The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Sunday, September 21 – 04:00h–05:30h, and Monday, September 22 –03:55h–05:25h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Sunday, September 21 – 16:20h–17:50h and Monday, September 22 –16:50h–18:20h.
Parika and Supenaam departure times –05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily
President Dr Irfaan Ali has reiterated his dissatisfaction with the unfair manner in which developing countries are treated when it comes to climate action and financing for adaptation measures.
During a recent interview with the New York Times, the Head of State spoke about how Guyana is balancing its nascent oil and gas industry while being a global leader in climate change.
Responding to a question about whether the global community is actually making the financing available so that developing nations like Guyana can undergo the energy transition, President Ali declared outright, “Absolutely not.”.
“It’s ridiculous sometimes to listen to the pledges, because none of the pledges is actualised,” the Guyanese leader added.
He explained during the Q&A-styled interview that when developing countries are asked to adopt measures to limit their impact on the climate, they have to transition to cleaner and renewable energy while still grappling with major issues like energy equality, energy poverty and energy access.
This, he added, is further compounded by developing nations also being asked to function in a digital world.
“So, they are already suffering from immense poverty because they were never able to adapt to the Industrial Revolution. Now, they are moving into the digital revolution with AI (artificial intelligence) that they will never be able to catch up with. And at the same time, basic things like clean water and access to electricity – major segments of the population don’t have this. This is something that has severely impacted the quality and equity of global policy-making. And there is no clear path and no clear plan as to how we are going to address these issues,” President Ali contended.
Calling out developed countries’ failure to fulfil pledge
The Guyanese Head of State, in the past at global platforms, had called out developed countries over their failure to fulfil the US$100 billion per year pledge to assist developing nations’ fight against climate change and to achieve sustainable development.
In the absence of this critically needed climate financing, Guyana has been pursuing oil production offshore, where some 11 billion barrels of oil have been discovered and more exploration activities are ongoing, to support the development of the country as well as its energy transition plans.
But even with its burgeoning oil industry, Guyana still remains at net zero emissions, mainly due to the country’s massive forest cover. In fact, through the locally crafted and globally recognised Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS 2030), Guyana has
been earning revenues for keeping its forests intact.
Back in 2022, Guyana was issued with 33.4 million tonnes of ART-certified carbon credits – the first jurisdictional-scale programme in the world. The country has since entered into a historic US$750 million deal with United States energy major Hess Corporation for the sale of the high-quality carbon credits during the period 2016 to 2030. The Government has committed to inject 15 per cent of all proceeds from this carbon credit deal directly into local Indigenous villages to finance their development.
Moreover, President Ali has recently embarked on a mission to put biodiversity preservation and conservation on the table. In fact, Guyana recently hosted the successful inaugural Global Biodiversity Summit and will be presenting the outcomes from that summit to the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). COP30 is slated to be held in Brazil from
November 10 to 21, 2025. Set for the city of Belém, in the Brazilian State of Pará, this will be the first time the global climate change summit is held in the Amazon region, the world’s largest tropical rainforest – parts of which run through Guyana.
With a tropical forest that takes up 86 per cent of its landmass, Guyana has the second-highest percentage of forest cover on earth and one of the lowest deforestation rates. The forest stores 19.5 gigatonnes of carbon and sequesters more than 153 million tonnes annually.
But with many developing countries still experiencing energy insecurity and energy poverty, President Ali had previously pointed out that a world without fossil fuel cannot happen by 2050 – an objective set out in the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero.
”We can’t be naïve”
This position was iterated by the Guyanese leader during the New York Times
interview.
“For us, it’s quite different… We have this standing forest that has been there for all our lives, which the world does not see a value in. It’s easy. If the world says, “We’re going to pay a fair-market rate for the forests that have ecological and biodiversity sources that also have a price,” then it will allow countries like ours that are forested to then use the revenue from that to protect our land, to invest in health, to invest in education, human development and infrastructure, to remain competitive and to build a strong and resilient economy.”
“So, the moral question is: Who can produce what the world needs in the least environmentally damaging way? Because let’s be clear on this too, we can’t be naïve. The world will need fossil fuel a long time into the future,” Dr Ali stated.
According to the Guyanese leader, if Guyana did not have the revenues it is now earning from its oil and gas industry, then the country would have been thrown into heavy debt.
“It would have meant destruction. It would have meant our economy just falling apart. Guyana is a new oil producer, but we are using the resource to finance our energy transition, to build resilient infrastructure, to support the region that we are in, and to invest in livelihood options that will keep our forest standing, which stores many gigatons of carbon. We’re investing in solar farms, hydro, natural gas, wind and biomass, all aimed at transitioning to a low-emission energy grid. We are building off-grid systems, solar farms, and wind farms for the hinterland community, where the Indigenous people live,” President Ali noted during the interview.
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Tonight, the 13th season of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T-20 Cricket tournament, sponsored by the Republic Bank, comes to an end with a bang and expected fireworks of sixes when our home team, Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW), faces off against the Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR). We have come a long way since that inaugural season in 2013 when few thought the Caribbean could pull off a T-20 tournament to rank alongside India’s Indian Premier League (IPL), but we have done so with panache.
The slogan, "Sports – it's not just a game", summarises the realisation – at least in some quarters – that sports is an integral part of the national life of every society. Sports can develop the character of the individual as well as that of the community and the nation and, in fact, can be a feature of nation building. It is not by chance that countries such as Russia and China, which attempted to leapfrog economic development, all introduced strong national sports programmes. In Guyana, apart from being an enthusiastic cricket fan, President Ali and his Government have seen the potential of this wider role of cricket and have supported the CPL tournament in general and the GAW in particular as a nucleus for expanding our tourism potential in what has been branded as “Cricket Carnival”, held over a period of two weeks.
Speaking at the announcement in 2022 of Guyana hosting the finals for the next three years, President Irfaan Ali said, “Cricket is much more than a game for us in Guyana; it is a passion, part of our culture and a unifying force. The hosting of the CPL final will be an energising force. We are building a product that will be spectator-focused and integrated with our regional partners for a global market. Cricket carnival is a fusion of entertainment and celebration that will be mind-blowing and unbelievably different from any other global cricketing event.”
While the Government signed a one-year deal for the playoffs and the finals this year – Barbados will host next year’s – sans the other events, this seemed to have only whetted the appetite of loyal fans – domestic and from the diaspora – who thronged the National Stadium to enjoy the main event: cricket, glorious cricket, played Caribbean style.
As usual, the local hotels are fully booked, as were flights into Guyana, bringing visitors with all the well-known benefits of tourism: money pumped into the economy not only in hotels but also into food providers, transportation services, sightseeing sites, souvenir sellers, etc. But just as important was and will be the selling of Guyana itself as a tourist destination. The tourism product in the Caribbean took a beating in the last decade after Covid and the downturn in the traditional northern markets. But the Republic Bank CPL has opened up a whole new world, literally, to the local attractions. India has a middle class larger than the entire population of the United States (US) –and they are all "cricket mad" and tuning in to CPL's games. We have a chance of attracting that audience both from India and from their very wealthy expatriate community in the US.
Tonight’s game between Trinidad and Guyana – and this is how it is seen by the fans – is highly anticipated since a healthy competition and fierce rivalry have developed between the teams of the two nations. They have faced each other fourteen times at Providence, with the GAW winning ten, including a one-over eliminator in 2014. It would seem that the Warriors have the advantage over the Knight Riders at Providence, where the influence of the gigantic “twelfth man” – the audience in the stands – cannot be overestimated. In 2018, playing the finals in Trinidad, TKR went away with bragging rights, but in 2023 at Providence, the GAW came through for their besotted fans. Both teams are aware of their history, and the players will be giving beyond their all to guarantee a momentous game.
Go Warriors!!
President Ali’s approach at Skeldon is a responsible strategy to maximise underutilised resources, create jobs, and promote development
Dear Editor,
I read with concern the article on the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) published in the local media on September 19, 2025. The piece appeared to suggest that His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali is seeking to move away from sugar production, despite his repeated and emphatic statements that “sugar is here to stay”.
I have remained largely silent on matters relating to the Guyanese sugar industry while awaiting the completion of the 2023 audit, believing it was my professional responsibility to allow for an independent and objective assessment of my tenure (2020–2023) before engaging in public commentary.
With the publication of the 2023 Audited Financial Statements, it would be remiss of me, as a former Chief Executive of Guysuco (with operational oversight from September 2020 to December 2023), not to reflect on recent developments.
Editor, please allow me to provide some context be-
fore addressing the article. Upon assuming operational leadership at Guysuco in September 2020, the last published audited financial statements dated back to 2015. Over the next three years, I assembled a dedicated finance team to prepare audit working papers for 2016 through 2023. This was accomplished while leading a financially distressed and complex corporation, heavily impacted by the Great Floods of 2021, which destroyed 28 per cent of standing cane after 65 days of flooding in Berbice. Completing eight years’ worth of audit documentation (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023) in three years was no small feat, and I wish to formally acknowledge the professionalism and dedication of the team under my leadership that made it possible.
Regarding the newspaper article, the statements throwing shade on His Excellency's public pronouncements while he was meeting farmers at Skeldon on September 17, 2025, were rather unfortunate, and the newspapers should
have done more research on this matter before rushing to print this one-sided article. As an example, the piece claims from a quoted source the following:
“Now, from his (meaning the President) statements and deliberations, he placed a lot of emphasis on citrus and other crops at Skeldon, as if he was psychologically telling the people, ‘Don’t worry about sugar.’ … It is the intention of the PPP not to rehabilitate the sugar industry.”
Such assertions prematurely prejudge the President’s strategy without understanding the broader policy context. Any thoughtful Guyanese must consider the following:
Global Cane Sugar Industry Dynamics
While cane sugar remains in demand, global competition, price volatility, and the rise of alternative sweeteners have transformed the industry. Even historically strong sugar economies have had to modernise, diversify, or subsidise production to remain viable. Oversimplifying this
complex landscape misrepresents economic realities.
Government Action is Not Neglect
President Ali has consistently demonstrated commitment to revitalising sugar, exemplified by the G$7 billion investment to reopen Rose Hall Estate, and at the same time creating over 1400 sustainable jobs. Revitalisation does not imply that all land must remain in sugarcane; rather, it seeks to optimise productivity and profitability. Introducing complementary crops such as citrus, coffee, and cocoa at Skeldon can enhance returns and support the sugar sector directly and indirectly.
Pragmatic Crop Distribution
The introduction of other food crops, partially on lands previously occupied by sugar cane, is a cross-subsidisation strategy designed to make the agricultural operations at Skeldon financially sustainable. Modern agricultural policy rarely relies on a single crop.
Dear Editor, Congratulations are in order for President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on the successful completion of the Demerara River Bridge – a historic achievement that paves the way for further infrastructural progress. We are confident he will also make history with the long-awaited bridging of the
Corentyne River. Suriname has shown respect and compassion to our people in the past, offering over 25,000 Guyanese refuge and dignity when they needed it most. That friendship is special, and further, it will integrate Guyana with South America. I welcome President Ali’s plan to revitalise the capi-
tal city, Georgetown. For too long this city has been poorly administered due to divisive politics and corruption. It is unacceptable that in the heart of our capital city, people are forced to eat near open, stinking sewers.
The trench running alongside Bourda Market and extending past SleepIn Hotel to the Queenstown Mosque
is a health hazard – stagnant, foul-smelling, and infested with mosquitoes and sand flies. This is not just an eyesore but a threat to public health and dignity.
The drains along many of our market areas are choked with human waste, garbage, and other refuse. This situation reflects years of neglect. Our people
By incorporating complementary crops with their associated value-added industries like juice plants, the Government is ensuring food security is advanced, jobs are created, and the local farmers are given a fighting chance as partners in the modernisation efforts in the Upper Corentyne.
The engagement of Brazilian experts, alongside consultation with people like the late Guyanese soil scientist Dr Udho Homenauth, was instrumental in shaping land conversion strategies for the sugar industry between 2021 and 2023. Dr Homenauth demonstrated that much of the so-called topsoil was depleted (main-
ly situated in the trenches), confirming that previous land conversion strategies were ineffective. By adopting modern techniques, the corporation increased mechanically plantable and harvestable acreage from 18 per cent in 2021 to 40 per cent in 2023 at lower costs – unprecedented progress compared to the previous 20 years.
Further support from international expertise, including EMBRAPA (the Brazilian Agricultural Research Agency), has also facilitated sustainable and profitable conversion of intermediate savannah lands, allowing local production of corn, soya, and stock feeds on lands previously not contributing to the food security ambition of the people of Guyana. These initiatives
demonstrate a clear business case for profitable, evidence-based agricultural transformation using our partners in Brazil and now the Dominican Republic to move up the food value chain. Isn’t that what we all want: more profit from every acre?
In conclusion, President Ali’s approach at Skeldon is not a “smoke screen” but a responsible strategy to maximise underutilised resources, create jobs, and promote national development. GuySuCo’s challenges are structural, requiring modernisation, investment, and cross-subsidisation, which the Government is actively pursuing in partnership with the private sector. Misrepresenting these initiatives as failures under-
mines the tangible progress being achieved.
The strategic introduction of complementary crops alongside sugarcane reflects foresight, pragmatism, and commitment to sustainable agricultural development. These actions align with a vision of profitability, resilience, and food security for Guyana. With a 36-seat majority, I believe the Guyanese people have entrusted His Excellency to advance these initiatives to fruition, and patience and understanding are essential as these projects continue to mature.
Sincerely,
Sasenarine Singh Former Chief Executive Guyana Sugar Corporation
deserve better, and the president’s plan will remake Georgetown so that we can all be proud of it.
We need to look to modern, sustainable models – such as the Netherlands’ advanced water management systems, where pumping stations keep canals and drains circulating constantly. We must implement similar infrastructure here. Drains and trenches should be properly backed with concrete or reinforced with steel to ensure durability. Furthermore, those who violate environmental and sanitation laws must face strict penalties. Enough is enough.
Our urban spaces are also plagued by uncontrolled noise and vulgarity. The chaos in central Georgetown must be addressed with clear enforcement of public decency and noise regulations.
