Residents of Berbice gathered at one of several community engagements held as part of President Dr Irfaan Ali’s two-day outreach to the region
Over 600 Guyanese now rely on dialysis – study reveals
…shows patients surge from 63 in 2020
As non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continue to increase among Guyanese, a recent study revealed that the number of persons suffering from kidney failure and needing dialysis has increased from 63 patients in 2020 to more than 600 patients in 2025.
The study was conducted by the Human Organ and Tissue Transplant Agency (HOATTA) and was presented and discussed at a Research Study Dissemination Event held by the Ministry of Health on Thursday at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.
The study was conducted by a team led by Dr Shanti Singh-Anthony and also included HOATTA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Sonia Gordon; nephrologist Dr Baldeo Singh; biostatistician Dr Olly Perreira; and Mel Echigoya from Midway Speciality Care Centre.
Dr Shanti Singh-Anthony
Speaking at the event, Dr Singh highlighted that the study marked an important point in gaining an understanding of issues among patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), who are on dialysis and in need of kidney transplants.
“We don’t have a lot of
solid, robust evidence on Guyana’s dialysis and transplant patients. So this is important because this is the first time we’re doing a study like this. We know a lot of anecdotal evidence exists, but in terms of very robust scientific research, this is the first time we’re doing it,” Dr Singh noted.
“The study is key in terms of giving us information on what our patients know and what they don't know. We are able to generate from the findings what the additional questions are that we need to ask. Here is where we will get ideas.”
The study recommended stronger screening programmes, improved primary care management of NCDs, structured patient and public education, better referral pathways to nephrologists, and the implementation of a comprehensive National CKD
The Human Organ and Tissue Transplant Agency (HOATTA) hosted a Research Study Report
Dissemination event to present key findings from recent studies at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre
Prevention Strategy. According to the study, over the years Guyana’s dialysis patients have seen continuous increases, moving from 63 patients in 2020 to 129 patients in 2021, 326 patients in 2022, 428 patients in 2023, and 556 patients in 2024 before reaching above 600 in 2025.
This hike in patients comes as the Government continues to increase investment in healthcare assistance to dialysis patients. In 2023 the Government announced an annual subsidy of $600,000 to each dialysis patient to expand access and reduce financial strain.
Singh highlighted that data from the study will be key in creating better outcomes for the patients.
“From this research we will be able to generate further research questions that are more narrow and more specific. This research gives us a wider understanding of what’s happening and paves the way for us to ask even more specific questions and gives us a more intentional and deliberate way to ask other questions. Ultimately, all of this will lead us to improvements in the system at the patient level, at the programme level and at the policy level so that this can help improve outcomes,” she said.
The study aimed to identify informational gaps, misconceptions, behavioural challenges, and support needs that may affect the quality of care and health outcomes for persons with CKD and on haemodialysis.
The study focused on assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of patients on haemodialysis and their caregivers in all outpatient dialysis clinics in Guyana, with a specific focus on understanding barriers to adequate dialysis treatment and perceptions of kidney transplantation.
The study surveyed 213 dialysis patients 18 to 69 years old who were patients at dialysis centres in Regions Two, Three, Four, Six and 10. Of those interviewed, 59 per cent of the patients were male, while 60.5 per cent were from Region Four. The majority of the patients, amounting to 37.4 per cent, were on dialysis for over a year.
The study also included a survey of the carers of the dialysis patients. A total of 74 carers participated, of which 75.7 per cent were females and 55.4 per cent were from Region Four.
Of the carers, 41.9 per cent were spouses, 32 per cent were parents, and 13.5 per cent were children of the patient.
Work on the research began in June, with patients being interviewed for three weeks across July and August.
The study also included consultation with a number of nephrologists, internal medicine specialists, primary care physicians, transplant surgeons, dialysis centre personnel and others.
The study aims to identify informational gaps, misconceptions, behavioural challenges, and support needs that may affect the quality of care and health outcomes for persons with CKD and on haemodialysis.
In terms of contributing NCDs among the patients, a whopping 66.8 per cent had one to two risk factors, and another 31.9 per cent had three to five risk factors. A mere 1.3 per cent of the study sample had zero risk factors. NCDs include illnesses such as hypertension, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions and continue to be a growing crisis globally, being responsible for roughly three-quarters of all deaths worldwide.
The study revealed that a large percentage of the patients who showed high blood pressure (BP) were also unaware of this condition, with the percentage being higher among men.
Overall, some 45.5 per cent of the patients who had high BP were not aware of their condition, another 15.5 per cent were aware but were not being treated, and 21.9 per cent were aware and receiving treatment, but the condition was not under control. Just 17.1 per cent were aware, treated and controlled.
Along gender lines, some 58.2 per cent of the men were unaware, while 31.8 per cent of the women were unaware. However, among those aware and untreated, the statistics showed 12.1 per cent for the men and 19.1 per cent for the women.
Looking at the Body Mass Index (BMI), 50.3 per cent of the sample were either overweight or obese, with 39.8 per cent of the men being overweight or obese and 61.8 per cent of the women being overweight or obese.
For blood sugar, some 52.4 per cent of the participants had never measured their blood sugar, accounting for 59.5 per cent among the men and 44.7 per cent among the women. Another 7.3 per cent were diagnosed with diabetes within the past 12 months. Of this, 4.5 per cent of the men and 10.2 per cent of the women were diagnosed in the last year.
BRIDGE OPENING
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, November 21 –16:40h–18:10h and Saturday, November 22 – 05:10h–06:40h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery showers followed by midday and afternoon sunny skies are expected during the day, and partly cloudy skies followed by thundery showers are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.
High Tide: 16:50h reaching a maximum height of 2.64 metres.
Low Tide: 10:26h and 22:51h reaching minimum heights of 0.73 metre and 0.58 metre.
As Guyana moves through one of the most rapid periods of transformation in its history, President Dr Irfaan Ali is urging citizens to ensure their attitudes and daily conduct keep pace with the country’s development.
The Head of State delivered this call on Thursday while addressing residents at State House in New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), during a wide-ranging outreach that focused on service delivery, accountability, and national values.
President Ali told Berbicians that the Government’s massive investment programme –from new bridges and highways to digital public services, training centres, and expanded opportunities – will not achieve its true purpose unless citizens themselves commit to honesty, responsibility, and re-
includes a digital shift in how Government services are delivered, with electronic ticketing, online applications, integrated help desks, and soon, the One Guyana Service Delivery Centres that will centralise immigration, licensing, NIS, GRA, and pension services.
However, he cautioned that these improvements will only be effective if citizens use them constructively.
“The same time you spend on social media,
kindness, community-mindedness, and personal responsibility – values he believes are essential in shaping the kind of society the next generation deserves. He said that while the Government can provide opportunities, Guyanese must also lead positive lives and make choices that reflect integrity and mutual respect.
“We want to build a future that is people-centred – one built on love, service, unity and accountability,” he noted. “But the peop-
when stopped, and persons trying to slip ahead of lines by offering security guards a small payment. These behaviours, he stressed, must end if Guyana is to mature into a modern and disciplined society.
“That mindset must change… And that takes
spend it examining the opportunities Government is providing for you online,” he urged, encouraging residents to engage with official platforms rather than misinformation.
President Ali also underscored the need for
spect for systems.
“We can build the best infrastructure, the most modern service platforms, but a system is only as good as the people who use it. If your only intention is to find a back door or a side door, then you are contributing to the problems we face,” he explained.
The President warned that poor habits, shortcuts, and corrupt practices at the individual level can undermine the progress the country is making. He highlighted two common examples: motorists speeding down public roads then attempting to bribe Police Officers
the collective effort of all of us.”
Ali said the Government is taking decisive steps to ensure accountability within the public sector, including the enforcement of performance indicators and consequences for non-performing officials. He emphasised that citizens must also meet their own responsibilities by following established systems instead of seeking “shortcuts” that breed unfairness and corruption.
According to the President, the transformation underway in Guyana is not limited to roads and physical infrastructure. It
le must match that transformation by also transforming the way we think, the way we treat our children, the way we behave at home and on the street.”
The President added that Region Six is poised for tremendous change within the next five years, with billions of dollars in infrastructure, education, and economic expansion set for implementation. But the ultimate success of these projects, he maintained, depends on citizens embracing the values that underpin modern development.
“We will build the infrastructure and create the opportunities. But it is up to all of us to match that transformation by how we think and act. The future is ours; let us work together to make it count,” he said.
President Dr Irfaan Ali speaking at his two-day outreach in Berbice on Thursday
From left to right: Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency, and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally; President Ali; Carol Trim-Baggot – Councillor, NA Municipality; Zamal Hussain, MP and Sean Smith, Regional Councillor
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Rising dialysis numbers & lifestyle changes
Guyana is confronting a rapidly-escalating public health challenge. The number of patients requiring dialysis has soared from 63 in 2020 to over 600 in 2025, according to a recent study by the Human Organ and Tissue Transplant Agency (HOATTA). This tenfold increase over five years signals not only a growing burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) but also an urgent need for stronger prevention, early detection, and management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) that drive kidney failure. The implications for individuals, families, and the healthcare system are profound, demanding immediate and comprehensive intervention.
The study, led by Dr Shanti Singh-Anthony alongside a multidisciplinary team of nephrologists, biostatisticians, and health administrators, is the first robust, evidence-based assessment of dialysis and kidney transplant patients in Guyana. While anecdotal reports have long suggested rising CKD rates, this research provides concrete data, establishing a foundation for targeted policies and systemic improvements. According to the study, dialysis patients have steadily increased from 63 in 2020 to 129 in 2021, 326 in 2022, 428 in 2023, 556 in 2024, and now surpass 600 in 2025. This trend reflects both the growing prevalence of risk factors and the strain on the health system to meet rising demand.
Non-communicable diseases are at the core of this crisis. Conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and chronic respiratory illnesses are prevalent among dialysis patients. The study revealed that 66.8 per cent of patients had one or two risk factors, while 31.9 per cent had three to five. Only 1.3 per cent of patients had no risk factors. Alarmingly, nearly 46 per cent of patients with high blood pressure were unaware of their condition, with the proportion significantly higher among men. Another 15.5 per cent were aware of their hypertension but were not receiving treatment, and 21.9 per cent were receiving treatment but remained uncontrolled. These statistics illustrate the urgent need for early detection, patient education, and continuous monitoring.
Lifestyle and behavioural factors exacerbate the situation. The study found that 50.3 per cent of patients were overweight or obese, with 39.8 per cent of men and 61.8 per cent of women affected. Blood sugar monitoring was inadequate, with 52.4 per cent of patients never having measured their levels, leaving many at risk of undiagnosed diabetes, a major contributor to CKD. These findings indicate the need for structured public health initiatives focused on nutrition, physical activity, and routine health assessments, alongside community awareness campaigns to reduce preventable disease risk.
The economic impact of the rising dialysis population is considerable. Dialysis is both resource-intensive and costly, necessitating significant Government support. In 2023, the Government announced an annual subsidy of $600,000 per dialysis patient to improve access and alleviate financial strain. While such measures are necessary, they address the consequences rather than the root causes of kidney failure. Without preventative strategies and systemic improvements, the demand for dialysis will continue to increase, placing unsustainable pressure on healthcare infrastructure and public finances.
The HOATTA study offers a roadmap for addressing this crisis. Its recommendations are comprehensive, calling for stronger screening programmes, improved management of NCDs at the primary care level, structured patient and public education, better referral pathways to nephrologists, and the development of a National CKD Prevention Strategy. Central to these measures is understanding the experiences of patients and caregivers. The study surveyed 213 dialysis patients and 74 caregivers, revealing informational gaps, misconceptions, and behavioural challenges that affect adherence to treatment and overall health outcomes. Such insight is crucial for designing patient-centred care models that are both effective and sustainable.
The exponential rise in CKD and dialysis dependence reflects a broader NCD epidemic and highlights systemic gaps in health education and prevention. Without urgent action, the country risks increasing morbidity and escalating healthcare costs. The HOATTA study provides a way for intervention, prevention, early detection, structured education, and patient-focused care. Implementing these recommendations can shift the healthcare approach from reactive and costly to proactive and sustainable, ultimately improving outcomes for patients and reducing pressure on the health system.
Policymakers, healthcare providers, and the public must confront this health matter with urgency.
Rebuilding together
By Damion Hylton
Iremember experiencing Hurricane Gilbert as a child in September 1988 – the howling winds, the darkness, and the long nights that seemed endless. For many Jamaicans of my generation, Gilbert was more than a storm; it was a national trauma that reshaped our understanding of nature’s fury. Roofs flew, rivers raged, and entire communities were plunged into devastation and darkness. Recovery took years, and remnants of Gilbert’s impact linger in our memory as a nation.
Jamaicans are again counting the cost due to the havoc created by Hurricane Melissa. With no reservation, some have expressed that, “Melissa mek Gilbert look like joke.” The scale of devastation is staggering. The Category 5 hurricane triggered several layers of disaster insurance instruments, including the catastrophe bond – a visionary policy led by the Andrew Holness-led Government under the portfolio responsibility of former Finance Minister Dr Nigel Clarke. The Government must be commended for its foresight. This strategic financial move has proven to be invaluable, as it created an avenue to access funding which will help to cushion the blow from the economic fallout and help to facilitate a speedier recovery.
While financial mechanisms are essential for rebuilding, that alone will not be enough. Jamaica stands at a critical intersection, where political unity, corporate responsibility, and community resilience must align. True recovery will depend not just on the scale of our investments but on the strength of our collaboration.
Jamaica stands at a crossroads, where disunity among political and socio-political interests and the business community can overturn the gains. The country can only rebound when all Jamaicans set aside their own biases and interests and become in sync with the mission to rebuild Jamaica stronger.
The political directorate, across party lines, must lead with a shared purpose, setting aside partisan divides in favour of national renewal. Local authorities, who are closest to the people, must be empowered – not side-lined – to design and drive context-specific recovery initiatives. Their intimate knowledge of community needs and vulnerabilities makes them essential to any credible recovery plan.
