Guyana Times - Friday, July 24, 2026

MV Barima tragedy

“People of Guyana remain in our hearts & prayers” – King Charles

Messages of condolences continue to pour in following the July 18 capsizing of MV Barima off the Essequibo Coast, taking the lives of at least 65 persons while more than 30 others remain unaccounted for.

Guyana’s bilateral partners and allies, as well as civil organisations from around the world, have been reaching out to the Government to extend solidarity and offer support.

Among the most recent messages of condolences over Saturday night’s tragic ferry accident that President Dr Irfaan Ali has received is one from, King Charles III.

“My wife and I were most profoundly shocked and saddened to learn of the appallingly tragic loss of life following the capsizing of the MV Barima... The people of Guyana remain very much

in our hearts and in our prayers at this time of deep anguish and loss,” King Charles penned in his message that was shared by the British High Commission in Georgetown on Thursday.

The British Monarch went on to recall his fondest memories from his visit to Guyana, adding, “...So, it is with particular sorrow that I write to convey our deepest possible sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the people of Guyana and most especially to the families who have lost their loved ones.”

King Charles further extended a special tribute to the courage and dedication of the search and rescue teams who continue their efforts under such difficult circumstances.

Currently, there are at least 19 vessels, both Stateowned and private, and

three aircraft engaged in the operation off the Essequibo Coast, where the MV Barima is lying on the seabed about nine miles into the Atlantic.

The sunken ferry was first located on Monday by local

fishermen, who have been assisting with the operation since Saturday night, and its location was later confirmed by authorities.

The search and rescue efforts continue with sup-

port from regional partners, including the French Guiana army, the Brazilian navy, and the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard, which have deployed maritime assets and personnel to aid in recovering those missing persons. Their teams will support the diving operations and other specialised recovery activities.

In fact, the teams are actively trying to reposition the ferry on its keel in order to bring it closer to shore so that the divers can gain better access inside while efforts continue to locate those missing persons.

Guyana has also received multiple offers of support from other allies, including China and several Caribbean Community (Caricom) member states.

Meanwhile, the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) also on Thursday extended heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Guyana following the tragic ferry disaster that has claimed numerous lives and left countless families and communities in mourning.

“The association expresses its deepest sympathy to the families who have lost loved ones, those anxiously awaiting news of relatives, and the many children, friends, and communities whose lives have been for-

ever changed by this tragedy. While no words can ease such profound sorrow, CARILEC hopes that those affected will find strength in the love, compassion, and support surrounding them during this difficult time,” the missive detailed.

CARILEC too joined in recognising the tireless efforts of the emergency responders, law enforcement personnel, healthcare workers, volunteers, and everyone involved in the ongoing search, rescue, and recovery operations.

According to the Executive Director of CARILEC, Dr Cletus Bertin, “As an organisation founded on the principles of regional collaboration, mutual support, and service, we believe that the Caribbean is more than a collection of islands and nations; we are one community. In moments of triumph, we celebrate together, and in moments of tragedy, we stand together, sharing not only our solidarity but also our compassion, our prayers, and our unwavering support for one another.”

CARILEC is an association of over 100 energy solution providers, including the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc and other stakeholders operating in the electricity industry across the Caribbean.

Pedestrian killed by speeding car while attempting to cross roadway

Apedestrian was, on Wednesday evening, struck down and killed by a speeding car while attempting to cross the Amelia’s Ward Public Road in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

The dead man has been identified as 23-year-old Jahiem McBean, a resident of Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden.

Based on reports received, the accident occurred at about 23:20h and involved motor car PAF 6133, which was at the time being driven by a 25-year-old resident of the South Amelia’s Ward Housing Scheme, Linden.

Reports indicate that the motor car was proceeding along the Amelia’s Ward Public Road, allegedly at a fast rate of speed, when McBean, who was standing on the northern side of the road, suddenly attempted to cross from north to south.

The driver reportedly applied the brakes and swerved right in an attempt to avoid a collision, but the

Dead: Jahiem McBean

left front portion of the motor car struck McBean. As a result of the collision, McBean sustained injuries. He was picked up and transported to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he was pronounced dead.

Breathalyser tests conducted on the driver showed readings of 0.10 and 0.09 micrograms, respectively. He was arrested and is assisting with the investigations.

King Charles III

BRIDGE OPENING

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, July 24 –12:45h–14:15h and Saturday, July 25 – 13:55h–15:25h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers are expected to ease to light late-afternoon showers during the day, followed by cloudy skies at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East-North-Easterly to Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 12:29h reaching a maximum height of 2.07 metres.

Low Tide: 05:57h and 18:18h reaching minimum heights of 1.04 metre and 1.15 metre.

MV Barima tragedy

“Time will come for justice... but today we comfort and mourn” – Pres Ali

President Dr Irfaan Ali

resident Dr Irfaan

PAli has assured that while there will be justice for the victims of the MV Barima tragedy, the focus now is on supporting survivors and those families who have either lost loved ones or are still anxiously awaiting news of missing relatives.

“There will come a time for questions, for truth to rise, for justice to speak, but today is not that day. Today, we mourn. Today, we offer comfort. Today we stand with the broken and say with our every breath, ‘You are not alone’,” the Head of State declared.

He was addressing mourners during a prayer service held on Wednesday evening following a candlelight vigil/walk at Charity on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), where survivors and family members gathered in hopes of receiving news of their loved ones still unaccounted for following Saturday night’s capsizing of the MV Barima

So far, 76 persons have been rescued, 72 bodies recovered, and at least 31 still unaccounted for after the ferry capsized off the Essequibo Coast.

Recovered bodies are taken to Charity for identification and storage. Already, more than 20 of the 65 positively identified bodies have been handed over to family members.

The Government is covering transportation and funeral expenses for the families of these victims, who, according to the Guyanese leader, are enduring unbearable loss. But even though this tragedy has inflicted immortal wounds on the nation, the head of state reassured that the entire country will continue to rally and support the survivors as well as those who have lost loved ones.

“This wound is deep and terrible. It has shaken us to the core, but it shall not break us... Your grief is our nation’s grief. Your tears are our nation’s tears. We cannot remove your pain or restore what was taken from you. But I want you to know this with absolute certain-

commitment to your healing. You are not alone,” the president declared.

The prayer service at Charity comes as Guyana observes a three-day national mourning in remembrance of the victims of the MV Barima tragedy, which commenced on Wednesday with a national interfaith prayer service held at the Kingston Seawall in Georgetown.

It continued on Thursday with a ‘Night of Reflection and Prayer’ at Port Kaituma and then a similar event scheduled for tonight at

the vessel to a floating state in order to bring it closer to shore so that divers can gain better access inside.

Local divers have been supported by regional experts from the French Guiana army, Brazilian navy, and Trinidad and Tobago coast guard, which have also deployed maritime assets to assist with the recovery operations.

The MV Barima departed the Georgetown stelling at about 15:00h on Saturday on its scheduled voyage to Port Kaituma, Region One,

ty: we stand with you. Your Government stands with you. Your fellow citizens stand with you. Your country stands with you. As long as there is breath within this nation, we shall carry you in our prayers, in our compassion, and in our unwavering

Mabaruma – both in Region One (Barima-Waini).

Currently, the search and rescue operation continues off the Essequibo Coast, where the sunken MV Barima remains on the seabed. Technical teams are actively trying to reposition

carrying 179 persons, including 18 crew members and cargo. According to officials, the vessel encountered rough sea conditions off the Essequibo Coast near the mouth of the Pomeroon River late that night.

A candlelight vigil was held at Charity, Essequibo Coast, on Wednesday evening in remembrance of the victims of the MV Barima tragedy

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Garbage Today, Disaster Tomorrow

It has become apparent, and recently more glaring, that we have become increasingly irresponsible in disposing of our trash, which eventually ends up in our drains and waterways.

The voluminous build-up of garbage in communities across the country speaks of a society that is yet to be trained in proper waste disposal. We are guilty of indiscriminate dumping of garbage.

A casual drive around many communities would reveal the shocking truth: in many areas, there are mounds of garbage strewn across the reserves and roadways. In an attempt to conceal the act of indiscriminate dumping, some perpetrators dispose of their trash at night and go so far as to travel to neighbouring communities and villages to commit the act.

How sad that we have become so callously abusive of our environment. We only think of Mother Nature when calamity or disaster strikes. Every human being should go the extra mile in caring for our one and only Mother Earth.

Many of the smaller communities do not have regular garbage disposal services, and most private collectors service these areas at least once a week. Does this then excuse the action of residents taking their waste elsewhere? There are so many other options for solid waste disposal.

In most developed and developing countries like Guyana, with increasing population, prosperity, and urbanisation, it remains a major challenge for municipalities to collect, recycle, treat, and dispose of increasing quantities of solid waste, especially in a changing climate. Everyone is aware of the issues we face with solid waste management.

Isn’t it high time we took part in making our society garbage-free? Communities cannot rely solely on our Government to clean up the environment. A concerted effort is highly needed.

A cornerstone of sustainable development is the establishment of affordable, effective, and truly sustainable waste management practices. We should, therefore, make it a daily habit to help control the floods and other problems caused by the mountains of garbage we throw away. What is lacking is discipline in disposing of our garbage properly.

It was reported that the carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels in the Earth’s atmosphere have surged past an important threshold and may not dip below it for “many generations”. The 400 parts per million (ppm) benchmark was broken globally for the first time in recorded history in 2015.

According to a World Meteorological Organization (WMO) report, 2016 was the first full year to exceed the mark. The high levels can be partially attributed to a strong El Niño event, while it was reported that human emissions have remained fairly static between 2014 and 2015.

What is alarming is that experts say the last time CO₂ was above 400 ppm was three to five million years ago!

It is time to consider the reality facing the world today, and it is even more crucial to take stock of the individual responsibility for this global situation. It is highly improbable that citizens do not yet know the impacts of climate change and are unaware of current challenges across the globe regarding access to potable water, arable lands, and, in some severe cases, access to food.

The time has long since passed for affirmative action, and the hour of reckoning is upon us; the Earth itself is sending a message, and it behoves us to change our attitudes and behaviours. It is time we see the importance of becoming waste-wise and take the pledge to make a concerted effort to recycle more and reduce the waste sent to the landfill. If not today, when would be the perfect time for action?

All citizens should pledge to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle when possible and Rejoice in the wonderful creation we’ve been given.

Highlight the human factor of the disaster at Iron Punt

By Clement J Rohee

Following the MV Barima disaster at the treacherous confluence off the Essequibo Coast and the Atlantic Ocean, many moving and touching videos have been shared on social media platforms. Let me state from the outset that I view this tragedy from a human-interest perspective; all things being equal, it is the human factor that is primordial.

Amongst the many videos posted on social media, there was one particular video that attracted my attention. It was an emotional and very touching video showing a mother weeping uncontrollably for her child. In between tears, the woman managed to say that she had just bought some new clothes for her daughter, but now because of the tragedy she will not be able to wear them.

The woman was emotionally upset and, justifiably so. In the video, someone appeared to be consoling her in the midst of her grief and the motherly anger she was expressing because she had lost her child. It is a loss she is struggling to cope with and which she cannot reverse nor change. But it was not just this one mother; there are others. In one particular case, there is a mother who lost seven children in that tragedy.

The MV Barima tragedy was a tragedy of a different kind. It was not one that left persons lying dead on the road, where blood poured from their head and torso, or where their skin

was shredded and charred, with splinters of bones covered with dirt.

In this tragedy, people screamed for help while deep in the treacherous water up to their necks; many probably woke up in a state of shock and panic. Others must have died by asphyxiation, some by drowning in their sleep while the ill-fated vessel carrying the dead sank to the bottom of the ocean.

The mournful voices, the incessant weeping of affected families and friends in the current situation where parents, wives, husbands and children weep for the dead, hope for the missing and console survivors – it is the pain a grieving nation must face and lower its head with a sense of duty, empathy and thoughtfulness.

The question that will prove hard to sink in is how to process one’s loss and by what means can the transition be made from bereavement or from survival – how to be strong in the wake of this tragedy to make lives lost live –and to make their deaths count.

