Major gold-smuggling bust Brazilian man on $1M station bail, woman $75,000 court bail
…says Guyana
Cuban man jailed in Guyana for chopping woman GPL workers educated on sexual harassment, reporting procedures Fisherman found dead on parapet at CWC Women accessing high-quality maternal care in all regions – Dr Anthony …no need for referrals to GPHC Health voucher programmes Govt moves to resolve delayed payments to service providers
The Government is working to resolve the issue of delayed payments to various service providers under the Health Ministry’s various voucher programmes that were rolled out last year. In 2024, the Government introduced vouchers for eye tests and spectacles for school children as well as pensioners. Those vouchers are valued $2000 for eye
tests and $15,000 for spectacles.
Last year, the Government had also launched the cervical screening programme, targeting women between the
ages of 21 to 65.
Eligible women received $8,000 vouchers for cervical cancer screenings.
A number of private service providers across the country had signed up with
the Health Ministry to accept the vouchers. However, it has since been revealed that a number of these organisations have had issues with receiving payments from the Government for accepting the vouchers.
Nevertheless, during the launch of this year’s voucher programmes on Monday, Permanent Secretary of the Health Ministry Malcolm Watkins assured that the issue is being addressed.
“We sat down with the internal team, went through that feedback and tried to put some systems or improve the existing systems to make this year a bit more seamless we understand that last year there were some delays in payments. I can tell you now that we have resolved that with the Ministry of Finance and you will be called to get to pick up those unpaid from last year but we will try to solve it this year.”
The Ministry also signed new Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with service providers for its eye testing and spectacles as well as its cervical cancer screening programmes which will continue this year.
Additionally, MoUs were signed with the service providers for the Government’s universal health voucher programme which was announced in Budget 2025.
This year, Watkins emphasised that more work is needed to ensure these programmes benefit citizens from the hinterland.
“So, I think one of the areas we need to focus on is how do we put systems in place to access to give people in the hinterland more access to lab services and we would hope that what we discussed the last time with the Minister that you begin to think not only within the box but out of the box to find ways to get those samples in and get those screenings done.”
Meanwhile, to avoid any issues with this year’s programmes, the Ministry is urging service providers to carefully follow their in-
structions for receiving payments.
Dr Lachmie Lall, Director of the NonCommunicable Diseases (NCD) Programme, provided new service providers with an overview of how the voucher verification process is conducted.
“Once you would have done your testing, you update all of your information into the spreadsheet, and then you prepare your invoices, and you send that to the Ministry. When you send your information in the spreadsheet, our team from the medical treatment department, they will now go through, verify all of the voucher numbers that have been placed in the spreadsheet.”
She added, “They will then share that with the surveillance team. The surveillance team now will go to the Google Sheet that you have inputted all of the patient's information, and they're going to verify each patient from that list, and then they will sign off on the invoices, and then that will go on to the accounts, to the Permanent Secretary for signing, and then on to the accounts department for processing.”
Meanwhile, last year, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had lamented the low uptake of these initiatives. He had explained that the eye tests and spectacles programme was intended to target 200,000 children and some 74,000 pensioners but as of September 2024, only 23,000 eyes tests have been done and some 18,750 spectacles.
Likewise, the cervical cancer screening programme targeting women aged 21-65, offering vouchers for screening at approved facilities. As of September 2024, only one per cent of distributed vouchers redeemed. Jagdeo had said that out of the 60,000 vouchers made available to women only 3,300 tests have been conducted. Some 300,000 women were eligible for the programme.
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, March 11 –03:30h-05:00h and Wednesday, March 12 – 04:00h-05:30h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, March 11 –14:35h-16:05h and Wednesday, March 12 – 15:20h-16:50h.
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Sunny conditions are expected throughout the day, with partly cloudy skies and light rain showers at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.92 metres.
High Tide: 15:15h reaching a maximum height of 2.38 metres.
Low Tide: 08:49h and 21:14h reaching minimum heights of 0.95 metre and 0.79 metre.
The Rose Hall and Blairmont estates are leading the way when it comes to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) achieving its first crop target and in the long run, its overall 2025 target of 100,000 tonnes of sugar.
Last year, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government had announced an ambitious target of 100,000 tonnes of sugar for 2025. In an interview with this publication, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha explained the progress that has been made so far in realising this goal.
“They only started recently. Last week Rose Hall would have made their target. I hope Albion and Uitvlugt will come on stream. And we should meet the target for this crop,” the Agriculture Minister explained.
Mustapha noted that for the first crop alone, they have had a promising start, with the Blairmont and Rose
work more closely with workers to address the issues facing the industry. This he noted would require senior leaders, including the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Paul Cheong to conduct more intensive visits and increase interaction with workers in the field.
Since the destruction of the sugar industry left by the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government, the PPP/C Government has invested significant sums in recapitalising and mechanising the industry.
Between 2020 and 2024, the Government invested approximately $45 billion in the sugar industry, to revitalise the sector and make it a vital component of the country’s developmental plans.
The focus has been on modernising operations, including the mechanisation of estates, with at least 40 per cent of the estates now automated. Additionally, efforts
tems to improve efficiency.
The sugar sector contracted by 21.8 per cent in 2024 with GuySuCo producing 47,103 tonnes from the 63,276-tonne target. The low production was as a result of
Hall estates setting the pace. He was also optimistic that Albion and Uitvlugt would make contributions of their own, towards realising a first crop goal of 40,000 tonnes of sugar.
“We’re striving to make 40,000 tonnes… we’ve budgeted 37,000. But I’m hoping that we can make 40,000 tonnes this crop and 60,000 next crop, so we can do the 100,000 this year. Because the canes are good in the field. As long as the weather permits it, we’ve done a lot of capitalisation on the factories.”
“And we are also procuring equipment. Things like harvesters, billet harvesters. These machines, they cutting the canes and loading it. And then we have these punt dumpers. The bell loaders. So, we increased those fleets. And then we’re also moving very, very aggressively to continue the mechanisation process.”
GuySuCo produced 6,738 tonnes of sugar for its first crop of 2024, falling short of the initial target of 16,000 tonnes. In total, less than 50,000 tonnes of sugar were produced in 2024, with President Dr Irfaan Ali warning that heads will roll if GuySuCo’s 2025 first crop targets aren’t met.
Additionally, Mustapha himself had instructed GuySuCo management to
have been made to recapitalise the industry by replacing broken infrastructure and sys-
the impact of El Niño, compounded by labour shortages across the industry through-
out last year.
Last year, some $15.5 billion was expended on support to the sugar industry, including the acquisition of six new cane harvesters; conversion of 2,734 hectares of land for mechanised cultivation and harvesting, and rehabilitated critical revetment works.
In 2025, an additional 3,068 hectares of land will be converted to support mechanisation. Key investments will be made to acquire additional field equipment, rehabilitate field infrastructure, and construct over 17 kilometres (km) of all-weather roads across the industry.
For these efforts, some $13.3 billion was approved during the budget estimates – as part of the Agriculture Ministry’s $104.6 billion budget – to support and rehabilitate the sugar industry this year.
Editor: Tusika Martin
News Hotline: 231-8063Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761
Marketing: 231-8064Accounts: 225-6707
Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown
Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com
The Small Business Bureau (SBB), in partnership with the Education Ministry, has once again demonstrated its commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship among young Guyanese through the launch of the 2025 edition of the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP). This initiative, which continues to be an encouragement of opportunity for aspiring young business leaders, aims to cultivate a culture of innovation, selfsufficiency, and economic empowerment in the nation’s youth.
This year’s program has expanded its reach to 12 secondary schools across Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Eight, Nine, and Ten. The initiative is designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge, and financial backing necessary to transform their entrepreneurial dreams into tangible businesses. Recognising the importance of financial support, YEP 2025 will award monetary incentives to 60 selected students, thereby enabling them to actualise their business ideas. However, the program’s value extends far beyond financial assistance – it offers comprehensive training in business planning, marketing strategies, and financial management. Such holistic support is instrumental in fostering resilience and adaptability among young entrepreneurs.
The Chief Executive Officer of the SBB, Shazim Ibrahim, underscored the enduring impact of this initiative, stating: “We recognise the potential of young entrepreneurs and the importance of equipping them with the right tools. YEP 2025 goes beyond providing monetary rewards to help students launch their businesses; it fosters innovation, resilience, and an entrepreneurial mindset that will empower them both in the classroom and throughout their lives.”
This advanced initiative aligns with the broader national objective of youth development and economic empowerment. By instilling an entrepreneurial mindset at an early stage, YEP 2025 serves as a catalyst for long-term economic growth. Encouraging young people to think creatively, take calculated risks, and develop their own enterprises not only benefit the individuals involved but also contribute to the overall economic diversification of Guyana. In an era where traditional employment opportunities are evolving, fostering entrepreneurship among youth ensures that they have viable career alternatives that align with their passions and skill sets.
The SBB’s commitment to youth entrepreneurship is not new. Since the inception of the In-School Entrepreneurship Programme in 2017, the Bureau has been instrumental in providing secondary school students with the tools to explore business innovation as a career pathway. This programme, which particularly targets vulnerable students from all ten administrative regions, has proven successful in bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application. Many students who have benefited from this initiative have gone on to establish viable businesses, demonstrating that with the right support, young people can make significant contributions to the national economy.
The significance of YEP 2025 cannot be overstated. As the global economic landscape shifts, there is a growing need for individuals who can navigate challenges with creativity and strategic thinking. Programmes such as YEP not only create opportunities for young people but also foster a culture of selfreliance and innovation. By investing in the entrepreneurial aspirations of students, Guyana is effectively laying the groundwork for a future generation of business leaders who will drive economic progress and job creation.
By continuously refining and expanding initiatives like YEP, policymakers and stakeholders are ensuring that young people are given the resources and encouragement necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive world.
As YEP 2025 unfolds, it is imperative that the Private Sector, educational institutions, and community leaders lend their support to this initiative. Entrepreneurship is not solely about financial success; it is about problem-solving, resilience, and the ability to innovate in the face of adversity. These qualities are essential for any nation seeking sustainable economic development. With the right support and guidance, the young entrepreneurs emerging from this programme have the potential to transform not only their own futures but also that of the nation as a whole.
Wasn't this the same call made in 2015?
Dear Editor,
It is said, history repeats itself, and this is what we see unfolding right before our very eyes. We heard that clarion call from some certain sections of the populace, "We want change," that was before 2015. A time when we were told that the treasury was bankrupted by The PPP/C Government and there was rampant corruption all over the country, facilitated by The PPP/C and its cronies. We were told that our country was in dangerous hands and we must make a change now to save Guyana from further harm and ignominy.
Around this same time there was the trumpeting of promises, yes, promises of "A Good Life," when everything would be randy dandy and where this country would reach nirvana. Nice sounding words and great promises, some fell for it and in came the Good Life Coalition, instead of fulfillment of their promises we witnessed a series of boldfaced cronyism and crass ineptitude on the part of the ruling elite.