In President Ali’s plan, we will see a radical shift in urban planning. Car parks and bus terminals will be moved outside the city core to reduce congestion and pollution. Access to the inner city, especially around Parliament and key Government buildings, will be restricted. This aligns with the Government’s current initiative of decentralising essential services and relocating them out of cen-
tral Georgetown – a move that will be accelerated. On a national scale, I suspect that the Essequibo River will be bridged to fully integrate and consolidate our territorial sovereignty. Not only will this improve defence capabilities, but it will also open vast opportunities for settlement, investment, and economic expansion in one of Guyana’s most underdeveloped yet resource-rich regions. The timing is perfect. We must not allow Nicolás Maduro or anyone else to intimidate or interfere with the development of Essequibo –a land that belongs to all Guyanese.
Guyana remains a lush, green haven – a rising star in both local and international tourism. From its vibrant rainforests and countless waterfalls to serene lakes, majestic mountains, open grasslands, and scenic coastlines, Guyana is a truly blessed land. Unlike many regions gripped by growing economic, ethnic and religious conflict, our nation stands as a beacon of peace and natural beauty. Let us rise together –clean our cities, modernise our infrastructure, and defend every inch of our beloved homeland.
Yours sincerely, Ray
Chickrie
Some poisonous animals use bright colouration to protect themselves from other animals that want to eat them. These bright colours are also called warning colours. Frogs, snakes, butterflies, skunks, and more all use warning colouration. But how do the animals get their bright colours and toxic poisons? Warning: colours can be passed down to certain animals from their parents, and other animals get them from the foods they eat. Just because some animals have bright colours does not always mean they are toxic. Some animals, also known as mimics, copy the colours of toxic animals so they can protect themselves from being eaten.
Have you ever wondered how animals protect themselves from being eaten by other animals? There are a couple of ways that animals can protect themselves from predators. Some animals hide from predators by blending in with plants, tree bark, and leaves around them, like the forest-dwelling rocket frogs and leaf-tailed geckos. Arctic foxes also blend in with the white snow of their arctic tundra habitats. We call this cryptic colouration, also known as camouflage
Other animals are bright and colourful. These animals are often red, yellow, or orange, which helps them stand out from their green or brown surroundings and makes them easy for predators to spot. That seems to make no sense, right? Why would animals want to stand out and risk being eaten? One reason for bright colours is to show predators that they are dangerous to eat! This strategy is called aposematism
There are several ways that animals can show predators that they are dangerous to eat. First, the animals must have a primary warning signal that predators can either see (think of the bright colours on a monarch butterfly), smell (think of a skunk’s spray), or hear (think of a rattlesnake’s rattle). Next,
the animals will have a secondary defence to signal their distastefulness to predators, usually poisonous chemicals called toxins. This means that these colourful animals can make predators feel sick or die if they are eaten.
If a predator survives, it learns to avoid these brightly coloured animals in the future. This is an example of an experience called taste aversion
How do animals get their warning colours?
Just like humans inherit characteristics like the colour of our eyes, skin, and hair from our parents, animals can inherit colours from their parents. Some animals also have warning colours because of what they eat (in combination with what they inherit from their parents). Their foods can give them a bright warning colour and provide toxins that make them poisonous to predators. For example, many animals get their bright colours from carotenoids in their foods. Carotenoids are non-toxic yellow, orange, or red colours found in many of the foods that you eat, like carrots, bell peppers, and beetroots.
Are Bright Animals Always Toxic?
If an animal shows a warning colour and is toxic, that means the animal is honestly signalling its toxicity to predators. Sometimes toxic species will copy each other and present the same warning signal so that predators learn to avoid both species. This is known as Müllerian mimicry
Not every animal that shows a warning colour is toxic, though – some animals have a warning colour but are not toxic. Certain non-toxic animals mimic the warning colourations of other animals that are toxic. You may call that cheating!
These are called Batesian mimics. Unlike Müllerian mimics, which are honest about their toxicity, Batesian mimics are dishonest. These animals take advantage of predators that avoid the bright colours they have learnt to mean danger.
Aposematism is All Around You
If you look outside, you may recognise examples of aposematism all around you, such as ladybirds, bees, and wasps. There are also examples in your own life! Warning road signs are often neon yellow or red to make the danger clear to drivers. Or think about spicy chips, which are often more boldly coloured, along with their packaging.
What other examples can you think of? Think deeply about the colours you see all around you and what they are telling you.
Cryptic Colouration: A way that some animals hide from predators by blending in with their surroundings. Also known as camouflage.
Aposematism: A defence strategy used against predators, in which a warning signal is paired with a defence mechanism.
Toxin: A substance that is poisonous and can make animals that eat it feel sick or die.
Carotenoid: Yellow, orange, or red colours found in vegetables, monarch butterflies, aphids, and ladybirds. They are non-toxic.
Taste Aversion: When a predator has a bad experience eating an animal and learns to avoid eating that animal in the future.
Müllerian Mimic: A poisonous animal that copies another’s warning signal so that predators learn to avoid both animals.
Batesian Mimic: A non-poisonous animal that copies a poisonous animal’s warning signal so that predators will avoid it, too.
(Adapted from kids.frontiersin.org)
The construction of the Guyana National Control Centre (GNCC) at Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD), is moving apace as the Government pushes forward with the infrastructure backbone to modernise the country’s electricity system.
Engineers on site have already completed key phases, including the installation of support arches and roof works designed to accommodate solar panels. Crews are also progressing with the development of the internal roadway, as well as ancillary structures such as a security hut and boundary walls.
Once operational, the state-of-the-art facility will house the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system – a digi-
tal command hub capable of monitoring, controlling, and optimising electricity distribution in real time across the Demerara–Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS). Officials say this upgrade will drastically reduce system interruptions, improve efficiency, and strengthen overall grid reliability.
The project forms part of the wider Gas-to-Energy initiative, which aims to deliver affordable, reliable, and cleaner electricity to Guyanese households and businesses.
At present, the GNCC is being funded at a cost of US $18.65 million, covering both civil works and the installation of the SCADA technology.
The GNCC’s construction
comes against the backdrop of longstanding challenges within Guyana’s electricity sector, where decades of unstable supply and frequent outages have hampered growth.
The Government has made modernising the grid a key national priority, particularly with the anticipated increase in demand tied to the country’s rapid economic expansion. Energy sector officials note that the GNCC is expected to serve as the “nerve centre” of electricity distribution in Guyana, bringing local systems on par with international standards.
Coupled with the Gas-toEnergy Project, which will introduce natural gas-generated power from offshore oil fields, authorities are projecting a more stable, cost-effi
... drops 46% in Reg 10, Regs 7 & 4C show 28% decline
Commander of Regional Division Seven, Dion Moore, along with Assistant Commissioners Khali Pareshram of Division Four C and Kurleigh Simon of Division 10, recently reported significant decreases in serious crime during a broadcast of Police and You.
The programme highlighted a 28 per cent reduction in Regions Seven and Four C and a notable 46 per cent decline in Region 10.
According to Moore, Region Seven is very unique, in which the armed forces within that area control a vast majority of hinterlands
and mining operations. He underlined that the main economic activities are gold mining, diamond mining, and, to some extent, lumber.
“In respect of crime, we are at a 28 per cent decrease in serious crime, having recorded 18 serious crimes for this year compared to 25 last year. The offences that stand out for this year are murder – we had eight murders thus far – and seven robberies under arms, along with two rape cases. For the division, the situation, I would say, is manageable. We are having a positive 28 per cent decrease in comparative seri-
ous crime.”
Moore further explained that robberies under arms were committed mainly in mining areas, not predominantly within the business hub of Bartica. For traffic, he reported 10 accidents this year, including one fatal accident, four minor accidents, and two resulting in damage.
“Traffic is not a major concern, but we have seen a new development with youngsters riding motorcycles along the avenues and streets, and we are addressing that at the moment. But all in all, we’ve shifted away from what has been normal
policing to more community-orientated policing.”
He further mentioned that every single day, ranks venture into the various villages and communities, having discourses with the people, finding out what the issues are, and then addressing those issues.
In fact, he mentioned that they’ve been having tremendous support from members of the public and a number of stakeholders,” the Commander noted.
Meanwhile, in Region 10, Assistant Commissioner Kurleigh Simon said most reported crimes have either
been solved or are nearing resolution.
“At this moment, Region 10 is relatively quiet in terms of crime and traffic. Early in the year, we had some unrest, but right now, we are working on rebuilding our relationship with residents in Region 10. In terms of crime, we are at a 46 per cent decrease in serious crime.
Similar to Region Seven, we had three murders for the last year as against nine this year, and most of those murders were actually earlier in the year.”
Meanwhile, as it pertains to traffic, he mentioned that they are seeing an increase of 42 per cent in accidents.
Amidst this, he highlight-
ed that what they can safely report is that despite having eight murders, all eight were solved and the perpetrators are before the court.
Simon clarified that most of the murders in Region 10 were classified as “disorderly murders”.
“Most of the murders we’re speaking about are, for instance, situations where individuals are imbibing or just socialising, an argument ensues, and then a physical altercation of some sort occurs. Mostly, it’s either stabbing or chopping incidents that result in someone losing their life... Same goes for my region,” the Assistant Commissioner said.
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is currently looking for a Sophia, Greater Georgetown, businessman, who is reportedly evading a rape charge in relation to a child under 16 years.
The suspect, 32-year-old Timothy Fraser of “C” Field, Sophia Squatting Area, was arrested on September 6 at about 08:30h and placed in custody for rape of a child under sixteen years.
According to the Police, he remained in custody on $200,000 bail for about six days because he was unable to make bail, which had to be reduced for him to have pretrial liberty. This was
done on September 15.
Meanwhile, the case file in relation to this matter was delayed, pending the
forensic interview report. This was eventually obtained, and the matter was filed the following day on
September 16, after advice was obtained for the suspect to appear before the court the next day.
But when the matter was called on September 17, the suspect failed to appear for his arraignment.
In a statement on Saturday, the Guyana Police Force said efforts were made on Friday to serve a summons on Fraser for him to attend court, but he could not be located at his Sophia home.
Up to Saturday evening, the GPF said a Wanted Bulletin was being prepared after it was indicated that the suspect might have “… left for the interior”.
Pquantity of marijuana, which he admits to using.
The discovery was made
at about 10:33h on Saturday, when Police ranks on duty at the Sherima Police Station in Guyana’s interior region stopped a motorcycle bearing registration number CP 5616, driven by the suspect, who had just arrived at the location from Georgetown.
The motorcyclist was searched, but he had nothing illegal in his possession.
But a search conducted on the motorcycle unearthed a milk tin under the seat.
Upon examining the milk tin, it was observed that the seal had been tampered with.
The ranks opened the tampered seal in the suspect’s presence and found three transparent bags containing a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis under some milk powder.
The suspect was cautioned and informed of the offence committed. He stated that the substance was his and that he used it for smoking purposes.
Clarkston was subsequently placed under arrest. The suspected cannabis was weighed in his presence at the Police station and amounted to 420.81 grams.
The suspect was placed into custody and is assisting with the investigation.
Your Eyewitness expects that during election campaigns, Opposition parties would wanna make the Government – and even other parties – look bad. But he was very disappointed that almost all of them to a man – and woman – tried to cloak their barbs with outdated and even fake data!! Take the most notorious claim that we had a FORTY-EIGHT PER CENT poverty rate – while stressing the billions flowing from oil revenues into our coffers!! Now those figures were from a 2019 World Bank Report – when the PNC/APNU/AFC were in charge of the Government!! And most of the present Opposition knew that since they were then in Government!!
Sanction Man’s new WIN party made the same claims. But maybe they can be excused since their leader – trying every which way to earn respectability after he was sanctioned by the Yanks – only dealt with poor people who he sought out to be their Father Christmas!! Outside his palatial quarters bequeathed by his father, who’d been smuggling gold for decades, he wouldn’t have recognised poverty if it crept up and bit him on his bamsie while tooling around in his Lambo… Ferrari, Rolls or practically scraping the basement with his (armoured) Land Cruisers!!
Listening to the lamentations, weeping and wailing of the Opposition, your Eyewitness wondered whether they thought the 146 persons the Stabber interviewed on “How the Cost of Living is Affecting People” over several years represented all – or even the majority – of Guyana. Sure there’s poverty in Guyana – but surely no one expected the PPP Government to make it DISAPPEAR in the five years since they took over from the APNU/PNC/AFC Government?? At the very least, they could’ve conceded that things were getting better!! Unless, like one of the loudest lamentators, Black Pudding Man – they live in foreign!!
But the UNDP – which has no axes to grind! – just came out with their latest Human Development Report. This measures – in their Human Development Index – not just income but is a composite overall of well-being based on income, health, and education. Ours rose to 0.776 by 2023, plunking us firmly in the high human development category!! The average rise after the PPP took over was 2.33 points as opposed to the coalition’s measly 0.90 per cent!! This was higher than the Latin American and Caribbean average!!
Providing evidence of the PPP’s success in delivering development to all sections of the society, the report showed that trust in the Government was extraordinarily high at 70.6 per cent, compared with the regional average of 55.8 per cent!! No wonder the PPP increased their majority in Parliament by making inroads in all communities!!
Critically, it showed that ignoring Black Pudding Man and company’s divisive provocations, our polarisation was lower than regional and global levels!!
…with Bat and Ball
Once again showing we really don’t need international reports on our togetherness, our CPL cricket – which fell this year smack in the midst of the elections and their aftermath – demonstrated that we’ve matured as a people to show the world the meaning of “One Guyana”. Sure, we’ll have different political opinions – we’re human, ain’t we? – but when it comes to supporting our Warriors, nothing can divide us!!
Tonight, our boys are once again in the finals – after giving us their trademark scare, of course!! – and best of all will be facing their old rivals – the Trinidadian Knight Riders!! Since the launch of the league in 2013, this rivalry has grown in intensity – rivalling the classic Ashes beef between the Aussies and Old Blighty!! Interestingly, in the beginning it was Trinis like Narine and Pooran anchoring our Warriors – and they were heroes.
Tonight, they’re with the T&T Knight Riders and will get a good-natured razzing from local fans when on the field against our Warriors!! Go Warriors!!