The answers to these questions should be viewed through the prism of service and acts of kindness aimed at empowering the survivor and the bereaved to surmount rather than to be heavily burdened; to find ways to frame their misfortune in a more personally understandable way that serves to protect them from being overwhelmed by trauma, isolation and indifference because of their frightening and painful experience.

There may be survivors who, perhaps, may have nightmares about the

horrific experience, while there may be others who, when they wake up every morning, they know that they are here and not there where the death boat lay. Then comes the pain were they ever to travel that ill-fated route again to pass by that painfully dark and ugly place where the boat went down, drowning many and conjuring up memories of those lost at sea, thus compounding their daily suffering.

At another level lies the challenge of fulfilling public commitments made at an individual, community, sectoral and societal level; overcoming institutional lethargy; and the search for scapegoats and to lash out at them or to invent escapist solutions.

Sections of the media should allow parents, mothers and entire families to grieve and weep privately. Their grief and sorrow, as well as individual stories by survivors, should not be transformed into a public spectacle. Nor should publicising their stories compound their trauma. And they should never get weary of sections of the media who turn their pain into breaking news and headline embellishments.

The greatest fear of the bereaved is that their loved ones will be forgotten. To prevent the slow erasure and closure of their unfinished goals that their premature deaths prohibited, the nation is duty-bound to pay homage and respect and to fulfil whatever may have been their goals and aspirations as well as their wishes for improvement in the lives of every Guyanese man, woman and child.

President Dr Irfaan Ali joins the nation in solemn remembrance of those who lost their lives and those who remain missing following the MV Barima tragedy. The President and other Government officials attended the candlelight vigil at Charity, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), on Wednesday evening

Diversifying village economies will build long-term prosperity – Min Rodrigues

...urges Indigenous villages to embrace tourism, entrepreneurship

The Government is encouraging Indigenous communities to embrace tourism and entrepreneurship as major drivers of economic growth, with expanded support available through the Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry to assist villages in creating jobs, generating wealth, and preserving their cultural heritage.

Speaking to village leaders at the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference 2026 being held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, subject Minister Susan Rodrigues said di-

versifying village economies will strengthen long-term prosperity while reducing dependence on traditional industries.

“You have heard a lot over the last three days about ways in which you can expand economic activities in your village communities and, by that, engineer wealth creation and job creation. Today, we will focus on the diversification of village economies. The main message I want to leave with you is that diversification of village economies will create greater prosperity,” she stated.

The Minister urged village leaders to consider tourism and small business development as practical opportunities for expanding their local economies.

She explained that communities with tourism potential can receive support from the Guyana Tourism Authority through product assessments, guide training, hospitality programmes, and marketing initiatives.

Rodrigues noted that Guyana’s Indigenous culture remains one of the country’s greatest tourism assets, attracting travellers seeking authentic experiences while creating opportunities for communities to preserve their traditions.

“Your culture is your greatest asset. Our Indigenous culture is one of Guyana’s greatest assets, and tourism is a vehicle through which we can preserve your culture, preserve your traditions, preserve your way of life, and educate the world about it,” she said.

Over the past six years, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has worked with between six and nine Indigenous communities, di-

rectly benefiting 6944 persons through training programmes while developing 18 tourism products.

The Minister also outlined the work of the Small Business Bureau, which has invested in entrepreneurship through grants, loans, training, and community development projects.

Since 2020, the bureau has supported 4068 beneficiaries across 92 Indigenous communities and implemented 39 community development projects, backed by a $441 million investment that included the establishment of the Lethem Incubator Centre.

The Minister added that the Government is further expanding access to financing through the soonto-be-established Guyana Development Bank, which will provide interest-free and collateral-free loans of up to $3 million for viable business ventures.

“I want to urge you to start thinking about your different business ideas and to start putting together your proposals because this bank is coming, and it’s almost here. The technicians

will work with you to prepare your business plans and structure your businesses so they can be successful, repay the loan, and continue to grow,” the Minister told the village leaders.

The Minister also outlined the Ministry’s ongoing work to develop tourism circuits, linking nearby communities into visitor itineraries that allow travellers to experience multiple destinations while increasing economic opportunities across villages.

Minister Rodrigues

pointed to the recent success of Toka Village, which captured the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s 2026 Community-Based Tourism Award, as evidence of the international recognition that community-led tourism can achieve.

She said the Ministry will continue working with Indigenous communities to assess tourism opportunities, strengthen local enterprises, and support the development of sustainable village economies through inclusive partnerships.

Regional unity must be seen in times of tragedy

Dear Editor,

The devastating capsizing of the MV Barima passenger ferry has brought profound sorrow to the people of Guyana and to families desperately awaiting news of their loved ones. With lives lost, passengers still unaccounted for and rescue and recovery operations continuing, this is not a time for politics or empty regional slogans. It is a time for action, compassion and solidarity.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Government deserves recognition for responding quickly and practically to Guyana’s request for assistance. Our Defence Force deployed an aircraft, a Coast Guard vessel and 27 personnel, including seven divers, to support the difficult search and recovery operations.

This was more than a ceremonial expression of sympathy. It represented trained personnel entering a danger-

ous environment, specialised divers assisting in challenging waters, aircraft supporting aerial searches and a Coast Guard vessel carrying resources directly to the affected area.

When tragedy strikes, condolences are important, but capabilities can save lives, recover the missing and help grieving families obtain some measure of closure.

For many years, Caribbean leaders have spoken about regional cooperation, shared responsibility and the bonds that unite our people. However, regional unity must be demonstrated when one country is facing a disaster that overwhelms its immediate resources.

Trinidad and Tobago’s response shows that CARICOM is not merely a collection of meetings, communiqués and official photographs. It can also become a practical network through which neigh-

bouring countries support one another in moments of urgent need.

Guyana is more than a regional partner. Thousands of Trinidad and Tobago citizens have Guyanese relatives, friends, colleagues and business connections. Our histories, cultures and economies have become increasingly intertwined. When Guyanese families suffer, many families in Trinidad and Tobago feel that pain as well. It was therefore appropriate for the Government to act with urgency and humanity.

The deployment also reminds us of the importance of maintaining a capable and properly resourced Defence Force. Citizens sometimes see military vessels, aircraft, divers and specialised training only through the lens of national security.

Yet these resources are equally important for humanitarian assistance, disaster re-

sponse, maritime emergencies and regional rescue operations.

The men and women participating in this mission represent Trinidad and Tobago with courage and professionalism. Their work may not always receive the public attention given to politicians, but their willingness to leave home and assist another nation during one of its darkest moments deserves the country’s respect.

There will eventually be investigations into the cause of this tragedy, the condition of the vessel, the accuracy of the passenger manifest and whether maritime safety procedures were followed.

Those investigations are necessary, and anyone responsible for negligence must be held accountable.

For now, however, the immediate priority must remain supporting the search, assisting survivors and bringing clo-

May this heartbreaking event inspire unity

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at extends its deepest condolences to the families, loved ones, and all those affected by the tragic sinking of the MV Barima. We mourn the precious lives that were lost and share in the grief that has touched communities across Guyana.

At times of such profound

sorrow, we are reminded of the Holy Qur’anic words: “Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return.”

(Holy Qur’an 2:157) We pray that Almighty Allah grants His mercy upon those who have passed away, comforts every grieving heart, strengthens the bereaved with patience and resilience, and grants a swift recovery to those who were injured or affected by this tragedy.

May this heartbreaking event inspire unity, compassion, and mutual support as we stand together as one nation during this difficult time. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at remains steadfast in prayer for all those impacted and calls upon everyone to extend kindness and assistance to the affected families in whatever way possible.

Our thoughts and

prayers are with the people of Guyana. May Allah, the Exalted, envelop our nation in His mercy, grant peace to the departed, and bestow comfort and strength upon all who mourn.

Ameen.

Aftabuddin Nassir General Secretary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Guyana

sure to grieving families.

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has shown that regional leadership is not measured only by speeches. It is measured by whether we are prepared to deploy our people, equipment and expertise when our neighbours need us most.

In Guyana’s hour of grief, Trinidad and Tobago did not simply say that we stood with them. We sent help. That is what Caribbean unity looks like.

Yours sincerely, Zahir Khan Trinidad and Tobago

FRIDAY, JULY 24, 2026

Aerial view of the Lethem Business Incubator and Industrial Estate

Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues

Page Foundation

Squares and square roots Cont’d

The square root of a number is a value that can be multiplied by itself to give the original number. For example the square root of 225 is 15.

A square root is the inverse operation of squaring a number.

The square root symbol looks like this: √ Its mathematical name is the ‘radical’. The square root function only gives us the positive value of the square root. We call this the principal square root

When we square a positive number/variable or a negative number/variable, we always get a positive answer.

This means when we want the square root of a number/variable we get a positive and a negative answer

The symbol ± means both the positive and negative of the number/variable shown.

For example,

As 32 = 9, the square root of 9 is 3.

Most living things try to protect themselves from harm. Animals have a special protection called the immune system. The immune system protects the body from substances called antigens. Some of the most harmful antigens are germs like viruses and bacteria, which cause illness. Parts of the immune system block antigens from entering the body. Other parts destroy the antigens that do enter.

The protection given by the immune system is called immunity. Humans and some animals have two basic types of immunity: natural and acquired.

All animals, including humans, have natural immunity. It works against any antigen that enters or tries to enter the body. Skin is a part of natural immunity. It blocks many things from entering the body. Mucus in the nose also blocks antigens. In addition, most animals produce special chemicals and cells that attack antigens inside the body.

Only human beings and other animals with backbones have acquired immunity. With this

This can be written as ±√9=±3.

As 82 = 64, the square root of 64 is 8.

This can be written as ±√64=±8

When calculating 2×2×2×2×2, we can express the same calculation as 25

As 2×2×2×2×2=32, we can say that the 5th root of 32 is 2.

This would be written as 5√32=2.

Practice

What is 32?

What is 52?

What is 104?

What is 76?

What is 125?

What is √4?

What is √25?

What is √49?

Which number squared equals 81?

Which number squared equals 100?

kind of immunity, certain cells in the body can “remember” the types of antigens they have attacked in the past. This “memory” allows the acquired immune system to attack these antigens more strongly the next time they enter the body.

By RoBeRt Southey

CONTINUED

“I have left a good woman who never was here.” The Stranger he made reply, “But that my draught should be the better for that, I pray you answer me why?

“St Keyne,” quoth the Cornish-man, “many a time Drank of this crystal Well, And before the Angel summon’d her, She laid on the water a spell.

“If the Husband of this gifted Well Shall drink before his Wife, A happy man thenceforth is he, For he shall be Master for life.

“But if the Wife should drink of it first,— God help the Husband then! The Stranger stoopt to the Well of St Keyne, And drank of the water again.

“You drank of the Well I warrant betimes?” He to the Cornish-man said: But the Cornish-man smiled as the Stranger spake, And sheepishly shook his head.

“I hasten’d as soon as the wedding was done, And left my Wife in the porch; But i’ faith she had been wiser than me, For she took a bottle to Church.

(Britannica Kids)

MV Barima tragedy Teams battle harsh Atlantic conditions to reposition sunken vessel

...death toll climbs to 72 as 65 bodies identified; over 30 still missing

The death toll from Saturday night’s capsizing of the MV Barima off the Essequibo Coast continues to rise as authorities recover more bodies while efforts continue to reposition the sunken vessel in order to gain better access as part of ongoing recovery efforts.

In his latest update via a video statement on the search and recovery operations, Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips confirmed on Thursday night that the total number of bodies recovered to date is 72 following the discovery of several others.

According to the PM, who is leading the Government’s emergency response operation, “...65 of the [72] recovered bodies have been identified by their families.”

So far, more than 20 bodies have been handed over to the respective families for funeral rites, with the Government covering all the expenses. In fact, several of these victims were laid to rest on Thursday.

The number of people rescued from last weekend’s tragedy remains at 76, while at least 31 persons are still missing.