Civil society and the volunteer sector continue to play a significant role in Jamaica’s humanitarian response. They are often first on the ground, mobilising support, distributing aid, and ensuring that no one is forgotten. When businesses
partner with these grassroots networks, they gain trust, insight, and legitimacy. When civil society collaborates with the private sector, they unlock resources and innovation. And when Government facilitates this synergy through policy, incentives, and transparency, recovery becomes sustainable rather than symbolic.
Agencies such as the Social Development Commission (SDC) also have a crucial role to play. With their established community networks and mandate for local empowerment, the SDC is uniquely positioned to mobilise community development committees (CDCs), parish development committees (PDCs), and development area committees (DACs) to support relief and recovery efforts. These local structures provide an invaluable bridge between national plans and community realities, ensuring that recovery is not only well-coordinated but also inclusive, participatory, and rooted in the lived experiences of those most affected.
An equally vital, yet sometimes understated partner in this national effort, is the Church. Faith-based organisations remain among the most trusted and enduring institutions in the lives of Jamaicans. Their role extends beyond distributing relief; they offer spiritual grounding, psychosocial support, and hope. Throughout the years, these organisations have acted as family to many in crisis on a daily basis. These institutions respond year-round to people in need and are the constant shelter in the time of storm.
The Jamaican Diaspora, philanthropic organisations, and the international community have always demonstrated remarkable solidarity. Jamaicans abroad have mobilised fund-raising campaigns, shipped barrels of supplies, and leveraged their networks to channel resources homeward. Organisations such as Food For The Poor Jamaica, community foundations, and various local charitable groups, including the Shaggy Foundation and other entertainment-led initiatives, have coordinated relief efforts with precision and compassion. International partners, including Caricom member states and development agencies, have offered technical assistance, emergency supplies, and financial support.
Particularly heartening has been the response from Jamaica’s dancehall and recording artistes and producers, who have translated their cultural influence into tangible relief. These entertainers have mobilised their platforms and resources to deliver food packages, water, and essential supplies directly to some of the hardest-hit communities. Their efforts demonstrate that Jamaica’s cre-
ative sector is not only a source of global cultural pride but also a vital pillar of national solidarity in times of crisis.
This global outpouring of support reminds us that Jamaica’s recovery is not ours alone to shoulder. The generosity of individuals sending remittances to affected families, corporations matching employee donations, and Diaspora groups organising benefit concerts all contribute to a tapestry of care that strengthens our collective resolve.
This disaster is unprecedented in scale, and we must acknowledge that the Government will not get everything right as we navigate this crisis. Recovery for Melissa will be on a learning curve. We are all learning together. From improving our response systems to better accounting for our citizens through mechanisms like the national identification system (NIDS), this tragedy has revealed critical gaps that must be addressed.
How do we locate and account for all our people in times of crisis? Jamaicans have a responsibility in this process to ensure that they can be accounted for during national emergencies.
Environmental issues must be revisited with urgency. Our approach to building structures, construction approvals, land use, and environmental protection must be fundamentally re-examined. The lessons from Melissa must inform stricter standards and more sustainable development practices if we are to reduce our vulnerability to future disasters.
Rising together
Gilbert taught us endurance. Melissa must teach us collaboration and renewed community spirit. As we move from relief to recovery, every Jamaican, from policymakers to pastors, from business leaders to volunteers, and from social media influencers and artistes to journalists, must see themselves as nation-builders. The storms will come again, but if we build together, grounded in unity and guided by shared purpose, Lady Jamaica will not only recover; she will rise stronger, wiser, and more resilient than ever before.
The path forward demands that we build back better, smarter, and together. Our recovery must be inclusive, sustainable, and transformative. Only through genuine collaboration across all sectors of society can we turn this tragedy into an opportunity for national renewal and lasting resilience. (Jamaica Observer)
(Damion Hylton is a social transformation and development specialist who has worked in the development sector for the past 20 years)
Children and youths in Masakanari, Deep South Rupununi, receive Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines during a World Children’s Day outreach led by the Health Ministry in partnership with the Office of the First Lady, aimed at boosting protection against vaccinepreventable diseases (Office of the First Lady photo)
GRA is being cheated
Dear Editor,
As a citizen of Guyana, I feel compelled to raise an issue of national importance. It pains me when I make purchases at places such as sawmills, where receipts are given only if requested, and even then, they are often incomplete, sometimes just a single sheet with a faint printed or stamped name and address. It is clear these receipts are issued merely to satisfy the customer. In many places, when you request a receipt, the response is, “Well, you will have to pay VAT,” which implies that without asking, VAT is intentionally not charged. In this way, the revenue of Guyana – and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA –is being cheated. I always make it clear: please charge me my VAT.
I have observed this issue
at both local and Chinese establishments, with the latter being among the more frequent defaulters, evaders, or dodgers. Some Guyanese and many Chinese business operators in this country are known to avoid paying taxes. They often do not maintain legal bank accounts, prefer cash transactions, and conduct business strictly in cash. I noted with great respect that H E Ambassador Yang Yang of the People’s Republic of China spoke about this issue in one of her addresses, appealing to Chinese nationals to import quality goods, open legal bank accounts, and operate within the law. Let me be clear: there are many Guyanese who behave in the same way.
I wish to emphasise that I am a great admirer of Chinese civilisation and his-
tory, including their medicinal and inventive accomplishments. My comments should not be misconstrued; I am simply pointing out the reality, and it applies to many Guyanese as well. Because of these practices, the Government is not receiving the tax revenues it should – whether royalties, VAT, corporate taxes, or otherwise. I believe the Government of Guyana, in conjunction with the GRA, needs to conduct major investigations and evaluations to ensure that our national tax revenue is not being undermined.
I do not wish to make life difficult for anyone, but all must comply with our laws and show patriotism to our country.
Yours sincerely, Roshan Khan Sr
Ruminant abattoir at Onverwagt a game changer for Guyana’s beef industry
Dear Editor, I write to highlight the remarkable importance of the new ruminant abattoir currently being established at Onverwagt, an initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture under the guidance of Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha. With nearly $800 million invested jointly by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Government of Guyana, this facility represents a major step forward in transforming our livestock sector, particularly in light of the growing domestic and regional demand for beef.
The abattoir at Onverwagt is not just an
Tiger Bay will rise and “racial capital” will fail
Dear Editor,
Every era demands fresh thinking. In most societies intellectuals are at the leading edge of building out the general framework of a new political and cultural renaissance.
It is this spirit that I have kept an open mind regarding the accession of Dr David Hind to the National Assembly. I regret to say that instead of new ideas grounded in forward movement, Hinds has renewed his vows with racial antagonism. I contend here that his perspective on Tiger Bay is not a mere “drive-by shooting” but the product of a grand concept, namely racial capital.
In Guyana, we are fortunate to have a leader, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who is not only the president but also an intellectual and author in his own right.
Capital, as a concept, has been around for centuries. The economic concept of capital was systematically theorised by writers like Adam Smith and Karl Marx. Human capital is also
an economic concept, but it emerged only in the 20th century in any systematic manner.
The concept of social capital through networks of cooperation was fully developed by the likes of Robert Putnam and William Julius Wilson, among others.
The perspectives on capital above have one thing in common, namely, to bring clarity to seemingly disparate or misunderstood phenomena.
Hind’s racial capital is unique in that it is regressive. You see, racial capital is a particular form of investment in division and antagonism. The specificity of racial capital is that it allows the user, in this case David Hinds, to prosecute narratives of oppression and marginalisation under an abstract idea.
Hinds has no use for things like empirical evidence. He does not care that Tiger Bay is in dire need of urgent attention. He is oblivious to their need for better housing, schools, places for
recreation, and cries to be fully integrated into the rapid development of Guyana.
He is astoundingly oblivious to the neglect and abandonment of the area by successive PNC and APNU-AFC Governments.
David Hinds will learn that governing takes careful analysis, hard work, sound policies, and unremitting dedication. He will soon discover that the distinc-
tive signature of the PPP/C is that it makes promises based on sound policies and then keeps those promises. Tiger Bay will prove this, yet again.
Hind’s racial capital is bound to collapse in ignominy right there in Tiger Bay. And, like the rest of the nation, Tiger Bay will rise.
Yours sincerely, Dr Randy Persaud
infrastructural project; it is a linchpin in advancing Guyana’s agro-industrial development. It is poised to modernise meat processing, ensuring that beef is produced to international sanitary and quality standards. This is especially vital as Guyana positions itself to increase exports across the Caribbean and further afield. With the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) striving to reduce its high food import bill, Guyana is ideally placed to become the regional hub for safe, high-quality beef production.
Further, the establishment of this abattoir will boost economic opportunities for livestock farmers, particularly small- and medium-scale producers. By enabling controlled slaughtering, proper disease surveillance, and efficient carcass grading, the facility will help farmers earn better prices while enhancing traceability and food safety. It will also create employment opportunities, stimulate rural economies, and encourage greater investment in live-
stock production.
Minister Mustapha’s update on the project reflects a strong commitment to agricultural diversification and sustainability. The Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) has been working to increase breeding stock, improve pasture management, and strengthen veterinary services, all of which will be complemented by the new abattoir. This synergy between production and processing is essential for improving food security and meeting consumer demands.
In summary, the ruminant abattoir at Onverwagt is a transformative step for Guyana’s agriculture sector. It aligns perfectly with national goals of economic diversification, rural upliftment, and regional food leadership. As the demand for beef continues to rise, this investment will ensure Guyana is ready to meet it with efficiency, quality, and pride.
Yours sincerely, Fawaz Harry
Page Foundation
There are two sides to an equation, with the left side being equal to the right side.
We can solve simple equations and more complicated equations to work out the value of these unknowns; they could involve fractions, decimals or integers.
In order to solve these equations, we need to work out the value of the unknown variable by adding, subtracting, multiplying or dividing both sides of the equation by the same value.
To solve any equation, we need to perform arithmetic operations to separate the variable, such as:
• Adding the same number on both sides
• Subtracting the same number on both sides
• Multiplying with the same number on both sides
• Dividing by the same number on both sides
Example 1
Solve the equation 3x + 4 = 25
To work out the value of 3x, subtract 4 from both sides of the equation.
3x + 4 – 4 = 25 – 4
3x = 21
The value of 3x is 21. To find the value of one x, divide both sides by 3.
3x/3=21/3
x = 7
Materials
• Bowl or plate
• Milk
• Three different colours of food colouring
• Dish soap
Instructions
1. Pour milk into the bowl or plate. You want just enough to cover the bottom.
2. Add a few drops of different colours of food colouring to the milk.
3. Using a spoon, stir stick, or your finger, add a single drop of dish
soap to the middle of the milk in the bowl or plate and watch what happens!
What’s happening?
Milk is mostly water but
Example 2
Solve the equation 4x − 1 = 19
To work out the value of 4x, add 1 on both sides of the equation.
4x – 1 + 1 = 19 + 1 4x = 20
The value of 4x is 20. To find the value of one x, divide both sides by 4.
4x/4=20/4
x = 5
Practice
Solve the following equations: 1. 2x – 3 = –7 2. x + 2 = 10 3. y – 1 =
also contains fat, proteins, minerals, and milk sugar (or lactose). When soap is added, it interacts with all three parts of the milk in different ways. The hy-
drophilic end attracts to the water in the milk, and the hydrophobic end repels the water and attracts the fat molecules. As the soap interacts with the milk, it carries the fat molecules through the water. It’s pretty hard to see – that’s why we added colours to it! The colour allows us to watch the soap molecules search and attach to fat molecules. Once all of the fat molecules have been found by the soap, the food colouring will stop swirling!
By Clark ashton smith
The years are a falling of snow, Slow but without cessation, On hills and mountains and towers and worlds that were;
But snow, and the crawling night wherein it fell, May be washed away in one swifter hour of flame: Thus it was that some slant of sunset
In the chasms of pilèd cloudTransient mountains that made a new horizon, Uplifting the west to fantastic pinnaclesSmote warm in a buried realm of the spirit, Till the snows of forgetfulness were gone.
Clear in the vistas of memory, The peaks of a world long unremembered
Soared further than clouds but fell not, Based on hills that shook not nor melted With that burden enormous, hardly to be believed. Rent with stupendous chasms, Full of an umber twilight, I beheld that larger world : Bright was the twilight, clear like ethereal wine
Above, but low in the clefts it thickened, Dull as with duskier tincture.
Like whimsical wings outspread but unstirring, Flowers that seemed spirits of the twilight That must pass with its passingToo fragile for day or for darknessFed the dusk with more delicate hues than its own; Stars that were nearer, more radiant than ours, Quivered and pulsed in the clear thin gold of the sky.
These things I beheld
Till the gold was shaken with tight
Of fantastical wings like broken shadows Forerunning the darkness; Till the twilight shivered with outcry of eldritch voices Like pain's last cry ere oblivion.
[Source: Poetry (December 1912)]
Pick any time period and any place where people were migrating in large numbers. Write a story based on a character or a few characters who are currently on a voyage from one place to another.
“There cannot be excuses” – Pres
Ali tells delinquent contractors …says sanctions
Emphasising that services must be efficiently delivered to the people, President Dr Irfaan Ali on Thursday announced that the Ministry of Finance will sanction those contractors who are dragging their feet on the construction of bridges along the main road in New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
While engaging with residents of New Amsterdam and surrounding communities at the State House in the region,
will be imposed
President Ali made it clear that excuses are no longer acceptable.
Speaking on bridge projects along the main road, the President said that although the project is visibly lagging, punitive actions have not yet been imposed.
“I am astonished that liquidated damages are not yet applied… From my information so far, these contractors seem disinterested in completing the bridges,” the President said.
As a result, the
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and the procurement head have been instructed to ensure these delinquent contractors do not receive new projects until the bridges are completed.
The Finance Secretary has been instructed to determine whether engineers have been delinquent in managing the project, and if so, to take the necessary administrative action.