…for women in politics
One thing standing out in this year's elections was the high visibility of our women at all levels – including running their own parties for the presidency.
One of them whupped the established AFC Leader!!
The Guyana Government is moving swiftly to address the country’s mounting landfill and garbage disposal challenges, with President Dr Irfaan Ali announcing that a national action plan is being developed to modernise waste management and strengthen environmental responsibility. Speaking at a recent press conference, President Ali revealed that all 14 landfill sites across the country have outgrown their capacity, underscoring the urgency of intervention.
The President disclosed that Ministries and key stakeholders have been tasked with crafting a comprehensive report and strategy within the next three to four weeks. The plan will focus on identifying new landfill locations, prioritising Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Three (Essequibo Islands/ West Demerara), Four
(Demerara-Mahaica), Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice), while also exploring modern facilities and technologies that can create value from waste.
“Dealing with services again, one of the main issues in communities is that of soil waste management, garbage disposal, landfill sites. I have tasked the Ministries with a stakeholder to immediately come up with an action plan. As you know, we have 14 landfill sites across the country. They have all outgrown their capacity. Therefore, we need the development of new sites, the identification of land, getting the environmental permits and clearance, and then building out these sites in a modern way. Looking at value creation, that is how we can create value out of waste. We have a number of proposals that the team will be examin-
ing,” the Guyanese leader said. Public education and behaviour change will also form a major part of the national strategy. Emphasis will be placed on sanitation in public spaces and markets, alongside a communication campaign aimed at building greater environmental responsibility. The
Head of State stressed that improving waste management is critical not only for public health and community development but also for Guyana’s long-term tourism vision.
“Important to this also, a specific emphasis must be on public education. Looking at pub-
lic spaces, markets, and building a communication strategy that will change mindset, that will change behaviour, and will allow us to act with responsibility when it comes to protecting our environment. All of this is key as we build out a world-class tourism sector,” he added. Just one day after being sworn in as Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand had announced that the Government will be significantly expanding its waste management capacity, as the volume of waste entering the Haags Bosch landfill has tripled in recent years.
Speaking during a site visit, Manickchand described solid waste management as “a huge area and a big concern” for residents across the country, stressing that safe, sanitary, and well-managed communities remain a priority for the administration.
At Haags Bosch, once designed to handle around 400 tonnes of municipal solid waste daily, dumping has surged from 100 trucks per day to between 300 and 400, pushing daily waste intake to more than 1,200 tonnes. Residents of nearby communities, including Eccles, Prospect, and Windsor Estate, have repeatedly complained about smoke and unpleasant odours from the site.
The Minister noted that her Ministry will be working closely with First Lady Arya Ali, who has spearheaded village beautification projects nationwide, to complement the broader strategy for cleaner and greener communities. The Haags Bosch landfill is among the landfill sites in Charity in Region Two, Zorg-en-Hoop Canal, Zorg-En-Vlygt, Nerney, Region Six, Bon Success, Region Nine, and others.
t is a cliché to observe that at independence, “we inherited a state and not a nation” in a world of “nation states” that had been evolving in the west since 1648 with the Treaty of Westphalia. The union of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, for instance, was defined as the state of “Britain” ruled by a Monarch and then as a Parliamentary democracy, and the peoples as the “British” nation. Guyana, however, ruled by those same British who dragged us from across the globe to labour on their behalf, was called the “Land of Six Peoples” as we slowly emerged from colonialism. Few of us would disagree that because of our divisive ethnic politics, one reason for our post-independence travails was the unwillingness to put our shoulders to the wheel as “Guyanese” for our country’s progress.
Hopefully, we also agree that we must achieve some national commonality of purpose to face the challenges that confront us internationally as a state and domestically as a nation for all our peoples to live with dignity in prosperity. Three decades ago, we proposed that a feeling of “we, the people” – of “Guyaneseness” – can be engendered in the process of our conscious construction of a democratic state to achieve that commonality of purpose. We called this “Project Democracy – the creation of conditions wherein we are all treated equally by the state. We proposed democratic principles for all aspects of our lives –political, social, cultural, etc – to be our goal.
Thankfully, what we had defined as our “ethnic security dilemmas” in our political participation, a consequence of our fear of group powerlessness due to inbuilt ethnic majorities, have slowly been dissolving as differential emigration rates created a nation of minorities with incentives for parties to seek votes from all ethnic groups. While the values of “Project Democracy” – constitutionally protected equality of opportunity, affirmative action, due process, justice and fair play, rule of law, etc. – may seem dry compared to the warmth of the blood ties of “ethnicity”, they can engender the unity of public purpose and the recognition of individual worth through common citizenship.
And what might provide the incentives for creating such a state? The same incentives that spurred the development of every other democracy: actual and potential crises and social conflicts. Our episodic crises since independence, oftentimes ending in violent confrontations, have already precipitated discourses on appropriate state institutions to deliver the good life to the greatest number of Guyanese of all stripes. The test of our democratic system would be to successfully mediate the social conflicts in our society, especially ethnically generated ones, and achieve goals such as economic growth, material security, cultural autonomy, and freedom from arbitrary violence.
Some have proposed that the state structure must be changed to “power sharing” among parties representing the several ethnic groups to equitably distribute the “what, when and how” of politics among those groups. But this will ossify ethnic divisions that are now being demonstrably bridged because of our changed demographics, as seen in the September 1 elections. It will also lead to gridlock in governance, as demonstrated in our inability to appoint substantive higher judicial appointments through de facto “power sharing”.
We have proposed that to create the context for democracy to take root, if not explicit integrative federalist principles, then deep devolution with a key role for the villages be introduced. These have informed most of the innovations in multinational/ ethnic states across the world that alleviated hostilities and furthered the democratic ideal. Part of our problem is that some see our diverse heritage in contradiction to being “Guyanese”. This is a false dilemma. If we so choose, we can be “AfricanGuyanese” or “Amerindian-Guyanese” or “Indian-Guyanese”, etc. This simply acknowledges our particular heritages, which we should not try to elide or erase, because history has shown it is an almost impossible task that, in the end, is not really necessary.
Our cultural-national sphere should be demarcated as a private one, with minimal state intervention, and multiculturalism should be the order of the day. Among modern states, Canada seems to have hit a good note for us to emulate, with its stress on citizenship and multiculturalism and rejection of ethnic jingoism. The task of politics and politicians in Guyana today is not to tell people to jettison their heritages but to create a state that we can proudly say is working for “we, the Guyanese people…” in One Guyana.
...says war must end “permanently, comprehensively and justly”
Guyana has voiced deep disappointment at the failure of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to adopt a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza after a veto by one of its permanent members blocked the move, despite overwhelming support from the rest of the Council.
On Thursday, the United States (US) once again vetoed a UN resolution demanding an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, following a vote in the Security Council.
The negative vote was cast as the 15-member Council held its 10,000th meeting against the backdrop of famine spreading in the besieged enclave and an ongoing Israeli offensive to take full control of Gaza City.
The draft also demanded the release of all hostages held by Hamas and for Israel to lift all restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid and ensure that it is safely distributed to the population – in particular by UN agencies and partners.
In a compelling statement at the Council’s meeting, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, said that Guyana “deeply regrets the use of the veto today which scuttled these efforts”.
“Fourteen Member States of the Council decided to definitively respond to the confirmation of famine in Gaza and to reiterate our demand for a ceasefire and for the release of all hostages held in Gaza. Guyana therefore deeply regrets the use of the veto today, which scuttled these efforts.”
“The question consuming many in the international community, including many of us around this table, is ‘what will it take to achieve consensus for the Security Council to act as one and exercise its responsibility to protect the Palestinian people?’ In the nearly two years of Israel’s active mili-
tary operations in Gaza, the breadth of the atrocities unleashed on the Palestinian people defies every tenet of decency, morality and humanity. More importantly, international law – the very fabric of the international system that we built from the ruins of World War Two – continues to be violated every single day in defiance of every warning, every legal ruling, and every appeal to the perpetrator of these atrocities. And all of this, Mr President, is done with total impunity,” the Guyanese envoy stated.
Ambassador RodriguesBirkett questioned what more it would take for the
Council to act in unity. She described the near two years of military operations in Gaza as atrocities that “defy every tenet of decency, morality and humanity”, with international law being violated daily and with total impunity.
“The result of this impunity is the ongoing commission of genocide – yes, genocide,” she said, citing confirmation this week by the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry. She accused Israel of weaponising starvation, restricting humanitarian aid, and carrying out ground operations in Gaza City following weeks of strikes on
civilian infrastructure.
Guyana stressed that the veto had once again prevented the Council from fulfilling its mandate of maintaining peace and security, despite the overwhelming political will of 14 members.
“The international community has rightly looked to the Council to defend and protect the right of the Palestinian people to be free from Israel’s tyranny. But again, owing to the continued exercise of the veto prerogative, this Council is constrained.”
“Guyana wants this war on Palestine to end permanently, comprehensively and justly. And we will continue to partner to this end with those who have a role in making this goal a reality. The Security Council is pivotal to this end, and Guyana urges that we keep sounding the alarm bells on Palestine and advocating for the Palestinian people until they are free. The Council has the tools to bring about decisive changes in the situation in Gaza and to prevent further escalations in the region, and we should utilise them. Sadly, once again we could not do so today, despite the political will of 14 of the 15 Member States of the Council,” RodriguesBirkett added.
Days after Nigel Hughes resigned as Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC) with immediate effect, party executives have selected Chairman David Patterson to act as interim leader as they continue to reel from their poor performance at the recently held 2025 elections. Hughes’ resignation came just over one year after taking up the role and less than a month after the AFC’s poor performance in the September 1 General and Regional Elections. The party was kicked out of the Parliamentary opposition after failing to garner sufficient votes to return to the
National Assembly. But according to the AFC in a statement on Saturday, its “…electoral performance rests collectively on the entire executive, and not on Mr Hughes alone”.
During an emergency meeting on Friday, the AFC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) directed that a delegation of its members met with Hughes to appeal to him to continue serving as leader until a National Conference is convened to elect new leadership. In the interim, the Party said its Chairman, David Patterson, will fulfil the duties as leader. This is the second time Hughes has
resigned from a leadership position within the AFC. He had previously served as Chairman of the AFC but resigned back in April 2016 over “internal difficulties on a point of principle”.
Since his return to the helm of the party after being elected as leader in June of 2024, Hughes began his “Better Must Come”coined campaign into the 2025 General and Regional Elections, during which the party churned out a dismal performance and was booted from the National Assembly.
In a brief telephone interview with this publication earlier this month, Hughes had indicated that the AFC would be meeting shortly with all its members to conduct a thorough analysis of the 2025 polls. “I do have an analysis, but I’d rather share it with the party first before I share it with the public. The party is going to meet shortly, and it will decide what rebuilding is needed. First of all, we have to do an analysis of the results, and based on that analysis, we will then determine what direction to take,” Hughes had stated. The AFC said in a statement on Saturday that it
has already begun a comprehensive SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) assessment of its performance in the 2025 elections, with particular emphasis on identifying what is required for the party to regain its standing.
The AFC contested the September 1 polls independently after the collapse of negotiations with its former coalition partner, the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).
The APNU and AFC had coalesced to contest the 2015 elections, which they won but failed to secure a second term at the 2020 polls.
The collapse of the coalition talks was further compounded with several top AFC members jumping ship and joining the AFC. In fact, Juretha Fernandes, who along with Sherod Duncan and Ricky Ramsaroop, as well as other prominent members that had cut ties with the AFC to sign onto APNU’s list of candidates, contested the recent elections as the Prime Ministerial Candidate alongside APNU’s leader, Aubrey Norton. At the September 1 polls, however, not only was the Hughes-led AFC kicked out of the benches of the Parliamentary opposition, but the Norton-led APNU was also ousted as the main Parliamentary op-
position party.
The vote count at the 2025 General and Regional Elections showed that the AFC struggled to secure enough votes to earn a single seat in the National Assembly. The party, which went to the polls with Hughes and Indigenous rights advocate Laura George on its ticket, only managed to secure 1765 votes in the General Elections and 1833 in the Regional Elections.
Both the AFC’s and APNU’s Parliamentary influences were weakened at the hands of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) – a new party headed by United States (US)sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed, which
managed to grab votes from many of the former coalition partners’ traditional support bases to become the main Parliamentary opposition. Once an emerging third force in Guyana, the AFC had won five out of 65 seats in Parliament at the 2006 elections and seven in 2011. It teamed up with the APNU in 2015, and together they won that year’s elections, but their term was cut short in 2018 when the Government fell to a no-confidence motion. By 2020, AFC’s popularity had declined, with many accusing the party of being submissive to the PNC-led APNU during the coalition’s tenure in office. Following their loss at the 2020 polls, the APNU and AFC, together, held 31 seats in the National Assembly, thus forming the main Parliamentary opposition. Of these, the AFC itself had occupied nine of those seats, while the remaining 22 were held by APNU politicians. At the September 1 polls, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) recorded a landslide victory with some 133,432 votes, which earned the party 36 seats in the National Assembly. In the 65-seat House, WIN gained 16 seats, APNU 12 seats, and the Amanza WaltonDesir-led Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) copped one seat.
Prime Minister (PM)
Brigadier (Retired)
Mark Phillips says the installation of solar systems in Amerindian villages has transformed life in the hinterland, noting that “years ago… the villages were in darkness,” but today, every household has some form of lighting – a development he described as a source of national pride. He made this statement when he joined the staff of the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) and its agencies for a recent special cultural celebration in observance of Amerindian Heritage Month. In his remarks, PM Phillips reminded of the Government’s commitment to the integration and de-
velopment of Guyana’s indigenous peoples. He pointed to several transformative changes across hinterland communities, including the expansion of energy access, health services, education and connectivity.
“All listed Amerindian villages are now connected to the internet. They are integrated into what is happening in Guyana.” He also highlighted the installation of community solar systems and household solar units that have brought reliable electricity to villages, noting, “Years ago, if you took a photograph at 6:30 pm, the villages were in darkness. Today, every household has some form of lighting, and that is a source of pride for us all.”
