$1B poultry pen project targets higher production, attracts more youths to agriculture
“Satan” wanted for murder of Rupununi tour guide
More foreign ganja, guns & ammo found in barrels from US
MoPW imposes temporary 18-tonne weight restriction at Parika, Supenaam stellings
Nearly three months after hearing lengthy arguments in the extradition case involving US-sanctioned businessmen Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) is set to deliver its ruling on July 29.
The appeal challenges aspects of the extradition process initiated against the father and son.
The decision will determine whether the judicial review challenge to the Authority to Proceed (ATP) issued by Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond can succeed.
In the context of extradition, an ATP is the formal decision issued by the Home Affairs Minister authorising the commencement of extradition proceedings in Guyana after a request has been made by a foreign State.
The CCJ had reserved its judgement after several hours of submissions from Attorneys representing both the Mohameds and the State. It also ordered that the interim stay granted in March remain in force, effectively freezing the committal proceedings before Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts until its ruling is handed down.
During the hearing, Attorneys for the Mohameds, including Senior Counsel Fyard Hosein and Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, maintained that their clients were not seeking to prevent their extradition to the US, where they face allegations including fraud, tax evasion, wire fraud, mail fraud and money laundering linked to their gold trading operations.
The validity of the ATP is among several issues raised by the father and son in their challenge to the extradition proceedings initiated at the request of the US.
Instead, they argued that the ATP issued by Minister Walrond was tainted by apparent bias and should have been issued by another public official.
“We’re not saying that this is the end of the extradition at all or the request... What we are saying is that another official
who is not biased could do it,” Hosein told the court. The defence argued that the speed with which the ATP was issued created the appearance that the decision had been predetermined and questioned whether the process met the required standard of fairness. However, under questioning from the
bench, Hosein acknowledged that no procedural illegality had been identified beyond the allegation of bias.
Forde further argued that, even if bias were established, Guyana’s Interpretation and General Clauses Act allows the ministerial function to be delegated to another public officer, thereby preserving the extradition process.
Appearing for the State, Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes rejected the bias claims, arguing that the Minister’s role in issuing an ATP is administrative rather than adjudicative.
He maintained that the Minister is required only to determine whether any legal obstacle exists to prevent the extradition process from commencing and is not tasked with assessing evidence or determining guilt.
He argued that the Minister’s role is executive in nature and therefore does not attract the full application of judicial bias principles.
The defence also relied on public statements allegedly made by senior Government officials, including Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and Nandlall, arguing that they reinforced the appearance of prejudgment. The State, however, maintained that any concerns about fairness could be addressed through the judicial process as the extradition proceedings progress.
The CCJ’s ruling is expected to determine the way forward in the judicial review challenge and whether the extradition proceedings can resume in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, also defended the extradition framework, describing it as a unique process rooted in Guyana’s international treaty obligations.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily. Friday, July 17 – 06:00h–07:30h and Saturday, July 18 –06:45h–08:15h.
Sunny skies are expected to be interrupted by midday thundery showers, followed by clear skies at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East-North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.92 metres.
High Tide: 06:32h and 18:58h reaching maximum heights of 2.70 metres and 2.58 metres.
Low Tide: 12:32h reaching a minimum height of 0.54 metre.
over 270 EoIs received to construct housing units
As the Guyana Government continues its aggressive housing development, President Dr Irfaan Ali has unveiled plans for a new initiative that would target highly-vulnerable individuals and families and support them towards homeownership.
He made this announcement during a video broadcast on Thursday to speak about his Government’s efforts to further expand the housing sector and create more opportunities for homeownership and community development across Guyana.
“We know that social housing is an important part of the housing strategy, and we’re going to build a mechanism through which we’re going to identify highly vulnerable persons within our society. Single mothers – and not only single mothers, but single mothers who are facing specific economic challenges; people living with disabilities; the elderly, and we’re going to have a social housing programme to support [them towards] homeownership,” the Head of State said.
According to President Ali, this social housing initiative would see the buildout of approximately 5000 social homes for vulnerable individuals and families.
“We’re targeting between 3000 to 5000 [social] homes. We will be launching that programme soon, and we’ll be setting up strict criteria for persons to have access to those homes. Because one of the things that we want in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic is not only to make homeownership easier but to empower people, to bring dignity to every single Guyanese family in where they live, how they live, and the circumstances surrounding
their living conditions,” the Guyanese leader posited.
Already, the Guyana Government has been building out several low-income turnkey houses across the country for Guyanese on the lower end of the earning bracket. Additionally, the Government has also embarked on a $6 billion Homestead Project, which will see 500 homes constructed at Yarrowkabra on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway paired with shade houses.
Officially launched back in January, the Hyde Park Project is designed for single mothers, allowing them to grow crops for both household use and earning.
This is one of the many initiatives that the Ali-led Administration has rolled out since 2020 to not just support vulnerable families but also encourage homeownership among Guyanese. These include the highly-successful Steel and Cement Subsidy programme, which has supported more than 4000 vulnerable persons, with over 2500 cement vouchers and 1500 cement and steel vouchers issued to date.
In fact, during the first term of office, the PPP/C Government has invested nearly $240 billion in the housing sector between 2020 and 2025. During that period, some 53,000 house lots were distributed, 24 squatter settlements were regularised, more than 100 housing areas were developed, and over 128,000 citizens benefited from land allocations.
These were further coupled with the removal of VAT (Value-Added Tax) on locally- and regionally-produced construction materials such as fabricated steel beams, prestressed concrete piles, roofing, PVC products, cement, sheetrock, and concrete boards – all with the aim of reducing costs, thus driving greater ease in home construction.
Additionally, there were a series of measures to enhance access to financing for the construction of homes, including the lowering of interest rates for mortgages by commercial banks, the raising of the low-income mortgage rate ceiling at commercial banks to $30 million, and making the interest on housing loans up to $30 million tax-deductible.
According to President
Ali, these interventions have “...collectively returned $43.8 billion directly to the Guyanese families over the past five years... [That] $43.8 billion, which would have otherwise been paid to the banking sector or taken out of your pocket, has come back directly to Guyanese families over the past five years.”
Moreover, the Guyana Government has also seen massive successes over the last five years in its home solution initiative, which includes the Young Professional Homes, the turnkey houses, the Hinterland Housing Programme, the Homestead Project, and the modular homes.
In fact, having recognised the growing preference for pre-built homes instead of lots, the Government has set a goal of constructing 40,000 houses over the next five years.
“We are seeing, in addition to the 40,000 units that we have to build, an increase in demand for the homes that the Ministry [of Housing] is constructing, and that is because the
Ministry is able to achieve economies of scale and also manage constructors and construction – many persons do not have the time to do that.”
“So, we have gone out on an Expression of Interest [EoI]. We have received more than 270 Expressions of Interest to construct housing units, and these are from varied prices. This Expression of Interest was to help us accelerate the development of areas and the construction of homes simultaneously to satisfy the growing demand,” President Ali stated.
Previously, Housing Minister Collin Croal had explained to the Guyana Times that the target is to build at least 8000 houses per year, and with a lot of time lost already, the contractors would have to ramp up work once the contracts are awarded.
The Minister noted that the search for contractors had to be expanded beyond Guyana, given that the current construction boom in the country has caused a shortage of local contractors.
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With Emancipation Day only two weeks away, we need to be reminded of the slave trade that undergirded the “peculiar institution”. The beginning of the European enslavement of Africans actually predated the need for cheap labour in the New World. It began in 1442, when two very Christian captains of the Portuguese Prince Henry the Navigator brought back a dozen Africans they had captured.
It started a trend. Soon, every pretender to nobility had to have his own African slave, and Lagos in Portugal became the prime slave port. Africans were heathens, and the staunch Portuguese Christians asserted that they were saving their souls. It would not have hurt that they also provided free labour.
The Spaniards, therefore, simply turned to a known supply of humans to fill the labour breach when the Indigenous Indians inconsiderately died off like flies when they were enslaved in the newly“discovered” colonies after 1492. The Portuguese could not keep up, and contracts (“Asientos”) were issued to other nations. The British got into the act in 1562 when John Hawkins became a subcontractor with Queen Elizabeth as a silent partner. His ship was named “Jesus”, and one can be sure he prayed for the salvation of his cargo. He was knighted by the good queen after 10 years of ferrying souls. The Dutch, French, Danes, and other Europeans also rushed in to save souls.
By the beginning of the 18th century, Britain had emerged and was acknowledged as the official trader of Africans – in a trade that had now grown to gargantuan proportions. In the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713, Spain signed off on the British monopoly, and the expansion of African slavery became one of the major commercial policy goals of Britain. They were not just a nation of shopkeepers; they played a pivotal role in the international trade in human beings. British ships dominated the market for slaves in the Americas and supplied African captives to Dutch, French, Portuguese, and Spanish colonies, as well as to parts of the world controlled by the British Empire. In some 12,000 trips, British ships transported 2,300,000 African souls across the Atlantic.
By the 18th century, when the European “Enlightenment” dawned, the light did not appreciably extend to the conception of who the African was. The Enlightenment thinkers conceded that the African “may” be a species of man. For instance, in 1753, the Scottish Enlightenment philosopher David Hume declared, “I am apt to suspect the negroes and, in general, all the other species of men (for there are four or five different kinds) to be naturally inferior to the whites.”
The services of “reason” were soon dragged into a host of social and natural sciences to prove the inferiority of the African on the great “chain of being”. The famous question posed by the chained, kneeling African in the Wedgwood medallion in the anti-slavery campaign, “Am I not a man and a brother?” has not really been answered by the Europeans. And the canker of racism has spread into other peoples through the hegemony that they established during the colonial period. We are supposed to fight to determine who is closer to the white ideal.
Another side of the story that is usually glossed over is the ubiquity of the wealth that was built on the backs of the slave trade. Institutional investors in slavery included the Royal Family, who followed in Elizabeth’s footsteps; numerous colleges of Oxford and Cambridge universities; and even the Church of England.
In 1773, the Heywood brothers founded a bank in Liverpool to fund slave expeditions and deposit their profits. Today, the firm is part of the Royal Bank of Scotland. The Barclay brothers were involved in the slave trade from 1756. The trade paid for impressive projects, such as the cathedral-like library of the most elite All Souls College in Oxford. It was not ironic but a measure of the intransigence of racism in the modern world that Eric Williams was denied membership to All Souls when he was at Oxford.
Dear Editor, Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, yet again had to articulate that “the law (in Guyana) provides no protection for persons who unlawfully occupy state lands, Government reserves, or public reserves, and (as such) the Government will be compelled to take firm action to address the growing problem of squatting across the country.”
This is like a relentless oozing sore in Guyana, and it must be most tiresome for the Attorney General to be at this problem almost ad infinitum.
As we all agree, and quite rightly so, the Guyana Government is most proactive in seeking to foster housing developments and therefore will not aid and abet squatting. Citizens are fully aware that they can pursue the ambition of “lot and house ownership” via the assigned Central Housing & Planning Authority (CHPA), although they have the due process of the waiting period for “things to fall into place”, but there is “no fear” here, so long as the applicants meet the specific age and residency requirements.
The Minister lucidly made this known during his weekly show, “Issues in the News”, during which he indicated that while “demand for land often exceeds supply”, “this does not justify squatting”. I add that nothing truly justifies squatting, and I say this even without considering the consequences, environmentally and medically.