However, the search and recovery operations are ongoing, with the technical teams continuing to work on repositioning the sunken MV Barima, which lies on the seabed some nine miles off the Essequibo Coast in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The aim is to have the vessel positioned on its keel in order to bring it closer to shore where divers can safely enter.

Currently, there are 22 assets, both state and private, comprising 19 vessels and three aircraft that remain actively engaged in the search and recovery operation.

As part of the broader recovery effort, Guyana is re-

ceiving support from regional partners, including the French Guiana Army, the Brazilian Navy, and the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard, which have deployed maritime assets and personnel to aid in recovering the missing persons. Their teams will support diving operations and other specialised recovery activities.

This newspaper understands that the divers, both local and foreign, are encountering challenging conditions while attempting to move the vessel.

“They’re still trying [to reposition] the boat... The divers are trying to attach cables and such to the boat so that work is ongoing. When they’re done attaching the cables and everything, then they’ll try to move the boat,” PM Phillips told the Guyana Times when contacted around mid-afternoon on Thursday for an update on the offshore operations.

This publication understands that the divers had successfully attached the cables and ropes to the sunken ferry; however, persons closely involved in the recovery operation explained that when they try to pull the vessel, the cables and ropes kept bursting.

“Time will come for...

Survivors have recalled that the ferry began tilting to one side before capsizing, throwing passengers into the water in less than a minute. A distress signal transmitted at approximately 23:01h was received by aviation authorities, triggering a large-scale multi-agency emergency response that continues.

Addressing concerns raised in the aftermath of the disaster, blood samples were taken from the captain and crew members for testing. Authorities released the results showing positive tests for cannabis and subsequently arrested the captain and at least two crew members. Another official from the Transport and Harbours Department (THD), which manages ferry services, was also detained as part of the

police investigation.

FROM PAGE 3

Subsequently, the government, in its initial probe into the issue, uncovered that more people were aboard the vessel than had been recorded on the original passenger manifest. That information, along with the manifest, was immediately made public and has since led to the suspension of several managers at the THD.

Meanwhile, the Guyana government has also announced that an independent Commission of Inquiry (CoI) would be launched to determine the circumstances that led to the sinking of the MV Barima. That investigation is expected to examine all relevant factors before any further actions are taken.

Despite the rough Atlantic conditions and some divers even becoming sick, the teams remain adamant in their efforts to move the vessel. In addition to foreign assistance, this multi-agency operation is also supported by the private sector and local fishermen, who not only played a critical role in rescuing survivors but were also the first to locate the sunken ferry on Monday.

Night operation

Nevertheless, President Dr Irfaan Ali indicated that the recovery operations continued into Thursday night.

“Efforts continue into the night as teams work tirelessly to reposition the wreck of the MV Barima so that divers can safely carry out the next phase of the operation,” the Guyanese leader said in an update on his social media page.

Since Monday, President Ali has been on the ground in Charity, Essequibo Coast, where survivors and anxious family members are awaiting

ing relatives of those still missing, including crew members’ families, about the ongoing search, rescue, and recovery operations.

President Ali has already assured these families that no effort would be spared to locate their missing loved ones.

“We’re not giving up on

news of their loved ones yet to be found. Recovered bodies are taken to Charity for identification and storage.

On Thursday morning, the Head of State engaged with and updated the griev-

recovery. We’re not giving up on rescue... We’re still trying... to get inside the vessel. Unfortunately, the strength of the current did not allow us to make the type of progress we were anticipating... I

want to assure you that we’re not going to stop. We’re going to continue this [operation],” he declared.

Drone flying prohibited

Meanwhile, aerial surveillance continues across the designated search area, which spans an expanded 2,100 square kilometres and extends up to Waini Point, Region One (Barima-Waini).

Authorities are cautioning the public to refrain from flying drones within the airspace of the designated search area since this poses a significant hazard to the aircraft conducting the critical aerial operations.

The MV Barima departed the Georgetown stelling at about 15:00h on Saturday on its scheduled voyage to Port Kaituma, Region One, carrying 179 persons, including 18 crew members and cargo. According to officials, the vessel encountered rough sea conditions off the Essequibo Coast near the mouth of the Pomeroon River late that night.

Survivors have recalled that the ferry began tilting to one side before capsizing, throwing passengers into the water in less than a minute.

A distress signal transmitted at approximately 23:01h was received by aviation authori-

ties, triggering a large-scale multi-agency emergency response that still continues.

Addressing concerns raised in the aftermath of the disaster, blood samples were taken from the captain and crew members for testing. Authorities released the results showing positive tests for cannabis and subsequently arrested the captain and two crew members. Another official from the Transport and Harbours Department (THD), which manages ferry services, was also detained as part of the police investigation.

Subsequently, the Government, in its initial probe on the issue, uncovered that more people were aboard the vessel than had been recorded on the original passenger manifest. That information, along with the manifest, was immediately made public and resulted in a number of managers at the THD being sent off.

Meanwhile, the Government has since announced that an independent Commission of Inquiry (CoI) would be launched to determine the circumstances that led to the sinking of the MV Barima. The investigation is expected to examine all relevant factors before any further actions are taken.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips

Efforts continue off the Essequibo Coast to reposition and move the sunken MV Barima

Some of the victims

Clairmonte King

Brazilian woman charged for stabbing husband to death

Forty-nine-year-old Doroteia Castilho

Maia, a Brazilian national who allegedly stabbed her husband to death during an argument on Saturday at Rock Creek Backdam,

Puruni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), was arraigned for murder on Wednesday.

Maia, a gold miner from Manaus, Brazil, appeared before Magistrate Teriq

Charged: Doroteia Castilho Maia

Mohamed at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court and was not required to plead to the indictment.

Police stated that on Saturday, July 18, 2026, Maia murdered Antonio Pereira Figueredo, 53,

at Rock Creek Backdam, Puruni River. The woman was remanded to prison until August 31, 2026.

It was reported that on the day in question, the couple was involved in a heated argument at their mining camp, during which the man was stabbed once in the abdomen.

The Police were summoned, and upon arrival at the scene, the now-deceased man was lying on the ground next to one of the camps. Upon inspection of his body, the Police confirmed a stab wound to his abdomen.

In addition, a kitchen knife suspected to have been the weapon used to commit the crime was recovered. The suspect was arrested and escorted to the Bartica Police Station, where she was charged.

Pushing…

…Mourning by Megaphone

Your Eyewitness has noted there’s a peculiar species of politician who only emerge after disasters!! They don’t arrive with life jackets, engineering reports, or practical solutions – they just descend on the scene armed with smartphones – even drones! – and carefully rehearsed expressions of solemn outrage!! The tragic sinking of the MV Barima has become their latest stage.

To be fair, one might have to make an exception for Sanction Man the LOO, who arrived in his fancy, high-powered, wannabe yacht speed boat from which he used to fire high-powered rifles back in the day across the Demerara River while hosting “freak-off” parties!! He used his experience to recover several dead bodies. But further down and across the Opposition food chain, the competition appears less about dealing with the tragedy than about auditioning for the role of Chief Mourner!!

Every utterance is more theatrical than the last; every Facebook post is soaked in freshly manufactured indignation; every interview is delivered as though Shakespeare himself had been retained as media consultant!! One almost expects black armbands embroidered with party logos!! Yes, Dear Readers, the Barima tragedy has sadly become a political talent show –with contestants competing to demonstrate who’s the most distraught, the most outraged, the most compassionate – all recorded, of course!! Curiously absent from this emotional marathon are serious technical proposals about ocean-going vessels which regrettably offer few opportunities for dramatic sound bites!!

Virtue signalling – which cynically is what these performances are all about – has become the easiest currency in politics!! It doesn’t need any investment beyond a press release and perhaps an appropriately sombre profile picture!! The objective ain’t to solve the problem but to be photographed looking devastated by it!! If social media reactions could repair hulls, Guyana would now possess the safest ferry fleet in the Caribbean!

The irony is that genuine accountability is painstaking work. It involves what the Government is doing – WAITING for investigations, examining maintenance records, identifying individual failures, exposing systemic weaknesses and, where negligence is proven, ensuring that those responsible face legal and professional consequences!! That process is slower than a Facebook livestream and considerably less glamorous!! Political opportunism, however, cannot wait: it demands immediacy. Every hour that passes without a dramatic statement is another hour in which a competitor might monopolise the outrage.

However, the families who lost loved ones deserve better than competitive grief: facts rather than theatrics, reforms instead of hashtags, and justice instead of performance art!! Perhaps the greatest tribute to those who perished would be to ensure that no politician ever again finds it profitable to turn a national tragedy into a campaign advertisement disguised as compassion!!

In Guyanese politics, some folks mistake standing at a graveside for standing on higher moral ground!

…Centrifugal Double Standards

It seems the US just discovered a revolutionary scientific principle: uranium enrichment ain’t dangerous – it just depends on whose centrifuge is spinning! For years, we were warned that Iran enriching uranium was an existential threat –worthy of sanctions, sabotage, air strikes and solemn speeches about the survival of civilisation!!

Now comes a deal to sell nuclear reactors to Saudi Arabia – with no stipulation to forbid enrichment, as with the UAE. Seems the centrifuges ain’t evil no mo!! They’ve just changed neighbourhoods!! Your Eyewitness imagines the uranium itself being thoroughly confused – “Yesterday I was the reason for war. Today I’m part of a strategic partnership??”

To be fair, Governments always give a free pass to allies and trust them with technologies that adversaries are denied. That distinction lies at the heart of most security alliances, innit?? But when one country’s enrichment is a casus belli while another’s is accommodated under a friendly agreement, folks are bound to ask whether the principle is non-proliferation… Or simply selective proliferation!!

…against narco-smuggling

Your Eyewitness was beginning to wonder what happened to Venezuela’s comrade Mad Maduro, who’d been spirited away to New York on narco-trafficking charges – as head of the Cartel de las Solos!!

Seems like the trials are for June 1, 2027!!

Race for UNSG’s post

Guyana’s Rodrigues-Birkett

unveils

5-point agenda for 1st 100 days if elected

Nominee for United Nations Secretary General (UNSG) and Guyana’s current Permanent Representative to the body, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, on Thursday said that should she be appointed, she would ensure that the top world organisation for peace and protection of human rights be reformed and be “fit for purpose”.

Giving insight into an agenda for her first 100 days in office, she promised a fivepronged focus which includes humanitarian action, support for vulnerable countries, reform, conflict prevention, and financing. The foundation for these goals to be realised, she contended, will be by beginning with the appointment of a senior team that reflects competence, geographical balance and gender balance.

“The first order of business, obviously, will be deploying my senior team,” Rodrigues-Birkett said at the United Nations headquarters in New York, where a twohour Town Hall debate was held with the six nominees vying for the post of SG.

“And then I’ll focus on five things. First, it’s reform, advancing the reform of the secretariat, which will be under my authority. But another aspect of that reform is providing the member states with the neutral information that they need to make the structural reforms, because that reform is in the hands of member states. Secondly, it will be on conflict resolution and prevention, and there I would look how the tools at the disposal of the Secretary General, mediation or the good offices can be used or can be better used and start deploying those,” she added.

The five other nominees are María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés, who was nominated by Antigua and Barbuda; Rafael Mariano Grossi, nominated by Argentina; Rebeca Grynspan Mayufis, nominated by Costa Rica; and Macky Sall, nominated by Burundi.

The former minister of government here that has also received support from some CARICOM countries underscored that equity must be the compass of global governance as she distinguished between reforms that can be advanced by the SG and structural reforms that require decisions by Member States.

“Another aspect of that reform is providing the Member States with the neutral information that they need to make the structural reforms, because that reform is in the hands of Member States,” she said.

On the focus of conflict resolution and prevention, she said that she would examine how the SG’s existing diplomatic tools could be used more effectively.

Singling out mediation and the SG’s good offices as mechanisms that could be strengthened and more actively deployed, she promised to use these in the execution of her works.

“There I would look how the tools at the disposal of the Secretary General, mediation or the good offices can be used or can be better used and start deploying those,” she said.

