant improvements in their water supply, as plans are underway for the instal-
This development is part of ongoing efforts to enhance access to clean and reliable water for communities across the region.
The new water network connection will strengthen the existing infrastructure, ensuring a more consistent
pipelines will be laid with the creation of a new network. “We are hoping to start very shortly on laying these lines, and I am hoping that within a month we can complete the network and everything here, so that you can have individ-
Senior
Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service Dr. Ashni Singh; Shaik Baksh, CEO of GWI; and Regional Vice-Chairman Zamal Hussain meeting with residents of Betsy Ground, East Canje
lation of a new network connection in the area.
flow of potable water to households and businesses. This upgrade is expected to reduce the frequency of water disruptions, and address long-standing issues related to low water pressure and limited access.
Improved water supply is a critical step in promoting public health, supporting economic activities, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. The initiative demonstrates a continued commitment from the government to community development and sustainable living standards in East Canje, Berbice.
Shaik Baksh, CEO of the Guyana Water Inc, during a recent community outreach in the area, told the residents, “…Before I came here, I had a discussion with the regional manager and GWI personnel, and we have worked out a project to ensure that you can have treated water… What has to be done is that we have to link a transmission line straight through from Goed Bananen Land (which receives water from the Sheet Anchor Plant) coming down to these communities to bring the water.”
According to Baksh, the network in the area, which was done years ago, “is very old and deteriorated”, and as such, new
ual house connections,” he said.
Meanwhile, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, who was also a part of the community outreach, stated that the water issue was raised with Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who gave clear instructions that the residents must be engaged.
He said that the funding will be made available to have the issue rectified within one month.
One resident, Omesh Sheriff, 34, a father of two, following the announcement, said, “We looking forward to this for so long, and now we getting it within a month. We really happy about that.”
Another resident, Juliet McPherson, said, “We weren’t getting no water really, and we na had streets. I used to have to ‘heis’ my children on my back. But I want to thank the President that he provide road for not me alone, but for everybody. And now, today, we happy. Because, look the rain is falling right now, and we can go in and come out like we feel like. And now we getting water. We really got to thank we President, Irfaan Ali.”
Berbice fishermen welcome modernisation of sector
FISHERMEN in Berbice have expressed their enthusiasm and optimism regarding the planned
recognise it. That is why we are trying to modernise and rehab the system so that you can have an eas-
fishermen would still have a stable income.
With about 70 fishermen in the Sheet Anchor,
modernisation of the fishing industry in Region Six.
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, pointed out, on Saturday, during a series of meetings with fisherfolk in Region Six, that over the last four years, the investments made in the fishing sector has been tremendous.
“We have rehabilitated and modernised a number of landing sites and wharves around the country; hundreds of millions of dollars were expended,” he said.
Minister Mustapha noted that the fishing sector directly employs approximately 18,000 persons “who earn their livelihood from fishing.”
He told fishermen from Sheet Anchor Village, East Canje Berbice, “You make a tremendous contribution to the economy and we
ier way to bring up your catches.”
According to him, the FAO conducted a study as to why Guyana and this part of the world is experiencing low catches.
In response, he said that this is occurring because of climate change.”
Importantly during the discussion with the fishermen, Minister Mustapha said, “you can’t only depend on this one activity for our livelihood, you have to do other things.”
“As Minister of Agriculture, I am prepared to work along with you to go into other things, not to leave fishing. Fishing will be one of the activities, but we will work along with you for other activities so that you can improve your livelihood.”
He said that this is important because when there are low catches, the
Canje area, the minister said that they can form groups and the ministry’s fishing department will work along with them.
“We will do some brackish water shrimp ponds and from there we can show you what you will do and then you will take it over,” he said.
Importantly, the minister reassured the fishermen that this initiative is not meant to replace their transitional fishing activities.
“You will not stop your
fishing in the sea. You will continue that, but this will be another activity to help supplement your income,” he emphasised to the group of fishermen.
Meanwhile, the region’s fisherfolk in Sheet Anchor, Albion and the Upper Corentyne welcomed the initiative.
One fisherman, Ramkisson, commended Minister Mustapha for the work he was doing and welcomed the new modernisation efforts, partic-
ularly the initiative announced by the minister which he said will give them supplemental income.
Ramkisson pointed out that Minister Mustapha does not just make decisions, but he engages those within the industry.
“That’s one thing I respect about him,” he added.
Further, the fisherman said, “Whatever this minister says he stands for it and he materialise it.”
Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, speaks to Region Six fishermen
Fishermen turned up in their numbers to meet Minister Mustapha
‘I fight for justice not personal gains’
- Figueira defends handshake with President Ali, says ‘basic courtesy shouldn’t be political’
OPPOSITION Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira has defended his decision to shake President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s hand during a high-level meeting in Linden on Tuesday, stating that “basic courtesy” should not be mistaken for political compromise, especially in moments of national tragedy.
The President’s visit came in response to the recent deaths of Ronaldo Peters and Keon Fogenay, two young men from Linden who were fatally shot by members of the Guyana Police Force.
Figueira, who serves as the Parliamentary Representative for Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), attended the meeting in support of the grieving families and to advocate for an independent investigation into the incident.
Figueira, in a statement on
Wednesday, addressed the backlash, asserting that his gesture was one of “basic courtesy” and not a betrayal of political principles.
“When it comes to matters of state, being respectful and courteous to the Head of State is a no-brainer decision for me. It will always come naturally without isms and skisms,” Figueira said.
He added that while he condemned the unjustified use of force by members of the Guyana Police Force, and stood in full solidarity with the bereaved families, he refused to allow what he called “petty political distractions” to overshadow the core issue of justice and police reform.
Figueira, who is also Chairman of the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee, was firm in his stance that not shaking the President’s hand would have drawn media attention away from
the real victims—the families of the deceased and the wider Linden community.
His remarks follow a moment of tension at the meeting, when Linden Mayor Sharma Solomon initially refused to shake the President’s hand.
The President nonetheless extended the courtesy, briefly holding on to Solomon’s hand.
The incident has led to a social media frenzy with people taking to Facebook to voice concerns over decorum, political protocol, and unity amid the tragedy.
The handshake controversy has followed Figueira for some time.
Only last year, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton stripped him of his Shadow Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport portfolio, reportedly due to his decision to shake the President’s hand— contrary to Norton’s unwritten
“handshake policy.”
Norton has, on several occasions, avoided public handshakes with the President, citing political differences.
