Caricom Secretary General urges bold, realistic
President Ali attends 49th Meeting of Caricom Heads of Government
Govt will continue to invest heavily in youth to prevent neglect, marginalisation
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Keba Evelyn takes top honours at 2025 National Poetry Slam ANUG Chairman Mark DeFrance was suspended from medical practice for forgery, says news report Emphasis
In a compelling CARICOM Day message, President Dr Irfaan Ali reaffirmed Guyana’s steadfast commitment to deepening regional integration, tackling climate change and strengthening food and energy security across CARICOM.
Describing CARICOM as a “towering symbol of unity and cooperation for more than five decades,” President Ali called on Caribbean nations to move beyond rhetoric and embrace bold, strategic collaboration in the face of mounting global and regional challenges.
Additionally, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters, external market shocks and transnational crime, Ali described CARICOM as a “collective shield and moral compass”. With this in mind, he called on member states to expand intra-regional trade, advance food security, ensure sustainable energy systems and defend democracy and regional peace.
“We must vigorously strengthen and strategically expand intra-regional trade, aggressively advance our efforts toward long-term food security, and ensure resilient energy systems and sustainable environmental
protections. Guyana is committed to playing its part in these ambitious undertakings—whether through our growing food production capacity, emerging energy resources or our support for regional mechanisms aimed at deepening integration. At the same time, we must continue to engage traditional partners while proactively forging new strategic alliances, so as to guard against the looming threat of economic protectionism that endangers the economic sovereignty of small and vulnerable states,” the Guyanese leader said.
Guyana, the Head of State noted, is playing its
part by leveraging its expanding food production, emerging energy resources, and diplomatic partnerships to help the region become more self-reliant and resilient.
Ali also emphasised the inviolability of democratic values, warning that the sustainability of the regional integration project depends on respecting the will of the people and resisting threats to democratic governance.
“Importantly, we must also safeguard and vigorously defend our cherished democratic traditions. The strength and viability of our regional project depend on
the preservation and integrity of the democratic values we hold dear. Our member states must remain firmly within the democratic fold, ensuring that the respect for the democratic will of the people remains eternally inviolable,” he said.
Similar sentiments were on Sunday echoed by Chair of CARICOM and Prime Minister of Jamaica Dr Andrew Holness, when he addressed the 49th Regular Meeting of the CARICOM Heads of Government in Montego Bay, Jamaica,
operation with Africa, and we must strengthen our internal cooperation. The resources in CARICOM are sufficient for us to provide for the needs of our people. Guyana with energy and land, Suriname with energy and land, Trinidad, Jamaica with incredible human resources. What has stopped us for these many years? We have been saying we really want to get it. Did we really want it?
I think that the emerging global situation must now push us to really get it now.
Government must focus on. And so it is that the policies that we will pursue in CARICOM, whatever it is, whether it is the institutional structures that we will have to re-examine, the trade policies that we will have to pursue, the security policies that we will have to pursue, they must be pursued through the prism, through the lens of sustainability and resilience. So Jamaica will continue to champion initiatives that will make these three pillars, people, part-
from July 6-8, 2025.
In his speech, the CARICOM Chair emphasised that “human development must be the centre of the integration mission”, noting that “the world is not unipolar and that there are opportunities that member states must explore”
“As a community, we must strengthen SouthSouth cooperation, we must strengthen our trade co-
We can get it, because the time to get prosperity for our people is now. But that prosperity must be inclusive,” the CARICOM Chair said. According to Holness, achieving these goals requires member states to collectively develop targeted policies that allow for seamless adoption.
“Sustainability and resilience are the two new buzzwords now that every
nership and prosperity, not just aspirational. Because we have seen leaders come before with these aspirations. We have seen the words expressed before.
The problem has always been our ability to be bold enough, strategic enough, systematic enough, disciplined enough to convert these dreams and aspirations, these words, into reality,” he added.
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, July 8 – 03:00h-04:30h and Wednesday, July 9 –03:30h-05:00h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, July 8 – 15:00h-16:30h and Wednesday, July 9 –15:50h-17:20h.
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Light to thundery showers are expected during the day, with sunny intervals in the early morning and late afternoon. Clear to cloudy skies followed by thundery showers are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 21 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to Southerly between 0.89 metre and 2.23 metres.
High Tide: 14:59h reaching a maximum height of 2.26 metres.
Low Tide: 08:30h and 20:44h reaching minimum heights of 0.84 metre and 0.96 metre.
rime Minister (PM)
Brigadier (Ret’d)
Mark Phillips underscored the Government of Guyana’s continued commitment to strengthening the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Sunday evening, as he delivered the feature address at the agency’s 29th Anniversary Dinner and Awards Ceremony, held at the Royal International Hotel.
The PM congratulated the EPA on nearly three decades of regulatory and stewardship work, describing the institution as a critical pillar of Guyana’s sustainable development agenda and a “guardian of our shared future”.
He praised the staff of the EPA for their dedication to protecting the country’s natural resources, noting that effective environmental governance relies on skilled, principled and mission-driven personnel. “Recognition transforms a job into a mission and nowhere is that more important than in environmental protection, where the stakes are high and the challenges are constant.”
The EPA’s vital role in balancing environmental stewardship with economic development—and its work in licensing, monitoring, pollution control and public education—was also highlighted. “Your mandate is crucial to our country’s future: to manage the environment in a way that safeguards human health and preserves the ecosystems on which we depend, without stifling the economic development our people deserve.”
PM Phillips also reaffirmed the Government’s support for the agency, as he pointed to Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) as the guiding framework for ensuring sustainable growth while empowering communities and enhancing climate resilience. “Our gold, bauxite, oil and timber sectors can and must contribute to national prosperity,
but we will not allow shortterm gain to destroy longterm potential.”
He commended the EPA’s efforts to address critical issues such as plastic pollution through public
awareness, policy enforcement, and collaborative partnerships, reiterating that these actions are fundamental to protecting public health and supporting economic opportunity.
“Ending plastic pollution is a health imperative, an economic opportunity and a moral responsibility.”
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As Guyana prepares to host the Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit, scheduled for July 23-25, 2025, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) in Liliendaal, in an effort to galvanise concerted action on one aspect of efforts to prevent the earth pushing past yet another planetary limit in our headlong rush to consume our planet and ourselves, another pillar – the nascent zero-waste movement, one of the most promising of our last-ditch attempts to stave off climate change-wrought devastation seems to have fallen from the headlines.
Lost in the ever-increasing wars besetting an alreadyriven planet, the call to action as espoused by the United Nations seeks to bolster waste management and advance resource recovery and reuse to protect human and environmental health. In three words – reduce, reuse, and recycle. The “three Rs” of solid waste management are listed in order of importance for actions that should be taken to manage our trash.
As the UN has baldly stated, “Humanity’s unsustainable production and consumption practices are driving the planet towards destruction.
“Households, small businesses, and public service providers generate between 2.1 billion and 2.3 billion tons of municipal solid waste every year – from packaging and electronics to plastics and food. However, global waste management services are ill-equipped to handle this, with 2.7 billion people lacking access to solid waste collection and only 61-62 per cent of municipal solid waste being managed in controlled facilities. Humanity must act urgently to address the waste crisis.”
In its 2024 Global Waste Management Outlook report, the UN added: “Uncontrolled waste knows no national borders. It is carried by waterways across and between countries, while emissions from the burning and open dumping of waste are deposited in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and in the atmosphere. Pollution from waste is associated with a range of adverse health and environmental effects, many of which will last for generations.”
So, how do we act? According to ZeroWaste.org, one of the organisations taking the lead in promoting zero waste, rule number one is “don't make waste” – avoid buying new things and creating trash.
The first rule is likely impossible to implement in our current overconsumption mode, but surely the other two – recycling and reusing products – will effect big changes? Will they? There is the problem: there is not enough reusing and recycling going on to cancel out the mountains of garbage we create every day. The global population is eight billion and continues to grow every day, and we depend on a limited number of natural resources for survival. Further, the way we produce, consume, and dispose of our products and our food accounts for nearly half of greenhouse gas emissions.
The waste crisis is tied to the triple planetary crises of biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution, and affects us all. Perhaps, the solution has to be as radical as the problem and this is where another two Rs as some activists have suggested can make the difference – refuse what we don’t need and rot, ie compost, what we cannot refuse, reduce, reuse or recycle.
This will require a massive transformation in the mindset of most where more is always good and excess is best. We should remember the wisdom of our grandparents: Wilful waste brings woeful want – for the entire planet.
Will zero waste turn out to be a zero-sum game for the environment? We, through our actions, get to decide.
In classrooms across the Caribbean, a quiet crisis persists: male students consistently underperform in written assessments. This trend is not merely a reflection of individual capabilities, but is deeply rooted in societal norms and gender stereotypes that shape boys’ attitudes towards education. Understanding and addressing these stereotypes is crucial for fostering an environment in which all students can thrive.
From an early age, Caribbean boys are socialised into a rigid framework of masculinity that often devalues academic achievement. As noted by one author, the traditional view positions men as breadwinners and outdoor labourers, roles that are perceived as more masculine than those associated with academic success.
This cultural conditioning leads many boys to associate activities like reading and writing with femininity, resulting in disengagement from these essential skills.
Furthermore, the linguistic divide between Standard English and local dialects exacerbates the issue. In Jamaica, for instance, boys who speak Standard English are sometimes labelled with derogatory terms, reinforcing the notion that academic success is incompatible with traditional masculinity.
This phenomenon is not unique to the Caribbean.
A study conducted in Germany revealed that boys who internalise the stereotype that reading is a female activity exhibit lower self-esteem and motivation in reading tasks. The classroom environment plays a significant role; when a class collectively holds negative stereotypes about boys’ reading abilities, it further diminishes their confidence and performance .
Similarly, research has found that boys often struggle with reading and writing skills, which compounds issues in other subjects as they progress through school. This pattern underscores the need for tailored interventions
that address the specific challenges boys face in literacy development .
Educators play a pivotal role in dismantling the stereotypes that hinder boys’ academic progress. By recognising the impact of gender norms on students’ learning experiences, teachers can create inclusive curricula that engage boys in meaningful ways. Strategies include incorporating diverse reading materials that reflect various masculinities, fostering classroom discussions that challenge traditional gender roles, and providing positive reinforcement for boys’ academic efforts.
Moreover, teacher training programmes should emphasise the importance of gender-sensitive pedagogy. Understanding how societal expectations influence student behaviour and performance enables educators to adopt teaching methods that cater to the diverse needs of all learners.
Addressing the issue requires a collective effort from families, communities, and policymakers.
Initiatives aimed at redefining masculinity and promoting the value of education can help shift societal perceptions. Community programmes that involve male role models in educational settings can also provide boys with positive examples of academic success.
At the policy level, reforms that encourage gender-neutral teaching practices and curricula can create an environment in which boys are not only allowed but encouraged to excel in writing and other academic pursuits.
The underachievement of boys in writing is a multifaceted issue influenced by deep-seated gender stereotypes. By acknowledging and addressing these stereotypes, we can create an educational landscape in which all students, regardless of gender, have the opportunity to succeed. It is imperative that we challenge traditional notions of masculinity and promote an inclusive approach to education that values the contributions of every student. (Jamaica Observer)
Dear Editor,
“A narrow focus of awards can lead to decreased motivation, increased stress and a sense of exclusion among students who don’t fit the traditional mould of what a successful student is supposed to be.”- Linda Iwenofu clinical child psychologist and assistant professor in applied psychology and human development at the Torontobased Ontario Institute for Studies in Education. Congratulations to the class of 2025. Graduations are special events. What happens after the flash of the cameras go quiet, the balloons burst and the crowd disperses?
In many instances, graduations are viewed as rites of passage. Rites of passage are important indicators of transition culminating in adulthood. Graduations are often times grounded in great expectations not only for the grandaunts but also for their parents, guardians and well wishers.