Her third priority, she highlighted, would be the humanitarian situation, which she described as a major global concern that needs continued improvements and noted that the United Nations must become more effective at translating its principles and decisions into tangible improvements in people’s lives. “We have a really terrible humanitarian situation,” Rodrigues-Birkett said.

While acknowledging that work is already under way to improve humanitarian assistance, she said a new Administration would need to examine the barriers preventing aid from reaching people in need.

“But I would want to advance that, looking at what are the impediments, political, logistical, and how we can deliver better.”

Ambassador RodriguesBirkett also identified the concerns of unrepresented and under-represented countries as an issue requiring early attention, and she pledged “addressing the unrepresented and under-represented countries”.

That the issue had been raised by a number of Member States during the interactive dialogue, she emphasised that that work would have to begin early in a new Administration.

She explained that the legitimacy of the UN depends not only on what it says but also on whether people see the organisation as relevant to their daily concerns such as peace, development, climate change, inequality, human rights, and economic opportunity. It is why she stressed too that “delivery” has to be seen and that the UN must connect global commitments with implementation at the national and local levels.

“I will have to commence that because that came up from a lot of Member States in the interactive dialogue,” Rodrigues-Birkett said. Also, on the 100 days agenda would be including discussions with international financial institutions, particularly on ways to improve access to concessional financing for vulnerable countries.

The Guyanese envoy said that even limited changes to the system could provide meaningful relief.

“As I mentioned before, even small steps that are sys-

temic that can bring relief to countries, especially when it comes to concessional financing, would make a huge difference, even as we work for greater reforms,” she said.

She stressed, however, that engagement with international financial insti-

tutions would be based on partnership. “But I want to do that in partnership, not from a pedestal speaking to the IFIs, but working in partnership and, of course, with Member States,” she said.

Rodrigues-Birkett also pointed to the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index as a possible mechanism for improving how countries are assessed for access to financing.

She noted that international discussions have already begun on moving beyond GDP as the sole measure of a country’s development or vulnerability.

“We have the multidimensional vulnerability index, and work has already started on going beyond GDP,” she said.

The challenge, she said, is determining how such tools can be applied to improve access to concessional financing for the countries most in need.

“But how do we use the MVI, for example, to work on concessional financing for the most vulnerable countries?” she asked.

And when asked what she would do if diplomacy within the United Nations Security Council failed to produce agreement, she argued that the SG must not simply accept paralysis, acknowledging that while there are limits imposed by geopolitical divisions, those limitations could not become an excuse for inaction.

“I believe that there is space for the Secretary

General when there is no agreement by members of the Security Council to present options that could possibly be utilised to dialogue with the conflict parties,” she said.

Pointing to the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz, as an example, she reasoned, “We have not been able to see the results we want to see in ending the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz,” she said. Nevertheless, she emphasised that the SG retains an important political and diplomatic role even when the Security Council cannot reach agreement, and she would exhaust using all the tools at her disposal and try to create openings for dialogue and keep the possibility of a peaceful settlement alive.

Nominee for United Nations SG and Guyana’s current Permanent Representative to the body, Ambassador Carolyn RodriguesBirkett, during the debate on Thursday evening

Govt initiates nationwide psychosocial support for MV Barima survivors, families

The Human Services and Social Security Ministry has mobilised social workers and psychologists across several regions to provide ongoing psychosocial support to survivors and families affected by the MV Barima tragedy, describing the initiative as a long-term response to the national disaster.

In a social media post on Thursday, the subject Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud, said the intervention will continue to the end of the year, with services evolving based on the needs of those affected.

“This is something we envisage that will go on till perhaps the end of the year and will evolve as we move along based on the needs that will be coming up from these interventions. So, every person who would have had someone on board the MV Barima, we would have been receiving that list either through the manifest or we would have been receiving the list from persons who are on ground in Region Two dealing with survivors and dealing with persons who are recovering their loved ones, their bodies, and we would have been compiling a list and, based on that, assigning our social workers to those families.”

She added that social workers have already been deployed across multiple regions to ensure affected families receive support regardless of where they reside.

“At the call, these persons would have been working in Region Four and in Regions One and Two, and as we got news of persons from other regions like Three, Five, and Six, and, we’ve also learned, Seven, we are geared for any other region that will be involved.”

Meanwhile, the Minister said the Ministry is intensifying its psychosocial response in Region One, where the majority of those

affected are either survivors or families who lost loved ones in the MV Barima tragedy. She explained that additional social workers have been deployed to the region, while more officers and psychologists continue to arrive to strengthen support services on the ground.

She further noted that in Region Two, social workers from the Human Services, Health and Education Ministries have been providing hands-on assistance to grieving families, including accompanying relatives to identify the bodies of their loved ones.

According to Dr Persaud, social workers met families upon arrival, remain with them throughout the identification process, and continue providing support during the funeral period and beyond.

Special attention, she said, is also being given to children affected by the tragedy. In collaboration with Education Minister Sonia Parag, the Ministry is working to train education personnel in trauma-focused grief counselling to support not only children who lost family members but also those mourning classmates and friends. She said the aim is to ensure every affected child receives the emotional care and counselling needed in the aftermath of the disaster.

However, she emphasised that the Ministry’s support will not end with counselling sessions or the identification process. She said social workers will continue accompanying grieving families before, during and after funeral services to ensure they receive consistent emotional support throughout their bereavement.

“Outside of that, we are making sure that when my Cabinet colleagues will be going to all of the funerals, the social workers are there with them for those fam-

ilies, and they have that presence; they have that support. It is also before funerals, at wakes, and then it will be after the funerals. For example, at Umana Yana, there was an elderly woman who lost one of her loved ones, and we didn’t just send her home by herself because she wasn’t going in to identify a body. We sent a social worker with her. That’s the fact that our country is devastated.”

The Ministry has said it will continue monitoring the needs of survivors and bereaved families as recovery efforts progress, with psychosocial support remaining a key component of the government’s response to the tragedy.

The tragedy has devastated families across several regions, with many relatives visibly distraught as they received news

that their loved ones were among those aboard the MV Barima. Emotional scenes

unfolded at hospitals, ports and communities as survivors reunited with family members while others waited anxiously for news.

Human Services Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud

As the nation continues to mourn the MV Barima tragedy, candlelight vigils were held across those who are still holding onto hope. From all of us at Guyana Times, we extend our sincere

across the country, showing solidarity to those who have lost loved ones and to sincere sympathies and keep every affected family in our thoughts and prayers.

Tears, tributes flow as 1st set of MV Barima victims laid to rest

Days after the MV Barima tragedy off Guyana’s coast, which claimed the lives of scores of people, including children, several families gathered on Thursday to say their final goodbyes to loved ones as heart-breaking funeral services unfolded in an atmosphere of deep grief.

In White Water Village, Region One (Barima-Waini), relatives, friends and residents paid their final respects to Shamera Smith and Aarave Daniels, whose lives were cut short in the mar-

itime disaster. The funeral service drew members of the wider community, alongside regional officials who attended to offer condolences and support to the bereaved families.

Among those present were Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley, Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat, Regional Executive Officer Dr Steven Cheefoon, and other regional representatives.

Meanwhile, at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Lawns in Mabaruma, family members, friends, residents and government officials gathered for the funeral service of Gwenette Nunes and Ulanda Marques, who also perished in the tragedy.

Officials joined mourners in paying tribute to the victims and extending condolences to their grieving relatives, as communities across the region continued to mourn those who lost their lives.

The funeral services formed part of a series of ceremonies being held for victims of the MV Barima tragedy, which has left families and communities across Region One mourning the sudden loss of loved ones.

Meanwhile, family, friends and loved ones gathered on Thursday at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home to pay their final respects to Clairmonte King, one of the victims of the MV Barima tragedy.

King was remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle, with mourners sharing heartfelt tributes as they celebrated his life and reflected on the impact he had on those around him.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, joined the grieving family at the homegoing service, offering condolences and words of comfort as they mourned the loss of their loved one.

The Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting families affected by the MV Barima tragedy while standing in solidarity with the King family as they bid farewell to a cherished member of their family.

Over in the ancient county of Berbice, family and friends bid their final farewell to Kevin Wilson, one of the crew members who tragically lost his life. Attending the funeral were Regional Chairman Junior Bassant and Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh along with other regional officials.

In Region Three, Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar and other officials joined the family, relatives, and friends of Ravindra Singh and Bibi Mohamed in an emotional send-off.

During the funeral at Zeelugt, Minister Indar expressed heartfelt condolences, acknowledging the profound grief that the nation is experiencing due to this tragedy.

He reaffirmed the Government of Guyana’s support for the affected families and encouraged the wider community to come together in prayer and compassionate support for all those impacted by this heart-breaking event. Minister Priya Manickchand and Regional Chairman Ayube Inshaan also attended the funeral service.

Caskets of Shamera Smith and Aarave Daniels

Minister Vickram Bharrat and others at the funeral service of Shamera Smith and Aarave Daniels

Caskets of Ulanda Marques and Gwenette Nunes

Deceased: Clairmonte King The casket bearing the body of Kevin Wilson

The relatives of Wilson surrounding the casket

The caskets of Ravindra Singh and Bibi Mohamed on the ground as the final Janazah is being read

More than 1200 hinterland residents benefit from housing programmes

– 330 homes under construction across Regions 1, 7, 8 & 9

Captain Learie Barclay was on Monday re-elected President of the Aviation Operators’ Association of Guyana (AOAG) for the year 20262027 when the organisation hosted its annual general meeting on Monday.

In addition, Capt Andre Farinha was elected First Vice President, while Lt Col Miguel Benjamin was elected Second Vice President, and Capt Ronald Reece and Lt Col (Ret’d) Anthony Mekdeci were elected Directors.

In his official report to the association, Captain Barclay emphasised that the association is recognised as a “professional and respectful channel through which the collective voice of aircraft operators can consistently reach those responsible for aviation policy.”

He further pointed out that while this does not mean that “every recommendation has been accepted” nor that “every concern has been resolved”, importantly, “it does mean that this industry is no longer absent from the conversation.”

Barclay underlined the fact that the relationship established does not belong to the executive but represents every operator represented by the Association and not-

ed that the Association is encouraged by the “improvements in aviation infrastructure across Guyana”.

He, however, stated that “there remain aerodromes requiring investment…operational challenges that affect efficiency, safety, and reliability”, but “improvements are being made” and that the Government “has demonstrated a willingness to invest”.

The President of the association pointed out that the association now has its rightful place within the wider Private Sector. Aviation, he pointed out, “carries workers to the mines, supports tourism, delivers supplies to remote communities, facilitates healthcare, enables investment, supports national security, [and] connects families.”

The President observed that “without aviation, large portions of Guyana simply cannot participate fully in our nation’s economic development” and that the “message is increasingly being heard”.

In closing, he promised the association that decisions affecting the industry must never again be made “without this industry’s voice being heard”. That, he said, “is the responsibility of this association.”

More than 1200 residents from 32 hinterland villages have benefitted from the Government’s housing programmes, with 330 homes either completed or under construction across Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

This was revealed by Minister within the Ministry of Housing Vanessa Benn during her presentation at the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on Thursday.

Addressing village leaders from across Guyana’s hinterland communities, Benn outlined the Government’s ongoing investments to ensure that more Amerindian families have access to safe, durable and affordable homes. “Despite challenges, the Government ensures our hinterland brothers and sisters live in dignity,” she stated.

She highlighted the objectives of the Hinterland Housing Programme, which is focused on improving quality of life, providing full housing subsidies for eligible beneficiaries, promoting

IOM

sustainable homeownership, and creating employment opportunities by utilising locally available building materials and labour within hinterland communities.

She related that since the programme’s inception, 330 homes have been targeted across Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine, with 220 homes already completed and another 110 currently under construction.

The initiative has directly benefited approximately 1200 persons in 32 villages, bringing improved living conditions and greater secu-

rity to families.

Minister Benn also updated the conference on the Lethem Housing Support and Home Construction Programme, which was launched in 2022 and targets 600 families.