President Ali reminded the audience that the finance secretary has the
authority to enforce administrative requirements. If engineers fail to meet those requirements, corrective actions will be taken.
“There is no excuse anymore. There cannot be excuses. We pay for services from the Government, and those services must be delivered efficiently… There are not shortcuts to this,” the President said.
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is rolling out massive infrastructural projects across the 10
administrative regions, including the East BerbiceCorentyne region. These include the construction of a US$604 million highway from Palmyra to Moleson Creek, which is underway and will make commuting easier for thousands of residents.
Other major projects include a new Berbice River Bridge resembling the new Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara Harbour Bridge, a new bridge across the Corentyne River and a massive industrialisation agenda.
The President is currently on a two-day outreach in Region Six with 47 community meetings planned over the two days. He is accompanied by his cabinet Ministers and other Government officials. As part of President Ali’s directive to his cabinet, the full Government will engage with residents frequently across all regions so that all citizens receive equitable service.
[Extracted and Modified from DPI]
New accelerator programme to strengthen Guyana's wood-based SMEs
The Delegation of the European Union in Guyana, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), and the Centre for Local Business Development on Wednesday launched the Guyana Wood-Based SME Accelerator Programme 2025 – an ambitious initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity, competitiveness, and long-term sustainability of small and medium enterprises operating within Guyana's wood-based sector.
Funded by the European Union and implemented by FAO with support from the Centre, the programme is designed to help entrepreneurs improve regulatory compliance, build business and leadership skills, and access new financing opportunities. The launch opened with a formal programme outlining the initiative and its call for applications, followed by a stakeholder workshop featuring members of the sector and financial institutions. That session focused on identifying the specific needs of wood-based SMEs and ensuring the Accelerator is tailored to address those gaps.
The first cohort of the Accelerator will run from January to September 2026, guiding participants through a structured five-phase programme that includes seminars, bootcamps, one-on-one coaching, financial match-
making, and grant support.
Viable economic opportunities
EU Ambassador to Guyana and Suriname, Luca Pierantoni, emphasised that the forestry sector is built not only on the country's rich forest resources but also on the people, entrepreneurs, community forestry groups, and indigenous-led enterprises who transform those resources into viable economic opportunities.
Highlighting the long-standing partnership between Guyana and the European Union, the Ambassador noted that forestry cooperation remains one of the strongest pillars of that relationship. He referenced the 2022 Forest Partnership Memorandum of Understanding, which focuses not only on protecting and restoring Guyana's forests but also on ensuring those forests serve the country's social and economic needs.
He also explained that the Wood-Based SME Accelerator exemplifies the economic dimension of the EU-Guyana forest partnership.
"The success of the forestry sector not only depends on trees, but on the people, the women and the men that work in the forestry sector… The European Union is proud to support this initiative and Guyanese forestry SMEs to help them grow in a way that is sustainable,
competitive, and environmentally responsible. With these accelerators, the expectation is to improve the investment readiness of Guyanese wood-based SMEs, strengthening their business capacities, enhancing their access to finance, and increasing the investments in value-added forestry manufacturing in Guyana," the EU Ambassador said.
Importance of woodbased industry
Meanwhile, Commissioner of the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), Edward Goberdhan, in his remarks, welcomed the launch of the WoodBased SME Accelerator Programme.
The commissioner underscored the importance of the wood-based industry to national development, pointing to its contributions in job creation, income generation, export earnings, and supply of raw materials for local manufacturing and construction. He highlighted that Guyana's forests remain among the best managed globally, with consistently low rates of deforestation and illegal logging – a status supported by the country's worldclass wood-tracking system. With continued EU support, he added, the system will soon become fully digital, reflecting the President's wider agenda for rapid digitisation
across the economy.
Further, Guyana is currently in the implementation phase of the EUFLEGT VPA process, with the goal of issuing licences by 2026. Goberdhan said this process has strengthened the sector's legality and traceability systems, noting that legal and sustainable sourcing is fundamental to the credibility of the entire wood value chain. Strong legislation, backed by the LCDS 2030 framework, ensures that forest products meet local and international standards.
SMEs, he stressed, are major contributors to the forestry industry's output. At the primary production level, they account for nearly 60 per cent of national production – equivalent to roughly 300,000 cubic metres annually. In the processing sub-sector, SMEs handle more than 150,000
cubic metres of raw materials each year, supplying export markets, the domestic construction sector, furniture manufacturers, and kiln-drying operations. For this reason, he welcomed the Accelerator's focus on strengthening SME capacity and competitiveness.
He outlined the challenges faced by operators – capital-intensive production, difficult terrain, unpredictable weather, high transportation costs, labour shortages, and stiff competition from imported wood products. He emphasized the need for SMEs to prioritise the use of local timber, adopt lesser-known species, and maintain strict compliance with legality and sustainability requirements.
"So, we'd encourage the beneficiaries, the forest priorities for utilisation of local timber, and the processing value chain
to ensure the utilisation of lesser-known species. Compliance is also very important. As I mentioned, timber must come from a legal and sustainable source, which is a key pillar of the local wood-based sector. Alliance to quality and standard is also a key market tool, and a happy one for the development of this programme will be enhanced readiness for sustainable forest management, including alliance to certification standards like the PEFC and FSC. Recognising the importance of quality and standards in the wood-based sector, the GFC has developed a code of practice for processing operations, which sets out minimum standards and guidelines, including health and safety, for operators in the processing sub-sector," the Commissioner said.
2 arrested with cocaine, ganja
Two persons were arrested on Wednesday following the discovery of a quantity of cocaine and marijuana at Honey Camp Landing, Issano, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).
The narcotics found during the operation
Arrested are a 48-year-old resident of Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), and a 29-year-old resident of Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
Police stated that during
the operation, 98.3 grams of cannabis, 62.4g of cocaine, and a quantity of cash suspected to be from narcotics sales were found in the possession of the 48-year-old man.
In addition, a search of the other suspect unearthed 2.5g of cannabis and 1.5g of cocaine. The suspects and the narcotics were taken to the Issano Police Station as investigations continue.
Telling it…
…to the EU Electoral Mission
Pressie came out swinging at the OFFICIAL report on our September 1st elections by the EU Electoral Observer Mission (EUEOM) In respect to his high standards of professionalism (blush…blush!!), which places fair disclosure right up there on his totem pole of values, your humble Eyewitness must reveal that he’d already given his take on the said (preliminary) report back in September, and he hereby reproduces it in full This is to show he ain’t no brownnoser because he made the same points Pressie made way before!!
First, we gotta make a distinction between the EU reps at Pressie’s swearing-in from the EU Electoral Observer Mission (EUEOM) that was sent out from the Brussels bureaucratic eggheads and not their Diplomatic Corps They claimed that the “undue advantage of incumbency distorted the level playing field during the election campaign” It wasn’t surprising Norton latched on to this “uneven playing field” claim to claim that our election wasn’t “free and fair”!! The question your Eyewitness has for the EUEOM is – could they point to a single EU Government that’ll call their opening of completed projects “undue incumbency advantage”?? What are Governments supposed to do?? Put projects under a tarpaulin until elections are over??
But ironically, that’s exactly what VP Jagdeo did when he contradicted Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, who’d promised the PPP’s largest infrastructural project – the new Demerara Harbour Bridge – wouldn’t need to be tested after completion!! Which would’ve allowed folks to cross on election day!! Jagdeo nixed that!! No incumbency advantage!! But the thing about Governments using “incumbency advantage” by opening up projects is they gotta COMPLETE the projects Which ain’t so easy Basil Williams had promised a Guyana Law School for the PNC Government by 2020!! It’s the PPP that got approval in 2025, and if they complete it before 2030, shouldn’t they?!”
And all your Eyewitness can say at this point is – if in democracies parties are supposed to get elected 'cause folks believe their manifesto promises on what they’ll do –and not on (say) their good looks – why is it improper to ask to be REELECTED by showing you kept your promises??!! The analogy which Pressie made about not mentioning Sanction Man buying votes shows how hypocritical the EUEOM is!!
And on that point, how about this Facebook post from Team Mohamed – ON THE DAY BEFORE ELECTIONS – announcing his trademark gift of a house?? Team Mohamed's (31 August): 65-year-old Weldaad, mother of seven, gets new home from A Mohamed "It is a magnificent feeling," were the words of 65-year-old Marlyn Peters of Weldaad, West Coast Berbice, who received the keys to her brand-new home from businessman Azruddin Mohamed
EUEOM had an agenda!!
…on incumbency’s downside
While – as we acknowledged – “incumbency advantage” exists in all democracies, in pointing this out the EUEOM should’ve mentioned that there’s also a downside to incumbency – especially when it’s prolonged This effect is so prevalent, it has a name – INCUMBENCY FATIGUE!! Folks might’ve voted for a party, but when their rule becomes prolonged – like with the PPP from 1992 to 2015 – the accumulation of inevitable missteps or heavy-handedness or whatever makes even friendly folks wanna give some other parties a chance Depending on THEIR promises!! And the incumbency advantages wither in the sun, and the incumbent party is voted out
So the EU should’ve questioned why the 2015-2020 incumbent party – the PNC – wasn’t returned in 2020?? And it was 'cause they had ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO SHOW – after all the promises they’d made fell into the mud!! The point is, incumbency can be a two-edged sword, and how it cuts depends on whether the incumbent got anything to show at the next election cycle
It’s politics!!
…on pragmatism
Over in TT, PM Kamla bucked the Caricom tide on its received “progressive” wisdom by vociferously siding with the Yanks and pragmatically accepting their tariff reductions!! After Mad Maduro’s ouster – by hook or crook! – they’ll get the Dragon Gas field!!
“The real engine of transformation is you” – Pres Ali to UG graduands
President Dr Irfaan Ali on Thursday emphasised the importance of continuous learning to this year’s graduands of the University of Guyana (UG), noting that their greatest skill in life will be the ability to keep learning.
The Head of State highlighted that Guyana’s economy is rapidly expanding and its society is evolving “in ways once thought impossible”. Nevertheless, he noted that “the real engine of this transformation is not oil…it is people; it is you.”
President Ali emphasised that development depends on people who are accomplished, qualified and future-ready.
“The Guyana we are
Speaking on his Administration’s move to offer tuition-free education at UG, the Head of State explained that the success of
building needs engineers and educators, innovators and entrepreneurs, health professionals and policy thinkers…”
As he recommitted his administration’s intention to
the tertiary educational institution will not be measured by enrolment figures but by the impact of graduands and their capacity to drive national transformation.
ensure every Guyanese, regardless of background, can aspire to higher learning, the President stressed the importance of continuous education.
“Learning must never end; education cannot stop at graduation; it must become a lifelong pursuit,” he affirmed, noting that the world is changing faster than ever before.
“Technology evolves daily, industries reinvent themselves overnight. In such a world, the greatest skill is the ability to keep learning, keep adapting and keep growing. Upskilling, the continuous enhancement of knowledge and abilities, is now essential,” the President stated.
This, he noted, is not just a professional advantage but a national imperative.
This year’s UG graduands, he explained, are the future workforce of Guyana, and they must become globally competitive, technologically driven and environmentally responsible.
He further posited that free UG education does not only open the doors of access in ensuring no capable mind is left behind, but it must also raise the standard of excellence.
“Your education has empowered you; now let your learning empower others, let your curiosity drive change, let your ideas move Guyana forward,” President Ali expressed.
Remain grounded in service
Education Minister Sonia Parag has urged graduands of the UG to “remain ground-
ed in service to your community and your country”.
UG’s 59th Annual Graduation Ceremonies began on Thursday and will last until November 22, with an additional ceremony on December 6 for the Berbice campus.
Almost 3600 students are set to graduate, the largest
batch in the university’s 62year history.
Delivering remarks at the graduation ceremony on Thursday, Minister Parag told the graduating students that the event marks not only their academic success, but also the “passion, determination and resilience that brought you to this moment”.
Speaking on Guyana’s rapid development across all sectors, the education minister emphasised that opportunities are expanding and new industries are emerging.
“UG has equipped you with the knowledge and values that our nation needs… Your education is not just a personal gift to you; it is a na-
tional investment. You are the engineers of Guyana’s future, you are the educators who will inspire the next generation, you are the innovators who will solve challenges we have not yet imagined,” she noted.
“You represent the creativity, intelligence and leadership that will drive Guyana forward,” the minister added.
Moreover, she explained that this graduation ceremony must not mark the end of graduands’ learning but the beginning of their leadership.
She urged them to lead with integrity, seek solutions, not excuses, and “lift others as you climb”.
UG has produced over 70,000 graduates in its 62year history, many of whom have gone on to serve with distinction at the highest levels in both the private and public sectors, nationally and internationally.
Some of the graduands at UG’s 59th Annual Graduation Ceremony on Thursday
US-indicted Azruddin Mohamed agreed to GRA reassessing taxes on Lamborghini – official document
US-indicted businessman Azruddin Mohamed had agreed to taxes being reassessed on the Lamborghini he imported in 2020, where he had reportedly grossly undervalued the cost of the vehicle in order to avoid paying the rightful taxes.
On clearing the vehicle, Mohamed signed a C23 form, an official document provided for in law, agreeing to the taxes on the vehicle being reassessed.
The form states: “I, the undersigned, declare that all particulars given in this document are true and correct. I acknowledge that the Guyana Revenue Authority can review and reassess values in accordance with the fifth schedule within seven years should further evidence be obtained based on the findings or further investigations,” and it is affixed with Mohamed’s signature.
The form formed part of official court proceedings between Mohamed and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).
On the form, Mohamed declared that the cost of the vehicle was US$75,300, a value which was used by officials to calculate taxes.
However, the GRA later received evidence to show that the vehicle actually cost US$695,000.
The newly uncovered evidence triggered a post-clearance reassessment by the GRA and a demand for additional taxes.
The matter made its way
to the court, where Justice Gino Persaud on Friday last blocked the GRA from retroactively reassessing taxes owed on the undervalued Lamborghini imported by Mohamed.
The GRA has since signalled its intention to appeal the decision.