Yet Figueira has positioned himself as a unifying figure in Region 10, consistently engaging with government officials to address developmental issues.
As such, Figueira reiterated his focus on justice and the
well-being of his constituents, above partisan theatrics.
“I fight for justice, not personal gain,” he declared. “If we continue down this path of division, destruction, disunity, and
injustice, where does it lead us? Who wins?”
“Guyana and its people, first! Forward Ever, Backward Never!” the Linden politician said.
GoG, Canadian Commercial Corporation renew MoU to strengthen economic and commercial relations
The following is a joint press release that was issued by the Ministry of Finance on Thursday:
“The Government of Guyana and the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) are pleased to announce the renewal of their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening economic and commercial relations between Guyana and Canada. This renewed MOU will facilitate cooperation, participation in discussions, and the exchange of information related to the procurement of Canadian goods and services.
The MoU was signed by the Honourable Dr. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, and Mr. Boris Jacouty, Director, Business Development, Infrastructure, at the Canadian Commercial Corporation. The agreement will remain in effect for a period of eight years.
The renewal of this MoU
underscores the commitment of both nations to fostering a robust and mutually beneficial partnership. By facilitating cooperation and information exchange, the MoU aims to enhance the procurement processes and ensure the efficient delivery of high-quality Canadian goods and services to Guyana.
Honourable Dr. Ashni Singh stated, "This renewed MoU represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to strengthen the economic and commercial ties between Guyana and Canada. We look forward to continued collaboration and the positive impact this agreement will have on our procurement processes.”
The Minister further said that Government looks forward to greater economic and commercial relations in every regard, including Guyanese companies doing business with Canada, noting that Canadian investors and business and commercial institutions have been present in the Guyanese economy for
decades, and have contributed significantly to the economic evolution of Guyana.
Canada’s High Commissioner to Guyana, His Excellency Sebastien Sigouin, underscored the need for Canada and Guyana to partner explaining that Canada supports Guyana's ambitious development agenda and the two countries need to work together to find trade and investment opportunities. He pointed out that extending the MoU shows how much both Guyana and Canada were committed to continuing their relationship and the government-to-government relationship can be beneficial.
Mr. Boris Jacouty added, "The Canadian Commercial Corporation is proud to renew this MoU with the Government of Guyana. We are committed to supporting Guyana's development goals by providing access to Canadian expertise and high-quality products. This agreement will further solidify our partnership and create
new opportunities for both countries."
The Government of Guyana and CCC are confident that this renewed MoU will contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of both nations, fostering a dynamic and collaborative economic relationship.
The original MoU between the Government of Guyana and the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) was signed by Honourable Minister Singh and Canadian Minister of Export Promotion International Trade, and Economic Development, Honourable Mary Ng, in April 2022.”
Dr. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, and Mr. Boris Jacouty, Director, Business Development and Infrastructure, at the Canadian Commercial Corporation, sign the renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
Minister Edghill engages Charity residents on wharf development project
MINISTER of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, along with engineers from the Sea and River Defence Board, met with residents of Charity on Wednesday evening to further engage them on the GY$880 million Charity Wharf Project.
This engagement followed a meeting held last month, during which the
will serve as a key economic driver, especially for agriculture and commercial activity.
The new multipurpose wharf will feature modern port facilities, including loading ramps to facilitate more efficient operations for both cargo and passenger vessels. It will also include comfortable waiting areas for travel -
minister announced the development, emphasising its potential to transform Charity into a thriving hub for business and trade.
The project which was awarded to S. Jagmohan Construction and General Supplies Inc. aims to modernise the riverfront and enhance transportation and trade infrastructure within the region. Once complete, the state-of-the-art facility
lers and traders, as well as world-class packaging and storage spaces that will meet international export standards. River reclamation and dredging of the Pomeroon River are also planned, allowing larger vessels to dock safely and significantly improving the area’s trade and export capacity.
Despite the projected benefits, the announcement
has seen mixed reactions from residents. Concerns over the timing and sequence of works prompted a petition signed by 100 residents, calling for a temporary halt to the project until urgent revetment works are completed.
Residents fear that without this critical flood prevention mechanism, the area will remain vulnerable.
In response to these concerns, Minister Edghill returned to Charity to meet with the residents. He reassured them that the government remains committed to protecting citizens’ interests and would not proceed with any development that could harm or disrupt their lives.
To promote transparency and build confidence, engineers from the ministry presented a comprehensive overview of the project, explaining its phases and the safety protocols in place to minimise risks.
Residents were also invited to voice their concerns and received direct feedback from the minister and his technical team.
Several residents reiterated their call for revetment works, noting the community’s frequent flooding issues.
They expressed appreciation to Minister Edghill for responding quickly to their petition and taking the time to listen to their concerns in-person.
Construction will proceed, and pile driving is expected to begin soon.
(Indrawattie Natram)
Charity residents during the meeting with Minister Edghill spoke openly about their concerns regarding the wharf development project
Minister Juan Edghill addresses Charity residents
Fifth Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo set for February 17-20, 2026
THE Secretariat of the Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE) announced, on Thursday, that the fifth edition of the region’s premier energy and investment event, is scheduled for February 17-20, 2026, at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.
A press release said that, under the theme, “Building Tomorrow’s Future Today,” the conference will bring together global leaders, industry experts, investors, and innovators to explore actionable strategies for sustainable development, digital transformation, and resilient economies.
“The theme reflects the urgent need to take decisive action now to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for Guyana and the wider Caribbean region.
Guyana stands at a pivotal moment in its development, with its rapidly growing energy sector and vast natural resources presenting unparalleled opportunities. However, harnessing these opportunities requires forward-thinking strategies that prioritise sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth,” the release.
Key topics to be discussed under this theme include: Leveraging Guyana’s oil and gas resources to fund renewable energy projects and reduce carbon emissions; How technology can drive efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness in energy and supply chain sectors; Strengthening partnerships to ensure energy security and economic resilience across the Caribbean; Cross-border energy trade and partnerships; Public-Private Partnerships in energy and infrastructure; Global best practices in energy policy and regulation; and Updates on key projects in the energy sector and related sectors.
The release said that by focusing on these areas, the conference aims to bridge the gap between today’s challenges and tomorrow’s solutions, ensuring that Guyana’s growth is both transformative and enduring.
A PLATFORM FOR PROGRESS
Further, the release said that Mr. Anthony Whyte, Chairman of GECSCE, emphasised the conference’s role in shaping Guyana’s future.