The Minister also highlighted the Government’s latest housing initiative announced by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo during the National Toshaos Conference, under which $3 billion will be invested this year to assist Amerindian families in constructing new homes and repairing exist-

Chief visits Guyana,

ing ones.

The programme will be implemented in collaboration with village councils and community oversight committees to ensure transparency, accountability and equitable distribution.

The presentation underscored the Government’s people-centred approach to development, ensuring that families in every corner of Guyana have the opportunity to own quality homes, improve their standard of living, and build stronger, more resilient communities.

highlighting migration as force for

growth

Guyana is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and its expanding industries are creating rising demand for workers. This week, Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope, visited Guyana to discuss opportunities to strengthen IOM’s support to the Member State in managing migration to help power that growth.

Guyana’s economy is expanding rapidly – its real GDP grew by 19.3 per cent in 2025, according to the Bank of Guyana – driven by growth in energy, construction, healthcare, and other sectors, creating strong demand for workers that outpaces the domestic labour supply.

At the same time, significant numbers of Guyanese have migrated, representing a potential pool of skills, resources, and connections the country could draw on. Together with workers from CARICOM and the wider region, this presents an opportunity for Guyana to address labour shortages, continuing to upskill the local labour force while building a migration system that safeguards the rights and wellbeing

of migrants and Guyanese host communities.

“Migration has always been part of Guyana’s development story,” said Director General Pope. “When it’s managed well, it creates opportunities for everyone – local communities, returning Guyanese, and migrants from the region and beyond. Guyana is uniquely positioned to turn migration into a real force for development, and IOM is committed to helping the Government build practical solutions that get real results for a broad cross-section of Guyanese society.”

During her trip, the Pope met with Government officials, reflecting how migration touches so many parts of society. She also met with migrants and with IOM staff working across Guyana and the Caribbean. These engagements were intended to ensure that migration policies and programmes remain grounded in the needs of the people they serve, connecting workers with employment opportunities while protecting migrants’ rights and supporting community well-being.

Pope also met with the Caribbean Community

(CARICOM) Secretariat, which is headquartered in Guyana. As coordinator of the UN Network on Migration, IOM has been providing technical support to CARICOM, working with countries across the Caribbean to help develop a regional migration governance framework. This framework would support national migration policies that respond to both shared and country-specific migration and labour challenges, including how nations adapt to climate change and shrinking productive populations while sustaining economic growth.

IOM has worked in Guyana since 2009, helping the Government strengthen migration management in line with its development goals to ensure broad opportunity for Guyanese and the Government’s commitment to safe, orderly and regular migration.

In this work, IOM draws on its global expertise in areas such as border management, migration data, and protection and assistance for vulnerable migrants and host communities, helping translate national priorities into practical action.

The Director General of the IOM, Amy Pope, met with Venezuelan migrants and business owners successfully integrating in Guyana with IOM support (Photo: IOM/Karina Tijomiro)

Captain Learie Barclay returns to helm of AOAG

Captain Learie Barclay

Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn

Toshaos at the NTC Conference 2026

Inaugural AI Forum

New C’bean AI task force calls for homegrown solutions to drive regional transformation

Anew Caribbean AI Task Force report has called for the development of homegrown artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to drive regional transformation, urging countries to strengthen AI expertise, governance and innovation to address challenges unique to the Caribbean.

Regional leaders, technology experts and policymakers have gathered in Trinidad and Tobago for the first Caribbean Artificial Intelligence Forum 2026, a two-day event focused on strengthening AI governance.

The forum also saw the launch of the Caribbean AI Task Force’s final report, which outlines recommendations for developing homegrown AI solutions.

The Pro Vice Chancellor and Campus Principal of the University of the West Indies (UWI), St Augustine Campus, Professor Rosemary Bell-Antoine, told the gathering that the Caribbean must develop its own AI expertise and solutions rather than rely solely on technologies created elsewhere.

“The Caribbean AI Task Force was established by the CTU following the adoption of a resolution by Caribbean ICT Ministers to develop harmonised policy recommendations and advance a coordinated regional approach to AI governance, and that is the strength of the mission, the fact that it’s a regional perspective. Bringing together experts from Governments, academia, civil society, the private sector and international organisations, this task force represents one of the most ambitious regional collaborations in the digital arena.”

Professor Bell-Antoine also pointed out that the question is no longer whether AI will shape the Caribbean’s future but how the region will collectively shape the technology to serve its own needs.

Citing the Caribbean AI Task Force’s interim report, she said the region must aspire to be a “standard maker” rather than a “standard taker”, ensuring that emerging AI systems reflect Caribbean values, priorities and development objectives. She added that the forum demonstrates the region’s commitment to becoming an active contributor to the development, governance and responsible application of AI, rather than merely a consumer of technologies de-

veloped elsewhere.

As part of its vision for homegrown AI solutions, the report highlights the need for greater investment in healthcare, agriculture, disaster preparedness, education and public services, identifying these as key sectors where AI could help address some of the Caribbean’s most pressing challenges.

“It’s about survival, in fact. And we have the opportunity to strengthen food security, improve disaster preparedness, modernise public services, enhance healthcare delivery, support education, and expand innovation and entrepreneurship. And I do

have confidence that our region and our University of the West Indies possess unique and immeasurable strengths in this regard.”

Meanwhile, Deputy Secretary General of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU), Nigel Casimir, stressed that Governments cannot advance AI development on their own, emphasising the need for collaboration among universities, non-Governmental organisations, the private sector, civil society, development partners and the Caribbean diaspora.

He said aligning incentives to attract blended fi-

nancing and private investment would be essential to supporting AI initiatives that serve the public good. Casimir urged participants to use the two-day forum to move beyond discussion by identifying clear action plans, key stakeholders and practical next steps to accelerate AI development across the region. He also called for commitments that are timebound, measurable and capable of attracting funding, adding that the Caribbean’s approach to AI should reflect the region’s resilience and ingenuity while remaining ambitious, well-governed and inclusive.

“We never imagine they will not come home” – Dr Ashni Singh ...says sorrow is shared by entire nation

There were tears, prayers and heartfelt tributes on Thursday as family members, friends, colleagues and Government officials gathered at the Mount Pisgah Seventhday Adventist Church at Glasgow, East Bank Berbice, to bid a final farewell to 28-year-old Kevin Wilson, one of the crew members who lost his life in last week’s MV Barima maritime tragedy.

Wilson’s funeral came just days after the vessel sank off Guyana’s coast, claiming the lives of several crew members and plunging families across the country into mourning.

Addressing the congregation, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh reflected on the unimaginable pain faced not only by Wilson’s family but by every family that lost a loved one in the tragedy.

“Every day we see our sons and daughters getting dressed and going off to work or going off to school. We smile, and we wave them goodbye, we hug them goodbye, and we expect as a matter of natural and automatic force that we will be

welcoming them back home later that day, or perhaps the next day, depending on the nature of their work. We never for a moment imagine that they will not be coming home to us at the end of the week. We never for a moment imagine that they will not be coming back to us,” Dr Singh said.

His remarks resonated throughout the packed church, where mourners struggled to come to terms with the loss of a young man remembered for his quiet nature, dedication and willingness to serve others.

Wilson’s death has become one of the most heart-breaking stories to emerge from the MV Barima disaster. A former member of the Guyana Police Force’s Tactical Services Unit, he later joined the Transport and Harbours Department in 2024, where colleagues described him as dependable, disciplined and committed to his duties.

Reflecting on Wilson’s life, Dr Singh said the photographs displayed throughout the church captured a young man whose future held tremendous promise.

“We see a young, handsome, vibrant, energetic, happy... calm. We see a handsome, energetic, striking, full-of-life, happy person. I looked at the pictures of his happy smile, happy and calm smile, full of life, full of promise,” he told mourners.

The Minister acknowledged that while many often say that “God knows best”, the untimely death of a young person remains a painful reality that is difficult for loved ones to accept.

Throughout the service, tributes painted the picture of a humble and compassionate young man whose character left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

In one of the most emotional moments of the funeral, a relative described Wilson as “a gentle light”, whose kindness, dedication and warmth touched countless lives. Fighting back tears, she reflected on the years they shared together and said his sudden passing had left an emptiness that words could scarcely describe. Though his life was cut tragically short, she said his love, generosity and

gentle spirit would continue to live on in the hearts of family and friends.

Representatives of the Transport and Harbours Department also paid tribute to Wilson, honouring his commitment and dedicated service as a crew member aboard the MV Barima. They remembered him as a dependable employee whose professionalism and quiet disposition earned him the respect of both his supervisors and fellow workers.

Region Six Commander, Assistant Commissioner Shivpersaud Bacchus, also paid tribute during the fu-

neral service, recalling Wilson’s years of service in the Guyana Police Force before he joined the Transport and Harbours Department.

Bacchus described the 28-year-old as a disciplined, dedicated and selfless young man who served his country with honour in both careers. He extended condolences to Wilson’s parents, relatives, friends and colleagues, acknowledging the profound loss they now face while encouraging them to draw strength from the memories he leaves behind.

As the service drew to a close, Dr Singh remind-

ed the grieving family that their sorrow was shared by an entire nation.

“I don’t believe that there is anybody who could safely say that their heart is not broken together with your heart today.”

For Kevin Wilson’s family, however, the pain extends beyond the national mourning. As they laid their son to rest, they said their greatest comfort lies in the memories of a quiet, calm and loving young man whose final journey has left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to have known him.

Officials at the forum

Professor Rosemary Bell-Antoine, Pro Vice Chancellor and Campus Principal of the University of the West Indies

Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh along with Regional Chairman Junior Bassant at the funeral

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Russia’s oil, gas revenue up 60% year over year in July

Russia’s state oil and gas revenue, which accounts for around a fifth of total budget income, is seen rising by 60 per cent in July from the same month a year ago thanks to the increase in global oil prices, Reuters calculations showed on Thursday.

A steep rise from profit-based tax ⁠proceeds on oil production for the second quarter has also contributed to the overall year-on-year revenue rise.

Russia, the world’s third-largest oil producer and exporter after the United States and Saudi Arabia, relies heavily on oil and gas sales, which help finance its military campaign in Ukraine.

Oil and gas tax revenue ⁠for January to July is still likely to decline by 11 per cent from the same period in 2025, to 4.9 billion roubles.

The finance ministry is due to ⁠publish its estimates for July on August 5.

Russia’s 2026 budget forecasts oil and gas revenue of 8.92 trillion ⁠roubles ($113.7 billion). Total budget revenue this year is projected at 40.283 trillion roubles.

Last year, federal ⁠budget oil and gas revenue dropped 24 per cent to 8.48 trillion roubles, the lowest since 2020. (Reuters)

2 Russian men jailed in Angola for terrorism, spying

Two Russian men have been found guilty by an Angolan court of terrorism and spying after being accused of planning a coup and helping to organise deadly demonstrations in the southern African country last year.

Lev Lakshtanov and Igor Ratchin were sentenced to eight and 11 years in jail, respectively. They had denied the charges, claiming they were in Angola for cultural and business activities.

From July 28–30, 2025, a minibus taxi strike over fuel price hikes descended into riots and looting, in which 22 people were killed and more than 1600 arrested according to official figures.

Angola’s security forces were accused of firing live ammunition at protesters; the Government said its “progressive” use of force was justified. Human Rights Watch had previously said

Angola employed “excessive force” when it used rubber bullets and teargas to break up a peaceful protest against rising fuel prices on July 12, 2025.

Angolan prosecutors said Lakshtanov and Ratchin wanted to influence next year’s presidential elections, including by funding Angola’s largest opposition party, the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), or by forcing a leadership change within the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), which has ruled the country since independence from Portugal in 1975.

Prosecutors also claimed the men were linked to Africa Politology, a Russian disinformation and propaganda network that emerged from the Wagner mercenary group. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

US imposes tariffs on dozens of trade partners over “forced labour” imports

The United States is imposing new tariffs on around 60 trading partners, accounting for the vast majority of its imports, over claims they failed to properly stop forced labour.

The duties, ranging from 10 per cent to 12.5 per cent, target key economic partners – including the United Kingdom, the European, Canada, Japan, and India. They come in today, as a temporary 10 per cent tax on

foreign goods introduced earlier this year expires.