Many graduates over the years of formal schooling developed strong connections to both their educational institutions and friends. Formal schooling is
much more than academics and scholarships. Life-long friendships are often cemented in the hallowed avenues of formal education. Consequently, networking is a critical tool for one to become successful.
It is frequently said that one’s net worth mirrors one’s network. The minds of youngsters are impressionable. As a result, the message society tries to impose on young minds is vital regarding the type of society we will have in the future.
Given that there are so many points of disconnect in the education system there must be a concerted effort to give our youngsters a message that engenders patriotism, inspires hope and ensures sustainable development.
The time has come for us to reimagine graduation awards. Graduation exercises tend to be grounded in a model of exclusion. The focus is always on the top achievers. While nothing is wrong with celebrating academic excellence as educators we must seek to expand the avenues of achievements.
Iwenofu believes schools need to be recognising im-
portant aspects of a student’s development like creativity, social responsibility and overcoming obstacles, which would also help recognise the achievements of students who face barriers like learning disabilities or socioeconomic challenges.
“Studies show that when students are recognised for their effort rather than outcomes, the students show greater resilience and longer-term engagement,” Iwenofu said.
Budgetary allocation to education should not be seen in abstract. Education ministries will be required to make a good case for educational expenditure while demonstrating their efficient use of resources to deliver greater value for money.
Globally, policymaking has always been a matter of making choices, managing trade-offs and balancing multiple goals and priorities to make complex budgetary decisions.
Jamaica’s current educational model does not allow for much empathy. In fact, global education systems are void of empathy.
The callous and crude manner in which we treat
each other is testimony to this fact. Violence against women and girls has been normalised in many societies. The national curriculum is tailor-made to foster a currency that glorifies materialistic and individualistic gains.
Yet, the Jamaican society expects professional athletes to be patriotic.
Policymakers have been found wanting in creating a national curriculum that is both intentional in purpose and responsive in application. Those of us who work in the trenches experience daily the various points of disconnect.
In order to develop and nurture the value of education the focus should be on making learning relevant, engaging, and personalised.
This can be achieved by connecting lessons to real-world applications, by fostering a supportive learning environment, and encouraging students to explore their interests.
However, one must be mindful that in instances where the teacher pupil is disproportionate and where various learning styles are present personalised teacher and learning will be chal-
Dear Editor,
On Sunday 6th July, we witnessed another manifestation of the leader of a party vainly trying to whip up some support from his party loyalists. Sunday's meeting saw the PNC Leader trying his utmost, to first convince himself, then, try to gain the trust of those his supporters.
It is an uphill task for Mr. Norton, and one in which history would not be so kind to him.
In the first place, Norton is having great difficulty holding together what is left of a badly divided party, which caused him to openly say, he is willing to step aside and let someone else lead. And step aside he should because, in his egotistical, autocratic style he has supervised over the routing of key stalwarts from the party.
The irreparable damage Norton has caused is sure to take a drastic effect on his performance this election.
Those that have stuck with him are not fit and proper to face a dwindling party crowd, much more to save the party's image. The point is, in a more intelligent, and politically astute Guyanese landscape, The PNC is caught flat-footed. No more can a Norton, or anyone else in that remnant pack, sway a crowd or be charismatic enough to give
the black support base an assurance that they are an alternative to the PPP/C; it is not going to happen!
While Norton is assured of a firm base of party diehards, that is those above upwards of 60 years, the younger and more politically astute crowd are prone to gravitate to either A PPP/C camp or a Team Mohammed's. The latter team seems to be making huge inroads in PNC strongholds.
The debate is on as to how many seats Mohammed would steal from an APNU support base? And the answer seems to be in the single digit of 5 seats, which would see a vastly reduced PNC in parliament. Some are of the liberal view that the PNC would only be able to put together a paltry 20 seats. Only time will tell the irretrievable place this man has placed his party into.
However, Norton is not be perturbed with Mohammed gaining votes, he would have liked those votes coming from the PPP/ C's base and the end result being a rehash of 2011 where this country was saddled with a minority PPP/C Government.
But from all appearances that theory cannot see its fulfilment, as the PNC's lost is attributed to a PPP/C’s gain. We look forward to a
highly anticipated election season.
Yours
lenging. Additionally, integrating moral and ethical values, promoting empathy, and encouraging active participation can significantly enrich the educational experience.
There must be standards for students to graduate. In the Jamaican society, all students look forward to graduation regardless of how wayward their tenure was.
Students must be made aware of these standards and held accountable. Students should be expected to give back to their society. We have created a society where accountability has been eroded and continues to be eroded. This is problematic and needs to be addressed urgently.
Education systems can encourage students to give back through mandatory volunteer hours, service-learning programs, or by integrating social responsibility into the curriculum. These initiatives can foster a sense of civic engagement and responsibility, while also providing valuable real-world learning experiences. Schools can require students to complete a certain number of volunteer hours within their community as a graduation requirement.
This approach ensures that all students participate in community service, providing them with exposure to different social issues and fostering a sense of re-
sponsibility. Schools can integrate service-learning projects into the curriculum, where students engage in community service that is directly related to their coursework in order to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Another issue that comes to the fore during the graduation period concerns career development. Regrettably, many students are not adequately prepared to face the harsh and cold reality that composes real life.
To the graduating class of 2025, you have just completed a critical part of your journey to success. Pursue your dreams with passion and purpose. Undoubtedly, there will be hurdles, but each hurdle you successfully navigate will tell a story.
Envision yourself as agents of change and transformation by leveraging your youth to tackle the problems in society.
As you advocate on behalf of those issues which are of importance to you, do remember to speak on environmental issues. The youth of today will be impacted the most as adults.
Adulting is a sign of maturity that requires social and collective responsibility. Believe in yourself.
In the words of Nelson Mandela, it is not where you start but how high you aim that matters for success.
Yours sincerely, Wayne Campbell
Subtracting decimals is just like subtracting whole numbers. However, you must correctly line up the decimals . Write placeholder zeros if you need to.
Example:
Subtract 82.72 - 9.3
Step 1: Line up the numbers. Make sure that the decimal points line up. Write placeholder zeros if you need to. Place a decimal point in the answer line under the other decimal points.
Step 2: Subtract:
By CeCelia TaunTon
See if you can figure out how to provide an answer for this exercise. Perform this subtraction: 34 - 10.65 For example: If you added a decimal point and placeholder zeros to the whole number, you were correct! and add placeholder zeros after:
Remember:
The value of a number does not change if you add a decimal and placeholder zeros. Add as many placeholder zeros as you need in order to solve the problem.
Exercises: Subtract 1) 12.20 - 7.58 2) 33.60 - 10 3) 894.08 - 2.36 4) 31.05 - 1 5) 54.31 - 23.48 6) 92.88 - 7.12
Using the example below as a guide, draw the life cycle of your favourite tree.
Something will change every day. I moved six times. I felt like I was traveling. But something will change every day. My Baba died. Even though we weren’t blood to blood. I loved you even more. It may be hard to process but I won’t lose my way. My mom got remarried. It was a huge change. But something will change every day. My dad got engaged. I was nervous. But something will change every day. I went to the fifth grade. I was a little scared. It may be hard to process but I won’t lose my way. My dog died. Like a dagger in my heart. I missed you so much. Something will change every day. It may be hard to process but I won’t lose my way.
Source: Poetry (January/ February 2025)
Write a story or scene that includes "sound words" that set the scene.
Secretary-General of Caribbean Community (Caricom) Dr Carla Barnett has called on regional leaders to confront persistent implementation delays, economic shocks and global disruptions with realistic yet courageous collective action.
In her address at the opening of the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Caricom Heads of Government in Montego Bay, Jamaica,
unity and provide a useful road map as we chart our path forward…On precedented global uncertainty, economic pressures, technological innovations and our challenge, that challenge our capacity to keep pace, climate vulnerability and the needs of our young people, our women and future generations compel us to act collectively with courage and with conviction. As much as we remain committed to the aims and objectives set
and youth disenfranchisement, Dr Barnett laid out the high-stakes reality for Caribbean nations, saying the region must adapt swiftly or risk losing its relevance and resilience.
Against this backdrop, the Caricom SecretaryGeneral emphasised the importance of inclusive development, ensuring that all member states— regardless of size or resources—benefit equally from integration. She urged leaders to treat each
tion movement, where we stand resolutely together, supporting the hopes and aspirations of all our citizens. Here in Montego Bay, we can and we will have clear and frank conversations. We will set realistic and bold objectives that can propel us even further towards a Caribbean community that will be stronger, safer and more prosperous for generations to come. Thank you very much, ladies and gentlemen,” she said.
Dr Barnett acknowledged the Caricom’s proud record of resilience in the face of military invasions, natural disasters, and economic crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and global supply chain breakdowns. Yet, she stressed that “successes alone cannot shelter us from the pressing need to accelerate action.”
“Our victories are testament to our strength in
out in the revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, we must also remain cognisant that moving forward is more difficult for some of us. In the spirit of family, we should seek to address the concerns of all if we are to be a community that benefits everyone in the region,” Caricom SecretaryGeneral said.
From the growing impacts of climate change to technological disruption
other as family, balancing national needs with collective regional progress.
“As we begin our deliberations for this 49th meeting of the conference, I encourage all of us to retain our focus on the purpose of our partnership, which is the prosperity, security and well-being of all the people of our region. Let this 49th meeting be a defining moment in the history of our integra -
The 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of Caricom convenes at a pivotal time for the region, bringing together leaders from the 15 member states and five associate members.
Held under the chairmanship of Prime Minister (PM) of Jamaica Dr Andrew Holness, the high-level summit serves as the premier decision-making body
of Caricom, where leaders assess regional progress and collectively respond to pressing global and regional challenges.
Set against the backdrop of mounting climate threats, global economic instability and rapid technological change, this year’s meeting places strong emphasis on resilience, innovation and regional integration. Discussions are expected to centre on food and nutrition security, the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME), energy security, climate financing, the situation in Haiti and youth and digital transformation.
Caricom has made significant strides in recent years in pushing for climate justice on the international stage, advancing regional food production goals under the “25 by 2025” initiative, and mo -
bilising support for vulnerable member states.
The Heads of Government Meeting provides a forum to review these efforts and craft coordinated strategies moving forward.
The meeting also marks continued efforts to deepen collaboration with international partners, bolster intra-regional trade and strengthen mechanisms for disaster preparedness and security cooperation. With global uncertainty on the rise, Caricom’s ability to speak with one voice and act with unity remains critical.
The 49th meeting comes just ahead of Caricom’s historic 52th anniversary celebrations, offering leaders an opportunity to reflect on the Community’s past achievements while charting a bold, inclusive and sustainable path for the future of the Caribbean.
…Pres Ali says Guyana refuses to be a statistic; vows no young person will be left behind
President Dr Irfaan Ali declared that Guyana will not allow its youth to fall through the cracks of neglect, marginalisation or underinvestment, vowing a future where no young person is left behind. Citing global statistics, the Head of State explained that as of 2023, an estimated 250 million schoolage children—nearly 16.1 per cent globally—were out of school, with the crisis deepening among adolescents. Of that number, 14 per cent of youths aged 12 to 14 and a staggering 30 per cent of those aged 15 to 17 were not enrolled, un-
ioning a world-class education system so that you can be the best you can be,” he added.
Since assuming office in August 2024, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration has been implementing a sleuth of relief measures including those promised in its 2020 Manifesto as well as new initiatives that have been critical to cushioning the rising cost of living. This, according to President Ali, is unlike what played out during the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Coalition’s term
derscoring the significance of the educational strides being made locally.
Against this backdrop, President Ali described secondary education as “no longer a luxury, but a necessity”—a vital bridge that prepares students for citizenship, higher education, entrepreneurship, and economic independence.