First on their list of duties, was to raid the treasury, the very same treasury they claim was empty. The Coalition raised their salaries by 50 per cent while at the same time
forced 200 new taxes on the people they were supposed to help. They built nothing, well, a slight correction, they built Voodoo Stadium at Durban Park, to this day we cannot audit the millions that were accrued to it. It was a situation of a Coalition immediately metamorphosing into a rag tag group, who did the very same things they accused the PPP/C of. They illegally sold hundreds of acres of prime state lands during the period when the Government had fallen. Others of the clan, wore large gold bangles and sported gold pendants; the precious stone of choice.
We are hearing that same corruption call all over again, this time coming from The Mohameds, this father and son business Moghuls, are shouting from the sidelines that Guyana is in bad hands. They claim this country is in deep corruption and they are the only ones capable of rescuing this nation.
This dark shades, wily character, has come into the spotlight claiming to be the prince charming of change, he has built a few homes for those in need through his charitable outreaches among other things. He has also visited some hotspots where
farmers and other disgruntled persons openly voiced their problems. These occasions were used as photo opportunity to gain popularity wherewith there is the call for him to enter the presidential race.
His overambition has propelled him into the realm of entering the political race, as was seen in his Lima Sands outreach.
But claiming rights to the leadership race for this country, The Mohameds have to first face up to their past, which is not good reading. First of all, they are a "Business" family who had spent 40 years building up an empire under questionable circumstances, which is the cause for USA Sanctions. It was as a result of these tax evasion clauses that the USA have imposed sanctions on the family business.
Here is Guyana their names have been called in on other shady matters, they must first clear their names before attempting to vilify the PPP/C, because that opens themselves to a ton of skeletons that are in their cupboards. Making a few donations or building a few houses is not governance of a country? To govern a country takes proper planning and a meticulous execution of those promises, are The Mohameds up to that task? The PPP/C
over the years have shown that they have the drive and the capacity to fulfill promises, they have repeatedly shown that they have the wherewithal to fulfill their manifesto to the letter.
The question comes again, are the Mohameds really standing up for the people of this country? His father has openly stated that "his business" has been negatively impacted by the sanctions and he is livid as a result. So, what must we deduce from that statement or, from the would-be presidential hopeful when he said "I am the only person with a Lamborghini and I am here to hear your problems nothing else"?
Fighting for one's business is one thing, but do not "pee in my eye" and call it rain when you tell me that you care for people, that is not caring for people that is making a throughway for his own self-interest. What I see happening is a rehash of The 2015 election fiasco where everyone is fighting for votes to shore up their ambitious attempts to rule this country. We are watching.
Respectfully, Neil Adams
As the Commonwealth marks 76 years of unity across various nations, British Ambassador to Guyana, Jane Miller, on Monday emphasised the significance of fostering togetherness in the 2025 celebrations. The Commonwealth, comprising 56 nations, upholds core values of democracy, peace, and prosperity.
Most of the Commonwealth nations were formerly territories of the British Empire. The Commonwealth includes countries from Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, the Americas, Europe, and the Pacific.
According to Miller, a great standout is the diversity that comes with the Commonwealth, which binds together both small and large countries.
“What interests me about the Commonwealth is the diversity, from very small countries to huge countries, from very wealthy to poorer countries, from large countries to small, from old to new countries.”
She further highlighted that part of this revelation has come from the King of England, who strongly agrees to this as well who spoke similarly about the importance of unity despite diversity.
“But what really brings them all together is that diversity is the strength of the Commonwealth, and it’s a message that the King makes in his message just today. He talks about the opportunity of the Commonwealth as an
opportunity to listen and to learn from one another, as a source of support to one another, and a source of friendship amongst one another. We do see the Commonwealth as a powerful source.”
The theme for Commonwealth Day this year which is celebrated to-
Meanwhile, Culture, Youth and Sports Minister, Charles Ramson, who was present at a mural unveiling on Monday at the British High Commission Office, Main Street, Georgetown said that “we’ve been working very closely with the King’s Foundation, and you will hear a lot more about trees and the environment as part of our developmental pathway. This will take shape while we want to rapidly advance the country, so that the important developments help to change the quality of life for everyone, without forsaking the important ingredients that are essential for the well-being of all.”
He added that common
values about what Guyana believes in are also very important for the country.
He also added that the commonwealth laws must represent the common laws in Guyana.
“That is the principle that most form part of the entire world, one that must be built on peace and prosperity. Over a period of time, we have seen how important this organisation has become in leading the charge for those common principles, even for people we have never met before. People who have become part of our human family. The common laws must represent the common laws in our country.”
Ramson also expressed
that one key sector Guyana has been contributing to is its carbon, which impacts various countries, ultimately highlighting another contribution of the Commonwealth.
“We have also been serving an important sector for the world, as our carbon impacts not just the people of Guyana, but everyone. That is why it is important that, as leaders in our own rights, we see this as an important pillar of how we build. Now, I want to take you to the importance of art. Art has a way of creating an interpretation of words that are not expressed. In fact, the interpretation rests solely in the minds of individuals who ponder over time.”
Dear Editor,
Two incidents emanated, of different but compelling magnitude, from that private school conflagration: bravery of a young woman and the death of a fire man from injuries sustained.
day is “Together We Thrive”.
The day also marks the 80th anniversary of the Second World War, during which 1,500,000 persons from across the Commonwealth bravely fought the war.
Were it not for the recognition to the young lady by a popular business place her heroics might have gone unnoticed and undervalued. It was a glaring omission when the school authorities met with parents to give updates on reloca-
tion plans. It would be nice to remember charity begins at home. Kudos to the young lady. Your selfless and caring thoughts which spurred you into action on that fateful day are the ingredients of a special person deserving of our esteem and accolades in this month set aside to recognise women.
The death of the fireman from injuries sustained in battling the blaze, (we are now learning other firefighting operatives were also injured but seemed to have
fared better – March 9), is a sad occurrence and tells of the magnitude of the fire. The value of these responders who serve with distinction in the face of severe adversary cannot be underestimated and must be acknowledged.
My condolences to the grieving family and a full and speedy recovery to the injured.
Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed
(1) Which of the statements below are true about the dia gram?
I. It has 3 curves and 6 straight lines.
II. The number of curves is 2 times the number of straight lines.
III. The number of straight lines is 2 times the number of curves.
(A) I and II only
(B) I and III only
(C) II and III only
(D) I, II and III
(2) What number completes the number pattern below?
1 1/7, 2 3/7 ,________ ,5
(A) 1 2/7
(B) 2 2/7
(C) 3 5/7
(D) 4 5/7
(3) Which of the following symbols, when placed in the cir cle, will make the statement true?
(7) How many whole numbers are in the set of numbers greater than 10 but less than 40?
(A) 30
(B) 20
(C) 10
(D) 15
(8) Here is a Venn diagram showing the universal set (U) and Sets P and Q.
U = {Factors of 40}
P = {Factors of 20}
Q= {Factors of 10}
By RoBeRt Louis stevenson
(4) The mass of an orange is equal to twice the mass of a pear. If the pear has a mass of 120 g, what is the mass of the orange?
(5) Which of the following is equal to 10 000 + 3300 + 50 + 4?
(C) 13354
(B) 13504
(D) 1354
(6) 2 pounds expressed as ounces is
(A) 16
(B) 32
(C) 18
(D) 27
i) List the factors of both 10 and 20
ii) List the factors of 10 but not 20
iii) List the factors of neither 10 and 20
iv) List the elements of P U Q
In winter I get up at night And dress by yellow candle-light. In summer, quite the other way, I have to go to bed by day. I have to go to bed and see The birds still hopping on the tree, Or hear the grown-up people’s feet Still going past me in the street. And does it not seem hard to you, When all the sky is clear and blue, And I should like so much to play, To have to go to bed by day?
Guyana’s Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud, has described the election of Suriname’s Foreign Minister Albert Ramdin as Secretray General (SG) of the Organisation of American States (OAS) as a historic one for the Caribbean, marking the first time a Caribbean person has held the post. Ramdin was nominated by the Republic of Suriname for the position of Secretary General (SG) of the OAS. On Monday, during a session of the assembly, Ramdin was elected to succeed Paraguay’s Luis Almagro as SG. Ramdin’s election came after Paraguay withdrew its own candidate, Foreign Minister, Rubén Lezcano, from contention. Ramdin
will now serve a five-year term as OAS SG, from 2025 to 2030, at a time when pivotal events are occurring in the hemisphere.
These include the Guyana/Venezuela border controversy, currently engaging the attention of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Only last week, the ICJ had recognised Guyana’s request to prevent Venezuela from proceeding with elections in the Essequibo region, a territory that comprises two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass.
On Thursday, the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry said it has filed in the Registry of the ICJ, a request for the indication of provisional measures in the border controversy case currently before the court concerning the
Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899, which determined the boundary between the two South American neighbours.
Guyana has contended that this action by the Spanish-speaking nation “flagrantly violates” provisional measures issued by the ICJ back in December 2023 when the Guyanese Government was forced to approach the World Court against Venezuela’s aggression.
The OAS has consistently supported Guyana when it comes to the defence of its territorial rights. In fact, following the appearance of a Venezuelan Navy ship in Guyana’s waters on March 1st, the General Secretariat of the OAS had issued a statement in which they unequivocally condemned the actions of the Venezuelan naval vessel and slammed the Spanish speaking nation for being in violation of international law.
Reactions
In a statement on his social media account on Monday, Guyana’s Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud congratulated Ramdin for his ascension and expressed optimism at the
prospect of working with the Surinamese official. According to Persaud, this historic moment heralds a chance for Guyana to continue its work with OAS to ensure the stability and prosperity of the hemisphere.
“Warmest congratulations to His Excellency Mr Albert Ramdin on his election as Secretary General of the OAS, a proud and historic moment for the Caribbean. We look forward to working closely with you in upholding the principles of the OAS Charter and in ensuring the stability and prosperity of our hemisphere. Best wishes for a successful tenure and impactful leadership of the organisation,” Persaud said.
Best wishes also came from Suriname Ambassador
to Guyana, Liselle Blankelle. In a statement through the Surinamese Embassy, she noted that Ramdin’s election represents a shift by the OAS to greater inclusivity. Further, she noted that it marks a turning point where the ever-increasing role CARICOM nations are playing on the global stage, receives due recognition.
“Today for the first time in the history of the OAS, a representative from CARICOM has been elected by acclamation as Secretary General. This is a groundbreaking moment, not just for the Caribbean, but for the entire hemisphere. It signals a shift towards greater inclusivity and recognition of the vital role that CARICOM nations play in regional and global affairs.”
“This milestone reflects the strength, leadership, and diplomatic excellence of our region, and we look forward to the positive impact this leadership will bring to the OAS and beyond. We wish Minister Ramdin all the best with his new responsibility,” Blankelle further said.
Also, a statement on his social media, Bahamian Prime Minister Phillip Davis also congratulated Ramdin, describing his election as a proud moment for the region. As a matter of fact, Davis and CARICOM SG, Carla Barnett both pointed out in their messages of congratulations that Ramdin is the very first Caribbean national to hold this position.
Govt partners with CNOOC to offer more petroleum engineering scholarships to local students …next batch of students being sought to study oil-related courses in China
The Government of Guyana is partnering with CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, ExxonMobil Guyana’s joint venture partner in the Stabroek Block, to offer more scholarships for Guyanese to qualify themselves in China for the oil and gas sector.
