Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 02-08-2026

President Ali: African ancestors’ resilience built the pillars of modern Guyana

PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has paid tribute to the resistance, resolve, and resilience of Guyana’s African ancestors in a message marking Emancipation Day 2026, declaring that their contributions “are the very pillars upon which modern Guyana stands.”

In his address to Guyanese at home and across the diaspora, on Saturday, the President reflected on the horrors of the Transatlantic trade in captive Africans and the brutal system of slavery, describing it as “the most abominable system ever known to mankind.”

Yet, he said, enslaved Africans never surrendered their dignity, humanity, or pursuit of

freedom.

President Ali noted that when emancipation finally came, the formerly enslaved did not meet their freedom with bitterness. Instead, they looked forward, determined to build a better future for generations to come.

The President traced the extraordinary rise of African-Guyanese in the decades following emancipation, highlighting the Village Movement as a defining chapter — a collective effort in which freed men and women pooled resources to purchase

land and establish villages that became, in his words, “the bedrock of resilience, the crucibles of culture, the seedbeds of nationhood.”

He pointed to their achievements across multiple spheres: education that sharpened

minds, entrepreneurship that built enterprises, agriculture that fed the nation, and mining that unearthed gold, bauxite and diamonds to fuel national progress. Their influence, he added, extended into sport, the arts, politics and the professions — enriching every facet of Guyanese life.

Reflecting on how the ancestors responded to adversity, President Ali urged Guyanese to follow their example rather than allow tragedy to breed hatred.

“They transformed their sorrow into solidarity and their pain into purpose,” he said. “They wept together, prayed together, and rebuilt together.”

He closed his message with a call for national unity: “Let us continue to build a Guyana that is truly free, truly prosperous, and just — for every man, woman, and child who calls this land home.”

President Ali extended his best wishes to all Guyanese on the occasion of Emancipation Day 2026, expressing hope that “the spirit of our African ancestors” would continue to guide and inspire the nation “today, and always.”

The President called on citizens to reject “the seduction of suspicion and the poison of enmity,” and instead to honour their ancestors’ legacy by building a society grounded in mutual respect, equality, and shared prosperity.

National Gender Equality Seal transforming workplaces across Guyana

WHAT began as a vision of Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, has evolved into a transformative workplace initiative, with six private sector companies now participating in the National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal programme.

Introduced in November 2025, the initiative has engaged B&J Civil Works, Demerara Associates, Blue Water Shipping, MatPal Marine, Camille's Academy and Cerulean Inc. for more than six months as they work towards creating more inclusive and equitable workplaces.

According to the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, the National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal encourages organisations to hold themselves accountable for promoting gender equality while fostering

safer and more supportive work environments.

The Ministry explained that each participating organisation was assigned an individual work plan based on its registration and preliminary assessment, providing a roadmap towards achieving National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal

accreditation.

The initiative is being implemented through partnerships with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Ministry's dedicated technical team, including Jairo Rodrigues, who led work on the policy and programme, alongside Dr Cona Husbands, Adil Lily and other members

of the team.

According to the Ministry, the programme encourages employers to assess their workplaces through a gender lens by recognising the diverse needs of mothers, fathers and caregivers while creating environments free from sexual exploitation, harassment and discrimination.

It also promotes equal pay, equal opportunities for career advancement, stronger leadership practices and more inclusive workplace policies for both women and men, ultimately contributing to safer, more productive workplaces.

The Ministry noted that the programme is already producing tangible results, including updated workplace policies, improved working environments and modifications to building designs to better accommodate mothers, fathers and caregivers.

The National Gender Equality and Empowerment Seal provides businesses with a practical framework for translating commitments to gender equality into measurable action.

The gender-neutral certification also forms part of the Government's broader efforts to mainstream gender equality in workplaces while rais-

ing awareness of sexual and gender-based violence and strengthening measures to prevent discrimination, harassment and other forms of abuse.

The initiative aims to ensure that all Guyanese workers have equal opportunities in employment while being protected and empowered to pursue both personal and professional development.

At the programme's launch, Minister Persaud described the initiative as more than a policy.

“This gender seal is not merely a policy. It is an actionable programme where there are measurable indicators,” she said.

She further described the initiative as a “paradigm shift”, saying it reflects Guyana's progress in the way it views its people, its workforce and the future of equitable employment.

Chief Magistrate sets September dates for continuation of Mohameds’ extradition hearing

AFTER a five-month interruption, the extradition case involving Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and his father, businessman Nazar Mohamed, is set to resume before the Georgetown Magistrates' Court.

The matter will return for hearings in early September following a Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) ruling that cleared the way for the proceedings to continue.

Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman has scheduled the matter for September 3, 4, 7, 8, 9 and 10 after the region's highest court lifted the stay that had brought the proceedings to a halt in March while it considered the Mohameds' legal challenge.

The father and son argued that the extradition process was unlawfully initiated because Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond was allegedly affected by actual and apparent bias when she signed

the Authority to Proceed (ATP). The ATP is the statutory document required under Guyana's Fugitive Offenders (Amendment) Act before extradition proceedings can begin. In a unanimous judgement, however, the CCJ concluded that while the

rule against bias applies to the Minister's decision-making, the Mohameds failed to prove that the issuance of the ATP had been improperly influenced. The court found no evidence that irrelevant considerations had been taken into account or that the Minister had ignored matters she was legally required to consider.

Although the CCJ granted the applicants special leave to appeal, it dismissed the appeal itself, effectively affirming the decisions of both the High Court and the Court of Appeal.

It also ordered that each side bears its own costs before the CCJ, while leaving the issue of costs in the lower courts to be determined at a later stage.

The ruling clears the way for the Magistrates' Court to resume the com-

mittal hearing, where the prosecution is expected to continue presenting evidence in support of the United States' extradition request. At the conclusion of that hearing, Chief Magistrate Latchman must determine whether the evidence satisfies the legal requirements for the Mohameds to be committed for extradition. If she finds that the statutory threshold has been met, the matter will proceed to the next stage under the Fugitive Offenders Act.

The extradition proceedings were initiated on October 31, 2025, after the United States formally requested the surrender of the Mohameds a day earlier. Following the issuance of an ATP by Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond, Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman issued warrants for their arrest,

formally commencing the proceedings.

The Mohameds were subsequently granted $150,000 bail each, while the substantive committal hearing commenced on January 6, 2026. As part of their bail conditions, they must surrender their passports and report to the Ruimveldt Police Station every Friday pending the outcome of the extradition proceedings.

Since then, the prosecution has called only one witness — Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Sharon Roopchand-Edwards.

Her evidence centres on the receipt and transmission of the United States' extradition request and the official handling of related diplomatic correspondence. Her cross-examination remained unfinished when the CCJ intervened in March, meaning the hearing is expected to resume from that point when the matter returns before the Chief Magistrate.

The prosecution is being led by Jamaican King's Counsel Terrence Williams, assisted by attorneys Herbert McKenzie and Celine Deidrick, while the Mohameds are represented by Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, along with attorneys Siand Dhurjon and Damien Da Silva.

The United States is seeking the surrender of the Mohameds to face an 11-count indictment filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. They jointly face

allegations including conspiracy, mail fraud, wire fraud and money laundering, while Azruddin is separately charged over the alleged importation of a 2020 Lamborghini Roadster SVJ into Guyana.

According to U.S. prosecutors, the charges stem from an alleged years-long scheme in which large quantities of gold were exported from Guyana using false customs declarations and undervalued invoices, allowing more than US$50 million in taxes and customs duties to be evaded.

Investigators also allege that reused government export seals were used to facilitate shipments, one of which, valued at approximately US$5.3M, was intercepted at Miami International Airport.

The allegations underpin sanctions imposed in June 2024 by the United States Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) against the Mohameds and several of their associated companies. U.S. authorities accused them of participating in gold smuggling, tax evasion and public corruption, allegations the father and son have repeatedly denied.