The Minister, as such, warned that the administration main-
tains a “zero-tolerance” approach to the illegal occupation of public lands while continuing to expand access to legal housing and land ownership. He cogently reiterated that “We (PPP/C) have a no-tolerance policy in relation to squatting” while simultaneously encouraging eligible citizens to apply through the Government’s housing, agricultural, and industrial land distribution programmes.
According to the Attorney General, “Guyana operates one of the region’s most aggressive housing and land distribution programmes, with significant investments being made to transform undeveloped lands into fully serviced residential communities.” He noted that, in contrast to previous administrations, this Government, the PPP/C, does not allocate undeveloped plots. He referenced that “Instead, lands are first equipped with essential infrastructure, including roads, drainage systems, potable water, electricity, and other services before being distributed to beneficiaries.”
Editor, on this note of Guyana’s aggressive housing drive that the AG alluded to, I point readers to a few important things that are ongoing and should be capitalised on. It is a fact, undisputed too, that the current Government has facilitated, and is facilitating, quite a number of avenues and provisions to help aspirants obtain that “once elusive” dream of “house ownership”.
First, there are the massive “Subsidised House Lots” (and I speak in numbers and cost), as via the Central Housing and
Planning Authority (CH&PA), countless allocatees acquire residential lots, heavily subsidised, as in up to 85 per cent.
My recent check showed that housing in the US is significantly more expensive than in Guyana. In the US, housing costs roughly 226 per cent more overall than in Guyana. Purchasing or building a home in Guyana typically ranges from US$200,000 to US$450,000 for a 2000-square-foot home, whereas the US median home price sits around US$420,000. Add the mortgage burden in the US, and home ownership takes a family into the second generation most readily. I advise readers to become au fait with the fact that the Government collaborates with local banks in offering very reduced interest rates and expanded mortgage ceilings. Then how about the actual construction assistance via the Home Construction Assistance Programme and the Ministry of Housing and Water’s provision of technical guidance? So, the mind-boggling question is, “Why squatting?”
Leaving the local scenario, I think that we all know that squatting on illegal land poses severe, documented risks to human health due to the absence of basic municipal infrastructure, safe housing materials, and legal protections. In fact, according to UNHabitat reports, over one billion people globally reside in informal or unauthorised settlements, facing disproportionate exposure to environmental, physical, and psychological hazards.
Dear Editor,
The Tunnel House Project stands as an excellent example of what can be achieved through collaboration, vision, and Government support. By helping to expand opportunities in modern agriculture, the project is empowering young entrepreneurs to embrace innovation, improve food production, and strengthen the country’s agricultural sector.
We extend our sincere appreciation to His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the Government of Guyana for their commitment to initiatives that encourage youth participation in agriculture and entrepreneurship. Their support for projects such as the Tunnel House initiative demonstrates a clear understanding that investing in young people today will help secure Guyana’s future prosperity.
The Government’s continued focus on food security, agricultural diversification, and youth empowerment has inspired many aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue careers in farming and agribusiness. Through access to resources, training, and infrastructure, more young Guyanese are finding the confidence to transform ideas into thriving enterprises.
The Tunnel House Project is more than an agricultural initiative –it represents hope, opportunity, and the belief that young people can play a leading role in shaping Guyana’s future. With continued collaboration between the public and private sectors, projects like these will continue to create jobs, improve livelihoods, and contribute to national food security.
As beneficiaries and supporters of this initiative, we express our heartfelt gratitude to President
It means if squatters are left to their own whims and fancies, at least that particular squatting locale will furnish a potential haven for all kinds of problems that will be very costly to the people and the Government. I think here in terms of contaminated water, as a lack of potable water forces squatters into the use of unsafe water sources, which can spawn recurrent diarrhoea, cholera, and typhoid. There is also the frightening reality of inadequate waste disposal, as the absence of formal trash collection leads to illegal dumping and stagnant wastewater, creating breeding grounds for disease-carrying vectors like mosquitoes.
I think also of the inconvenience of unsanitary shared facilities leading to overuse of communal toilets that will definitely lead to an increase in the transmis-
Ali and the Government of Guyana for their leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to empowering the nation’s youth. Their investment
in entrepreneurship is an investment in Guyana’s long-term growth and resilience.
We look forward to seeing even more young
FROM PAGE 4
sion speed of infectious gastrointestinal and skin infections.
So, when the administration is “talking about an end to squatting” and making provisions for affordable housing, it is about the human factor as well. All countries thrive on a salutary environment, and it is good to know that this is an ongoing quest of the PPP/C.
I fully agree that there is therefore now “no excuse to go and squat”, as the AG laconically articulated. I am also aghast that opposition forces are still publicly sympathising with informal settlers, particularly in disputes where residents face eviction from both private and state properties. No good force will ever tolerate the suffusion of that which is non-salutary and deleterious.
Yours truly,
Hargesh B Singh
entrepreneurs seize these opportunities, innovate with confidence, and help build a stronger, more prosperous Guyana for generations to come.
Yours sincerely, Aditya Kadarnauth Accountant/Youth Entrepreneur
Dear Editor,
Within the next two weeks, the Macedonia Joppa Voluntary Committee (MJVC), a registered non-profit organisation in East Corentyne, Berbice, will celebrate 192 years of Emancipation on Saturday, August 1, 2026, to commemorate the abolition of slavery in Guyana. The Emancipation Law, which was enacted by the British Slavery Act on August 1, 1834, liberated the African slaves in the British colonies and ended hundreds of years of suffering, brutality and the dehumanisation of Africans.
The holiday is significant not just as a calendar event, but as a new lease of life for Guyanese. It is a day of remembrance and an opportunity to reflect on the courageous efforts and sacrifices of enslaved African men, women and children in their fight for freedom.
The Macedonia Joppa Voluntary Committee (MJVC) will mark this solemn, yet joyful, occasion with the largest celebrations ever seen on the Corentyne.
Weather permitting, this year’s outdoor Emancipation Day celebration is expected to attract thousands of people from as far as West Coast Berbice to Molson Creek on the Corentyne and beyond. It will be the only all-day celebration of its kind in East Corentyne, starting at 07:30h with a male and female race followed by a two-mile road march from Brighton to Epsom Village and to the Community Center Pavilion ground.
Thousands will join the road march under
the theme “Inspiring Hope, Building A Better Future in One Guyana”. Participants in the road march will be decked out in a dazzling array of colourful attire of green, gold, yellow, white, black, and red, representing the colours of the Golden Arrowhead and depicting Guyanese culture, lifestyle, and heritage.
Residents of all ages and from all walks of life, regardless of race, religion, or social status, from Macedonia The Joppa villages of Nos. 35, 36, Brighton, Kiltearn, Eversham, Epsom, Bengal and No. 43 will line the roadway to view the colourful display of costumes and exquisite outfits as the revellers dance to the rhythm of the lively and customary soca music supplied by the dynamic and popular Natural Sound Vibes.
At the pavilion, chil-
dren and adults will participate in several sports activities such as bag, lime and spoon and needle and thread races and cultural, social and educational activities, including the recital of poems, singing of folk songs, a display of African dance, drumming and education quizzes on the meaning of Emancipation and on the history and geography of our beloved Guyana. Highlighting the day’s activities will be a beauty pageant with six lovely and attractive contestants vying for the prestigious 2026 MJVC title.
For the residents of the Macedonia/Joppa District, Emancipation Day is not only about
partying, eating, drinking and dancing in the streets, all of which are part of our culture, tradition and heritage. It is a celebration of the freedom of enslaved Africans and a time for all Guyanese near and far to put aside their differences and prejudices and unite to celebrate as one people, one Guyana. MJVC will provide free meals to all.
The Macedonia Joppa Voluntary Committee invites all in the district and beyond to participate in the picturesque celebration on Saturday, August 1, 2026.
Yours sincerely, Dr Asquith Rose MJVC Chair
Representing data allows us to display and interpret collected data.
Different types of data need to be represented in different formats so we need to know how to construct different types of tables, charts, diagrams or graphs.
Here are some of the charts and graphs you may come across.
Tally charts
A tally chart is a simple way to organise data. Tally charts can be used for different types of
Adata.
For example, 20 students were asked about their favourite sport. Here are their answers.
Here are these results in a tally chart.
Tally charts display frequencies of data in a suitable structure which helps us to analyse it more quickly than if we were just given the raw data.
• We can calculate the averages of the data (the mean, median, and mode).
• We can investigate the spread of the data (range, interquartile range).
• We can state probabilities within
the data (what is most / least likely).
Practice
1. A group of children voted for their favourite fruit. 8 children chose apples, 7 chose bananas, 5 chose oranges, and 4 chose mangoes. Draw a tally chart to represent the information.
2. A survey asked students what type of pet they own. 9 students have dogs, 6 have cats, 3 have fish, and 2 have birds. Make a tally chart showing the number of students with each pet.
3. Children were asked to choose their favourite ice cream flavour. Chocolate received 12 votes, vanilla received 8 votes, strawberry received 6 votes, and mint received 4 votes. Use the information to create a tally chart.
4. A class voted for their favourite subject. Math received 9 votes, Science received 7 votes, English received 5 votes, and Art received 4 votes. Draw a tally chart to show the results.
ll animals need a steady supply of oxygen in order to live. Oxygen is a gas found in air. It helps to turn food into energy. This process creates another gas –carbon dioxide. Because carbon dioxide is a waste product, it must be removed from the body. The respiratory system is the body’s way of breathing in oxygen and breathing out carbon dioxide.
Insects breathe through holes in the sides of their bodies. Fish and young amphibians have organs called gills to take in oxygen from water. Mammals, birds, reptiles, and adult amphibians breathe through lungs.
The human respiratory system includes several parts. Air enters this system through the nose. It then moves into the nasal cavity, a hollow space behind the nose. Air also enters through the mouth. These two airways meet at the upper part of the throat,
called the pharynx.
From the pharynx, two passageways open downward. The lower part contains the windpipe, or trachea. The trachea separates into two main branches, or bronchi – one for each lung. Within the lungs, the bronchi divide into smaller and smaller branches. The branches end with tiny air sacs called alveoli.
The brain controls breathing. It tells the diaphragm, a muscle at the base of the lungs, to move up and down. The brain also tells the muscles between the ribs to move in and out. When the diaphragm moves down and the ribs move out, the area inside the chest grows larger. Air then flows into the lungs and makes them expand. As the area inside the chest shrinks, the lungs decrease in size. The smaller size forces out air, including the carbon dioxide. (Britannica Kids)
By Laurie O’Brien
In the night he dreamed hammers, silver as song. Under the pale cap of his hair with his eyes shut tight against the Paduan dark he heard in his sleep how the sound was made, how plink plink became the shimmer of notes drawn out, lasting and lasting, outlasting breath even, dying finally on the air as the quiver of strings ceased. It was a simple matter after that, the crafting of what he had dreamed, action that would give voice to what he had conceived. Soundboard of cypress, a veneer of ebony, tiny springs made of hog’s bristle— gravicembalo col piano e forte—there he had it, the loud and the soft, sound that could flow like oil. He, Bartolommeo Cristofori, had made a new thing. All of it opened before him. The small hammers flung themselves at the strings. A low arm, a light wrist, fingers close to the keys. A binding together of notes, legato, and the vast possible, smooth graces, shaked graces, arpeggios, turns, trills, the clear semitones. Speech of the heart, he called it, più piano, instrument which can sing.