According to a notice, the Natural Resources Ministry in conjunction with CNOOC, invited applications from locals to join the next batch of students pursuing Geoscience and Petroleum Engineering scholarships.
It was explained that applicants must be between 18 and 25 years old and hold a valid Guyanese passport. Additionally, it was explained that applicants who possess Chinese Language Certification (HSK3 or HSK4) would be at an advantage.
“To qualify, students must have CSEC (Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate) or CAPE (Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination) including Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry with
Grade 1 or 2, or a Diploma in Science with at least a 3.0 GPA (Grade Point Average). The qualifications must have been obtained within the last three years,” the notice stated, adding that they must send a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) and cover letter to jmckenzie@nre.gov.gy by
March 28, 2025. Last year, four scholarships were allocated.
Guyana has made strides when it comes to locals equipping themselves to work in the oil and gas sector. It was recently revealed that more than 1,100 companies are registered with the
Local Content Secretariat, meaning they are in possession of a Local Content Certificate to confirm they are a Guyanese company and are eligible to supply oil and gas operations. Additionally, more than 6,500 Guyanese have been employed in the oil and gas sector.
CNOOC, for its part, has been partnering with the Natural Resources Ministry to fund scholarships covering education, transportation, and living expenses to promising Guyanese students to study in China. This is in a move aimed at stimulating talent within Guyana’s petroleum sector.
It had been reported last year that under the current programme, 10 scholarships will be awarded over three years. Upon graduation, the first batch of scholarship recipients was expected to work with either the Ministry of Natural Resources or China Petroleum Guyana Limited (CPGL) for five years, ensuring their newly acquired skills benefit the nation.
CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 per cent interest in the Stabroek Block, while ExxonMobil affiliate ExxonMobil Guyana Limited is operator, and holds 45 per cent interest and Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest.
The first phase of the state-of-the-art facility was commissioned on February 9, 2024– an initiative largely led by SBM Offshore Guyana, Stabroek block partners ExxonMobil, Hess and CNOOC, and the Government of Guyana.
The first batch of 24 graduates from GTTC have already found employment on board the Liza Unity Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Vessel, with a number of other upcoming graduates from Government sponsored programmes expected to find employment in the oil and gas sector.
Meanwhile, the Government of Guyana has also been collaborating with other oil companies and contractors to train Guyanese in the oil sector. These efforts include the Guyana Technical Training College (GTTC), where US$13 million was invested in the facility simulator dubbed FacTor, a fully functional plant that mirrors the operation of real offshore platforms using water and air and is designed to accommodate a batch of 24 students.
ABrazilian national who was arrested in connection with a gold smuggling operation at the Guyana/Brazil border has been granted bail in the sum of $75,000.
Erizangela Regia De Olivera, a 39-year-old clothes vendor of Boa Vista, was one of two Brazilians who were arrested follow-
ing the bust on March 5. She appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Monday where she was charged for purchasing gold from a person other than the Guyana Gold Board or an authorised agent, which is contrary to Section 8 of the Guyana Gold Board Act, Chapter 66:01.
Attorney at Law, Bernand DaSilva, made a bail submission which was upheld on the condition that she report every third
Wednesday of the month to the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). The matter was adjourned to March 19.
The other Brazilian who was arrested, Albina Filho Alves Vieira, 42, has been placed on $1 million station bail; he has not yet been charged.
Reports are that acting on information received, SOCU officers had proceeded to the Lethem/Brazil border where they intercepted a gold smuggling attempt.
The operation led to the arrest of the two Brazilians and the seizure of a large quantity of gold and over $26 million.
A28-year-old Cuban National who is residing in Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Sipiruni) was on Monday jailed on a felonious wounding charge.
Yismel Gracia Acuna appeared at the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Clive Nurse and was sentenced to four months imprisonment.
He was arrested earlier this month and charged a for felonious wounding, contrary to Section 57 (a) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01, committed on Daimara Calzadella. It is alleged that he chopped Calzadella in her head.
Your Eyewitness is “throwin’ back” to observe the (brave???) new world being created by “the Donald” over in the US of A!! If it ain’t “brave” it’s certainly “bold” - to’ve shaken up every country on the world!! And believe your Eyewitness when he says “every country in the world” – from Tahiti to Timbuktu!! Just hit that search button on your Google browser and you’ll be overwhelmed by the tsunami of fulminations washing over you from every quarter!
Just consider a SINGLE program that Trump announced he’s defunding going forward – USAID, which had a budget of $43.4 billion in 2023 and is active in 130 countries!! For comparison think about our ENTIRE national budgetSWOLLEN with oil dollars - that’s only US$5.5 billion!! Now you gotta give the Yanks credit for always being creative with their acronyms – USAID stands for “U.S. Agency for International Development”. Isn’t that sweet?? Agency for International Development!! Apart from accepting “your tired and weary” into their country – as the Statue of Liberty proclaims – they were going to assist other countries (“aid”) to overcome their challenges!! What’s interesting is we – our little, ole Mudlandwere there when USAID was launched by the charismatic JFK in November 1961!! He’d just made up his mind to get rid of Jagan who’d visited the month before - and convinced him he was a commie!! Trouble was it was THE YANKS who decided Communism was BAD for us and HOW it was gonna be fixed!! Bottom line was it had to be wiped out – and if some toes has to be stepped on – so be it. In our case, USAID hadn’t gotten it’s act together by 196364, so the CIA had to spend about US$1.5 million to stir up the “troubles” – as our historian Granger calls them –that ousted Jagan. It took 176 lives and split the country forever – but hey! the US gotta crack some shells if folks were gonna get omlettes – whether we wanted it or not!! USAID became the conduit for funding other changes the world needed. But now it’s gone!! Well, suspended for now– since there are still Americans twilling to fight the good (?) fight to improve the world.
But what’s behind this change – and the other changes that’s demands cutting TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS – and we’re talking about AMERICAN dollars, not our monopoly paper - from US spending? Has America undergone a change of heart and will now take Spike Lee’s advise to “do the right thing”?? No Siree Bob!!
Trump feels the folks who ran USAID lost the plot. They actually believed the BS that was their cover for the REAL changes to further America’s interest!!! They became WOKE !! And now gotta go!!
…to politics of division
Your Eyewitness read about the shouting match that erupted when a new political contender – they’re appearing as fast as Jumbie Umbrellas on stale cow dung!! – went up to Lima Sands to woo the 800 or so residents who live in their remote community!! One resident brandished a bottle of a brownish liquid looking suspiciously like pee – claiming it was the water they’re forced to drink!!
Now because even the folks at Lima Sands have internet access to Google, they should appreciate we know they had a new $117Million-artesian well installed in 2017 - saving them from drinking creek water for the first time since “time immemorial”!! We learnt too that the Essequibo aquifer’s laden with iron compounds that give their water a “pee” colour – and the chemical Sea Quest should be added to precipitate the said compounds!! Did they check??
Doesn’t matter they got an asphalted main road, street lamps, land titles last year - and a new hospital’s being constructed, does it? Food-for-the-Poor should build more houses?
…IMF report
Your Eyewitness noticed that the Opposition leaders –all one hundred or so of them and increasing!! – are quite silent about the positive report the government received from the visiting IMF team.
Wonder why cat got their tongue!!
The Small Business Bureau (SBB), in collaboration with the Education Ministry, has launched the 2025 edition of the Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP), reaffirming its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship among young Guyanese.
The initiative began with an awareness session hosted by the SBB, where teachers from participating schools were trained in business plan development, ensuring they can effectively guide students in crafting strong and viable proposals.
This year, 12 secondary
"We recognise the potential of young entrepreneurs and the importance of equipping them with the right tools. YEP 2025 goes beyond providing monetary rewards to help students launch their businesses, it fosters innovation, resilience, and an entrepreneurial mindset that will empower them both in the classroom and throughout their lives."
SBB, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education remains dedicated to developing the next generation of business leaders. Through initiatives like YEP, the Government continues to invest in youth
schools across Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Eight, Nine, and 10 will participate in the programme, which equips students with the skills, knowledge, and financial support needed to launch and sustain their own businesses.
YEP 2025 will provide monetary rewards to 60 selected students, helping them turn their entrepreneurial ideas into reality. Beyond financial assistance, the programme offers comprehensive training and mentorship, covering business planning, marketing strategies, and financial management.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Small Business Bureau (SBB), Shazim Ibrahim, highlighted the programme’s lasting impact:
development, economic empowerment, and a culture of innovation and self-sufficiency.
Moreover, the SBB had commenced the InSchool Entrepreneurship Programme in September 2017. The programme targets vulnerable secondary students, from the ten administrative regions of Guyana, seeking alternative career options. Entrepreneurship and business innovation are promoted as a means of economic empowerment of youth.
As a result of the support and mentorship provided by the SBB, viable businesses were created, and students were able to link academic programmes to real life career choices, particularly in the field of entrepreneurship.
The soon-to-belaunched Guyana Digital School continues to broaden its offerings, now allowing students to pursue the full Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) curriculum, as well as study additional subjects from the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) that may not be available at their respective schools.
Students of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), were officially introduced to the platform on Monday.
Education Minister, Priya Manickchand introduced the initiative on Monday at Abram Zuil Secondary School, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to providing quality education for all, regardless of location or financial status.
This online platform is designed for students in Grades 10 and 11, offering CSEC study materials through a Four-Quadrant Approach that combines technology, interactive learning, engagement, and hands-on activities. The goal is to enhance students’
learning experiences beyond the classroom. The Minister also highlighted that the platform’s content is fully aligned with CXC, which she considers a major achievement.
“All content is aligned with CXC, which was one of my biggest accomplishments. We had several meetings, and I insisted that it must be aligned with CXC because that is what our students are preparing for. We cannot teach one thing here and then have them encounter something different in the CXC exams. So, this platform is completely aligned with CXC,” Manickchand explained.
She further noted that the textbooks available on the platform are CXCrecommended and are already being used in classrooms. The platform also includes notes, videos, quizzes, and other interactive materials that follow CXC’s curriculum.
“My vision for this is that when there is no teacher in front of the classroom, students can access the platform, complete the 39 weeks of work, and pass
CXC with a Grade One. Of course, discipline is key— just like when a teacher is present, students must remain focused and attentive,” she told the students.
Manickchand emphasised that the platform offers a self-study option, allowing students to access learning materials at their convenience and strengthen their knowledge in alignment with CXC content.
According to Manickchand, this key advantage, will allow students to supplement their existing studies or pursue additional subjects independently through CXC, giving every student an equal chance at academic success.
“So, this is completely aligned to CXC. The textbooks that are going to be available to you on this platform are CXC recommended texts that you’re already using, that you have in the classroom, and all the quizzes and all the videos and all the notes and all the other work is CXC aligned.”
“It can be used for, if your school is not doing
a subject, and you want to do a subject, you could come here and do the subject right, just go through your school and write it,” Manickchand said. Manickchand noted that this expansion of educational opportunities ensures that students can benefit from the platform, contributing to lifelong learning and professional
development.
“It can be used by itself, where you stop school completely and you just come to the digital school, but we have to monitor you to make sure you’re coming to school, so you don’t get any ideas if you would stop school and then you wouldn’t come. Or, it can be used for lessons, you know, like when you go to lessons,
so you could use this as your lessons…You’ll have to be disciplined because when there’s a teacher in front of the class, you have to pay attention, you have to turn up or else they’re going to send for your mother and so on. In this case, you have to self-study,” the Minister explained.
