The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, October 2 –00:45h–02:15h and Friday, October 3 – 01:45h–03:15h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, October 2 –12:50h–14:20h and Friday, October 3 – 13:40h–15:10h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Sunny skies interrupted by brief afternoon thundery showers are expected during the day, and clear skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to Easterly between 1.34 metres and 4.47 metres.
High Tide: 13:02h reaching a maximum height of 2.11 metres.
Low Tide: 06:21h and 18:54h reaching minimum heights of 1.06 metres and 1.11 metres.
US$192M East Coast Road Expansion Project 77% completed – Pres Ali during inspection ...orders
GPL to fast-track relocation of transmission lines
Works on the US$192 million East Coast Road expansion project from Sheriff Street, Georgetown, to Orange Nassau on the East Coast Demerara (ECD) are some 77 per cent completed.
This was revealed by President Dr Irfaan Ali during an inspection of the project site on Wednesday. He was accompanied by Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill, Minister within the Public Works Ministry Madanlall Ramraj, technical officers and representatives from the contracting company, China Railway First Group Co Limited (GRFGC).
“This is the contract for the four-lane road expansion from Mahaica all the way to Sheriff Street… From all that we’ve seen today, physical works are about 77 per cent completed,” the Head of State noted.
Part of this project includes the construction of the new Hope River Bridge,
ties, especially the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) transmission lines along the ECD corridor.
To this end, President Ali assured that efforts will be undertaken by GPL to
which the Guyanese leader noted is almost finished. At 99.2 per cent completion, the outstanding works include expansion joints, street lights, painting, and the laying of the final asphalt layer.
Once completed, this bridge will connect to the larger four-lane road corridor stretching from Mahaica to Sheriff Street via the railway embankment. The new Hope Bridge now carries four lanes, complementing the existing two-lane structure along the main ECD corridor, giving a combined six-lane crossing that will still be in use.
“Looking ahead of us, Mahaica going all the way to Rosignol is the next phase of development. Most of the design has been completed there also,” the Guyanese leader added.
GPL transmission line relocations
Meanwhile, the four-lane Mahaica to Sheriff Street roadway was initially slated to be completed by October 30. However, there have been challenges with the relocation of utility proper-
start the relocation works before the end of this week. With some of these utilities having to go on a completely new alignment, he added that the contractors should take advantage of the good weather conditions.
“They have to start driving their piles… Before the end of this week, they have to start driving piles out there [and] cast all of the base. You have the sunshine now… In this weather, they should finish all the pile driving and all the base [or will they] wait until the weather changes to do that?” Dr Ali stated.
The full relocation of the transmission lines onto the new alignment in the back lands along the ECD cor-
ridor has a three-month deadline.
According to the Head of State, the relocation of utilities is being paired with major upgrades to the power system, ensuring that new developments along the East Coast corridor are fully integrated into the grid. These include the Enmore Industrial Zone, the La Bonne Intention (LBI) commercial/light industrial hub and surrounding housing schemes. He further revealed that almost all lanes from Mahaica to Good Hope have been surfaced, with only the utility-occupied sections left to be done.
President Dr Irfaan Ali was accompanied by Public Works Ministers Juan Edghill and Madanlall Ramraj and technical staff to inspect works on the East Coast Demerara Road Expansion Project
Works on the new four-lane Hope Bridge are almost complete
The announcement by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) of its soon-to-be-commissioned Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre represents a critical step in strengthening Guyana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. In a nation undergoing rapid economic transformation, such initiatives ensure that growth is not limited to large-scale industries but extends to the micro and small enterprises that form the backbone of the domestic economy. The initiative, unveiled by GCCI President Kathy Smith during the launch of GuyExpo 2025, arrives at a time when the discourse on diversification has become increasingly urgent. Guyana’s economy, buoyed by oil revenues, must simultaneously cultivate a parallel path of resilience by supporting sectors such as agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, and services. Entrepreneurship and innovation, the central theme of this year’s GuyExpo, are more than catchphrases; they are the strategic pillars required to safeguard long-term sustainability.
The forthcoming learning centre, developed in partnership with the World University Service of Canada and supported by Global Affairs Canada, is an investment in empowerment, particularly for women entrepreneurs who dominate the agro-processing sector but face systemic challenges in scaling their operations. The reality highlighted by Smith is instructive: while women across Guyana are adept at farming, harvesting, and marketing, they often struggle to convert excess produce into viable export-ready products. The learning centre aims to fill this gap by providing the technical knowledge and business acumen required to transform surplus into packaged goods that can reach regional and international markets.
This is a crucial intervention. Agro-processing remains one of the most underutilised avenues of wealth creation in Guyana. Every year, tonnes of fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products go to waste due to inadequate storage, lack of value-added processing, and limited access to overseas buyers. A structured programme that equips entrepreneurs with the skills to bottle, package, and brand these products can simultaneously reduce post-harvest losses, increase household incomes, and strengthen Guyana’s reputation in global markets.
Yet, the centre’s significance extends beyond agro-processing. By building capacity among micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), it provides a platform for innovation across multiple industries. Whether through aquaculture, small-scale manufacturing, or service delivery, MSMEs play a decisive role in employment generation and community development. The training to be provided, ranging from product development to marketing and networking, ensures that entrepreneurs are not only equipped to compete locally but are positioned to expand regionally and internationally. Equally important is the platform offered by GuyExpo 2025. As Smith underscored, the exposition is not a sales event but rather a marketplace of ideas and partnerships. Exhibitors must view it as an opportunity to showcase creativity, build networks, and establish enduring collaborations with Government agencies, corporate partners, and potential investors. For an economy at a crossroads, the ability to foster meaningful linkages between sectors is indispensable.
The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce must also be credited for sustaining the momentum of enterprise support. The delicate balance between oil and gas expansion and the diversification of other industries is a challenge that requires constant attention. An overreliance on hydrocarbons, while lucrative in the short term, poses risks of volatility. By strengthening MSMEs and encouraging agro-processing, Guyana mitigates these risks while ensuring broader participation in national prosperity.
What is emerging, therefore, is a holistic framework for entrepreneurship. It is also about financing or technical assistance while cultivating a mindset of innovation and resilience. When entrepreneurs are encouraged to think beyond immediate sales and to view business as a process of value creation, the entire economy benefits. The GCCI’s initiative adds an essential piece to this puzzle, reinforcing the culture of enterprise and ensuring that women and micro-entrepreneurs are not left behind.
This effort must, however, be met with complementary policy measures.
At the same time, entrepreneurs themselves must embrace a vision that looks beyond immediate markets. As Smith highlighted, the focus must be on capturing attention, networking, and seizing opportunities to expand reach. The pathway to growth lies in professionalising operations, ensuring quality standards, and competing with confidence in international arenas.
Guyana’s economic transformation is already well underway, but its long-term sustainability depends on inclusive development. Oil may dominate the present, but the future lies in a diversified economy where agriculture, manufacturing, services, and innovation coalesce to form a resilient whole. The GCCI’s Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre is a timely intervention and will complement many of the initiatives and programmes that the Government has already started.
As Guyana continues its trajectory of growth, entrepreneurship must not remain confined to rhetoric. It must be supported.
The Ganges River is drying faster than ever – here’s what it means for the region and the world
By MeheBuB Sahana
The Ganges, a lifeline for hundreds of millions across South Asia, is drying at a rate scientists say is unprecedented in recorded history. Climate change, shifting monsoons, relentless extraction and damming are pushing the mighty river towards collapse, with consequences for food, water and livelihoods across the region.
For centuries, the Ganges and its tributaries have sustained one of the world’s most densely populated regions. Stretching from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal, the whole river basin supports over 650 million people, a quarter of India’s freshwater, and much of its food and economic value. Yet new research reveals the river’s decline is accelerating beyond anything seen in recorded history.
In recent decades, scientists have documented alarming transformations across many of the world’s big rivers, but the Ganges stands apart for its speed and scale.
In a new study, scientists reconstructed streamflow records going back 1300 years to show that the basin has faced its worst droughts over the period in just the last few decades. And those droughts are well outside the range of natural climate variability.
Stretches of river that once supported year-round navigation are now impassable in summer. Large
that once travelled
run aground where water once flowed freely. Canals that used to irrigate fields for weeks longer a generation ago now dry up early. Even some wells that protected families for decades are yielding little more than a trickle.
Global climate models have failed to predict the severity of this drying, pointing to something deeply unsettling: human and environmental pressures are combining in ways we don’t yet understand.
Water has been diverted into irrigation canals, groundwater has been pumped for agriculture, and industries have proliferated along the river’s banks. More than a thousand dams and barrages have radically altered the river itself. And as the world warms, the monsoon which feeds the Ganges has grown increasingly erratic. The result is a river system increasingly unable to replenish itself.
At the river’s source high in the Himalayas, the Gangotri glacier has retreated nearly a kilometre in just two decades. The pattern is repeating across the world’s largest mountain range, as rising temperatures are melting glaciers faster than ever.
Initially, this brings sudden floods from glacial lakes. In the long run, it means far less water flowing downstream during the dry season.
These glaciers are often
termed the “water towers of Asia”. But as those towers shrink, the summer flow of water in the Ganges and its tributaries is dwindling too.
The reckless extraction of groundwater is aggravating the situation. The GangesBrahmaputra basin is one of the most rapidly depleting aquifers in the world, with water levels falling by 15–20 millimetres each year. Much of this groundwater is already contaminated with arsenic and fluoride, threatening both human health and agriculture.
The role of human engineering cannot be ignored either. Projects like the Farakka Barrage in India have reduced dry-season flows into Bangladesh, making the land saltier and threatening the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest. Decisions to prioritise shortterm economic gains have undermined the river’s ecological health.
Across northern Bangladesh and West Bengal, smaller rivers are already drying up in the summer, leaving communities without water for crops or livestock. The disappearance of these smaller tributaries is a harbinger of what may happen on a larger scale if the Ganges itself continues its downward spiral. If nothing changes, experts warn that millions of people across the basin could face severe food shortages within the next few decades.
The need for urgent, coordinated action cannot be
overstated. Piecemeal solutions will not be enough. It’s time for a comprehensive rethinking of how the river is managed.
That will mean reducing unsustainable extraction of groundwater so supplies can recharge. It will mean environmental flow requirements to keep enough water in the river for people and ecosystems. And it will require improved climate models that integrate human pressures (irrigation and damming, for example) with monsoon variability to guide water policy.
Transboundary cooperation is also a must. India, Bangladesh and Nepal must do better at sharing data, managing dams, and planning for climate change. International funding and political agreements must treat rivers like the Ganges as global priorities. Above all, governance must be inclusive, so local voices shape river restoration efforts alongside scientists and policymakers.
The Ganges is more than a river. It is a lifeline, a sacred symbol, and a cornerstone of South Asian civilisation. But it is drying faster than ever before, and the consequences of inaction are unthinkable. The time for warnings has passed. We must act now to ensure the Ganges continues to flow – not just for us, but for generations to come. (The Conversation)
Mehebub Sahana is a Leverhulme Early Career Fellow, Geography, University of Manchester
Lethem Police on Wednesday conducted a sensitisation exercise for school students on safe, responsible e-bike use on the roads in the town. It was aimed at instilling good road traffic attitudes and practices from a young age to reduce the risk of accidents (Radio Eve Leary)
boats
the Ganges from Bengal and Bihar through Varanasi and Allahabad now
Faith, Constitution and service: Defending prayers for a united Guyana
Dear Editor, Guyana’s rich religious heritage is a point of pride, and our Constitution wisely upholds both the secular nature of the state and the right of all citizens to exercise their religious conscience freely and equally. The recent Stabroek News article (Sept 30, 2025) questioned the Muslim prayer by the chair of ERC at President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s inauguration, suggesting that religious invocations at state functions, particularly the chair of ERC blur the line between faith and governance.
It is important to recognise that prayers for national leaders are an established tradition among Guyana’s diverse religious communities and are not acts of political partisanship, but expressions of hope and unity. In Islam, as in Christianity and Hinduism, praying for leaders is both a theological practice and a part of centuries of prayer, culture, reflecting a desire for peace,
guidance, and justice rather than political endorsement. When the Shaikh prayed for President Ali, his words reflected sincere religious tenets and the established example set by the Prophet Muhammad, upon him be peace and blessings, who prayed for the well-being and guidance of rulers regardless of faith or context. The Constitution does not require public officials to suspend their religious identities. Rather, it insists that all beliefs be respect-
ed. As an Imam, educator, and Chair of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), his service to Guyana has always focused on fostering inclusion, respect, and understanding among all communities, regardless of background or belief. To single out the Muslim prayer for criticism ignores nearly four decades of faithful, impartial engagement across Guyana’s social and religious landscape. Accusations that the Shaikh cannot serve both his reli-
gious community and the national good are unfounded. Faith leaders in Guyana, including Christian pastors, Hindu priests, and Imams, regularly participate in national events. Their prayers are invitations to unity, not divisions. The chair’s commitment to the ERC’s mandate is unwavering, and his record demonstrates active support for fairness, diversity, and meaningful dialogue. Finally, to pray for the President’s success in
bridging Guyana’s divisions aligns with the best hopes of every Guyanese. It is not partisanship to desire progress; nor is it a breach of impartiality to ask for guidance, wisdom, and strength on behalf of those entrusted with the public good. His prayers, words, and actions remain grounded in the pursuit of greater harmony, justice, and opportunity for all.