(Source: Poetry [January 1995])
a story that includes the words “We’re closing in ten minutes.”
With limited land available across Region Four to meet the increasing housing demand, the Guyana Government is looking to open new lands within Silica City on the LindenSoesdyke Highway and in Region Three to reduce the massive housing application backlog across the Demerara-Mahaica region.
Currently, there is a housing backlog of approximately 78,000 pending applications across Guyana –over 50,000 of those coming from Region Four alone.
President Dr Irfaan Ali explained during a video broadcast on Thursday that a major challenge in clearing the Region Four backlog is the unavailability of land.
“Land in Region Four is becoming harder to get for development. We are now in close proximity to the wetlands, so our development is limited by land availability, especially in
areas like Region Four,” he explained.
At the end of 2025, Region Four had a backlog of 50,375 housing applications. Some 1569 lots have been allocated up to the end of April, leaving 48,806 applications pending, with only 1090 house lots currently in the system to be allocated.
At present, efforts are ongoing to develop another 21,803 house lots from newly-acquired lands across the region. But this, according to President Ali, will only cover half of the region’s backlog.
“The amount of land being acquired in Region Four currently can only clear 50 per cent of this backlog by the end of 2027. So, I want Region Four to understand this dynamic,” the Head of State explained.
To this end, he pointed out that the Government is now looking at developing house lots in other near-
by regions such as Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) to address the high backlog in Region Four.
“We have already started to put investment into the development of 26,175 new lots in Region Three. It’s important to note, however, that a number of applicants from Region Four, where we have that enormous demand, will be transferred to Region Three. So, while this seems an adequate number to clear the Region Three backlog, we will also have to invest more in Region Three, where there is land available to help clear the Region Four backlog,” the Guyanese leader stated.
Silica City
Moreover, President Ali also disclosed plans to open up new lands for housing development in Region Four, especially along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, where the Government’s model urban housing development is located.
“That is why we are investing heavily in Silica City, and we’re building out all these new highways to open up new housing areas along the LindenSoesdyke Highway, new housing areas in Silica City and beyond, so that can create new opportunities to clear this backlog in Region Four,” he noted.
Located approximate-
ly 40 kilometres (km) from Georgetown and five km from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Silica City is designed as a climate-resilient urban ecosystem that integrates innovation, nature, and smart technology. It will be Guyana’s first smart, modern, and sustainable city and is part of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s climate change mitigation initiatives under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS 2030).
Silica City was initially conceived in 2009 by Ali during his tenure as Housing Minister. The Government has set aside approximately 3800 acres of land for the new city, with about 15,000 houses to be constructed in various phases over the next two decades.
In its first five years, the city is expected to cater to just over 3000 households but has the capacity to accommodate as many as 60,000 residents, which the Head of State says will play a tremendous role in reducing the housing backlog in Region Four.
“We are looking to develop 3800 acres of land
Some of the completed houses at Silica City, which can accommodate as many as 60,000 residents
there. Now, what this will allow us to do in the future is expand to another 10,000 acres. Now, this flagship new frontier is designed for a projected population of about 60,000 residents, and that will help us also with the Region Four backlog,” the President stated.
Only on Thursday, the Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn, conducted a site inspection at the Silica City housing development. The visit was aimed at assessing the progress of housing and infrastructure works to ensure the development is ready for occupancy.
Phase One comprises 110 young professional homes, of which 60 have already been completed.
The remaining units are expected to be finished by the end of next month, ac-
cording to the Housing Ministry. These houses comprise four designs with prices ranging between $27 million and $35 million.
Housing Minister Collin Croal had previously reported that a number of these houses are already allocated to beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Government is also looking at other innovations to tackle the growing housing demand across the Demerara-Mahaica region, including investments in townhouses and condominiums.
In fact, the Condominium Act was passed in 2022, providing the primary legal framework for the creation, ownership, management, and termination of condominiums.
Days after unearthing foreign marijuana, along with firearms and ammunition, in a barrel from the US, local authorities have again intercepted two other barrels containing almost four kilograms (kg) of cannabis and more weapons.
These discoveries were made by Customs Officers attached to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and agents of the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit
(CANU) in two separate operations.
On Thursday, the GRA and CANU officers, acting on information received, searched an incoming barrel from the US, during which they found several transparent parcels containing a quantity of foreign cannabis that later weighed 1.882 kg, as well as two pistols along with seven live 9mm rounds and two 9mm shell casings.
During the 60th Independence Commemoration activities, much heat was generated when a book analysing the May 25th 1964 “Wismar Massacre” was launched. Rather than focusing on why the entire minority Indian community was expelled, the objections from primarily African Guyanese activists such as WPA’s Black Pudding Man sadly centred on whether the tragedy could be called a “massacre” when “only” three persons had been murdered!!
Now your Eyewitness doesn’t want to rake up those stillsimmering coals, but he’s noticed one of the main objectors in the Wismar debate – PNC MP and ex-Chairman of Region 10, Sharma Solomon – again spewed out his decade-long lettersto-the-press campaign about the July 6 Son Chapman tragedy that followed the Wismar Massacre – when some 43 African Guyanese were killed after an explosion tore the boat apart. But this gentleman has now added to the litany of killings he seeks to commemorate by now sending out annual missives on the Police shooting of three Lindeners back on July 12, 2012!! After they refused to obey orders to clear the Wismar Bridge they were blocking – to protest the equalisation of Linden’s electricity rates to match the rest of the country’s!!
“Britain remembers Peterloo. South Africa remembers Sharpeville. Northern Ireland remembers Bloody Sunday. Linden remembers its 18th of July Martyrs” claimed the fella. Now, all these events have been labelled “massacres” – Peterloo: 18 killed; Sharpeville: 69 killed; and Bloody Sunday: 13 killed!! So, Solomon’s having his (incendiary) cake and eating it too: rejecting three persons killed in Wismar as a massacre but equating the three killed at Linden as “martyrs” of a massacre!!
But your Eyewitness wonders how come these PNC worthies don’t ever mention the acknowledged massacre at Agricola – a PNC stronghold – back in 2006 when Fineman’s gang of Buxtonbased “Freedom Fighters” murdered eight persons there!! The 15 gunmen killed three security guards at the Two Brothers Gas Station, then entered Agricola, where they shot and killed an elderly couple in their beds; internet café manager Fenton Rudder and Assistant Town Clerk Lavern Garraway-Scott; and taxi driver Cecil Duncan. Is it because the massacre precipitated the following conversation between a COP (F) who became a PNC Minister and the then PNC Chair (B)?
F: (Muffled)… watch; the move good, but yuh all ain’t mek no statement about them eight people wa dead you know.
B: No, I don’t check pun da PR thing, but ah gon gaffa find out from them in the morning
F: You all shoulda been the fus people fuh run in deh. That is a Black people community.
B: Well, boy…
F: Bannuh, bannuh I …
B: You give me information.
F: I, I deliberately turn the thing away…
Your Eyewitness has long questioned the unemployment figures thrown out by the Opposition misusing outdated data from international bodies. Yesterday, the Finance Minister offered some figures that appear much more in consonance with what we can see all around us with our own two eyes!! “The reality is jobs are being created more rapidly than we are able to produce people with the skills that are required to take up those jobs…. In 2020, when President Ali came into Government, the unemployment rate in Guyana was 12.8 per cent. In 2024, that had been reduced by half from 12.8 per cent to 6.8 per cent. As it relates to youth unemployment, he said the figure fell from 30.2 per cent in 2020 to 12.1 per cent in 2024.
Now, as your Eyewitness has been stressing – to ease the stress! – When countries speak about “unemployment”, they’re referring to the percentage of people who’re LOOKING FOR JOBS AND CAN’T FIND ANY!!
So, if you have scads of able-bodied persons not working but who don’t want to – they ain’t unemployed!!
Not-working millionaires?
T&T’s PM Kamla said a small contingent of SEALs is in her country handling logistics for a larger deployment!! They’re gonna provide support and training to T&T’s Coast Guard and Defence Force for border protection, drug interdiction, and internal security.
And us??
remains committed to completing
The Government of Guyana on Thursday rejected allegations made by Austrian healthcare infrastructure firm VAMED Engineering
GmbH over alleged unpaid sums and lapsed financing for two major hospital projects: the Guyana Paediatric and Maternity Hospital at Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD), and the New Amsterdam Hospital Campus in Berbice.
In light of this accusation, the company announced its intention to pursue international arbitration.
But both the Government and VAMED traded accusations of contractual breaches, financial mismanagement, and misleading narratives. However, the Government gave its commitment to citizens that it will not only fight the spurious claims by the company but that it remains committed to the projects it believes will help to boost health care here.
“VAMED has reached the regrettable but necessary decision to commence international arbitration proceedings against the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana in relation to two major public health care infrastructure projects: The Guyana Paediatric and Maternity Hospital in Georgetown and the New Amsterdam Hospital Campus,” prominent Attorney and politician Nigel Hughes, who represents VAMED, told a press conference the company hosted at the Marriott Hotel, Kingston, on Wednesday.
“This is not a step that VAMED has taken lightly. These projects are important projects. They were intended to deliver critical health care infrastructure for the people of Guyana, including specialised paediatric and maternity care and expanded hospital capacity in Region Six. VAMED remains ful-
ly conscious of its public importance. However, the dispute has reached a point where formal legal proceedings have become unavoidable.
VAMED’s position is that substantial works have been performed, certified, and remain unpaid,” he added.
The Government, through the Health Ministry, described VAMED’s narrative as “misleading” and “incomplete”, asserting that the contractor’s performance deficiencies, delays, and noncompliance were the true causes of the current impasse.
The Ministry emphasised that Guyana remains committed to completing both hospitals, but insisted that every decision taken was guided by contractual obligations, accountability, and the prudent use of public funds.
While VAMED claims it has already carried out
substantial work, including design services, site preparation, piling, structural construction, and mechanical engineering, the Government disputed this, arguing that payments are tied to verified progress and milestones that VAMED failed to meet.
Karpowership has launched a new internship and trainee programme designed to provide young Guyanese with practical exposure to the power generation industry while supporting the development of a skilled local workforce.
The initiative reflects Karpowership’s continued commitment to investing in Guyana by creating opportunities for students and young professionals to gain first-hand experience
in a modern power generation environment. Participants will engage in structured learning activities including site visits, introductory sessions on power plant operations, safety awareness training and job shadowing alongside experienced engineering and operations professionals.
The programme is designed to complement academic learning by providing participants with valuable insight into in- dustry best practices, operational excellence and the importance of safe, reliable power generation.
Speaking on behalf of Karpowership, America’s Regional Director of Commercial Operations, Beyza Özdemir, said, “Karpowership believes that developing local talent is essential to supporting Guyana’s long-term growth. Through this programme, we hope to inspire the next generation of engineers, technicians and energy professionals while providing meaningful exposure to one of the country’s most critical industries.”
Structured as an educational initiative, the programme focuses on observation, learning and professional development rather than operational responsibilities, ensuring participants gain practical
industry knowledge within a supervised learning environment.
The programme forms part of Karpowership’s broader commitment to community engagement and capacity building in Guyana, complementing the company’s ongoing support for education, skills development and youth empowerment initiatives.