Amerindian communities have received over 30,000 solar home systems and have access to telemedicine services in 87 remote communities, providing better healthcare support. The Government plans to build new hospitals in ev-
ery region, including the hinterland, and has made progress in training indigenous professionals such as teachers, doctors and engineers.
“We have effectively transformed not only the coastline but also the hinterland, with our Amerindian brothers and sisters fully integrated. This is because of our peo-
ple-centred policies, which guarantee that whether you live on the coastline or the hinterland, you must benefit from national development,” the PM stated.
Meanwhile, Minister within the OPM, Kwame McCoy, also spoke at the gathering. He reflected on the historical and cultural significance of the observance. The Minister men-
tioned that Amerindian Heritage Month, which was first declared in 1995, serves as a deliberate recognition of the invaluable contributions of Guyana’s Indigenous people to the nation’s life. “Our Amerindian brothers and sisters truly have something to celebrate,” he added: “We have witnessed transformative changes in ICT (Information and Communication Technology) infrastructure, housing, schools, health centres and telemedicine across the hinterland. These are tangible results of empowerment and integration.”
The Minister emphasised the importance of unity and mutual respect across all ethnic groups, reminding them that Guyana’s diversity remains central to the One Guyana vision. Also present at the event was OPM Permanent Secretary Dr Alfred King, as well as several heads of agencies and departments.
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is warning that reckless driving habits are being fuelled by a growing number of motorists leaving home later than usual and then attempting to make up for lost time once on the road. This trend, police say, is creating dangerous conditions for all road users.
Traffic officers have observed that instead of planning ahead, many drivers attempt to beat the clock by overtaking in long lines of traffic and speeding through heavily congested routes. To address this, police ranks are now deployed at key intersections to manage traffic flow and clamp down on overtaking.
Superintendent of Police Raun Clarke explained the challenge in detail.
“What you find is that those persons join in the line and would overtake so as to reach faster. They’re leaving their homes late but want to arrive early. So we have those challenges which we have to deal with. However, we are having ranks throughout the region at the critical intersections to deal with persons who are going to overtake and at the same time, we’re directing traffic so that persons can reach their destinations safely.” Adding to this, Superintendent Maniram Jagnandan reminded that the realities of traffic volumes in Guyana have changed over the years, making the old prac-
tice of leaving home at the last minute impractical.
“Years ago, when you used to leave home at six o’clock in the morning and reach your destination at 6:30, you cannot do that now, especially in the morning and in the afternoon. So we are urging persons – if you have to reach the embassy for eight in the morning, you have to leave very early.”
Police have recorded a consistent increase in the number of vehicles on the nation’s roadways, with thousands of new registrations annually adding to congestion in Georgetown and other regional centres. The rise includes not only private cars but also minibuses, hire cars and commercial lorries that compete for limited road space. Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh, noted that this rap-
id increase has forced Police to move away from traditional reactive methods of traffic management toward a more technology-driven, proactive approach. “Based on analysis that would have been done over the past two years until today, we recognise that volumes are something we have had to address. And there isn’t a time of day when you can predict
large volumes—those same spaces you mentioned remain congested at different hours.”
He added that the Police Force is increasingly supported by surveillance tools and real-time monitoring.
“Our posture has moved
significantly from reactive to a greater level of responsiveness, aided by technology. Where we were not present, or are not present, to have an appreciation of what obtains on the ground, we are supported by the ‘smart city, now smart country’ CCTV system, which is unfolding. So our posture is one that now responds significantly in less time.”
The deployment of smart cameras across the capital and selected regions has been credited with not only deterring reckless driving but also enabling quicker interventions by traffic ranks.
These measures however, are just one part of a broader strategy, which also includes community education and collaboration with oth-
er state agencies to manage the surge in vehicles.
According to the World Bank, Guyana’s vehicle ownership rate has been steadily increasing in recent years as more citizens acquire private cars. While this represents economic growth and mobility, it also places heavy pressure on an already limited roadway network.
Police are urging drivers to adjust to this reality by practising time management, obeying traffic laws, and exercising patience. Authorities stress that leaving home late and rushing to make up time endangers not just the driver but every road user – from pedestrians and cyclists to schoolchildren and commuters.
On Friday, Minister Parag joined Peace Day celebrations at Marian Academy, Carifesta Avenue, in observance of the International Day of Peace, which is celebrated annually on September 21.
Speaking in her feature address, she reminded students that true peace begins within each of us, not in grand conferences or external displays, but in the choices we make every day.
In a world that often seems filled with aggression and malice, the Minister encouraged the young people to always embrace the path of peace,
According to the Ministry of Education (MOE) in its social media post, the event was a moving reminder that peace is not only possible but necessary, and that we must carry this message to every corner of our country.
The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly. Two decades later, in 2001, the General Assembly unanimously voted to des-
voice to that call”.
affirming that this path brings no loss or pain but instead leads to a brighter, better future.
ignate the Day as a period of non-violence and ceasefire.
This year’s theme, designated by the UN, is “Act Now for a Peaceful World”.
The students shared heart-warming messages, poems and beautiful renditions calling on leaders and communities alike to act now for a more peaceful world.
Secretary-General of the UN, noted that the “warring world is crying out for peace, and this year’s International Day of Peace urges each of us to give
He highlighted that worldwide, lives are being ripped apart, childhoods extinguished, and basic human dignity discarded amid the cruelty and degradations of war.
“We are seeing an explosion of conflict. International law flouted. And record numbers of people fleeing their homes. All they want is peace. Peace is everyone’s business. The impacts of war ripple around the world. We must silence the guns. End the suffering. Build bridges. And create stability and prosperity. Sustainable development supports peace – nine of the 10 countries struggling most with development are suffering conflict.”
He also emphasised
that racism, dehumanisation and misinformation that throw fuel on the fires of conflict should be stopped, and the world should instead speak the language of respect and tolerance.
He added that the world must “use our influence to push for peace. Where we have peace, we have hope. Families unite, communities rebuild, and children learn and play. Peace cannot wait – our work starts now”.
Commanders of several key units within the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) have pledged to lead with integrity, discipline, and dedication as they formally assumed command this week. At a recent ceremony, Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, presented Instruments of Command to the newly appointed officers. The Instrument of Command, a formal document of authority, empowers an officer to make decisions, exercise leadership and ensure the
effective functioning of their assigned units.
Those assuming new command positions include Lieutenant Colonel Drumson McCaulay, Acting Commanding Officer of the Training Corps; Lt Col Andy Pompey, Base Commander at Base Camp Stephenson; Lt Col Courtney Mendonca, Base Commander at Base Camp Seweyo; Lt Col Dominic Shepherd, Commanding Officer of the 3rd Infantry Battalion; Lt Col Harold Fraser, Commanding
Officer of the 2nd Infantry Battalion; Lt Col Gordon Nedd, Base Commander at Base Camp Ayanganna; Lt Col Joslyn Assanah, Acting Commanding Officer of the Air Corps; and Lt Col Cranston France, Commanding Officer of the 4th Engineers Battalion.
As part of the ceremony, the officers also took a Command Affirmation, formally pledging their commitment to uphold the highest standards of military leadership.
On Friday, the Enmore Regional Hospital hosted a mini health booth in recognition of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month, aimed at educating and empowering the public on this common but often over-
looked health condition.
The initiative provided community members with vital information about PCOS, its causes, symptoms, and the importance of early detection and effective management.
The hospital’s dedicated medical team, including
doctors on site, engaged with attendees by answering questions, offering personalised guidance, and ordering ultrasounds where necessary to support diagnosis. Participants also had the opportunity to check their Body Mass Index (BMI) and
blood pressure, creating a holistic health experience. A strong focus was placed on lifestyle management, particularly diet and nutrition, which play a critical role in balancing hormones and improving overall health for women living with PCOS.
Attendees received practical dietary tips and options, along with educational brochures and flyers to reinforce the information shared.
This initiative was designed to raise awareness and provide women with the knowledge and tools they need to better under-
stand and manage PCOS.
The initiative is part of Enmore Regional Hospital’s ongoing commitment to advancing community health through education, prevention, and accessible care.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), PCOS is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. It usually starts during adolescence, but symptoms may fluctuate over time.
PCOS can cause hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, excess androgen levels and cysts in the ovaries. Irregular periods,
usually with a lack of ovulation, can make it difficult to become pregnant. It is a leading cause of infertility. PCOS is a chronic condition and cannot be cured. However, some symptoms can be improved through lifestyle changes, medications and fertility treatments. The cause of PCOS is unknown, but women with a family history or type 2 diabetes are at higher risk. The condition affects an estimated six to 13 per cent of women of reproductive age, and up to 70 per cent of cases are undiagnosed.
Work has already commenced on preparations for GuyExpo 2025. On Friday, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce
Hon Susan Rodrigues and Permanent Secretary Roger Rogers co-chaired a meeting to begin streamlining plans for the highly anticipated event.
The expo, set to take place
ney,” Minister Rodrigues said.
She also appealed to the private sector for full support, noting that the event provides the unique opportunity for interaction with approximately 100,000 patrons.
Site visit
Earlier, the Minister and Permanent Secretary
ly produced goods and services and is now the longest-sustained exhibition in the Caribbean.
The exposition and trade fair feature local and regional businesses and allow business associates to meet, network, negotiate with international companies, and showcase their skills, talents, and creative works. It fuses a wide cross-section
at the National Exhibition Complex, is expected to attract even more exhibitors, sponsors, and patrons this year. Minister Rodrigues urged the planning team to work collaboratively to ensure that GuyExpo 2025 is a grand attraction and a true showcase of Guyana’s progress.
“GuyExpo is a staple event on our national calendar that showcases the dynamism and innovation of our manufacturers, agro-processors, and service providers. It is an expo that resonates deeply with us as Guyanese, and we are committed to building on the successes of past expos to deliver a showcase that truly mirrors Guyana’s growth and transformational jour-
conducted a site visit to the National Exhibition Centre to assess the current state of the facility and explore ways to maximise its potential, Minister Rodrigues stated.
During the visit, the Ministry officials met and spoke with staff of the National Exhibition Centre along with the other subvention agencies: the Guyana National Bureau of Standards, the Guyana Tourism Authority, the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission, and the Scrap Metal Unit.
GuyExpo – Guyana’s largest trade and investment exposition – began in 1995, and was held annually between 2004 and 2016. The event showcases local-
of producers of handicrafts, furniture, garments, jewellery, horticulture, pharmaceuticals, tourism, information technology, and our culture.
For the thousands of patrons who visit the booths, it is an opportunity to experience the wide range of locally produced products and services.
GuyExpo is a partnership among the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, GO-INVEST and the private sector.
GuyExpo 2024 was held from November 14 to 17 under the theme “Guyana On Show, The Fastest Growing Economy”. A hallmark of last year’s event was the “Tourism Village”, which
Ning and fondant and others with codes and computers. And all of you, all of you will work with precision, passion and pride. That will be the hallmark of the way from now on. All of you who are graduating here today will contribute, not only for our country, but for the world to be a better, brighter, and more beautiful place for every one of us,” Mustapha pointed out. He added that the Government recognises the importance of education and has been placing lots of emphasis on it. Since tak -
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, who delivered the feature address at Saturday’s graduation ceremony, pointed out that it was not just the completion of a programme, but rather the beginning of a new journey.
“Some of you would have worked with brushes and scissors, some with frost -
inety-two persons, the majority of whom are females, are now equipped with the skills necessary to contribute to the service industry, which is needed at this time in Guyana as the country continues on its developmental trajectory. They all completed courses in nail technology – nail care and design; professional makeup skills, and decorative cake techniques – as well as basic and advanced information technology. The courses were conducted through the Humanitarian Mission Guyana Inc (HMG) – a non-profit organisation in Port Mourant, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
ing office five years ago, the Government has increased
The first community and Indigenous radio in Guyana, Radio Paiwomak turned 25 on September 19. Radio Paiwomak 97.1 FM, is Guyana’s first and only community radio station, proudly broadcasting from Bina Hill in the Annai district, North Rupununi, Region Nine. It was established on September 19, 2000, with the mission to preserve and promote Amerindian culture; educate and inform local communities, and foster communication across the Rupununi region.
Radio Paiwomak was a critical communication lifeline for communities when it started and has evolved, now partnering with National Communications Network (NCN) and Iwokrama, the latter which described itself as proud to partner with the project from the inception.
Iwokrama congratulated the North Rupununi District Development Board (NRDDB) and Radio
Paiwomak on the success and positive impact on community development on its birthday.
Thanks to the installation of solar panels and
high-powered batteries, it serves almost all the North Rupununi communities including Annai, Wowetta, Rupertee, Surama,Apoteri and beyond.
It continues to offer a rich mix of content, including school/children’s story time; Amerindian stories and Makushi language features; Health features; an Eye on the Environment programme; Youth Vision, Village Talk, and Farmers’ Corner; road safety tips and news.
The station, on its birthday, saluted some of the voices that have become familiar across the North Rupununi over the decades, including Virgil Harding, Adam Nash, Ellen Davis, Mike Williams, Rocky VanLang, and Paul Nash.
The station is reported to be run by volunteers and community members, with support from NCN; the NRDDB; along with support from Iwokrama and UNESCO.
The name Paiwomak is a symbolic blend of Pakaraima, Iwokrama, and Makaranpan – three mountain ranges that represent the heart of the region it serves.
This was done to ensure that both young and mature persons in Guyana can have the opportunity to ensure that we own our skills.
“That is testament to the importance the Government is placing on our education sector. So you are making that contribution.”
Mustapha urged that they take the skills acquired and turn them into service.
“Use your creativity to lift others. People depend on you now to change or have an enhanced personality. You will be solving problems. You make people feel seen, valued, and celebrated.” He pointed out that in a world that is moving towards automation and artificial intelligence (AI), the human touch and creativity matter more than ever.
“A computer cannot style hair with soul. It cannot decorate a cake with love. It cannot print intricate designs on a single fingernail or match the perfect foundation sheet to bring out someone’s natural glow. And even in IT (Information Technology), it is a human being who imagines, repairs, and supports the system we all rely on. Those are the importance of the disciplines and the various areas that you would have learnt in your courses just now. Your work skills and it is very essential,” he told the graduates.