During his programme “Issues in the News” on Tuesday, Attorney General Anil Nandlall commented on the C23 form, explaining that “every importer who benefits from who participates in payment of custom duties and whose invoices are accepted as face value, they are required to sign a C32 form.”
Nandlall pointed out that the form also mandates the declarant to accept “responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the particulars given on this form and on any continuation sheet lodged with it and the authenticity of any document produced in support. The declarant also accepts responsibility to supply any additional information or document necessary to establish the customs value of the goods.”
Post-audit clearance &
additional taxes
Meanwhile, while Justice Persaud has ruled that the GRA cannot conduct post-audit assessments, Chancellor of the Judiciary (acting) Justice Roxane George, just days later, ruled to the contrary in another case.
On November 17, 2025, Justice George, who previously served as Chief Justice (acting), ruled in a case brought by businessman Zhangzhen Yu against the GRA, challenging, among other things, the tax body’s reassessment and the payment of import duties which were assessed by its Post Clearance Audit Unit (PCAU) of the Customs Division.
According to the particulars of the case, which were released by the Attorney General’s Chambers on Tuesday, the applicant imported various items of merchandise on diverse dates during the period 2016 to 2017. The goods were entered and duties paid based on invoices submitted by the applicant to and assessed by the GRA. Thereafter, the goods were released to the applicant. Eighteen months
after the last transaction on November 23, 2017, the applicant received a demand letter dated March 22, 2019 signed by Mr Hyman, Deputy Commissioner, Customs, Excise and Trade of the GRA, claiming $15,475,006 as additional duties and taxes on twelve containers of goods imported between November 2016 and October 2017 in relation to the shipments that had already been cleared, paid for and released.
But Justice George, in her judgement, said, “I do not consider the complaint that the assessment by the PCAU was unlawful has merit. The PCAU is clearly a department within the GRA. There is no evidence to support the contention that this unit is without statutory power, illegal and
unlawful, and there is most certainly no evidence that it is unconstitutional.”
She also recognised GRA’s explanation that although the goods were released, all the containers had not been fully examined and that pursuant to Section 233 of the Customs Act, it can review declarations and other documentation within three years of the initial submission by an importer and request additional documentation.
She also ruled that “the post-audit clearance allows for the collection of additional taxes where the inspection of the documents reveals that there has been a short levy. However, the applicant counters that the issue of a short levy only applies where there has been an error in the classi-
fication of goods or the rate of duty on entry. I do not agree. Section 17 is not so restrictively worded.”
Her ruling also states that “to accede to the applicant’s contention would mean that an importer could make a false declaration to the GRA, and once their goods have been entered and cleared, the authority would not be able to conduct a further assessment. Even though it is trite law that a taxing act must be construed strictly, the fact is that the provisions identified by the GRA permit the reassessment of taxes after goods have been entered and cleared. As the provision states, the GRA may request documentation to be produced to substantiate the declarations made.”
Lethem man allegedly drops gun, ammo while escaping from cops
A.38 revolver and four live rounds of matching ammunition wrapped in a jersey were found during a Police operation on Wednesday at Tabatinga, Lethem, Region Nine.
Police stated that during the operation, ranks searched an abandoned plot of land, during which a male was seen running into nearby bushes.
and
The ranks reportedly went in pursuit of him, but he managed to evade them. However, a subsequent search of the area led to the
discovery of the gun and ammunition. The Police are on the hunt for the identifiable suspect.
Excavator operator charged with crushing worker to death at construction site
Five months after Mervin Lochand was crushed to death at a construction site in Queenstown Village, Essequibo Coast, Region Two, a 32-year-old truck driver was charged on Wednesday with causing death by dangerous driving.
Roopchand Lall, from C West Public Road, Lima, Essequibo Coast, appeared before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Anna Regina Magistrate's Court, where the charge was read to him, to which he pleaded not guilty.
He was, however, grant-
ed $500,000 bail and was ordered to report to the Anna Regina Police Station every Friday until the determination of the matter. He will make his next court appearance on December 3, 2025. Back in July, an excavator operated by Lall had reversed and driven over Lochand at the construction site. Upon realising that he ran over something, he immediately brought the machine to a halt, and upon exiting, he saw Lochand's motionless body. The injured man was taken to the Suddie Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Dead: Mervin Lochand Charged: Roopchand Lall
The gun
ammunition that were retrieved by ranks
Govt plans AI smart traffic lights to reduce congestion
The Government is gearing up to roll out a smart traffic light system across the country with the aim of further reducing congestion on the roadways.
On Wednesday, the Public Works Ministry, the Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department and technical experts met to advance discussions on the initiative.
Among those who participated in the meeting were Public Works Minister Juan Edghill and Traffic Chief Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh.
A smart traffic light system is an advanced traffic control system that uses sensors and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to dynamically adjust traffic signals based on real-time conditions, instead of a fixed schedule.
In an invited comment to this publication, the traffic chief explained that “it’s an improved way in which traffic will be allowed to flow continuously in a direction where volumes are greater.
The lights naturally will be remotely monitored based on the type of technology, and the priority will be given where you have greater volumes for the specific direction the traffic must flow.”
The goal is to ensure better traffic management across the country and to aid in the reduction of congestion.
“You have less interruption, there’s less likelihood of accidents, and you find congestion generally will be
driven downward. Basically, you can enter and exit a space in faster time, because remember, the lights will be synchronised along the route that is displayed, and it’s much to the benefit of the road users,” he noted.
The Traffic Chief was unable to provide a timeline for the initiative’s rollout or identify the contractor responsible, noting that those announcements would be made by Central Government.
AC technician nabbed with gun, ammo at Police Station
An air conditioning technician was taken into custody on Wednesday after Police found a .38 revolver and a single round of .32 ammunition in Herstelling, East Bank Demerara.
Based on reports received, on the day in question, a 39-year-old barber from the said village reported that a 27-year-old man had visited his home and threatened to shoot him.
As such, the suspect was arrested, and a search was carried out on his person and at his residence, but no firearm was found.
However, later in the day, the AC technician visited the Farm/Herstelling Police Station in connection with the same matter. While there, he started to behave in a disorderly manner; as such, he was cautioned but continued, resulting in his arrest. A search of his person re-
vealed one live .32 round of ammunition. This prompted the Police to search his residence, during which a .38 revolver was found concealed in a bag in the sitting room area. Both men remain in custody pending investigations and charges.
Missing woman found dead at Stewartville seawall
Two days after being reported missing, the body of 38-yearold Chandini Persaud, also called “Savi”, from Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara (WCD), was found on Sunday at Stewartville foreshore, WCD.
Police stated that the body, which bore no marks of violence, was discovered on Sunday and later positively identified by a friend on Thursday at Ezekiel Funeral Home.
Police stated that a missing person’s report was received on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. The woman was reportedly last seen on November 14. However, on Sunday, ranks responded to a report of a body at Stewartville Seawall.
The scene was processed, and the body, which was unidentified at that time, was transported to the funeral home awaiting identification and post-mortem examination.
Meanwhile, on Thursday, a friend of the woman showed up and positively identified the body as that of Chandini Persaud by means of a tattoo. A post-mortem examination is pending as investigations continue.
The gun and ammunition discovered
Dead: Chandini Persaud
$330,000 in fines, $310,000 in bail as 5 drivers face traffic charges
Multiple drivers were taken before the Anna Magistrate’s
Court in recent days to answer a series of traffic-related charges stemming from incidents across the Essequibo Coast.
On Wednesday, 46-year-
old mason Kester Jack of Charity Housing Scheme was charged with dangerous driving committed on taxi driver Javier McDonald. The incident occurred on November 1, 2025, along the Dartmouth Public Road.
The charge, laid under
Section 36(1) of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02, was read to Jack before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of $100,000.
The matter was adjourned to December 16, 2025, for disclosure.
On the same day, 34-year-old taxi driver Javier McDonald of Lot 8 Lima was also charged, this time with careless driving committed on Jack during the same incident.
Punesh Doodnauth Brian Mohamed Lionel Garraway
Javier Mc Donald Kester Jack
Scenes from the Presidential Outreach in Region 6
Cancer, heart disease, suicide driving shorter life expectancy among men – Dr Carpen
Cardiologist Dr Mahendra Carpen has warned that men across the Caribbean, including Guyana, are facing significantly shorter life expectancy due to high rates of cardiovascular disease, cancer, accidents, and suicide, conditions exacerbated by cultural norms that discourage preventive healthcare and open conversations about wellbeing.
is needed to address the systemic issues affecting men’s health.
Delivering remarks on Wednesday at the Men’s Wellness Symposium at Herdmanston Lodge in observance of International Men’s Day, Dr Carpen said the Government wants to build “stronger men, stronger families, and a stronger Guyana” but emphasised that urgent attention
Cardiologist Dr Mahendra Carpen
Dr Carpen highlighted that men in the Caribbean live three to four years less than women despite sharing the same environment, food, and social circumstances. He explained that men are more than twice as likely as women to die prematurely – before their expected lifespan – with cardiovascular disease, liver disease, lung cancer, accidents, and higher suicide rates being the most significant contributors. Many of these risks, he added, are linked to male-dominated high-risk occupations,
Ubraj Narine resigns from PNCR
Former Mayor of Georgetown Ubraj Narine has resigned from the People's National Congress Reform (PNCR).
Narine submitted his resignation letter today to PNCR leader Aubrey Norton.
“This decision comes after a period of thoughtful consideration of my personal responsibilities and future aspirations,” Narine said in the letter.
A number of PNCR officials have been resigning from the political grouping.
Among them are longstanding PNCR Executive Mervyn Williams, PNCR Chair Shurwayne Holder, and Georgetown City Councillor Robert Maison.
Considered a close ally of Norton, Holder first became a member of the PNCR executive in 2018. He was elected to the CEC during the party’s 21st Biennial Delegates Congress held that year.
At the subsequent Biennial Congress in 2021, Holder was elected to the Chairmanship, a position he was re-elected to in 2024 when the party’s election was rife with accusations of lack of transparency, accountability and fairness.
This latest series of resignations follows what has become a regular year-onyear occurrence for the PNCR over the past few years. The thinning of the herd has included the resignation of many longstanding stalwarts, including former General Secretary Amna Ally, who had also resigned.
Former Georgetown Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen and City Councillor Trichria Richards resigned in 2023 ahead of the Local Government Elections, where they debuted as members of PNCR’s main
political rival, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). Longstanding party member Ronald Backer and party treasurer Fiaaz Mursaline resigned in 2022. Youth activists Thandi McAllister and Brian Smith resigned in 2021. Former General Secretaries Geeta Chandan-Edmond and Dawn Hastings-Williams resigned those positions in 2022 and 2024, respectively.
Region 10 Executives and former Parliamentarians Jermaine Figueira and Vanessa Kissoon also resigned this year, as did former executives and parliamentarians James Bond, Amanza Walton-Desir, and Natasha Singh Lewis.
Former Region Four
Regional Chairman Daniel Seeram and Vice-Chairman Samuel Sandy also resigned this year ahead of the 2025 elections, where they both endorsed the PPP/C.
McAllister, ChandanEdmond, Figueira, and Bond have all also crossed the floor and joined the PPP/C. Hastings-Williams and Natasha Singh-Lewis have joined the US-sanctioned
Azruddin Mohamed’s We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, which won 16 seats in Parliament in the September 1 elections, and Walton-Desir has formed her own party, the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM), which won a single seat at the GRE.
Meanwhile, while no clear reason was given for Narine’s resignation from the party, the former Georgetown mayor had in the past publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the way the PNCR handled certain matters.
For instance, last year, Narine had called out Holder, then PNCR Chair, for his unwarranted attack on former General Secretary Amna Ali. Narine had also questioned whether Indo-Guyanese are truly accepted by the party, stating, “Does the PNC truly welcome individuals of Indian descent, like myself, under its current leadership?”
Ally had come under attack after referring to Norton as an “unfit leader” who was responsible for divisions in the party.
heavy weekend drinking, and hazardous behaviours.
“Men are more than twice as likely than women to have premature death, meaning dying before that expected lifetime. And the main culprits for this, cardiovascular disease, liver disease, lung cancer, and most of the accidents and all the types of accidents in this part of the world.”
“Culturally in the Caribbean, we don't really go to the doctor until we're sick. Isn't that true? The places in the world that have the best health outcomes are those places that follow their people or their citizens from birth to death, from the cradle to the grave. So, they get their vaccinations on time, they get their health screening on time, and they have planning. So, those people live longer, and they have better quality of life,” the cardiologist said.
Dr Carpen pointed out that stigma also plays a major role in discouraging men from seeking help. Casual teasing or trivial comments among friends can cause men to withdraw from health-seeking behaviours or discussions about how they feel. This is especially concerning, he said, because social connection is vital for men’s mental and emotional health. Studies consistently show that strong male friendships reduce stress, improve wellbeing, and strengthen mental resilience, yet men often avoid discussing personal struggles due to embarrassment or fear of judgement.
He also acknowledged that the healthcare system itself sometimes overlooks important aspects of men’s lives. Doctors may focus solely on the presenting symptom while missing deeper issues involving mental health, sexual health, family dynamics, or lifestyle factors that sig-
nificantly affect overall wellness.
With this in mind, he urged a more comprehensive approach to evaluating men’s health, covering physical, mental, and social wellbeing, and incorporating broader models like the wellness wheel, which includes spiritual, environmental, occupational, and financial stability.
“These are important things for us to evaluate when we see men, when we're talking to men, when we're counselling men, and when we're trying to figure out what's happening.
Physical health in our part of the world and most parts of the world, again, the number one cause of death and disability, cardiovascular health. Cardiovascular
health has everything to do with every place that has blood supply that can have some kind of disease process from the brain to the toe. You can have strokes in the heart; you have blockage, heart failure, erectile dysfunction, peripheral vascular disease, all kinds of stuff,” Dr Carpen said. He acknowledged that changing lifestyles have worsened dietary patterns. With increasingly fast-paced schedules, many people skip home-cooked meals and rely on quick, processed options. He encouraged men to follow a simple balanced plate model – half vegetables and salad, with the remaining half split equally between protein and starch – as a guide to healthier eating.