Yours faithfully, Haroon Bacchus
5 years of growth: Mustapha's leadership transforms agriculture
Dear Editor,
Over the past five years, Guyana's agriculture sector has been revitalised under the dynamic leadership of the Hon Zulfikar Mustapha, Minister of Agriculture. His reappointment by President Irfaan Ali is both a recognition of his stellar performance and a strong statement of continuity for a sector that is central to our nation's growth.
Minister Mustapha has delivered on the commitments of the PPP/C manifesto with measurable results. In rice, production reached record levels in 2024 and was supported by expanded seed processing facilities, modernised stor-
age hubs, and strategic international market development.
Farmers can now expect to benefit from the rollout of Guyana's first-ever crop insurance programme aimed at providing resilience in the face of climate challenges. Over 6000 farmers are set to benefit from this ground-breaking initiative.
Livestock farmers have enjoyed new opportunities through genetic improvements, artificial insemination, and the distribution of thousands of breeding animals and supplies. This is expected to be expanded under the leadership of the PPP/C Government. The construction of modu-
lar abattoirs and expansion of pasture lands is also a top priority; this will boost meat and dairy output while poultry production is being enhanced through affordable financing and better disease prevention.
The fisheries sector too will see further expansion, as major investments have already been made during the last five years. New cage culture projects in the Hinterland will be completed along with aquaculture expansion and the launch of a Fisheries Monitoring Centre with GPS tracking. With tilapia, shrimp, and prawn farming on the rise, aquaculture is poised to surpass marine production
by 2030, making Guyana a leader in regional food security.
The Ministry has also championed agricultural diversification, advancing corn, soya and coconut production while promoting high-value crops like fruits, spices and even cocoa and coffee resuscitation. Investments in shade house farming, agro-processing hubs and climate-smart technology will empower farmers to reduce costs, increase efficiency and access lucrative export markets.
Beyond production, Minister Mustapha has strengthened the backbone of agriculture through drainage and irrigation
Guyana’s new Harbour Bridge: A godsend for transportation challenges
Dear Editor,
With the recent completion of the new four-lane harbour bridge in Guyana, it is time to reflect on the importance of this new infrastructure and the positive impact it will have on the country’s transportation challenges.
The old Demerara Harbour Bridge, which was built many years ago, has been a two-lane bridge that has become increasingly dilapidated with time and the rising vehicle population in Guyana. The bridge was not designed to handle the traffic volume it is current-
ly experiencing, resulting in long hours of traffic congestion daily.
The new four-lane harbour bridge, on the other hand, is a welcome addition to Guyana’s transportation infrastructure. With twice the number of lanes as its predecessor, it will not only be able to handle the current volume of traffic but also provide room for future growth. The new bridge will significantly reduce congestion and commute times, making it a boon for both the economy and the quality of life of Guyanese citizens.
It is commendable that
President Irfaan Ali recognised the need for this project and prioritised its completion. It is a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of Guyanese and his vision for a better future for the country.
Thanks to President
Ali’s Government, Guyanese now have a modern bridge for many years to come as the number of vehicles in the country increases.
Yours sincerely, Philip Inshanally
systems, farm-to-market roads, veterinary services, and laboratory standards, all of which ensure resilience, safety, and competitiveness. His leadership has also prioritised youth and women's empowerment, ensuring the next generation is equipped with modern tools, training and access to financing.
President Ali's decision to reappoint Minister Mustapha is therefore not just about rewarding past success; it is about securing the future. With Guyana on its way to becoming the food-producing capital of
the Caribbean, his steady, innovative and people-centred approach will continue to empower farmers, expand exports and enhance food security for all citizens. The last five years have proven that when vision meets execution, transformation follows. Minister Zulfikar Mustapha's reappointment signals that Guyana's agriculture sector is not only in capable hands but also on a clear path to global competitiveness.
Yours sincerely, Ramdhani Thakur
Page Foundation
Dependent Events
Dependent events are when one event affects the other. Imagine you have a bag with 3 red marbles and 2 blue marbles.
If you take out one marble and don’t put it back, the number of marbles left has changed.
Now the chance of getting red or blue on the second pick is different, because the first pick changed the bag. That means the second event depends on the first → they are dependent events.
Example 1
A candy jar has 4 chocolates and 1 gummy bear.
• You pick one candy and don’t put it back.
• Then you pick another candy.
Question: What is the probability that both candies are chocolates?
First pick: 4 chocolates out of 5 = 4/5
Now only 3 chocolates left, and 4 candies total = 3/4
The chances of both these events happening is: 5/4 × 4/3 = 20/12 = 3/5.
There is a 3 out of 5 chance.
Example 2
A box has 3 basketballs and 2 soccer balls
• You grab one ball and don’t put it back.
• Then you grab another ball.
Question: What is the probability you pick a basket-
ball, then a soccer ball?
First pick being basketball: 3/5
Now 2 soccer balls left out of 4 total balls: 2/4 = 1/2.
Chances of both: 3/5 × ½ = 3/10.
There is a 3 out of 10 chance.
Practice
1. A basket has 5 apples and 3 bananas. You take one fruit out and then another without putting the first back. What is the probability that you get two apples?
2. A bag has 6 green marbles and 4 yellow marbles. You pick one marble, then another without replacement. What is the probability that you get a green marble first and a yellow marble second?
3. A classroom has 7 boys and 5 girls. The teacher randomly picks two students to help. What is the probability that both chosen students are girls?
4. A deck has 10 red cards and 10 black cards. You draw one card, then another without putting the first back. What is the probability that both cards are black?
5. A basket has 3 oranges, 2 apples, and 1 pear. You choose two fruits without putting the first one back. What is the probability that you get an apple and then a pear?
6. A box has 8 pencils. 5 blue and 3 red. You take out two pencils without replacement. What is the probability that you get two red pencils?
7. A drawer has 4 socks. 2 striped and 2 plain. You pull out two socks without putting the first back. What is the
probability that you get two striped socks?
8. A bag has 3 candies. 1 chocolate, 1 gummy, and 1 lollipop. You take out two candies without replacement. What is the probabili- ty that you get the chocolate
By Tanaya Winder
Materials
• Coloured Pencils
• Construction Paper
• Glitter Glue
• Glue
• Markers
• Pencil(s)
• ScallopedEdge Paper Plate
1. Sketch a mermaid head and body on construction paper and cut it out.
2. Trace your hand on construction paper and cut it out to create the mermaid’s hair.
3. Glue the mermaid body to your handprint.
4. Sketch and cut out the
construction paper bathing suit.
5. Sketch and cut out the mermaid’s eyes from some white construction paper.
6. Glue the bathing suit and eyes to your mermaid. Let everything dry before you continue from here!
7. Add details like eyes and a smile to your mermaid with markers and coloured pencils.
8. Sketch half circles of various sizes on scalloped edge of paper plate. Colour them in and cut them out.
9. Overlap and glue paper plate pieces together to create the mermaid’s tail.
10. Glue the tail to the bottom of the mermaid.
11. Add details to the tail with some glitter glue. Once dry, you can play with your mermaid!
(Adapted from Crayola.com)
Wake up, greet the sun, and pray. Burn cedar, sweet grass, sage— sacred herbs to honor the lives we’ve been given, for we have been gifted these ways since the beginning of time. Remember, when you step into the arena of your life, think about those who stand beside you, next to, and with you. Your ancestors are always in your corner, along with your people. When we enter this world we are born hungry, our spirits long for us to live out our traditions that have been passed down for generations. Prayer, ceremony, dance, language—our ways of being. Never forget you were put on this earth for a reason— honor your ancestors. Be a good relative.
[Source: Poetry (March 2021)]
Pretend you walked outside to find a sleeping dragon in the grass! Why is the dragon there? Is it a friendly dragon? What do you do? Write about it!
Guyana on track to achieve 2025 rice target – Minister at Agri Month launch
Guyana is on course to achieve its ambitious 2025 rice production target, with total output expected to surpass 804,000 tonnes, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha announced on Wednesday at the launch of Agriculture Month 2025.
The national observance, slated to be held under the theme “Transforming Livelihoods through Agri-Food Systems”, opened with a cultural ceremony highlighting the country’s deep agricultural traditions and its renewed focus on food security.
Minister Mustapha credited the Government’s sustained investment and the commitment of farmers across the country for the steady rise in production.
Last year, Guyana set a record by producing 725,000 tonnes of rice, surpassing the 700,000-tonne mark for the first time in its history. With higher yields now being reported across cultivation areas, the Minister expressed optimism that the 804,000-tonne target for 2025 will be met.
“We produced 725,000 tonnes of rice last year. At the end of this year, I am very optimistic that we will surpass that, and we will produce the target set this year of 804,000 tonnes. We are on the way to do that. Only two days ago, I met the leadership of GRDB [The Guyana Rice Development Board], and we are seeing higher yields being produced in these areas,” Mustapha disclosed.
Back in April, Minister Mustapha had reported the
country cultivated 232,000 acres of rice during the first crop for 2025. Despite this, local rice farmers have been confronted with several challenges, with the falling international rice prices topping the list.
Last month, President Dr Irfaan Ali assured rice farmers that his Administration will continue to stand with them despite falling international rice prices, which he attributed to record levels of global production and stockpiling.
He noted that major exporters such as India, Vietnam, and Brazil have all recorded bumper harvests, leaving large stockpiles to be pushed onto the global market. This oversupply, he said, has created a glut, depressing prices worldwide. By the end of August, the weighted average of global white rice export quotas had fallen to US$450 per tonne –down US$14 from July and US$228 compared to the same period last year.
Nonetheless, President Ali has ruled out any move to scale back Guyana’s rice production despite the global glut that has sent prices tumbling, insisting instead that the country must invest in adding value, storage, and new markets.
Ali explained that part of this strategy involves expanding storage capacity across every rice-producing region, giving farmers and millers more flexibility to manage their supplies. “When you want to play
in a big game and have increased production, you have to have storage capacity,” he said. At the same time, he pointed to opportunities in diversifying rice
“We have the CARICOM Ministerial Task Force that is advising the CARICOM heads of Government on agriculture and food production. It's being chaired
riculture and making their livelihood out of agriculture. Those are tremendous achievements for us as a people,” the Minister said. Guyana is also mov-
use domestically through value-added processing and new product development.
Non-traditional crops
Beyond rice, Guyana has significantly expanded into non-traditional crops. Large-scale cultivation of corn and soya is underway, with the Government aiming for self-sufficiency by next year. Minister Mustapha stressed that this initiative alone could cut the import bill for corn and soya by US$40 million annually. The country has also advanced in hydroponics and high-value crop production, with increasing numbers of young people, including university graduates, entering the agricultural sector.
by Guyana. Guyana is leading the way in reducing the food import bill and in trying to achieve the 25 by 2025 plus five initiatives. And we have seen tremendous improvement over the years.”
“We have gone into large-scale hydroponics. We have gone into high-volume crops. We have seen a number of young people now embracing agriculture. We are seeing the perception of agriculture is changing rapidly. Gone are the days when young people see agriculture as a menial activity, a job for old people, or a job for people who never went to school. Today, we are having graduates from the University of Guyana and the Guyana School of Agriculture embracing ag-
ing toward becoming a regional food hub. A major project is underway along the Linden–Soesdyke Highway, in partnership with Bloomberg Grain, to establish a modern food hub capable of supplying Caribbean markets and reducing regional import dependence. Coconut cultivation, another focus area, has expanded by 7800 acres in the past five years, with further growth planned. As Agriculture Month 2025 gets underway, Minister Mustapha called on all stakeholders to remain united and take advantage of the opportunities being created, noting that Guyana is on the cusp of once again being the breadbasket of the Caribbean.
President extends congratulations to China on National Day
Pwish the Government and people of China continued progress, harmony and success,” the President said.
Last Friday evening, a reception was hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Georgetown at the Marriott Hotel to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China.
At the event, Guyana–China relations were highlighted as Prime Minister Phillips, speaking in the capacity of acting Head of State, noted that China continues to play a pivotal role in Guyana’s development, and the tangible impact of this strong bilateral cooperation is evident across several key economic sectors in the country.
cuting here.
With 53 years of diplomatic relations, she noted that the traditional friendship between China and Guyana continues to strengthen, while exchanges and cooperation
across many fields are deepening and producing real results.
Guyana became the first English-speaking Caribbean country to establish diplomatic relations with China in 1971.
Republic of
“Guyana deeply values the
and
partnership between our two nations,” the message reads, “and reaffirms our commitment to strengthening our cooperation. I
Similar sentiments were shared by Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang, who also spoke of some major projects that the Chinese are exe -
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha during Wednesday’s launch
resident Irfaan Ali on Wednesday ex -
tended congratulations to the Government and people of the People’s
China on the occasion of its National Day.
friendship
Rushing…
…fools
In the 18th century – when public education had expanded and made even the common man believe he “knew everything” – Alexander Pope wrote, “Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.” The fuller quote bears repeating: “The bookful blockhead ignorantly read, / With loads of learnèd lumber in his head, / With his own tongue still edifies his ears, / And always listening to himself appears. […] / Nay, fly to altars; there they’ll talk you dead, / For fools rush in where angels fear to tread.”