“Just take those numbers in for a moment and that would allow us to appreciate what we're building here. That will allow us to be grateful that our nation can give us what we are achieving here today. These are not just numbers. They are futures at risk. Potential wasted. Hope deferred. We in Guyana refuse to be part of these statistics. We will not allow our young people to fall into the cracks of neglect and under-investment,” President Ali said. The Guyanese leader affirmed his Government's unwavering commitment to achieving universal secondary education, highlighting that the Guyana Digital School will not only cater for development of Guyanese students but the Caribbean at large.
“And we said that our prosperity must lead to regional prosperity. That is why the Guyana Digital School that we are launching will also be available and accessible to every single child in the Caribbean. We want them to be part of it. We want all of the region to rise with us”.
“A great future awaits you in Guyana. But don't wait for it to come to you. The opportunities will not fall into your lap. You must reach. You must rise. And you must prepare yourselves. Seize the moment for in your hands rests not just your own destiny, but a destiny of our nation. You're not just being given access alone. You're being given excellence. This Government is not simply building schools. It is fash-
in office which was characterised by broken and unfulfilled promises coupled with the imposition of hardships – all of which the current administration has worked to reserve over the years.
CSEC, CAPE subsidy Back in April, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced that the Government of Guyana will fully fund the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) fees for at least eight Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects per student, as well as fees for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), benefiting both public and pri-
Grades 11 through 13 at Government secondary schools, the subsidy structure covered up to 10 subjects and extends support to both new and continuing students, including special provisions for trained teachers pursuing exams.
In a circular seen by this publication through the Ministry of Education, parents or guardians pay between $10,000 and $23,000 based on their annual income in subsidies. Notably, trained teachers with more than three years of experience also qualify for a flat rate of $17,000 in support.
Free tertiary education
The Government’s policy of providing free university education will be fully implemented from the 2025/2026 academic year at the University of Guyana (UG).
This means that all tuition fees for diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes will be waived for both new and continuing students.
In excess of 11,000 current students of UG are set to benefit from this measure along with all future entrants. The initiative which follows a commitment by President Dr Irfaan Ali and Vice President (VP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo to make tertiary education more accessible to all Guyanese, particularly those from lowand middle-income households, will cost the treasury some $18 billion. The measure took effect from January 1, 2025, and is seen as a transformative step toward building a highly skilled, inclusive, and resilient workforce.
Applications open
UG has begun accepting applications for the 2025/2026 academic year from April 1, 2025, and the process will close on May 16, 2025. All
Institute (ETI), and Berbice Technical Institute (BTI).
GOAL Scholarship
A total of 2000 persons graduated from the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) Scholarships Programme this year, Postgraduate Diplomas, Bachelor’s Degree, GROW and Certificate Programmes, and among them is a total of 580 graduates who received master’s degree. In its 2020 manifesto, the PPP/C Administration had promised to provide Guyanese with 20,000 online scholarshipsthat number has already surpassed over 39,000 scholarships to date.
Of the 39,000 graduates, some 5,602 Guyanese, including teachers have achieved master’s degrees and 378 have earned PhDs through the Government’s GOAL initiative, marking a major milestone in the professional development of educators and the enhancement of the nation’s professional workforce.
Back in January, Education Minister Priya Manickchand during the Ministry’s End- ofYear press conference stated that “814 from Region One who otherwise could not have access to a foreign university to be able to study for their degrees and master’s and PhDs. 2,702 from Region Two, 4,431 from Region Three, 13,002 from Regions Four and One. 842 from Region Five, Two,983 from Region Six, 918 from Region Seven, 605 from Region Eight, 700 from Region Nine and 1,761 from Region 10…. We are not people who find reasons why things can’t happen. We try to make sure we give opportunities and, of course, people have to avail themselves of those opportunities,” she went on to state.
Based on statistics provided by GOAL, scholarships to individuals from the ten ad-
vate school learners across the country. The announcement was made during a public meeting at the West Demerara Secondary School, Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) where the Head of State addressed a packed audience of students, parents, and teachers. Prior to the President’s announcement, the Government provided subsidies for students in the public education sector writing CSEC. The subsidies were determined based on the financial position of parents/ guardians.
Targeting students in
prospective students are encouraged to submit their applications early, as quotas for popular programmes fill up quickly, UG said on Tuesday, adding that it is currently processing an average of 1,200 applications per week. This is just one of a series of measures announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali to enhance access to education, particularly in bridging the gap between the hinterland and coastland. Free tuition is also applicable to all Government technical and vocational institutions, including the Linden Technical Institute (LTI), Essequibo Technical
ministrative regions continues to increase yearly, with 6,280 scholarships awarded in 2021, 7,410 in 2022, 7,752 in 2023 and a massive 8,316 in 2024.
Notably, 5,602 earned SCQF Level Six certificates, 1,312 copped General Educational Development (GEDs), 191 earned Foundation Diplomas, 3 for Undergraduate Certificate, 856 for Associate Degrees, 6,571 copped Bachelor’s, four for Postgraduate Certificate and 920 persons earned Postgraduate Diplomas.
Your Eyewitness is pecking away at this piece after quite a restful (and extended!) sleep-in – this being Caricom Day, which is a public holiday!! So with all this time on his hands, he took to wondering where the heck this regional grouping of mini-states is going when their inspiration – the European Union – was tottering on the brink of irrelevance. Our erstwhile colonial overlord Britain – which was our chief inspirers – has even BREXITED the grouping!!
The fact that only tiny Antigua celebrates Caricom Day, along with us, as a public holiday might give us a clue as to the importance – or lack thereof – that’s given it by the other 13 members. So let’s call a spade a spade, shall we?? Launched fifty-two years ago, one is hard-pressed to come up with even a single noteworthy success in any of the lofty goals the grouping had set itself in 1973. That’s when it purported to transmute itself from a Free Trade Area – CARIFTA formed in 1968 – into a more integrated “Community” like the European Community.
But even though the name change didn’t succeed in even some basic targets like the “free movement of citizens” among its members – the leaders blithely proceeded to establish an even more ambitiously-cohesive “Caribbean Single Market and Economy” – CSME. This has also gotten nowhere and the members have been backtracking on its targets. It would appear that we are back to repeating the history of the early Caribbean Federation – formed by the British in 1958 to get rid of us!! But Jamaica pulled out in 1962 for independence – which led to T&T’s Eric Williams’ famous quip – “1 from 10 leaves zero”!!
Of recent, the Caricom sub-group Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) – comprising Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – have been talking of going on their own. They’re already the most integrated members from colonial days – inheriting their common currency and all. Six of them – the exception being the non-independent Montserrat – are already members of the Venezuelan-led grouping ALBA – the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America. This includes the leftist Latin American anti-American states led by Venezuela – Bolivia, Cuba, and Nicaragua. Like Caricom, it’s aimed at fostering political, economic, and social cooperation among its members. Presently, they have their Venezuelan Petrocaribe oil debt being written off and – led by St Vincent’s leftist PM, Ralph Gonsalves – slavishly toe Mad Maduro’s line!!
Your Eyewitness thinks last rites are prepared for Caricom. But there might still be some benefits from the corpse as in the now revised 25X30 food security initiative!!
We gotta be careful though: they see us as their ATM machine!!
Your Eyewitness was quite chuffed at the launch of the PNC/APNU campaign for elections 2025 at the Square of the Revolution – under the watchful eyes of that old revolutionary house slave from Berbice, Cuffy!! He must say that – as he looked at Comrade leader Aubrey Norton – he could discern some resemblance to Cuffy?? Maybe he’s of Akan stock?? If your Eyewitness were him, he’d have done a DNA test to find out.
Anyhow, Norton was in full election mode in the expansive promises he made on everything under the sun – and some!! Mo’ money for all; higher tax threshold; stipend for higher education students – who’d be already getting free tuition; etc!! He then declaimed: “Guyana, we’re on a journey to return to honest government. We’re on a journey to restore law and order in Guyana”!
Yes…”law and order” and “honest government” from the PNC!! So is he saying that all those who were behind the old criminality in society and government have now defected to the AFC??
…our dual citizens
Quite a few of the 24 Jumbie Umbrella parties just launched received a blow to their solar plexus with GECOM’s announcement that dual citizens can’t even become MPs!! So, will half the field now wilt?
President Dr Irfaan Ali has extended his condolences on the recent passing of veteran Caribbean journalist, Rickey Singh. He described Singh as a venerable stalwart of Caribbean journalism.
In a statement released Sunday upon Singh’s passing, the Guyanese President recalled the veteran journalist’s courage with regard to safeguarding press freedom and democracy.
“I join with the regional media fraternity in mourning the passing of Rickey Singh, one of the stalwarts of Caribbean journalism. He was a distinguished son of Guyana who was courageous in standing up for press freedom and democracy,” he said.
He also reflected on the late journalist’s career and “principled journalism”.
“Rickey Singh entered journalism at a young age and quickly became a formidable presence in the local media. His reporting in Guyana was marked by a fierce independence and a deep commitment to democratic values—qualities that, in the political context of the time, came at a personal cost.
Rickey Singh was never one to shy away from uncomfortable truths. His principled journalism— particularly during a period when state media in Guyana was growing increasingly dominant—ultimately contributed to his departure from the country. A decade later, while serving as editor of Caribbean Contact, he once again became a target. This time, it was in Barbados, where his work permit was revoked following public criticism of the
Rickey Singh
United States’ (US) invasion of Grenada. In both instances, Rickey Singh paid a personal and professional price for challenging the prevailing powers of the day.
His tenure as editor of Caribbean Contact coincided with a period of intense political repression
in Guyana. Under his editorship of the Caribbean Contact, the publication became a vital and trusted source of information for Guyanese—news and perspectives that the then-ruling party had sought to suppress or deny the public.”
President Ali also revealed a personal moment with Singh where he expressed his respect for the journalist.
“In a letter written to him on his 83rd birthday, I relayed the following to him: “Yours was a clear and constant voice at a time when silence and the suppression of truth were commonplace. Your journalism helped to keep democracy alive in the hearts and minds of many.”
These words remain a fitting encapsulation of the man he was: uncompromising in princi -
ple, yet always measured in tone; loyal to Guyana, but respected across the Caribbean,” he said.
According to President Ali in his statement, Rickey Singh’s perspectives on regional issues also enriched regional discourse on matters of importance to the Caribbean. He was an avid follower of developments across the Caribbean and his articles were a source of both information and enlightenment.
Though he spent much of his life in Barbados, Rickey Singh never ceased to follow Guyana’s journey, and remained engaged through his incisive and thoughtful columns in the Guyana Chronicle.
“On behalf of the Government of Guyana, I extend deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. Guyana
honours Rickey Singh not only as a journalist, but as a moral force whose work inspired faith in the ideals of democracy and freedom of the press. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” the President’s statement concluded.
Meanwhile, on Monday, CARICOM sent out a message of condolence on his passing, describing him as “...a Caribbean son of the soil and journalist par excellence” who served as a pillar of journalism in the Region and was “a passionate advocate for our regional integration movement.”
“The Community mourns the loss of a committed regionalist and media titan. May his legacy continue to inspire future generations of Caribbean journalists,” the CARICOM brief said.
Prime Minister Phillips further recognised the EPA’s dual role as both a teacher and an enforcer, applauding its efforts to reach communities, educate youth, and share data that supports behavioural change and environmental responsibility. “Every
Guyanese, regardless of income, background, or location, deserves to live in a clean, safe, healthy environment. This is a dream
we must work towards together: government, private sector, civil society, and, above all, dedicated institutions like the EPA.”
The Prime Minister also expressed his gratitude to the EPA’s staff—from scientists and technicians to administrators and officers—for their dedication to protecting Guyana’s environment and preserving the nation’s resources for future generations. “Your work matters. Let us continue to move forward together to safeguard the environment. Happy 29th Anniversary to the Environmental Protection Agency, and may your next 29 years be even more impactful than the last.”