Former Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine
Daniel Persaud named UG 2025 Valedictorian with perfect 4.0 GPA
Daniel Persaud, an electrical engineer at the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), has been named the University of Guyana (UG)’s Valedictorian for 2025. Persaud read for a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering and Technology and secured a Perfect Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.0, copping the coveted prize of the President’s Medal for Best Graduating Student with a bachelor’s degree.
Persaud, 33, will be amongst the three thousand seven hundred graduands who will be walking the university’s graduation stage when the nation’s premier
tertiary institution hosts its series of convocation exercises from November 20 to December 6, 2025.
Upon hearing the news that he was named the UG’s 2025 Valedictorian, Persaud said that he was lost for words at first. “I couldn't explain how I felt. I am humbled by it. I am honoured by it. I never envisioned me being here. I actually thought this would have been awarded to one of my classmates.” He attributed his high-achieving 4.0 GPA to a focused approach, reminding himself that “getting an A is not impossible; there is no reason to fail.”
Persaud explained that his academic success was
not easily achieved; it required commitment, hard work and a drive to succeed. “The challenges were basically just balancing what was required at UG with what was happening at home. UG had lots of late nights, exams and lots of assignments to take care of, and I also had many responsibilities at home.”
According to Persaud, the rigorous nature of engineering, especially the intense mathematics required, compounded the difficulty. “In engineering, there’s a lot of math, and I wasn't good at math before coming to the university. There were definitely times when I questioned, ‘What are you doing here, Daniel?
$330,000 in fines, $310,000 in bail...
The charge, laid under Section 37(1) of the Act, was read to McDonald before Magistrate Mohabir. He pleaded not guilty and was granted $50,000 bail. His case was likewise adjourned to December 16, 2025, for disclosure.
Multiple offences
In a separate matter heard on November 12, 23-year-old labourer Lionel Garraway of Charity Extension Scheme appeared before Magistrate Tariq Mohamed charged with several offences, including operating an uninsured motor vehicle on the Danielstown Public Road on October 30, 2025. Garraway pleaded guilty to all charges. He was fined $25,000 for operating an
uninsured motor vehicle (default: two weeks’ imprisonment); $40,000 for being an unlicensed driver (default: two weeks’ imprisonment); $5000 for operating an uncertified motor vehicle (default: two weeks’ imprisonment); $130,000 for failing to have a rear identification mark (default: two months’ imprisonment); and $130,000 for failing to have a front identification mark (default: two months’ imprisonment). His total fines amounted to $330,000.
DUIs
Two drivers were also charged with driving while their breath alcohol level exceeded the legal limit in matters heard on November 12.
Thirty-five-year-old
Why did you choose this torture?’”
Persaud, a son of Wales, Region Three, acquired his secondary education at the West Demerara Secondary School. In his drive for academic success, he then continued his studies at the GuySuCo Port Mourant Training Centre and the Government Technical Institute in Georgetown.
FROM PAGE 12
Brian Mohamed of Anna Regina was charged under Section 39(1) of the Act, as amended, for an offence allegedly committed on October 26, on the Aberdeen Public Road. He pleaded not guilty and was granted $80,000 bail. His case was adjourned to December 16, 2025, for disclosure.
In a separate case, 27-year-old lorry driver
Punesh Doodnauth of Lot 209 Hampton Court faced the same charge. The offence was reportedly committed on November 5, 2025, along the Windsor Castle Public Road.
Doodnauth pleaded not guilty before Magistrate Mohamed and was granted $80,000 bail. His matter was adjourned to December 10.
Persaud’s journey to UG was not immediate. He recalled that prior to 2021, when he was accepted at UG, he had initially applied for admission, but he was not accepted since he did not meet the requirements at the time for admission. “I felt rejected when I did not get through at first. But looking back, if I had gotten accepted, I would have struggled without that GTI foundation.” He noted that he did not back down; he ended up using the opportunity to complete the necessary technical training at the Government Technical Institute (GTI), which provided him a stronger foundation to pursue his electrical engineering degree at UG.
Persaud’s academic pursuit at the University of Guyana was made possible through a scholarship from Demerara Distillers
Limited (DDL), where he started working in 2013. The company’s leadership, he explained, “promotes growth for their employees.” He gave special mention to his manager, Mr Khemraj Sukhdeo, who was also instrumental in pushing him forward. According to Persaud, he was not required to work while on the scholarship.
Throughout his time at UG, Daniel credits his success entirely to a strong support system. His parents, Sewchand Persaud and Jasoda Deokaran, encouraged him throughout his studies. His siblings, Nadeina Persaud and Debbina Persaud, were also supportive, but the cornerstone of his early education was his grandmother, Mabel Persaud, who, he said, “has been a support of my education from the time I started school up to the point of UG.”
Beyond his immediate family, he highlighted two key mentors. Chelsea Balkaran, whom he referred to as a “very special friend”, was the person who encouraged him to apply for the scholarship at DDL and guided him throughout the complexities of university life. “She was always a mentor... she did not want
me to go through what she went through, so she taught me how to navigate UG,” the proud graduand said. His academic partnership with friend Lemuel Williams was important for tackling the workload. “For me, this is the guy that knows everything about anything. There were many late nights, group meetings. We would utilise Zoom, sometimes Google Meet, and we would teach one another.”
Though the demanding schedule of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology meant he could not participate in any UG extracurricular activities, Persaud remains an active person outside of school, dedicating time to martial arts, cricket, a little football, and volleyball, among other activities.
Addressing current and future students, Persaud shared the wisdom passed down by his mentors. “Treat the negative you hear about UG as noise, take the challenge and come. There is so much you could learn at UG, not only lifelong skills, but the relationships you develop.” He urged peers to find study groups, be vocal in class, and engage with lecturers who, he believes, “are trying to help you grow.”
The valedictorian encouraged his peers who are also graduating this year from the University of Guyana to serve their homeland, as too often persons with key skills are looking outward for opportunities. “We are at a stage right now where we are building bridges, roads… we are experiencing rapid development… as our President says, transformation. Stick around, take advantage of the opportunities, don't be afraid to share your ideas, dream big, innovate, be yourself.”
Having achieved the pinnacle of his undergraduate career, Persaud is hoping to continue his career at DDL while also pursuing his Master's degree in a related field. He remains deeply grateful for his faith, noting that being valedictorian is all thanks to “God and my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” (Feature by the Department of Events, Conferences and Communication (DECC), Office of the Vice-Chancellor, University of Guyana)
From left: Vice Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin; President Dr Irfaan Ali; University of Guyana’s 2025 Valedictorian, Daniel Persaud; and his friend Chelsea Balkarran pose for a photo at the Office of the President where Persaud received the President’s Medal
Persaud, University of Guyana’s 2025 Valedictorian and recipient of the prestigious President's Medal for the Best Graduating Student with a Bachelor’s Degree
Major road upgrades, product development to strengthen Rupununi tourism – Minister
B y L a W anda M c a LL ister
Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister
Susan Rodrigues has said that the Government
and exciting,” noting that the familiarisation exercise is critical because “we’re trying to capture as many of the tourism experiences as possible, given the time
that we have.” She stressed, however, that each location “require[s] days for you to really experience all of the offerings here.”
The two-day itiner-
is accelerating road and bridge upgrades, improving regional logistics, and strengthening product development as part of a wider push to elevate tourism across Guyana, including in the Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
Speaking during a media familiarisation tour of the North Rupununi circuit on Wednesday, Rodrigues said the experience has given her a first-hand look at both the promise and the challenges within Region Nine’s tourism sector.
She described the visit as “really exhilarating
ary included visits to Fairview, the Iwokrama Research Centre, the river rapids, the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway at Atta Rainforest Lodge, and an overnight stop at Rock View. Rodrigues said the region’s lodges and communities hold decades of rich history, adding, “These things didn’t start yesterday… Some of these places started 30 years ago, some going back to the 1960s.” Rodrigues emphasised that making these experiences accessible to both local and foreign visitors is a major priority.
“One of our main priorities is, of course, making sure that it is accessible to Guyanese as well as our international visitors.”
She said the Ministry is working closely with tourism and hospitality opera-
Part of that effort includes expanding cultural tourism and agritourism, noting that many Rupununi lodges already incorporate farm-to-table meals.
“Fresh food, local food
edged that the region has demonstrated consistent tourism success.
“The Rupununi has been doing tourism and has been demonstrating excellence… and so it gives us a good product to work with.”
tors to improve the quality of their offerings.
“We have to work with our tourism and hospitality stakeholders to improve their products… helping them to enhance the tourism experience that they have already.”
being served… working with them to do that as well.”
On the issue of infrastructure, Rodrigues said the Government continues to invest heavily in transportation links that directly benefit hinterland tourism. She pointed to ongoing works on the Linden–Mabura Road, upgrades along the Linden–Soesdyke Highway, and the new bridges being constructed to improve access between regions.
She noted that sometimes the public underestimates how national infrastructure projects affect the tourism sector: “Sometimes we don’t see that tourism is benefiting from this as well – by improving access and making it more affordable for people to access these destinations.”
While the Rupununi is not the only geographic focus, Rodrigues acknowl-
She said the ministry, along with the Guyana Tourism Authority, will continue visiting all circuits to increase public awareness.
“You will see us… visiting all of the regions, all of the circuits, and giving visibility to the tourism experiences that are available there.”
Rodrigues also identified access to information as one of the major challenges for domestic travellers.
“A major challenge for the public is access to information, knowing how to get here, understanding the logistics.”
The Minister also said Wednesday’s visit forms part of her approach to personally evaluate these logistics, including road and river travel, so the Ministry can respond with targeted improvements.
Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues
Justice Gino Persaud's GRA ruling could incentivise falsification of documents – Pres Ali
… lauds Chancellor’s ruling on post-clearance taxes
President Dr Irfaan Ali has raised concerns about a recent ruling handed down by Justice Gino Persaud, warning that it poses a significant threat to the integrity of Guyana’s taxation system. He said the decision was “so flawed” that it could expose the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to increased risks of criminality and fraud by effectively enabling professionals to “incentivise the falsification of documents.”
According to the President, the ruling also undermines the very foundations of post-clearance mechanisms, which are es-
sential for verifying the true value of imports and ensuring that the correct taxes are applied, even after goods have passed through ports of entry.
“It's a ruling that was so flawed that it exposes our taxation system to criminality and fraud. For a matter of fact, the ruling of Gino Persaud is viewed by many professionals as one that can incentivise the falsification of documents. There is something that is called post-clearance. There is something in post-clearance that inherently deals with the verification of values and the ability of the Revenue
Authority after verification to apply the right taxes.”
He added, “However, I am pleased at the recent and highly consequential decision delivered on the 17th of November 2025 by Madam Justice Roxane George in the matter of Zhangzhen Yu and Guyana Revenue Authority. Justice George's ruling brings clarity to an area of significant public importance. The authority of the Guyana Revenue Authority to conduct post-clearance assessments of imported consignments. Her judgement is compelling, meticulously reasoned, intellectually rigorous, and firmly rooted,” the Head of State contended.
In an address to the nation on Wednesday evening, President Ali said the Chancellor’s ruling provides long-needed clarity on the GRA’s authority to conduct post-clearance assessments of imported consignments and reaffirms Guyana’s alignment with global customs best practices endorsed by the World Customs Organization.
The President noted that post-clearance audits are not new and have long formed
part of Guyana’s customs architecture, previously handled by the inspections division of the former Customs and Excise Department. As global trade evolved and customs systems moved toward streamlined clearance procedures, post-clearance verification became even more essential. The GRA, he said, has strengthened these systems in step with international norms, ensuring that declarations can be scrutinised after goods leave the port – a safeguard critical for accuracy, transparency, and the protection of state revenue.
President Ali emphasised that Justice George’s decision restores coherence to the law, especially when compared to Justice Persaud’s earlier ruling, which the GRA has since appealed.
“That ruling, now slated for appeal by the GRA, has been widely criticised as perverse, internally inconsistent, and disconnected from both established custom practice and the evident intention of the Custom Act 8201. Many Guyanese remain baffled by how such a conclusion could have been drawn, especially in circumstances where the GRA had contended that the importation under scrutiny involved falsified declarations relating to a luxury motor vehicle. If Justice Persaud deci-
sion is permitted to stand, its implications will be profoundly damaging. It would effectively erect a judicial barrier preventing the GRE from recovering taxes rightfully owed to the state once goods had been cleared,” he explained. Such an outcome, he stressed, would be “wholly inconceivable in a lawful and orderly revenue system,” effectively rendering the Customs Administration powerless, encouraging dishonest declarations, and depriving the nation of substantial revenue. It would also undermine the fundamental purpose of post-clearance mechanisms, which he described as tools designed to facilitate ease of trade while still providing robust systems for verification.
President Dr Irfaan Ali
Justice Gino Persaud
COP30 attendees in Brazil forced to evacuate pavilion following fire
Attendees have been forced to evacuate the 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference, known as COP30, after a fire broke out at the venue in Belem, Brazil.
There were no injuries in Thursday’s blaze, according to Brazil’s Tourism Minister Celso Sabino. In a news conference afterwards, he downplayed the seriousness of the fire.
“There was a small fire here, which is possible at any large event,” he told journalists. “This small fire could happen anywhere on planet Earth.”
Organisers reported that
the evacuation was “fast” and the fire was controlled within six minutes, leaving only minor damage.
Thirteen persons were treated for smoke inhalation, according to a joint statement from the UN and COP30 leaders.
The affected area, known as the Blue Zone, is expected to remain closed until 20:00h local time (23:00 GMT).
The cause of the fire remains unclear. But Helder Barbalho – the governor of the state of Para, where the summit is taking place –told the Brazilian channel GloboNews that authorities
believe a generator failure or short circuit might have sparked the incident.
On social media, Barbalho assured the public that other parts of the COP30 conference zone continued to be in operation.