This thought came to your Eyewitness’ mind when he heard Opposition types – mostly from the decimated PNC – criticising Pressie for not convening Parliament immediately. Chicken Man Campbell – the Aubrey Norton anointed one to lead the 12 MPs which PNC/APNU has been shamefully reduced to – screamed he was ready to rumble!! Implying that the PPP might be ducking him!! He, of course, had compared himself to Jesus, who’d led his 12 disciples to change the world – and HE was chomping at the bit to change Guyana!!
Since, during the campaign, the PNC/APNU had insisted 48 per cent of Guyanese were living in poverty – quoting outdated figures from when THEY were in office! – your Eyewitness had wondered at the time whether Chicken Man was gonna feed Guyana with five pieces of chicken –as Jesus had done with just five pieces of bread!! But sadly, when Chicken Man elaborated as to what he’ll be focusing on if Pressie were to convene Parliament, it was ELECTORAL REFORM!! Imagine that!! No chicken thighs, much less breasts for the poor!! Guess he figures “the poor will always be with us,” and he might as well see if he can tinker with the electoral system to give the Opposition more reasons to scream after elections – “WE WUZ ROBBED!!”
But what’s the scoop on convening Parliament? Art. 69 (1) definitively pronounces on the matter and says, “Each session of Parliament…shall begin…four months from the end of that session – if Parliament has been dissolved – as the President shall appoint by proclamation.” Now since the 12th Parliament was dissolved by Pressie on July 3, 2025, for elections, that means he’s got till Nov 3 to convene the 13th Parliament. So what’s the fuss??
The PNC Executive Council’s meeting is as your Eyewitness types this piece. Shouldn’t Chicken Man wait to find out the extent of his legitimacy – depending on whether his godfather’s gonna be dumped before being big and bad?? The fact of the matter is Chicken Man’s gonna be irrelevant to the Parliamentary agenda since the Opposition Leader, Sanction Man, got his own axes to grind!!
One of them being to ensure the PNC – from which he snagged the majority of his votes – becomes irrelevant!! Ambition should be made of sterner stuff!!
…to destroy
Winston Jordan was a nuts-and-bolts number cruncher in the Ministry of Finance for donkey’s years. As such, it wasn’t within his remit to look beyond the numbers he was given on specific projects or budgets. And as a civil servant, “his was not to reason why” but just to “do or die” as ordered!! In such environments the guiding philosophy becomes “CYA” – cover your ass – and from all accounts Jordan protected his rear very well, thank you!!
But when the APNU/AFC coalition got into office –surprising even them! – they needed a Finance Minister. And having no credible candidate who Granger trusted, they turned to Jordan – who’d probably been surreptitiously supplying them with info!! With Jordan’s recent outburst that the Government shouldn’t be supporting the rice industry, he’s revealed his plebeian, journeyman mindset.
Otherwise he would’ve known that modern Governments – such as the US – identify certain agriculture crops as STRATEGICALLY important for both food security and commercial reasons.
Allowing rice to fail is like chopping off your right arm!!
…to boost dictatorship
Mad Maduro has seized the opportunity presented by the US naval force off Venezuelan waters to seize new powers that’ll give him and the military generals in his Cartel of the Sun absolute control over the economy!!
Mineral Mapping Project
Geophysical survey gets underway for hotspots of gold, other rare minerals
With a focus on both traditional resources like gold and non-traditional ones like lithium, the Guyana Government has rolled out the geophysical survey aspect of the Mineral Mapping Project – an exercise that would bridge data gaps, reduce investment costs and minimise the environmental impacts from mining activi-
ties. This geophysics survey will see two specialised aircraft, equipped with highend technology and sensors, conducting flyovers at four major mining districts across the country – the NorthwestMining District, the Mazaruni Mining District, the Potaro Mining District and the Puruni Mining District – to gather
key data that will identify the highly mineralised areas and will be used to create a local mineral portal.
Back in August 2024, the Guyana Government signed a multi-year contract with United States (US)-based Global Venture Consulting Inc to produce maps to show, among other things, where gold and other mineral deposits are located around
the country.
Flyovers
Some $4 billion has been set aside for this project. The airborne geophysical survey will commence in the coming days by experts from Xcalibur Smart Mapping and Aries Aviation International and is likely to wrap up by year-end.
Jared Abraham, one of the US-based geologist/geophysicist experts conducting the survey, explained that the flyovers will be done at 80 metres above the ground with the aircraft moving at 250 kilometres per hour and 70 metres per second.
“In one flight, we’re collecting more data than you can do on the ground within a year or maybe two years… It’s building on the products that all of you have done for years – it’s not erasing that data, it’s augmenting it and connecting the dots,” the US expert stated at the launch of the survey exercise on Wednesday.
Abraham noted that during the aeromagnetic surveys, they will be able to detect traces of rare earth minerals, though they would not be able to see them. He added too that the technology they are using will also pick up deposits of uranium and lithium.
Much more than gold Guyana is estimated to have deposits of lithium, whose uses extend far beyond rechargeable batteries.
In fact, the head of the Guyana Geology and Mines
and how we garner investments at the various scales of operations; and how we can prepare ourselves for another significant episode of future and futuristic commercial technology-driven
Commission (GGMC), Newell Dennison, pointed out that this initiative is much more than just gold.
"It's about an organised inventory of our mineral resources. It is about the geological and geochemical and structural relationships of our massive mineralised terrains; their influence on the locations; their accessibility and availability for exploitation, which in turn contributes to how we plan to invest
industrial endeavours,” he noted.
The GGMC Commissioner pointed out that this survey will not identify exactly where operators should mine but will give them an understanding of the area so that they can better deploy their resources for a greater likelihood of success.
Stakeholders at Wednesday’s launch of the geophysical survey aspect of the Mineral Mapping Project in Guyana
The aircraft is equipped with technology that will be conducting the geophysical survey of Guyana’s minerals
“Agriculture must evolve” – President Ali
Recognising the role of agriculture as an engine of a resilient future for Guyana, President Dr Irfaan Ali says that the sector must evolve beyond production and be a catalyst to not just diversify the country’s economy but also reduce poverty and inequality.
The Head of State made these remarks in his message to commemorate Agriculture Month 2025, which is observed in October and is dedicated towards celebrating the farmers, fishers, processors, and entrepreneurs who feed the nation and propel its economy.
According to President Ali, this annual celebration is not only a tribute to their hard work but also a reminder of agriculture’s enduring place in Guyana’s national story.
He said, “Agriculture has always been the backbone of Guyana’s economy. It is our oldest industry, a provider of livelihoods for thousands of families, and the foundation of food and nutrition security. Today, however, we must strive to make it much more. Agriculture must evolve into a sector that bears the imprimatur of innovation, technology, and opportunity – driving down poverty, closing the gap of inequality, and building a more diversified and resilient economy.”
To achieve this objective, Guyana has already embarked on modernising its agri-food systems to guaran-
tee cheaper, reliable, stable, and nutritious food for every household.
At the same time, the country is building enough surplus to secure Guyana’s role as a major contributor to food security in the Caribbean. That, according to the Guyanese leader, is why the Government is driving bold action to transform and make the agri-food systems more competitive and sustainable, while improving livelihoods.
Agricultural transformation
“This vision is being translated into concrete actions on the ground. We are expanding the production of priority commodities, supporting diversification into new crops, livestock, and aquaculture, and ensuring that every farmer has the tools and resources needed to produce food. From rice to corn, soya to livestock, aquaculture to agro-processing, we are scaling up production and opening new markets at home, in the Caribbean, and beyond,” he stated.
Infrastructure is also central to this transformation, the president noted. In fact, the Ali Administration is building farm-to-market roads, modern storage facilities, upgraded ports, and stronger transport linkages, ensuring every producer, whether in the hinterland or on the coast, can move goods quickly, safely, and competitively to regional and global
markets.
The Government is also modernising agriculture with digital extension services, precision farming, and climate-smart practices. These tools, the Head of State explained, will help producers increase yields, cut costs, reduce risks, and embed sustainability into every stage of production.
Moreover, the Guyana Government is further investing heavily in the future of the local livestock industry. Tunnel ventilation pens, hatcheries, genetic improvements, artificial insemination, abattoirs, and processing plants are being developed to boost production of poultry, beef, and dairy.
Additionally, affordable financing is being rolled out, while training programmes equip farmers with the skills to improve animal health, prevent diseases, and increase clean milk production.
“By 2030, these initiatives will position livestock as a major driver of growth, innovation, and food security,” President Ali stated.
Similarly, he noted that aquaculture and cage farming are also expanding across the country, with new vessel monitoring systems and sustainable fishing practices diversifying income streams, particularly for coastal and hinterland communities, while safeguarding marine resources for future generations.
At the heart of these ef-
forts is value addition with the Regional Food Hub to be completed soon, strengthening trade logistics and agro-processing. According to the Head of State, this means more jobs, more exports, and more value retained in the local economy. From fresh produce to processed goods, he added Guyana will not only feed itself but also supply the region with high-quality, affordable, and competitive food products.
President Ali went on to note that equally important is Guyana’s commitment to inclusion, with women and young people being central to agricultural transformation. To this end, he said his
Government is expanding financing, training, and innovation programmes for women-led and youth-led agribusinesses.
“By unlocking their potential, we are investing in their entrepreneurship and longterm prosperity,” he noted.
Agriculture Month
The President went on to note that this spirit of inclusion lies at the heart of Agriculture Month 2025, which is being held under the theme “Transforming Livelihoods Through AgriFood Systems.”
According to President Ali, progress is meaningful only when it uplifts everyone.
“Let this month, October 2025, therefore be not just about achievements in production, but about reaffirming our collective commitment to build a sector where every stakeholder has a place and a partner in Government. Let it be a reaffirmation of our pledge and promise that every farmer, fisher, processor, and entrepreneur has a partner in our Government. Together, we will build a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural sector that meets the demand for affordable food, nourishes our people, uplifts our communities, and secures Guyana’s place as a regional leader in food production.”
US$192M East Coast Road...
“We’re not completely satisfied with the pace of work. But some of it is outside of the hands of the contractors,” President Ali said, noting that “this project will come to completion very soon.“
However, due to the ongoing construction works, there have been massive buildup of traffic especially during rush hours with persons complaining of being stuck in traffic for hours along the East Coast corridor.
But once completed, this four-lane project is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion along the East Coast, improving travel times and road safety for thousands of commuters.
Additionally, the issues with residents who expressed concerns over access to their yards have been resolved, with new entrances already rebuilt.
In December 2022, the Government and the People’s Republic of China signed a Framework Concessional Loan Agreement for US$192 million to finance Phase II of the East Coast Road Project.
The project forms phase two of the Annandale to Mahaica and Sheriff Street to Orange Nassau initiative. It measures approximately 30.8 kilometres in length, with an additional 5.3 kilometres allocated for the upgrade and widening of the Belfield to
Orange Nassau public road. The works include upgrading Sheriff Street to Enmore from two lanes to four, covering 18.24 kilometres. New construction will take place from Enmore to Mahaica. This section spans 7.73 kilometres.
The project also involves the construction and widening of 76 bridges and 42 culverts, along with the installation of 28.32 kilometres of concrete drains on both sides of the roadway.
It is part of an aggressive infrastructural drive by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Administration, which began during the 20202025 term.
US State Dept commends passage of 2023
Combating of Trafficking in Persons Bill
– as Guyana maintains Tier 1 ranking in annual TIP Report
The provision of over $76 million in victim assistance, the conviction of a sex trafficker that was made to pay restitution to the victims, the increase in prosecutions, and the collaborations with foreign Governments to investigate trafficking cases were some of the implemented actions that contributed to Guyana maintaining its Tier One ranking in the US State Department 2025 Trafficking In Persons Report, which was released on Tuesday.
According to the TIP Report, over the past year, Guyana’s Government has identified more trafficking victims, significantly increased funding for protection and prevention efforts, and conducted extensive awareness campaigns and training.
“The Government of Guyana fully meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking. The Government continued to demonstrate serious and sustained efforts during the reporting period; therefore, Guyana remained on Tier One,” the report noted.
The US TIP Report is an annual assessment that ranks countries based on their efforts to combat human trafficking. The ranking is divided into four tiers: Tier One, Tier Two, Tier Two Watch List, and Tier Three.
The Tier One placement marks the ninth consecutive year that Guyana has
demonstrated serious and sustained efforts to combat TIP, the Home Affairs Ministry noted.
Guyana is one of only two Caribbean countries listed in the Tier One status, the Bahamas being the other. A total of 33 countries attained Tier One status. Another 106 countries were listed in the Tier Two category; 25 were on the Tier Two Watch list; and 20 countries were on the Tier Three list, while Haiti, Libya, Somalia and Yemen are listed as “special case” countries under the listing.