As Guyana’s energy sector continues to evolve, Karpowership remains committed to partnering with local stakeholders to help develop the skilled workforce that will support the country’s future energy needs and continued economic development.
Three residents of Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), were on Wednesday granted $100,000 bail each on a charge of inflicting grievous bodily harm.
Jevion Jones, 24, a miner from Caribese Hill, Bartica; Conroy Cox, 31, a pump attendant from Third Avenue, Bartica; and Romario Smartt, 29, a gold miner from Sixth Avenue, Bartica have been charged. The three appeared before Magistrate
Teriq Mohamed at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to them. They each pleaded not guilty and were granted cash bail in the sum of $100,000, along with a bond. They will make their next court appearance on July 24, 2026.
Meanwhile, Jones was also slapped with an assault charge and was placed on an additional $30,000 bail. That case will also continue on July 24, 2026.
Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud recently told the National Assembly that 584 pregnant girls under the age of 16 were referred to the Child Care and Protection Agency (CC&PA) between 2020 and 2025.
It was further disclosed that when a child under the age of 16 gives birth or is identified as pregnant, the case is immediately brought to the attention of the CC&PA, and a comprehensive child protection risk assessment is conducted.
But despite the released statistics, prosecution rates for related sexual offences remain low, and according to the Director of Public Prosecutions’ (DPP) Chambers, this is largely due to a lack of cooperation from victims and the unavailability of witnesses.
This was according to Communications and Outreach Officer Liz Rahaman, who stated that getting witnesses to come forward remains a major challenge.
“The DPP faces challenges to get victims themselves to come forward and offer evidence, and one would know when sexual offences are committed, they are committed in private, in the dark; they are committed outside of witnesses... so if that victim does not wish to proceed with the matter, it places the DPP in a very difficult position, and that is the main challenge the DPP faces.”
Rahaman noted that
If somebody does something to them, entices them, or whatever, they must know... They have to know that it is a sexual offence... whether that crime is committed inside their homes by family members or people close to them acting in a position of trust...”
Meanwhile, earlier this month, the DPP’s office reminded us that Guyana’s Sexual Offences Act provides strong legal protec-
during their outreaches over the years, they have spoken to the residents about the importance of coming forward and reporting the crime.
“Over the years, we have had numerous Police files being sent to the DPP’s office for sexual offences being committed and reported to the Guyana Police Force in all the regions, and we can safely say it is as a result of our public education programmes as we continue to sensitise ... In fact, they have become more aware of the importance of going to the Police and reporting these crimes.”
Furthermore, Rahaman added that from 2013 to the present, the DPP has been conducting public education and awareness events across several parts of the country, primarily in the hinterland communities.
“We have been focusing our attention on Baramita, Moruca, and Mabaruma in Region One (BarimaWaini), and we have done extensive work in Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo)...we have covered all the areas in Region Nine despite the vastness...we have covered topics on sexual offence matters and domestic violence.”
Nevertheless, she noted that sexual offences have moved away from being committed only against girl children to boys.
“The only way we can ensure their safety is for them to become more aware through our public sensitisation programmes.
tions for children against sexual abuse by relatives and adults in positions of trust.
The legislation also addresses situations where adults misuse positions of responsibility to sexually exploit children.
As such, members of the public are encouraged to report suspected cases of child sexual abuse and to support victims through the criminal justice process.
The Housing Ministry on Wednesday engaged electrical contractors and suppliers to assess progress on ongoing electrical infrastructure works and reinforce the importance of timely completion of projects across housing developments nationwide.
The session formed part of the Ministry’s continued efforts to closely monitor infrastructure works within housing schemes and ensure that essential services are delivered to allottees as
quickly and efficiently as possible.
During the meeting, contractors provided detailed updates on the status of ongoing electrical works in several housing developments across the country.
Minister Collin Croal underscored the importance of completing the electrical networks within the various housing developments promptly, noting that these works are critical to ensuring residents can fully benefit from the Government’s housing programme.
As such, contractors were urged to increase their manpower and other resources where necessary to accelerate outstand-
ing works and meet project timelines.
The engagement also provided contractors with the opportunity to openly
others to address obstacles while maintaining the expected standards and timelines.
Contractors also highlighted areas where significant progress has already been made and reiterated their commitment to completing their respective projects.
discuss the challenges affecting project execution, including operational and logistical issues.
In addition, concerns were raised by the contractors, but they reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively with
The Ministry reaffirmed that regular engagements with contractors remain an important part of its strategy to monitor project implementation, resolve challenges promptly, and ensure that the necessary infrastructure is completed to support the continued expansion of housing developments across Guyana.
“Satan” wanted for murder of Rupununi tour guide
Wayne Joseph Carlos, also called “Wayne Castello” and “Satan”
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Thursday issued a wanted bulletin for Wayne Joseph Carlos, also called “Wayne Castello” and “Satan”, for questioning in connection with the murder of Leon Baird, which was committed between January 23, 2026, and January 25, 2026.
The 44-year-old man from Parishara Village, Central Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu–Upper Essequibo) is accused of committing the crime at Wichabai Savannah, South Rupununi.
The charred remains of 38-year-old Baird, a Rupununi tour guide from St Ignatius Village, were discovered on January 25, 2026, in close proximity to the Wichabai Ranch.
It was reported that a burnt vehicle was discovered on the eastern bank of the Rupununi River, with what appeared to be partially charred remains of a human body inside. The remains were later confirmed to be those of Baird.
However, in addition, the remains of two cattle, suspected to have been shot, were also discovered at the scene along with a knife and spent shotgun shells.
Following investigations, Ken Faria of Culvert City, Central Rupununi, a 49-year-old community relations officer, was charged in connection with the crime. He was remanded to prison by Magistrate Faith McGusty when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Baird was described as an exceptional tour guide who played a vital role in promoting Guyana's natural beauty and enhancing visitors› experiences in the Rupununi. He had a passion for studying plants, birds, and wildlife, as well as a dedication to supporting family, friends, and visitors to the region.
Meanwhile, anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of Wayne Joseph Carlos, also called “Wayne Castello” and “Satan”, is asked to contact the Police at telephone numbers 227-1611, 226-3411, 268-2328, 911, or the nearest Police station.
The Government, through the Public Works Ministry, is set to hand over 400 heavy-duty vehicle clamps to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) with the aim of targeting errant drivers who continue to disregard the Government’s continuous appeals to desist from transporting overweight materials and cargo. This development was
revealed by Public Works Minister Juan Edghill during a live broadcast on the Ministry’s social media page, where he emphasised that this procurement is a vital component of a major, nationwide enforcement drive, specifically targeting overloaded trucks and illegally parked heavy-duty vehicles along the country’s primary roadways.
Edghill expressed
his satisfaction with the arrival and distribution of the enforcement tools, noting that the Government’s procurement of the clamps has been successfully completed and the equipment is now in the country. He issued a stern warning to operators, informing them that the stricter enforcement measures previously voiced by the Administration are now a concrete reality.
He made it clear that operators of overloaded trucks and those who park vehicles illegally on public roads and road shoulders will face immediate consequences. Specifically, trucks carrying more than the legally prescribed limit of 15 tonnes per axle, in keeping with established regulations, will be clamped, detained, and subjected to legal charges.
Edghill further emphasised that this enforcement also extends to trailers and heavy-duty equipment parked on public roads and shoulders, where they create severe hazards for motorists.
He warned operators that once their vehicles are clamped and charges are pressed, the Ministry will not hesitate to physically remove the obstructions where necessary.
In line with standard legal procedures, owners will be required to fully reimburse the Government for the total cost of removing and storing their vehicles before they can be released. Citing the legal provisions under the Roads Act, he reiterated that owners will only be able to retrieve their prop-
erty once they have paid every dollar of the operational expenses incurred by the State to move and transport the vehicles, thereby fully honouring their obligations.
This strict clamping initiative is a critical intervention directly linked to preserving public safety on the roadways of Guyana. Illegally-parked heavy-duty machinery and trailers left on road shoulders are a leading cause of severe, often fatal, accidents, particularly during night time hours when visibility is reduced.
Road shoulders are engineered as safety buffers for emergency use and breakdowns, not as long-term private parking zones. Furthermore, overloaded trucks pose an immense danger to all road users by significantly increasing vehicle stopping distances and risking catastrophic mechanical or braking failures.
Beyond the immediate preservation of human lives, this enforcement drive is essential for protecting the historic level of public investment currently being poured into Guyana’s road infrastructure.
The Government is investing billions of taxpayer dollars to construct world-class highways, bridges, and culverts designed to foster national development and improve the daily commute of all citizens. When operators knowingly run overloaded trucks, they rapidly degrade these newly laid roads, causing premature rutting, deep potholes, and structural failures.
The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), in collaboration with Regional Health Services in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), hosted a one-day Root Cause Analysis (RCA) Training Workshop for health professionals on Wednesday.
The training workshop held at the Region Three Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Boardroom, saw the participation of 45 health professionals from the De Kinderen Regional Hospital, West Demerara Regional Hospital, and Leonora Diagnostic and Treatment Centre (Leonora Hospital).
The workshop brought together doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians, and administrative and human resources staff to enhance their knowledge and practical application of RCA as a quality improvement tool.
The facilitator of the workshop, GNBS Technical Officer II Breana Chase Wilson introduced participants to effective approaches for identifying the underlying causes of challenges, managing risks and non-
conformities, and developing corrective actions to improve healthcare processes and service delivery.
During his opening remarks, Regional Health Officer for Region
continuous improvement.
GNBS Head of Corporate Communications, Lloyd David, noted that the Bureau was pleased to provide the training to healthcare profession-
Regional Health Officer, Dr Fiaaz Hassan addressing health professionals
Three, Dr Fiaaz Hassan, expressed gratitude to the GNBS for facilitating the workshop and highlighted the importance of understanding RCA in improving processes and activities within regional health institutions. He encouraged participants to make full use of the knowledge gained and apply the lessons learned within their respective areas of work to support
als in the region. He explained that RCA is offered by GNBS as a professional training course to individuals, companies, and businesses seeking to better manage risks and nonconformities within their systems. He expressed confidence that the training will contribute to strengthening the healthcare system and improving services throughout the Region.
Restricting vehicle weights is crucial to ensuring that public funds are utilised to build new infrastructure for developing communities, rather than being constantly diverted to repair preventable, premature wear and tear.
The Ministry, the post stated, recognises that sustainable safety and order on the nation’s roadways cannot be achieved through
Government enforcement alone; it requires the active, patriotic cooperation of every citizen.
As such, members of the public are urged to assist the Government by acting as the eyes and ears of their respective communities.
“By practising civic responsibility and refusing to tolerate illegal road blockages or weight limit violations, citizens
The GNBS remains committed to supporting capacity building across Government and Private Sector institutions, which is crucial for promoting quality management practices across Guyana.
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play a direct role in safeguarding their families and protecting national property.”
Meanwhile, the Ministry urges residents who observe illegallyparked heavy machinery, dumped vehicles, or suspected overweight operations to report these hazards directly to the Ministry of Public Works hotline at 6242964 or to contact their nearest Police Station.
The bureau will continue to take advantage of strategic partnerships to provide its services to enhance stakeholder performance through engagements that improve service delivery, effective problem-solving, and quality assurance.
More of these invaluable training sessions for health professionals will be conducted in other administrative regions of Guyana.