The move is the latest escalation in the global trade war reignited by US President Donald Trump when he returned to office last year.

The US Supreme Court ruled earlier this year that many of the tariffs imposed globally under emergency powers were illegally enacted.

The President has since

sought other legal avenues to pursue his flagship trade policy.

It was last month that the White House first proposed a series of 10-12.5 per cent duties on goods arriving on American shores from dozens of countries over concerns they were not doing enough to tackle forced labour.

On Thursday, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, acting under Trump’s

direction, said those duties would now take effect.

“Today’s action will begin to correct what is both a human rights abuse and distortive trade practice to improve the welfare of workers everywhere,” his statement said. Greer invoked Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which governs US trade enforcement of practices that burden or restrict American commerce. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Rapid pace of interceptor, precision-guided weapons use worries Trump Administration

The rapid pace at which the US is expending some of its most advanced air-defence interceptors and precision-guided weapons in the Middle East is a point of great tension inside the

Trump Administration as President Trump’s war with Iran ratchets up again, according to US military and intelligence officials familiar with internal assessments. And it’s raising broader concerns about America’s read-

Hadeeds released as Homeland Security Minister revokes PDOs

Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander has revoked the Preventative Detention Orders (PDOs) issued against businessman Dominic Hadeed and his wife, Genevieve Hadeed, saying their continued detention was no longer proportionate while the criminal investigation continues.

In a media release issued Thursday, Alexander said he revoked the orders after reviewing the legal, medical and constitutional issues surrounding the couple’s detention.

The Hadeeds were arrested by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) on June 24 as part of an investigation into an alleged plot to assassinate Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar and senior members of her Government. PDOs were issued against them on June 27 under the Emergency Powers Regulations 2026 during the ongoing State of Emergency.

Alexander stressed that the criminal investigation remains active.

He said he had continuously reviewed whether the detention remained lawful and justified under the Emergency Powers Regulations. He also noted that the Review Tribunal, established under Section 11(1) of the Constitution, recommended on July 19 that the continued detention of the Hadeeds was “not necessary or expedient in the public interest”.

Alexander added that the TTPS had assured him the couple would remain under monitoring and surveillance to ensure the ongoing investigation is not compromised and that measures have been put in place to protect anyone who may still be at risk.

He also said he expected the Hadeeds to cooperate fully with all law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation. (Excerpt from Trinidad and Tobago Guardian)

Trini fisherman dies at sea; 1 critical, 4 others rescued

Six fishermen survived nine days adrift in a life raft after the St Vincent VII reportedly sank off the coast of French Guiana following a fire on board the vessel.

Guardian Media understands the Marvel Kite rescued the fishermen on Tuesday and began providing emergency medical care while en route to Barbados, where it was initially scheduled to dock yesterday. However, the crew subsequently changed their final destination to St Vincent

and the Grenadines.

The rescued crew members were identified as Trinidadians Murray, 65; Shannon Mohammed, 39; Kevin Fonteillo, 46; and Alex Burnley, 38; Guyana’s Eshwar Persaud, 39, the vessel’s Captain; and St Vincent and the Grenadines national Rupert Charles, 55. However, in an update yesterday from the vessel to Barbados maritime authorities, which Guardian Media oversaw, it was revealed that Murray was in critical condition following the res-

cue.

The same update also warned that another rescued crew member’s condition was deteriorating, although no further details were released.

Guardian Media was able to verify Murray’s death via marine sources in both Barbados and St Vincent. Those sources also confirmed that the Marvel Kite yesterday changed its intended final destination from Barbados to St Vincent but were unable to say why.

The St Vincent VII crew

had been missing since their vessel caught fire while operating in the Atlantic near the maritime boundary between Suriname and French Guiana. The vessel left Chaguaramas on July 6 and caught fire and sank on July 13.

The operational update suggested the fishermen survived by abandoning the burning vessel and spending nine days aboard a life raft before being spotted by the passing Marvel Kite. (Excerpt from Trinidad and Tobago Guardian)

iness for a potential conflict in the Indo-Pacific.

The dwindling stockpiles of defensive interceptors and long-range missiles have become a pressure point for top military and civilian leaders who are weighing the demands of the war with Iran against maintaining readiness to deter other adversaries, including China.

The US officials, who spoke to CBS News on condition of anonymity given the sensitivity of the topic, said the US cannot sustain the rate at which it expended precision munitions ear-

ly in the campaign against Iran.

The defence industrial base is not equipped to produce missiles rapidly enough to replenish munitions that have been fired or transferred to US Central Command, which is overseeing the conflict, leaving inventories under mounting pressure even as military operations continue.

Interceptors are in heavy use to defend US interests in the Gulf states, which house US troops and are being targeted by Iranian drones and missiles. (Excerpt from CBS News)

Trump vows to punish Iran for Houthi attacks in Red Sea

US President Donald Trump promised on Thursday “major military punishment” for Iran and its Houthi allies, after the Yemeni fighters struck two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, extending the Middle East war to a second major shipping chokepoint.

Fears that disruption could widen further to block another sea route sent global oil prices surging in one of the steepest rises of the war.

Two weeks since the effective collapse of an interim truce meant to end the war, the US military launched another round of air strikes on Iran overnight into Thursday, prompting Iran to fire at neighbouring Arab countries that house US bases.

Iranian state media said a missile struck Qeshm

Island on the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday evening, raising the prospect of a further night of attacks in a conflict well into its fifth month that has already killed thousands and raised fears of a global economic downturn.

After the Houthis said ⁠they had struck the two tankers, Trump said he would hold Iran accountable for any further attacks by the fighters.

The Houthis, who control northern and western Yemen, said this week they were imposing a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia, which has diverted millions of barrels of oil per day by pipeline to the Red Sea to get around Iran’s blockade of Gulf oil through the Strait of Hormuz. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Heavy machinery is targeted at an unknown location during what the US Central Command (CENTCOM) says are strikes on Iran, in this screengrab taken from a handout video

Turn your creative imagination into something spectacular. Position yourself with people who inspire you to let your heart lead the way. Happiness is the prerequisite of doing what’s best for you whenever you can. A positive change to how you live or earn your income can be yours if you channel your energy and enthusiasm into what you want to pursue.

Tame what tempts you. Be rational, use common sense and put your money to work toward greater stability and security, not loss and debt. Distance yourself from big talkers, manipulators and scammers. Pay attention to how you present yourself and deal with others. Use intelligence to counter any offer that benefits someone else more than it does you.

Stop procrastinating and start living your dream. A change is in the stars; all you must do is make it happen. Pursuing education, traveling, promoting and presenting what you can do, networking and forming connections with people who can help push your agenda will get you on the road to victory. Stop talking and start doing.

Sharing too much will be detrimental. Put your time and effort into building a solid base to house your dreams, hopes and wishes. Don’t be afraid to be different or to take the road less traveled. Don’t feel obligated to put others first when making yourself a priority makes you strong enough to carry those you love along with you.

Engage in activities, and show off your skills, attributes and generosity. Think big, but implement discipline and fine-tune your plans to suit your budget. Helping others won’t be easy, but it will help you see the light and let go if necessary. The decisions you make will determine what you get in return. Do what’s best for you.

Keep your guard up when dealing with contracts, joint ventures and shared expenses. Don’t force your will on others; if you want to win approval or acceptance, use diplomacy. Change comes from finding out what others want or need and being willing to compromise. Don’t jeopardize your position or reputation. Focus on self-improvement.

Try not to be too revealing. Be a good listener, size up situations and work quietly on your own as you collect what you need to succeed. An unexpected opportunity will surface if you attend lectures or networking functions or reach out to help a cause that concerns you. The people you meet and what you learn will pay off.

Be clear regarding what you can and are willing to do. Walk away from any situation that makes you uncomfortable. Use your insight and intelligence to outmaneuver anyone trying to take advantage of you. Downplay your plans and limit how much you spend. Walk away from temptation, overindulgence or taking on more than you can deliver.

Put more time and effort into your home, surroundings and meaningful relationships. Share your feelings and intentions, and find out where you stand before you make a commitment to anyone who may have different opinions, intentions or values. If you go over expenditures, contracts and medical issues carefully, ask questions and resolve issues, you’ll ease stress.

Save time; cut your losses and focus on feeling, looking and doing what’s best for you. Protect your assets and your reputation from anyone trying to outmaneuver you. Distance yourself from those who ask too many personal questions or try to put you in a vulnerable position. Choose a lifestyle that eases stress and encourages health, peace and happiness.

Stick close to home, send out resumes and look for opportunities that help you engage in conversations with like-minded people. Don’t let negativity set in when a positive attitude will attract far better people and prospects. Consider what you are good at and enjoy doing, and find a way to turn your skills into a profit.

Be good to yourself and the ones you love. Spending time nurturing meaningful relationships will encourage a positive lifestyle change. Love and romance are in the stars, but tension will mount if equality and balance aren’t maintained. Don’t argue when a give-and-take attitude is the path to peace, love and personal happiness.

ARCHIE

Republic Bank CPL…

Familiar faces return as Knight Riders unveil international roster

The Trinbago Knight Riders on Thursday announced their overseas player roster ahead of the 2026 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season, bringing together proven international firepower across the top order, spin, and pace bowling as the defending champions look to retain their title.

The five overseas signings confirmed for the upcoming campaign are Alex Hales, Usman Tariq, Colin Munro, Matthew Breetzke and Amshi de Silva.

The Knight Riders’ recruitment for 2026 blends proven franchise-cricket pedigree with emerging international talent, adding depth and firepower across every phase of the innings.

Alex Hales brings a wealth of white-ball experience to the top of the order, having lifted the T20 World Cup with England in 2022. Renowned for his explosive stroke play across the T20 Blast, Big Bash League and international cricket, the English opener, who was the fifth highest run-getter of CPL last year, returns to the Knight Riders as a proven match-winner at the crease.

Usman Tariq returns to the Knight Riders’ attack as a rising force in international cricket after finishing with the most wickets for TKR in their title-winning season last year. The off-spinner, who made his T20I debut against South Africa in November 2025, offers great control and variation through the middle overs.

Colin Munro adds further power to the top order, with the New Zealander set to play his ninth season for TKR in 2026. The left-hander leads the charts for most runs by an overseas player in CPL history and has built a reputation over more than a decade as one of the most destructive openers in franchise cricket worldwide.

Barbados successfully defended their Cricket West Indies (CWI) Rising Stars Men’s Under-19 50Over Championship title after defeating Jamaica by 116 runs in the tournament final, while Guyana ended their campaign on a positive note with a commanding 53-run victory over the Windward Islands in the fifthplace playoff.

After being sent in to bat by Jamaica at the toss, Barbados produced another polished batting display to post an imposing 320 for nine from their allotted 50 overs.

Middle-order batsman Justin Parris led the way with a magnificent 100 from 98 deliveries, anchoring the innings after the top order provided a solid platform. He received useful support from Kelani Clarke, who struck 49, and Kemar Dixon, who added 48 as Barbados maintained a healthy scoring rate throughout the innings.

Jamaica’s bowlers fought hard despite the daunting total, with Alixandre Elliott claiming

four for 40, while Jahdae Moore chipped in with three for 58.

Facing a challenging target of 321, Jamaica never managed to build the partnerships required for a successful chase and were eventually dismissed for 204 in 43.5 overs.

Demario Hall top-scored with 47, while Pajay Nelson contributed 36 and Tyson Gordon Jr made 28, but none of the batsmen were able to convert their starts into a match-changing innings.

Barbados’ bowling attack was spearheaded by an outstanding all-round performance from Justin Parris, who completed a memorable final by taking five for 35. Asher Bradford provided excellent support with figures of three for 19 as Barbados sealed back-to-back championship titles in emphatic fashion.

Meanwhile, Guyana wrapped up their tournament with an encouraging victory over the Windward Islands to secure fifth place.

Batting first, Guyana were bowled out for 184 in 49.2 overs

after recovering from early setbacks through the efforts of their middle order.