CONTINUED
The Health Ministry is confident that women are accessing high quality maternal care in all regions across the country and that there is no need for unnecessary referrals to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).
A few days ago, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony revealed a series of strategic investments aimed at ensuring that all women, regardless of their location, can access high-quality healthcare during pregnancy and childbirth.
Speaking at the launch of the newborn cash grant at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on Saturday, Anthony detailed the key advancements in healthcare, focusing on the introduction of waiting homes and improvements to primary healthcare services—particularly
for newborns in remote and interior regions.
“Previously mothers had to, when they go into labour, they had to travel all the way to get to the hospital. Sometimes that's a journey of three hours, four hours and in many instances they will give birth along the way to the hospital in non-hygienic conditions which can lead to a lot of complications for both mother and baby. We have almost stopped that practice because what we have been able to do now is to build homes in the compound of our hospitals in the different parts of our country and we call them waiting homes. So, before a mother goes into labour, the mother can come there, wait until she goes into labour and then she is transferred from that waiting home into the hospital where she can give safe birth,” he said.
According to the Minister, this initiative has led to a significant drop in maternal mortality rates in regions where the waiting homes have been implemented.
In addition to the waiting homes, the Government has focused on strengthening primary healthcare services nationwide. Pregnant women now have access to comprehensive healthcare at primary health centres, where they can undergo necessary tests to determine whether their pregnancies are high-risk.
Early identification of high-risk pregnancies allows for targeted care and attention, greatly improving the chances of a safe and successful delivery for both mother and baby.
“We have been able to put a lot of investments into our hospitals so that when
someone is ready to give birth they can go to a hospital where they would be able to do so in a safe manner. And we have seen the results of that because over the years we have seen a decline in maternal mortality and that's a good thing”.
“In the past the only place where we had a neonatal unit was at the Georgetown Hospital. So, if the baby is a little bit premature, they have to come down to Georgetown Hospital where they can get care. Now we have extended these services so that at all of our regional hospitals
now have neonatal units so babies that are a little bit premature can get those services right at their regional hospital. And this is important. It is important because we want to ensure that people are getting care closer to home,” the Minister explained.
With these initiatives, Dr Anthony emphasised that the Government is committed to providing high-quality maternal and neonatal care to every region of the country.
Looking to the future, the Government is committed to further improv-
ing healthcare accessibility across the country. Dr Anthony revealed that six new regional hospitals are set to open this year, in locations including Lima, De Kinderen, Diamond, Bath, Enmore and Number 75. Dr Anthony also pointed to the modern speciality hospital at Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD), which will provide specialised services for women and children. This facility is expected to make a significant difference in the quality of care available to those in need of specialised attention.
Teachers at the Kwakwani Primary School, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) have refused to work until urgent action is taken to address a severe pigeon and bat infestation that is compromising the health of both students and staff.
The situation has sparked growing concern among teachers, parents, and the wider community, as the pests are not only causing damage to school property but also contributing to ongoing health issues.
In a recent appeal via video, teachers at the school that droppings from pigeons
have contaminated classrooms and furniture, while the dust from bat droppings has led to serious health problems such as coughing, breathing difficulties, and infections among both children and teachers.
“We’re here at the teachers’ stand-down at Kwakwani Primary School, and we are urgently asking for help regarding the pigeons that have infested the school,” one teacher said, standing alongside her colleagues. “The teachers refuse to work until this matter is addressed because it has been an ongoing issue that is not being resolved. I stand firm with my colleagues, and I encourage parents to come out and support us because it is the children who are suffering the most right now.”
Teachers are not the only ones affected by the infestation. According to another educator, students are be-
ing affected also. “We need someone to take action because we’ve been dealing with this problem for far too
long.” Jenisa Primo, a guardian and member of the ParentTeacher Association (PTA), also weighed in on the issue, highlighting the adverse effects on students' education. Primo's niece is a grade six student preparing for the Common Entrance Examination in April. With teachers on stand-down, there are concerns that the disruption will severely affect the students' ability to prepare for the upcoming exams.
“The teachers are on stand-down, and if this continues, the grade six students will suffer. They will lose valuable learning time, which will impact their academic performance,” Primo said.
The teachers and community members had call for intervention from the Education Ministry, the school’s administration, and the local authorities.
“We need to act now to ensure that Kwakwani Primary remains a safe and conducive environment for learning,” said one teacher. “This is not just an inconvenience; it’s a health emergency. The health of our children and teachers must
be a priority.”
Action In a brief telephone interview with this publication on Monday, the Chief Education Officer, Saddam Hussain disclosed that the contractor has already been identified to properly sanitise the school.
“This morning [Monday] a contractor was identified by the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and he should begin his work if he hasn’t started his work today, he should start his work tomorrow… As we know, out of the two buildings, the upstairs of one building is affected. But that’s not to negate the situation… It really should not have happened,” he said.
The Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce (CCCC) has praised Government for its intervention to ensure rice farmers get no less than $4000 for each bag of paddy they produce.
Millers had claimed that with rice prices falling on the world market, they could maintain the $4000 per bag that they paid farmer’s last crop.
However, with the intervention of the Government the millers agreed to pay at least $4000 per bag of paddy to farmers this crop.
The Government will forfeit the sales tax which is paid to the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) which will allow the millers to be able to pay
at a minimum rate of $4000 per a 143-pound bag of paddy.
President of the CCCC, Poonai Bhigroog said agriculture and particular rice
In an effort to foster a respectful and equitable workplace environment, the Human Services and Social Security Ministry’s Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SO&DVPU) and the Gender Affairs Bureau (GAB) conducted a training programme on Sexual
Harassment to staff of the Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) at their Sophia Training Centre on Monday.
This session equipped GPL staff with a nuanced understanding of sexual harassment, including its various forms and the significance of implementing effective organisational pol-
icies. The staff were also educated on the proper procedures for reporting and investigating incidents, as well as the critical role of employer protection against retaliation for those who file complaints, thereby contributing to a more secure and just work environment.
is the backbone of the economy of Berbice. The collective effort of the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Agriculture and farmers has seen remarkable increases in cultivation and production of rice. The Chamber notes that in 2024, 67,000 acres of rice was cultivated in Berbice. In 2025, this figure is projected to be a record breaking 78,000 acres. In 2024, country wide production was 2,400,000 tonnes. In 2025, this is projected to be in excess of 3,000,000
tonnes.
“Farmers have recently been seeking assistance and the intervention of the Government of Guyana because of the 20 per cent decrease in the price per tonne of paddy locally,” He pointed out while noting that the CCCC commends President, Dr Mohamed Irfan Ali and Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha for their proactive approach and prompt intervention to bring relief to hardworking rice farmers.
“Through their intervention, an agreement has been brokered wherein the farmers would be guaranteed a minimum of $4000 per bag of paddy from the millers with the Government contributing (subsidising) at a rate of $300 per bag.”
Bhigroog says the CCCC views the move as a concrete indication of the Government’s commitment and dedication to sustaining and promoting agriculture and the wellbeing of farmers. (G4)
In light of an unauthorised website charging fees to unsuspecting passengers for completing the online Immigration form, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Monday issued a warning to persons noting that the website is a ‘scam’ and the official immigration form is free of cost.
“To avoid falling prey to these fraudulent activ-
ities, we urge all passengers to access the Immigration form only through the legitimate website: ed.gpf.gov.gv. You can also access the form by scanning the QR codes strategically placed throughout the airport terminal,” CJIA said in a statement.
The official channels, the airport noted, provides a secure and cost-free way to complete its immigration
form.
CJIA further urged persons to desist from providing any personal information or payment details to any other websites or individuals claiming to offer this service.
Additionally, persons who encounter any suspicious websites or individuals charging fees for the Immigration form, are urged to report them to the authorities immediately.
The Bar Association of Guyana has hailed the late Ret’d Justice Oslen Small, a national award recipient who died last month, for his distinguished career in the local judiciary.
In a statement on Sunday, the Bar Association said it learnt of the passing of Justice Oslen Ainsworth Fitzgerald Small, CCH, on February 27. He was conferred with the Cacique’s Crown of Honour (CCH) –Guyana’s third highest national award, in May 2018.
Justice Small’s journey in the law commenced as a clerk in the notarial division of the Deeds Registry at the Supreme Court in the early 1960s. In 1962, he migrated to the United Kingdom (UK) and enrolled into Lincoln’s Inn where he was called to the Degree of an Utter Barrister in 1969.
On his return to Guyana, he entered private practice.
Court of Judicature. He retired from the High Court bench in 1999.
“Justice Small through his physical stature stood head and shoulders above his colleagues on the Bench. Even with this stature, Justice Small did not dispense justice from any lofty heights. His justice was delivered with dignity and humility,” the Bar Association noted.
High Court, Madam Justice Shona Griffith of the High Court of Barbados. The other practitioners are Ms Roseanne Hermanstein, Mr Teni Housty, Mr Adrian Thompson and Mr Samuel Legay.
retirement in 2021. In a demonstration that law provides a foundation for life in other areas, Justice Small for many years was a Pastor of Smith Memorial Congregational Church.
After his retirement from the Bench, Justice Small continued his service in the law as Judge Advocate of the Guyana Defence force (GDF), a position he held until February, 2022. In a demonstration of the inter-connected nature of life, Attorney Teni Housty commenced his service as Judge Advocate to the GDF in February, 2022.
Justice Small first served in the position of Magistrate on the East Coast Demerara (ECD)
According to the Bar Association however, “His was to be a career in law distinguished by service at several levels of the judiciary.”
Magisterial District for several years. Thereafter, in the late 1970s, he was promoted to the Registrar of the Supreme Court where he served in that position until 1986, when he was appointed a Judge of the High Court Judge of the Supreme
Reducing gap between urban and rural
During the launch, she also highlighted that this initiative supports President Irfaan Ali’s vision of reducing the gap between urban and rural education. She pointed out that many students struggle to afford extra lessons, and this platform ensures free access to quality learning resources.
Meanwhile, Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva praised the initiative, emphasising the importance of technology in modern education. She also commended the Ministry of Education and President Ali for their
efforts in enhancing learning through digital resources.
Students, who spoke to Guyana Times described the platform as easy to use, interactive, and flexible. Many appreciated the ability to study at their own pace and revisit challenging topics. For students in remote areas, this initiative provides learning opportunities that were once difficult to access.
“This platform offers a more effective way for us to learn, and I believe it will truly help us expand our knowledge,” one student shared.
Also present at the launch were Member of Parliament
Nandranie Coonjah and Professor Jacob Opadeyi, Head of the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL).
Beyond traditional coursework, the digital school will offer supplementary programmes aimed at broadening students’ skills and knowledge. These include entrepreneurial training, cultural studies, electronic nursing, accounting courses, and remedial education in the evenings.
Students can register for the platform at https://www. digitalschool.moe.edu.gy/.
So far, 2400 students have registered.