The investigation involved years of co-operation between Guyanese and American law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Guyana seeks specialist contractors to raise sunken MV Barima

— EOIs open as authorities prepare for next phase of recovery operation

THE Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), under the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, has invited qualified marine salvage contractors to submit Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the recovery of the wrecked passenger and cargo ferry MV Barima, more than two weeks after the vessel sank off the Essequibo Coast in one of the deadliest maritime disasters in the country's history.

The announcement comes as search and recovery efforts continue at the wreck site, where local teams have been conducting underwater operations in difficult conditions.

The MV Barima sank on the night of July 18 while en route from Georgetown to Port Kaituma with an estimated 179 passengers and 17 crew members on board. The vessel capsized in rough seas off the Essequibo coast, triggering the largest maritime search and recovery operation in Guyana's history.

As of the latest official update, 73 deaths have so far been recorded while 76 people were rescued, while search and recovery operations remain ongoing for those still missing.

The government has deployed aircraft, maritime vessels, specialist divers and emergency response teams in a coordinated effort to recover the remaining victims.

French military divers had reported zero visibility, powerful currents and the maze of ropes and hammocks inside the sunken MV Barima

According to the notice, the MV Barima remains submerged in ap-

proximately 15 metres (49 feet) of water, about 28 nautical miles north of Guyana's coast, at Latitude 07°28'213 North and Longitude 058°23'443 West. Authorities said visibility at the wreck site is poor, while strong currents and tidal streams pose significant operational challenges.

The vessel, measuring approximately 38.6 metres in length with an 8.9-metre beam and 2.9-metre depth, is lying on its side in soft mud.

MARAD is seeking reputable salvage companies with proven experience conducting successful vessel salvage operations in Guyanese or wider Caribbean waters, particularly in environments characterised by strong currents and restricted visibility.

Interested companies are required to submit detailed proposals outlining their corporate profile, relevant salvage experience over the past five to ten years, technical approach to the operation, environmental protection measures, key personnel

and equipment, project timeline, and insurance and safety arrangements.

Importantly, contractors must also explain how evidence will be protected and documented during the salvage process to support the work of the international Commission of Inquiry into the disaster.

The successful contractor must also demonstrate the capability to stow the salvaged vessel upright on a barge for several weeks following recovery.

Expressions of Interest, limited to ten pages excluding appendices, must be submitted electronically to MARAD no later than the close of business on Friday, August 14, 2026.

Following the evaluation process, shortlisted firms will be invited to submit detailed technical and financial proposals before a contractor is selected.

Meanwhile, President Dr Irfaan Ali has appointed a five-member international Commission of Inquiry to investigate every aspect of the disaster, including the vessel's seaworthiness, loading procedures, passenger manifest, emergency response, search and rescue operations, and any acts of negligence or institutional failures that might have contributed to the tragedy.

The commission is chaired by Justice Godfrey Phillip Smith of Belize, CARICOM

owski of Poland, a Naval Architect and Marine Engineer; and Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Hayden Pritchard of Trinidad and Tobago, an expert in maritime operations and security.

President Ali, on Friday, announced formation of a Safety and Compliance Audit Team tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of the safety and compliance standards governing marine vessels operating across the country in the aftermath of the tragedy.

High-Level Representative for Law and Criminal Justice and an Ad Hoc Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal.

The other members are Captain Hamada Fouda of Jamaica, Senior Maritime Surveyor and Compliance Auditor with the Maritime Authority of Jamaica; Ms. Nyree Dawn Alfonso of Trinidad and Tobago, an attorney-at-law specialising in Admiralty and Maritime Law; Dr. Andrzej Jasion-

The Audit Team comprises: Dr Ivor English, former Director-General of the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD); Colonel Julius Skeete of the Guyana Defence Force and Captain Joseph Lewis, Marine Officer and Surveyor of Ships.

Together, the three men bring what the President’s statement describes as a wealth of technical expertise, practical experience and knowledge in marine administration, maritime operations, and the inspection and surveying of ships.

Preparing for Opportunity

THE International Monetary Fund's latest assessment of Guyana's economy contains a statistic that deserves attention beyond the headline. An unemployment rate of 6.2 per cent is encouraging, but it tells only part of the story. The more important question is: What is driving those improvements, and can they be sustained?

The answer lies in the deliberate investments being made to prepare Guyanese for a rapidly changing economy.

For decades, Guyana's greatest challenge was creating employment. Today, the country

faces a different reality. As new investments continue to flow into construction, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, logistics, healthcare, technology and the oil and gas industry, the demand for skilled workers has increased dramatically.

The challenge is no longer simply creating jobs, but ensuring Guyanese have the skills to fill them.

That is why the government's emphasis on education, technical training and entrepreneurship has become just as important as its investment in infrastructure.

Thousands of young people have already ben-

efitted from programmes such as the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme (YEAP), the Youth Entrepreneurial and Skills Training (YEST) initiative through the Board of Industrial Training, and the Presidential Award for Youth, Entrepreneurship and Robotics (PAYR). These programmes are equipping young Guyanese with practical skills in construction, engineering, information technology, manufacturing and other sectors where demand continues to grow.

At the same time, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL)

scholarship programme has opened tertiary education to thousands of Guyanese, while continued investment in the University of Guyana, technical institutes and vocational education is helping to build a workforce capable of supporting a modern economy.

The government has also recognised that creating employees alone is not enough. Through the Small Business Bureau, entrepreneurship programmes, and the soonto-be-established Guyana Development Bank, greater emphasis is being placed on helping Guyanese create businesses, generate employment,

and build wealth within their own communities.

The numbers suggest these efforts are beginning to bear fruit. Youth unemployment has fallen sharply over recent years, more young people are attaining university qualifications, and fewer are classified as not being in education, employment or training. Those improvements are occurring at a time when Guyana's population has surpassed one million, with more than 60 per cent of citizens under the age of 35.

This youthful population is one of the country's greatest advantages, but only if it is equipped

with the right skills. Oil revenues can finance development, but it is education, training and innovation that will determine whether that development is sustained long after the country's natural resources are exhausted.

The IMF's report should, therefore, be viewed not simply as recognition of economic growth, but as encouragement to continue investing in Guyana's people. Roads, bridges and hospitals are essential, but the country's most valuable investment will always be the education, skills and ambition of its citizens.

Massy Stores, Banks DIH, Parika stelling and France

WHEN I was a young Marxist activist, I always harboured the feeling that though I love Guyana and will never leave, I will never understand it. From young Marxist radical to enduring Marxist senior citizen, I still have that feeling. I will never search and find the meaning of Guyana.

In one week, the things I saw and interfaced with tell me I will die with the yearning of wanting to know why Guyana is what it is. Here is a week in the life of Frederick Kissoon. I live directly across the road from Massy Supermarket. So, I patronise that outlet often. Last week

Massy lowered the price of a 3-litre bottle of organic apple juice from $6000 to $2000 because it only had a remaining shelf life of one week. Massy lowered the price of a bag of 45 pieces of Hershey’s chocolate from $5000 to $2000. It had a shelf life of a week remaining.

The bargain price did not attract buyers, so after the week, I saw the attendants taking the stuff off the shelves. I asked what happens next. I was told the items would be destroyed. I dropped dead right there and then. I made an enquiry of the CEO of Massy Stores in Guyana, Mr. Chris BobbSemple.

A man always with an intestinal smile that is winning and charming, I asked how he could destroy food like that, food that should never be destroyed like that. Still with his inviting smile, he said: “It is unethical to give away food that has expired.” Here was my reply. Expiry date is a legal concept. Scientifically, expired food has nutritional value, except milk, three months after the label date.