“We will find out what caused it, whether we can restart work here in the Blue Zone today or not,” he wrote. “The Green Zone is operating normally.”
Reports emerged about 15:00h local time (17:00 GMT) of flames in the Blue Zone pavilion, a restricted area for negotiators and accredited media. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
St Lucia: Emergency drill tests readiness at George Charles Airport
The Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) conducted a full-scale emergency response drill at the George F L Charles Airport on Tuesday, November 11, simulating an aircraft crash to test the airport’s emergency preparedness and inter-agency coordination.
The biennial exercise, held in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards, brought together more than 100 participants, including emergency responders, volunteers, and aviation stakeholders. The scenario involved a mock aircraft accident near the northern end of the runway, with simulated passengers and crew requiring rescue and medical attention.
SLASPA officials said the drill aimed to evaluate the airport’s emergency response plan, focusing on communication, command and coordination among multiple agencies. Exercise Director Aubert Regis de-
scribed the simulation as a critical test of operational readiness.
“The exercise allowed us to activate the airport’s emergency response plan and evaluate how efficiently our agencies would respond in a real-life situation,” Regis said. “The objective is not only to test our response capacity but also to strengthen collaboration and improve overall performance.”
Acting Airport Manager Alexandria Alexander echoed the importance of the drill, calling it a proactive measure to ensure swift and effective responses in
the event of an actual emergency.
“The exercise provided an opportunity for all response agencies to evaluate their performance, improve coordination and ensure that in the event of an actual aircraft incident, the response will be swift, efficient, and effective,” she said.
A formal debrief is expected to follow, during which lessons learnt and areas for improvement will be reviewed. SLASPA extended its gratitude to all participants and the public for their cooperation during the exercise. (Excerpt from St Lucia Times)
Barbados wins Destination of the Year at 2025 Balearica (Africa) Awards
Destination Barbados continues to make gains across Africa’s fast-emerging travel market, with the island’s recent Destination of the Year: African Diaspora award at the Balearica (Africa) Tourism Awards. This signals a powerful boost to Barbados’ visibility and desirability among African travellers. The recognition is expected to help accelerate interest in Barbados as a preferred long-haul business and leisure destination and deepen engagement with one of the region’s most promising emerging markets.
Barbados Tourism
Marketing Inc’s (BTMI) Director of Emerging Markets Kyle Gittens celebrated the recognition, stating, “This prestigious award supports our ongoing efforts to position Barbados as the destination of choice amongst the African travel market, celebrating our rich cultural and heritage connections.”
The distinguished accolade, which honours Barbados’ strong connection and deep-rooted historical ties to the African continent, as well as the island’s dedication to promoting its vibrant culture and heritage, was presented on November 2 at the
Hilton London, Canary Wharf, in the United Kingdom. The award also recognises the island’s re-energised initiatives to attract visitors from the African travel market.
Together, the historic visit by His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the hosting of the GUBA Awards, and the Destination of the Year title underscore Barbados’ pivotal role as a bridge between Africa and the Caribbean and reaffirm the island’s commitment to uniting communities across the Atlantic.
(Excerpt from Barbados Today)
10,000 shark fins worth over US$11M seized in major wildlife trafficking bust
in Peru
US authorities have assisted the Peruvian Government in seizing an estimated 10,000 individual shark fins destined for China – one of the largest wildlife trafficking operations in Latin American history.
The bust, on November 10 at an industrial port outside of Lima, led to the arrest of three men tied to a transnational criminal network involved in illegal fishing and wildlife smuggling, according to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
The cruelty behind the shark fin trade is well-documented. Shark finning often involves slicing fins off live sharks and discarding the mutilated animals back into the ocean, where they die from blood loss, suffocation or predation. The practice is banned in many countries but persists due to weak enforcement and high profits.
Shark fins are prized in Chinese cuisine, particularly for shark fin soup, which is associated with status and
celebration, according to the non-profit Shark Stewards. It's a dish that can sell for US$100 a bowl and continues to drive a lucrative black market. (Excerpt from CBS News)
Brazilian President will take fossil fuel phase-out plan to G20 summit
The Brazilian President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has told COP30 delegates that he will take his fossil fuel transition roadmap to the G20 in Johannesburg this week to campaign for it, despite reports that petrostates have said they will not accept the plan.
Before leaving COP30 in Belém, the figurehead of the global south told civil society representatives he was ready to fight for the proposal to phase out oil, coal and gas in whatever forum was necessary.
“Lula told me that he was all in on the roadmap and that he would campaign for it everywhere, in the G7 and G20,” said Marcio Astrini, director of the Climate Observatory campaign group. “It’s his proposal. He’s worried about those who are threatened by extreme climate events. That’s what moves him. He understands the climate crisis is a machine that worsens poverty and inequality.”
Climate conferences are always games of three-dimensional chess as the
world’s Governments juggle priorities and haggle over commitments. But the prospect of Lula opening a new front for his campaign in Johannesburg adds an intriguing transcontinental twist.
It would also lift the stakes. The G20 brings together more powerful world leaders than COP, where negotiations are mainly conducted by Ministers.
There is certainly a need
for more impetus. Eightytwo Governments signed up to the roadmap on Tuesday, but they only account for seven per cent of global fossil fuel production. The roadmap has since been knocked backwards, with sources close to the negotiations saying that Russia, China, India and South Africa jointly had told the Brazilian COP presidency they would not accept the plan. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Miss Universe Jamaica recovering after stage fall
Miss Universe Jamaica, Gabrielle Henry, is safe and recovering after falling off the stage during the preliminary evening gown competition in Bangkok, Thailand, on Wednesday.
Footage on social media showed Henry tumbling off the stage during the pageant, leading to her being removed on a stretcher. She was immediately taken to a hospital, where doctors con-
firmed she sustained only minor injuries and no fractures.
Raúl Rocha, President of the Miss Universe Organisation, reassured fans that Henry was recovering.
“I want to reassure the Miss Universe family is concerned about Miss Universe Jamaica’s health. I have just left the hospital, where I was with her and her family. Thank God, she has no bro-
ken bones and is under excellent care. She will remain under observation overnight. We will stay in close touch with her family and continue supporting her. We pray for her swift recovery,” he said.
Henry’s participation in the Miss Universe 2025 final, scheduled for November 21 (tonight at 21:00h local time), remains uncertain. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is worried about those on the front line of extreme climate events, according to civil society representatives
The fins, valued at more than US$11.2 million, were sourced from threatened species, including blue sharks, pelagic thresher sharks and common thresher sharks
OIL NEWS
Oil slides as US pushes for RussiaUkraine peace deal
Oil prices fell on Thursday as the Administration of US President Donald Trump pushed for Ukraine's acceptance of a peace agreement with Russia to end a war that has gone on for more than three years.
Brent crude futures settled at US$63.38 a barrel, down 13 cents, or 0.2 per cent. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures finished at US$59.14 a barrel, down 30 cents, or 0.5 per cent.
Both benchmarks rose earlier in Thursday's session on a larger-than-expected draw on US crude supplies, reported on Wednesday by the US Energy Information Administration.
The US-Russia peace proposal includes concessions of Ukrainian territory to Russia and reductions in Ukraine's armed forces, both of which Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has previously rejected.
On Thursday, Zelenskiy said he would look over the proposal and confer with the US about the peace plan.
"A lot of people thought this new proposal would be dead on arrival with Zelenskyy, but he didn't dismiss it out of hand," said Phil Flynn, senior analyst with Price Futures Group. "Now the billion-dollar question is, are the sanctions going to go into effect tomorrow? If they are close, they might get lifted or delayed."
US sanctions on trading with Russian oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil come into effect on Friday, while Lukoil has until December 13 to sell its sprawling international portfolio.
The bigger-than-expected draw in US crude stockpiles reflected increased refining in response to strong margins and export demand for US crude. (Excerpt from Reuters)
At least 41 dead as heavy rain, flooding, landslides hit central Vietnam
A man wades through floodwaters near inundated vehicles in Nha Trang, in Vietnam's coastal province of Khanh Hoa
Authorities in Vietnam say at least 41 persons have been killed in a barrage of torrential rain, flooding and landslides, as rescue crews worked to save stranded persons from the rooftops of submerged homes.
Rainfall exceeded 60 inches over the past three days in several parts of central Vietnam, a region home to a key coffee production belt and the country’s most popular beaches.
At least 41 persons have been killed across six provinces since Sunday, while the search continues for nine others, the environment ministry said on Thursday.
More than 52,000 houses were flooded, and nearly 62,000 persons were evacuated from their homes, while several major roads remained blocked due to landslides, and one million
customers were left without electricity.
A suspension bridge on the Da Nhim River in Lam Dong province was swept away on Thursday morning, the VietnamNet newspaper reported.
Photos taken by the AFP news agency also showed hundreds of cars underwater as flooding inundated entire city blocks in Nha Trang, a popular tourist spot on the coast.
Local business owner Bui Quoc Vinh said his groundfloor restaurants and shops were under about a metre of water in the city.
“I am worried about our furniture in my restaurants and shops, but of course I cannot do anything now,” he told AFP.
“I don’t think the water is going to recede soon, as the rain has not stopped.”
(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Around the World
Zelenskyy to speak to Trump after US proposes Russia-Ukraine peace plan
Volodymyr Zelenskyy will speak to Donald Trump after the US presented Ukraine with a draft peace plan to end the war with Russia.
The plan was reportedly drafted by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and his Russian counterpart, Kirill Dmitriev, without Ukraine's involvement.
In a statement, Zelenskyy's office said the US believed the draft plan
could "help reinvigorate diplomacy" and added that Ukraine had "agreed to work on the plan's provisions in a way that would bring about a just end to the war".
Kyiv supported "all substantive proposals capable of bringing genuine peace closer," the statement said.
The Ukrainians did not share any details of what the proposal entails, although according
to sources quoted by Axios, the Financial Times and Reuters, it includes plans for Kyiv to give up areas of the Donbas in eastern Ukraine that it still controls, to cut significantly the size of its army, and to forego many of its weapons.
If confirmed, these demands would be heavily slanted towards Moscow's interest – explaining Kyiv's lukewarm reaction to the draft.
But in a press briefing for reporters at the White House, press secretary Karoline Leavitt rejected suggestions the plan demands major concessions from Ukraine.
She said Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio had been "engaging both sides equally to understand what these countries would commit to." (Excerpt from BBC News)
Israeli fire kills 5 in Gaza, casting further doubt on ceasefire
Israeli airstrikes killed five persons and wounded 18 others in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip on Thursday, local health authorities said, after Hamas and Israel accused each other of violating an increasingly fragile, nearly six-week-old truce.
Medics said that one strike on a house in Bani Suhaila town east of Khan Younis killed three persons, including a baby girl, and wounded 15 others, while another killed a man and wounded three others in the nearby Abassan town.
Israel's military confirmed the strikes but said it was not aware of casualties.
Later on Thursday, Nasser Hospital officials said a fifth Palestinian was killed by Israeli gunfire in Abassan town too.
On Wednesday, Israel said it struck targets across the enclave after
members of the Palestinian militant group fired on its troops, and Gaza medics said at least 25 persons were killed, the highest toll since October 29, when at least 100 persons were killed.
Hamas called the attacks a dangerous escalation and urged Arab mediators and Turkey and the US, which brokered the ceasefire, to intervene.
In a statement later on Thursday, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem accused Israel of changing markings that define areas Israel still occupies, in violation of the agreed-upon maps, which keeps Israel in control of over 50 per cent of the enclave's areas.
Residents told Reuters they saw that in the Shejaia suburb in eastern Gaza City, adding that yellow barricades marking areas still under Israel's control had been moved 100 metres westward. (Excerpt from Reuters)
US in talks to attend G20 summit after initial boycott, South Africa says
The US has changed its mind about attending the G20 summit in Johannesburg, South Africa’s President has said, without confirming whether Donald Trump, who had said the US would boycott the event, now wanted to come.
Trump has claimed that South Africa racially discriminates against the minority white Afrikaner community, which led the country during the apartheid regime that ended in 1994.
Earlier this month, the US President alleged there were “abuses” of white farmers, including violence and land confiscation, and said it was a “disgrace” that South Africa was hosting the G20. South Africa’s Government has vehemently denied the accusations and pressed ahead with its plans to host the first G20 summit in Africa. The two-day summit opens in Johannesburg on Saturday.
At a press conference with the European
Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, and the European Council’s President, António Costa, Cyril Ramaphosa said, “We have received notice from the United States, a notice which we are still in discussions with them over, about a change of mind, about participating in one shape, form or other in the summit.
Ancient
The note read: “South Africa’s G20 priorities run counter to US policy views, and we cannot support consensus on any documents negotiated under your presidency. The US opposes issuance of any G20 summit outcome document under the premise of a consensus G20 position without US agreement.” (Excerpt from The Guardian)
gold coins stolen from museum after suspects overpower guard, Swiss Police say
Dozens of gold coins from the Roman period were stolen when a Swiss museum was robbed this week, Police said Thursday, adding that the value of the bounty was still being calculated.
The Roman Museum in the western city of Lausanne was just about to close for the day on Tuesday when two men who had entered earlier after purchasing tickets jumped a security guard, Lausanne Police said in a statement.
"The two individuals assaulted and overpowered the guard. They then broke into a secured display case and stole several gold coins that were displayed inside before fleeing, the statement said.
The 64-year-old security guard had activated the museum's panic alarm, triggering a rapid response by law enforcement, Police said. But the perpetrators remained at large.
The guard, who was the only museum employee present at the time of the robbery,
was "safe and sound" despite the circumstances, they said.
An effort was underway to determine the exact number of items stolen, the statement said.
Police stressed that the stolen objects had "archaeological value" but said the monetary value had yet to be determined.
The heist marked the latest of a worrying series of robberies from cultural institutions around the globe in recent weeks. (Excerpt from CBS News)
Palestinians inspect the site of Wednesday's Israeli strike on tents in Al Mawasi, Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip
Apply yourself, concentrate on learning, and gain insight into situations and pursuits you want to explore. Travel and engaging in talks with people from different backgrounds will be enlightening and change your perspective regarding how you wish to proceed. Thoughts followed by actions will lead to satisfaction, peace of mind, and a new lease on life.