Meanwhile, educator Dr Mark Lyte, speaking at the graduation ceremony on Saturday, called on the graduates to utilise the opportunities that are presented to them. “You have the foundation that is necessary to launch out in your society, in your own space,
starting something that will go beyond your expectations.” Dr Lyte said the significance of education and the value of education cannot be overstated, pointing out that it provides knowledge that shapes our intellect and builds our understanding of the world.
“So think about the opportunities you have had and also think about what you can do with the skill you have gained. Think of going beyond the economic benefits. Recognising that education fosters critical thinking, creativity, and innovation,” he added.
Dr Lyte also pointed out that knowing the basics of something is not enough, as he underscored the importance of life skills.
“As you move forward, recognise that the skill you have gained is something that you need to replicate… what you have garnered here is part of life. The education and the skills training you have received will prepare you for the rest of your life. I grew up hearing that everything else may fall apart, but a sound education never decays,’ Dr Lyte said.
Dr Lyte pointed out that the Mission has been providing skills for those who would have completed secondary school and those who would have left prematurely.
HMG is dedicated to empowering underserved, communities in Guyana through education, skills training, and holistic outreach. Founded in 2005, the Mission operates a skills training centre in Port Mourant. To date 6,800 persons have received training through the Mission. Many of its trainees are women, single parents, or persons who face socioeconomic hardship. In addition to skills training, HMG provides broader community support: donations to victims of fires or domestic violence, tutoring, mentoring, grants, and even startup support for graduates who wish to become entrepreneurs. Overall, it aims to break the cycle of poverty in Guyana by equipping people with practical, marketable skills, nurturing self-reliance, and offering opportunities that extend beyond relief to transformation.
An intelligence-led operation has unearthed a large quantity of marijuana worth more than $37.5 million in the vicinity of the seawalls at Haslington North, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
The exercise was con -
ducted between 07:00h and 07:30h on Friday by ranks from Regional Division 4C with support from officers attached to the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Special Branch.
On arrival at the location, the Police observed that a male of mixed an -
cestry and a female of mixed ancestry were in a boat docked at the seawalls. Upon noticing the ranks, both individuals ran into nearby bushes and escaped.
The ranks, nevertheless, conducted a search of the vessel (a wooden yellow and red boat named Paraboo GA 0480/5, powered by a 48-horsepower Yamaha engine) and discovered four large compressed parcels wrapped
Arecent raid conducted by police in Regional Division 4C, East Coast Demerara (ECD) has unearthed a quantity of narcotics and ammunition hidden on a plot of land at Beterverwagting, ECD. The intelligence-led operation was carried out between 12:05h and 14:00h on Friday at a corner shop located at Sideline Dam, Beterverwagting, which is owned by David Mingo, a 42-year-old resident of the same community. During a search of the shop, the ranks discovered one large plastic sealer, a large plastic wrap, and several small transparent and coloured Ziploc bags. But no illicit items were found at that location.
However, acting on further intelligence, the ranks proceeded to a nearby plot of land east of the shop, covered with thick vegetation, and found a white salt bag concealed at the root of a palm tree, along with a small white bucket.
Upon examination, the salt bag contained several transparent plastic wraps of a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis. The bucket was found to contain three boxes with 60 live 7.62 x 39 mm ammunition, one box with 50 live 9mm rounds, a quantity of creamish rock-like substance suspected to be cocaine, and a sum of cash. Mingo, along with the suspected narcotics and ammunition, was escorted to the
Sparendaam Police Station. When questioned, the shop owner denied any knowledge of the items. The substances when weighed showed that the suspected cocaine amounted to 785 grams (g), and the suspected cannabis to 3895 g. Meanwhile, the cash found totalled some G$78,500. All exhibits, including the suspected narcotics, ammunition and cash, were lodged accordingly.
in transparent plastic which contained leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis.
The parcels were escorted to the Cove and John Police Station, where attempts to recover latent fingerprints proved unsuccessful due to the material used.
The parcels were subsequently taken to the GPF’s Narcotics Branch at Eve Leary, Georgetown, where they were weighed and
amounted to 41,753.178 kilograms, with an estimated street value of G$37,577,860. Samples were extracted, and the four bulky parcels were lodged.
The engine was removed from the vessel and lodged at Cove and
John Police Station, while the
at
under Police guard. According to the Police, the suspects’ aliases were subsequently identified as “Black Boy” and “Lisa”. Further checks are being made to apprehend them.
SG: “Our Warring
Is Crying Out for Peace” …as the world marks International Day of Peace
As the world marked the International Day of Peace on Sunday, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General (SG) António Guterres issued a stark reminder that “our warring world is crying out for peace”.
The annual observance, held on September 21, comes against a backdrop of escalating global conflicts, mass displacement, and mounting humanitarian crises. In his statement, the UN Chief urged people everywhere to raise their voices against violence and division.
“This year’s International Day of Peace urges each of us to give voice to that call,” Guterres said, “lives are being ripped apart, childhoods extinguished, and basic human dignity discarded amidst the cruelty and degradations of war.”
According to the UN, the world is currently experiencing a surge in armed conflict, with international law flouted in multiple regions and record numbers of people being forced from their homes.
“All they want is peace,” Guterres stressed, warning that the impacts of war extend far beyond the frontlines. “Peace is everyone’s business. The impacts of war ripple around the world.”
Guterres highlighted the deep link between peace and
UN Secretary-General António
development, noting that nine of the ten countries struggling most with development are also suffering conflict.
“Peace cannot wait – our work starts now,” he declared. “We must silence the guns. End the suffering. Build bridges. And create stability and prosperity.”
Human rights advocates echoed the call. “The Secretary-General is right –conflict is not only destroying lives but stealing futures,” said Leila Mohammed, a peace researcher with the International Crisis Group. “Without peace, education stalls, economies collapse, and entire generations grow up knowing only violence.”
The UN SG also appealed for a rejection of racism, dehumanisation, and misinformation, which he said only “throw fuel on the fires of conflict.” Instead, he urged the global community to embrace
respect and compassion.
“We must speak the language of respect, open our hearts to others, and use our influence to push for peace,” he said. “Where we have peace, we have hope. Families unite, communities rebuild, and children learn and play.” For many, the message resonated deeply. David Singh, a Guyanese youth activist, said the Peace Day call comes at the right time. “Even if we’re not on the frontlines of war, we can be on the frontlines of peace – by rejecting division in our schools, communities, and workplaces.”
As nations and communities around the globe hosted commemorations for Peace Day, the UN’s message was clear: the world cannot afford to delay.
“Peace is everyone’s responsibility,” Guterres concluded. “And peace begins with us.”
Two aviation security inspectors, Carlos Miguel and Patrick Legare, arrived in Guyana early last week to begin a comprehensive assessment of the country’s aviation security operations.
The assessment, says the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, is comparable in scope to evaluations conducted by the United States (US) Transport Security Administration (TSA) and follows Guyana’s recent successful outcome in an ICAO Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP) audit of its aviation security oversight programme.
Miguel and Legare,
Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to begin the undertaking.
On Saturday, the Authority announced that
sent by Transport Canada, met with Abraham Dorris, Director of the Aviation Safety and Security Directorate, and members of the Aviation Security Department at the Guyana
the audit of Guyana’s aviation security system, conducted by the two Aviation Security Auditors, has concluded with a positive assessment.
The auditors evaluated
the nation’s security protocols, infrastructure, and operational practices across its aviation sector. Their examination encompassed all critical areas designed to ensure the safety and integrity of air travel, from screening procedures to regulatory oversight.
The auditors formally reported their findings to the Director General of the GCAA on Thursday, September 18, 2025, which revealed no issues of significant concern, indicating a high standard of compliance and effectiveness.
The Director General, Lt Col (Ret’d) Egbert Field, who was very pleased with the findings, credited the outcome to the hard work and dedication of the inspectors and staff of the GCAA.
He also thanked the Board of Directors and the Government, including Minister Deodat Indar, for the support given during the preparation period.
Guyana recently concluded the ICAO USOAP and
USAP audits, where the results showed that Guyana was successful in both areas
Transport Canada portfolio and working with its partners. It is responsible for
transportation. Its aviation division is involved with pilot and per-
of operations.
Transport Canada describes itself as a federal institution, leading the
transportation policies and programmes and promotes safe, secure, efficient and environmentally responsible
licensing, aircraft and airport operations, drones, incident reporting, air travel, and airworthiness.
The Guyana Office for Investment, in partnership with the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) and the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), on Saturday announced the successful launch of the Brand Guyana gondola at Massy Mega, Turkeyen.
Described as a permanent fixture at Massy Stores Turkeyen and Providence, the gondola features a diverse range of
certified Made in Guyana products from more than twenty local businesses.
It is expected that the initiative will strengthen the visibility of Guyanese goods, expand market opportunities, and build consumer confidence in local brands.
Guyana’s Chief Investment Officer, Dr Peter Ramsaroop, welcomed the overwhelming response to the launch, describing it as proof of the growing recognition of Guyanese products both locally and internationally.
He also issued a call to action for Guyana’s hospitality sector, urging hotels, restaurants, and resorts to integrate Made in Guyana products into their supply chains, thereby supporting local manufacturers while delivering an authentic Guyanese experience to guests.
Dr Ramsaroop also emphasised that the initiative directly supports His Excellency President Dr
Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s vision of advancing sustainable agriculture and agroprocessing, with the goal of creating resilient food systems, generating employment, and strengthening Guyana’s position as a leader in food production for the region.
The Brand Guyana Gondola is more than a retail space; it is a showcase of Guyana’s entrepreneurial spirit and a driver of inclusive economic growth, the agency stated in its social media post.
The Caribbean is moving to transform its manufacturing sector, with regional associations setting medium- to longterm strategies aimed at increasing the sector’s contribution to national economic growth by up to 30 per cent.
The initiative is being spearheaded by the Caribbean Manufacturers’ Association (CMA), which brings together manufacturers from Guyana, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, St Lucia, and Dominica. The association projects that an expansion in exports to regional and international markets will also generate thousands of new jobs across member states.
“A realistic medium-term goal is to grow this contribution to five to 10 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and in the longer term, through sustained policy support and diversification efforts, to achieve 10 to 20 per cent of GDP,” said Ramsay Ali, Immediate Past President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) and current President of the CMA.
The latest Manufacturing Sector Report, featured in the 2025 edition of Caribbean Business & Travel, profiles the Presidents of the six manufacturers’ associations and identifies new investment opportunities in the sector. Editor Sandra Ann
Baptiste, Chief Executive Consultant of Caribbean Signature, noted that the publication highlights the region’s potential amid “a challenging and rapidly changing global trading environment” and places renewed focus on CARICOM’s trade agreements.
In Guyana, manufacturers are positioning themselves to play a critical role in the country’s ongoing development drive. Ali, who is also the CEO of Sterling Products, said local firms are scaling up to meet surging demand for materials in the infrastructure, housing, and logistics sectors. “This creates new opportunities for both local and foreign investors to partner in building out the industrial supply chain that supports national development,” he emphasised.
Meanwhile, in Trinidad and Tobago, the sector is aiming for a major leap in non-energy exports. TTMA President Dale Parson, CEO of Kaleidoscope Paints, said the association has mapped out a multipronged strategy to grow exports from TT$6.2 billion to TT$10.6 billion by 2030. “The TTMA believes that ideally, the manufacturing sector would aim for 25-30 per cent GDP contribution in the medium term, especially with continued government incentives and regional trade expansion,” Parson said.
Barbados is also eyeing
the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), pointed to strong results from three recent Jamaican trade missions to Guyana. “They were far from symbolic,” Thwaites said. “Several Jamaican firms have already secured contracts, particularly in construction and technology, where Guyana’s infrastructure boom is creating heavy demand for materials and services.”
Saint Lucia is seeking to increase its manufacturing contribution to GDP from six per cent to 10 per cent.
higher contributions from its manufacturers, particularly in agro-processing, cosmetics, and food and beverage production. Barbados Manufacturers Association (BMA) President Rakeesh Bernard, Managing Director of Roberts Manufacturing, said the sector aims to grow its GDP share from close to six per cent to between seven and 15 per cent. “We must diversify exports by engaging new markets, advancing digital trade, and adopting modern technological platforms,” Bernard said.
Jamaica is pursuing opportunities in import substitution, especially in basic food products, packaging, cleaning agents, and household items. Sydney Thwaites, Immediate Past President of
In his address, Brigadier Khan reminded the Officers of the weight of responsibility that comes with command. He urged them to draw on their careers, ranks, and experience to give their very best, noting that the GDF expects excellence and the people of Guyana deserve no less.
He emphasised that the Instrument of Command is a clear reminder of explicit authority and accountability, encouraging each Officer to strive to make their unit the best.
Brigadier Khan extended congratulations to the Officers on their new appointments and wished them success as they take up their new leadership roles.
The unit commander joins some 525 GDF ranks promoted earlier this year. The promotions were done
in accordance with Part III, Section 16 of the Defence Act, Chapter 15:01 of 1977. The promoted ranks included three Class Two Warrant Officers being elevated to Acting Class One Warrant Officers, while one Class Two Warrant Officer has been made substantive. Two substantive Staff Sergeants were promoted to substantive Class Two Warrant Officers and three substantive Staff Sergeants to Acting Class Two Warrant Officers. Further, 10 acting Staff Sergeants have been made substantive, while eight substantive Sergeants have been promoted to acting Staff Sergeants, and 42 Sergeants have been made substantive.
In addition, 57 Corporals have joined the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Corps through their promotion to act-
ing Sergeant, while 62 Corporals have been made substantive. Furthermore, 116 Lance Corporals have each been elevated to acting Corporal, 75 acting Lance Corporals have each been made substantive, and 49 Privates have each been promoted to the rank of Acting Lance Corporal.
Coast Guard ranks of the GDF have had 32 promotions, including one Chief Petty Officer having been made substantive, two Senior Petty Officers having been promoted to acting Chief Petty Officers and one Senior Petty Officer having been made substantive. An additional 28 other ratings have promoted or been made substantive in their respective ranks.
The Guyana National Reserve has seen 65 of its ranks being promoted.
SLMA President Marguerite Desir, Chief Operating Officer of Harris Paints International, said growth will be supported by scaling up production and boosting exports.