Anews report from the Department of Public Information (DPI) has debunked claims made by Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton at the launch of A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) 2025 campaign, in which he alleged that maternal deaths in Guyana are increasing.
This claim, made on a national platform, is factually wrong and dangerously out of touch with the significant strides Guyana has made in maternal and neonatal health under the current Government, the report noted.
The Ministry of Health’s most recent data paints a very different picture, it added as it went on to disprove the assertion.
According to the report, maternal deaths due to postpartum haemor-
rhage dropped from 23 cases in 2019 to just 14 in 2024. Neonatal deaths saw a 60 per cent reduction in the first nine months of 2024, falling from 68 to 28 when compared to the same period in 2023. These figures are the product of systemic reforms, not chance, the report stressed. Globally, nearly 300,000 women die every year due to complications from pregnancy or childbirth, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Yet while four out of five countries in the region are currently off track to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) for maternal survival, Guyana is moving to achieve these goals. DPI said that Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony has credited the improvements to a range
of Government-led initiatives.
Among them is the establishment of Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) in nine hospitals across the country, equipped with vital technology such as ventilators, incubators, pulse oximeters, and heart monitors along with the introduction of Maternal Waiting Homes, located within hospital compounds, provides housing for highrisk pregnant women in the hinterland and remote regions. These facilities ensure timely access to care in case of complications and reduce maternal and perinatal risks.
In addition, the implementation of 81 Telemedicine Hubs allows rural health workers to consult in real time with obstetricians and gynaecologists.
These links also allow patients to undergo ultrasound diagnostics without leaving their communities.
The report also highlighted the launch of the Newborn Cash Grant, providing $100,000 to every newborn. More than 2,000 families have already benefited from this policy, which eases the financial burden of early childcare and promotes antenatal care participation. Government’s commitment to reducing maternal deaths, it pointed out, is the construction of a $12.4 billion Paediatric and Maternal Hospital at Ogle, set for completion in 2025.
“This is critical not only to improve care but also to strengthen surveillance, allowing for the timely identification, notification, quantification, and determination of potential causes of ma-
ternal deaths,” President Irfaan Ali had noted.
Meanwhile, equally debunked was another claim made at the launch that Aubrey Norton called “goalless”, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), questioning the efficacy of the programme. Norton, the report stated, scoffed at the number of candidates who graduated with PhDs through the GOAL programme, effectively trivialising the hard work of Guyanese students during his speech at the Square of the Revolution. More than 30,000 Guyanese have also received fully funded online scholarships through GOAL, with over 70 per cent of them being women. The programme is giving people, both young and old, the chance to earn degrees, master’s, and even PhDs from
international universities, without leaving their homes.
From communities in Region One to those in Region 10, thousands of Guyanese have been and are being equipped with the qualifications and skills needed for the country’s growth. The numbers show the scale of a G$12.5 billion investment so far, or about G$312,000 per student.
The People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) record of delivery is a sharp contrast to the APNU and the Alliance for Change (AFC) opposition, who are now promising free education, despite failing to implement it during their time in office.
In fact, under the former coalition Government, tuition fees increased, and VAT was placed on private education, the report pointed out
Just months after admitting but downplaying a two-year suspension from practising medicine, which according to reports at the time didn’t sit well for many, Dr Mark DeFrance, Chairman of A New and United Guyana (ANUG) is back under the spotlight for not being entirely clear on the matter.
According to one report back in December 2024, France acknowledged his involvement in a case of medical malpractice that led to a two-year suspension from practising medicine, while at the same time
declining to provide specific details.
At the time, it was reported that DeFrance had been given a two-year suspension in a 2016 “medical misconduct case”.
DeFrance had then disclosed that the Medical Council found him responsible for the misconduct, resulting in his inability to practice medicine from 2016 to 2018. Adding that Justice Jo Ann Barlow presided over the case.
He had also stated in his acknowledgment that it was misconduct, and the matter had been laid to rest.
On Monday however, according to a News Room report, a newly surfaced
document confirmed that DeFrance was suspended from practising medicine
for two years after forging records, including the signatures of his supervisors.
The document — an Institutional Registration Workbook reportedly seen by the News Room over the weekend — shows that Dr DeFrance falsified his rotation time and forged the signatures of several supervisors.
The paperwork is stamped by the Industry Health Centre and details the fraudulent entries that led to his suspension, the report noted, adding that the new revelation makes clear that forgery — not just generic misconduct — was at the heart of the disciplinary action.
According to News Room, a source familiar with the case had previously hinted that the offence was “very serious”, contradicting Dr DeFrance’s attempt to brush aside the controversy. The fresh disclosure, it noted, comes as Dr DeFrance and ANUG recently joined forces with US-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed and his political movement WIN to contest the upcoming September 1st elections.
President Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday attended the opening Plenary session of the 49th Meeting of the Caricom Heads of Government currently underway in Montego Bay, Jamaica. While at the event, the Guyanese President also took part in a meeting of the Prime Ministerial Committee on external trade negotiations, addressing regional issues. He later met briefly with the new Minister of Foreign Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago, Sean Sobers, among other dignitaries, finding a few light-hearted moments between sessions.
The PPP/C on Sunday held its Cricket Clash and Family Fun Day fundraiser at team to victory at the Cricket Clash as several other leading Government officials
at the Albion Sports Complex Ground. President Dr Irfaan Ali helped guide his officials were among the attendees, including Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
Region 2 under “Do the Right Thing” campaign – says it’s not just about enforcement, it's about protecting lives
While the Government continues to make strides in strengthening public safety and reducing crime, Home Affairs
Minister Robeson Benn has expressed concern over the rising number of motorcycle-related deaths among young men, particularly due to the lack of helmet use.
In response, Minister Benn handed over a quantity of safety helmets to police stations during the commissioning of the new Charity Police Station and boat
house over the weekend. The initiative forms part of the Ministry’s “Do the Right Thing” campaign, aimed at promoting safer road practices and reducing traffic-related fatalities.
“This is not just about enforcement it's about pro-
tecting lives. Too many mothers are grieving. Too many homes are in mourning. And in most of these tragic cases, the simple act of wearing a helmet could have saved a life,” he said.
Minister Benn confirmed
out helmets,” Minister Benn stated.
The Minister stressed that while law enforcement has been strengthened through new police stations, vehicles, boats and the deployment of body cameras,
Minister Benn called on both riders and families to take the issue seriously, urging communities to encourage young men to wear hel-
that the national crime rate has shown a significant decline, thanks to improved policing and investments in security infrastructure. However, he noted that this progress is being overshadowed by the alarming increase in fatal motorcycle accidents.
“We are seeing success in the reduction of crime, which is encouraging. But at the same time, we are losing too many young men on our roads, and in many cases, they are riding with-
there must also be a focus on road safety and behavioural change.
He revealed that more than 30 young men have died in motorcycle crashes recently, with 23 of those not wearing helmets.
Minister Benn emphasised that wearing helmets is not optional and called on the police to strictly enforce the law. He even suggested that officers should impound motorcycles and require young riders to return with a parent and a helmet or give them a helmet before they are allowed back on the road.
mets and ride responsibly. He added that the Ministry is working closely with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and other stakeholders to step up road safety education and enforcement, particularly in high-risk areas. As the Government continues to expand its efforts in modernising the security sector and reducing crime, Minister Benn stressed that public cooperation is critical in tackling the road safety crisis.
Region Seven youths have been engaged by the Government in an effort to ensure that they benefit from all the opportunities that are available to them as Guyana develops.
Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat and a team of senior officials visited Region Seven and interacted with youths on Saturday, a Department of Public Information (DPI) report highlighted.
While speaking with the young men and women who gathered at the Bartica Community Centre, the Minister acknowledged that they are the future leaders of Guyana and said that he wanted them to express what issues were affecting them.
“We want to know what
are those issues. We want to know what are those challenges. We want to know what are your recommendations, your suggestions, your ideas as young people so that we can work to-
gether as Government and young people to ensure that we provide a better life for our young generation that will become the future leaders,” he stated.
Minister Bharrat not-
ed that the Government believes in young people and has given them opportunities, placed trust and confidence in them.
He highlighted the many opportunities that exist in the various sectors and for training for youths to enter whatever field they desire. During the outreach, the youths interacted with the Minister and his team. Youths took the opportunity to raise concerns and issues that they would like to see addressed.
Following these discussions, some immediate actions were announced.
These include the donation of one million dollars for the upgrade of a playground, provision for computer tablets for school children, and persons were also given the opportunity to be
part of training opportunities in skills such as jewellery making.
“It was a very nice experience to come out here and listen to everything that has been all of the opportunities that would be given to our youths and the projects that will be in place for our youths, so, it could further their development in their field which is sports or anything that they desire,” said Obina Garraway a participant at the activity.
Meanwhile, Delroy Jacobs, the Cricket representative at Bartica, told the DPI that he was elated following the meeting with the Minister.
“I’m very pleased with this activity that took place here today. Minister donate 1 million dollars to the cricket and I’m very
pleased about it and if you look at the crowd today it had a lot of youths that came out…the President is thinking about the future of Guyana and the future is the youths,” he said. Additionally, former Mayor of Bartica Gifford Marshal, also endorsed the activity and the opportunities given to youths in the area.
“I think it was a good initiative because our young people need to be aware of the opportunities available to them and I’m one of those who believe that today in this era that we are in, there are many opportunities for our young people especially those in the hinterland areas like Bartica, I’m happy with the commitments made and we will just grow from strength to strength,” he told DPI.
In a distinct message to A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and its leader Aubrey Norton, Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal stated that the Opposition leader has “buried his head in the sand” and declared too that, “They [APNU] have no track record to speak about in housing.”
Minister Croal further stated that the Government has met, and even surpassed, the housing targets outlined in its manifesto.
Between 2020 and 2025, the housing programme has allocated more than 50,000 house lots—a figure that exceeds the Government’s 2020 campaign promise. This marks a historic milestone in Guyana’s development, unprecedented and unrivalled under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), whose main aim is to make homeownership accessible to all Guyanese.
Since assuming office in 2020, the Government has consistently allocated house lots and continues to do so across the country.
More recently, on Friday, July 4, the Housing Ministry visited Linden, Region 10—a known opposition stronghold—and unveiled new housing developments (new phases) in Wismar and Amelia’s Ward. These developments are a direct response to over 4,000 applications received by the end of 2024.
“The target is to bring it current and make more land available for every single person who has applied for house lots in these regions,” said Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, at Friday’s outreach. In a bizarre tirade at Sunday’s APNU rally, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton attempted to downplay the Government’s achievements in the hous-
ing sector, despite a clear track record showing APNU’s minimal contribution to the sector during its time in office.
Minister Croal highlighted the Government's strong record on land titling. “We have processed over 14,710 certificates of title. Close to 2,500 certificates of title are currently at the Land Registry, awaiting final approval,” he stated at the Ministry’s 2024 year-end press conference.
By contrast, only 7,730 titles were processed during APNU’s tenure from 2015 to 2020—a fact Minister Croal pointed to as evidence of the former administration’s neglect. The Government’s housing drive goes beyond just land allocation. It includes construction subsidies to assist families in building their homes. For example, in Linden on Friday, over 40 families received vouchers valued at $225,000 each to assist
with purchasing steel and cement.
Additional pro-housing policies have been implemented, such as the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on building materials. The Government has also collaborated with financial institutions to secure low-income mortgages, enabling families to access home loans at interest rates as low as 3 per cent.
The Adequate Housing
and Urban Accessibility Programme (AHUAP) has further expanded the housing agenda by constructing core homes for vulnerable groups, ensuring that all Guyanese have equal access to homeownership.
Equity in Homeownership
Statistics from the Ministry of Housing and Water show that 47 per cent of house lots allocated were given to women, while 90 per cent went to low-in-
come families. Minister Susan Rodrigues praised this achievement, reiterating the Government's goal to ensure that land becomes available for every applicant.