The Government of Guyana on Wednesday commissioned a $1 billion tunnel-ventilated poultry pens project, an initiative that embraces modern technology to enhance production efficiency while improving flock health and overall performance.
The Tunnel-Ventilated Pens Project represents an investment in infrastructure, equipment, and training-and forms part of the Government’s flagship Agriculture Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP).
It was officially commissioned by Prime Minister (PM) Brig (Ret’d) Mark Phillips at the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) facility at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
The project comprises five state-of-the-art poultry facilities located at Mon Repos, Cornelia Ida
The Ministry of Public Works (MoPW) is urging all users of its transport and harbours facilities – at Parika and Supenaam – to comply with a temporary weight limit adjustment while active works are being executed at the two stellings.
All operators of heavy-laden trucks are required to temporarily comply with a new overall weight limit of 18 tonnes when transporting cargo and heavy-duty equipment.
Subject Minister Bishop Juan Edghill, while announcing this interim change in weight limit compliance at the two main facilities, underscored the reason for the temporary change, stating, “We
(West Bank Demerara), and Onverwagt (Region Five), all of which have been completed and are currently stocked with birds that are performing exceptionally well.
Designed to international poultry production standards, each tunnel-ventilated pen accommodates between 20,000 and 45,000 birds, with broilers reaching market weight in just five to six weeks.
PM Phillips during his address related that the project forms part of the Government’s vision for the future of the country’s agriculture sector, driven by innovation, resilience, and technology.
“We have developed a vision of what we want for agriculture here in Guyana. Ours is a vision of where technology is harnessed to shield farmers from the whims of the weather, where local pro-
duction of inputs frees them from the volatility of global markets, and where value-added processing ensures that their produce does not perish but instead reaches consumers with quality and consistency,” PM Phillips related.
The PM further explained that the tunnel-ventilated poultry project forms part of a broader national strategy to modernise agriculture through innovation and investment, ensuring greater resilience across the sector.
“This tunnel pen project is not an isolated initiative. It is part of our comprehensive strategy to modernise agriculture, build resilience, and eventually create a technologically advanced sector to ensure that no farmer goes to bed wondering if tomorrow will bring ruin.”
He also reaffirmed
the Government’s longterm ambition of positioning Guyana as the Caribbean’s leading food producer, noting that continued investments in agriculture are laying the foundation for sustained economic growth and regional leadership.
“Our vision for agriculture over the next five years is aimed at cementing Guyana’s status as the food-producing capital of the Caribbean. Building on the solid foundations laid since 2020, we’re fashioning a sector that is not only a major anchor of the non-oil economy but also a dynamic engine for national prosperity, food security, and regional leadership,” he said.
Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha explained that the project is another demonstration of the Government’s longterm vision for transform-
have work ongoing at the Parika Stelling and the Supenaam Stelling, and we had to make adjustments to the bridges to accommodate the new vessel, the MV Konawaruk 1899. At this time, because of what is taking place in terms of
the improvements on both sides of the Essequibo, where we are using our ferries to move vehicles and heavy-duty equipment, we are asking you to limit your tonnes in your vehicle to ensure a total weight of 18 tonnes.”
The appeal specifically targets trucks, canters, and other heavy-laden vehicles that must traverse these active construction zones to execute their respective economic activities.
“We are asking everyone to limit their weight
ing agriculture into a modern, technology-driven sector.
“Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Guyana is transitioning from a country that grows food to a nation that designs and manages modern agricultural ecosystems. We are positioning our livestock sector to be efficient, sustainable, and able to scale to levels never before seen in Caricom,” Minister Mustapha said.
According to Mustapha, the livestock industry has evolved from a small-scale activity into a more strategic, Government-supported sector that focuses on food security and breed improvement.
“Between 2020 and 2025, poultry production in Guyana exploded from 43,736 tonnes to 91,382 tonnes, marking a re-
to 18 tonnes per vehicle. It used to be 20 tonnes, but for this period – until we can complete all permanent works and ensure that every truck can safely traverse the stelling and move carefully through it – we want to avoid any situation where anyone is in trouble because something breaks or puts people’s lives in jeopardy,” Edghill added.
The public is assured that all efforts are in place to keep the docking service operable and the schedule accurate for the users.
The Ministry further emphasised that the safety and well-being of commuters, transport operators, and construction personnel remain its utmost priority. While these temporary re-
markable 108.9 per cent increase. We are no longer trying to catch up. We are leading the Caricom 25 by 2025 + 5 Initiative, driving down the regional food import bill and building a stronger, more self-reliant Caribbean,” he said. The commissioning of the tunnel-ventilated poultry facilities, Mustapha stated, represents tangible evidence of the Government’s investment in youth, innovation, and agricultural development.
“This commissioning ceremony of the Tunnel Ventilated Pen Project, under our flagship Agriculture Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme, is the living, breathing proof of that reality. It is a testament to what happens when political vision meets youthful energy and when public investment catalyses private innovation,” he stated.
strictions may cause minor adjustments to daily operations, they are vital to safeguarding lives and preserving the structural integrity of our transit infrastructure.
“This is not something new. The Berbice Bridge weight limit is 18 tonnes; at the old Demerara Harbour Bridge, the weight limit was 18 tonnes. We can work this through until we can get more permanent, resilient infrastructure in place,” Minister Edghill emphasised.
The Ministry highly appreciates the continued cooperation, patience, and caution of the public as these critical upgrades are carried out.
The paper committal proceedings into the deadly October 2025 bombing at the Mobil service station in Georgetown were on Wednesday adjourned until September 9.
The matter was adjourned after defence attorneys sought additional time to prepare and file written legal submissions challenging the sufficiency of the prosecution’s evidence against the four accused persons. The date was selected as the next available hearing, with Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty expected to proceed on vacation leave from next week.
The prosecution, led by Senior Police Legal Advisor Mandel Moore, was also afforded additional time to prepare its
response to the defence’s submissions.
The proceedings form part of a paper committal process.
During this stage, the Magistrate reviews documentary evidence to determine whether the prosecution has established a prima facie case for the accused to stand trial in the High Court in Demerara, without hearing oral testimony from witnesses.
At the previous hearing on July 8, the prosecution concluded the presentation of its documentary evidence after Moore tendered additional video recordings and 43 photographs of the Mobil Service Station at the corner of Regent and King Streets and the surrounding area.
Following the close of
the prosecution’s case, the proceedings were adjourned to July 15 for defence submissions on behalf of Venezuelan nationals Alexander Bettancourt and Johnny Boodram and GuyaneseVenezuelan Krystal La Cruz.
Attorneys-at-law Nickesha Daniels, Shellon Boyce and Zola Williams of the Guyana Legal Aid Clinic, who represent alleged mastermind Daniel Alexander Ramirez Poedemo, informed the court that no statements would be filed on his behalf, as he would exercise his constitutional right to remain silent.
Attorney Kiswana Jefford had previously filed a statement on behalf of LaCruz and sought time to make le-
gal submissions in support of her client, while attorney Mikel Puran filed documents, including Boodram’s birth certificate, immunisation card and Guyana passport, as part of his defence. Attorney-at-law Melvin Duke appeared on behalf of Bettancourt when the matter was called on Wednesday.
The prosecution has presented an extensive body of documentary evidence since the paper committal proceedings began in early June. That evidence includes dozens of witness statements, forensic and DNA reports, photographs, documentary exhibits and numerous video recordings gathered during the investigation.
Poedemo is charged under Section 3(1)(a)
The previous day, agents from GRA and CANU again, acting on information received, unearthed 2.108 kg of foreign cannabis hidden in several paint cans. CANU said several persons were arrested in relation to both discoveries and are in custody assisting with investigations.
These discoveries come on the heels of some 37.2 kg of foreign marijuana, carrying a street value of $71 million, and three pistols with 18 9mm rounds being found in two incoming barrels from the US at the Muneshwers’ Wharf in Georgetown on Tuesday.
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coming from North America as well as other countries in the region.
As such, a joint investigation has since been launched involving CANU and GRA along with the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) – the white-collar arm of the Guyana Police Force – and other law enforcement agencies that are working together to prevent the entry of illicit drugs concealed in cargo and other shipments.
These agencies have reiterated their commitment to strengthening security measures and ensuring that Guyana’s borders remain protected against drug trafficking. The
an
higher tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act with allegedly placing and detonating an explosive device with the intent to threaten Guyana’s security and sovereignty or terrorise the public, resulting in the death of six-year-old Soraya Bourne.
Bettancourt, Boodram and LaCruz are jointly charged with aiding and abetting Poedemo in the alleged terrorist act.
None of the accused is required to enter a plea at this stage of the proceedings, and all remain on remand pending the outcome of the paper committal.
The charges arise from the October 26, 2025, explosion at the Mobil Service Station, where an explosive device detonated while Bourne was seated in a vehicle with members of her family. The child later died from her injuries, several relatives were injured, and nearby buildings and vehicles sustained extensive damage.
The current proceedings involve four of the original seven accused. Earlier this year, Guyanese nationals Ramesh Pramdeo and Wayne Correia were discharged after a Magistrate upheld nocase submissions in their favour.
However, their former co-accused, Venezuelan national Jennifer Rodriguez, was committed to stand trial in the High Court on a charge of aiding and abetting terrorism after the Magistrate ruled that the prosecution had
established a prima facie case against her.
Rodriguez was denied bail and remains on remand pending her trial at the next practicable sitting of the Demerara Criminal Assizes.
Investigators have alleged that Poedemo confessed to entering Guyana illegally by boat from Venezuela hours before the attack and admitted to bringing the explosive device into the country. Police also alleged that he identified himself as a member of the Venezuelan Syndicato gang known as “Organisation R”.
The Government of Guyana has previously indicated that it intends to seek the death penalty against anyone convicted in the case under Guyana’s anti-terrorism laws, which provide for capital punishment where a terrorist act results in death.
The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) has announced sweeping adjustments to its School-Based Assessment (SBA) framework, replacing the traditional SBA with a revised examination format for most non-practical subjects from 2027, as it seeks to safeguard academic integrity amid the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Under the new framework, candidates in non-practical subjects will complete Paper 032, the current alternative assessment conducted under examination conditions, with several key adjustments.
Students will receive their assessment topics approximately one month in advance and will be permitted to bring reference notes into the examination room.
According to CXC, the revised format is intended to preserve the spirit of extended, reflective assessment while restoring confidence in the authenticity and authorship of students’ work.
This was announced by the director of operations at the Caribbean Examinations Council, Dr Nicole Manning, on Thursday through an online video publication.
The School-Based Assessment (SBA) is a mandatory set of coursework projects for in-school CSEC and CAPE candidates, accounting for a significant portion of your final grade. It requires you to conduct research, collect data, or complete practical tasks following Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) guidelines.
Dr Manning explained that for decades, the SBA has been a distinctive feature of CXC’s examinations, designed to allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills over time within the context of their schools and communities.
However, she noted that in recent years, the assessment model has faced significant challenges, with generative artificial intelligence being the greatest source of concern.
She explained that AI tools are now widely available and can generate text, essays, research papers, and analyses within seconds. Dr Manning stressed that CXC is not seeking to prevent the responsible use of AI, but rather to harness its capabilities to support students in preparing for SBAs and written assessments.
She emphasised that while AI
may assist with preparation, students’ abilities must ultimately be demonstrated under controlled examination conditions without the use of AI.