“In just four years, this event has become the lead-
ing forum for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. Our theme underscores the urgency of acting now to build resilient economies. Whether through digital transformation, sustainable energy, or regional partnerships, we must lay the groundwork today for tomorrow’s success,” he was quoted as saying.
Meanwhile, Kiana Wilburg, CEO of GECSCE, highlighted the event’s global reach.
“Last year, we welcomed over 10,000 participants from 40+ countries, solidifying our position as the Caribbean’s premier energy and investment forum. In 2026, we will elevate this further, fostering partnerships that go beyond transactions to create lasting impact,” she said.
ENGAGING EVENTS FOR ALL
The release added that the 2026 conference will feature four dynamic side events designed to engage diverse audiences.
There are a 5k Energy Run/Walk to promote health and wellness alongside energy awareness, an essay competition to encourage youth to contribute ideas for a sustainable future, a Conference Village which will be a hub for networking, exhibitions, and interactive sessions and a Taste of Guyana Showcase which will seek to celebrate the nation’s rich culinary heritage.
These initiatives, introduced in 2025, have already garnered tremendous support and will return with even greater scale in 2026, the release emphasised.
SPONSORSHIP AND PARTICIPATION OPPORTUNITIES
For sponsors and exhibitors, the 2026 prospectus – found on the conference’s website www.guyanaenergy. gy - offers premium branding opportunities to showcase their commitment to energy sustainability and supply chain excellence. By participating, organisations can position themselves at the forefront of Guyana’s transformative journey.
For more information or to secure your booth, those interested can contact Fareeza Haniff, Media and Operations Director at fareezah@guyanaenergy. gy or Kamine Ganesh, Sales & Business Development Lead at kamineg@ guyanaenergy.gy
Religious leaders call for peace and unity amidst Linden tragedy, irresponsible behaviour in society
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
CALLING for peace across the nation, leaders of Guyana's three main religions — Hindu, Muslim, and Christian — have expressed their concerns and are urging Guyanese, particularly the
youth, to find their way closer to God.
In view of the recent tragic events in Linden, the reckless use of the roadways and the rampant lawlessness exhibited by certain Guyanese on social media, Pastor Quaicy Henry of Kildonan Village in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne),
exclusively told the Guyana Chronicle that both Guyanese and the global community must return to their scriptures and reaffirm their obligation to conduct themselves with integrity in society.
He asserts that while it is understandable for loved ones, friends and the community to experience hurt and anger, such emotions should not justify
the destruction of public infrastructure and properties that benefit the same community and individuals.
Recognising the growing trend of intolerance, unkindness and impatience among some Guyanese since the COVID-19 pandemic, Pastor Henry said Guyanese ought to be grateful that they have a President and a government that are delivering to the people in every region across Guyana.
According to him, while it is understandable that the government is not perfect in all that they do, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has been leading by example through the development of infrastructure and institutions and the creation of job opportunities for the people of Guyana.
“We need to remember that we are smart individuals and we can fact-check what is being fed to us on social media by influencers and private individuals who claim to care for Guyana and its people.”
He continued, “As a pastor, I acknowledge my own imperfections and in light of the unfortunate accident in Linden involving the police officer and the young man who lost his life, we must remember that the legal system now bears the obligation for carrying out its duties, and it is not in the hands of ordinary citizens.
While I understand that people are hurt, frustrated, and upset, what I have a problem with is that seemingly in Guyana almost everything is politicised. There is a downward spiral trend that we are facing as a country and we need to get back to our churches, mosques, and mandirs.”
Furthermore, Pandit Ganesh Rampersaud of the Mon Repos Shree Satya Narayan Mandir also related to the Guyana Chronicle that, while he applauds religious leaders for their efforts in their respective institutions, he also believes that more can be done to bring Guyanese, particularly young people, closer to their religion and knowledge of their scriptures.
According to Pandit Rampersaud, prayers are encouraged
not only to create a stronger relationship with God, but also to generate peace of mind and hold people accountable for their actions.
The pandit said, “I understand that we all are entitled to our own opinions, but that does not mean that we ought to be impolite and violent against each other.
Whether you are a Muslim, Hindu, or Christian, we all need each other to survive in society. I am calling on my fellow religious leaders to work with our people, especially our young people, and engage with them in their communities. Even if they are not attending places of worship, let's remind them that they can make a difference and contribute positively to their lives.”
He also expressed appreciation for President Ali and his government's commitment to the lives of all Guyanese.
According to him, President Ali's actions are a true reflection of his character and his vision for the people of Guyana.
“We need to respect each other, regardless of race, the colour of our skin, and who we vote for. Guyana is developing, and this is the time for us to enjoy what our country has to offer while living in love and harmony. Let us stop attacking each other; we are better than this; we can do better than this,” said Pandit Rampersaud.
Additionally, the Imam of Meten-Meer-Zorg (East) Masjid, Halim Khan, shared similar sentiments as the two religious leaders, explaining that spiritual unity for the nation should be observed by all on a daily basis.
According to him, religious leaders should encourage and educate Guyanese in their places of worship to do the right thing and be kind to each other.
“ We are blessed to be living in a country that is developing rapidly and one where our President is ensuring that he is catering to our every need. Yes, it cannot happen at once, but we can live as one through spiritual unity as a nation,” he added.
Pastor Quacy Henry of Kildonan Village in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne)
Pandit Ganesh Rampersaud of the Mon Repos Shree Satya Narayan Mandir
Imam of Meten-MeerZorg (East) Masjid, Halim Khan
UGSS launches water dispenser project at Turkeyen Campus
- as part of efforts to make drinking water accessible to students, staff, visitors
THE University of Guyana Student Society, on Wednesday, launched its Water Dispenser Project, an initiative aimed at addressing water accessibility for students on campus, especially during late classes when there is little to no access to clean drinking water.
As UG welcomes new students, and continues to reintroduce face-to-face learning, access to water is essential for the health and wellness of the campus’ students.
Starting with three water dispensers, these will be strategically installed across campus to ensure that no student face water poverty while pursuing their tertiary education. Additionally, the dispensers will serve staff, students and anyone utilising the university’s facilities.
With support and collaboration from six UG clubs, the UGSS is promoting health and well-being, and showing what they can achieve when students and club members
have days sometimes where you don't even have $200 to purchase a bottle of water, and as president you have to listen to the students, and you have to also act.”