The Government has also extended its efforts to Regions One, Seven, Eight, and Nine, areas that were largely ignored under the APNU Administration. Programmes like the Lethem Housing Support Programme and the Hinterland Housing Programme aim to ensure that hinterland communities benefit equally and equitably.
Under the leadership of President Irfaan Ali, the Government continues to prioritise housing as a fundamental pillar of national development. Backed by data and visible results, the Government's housing programme remains progressive, inclusive, and impactful.
Emphasis must be placed on the promotion on the consumption of locally produced foods through awareness campaigns if Caricom is to see a drastic reduction in its food import bill. This is according to Barbados Prime Minister (PM) Mia Mottley.
Before the launch of the 25 by 25 initiative, the Caribbean region faced a significant challenge with its food import bill, which placed considerable strain on the economies of member states and raised concerns about food security and sustainability.
Prior to the implementation of the 25 by 25 initiative, which was formally introduced around 2015, the Caribbean’s total food import bill was estimated to be approximately US$ 5 billion annually which represented a substantial portion of the region’s overall import expenditure and underscored the heavy reliance on imported food products.
Food bill
Guyana imports approximately US$ 350 million annually. Despite its agricultural potential, Guyana imported a significant volume of processed foods and staples not produced locally in sufficient quantities.
Trinidad and Tobago –around US$ 1.2 billion annually. As one of the most import-dependent countries in the region, Trinidad and Tobago’s food import bill was driven by its limited agricul-
tural sector and high urban population.
Barbados - approximately US$ 400 million annually. Barbados, with limited arable land, relied heavily on imports for most of its food needs.
Jamaica - estimated at US$ 1.1 billion annually. Jamaica’s food import bill was fuelled by demand for staples such as rice, wheat, and processed foods.
St Lucia - around US$ 150 million annually. St Lucia’s import bill reflected its small size and dependence on imported staples and processed foods.
St Kitts and Nevis - an estimated at US$ 80 million annually. The twin-island nation’s food import bill was significant relative to its population size.
Dominica - approximately US$ 90 million annually. Dominica’s import bill was influenced by its agricultural production capacity and vulnerability to natural disasters.
The US$ 5 billion annual bill which covered the region, was as a result of limited agricultural production. Many Caricom states have limited arable land and face challenges such as poor soil quality, water scarcity, and vulnerability to natural disasters, which restrict local food production. Additionally, limited investment in agriculture and infrastructure hindered the ability to scale up local food production across the region. Additionally, increasing
urbanisation and changing consumer preferences have led to higher demand for imported processed and convenience foods.
Apart from that, heavy reliance on imports, discouraged investment in local agriculture and rural development. Recognising these challenges, Caribbean leaders launched the 25 by 25 initiative with the goal of reducing the region’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025. The initiative aimed to stimulate local agricultural production, improve food security, and promote sustainable economic growth and to build a more resilient and self-sufficient Caribbean food system. The 25 by 2025, initiative has been extended to 2030, with new goals. This extension was announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali, the lead head of Government with responsibility for agriculture and food security in the Caricom quasi-cabinet.
The reason given for the extension is uncertainties in the global trade arena, increased challenges in climate-related matters, and increased transportation and logistics costs.
According to President Ali, from the year 2022, to the end of October-November 2024, there has been about a 24 per cent increase in food production across the region.
Additionally, there has also been major investments in infrastructure to support food production in areas such as cold storage, farm-to-market access roads, solar dryer
facilities, loan approvals, and establishment of dairy facilities.
PM Mottley, addressing the Caricom Heads of Government summit in February, which was held in Barbados, pointed out that the reduction of food imports since the launch of the initiative, has seen Guyana achieving an estimated 13 per cent reduction in its food import bill.
This is largely attributed to increased production of staple crops such as rice, cassava, and vegetables, as well as expanded livestock farming.
Rice production in Guyana has increased by approximately eight per cent over the past five years, making it one of the leading rice exporters in the Caribbean. The boost in
production has helped reduce the need for rice imports within the region.
Guyana has also seen the cultivation of cassava and other root crops has expanded by nearly 10 per cent, providing affordable and locally grown alternatives to imported foods while livestock and poultry farming have resulted in a 12 per cent increase in local meat and egg production, further reducing dependence on imported protein sources.
Across the Caribbean, the 25 by 25 initiative has led to an overall reduction of approximately 11 per cent in the region’s food import bill since its inception.
Countries such as Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago have all reported positive gains, though progress varies depending
on each nation’s agricultural capacity and investment levels.
Mottley also noted that the initiative has also fostered greater regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and innovation in agricultural practices. However, challenges remain, including vulnerability to climate change, limited access to financing for small farmers, and infrastructural deficits.
According to the former Caricom Chairperson, increased investment in agriculture is needed across the region which will result in expanded financial support for agricultural research, infrastructure, and technology adoption will be critical to enhancing productivity.
She says there must also be support for small farmers by providing access to credit, training, and markets. Additionally, focus must be on climate-smart agriculture so that sustainable farming practices are implementing to mitigate climate risks and protect food production from extreme weather events.
All this could fail Mottley adds if emphasis is also placed on promoting the consumption of locally produced foods through awareness campaigns.
Just recently, a Region 9 millet trial in Guyana proved successful enough to be expanded in future cultivations. Millet is considered a climate-resilient cereal.
Three years after her son mysteriously disappeared from a remote Region Seven mining camp, Jennifer Henry says she is still waiting for justice, and for the people she believes are hiding the truth, to come forward.
Henry’s child, 16-yearold Akeem Bissoon, vanished on June 14, 2022, while staying with relatives at the Aruwai airstrip. Since then, his mother says she has received no meaningful updates from the Police, despite her repeated attempts to follow up.
“I went to the Police a few months ago to ask again,” she said during an interview on Sunday. “But still, nobody is telling me anything. No update. No movement. It’s like my son never existed.”
Now, she’s making a direct appeal, not to the au-
thorities, but to those she believes are holding on to a dangerous secret.
“They know that my son didn’t just disappear,” she said. “His disappearance was well-planned. I have all
the evidence,”she claimed.
Though she did not go into detail about that evidence, Henry made it clear that she no longer believes this is simply a case of a child gone missing.
Abattle of words spilled throughout Castellani House on Sunday, July 6 as the National Poetry Slam kicked off - with Keba Evelyn ultimately copping the $200,000 first prize.
This year's event drew a larger crowd than usual, filling the historic venue with energy, anticipation and raw emotion. Poets from across the coun-
try took to the stage, using rhythm and rhyme to tackle powerful themes such as self-awareness, identity, social injustices, mental health and more-each performance leaving a lasting impression on the captivated audience.
The competition consisted of 15 finalists: Omari Joseph, Christina Campbell, Rodlyn Semple, Kieanna Greene, Rickiesha Perreira,
Keba Evelyn, Annessa Arthur, Jayda Overton, Janei Isaacs, Brittany Morris, Samuel Nurae, Keon Heywood, Jayden Chester, Adriel Thompson, and Mishael Henry.
Keba Evelyn copped the first prize of $200,000; Mishael Henry who placed second for $150,000; and third-place winner Jayda Overton, who received $100,000.
“I think the truth is already out there,” she said. “But it’s just silent; maybe because I’m just the mother and people think I don’t have power, and I am poor.”
Henry said the silence from those who were last with her son is deafening and suspicious. She believes those individuals must come forward and say what happened that day, not just for her peace of mind, but for Akeem’s dignity.
“They must speak the truth,” she said. “Not for me, do it for Akeem. He was an innocent child. And at the end of the day, God knows the truth. The only thing that will set them free is the truth. To clear the guilty conscience, they should speak.”
The teen had reportedly travelled from Georgetown with his uncle, on June 8, 2022, to the interior where
the uncle lived and worked. Akeem, who had been raised since he was three, by his uncle and his wife, who is Henry’s sister, was staying with the couple at the time of his disappearance.
According to the initial account, Harlequin stated that Akeem was sitting outside while he was cooking inside, and when he returned moments later, the teen was gone. His phone and slippers were found nearby, but no further trace of him was ever discovered.
Henry said she was not informed directly about her son’s disappearance and had to learn about it from another relative the following day.
Though Police initially arrested Harlequin for questioning, he was released within 72 hours, and the investigation appeared to lose momentum. Henry said the search effort was short-
lived, and the case has been cold ever since.
Henry told this publication that her situation is very stressful and the pain of not knowing what happened to her only child is compounded by the belief that the people closest to him, and to her, are allegedly withholding information.
“It’s something terrible to live with, not knowing what’s going to happen,” she said. “I keep praying, I keep hoping. But they know what happened,” she alleged.
She said that her message to the authorities and anyone reading this story is simple: “Don’t do it for me. Do it for Akeem.”
The woman is asking if anyone has information about her son, contact the nearest Police station or call Jennifer Henry at 6847056.
"Cooperation is humanity's greatest innovation," UN chief declares at BRICS summit
Speaking at the 17th summit of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he underscored the human toll of environmental degradation and climate change. He noted that, as climate-related disasters become more frequent and severe, progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is increasingly being set back.
"Across the world, lives and livelihoods are being ripped apart, and sustainable development gains left in tatters as disasters accelerate," Mr Guterres said.
"The impact on human health is atrocious...the vulnerable and the poorer pay the highest price."
BRICS was founded by Brazil, Russia, India and China in 2006. South Africa joined in 2011 and Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) joined the group since. Collectively, these eleven States represent over half of the world’s population and approximately one-third of the world's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
On Sunday, Mr Guterres
addressed a session on strengthening multilateralism, economic-financial affairs and artificial intelligence (AI), where he called for efforts to “minimise the risks and maximise the potential” of the breakthrough technology.
“Artificial intelligence is reshaping economies and societies. The fundamental test is how wisely we will guide this transformation, how we minimise the risks and maximise the potential for good,” he said.
To maximise the potential, the Secretary-General (SG) argued that AI cannot be “a club of the few but must benefit all,” calling for the “real voice” of developing countries to be included in global AI governance.
He also said that human rights and equity must be the guiding principles which shape any international governance structure for AI.
“We cannot govern AI effectively – and fairly – without confronting deeper, structural imbalances in our global system,” he said.
United Nations’ (UN) SG António Guterres stressed the need for peace amid conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan and
Myanmar.
He called for urgent reform of global institutions, noting that bodies like the Security Council and international financial systems were “were designed for a bygone age, a bygone world, with a bygone system of power relations.”
“The reform of the Security Council is crucial,” he said, highlighting also calls from the recent financing for development conference in Sevilla.
Priorities include greater voice for developing countries in global governance, effective debt restructuring and tripling multilateral bank lending – especially in concessional and local-currency terms.
Mr. Guterres concluded his remarks highlighting the power of cooperation and trust.
“At a time when multilateralism is being undermined, let us remind the world that cooperation is humanity’s greatest innovation,” he said.
“Let us rise to this moment – and reform and modernise multilateralism, including the UN and all the systems and institutions to make it work for everyone, everywhere.” (United Nations)
US President Donald Trump has warned that countries which side with the policies of the BRICS alliance that go against US interests will be hit with an extra 10% tariff.
"Any country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS, will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% tariff.
There will be no exceptions to this policy," Trump wrote on social media.
Trump has long criticised BRICS, an organisa-
tion whose members include China, Russia and India.
The US had set a 9 July deadline for countries to agree a trade deal, but US officials now say tariffs will begin on 1 August. Trump said he would send letters to countries telling them what the tariff rate will be if an agreement is not reached.
On Monday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said he expected "a busy couple of days".
"We've had a lot of peo-
ple change their tune in terms of negotiations. So my mailbox was full last night with a lot of new offers, a lot of new proposals," he told CNBC.
So far, the US has only struck trade agreements with the UK and Vietnam, as well as a partial deal with China.