I stressed to Mr. BobbSemple that there is a way of giving away expired goods, with the role of ethics coming in too. If two days before

expiration, the reduced price still does not attack customers, then the day before, reduced the price even further to a level where customers will run after the item. If the bag of chocolate was further reduced from $2000 to $300, it would have been grabbed up in seconds. Mr. Bobb-Semple conceded that the attractive price reduction could be the solution. Not could. It will be. In France, they passed a law that design clothing companies cannot destroy clothes that have become out of fashion and the law applies to food manufacturers. I sincerely ask if there is a human in Guyana that supports Massy’s destruction of food?

Next – Banks DIH. The multi-trillion-dollar company announced that it has given 6.5 million Guyana dollars to 27 charities. I knew I had seen wrongly. It had to be 65 million. But it was 6.5 million. That means each of those 27 entities re-

ceived $200,000 Guyanese. I say unapologetically that is an insult to this country. I could name you three individual businessmen that do not have the trillion Banks DIH has and through the mosques and temples give more than that yearly and the recipients are far, far less than 27. What was irritating was that the Banks DIH big wigs posed for a photo opportunity with the 27 heads of the charities. Really, does anyone understand Guyana?

Next - the Parika ferry stelling. My wife and I went by speedboat last Wednesday to Leguan for a funeral. The speedboats are at the bottom of the steps when you embark and when you disembark. The steps have no bannister to hold onto

The Survivors

IT is with deep sorrow and not a little reluctance that I write about the greatest tragedy to have befallen our nation in recent history. I did not know if I could find the words.

Reportedly, an estimated 179 passengers were on board the MV Barima when it sank two weeks ago on July 18. The number cannot be precise as not all of those travelling was recorded on the boat's manifest.

So far there have been 76 survivors, at least 73 confirmed deaths and around 30 people unaccounted for. Entire families have been decimated, leaving hundreds behind to mourn for the ones who have perished. Their grief is shared by all Guyanese. I am a mother of 9 children, who lost one of my four sons three years ago in a car crash. I was devastated, as were the remaining siblings and several close friends. Relatives, neighbours and all who knew him were affected.

So, I can understand the impact of sudden death but

cannot fathom the awful grief being experienced by those survivors, many of whom have lost spouses, children and even grandchildren on that fateful night. It has been heartrending to hear those rescued re-creating how they were forced to fight the tide, clinging to flotsam in the water, some having awoken to find themselves submerged. All looking around them for other survivors.

For those who could not swim, drowning would have been certain unless they were fortunate enough to grab something in the water to keep them afloat or be helped by another passenger. Such was the case for one woman, who recounted how, on spotting her and her two children floundering in the water, a man gave her the object he was holding onto. He subsequently drowned after this act of incredible bravery and compassion and so did one of her children.

There are many more stories told by survivors, each of them giving similar accounts of their harrow -

ing experience in the water, some being torn away from family members by the powerful current.

Two of my own extended family perished in this disaster and though they were distant cousins whom I did not know, I still feel the pang of their loss. And this made me think of those who were not on the boat, but are nonetheless suffering the loss of spouses, family and friends, who were passengers. Their numbers cannot be quantified, but they too are survivors left behind to mourn the deaths of people near and dear to them.

Many bade 'bon voyage' to the travellers not knowing they would never be seeing them again. Never for a moment thinking they would be receiving the awful news that those fond farewells were their last. Others are left awaiting news of those who are still missing. We often hear people who, for one reason or another, have not been able to recover the body of loved ones, complain about the lack of closure.

when walking to the boat and when coming off the boat. It is a difficult situation for senior citizens.

A bannister is as old as the seas themselves. A bannister is a commonsensical structure of a step-way. Show me a step-way that does not have a bannister to help you walk up and walk down. Most older folks hold on to the bannister when going up and down. If the authorities do not want to put a bannister made of wood or light chrome, then put a rope structure, but put something to aid senior citizens when they are using those steps.

They feel as if they have been 'left hanging'. Some continue to cling to the hope that the person is still alive somewhere, while others may accept the inevitable yet be unable to mourn the passing of someone whose body they have not seen.

Every survivor of a tragedy of a loved one is subject to grief. Some also experience survivor's guilt and all face the challenge of rebuilding their lives. While each person may grieve differently, there can be no denying the deep and lasting effect that a disaster of this nature will have on everyone concerned and indeed on the country as a whole.

Psychologists talk of the complex nature of the grief felt by survivors. This involves not just the processing of their emotional distress, but overcoming the trauma, which may be so severe that it leads to PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).

There is therefore dire need for the intervention of trained professionals to help

Three years ago, I showed with graphic forcefulness that there is a wide trench under UG Road just before you reach the Beharry residence and that drivers will run into that trench. I showed images of the danger four times on the Freddie Kissoon Show. Check it out after three years. I will never understand this country.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

Well, that was a week in my life. Do you think they will stop burning food at Massy? Do you think, next time, Banks DIH will make it 65, instead of 6.5? Do you think a banister is going up soon at Parika? Here is my answer.

survivors cope with their grief, especially those who lived through the experience.

However, Guyanese Clinical Psychotherapist, Shane Tull, during a recently televised interview, expressed his concern that Guyana has neither the trained personnel nor systems in place to deal with survivors of a tragedy of this magnitude.

The Psychotherapist made similar observations after the Mahdia dormitory fire, three years ago, which claimed the lives of 19 students and injured several others. He spoke then of the need for adequate facilities to enable private individual and group sessions with

survivors, in an environment where they would be free to discuss the gamut of emotions they undoubtedly feel, with trained professionals. Now, in the face of this enormous tragedy, Tull's criticisms, concerns and advice should not be ignored by the authorities, whose duty it is to see that survivors receive the psychological treatment they so urgently require in surroundings conducive to healing.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

What Emancipation still demands

IN his Emancipation Day 2026 message, President Irfaan Ali, decked out in what appears to be an outfit associated with the Hausa and Fulani Muslims of West Africa, offered the citizens of Guyana more than just ceremonial greetings.

His message is a reminder that Emancipation must be understood not only as the end of slavery, but as the beginning of a long and determined journey toward dignity. I am not here to persuade anyone to like the President, but it is hard to ignore the scale of what has been achieved in land ownership, education, health, social services, and nation-building. This President has earned the right to say something that remains central to Guyana’s development story: freedom means little unless it is translated into real opportunities for everyone.

His message paid homage to the resistance, resolve, resourcefulness, and resilience of our African ancestors. That language matters, because it reminds us that the enslaved were never just victims of

history. They were builders, survivors, and visionaries who refused to let the brutality of the transatlantic slave system have the final word. Even in bondage, they held fast to the idea that a better future was possible, and when freedom came, they rushed to shape it with determination and purpose. That purpose was expressed in practical and transformative ways. Through the village movement, African descendants pooled resources to purchase land and establish communities that became foundations of resilience and self-worth. Through education, they sharpened minds; through farming, they fed households and markets; through entrepreneurship, they created livelihoods; through mining, they contributed to the nation's wealth. Their story is not only one of survival, but of development. It is the story of people who turned the pain of enslavement into an architecture of progress.

This is where the President’s message connects with the desire for freedom.

While freedom is a historical achievement, it is not a static state. Freedom has to be defended, cherished, celebrated, and nurtured in every generation. Freedom is the work of building a society where people can advance with dignity, where communities are connected to services and infrastructure, and where national growth is shared in ways that lift every citizen.

That is why the initiatives, programmes, and policies of the state matter so much: they are the instruments throug h which the promise of freedom can be made visible in people’s lives.

The religious undertones of President Ali’s message are equally significant. The call to weep together, pray together, and build together speaks to the moral and spiritual foundation on which communities are sustained.

For African people in the era of slavery, faith was not a passive comfort; it was a form of survival and resistance. Among enslaved Muslims especially, Islam offered discipline, identity,

inner order, and a way of preserving humanity in a system designed to erase it.

Scholars such as Sylviane Diouf, Sulayman Nyang, Allan Austin and Abdullah Hakim Quick have shown that enslaved African Muslims relied on their intellectual traditions, spiritual discipline, and a profound sense of self that helped resist the mental violence of slavery.