Take your time. Investigate, research, and concentrate on completing projects, and not starting new ones until the path to do so is clear. Timing, organization, and minimalization are in your best interest. Clearing your space will have an emotional impact on how you feel about yourself and your future. A change of attitude will improve meaningful relationships.
Stop second-guessing yourself and follow through. Too much information can lead you down the wrong path. Hit the reset button, take a deep breath, and start again. This time, call on your instincts, be passionate, and push forward until you satisfy your curiosity. Put greater emphasis on partnerships and how to balance your life and relationships instinctively.
Take care of business. The less you have hanging over you, the easier it will be to have fun. Refuse to let a change of plans ruin your day. Consider what makes you happy and follow the path most likely to put a smile on your face. A new look, social events, and romance are favored.
A hands-on approach will get you where you want to go. If you take too much time pondering over your options, you will miss an opportunity to engage in something extraordinary. Put your energy where it counts and do not hold back. Play to win, and success will be yours. Set aside differences when unity is essential.
A touch of genius, imagination, and a little class will help you outshine any competition you encounter. Your persistence, patience, and diversity can help you look, digest, and adjust to whatever comes your way. It’s a day to shine, bring about change, and engage in what brings you the most satisfaction and highest return.
Share your feelings, thoughts, and considerations with people who can broaden your awareness or connect you to those who can contribute to your plans, but don’t expect others to jump in and do the work for you. Put your desires to the test and be willing to do the legwork if you want to reap the rewards.
Get out and meet and greet. Social events will broaden your outlook and help you connect with upward and mobile individuals who spark your imagination and get you up and moving in a direction you find exciting. Stop sitting back when you have so much to offer and plenty to gain by getting into the game.
You are right on target, but you may want to go undercover to ensure you undermine anyone looking to interfere with your progress. It’s necessary that the changes you wish to make start and stop with you. Stay on top of the budget, stick to the rules, and set a routine that contributes to a healthy lifestyle.
Be observant, check out what different groups are doing, and consider if you want to move forward in a pack or by yourself. How you proceed will depend on the type of impact you want to have and how much time and effort you want to contribute. Put time aside for personal gain, growth, and self-improvement.
You’ll face opposition and interference. Take this as a sign to rethink your current position and where you see yourself heading. You may not like all the answers your research uncovers, but it will help you identify what you don’t need. It’s time to let go of what’s no longer working for you and move on.
Use intelligence and your ability to follow through physically. Monitor every move, set a budget, time, and place to launch your plans. Network, travel, attend tradeshows, and tune in to your interests and feed your imagination, and the outcome will satisfy your needs. Put emotions aside, and follow the path that soothes your soul.
ARCHIE
Bennett, Raza and Evans star in Zimbabwe's win over Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's batting imploded in the face of a disciplined Zimbabwe attack, as they fell to a 67-run defeat in the second match of the men's T20I tri-series in Rawalpindi. They were bowled out for 95, chasing a target of 163. For Zimbabwe, it was the perfect response to their opening game defeat to Pakistan.
The wickets were spread among each of the six bowlers used by Zimbabwe. Richard Ngarava was excellent, picking up figures of 2 for 15, but he was outdone by the ever-reliable Brad Evans, who ended with match-best figures of three for nine.
For Sri Lanka, only Dasun Shanaka, the standin skipper, produced an innings of any promise, during
a backs-to-the-wall 34 off 25. The only other player to reach double digits was Bhanuka Rajapaksa, who
struck a pained 11 off 18, playing his first T20I since January. Zimbabwe, who had been
West Indies hoping to cross line in final New Zealand ODI
The West Indies suffered a 2-0 One Day International (ODI) series defeat against New Zealand. Both 50-over games, like some of the T20 matches, came down to the wire, but the West Indies failed to win critical moments.
Shai Hope and his side will be hoping for a consolation win in the final ODI, which bowls off today, Friday, November 21, in Hamilton, New Zealand. According to Hope, it's only a matter of time before the West Indies cross the line and start winning games.
The captain, who scored a century in vain, said he was hoping that his knock was enough for a win.
"I always look at it this way – I got, what, 109 or 110? Still not enough. I needed 120 or 130 for us to win. That's how I see it. It's always good to give the team the best possible chance of winning. I always look internally to see if there's more I could have done. It was about putting pressure on them, not letting them settle, especially in these conditions. If they get on top of you, it becomes hard work, particularly at the back end. I felt I needed to bring some impetus to the innings and give us the best chance of defending the score. Everyone knows by now – I love to
win. Whether I score hundreds or fifties doesn't matter. I'd rather score two and we win than get a hundred and lose. That's how I see the game," Hope said.
Hope, who now has 19 ODI centuries and has scored against each Testplaying nation, said he always tries to keep improving his game. The right-handed Hope is behind Chris Gayle, who has 25 ODI centuries for the West Indies. "I just try to find ways to keep improving and give my team the best chance possible. I was just trying to maximise the last few overs. It worked out that I got the strike and managed to get away a couple at the end. Honestly, I thought it was enough. But clearly, it wasn't. There are always areas you can improve, maybe scoring a few more off those dot balls early on, putting more pressure on during the powerplay. But hindsight is perfect, and it's easy to talk after the game," Hope said. Reflecting on the bowling department, he explained that the bowlers leaked too many runs in the middle phase. "In the bowling department, I think we went off the boil a bit in the middle overs, allowing them to hit too square on the shorter boundaries. We didn't force them down the ground as much as we wanted and probably lost
put in at the toss, had a much better time with the bat, led by Brian Bennett (49) and Sikandar Raza (47). It wasn't a perfect innings as they limped to the finish, but it proved to be more than enough in the end. Wanindu Hasaranga picked up innings-best figures of 3 for 32, while debutant Eshan Malinga also impressed with 2 for 27.
Bennett and Raza set the tone Bennett, as he has been doing increasingly of late, gave Zimbabwe a fast start inside the powerplay as he and Tadiwanashe Marumani put on a 26-run opening stand in a little over three overs. Sri Lanka, though, struck back, through Maheesh Theekshana and Malinga, to share the opening period with Zimbabwe on 46 for 2 after six overs.
our plan in that period. He (Shepherd) is one of those bowlers who can come in and grab a wicket. But he's been having hamstring issues that flare up now and then. We still have quality bowlers to get the job done, though. Even without him, the others felt they were capable. It just didn't happen for us today; we should have closed out a few key moments."
The WI captain also highlighted once more that the New Zealand conditions are new to most of the players.
"Like we've said, when you look at it closely, we've come to New Zealand with most of the guys playing here for the first time in these foreign conditions, and we've still managed to push every game right to the back end. There have been, what, four close games now? Pretty much all decided in the last over. So, you come here, you put yourself in positions to win, and it's only a matter of time before you cross that line. It's just unfortunate we're not doing it right now. But we've got to find a way to get over that line, because if we want to be a great team, we have to keep winning against the best. That's what we need to focus on moving forward."
The first ball of the final ODI is set to bowl off at 21:00h local time.
However, Raza pushed himself up the order, likely in response to how their innings had fallen apart against Pakistan two nights ago, and together with Bennett set about putting up a 61-run partnership off just 44 deliveries.
While Bennett fell for 49 for a second game running, the pair had ensured a solid platform as Zimbabwe's 100 came up inside the 14th over. Raza continued on unbothered, on his way to 32-ball 47, inclusive of three fours and two sixes. With Raza at the crease, 180 was on the cards, and it would take a fantastic running catch in the deep from Shanaka to end his innings.
With Bennett and Raza both back in the dugout, Zimbabwe's innings closed out with a relative whimper; they struck 22 runs in the final three overs to sneak past the 160 mark. Malinga added to his impressive debut with a double-wicket penultimate over, while Dushmantha Chameera also gave away just 12 runs bowling two of the final three overs.
Sri Lanka's house of (batting) horrors Chasing 163, after the powerplay Sri Lanka had found themselves on 25 for 2, their lowest powerplay total in 14 T20Is in 2025. Zimbabwe's combination of tight lines and lengths and
solid plans had short-circuited the thinking of the Sri Lankan batters.
Pathum Nissanka had chipped one to midwicket in the opening over, and Kusal Perera skied one to short fine leg in the next, but what followed was truly calamitous.
The returning Rajapaksa and Kusal Mendis ate up 26 deliveries in their 19run stand, and such was the pressure being built by the likes of Ngarava, Tinotenda Maposa and Evans during this period that the Lankan batters were starved of boundary deliveries and forced to take ever more risky singles.
It was one such ill-fated run that brought an end to the partnership, as Rajapaksa struck one straight to cover before setting off on a non-existent single. By the time he looked up to realise his partner was still at the other end, Rajapaksa was already halfway down. Not even a
Zimbabwe (20 ovs maximum)
Brian Bennett c Perera
b Hasaranga 49
Tadiwanashe Marumani c & b Theekshana 10
Brendan Taylor † b Malinga 11
Sikandar Raza (c) c Shanaka
b Chameera 47
Ryan Burl b Hasaranga 18
Tony Munyonga lbw b Hasaranga 0
Tashinga Musekiwa b Malinga 11
Brad Evans run out (Hasaranga/†BKG Mendis) 4
Tinotenda Maposa not out 5
Graeme Cremer not out 3
Extras (lb 3, nb 1) 4
Total 20 Ov (RR: 8.10, 101 Mins) 162/8
Fall of wickets: 1-26 (Tadiwanashe Marumani, 3.1 ov), 2-40 (Brendan Taylor, 5.3 ov), 3-101 (Brian Bennett, 12.4 ov), 4-124 (Ryan Burl, 15.4 ov), 5-124 (Tony Munyonga, 15.5 ov), 6-141 (Sikandar Raza, 17.1 ov), 7-147 (Brad Evans, 18.1 ov), 8-154 (Tashinga Musekiwa, 18.5 ov)
Bowling O-M-R-W
Nuwan Thushara 3-0-30-0
Maheesh Theekshana 4-0-30-1
Dushmantha Chameera 4-0-27-1
Eshan Malinga 4-0-27-2
Wanindu Hasaranga 4-0-32-3
Dasun Shanaka 1-0-13-0
Sri Lanka Innings (target: 163 runs from 20 overs) P Nissanka c Cremer
wayward throw to the wicketkeeper could save Kusal Mendis, who had made a belated dash for safety.
An over later, Rajapaksa was at the non-striker's end, turning down a fairly straightforward single and nearly having Shanaka run out – a wicket spared only by a truly horrendous throw to the keeper.
It wasn't long before Rajapaksa himself was dismissed, clean bowled looking to hit out. It meant Sri Lanka had lost their top four inside the opening 10 overs – it was five midway through the 11th when Raza snuck one past Kamindu Mendis. Only Shanaka showed some defiance, but when he edged one behind from Ryan Burl, Sri Lanka's faint hopes went with him. The rest of the batting dragged the game to the death before Evans cleaned up the innings off the final delivery.
(ESPNcricinfo)
b Ngarava 0 BKG Mendis † run out (Munyonga/†Taylor) 6
MDKJ Pererac Ngarava b Maposa 4 PBB Rajapaksa b Evans 11 MD Shanaka (c) c †Taylor b Burl 34 PHKD Mendis b Sikandar Raza 9 PW Hasaranga c Bennett b Cremer 8 PVD Chameera c Maposa b Ngarava 1 M Theekshana
Brian Bennett fell one short of his half century
Sikandar Raza earns the Player of the Match award
Several sport associa tions across Guyana have voiced their appreciation for the refreshing changes to the national Sports Awards hosted recently. This year’s event, spearheaded by the National Sports Commission (NSC), was the first to ever take on the “black tie” dress code, producing a classy, stylish affair for the nation’s athletes and sport stakeholders.
Cricket
The Guyana Cricket Board shared about the high-level affair, “The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) proudly commends the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCY&S) for hosting a truly remarkable awards ceremony in honour of our outstanding athletes of 2024. The evening was nothing short of inspirational—a touching celebration filled with pride, gratitude, and the vibrant energy that reflects the very soul of Guyanese sport. As the Ministry’s first official Black Tie event, the ceremony carried an added sense of elegance and prestige that beautifully showcased the respect and admiration our athletes so richly deserve.
The Gala evening, highlighted by the National Sports Commission’s announcement of nominees
sacrifice, and passion that fuel sporting excellence in Guyana. It was a night where administrators, performers, and champions were recognised for their tireless efforts and extraordinary achievements. Under the astute and visionary leadership of Honourable Minister Charles Ramson Jnr, the MCY&S continues to raise the bar with every initiative undertaken. We are confident that with the addition of Minister Steven Jacobs, the Ministry will be even more empowered to reach greater heights and inspire even more success.
The GCB also wishes to express heartfelt commendation to the National Sports Commission for its unwavering commitment and steadfast service to the sports fraternity across the nation. Your dedication continues to strengthen the foundation on which our young athletes and sporting communities thrive.
Finally, the GCB extends warmest congratulations to all award recipients. May this recognition fuel your passion, strengthen your resolve, and open the doors to even greater achievements in the years ahead.”
Chess
Sport associations laud NSC for 1st-ever “Black Tie” Awards
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport following up on his promise of a gala award ceremony for athletes and officials as announced. The GCF congratulates all the winners in every discipline.
The Federation is pleased with the investment being made in infrastructure and athletes. Chess has had significant support and engagements which charters the path for development of our sport.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) approach of working with the GCF to target specific needs has created a growing partnership and will fast tract the implementation of many of the programmes in future.
We are truly working in an era of unprecedented collaboration towards development of tour sport and sports across the board.”
Basketball
Association of the year awardee, the Guyana Basketball Federation noted, “Guyana Basketball
presentation of the ceremony, held this year at the Pegasus Corporate Suites.
Singh said the National Sports Awards have reached a new standard, stating that the NSC and the Ministry have “most certainly lifted the profile of the National
Charles Ramson Jr, and the NSC under Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle, for the improved production and professionalism of the event.