Dr Manning outlined the changes being implemented under the new framework.
“For subjects that are truly practical in nature, subjects like Agricultural Science, Visual Arts, Music, Physical Education, Technical Drawing, Food and Nutrition, and Health, the SBA will remain. These are subjects where hands-on, project-based assessment still gives us something that an examination room cannot replicate; [thus], we will retain those SBAs and strengthen how they are moderated. However, for non-practical-based subjects, subjects like Mathematics, English, Caribbean History, Social Studies, Principles of Business and others, we will be transitioning away from the traditional SBA.”
She added, “In its place, candidates will be required to sit for Paper 032, the current alternative assessment conducted under examination conditions, but with important and considered adjustments. And what will these
adjustments be, you might ask? In preparation for these assessments, candidates will receive their topics approximately one month before the assessment, and they will be permitted to bring reference notes into the examination room with them. For us at CXC, this is a thoughtful, deliberate design that achieves two important things.”
Dr Manning explained that CXC did not make these reform decisions unilaterally, noting that educators across the region were consulted before the changes were introduced.
“We surveyed close to 2,400 educators across the region; of these, 77 per cent indicated support for this reform in CSEC and 76 per cent in CAPE. The Caribbean education system has spoken, and CXC has listened and continues to listen.”
Meanwhile, Dr Manning said more than half of the respondents who supported the reform recommended that it be implemented as early as the 2027 examination session. She explained that for CAPE, the transition to Paper 3-2 for non-practical-based subjects will take effect during the MayJune 2027 examination session.
“The Government categorically rejects the misleading narrative presented by VAMED, which omits critical facts regarding the contractor’s performance under these contracts and the reasons for the actions taken by the Ministry of Health,” the Government said in a statement through the Ministry of Health.
It highlighted that contrary to VAMED’s assertions, the issues affecting the projects cannot be reduced simply to a question of payments. “The contracts impose reciprocal obligations on both parties, significantly like any other contract: payments are commensurate with measured work completed and approved and the procurement of construction material and equipment. The Government has repeatedly documented concerns regarding delays in execution, failure to meet agreed milestones, inadequate mobilisation of resources, and the contractor’s inability to maintain the pace necessary for timely completion. These matters formed the basis of extensive contractual correspondence over many months,” it stated.
The Health Ministry, the Government explained, exercised its contractual rights only after providing VAMED with numerous opportunities to remedy these deficiencies.
“The Notices of Intention to Terminate were issued pursuant to the contractual provisions af-
ter careful consideration of the contractor’s performance and in accordance with the dispute resolution mechanisms established under the contracts,” the Government stated.
The Government also rejected the suggestion by VAMED that certified payment certificates automatically establish an undisputed indebtedness. “The amounts referenced by VAMED remain subject to the contractual valuation process, applicable contractual provisions, rights of set-off, certification procedures, and the resolution of multiple outstanding contractual issues. It is therefore inaccurate to characterise these figures as uncontested liabilities,” the Government said.
With the facility backed by the UK Export Finance (UKEF) and funded by UniCredit Bank Austria AG, with the Government of Guyana as borrower, VAMED said that the loan agreement expired in November 2025, along with the export credit guarantee, as the firm argued that the Government failed to renew the financing despite repeated warnings.
“The loan expired in November 2025, and the export credit guarantee of the United Kingdom expired with it. And the question is, why did this happen? Why did the Government fail to renew the loan despite repeated
communications from UniCredit and UKEF?” Hughes questioned.
The Government countered that financing arrangements cannot be divorced from project performance and stressed that this is the primary reason the project was pulled. “Financing arrangements are intrinsically linked to the progress and performance of the projects,” the Ministry said. “Any attempt to portray the financing issues in isolation from the contractor’s performance presents an incomplete and misleading account of the circumstances,” it added.
On June 2, 2026, the Health Ministry issued notices of intention to terminate both contracts. VAMED stated and described the move as unlawful. “The purported termination of the contract by the Government was wholly misconceived and in breach of the terms of the agreements,” the company declared. Further, it noted, “Any reduced project activity is a direct result of the Government’s failure to pay their certified outstanding indebtedness to VAMED.”
The Government insists the notices were justified. “The Ministry of Health exercised its contractual rights only after providing VAMED with numerous opportunities to remedy deficiencies,” the statement explained.
“The Notices of Intention to Terminate were issued pursuant to the contractual provisions after careful consideration of the
For CSEC, candidates will have the option to complete either the SBA or Paper 3-2, based on the choice made by their respective schools, with full implementation expected in 2028.
In closing, Dr Manning reaffirmed CXC’s commitment to preserving the value and integrity of its qualifications, noting that the reforms are intended to ensure that students are recognised for their genuine knowledge and abilities. She added that the council’s decisions remain focused on ensuring that CXC certificates continue to represent the skills and achievements they are meant to reflect.
FROM PAGE 9
contractor’s performance.”
Blame
VAMED also blamed the Government for poor logistics, as the company claims that dozens of containers of project equipment remain uncleared at the port, incurring storage charges.
“Since the cessation of payments, project equipment has accumulated at the port, with dozens of containers remaining uncleared and continuing to incur storage charges despite the Government’s obligation to facilitate the clearance process,” the company said.
The Government maintains that its actions have been consistent with contractual obligations and the protection of public resources.
VAMED said that the Government is adamant that it will not pay what the company claims is owned and it will commence arbitration before the ICC, seeking payment of outstanding sums, recovery of entitlements, interest, and protection against wrongful calls on bonds. “The Government cannot continue to benefit from certified works while failing to meet its own payment obligations.”
The Government is equally resolute, saying, “Should VAMED commence arbitration proceedings, the Government will vigorously defend its position before the appropriate tribunal” and that it is confident that
the complete factual record… will demonstrate that its decisions were lawful, justified, and made in accordance with the contracts.”
The Government says that it remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering modern healthcare infrastructure for the people of Guyana, although the contractor failed to deliver, missed milestones, and now seeks to shift blame. “Every decision taken has been guided by the need to safeguard public resources, ensure accountability, and secure the timely completion of highquality healthcare facilities.”
The company’s attorney stressed that, “This is not simply a private disagreement between a contractor and an employee. It concerns certified nonpayment, lapsed sovereign-backed project financing, public infrastructure commitments, and the circumstances that have led VAMED to seek legal protection.”
On the other hand, the Government said that “Contrary to VAMED’s assertions, the issues affecting these projects cannot be reduced simply to a question of payments. The Government acted in good faith, honouring its contractual obligations while consistently engaging VAMED to address significant delays and deficiencies.”
The Government is confident that it will prove its actions were lawful and justified.
(March 21-April 19)
(May 21-June 20) (April 20-May 20)
(June 21-July 22)
(July 23-Aug. 22)
(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)
(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)
Choose a creative outlet or social event that favors a hobby or pastime you enjoy. Participation will lead to an interesting offer or concept that can change your lifestyle or how you earn your living. Expanding your interests and friendships looks promising. Domestic issues will be difficult to resolve unless you are willing to compromise.
Socializing will lead to interesting conversations and an opportunity to hear about a professional opportunity or an introduction to someone of interest. Don’t feel obligated to show off or overspend to impress someone. Keep your wallet and keys in a safe place. Don’t rush into a home project or personal expenditure. Romance is in the stars.
You’ll face emotional obstacles if you participate in competitive challenges that put your physical wellbeing in jeopardy. It’s OK to cheer from the sidelines; in fact, you’re more likely to meet someone special if you do. Choose conversations over physical contests. What you learn will encourage you to turn a hobby into a lucrative opportunity.
A little charm will carry you a long way when dealing with personal situations and people you want to keep by your side. Stick to the truth and offer incentives, but maintain equality if you want to ensure longevity and respect. Be a good listener, and you’ll find it easier to manage both your personal and professional relationships.
Explore possibilities, but hold your thoughts while gathering information. Big talkers will be misleading and eager to take advantage of you if you give them the chance. You can be direct, but don’t give away your ideas. Refuse to let compliments go to your head, causing emotional or financial regret. An offer will not live up to your expectations.
Wait and watch. The changes unfolding around you will have consequences that can hurt your status quo. Pay more attention to what you can control, and invest more time and effort in expanding your interests and knowledge. Working on self-improvement projects and personal growth will help you far more than outside influencers. Put yourself first, and protect your emotional well-being.
Take a disciplined approach to learning, using your skills and outmaneuvering anyone who challenges you. Opportunities are apparent, but obstacles exist. Choosing the right path, people and prospects will be difficult if you believe everything you hear. The power of persuasion will capture your attention if you aren’t careful, putting you in a vulnerable position.
An open mind will lead to seminars, documentaries and conversations with informative people who spark your imagination and encourage you to go on a learning expedition. Before you buy into someone else’s concepts and plans, consider whether you are better off investing in yourself. Establish what you want to pursue, and take a position of leadership. Romance is highlighted.
(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)
Stick to what and who you know. If you venture off course, you’ll encounter emotionally manipulative people. Your best opportunities will come from being self-serving, not counting on others to do things for you. Put your energy into self-preservation, eating properly and exercising. An emotional problem is apparent if you hang out with the wrong people.
(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Take note where your money goes. Don’t feel you have to pay for others’ entertainment or mistakes. Let your income reflect your lifestyle. Don’t hesitate to have tough talks with anyone you feel is taking advantage of you. You’ll find out where you stand if you have a discussion, and the outcome will put your mind at rest. Romance is on the rise.
(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)
Be open to suggestions, and you’ll discover something about yourself that will help you move forward. An opportunity to work in a field that offers security or to surround yourself with people who share your beliefs will encourage you to get out more and enjoy what life has to offer. When opportunity knocks, be sure to open the door.
Choose your battles wisely. Concentrate on nurturing important relationships. Social events, entertainment and activities you enjoy will put you in a good mood and give you a chance to meet people who share similar pastimes. A new look will boost your confidence and put you in the mood for romance and building loving relationships.
As the teams from the various districts began arriving in Linden Thursday, the fifth annual ExxonMobil InterSchools Kayaking National Championships is expected to be a water-top battle on Sunday from 11:00h at the Watooka Guest House in the mining town of Linden.
This year’s championship, which has nine events slated, follows the Inter-Schools held in May this year and will see the reigning champions District Seven
(Upper Mazaruni); hosts District 10 (Linden/ Kwakwani); District One (North West); District Two (Pomeroon); District Three (West Demerara); District 34 (East Coast Demerara); District Five (West Coast Berbice); District Eight (Mahdia); District Nine (Rupununi); and District 14 (St Cuthbert's Mission) in action.
Tomorrow, the competing teams are expected to have a grand practice on the Demerara River beside the Watooka Clubhouse, where the championships are being staged.
Reaching for a comment, Dr Deon Anderson, owner of the Elite Kayaking and Nature Tours, which has organised the annual
venue; if you are at the bar chilling away from the front line, you will be able to see the races, and replays will also be available for the public.”
With over three thousand (3000) youths between ages six and 18 registered for this year’s Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport/National Sports Commission Teach Them Young/Learn to Swim Programme, impactful change and upskilling continue to be accomplished.
Youths in Regions Two, Five, Six, and 10 have benefitted from the sessions so far, and whilst Essequibo has been completed with close to two hundred (200) benefitting, the
Albion Pool in Berbice and Watooka Pool in Linden are currently hosting sessions, with over four hundred (400) kids combined going through the paces.