Omar ibn Said, a scholar from Futa Toro in modern Senegal who was captured at 37 and sold in South Carolina, left behind a rare Arabic autobiography. Abdulrahman Ibrahim Ibn Sori, the West African military commander from Futa Jallon, endured 40 years of enslavement in Mississippi before gaining freedom. Ayuba Suleiman Diallo (Job ben Solomon), the Fulani prince from Bundu, was kidnapped

in 1730 and later freed after he wrote from memory two or three copies of the entire Quran by hand. Bilali Mohammed, the Islamic leader on Sapelo Island, preserved a manuscript on Islamic law. Yarrow Mamout, a Fulani Muslim who survived 44 years in bondage in Maryland, USA, became a property owner after earning his freedom.

These extraordinary lives show that Islam was not only a faith carried across the Atlantic, but also a source of discipline, learning, dignity, and inner freedom that helped enslaved Africans resist the dehumanising force of bondage. President Ali’s appeal for us to avoid suspicion and enmity is worth underscoring. It speaks to the civic lessons of emancipation. If our ancestors transformed sorrow into solidarity, then the task

before us is to protect that inheritance by rejecting division and embracing mutual respect. A free people cannot build a strong nation while trapped in distrust. Unity, therefore, is not a slogan; it is a national necessity.

The dream of our ancestors was never only to survive slavery, but to build a freer, fairer, and more prosperous society. They laid pillars that still support modern Guyana, and our duty is to strengthen those pillars through work, faith, discipline, and collective purpose so that freedom is not just remembered, but experienced in our lives.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

Oil has created the opportunity: Guyana must make it last

RECENT international commentary has revived a familiar question: can Guyana avoid the resource curse? It is a fair question, but the discussion should begin with another fact. Oil has already changed the scale of what Guyana can finance and build. The responsibility now is to ensure that this opportunity outlasts the petroleum itself.

Guyana produced its first oil in December 2019. Since then, the country has become one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and the largest oil producer per capita. Once constrained by high debt, limited public resources and major infrastructural gaps, Guyana is now classified by the World Bank as a high-income economy. That classification does not mean that every household is prosperous, but it illustrates how sharply the country’s economic position has changed. This shift rests on an un-

precedented level of offshore development. ExxonMobil Guyana and its co-venturers have committed more than US$60 billion to seven government-sanctioned projects in the Stabroek Block, including Uaru, Whiptail and Hammerhead. This represents the largest private-sector investment programme in Guyana’s history and demonstrates the scale of the productive capacity being built offshore.

Developing an offshore oil project is complex and capital intensive. Long before the first barrel is produced, companies must invest in exploration, engineering, subsea systems, production facilities, logistics, technology, safety systems and skilled personnel. Those investments make production possible. Production then generates royalties and profit-oil revenues for the country.

This creates a clear chain: investment enables production, production gen-

erates government revenue and that revenue expands the country’s ability to finance development. Since production began, cumulative petroleum receipts deposited into Guyana’s Natural Resource Fund (NRF) have exceeded US$9 billion. This figure represents total deposits over time, rather than the fund’s current balance, because authorised transfers have been made to support national budgets.

Petroleum revenues have therefore created greater fiscal space for national priorities. Roads, bridges, housing, healthcare, education, energy projects and social programmes can now be pursued on a scale that would have been difficult to imagine before oil production. For ordinary Guyanese, however, the real measure of progress will not be production figures or export values. It will be whether these resources produce better schools, more reliable healthcare, improved public infrastructure and

wider economic opportunities.

The effects are also visible beyond government revenue. Offshore operations have increased demand for local goods and services, contributing to activity in banking, construction, logistics, transportation, hospitality, real estate and profe ssional services. Local businesses have expanded their capabilities, new companies have entered the market, and more Guyanese have gained opportunities to participate in the country’s changing economy.

The long-term value of this period should not be measured only by the oil produced today. The skills, knowledge, business capacity and infrastructure developed alongside the industry can continue creating value after individual projects are completed. Guyana must use the sector’s growth to prepare people and businesses to compete in a broader, more diversified economy.

Guyana’s production has also added a significant, new source of crude to international markets during a period of geopolitical uncertainty and supply disruption. This gives the country growing relevance in global energy security. The more important national test, however, remains how the resulting revenues and economic activity are used at home.

Oil alone cannot guarantee national progress, but the resource curse is not inevitable. The outcome will depend on the quality of Guyana’s institutions, the transparency of public decisions and the country’s ability to plan and implement effectively. Protecting the environment, strengthening accountability and ensuring that development reaches communities across the country must remain central to that effort.

The NRF provides an important mechanism for

managing petroleum revenues, but the fund is only one part of the task. Lasting progress will depend on how carefully resources are allocated, how well projects are executed and whether public investment produces measurable improvements in the lives of Guyanese. Strong institutions and skilled people will be as important as the revenue itself. Oil has widened Guyana’s choices, but it cannot make those choices for us. Strong governance, careful planning and effective implementation will determine whether today’s revenues become tomorrow’s schools, hospitals, businesses and skilled workforce. The opportunity exists. Guyana must make it last.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

International research team to strengthen Guyana’s fight against leishmaniasis

RESEARCHERS from leading universities in Canada, Guyana and France have established a new international collaboration to strengthen the diagnosis, molecular characterisation and surveillance of cutaneous leishmaniasis, an emerging vector-borne disease affecting communities across the Guiana Shield.

The partnership brings together experts from the Universities of Calgary, Montréal and Waterloo, the University of Guyana and institutions in France to improve laboratory capacity, identify circulating parasite species, detect drug-resistant strains and strengthen disease surveillance across the region.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony, said Guyana records about 30 cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis annually and expressed confidence that the research could provide valuable insights to help eliminate the disease, locally.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is caused by Leishmania parasites and is transmitted through the bite of infected female sand flies.

The disease is endemic in parts of Central and South America, including Guyana, and typically affects people living or working in forested areas, such as miners, loggers, members of the disciplined services and hinterland residents.

The most common form begins as a painless skin lesion that gradually develops into an ulcer, often on exposed parts of the body such as the face, arms and legs. If left untreated, the disease can leave permanent scarring.

Minister Anthony said the predominant species found in Guyana is Leishmania (Viannia) guyanensis, although L. braziliensis is also present. He noted that healthcare providers should suspect the disease in patients with chronic painless skin ulcers, particularly those who have travelled to or reside in endemic forested regions and who fail to respond to antibiotic treatment.

According to a press release, the collaboration was initiated after researchers recognised the urgent need to strengthen laboratory capacity and molecular surveillance in Guyana.

The project is being co -

ordinated by Dr Rita Persaud of Wilfrid Laurier University, Canada, in partnership with Professor Rajini Kurup, Dean of the College of Medical Sciences at the University of Guyana, and Professor Jimmy Naipaul of the International Executive School in Strasbourg, France.

The international team also includes Dr Nathan Peters of the University of Calgary's Cumming School of Medicine; Dr Christopher Fernandez-Prada and Dr Ana Victoria Ibarra Meneses of the Université de Montréal; and Dr David Langlais of McGill University, whose laboratory will lead the molecular and genomic characterisation of Leishmania isolates.

Working closely with Guyana's Ministry of Health, the researchers will coordinate disease surveillance, strengthen laboratory systems and undertake scientific studies across affected regions.

The collaboration will also focus on improving molecular diagnosis, identifying Leishmania species circulating in Guyana and neighbouring countries, detecting genetic markers associated with drug resistance, developing stan -

Leishmaniasis is caused by Leishmania parasites and is transmitted through the bite of infected female sand flies

dardised laboratory protocols and supporting future research into therapeutics, vaccine targets and public-health interventions.

Clinical samples collected in Guyana will undergo advanced molecular and genomic analysis at collaborating

Canadian laboratories under approved Material Transfer Agreements and in accordance with national and international ethical and biosafety standards.