She added that it occurred to her that, “Students might come, they might not have a bottle or even students might just want to take a bottle of water and go. So we ask for donations of water bottles with purified water which will be donated to UGSS on a monthly basis that we can keep restocking the fridge section of the water dispensers with bottled water.”
Semple explained that water is essential, basic, and should never be inaccessible.
“That's why this project matters. We're not just putting in a dispenser, we're putting students first and we're not stopping there. We start at Turkeyen and we will also extend the project at Tain Campus,” she said.
Meanwhile, UG’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor
The water dispensers that form part of the UGSS project which aims to ensure that students, staff and visitors have access to drinking water
come together with a shared purpose.
Noting that this project was not thought up or accomplished overnight, the UGSS President, Tirishatha Semple, expressed a heartfelt thanks to each of the clubs that collaborated with the UGSS.
These are: the University of Guyana SEBI Students Club; University of Guyana Pharmacy Students Association; the University of Guyana Medical Laboratory Science Students Association; the University of Guyana Geographical Society and the University of Guyana Chemistry Club. She also mentioned Smart Solutions Services role in making this project a reality, and Pure Aqua Water, which will be donating bottles of purified water to the UGSS for the restocking of these unique dispensers.
Speaking more on this initiative, Semple said, “We
of a business to provide water to students, and a project for anti-plastics, de-emphasising the use of plastics, and encouraging the use of reusable bottles, Professor Paloma affirmed that there is a double utility in this initiative, which allows students to either purchase water, or to use or reuse the plastic bottles, or other bottles, contributing to de-emphasisng the use of plastics. (Faith Greene)
Dr. Paloma Mohamed-Martin, in her remarks commended UG’s student clubs for collaborating with the UGSS for the common good, and for starting such a project on a small scale where others would not have.
She said, “We start where we can start, and we build upon those small gains. So, the three I am sure, very soon, will grow to 25 and 30 and hundreds.”
Further, she acknowledged this effort by the UGSS President and the entire UGSS team and collaborators which ensures that future and present students have access to drinking water, saying, “It just shows a mindset of excellence and a mindset of growth that you don't just go for things just for the sake of going for them.”
Recalling previous initiatives such as the creation
UGSS President, Tirishatha Semple (centre), with Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin, and UG student club representatives (Japheth Savory photos)
GFS leading the Caribbean in modernisation with advanced equipment, enhanced emergency response - Wickham
By Feona Morrison
THE Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is making bold strides in its mission to modernise its operations and improve emergency response, proudly boasting of having the most advanced firefighting equipment in the Caribbean.
This was revealed by Chief Fire Officer, Gregory Wickham, during his address at the opening of the GFS Senior Officers' Conference on
Thursday.
The conference is being held under the theme “Fostering Community Collaboration for Enhanced Emergency Response.”
Wickham stated that the Fire Service has undergone a major transformation, with the acquisition of state-of-the-art firefighting equipment, new fire tenders, and improved infrastructure.
These investments are part of an aggressive initiative to
not only reduce fire response times across the country but also to earn the trust and confidence of the Guyanese people.
Wickham expressed gratitude to the government for allocating $1.2 billion to the GFS in the 2025 national budget. He said the funding will help ensure the fire service delivers excellence by equipping it with the necessary resources to effectively manage operations and safeguard lives and property from fire-related destruction.
“Over the last year, we acquired a significant amount of firefighting equipment. We would have expended $674 million in acquiring these pieces of equipment,” Wickham stated.
The Chief Fire Officer confidently declared that the GFS is leading the Caribbean in modern firefighting tools, highlighting the service’s acquisition of two Bronto Skylifts—a specialised firetruck designed for aerial firefighting and rescue operations.
The Fire Chief also pointed out that more fire stations are being constructed across the country, particularly in rural and hinterland areas where fire response was previously limited. He said the decentralisation of services is expected to further improve response times and accessibility.
He explained: “We are in the process of building six new fire stations across the country. They are being built in areas that, for many years, did not have such infrastructure. They are being built in Essequibo and Corentyne. These stations are located there to ensure that we reduce our response time for those who may be in distress and to gain the confidence of every citizen.”
He noted that the GFS has recognised the need for greater community engagement.
As part of this effort, Wickham disclosed that 40 pickup-type fire tenders have been distributed to each Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) to ensure a faster initial response in the event of a fire, significantly reducing response time.
In addition, the Chief Fire Officer emphasised that modernisation is not limited to equipment alone. “Without proper training, it does not matter how much equipment and how many tools we acquire — we’ll be unable to
achieve our specific goals.”
According to him, the Fire Service is also investing in the continuous training of its personnel, focusing on international best practices in firefighting, rescue operations, and emergency medical response. Firefighters have also been equipped with cutting-edge personal protective gear, ensuring their safety and enabling them to operate more efficiently during emergencies.
He said the GFS, over the years, has conducted training sessions for staff in hazardous materials (hazmat) response, foam management, aerodrome, supervisory management and mental health.
Training sessions are being held locally and overseas, with a focus on empowering firefighters with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
“We’ve had the success of three of our officers undergoing and completing training at an internationally recognised university in forensic fire investigation. We are now better prepared to deal with any eventuality of that sort,” he stated.
Public engagement is another key area of focus for the GFS. Through community outreach programmes, Wickham noted that the GFS aims to foster a more fire-conscious society.
These efforts, according to him, are geared toward education and prevention, helping citizens understand fire risks, how to respond to emergencies, and how to work with fire personnel during a crisis. “Over the year, we would have touched no less than 15,000 persons with this drive of fire prevention and fire safety through outreaches and kids’ camp.”
On the operational side, Wickham reported that the GFS responded to over 5,000 fire calls over the past year.
He also highlighted the critical role of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) within the Fire Service, noting that they responded to more than 10,000 emergency calls and successfully delivered 19 newborn babies.
With its latest equipment and expanding capabilities, the Fire Chief assured that the GFS is ushering in a new era of preparedness, with the protection of life and property remaining its top priority.
Chief Fire Officer, Gregory Wickham
Fire officers engaged in strategic discussions at the opening of the conference (Ministry of Home Affairs photos)
‘Progressive and impactful’
- ANUG backs government’s decision to pay fees for regional exams
A NEW and United Guyana (ANUG) has publicly commended the Government of Guyana for its recent decision to fund the cost of up to eight subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level free of cost, starting in 2025. President Dr. Irfaan Ali subsequently disclosed that the same arrangement will apply for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE).
Calling the move “progressive and impactful,” ANUG on Thursday emphasised that the initiative marks a critical step toward educational equity and national development.