Increased Govt efforts
According to the report, the Government in 2024 increased protection efforts. This included the Government identifying 416 victims and NGOs identifying two victims, an increase when compared with identifying 407 trafficking victims in 2023. Meanwhile, the Government screened 389 potential victims among individuals in commercial sex, an increase compared with 281 potential victims screened in 2023. In 2024, the Government operated and fully funded four shelters for adults with a total capacity of 80 and one shelter for children with a capacity for eight child victims of crime, including trafficking.
The Government also operated three 24/7 hotlines to report human trafficking, which included two in English and one in Spanish.
The hotlines received 87 calls, of which 22 led to the identification of victims, their referral to care, and criminal investigations of traffickers; this compares with an unknown number of calls in 2023, of which 39 led to further action.
Commendation
The report commended the passage of the 2023 Combating of Trafficking in Persons Bill before the National Assembly, which repealed the earlier Combating Trafficking in Persons Act of 2005, criminalised sex trafficking and labour trafficking and prescribed penalties of five years to life imprisonment.
“These penalties were sufficiently stringent and, with respect to sex trafficking, commensurate with those prescribed for other grave crimes, such as rape,”
Bank of Nova Scotia now Scotiabank Guyana Inc –
says no impact on customers
Effective November 1, 2025, The Bank of Nova Scotia (BNS) will transfer its Guyana banking operations to Scotiabank Guyana Inc (SGI), a locally registered company which is a direct, wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of Nova Scotia Canada.
A media release from the bank on Wednesday advised that SGI has already been incorporated in Guyana and has been granted a licence to conduct banking business and provide financial services under the Financial Institutions Act.
This transfer will have no impact on customers, employees, suppliers, or any other stakeholder, it added.
The Bank of Nova Scotia has been operating as a branch in Guyana since 1968 but has taken the decision to reorganise its business for greater efficiency and capital management. This structure is in alignment with
Scotiabank’s other global operations, including those in the Caribbean region (The Bahamas, Barbados, Cayman, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago and Turks & Caicos) and Latin America (Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Peru), which operate as subsidiaries.
The main change resulting from this reorganisation is the new name of the company, the release pointed out. Clients and suppliers already know the bank as Scotiabank but will now start to see the new name of “Scotiabank Guyana Inc.” as its legal name, as opposed to the previous name “The Bank of Nova Scotia”. Jabar Singh, President & CEO, Scotiabank Colpatria (Colombia), Head, Scotiabank Caribbean and
Central America, reinforced the Bank’s commitment to growing its business in Guyana under the new legal structure, indicating, “We have made several recent investments, including technology enhancements to our mobile app, the introduction of payment solutions for retail self-checkout kiosks, the digitisation of our client onboarding process, expansion of our ABM footprint, and incremental bandwidth upgrades. The Bank also plans to expand its client coverage and business portfolio in Guyana. This includes enhancements to Global Transaction Banking (GTB) products and services and Global Banking and Markets (GBM) services such as investment banking, cash management and trade finance.”
the report noted.
The law, which was enacted in June 2023, increased previously prescribed penalties for trafficking crimes, extended criminal liability to corporations, and explicitly included the use of children for the production and distribution of narcotics within the definition of trafficking. The law also defined trafficking broadly to include illegal adoption without the purpose of exploitation.
Recommendations
Notwithstanding the Tier One standing, the report called on Guyana to vet and screen labour agreements with the Chinese Government and Cuban regime for trafficking vulnerabilities and conduct sufficient inspections of these nationals’ worksites, oversee recruitment agencies, and eliminate worker-paid recruitment and placement fees.
The report also called on the Government to implement measures to increase labour inspections at highrisk worksites in the mining and logging districts, as well
as complete a review of existing legislation on labour recruitment and increase the number of labour inspectors.
The report went on to call on the Government to continue to increase prosecutions in both sex and labour trafficking cases, placing emphasis on cases involving child victims.
It also called for the proactive screening of other vulnerable populations, including Haitian migrants, for trafficking indicators. And to also reduce reliance on victims to serve as witnesses in prosecutions.
The report also said that there is a need for the inclusion of relevant Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) with monthly Task Force meetings that proactively seek input from NGOs for initiatives and measures aimed at preventing trafficking.
It also noted that while the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Counter-Trafficking (C-TIP) Unit exclusively investigated trafficking cases, the Unit did not have a dedicated budget. However, the Government reported the GPF C-TIP Unit and the
DPP Prosecution Unit had sufficient resources.
Govt firmly committed Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, described the Tier One ranking as evidence of the Government’s unwavering dedication and effective action in fighting human trafficking.
Minister Walrond stressed that the Government is firmly committed to addressing these recommendations with urgency, deploying advanced policies, rigorous monitoring, and strengthened partnerships to disrupt trafficking networks and safeguard victims.
She noted that the Ministry of Home Affairs, and by extension the Government of Guyana, remains steadfast in its commitment to eradicate human trafficking within our borders and across the wider region. This commitment, she added, is amplified by the tireless efforts of members of the Ministerial Taskforce on Trafficking in Persons, non-Governmental organisations, civil society stakeholders, and other partners.
Brazilian company mulls expansion in Guyana’s mining, manufacturing & agri sectors
This engagement comes at a time when cross-border trade and investment ties between
and Northern Brazil are deepening
The Guyana Office for Investment (GoInvest) on Wednesday welcomed representatives from Concregell Group, a Brazilian company with extensive operations in concrete production, quarrying, and soybean cultivation across Brazil.
The representatives highlighted the scale of their operations and expressed keen interest in expanding operations into Guyana, noting opportunities for partnerships with local investors.
Director of Investment Arvinda Ramcharan held discussions with the company on areas of collaboration and the enabling investment climate.
“With Guyana’s rapid growth and its emergence as a key driver of regional development, there is a clear indication of the growing demand for aggregates driven by rapid infrastructure development and major construction projects,” GoInvest said in a brief statement.
It noted that Concregell’s
expertise in quarrying and concrete production positions them to play a vital role in meeting this demand. This engagement comes at a time when cross-border trade and investment ties between Guyana and Northern Brazil are deepening.
Concregell Group outlined particular interest in Guyana’s mining, manufacturing, and agriculture sectors, recognising the rapid growth and investment climate that continues to drive the country’s development.
Guyana
Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond
Manickchand calls meeting to deal with incomplete & delayed projects in Reg 1
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand on Wednesday led a high-level engagement with the Regional Administration of BarimaWaini (Region One) to examine the status of several projects that remain incomplete or are significantly behind schedule.
The session formed part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen accountability and ensure that commitments made to citizens in hinterland and coastal regions alike are fulfilled in a timely manner.
Minister Manickchand emphasised the importance of delivering on these projects, noting that delays directly impact the quality of
Edghill urges revision of construction methodology, better traffic management to ease ECD congestion
An early Wednesday morning site visit was done by Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill and Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj on the Railway Embankment at Plaisance, East Coast Demerara (ECD), to ascertain the exact causes of the growing traffic congestion along the thoroughfare.
The Ministers were joined by Minister within the Ministry of Housing Vanessa Benn.
There, they engaged with representatives of the project contractor, China Railway First Group Limited, and consultant Beston to determine practical solutions to address the traffic congestion.
Also part of the early morning meeting were Assistant Superintendent of Division 4 “C” Traffic Officer Stephen Gobin and other members of the Guyana Police Force.
Emerging from the in-
spection from the Plaisance Line-Top to the Ogle Roundabout, Minister Edghill firmly suggested a revision of the construction methodology in tandem with the traffic management systems to better accommodate commuters using the corridor, which is a heavy construction zone.
The stakeholders present were urged to present new, immediate plans on how this will be addressed commencing tomorrow.
This comes after it was announced that in an effort to assist in traffic management across Guyana, the private sector and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) will be working together to ease congestion.
Director of Gaico Inc, Khishan Singh, in a recent episode of Spotlight, said that the private sector has frequently met with the Ministry of Home Affairs to tackle the issue.
The GPF 4C Division
Head, Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram, had said in another report that the region has grown dramatically in recent years, with ongoing construction projects and Regional Division 4C adding to mounting challenges in keeping roads safe and traffic flowing.
Some people have said that it is now taking them hours to get to Georgetown, something that has never happened before, and have attributed this to the recent construction of roads on the railway embankment.
Works are currently ongoing on the US$192 million East Coast Road expansion project from Sheriff Street, Georgetown, to Orange Nassau, ECD.
Once completed, the project is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion along the busy East Coast corridor, improving travel times and road safety for thousands of commuters.
life and opportunities available to residents.
She was joined by Minister of Housing, Collin Croal, and Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Sarah Browne-Shadeek, both of whom have extensive familiarity with Region One.
“Their contributions centred on addressing infrastructural gaps, improving community services, and advancing housing and social development initiatives tailored to the needs of the region’s residents,” a statement from the Ministry of Local Government noted.
Also present at the meeting were Anand Persaud, Director General within the Ministry, and Permanent Secretary Mr Miguel ChooKang, who provided administrative and technical in-
sights into the way forward. In late September, Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Pauline Sukhai, had visited several schools under construction in Region Seven, where she advised contractors that schools under construction in the region must be completed on time, and the Government will not be tolerating any delays.
“We would like to see that all the contracts we have awarded are completed in a timely manner,” she added.
“We are going to hold contractors to their timelines,” Minister of Education Sonia Parag, who was with Minister Sukhai and regional officials, had also declared.
Young entrepreneurs launch Guyana’s 1st business review platform
With an aim of building a stronger community of trust between businesses and customers, a group of young Guyanese entrepreneurs have launched Guyana’s first business review platform for consumers and businesses in Guyana: ReviewIt.gy.
Built for businesses of all sizes, the platform was launched earlier this year, powered by Lugetech, a local tech company founded in 2015 by Ken Taylor, who had a vision to transform how businesses interact with technology.
Backed by his 11 years of experience as a software developer, Taylor teamed up with his friends and fellow programmers Sunaika Adolphus, Andre Blair, Kiewart Gulliver, and Clint Eastman.
The platform is built to connect people across Guyana by sharing real experiences and honest reviews. On the website, consumers can share their experiences, read authentic reviews, and discover the best recommended business places across Guyana. Businesses are then able to manage their feedback, respond to customers and keep their customer satisfaction ratings high.
“It’s newly launched, but we have been working on it for the past two years,” Adolphus shared in a recent interview with Guyana Times.
“As active social media users and steady supporters of local businesses, we decided to create a space where feedback is clear, accessible, and impactful. After two years of building, we’re excited to finally share ReviewIt.gy.”
An alum of St Stanislaus College, Adolphus wears many hats, aside from be-
ing involved in Lugetech. She also works as an event coordinator at Lodestar Inc, while she also freelances as a virtual assistant, graphic designer and customer engagement specialist.
Other members of the team at Lugetech are also just as multifaceted as Adolphus. Eastman works as a solutions architect with Amazon US, while Blair is also involved in engineering and business management at Anheuser-Busch AbInbev, and Gulliver is involved in computer science.
Adolphus says that ReviewIt.gy is about empowering Guyanese consumers with reliable reviews and giving businesses a chance to exercise excellence in customer service.
“Each review helps others make better choices while supporting local businesses,” Adolphus noted.
“Our mission is simply to connect people and businesses through honest reviews, trusted feedback, and smarter choices. From restaurants and cafés to street food vendors, construction services, or even freelance electricians, ReviewIt.gy gives every
business a chance to shine.” For businesses looking to capitalise on the opportunity, Reviewit.gy offers verification badges, real-time review responses, insights, marketing tools, website widgets, and Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) features, giving local businesses a chance to build trust and reach the right audience.
“For business owners, the platform offers full control of your profile. While anyone can add a business, only the verified owner can claim it through a thorough verification process and manage it, showcase products and services, share promotions, and display locations with ease,” Adolphus explained.
“For consumers, ReviewIt.gy provides an easy-to-use space to share experiences with text, photo, or video reviews. Smart search and filters make discovery simple, while community features like rating, commenting, and following create deeper connections. Optimised for mobile and desktop, the platform is seamless, fast, and personalised.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill; Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj and Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Vanessa Benn, along with Police officials on site on the ECD
Local Government and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand during the meeting
India offers support in enhancing public service efficiency in Guyana
Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr Amit Telang paid a courtesy call on Minister for Public Services, Government Efficiency and Implementation Zulfikar Ally and conveyed greetings on behalf of the Government of India.
According to a brief statement from the Indian High Commission in Guyana, the diplomat conveyed full support and offered all possible assistance towards the implementa-
tion of President Dr Irfaan Ali’s vision for efficient service delivery.
“The High Commission has a long-standing cooperation in capacity building with the Ministry of Public Services of Guyana under the Ministry of External Affairs’ flagship Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation – ITEC. It will be our endeavour to further diversify this engagement under the guidance and leadership of Hon’ble Minister Zulfikar Ally,” the statement reads.
The new Government has made it clear that it intends to improve efficiency in the public service. In fact, it has since expanded the mandate of the Ministry of Public Service to include “Government Efficiency and Implementation” initiatives.
Just before the 2025 polls, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had explained that Government Ministries and agencies could be reorganised to ensure better efficiency in public service delivery.
One Communications launches Pinktober 2025: “Act Now, Live Strong”
One Communications, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, officially launched Pinktober 2025 at the Pegasus Corporate Suites under the theme “Act Now, Live Strong.”