Of note, on October 7, 1996 in a historic first, Justice Small presided over a bench of the Full Court with colleagues Justice Claudette Singh and Justice Nandram Kissoon, to admit six recent graduates of the Hugh Wooding Law School. Those graduates today are Madam Justice JoAnn Barlow of the Guyana
In addition to the GDF, Justice Small was appointed Chairman of the Parole Board in 2004 – a position in which he served until his
According to the Bar Association, “Justice Small always had a kind and supportive word for a colleague, ensuring a balanced career of reward and service to the legal profession. His legacy in the law continues through his daughter, our colleague, Sharon Small.” He leaves to mourn his beloved wife Sheila, daughter Sharon, son Oslen Jnr, daughter-in-law Sabrita Small and grandsons Nathan and Jaeden Small. Justice Small was laid to rest on Monday.
The Organization of American States (OAS) on Monday elected Surinamese Foreign Minister Albert Ramdin as its new secretary general through 2030, taking over from Uruguayan diplomat Luis Almagro and marking the body's first Caribbean leader.
Ramdin, 66, has served as Surinam's top diplomat since 2020, and was previously the OAS' assistant secretary general for two terms from 2005 through 2015.
He has pushed for greater efficiency in the organization and highlighted the need for it to better support Haiti, which is facing a conflict against armed gangs with limited international aid. "This is the first time in the history of the OAS that a representative from the Caribbean has been elected Secretary General," Suriname's government said in a statement.
"It is a great honor for Suriname that our candidate has been supported by the vast majority of the member states."
Suriname's President Chan Santokhi has praised Ramdin's "calm assurance" as a trusted advisor and adept diplomat.
Suriname is located on the South American continent but has closer diplomatic ties to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
It has opposed Washington's sanctions against Venezuela and supported neighboring Guyana in a territorial dispute with Venezuela over the border region of Esequibo.
Venezuela's government in 2017 said it would begin a process to leave the OAS, but the body has since recognized representatives from the country's politi-
cal opposition. It currently has no representative at the Washington-based OAS. Diplomats from other CARICOM nations expressed hope that Ramdin's appointment would boost diversity and representation for smaller nations in the Caribbean, which are facing urgent challenges on high debt, gun crime and climate change. Ramdin will stay in his role as foreign minister through May 25, when Almagro's term will finish and Suriname is set to hold a national election. (Reuters)
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 40-year-old fisherman, whose body was found on the parapet at Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Berbice.
The body of a man was on Monday morning discovered at First Street, Grant 1806, Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).
Dead is 40-year-old Umar Jumai, of the same community. The discovery was made by a passerby sometime around 07:00h on Monday.
Jamai lived alone. His sister, Nariman Jumai, said a friend showed her a photo of her brother’s lifeless body lying on the parapet, two streets away from where he lives.
The woman said before she left home to head to the scene, police arrived at her house and took her to the location to identify the man. According to her, she observed her brother in a crouched position.
“I wait till they finish everything and bring he and put he on the road… If you see the blood spraying out of him,” the sister related.
Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has strongly rejected recent claims made by the Alliance for Change (AFC) concerning the water supply situation in the Grant Sand Road community, located in Soesdyke.
GWI describes the assertions as misleading and believes they are an attempt by the political group to manipulate public perception for political gain. On Monday, GWI clarified that the Grant Sand Road area is private land, not part of any Government-led housing development. The land is owned by private individuals, Basil Isaacs and Grant (only name given), and is leased to others. Therefore, any infrastructural development, including the provision of water, requires proper engagement with relevant stakeholders and adherence to due process. Contrary to
AFC claims, GWI said that it has already made significant strides in addressing the community’s water supply needs.
The company’s Executive Team, led by Shaik Baksh, conducted an assessment and installed a 4-inch transmission main to provide water to the residents. Currently, 39 legal customers are recorded in the system. GWI pointed out that any additional connections beyond this number, particularly among squatters, are unauthorised and illegal.
Further, GWI highlight-
A wound was observed to the man’s abdomen. His sister said it appeared to be a stab wound.
The woman is calling for justice for the death of her brother noting that although he lived alone, he seldom cooked and would often go by her for meals.
ed that over 100 households are located in the community, many of which are illegally connected to the water network. These unauthorised connections put a strain on the existing infrastructure, leading to inefficiencies in water distribution.
According to GWI it is actively working on expanding the water supply to more residents, particularly those situated atop the hills. However, such an expansion requires substantial investment, and as such, a feasibility study is currently underway to ensure that infrastructure improvements are sustainable and efficiently implemented.
GWI urged community leaders and residents to engage directly with GWI instead of relying on misinformation from those seeking to exploit the issue for political purposes.
Canadian oil producer
Frontera Energy said on Monday that it believes its license to explore the Corentyne block off the coast of Guyana remains valid and it is assessing all legal options to assert its rights.
The Guyanese government gave Frontera and CGX Energy (OYL.V), the joint operators that hold the license, a 30-day cancellation notice over unmet contract obligations.
The Corentyne block was seen as a key effort to diversify Guyana's oil industry, currently dominated by a consortium led by Exxon Mobil.
It is also the only area Frontera and CGX Energy (OYL.V) the joint operators that hold the license - have left in Guyana after they returned two other blocks in recent years over budget constraints.
The Guyanese government had given the joint venture until February 22 to submit arguments for reconsideration. The license is set to expire on March 10 unless their representations are favorably reviewed.
Frontera Energy reported its quarterly and yearly earnings on Monday, showing a nearly 8% increase in fourth-quarter production
compared to the same quarter last year, reaching 42,406 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boed).
However, shares fell 4.1% in afternoon trade as the company posted a net loss of $29.4 million, or 36 cents per share, compared to a net income of $92.0 million, or $1.08 per share, in the fourth quarter of 202
The Calgary, Canadabased company expects to produce 40,400 boed in the first quarter of this year to due to unexpected well failures within its light and medium assets, which the company says it was addressing. (Reuters)
“He would come at me for food or go to people in the village and they would give him lil food, so he used to live,” the sister said about her younger brother.
“When he come by me, he would spend a two-days and
gone back again.”
According to the sister, the last time she saw her brother was last week after he cashed his Government cash grant cheque.
She said most of the money he shared with friends. Jamai had returned from sea last week and was scheduled to go back on Sunday.
“I get some wuk going on by my house so I tell him to stay and he would wuk with me for a couple days because is the foundation for the building we got to do. He say that he got to go to sea and when
he come back he gone wuk with me. I understand that he went yesterday [Sunday] on the boat but I don’t know what transpired pon the boat.”
Meanwhile, at about 15:00h on Monday, one of the two suspects that were held for questioning confessed to stabbing the fisherman once in the abdomen.
According to police, a video-recorded interview and a caution statement were obtained from the suspect. Additionally, a video walkthrough was conducted with him at the crime scene.
Banks DIH Limited has gifted over $6 million to 27 community groups and organisations as part of the Banks DIH Limited’s commitment to community impact. Delivering remarks at the handing over Marketing Director, Carlton Joao, emphasised the importance of community and the positive work the organisations being honoured does for communities throughout the country.
The donations were presented to the organisations by Chairman/Managing Director of Banks DIH, Clifford Reis.
This year’s ceremony was held in the Rotunda and the donations were disbursed to the Missionaries of Charity; St Andrew’s Kirk; The Scout Association of Guyana; Girls Guides Association; St John’s Ambulance Brigade; The Guyana Conference of Seventh-Day Adventist; Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA); Young Women’s Christian
Association (YWCA); Uncle Eddie’s Home; Salvation Army; Gentlewomen’s Relief Association; St George’s Cathedral; St Joseph’s Mercy Hospital; Guyana Red Cross Society; Guyana Society for the Blind; Guyana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals; St Thomas Mores Conference Society of the St Vincent De Paul, St Philip’s
Dharma Maha Saba, Shaheed’s Boys and Girls 2 Orphanage, St John’s Bosco Boy’s Orphanage, Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Centre, Our Lady of the Mount RC Church, and Our Lady of the Mount Charities.
After decades of United Nations climate summits, the model of gathering world leaders to negotiate agreements under complex rules is starting to show its limits, said the President of the next such summit, Brazilian diplomat Andre Correa do Lago.
"The Paris Agreement is working, but there is much more to do," he wrote in a letter released on Monday outlining his presidency's vision for the COP30 summit in the Amazon city of Belem in November.
Climate negotiators, he said, should be self-critical and address the "outside
perception of talks having lingered for over three decades with meagre results".
"We need a new era beyond negotiating talks: we must help put into practice what we have agreed," he wrote.
At a press conference, Correa do Lago said the summits held by the UNFCCC, the UN body monitoring compliance with the 2015 Paris Agreement, are the best existing venue for climate negotiations, but there are limits to what they can achieve.
He said despite its recommendations, the body has no authority over the entities meant to carry
them out.
Global setbacks have further hampered climate change action.
US President Donald Trump has withdrawn from the Paris Agreement and blocked funds to aid Ukraine in its war against Russia, forcing Europe to boost defence spending with resources that might otherwise have been invested in climate solutions.
Correa do Lago said Brazil will encourage countries to use other gatherings of world leaders, such as the G20 and the International Monetary Fund meetings, to push for action on global warming.
Brazil also aims to give more voice to other actors, such as civil society groups and Indigenous communities, he said.
Correa do Lago told reporters he would call two international meetings with global leaders prior to COP30 to discuss countries' pledges to lower emissions of greenhouse gases. The deadline to file new pledges was in February, but only 13 countries presented their contributions. (Reuters)
Argentine President Javier Milei has declared a period of mourning after a flash flood in the port city of Bahia Blanca killed at least 16 persons, with more still missing.
The President’s office announced late on Sunday that the country would mark three days of national mourning over the tragedy, which came after heavy
rains lashed the port city of Bahia Blanca. The statement did not say when the mourning period would begin.
“All areas of the national government will remain dedicated… to assisting the victims in this moment of sorrow for all Argentines,” the presidency announced.
The deadly floods struck on Friday when a year’s worth of rain, estimated
to be 260 millimetres (10 inches), fell in a matter of hours in and around Bahia Blanca, a major port city south of Buenos Aires.
The Minister of Security of the Province of Buenos Aires Javier Alonso confirmed that two girls, aged one and five, were swept away in the torrent on Sunday and were among the victims. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
AGuatemalan Judge ordered prominent journalist Jose Zamora back to jail on Monday in a case that stems from money laundering charges he has dismissed as a political persecution.
Judge Erick Garcia ordered Zamora, the founder of the now-defunct elPeriodico newspaper, back behind bars in pre-trial detention after a higher court revoked an earlier allowance for house arrest following the embattled Journalist's previous 800-day stint behind bars.
Zamora derided the ruling as "arbitrary" in remarks near the end of his court ap-
pearance on Monday, arguing that the Judge had no other choice.
"They left him cornered with no way out," Zamora said.
During the hearing, Garcia said he and his staff had been threatened by unnamed individuals, but did not go into further detail.
The higher court issued its decision last November, but Zamora's lawyers had been able to postpone its implementation over the past few months.
In 2023, Zamora was convicted on money-laundering charges and sentenced to six years in prison. An appeals court later overturned
the conviction and ordered a new trial for 2025.