Dhanesh Persaud played a composed innings of 53 to anchor the batting, while Emmanuel Lewis added a valuable 43 to help lift Guyana to a competitive total.

Windward Islands Captain Theo Edward was the standout bowler with impressive figures of three for 12.

Chasing 185 for victory, the Windward Islands struggled from the outset against Guyana’s disciplined spin attack and were eventually bowled out for 131 in just 27.1 overs.

Gilbert Griffith produced a match-winning spell, claiming four for 19, while Romario Ramdeholl supported superbly with two for 13 and Adrian Hetmyer picked up two for 38 as Guyana completed a comprehensive 53-run victory.

For the Windward Islands, Earshinho Fontaine made 28 and Khavaughn Bartholomew scored 27, but their efforts were not enough to prevent Guyana from ending the competition on a winning note.

Matthew Breetzke joins as one of the most exciting young batting talents in world cricket, having announced himself with a record-breaking 150 on ODI debut against New Zealand. The South African represented the Lucknow Super Giants in the 2025 IPL season and adds further steel to the middle order.

the batting all-rounder having come through Sri Lanka’s age-group pathways, including the U19 World Cup, before representing Sri Lanka A. He gives the Knight Riders’ management further balance and depth in the middle order.

Combined with a core of West Indian talent led by Captain Nicholas Pooran, Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine and Akeal Hosein, and with Dwayne Bravo returning for his second season as Head Coach, this overseas group gives the defending champions a well-rounded squad across batting, spin and pace ahead of the 2026 campaign.

King in Tardis entrance as Commonwealth Games begin

King Charles III, the Loch Ness Monster and thousands of athletes and para-athletes took centre stage as the 2026 Commonwealth Games officially began with the opening ceremony.

King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived at Glasgow’s Hydro Arena in Doctor Who’s TARDIS – a reference to the blue Police boxes seen around the city.

After taking their seats alongside new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who was attending his first major engagement since replacing Sir Keir Starmer, athletes from the 74 competing nations and territories entered the arena.

Those from Botswana were the first to emerge, with athletes dressed in the colours of their nations, including Ghana’s red, green, yellow and black stripes, South Africa in Springbok-style rugby jerseys, and Barbados in blue and yellow combined with tartan scarves.

One of the louder cheers came from the Falkland Islands – in the news recently following Argentina’s victory over England in the football World Cup semi-finals – and another followed when the Samoa team emerged and performed a haka in front of the dignitaries in the Royal Box.

But nothing compared to the noise which greeted the arrival of the Scotland team, who entered the arena last in their white shirts and kilts and lifted many in the capacity crowd from their seats.

A large Loch Ness Monster representation then emerged, before, backed by bagpipers and drummers, a rousing rendition of Flower of Scotland followed.

The next section of the evening featured theatrical performances – a show billed as ”a love letter to Glasgow and the Commonwealth”.

It began with a performance by Scottish folk and country singer Nathan Evans and a dance under a replica of Glasgow Central Station’s iconic clock.

The saying ”Meet me under the clock” is famous in these parts. Singer Callum Beattie’s

rendition of Baccara’s Yes Sir, I Can Boogie – the 1970s disco tune recently adopted as Scotland’s unofficial anthem – had the Scottish athletes dancing in their seats.

Held indoors in front of about 10,000 people, this was a more intimate ceremony than the last time Glasgow hosted the Commonwealth Games, when a 40,000-strong crowd witnessed the opening of the Games in 2014 at Celtic Park.

There was a point, after the Australian state of Victoria withdrew as hosts in 2023, when some thought these Games would not happen. Glasgow stepped in at short notice to ensure otherwise.

There are eight fewer sports involved compared to 2014, given the short build-up, and venues from 12 years ago have been repurposed.

But Commonwealth Sport President Donald Rukare, wearing a tartan kilt in the colours of his home country Uganda, said this edition has been made possible by the ”extraordinary legacy of 2014 and by a city that once again welcomes us with warm hearts and open arms”.

George Black, chair of Glasgow 2026, added: “When the future of these Games was uncertain, Glasgow didn’t ask, ‘Can we?’, we asked, ’When do we get started?’ People across this city should be incredibly proud of what has been achieved over the past 18 months.

Venues opened their doors. Communities opened their hearts. Businesses, artists, schools, volunteers, partners, neighbours and the people of Glasgow came together with one shared belief: that the Commonwealth Games matter and that the world deserves to experience them.” Scottish singer KT Tunstall’s rendition of No Scotland, No Party – another anthem of the Tartan Army this summer – later in the evening was fitting on this occasion.

Prior to that, the King’s Baton was brought into the arena while singer Nina Nesbitt performed another Scottish classic, the Proclaimers’ I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles).

The King used his speech to stress the importance of preventing plastic pollution in oceans and waterways.

”I extend my warmest gratitude to the city of Glasgow and all those who have made this event possible,” he said. ”As we share our love of sport and our planet, let us build a harmonious future for our families and each other.” The sporting action runs across the next 10 days before the Games conclude with the closing ceremony on Sunday, August 2, back at the Hydro. The first medals are set to be won in para-powerlifting early this evening. (BBC Sport)

Barbados are the 2026 CWI Rising Stars U19 50-Over Champions

Over 3000 athletes are set to take part in this year’s Commonwealth Games

Massive 55-member team embark on CAC Games today

Arecord 55-member

Guyanese contingent will compete at the 2026 XXV Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, as the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) confirmed the massive lineup of athletes.

Set to commence today, the multi-sport event will bring together hundreds of the finest athletes from across the region for what is the premier sports event in Central America and the Caribbean.

Guyana’s participation at the games will span 10 disciplines, namely, archery, athletics, 3x3 basketball (men and women), boxing, chess, squash, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, and weightlifting.

At a team briefing exercise prior to the team’s departure, GOA President Godfrey Munroe and Secretary General Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon congratulated the athletes and officials on earning the honour of representing Guyana and encouraged them to compete with pride, determination, and respect. They

reminded the delegation that every performance on the field of play carries the hopes and aspirations of the nation.

Leading the delegation are Chef de Mission Kenisha Headley and Assistant Chef de Mission Roger Callender, supported by physiotherapists Rocala Williams and Elisabeth Kishundat, who will oversee athlete welfare throughout the competition.

Complete athletes list for CAC Games:

Archery: Devin Permaul and Roshini Boodhoo.

Athletics: Javonna Cornette, Alisha Gibbons, Deshanna Skeete, Charissa December, Lloyd McCurdy, and Tonya Rawlins.

3x3 Basketball Men: Christian Hinckson, Travis Burnett, Akil Hughes, and Nikkoli Smith.

3x3 Basketball Women: Ruth Adams, Anaya Clemons, De Angelique Waithe, and Jamaicy Ogle.

Boxing: Desmond Amsterdam, Terron Wintz and Colin Lewis.

Chess: Anthony Drayton and Taffin Khan.

Squash Women: Mary Fung-A-Fat, Ashley Khalil, and Kirsten Gomes. Squash Men: Jason

Ray Khalil, Samuel InceCarvalhal, and Daniel Ince.

Swimming: Raekwon Noel, Paul Mahaica Jr, Patrice Mahaica, Ariel Rodrigues, and Shareefah Lewis.

Table Tennis: Shemar Britton, Elishaba Johnson, Niran Bissu, Malachi Moore, Chelsea Edghill, and Jasmine Billingy.

Taekwondo: Ceili Peterson.

Weightlifting: Shammah Noel, Samantha Williams, Delice Adonis, Anthonio Rodrigues, and Malachi

Slingerz maul SWA Sharks 4-0 in Club Shield opener

Slingerz Football Club (FC) had the perfect start to the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Shield campaign on Thursday afternoon, whipping SWA Sharks out of Turks and Caicos 4-0.

Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz opted for a starting XI that featured Captain Quincy Adams; goalkeeper Denzil Smith; Romaine Brackenridge; Darron Niles; Kemar Beckford; Kelsey Benjamin; Curtez Kellman; Solomon Austin; Raushan Ritch; Kvist Paul; and Leo Lovell.

Just 10 minutes into the mid-afternoon encounter at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago, Kemar Beckford handed the Guyanese side the lead after a 1v1 with the goalkeeper.

Slingerz made inroads against their opponents, controlling the majority of possession; however, the Sharks did not go without opportunities in front of the uprights.

Beckford would later extend the lead, giving Slingerz a 2-0 cushion before half-time. Solomon Austin was the man with the assist, dissecting two defenders to find Beckford, who needed only slot the ball home for the second strike.

It appeared as though Shabazz’s plans to have Slingerz train at the exact time (13:30h) that their first game would be played paid off as the local side looked unfazed in the blistering

sunshine. Meanwhile, the SWA Sharks were worn down, to the detriment of their performance on the pitch.

While Slingerz had many other opportunities to extend their lead, it finally came in the 75th minute. Subbed into the contest late, Derrel Garcia’s first few touches turned to gold with his cross in the box, resulting in their third goal. Receiving the cross, Neron Barrow executed a left-foot chip of the ball over the head of the keeper to strike.

Slingerz continued probing in the box, once with Beckford missing out on a header opportunity, which went wide of the far post. Another missed opportunity was witnessed when Garcia

took a shot at the top of the box. He later pounced on an unaware defender, sending a rocket at the net that was saved by the SWA Sharks keeper.

Garcia would eventually add his name to the score sheet, completing a breakaway run off a long ball from Leo Lovell to seal the 4-0 score in the 85th.

Slingerz FC now head into the Round of 16 and are scheduled to take on Prisons FC out of Trinidad and Tobago on Saturday, July 25, at 15:30h.

The 22 football teams from around the Caribbean in the Club Shield tournament are competing for two spots on offer in the CONCACAF Caribbean Cup.

The GOA extended its sincere appreciation to the national federations, coaches, team officials, sponsors, partners, and the families of the athletes whose unwavering commitment and support have made Team

Guyana’s participation possible.

“As the nation prepares to celebrate this historic centennial edition of the CAC Games, the GOA calls upon all Guyanese, both at home and throughout the diaspora, to rally behind

Team Guyana as they compete with courage, determination, and national pride in pursuit of regional excellence,” the Olympic body further noted.

The CAC Games will begin today, and will conclude on August 8.

Chanderpaul, Joseph, Paul retain spots in Windies Test team for Pakistan series

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming twomatch Test series against Pakistan, scheduled to be played in Trinidad from July 25 to August 6.

The series will mark a significant occasion for Caribbean cricket, with the opening match at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy from July 25 to 29 being the first men’s Test match ever staged at the venue, making it the 13th ground in the re gion to host Test cricket. The second encounter will take place at the historic Queen’s Park Oval from August 2-6.

The Men in Maroon have retained the core of the squad that secured a 1-0 Test series victory over Sri Lanka earlier this month while rewarding strong domestic performances with the inclusion of left-arm orthodox spinner Joshua Bishop, who receives his maiden Test call-up.

selection due to personal reasons.

Bishop has been among the most consistent bowlers in regional cricket, claiming 91 wickets for the Barbados Pride and the

First Test: (July 2529) at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Tarouba, Trinidad

Second Test: (August 2-6) at the Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad

The West Indies squad is captained by Roston Chase, with Jomel Warrican serving as vice-captain. The remainder of the squad comprises Joshua Bishop, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Shai Hope, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Kirk McKenzie, Keemo Paul, Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales.

Dummett.

The West Indies are set to take on Pakistan in a historic Test

Joshua Bishop earns maiden call-up

The Slingerz FC goalscorers from left to right are Kemar Beckford, Neron Barrow and Derrel Garcia

A look at the GOA’s team briefing prior to the departure of the CAC team

LLahore Qalandars get off to winning start at ExxonMobil GSL

ahore Qalandars launched their ExxonMobil Global Super League (GSL) T20 campaign on a winning note, defeating Perth Scorchers XI by 16 runs in the tournament opener at the Guyana National Stadium on Thursday.

Asked to bat first, Lahore Qalandars recovered from an early collapse to post a competitive total of 171 for seven in 20 overs, driven by half-centuries from Shayan Jahangir and Farhan Yousaf.