The event brought together survivors, carers, sponsors, and health officials in a united call for early detection and sustained cancer awareness.
The programme opened with protocols led by Martina Johnson, who welcomed representatives from the Ministry of Health, Sterling Products, Halliburton, SBM, Qualfon, and members of the Champions of Hope NGOs.
Delivering remarks, Ian Lewis, Director of Marketing at One Communications, said the theme was chosen to remind Guyanese of the urgency of cancer screening and the courage of survivors.
“Act now, because cancer does not wait. Live strong, because strength is not only surviving but also choosing to take care of
yourself and fight boldly,” Lewis said.
“Last year, over 14,000 people walked with us for Pinktober. This year, let’s surpass that. Each step we take is in solidarity with those who are fighting, those we’ve lost, and those we’re determined to protect.”
Representing the Ministry of Health, Dr Danielle Drepaul, Coordinator of the Chronic Disease Unit, delivered remarks on behalf of the Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony.
“Every October, everyone wants to wear pink and get screened, but after the month ends, the momentum fades,” Dr Drepaul told the audience. “Screening must be year-round. Breast cancer is not only a women’s issue; men are affected too.”
She also announced that mammogram services are now available in Regions Two, Six, Nine, and 10 at regional hospitals, free of cost.
Survivors’ testimonies gave the launch its most powerful moments. Renetta
Williams, a breast cancer survivor, shared how she endured a mastectomy, 10 rounds of chemotherapy, and 30 sessions of radiation after being diagnosed at stage three.
“Something can be going on there, and we take it for granted,” she said. “Please, take your life; take your health into your own hands.”
Another survivor, Rosalyn Clarke, urged women to be careful about what they put into their bodies, recalling her own experience with hormonal treatments that complicated her journey.
Sponsors also played a role in the recognition of survivors. Sterling Products Limited presented tokens to Renetta and Rosalind, honouring their courage and advocacy.
As Pinktober 2025 begins, One Communications and its partners are urging Guyanese to take action now: book a screening, support a survivor, and walk for awareness.
Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Telang paid a courtesy call on Minister for Public Services, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally
Rosalyn Clarke
Ministry of Health Coordinator of Chronic Disease unit, Dr Danielle Drepaul
Director of Marketing at One Communications, Ian Lewis
Excavation of tombs at Corentyne cemetery triggers Police probe
An investigation has been launched into the excavation of tombs at the Maida Cemetery on the Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), and the possible collusion between the employees of the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and the contractor respon-
sible for the destruction.
This publication understands that the excavation occurred during construction activities being undertaken in close proximity to the cemetery.
A Chinese contractor, which has since taken responsibility for the damage, acknowledged the error made and agreed to
repair the affected tombs. While some repairs have reportedly been made, some family members say the restoration was incomplete.
In fact, some family members of the deceased expressed frustration after being told by the NDC that the matter had already been “investigated and set-
Foreigner among trio robbed by gunmen at North Ruimveldt shop
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is investigating an alleged robbery under arms committed on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at about 14:30h in the Lamaha Park squatting area, North Ruimveldt.
Reports indicate that a 33-year-old businesswoman, a 36-year-old foreign national, and a 27-year-old construction worker were in a
shop when they were confronted by two armed suspects.
The suspects held the victims at gunpoint, threatened to shoot them, then relieved them of valuables, including cash, jewellery, and cell phones. The victims were then ordered to lie face down before the suspects escaped on foot in an easterly direction.
Police ranks, led by a detective inspector, visited the scene and conducted preliminary investigations. CCTV cameras were observed in the area and will be reviewed. Persons in the vicinity were questioned, and checks were made for the suspects, but they were not located.
Investigations are ongoing.
tled.” They refuted this claim, stating they were never part of any formal resolution or agreement.
One family, in particular, has spoken out.
Relatives of Vishram Nagasar, who was buried in July 2018, say the tomb was damaged and improperly restored. While the structure of the tomb was rebuilt, they claim parts of its contents were left out and the headstone was never replaced. To their shock, the family was informed by the Chinese contractor that a settlement had already been reached with a “relative” – someone the family had no knowledge of.
It was later revealed that an employee of the NDC allegedly impersonated a relative of the deceased to negotiate and accept the settlement.
This prompted Police action, resulting in the arrest of a senior NDC official and a front desk staffer, both of whom have since been released and returned to work as investigations continue.
Despite public interest and growing concern in the community, efforts to obtain a comment from the Maida-Tarlogie NDC were met with resistance.
According to iNews Guyana, Overseer Shemeniel Bourne refused
to provide contact information for the current NDC Chairperson, citing internal protocol.
Meanwhile, several residents remain reluctant to speak publicly, indicating that the Chinese contractor had taken steps to resolve the matter privately. Still, villagers remain upset over the lack of transparency and what they view as a disregard for the sanctity of the cemetery and the memory of their loved ones.
A senior Police source confirmed that an active investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the incident and any possible misconduct by NDC officials or others involved.
Geophysical survey gets...
US-based geologist/geophysicist Jared
that will be used for the
“We want not to have willy-nilly adventurism into the mining estate. We want persons to be much more predictive of where they're going to put their resources and, therefore, from our perspective, be more efficient in terms of finances and, of course, better outcomes for our national coffers,” Dennison stated.
The data gathered from this survey will be added to the legacy data that has been previously collected locally. The last Mineral Bulletin (No 38), which was published in 1968.
Sustainable management
Meanwhile, this mineral mapping project will also address approaches to sustainably manage and grow the extractive sectors within the context of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030. When completed, the Mineral Inventory will contribute to low-impact mining and improve planning in mineralised areas, which are objectives outlined in the LCDS 2030.
Natural Resources
Minister Vickram Bharrat, also speaking at Wednesday’s launch event, noted the mineral mapping exercise will be a roadmap to balancing economic development with environmental sustainability.
“This is a project that will enhance our reputation as a country, that will enhance the mining sector, that will show greater environmental stewardship while we continue to develop our country and create opportunities for our people. So, it’s a project where Guyana cannot lose… It’s a project that will help especially our small- and medium-scale miners…”
“There aren’t many countries around the world that can boast of having the similar kind of success when it comes to balancing economic development with environmental sustainability as Guyana has done over the years. So, advancing this project is very critical,” the Minister posited.
According to Bharrat, this project is also a show of confidence by the President Dr Irfaan Ali-led
Administration of its commitment to support the local mining industry, which not only contributes significantly to the country’s development but also employs nearly 30,000 persons, especially those from hinterland communities.
Capacity building
In addition to the mapping exercise, Global Venture (GV) has also been conducting capacity-building exercises with the technical staff at GGMC as part of its contract. The aim is to ensure that there is local capacity to take over the mineral mapping process when the contract elapses.
“The lasting legacy of this programme is not just the data; it’s the people. Throughout this programme, GV, GGMC and our partners are working side by side to share the methods, tools and workflows so that the capability to manage, interpret and apply this data remains and lives here in Guyana after this programme is finished,” CEO of GV, Emily King, posited.
The tomb of Vishram Nagasar
Abraham explaining the technology attached to the aircraft
aeromagnetic surveys
Guyana voices concern over 122% surge in DRC civilian fatalities
...urges armed groups to halt attacks, lift restrictions on MONUSCO
Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett has sounded the alarm over spiralling violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), warning that civilian fatalities have risen by 122 per cent, largely due to attacks by armed groups including M23 and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).
Delivering a statement on behalf of the A3+ grouping of Algeria, Sierra Leone, Somalia and Guyana at Tuesday’s UN Security Council briefing, RodriguesBirkett called for armed groups to cease targeting civilians and to lift restrictions that hinder the operations of the United Nations Organization Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).
She stressed that despite MONUSCO’s efforts to expand patrols, strengthen early warning systems and provide shelter to displaced persons, its ability to protect communities continues to be undermined. “We echo the Secretary-General’s call for all parties, particularly
armed groups, to cease attacks on civilians and lift restrictions on MONUSCO’s operations,” RodriguesBirkett told the Council.
“We remain deeply concerned by the alarming increase in violence against civilians, with a 122 per cent rise in fatalities attributed mainly to M23, ADF, and other armed groups. MONUSCO’s efforts to expand patrols, strengthen early warning systems, and shelter displaced civilians are commendable, but restrictions on its freedom of movement undermine its ability to protect communities. We echo the SecretaryGeneral’s call for all parties, particularly armed groups,
to cease attacks on civilians and lift restrictions on MONUSCO’s operations.”
“The A3+ is equally troubled by the human rights situation. MONUSCO’s documentation of over 1100 violations, including summary executions, abductions, and sexual violence, is deeply alarming. We stress the importance of accountability for all perpetrators, strengthening judicial institutions, and ensuring the protection of journalists, women, and children,” the envoy said.
While welcoming political steps taken by President Félix Tshisekedi – including a Government reshuffle to broaden inclusivity and
the launch of an inclusive national dialogue – the A3+ underscored that these initiatives must be fully implemented to strengthen governance and build trust.
The statement also commended recent peace agreements, including the Washington Agreement between the DRC and Rwanda and the Doha Declaration involving the Government and AFC/M23, describing them as crucial frameworks for de-escalating hostilities and advancing regional integration.
However, RodriguesBirkett cautioned that the human rights situation remains deeply troubling, pointing to MONUSCO’s documentation of more than 1100 violations. She emphasised the need for accountability, stronger judicial institutions, and greater protections for journalists, women, and children.
The humanitarian picture is equally dire, with 5.3 million persons displaced,
27.7 million facing food insecurity, and disease outbreaks compounding the crisis. Yet less than 15 per cent of required humanitarian funding has been secured. The A3+ urged urgent international contributions and called for the reopening of Goma and Kavumu airports, which have been closed, severely disrupting the delivery of life-saving aid.
The statement praised MONUSCO’s contributions despite financial constraints, restricted movement and operational challenges, warning that any future drawdown of the mission must be “conditions-based, responsible and aligned with progress on the ground” to avoid creating a dangerous security vacuum. The group also urged member states to honour their financial obligations to ensure the mission can continue fulfilling its mandate.
Rodrigues-Birkett also
underscored the importance of women’s participation in peace processes, calling their inclusion “essential to achieving sustainable peace and reconciliation.” The A3+ further stressed the need to tackle illegal mineral exploitation and other root causes of conflict through responsible resource governance and stronger regional cooperation.
Reaffirming solidarity with the Congolese people, the A3+ pledged continued support for African-led peace efforts while urging the Security Council to remain engaged. “We must ensure that peace agreements translate into meaningful progress on the ground,” Rodrigues-Birkett declared. “The Security Council must remain seized of the matter, committed to reinforcing African-led solutions and accompanying the Congolese people on their path to lasting peace, stability and development.”
Berbice pensioner robbed of licensed firearm, cash in GT
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) is investigating an alleged robbery under arms committed on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at about 17:50h in Rasville, Georgetown.
According to a Police press release, preliminary reports indicate that the victim, a 68-year-old pensioner from Edinburgh Village, East Bank Berbice, was robbed of his pump-action shotgun. He was at the
time driving through the area when he was intercepted by two men on a motorcycle, one of whom was armed.
The suspects confronted the victim, forced him to stop, and relieved him of his licensed firearm along with a quantity of cash and other valuables before making good their escape.
Police ranks from the East La Penitence Police Outpost, led by a Sergeant,
responded promptly and visited the scene. No injuries were reported.
CCTV cameras were observed in the area, and investigators are making efforts to review the footage. Several persons in the vicinity were questioned, and checks are ongoing for the suspects.
The GPF says it is actively pursuing the matter, and investigations are continuing.
Police investigate Albouystown shooting incident
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) says it is investigating an alleged discharging of a loaded firearm that occurred Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at about 21:40h, between Cooper and Non Pareil Streets, Independence Boulevard, Albouystown.
Reports indicate that a 28-year-old plumber was at his residence with his child
when he heard several loud explosions suspected to be gunshots. After taking cover, he later observed that his motorcar, which was parked in front of his home, had sustained damage believed to be caused by gunfire.
Police ranks, including senior officers and members of the Crime Scene Unit, visited the location and pro-
cessed the scene, where several spent shell casings were recovered.
CCTV cameras were observed in the area and will be reviewed, the GPF noted. Persons in the vicinity were questioned, and checks are ongoing to locate the suspect. No one was injured during the incident. Investigations are ongoing.
Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett
Local Govt Ministry launches Georgetown clean-up campaign
Officials from the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development on Tuesday evening commenced a citywide clean-up campaign in keeping with the Government’s national beautification project.
Leading the initiative were Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand, Minister within the Ministry
Pauline Sukhai, Director General Anand Persaud, Permanent Secretary Miguel Choo-Kang, and Deputy Permanent Secretary (Administration) Dr Josh Kanhai, along with senior officials of the Ministry.
As part of the exercise, Minister Manickchand visited Stabroek Market after 18:00h to gain first-hand insights from vendors operating in the area.
Vendors shared that while they are committed to keeping their environment clean, the lack of adequate resources and facilities for proper garbage disposal remains a significant challenge. They expressed that with the necessary support, littering in and around the market could be drastically reduced.