National Sports Commission (NSC) Swim Coach Paul Mahaica and his team of coaches, instructors and lifeguard assistants continue to ensure that sessions are safe, exciting and rewarding for the attendees.
A total of three onehour sessions are held daily from 09:00h to 12:00h in Berbice and Linden. Since the Teach
Them Young/Learn To Swim programme recommenced in 2022 after the covid pandemic, over twenty-one thousand (21,000) persons have passed through the programme, including adults and persons with disabilities.
Sessions in Georgetown will splash off on Monday at the Colgrain Pool, Camp Street, with six daily from 09:00h.
Meanwhile, as this significant programme continues to gain traction, Region Eight will be added later this year for the first time.
schools' kayaking championships over the years, remarked, “The events are family-orientated, so not only will there be races on the water top, but a huge kiddies’ section and children's entertainment centre. In addition, there will be the ExxonMobil Guyana booths and other information booths about tourism and health and fully stocked bars with lots to eat and drink, including cocktails. Several flat-screen televisions will be at the
He further stated, “This year the winners will receive $500,000, second-place finishers $350,000 and third $250,000 in vouchers, where the students will be able to support their academic pursuits, and a certain percentage will be given to the district. So, it’s a win-win for the family in a beautiful day out for the regions, districts and schools to showcase your talent in this novel sport and the students. It’s an opportunity to showcase what you have in this new sport and their skillset and also get a chance to not only bragging rights and medals but also a cash voucher worth $500,000.”
Additionally, Dr
Anderson noted, “So, it will be a day of events and a beautiful array of skills on the water top. Safety is our number one priority. We will be having a medical team in the water-top to accompany all races at all times and lifeguards on the water-top so that they will provide assistance and guidance to every participant and police and lifeguards and a medical booth.”
According to Dr Anderson, nine races are set for the day beginning at 11:00h with the Under-14 Mixed Double, which will be followed by the Under-16 Male Individual, Under-16 Mixed Double, Under-16 Female Individual, Male Long Distance Relay, Female LongDistance Relay, Open Male Individual, Open Mixed Double and Open Female Individual races.
Veteran jockey Colin Ross sits on top of the mountain after the fifth race this season.
After 35 starts in Guyana’s horse racing, Ross recorded 10 wins. He also has four second places and four third spots.
Last season’s jockey of the year, Yovin Kissoonchand, is in sec-
ond with seven first places. He also has five second spots and four third-place finishes in 31 races this season.
Ronaldeo Appadu has six first-place finishes and eight second spots in his 29 races this season.
Other jockeys in the top ten on the standings are Quinton Kellman,
and Ronaldo Grey.
All jockeys will have their eyes set for the Guyana Cup 2026, which is set for August 23 at Rising Sun Turf Club, West Coast Berbice. Before the main event, there will be a race on August 2, the Emancipation Cup, set for Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club.
Ross will be the favourite to reclaim his jockey crown for the 2026 season. He won his first Guyana Cup in 2008 with Jumbo Jet’s horse, Sequin.
Former National Junior Chess Champion
Joshua Gopaul brought his A-game to the Bullet Chess Competitions hosted by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) at the Game Fest 2026 last Saturday, July 11, 2026. The event, held at the Royal International Mall, attracted several chess players as well as newcomers, all vying for a chance to win the cash prizes sponsored by V&V Distributors, Movements Family Hotel and Bar, Premier ND Plus Enterprise, S Pooran Equipment Rental, and the Fernandez Ciria family.
Gopaul took home the firstplace prize in three Bullet Chess competitions, while Keron Sandiford, WCM Jessica Callender, and FM Anthony Drayton copped first place each in the remaining three competitions. Other winners taking home cash prizes included Kim Shing-Chong, Ethan Spencer, Treskolé Archibald, Chelsea Harrison, Angelina Yhap, Darrel Abrams, Kishan Puran, Tremeur Alleyne, Dominic Sam, Jaden Denny, Odinnie Reece, and Javier Davenand. Newcomer prizes went to David Chow, Naresh Sukhu, Tajiri De Abreu,
Derek Quaicoe, and Mahendra Persaud.
The GCF’s dynamic appearance at the gaming convention kicked off the bullet tournaments from 12:00h in the high-octane Bullet Chess format with a two-minute time control plus a one-second increment for each player. The short time control attracted many players to showcase their skills and abilities in this format in a festive environment rather than the traditional quietness of chess, providing much excitement and camaraderie among the players.
The action-packed schedule drew a diverse crowd, commanding the attention of both seasoned veterans and enthusiastic newcomers who clashed over the board. Each tournament maintained a highly competitive field of 14 to 16 players battling through seven intense rounds of play.
Incentivising fierce competition was a total prize fund of GY$50,000 per tournament. Cash prizes were distributed among the top five finishers, along with dedicated prizes for the Best Female Player and Best Newcomer.
At the conclusion of the
day’s events, Joshua Gopaul emerged victorious as the player with the highest points for victories. His dominant performance and tournament-high score earned him the grand prize of GY$30,000 Guyanese dollars.
The smooth execution of the entire event was made possible by the arbiters and management team, which included Ethan Lee, Ronan Lee, Oluwadare Oyeyipo, Italy Ton-Chung, and Keron Sandiford. The successful setup and smooth operation of the GCF booth were made possible thanks to Ieda Harrison,
Michaela Khan-Smith, and Marcia Lee, with valuable support from Abrianna Tinnie, Odit Rodrigues, and Nathan Williams.
The Federation has extended its heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, whose generous support made these competitions possible.
“We would also like to give special acknowledgement and thanks to the organisers of Game Fest 2026. Thank you for providing the GCF with the platform to participate and for recognising chess as a premier discipline in the "battle of the mind", the GCF noted.
The Minister within the Sport Ministry, Steven Jacobs, on Tuesday last visited the Area H Ground, which hosted the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) Bakewell Cricket Academy, where he met the large group of youths and their coaches led by level-three coach Winston Smith. The Minister was officially welcomed at the academy by Rose Hall Town Clerk Natasha Griffith and RHTY&SC officials Hilbert Foster, Robby Kissoonlall, Jonathan Rampersaud, Eon Hooper and Clinton Pestano.
The former Guyana senior player, in remarks to the attentive academy youths, urged them to always be disciplined, as it is the foundation to a successful future on the cricket field. The youthful Government Minister also spoke on the importance of education and the need to also be fit, as cricket is a physically demanding sport. He advised the youths to listen to their coaches and to put into practice what they had learnt from them.
Minister Jacobs, who also played in
the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), called on the RHTY&SC youth players to follow in the footsteps of their clubmates like Assad Fudadin, Kevin Sinclair, Royston Crandon, Kelvon Anderson, Shemaine Campbelle, Shabika Gajanabi, Shenetta Grimmond and Erva Giddings, who have all played for the West Indies at the highest level. He stated that their success was based on a formula of hard work, personal discipline and dedication.
After his discussion with the academy class of 2026, Minister Jacobs handed over a large supply of sport gear to RHTY&SC Club captain Clinton Pestano. The donation included cricket bats, batting pads, helmets, cricket balls, batting gloves, volleyballs, basketballs and footballs. He also congratulated the coaches on their dedication to improving the cricketing skills of the youths at the academy and urged them to continue doing so in the future.
The Minister also had a visit around the Area H ground, accompanied by club officials and the town clerk. The
Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport
the youth
Minister immediately agreed that the Sport Ministry would assist with the repair of the fencing around the venue and the upgrading of the outfield and also seek a roller for the ground that has produced 133 players for Berbice, 76 national players and thirteen at the international level.
Jacobs also promised that a re-
gional engineer would visit the venue for assessment work on the way forward. RHTY&SC Cricket Manager Robby Kissoonlall expressed gratitude to Jacobs for his visit and for the support offered. The management of the club also handed over several copies of the RHTY&SC Youth Review booklet, which was recently launched.
New Zealand’s fast-bowling all-rounder Nathan Smith has been recruited by the Desert Vipers for the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League following the withdrawal of compatriot Kyle Jamieson from the tournament.
Smith, along with Black Caps teammate Daryl Mitchell, is playing the role of an advance party for the Vipers as the duo are in Georgetown for a OneDay International (ODI) series against the West Indies.
And their presence at Providence Stadium will allow them to feed vital first-hand experiences back to the rest of the Vipers squad when it assembles for the tournament in less than a week.
Speaking to the Vipers Voices podcast on the eve of the ODI series, Smith talked about his initial observations of the conditions.
“We had a couple of training sessions, one under lights and one in the daytime. There is quite a bit of rain around as well, which actually impacts it quite a bit, I think,” he said.
“The wickets are a little bit soft and obvious-
he had experienced before, forcing him to adapt quickly – a challenge the Vipers will also face in Guyana.
around how quickly we can adapt and how we can best use the facilities.
“I think it is such a short tournament, so whichever teams adapt and adjust to the conditions and make the most of those conditions will, along with a little bit of individual brilliance, have the best results.
“Hopefully we can get off to a flyer and win those first couple of games and get ahead of the pack.”
Smith was named New Zealand’s Player of the Series in his side’s impressive 2-1 Test series win over England earlier this summer. He finished as the series’ leading wicket-taker with 16 wickets and credited part of his success to having wicketkeeper Tom Blundell stand up to the stumps to limit the batters’ movements.
Smith said that although the GSL would be played in a different format against different opposition, the same tactic could still prove effective in Guyana.
“It was definitely a play that worked really well,” he said. “Obviously, the thought behind it was to keep Joe Root and Harry Brook in their crease because they
keeper up at the stumps is not something fast bowlers traditionally like to see, as it brings with it the suggestion they are not bowling quickly enough.
But Smith said that once he got over that thought, it was a tactic that he grew to appreciate.
“I definitely think there was a little bit of managing the ego initially because you do want to see the ball fly through, but at that time it is about doing what is best for the team,” he said.
“It definitely takes a little bit of time to get used to visually, and with the keeper being up, in terms of trying to find the right lengths.
“But once you get a bit of rhythm with the keeper up, it is quite nice because you do feel like you can really dominate the batter with the keeper (and his presence) making them stay in their crease.”
While he has played eight Tests and 18 ODIs for his country, Nathan only made his Twenty20 International debut earlier this year against Bangladesh.
Smith said the hot and humid conditions in Chattogram and Mirpur were unlike anything
“I had been to Bangladesh before, for an ICC Under-19 World Cup, and I think that was (January and) February (2016), so it was a little bit cooler then, but the heat (in April and May of this year) was next level, and I had never experienced anything like it. You walk outside (and) you start sweating. On the plane over as well, I actually had a little bit of sickness, so I went into the first game a little bit underdone in terms of how I was feeling and that was tough. But they (Bangladesh Cricket) tried to make the pitches a little bit more seam-friendly to support their bowlers because Bangladesh has a strong seam bowling unit at the moment.” He said.
“I just had to adjust to the conditions, and the T20I experience was cool. I have played a bit of Twenty20 cricket now and feel like I have got an understanding of my game. But it was cool to, at the end of that, say, ‘I have played all three formats internationally’ and hopefully there are a few more Twenty20s out there for me.”
Smith added that compatriot and fellow Vipers GSL squad member Bevon Jacobs, who also toured Bangladesh earlier this year and played a match-winning innings in the Mirpir T20I when he made an unbeaten 62 in 31 balls, would be a major asset for the Vipers in Guyana.