Researchers said the long-term partnership is expected to strengthen scientific capacity, attract competitive research funding and improve the diagnosis, surveillance and management of leishmaniasis throughout the Guiana Shield, while fostering closer collaboration between universities, healthcare institutions and government agencies.

Ancestors’ sacrifices shaped modern Guyana — Ashni Singh

By Bebi Shafeah Oosman

SENIOR Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, reflected on the sacrifices made by Guyana's ancestors, stressing that their courage and resilience laid the foundation for the nation enjoyed today.

Singh on Saturday joined Berbicians at the New Amsterdam Recreational Park for a grand Emancipation celebration.

“We are eternally indebted to our ancestors for the sacrifices that they made, the battles that they waged, the pain that they endured, the blood that they lost, the sweat and tears that they shed in the course of this country's struggle to break free from those shackles," Singh said.

He emphasised that Guyanese have a responsibility to honour their ancestors by remembering the price they paid for freedom and continuing to

uphold the ideals for which they fought.

“We are never to forget those sacrifices and the price that they paid, and we are never to hesitate to continue committing ourselves to the cause for which they struggled," he stated.

Singh noted that modern Guyana is a direct result of those sacrifices, saying the country's progress and unity did not happen by chance.

“We didn't become this beautiful, modern and unified country by accident. We became this beautiful, diverse and unified country because of their sacrifices," he said.

Highlighting the nation's rich cultural heritage, Singh said Guyana's strength lies in the contributions of its many peoples.

“When you look across Guyana's tapestry, you see the contributions made by our var-

ious peoples," he added.

As such, he stressed that “in this one Guyana we have an important responsibility to recognise the strenght that we derive from our oneness and secondly forever to defend that oneness and work on building and consolidating it.”

Singh also used the opportunity to extend Emancipation Day greetings on behalf of President Irfaan Ali and the Government of Guyana.

Regional Chairman Junior Basant also called on Guyanese to honour the sacrifices of the nation's African ancestors while reaffirming a collective commitment to unity, equality, and freedom as the country observed Emancipation Day.

Delivering remarks during the Emancipation Day observances, Basant reflected on the resilience and courage of the men and women who endured the brutality of enslavement, noting that their unwavering determination and pursuit of

freedom laid the foundation for future generations.

He emphasised that Emancipation Day is far more than a commemorative occasion, describing it as a reminder that freedom remains one of humanity's greatest gifts. According to Basant, freedom represents the right of every individual to dream, speak, learn, worship, and live with dignity.

While acknowledging the struggles endured by African ancestors to break the chains of slavery, he urged Guyanese to remain vigilant against prejudice, hatred, and division, stressing that society must never allow new forms of oppression to replace those of the past.

Basant also highlighted the significant contributions of Afro-Guyanese to the country's development, noting their impact across agriculture, education, public service, entrepreneurship, the arts, sports, sci-

ence, and national leadership.

He said these achievements have played a vital role in shaping modern Guyana and continue to inspire future generations to pursue excellence and nation-building.

As Guyanese celebrated their rich African heritage, the regional chairman encouraged citizens to embrace the spirit of inclusion, emphasising that true freedom is strongest when it is shared by all. He said a genuinely free nation is one where every person, regardless of race, religion, or background, is respected, valued, and given equal opportunities to succeed.

Concluding his address, Basant extended Emancipation Day greetings to all Guyanese and encouraged citizens to honour the past, celebrate the present, and continue working together to build a future defined by unity, equality, and lasting freedom.

HR association lays foundation for stronger profession in first eight months

By Faith Greene

GUYANA’S human resource profession is undergoing a period of rapid transformation, with the Human Resource Management Association of Guyana (HRMAG) positioning itself to help shape the future of work through partnerships, accredited training, research and professional development initiatives launched during its first eight months.

In an exclusive interview on Friday, HRMAG Vice-President, Kevia Todd, highlighted that a significant part of the association's work during its first eight months has focused on building the institutional foundation, strategic partnerships and professional development opportunities needed to strengthen the HR profession in Guyana.

“We want to be able to deliver value by helping HR professionals understand and interpret the laws that govern employment in Guyana, while also effectively navigating the policies and operational realities of their respective organisations. Our role is to help practitioners operate confidently within both frameworks while becoming more strategic in the value they bring to employees, organisations and, ultimately, Guyana's workforce,” Todd explained.

Central to this mandate is the association's deliberate focus on establishing partnerships and signing memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with recognised and accredited universities, professional institutions and corporate partners locally, regionally and internationally.

One of the association's

major achievements has been its partnership with The University of the West Indies (UWI), through which the Advanced Industrial Relations Training Course was delivered.

HRMAG recently celebrated the graduation of the programme's first cohort, marking an important milestone in the association's commitment to expanding access to credible, university-backed professional development for human resource and industrial relations practitioners.

The association has also engaged the University of Guyana in discussions on strengthening academic pathways for the HR profession, including opportunities to develop undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Human Resource Management and related disciplines.

Beyond academia, HRMAG partnered with PwC Guyana on a compensation survey aimed at generating

valuable market data and insights into compensation practices in Guyana.

The initiative supports HRMAG's broader objective of encouraging more evidence-based HR decision-making while providing organisations and practitioners with access to relevant workforce intelligence.

The association has also established a partnership with the Academy to Innovate HR (AIHR), expanding access to internationally recognised HR certification and continuous professional development opportunities.

Through partnerships such as these, HRMAG is creating additional opportunities for Guyanese HR professionals to develop globally relevant competencies while applying those skills within the local context.

Todd noted that several other strategic partnerships are currently being pursued, including initiatives in the recruitment and talent man-

agement space, with further announcements expected once those arrangements are finalised.

Professional development has been complemented by HRMAG's commitment to understanding and responding to the realities faced by

The association has also maintained an active programme of webinars, professional discussions, surveys and polls to identify emerging challenges and determine the training and development needs of HR practitioners operating within Guyana's rap-

also extends beyond Georgetown, with members from Demerara, Berbice and Essequibo, reflecting its commitment to building a truly national professional body.

Looking ahead, HRMAG intends to deepen university and corporate partnerships, expand certification and professional development opportunities, strengthen research and advocacy, and create greater opportunities for HR professionals to connect, learn and contribute to the development of Guyana's world of work.

One of its most significant upcoming initiatives is HRMAG's first Regional HR Conference, scheduled for March 2027 under the theme, “Building the Future of Work in Guyana.”

The association has already issued a call for speakers and is inviting organisations to explore sponsorship and partnership opportunities for the conference, which is expected to bring together HR practitioners, business

HR practitioners.

During its first eight months, the association conducted a national survey examining the mental health and wellbeing of HR professionals. Among the findings was a significant level of daily workplace stress among respondents, reinforcing the need for greater attention to the wellbeing of those responsible for supporting employees and organisations.

In response, HRMAG implemented several wellness initiatives, including a community health walk and a yoga and wellness session at Friendship Park in Region Three, incorporating discussions on mental health and creating a supportive environment for participants.

idly evolving labour market.

“We have been intentional about listening to the profession. Our surveys, polls and engagements help us understand what HR professionals need now and what they will need as Guyana's economy and workforce continue to evolve. Our partnerships then allow us to translate those needs into tangible opportunities for development,” Todd said.

To date, HRMAG's professional network has grown to more than 170 members, including over 30 paid members representing organisations across the manufacturing, oil and gas, training and development, and public sectors, among others.

The association's reach

leaders, academics, policymakers and other stakeholders to examine the changing future of work in Guyana and the wider Caribbean.

For Todd, the progress made during HRMAG's first eight months demonstrates both the need for the association and the strength of its commitment to the profession.

“We are building more than a membership organisation. We are building an institution that can support the HR profession, strengthen organisations and contribute meaningfully to Guyana's development. The work we have accomplished in eight months is only the foundation of where we intend to go.”