“This activity marks the beginning of intensified efforts to restore and main -
Bartica miner jailed for cannabis trafficking; another fined $250,000 for DUI
Two men appeared before the Bartica Magistrate’s Court this week on separate charges; one was sentenced to prison for drug trafficking, and the other was fined for drunk driving and multiple traffic offences.
On Wednesday, Roger Simon, popularly known as “Goat Man”, a 60-yearold gold miner of Lot 25 Fifth Avenue, Bartica, Essequibo River, was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment for trafficking cannabis. The case was heard by Magistrate Teriq Mohammed, who handed down the custodial sentence after a trial.
Simon had initially pleaded not guilty earlier this year to charges of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking and possession of narcotics but was later found guilty.
Simon is no stranger to the courts. In 2022, he was
charged along with two others for cannabis trafficking in Bartica. Before that, in 2017, he was acquitted of 12 counts of murder and seven counts of manslaughter in connection with the infamous Bartica massacre of February 17, 2008.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Delon Devon Gilkes, a 43-year-old resident of Sixth Avenue, Bartica, ap-
peared before Magistrate Mohammed on a driving under the influence (DUI) charge. Gilkes pleaded guilty and was fined $250,000, with an alternative of three months’ imprisonment.
In addition to the DUI, Gilkes was slapped with five other traffic-related charges, for which he was fined a further $60,000.
Buxton man charged with fraud, forgery
A26-year-old Buxton resident was on Wednesday charged with obtaining money by false pretence and uttering a forged document when he appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.
The accused, Aucllie Waterton, pleaded not guilty to both charges.
The first charge alleged that on April 28, 2025, at Georgetown, Waterton, with intent to defraud, obtained $100,000 from Nicola Jones by falsely pretending he could secure a lease from the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission.
It was further alleged that on the same day, Waterton ut-
tered a forged lease to Jones, purporting that it had been issued by the Guyana Lands and Surveys Division.
Waterton’s attorney, Dominic Bess, in a bail application, argued that his client has a fixed address, previously worked at the Ministry of Housing, and has no prior convictions or pending cases. He added that, according to Waterton, the matter stemmed from a misunderstanding between the parties, an issue he said should be resolved at trial.
Bess also told the court that Waterton cooperated fully with Police during the investigation and is prepared to comply with any bail conditions.
Chief Magistrate McGusty granted bail in the sum of $100,000. The matter was adjourned to October 29.
tain cleanliness across Georgetown, reinforcing the Government’s wider vision of a more beautiful, safe, and sustainable environment for all citizens,” the Ministry said in a statement.
The Ministry also noted that it continues to work collaboratively with stakeholders, vendors, and residents to ensure that communities are equipped
with the resources needed to maintain proper waste management practices.
The minister on Tuesday met with the city’s chief sanitation officer and hinted that there will be more announcements regarding the consequences of littering and dumping garbage in and around the city.
“Every citizen must be a participant. Stop littering. If you are contracted to pick up garbage, then pick up the garbage. Stop dumping. There are consequences to these horrific antisocial behaviours… more to come. BUT this city is going to be clean!!!” she said in her social media post Tuesday.
Pedestrian struck down by cop in Mon Repos accident identified as 62-year-old resident
Police on Wednesday confirmed the identity of the man who was fatally struck down Tuesday along the Mon Repos Public Road, East Coast Demerara.
The deceased has been identified as Rohan Sammy, a 62-year-old resident of Lot 127, Third Street, Mon Repos.
Initial reports stated that the victim was only known to villagers as “Soath”.
The accident occurred at
about 00:20h and involved a white motorcar, PAC 9262, driven by a 26-yearold Police Lance Corporal attached to the Ogle Police Outpost.
According to investigators, the motorcar was heading west along the northern drive lane of the southern carriageway when the pedestrian suddenly ran from the southern side of the road into its path. The left front of the vehicle struck Sammy, who fell onto the roadway and sus -
tained severe injuries. He was picked up in an unconscious state and rushed by ambulance to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he later succumbed. His body is at the GPHC mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination. A breathalyser test conducted on the driver showed no trace of alcohol. The Policeman has since been placed under close arrest as the investigation continues.
Soldier accused of assault granted $20,000 bail
AGuyana Defence Force (GDF) rank was on Wednesday charged with assault.
The accused, 29-yearold Akeem Ramascindo, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty.
He pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The charge alleged that on Monday, June 23, 2025, at Mc Doom, Greater Georgetown, Ramascindo unlawfully assaulted Victoria Wan, causing actual bodily harm.
The prosecutor objected to bail, citing the safety of the virtual complainant and the prevalence of domestic offences. The prosecutor stated that they knew each other because they worked together; however, Wan is in a relationship with the mother of the accused’s child.
Wan’s attorney, Everton Singh-Lammy, told the Magistrate that the accused would have previously used someone he knows to ensure that the matter didn’t proceed, and he’s been terrorising the virtual complainant since.
Lammy asked that conditions be put in place to ensure Ramascindo stays away from the virtual complainant.
Ramascindo told the court that he only visits that area to see his mother and his child on weekends, and he’d have no issue staying away from Wan.
Magistrate McGusty placed Ramascindo on $20,000 bail and ordered him to have no contact with the virtual complainant; the matter is adjourned to the 22nd of October.
Aucllie Waterton
Akeem Ramascindo
Roger Simon Delon Gilkes
Peruvian Police arrest suspects over livestreamed femicide in Argentina
Police in Peru have arrested the main suspect of the livestreamed torture and killing of two young women and a girl in Buenos Aires, bringing the total number of arrests to nine, according to the Argentinian Government.
In a statement posted on X late on Tuesday, Argentinian Security Minister Patricia Bullrich thanked the Peruvian authorities for detaining two people in connection with the femicide that has shocked Argentina since it was uncovered last week.
The main suspect, “Little J”, a Peruvian national who is about 20 years old, was arrested about 72 kilometres south of Peru’s capital, Lima. He reportedly operates a drug gang in the Zavaleta neighbourhood of Buenos Aires.
Matias Ozorio, who is thought to be the main suspect’s right-hand man, was also detained in Peru.
on September 30, 2025
Last Wednesday, the bodies of 20-year-old cousins Morena Verdi and Brenda del Castillo and 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez were discovered buried in the garden of a house in the southern suburbs of Argentina’s capital. They had gone missing five days earlier.
B’dos: 4 teens among 6 remanded on multiple robbery, burglary charges
Forty-four charges, the majority of which were for robbery and burglary, were read as six accused, including four teenagers, appeared in the No 1 District “A” Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday afternoon.
Birds River, Deacons, St Michael, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes.
Cummins, Kidd and Scott-Fagen face similar charges in the District ‘E’ Holetown jurisdiction. Holder, Scott-Fagen and Kidd also face similar charges in the District “D” jurisdiction.
had found themselves back before the law courts. She stressed that there was a need to safeguard society, insisting that their release would not be in the interest of public order, public safety or public security.
Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes agreed with the prosecution and remanded the men.
The charges were all indictable, and no pleas were taken.
AMexican immigrant wounded by a sniper in a shooting at a United States (US) Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office in Dallas last week has died of his injuries, an ICE official said on Tuesday, making him the second detainee killed in the attack.
The US Department of Homeland Security identified the deceased man as Miguel Angel Garcia, 31, who media accounts say was a house painter who came to the US as a child.
Another immigrant from El Salvador was killed at the scene of the September 24 attack, his wife said. A third victim from Venezuela remains in a hospital, according to media accounts.
DHS said Garcia entered the US illegally on an unknown date and was arrested by local Police in Arlington, Texas, on August 8 and charged with driv-
Buenos Aires Security Minister Javier Alonso said the trio were tortured and murdered in a closed social media group of 45 users, adding that the video was intended as a “warning” over an alleged drug theft.
Deroy Leroy Holder, 45, of Patricia Gardens, Mullins, St Peter; Serrian Jamali ScottFagen, 20, of no fixed place of abode; Dakari Deshawn Carmichael, 18, of Gunsite Road, Brittons Hill, St Michael; Runako Jeremiah Nurse, 17, of Applegrove, Black Rock, St Michael; and 16-year-olds Tyreall Jamar Kidd, of no fixed place of abode, and Damon Hayden Cummins, of 2nd Avenue
The footage came to light after a suspect in the case was questioned, Alonso added. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Mexican immigrant dies a week after Dallas ICE shooting, marking 2nd detainee death
ing under the influence and evading arrest. ICE requested that Garcia be held for possible deportation and took him into custody on the morning of September 24, the day of the shooting, DHS said.
Garcia had previous convictions in 2011 and 2017 for providing false information and evading arrest, DHS said.
Norlan GuzmanFuentes, a 37-year-old from El Salvador, was the man killed at the scene of the attack, according to ICE.
"He was caught in the crossfire of an attack he had nothing to do with," his wife, Yorlen Villatoro, said in a separate GoFundMe page to raise funds to cover funeral expenses.
No Government personnel were injured in the shooting, which took place around 06:40h. outside an ICE office where people detained as part of the Trump
Administration's crackdown on illegal immigration were processed.
The sniper fired "indiscriminately", according to officials, on an area where detainees were being escorted from vehicles into the building.
The shooter, identified as 29-year-old Joshua Jahn, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to officials.
The shooter left behind notes saying he acted alone in an attack intended to kill and "terrorise" ICE agents, whose work he viewed as "human trafficking", officials said last week.
Nancy Larson, acting US attorney for the Northern District of Texas, said at a news conference last week that it seemed clear from the gunman's writings "he did not intend to kill detainees or harm them." (Excerpt from Reuters)
Antigua cop guilty of firing 12 shots at
car; sentencing Friday
PProsecutor Station Sergeant Crishna Williams objected to the accused’s release, telling the court that Cummins, Scott-Fagen and Holder were known, as they were currently on bail and
The District “A” matters were transferred to the No 2 Court and adjourned until October 21.
Meanwhile, the accused who face District “D” and “E” matters will appear in District “D” on October 9 and District “E” on October 28. (Source: Barbados Today)
Caribbean countries face mixed ratings in US human trafficking Report
The United States (US) Department of State has released its 2025 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, highlighting the state of human trafficking in the Caribbean and worldwide.
In the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Guyana, and Suriname were placed in Tier One, meaning their Governments fully meet the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) minimum standards for eliminating trafficking.
Countries including Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Belize, Jamaica, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Curaçao, the Dominican
Republic, and Trinidad and Tobago were listed in Tier Two, where Governments do not fully meet TVPA standards but are making significant efforts toward compliance.
St Lucia and Barbados were placed on the Tier Two Watch List, which identifies Governments making efforts toward compliance but facing significant trafficking issues or not taking proportional actions to address the problem.
Tier Three countries, whose Governments do not meet minimum standards and are not making significant efforts, include Saint Maarten, Venezuela, and
Cuba. Haiti, along with Libya, Somalia, and Yemen, was designated a “Special Case”.
The TIP Report notes that the TVPA defines “severe forms of trafficking” as sex trafficking involving force, fraud, or coercion – or cases involving individuals under 18 – and forced labour, including debt bondage, peonage, or slavery.
The US uses the tier system to guide foreign policy, including potential restrictions on foreign assistance and votes at multilateral development banks for Tier Three countries. (Excerpt from CNW)
Former J’ca finance controller,
INSPORTS fraud case
Former financial controller at the Institute of Sports (INSPORTS), Andrew Wright, was on Tuesday convicted in the $222 million fraud racket uncovered at the Government-run sports agency eight years ago.
Two other defendants, Rudolph Barnes and O'Neil Hope, were also convicted before the Supreme Court on Tuesday.
The presiding Judge ordered six weeks for the preparation of social inquiry and antecedent reports before the final penalties are handed down.
The convictions bring to a close another chapter in the long-running case, which uncovered a scheme that syphoned off millions from INSPORTS.
charges, including conspiracy to defraud, acquisition, use and possession of criminal property, engaging in transactions involving criminal property and larceny as a servant.
The fraud and other irregularities were first discovered in 2017 during an internal review of INSPORTS' financial records.
Three other defendants were freed at the trial.
Prosecutors said Warner fired 12 rounds at a white Toyota Mark X with two occupants after a confrontation during an attempt to reclaim a leased vehi-
olice Officer Karim Warner broke down in tears on Wednesday after Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel found him guilty of discharging a firearm in a public place, stemming from a December 3, 2022 incident near Emerald Cove Resort in Willikies.
cle. According to the court, the male occupant refused to hand over the car before shots were fired.
Emanuel set sentencing for Friday. Warner will remain on bail until then.
(Antigua News Room)
Wright was found guilty on 13 counts, while his former colleagues Barnes and Hope were convicted on 11 counts and eight counts, respectively.
Hope was, however, acquitted on four charges.
The men were remanded in custody until November 21, when they will return to court for sentencing.
The group was accused of being part of a network of former and current INSPORTS employees who allegedly wrote, signed and cashed fraudulent cheques for individuals who were neither employed by nor contracted to the agency.
They faced various
The matter was subsequently referred to the Major Organised Crime and AntiCorruption Agency, triggering a long-running investigation.