Under Zamora's leadership, elPeriodico published major corruption investigations that targeted multiple Governments over three decades of award-winning coverage. In 2022, just days before his first arrest, Zamora publicly criticised then-President Alejandro Giammattei. Giammattei appointed current Attorney General Consuelo Porras. Her office has overseen Zamora's prosecution while opposing the earlier petition for house arrest, and she herself has been accused of corruption by the US Government. (Reuters)
The Regional Security System (RSS) has announced the appointment of Atlee Rodney to the post of Deputy Executive Director, effective April 7, 2025.
Rodney brings to the role a wealth of experience, having served 43 years with the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda. His distinguished career and longstanding contributions to regional security have positioned him as a natural fit for this key leadership role within the RSS.
According to the RSS, Rodney’s appointment aligns with the organisation’s strategic goals, given his reputation as a dedicated and highly-skilled
security practitioner. He is widely regarded for his commitment to delivering exceptional client service, fostering innovative security solutions, and providing strong leadership across various platforms.
In his new position, Rodney is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing the RSS’ vision and strategy while contributing to the organisation’s ongoing success. His extensive knowledge of the regional security landscape, combined with strong analytical acumen and team leadership capabilities, is anticipated to bolster the RSS’ operational effectiveness.
Rodney expressed his appreciation for the appointment, stating,
“I am very excited to be part of the RSS HQ team and I am looking forward to contributing to the continued success of this essential regional organisation. I have been affiliated with the RSS from the beginning of my policing career and I am committed to its mission and objectives.
“I pledge to bring my training, experience and professionalism to the challenges of this new role and to ensure the further advancement of this vital regional institution.”
The RSS noted its pride in welcoming Rodney to the leadership team and looks forward to the valuable contributions he will bring to the regional security framework. (RSS)
Member of Parliament (MP) for St John’s Rural West Richard Lewis has publicly refuted claims made by Prime Minister Gaston Browne regarding land applications submitted by United Progressive Party MPs.
Lewis responded to statements made by Browne on Pointe FM, where the Prime Minister allegedly misrepresented facts about land applications. According to Lewis, the Prime Minister falsely claimed that the land he applied for overlooks the Royalton resort.
“The land in question is in a valley close to Pensioner’s, and not overlooking Royalton as he maliciously claimed. As a matter of fact, neither Royalton nor any sea can be seen from there,” Lewis stated in his press release.
The Rural West representative condemned what he described as a deliberate attempt by the Prime Minister to damage his reputation.
“This is yet another one of PM Browne’s hard efforts to dishonour my name. Is it that only PM Browne and those he chooses should have access to land in
Antigua?”
Lewis further criticised Browne’s behaviour during his radio appearances, stating, “PM Browne, who is the leader of this nation, must stop this distasteful habit of decimating the characters and persona of Antiguans and Barbudans for sport when he gets on his radio station on Saturdays.”
The MP clarified that the land application process is guided, not arbitrary as suggested by the Prime Minister. Lewis indicated that a Government surveyor recommended the area as the only one in Rural West available for distribution, and took them to visit the site.
Lewis also revealed that he was later informed that all lands in that area were earmarked for development and that he should seek alternatives. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)
il prices were down one per cent on Monday on fears that US tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China would slow economies around the world and slash energy demand while the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies (OPEC+) ramps up its supply.
Brent crude oil futures settled at US$69.28 a barrel, down US$1.08, or 1.5 per cent. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures settled at US$66.03 a barrel, shedding US$1.01, or 1.5 per cent.
Last week marked WTI's seventh consecutive weekly decline, the longest losing streak since November 2023, while Brent fell for a third consecutive week.
US President Donald Trump's protectionist policies have roiled markets across the world, with Trump imposing and then delaying tariffs on his country's biggest oil suppliers – Canada and Mexico –while also raising duties on Chinese goods. China and Canada have responded with tariffs of their own.
"This market is on tenterhooks and there's a lot to be processing as we move forward," said John Kilduff, partner with Again Capital in New York. "There are recession talks for the US and it's very concerning for the macro picture."
Over the weekend, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said Trump would not let up pressure on tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China.
Investors now are worried about a possible economic slowdown that could curtail oil demand. Stocks, which crude prices often follow, continued a steep decline amid tariffs concerns, with the benchmark S&P 500 falling two per cent in mid-day trade and the Nasdaq Composite sliding more than three per cent.
On Friday, Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said the OPEC+ group agreed to start increasing oil production from April, but could reverse the decision afterwards if there are market imbalances.
Also on the supply front, Trump is seeking to choke off Iranian oil exports as part of efforts to pressure Tehran to rein in its nuclear programme. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Saturday that his country will not be bullied into negotiations.
Possible sanctions against Iran and Russia could provide support in the short term, said PVM analyst Tamas Varga.
"Looking at the bigger picture, lingering uncertainties will likely make any oil rally brief," Varga said.
Oil rebounded from six-month lows on Friday after Trump said the United States would intensify sanctions on Russia if it fails to reach a ceasefire deal with Ukraine.
The US is also studying ways to ease sanctions on Russia's energy sector if Moscow agrees to end its war with Ukraine, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters.
Later this week, investors will assess monthly reports from the International Energy Agency and OPEC for demand and supply forecasts. (Reuters)
Israel's suspension of goods entering Gaza is taking a toll on the Palestinian enclave, with some bakeries closing and food prices rising, while a cut in the electricity supply could deprive people of clean water, Palestinian officials said.
The suspension, which Israel said was aimed at pressuring militant group Hamas in ceasefire talks, applies to food, medicine, and fuel imports.
The United Nations Palestinian refugees agency UNRWA said the decision to halt humanitarian aid threatens the lives of civilians exhausted by 17 months of "brutal" war. Most
President Donald Trump’s tariffs have spooked investors, with fears of an economic downturn driving a stock market sell-off that has wiped out US$4 trillion from the S&P 500’s peak last month, when Wall Street was cheering much of Trump's agenda.
A barrage of new Trump policies has increased uncertainty for businesses, consumers and investors, notably back-and-forth tariff moves against major trading partners like Canada, Mexico, and China.
"We've seen clearly a big sentiment shift," said Ayako Yoshioka, senior investment strategist at Wealth Enhancement. "A lot of what has worked is not working now."
The stock market selloff deepened on Monday. The benchmark S&P 500 fell 2.7 per cent, its biggest daily drop of the year. The Nasdaq
Composite slid four per cent, its largest one-day decline since September 2022.
The S&P 500 on Monday closed down 8.6 per cent from its February 19 record high, shedding over US$4 trillion in market value since then and nearing a 10 per cent decline that would represent a correction for the index. The tech-heavy Nasdaq ended Thursday down more than 10 per cent
from its December high.
Trump over the weekend declined to predict whether the US could face a recession as investors worried about the impact of his trade policy.
"The amount of uncertainty that has been created by the tariff wars with regard to Canada, Mexico and Europe, is causing boards and C-suites to reconsider the pathway forward," Peter
Orszag, CEO of Lazard, speaking at the CERAWeek conference in Houston.
"People can understand ongoing tensions with China, but the Canada, Mexico, and Europe part is confusing. Unless that gets resolved over the next month or so, this could do real damage to the economic prospects of the US and M&A activity," Orszag said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ahead of talks between Ukrainian and US officials that Washington hopes will deliver substantial progress towards ending Russia's war with Ukraine.
During the meeting in Jeddah, the Crown Prince underscored the Kingdom's support for international efforts to resolve Ukraine's crisis and achieving peace, the Saudi state news agency SPA reported early today.
The United States, once Ukraine's main ally, has upended its policy on the conflict in its stated pursuit of a
rapid end to the fighting, engaging directly with Moscow while stopping military assistance and intelligence sharing for Ukraine, which Russian troops invaded at scale in 2022.
Grappling with the new approach in the White House, Ukraine has pushed for "pragmatic" relations after a disastrous Oval Office encounter between Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump descended into acrimony last month.
Saudi Arabia has played a mediating role since Russia's invasion, including brokering prisoner exchanges and hosting last month's talks between Moscow and Washington.
are the first official session since Zelenskiy's abortive
of Gaza's 2.3 million people were dependent on aid, it said.
Hamas describes the measure as "collective punishment" and insisted it will not be pushed into making concessions.
Abdel-Nasser Al-Ajrami, head of the Gaza bakers' union, told Reuters that six out of the 22 bakeries still able to operate in the enclave had already shut after they ran out of cooking gas.
"The remaining bakeries may close down in a week or so should they run out of diesel or flour, unless the crossing is reopened to allow the goods to flow," he said.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Canada’s incoming Prime Minister promises quick transition after meeting Trudeau
ormer central banker
FMark Carney, fresh from a landslide victory to become the leader of Canada's ruling Liberal Party and the country's next Prime Minister, met Justin Trudeau on Monday and said the formal handover of power would be quick.
Liberal members on Sunday bet on Carney as the man best placed to take on US President Donald Trump, who has threatened annexation as well as launching a trade war and punishing tariffs on the longtime ally.
Trudeau is still Prime Minister until Carney formally takes over the role.
"That transition will be seamless and it will be quick," Carney said after meeting Trudeau. The Globe and Mail newspaper said Carney was likely to be appointed on Thursday or Friday.
Carney, asked about his relations with Trump, declined to answer on the grounds that he was not yet Prime Minister. Politico had earlier said the two men could speak as early as Monday. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Syria's interim President signs deal with Kurdishled SDF to merge forces
The Kurdish-led and US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which controls much of Syria's oil-rich northeast, signed a deal with the Damascus Government on Monday to join Syria's new State institutions, the Syrian presidency said on Monday.
Photos showed interim President Ahmed alSharaa and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi shaking hands in Damascus on the agreement that provides for SDF-controlled civilian and military institutions in northeast Syria to be integrated with the State.
Syria's interim President Ahmed Sharaa on Monday
vowed to punish those responsible for the mass killings of ousted Bashar al-Assad’s minority sect –including his own allies if necessary.
The accord came at a critical moment as Sharaa grapples with the fallout from mass killings of Alawite minority members in western Syria –- violence that he said on Monday threatened his effort to unite Syria after 14 years of conflict.
In December, insurgents toppled the regime of former President Bashar al-Assad, a member of the country's Alawite minority who fled to longtime supporter Russia. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Do something to help others. Pitching in will make you feel grateful for who you are and what you have. Expand your circle of friends and interests, and you'll discover something you want to pursue.
Impulsiveness will lead to poor choices. Concentrate on one thing at a time, and you'll accomplish what you set out to do. Timing is everything; thought and planning will make you look like a pro.
Sit back for a change, and let the dust settle before you begin again. Listen to your heart instead of letting someone else bully you. Evaluate what's important.
Be cognizant of others, but refuse to let anyone outshine or manipulate you. Put your best foot forward and put your energy where it counts. Shut out negativity and those trying to lead you astray.
Refuse to let a change of plans unnerve you. Go about your business, finish what you start and set your priorities straight to avoid outside interference. Implement self-love into your routine.
Visit a destination that offers visual, mental or emotional stimulation. Trust and believe in yourself, and you won't be disappointed. It's time to live, love and be happy.
Take the time to interact with knowledgeable people, and expand your circle of friends and interests. Doors will open, and proposals will spark your imagination and help you prioritize your schedule.
Turn up the volume and put your running shoes on; it's time to get serious and get things done. Stay focused, and you'll outsmart and outdo anyone who wants to slow you down.