In reply, the Scorchers were restricted to 155 for seven in their 20 overs despite fightbacks from Andre Fletcher and Usman Khan.

Qalandars endured a

difficult start after losing Shamyl Hussain (four) to a sharp mid-wicket catch by Ashton Turner, while leftarm spinner Ashton Agar bowled Abdullah Shafique (12).

Parvez Hossain Emon fell shortly after for 3, placing Qalandars under early pressure.

USA opening batter Shayan Jahangir stabilised the innings with an aggressive 65 off 45 balls, striking eight fours and three sixes. Following Jahangir’s departure in the 14th over, Farhan Yousaf provided the late acceleration with a blistering 23-ball 50, hitting five

sixes and three boundaries to lift the total past 170.

Jhye Richardson was the standout bowler for the Scorchers, finishing with figures of 3 for 27 in four overs, while fellow pacer Brody Couch took two for 29.

following the early dismissals of D’Arcy Short (eight) and Joel Curtis (14).

Usman Khan spearheaded the middle-order fightback with a top score of 41, supported by Dian Forrester’s 23, but the loss

In pursuit of 172, West Indian opener Andre Fletcher gave Scorchers early impetus with a 22-ball 35, hitting seven boundaries before falling to Ali Shabbir, caught by captain Michael Bracewell at short third man.

Scorchers drifted to 47 for two inside the powerplay

Taaa SCOREBOARD

of captain Ashton Turner for two derailed the chase.

Qalandars maintained pressure through disciplined bowling across the innings. Fast bowler Mohammad Imran delivered a match-winning spell of two for 18 from four overs, while leg-spinner Usama Mir claimed two for 35 to

seal the 16-run victory.

Yousaf was named Player of the Match for his quickfire half-century – the fastest in GSL history.

The five-team round-robin tournament, featuring a total prize purse of US$1 million, continues Thursday evening at Providence as de-

fending champions Guyana Amazon Warriors take on USA-based San Francisco Unicorns.

Lahore Qalandars return to action today against Desert Vipers, while Perth Scorchers next face San Francisco Unicorns on Sunday evening.

Minister Ramson Jr envisions Guyana’s horse racing to be greatest in region

the launching of the Guyana Cup.

“This has been running for 18 years, and it is fitting that the races is running under a regulatory framework.”

“This event has the support of the entire Government. The horse racing industry will be a key driver for sport tourism and economic activities in region five and region six,” the Sport Minister explained.

The consistency and longevity of the Jumbo Jet family have been symbolic for hosting such an event and improving yearly.

Minister Ramson noted that the economic activity driven from Guyana Cup is beyond significant.

meetings leading into formal passage in parliament for the legislation. Since the legislation passed last year, the cabinet approved the committee for the horse racing authority led by Stephen Cheefoon.

This year’s Guyana Cup will add more of the Guyanese touch, involving more local artists and displaying the rich heritage of Guyana. Additionally, the Guyana Cup will have a more family-orientated atmosphere with play parks and giveaways for the entire family.

Culture,

and

be the greatest in the Caribbean in the near future.

“I have total confidence that Guyana will be able to be the greatest horse racing industry in the region,” the Minister said at

“Horse racing is a fixture of our calendar events. If you are to remove this event from Region Five, you will remove hundreds of millions of economic activity that will be generated from Guyana Cup period alone,” Ramson Jr added.

“We have had to drive a lot sports. For horse racing it wasn’t so.”

The horse racing legislation took some 26

“Our version of the horse racing industry must be fit for Guyana’s purpose. There must be social utility in the facility,” Minister Ramson highlighted.

A total of 14 races will be running at this year’s Guyana Cup, and more than GY$66 million in cash and prizes will be paid out. A lucky fan will also be a winner of a brandnew SinoTruk pick-up.

The feature race, which will be the Banks Guyana Cup, will fetch a purse of GY$22 million.

he 18th running of the Guyana Cup promises to be an iconic event on August 23 at Rising Sun Turf Club. While all eyes will be on this year’s race and the top horses that will be out to battle defending champion Dataman, Minister of

Youth

Sport Charles Ramson Jr is anticipating this event to

Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr

Mohammad Imran exults at Usman Khan’s departure (GSLT20 photo)

Usama Mir was the pick of the Qalandars bowlers (GSLT20 photo)

Andre Fletcher looked good at the start of the chase (GSLT20 photo)

The Lahore Qalandars got their campaign off to a winning start (GSLT20 photo)

Farhan Yousaf hit a belligerent 50 (GSLT20 photo)

ExxonMobil GSL 2026…

GAW begin title defence with thrilling win over San Francisco Unicorns

In the second match of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League, defending champions Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) faced the San Francisco Unicorns after the visitors won the toss and elected to bat first.

The Warriors made the perfect start as Dwaine Pretorius struck in the opening over, removing Connor Esterhuizen for just four. Pretorius was at it again in his next over, rattling the stumps of Sanjay Krishnamurthi, who also departed for four, leaving the Unicorns reeling early.

Despite the setbacks, the Unicorns recovered impressively during the power play, with Tim Robinson leading the charge in an aggressive counterattack. Robinson peppered the boundary with a series of attacking strokes before Mohammad Nabi provided

the breakthrough with the final ball of the power play, dismissing him for a brisk 38 off 21 deliveries, an innings that included four fours and three sixes.

At the end of the power play, the San Francisco Unicorns had recovered to 56 for 3 after six overs.

Another productive partnership steadied the innings and kept the scoring rate healthy before Nabi struck again to break the stand.

The experienced off-spinner trapped Oliver Peake leg before wicket for 30 from 27 deliveries, leaving the San Francisco Unicorns on 101 for 4 after 12 overs.

Gudakesh Motie then tightened the screws by dismissing Hassan Khan for just eight, but Hammad Azam continued to anchor the innings. The righthander brought up a well-compiled half-century in the 18th over, ensuring

aaa SCOREBOARD

(c)

b Motie 8 Fabian Allen b Shepherd 4 Karima Gore not out 3

Extras (b 1, lb 1, w 2) 4

Total 20 Ov (RR: 7.80) 156/6

Did not bat: Peter Siddle, Ghulam Mudassar, Callum Stow Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Connor Esterhuizen, 0.5 ov), 2-13 (Sanjay Krishnamurthi, 2.4 ov), 3-56 (Tim Robinson, 5.6 ov), 4-101 (Oliver Peake, 11.6 ov), 5-126 (Hassan Khan, 16.2 ov), 6-151 (Fabian Allen, 19.2 ov)

Bowling

Dwaine Pretorius

O-M-R-W

4-0-36-2

Matthew Forde 2-0-19-0

Mohammad Nabi 4-033-2

Imran Tahir

Gudakesh Motie

Guyana Amazon Warriors (T: 131 runs from 16 ovs) Rahmanullah Gurbaz c Krishnamurthi b Hassan Khan 31 Quentin Sampson c Hassan Khan b Ghulam Mudassar 0 Mohammad Haris † c Ghulam Mudassar b Stow 30 Shimron Hetmyer c Stow b Ghulam Mudassar 6 Rovman Powell not out 29 Romario Shepherd c Krishnamurthi b Hassan Khan 9 Dwaine Pretorius b Siddle 7 Mohammad Nabi run out (Ghulam Mudassar) 4 Matthew Forde not out 6 Extras(b 4, lb 2, w 3) 9 Total15.3 Ov (RR: 8.45) 131/7 Yet to bat: Imran Tahir (c), Gudakesh Motie Fall of wickets: 1-3 (Quentin Sampson, 0.6 ov), 2-66 (Mohammad Haris, 7.1 ov), 3-75 (Shimron Hetmyer, 8.3 ov), 4-79 (Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 9.3 ov), 5-93 (Romario Shepherd, 11.6 ov), 6-103 (Dwaine Pretorius, 13.4 ov), 7-107 (Mohammad Nabi, 14.1 ov)

4-0-28-0

4-0-22-1

Romario Shepherd 2-0-16-1

en on 61 from 45 balls, an innings that featured two fours and four sixes, as the San Francisco Unicorns finished on 156 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs.

The defending champions endured an early setback in their chase as Quentin Sampson was dismissed for a duck, caught at mid-off, leaving the Guyana Amazon Warriors under early pressure.

However, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Mohammad Haris responded positively, launching a swift counterattack. The pair found the boundaries with ease and raced to a 50-run partnership inside the power play, shifting the momentum back in the Warriors’ favour.

At the end of the first six

during the GSL

and San

the Unicorns remained on course for a competitive total.

Attempting to provide a late flourish, Fabian Allen was bowled by Romario Shepherd for four, denying the Unicorns additional momentum in the closing stages.

Azam remained unbeat-

overs, the Guyana Amazon Warriors were well placed at 57 for 1, keeping pace with the required run rate.

The 63-run second-wicket partnership was finally broken by left-arm wrist spinner Callum Stow, who dismissed Haris for 30 from 22 deliveries. Haris struck

five fours during his aggressive knock before departing with the score on 66 for 2 after 7.1 overs. Moments later, rain interrupted play, forcing a halt to proceedings.

Following the delay, the target was revised under the playing conditions, leaving the Guyana Amazon Warriors requiring 131 runs from 16 overs for victory.

Local favourite Shimron Hetmyer joined Gurbaz at the crease, but his stay was brief as he was caught at short third man for just six, with the score on 75 for 3. The Warriors’ chase suffered another setback shortly afterwards when Gurbaz, who made 31, holed out to long-off, leaving the home side struggling at 79 for 4.

Khan tightened his grip on the contest by claiming his second wicket of the evening, dismissing Shepherd for just nine. At the end of 12 overs, the Warriors were 93 for 5, with Khan completing his four-over spell with impressive figures of 2 for 25.

Pretorius was then bowled for seven to leave the Warriors at 103 for 6. Heading into the final two overs, the home side still required 24 runs for victory.

Rovman Powell then produced a match-winning cameo, contributing to 18 runs from the 15th over to swing the momentum in the Warriors’ favour. Powell struck the winning runs in the final over, finishing un-

beaten on 29 from 20 balls as the Guyana Amazon Warriors reached 131 for 7 in 15.3 overs to seal a thrilling three-wicket victory.

Player of the Match Rovman Powell of Guyana Amazon Warriors collects his award after the GSL T20 match between Guyana Amazon Warriors and San Francisco Unicorns at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, Guyana (Photo by Ashley Allen/GSL T20)

Rovman Powell of Guyana Amazon Warriors bats during the GSL T20 match between Guyana Amazon Warriors and San Francisco Unicorns at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, Guyana (Photo by Ashley Allen/GSL T20)

Mohammad Nabi of Guyana Amazon Warriors celebrates with teammates after getting the wicket of Tim Robinson of San Francisco Unicorns during the GSL T20 match between Guyana Amazon Warriors and San Francisco Unicorns at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, Guyana (Photo by Ashley Allen/GSL T20)

Rahmanullah Gurbaz of Guyana Amazon Warriors hits six runs

T20 match between Guyana Amazon Warriors

Francisco Unicorns at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, Guyana (Photo by Ashley Allen/GSL T20)

A sizeable crowd of cricket fans gathered at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence to witness the first day’s action in the third edition of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) on Thursday. Though Guyana is in a period of National Mourning, bashful smiles were frequent throughout the day’s double-header as patrons relished the sport’s unifying power.

San Francisco Unicorns

he Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW), in association with the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL), on Thursday announced that all proceeds from ticket sales for the final will be donated to educational and humanitarian relief efforts for families and individuals affected by the MV Barima tragedy. Sir Clive Lloyd, Chairman of GSL, said: “The MV Barima tragedy has deeply affected all of us here in Guyana, as well as the players and support staff visiting Guyana for the

league. Our prayers continue to go out to those grieving profound loss and those brave responders whose work continues. We have decided to dedicate proceeds from the Final to support the affected families and survivors. We thank Guyana Amazon Warriors for leading this initiative.”

The ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League Final will be held on August 1 at the National Stadium.

(Photo by Ashley Allen/GSL T20)