Further, Dominica is looking to leverage regional expertise to expand production of bottled water, condiments, furniture, and craft items. John Robin,
President of the Dominica Manufacturers Association and managing director of Benjo’s Seamoss and Agro Processing, said his association is drawing on the experience of Trinidadian manufacturers to accelerate its progress.
As it relates to policy directive, the Guyana Government has created a lucrative environment for the expansion of the local manufacturing sector.
In fact, the 2025 National Budget promised to bring substantial benefits to employees and businesses alike. These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to addressing key concerns within the manufacturing and services sectors. The manufacturing sector saw an expansion of 13.5 per cent in 2024, driven primarily by “other manufacturing”. This growth signifies a strategic shift from reliance on traditional manufacturing sectors such as rice and sugar
towards a broader manufacturing base such as non-metallic and fabricated metal products, beverages and processed food.
The services sector, which remains a critical pillar of Guyana’s GDP, also experienced notable growth, expanding by 7.4 per cent in 2024.
Several key initiatives announced in Budget 2025 to benefit the private sector included the increase in the income tax threshold to $130,000 per month and the reduction in personal income tax rates from 28 per cent to 25 per cent and 40 per cent to 35 per cent, which are expected to provide much-needed financial relief to the working population, making more disposable income available. Additionally, it includes the removal of VAT on agricultural machinery, automated poultry pens and veterinary supplies, among others.
The prevalence of PCOS is higher among some ethnicities, and these groups often experience more complications, in particular related to metabolic problems.
The biological and psychological effects of PCOS, particularly those related to obesity, body image and infertility, can lead to mental health challenges and social stigma.
In recent years, health organisations have increased efforts to raise awareness about PCOS during National Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Awareness Month in September each year.
This campaign raises awareness about the condition and encourages those who may be suffering from the disease to seek medical advice for diagnosis and treatment options.
The aim is to educate people about PCOS and support those living with the condition through education programmes and online resources such as webinars, podcasts, forums, and social media groups.
In Guyana, a local group, Cysterhood Support – Guyana, was launched in 2019 after Dr Kimberly Manbodh, also a patient with PCOS, recognised a significant gap in awareness and resources in Guyana.
Also a social media presence, the organisation aims
to provide support and guidance to women dealing with PCOS.
Through the non-profit, volunteer-led organisation, Dr Manbodh has since organised educational sessions, health fairs, and walks, all designed to raise awareness and offer support.
To get involved with the group, persons can fol-
low Cysterhood Support – Guyana on Facebook, participate in events or volunteer their time or support to help the organisation. In addition, ensure that your healthcare provider knows if you suspect you may have PCOS so that they can work with you on finding a treatment plan to help manage your symptoms.
An eight-year-old girl is now dead, and her father is hospitalised with a fractured skull after they were struck by a drunk driver on Friday afternoon.
Dead is Supriya Khan of Naamryck Koker, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) , while her injured father has been identified as 32-year-old Imran Khan also of Naamryck Koker.
The accident occurred at about 15:05h on the Parika Backdam main access road, EBE. At the time, Imran was riding an electric cycle (e-bike) with Supriya as the pillion rider. He had just picked up the Grade Three pupil from the Parika Back Primary School, and they were heading home.
Police say the father and daughter duo were proceeding east along the road when a motor pickup, GAB 8162, which was proceeding in the same direction behind the electric bike, attempted to pass
them.
However, in the process of overtaking, the pickup vehicle collided with the e-bike. As a result of the collision, Imran and Supriya fell onto the road surface and received injuries to their bodies.
According to the police, the father and daughter were picked up by the driver – both in an unconscious state – and taken to the De Kinderen Public Hospital, where the young girl was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor.
Imran, who was also taken to the said hospital, was admitted after sustaining a fracture to his skull.
The body of 8-year-old Supriya, who recently celebrated her birthday, was escorted to the Ezekiel Funeral Home, awaiting a post-mortem examination (PME).
Meanwhile, breathalyser tests conducted on the driver of the pickup, 22-year-old Arif Alli
of Parika, EBE, showed his blood alcohol content (BAC) at 1.28 and 1.34 mi-
which the father and daughter were on when they were struck by a drunk driver on the Parika Backdam main road
crograms per 100 millilitres of breath, according to the police. This is well above the legal limit of 0.35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath.
With the development of Guyana’s human resources at the forefront of the Government’s agenda, the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning has extended its services to the residents of East Ruimveldt, with a particular focus on empowering the youth. The community outreach spearheaded by Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, on Saturday marks the beginning of a series of impactful engagements to come. Speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI), Minister Griffith underscored the importance of holding his first outreach in East Ruimveldt.
“This is where it all started at this shop, and I lived
and directly connect with employers looking to hire.
“These are just some of the opportunities young people can take advantage of,”
Minister Griffith said.
He further stressed that beyond skills training, there is room for persons to launch their own business or businesses.
Meanwhile, DPI also spoke with several residents who praised the new
Minister’s proactive approach to engaging directly with the community and young people.
Resident Helen Fraser said, “We give God praise and thanks that the Minister came through California Drive and all we want him to do is help the young people because they really need the help.”
Another resident, Colin Sealey, shared similar sentiments.
“To be honest, since growing up, I have never seen no other Minister came to the area and do such an outreach…and this is a good initiative that Minister Keioma is starting here,” Sealey said.
The engagement also saw the distribution of pamphlets detailing the various services and how to access them.
here for a very, very long time, so I am happy to start here in this community. Traditionally, this community has gone in one direction, but I am hoping to bring valuable transformation that the people in this community can see and appreciate,” he said. Accompanying the
Minister were staff from several key departments within the Ministry, including the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), the Legal Department, the Labour Department, the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Department, and the Manpower and Recruitment Agency.
Minister Griffith explained that the primary aim of this outreach is to bring the Ministry’s services directly to the people, increasing awareness about the resources available for
their benefit and empowerment. One such department, he noted, focuses specifically on training young people and anyone interested in various fields of work.
He emphasised that if there’s an area of interest that the Ministry has not yet considered, they are open to innovation.
“If there is an aspect that we have not thought about, they can come to us and say, 'This is something innovative and new'.
We are going to find a way to train them, certify them, empower them and, not just that, go to the next level by matching them with somebody who can further develop their skills or even employ them,” he stated. The Labour Minister also highlighted the Ministry’s Job Bank, encouraging individuals to submit their Curriculum Vitae (CV), particularly through the Jobs.gov.gy platform.
The platform allows job seekers to upload their CVs
The Ministry of Education (MOE) on Saturday provided school supplies to 13 students of nine families who were affected by the James Street Albouystown fire. A further eight students from three families are to receive their supplies Monday.
Onika King, coordinator of the Ministry’s Student Support Unit, along with her team under the Deputy Chief Education Officer (School Support Services) presented backpacks, lunch packs, textbooks, uniforms and other essentials to help the students return to school.
The Education Ministry is also working with the students to support their mental and emotional wellbeing following the events
Ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) on Saturday intercepted more than 147 pounds of cocaine that were about to be placed onboard a KLM flight destined for Amsterdam.
The discovery was made when CANU Officers, acting on information received, conducted an operation at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).
According to a statement from CANU, the officers “… intercepted 53 parcels, suspected to be cocaine, which were intended to be placed on a KLM flight destined for Amsterdam.” One person, reportedly attached to the Timehri Handling Services, was arrested
and escorted to CANU’s Headquarters, along with the parcels of cocaine found. At the CANU HQ, the suspected narcotics were weighed and amounted to 66.8 kilograms (kg) or 147.2688 pounds. Investigations are ongoing into the drug bust.
In a brief social media post earlier on Saturday evening, newly-appointed Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond had declared that the bust is “Another major win against trans-border crime! …This is about more than an arrest – it’s about protecting our borders, safeguarding our people, and defending Guyana’s good name on the international stage.”
Guyana has been work-
ing with regional partners to crack down on transnational crime, including the drug trade. Only last month, Director of CANU, James Singh, had warned that drug traffickers are intensifying efforts to use Guyana as a gateway for cocaine shipments to Europe and beyond. He had noted, however, that robust enforcement, international partnerships, and public vigilance are preventing Guyana from sliding into narco-state status.
Singh had also revealed that the majority of the narcotics found in Guyana originate from Venezuela for transshipment to other parts of the world, such as North America, West Africa and Europe.
Secondary Schools under construction in Region Seven must be completed on time and government will not be tolerating any delays, Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Pauline Sukhai relayed when she visited several schools under construction in the region on Saturday.
“We would like to see that all the contracts we have awarded are complet-
current student population. The
ed in a timely manner.”
“We are going to hold contractors to their timelines,” Minister of Education Sonia Parag, who was with Minister Sukhai and regional officials, also declared.
The minister noted that the construction of the three schools is proof that her government is committed to “increasing access to hinterland secondary education.”
Minister Sukhai stated also that the region will soon be better equipped to deliver a higher quality of education with modern secondary schools and dormitories to meet the needs of the
and
to be apprised of the progression of
“Our government continues to invest in the education sector, not only in providing cash grants, but also to ensure that our teachers are trained that the schools are adequately resourced, that all educational infrastructure such as school, teachers quarters, and furniture are in place to support the hinterland students access to secondary education,”
The family and law-
yer of a Trinidadian fisherman detained in Venezuela since June are appealing for help to determine his whereabouts and legal status.
Rex James, 39, of Bamboo Village in Cedros, went fishing alone on June 23 aboard his pirogue, Josie. James, a former offshore worker, had been laid off during the pandemic.
When he failed to return home and could not be reached, a relative filed a missing person report at the Cedros Police station on June 24. Cpl Ramroop was assigned to investigate.
Initially, it was believed that James had gone missing at sea.
However, reports soon emerged from Venezuela that he and his boat had been detained by authorities. A Venezuelan resident of Capure reportedly recognised James and notified his family in Trinidad.
Relatives said they were told James was labelled a “terrorist” by Venezuelan authorities and that his boat had been seized.
They also heard that he was transported by plane from Tucupita to Caracas, a journey that would normally take around 15 hours by road.
With the help of a Venezuelan with ties to Trinidad and a Venezuelan lawyer, the family searched several prisons in Caracas in an effort to locate James and verify the accusations,
but to no avail.
They are now desperate to confirm whether he is alive and what charges, if any, he is facing.
“We heard that the (Venezuelan) authorities are holding people and branding them as terrorists, especially with all the political talk going on. But Rex is not a terrorist; they know that. He did not have anything illegal on him. He is a cool fella, very quiet and law-abiding.”
Venezuelan lawyer Gabriel Herrera by phone told Newsday that he had reported the matter to the TT Embassy in Caracas, hoping to help reunite James with his loved ones – but without success.
According to Herrera, James had cash in his possession at the time of his detention.
He also claimed that James’ boat was repaint-
ed and taken over by Venezuelan authorities, an act Herrera said violates international law.
“Initially, he was detained for entering the Pedernales Municipality illegally, but that alone does not justify why we cannot see him or request that the TT Embassy have him returned to his country.”
He urged officials from TT to liaise with their embassy in Caracas to press Venezuelan authorities for answers and access to James.
“We want a clear answer as to where Mr James is being held,” Herrera said.
On August 5, he filed a complaint with the Prosecutor’s Office of the Public Ministry of Delta Amacuro State. As of September 19, Herrera had still not seen or spoken to his client.
Senior Police officials confirmed that James had been reported missing to the Cedros Police but said they had no updates on the case.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar had publicly warned that her Government would not use taxpayers’ money to assist nationals who are detained overseas for criminal activities.
She has repeatedly said that such people are “on their own” and should not expect any protection or intervention from the state.
(Excerpt from Trinidad & Tobago Newsday)
The family of a 22-year-old killed on Monday in Cherry Tree Lane, Clarendon, has planned a protest in response to the death of the youngster, whom Police say was armed during a fatal confrontation with cops.
Jamar Farquharson was shot dead during a Police operation, where lawmen say the young man pulled a firearm on them during their execution of a search warrant at the home.
But the family is disputing the killing by the Police as extrajudicial, with plans to stage a protest in May Pen.
Farquharson’s loved ones claim he was innocent and had no gun on him. The family shared footage online, which they claim cap-
tures the moment the man opened the door to lawmen with his hands raised above his head.
The short clip shows a young man rushing to open a door, then placing both hands over his head before stepping outside and out of view of the camera. The feed shows Police pushing
him aside before two cops enter the home, at which point it ends.
It does not show the alleged moment of confrontation between Farquharson and the lawmen.
The Police say they recovered a gun from the 22-year-old. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)
When a $20 million overspend on civil servants’ raises came to light last year, Government leaders told an angry public that they didn’t know who to blame.
Now, Auditor General Sonia Webster has provided answers.
The Deputy Governor’s Office (DGO) and the Ministry of Finance, she found, failed to give Cabinet a full and accurate picture of the true cost of the 2024 salary increases – despite early warnings that the final bill could be nearly three times higher than the estimate provided by consultant PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).
Ms Webster’s May 27 report, which was laid in the House of Assembly on Tuesday, criticises the offices for withholding or downplaying crucial information before lawmak-
ers approved the budget in December 2023.
The report reveals that the Ministry of Finance’s Budget Unit warned as early as October 2023 that the new salary regime could require $25.5 million in extra salaries plus $2.2 million in statutory contributions such as payroll taxes and social security fees – almost triple the $9.4 million estimate provided by PwC.
But this higher figure, Ms Webster wrote, was not included in PwC’s report the following month – and it was never disclosed to Cabinet.
“The Deputy Governor’s Office advised that they did not make the disclosure because the [Finance Ministry’s] amounts were not definitive,” Ms Webster wrote. “We received no indication that the DGO requested a more definitive estimate to support the
PwC amounts.”
To address the issues she found in her review, Ms Webster recommended that the DGO and Ministry of Finance explain why higher cost estimates were withheld from the Cabinet and House of Assembly.
The DGO told the Beacon that they and the Ministry of Finance were in the process of completing their submission to the governor.
Despite the DGO’s reassurances, the report’s findings are likely to fuel an already heated political debate.