Singh said the black-tie ceremony reflects the country’s growing appreciation for its athletes and sporting bodies.
strengthen our athletes’ performance and contributes significantly to the advancement of the sport.
With the revamped National Sports Awards now setting a new benchmark, Singh believes it will inspire federations and athletes across Guyana to continue striving for excellence.”
Badminton
The GBA remains committed to working closely with the Government as we pursue our long-term goals, including wider youth participation, improved coaching capacity, and the aspiration of qualifying a Guyanese badminton player for the Olympic Games. Together, we will continue to elevate badminton and foster national pride through sport.”
across every sporting discipline, was a powerful reminder of the dedication,
The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) wrote, “The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) was pleased to see the Hon. Charles Ramson Jr MP,
Federation (GBF) president, Michael Singh, has hailed the transformation of the National Sports Awards, praising its new black-tie format and the elevated prestige surrounding the ceremony.
The event, hosted for the first time as a formal gala since its inception in 1956, showcased a renewed commitment by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission (NSC) to honouring Guyanese sporting excellence.
The GBF captured the coveted Association of the Year award, a recognition Singh says the federation deeply appreciates.
However, he noted that the most impressive aspect of the occasion was the enhanced organisation and
Sports Awards.”
He further highlighted the introduction of monetary incentives as a significant step in motivating athletes and associations. According to Singh, this addition not only boosts the prestige of the awards but also provides an important morale lift for those striving to elevate their respective disciplines.
“The introduction of monetary incentives certainly adds to the prestige of the Sports Awards, and it gives our athletes and associations the moral booster needed to keep pushing the limits in sport,” Singh remarked.
The GBF is the latest organisation to commend the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, led by Minister
Meanwhile, the Guyana Badminton Association shared, “The Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) is pleased to join the national sporting community in celebrating this year’s National Sports Awards Gala. This event plays an important role in recognising the outstanding achievements of our athletes, coaches, and administrators, and in highlighting the continued growth of sport across Guyana.
We extend sincere congratulations to all nominees and awardees. Their commitment and discipline reflect the true spirit of excellence.
The Association also takes this opportunity to express deep appreciation to the Government of Guyana and the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport for their sustained support. Government investment in sport has had a positive and measurable impact on the development of badminton through enhanced facilities, expanded training opportunities, and assistance for participation in regional and international competitions.
This support continues to
Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) Head Coach Ryan Hercules were among the awardees attached to the GCB
Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) President Emily Ramdhani
GBF Vice Presidents Jermaine Slater and Rawle Toney receive the Association of the Year Award
Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) President Anand Raghunauth
FRIDAY,
Van Lange's fifty powers West Indies to another victory
The West Indies Under19s made it two wins in a row as they clinched another commanding victory over England Under-19s in the second match of the seven-game ODI series at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada. A rain-affected contest produced an adjusted target and a tense chase, but the hosts held their nerve to win by six wickets under the DLS method.
England Under-19s, opting to bat first after winning the toss, were immediately put under pressure by dis-
ciplined West Indian bowling. The visitors slumped to 59 for 4, losing their top order cheaply. However, Caleb Falconer’s steady 42 and a captain’s knock from Farhan Ahmed, who struck an energetic 46 off 51 deliveries including three boundaries and a six, helped rebuild the innings. Their partnership lifted England to 160 for 5 in 31.4 overs before rain forced players from the field and ultimately prevented the completion of the innings.
With the weather in-
terruption shortening the match, the West Indies were set a revised target of 190 in 31 overs. Openers Tyriek Bryan and Earshino Fontaine rose to the challenge superbly, laying a strong platform with an 84run opening stand. Bryan contributed a controlled 31, while Fontaine looked fluent for his 39 before both fell in quick succession, giving England a glimmer of hope.
The visitors clawed their way further back when pacer Jack Nelson removed West Indies skipper Joshua
Women’s League…
Dorne for nine, leaving the hosts at a potentially tricky stage. But any English mo mentum was quickly snuffed out by a breath-taking in nings from Jonathan van Lange.
The Guyanese power-hit ter unleashed a stunning display of clean striking, hammering an unbeaten 57 off just 34 balls, featuring three fours and five towering sixes. His counter-attacking knock shifted all pressure back onto the tourists and propelled West Indies to 192 for 4 in 30.1 overs, securing
Indies a 2–0
lead in the seven-match series, reinforcing their growing confidence and momentum. England, meanwhile, will seek to regroup quickly as they look to stay compet-
Everest teams join Suriname for Independence jubilee celebrations
The Everest Cricket Club (ECC) will embark on a goodwill tour to Suriname from November 21 to 24, 2025, where they will play a total of four cricket matches in Paramaribo.
Everest Masters and Everest Second Division teams have accepted the invitation to take on Suriname A and Suriname B, respectively, in back-to-back T20 matches on Saturday and
Sunday at the Dr Snellen Park. The goodwill cricket series forms part of the 50th Independence celebration of Suriname and marks a new chapter for the Everest Second Division side.
The Georgetown-based Everest side will embark on many other tours, including to Suriname, as they seek to give their players exposure to different conditions and the opportunity to showcase their talents.
itive in the remaining fixtures. The two teams will return to the National Cricket Stadium today for the third ODI of the
Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF)
Glengie Lewis and Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Tiandi Smith lit up the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) National Training Centre (NTC) on Wednesday evening, leading their teams to almost identical, commanding wins in the ongoing Women’s Division One League.
In the first fixture on the night, GDF’s Women mauled Mainstay Goldstar 11-0.
Glengie Lewis opened the scoring in the third minute, sending a rocket into the right corner of the net from outside the box.
Glengie went on to find the back of the net again in the 13th, 18th and 34th minutes for her helmet-trick. Supporting the GDF captain’s efforts was Glendy
Lewis, who netted a brace in the 10th and 14th minutes. Doubles also came off the boots of Abioce Heywood (32nd, 49th) and Zoruna Ali (54th, 59th), while Niomie Williams capitalised on a cross from Heywood to tap one in in the 53rd minute.
Then, the Tiandi Smith show followed as the lanky striker registered a glut when Police took on River’s View FC. Lakeisha Pearson got the ball rolling in the third minute, followed by another from Amanda McKenzie in the seventh. Smith netted her first in the 10th and second in the 25th, while goals from Leandra Henrito (15th) and Melina Larson just before halftime made for a 6-1 score in Police’s favour at the half.
River’s View’s Latifa Cornette made good on a mix-up in the Police de-
fence to pull one back for her side in the 18th. In the second half, Smith’s familiar mid-range shot pierced the nets in the 46th, 48th and 57th minutes, while a solitary strike from Jenelle Edmondson in the 53rd resulted in Police’s 10-1 victory. Nearing the end of the league phase, the competition will continue next Wednesday, November 26, with a single clash on the cards. At 18:00h, Ann’s Grove United will take on Fruta Conquerors FC.
Thereafter, the final night of league action will see Monedderlust FC coming up against Western Tigers at 18:00h on Friday, December 5. Also on that night, GDF and Police will battle in what will be an exhilarating, league-deciding game from 19:30h.
Everest Second Division side will be led by former national youth left-arm spinner Javed Rasheed with wicketkeeper Denesh Mangal as his deputy. Also included are promising youth leg spinner Nityanand Mathura, seasoned all-rounder Ariel Tilku, and solid batters Varun Mangla, Anthony Sanchara and Stuart Hoppie. Travis Mohamed will perform the role of Player/Coach.
Skipper Rasheed is anticipating an exciting and action-packed weekend” The tour will serve as an ideal opportunity for the young squad to gain valuable experience and playing time on foreign soil. It also serves as an opportunity for the squad to gel and bond together as we aim to strengthen our camaraderie on and off the field.”
Meanwhile, Rajesh Singh, Captain of Everest Masters, said, “We are looking forward to playing in Suriname again. The hospitality is usually exception- al, and the cricket is competitive. Some of the core players are unavailable for various reasons, but the touring guys are ready to be good Guyanese ambassadors once again.”
Everest Masters Team: Rajesh Singh (Captain), Anil Beharry, Rohan Sarjoo, Chanderpaul Singh, Latchman Yadram, Suruj Ramdeen, Basil Persaud, Troy Gonsalves, Stephen Alick, Hemraj Garbarran and Julian Mohabir.
Jordan, Ruel Prashad, Nityanand Mathura, Anek Hemnarine and Anesh Hemnarine.
Everest Second Division team: Travis Mohamed (player/coach), Javed Rasheed (captain), Feeyad Lakeraj, Stuart Hoppie, Ariel Tilku, Denesh Mangal (vice captain and wicketkeeper), Varun Mangla, Anthony Sanchara, Orwin
Suriname, Guyana’s continental neighbour to the east, gained independence from the Netherlands on November 25, 1975, becoming the Republic of Suriname, and lots of festivities are planned for the milestone. (John Ramsingh)
seven-match series.
Glengie Lewis (on ball) netted four for GDF
Everest Masters
Varun Mangra
Javed Rasheed
Jonathan Van Lange played a match-winning innings
JNEW GPC’s Limacol to refresh KFC Goodwill tournament
future.
oining a star-studded list of corporate allies like KFC and the Royal International Hotel, NEW GPC Inc, under their immensely popular Limacol brand, have joined the supporting cast for the 6th annual KFC International Goodwill Schools’ football tournament.
The announcement was made on Thursday, during a simple ceremony at the company’s Farm, East Bank Demerara (EBD) headquarters, where Marketing Manager Elizabeth Ram likened their sponsorship to an investment in the nation’s
Ram shared, “This marks another significant milestone in our company’s ongoing commitment to supporting youth development, promoting healthy lifestyles and fostering community empowerment throughout Guyana. Football has always been more than just a sport; it is a force that unites commu-
nities, inspires young people and instils values such as teamwork, discipline and ambition.”
“These are principles that we here at NEW GPC Inc strongly believe in, and we promote every day through our products, our outreaches and our corporate social responsibility initiatives. Our sponsorship reflects in our belief in in-
vesting in sports as an investment in the future,” the NEW GPC Inc Marketing Manager further stated.
On the other hand, Petra Organisation Secretary Jacklyn Boodie spoke to their long-standing relationship with the entity.
“On behalf of the Petra Organisation, we would like to extend a warm thank you to the NEW GPC Inc. This has been a long partnership, and we just want to say thank you, and we do appreciate your partnership, more specifically to this tournament,” Boodie expressed.
In addition, Petra’s Troy Peters shared an update on preparations, stating, “At this time, preparation is at a critical stage with just a few more weeks remaining, and we’re doing everything that is possible to ensure that we have one of the best tour-
naments seen in Guyana at this level.”
This year’s KFC Goodwill competition will feature defending champions Chase’s Academic Foundation, Annai or St Ignatius Secondary (Region Nine playoff to be hosted), and the runner-up of the Republic Bank Secondary School League – all representing Guyana.
From Trinidad and Tobago, St Benedict’s College will compete. Kingston College of Jamaica, Anglican Central Education Authority (ACEA) Select of The Bahamas, Monteiro Lobato School of Boa Vista, Brazil, and Suriname’s Schools’ Championship winners will add to the tournament’s international flair. The tournament will run from Sunday, December 14, to Sunday, December 21.
CWI unveils Test squad for New Zealand 3-match series
this series, veteran fast bowler
cluded, with spin bowling not expected to have a major impact over the three-match series.
squad to tour there in recent years.”
Roach, Jayden Seales and Ojay Shields.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced its 15-member squad for the December 1-21 threetest series against New Zealand in Christchurch, Wellington and Mount Maunganui.
With Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph both rehabilitating from injuries sustained earlier this year and therefore forced to miss
Kemar Roach has been recalled, bolstering an inexperienced fast-bowling unit featuring maiden callup Ojay Shields.
Shields and Roach were among several players to have recently completed a rigorous two-week high-performance camp in Antigua in preparation for the highly anticipated series where playing surfaces are expected to be conducive to pace bowling.
Kavem Hodge makes his return to the regional squad on the back of his previous success against pace, while Khary Pierre has been ex-
CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, spoke to focused preparation for the tour and the intentional efforts to ensure that this squad is one of the best-prepared groups for an away tour to New Zealand.
“New Zealand has traditionally been one of the toughest places for any touring side, which is why strong emphasis has been placed on targeted preparation. The recent high-performance camp here in Antigua was designed to replicate, as closely as possible, the conditions we expect to face, particularly the pace-friendly surfaces.”
“That level of intentional preparation, combined with the advantage of several squad members already in New Zealand for the whiteball portion of the tour gaining valuable time to acclimatise, means this group goes into this series as well-prepared as any West Indies
Those travelling from the Caribbean joined the rest of the squad already in New Zealand on November 20, giving them considerable time to become acclimatised and take part in a two-day warm-up match against a New Zealand XI in Lincoln, Christchurch.
Team Management Unit (TMU)
Head Coach: Daren Sammy Manager: Rawl
Lewis
Assistant Coach (Batting): Floyd Reifer
The series forms part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship and will be the West Indies’ final fixture for 2025.
West Indies Test Squad to New Zealand: Captain Roston Chase, Vice-Captain Jomel Warrican, Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Anderson Phillip, Kemar
Assistant Coach (Bowling): Ravi Rampaul
Assistant Coach (Fielding): Rayon Griffith
Physiotherapist: Dr Denis Byam
Mental Skills/ Performance Coach: Krisnan Hurdle
Strength &
Conditioning Coach: Darc
Browne
Massage Therapist: Fitzbert Alleyne
Performance Analyst: Avenesh Seetaram
Content & Media Officer: Jerome Foster
West Indies veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach attends the camp in Antigua
West Indies fast bowler Ojay Shields attends the camp in Antigua
New GPC Inc’s Elizabeth Ram makes a presentation to Petra’s Jacklyn Boodie in the presence of stakeholders Dennis Alexander, Troy Peters and Aliyah Hinds
New GPC’s Marketing Manager Elizabeth Ram addresses the gathering