ANUG in a press release stated that the government is empowering students from all backgrounds to pursue their academic and career goals without limitations.
“This initiative is a significant step toward improving access to education and ensuring that every child, regardless of economic background, has the opportunity to succeed.”
ANUG also pointed out the potential social benefits of
the policy, particularly within households. The reduction of financial stress, the party said, could help ease family tensions that often arise from the pressure to fund education pressures that sometimes lead to absentee parenting, domestic conflict, or destructive coping mechanisms like substance abuse.
The party also used the opportunity to issue a heartfelt appeal to families and students to embrace the opportunity and view education as a gateway to positive transformation.
ANUG reaffirmed its support for initiatives that point to an investment in young people and promotion of social progress.
The party also praised other government backed education programmes, including the annual school children’s cash grant, free university education, the GOAL scholarship initiative, expanded technical and vocational education opportunities, and ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and teacher training.
Over $139M in school supplies grants distributed to Region Two schools – REO Saywack
TEACHERS
across Region
Two are expressing heartfelt thanks to the government as over $139 million has been allocated to the education sector this year—an investment aimed at creating better learning environments and easing the financial burden on educators.
The substantial grant, announced by Regional Executive Officer (REO) Susannah Saywack during April’s Regional Statutory Meeting, is part of the Ministry of Education’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the education sector.
According to Saywack, a total of $113,028,000 has been dispersed to the region’s schools. Giving a breakdown, she said $23,059,000 million went to nursery schools, $61,308,000 to primary schools, $48,591,000 to secondary schools and $3,129,000 to the region’s special needs school. In total, all 91 schools in Region Two have benefitted.
Saywack noted that the grant was already distributed directly to schools, with each institution managing the funds through its own bank account to ensure transparency and accountability. “This initiative is designed to ensure teachers no longer have to dip into their own pockets to purchase teaching aids or classroom essentials,” she emphasised.
Teachers and headteachers alike have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a boost
Regional Executive Officer Susanah
Saywack speaking at the RDC’s most recent statutory meeting
to the education system. Many praised the ministry for recognising the importance of classroom resources in supporting effective teaching and learning.
“This is a step in the right direction for education in our region,” one headteacher shared. “We are truly grateful for the support and the opportunity to make meaningful improvements in our schools.”
Previously teachers had to enter their pockets to purchase items to beautify their classrooms. The money now can be used to purchase items for the school and the headteachers and the teachers can make positive decisions relating to same.
This injection of funds marks a significant stride in empowering educators and enhancing the quality of education for students across Region Two.
Saddle up! Rupununi Ranchers Rodeo is set to thrill Easter weekend
By Faith Greene
PACK your bags and step out of the capital city for an unforgettable adventure! The
much-anticipated Rupununi Ranchers Rodeo is returning to the Rupununi Savannah from April 18th to April 20th, 2025, in Region Nine,
under the electrifying theme: "Legendary Stories, Legendary Rides."
Kyle Joseph, Chairman of the Rupununi Livestock Pro-
ducers Association (RLPA), during an interview with the Buzz shared that this year’s theme is a tribute to the legends of the Rupununi—those
Saddle up and get ready for an adrenalinepacked Rupununi Rancher Rodeo (Photo
who have shaped the cowboy and rodeo cultures that define the region.
This year, the rodeo holds even more significance as it honours the contributions of these living legends and remembers those we’ve lost over the past year.
The RLPA, the powerhouse behind the rodeo's organisation, has been working tirelessly to bring this event to life, and you won’t want to miss it! If you’ve never visited Region Nine or experienced the rodeo, this is the perfect opportunity to pack up your friends or family and immerse yourself in the culture, thrill, and adventure that only the Rupununi can offer.
Held annually during the already action-packed Easter weekend, the Rupununi Ranchers Rodeo is the ultimate celebration of cowboy culture.
Expect heart-pumping events like bull riding, barrel racing, and bronco riding, alongside incredible Indigenous performances, mouthwatering traditional (and not-so-traditional) foods, and locally crafted goods.
This year, there will be even more excitement with motorcycle racing, dune buggy racing, and exclusive VIP experiences, offering a fresh twist to the legendary rodeo fun.
But it doesn’t all come together overnight. Joseph explained that preparations for the rodeo start months in advance, often as early as September.
“The main part of the organising happens at the Rodeo Committee. So a subcommittee that's made up of smaller committees that is in charge of the decor, entertainment, livestock, generally putting the event together and all the different aspects related to that. It starts by us looking for sponsorship because the rodeo is still something that needs a lot of sponsorship from private, from ministry, various ministries and departments,” he said.
The committee also works hard to secure sponsorships— essential for the rodeo’s success—from private companies, ministries, and various departments.
As the largest event in the Rupununi, Rodeo has become a key fixture on Guyana's national calendar, attracting not just locals, but visitors from around the world.
The economic boost is undeniable, with tour companies, local Airbnbs, guesthouses, hotels, and transportation services all getting in on the action, providing an immersive experience that extends beyond the rodeo grounds.
“So kind of everybody gets a chance to be part of rodeo because rodeo is more than just what happens on the rodeo ground itself. Rodeo is what happens within Lethem. Rodeo is what happens within central Rupununi, and people even come so far as to spend a week, perhaps two weeks before and after rodeo,” Joseph related.
Joseph emphasised that, in the coming years, the RLPA will continue to pursue sponsors and partnerships to make the rodeo even bigger and better, bringing global attention to Lethem as the true Home of the Rodeo.
And the excitement doesn’t stop there, “I want to invite everybody to the Rupununi to experience the wild side, to experience the wild rides, and to create your own stories here at the Rupununi Rodeo.”
The Rupununi Ranchers Rodeo has been a tradition for over 60 years, originally an annual gathering for ranchers to round up their cattle. Over time, it’s evolved into the beloved national festival it is today showcasing the rich culture and spirit of the Rupununi.
So, saddle up, make plans, and get ready for an adrenaline-packed weekend that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Credit: Rupununi Rodeo: Amanda Richards)
A vibrant look back at the thrills, spills, and legendary cowboy spirit that lit up past Rupununi Ranchers Rodeos—where tradition meets adrenaline in the heart of the savannah. (Photo credit: Rupununi Rodeo/Facebook)
FRIDAY, APRIL 11,
ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: (1) Shubman Gill - 890 runs (GT) (2) Shubman Gill - 129 (GT vs MI)
TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Who claimed most wickets in IPL 2023? (2) What were the best bowling figures in a single match that season?