An open mind, courage and a positive attitude will help you navigate highs and lows. Live life in the moment, and don't deny yourself the right to pursue what makes you happy.
Look for alternative ways to stretch your money. Whether you start a business, make some investments or apply for a better-paying position, you will discover you have more control over your financial future than you anticipated.
Home improvements that help to lower your utility costs or overall expenses are achievable. Do the work yourself when possible and oversee any outsourcing to ensure you get your money's worth.
Move into high gear and make positive changes. Improve how you live, work and handle your money. Chat with experts and people you trust to point you in the right direction.
Mumbai Indians (MI) continued their dominance over Gujarat Giants (GG) and took another step towards making a direct entry into the final of Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025 with a nine-run win in their penultimate league match.
The sparse home crowd was treated to a couple of stroke-filled knocks – MI Captain Harmanpreet Kaur hit her third half-century in four outings at the Brabourne Stadium while Bharti Fulmali smashed her maiden WPL fifty, off just 22 balls, to give MI a mighty scare.
In the first match in Mumbai this season, Nat Sciver-Brunt and Amanjot Kaur played support acts to their Captain as MI posted 179 for 6. GG were kept on a tight leash in reply, with the lack of dew doing them no favours. Amelia Kerr and Shabnim Ismail shared five wickets – the latter delivering the key blows of Ashleigh Gardner and Phoebe Litchfield – as GG were restricted to 170 for 9. It was just the third time in 19 games this season that a team successfully defended a target. It was MI's sixth win in six matches against GG in the WPL.
The win took MI to 10 points, on par with Delhi Capitals, with a Net Run Rate (NRR) of 0.298 (just below DC's 0.396) and a game to spare. They play Royal Challengers Bengaluru today in under 24 hours to round off the league stage. MI need to win that match to top the table and get a direct entry into the final, while the team that finish second will play GG in the eliminator.
Soon after GG fell just
short, Coach Michael Klinger said at the press conference that they tried to chase the target down in 18 overs, which would have taken them to the top of the table.
Fulmali blitz gives MIghty scare
GG were 70 for 5 in the 11th over and Deandra Dottin had survived a dropped chance just before Fulmali walked out. She got to her task by taking SciverBrunt for three fours in an over – one square through the off side, one over cover and then through square leg. It is not often that a batter outshines Dottin and causes headache to the opposition but such was Fulmali's assault. Soon Kerr bowled Dottin to leave GG's equation down to 88 off 41. Fulmali then walloped Kerr over long-on and did the same to Amanjot in the next over. Overall, she scored 24 off the nine balls she faced of Kerr, including a sequence of 6, 6, 4 which helped her to a 22-ball fifty before she fell in the same over. That left GG needing 38 off the 18, which soon became 23 off 12 after Simran Shaikh, in for Dayalan Hemalatha, and Tanuja Kanwar hit Hayley Matthews for 15. But MI held their nerves despite a frenetic finish to register their fifth win in seven matches.
and was run-out after pushing one straight to
the crease. Matthews pulled her West Indies team-mate Dottin over deep square leg for a six in the opening over before aerially sweeping Kanwar in the
Gardner at mid-on and setting off.
It was Matthews and Sciver-Brunt who provided MI the momentum in the powerplay. They exploited the short boundary – the square boundaries measured 58 metres and 52 metres –- by moving around
Opening troubles continue for MI
For the second game in a row, MI opened the batting with Kerr after being inserted. She faced the left-arm spin of Kanwar for starters before clipping Kashvee Gautam for a four. But she found it tough to rotate strike
same region for another. Sciver-Brunt also swept Kanwar through short fine leg as MI were 44 for 1 after six overs.
The Kaurs set MI for a strong finish Legspinner Priya Mishra had Matthews caught behind aaa
Mumbai Indians Women (20 ovs maximum)
Hayley Matthews c †Mooney
b Priya Mishra 27
Amelia Kerr run out (Gardner) 5
Nat Sciver-Brunt
c & b Gardner 38
Harmanpreet Kaur (c) c Litchfield b Kanwar 54
Amanjot Kaur c Gardner
b Gautam 27
Sajeevan Sajana not out 11
Yastika Bhatia † run out (Dottin/†Mooney) 13
Harleen Deol lbw
b Kerr 24
Ashleigh Gardner (c) c Matthews
b Ismail 0
Phoebe Litchfield
b Ismail 22
Deandra Dottin
b Kerr 10
Bharti Fulmali c Kamalini
b Kerr 61
Simran Shaikh
b Matthews 18
soon after the powerplay.
Like she has been doing this season, Harmanpreet started off swiftly – she reversed Mishra through short third with the back of her bat and then attacked Meghna Singh in the only over she bowled. MI's run rate hovered in the early sevens and she, in the company of Sciver-Brunt, ensured it never dipped. They added 59 off 40 before Gardner broke through.
That brought Amanjot to the crease at number five for only the second time in the WPL. She drove Dottin through the covers and then meted out special treatment to Gautam, with whom she has trained with for over a decade now, hitting her for a sequence of 4, 4, 6 to help MI take 15 off the 17th over. Gautam did have the last laugh by having Amanjot caught at long-on for a 15-ball 27 to end the 19-ball 33-run stand. Harmanpreet then completed her half-century off just 31 balls as MI scored 55 off the last four overs, the exact equation GG needed in the chase.
Early strikes cost Giants
Gautam was on 9 off 12 balls with nine dots at the end of the fifth over when GG were 34 for 1. She just managed to get away from a 120-kilometres-per-hour short ball Ismail hurled at her. Gautam fell in the last over of the powerplay, stumped off Sanskriti Gupta's offspin. Two balls later, Ismail had Gardner caught low at slip for a two-ball duck, that was a body blow for GG. While Harleen Deol hit five fours against spin – three of them in successive balls off Matthews - she missed a googly from Kerr to be trapped lbw. GG could have lost steam and finished much lower than what they did, if not for Fulmali.
(ESPNcricinfo)
Extras (w 4) 4
Total 20 Ov (RR: 8.95) 179/6
Did not bat: G Kamalini, Sanskriti Gupta, Shabnim
Ismail, Parunika Sisodia
Fall of wickets: 1-17 (Amelia Kerr, 2.5 ov), 2-46 (Hayley Matthews, 6.6 ov), 3-105 (Nat Sciver-Brunt, 13.4 ov), 4-138 (Amanjot Kaur, 16.5 ov), 5-166 (Harmanpreet Kaur, 19.2 ov), 6-179 (Yastika Bhatia, 19.6 ov)
Bowling O-M-R-W
Deandra Dottin 4-0-44-0
Tanuja Kanwar 4-0-41-1
Kashvee Gautam 4-0-32-1
Priya Mishra 3-0-23-1
Ashleigh Gardner 4-0-27-1
Meghna Singh 1-0-12-0
Gujarat Giants Women (T: 180 runs from 20 ovs)
Beth Mooney † c Gupta
b Matthews 7
Kashvee Gautam st †Bhatia
b Gupta 10
Tanuja Kanwar run out (Matthews/AB Kaur) 10
Meghna Singh not out 1 Priya Mishra st †Bhatia
b Matthews 1
Extras (b 2, lb 2, w 2) 6
Total 20 Ov (RR: 8.50) 170 Fall of wickets: 1-15 (Beth Mooney, 3.1 ov), 2-40 (Kashvee Gautam, 5.5 ov), 3-41 (Ashleigh Gardner, 6.2 ov), 4-54 (Harleen Deol, 8.2 ov), 5-70 (Phoebe Litchfield, 10.5 ov), 6-92 (Deandra Dottin, 13.1 ov), 7-142 (Bharti Fulmali, 16.6 ov), 8-168 (Tanuja Kanwar, 19.1 ov), 9-168 (Simran Shaikh, 19.2 ov), 10-170 (Priya Mishra, 19.6 ov)
Bowling O-M-R-W
Shabnim Ismail 4-0-17-2
Nat Sciver-Brunt 3-0-28-0
Hayley Matthews 4-0-38-3
Parunika Sisodia 2-0-19-0
Having benched the misfiring Hemalatha, GG opted to use Gautam as the opener alongside Beth Mooney, who popped a catch to cover on the first ball of Matthews' spell. While Gautam does possess the ability to hit big shots down the order, she was like a deer caught in headlights against the high-pace and swing of Ismail.
They stay in our hotels, dine in our restaurants, visit our attractions and return home as ambassadors, sending many more to visit after their stay in Jamaica.”
Wisynco, through its brands Wata and Powerade, will provide refreshment on Thursday as well as treating fans to snack bags while Red Stripe will be the official beer sponsor for the game.
“This is such a culmination of hard work from a lot of people to get here and pull off this match on short notice. Wisynco was pleased to an-
swer the call and support and, hopefully, our players will be well hydrated, well rested and ready to take on the moment,” said Wisynco Group head of consumer marketing, Erin Mitchell.
“At Red Stripe we’re proud to be a long-standing supporter of all things Jamaican, including athletes and teams across various sporting activities. Undoubtedly, we’re excited to be a part of this match on Thursday,” said Red Stripe Brand Manager Nathan Nelms. (Sportsmax)
Defending champions in the Berbice leg of the Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” football competition, East Bank Gunners, have advanced to the semi-finals.
A hat-trick by Kevin George helped the defending champions to secure a 3-0 win over Young Strikers in their quarter-final matchup on Saturday night at the New Amsterdam Basketball Court as action continued in the tournament.
Meanwhile, Shanny Campbell helped Manchester to needle Trini Gunners
when the two teams met in their quarterfinal matchup.
Paradise squeezed past outsiders 1-0 to ensure they book a semi-final place, while Ballers United, after playing to a goalless score with Young Guns, advanced with a 2-1 win from the penalty spot. The teams that failed to advance to the semi-finals have a chance to claim the plate.
In the opening game in the plate playoff, Trini Gunners gained a walkover from Young Strikers while Young Guns got past
Outsiders 2-1.
On Saturday, Trini Gunners and Young Guns will battle for the plate at $60,000.
Also on Saturday, East Bank Gunners will take on Manchester in semi-final action and Paradise will take on Ballers United for a place in the final.
At stake in the competition is $500,000 for the winners and $300,000 for the losing finalists.
The third-place team will walk away with $200,000 and $100,000 will go to the fourth-place finisher.
“We will put on a show” Cavalier’s Speid promises strong performance in front of
SC
CCoach Rudolph Speid has expressed confidence ahead of the second leg of his side’s CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 tie against Inter Miami CF at the National Stadium in Kingston on Thursday.
The reigning Jamaica Premier League and CONCACAF Caribbean Cup champions put forth a valiant effort in the first leg last Thursday before ultimately suffering a 2-0 defeat to an Inter Miami side that was missing Lionel
The Caribbean Drag Racing Championship (CDRC) has officially expanded its roster with the addition of St Vincent and the Grenadines, making it the seventh participating country in the prestigious regional motorsport series.
The St Vincent & the Grenadines Motorsport Association (SVGMA) now joins Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, St Lucia, Trinidad & Tobago, and Jamaica in what promises to be an even more electrifying competition.
SVGMA’s entry into the championship is a historic moment for the motorsport community in St Vincent and the Grenadines. Their inclusion is backed by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr Orando Brewster, who has pledged Government support for the nation’s participation in upcoming championship events.