Thousands celebrate

THE rhythmic beat of African drums echoed across the National Park on Saturday as thousands, clad in vibrant African prints, head wraps and handcrafted jewellery, came together as the nation celebrated 188 years of Emancipation.

Hosted by the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA), the festival transformed the park into a colourful tapestry of history, culture and community.

The aroma of traditional African dishes drifted

through the air as vendors served local delicacies inspired by African cuisine, while dancers, drummers and cultural performers captivated audiences throughout the day.

Children laughed as they took part in educational

games and cultural activities, elders shared stories of ancestry, and families strolled from booth to booth, immersing themselves in the rich traditions that have shaped generations of Guyanese.

At the heart of the cele-

brations was a renewed focus on the next generation.

ACDA Director, Chief Eric Phillips said this year's observances were deliberately designed to help young people connect with their African roots in celebration of 400 years of African pres-

ence in Guyana. One of the festival's most popular attractions was ACDA's heritage exhibition, where visitors were taken on a journey spanning four centuries of African presence in Guyana.

Photographs, maps and

celebrate Emancipation

historical displays traced the origins of enslaved Africans brought from Angola, Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and the Congo, introducing visitors to the diverse kingdoms, tribes and civilisations from which their ancestors came.

“We came from Angola, Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone and the Congo. So, we have pictures of all the different tribes that we came from so that our young people could see their heritage and understand the civilisations from which they came,"

Chief Phillips explained. Across the venue, the celebration was a s much about honouring the past as it was about embracing the future. Traditional fashion displays, handcrafted artwork, literature and cultural performances

reminded patrons that our African heritage continues to shape Guyana's identity in profound ways.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali was among those who attended the national celebration, joining thousands in commemorating the en-

during contributions of Afro-Guyanese to the country's development.

As daylight faded, anticipation grew for the evening's headline performances. The festival concluded on a high note, with a major reggae con-

cert featuring internationally-acclaimed artistes I Wayne and Queen Ifrica, alongside local and regional performers, as patrons danced, sang and celebrated a legacy of resilience that has endured for 400 years.

Police establish road safety desks across all 10 regions

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has established dedicated road safety desks in every police division across the country as part of efforts to strengthen public engagement and reduce road fatalities.

The announcement was made by Inspector Richard Trotz of the Traffic Education Department during the Road Safety & You programme, where he said the initiative was introduced under the direction of Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken and Traffic Chief,

Inspector Richard Trotz

Mahendra Singh.

According to Trotz, the desks have been set up in every police division from Region One to Region Ten to provide members of the public with easier access to traffic-related services and information.

He explained that residents can visit the desks to seek assistance, report traffic concerns and obtain information on road safety matters.

"Members of the public

who have concerns, who need information, who need help as it relates to traffic issues that they may have, they can visit the nearest police station where a traffic desk has been set up," Trotz said.

Each desk will also feature a suggestion box, allowing members of the public to submit complaints, recommendations or concerns anonymously if they wish.

Trotz said the initiative was introduced in response to concerns that some citizens may have felt their complaints were not reaching the Traffic Department.

He said, “We are here to help members of the public.

Every concern that is out there as it relates to traffic; we want them to tell us so we can be able to help.”

He said public participation will be key to reducing r oad deaths, stressing that road safety cannot be achieved through enforcement alone.

“Every life lost on our roads is too many,” he said, urging citizens to report hazards and unsafe practices before they contribute to serious crashes.

The inspector said the new desks complement broader efforts by the Traffic Department and the Guyana National Road Safety Council to modernise road safety reporting through technology.

Among those initiatives is a new online reporting portal that allows citizens to anonymously report accidents, road hazards and other traffic-related issues, which authorities intend to link with agencies responsible for removing obstructions and addressing safety concerns.

Trotz said the police

hope the combined initiatives will improve communication with the public and contribute to changing road user behaviour as authorities continue their campaign to reduce traffic fatalities.

According to Trotz, the initiative is still in its early stages and will continue to expand, with additional contact information, personnel and services to be introduced as the programme develops.

He explained that the initiative forms part of a broader effort to improve road safety through greater public participation.

According to Trotz, information received through the desks, together with reports submitted via the Guyana National Road Safety Council's online reporting platform, will help authorities identify recurring traffic issues and respond more effectively.

He maintained that reducing road deaths requires co-operation between law enforcement and the public.

Police destroy $2.4M in suspected cannabis in Upper Berbice

Police ranks destroy suspected cannabis plants, seedlings and a drying camp during a joint eradication exercise at Friendship Sandhill Village and Wiruni Savannah, Upper Berbice River

POLICE destroyed more than 10,000 suspected cannabis plants and over 4,000 seedlings during a joint eradication exercise conducted at Friendship Sandhill Village and Wiruni Savannah, Upper Berbice River.

The operation, led by a Gazetted Officer, was carried out between 05:00 hrs and 20:50 hrs on Thursday, July 30.

At Friendship Sandhill

Village, ranks discovered a two-acre cannabis field containing approximately 10,000 suspected cannabis plants ranging between two and four feet in height. A makeshift camp and a nursery with approximately 4,140 suspected cannabis seedlings were also found.

At Wiruni Savannah, police uncovered a drying camp measuring approximately 40 feet by 15 feet containing a quantity of suspected dried cannabis leaves. The suspected cannabis plants, seedlings, dried cannabis, makeshift camp and drying camp were destroyed by fire. No arrests were made and the operation was completed without incident.

Police estimated the street value of the narcotics destroyed at $2,395,316. Investigations are continuing.

IMF notes highly favorable drop in local unemployment

GUYANA'S unemployment rate fell to 6.2 per cent by the end of 2025, reflecting continued strength in the country's rapidly expanding economy, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

In its 2026 Article IV Mission Staff Concluding Statement, released on Friday following a mission to Guyana, the IMF said robust economic growth has translated into a stronger labour market, with employment opportunities expanding alongside increased economic activity.

“These trends broadly continued in the first half of 2026 though some sectors were affected by heavy rainfall. Robust growth was also reflected in a stronger labour market, with unemployment down at 6.2 per cent by the end of 2025,” the IMF stated.

The Fund noted that Guyana's economy continues to expand at an exceptional pace, driven by both the oil and non-oil sectors.

Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by more than 19 per cent in 2025, following average growth of nearly 40 per cent during 2023 and 2024.

While oil production exceeded expectations, the IMF highlighted that growth remained broadbased across the wider econ-

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Guyana’s unemployment rate fell to 6.2 per cent by the end of 2025

that average inflation remained relatively moderate at 3.3 per cent in 2025, although price pressures edged higher during the first half of 2026 due to increases in global food and energy prices.

Looking ahead, the IMF said Guyana's economic outlook remains highly favourable, with the non-oil economy projected to grow by about seven per cent annually over the next five years as government continues to implement major infrastructural and development projects.

The Fund said continued investment in physical and human capital, supported by prudent macroeconomic policies and the government's Low Carbon Devel-

competitiveness.

It added that reforms aimed at addressing labour shortages should continue, including initiatives to strengthen workforce skills and better align training with the demands of Guyana's rapidly expanding economy.

The IMF said that efforts to expand job opportunities, build human capital and improve food security remain central to Guyana's broader economic diversification strategy.

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, had recently urged young Guyanese to capitalise on the country’s expanding economic opportunities, highlighting

omy. The non-oil economy expanded by about 14 per cent, led by construction, with agriculture, mining and manufacturing also making significant contributions.

According to the IMF, those positive trends largely continued during the first half of 2026 despite the impact of heavy rainfall on some productive sectors.

The report also noted

opment Strategy (LCDS) 2030, is expected to sustain job creation, strengthen economic diversification and improve living standards.

The IMF also noted that strong wage growth should continue to be monitored, but said available indicators do not point to clear signs of the economy overheating or resource-driven losses in

five years in office.