DBL Group Inc. supports ‘Essequibo
Is We Own’ Softball Cricket Cup
THE inaugural “Essequibo Is We Own Softball Cricket Cup”, which is slated for 3rd and 4th May, 2025 at various venues across Region Two, has gained the support of DBL Group Inc. The tournament is being organised by the newly formed RS Sports in association with Roraima Community Developers, and the Essequibo Softball Cricket League (ESCL).
Mr. Latchman Sukha, Director of DBL Group Inc., said that he is very pleased that his entity is being given the opportunity to support this inaugural tournament, and sees this as one of the ways in maintaining its social responsibilities by supporting community events.
The Director said that grassroots games like these bring out the potential in young upcoming cricketers
because this is where it starts. He further said that not only the youths, but also the middle-aged and female players have an opportunity to show their skills and abilities in the game.
Mr. Sukha went on to say, not only that cricketers get to be involved, but also the entire region by going out and supporting their village team and players, and he sees this as a stepping stone in bringing our people across the divide together as one. He further went on to wish all the teams the very best, as they will be vying for the bragging rights of this inaugural tournament.
The organsiers thank Mr. Sukha and his company for supporting this inaugural “Essequibo Is We Own Softball Cricket Cup,” which plays an integral role in de-
East Coast President’s Cup… Buxton Stars, Buxton United, Pele, Pouderoyen, Uitvlugt Warriors on show this weekend
FOOTBALL fans on the East Coast and West Coast of Demerara are in for a treat on Friday and Saturday when action in the East Demerara Football Association / DJ 7 Entertainment, President’s Cup football competition continues with five matches.
On Friday night, April 11 at the Plasiance Ground which has is one of the grounds refurbished and lighted up by the Government of Guyana under the Ground Enhancement Project will host a double header from 19:00hrs.
Airyhall Stars will open action against the home team in a match that is expected to set the tone for the night. This would be followed by the main attraction of the evening when Buxton Stars match skills with BV Triumph United for a place in the quarter finals.
On Saturday, the East Coast President’s Cup train will be moving to the West Side where the Uitvlugt ground will be the center of attraction. Three matches would be contested with the feature match being an
veloping young cricketers towards a brighter future in the sport and most importantly, brings the people together through sports.
According to the organisers the event is being organised to show support, by sending a message of solidarity through sports that Essequibo Belongs to Guyana, and we all stand by it in ensuring everyone plays their part in standing up.
The two- day limited overs tournament will be played in three categories: open male, female, and over 40, with round arm and risk bowling in a one-game knock format. The teams will be battling for the bragging rights, while over 1 million dollars in cash incentives and trophies will be up for grabs by the winner, runner-up, MVP, player of the final, best bowler, best batsman,
and player of the match in all the games in the various categories.
Also onboard supporting the tournament are the U. Balgobin Electrical and Construction Services, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and Roraima Developers.
Interested teams are asked to contact the competition coordinators on the following numbers: Das 604-3212, Wakeel (ESCL) 628-8030, Basil 610-0842, Brian 651-0358, or RS Sports on 657-2022. Registration closes on 1st May 2025.
According to the organisers plans are being put in place for a grand party-like atmosphere during the playoffs, and spectators can expect lots of side attractions as we show solidarity as “ONE GUYANA”.
Delhi Capitals remain unbeaten
East Coast / West Demerara showdown between home team Uitvlugt Warriors and Melanie, kicking off at 20:00hrs.
Another potentially exciting battle will be between East Coast’s Buxton United and the West Bank based Pouderoyen from 18:00hrs.
The opening match of the Saturday night fever card will kickm off at 16:30hrs the number one team from the Georgetown Football Association, Pele, takes on Beavers.
The organisers are expressing gratitude to all the sponsors who have contributed towards making the tournament a reality. Theya re the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Office of the Prime Minister, Ansa McAl Trading, Star Rental, Jacob’s Jewellry, Shi Oil, Legal entertainment, Extreme Euphoria Sports Bar & Lounge, TOGO, and Jerrick’s Funeral Home.
The semi-finals are slated for the Golden Grove Ground on April 16 with the finals set for the Plasiance Ground three days later.
(ESPNCRICINFO) - It started so well for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), then for 15-odd overs, it didn’t. Then it suddenly started going to plan again and the RCB loyalists, who had packed the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to the rafters, found their voice. Only to have local lad KL Rahul silence them.
In a game with a fair share of twists and turns, Delhi Capitals (DC) continued their unbeaten run, notching up a fourth straight win of the season, handing RCB a second home defeat by six wickets
Sent into bat , it was a bizarre RCB innings They scored 53 runs in the first three overs for zero wickets, 36 in the last two for zero wickets, and in the 15 overs
in the middle could only manage 74 runs while losing seven wickets
Having restricted RCB to 163 for 7, DC would have been the happier side going into the break But their joy was short-lived as RCB picked up three wickets inside the powerplay and had DC struggling at 67 for 4 after 11 overs
The required rate which began at a shade over eight an over was almost touching 11 at this stage But Rahul flicked a switch and alongside Tristan Stubbs began DC ’ s victory march The duo scorched 102 runs in the next 6.5 overs, adding 111 for the fifth wicket as DC romped home with 13 balls to spare Rahul finished with an unbeaten 93 off just 53 balls and celebrated in fitting
fashion in front of his home crowd
Rahul’s homecoming for the ages
He was on 29 off 29 balls, struggling with his timing , looking sluggish on a sticky Chinnaswamy surface . He even had a life on 7 when Patidar dropped a tough catch running back from mid-off And , Rahul made sure to cash in By the time 11 overs were done , ESPNcricinfo’s win probability for DC had dipped to 14.31% from 67.45% at the start of their innings Then, Rahul sent the RCB bowlers into hiding.
It started with a cheeky reverse -sweep by Stubbs off Krunal Pandya, which beat short third. Rahul then dumped him over deep backward square leg and that was the start of the end for RCB.
He went 4 and 6 against Liam Livingstone before taking down Josh Hazlewood in a fierce display of ball-striking. With DC requiring 65 off 36, he first smashed the pacer for back-to-back fours before thumping him for a 4 and 6 in an over which went for 22 . That brought down the equation to 43 off 30. Stubbs deposited Suyash Sharma for a four and six and before Rahul finished off the game smashing Dayal for two sixes and a four in the 18th over. He smashed a six over fine leg fence to seal the win and then slammed his bat on to the turf, almost marking his territory. Striking at 100 in his first 29 balls , he thrashed 64 off his next 23, at a strike rate of 278.26.