Although, Britain and America have still not reached a deal over taxes for UK steel imported by the US. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Eight suspects were arrested, and three firearms, ammunition, and quantities of narcotics were seized during a series of anti-crime operations over the weekend in Trinidad & Tobago.
In the first incident, officers from the National Special Operations Unit, supported by the Canine Branch and the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Special Operations Unit, proceeded to a house in the St Helena district o July 6.
Three local men were arrested and eight Spanish-
speaking women, including two minors, were rescued.
Authorities notified the Immigration Enforcement Section and the CounterTrafficking Unit. A pistol loaded with a magazine containing one round of ammunition was also seized.
The male suspects face charges of human trafficking and possession of firearm and ammunition.
In a separate operation in the North Central Division on July 5, officers conducted a search in the Valsayn district. One male
suspect was arrested after being found in possession of a firearm loaded with 18 rounds of ammunition.
In another exercise on July 3 in the Eastern Division, Task Force officers conducted a targeted operation.
Four suspects, ages 31 and 56, were arrested. Officers seized one firearm with a magazine containing 19 rounds of ammunition, along with a quantity of cannabis. Investigations remain ongoing. (Source: Trinidad Guardian)
Jr was a cartel henchman, Mexican Prosecutors claim
The Mexican boxer Julio César Chávez Jr was a henchman for the Sinaloa drugs cartel and used his skills to pummel rival gang members “like a punchbag” before his recent arrest in the US, prosecutors in Mexico have alleged.
Chávez, 39, son of legendary world boxing champion Julio César Chávez Sr and himself a former middleweight titleholder, was arrested in California on Tuesday by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) agents, who cited cartel affiliations, multiple criminal convictions and an active arrest warrant in Mexico for weapons trafficking and organized crime.
Deportation proceedings are under way, Ice officials have said.
The new details of his alleged crimes in Mexico were revealed in an indictment issued Friday by the country’s office of the attorney general (abbreviated FGR for its Spanish name) – and reported by the newspaper Reforma via the online outlet mimorelia.com.
The court filing states that Chávez was in the service of Néstor Ernesto Pérez Salas, a leader of the Sinaloa cartel known as El Nini, who
directed him to beat rival gang members his group had captured.
The information, the FGR said, came from phone calls intercepted between December 2021 and June 2022 using wiretaps.
Additional evidence, including immigration records, was obtained from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Ice. According to immigration authorities, Chávez entered the US in August 2023 on a legally held visa, but it expired in February 2024.
Chávez then applied for legal permanent US residen-
B’dos
Barbados’ St Bernard’s Primary School was expected to reopen its doors Monday, following a temporary closure due to health concerns involving several students.
The Barbados Ministry of Educational Transformation (MEdT) confirmed the reopening in a statement issued Sunday.
All staff and students are expected to return to the classroom, and a meeting will be held at 8:45 a.m. with the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Kenneth George, and Chief Education Officer, along with their respective teams.
The school was closed on July 3 and 4 to allow for industrial cleaning, after sev-
eral students from one class developed a rash and peeling skin on their hands.
According to a press release issued July 6, the MEdT said it was alerted on Friday, June 27, after the school’s principal reported that four students from one class were showing signs of rash and skin peeling on their hands.
Students were dismissed at 1 p.m. to allow a meeting to take place. Following that session, the ministry contacted the Senior Environmental Health Officer and arranged a site visit for the next day.
On Wednesday, July 2, a team of two nurses from the Maurice Byer Polyclinic and two officers from the
Environmental Health Department visited the school.
Five more students were observed with similar symptoms.
The matter was reported to Chief Medical Officer. He recommended an industrial cleaning of the school while investigations continued.
The school was closed on Thursday, July 3, and Friday, July 4, to allow the cleaning to be completed.
Officials have not confirmed the cause of the symptoms.
MEdT said it is working closely with the Ministry of Health and Wellness and is awaiting further advice from the Chief Medical Officer.
(Source: Nation News)
Mottley congratulates Geerlings-Simons on election as President of Suriname
The Prime Minister of Barbados and former Chair of Caricom, Mia Amor Mottley, has expressed her congratulations on behalf of the Caribbean Community to Jennifer Geerlings-Simons on the occasion of her election as President of the Republic of Suriname. In an official statement, Mottley calls the election of Geerlings-Simons 'historic' and underlines the importance of this step for the entire Caribbean region.
“I send my sincere congratulations to Jennifer GeerlingsSimons on her historic election as President of Suriname,” said the Barbadian Prime Minister.
“This is the first time that our Caricom neighbours have elected a female president,
Curfew
and I believe this is further proof that democracy and the spirit of progress are alive and well in our region.”
According to Mottley,
Barbados looks forward to working with the new Surinamese president and her government. “We look forward to working with President Geerlings-Simons and her government to support the progress and development of our member state and the region as a whole.”
Geerlings-Simons was unanimously elected as the first female president of Suriname on July 6, a milestone that has received wide international acclaim. Gregory Rusland was elected vice president. Geerlings-Simons and Rusland will be sworn in on Wednesday, July 16, during an extraordinary public meeting of the National Assembly in the Anthony Nesty Sports Hall. (Suriname Herald)
imposed in parts of St Ann, J’ca following deadly gun attack
J’ca police have imposed a 48-hour curfew in sections of Parry Town, Ocho Rios, St Ann, following a shooting incident on Saturday night that left two men dead and another injured.
Those killed were 56-yearold painter Paul Brooks, otherwise called 'Matterhorn', and 30-year-old warehouse
cy based on his marriage to Frida Muñoz, an American citizen.
Muñoz’s prior relationship with one of El Chapo’s sons drew scrutiny from US officials. Though she has not been charged with any crime, in December 2024, Chávez was reportedly flagged in internal DHS documents as an “egregious public safety threat”, though his removal from the US was not prioritized.
The Trump administration has designated the Sinaloa cartel as a foreign terrorist organization.
(Excerpt from The Guardian)
assistant Lamar Lynch, otherwise called 'Buju', both of Grove Village, Parry Town, St Ann. A 45-year-old man also sustained gunshot injuries.
Reports indicate that around 10:35 p.m. on July 5, the men were in Parry Town when they were pounced upon by unknown assailant(s) and shot. They were assisted to
hospital, where Brooks and Lynch were pronounced dead. The security measure began at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 6, and will remain in effect until 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8.
During the curfew, all persons are required to remain within their premises unless otherwise authorized by the ground commander.
China's BYD to start assembling electric cars in Brazil
China's BYD is poised to start assembling electric vehicles at a new factory in Brazil as early as this month, a top executive said, reducing imports as tariffs start to rise in its largest foreign market.
Alexandre Baldy, senior vice president for BYD in Brazil, said the goal is to assemble 50,000 cars this year at the plant in Bahia state from imported kits, adding that he is
Russia’s former transport minister has died from a gunshot wound just hours after Vladimir Putin sacked him.
The body of Roman Starovoit, the ex-minister, was found in his car in a Moscow suburb. He appeared to have killed himself, Russia’s investigative committee said in a statement.
il rose 1% on Monday as signs of strong demand outweighed the impact of OPEC+ hiking output more than expected for August, as well as concern about the potential impact of U.S. tariffs.
Brent crude futures rose 91 cents, or 1.3%, to $69.20 by 12:20 p.m. ET (1620 GMT). U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was at $67.57, up 57 cents, or 0.8%. The benchmarks had fallen to $67.22 and $65.40, respectively, earlier in the session.
"The supply picture definitely looks to be elevating, however, the stronger demand is remaining above expectations as well," Dennis Kissler, senior vice president of trading at BOK Financial.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and their allies, a group known as OPEC+, agreed on Saturday to raise production by 548,000 barrels per day in August, more than the 411,000-bpd hikes they made for the earlier three months.
However, the actual output increase has been smaller than planned so far and most of the supply has been from Saudi Arabia, analysts said.
"Concerns over (U.S. President Donald) Trump's tariffs continue to be the broad theme in the second half of 2025, with dollar weakness the only support for oil for now," said Priyanka Sachdeva, a senior market analyst at Phillip Nova.
Meanwhile, geopolitical uncertainties continued with Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis, after their first known attack on the high seas this year.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is due to meet with Trump at the White House on Monday, while Israeli officials hold indirect talks with Hamas aimed at reaching a U.S.-brokered Gaza ceasefire and hostage-release deal.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said he believes Iran can resolve its differences with the United States through dialogue, but trust would be an issue after U.S. and Israeli attacks on his country, according to an interview released on Monday. (Excerpt from Reuters)
More than 100 people people have died after devastating floods hit central Texas.
Camp Mystic, an all-girls summer camp that sits along the Guadalupe River, has confirmed that 27 campers and counselors died in weekend floods. Ten campers and one counselor are still unaccounted for.
The death toll from the Texas floods has risen to at least 104.
The latest update is from Kerr County where the fatality count is now 84, according to an afternoon update.
The 84 deceased includes 56 adults and 28 children, the update said.
Rescuers are still search-
ing for dozens of missing people after terrifying floods, according to officials.
More than 20 state agencies are responding to flooding across Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott said today, as rescuers continue to search for dozens of missing people in devastated areas. Additionally, 1,750 personnel and more than 975 vehicles and other assets have been deployed, the governor said in a statement.
Those assets include rescue boat teams from the state’s Parks and Wildlife Department and Blackhawk helicopters from the Texas National Guard to help with flood rescues, according to the statement.
The Kremlin published an order signed by Putin to remove Starovoit from his position as transport minister on Monday morning, shortly before news of his death was made public. No reason was given for his dismissal in the order, which
cluding the local edition of Forbes, have reported that Starovoit may have died as early as Friday evening, before the order to dismiss him was published. The timeline of his death and dismissal has not been confirmed by investigators. A member of the State Duma, Andrei Kartapolov, told Russian journalists that Starovoit had died “quite long ago”.
Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s spokesperson, denied that Starovoit’s sacking was due to a “lack of trust” but did not answer questions on why he had been dismissed. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
At least 10 people have been killed in protests, according to a state-run human rights body - the latest in a wave of anti-government rallies that began last year.
Police opened fire on demonstrators and earlier on Dr Aron Sikuku, a medic at Eagle Nursing Home in Kangemi on the outskirts of Nairobi, told the BBC that two bodies had been taken to the facility and had died from gunshot wounds.
He said hundreds of protesters had gathered outside his hospital demanding to take away the bodies.
These demonstrations mark the 35th anniversary of the historic Saba Saba (meaning "seven-seven") protests of 7 July 1990 which launched Kenya's push for multi-party democracy.
In a scathing report, the state-run Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KHRC) accused the police of using excessive force, as had frequently been the case during the current wave of protests.
"Police operated in plainclothes and unmarked vehicles" on Monday and collaborated with "armed criminal gangs in Nairobi, Kajiado,
Nakuru, Kiambu, and Eldoret", it said. The police have denied previous such accusations.
It added that it had evidence that at least two people had been abducted, as well as reporting 29 injuries and 37 arrests in towns across the country.
Police tried to pre-empt the protests by sealing off central Nairobi.
From early in the morning, hundreds of commuters and overnight travellers were stranded at checkpoints, some
more than 10km (six miles) from the city centre, with only a few vehicles allowed through.
Roads leading to key government sites - including the president's official residence, State House, and the Kenyan parliament - were barricaded with razor wire.
Some schools advised students to stay at home.
But clashes broke out in parts of the capital as demonstrators lit fires and attempted to breach police cordons. Officers responded with tear
gas and water cannon. In a statement issued on Sunday evening, the police said it was their constitutional duty to protect lives and property while maintaining public order.
Monday's demonstrations were organised primarily by the so-called Gen-Z young people, demanding good governance, greater accountability, and justice for victims of police brutality, continuing the wave of anti-government protests since last year. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Apple has launched an appeal against an “unprecedented” €500m (£430m) fine imposed by the EU on the company, in the latest clash between US tech companies and Brussels.