“We did that by creating in the first five years of being in government more than 104,000 new jobs. In a population such as ours, 104,000 is a really staggering number, and jobs have continued to be created,” he said.

Despite the gains, the minister said Guyana’s labour market is now facing a different challenge.

“The reality is that jobs are being created more rapidly than we are able to produce people with the skills required to take up those jobs,” he told the gathering.

Against that backdrop, Dr Singh encouraged young people to identify opportunities in sectors experiencing rapid growth and equip

that youth unemployment has fallen by more than half since 2020 as the government continues to invest in skills training, job creation and entrepreneurship.

According to Dr Singh, the reduction has been driven by the creation of more than 104,000 jobs during the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Administration’s first

The data highlights the sectors that are currently absorbing the country’s growing labour force as Guyana experiences rapid economic expansion fuelled by investments across oil and gas, infrastructure, housing, manufacturing and services.

themselves with the skills needed to benefit from them.

Beyond traditional academics, Government has increased investment in technical and vocational education to prepare young people for careers in Guyana’s rapidly changing economy.

Dr Singh said more than 2,000 youths have com -

pleted specialised training through the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme (YEAP).

Another 14,000 young people have benefitted from the Youth Entrepreneurial and Skills Training (YEST) programme administered through the Board of Industrial Training.

Additionally, approximately 2,500 youths have participated in robotics, coding and digital technology training through the Presidential Award for Youth, Entrepreneurship and Robotics (PAYR) initiative.

These programmes are designed to equip young Guyanese with practical skills for careers in construction, engineering, manufacturing, technology and the country’s expanding oil and gas sector.

The Government is also seeking to cultivate a new generation of entrepreneurs.

Statistics released by the Bureau of Statistics (BoS) for World Population Day 2026 show that youths between the ages of 15 and 24 were primarily employed in wholesale and retail trade during the fourth quarter of 2024, with the sector accounting for 18.9 per cent of total youth employment.

Construction ranked as the second-largest employer of young workers, employing 14.9 per cent of youths, followed by public administration at 9.9 per cent, manufacturing at 8.6 per cent, and education at 8.2 per cent. Collectively, these five industries accounted for 60.5 per cent of all youth employment in Guyana.

The findings come against the backdrop of a young and expanding population. According to the Bureau of Statistics, Guyana’s estimated population surpassed one million by the end of 2025, with approximately 61 per cent of citizens below the age of 35 and 42 per cent under the age of 25.

The latest labour market figures also point to broader improvements in employment.

Overall unemployment declined from 14.5 per cent in the third quarter of 2021 to 6.8 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2024, while the estimated number of employed persons increased by more than 122,000, rising from 246,881 to 369,270 over the same period.

Among young people, unemployment recorded an even sharper decline, falling from 31.9 per cent in the third quarter of 2021 to 12.1 per cent by the fourth quarter of 2024.

The Bureau also reported notable gains in education among young people entering the labour force. Data show a 56.7 per cent increase in the number of youths attaining a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared with the third quarter of 2021.

At the same time, the proportion of youths classified as not in education, employment or training (NEET) declined from 35.7 per cent to 25 per cent, indicating that more young Guyanese are either pursuing education or participating in the labour market.

The Bureau said these trends underscore the importance of aligning education, technical and vocational training programmes with the changing needs of the economy.

IMF projects five more years of strong growth for Guyana

THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that Guyana's economy will continue its strong expansion over the next five years, driven by rising oil production, sustained public investment and continued growth across the non-oil economy.

In its 2026 Article IV Mission Staff Concluding Statement, released on Friday following a mission to Guyana from July 20 to 31, the IMF described the country's economic outlook as “highly favourable”, forecasting that the non-oil economy will grow by an average of about seven per cent annually over the medium term.

According to IMF, Guyana’s economy continues to expand at a very rapid pace, supported by robust oil and non-oil activity. Real GDP grew by over 19 percent in 2025, following average growth of nearly 40 percent during 2023–24.

Oil production exceeded expectations and surpassed 900,000 barrels per day by the end of 2025—an impressive 35 percent increase over one year, with similar volumes recorded in the first half of 2026. Encouragingly, broad-based growth in the non-oil economy continued at about 14 percent, with construction remaining

The IMF said the external position is also expected to remain strong as higher oil output boosts export earnings and strengthens the country's fiscal position.

It noted that persistently high oil prices would further improve government revenues, while, as oil companies complete cost recovery, a larger share of petroleum income will flow directly to Guyana through the Natural Resource Fund (NRF).

balanced amid continued global uncertainty.

On the upside, it noted that additional oil discoveries, stronger-than-expected construction activity and sustained public investment could result in even faster economic growth over the near term.

the largest driver, and agriculture, mining, and manufacturing also contributing meaningfully.

IMF said that these trends “broadly continued in the first half of 2026 though some sectors were affected by heavy rainfall. Robust growth was also reflected in a stronger labour market, with unemployment down at 6.2 percent by the end of 2025. Average inflation was contained to 3.3 percent in 2025 but edged up by mid2026, reflecting higher global energy and food prices.”

“The economic outlook remains highly favourable. Oil production is expected to continue expanding, and the non-oil economy is projected to grow by about 7 per cent on average over the next five years as the government continues its ambitious plans to address infrastructure and

Drink driver ordered to pay $210,000

A 44-year-old Bartica resident has been fined $210,000 after pleading guilty to drink driving and breaching a condition of prescribed fitness.

Clifford Speede of Five Miles Housing Scheme, Bartica, appeared before Magistrate Caressa Henry at the Bartica Magistrate's Court on Friday, July 31, 2026.

Speede pleaded guilty to Driving a Motor Vehicle While Breath Alcohol Level Exceeded the Prescribed Limit and Breach of a Condition of Prescribed Fitness.

He was fined $200,000 for the drink-driving offence and a further $10,000 for breaching a condition of prescribed fitness.

The court imposed total fines of $210,000.

Clifford Speede was fined a total of $210,000 after pleading guilty to drink driving and breaching a condition of prescribed fitness at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court

In default of payment, Speede will serve three months in prison.

developmental needs,” the IMF said.

According to the Fund, the positive outlook is underpinned by continued expansion in the petroleum sector, with new oilfields coming onstream and existing developments increasing production.

The Fund highlighted that the government's continued investments in infrastructure, health, education and other development priorities are expected to support sustained growth in the non-oil economy and further diversify economic activity.

While maintaining an optimistic outlook, the IMF said risks remain broadly

However, the IMF cautioned that persistently high oil prices could also create inflationary and competitiveness pressures if not carefully managed, while oil price volatility poses fiscal risks.

The Fund also warned that adverse climate events remain a significant downside risk, particularly for sectors such as agriculture.

To support long-term sustainable growth, the IMF recommended that Guyana continues to pursue prudent macroeconomic policies,

prioritise productivity-enhancing public investments and strengthen fiscal buffers through continued savings in the Natural Resource Fund. It also encouraged ongoing efforts to diversify the economy by investing in human capital, expanding employment opportunities, strengthening agriculture and improving workforce skills to meet the demands of the country's rapidly evolving economy.

The IMF said that Guyana is well positioned to maintain one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, provided it continues balancing rapid development with sound fiscal management and long-term economic planning.

Hall makes history with Jamaica’s first-ever women’s discus gold at Commonwealth Games

GLASGOW, Scotland, (CMC) – Samantha Hall carved her name into the record books on Thursday, delivering a throw of 61.66m to claim gold in the women’s discus at the 23rd Commonwealth Games.

The victory at Scotstoun Stadium marks the first medal of any colour for a Jamaican woman in the event in Games history, a drought the 2025 World Athletics Championships finalist was determined to end.

Hall, who entered the competition as the top-ranked thrower, admitted she only learned of Jamaica’s barren run in the discipline upon arriving in Scotland. That revelation, she said, only fuelled her fire.

“Yes, I found out since I got here, which made me even more motivated to cre-

ate history,” Hall told reporters after her triumph. “Everyone expects me to win.”