Ms. Loreann Baptiste of Trophy Stall receiving sponsorship on behalf of RS Sports from Mr. Latchman Sukha director of DBL Group Inc.
Blue Water Shipping U-15 School Football Championship bridges gap for young female players
THE second edition of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)/Blue Water Shipping Under-15 National Secondary School Championship is set for significant expansion, aiming to involve 91 schools nationwide, nearly double the participation from its inaugural year.
The nationwide tournament, backed by the Ministry of Education, has rapidly become the largest platform for girls’ football in Guyana.
The official launch for the 2025 edition took place on Thursday at the GFF’s National Training Facility in Providence.
Over 60 schools have already registered for the competition.
Van Lange and Billingy to lead Guyana’s teams
TOP Caribbean U19 stars
Jonathan Van Lange and Jasmine Billingy are set to lead male and female Guyana squads respectively to the Caribbean Youth Table Tennis Championships from 19th to 26th April in Bridgetown, Barbados.
Van Lange, a Caribbean Boys’ team silver medalist and bronze single medalist, will lead the likes of Krystian Sahadeo, Colin Wong and Malachi Moore.
Billingy’s female squad includes Samara Sukhai, Akira Watson and Angel Robinson. Both squads were announced on Thursday by the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA).
Wayne Forde, President of the GFF, highlighted the tournament’ s strategic importance for the future of national women’s football.
He noted that the initiative was designed to provide a structured platform for girls to play competitive football within the school system, addressing the current lack of adequate club
infrastructure for this age group.
Forde stated that the programme is expected to increase the talent pool for national team selection, with the GFF planning support mechanisms to identify promising players.
He believes the tournament effectively fills the void left by the underdevel-
oped club system, leveraging the established structure of the school system, which aligns with FIFA’s Football For Schools Programme.
Richard DeNobrega, Senior Vice President of Sales and Development at Blue Water Shipping, reaffirmed his company’s pride in supporting the tournament’s growth.
He emphasised the company’ s belief in the empowering potential of sport for young women and its contribution to community development across Guyana.
The inaugural championship in 2024 culminated in a close final, with St. Ignatius Secondary defeating Waramuri Primary Top in a penalty shootout.
RHT Pepsi A defeats Albion A
Pepsi A and the Albion Community Centre faced off Friday last at the Area H Ground in the Guyana Cricket Board Under 21 tournament.
A batted on the pitch which was full of moisture due to overnight shows.
The GTTA says the teams have been training in preparation for the championships for the past weeks under the guidance of coach Linden Johnson and GTTA head Godfrey Munroe, along with personal work done with their individual club coaches.
The team also has the support of top national and regional player, Shemar Britton.
The Caribbean championship is a key pathway competition for players to transition to the senior level through high quality competition.
The regional tournament is set to qualify the top four male and female players from the region to participate in the Paraguay PANAM Youth games in August.
The match was delayed by half hour after the nonappearance of Berbice umpires but was started after both teams agreed to play with each team providing one umpire.
The match was played without any major incident.
Albion won the toss and elected to field.
Rose Hall Town Pepsi
They were immediately set back when Simon Gaffoor was trapped LBW for nought by left arm spinner Kumar Deopersaud.
They were eventually bowled out for 100 in 28.5 overs with National Under 17 batsman Romesh Bharat 21, Jeremy Jonathan Rampersaud 18. Sandia and Rampersaud added 30 for the 4th wicket before Rampersaud was un fortunate to he was well set.
Off spinner Afraz Budhoo bowled well to claim 5 for 18, leg spinner F. Baksh took 2 for 13 and off spinner Leon Cecil 1 for 35.
Needing to score 101 from 50 overs Albion lost opener Tameshwar Mangal LBW to off-spinner Jonathan Rampersaud for nought in the first over.
to leave Albion 16 for 3 in the fifth over.
The elegant Afraz Budhoo and Leon Cecil added 16 for the fourth wicket before Rampersaud trapped him LBW for 9 to leave Albion reeling at 34 for 4.
The impressive Ari Afrizal Kadir was then caught by Romesh Bharat off Matthew Pottaya for 10 Berbice Under 19 player Damion Cecil was bowled by former national player Jeremey Sandia for 9
Harpy Eagles in...
CCC reduced the Scorpions to 206 for five in their second innings, a lead of only 12 runs.
They owed their position of strength to Shaqkere Parris, who scored a maiden first-class century, which helped them to pile up 327 after they resumed the day on 197 for five.
Parris made 112 from 179 balls, with 11 fours and two sixes and shared an invaluable 86-run partnership
with Larry Edward for the sixth wicket. By the time leg spinner Abhijai Mansingh got the breakthrough by dismissing Edward for 44 to make the score 242 for five, most of the damage had already been done.
Parris fell to off spinner Peat Salmon soon after, and Mansingh wrapped up the tail to end with 5-91, while Salmon and Brad Barnes took two wickets apiece.
They were eventually bowled out for a meagre 63 in 21.4 overs as the Rose Hall Town Pepsi trio of national junior spinners applied pressure from both ends.
Rampersaud took 5 for 26 from 9.4 overs, Pottaya 2 for 19 off 6 overs and Sandia 1 for 9 from 6 overs.
FROM PAGE 27
The Scorpions found themselves in a spot of bother early on in their second
sure back on the Scorpions. They needed a herculean effort from Glenn, who
2025 Caribbean Youth Table Tennis Championships…
Jasmine Billingy
Archrivals Rose Hall Town
The RHT Pepsi U21
BK Group remains supportive of Bartica Easter Regatta
The BK Group of companies is once again supporting the annual Bartica Easter Regatta in a tangible way. Recently, Group CEO, Mr. Kyle Tiwari handed over their contribution to Ms. Shondel Gilkes pointing out that it was their way of maintaining and supporting an institution.
“We here at BK Group of companies have a very rich tradition of supporting this event that has become more than a staple, it’s a tradition and institution which is looked forward to on a yearly basis. We are pleased to continue support of this event, and we look forward to another exciting year of competition in and out of the water.”
Tiwari further stated that it’s an activity that the community of Bartica and even small business persons outside of the community looks forward to make some extra
cash, which underscores the importance of the event.