After the overrun came to light last year, opposition member Myron Walwyn labelled the discrepancy a “$20 million mistake” and demanded Mr Wheatley’s resignation as finance minister. Opposition member Stacy Mather, meanwhile, called for a public apology. (Excerpt from BVI Beacon)
Antigua and Barbuda is moving to expand its national surveillance network, with 150 cameras already in operation and a further 200 expected in the coming weeks, according to Cabinet spokesperson Maurice Merchant.
Merchant said the expansion aims to bring the country closer to island-wide coverage.
“About 150 cameras are now in operation across Antigua and Barbuda. And the second phase of the centralised surveillance system is being looked at, and this will include an additional 200 cameras, which you would have
heard reported over the weekend,” he told reporters. He added, “Very soon, those 200 surveillance cameras will be procured in a matter of weeks. And so, this will upgrade the second phase of the centralised surveillance system.”
Questions at the post-Cabinet briefing raised whether surveillance was too reactionary compared to direct gun-control measures. The merchant pushed back, stressing that surveillance is a long-term Government commitment.
Merchant pointed out that surveillance systems
had already been expanded to schools and major streets. The Cabinet also encouraged community groups and homeowners to invest in security systems, noting that duties and taxes on such equipment have been waived.
The Government says the planned expansion will improve deterrence and help law enforcement respond quickly to incidents, bolstering security as Antigua and Barbuda prepares for international events and seeks to reassure residents and visitors alike. (Excerpt from Antigua Newsroom)
Brazil has formally joined the case launched by South Africa at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that alleges Israel is committing “genocide” in the Gaza Strip.
The Hague court confirmed in a statement on Friday that Brazil invoked Article 63 of the ICJ statute, filing a declaration of intervention in the case.
The article gives any United Nations (UN) member state the right to inter-
vene in a case when the interpretation of a treaty to which it is a party is in question. Brazil used the article to formally recognise that Israel is violating the Genocide Convention of 1948.
South Africa and Israel are now invited to “furnish written observations on the declaration of intervention”, the World Court said.
The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in July it intended to join
the case, citing “impunity” that undermined international law as it denounced Israeli aggression in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
Brazil now joins Spain, Ireland, Mexico, Türkiye and others who have intervened in favour of South Africa to join the case against Israel over the genocidal war, which has killed more than 65,000 Palestinians in Gaza since October 2023. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
President Donald Trump on Friday announced another lethal military strike on an alleged drug-trafficking vessel in international waters that he said was affiliated with a designated terrorist organisation.
Meanwhile, United States (US) Senators Tim Kaine and Adam Schiff on Friday introduced a War Powers Act resolution that would block the use of US Armed Forces to engage in hostilities against certain non-state organisations following the multiple unauthorised military strikes on unverified alleged drug trafficking operations in the Southern Caribbean Sea.
In his Friday social media post, Trump said the strike targeted a vessel operating in US Southern Command’s area of responsibility – which includes Central America, South America and the Caribbean – and killed three male “narco-terrorists” onboard.
“On my orders, the Secretary of War ordered a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel affiliated with a Designated Terrorist Organisation conducting narcotrafficking in the USSOUTHCOM area of responsibility,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Intelligence confirmed the vessel was trafficking illicit narcotics and was transiting along a known narcotrafficking passage en route to poison Americans.”
According to the President, no US forces were harmed during the operation.
But Kaine, a Democrat of Virginia, stated that Trump has no legal authority to launch strikes or use military force in the Caribbean or elsewhere in the Western Hemisphere, adding that the Trump administration has refused to provide the US Congress with basic information about the multiple strikes it has carried out, including who was killed, why it was necessary to put service members’ lives at
A screengrab from a video posted by US President Donald Trump on his Truth Social account shows what he says are US military forces conducting a strike on a boat carrying alleged drug traffickers in the Caribbean Sea on September 15, 2025 (Al Jazeera photo)
risk, and why a standard interdiction operation wasn’t conducted.
“Congress simply cannot let itself be stiff-armed as this administration continues to flout the law,” Paine added. “That’s why we’re introducing this legislation to require a debate and vote on whether the US should be conducting these strikes without congressional approval.”
Schiff, a Democrat from California, said the US Congress alone holds the power to declare war.
“And while we share with the executive branch the imperative of preventing and deterring drugs from reaching our shores, blowing up boats without any legal justification risks dragging the United States into another war and provoking unjustified hostilities against our own citizens,” he said.
“Congress must be fully briefed on these operations, and if the administration believes there is a case to make for a war authorisation, it should make it,” Schiff added. “But this unauthorised and illegal use of our military must stop.”
The resolution reaffirms that trafficking of illegal drugs does not itself constitute an armed attack or threat of an imminent armed attack that would justify military action, and that the designation of an entity as a foreign terrorist
Dutch Police have used teargas and a water cannon to disperse violent anti-immigration protesters in The Hague on Saturday, a local Government spokesperson has said.
Thousands of people joined a protest organised by a rightwing activist demanding stricter immigration policies and a clampdown on asylum seekers, just over a month before a national election.
Large groups of protesters, many waving Dutch flags and flags associated with far-right groups, clashed violently with the Police, throwing rocks and bottles, footage from broadcaster NOS showed.
A Police car was set on fire, and a group of protesters briefly blocked a highway near the site of the demonstration.
Local media reported that protesters also smashed sev-
organisation does not provide any legal authority to the US President to use military force.
The Ranking Member of the US Senate Armed Services Committee Jack Reed (D-RI) on Monday, September 15, strongly condemned the US military strikes in the Caribbean as Trump disclosed that he had ordered a second strike this month on a boat allegedly carrying drugs from Venezuela, killing three on board.
“President Trump’s actions are an outrageous violation of the law and a dangerous assault on our Constitution,” said Reed, who is also a senior member of the Senate’s Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee. “No President can secretly wage war or carry out unjustified killings – that is authoritarianism, not democracy.
In response to the attack, Reed said Venezuela has placed its military on high alert, “and we are one miscalculation away from a shooting war that no one in this chamber has authorised.
Friday’s announcement from Trump marks the military’s third known fatal strike on an alleged drug boat this month, as the Trump Administration escalates its fight against narcotics trafficking. (Source: CNN, Jamaica Observer)
Two bodies have been recovered in the search for seven Freeport Indonesia workers trapped underground at a major copper mine since September 8 due to heavy mudflows, Indonesian media reported.
The team is still looking for the other workers, and the identification pro-
cess will begin when Police arrive, media outlets quoted a company spokesperson as saying. Representatives for Freeport Indonesia and the local Police did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
After the incident at Grasberg, one of the world's biggest copper mines,
Freeport suspended operations at the mine's main production block, senior Indonesian mining Ministry official Tri Winarno said this week. He added that smaller sites were up and running.
In addition to five Indonesians, the workers included a Chilean and a South African, Tri said.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
eral windows at the headquarters of the centre-left D66 party.
A smaller group of rioters headed for the Dutch Parliament complex, which is fenced off as it undergoes renovation.
Geert Wilders, the anti-migration populist politician who won the previous election in the Netherlands,
was invited to speak at the demonstration but did not attend.
Instead, Wilders, who has retained his lead in opinion polls ahead of the 29 October vote, condemned the violence on X, saying the use of force against Police was “utterly unacceptable” and calling those involved “idiots” and “scum”.
(Excerpt from The Guardian)
Ukraine says three killed in “massive” Russian aerial attack
At least three persons have been killed and more than 30 injured in a "massive" overnight Russian aerial attack on Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says.
He says regions across the country were targeted as part of a "deliberate strategy" to "intimidate civilians and destroy our infrastructure", with one direct missile hit reported on a residential building.
Ukraine's air force says Moscow launched 619 drones and missiles. Russia's Defence Ministry says its "massive strike" used "precision weapons" and targeted military-industrial facilities.
Separately, Russia says four persons were killed in a Ukrainian drone attack
on the Samara region. Kyiv says it hit a major oil refinery there.
Ukraine also says another Russian oil refinery was damaged in the neighbouring Saratov region.
The latest Russian aerial attack comes a day after Estonia requested urgent consultations with other The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) mem-
bers after Russian jets violated its airspace – staying there for 12 minutes before being intercepted.
Russia denied violating Estonian airspace. Tensions have been escalating recently after Poland and Romania – both NATO members – said Russian drones breached their airspace earlier this month.
(Excerpt from BBC News)
Americans will get 6 of 7 board seats for TikTok's US operations, says White House
An agreement between Washington and Beijing on the future of TikTok will include Americans holding six of seven board seats for the short video app's US operations and China's ByteDance naming the seventh board member, a senior White House official said on Saturday.
The official said the agreement will also require that all data on American users be stored on US cloud computing infrastructure run by US software firm Oracle.
The senior White House official said the agreement meant the TikTok algorithm "will be secured, retrained, and operated in
the United States outside of ByteDance’s control."
The official said US users would still be able to use TikTok to interact with content from around the world. ByteDance would hold less than 20 per cent of the stock of a joint venture controlling TikTok's US operations, the official said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
British Police arrest three on suspicion of spying
British Police have arrested three persons on suspicion of spying for Russia.
The group – a 41-year-old man, a 46-year-old man and a 35-year-old woman – were all arrested on suspicion of assisting a foreign intelli-
gence service in the county of Essex, northeast of London, a statement from London’s Metropolitan Police said. They were arrested as part of a counter-terrorist investigation into suspected National Security Act offences on Thursday, the statement said, and taken to a Police station in London.
Officers conducted searches at the two addresses in Essex. All three have since been released on conditional bail while the investigation remains ongoing, Police said.
(Excerpt from CNN)
ARIES
TAURUS (April 20May 20)
GEMINI (MAY 21June 20)
CANCER
LEO (July 23Aug. 22)
VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) (March 21April 19)
LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)
Direct your energy wisely. Get your facts straight before you make accusations. Overreacting, taking on too much, or making unrealistic promises will lead to trouble. Look inward, evaluate yourself, and consider what you can do to be your very best. Today is about personal growth, self-improvement, and doing something noteworthy with your excessive energy.
Pay more homage to who you are, how you present yourself, and what you have to offer. Get out, market your attributes, and charm those you encounter on your mission to explore new possibilities. Engaging in social activities or events will broaden your sense of self-worth and bring you into contact with someone of interest.
Size up situations and make your mark. Take the initiative and make the most of yourself. Speak from the heart and you’ll dazzle those you want to get to know better. Distance yourself from negativity and those who drag you down. Prepare to make a lifestyle change that is uplifting and helps you return to peak performance.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)
(June 21July 22) (Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)
Reconfigure your schedule to ensure your day runs smoothly. Don’t expect everyone to agree with you or to prioritise you. Avoid getting into senseless debates. Pay attention to how you feel, look, and what you learn that will lead to self-improvement. Leave nothing to chance when dealing with rules, regulations, or institutions.
Engage in talks that help you get answers. Attend a reunion, lecture, or trade show that enables you to connect the dots and may rhyme out of reason. Once you feel confident that you have your information straight and your connections in place, you’ll be able to make moves that lead to a sense of peace of mind.
Trust your instincts and follow through with your plans. Connect with like-minded people who can contribute to your plans. Be open to suggestions and ready to utilise your talents, skills, and desires to bring your dreams to life. Forward thinking and physical action will carry you to the finish line. Distance yourself from unhealthy situations.
Charm, intelligence, and following through with your plans will lead to lifestyle changes. New opportunities for growth and advancement are available, and interviews for new positions are within reach. Embrace today with vim and vigour, and you’ll make progress. Don’t let insecurity lead to unnecessary physical changes; you’re perfect just the way you are.
Be a role model, play by the rules, do your best, and help those falling behind. Travel, reunions, or educational pursuits will be intense, but the rewards will be well worth any struggle you encounter along the way. Smile brightly, and refuse to let anyone coax you into a heated debate. Choose peace over discord.
Initiate change, and move forward. Evaluate your situation and incorporate activities that bring you the most joy into your everyday routine. An innovative approach to marketing what you can offer will set you apart from any competition you encounter. It’s your time to shine. Dismiss negativity and replace it with a can-do attitude.
Let your heart guide you. Listen, be patient and precise, and press forward with issues that require your attention. Show concern, but don’t pay for other people’s mistakes. An open and honest discussion will help resolve problems and ease your mind. Avoid spontaneous acts when research and accuracy are necessary. Concentrate on your health, well-being, and prosperity.
AQUARIUS
PISCES
(Feb. 20Mar. 20)
Put your energy behind your quest for success. Invest time and effort into getting ahead. Upgrade your skills and qualifications to stay current with developments in your sector, which may lead to reevaluating how you utilise your attributes or leverage your knowledge into something new and exciting. Embrace change instead of fearing what’s next. Draw on those you know can help you out or introduce you to someone who can. Show enthusiasm and dedication, and you’ll attract interest and suggestions that’ll help you move forward. Refrain from making a premature change. Time is on your side, and observation and listening to others will help you make better choices.
Cricket was played at a breakneck speed in Delhi on Saturday, with close to 800 runs scored at a rate of over eight per over. Australia's 412 was fuelled by what was then the second-fastest ODI century from Beth Mooney. India – and in particular Smriti Mandhana – came out hunting for both those targets.
They got one – Mandhana is now the second-fastest centurion – but India fell just 43 short in the series decider.
In the end, Australia protected a proud record of never losing a bilateral ODI series in India as they prepare to defend their crown in exactly these conditions. With just ten days to go for the Women's World Cup 2025, a world record chase was attempted for a second day in a row after Pakistan almost chased down 313 in Lahore on Friday. Faced with a mountainous target of 413, India galloped at a high speed to be placed 204 for 2 in just 20 overs. But Australia gave a reminder of
why they are the defending world champions by keeping at it and striking regularly to win the series 2-1. Riding on a 57-ball century from Mooney and aided by misfields aplenty from India, Australia equalled their highest total. Strange as it may sound, their final total seemed to fall short of what they were likely to score before a late collapse of 6 for 34 ended their innings in 47.5 overs. India's turbo-charged response was led by vice-captain Mandhana. She added 121 in just 69 balls with captain Harmanpreet Kaur, as Australia searched for ways to plug the flow of runs. It inadvertently came through Kaur’s knee injury break, after which India lost three wickets in 19 balls.