“He is a seriously powerful player,” said Smith. “Coming up against him when he plays for Auckland, he can take the game away from you.
“I know in New Zealand, with small boundaries and good pitches, he is someone you are really worried about in terms of coming in at four or five. He is a big, strong, strapping lad who can hit the ball hard and he is a great lad as well. He is good to have around and is an athlete in the field.”
The Desert Vipers stint will mark Smith’s first experience of franchise cricket, and he said he was looking forward to the GSL, the challenges ahead and the strong support for the sport in the Caribbean.
“I have seen a bit of the CPL (Caribbean Premier League), and they call it the Biggest Party in Sport, so hopefully we get a good crowd
in and there is lots of music and lots of energy.
“We will get a bit of an idea through these ODIs as well, I think, but hopefully there is a lot of noise, a lot of atmosphere and it is a lot of fun.”
The Desert Vipers for the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League reads: Captain Shadab Khan (PAK), Daryl Mitchell (NZ), Bevon Jacobs (NZ), Kyle Jamieson (NZ) Withdrawn, Nathan Smith (NZ), Rilee Rossouw (SAF), Vriitya Aravind (UAE), Khuzaima Bin Tanveer (UAE), Matiullah Khan (UAE), Sanjay Pahal (UAE), Andries Gous (USA), Kyle Mayers (WI), Khary Pierre (WI), Ramon Simmonds (WI), and Zachary Carter (WI).
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Evin Lewis and Rashid Khan
team-mates
The West Indies endured a difficult start in the third One-Day International (ODI) against New Zealand at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, after the visitors won the toss and elected to bowl first.
The hosts made a steady beginning, reaching 25 without loss in 5.3 overs before opener John Campbell was forced to retire hurt after sustaining an injury.
Ackeem Auguste looked positive during his innings but was unable to convert his start, falling for 26 from 27 deliveries. His dismissal sparked a collapse as New Zealand's bowlers tightened their grip on the contest.
Captain Shai Hope was bowled out for just eight, while Guyanese middle-order batsman Sherfane Rutherford struggled to get going before being dismissed for four off 14 balls, leaving the West Indies under early pressure.
Walking out to bat for his first match of the series, Shimron Hetmyer joined Keacy Carty in a rebuilding effort after the early collapse. The pair steadied the innings with a useful partnership and briefly raised hopes of a competitive total.
However, just as the West Indies appeared to be regaining control, Michael Bracewell struck a crucial blow by trapping Carty leg before wicket for a patient 48 from 77 deliveries, an innings that included six boundaries.
Hetmyer looked in
nings after retiring hurt, the hosts were bowled out for 140 in 37.1 overs.
departing.
Returning to West Indies colours, Keemo Paul was unable
New Zealand's spinners once again proved decisive. Jayden Lennox led the attack with an impressive 4-52 from 9.4 overs, while Michael Bracewell supported well with 2-30 from his eight overs as the visitors took firm control of the contest.
Chasing a modest target of 141, New Zealand made a cautious
Vitel Lawes again made an impact with the ball
to make an impact, scoring just four before being dismissed. The lower order offered little resistance as wickets continued to tumble, and with opener John Campbell unable to resume his in-
start, putting on 38 for the opening wicket before young leg-spinner Vitel Lawes made the breakthrough.
Lawes knocked over Henry Nicholls for 24 from 48 deliveries before
West Indies (50 ovs maximum)
John Campbell retired hurt 6
Ackeem Auguste c Santner
b Duffy 26
Keacy Carty lbw b Bracewell 48
Shai Hope (c)† b Lennox 8
Sherfane Rutherford c Smith
b Santner 4
Shimron Hetmyer c Smith
b Bracewell 26
Keemo Paul lbw b Lennox 4
Gudakesh Motie b Lennox 0
Khary Pierre b Santner 4
Alzarri Joseph b Lennox 7
Vitel Lawes not out 1
Extras (b 1, lb 2, nb 1, w 2) 6
Total 37.1 Ov (RR: 3.76) 140
Fall of wickets: 0-25* (John Campbell, retired not out), 1-38 (Ackeem Auguste, 8.6 ov), 2-67 (Shai Hope, 16.5 ov), 3-72 (Sherfane Rutherford, 19.5 ov), 4-121 (Keacy Carty, 28.5 ov), 5-128 (Shimron Hetmyer, 30.5 ov), 6-128 (Keemo Paul, 31.2 ov), 7-129 (Gudakesh Motie, 31.5 ov), 8-137 (Alzarri Joseph, 33.4 ov), 9-140 (Khary Pierre, 37.1 ov)
Bowling O-M-R-W Jacob Duffy 5-0-15-1
striking again to remove Mark Chapman for just seven. Chapman was trapped leg before wicket, leaving the visitors at 50-2 at the first drinks break.
The twin breakthroughs by the promising leg spinner briefly lifted West Indies' hopes as New Zealand looked to consolidate their chase.
Another steady partnership developed for New Zealand as the visitors edged closer to their target, but Vitel Lawes continued his impressive spell by breaking the stand. The young leg-spinner accounted for Will Young, who made 23 from 42 balls, to keep the West Indies in the contest.
Khary Pierre then provided another breakthrough when he dismissed New Zealand's experienced middle-or-
der batsman Daryl Mitchell for 28, producing a delivery that crashed into the stumps to leave the visitors at 89-4 after 27 overs.
However, that proved to be the final success for the West Indies bowlers. Tom Latham anchored the chase with an unbeaten 31 from 52
deliveries, while Dean Foxcroft finished 22 not out from 28 balls.
The pair shared an unbroken 52-run partnership for the fifth wicket to guide New Zealand to 141-4 in 39.3 overs, sealing a comfortable six-wicket victory to put them 2-1 up in the series.
Nathan Smith 4-0-22-0
Mitchell Santner 8.1-3-15-2
Jayden Lennox 10-0-52-4
Michael Bracewell 10-0-33-2
New Zealand
(T: 141 runs from 50 ovs)
Henry Nicholls b Lawes 24
Will Young c Pierre b Lawes 23
Mark Chapman lbw b Lawes 7
Daryl Mitchell b Pierre 28
Tom Latham † not out 31
Dean Foxcroft not out 22
Extras (lb 2, w 4) 6
Total 39.3 Ov (RR: 3.56) 141/4
Did not bat: Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, Jayden Lennox
Fall of wickets: 1-38 (Henry Nicholls, 11.2 ov), 2-50 (Mark Chapman, 15.1 ov), 3-77 (Will Young, 21.6 ov), 4-89 (Daryl Mitchell, 26.6 ov)
Bowling O-M-R-W
Khary Pierre 10-1-26-1
Alzarri Joseph 5-0-20-0
Gudakesh Motie 10-0-34-0
Vitel Lawes 10-0-39-3
Keemo Paul 1-0-6-0
Ackeem Auguste 3-0-12-0
Keacy Carty 0.3-0-2-0
The San Francisco Unicorns have on Thursday confirmed their 14man squad for the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) 2026, ahead of the franchise's historic debut in the tournament as the first-ever Major League Cricket (MLC) side to compete on the GSL stage.
The confirmed San Francisco Unicorns squad for GSL 2026 includes Connor Esterhuizen, Peter Siddle, Oliver Peake, Gideon Peters, Callum Stow, Tim Robinson, Hassan Khan, Anirudh Immanuel, Saideep Ganesh, Karima Gore, Fabian Allen, Hammad Azam, Sanjay Krishnamurthi, and Ghulam Mudassar.
League Cricket form into success on the global stage, having reached the MLC final in 2024 and finishing third in 2025. Their participation in the GSL marks a significant milestone in the growth of franchise cricket in the United States and its integration into the international T20 calendar.
Global Super League runs from Thursday, July 23, to Saturday, August 1, with all matches played at Providence Stadium, Guyana.
The Unicorns will be looking to translate their strong recent Major
The third edition of the ExxonMobil Guyana
The Unicorns join defending champions Guyana Amazon Warriors (CPL), Lahore Qalandars (PSL), Desert Vipers (ILT20) and Perth Scorchers XI (BBL) to complete the five-team line-up.
Malouda told this publication exclusively, “It’s only love. Like we say, we came here to connect with our friends, and football unites the world, and tonight, football unites two Guianas. We come here to support, we come here to enjoy, and the way everyone here welcomed us, I would say that I hope we have the opportunity to invite you to French Guiana and to Cayenne and let’s
the same weekend – I think its moving, should be inspiring for everybody around, and I think Guyana is leading the way for us. Like I said, we came here to inspire; what we saw is quite impressive,” Malouda explained.
to showcase the best of Guyana’s Masters players, taking on French legend Florent Malouda and his French counterparts.
The former France international and UEFA Champions League winner with Chelsea is in Guyana on football-related matters and finally got the opportunity to stretch his legs on the pitch.
The battle was an entertaining one as Malouda, Richardson, and Abrams all found the back of the net in the friendly clash.
Following the encounter, both Malouda and GFF Boss Forde had fond words to describe Wednesday night’s match.
Forde later shared, “I think it was a beautiful occasion, a really good game, competitive match. Of course, we were hoping to come away with the W, but it didn’t work out that way, but I think both teams enjoyed the match. A lot of camaraderie before during and after the game.”
“It’s always good to host someone who is renowned internationally. I’ve watch Malouda play for many years; I’m not particularly a Chelsea fan, I’m a Man U guy, but we all admire great players, and he is a legend, and it was good to host him and his team,” the GFF President added.
Football was not the only sport to peak Malouda’s interest in Guyana over the past few days, as he noted his amazement.
“I’m impressed. So many competitions, so many different sports in
The UEFA Champions League winner further divulged, “We had a visit with the Minister of Sports, showed us the plan, shared the vision. We came here to support, and we’ll definitely be back.”
Quizzed about his visit, Malouda expressed an intent to help boost Guyana’s football, especially a World Cup run.
“During my time at Chelsea, I had a good friend who was managing Guyana football team, so we had many discussions on this topic. I always promise him I would come to meet and to connect, so that’s also one of the purpose of the visit,” Malouda told this publication.
“I have my expertise in football internationally, and I wish if one day, Guyana is serious about maybe qualifying for the World Cup, I’ll be the first one to support. Now we have the connection, we have the link. I met the President of the GFF, and I’m available to work on future projects, and I hope this would come to fruition,” the former player added.
On the other hand, the GFF
President, following Malouda’s visit to their secretariat earlier this week, also noted his eagerness to collaborate with the international star.
Forde disclosed to Guyana Times Sport, “In terms of what we’ve been discussing, global football is all about network and former players at that level have particular networks because they’ve been through clubs, academies and they have relationships. Those relationships sometimes can be brought to bear for the main purpose of exposing players. So, we’re having those discussions.”
“I understand, from talking to him, he’s also investing in academies and other football projects. These are early days in our discussions, but we’ve made a decision that we’ll continue to talk and look at what might be a best fit to kick-start a collaboration.”
“Hopefully, in the not-so-distant future, we can be making an announcement about something we’re doing together,” the GFF boss added.
Malouda, born in Cayenne, French Guiana was a French national player for several years, notably competing in their memorable World Cup final run in 2006. He later won the UEFA Champions League with Premier League club Chelsea FC. (Jemima Holmes)