The iPhone maker accused the European Commission –the EU’s executive arm – of going “far beyond what the law requires” in a dispute over its app store.
In April, the commission fined Apple €500m after finding the company had breached
the Digital Markets Act by preventing app developers from steering users to cheaper deals outside the app store.
Last month, Apple overhauled its app store rules to comply with the EU order to scrap its technical and commercial curbs on developers in order to avoid fines of 5% of its average daily worldwide revenue, or about €50m a day.
As a result Apple introduced new fee structures for developers using its app store.
On Monday, Apple accused
Brussels of making it deploy “confusing” business terms in order to avoid the threat of fines.
Apple also accused the commission of unlawfully expanding the definition of “steering” – or the language and methods the company allows developers to use when guiding consumers outside its app stores.
Donald Trump’s senior trade adviser, Peter Navarro, has accused the EU of using “lawfare” against big US
tech companies, describing the use of regulations against American companies such as Apple and Meta as part of a barrage of “non-tariff weapons” used for by foreign states against the US. Henna Virkkunen, the European Commission vice-president responsible for tech sovereignty, said in April that the EU will not rip up its tech rules in an attempt to agree a trade deal with the US. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Tally up what things cost and consider how to handle mismanaged funds or joint ventures. When uncertainty sets in, ask an expert and initiate change to avoid loss.
Do it yourself. Signing up for something or bingeing on something unnecessary will tempt you. Look at the big picture, consider what's essential to reach your goal and eliminate what's disposable.
Do things yourself. Don't overload yourself with duties or distractions. Focus more on saving time and money instead of casting your fate to the wind and letting things spin out of control.
Embrace a challenge without revealing your next move. A secretive approach will give you the leverage you require to get things done your way. Own the floor instead of sharing.
Find events and activities that take your mind off your troubles, but remember to respect your budget. Distancing yourself from aggravations will help you resolve lingering issues.
Window shop, but don't go into the store. It's time to rethink your lifestyle, consider what's essential and discard what's taking up space mentally, physically and emotionally.
Hands-on learning is the best; it will change your perspective, direction and dreams. Refuse to let anyone pressure you into making a choice that is better for them than it is for you.
Plan carefully before you try to navigate your way forward. Preparation is everything when dealing with relationships, making deals and budgeting for what you want.
Apply your energy to something worthwhile. If you let tension build, you will waste your energy fighting a no-win situation. Instead, consider how you can physically enforce positive change.
Use your energy wisely, ponder the logistics of your actions and proceed with dignity and gain ground. It's all in the way you handle others; diplomacy is everything.
Look for innovative ways to relax and save money. Investing in your skills and home and honing your ability to balance work and play will pay off.
Keep situations in perspective. Maintaining a calm state of mind and an easygoing outlook will help you navigate obstacles. Refuse to let what others do or say make you angry.
Champion.
July 7, 2025 may not invoke the same grand feeling of that unforgettable summer afternoon at Lord's last month, but it'll still have a reverence of its own for Wiaan Mulder, who, only weeks earlier, stood on the winner's podium as a
One of cricket's most iconic and celebrated records –- Brian Lara's majestic 400 not out, which he held like a crown jewel after reclaiming it from Matthew Hayden – was in real danger of being knocked off its perch after 21 long years. When Mulder, South Africa's stand-in Captain, went into the lunch interval unbeaten on 367, it seemed a matter of time before history books would be rewritten. Then came a quiet message from the change room, like a bolt from the blue. South Africa had declared. Mulder had declared.
"Why did he do that?" is a question that lingered on for much of the day as Zimbabwe collapsed in just 43 overs, and were asked to follow-on. With so much time left in the match, the decision will be rightly debated for a while. Sure, barring Blessing Muzarabani, the quality of Zimbabwe's attack was hardly Test class, but the opportunity to etch yourself into Test history does not come knocking every day.
on 626 for 5.
Mulder's feat became all the more special as it came in front of his father, who had made the trip to soak in the occasion after he had been informed of Mulder's promotion to captaincy in the lead-up to the game after Keshav Maharaj had been ruled out due to an injury. Along the way, Mulder may have cemented himself as South Africa's new number three, a spot once occupied by legends he may have grown up watching, Jacques Kallis and Hashim Amla among them.
In the morning session, every run or over carried the weight of a milestone either impending or ticked off. Records came; records went. Mulder went past some heavyweights in South Africa: Gary Kirsten, Daryl Cullinan, Graeme Smith and AB de Villiers. And soon after his triple-ton, he went past 311 to eclipse Amla, and achieve the highest Test score by a South African.
Mulder could've chosen a calmer, more serene path if he had wished.
South Africa's run-scoring on the opening day, where they surged to 465 for 4, meant time was never going to be a consideration.
Mulder, though, had other ideas. Except for his first boundary very early in the day off Muzarabani, off a streaky edge that flew through vacant third slip, there was
control and authority in every stoke he played and every run he ran.
Mulder's authority stemmed from his own confidence, and Zimbabwe's hit-me lengths. Without any swing on offer, even with the second new ball that they took late on the opening day, the pacers erred on the shorter side and kept getting punished square of the wicket on both sides. When spin came on, Mulder channelled the golfer in him to club them downtown. He hit 49 fours and four sixes in all – one of them landed out of the ground – forcing them to bring out a different ball.
Amid Mulder's runfest, that South Africa lost Dewald Brewis was lost on everyone. He survived on 24 when Craig Ervine put down a regulation chance in the fifth over off Muzarabani at slip, but could not capitalise. On 35, Brevis attempted to flay a cut, only to get a thick outside edge to the wicketkeeper. Kyle Verreynne then came and enjoyed a good hit out to remain unbeaten on 42.
The day's big moment – Mulder's triple – arrived in the 101st over when he clipped a low full toss off Tanaka Chivanga to fine leg to wild applause and cheers from his teammates on the balcony. It had come off 297 balls, the second-fastest in Test history, behind Virender Sehwag's that had come off 278 balls against South Africa in Chennai 17 years ago.
After Mulder got past the 300, there was carnage aplenty as Muzarabani was dispatched for three boundaries in an over, the third of those helping him surpass Amla. There was more punishment in the next as Mulder cleared his front leg to wallop him out of the ground to enter the 360s. This is when everyone seemed to be readying for the moment, when the declaration came.
Mulder was not done yet. With the ball, he took out Wesley Madhevere and Ervine in quick succession. Madhevere was out to a nip-backer that flat-
tened the stumps; Ervine was felled by an effort ball that lifted off the deck to have him fend one into the hand of backward point. Mulder's fiery spell was not the highlight, though. Debutant Prenelan Subrayen and Senuran Muthusamy's flight and loop were equally note worthy. Subrayen ended with 4 for 42.
Sean Williams, who spent much of the first eve ning and the opening ses sion on the sidelines due to an illness, came out swing ing and raised his half-cen tury off just 32 balls, the fastest by a Zimbabwean. But he ran out of partners, and remained stuck on 83 as last man Chivanga's wicket meant Zimbabwe were bundled out for 170. Made to follow-on, Zimbabwe lost Dion Myers early, but Takudzwanashe Kaitano and Nick Welch batted a tricky last 30 minutes to take them to stumps on 51 for 1, with Zimbabwe still needing 146 to surpass Mulder. (ESPNcricinfo)
South Africa 1st Innings
Tony de Zorzi c Welch
b Chivanga 10
Lesego Senokwane lbw
b Masakadza 3
Wiaan Mulder (c) not out 367
David Bedingham lbw
b Chivanga 82
Lhuan-dre Pretorius c Masakadza
b Matigimu 78
Dewald Brevis c sub (C Madande)
b Matigimu 30
Kyle Verreynne † not out 42
Extras (lb 12, nb 1, w 1) 14
Total 114 Ov
(RR: 5.49, 509 Mins) 626/5d
Fall of wickets: 1-11 (Tony de Zorzi, 9.1 ov), 2-24 (Lesego Senokwane, 13.5 ov), 3-208 (David Bedingham, 50.2 ov), 4-425 (Lhuan-dre Pretorius, 81.1 ov), 5-513 (Dewald Brevis, 96.4 ov)
Bowling O-M-R-W
Blessing Muzarabani 26-4-133-0
Tanaka Chivanga 24-3-112-2
Kundai Matigimu 21.3-1-124-2
Wellington Masakadza 33-2-184-1
Dion Myers 2.3-0-14-0
Wessly Madhevere 7-0-47-0
Zimbabwe 1st Innings
Takudzwanashe Kaitano
c †Verreynne
b Codi Yusuf 0
Dion Myers c †Verreynne
b Bosch 1
Nick Welch c sub (Zubayr Hamza)
b Codi Yusuf 10
Wessly Madhevere
b Mulder 25
Craig Ervine (c) c Codi Yusuf
b Mulder 17
Tafadzwa Tsiga † c Brevis
b Muthusamy 12
Sean Williams not out 83
Wellington Masakadza
c Mulder
b Subrayen 3
Kundai Matigimu
b Subrayen 0
Blessing Muzarabani c sub (KT Maphaka)
b Subrayen 5
Tanaka Chivanga c sub (KT Maphaka)
b Subrayen 10
Extras (lb 2, nb 2) 4
Total 43 Ov (RR: 3.95, 185 Mins) 170
Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Takudzwanashe Kaitano, 0.1 ov), 2-4 (Dion Myers, 1.4 ov), 3-15 (Nick Welch, 6.5 ov), 4-51 (Craig Ervine, 16.5 ov), 5-56 (Wessly Madhevere, 18.6 ov), 6-82 (Tafadzwa Tsiga,
TUESDAY, JULY 8, 2025
In a spectacular display of skill, Bush Lot Secondary representing Region Five emerged victorious at the Third Annual National Junior Golf Championship, dethroning defending champions Leguan Secondary at the Nexgen Golf Academy on Woolford Avenue. This year’s tournament
ticipating with players putting on exceptional performances across multiple age categories.
Despite intermittent rain and overcast skies, the course remained in pristine condition thanks to the support and contributions of Fixit Hardware Depot and Comfort Sleep, who provided
Trophies and prizes were presented by Region 5 REO Sadiek Ishmael, made possible by the generous support of valued sponsors: Pegasus Hotel and Suites, ExxonMobil Guyana, Guyana Tourism Authority, Regal Stationery & Computer Centre, Sunshine Snacks, Guyana Beverages
saw 229 participants from 14 schools and four individual golf clubs from Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and Georgetown par-
essential maintenance equipment to ensure the championship proceeded without a hitch.
Inc, Shangri-La Gardens, Praetorian Executive
Security Services, UG Vice Chancellor Paloma Mohamed
Fruta Conquerors Football Club has extended its sincere gratitude to Fruta and the Guyana Beverages Inc (GBI) for a branded merchandise drop that is already uplifting the entire club and wider community.
tive was a pleasant surprise spearheaded by the leadership of GBI, underscoring their strong belief in the power of football to inspire and transform the next generation. GBI General Manager Samuel Arjoon was present with members
The handover ceremony, held on July 4, 2025 at the National Training Centre in Providence, featured the presentation of branded polos, caps, water bottles, duffel bags, and high-impact visual materials including a retractable banner, 8ft backdrop, and feather flags, all proudly bearing the Fruta and Fruta Conquerors FC brands.
This thoughtful initia-
of his leadership team to personally deliver the items, sending a clear message of support for the footballers and coaches who train and serve in Tucville.
Fruta Conquerors Head Coach Samson “Benaiah” Gilbert hailed the donation as a step in the right direction. Representatives from Fruta Conquerors Football Club’s Senior Men’s Team,
Martin, Ms. Bibi Bissessar, Vic Oditt, Toolsie Persaud Ltd, Trophy Stall, TMK 2000 Inc, Telco Solutions & Mobile Advertising, Dustin Spivey, TriStone Auto, Comfort Sleep, and Fixit Hardware Depot.