Deepti Sharma, batting at No. 5 in Jemimah Rodrigues' absence, continued to keep India's hopes alive with a counter-attacking half-century. She scored a 58-ball 72, and her strike rate of 124.13 was her quickest for a knock above 20 runs. She added 65 off 54 balls for the eighth wicket with Sneh Rana to take India closer to the target. But with 59 needed off 46 balls, she holed out to deep midwicket to dash India's hopes of a miracle.
Mandhana started from where she left off in New Chandigarh, hitting Megan Schutt for three successive fours in the third over. She also greeted her nemesis Ashleigh Gardner with a six and four before smashing Kim Garth for two fours and a six in the space of five
balls. Earlier in the evening, Australia had scored 77 for 1 at the end of the first powerplay – a score India easily surpassed in seven overs. They were 96 for 2 in ten overs, which is the second-highest total in the first powerplay in women's ODIs.
Mandhana showed no signs of slowing down, getting to her half-century in 23 balls before reaching her hundred in just 50 balls. She bettered her own mark of 77 balls from a few days ago and also relegated Mooney's 57-ball effort from earlier in the game to joint third-fastest. At the other end, Kaur showed her silken touch as well as brute force on her way to a 32-ball fifty. But once Kaur and Mandhana fell in consecutive overs, India's challenge fizzled out.
and
But for India's fielding missteps earlier in the afternoon, which cost them 26 off 11 balls as per ESPNcricinfo's logs, the result might have been different. Fielding has been one of the focal points under head coach Amol Muzumdar's regime, and India looked to have turned a page with a clinical show in England. However, after dropping four catches in the first ODI, India grassed three chances on Saturday.
Georgia Voll was the beneficiary of all three –first, when Richa Ghosh was wrongfooted and couldn't hang on to the outside edge in the seventh over, and then twice by Radha Yadav. First on 23 when Radha only
then on 36 when Yadav misjudged the pace of Voll's flick and was late on the jump at midwicket. Voll scored 81 before top-edging a sweep to substitute Uma Chetry at short fine leg.
The tone was set early by captain Alyssa Healy, who wanted India to "run around in the heat" and opted to bat. She attacked India's newball bowlers, and Australia managed to hit two fours in each of the first five overs. Kranti Goud then dismissed her for the third time in three games, but Voll kept attacking, with Ellyse Perry offering stability during a fluent innings of her own.
After Voll's fall in the 22nd over, Mooney came in
and never let the momentum shift. She found gaps at will, used the crease well to access empty parts of the field, and got to her fourth ODI century. The highlight of her innings was how she kept going in the hot and humid conditions and scored at a high rate while taking minimum risks. She added 106 from 72 balls with Perry and then 82 off 46
with Gardner to set the platform for Australia to post the highest total in women's ODIs against India. It was only the seventh time a team crossed the 400 mark in women's ODIs. That India responded with a strong challenge and posted the highest total in a chase in this format will give them solace with a World Cup on the horizon. (ESPNcricinfo)
female) successfully completed the test. Additionally, eight assistant referees (five male and three female) met the required standards, representing an overall success rate of 62 per cent. The lone futsal referee also successfully passed the fitness assessment.
Guyana may look forward to having more match officials on the FIFA International List for 2026.
he Refereeing Department of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) conducted its annual FIFA Nomination Fitness Test on Saturday at the National Track and Field Centre in Leonora, West Coast Demerara (WCD).
A total of 21 match officials participated in the exercise, including six referees, 14 assistant referees, and one futsal referee.
Of the participants, four referees (three male and one
Notably, all current FIFA officials – Shavin Greene (Referee), Kleon Lindey, Brandon Cyrus, Denesha Isaacs (Assistant Referees), and Colin Abel (Futsal Referee) – successfully completed their assessments.
These results represent a notable improvement compared to previous years. With this performance,
The Victor Macedo Annual Memorial Cycle Road Race set for Sept 28
The annual Victor Macedo Memorial Cycle Road Race, sponsored by Macedo Transportation Services Ltd and organised by the Flying Stars Cycling Club, is scheduled for Sunday, September 28, 2025. The race will start at 07:15h on Peter Rose Street, Queenstown, Georgetown. Cyclists will head along JB Singh Road, then pass through the Kitty Roundabout and continue
onto Clive Lloyd Drive before joining the East Coast Highway. For the senior, junior, and masters 45+ categories, the route will continue all the way to the Mahaicony Bridge before turning back to finish at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, in front of the hospital. For the Masters 50+ and Juveniles, the race will extend to the Mahaica Bridge before returning to the same finishing line.
Prizes will be awarded as follows: Seniors – 1st to 6th place, Juniors – 1st to 3rd place, Masters 45+ – 1st to 4th place, and Masters 50+ –1st to 3rd place. In addition, ten sprint prizes will be contested throughout the race.
Organisers are anticipating a thrilling morning of fast-paced action, fierce rivalry, and dramatic finishes as Guyana’s top cyclists compete for victory on the open road.
The GFF Refereeing Department extends its congratulations to all participants and best wishes to the successful candidates as they advance through the FIFA nomination process.
The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has officially presented national jerseys to Christian Harris and Ronaldo Sobers, the winner and runner-up, respectively, of the inaugural GFF eSports League –Mobile 1v1 Division.
This historic presentation represents a proud milestone for both players and for Guyana, as they gear up to showcase their talent on the international stage at the FIFAe World Cup 2025 Regional Qualifiers.
The ceremony, held
ports athletes in the Mobile Division under the GFF banner.
Harris and Sobers will now don the Golden Arrowhead as they compete in the FIFAe World Cup 2025 Regional Qualifiers, where they will aim to secure a coveted spot at the prestigious FIFAe World Cup™ in Riyadh this December.
Their participation underscores Guyana’s expanding presence on the international eSports stage and reflects the GFF’s broader commitment to strengthen-
at the GFF headquarters, was led by General Secretary Pushpargha Chattopadhyay, who praised the players for their outstanding performance and formally welcomed them into the ranks of Guyana’s national representatives.
Chattopadhyay highlighted the significance of the occasion, noting that Harris and Sobers have become trailblazers as the first officially recognised es-
ing the nation’s football footprint through digital platforms.
This landmark moment not only celebrates individual talent but also signals the rapid rise of mobile eSports in Guyana. The GFF continues to invest in the development of this exciting frontier, aiming to empower more young gamers to transform their passion for football and gaming into professional opportunities.
With this achievement, the GFF reaffirms its vision to integrate eSports into the national football development agenda, ensuring that Guyana remains competitive – both on the pitch and in the digital arena.
Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle has praised the recent trilateral meeting between Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana as a significant success, describing it as a major milestone in the lead-up to this year’s Inter-Guiana Games (IGG).
The annual Games, which showcase the three territories’ top young athletes, are scheduled to take place in Guyana from December 5 to 7, 2025.
Ninvalle, who was accompanied by Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Guyana in Suriname, Sophia Darlington Browne, travelled to Paramaribo over the weekend for key discussions on the organisation of the event.
During the meeting, representatives from the three countries not only outlined a framework for the 2025 Games but also conducted a review of last year’s edition, which was hosted in
Cayenne, French Guiana. French Guiana’s delegation was led by Territorial Collectivity of French Guiana (CTG)’s Elected Official responsible for Sports, Gilles Le Gall, and included CTG Director of Sports Tatiana Tisserand, CTG Administration representative Johann Lafontaine, interpreter Abby-Gill Acton, and Christian Brosseron, Deputy Chief of Mission at the French Embassy in Suriname.
Suriname’s team featured Youth Development and Sports Minister Lalinie Gopal, Director of Sport Enrique Ralim, and senior officials from the country’s School Sport Federation.
This year’s IGG will focus on student-athletes aged 14 to 18, although the sporting disciplines are still being finalised. According to Ninvalle, all three countries have agreed to give their respective sports federations time to determine which
events will be included.
A follow-up virtual meeting of the Organising Committee is scheduled for Wednesday, September 23, during which the remaining
Currently en route from Europe, the vehicle’s arrival is eagerly awaited. Once it lands in Guyana, Vieira will begin testing at the South Dakota Circuit, where he and his team of Porsche GT3 engineers will fine-tune the car in preparation for the ultimate showdown.
outstanding matters will be addressed.
The Inter-Guiana Games (IGG) were first hosted in Suriname in 1967 and were established to strengthen regional ties and foster lasting friendships among Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana through sport.
Since then, the Games have evolved into a vital platform for young athletes to showcase their talent while promoting unity and cultural exchange across the three territories.
The Government of Guyana, led by President Irfaan Ali, has reaffirmed its strong commitment to
the Games, recognising their importance in shaping youth character and promoting sport as a tool for social development.
With Guyana set to host the 2025 edition, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle expressed confidence that the country will deliver a truly memorable event.
Motie will be back soon; Anderson has full support – Sammy
Fans can anticipate an electrifying race day. With raw speed, precision engineering, and Vieira’s unmatched driving skill, one thing is certain – he will put on a show that will keep everyone on the edge of their seats. The real suspense will be this: who, if anyone, will stop him on November 2nd?
This will not just be another car; it will be a machine built for dominance. Vieira will aim to challenge the Group 4 lap record set by Vishok Persaud’s KTM, an ambitious goal that will truly test the car’s capabilities.
One thing is certain: the Caribbean Clash of Champions will be elevated to new heights with Vieira behind the wheel.
GWarriors (GAW) duo Gudakesh Motie and Kevlon Anderson are considered key players for the future of West Indies cricket. Motie was rested from the Test squad set to face India next month, while Anderson retained his place despite a difficult debut against Australia.
Speaking at a recent media conference, West Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy confirmed that Anderson will receive full technical and mental support from the team. "Kevlon has been one of our most talented batters in the past two seasons. What he has done in the competition to earn selection; nobody could question his performance."
Anderson scored just three runs on his Test debut, but he posted staggering numbers in the last FirstClass season. His overall first-class batting average stands at 42, a rare achieve-
et. Over 24 matches, he has amassed 1514 runs, including five centuries and six fifties.
Sammy acknowledged that Anderson’s debut was a challenging baptism, especially against the likes of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins. "Yes, it was a tough one, making your debut against Australia, in an attack that has five of the top ten ranked bowlers. It was not an easy baptism for him."
"One of my biggest assets is to motivate and inspire and say the right things to be able to keep a youngster like him motivated," Sammy said. "We believe in him, and we are backing him as one for the future. We will continue to work on him and with him. We will give him all the necessary tools for him to be motivated and technically sound," Sammy noted about Anderson.
series against India, but Sammy hinted that his return could be imminent for the upcoming white-ball fixtures.
"What Motie has been doing for us over the last 18 months, you can't question his commitment and performances." He said. “…my conversation with Motie and his workload he had, and looking at the CPL and the World Cup, we decided to give him a rest. It may be a short rest because he has to come back to play in the ODI team for the Bangladesh series."
"Motie is a very strong contender in all formats. He is still one of our highest-paid contracted players. We understand the value he brings. Motie's left hand is swollen, but it speaks volumes of his character; being able to play with niggles and so on, so we decided to give him a rest," Sammy said.
The El Clásico of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is upon us. The rivalry between the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) and Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) will once again ignite the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) this evening, starting at 20:00h local time.
Two of the league’s most successful teams are expected to deliver top-class cricket. On the eve of the match, the coaches of both teams spoke to the media, expressing their confidence ahead of the highly anticipated clash.
According to GAW’s Head Coach Lance Klusener, the team is in high spirits, and he is pleased with the top-order solution provided by Quinten Sampson. Players Shamar Joseph and Dwaine Pretorius are nursing minor injuries, and their inclusion in the Warriors’ starting XI will be decided at the last minute.
“We found some stability at the top. It came from an unlikely source, with Sampson getting an opportunity, but we try to keep the middle order as stable as possible. We will move around people based on situations they are best suited for,”
added.
“Sampson took his opportunities, so he responded to that. I am happy with that, so it is now about where he goes with that talent. He must go back to his county and grow his career,” the Warriors head coach said.
Now the stage is set for one of the most anticipated clashes, with two fierce rivals facing off before a massive home crowd.
“Tomorrow is a big game for everyone. (To the fans) come and support us. Our chances are as good as anyone’s. If we can use that support as the 12th man, that would be good for us. Make it noisy, and hopefully, we can make the fans proud,” Coach Klusner said.
Meanwhile, TKR Head Coach Ottis Gibson is confident that experience will be the key factor in his team’s success.
“TKR has produced a lot of world-class players. We haven’t won the CPL since 2020, so that is the main motivator; the opportunity to do that is massive,” Gibson
said. According to Gibson, the team that handles the emotions better will win. “We have a lot of experienced players that have won the IPL and World Cups, so we are leaning on that experience.”
The GAW are appearing in their eighth final and will be aiming for their second championship, while the Riders are in their sixth final, seeking a fifth league title. A win for TKR could provide a fitting farewell for stalwarts Sunil Narine, Kieron Pollard, and Andre Russell, with Russell expressing his desire to lift the CPL trophy following Friday evening’s victory.
Shai Hope is the leading batsman this season with 479 runs, while Nicholas Pooran has amassed 425 runs.
Imran Tahir leads the wicket-takers with 20 wickets, while Usman Tariq and Gudakesh Motie have 18 wickets each. It promises to be a battle
for the ages, showcasing the season’s leading players at one of the most electrifying venues in the Caribbean.
The Guyana Amazon Warriors will be aiming for their second title, two years after claiming their first at the Guyana National Stadium, while the Trinbago Knight Riders have previously won the championship in 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2020.
As Chair of the CARICOM sub-committee on cricket, President Dr Irfaan Ali engaged with various stakeholders in West Indies Cricket on Saturday as they came together to reposition the sport in the region. Discussions focused on working together for the repositioning of West Indies cricket. The team featured Trinidad and Tobago Minister of Sport Phillip Watts; Antigua and Barbuda Minister of Education, Sports and Creative Arts Daryll Sylvester Matthew; the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the West Indies Cricket Board Michael Murihead; and former West Indies cricketers Roger Harper, Courtney Walsh and Dwayne Bravo.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hugh Todd; the Youth, Culture, and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr; and the Minister within the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Sport Steven Jacobs were also part of the meeting.