Cricket West Indies 4-day championship... Harpy Eagles in commanding position; West Indies Academy trash Volcanoes
Regatta 2025 is being held under the theme, “Dat Is It”, and will see a num-
Ms. Gilkes in response, expressed the gratitude of the Bartica Easter Regatta Committee and its Chairman Kenneth Williams to Tiwari and his company for their continued partnership and support of this huge community event.
ber of sporting and other activities being held apart from the marquee sporting event, the power boar races which has been returned to a two-day event, April 20-21.
Broomes says West Indies selection a vindication of his ability and talent
NATIONAL Rugby Player
Godfrey Broomes says he grateful for the selection to the West Indies Rugby Team as it proves his worth and quality on the field.
Broomes, the National captain and one of several Guyanese players selected as part of the West Indies Rugby team for the Tropical 7s Rugby Tournament set to scrum off from April 18–19, 2025, in Tampa, Florida, USA, said, “Last December following the Rugby Americas North 7s’ tournament, a couple of us including Tyrese, Owen Adonis, Lionel Holder and the other guys that made this West Indies team, we were in Trinidad and we played the Harvard tournament for a team called the Misfits.”
He added, “We gel really well and were instrumental to having the Misfits win that tournament and then we translated that to the Caribbean Kings the following week when we played in Grenada, for us as individual players, we have been proving our skills.”
Guyana’s national team has been well rewarded as five of its men players have been selected to be part of the men’s team. They are fellow Police
Falcons players Lionel Holder and Owen Adonis along with overseas based players Tyrese Prescod from Lindenwood University and Vallon Adams.
“I have been rewarded because of my playing style and what I have done in the last two tournaments outside of Guyana, so the persons
National Rugby Player Godfrey Broomes
One female player in Carrin Carter was selected to the Caribbean women’s side.
According to Broomes, the selection vindicated his abilities and shows up the unfair treatment with the national team at the RAN’s 7’s last year led by head coach Claudius Butts and his Assistant Elwin Chase.
who would have selected me would have noticed what I bring to the table and it’s a good suit for the West Indies team, so of course I’m most grateful.”
“The last Guyana 7s’ team I was named the captain, fortunately or unfortunately they person who was selecting the team on the day, despite being
THE West Indies Academy ended this year’s West Indies Championship on a high by thrashing a hapless Windward Volcanoes by 10 wickets, while defending champions Guyana Harpy Eagles have one hand on the trophy after putting up a strong performance at the end of play on the second day.
Meanwhile, the Combined Campuses and Colleges are in sight of victory against the Jamaica Scorpions heading into Friday’s third day of play.
At the Coolidge Cricket Ground: Led by a masterful display of fast bowling by Johann Layne, the West Indies Academy earned their first win of the competition by dismissing the Jamaica Scorpions by 10 wickets inside two days.
After conceding a first innings lead of 147 runs, the Volcanoes’ batsmen folded for the second time in the match with Layne’s six-wicket haul limiting them to 181.
the captain was not able to make the field many times but for this team specifically, we don’t have such person as I would deem vindictive.”
He said the other Guyanese selected to the regional teams have also proved their mettle and it a great stamp pf approval by the West Indies team management in Guyanese rugby talent.
“The players that were selected I believe they were working hard, they have been proving their worth in every tournament they have played, especially for the local persons, myself, Lionel Holder and Owen Adonis, in all of the local tournament, these persons would have been outstanding players. Their clubs would have recognised this as well as the Guyana Rugby Football Union and specific to the two guys overseas, Vallon Adams and Tyrese Prescott whenever they play for Guyana and their clubs in the USA they are outstanding players.”
This year’s tournament will feature elite youth and senior talent from across the globe, and West Indies Rugby features two dynamic teams composed of top players representing the Caribbean region and diaspora.
the Volcanoes’ best bowler with 6-45.
At the Queens Park Oval: Leaders Guyana Harpy Eagles took one step towards retaining their title after dominating proceedings against second placed Trinidad and Tobago Red Force.
The Red Force added 23 runs to their total after resuming the day on 214 for seven, to be dismissed for 240.
Medium pacer Nial Smith took 4-49, while Kemo Paul (3-45) and Ronaldo Alimohamed (242) provided good support.
Raymond Perez and Kevlon Anderson then cracked half centuries to help the visitors earn crucial first innings honours, as they ended the day on 269 for five, an overall lead of 29 runs.
Layne grabbed 6-30 and was on a hat-trick after dismissing captain Alick Athanaze and Noelle Leo in successive deliveries but his effort was foiled by Ryan John.
His performance had helped to reduce the Volcanoes to 78 for four, until Athanaze and Shadrack Descarte stemmed the flow of wickets in a 74-partnership that ensured the WI Academy would have to bat again.
But once Athanaze lost his wicket to leave them 152 for five, the end came swiftly with the Volcanoes losing their remaining five wickets for just 29 runs.
Left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop chipped in with 2-73.
Needing only 34 runs for victory, Ackeem Auguste then blazed an unbeaten 33 from 17 balls to propel the WI Academy to their target without any alarms.
Earlier, after resuming on 197 for five, the WI Academy added a further 56 runs to be eventually dismissed for 253 in reply to the Volcanoes’ first innings total of 106.
Kenneth Dember was
Perez scored 82 from 144 balls and Anderson made 51 off 62 deliveries, and the two put the Harpy Eagles in a good position at 131 for one, following a 58-run opening partnership between Perez and Matthew Nandu, who made 11.
Left-arm spinner Khary Pierre struck by trapping Perez lbw, but Anderson found a reliable partner in captain Tevin Imlach, with the pair adding 40 runs to help strengthen the Harpy Eagles’ position.
Pierre accounted for the wickets of both batsmen by bowling Anderson and having Imlach caught behind for 33 to leave the score 221 for four.
Shannon Gabriel then dismissed Kemol Savory for 32, but Kevin Sinclair (21 not out) and Keemo Paul (18 not out), ensured there would be no further losses as the Harpy Eagles closed on 269 for five. Pierre has so far taken 3-61.
At the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground: The Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) are well positioned to end the tournament in winning fashion after putting themselves in a dominant position against the Jamaica Scorpions.
After gaining a healthy first innings lead of 194,
CEO of BK Group of Companies, Kyle Tiwari hands over sponsorship to Bartica Easter Regatta Committee member, Shondel Gilkes in the presence of colleague, Sheldon Kyte.
Guyana Football Federation President, Wayne Forde (centre) along with senior officials from Blue Water Shipping Guyana and players at the launch on Thursday