Wright was eventually arrested in April 2023 while pursuing a wrongful dismissal case before the Industrial Disputes Tribunal. (Excerpt from Radio Jamaica Online)
The six accused were remanded to prison
This handout picture released by Peru's National Police shows Peruvian Police Officers arresting suspect "Little J" in Pucusana, Peru,
OIL NEWS
Oil slides to 16-week low on US, Asian economic worries, expected OPEC+ production increase
Oil prices slid for a third day in a row to a 16week low on Wednesday as a United States (US) Government shutdown fed worries about the global economy, while traders expected more oil supply to come on the market with a planned output boost by OPEC+ next month.
Brent crude futures fell 64 cents, or 1.0 per cent, to US$65.39 a barrel at 13:03h EDT (1703 GMT), while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell 55 cents, or 0.9 per cent, to US$61.82.
That put Brent on track for its lowest settlement since June 5, while WTI was headed for its lowest close since May 30.
US oil production growth will stall if prices stay near US$60 per barrel, as fewer drilling sites are profitable at that level, the CEO of Diamondback Energy (FANG.O), opens new tab, one of the country's top oil producers, said on Wednesday.
US gasoline futures were on track for their lowest close since September 2024.
Traders expect OPEC+ to boost production in November by about the same as the 500,000-barrel-per-day (bpd) hike in September, even as US and Asian demand start to decline, Rystad analyst Janiv Shah said.
However, OPEC wrote on X that media reports of plans to raise output by 500,000 bpd were misleading.
Oil prices were also pressured by a bigger-thanexpected increase in US crude inventories last week.
"Crude stocks rose following a drop in exports, which were not as hot and could signal some weak demand... we already had a pretty big sell-off on the Government shutdown and expectations that that could slow the economy and hurt demand," said Phil Flynn, a senior analyst at Price Futures Group. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Around
US Coast Guard offloads nearly US$94.5M in illegal narcotics in Fort Lauderdale from Operation Pacific Viper
US Coast Guard
Cutter Seneca’s crew offloaded more than 12,750 pounds of cocaine and marijuana with an approximate street value of $94.5 million in Port Everglades on Tuesday.
Seneca was deployed in support of Operation Pacific Viper. Coast Guard crews worked alongside interagency partners to interdict illicit narcotics in the international waters in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.
Through Operation
Pacific Viper, the Coast Guard is accelerating counter-drug operations in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, where significant transport of illicit narcotics continues from Central and South America.
Since launching this operation in early August, the Coast Guard has interdicted over 80,000 pounds of cocaine.
Twenty-nine suspected smugglers were transferred to federal custody. (Excerpt from CNG Media)
South Africa’s Ambassador to France found dead at Paris hotel; told wife he intended “to end his life”
South Africa’s Ambassador to France had “expressed his intention to end his life” in a message to his wife the night before he was found dead in the courtyard of a high-rise hotel, Paris’ public prosecutor said Tuesday.
Nkosinathi Emmanuel “Nathi” Mthethwa’s wife had reported him missing on Monday, having last seen him shortly before 16:30h, as “he was scheduled to attend a cocktail party,” prosecutor Laure Beccuau said in a statement.
“(She) then received a
Scores of students still missing after boarding school collapse in Indonesia
Indonesian rescue teams are frantically searching for scores of young students buried for two days under rubble in Sidoarjo, East Java, after their Islamic boarding school collapsed on them during afternoon prayers.
In one pocket of the mangled concrete of the collapsed century-old Al Khoziny boarding school, authorities located six children alive and were running food, water and oxygen to the trapped group.
But in total, at least 91 persons remain missing, Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Authority (BPBD) said late Tuesday. At least three persons have died, and 100 others were injured.
Indonesian officials have warned that time is running out to reach those still alive as the mammoth rescue operation entered its third day on Wednesday.
Rescue efforts are under further strain, however, after an earthquake struck
the region of Sumenep, about 124 miles from the collapse site, Reuters reported. Authorities fear the impact of those tremors may have packed the debris tighter.
There are 15 locations that teams are focusing on, six of which are strongly suspected to still contain survivors, the head of Indonesia’s national Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), Air Vice Marshal Mohammad Syafii, told local TV station Kompas. (Excerpt from CNN)
Wildlife advocate, primate expert Jane Goodall dies at 91
Scientist and global activist Jane Goodall, who turned her childhood love of primates into a lifelong quest for protecting the environment, died on Wednesday at the age of 91, the institute she founded said.
Goodall died of natural causes, the Jane Goodall Institute said in a social me-
dia post.
Goodall was a pioneer in her field, both as a female scientist in the 1960s and for her work studying the behaviour of primates. She created a path for a string of other women to follow suit, including the late Dian Fossey.
As her career evolved, she shifted her focus from
primatology to climate advocacy after witnessing widespread habitat devastation, urging the world to take quick and urgent action on climate change.
In 2003, she was appointed a Dame of the British Empire, and in 2025, she received the US Presidential Medal of Freedom. (Excerpt from Reuters)
The 58-year-old envoy had booked a room on the 22nd floor of the Hyatt hotel about 10 days before, Beccuau wrote, and had checked in at 16:30h on Monday.
At 11:30h on Tuesday, a security guard discovered Mthethwa’s body in the courtyard below.
Beccuau said hotel staff had noticed “the window’s safety mechanism had been forced open with scissors left at the scene.”
message from him shortly after 21:30h, in which he apologised and expressed his intention to end his life,” Beccuau added.
“Investigators found no signs of a struggle or traces of medication or narcotics,” the prosecutor said, adding that while Mthethwa’s
death appeared to have been self-inflicted, law enforcement would conduct an investigation “to gather any evidence useful to understanding the facts.”
Mthethwa was appointed Ambassador to France in December 2023. He had previously served as a member of South Africa’s parliament and as minister of sports, arts and culture, according to his embassy profile.
The Ambassador had faced corruption claims before he was found dead at the Paris hotel. He had denied those claims. (Source: CNN)
Bronx high-rise partially collapses after boiler room explosion
An explosion rocked a New York City Housing Authority building Wednesday morning in the Bronx, causing an entire corner of the high-rise to collapse.
Videos show a gaping hole in the side of the 20-story building and extensive
damage all along Alexander Avenue in the Mott Haven section of the borough. At this point, no injuries have been reported.
Mayor Eric Adams visited the scene and joined officials for an update on what may have caused the blast.
"We received reports of an incident involving the chimney to the boiler room here at NYCHA's Mitchel Houses. This resulted in a partial building collapse," the mayor announced. "We are extremely fortunate, at this time, we have no loss of life or no injuries." (Excerpt from CBS News)
US Supreme Court temporarily blocks Fed Governor Cook's firing
The United States (US) Supreme Court says it will hear arguments over President Donald Trump’s efforts to remove her from her post. The court’s announcement means Cook will stay in the job for now.
The high court announced the decision on Wednesday.
The White House has been trying to remove Cook in the first-ever bid by a President to fire a Fed official, an unprecedented challenge to central bank independence.
The justices declined to immediately decide a Department of Justice request to put on hold a Judge’s
order temporarily blocking the Republican President from removing Cook, an appointee of Democratic former President Joe Biden, while litigation over the termination continues in a lower court.
The justices said they would hear the case in January.
Washington, DC-based US District Judge Jia Cobb on September 9 ruled that Trump’s claims that Cook committed mortgage fraud before taking office, which Cook denies, likely were not sufficient grounds for removal under the Federal Reserve
Act.
Trump on August 25 said he was removing Cook from the Fed’s Board of Governors, citing allegations that before joining the central bank in 2022, she falsified records to obtain favourable terms on a mortgage. Her term is set to expire in 2038.
Cook, the first Black woman to serve as a Fed Governor, sued Trump soon after. Cook has said the claims made by Trump against her did not give the President the legal authority to remove her and were a pretext to fire her for her monetary policy stance.
(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa, 58, was appointed Ambassador to France in 2023
The crew of USCGC Seneca (WMEC 906) stand for a photo during a drug offload at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, September 30, 2025
Engage in pastimes that bring you joy. Volunteer to help organizations that address matters of concern. Give back to your community, and you’ll connect with people who share your values.
You may want to reflect before making a move or settling for something that doesn’t thrill you. Look around and consider how you can use your skills more diversely.
A change of plans will bring value and hope into your life. Explore the possibilities, and research how you can use your skills and experience to earn extra cash.
Effective money management will be beneficial. Consider selling items you no longer need. A lifestyle change help you get back on track and encourage you to reset your priorities.
Stop fretting and start doing what makes you happy. Life is simple when you don’t complicate matters. Rethink your past and consider what you’d do differently.
Make what you do count. Don’t live someone else’s dream when you have your own to pursue. Participate in events that offer insight into something that excites you.
Take pride in what you do, and you’ll gain the respect and trust of those you deal with today. A change to your routine will enhance how you spend your time and encourage you to pursue new experiences.
Be careful how you handle friends, associates and lovers. Keep an open mind and give others the same freedom you expect in return. Stop spinning your wheels; it’s time to evolve.
Limitations are lessons; don’t waste time. Take responsibility for your happiness, and you’ll discover ways to diversify and make the most out of whatever comes your way.
Listen, dissect and adjust. You have more choices than you realize, and once you head in the right direction, you’ll gain momentum. Acceptance and release will give you the courage to do what’s best for you.
Check documents, sign agreements, set priorities and take care of business. Use your insight and imagination to initiate the changes that bring you happiness.
Give yourself a nudge. Invest time and money in achieving a lifestyle that satisfies your soul. Be brave, say no when necessary and take responsibility for your life.
ARCHIE
Two solo century acts lit up the AustraliaNew Zealand World Cup contest in Indore. It was Ashleigh Gardner's which proved to be the match-winning one, while Sophie Devine's effort went in vain, as defending cham pions Australia opened their campaign with an 89run win.
Gardner rescued Australia from a precari ous position, helping them recover from 128 for 5 to post 326, by smashing 115 off 83 balls. It was a to tal that required a record chase, with the highest ever chase in women's One-Day Internationals (ODIs) being 302. Devine was left to do the heavy lifting after early wickets, but could not keep up with the scoreboard pres sure. She finished with 111, her ninth century in ODIs, while New Zealand could only muster 237 in 43.2 overs.
Ellyse Perry, targeting the off side for her big hits. Litchfield adjusted well to the lengths of the fast bowlers and began to place the ball in the gaps, looking on track for a big score after taking Australia to 81
Gardner did not take her foot off the gas even as wickets fell around her, hurrying to her century in the next 34 balls. She soaked in the applause of the 8900-strong crowd in Indore, hosting its first-ever women's ODI,
Alyssa Healy and Phoebe Litchfield started positively after Australia opted to bat. Litchfield was particularly adept at using her feet, as she came down the track often to play her big shots. Even after Healy departed in the fifth over, Litchfield continued to pile on the runs in the com - pany of
for the Australia batters, mixing googlies, flight, and control during her spell. The experienced Lea Tahuhu triggered a mini collapse, starting with Perry's wicket in the 18th over.
Annabel Sutherland was the next one to go in the following over, with Kerr having her caught at mid-on. Australia then lost their third wicket in the space of 24 balls, with Beth Mooney dismissed tamely for 12.
The rearguard for Australia came in the form of Gardner. She was aggressive from the start, getting off the mark with a punch over extra cover. Gardner took on the spinners and fast bowlers alike, particularly punishing them through the covers and down the ground. She stamped her authority as she danced down the track to hit Kerr for a six to bring up her half-century off 43 balls.
ter an injury layoff, was given the new ball with Kim Garth, and the move paid off. Molineux removed the experienced Suzie Bates for a duck in the second over to leave New Zealand in tatters.
New Zealand were 24 for 2 at the end of nine overs, but Kerr broke the pressure with a flurry of boundaries in the 10th over off Darcie Brown. But with Sutherland and Alana King bowling in tandem, Kerr toiled for her runs while Devine occasionally found the gaps. From 28 off 30 balls, Kerr laboured to 33 off 55 before being dismissed by King next ball.
The first six of New Zealand's innings came when Devine walked down to Gardner to pump her into the sightscreen, and soon brought up a 69ball half-century. Brooke Halliday hit the second one, off King, and followed it up with a boundary, but King had the last laugh, dismissing her for 28.
The asking rate had ballooned to 10 by then.
With Australia's spinners making New Zealand work hard for the runs, Devine feasted on some wayward bowling from Brown in the 36th over, hitting her for four consecutive boundaries to move into the 90s. Brown had come into the XI in place of premier pacer Megan Schutt. Despite New Zealand needing 107 off 54 balls and
wickets falling around her, Devine kept a cool head and hit a six over deep midwicket to raise her century. But a triple-wicket 43rd over by Sutherland, in which she dismissed Devine, Jess
Kerr, and Eden Carson, all but quashed New Zealand's slim hopes. Molineux wrapped up New Zealand's innings in the following over to finish with 3 for 25 on her return. (ESPNcricinfo)
Lea Tahuhu's second wicket derailed Australia
Sophie Molineux struck in her first over
Phoebe Litchfield was solid at the top
Sophie Devine's knock of 111 went in vain
Ashleigh Gardner brought up a 77-ball century
Test match. "When you have nothing to lose, you can just go and play freely, because, I mean, everyone is expecting us to lose."