The country’s top drag racers are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to compete on the regional stage, culminating in the highly-anticipated CDRC finals set for January 2026 in Jamaica.
Chris Elliott, a member of the FIA Drag Racing Commission, welcomed SVGMA to the championship, commending their efforts to develop drag racing in the region. “Congratulations to the SVG Motorsport Association on becoming part
of the Caribbean Drag Racing Championship! Your commitment to growing drag racing in the Region is truly commendable, and we are excited to work together, create friendly rivalries, and continue to unite drag racing communities across the Caribbean. Welcome to the CDRC family.”
Stephen Gunter, Chairman of the Jamaica Millennium Motoring Club, which spearheads the CDRC, also praised SVGMA’s inclusion and recognised the vital role of St Vincent & the Grenadines' Ministry of Youth and Sports in making this possible.
“We are grateful for the support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in St
Vincent & the Grenadines, which has enabled SVGMA to become a part of this growing regional motorsport championship. With this latest addition, the CDRC now proudly features seven participating countries, making for an even more thrilling and competitive series,” Gunter said.
As a closed competition, the CDRC operates on an invitation-only basis, with racers nominated by their respective National Sporting Authority (ASN) to represent their country at no cost of entry. The championship’s innovative points-based system allows competitors to accumulate points by participating in three of their locally-staged national events. The top 16 drivers in each class across
all participating countries will then earn a coveted spot at the Championship Final in Jamaica in January 2026.
The championship features two elite racing divisions: Pro Street (10.999 to 10.000 seconds) and Pro Race (9.999 to 9.000 seconds), with winners receiving trophies, prize money, and additional rewards for their respective ASNs.
With the addition of St Vincent & the Grenadines, the CDRC continues to build momentum, cementing its status as the premier motorsport competition in the Caribbean. Fans can expect intense rivalries and exhilarating action as the best drag racers from across the Region gear up for the 2025 season. (Sportsmax)
Speid, speaking at a press conference on Monday, expressed confidence in his side’s ability to rebound from their first-leg defeat in front of their home crowd.
“I can assure you that we will put on a show on Thursday. We know what we have to do, we have to score the first goal and try to do it as quick as possible. That doesn’t mean that if we don’t get it in the first half, that’s the end. We know how hard it’s going to be to attack that much and keep a clean sheet,” he said.
Speid also spoke on the prospect of facing Messi at the National Stadium.
“We carried Pele here in 1971 and we also carried Chelsea so we’re just continuing the line of tradition,” he said.
“We always wanted to put up a good performance in Miami so that the great one would have to come here to ensure that they progress from the tie and I think it has worked. I think they believe it will be a difficult game,” Speid added.
Also, at Monday’s press conference, Cavalier announced partnerships with Wisynco, Red Stripe, the Jamaica Tourist Board and the Sports Development Foundation to assist in the hosting of one of the biggest club games to ever take place in Jamaica.
“This game shows the importance and growth of the Jamaica Premier League and the clubs within the Jamaica Premier League, and specifically Cavalier Soccer Club over the last four to five years,” said Cavalier Chairman Ryan Foster.
“Despite coming out of a pandemic, Cavalier has risen above the ashes and are now on the trajectory of growth,” he added.
Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, Donovan White, was also on hand and outlined the importance of the partnership for both Cavalier and Jamaica as a whole.
“This collaboration represents far more than a mere business arrangement. It embodies our shared vision of showcasing the very best of our local football talent in
Jamaica, both on and off the pitch,” he said.
“Cavalier SC has been a great ambassador for our region carrying the spirit of Jamaica and the Caribbean wherever they play. Their dedication to excellence mirrors our own commitment to providing world-class experiences for visitors to Jamaica,” he added. He continued: “Sports tourism generates a significant economic impact worldwide. Fans travel not just for 90 minutes of action on the pitch, but for the complete experience of a destination.
The Guyana Football Federation’s National Training Centre (NTC) at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) was treated to much pomp and splendour on Sunday night as the seventh edition of the Elite League got underway.
The grand opening ceremony featured a parade of the competition’s 10 teams, during which GFF President Wayne Forde divulged the Federation’s vision for the seventh edition of the League.
“This is the seventh season of the Elite League and we have set ourselves three
key objectives, the first being to improve the overall operations of the League and I’m almost sure you would’ve seen the evidence of that from the time you enter the venue and I must take this opportunity to thank His Excellency, President Irfaan Ali for the tremendous support that he has given us over the past couple of weeks in improving the surroundings of the NTC,” Forde said in a bid of gratitude to the Head of State for recent enhancements at the Providence venue.
The GFF boss continued, “Apart from improving the
operations of the League, we also want to help our 10 Elite League clubs to professionalise their operations to acquire their CONCACAF Club licence which will make them eligible to participate in regional and international competition. This is a very key step that we need to take in our ongoing efforts to professionalise football in Guyana. It’s our goal that at the end of this season, every one of our clubs can celebrate the fact that they’ve acquired their CONCACAF Club licence.
“Finally, we want to make sure that we’re delib-
Tutorial High School and St John’s College will join other Georgetown schools in the Milo Under-18 Schools’ Football tournament after triumphing in a preliminary play-off last weekend.
The play-off action got underway at the Ministry of Education Ground on Saturday, where Brickdam Secondary got the better of Pure Masters’ Academy 6-2.
Samuel Gasper was the marksman to watch, finding the back of the net in the 5th, 28th, 38th, 51st and 60th minutes for a glut. Andrew De Weever had their other goal in the 8th minute.
Meanwhile, Pure Masters’ only reply came off the boots of Tevin Christian who netted a brace in the 30th and 55th minutes.
A result by the same margin followed immediately after as St Stanislaus College whipped the Bishops’ High School.
Keishawn Ramsay opened the scoring in the 10th minute and later completed his brace in the 35th. Another brace for Saints came off the boots of Satirius Taylor (31st, 48th) while Tyrique Andries (41st) and Nathan Roberts (47th) had one goal each. For Bishops’, Raul Ambedkar (15th) and Jason Hussain (68th) found the back of the net once each.
It was a thrilling contest between North Ruimveldt Multilateral and St John’s
College for the penultimate game of the day, which boiled down to kicks from the penalty area. Though North Ruimveldt held their nerve for the win, they were later disqualified for fielding an ineligible player and as such, St John’s got a lifeline.
The last game on Saturday saw Tutorial High coming from behind to defeat Tucville Secondary 3-1. Tucville struck first through Shaquan Deen in the 17th minute and it was only until the 48th minute that Tutorial’s Travis Grogan was able to equalise. Desean Sookram (58th) and Azariah Pilgrim (68th) found the back of the net for Tutorial to seal the win.
In the final round of the play-offs at the same venue on Sunday, Tutorial edged
Brickdam 3-2.
Brickdam Secondary enjoyed an early two-goal advantage when Cherub Trim got the ball rolling into the net in the third minute while his teammate, Theon Manawakhar followed up in the seventh. However, a hattrick off the boots of Tutorial’s Travis Grogan in the 42nd, 68th and 70th minutes booked the Woolford Avenue side’s spot in the tournament.
St John’s College then made the most of their lifeline, defeating St Stanislaus College 2-0. Teron Farose registered a brace for St John’s in the seventh and 12th minutes of the encounter. The 11th edition of the Milo tournament is tentatively set to get underway this weekend.
erate in the actions that we take to improve the overall fan experience. The Elite League is not just a tournament, it is a movement and every fan that comes out here must feel as though they are catered for.”
their first-ever Elite League goal in the 54th minute.
The consolation strike made no difference as Quincy Barry, and Francis and Kemron Pellew added one goal each in the 75th, 89th and 90th+3 minutes for the massive win.
For the on-field action, Ann’s Grove United secured the first three points of the 2025 season, defeating newcomers Lake Mainstay Goldstar 6-1.
As Ann’s Grove took some time to find their footing, Yohance Francis broke the ice between the two teams in the 20th minute.
Jamal Tuesday then made it a 2-0 affair in Ann’s Grove’s favour, finding the back of the net in the 40th minute.
The East Coast outfit went into the half with the 2-0 advantage and upon resumption, Steve Francis (47th) extended their lead.
However, Lake Mainstay were able to pull one back through Robeno Kanhai, who will be credited with
The second game of the double-header saw a star-studded Slingerz FC team being challenged by Monedderlust FC, but pre vailing with a 4-1 win.
After several disallowed goals, Slingerz finally had their first through Kemar Beckford, who capitalised on a loose ball in the box to send a volley into the net in the 39th minute. Beckford went on to complete his hattrick in the 41st and 90th+3 minutes, while Jeremy Garrett struck in the 77th for Slingerz’ four.
Dawit Watts found Monedderlust’s consolation in the 60th minute.
This year’s Elite League will see 90 games being played over the next six months.
The action will continue this Saturday with Den Amstel taking on Lake Mainstay Goldstar at 18:30h while two-time defending champions Guyana Defence Force FC battle Western Tigers at 21:00h, at the same venue.
Under radiant sunshine and amid the lush greenery of the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC), golfers gathered for the highly-anticipated Citizens Bank Golf Tournament – a premier event showcasing skill, endurance, and sportsmanship.
Sponsored by Citizens Bank, this competition brought together seasoned players and rising talents, all vying for top honours on one of Guyana’s most celebrated golf courses.
The tournament was marked by a competitive spirit and impressive performances. Feroze Barakat emerged as the winner, securing first place with a net score of 58, while Sheldon Davis (69) and Imtiaz Subhan (70) rounded off the top three. The thrilling contest kept spectators and fellow competitors on edge, as each golfer battled not just the course but also their own precision and mental fortitude.
LGC President Anasha Ally expressed deep appreciation for Citizens Bank’s ongoing commitment to the sport. "Thank you to Citizens Bank for being a wonderful sponsor. You're friends of the club, and you're patrons of this club, and we'd love to encourage you to continue doing this for decades to come."
Citizens Bank Marketing Manager Mikhail J McKenzie emphasised the alignment between golf and professional success. "Golf is about concentration, focus, and mental toughness. It’s a sport that
hones discipline – skills that translate into any career. The Lusignan course looks fantastic, even comparable to those in the USA, and we are proud to be a part of this event. We look forward to continuing our support for the Lusignan Golf Club."
The Citizens Bank Golf Tournament is more than a competition; it is a testament to the bank’s unwavering commitment to community enrichment and the growth of sports in Guyana. Through this partnership, Citizens Bank fosters not only the game of golf but also values of perseverance and excellence – qualities that extend far beyond the fairways. With another successful tournament in the books, LGC continues to establish itself as the home of premier golfing action in Guyana.
Enthusiasts and newcomers alike are encouraged to visit the club, immerse themselves in the sport, and be part of a growing legacy. For more information on upcoming tournaments and membership opportunities, visit the Lusignan Golf Club or follow them on social media.
Results Summary: 1st Place: Feroze Barakat – Gross 78, HC 10,
3rd Place: Imtiaz Subhan – Gross 86, HC 16, Net 70 Nearest to Pin – Ronald Bulkan Lusignan Golf Club remains the heart of Guyana’s golf scene, where every tournament brings new excitement, new challenges, and new champions.