Individual Final Results:
• Under-13 Boys: Aviel Bonie (1st), Adam Arjune (2nd)
•Under-13 Girls: Ariel Bonie (1st), Adina Arjune (2nd)
• Under-15 Boys: Justin Singh (1st), Isiah Bailey (2nd)
• Under-15 Girls: Bebi Salim (1st), Princess Bowen
•Under-18 Boys: Milan Moore (1st), Isiah Rigsby (2nd)
•Under-18 Girls: Latesha Ross (1st), Hema Devi Lall (2nd)
National Team Champions: Bush Lot Secondary, Leguan Secondary (2nd), Anna Regina Multilateral
Matthews,
Secondary (3rd), Berbice Educational Institute (4th), Lower Corentyne Secondary (5th),, Novar Secondary (6th), Queen’s College (7th), Zeeburg Secondary (8th), Belladrum Secondary (9th), and Tucville Secondary (10th).
“This is the third National Championship that the Guyana Golf Association (GGA) has successfully hosted in just four years of existence. It has grown to become arguably the largest
junior golf tournament in the Caribbean region,” said GGA President Aleem Hussain.
special thank you goes out to all our sponsors and supporters especially Mr Alkey Stanley and his team from CPCE, Philip Haynes, Dave from ER Small Engines and Steve Mohitram, whose tireless efforts helped make this championship a tremendous success. We now turn our attention to the summer camp which starts on July 14th and caters to all ages from 3 and up."
West Indians Hayley Matthews and Afy Fletcher were, on Monday, named among the nominees for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s Player of the Month for June.
Senior Women’s Team, and U-17 Boys Team were also present at the ceremony, standing as living proof of the club’s commitment to all levels of player development.
Martin Massiah, President of Fruta Conquerors Football Club, shared:
“This gesture from Guyana Beverages Inc and Fruta reflects their genuine heart for our young people, saying: ‘We see you, we believe in you, and we’re walk ing with you.’ Under my lead ership, Fruta Conquerors is building a fresh model for sustainable growth, player development, and excellence in football ad ministration. Step by step, we will make it happen. As we say in Guyana: one, one dutty build dam.”
Fruta Conquerors FC looks forward to strength ening this impactful part nership with Guyana Beverages Inc and Fruta in the future.
The door remains open for other purpose-driven companies to join and leave a lasting legacy.
Matthews, the West Indies skipper, scored 104 runs in the three OneDay Internationals (ODIs) against South Africa, in cluding a half-century in the third match.
She also chipped in with four wickets before elevat ing her performances in the three T20 Internationals (T20Is), scoring 147 runs at a strike-rate of 120.49, with two half-centuries.
Matthews also grabbed two wickets. She was named the Player of the Series in the T20Is as the West Indies won 2-1. Fletcher, 38, was the leading wicket-taker in
both the ODI and T20I series against South Africa, She finished with nine wickets in ODIs during June, which included one in a preceding series in England. Her eight wickets in the series against South Africa included a four-wicket haul in the second ODI and three in the final match. She also scored a total of 30 runs in these ODIs. In the T20Is, she claimed five wickets from three outings at an economy rate of 6.75.
South Africa’s Tazmin Brits, who had a memorable tour of the Caribbean showing fine form in both ODIs and T20Is, was the third nominee.
She struck 184 runs at a strike rate of 87.61 in three ODIs including a 101 off 91 balls in the final match. In the subsequent T20I series, she scored 132 runs at a strike rate of 122.22 which included a 98 not out from 63 deliveries in the first match. (Sportsmax)
After trailing the twin-island republic after 7 rounds, Jamaica’s chess team comprising Fide Master (FM) Joshua Christie, FM Shreyas Smith, Amy Stephenson and Kaia Gayle pulled off stunners in the final two rounds of the second edition of the Caricom Chess Classic on Sunday to claim the prize.
The Pegasus Suites venue in Kingston, Georgetown was engulfed by riveting action on the board as Jamaica improved their points just enough to get past defending champions Trinidad and Tobago.
As Jamaica took gold, Trinidad and Tobago’s team comprising FM Joshua Johnson, FM Kevin Cupid, Women FM Ysvett Hermoso Rodriguez and Women
Candidate Master Zara La Fleur had to settle for silver.
Coming in third was Suriname’s team of Jason Yeung, Ethan Tjin Kon Kiem
WCM Victoria Kaslan and WCM Alexandria Kaslan.
Over in the Under-16
Junior championships, Barbados’ Mileke Sinckler captured the top spot while his teammate Noah Clarke claimed silver.
Suriname’s Ravish Ramessar completed the top podium while Guyana’s Alexander Zhang and Aaron Jaikarran of Barbados capped off the top three.
Prior to Sunday’s fi-
nal-round action, Trinidad and Tobago led the competition after 7 rounds with 13 points. Eventual champions, Jamaica had 12 points while Suriname also occupied the podium with 11 points. Hosts Guyana, at that time, had accumulated 10 points and were in fifth place.
Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) President
Anand Raghunauth, during the simple ceremony, shared congratulatory words with the event’s winners while also encouraging the Guyanese teams which missed the podium.
“I would like to thank all the participants on playing in the spirit of Caricom nations. You would have won once you participat-
“He hasn't looked good” – Sammy concedes there is pressure on Brathwaite
est Indies Coach
WDaren Sammy says there will be a serious discussion around Kraigg Brathwaite's position ahead of the Jamaica Test, while remaining hopeful that his struggling batting group can find a way to back up the performances of the fast bowlers following a series-conceding defeat to Australia in Grenada.
West Indies were bundled out for 143 in the fourth innings, chasing 277 to win, on the fourth day with the margin of victory flattered slightly by Shamar Joseph's late-innings hitting in the same manner it was in the first Test in Barbados.
The hosts' top order was again steamrolled by Australia's relentless fast-bowling cartel, slumping to 33 for 4 at lunch on the fourth day. But while West Indies' top-order struggles have mirrored Australia's, the middle and lower order were unable to rescue them as Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood ripped the game away in a six-over burst in the middle session to leave West Indies 99 for 7 and without a recognised batter left.
Sammy acknowledged that there was pressure on former Captain Brathwaite, who is the only West Indies batter not to reach double figures in the series to date. His 100th Test was a forgettable one, with scores of just 0 and 7 following 4 and 4 in Barbados. Brathwaite averaged 18.68 in his last 35 Test innings with just three half-centuries.
"He hasn't looked good this series, and in a team where you are searching for performances, you get very close to say 'okay, do we give
somebody else a chance?'" Sammy said after the loss in Grenada. "But we will really have a good discussion, myself, the selection group, and the Captain himself, about that particular situation."
Sammy conceded that it was a tough ask for his batting line-up to handle Australia's attack on the two pitches that have been presented in the series so far and noted that most of the new-look line-up were at the start of a journey to becoming a more reliable Test batting unit. But he cited the example of Steven Smith in terms of how to make technical adaptations on a difficult surface to have success.
"But I do understand the journey that I took on, and Rome is not going to be built in a day. So a little bit of patience, a little bit of reality as to where we are at is something that we are aware of, and then continue to put in the work.
"The way the guys have bought into what we're trying to do, yes, the results have not shown, but some of the attitudes that are changing and understanding what we're trying to do, it gives me hope."
"When you look at the surfaces that we play on, it's hard. If you look at all the averages, we barely have guys averaging 40-plus in [FirstClass] cricket. Those type of pitches, it doesn't allow you to come up technically sound, because you're really unsure"
Sammy said there was a need for first-class pitches in the Caribbean to be better so that West Indies could produce some stronger batting stocks for Test cricket.
"It's hard to produce the quality of batters that we want to compete," Sammy
said. "When you look at the surfaces that we play on, it's hard. If you look at all the av erages, we barely have guys averaging 40-plus in [firstclass] cricket. Those type of pitches, it doesn't al low you to come up technically sound, because you're real ly un
And world, you want to see our guys perform because of, not in spite of.
director of cricket, the fran chise system, we've looked at very, very closely in trying to change that, trying to send the head groundsmen all over, trying to get the sort of wickets that allow batters to trust their techniques and stuff like that. And we also have some probably technical deficiencies that carry on from the Under-19, the youth level up to the national team.
dle order, having twice let Australia off the hook following early breakthroughs.
ed in this tournament. So, an excellent job, well done.
To our team and that is our ‘A’ team, ‘B’ team, ‘C’ team and our juniors, I think you would have learned quite a bit from this experience and I take it that you would use
this experience to go to the next level,” Raghunauth remarked.
The Caricom Chess Classic, which will now be a biennial tournament, is expected to be hosted again in 2027.
"In spite of all of that, we still find ourselves in positions to win and compete, and that's where you will need more of the mental toughness of the game to restrict you from getting too ahead of your stroke-play and show a little bit more fight and understand that we are playing against the number one team, and be a little tighter, and when opportunities present to score then we do that."
Sammy was delighted with his team's bowling performance overall after they bowled Australia out for 286 and 243 in Grenada to give themselves a chance at victory, although he was hopeful they could tighten the screws
"For some reason, after lunch, that session, whether we bat or bowl, we've been really poor," Sammy said. "If you put our bowling between yesterday's last 12 overs and this morning's session, however many we bowled, this is a level of consistency we look at.
"Our bowling, we can't fault them, they've gotten 40 wickets. I don't know when last we got 40 wickets against a top-three team in two Test matches. So the bowlers are doing the job."
Like Australia, Sammy said his side had yet to procure any pink Dukes balls ahead of the day-night pinkball Test in Jamaica. But despite some concerns surrounding the preparation of the ground at Sabina Park, Sammy said it would be a historic event and was confident the match would be played under lights as planned.
(ESPNcricinfo)
On Sunday, June 6, at St Paul's Sports Complex, Basseterre, St Kitts, the Guyana Under-19 team suffered another defeat, this time at the hands of the United States of America in the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Under-19 Rising Stars tournament.
Batting first, Guyana had another disappointing batting display as the team were bowled out for a wellbelow-par total of 150 in 44.2 overs. Romario Ramdeholl top-scored with 48 runs as his innings consisted of 4 fours and 2 sixes. Afraz Ali Budhoo supported with 43, but no other batsmen applied themselves on the day.
Sahir Bhatia and Supransh Kumar both claimed three wickets for the United States of America.
Saharsh Shwethan's innings of 42 and Utkarsh Shrivastava's score of 41 led the United States of America to the target score (151) in only 32.5 overs. Romeo Deonarine and Jonathan van Lange picked one wicket each.
Guyana Under-19s are scheduled to play against Jamaica on Wednesday, July 9, in their next encounter.
With just three days to go for the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League, fans are eagerly anticipating the invasion of global superstars to Guyana.
Just hours ago, GSLT20 welcomed Azmatullah Omarzai to the league. The Afghani international all-rounder, GST20 says, will join defending champions Rangpur Riders at this year’s tournament.
Omarzai is a fast-bowling all-rounder who can strike early in the powerplay and clear the ropes in the death overs, says ESPNcricinfo. He has been central to Afghanistan's evolution from a spin-dominated side to a more balanced, multi-dimensional team.
Initially seen as a batting prospect with some bowling ability, he steadily honed his skills with the ball and emerged as Afghanistan's leading seam-bowling all-rounder, it notes.
According to the sports site, Omarzai delivered a historic all-round performance against England in the 2025 Champions Trophy, scoring 41 off 31 balls and taking his first One-Day International (ODI) five-wicket haul.
Two days later, his 67 off 63 against Australia helped Afghanistan post a competitive total of 273, though a rainedoff match meant the side was knocked out of the tournament.
With credentials like that, Omarzai may well provide fireworks within the star-stud- ded league come July10 when Guyana Amazon Warriors take on defending champions Rangpur Riders.