Everyone expects West Indies to lose.
EBig picture
very home season brings the same expectations from India, but this one also brings a set of new anxieties. They are about to play their first home Test since 0-3, their first home Test under Shubman Gill's captaincy, and their first home Test since the retirements of R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. An unusually-green pitch in Ahmedabad adds another layer of anxiety, potentially magnifying the importance of the toss.
India's anxieties, of course, pale in comparison to those of their opponents: injuries to key fast bowlers, the loss of a T20 International (T20I) series to Nepal (albeit with a second-string team that has no overlap with their Test squad), the emergency review of the team's Test-match performances that followed 27 all out in Kingston, and the existential questions around the team's future in the World Test Championship. West Indies cannot turn anywhere without fear of getting punched in the face.
But it could give them the licence to throw a few punches of their own. Their Captain Roston Chase put it simply on the eve of the
Everyone expects India to win. Everyone always expects India to win at home. From the start of 2013 to roughly the same point last year, India kept meeting these expectations again and again and again.
Until they did not.
Until New Zealand visited and won in a manner that showed just how much skill and effort it had taken for India to create and sustain the illusion of invincibility over such a long period. You might be the best team in the world, but you have to keep going out and proving it again and again, each time against a set of highly-skilled athletes throwing a new set of challenges at you.
Man to man, in personnel terms, this Test in Ahmedabad looks like a mismatch. But it will begin with the scorecard reading 0 for 0, in conditions from which no one quite knows what to expect.
In the spotlight
The last time India went into a home Test without Ashwin was all the way back in November 2010. As good as their spin attack is even without him, India will only really know what his absence means when they actually deal with it. In this scenario, Ravindra Jadeja becomes even more important than he usually
is, with ball, bat, and as a leader, and not just because he is Vice Captain for this series.
There is grass on the Ahmedabad pitch, but West Indies do not have Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph. They do, however, have one of the world's best young fast-bowling talents in Jayden Seales, whose 88 Test wickets so far have come at the hugely impressive average of 22.32. He is quick, skilful, and bowls a fullish natural length that could bother India's batters considerably if there is any help available. If he gets on a roll, Seales has the potential to make the kind of impact that Suranga Lakmal did in Kolkata in 2017 or Matt Henry and Will O'Rourke did in Bengaluru last year.
Team news India, as always, kept their selection cards close to their chest on the eve of the match, but Gill suggested they are considering playing a third seamer given the greenness of this redsoil pitch in Ahmedabad. Does this mean a third frontline quick in Prasidh Krishna, or does it mean the all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy? And what does it mean for the spin attack, and for Kuldeep Yadav?
India (possible): 1) Yashasvi Jaiswal; 2) KL Rahul; 3) B Sai Sudharsan; 4) Shubman Gill (Captain); 5) Dhruv Jurel (wicketkeeper); 6) Nitish Kumar Reddy/Axar Patel/Devdutt Padikkal; 7) Ravindra Jadeja; 8) Washington Sundar; 9) Kuldeep Yadav/ Prasidh Krishna; 10) Jasprit Bumrah and 11) Mohammed Siraj.
Jediah Blades, who replaced Alzarri Joseph in West Indies' squad, had not yet joined his teammates in Ahmedabad by Wednesday. This means Seales will be partnered in their pace attack by Anderson Phillip and/or the uncapped Johann Layne, as well as the all-rounder Justin Greaves. Khary Pierre could also make his debut at 34, as one of two left-arm fingerspinners alongside Jomel Warrican. West Indies (possible): 1) Tagenarine Chanderpaul; 2) Kevlon Anderson; 3) Alick Athanaze; 4) Brandon King; 5) Shai Hope (wicketkeeper); 6) Roston Chase; 7) Justin Greaves; 8) Khary Pierre; 9) Jomel Warrican; 10) Anderson Phillip/ Johann Layne and 11) Jayden Seales.
Pitch and conditions
India begin this new home season on an unusually-green pitch, with potentially 4-5 millimetres of grass on it. Selections and toss decisions could come down to how much moisture it retains on the morning of the match. The teams will also keep a wary eye on the sky and the forecast, with Ahmedabad experiencing intermittent rain in the lead-up to the Test and with showers expected on day one.
Quotes
"I've mostly played T20 here and I think it's very different from playing a Test match, because obviously the wicket, over a period of five days, plays differently from a T20 match. The last
Test match that we played here was on a black-soil [pitch]. We're playing this one on red soil. So, I'm also looking forward to seeing how the wicket is going to play over the next five days" – India Captain Shubman Gill is unsure how this Ahmedabad pitch will behave.
"This is a new series, it's a new day, so we just have to put everything behind [us] that has happened before, and just come out with the mentality that we're looking to dominate, we're looking to win, and just go out there and give your best, ask God for guidance, and stick together as a team. Obviously, we're in India, we're not going to have much support, so we have to stick together as a unit -- coaching staff, players, management, we all have to support one another through the tough times and through the good times as well" – West Indies Captain Roston Chase on getting back on the field after all the recent setbacks. (ESPNcricinfo)
Inaugural Berbice drag race set for October 12
The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) in a bid to decentralise the sport will take its drag racing action to the Ancient County of Berbice.
Set for October 12 at the Rose Hall, Canje Airstrip, the event, which begins at 10:00h, will feature some of the top machines from across the country in the quarter mile shootout.
GMR&SC Vice President Mohamed Shiraz Roshandin said in an interview, “For years, the Ancient County of Berbice has been asking to be a part of our calendar of activities, and this year, we put in a bit more work to include them.
“One of the hardest parts was finding a venue that we could safely host the event. A place where we would have a long enough distance to run the quarter mile and still be able to have spectators view it safely.
“After some work, we managed to get the Rose Hall, Canje Airstrip to use. Later in the week some of the senior racers and executives will go on the ground to see what needs to be done to make the event happen as safely as possible.”
The VP added that the turnout for the upcoming event would determine if it would become a permanent fixture in Berbice.
Tickets for the event will be sold at the gate
with adults paying $2000 and children paying $1000.
Scenes from West Indies’ last training session before today’s Test match commences
Promising signs for new Golden Jaguars gaffer Dooley
Anew day had dawned for Guyana’s senior men’s national football team, the Golden Jaguars, as new Head Coach Thomas Dooley has begun his work with the team’s locally-based players.
Dooley, during his first stint in Guyana, ran several sessions with current and prospective Golden Jaguars players, getting a view of what they have to offer.
Guyana Times Sport caught up with the new gaffer during one of the sessions, where he admitted to seeing positive signs among the players.
“So, for me, it was very important to see what they have, what they have encountered, and I don’t want to say that I was surprised but I was positive surprised. I was like, I like it, because every single one has something that we can work on and we can make it better,” the new Head Coach disclosed to this publication.
The former USA senior men’s team captain went on
to divulge one of his areas of focus, which will be perfecting the basics of the game.
Dooley explained, “The bottom line for me, when I worked with those kind of teams, it is important to get the basics right and the basics need to be almost perfect and that means passing and receiving. We did some exercises in the first five days that I might continue, we’re doing passing exercises not as a warm-up but as a second warm-up. So, you can see who has some issues and who doesn’t and you can also see, I saw that and I was very positive about that, they adopted it.
“Not just in those 10 minutes, but in the second and third day, they actually implemented it and it was much more fluent. Even if I brought a passing exercise that is a little bit unusual but it’s a position-based passing exercise, that they have to think a little bit more about, where they’re passing in and why they have to play like this; you could see
the first three minutes, it’s like a little chaos and when I explained to them why you have to do this and that, you could see [their] repetition makes it perfect. So, they’re getting better and better and better.”
Quizzed about what can be done to allow the Guyanese players to compete well at the CONCACAF level, Dooley highlighted mindset as a major component.
“It’s difficult to say, I mean there’s a lot of stuff they have to develop in thinking football,” the Head Coach responded. He continued, “Thinking about ‘why am I going to do this?’ I mean, what’s some goals we got and we talk ed about what’s wrong be cause it’s a mindset and you need to think differently. You need to understand, ev ery position has a responsi bility and that responsibili ty has to be fulfilled to 80-90 per cent and the one who fulfills 80-90 per cent has a better chance than the oth
GNIC Ground reopens with exciting “Winner Take
Tournament
er one who is 50-60 per cent. So, I think that it’s promising, what I see here.”
“It’s a must to play in that A League, that’s where we have to be and then, when we get back there, the goal has to be we go to the next one, we go to the final stage, that has to be always in front of us.”
The new Head Coach went on to express his eagerness to blend the local group with the internationally- based players.
GDF (green and white) ran over Fruta Conquerors to keep their top-two hopes alive
TThe Guyana National Industrial Company (GNIC) Sports Ground on Woolford Avenue will roar back to life this Sunday as the historied Club reopens its doors for a thrilling full day of cricket—the first in several years.
Fans can look forward to the “Winner Take All” Cricket Tournament, featuring some of the most exciting local teams: Brooklyn Youth, Eastside, GT Flames, Knight Riders, Team Infinity, Maverick’Z, Upsetters, and Mahaica Hawks. The action begins at 08:00h, with the grand finale set for 16:00h.
Adding to the vibrant at-
mosphere, over 30 models from the Mi Amor Agency will be on hand, bringing a new level of energy, style, and promotion to tape-ball cricket.
Mr Ramgobin Ramkissoon of GNIC expressed his enthusiasm, “We at the senior management level are extremely excited and pleased to see the facility back in full swing. We extend our thanks to Aleem [Hussain of Nexgen Global] and his incredible team who worked tirelessly over the past few weeks to make this possible. We encourage everyone to come out, enjoy what GNIC Sports Club has to offer, and experience a
wonderful day of family fun and entertainment.”
In preparation for the reopening, GNIC has invested millions of dollars into upgrading the ground, cricket pitch, and surrounding areas to meet first-class standards. Spectators and players alike can look forward to a welcoming atmosphere, delicious food and beverages, and a facility that is poised to once again become a premier hub for sporting activities.
As such, GNIC has extended an open invitation to the public to be part of this exciting revival of cricket, family fun, and community spirit.
he battle is now on for second place in the Guyana Football Federation’s Elite League with defending champions Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Football Club springing into the top three for the first time this season.
However, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) FC are holding firm in second place, owing to a blistering 26-0 thrashing of the tournament’s perpetual victims Lake Mainstay Goldstar FC.
The drubbing came on Monday night at the GFF’s National Training Centre (NTC) at Providence, East Bank Demerara, where Neron Barrow was the marksman to watch, netting 10 goals in the 4th, 5th, 9th, 22nd, 42nd, 43rd, 55th, 58th, 59th and 67th minutes.
Barrow was supported by a hat-trick off the boots of Jemar Harrigan in the 18th, 29th, 41st minutes while Daren Banjamin (35th, 53rd); Troyston Louisy (74th, 90th) and Adrian Aaron (77th, 90th) netted braces. Simeon Moore (12th); Antonio McArthur (40th); Jaden Thom (45th+2); Dorwin George (50th); Sealon Sue (63rd); Devon Padmore (85th) and Carl Griffth (87th) each found the back of the net once for the massive win.
Dooley shared, “I think, I can’t wait to get the first team together, mixed with what we have; they have a little advantage, they know how I want to play and what we need to do to step up. The other players, maybe not, but we will see what the players show in the next months.”
Guyana’s Golden Jaguars are likely to be back in action in late 2026, following the FIFA World Cup’s conclusion, unless they compete in international friendlies.
Also on Monday, Monedderlust FC continued to keep Santos out of the top five, on the heels of a 1-1 draw. Monedderlust struck first in the 38th minute through Dawit Watts while Kymani Sealey levelled the score for Santos in the 66th.
Meanwhile, the GDF
Elite League…
in the 30th, 45th and 55th highlighted the contest, accompanied by strikes off the boots of William Europe (71st), Dwayne James (84th) and Daniel Wilson (88th).
FC kept their recent winning streak going over the weekend, downing an outof-sorts Fruta Conquerors 9-0. Abumuchi Opara led the way with a helmet trick in the 10th, 43rd, 49th and 80th minutes, followed by teenage sensation Quaency Fraser’s brace in the 61st and 90th. In addition, Makhaya Jarvis (75th), Stephen McDonald (69th) and Shakem Welcome (85th) all netted one apiece for GDF.
That match was followed by another lopsided contest, featuring Western Tigers and Ann’s Grove United, in which the former cruised to a 6-0 victory. Samuel Garnett’s hat-trick
As the League winds down, this week’s points table shows Slingerz FC still in the lead with 43 points from 15 games. Police occupy the second spot with 37 points from 16 games, but GDF are close on their heels with 35 points from a similar 16 games. After faltering against Santos last week, Western Tigers have dropped down to fourth with 34 points from 18 games while Monedderlust FC complete the top five with 24 points from 17 games. The ongoing seventh edition of the League continues this Saturday with another double-header at the same venue. In the first game at 18:30h, Ann’s Grove United take on Mainstay Goldstar while at 21:00h, Slingerz battle Monedderlust FC.
A look at the lopsided clash between Police (blue) and Mainstay FC
Snippets from one of the Golden Jaguars’ sessions with Head Coach Thomas Dooley