The gold, Jamaica’s fourth of the 2026 Games, did not come without a fight.

Nineteen-year-old Canadian Julia Tunks, ranked second heading into the champi-

onships, seized the early lead in the second round with a personal-best 60.67m. Hall responded in the fourth round with 60.95m to reclaim the top spot, then extended her advantage with a clutch fifth-round throw that secured the victory. India’s

Despite the historic win, Hall rated her own performance a modest “6/10,” noting that Glasgow’s chilly conditions hindered her bid for a bigger mark. “I was aiming for 64.00m, but the cold weather had different plans for me. I’m still happy for the win,” she said.

Beyond the glory, Hall is hopeful that her milestone will translate into tangible support off the field. “Winning Commonwealth Games gold is a huge achievement for me. I just hope to be sponsored,” the discus thrower said.

Jamaica now boasts eight total medals in the track and field programme, including two silvers and a bronze, and sits third in the discipline standings.

Sir Garry remembered for his humility on and off the cricket field

greatness and inspired children to dream bigger and adults to stand a little taller and assured the world that Barbados could produce. That may have been his greatest lesson.”

Mottley said Sir Garry had inspired countless Barbadians by his greatness on the cricket field.

“Sir Garry gave us the gift of understanding that even though others may have

ruled us for over 300 years that they could not define our greatness and could not shape or bludgeon our aspirations. It is a gift to the nation that could not have been greater.

“I say today, as we say farewell to you Sir Garry, this is your final walk from Kensington Oval. This will be our country’s last opportunity to give you that which you became so accustomed to- a standing ovation,” Mot-

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

CHESTER

09:10 hrs Level Look

09:45 hrs Pure Grit

10:20 hrs Song Of The Clyde

10:52 hrs Monarch’s Gold

11:22 hrs Alpha Capture

11:52 hrs Saligo Bay

YARMOUTH

09:35 hrs Shadow Brigade

10:08 hrs Keep Grating

10:38 hrs Valsharah

11:08 hrs Melting Snow

11:38 hrs The Ubermensch

12:08 hrs Papa Don’t Preach

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

SCOTTSVILLE

08:30 hrs Serpentine Fire

09:05 hrs Izibulo

09:40 hrs Cappellino

10:15 hrs Rock Music

IRISH RACING TIPS GALWAY

08:50 hrs Timurshah

09:20 hrs Fou De Toi

09:55 hrs Journey So Far

10:30 hrs Blood Destiny

11:00 hrs Pierre Royal

11:30 hrs Star Glory

12:00 hrs Iamimmaculate

12:30 hrs Caislean Gear

tley said. “We thank you for teaching us that greatness could wear humility, that excellence could still belong to ordinary people. That the dreams of a little boy from the Bayland could become the inheritance of an entire nation.”

Legendary West Indies cricketer, Brian Lara, who broke Sir Gary’s record in 1994 by scoring 375, revealed that the all-rounder had paid a pivotal role in his career.

“Sir Garfield Sobers personally coached and inspired

generations long after he was gone. Over the last few days, I struggled with what I would say today, but now I’m here, I realised that this is not a sad moment, this is a moment for us to celebrate. “Today we celebrate a remarkable life. The life of the greatest all-round cricketer and looking at this beautiful Oval, I believe we truly have a life to celebrate. Today, we pay tribute to a man that could have done it all,” Lara said.

Sir Gary was later laid to rest at Coral Ridge Memorial Gardens.

(Sunday August 02, 2026)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Courtney Walsh (18 Tests) (2) Imran Khan (18 Tests)

Today’s Quiz: (1) What has been the result of the first WI/PAK Test of the current series? (2) Who was voted Man of the Match? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

New Berbice Zone champion to be crowned in Lotto/Let’sBet T10 Tapeball Blast

THE throne is officially vacant and the stage is set for a brand-new champion to be crowned in the Berbice Zone of the Lotto/ Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast. Sixteen eager teams are locked in for the exciting Berbice Zone showdown, including last year’s runners-up Corriverton Spartans, along with former zone semi-finalists Grillmasters, Sip N Play All Stars, and Cotton Tree Die Hard.

The blockbuster straight knockout tournament kicks off on Saturday, August 8, with opening-day action starting at 10:00hrs across four venues in the county: the Albion Sports Complex, No. 69 Ground, Port Mourant Ground, and Welfare Ground in Canje.

Preparations are well advanced for an explosive opening weekend, and admission is completely free to the public across every venue.

Announcing the release of the official Berbice Zone

fixtures, Tournament Director John Ramsingh highlighted the high-octane format, noting that the straight knockout design will pave the way for thrilling, edge-of-your-seat action right from ball one.

Teams will be going all out as they battle for the G$500,000 zonal first prize and a chance to move on to the massive G$2,000,000 national grand finale.

The opening-day fixtures promise non-stop drama spread across the region.

Over at the No. 69 Ground, match one gets underway at 10:00hrs featuring No. 70 Village Spartans against Grillmaster Avengers CWC, followed at 12:00hrs by match two between Champ XI and No. 73 Young Warriors. The victors of those opening ties will clash immediately in match three at 15:00hrs for a spot in the zonal semi-finals.

Down at Port Mourant, match four sees 35 Xplosion take on Grillmaster Sip N Play All Stars at 10:00hrs,

Teams will be going all out as they battle for the G$500,000 zonal first prize and a chance to move on to the massive G$2,000,000 national grand finale

before match five pits Line Path Raptors against Corriverton Spartans at 12:00hrs, culminating in match six at 15:00hrs between the two winning sides. Simultaneously, at the Albion Sports Complex, match seven features Ethan XI taking on Royal Warriors at 10:00hrs, while match eight sees Meera Warriors duel Lusignan Bulls DTP at 12:00hrs, setting up a quarter-final match nine clash

at 15:00hrs between the two winning teams.

At the Welfare Ground in Canje, match 10 starts at 10:00hrs as Welfare XI host Blairmont Blazers, followed by match 11 at 12:00hrs between The Mavericks and Cotton Tree Die Hard, before the day concludes with match 12 at 15:00hrs between the victors of those opening contests. Action then shifts exclusively to the Albion Sports

Chase appointed Saint Lucia Kings captain for CPL 2026

CASTRIES, Saint Lucia, (CMC) – The Saint Lucia Kings have named Barbadian all-rounder Roston Chase as their captain for the 2026 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season, the franchise confirmed on Thursday.

The 34-year-old West Indies Test captain, who has been a cornerstone of the Kings’ squad for several seasons, takes over the reins ahead of the tournament opener on August 9.

Chase was instrumental in the Kings’ title-winning campaign in 2024 and now aims to replicate that success from a leadership position.

While born in Barbados, Chase holds deep Saint Lucian ties through his grandmother, who hails from the island affectionately known as the “Fair Helen.”

His connection to the franchise runs beyond heritage; having previously starred with the bat in CPL colours, he finished as the tournament’s leading run-scorer in 2021 with 446

runs and was named Player of the Tournament. “It is a tremendous honour to be named captain of the Saint Lucia Kings,” Chase said. “This franchise has been a big part of my cricketing journey, and I have always enjoyed representing the Kings and playing in front of our passionate fans. To now have the opportunity to lead this team is something I am incredibly proud of.”

Kings Head Coach Daren Sammy, who has both captained and coached Chase during their time together with the franchise, endorsed the appointment with high praise. “Roston has earned the respect of everyone in the dressing room through his consistency, work ethic and selfless approach to the game,” Sammy said.

“He leads by example and understands what it means to represent Saint Lucia. I have no doubt he has the character and cricketing acumen to guide this talented group, and I’m excited to see the team rally behind him as we begin another important CPL season.” The Kings will kick off their 2026 campaign on Sunday, August 9, against the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons on neutral ground in St Vincent.

Fans will get their first look at the new captain on home soil when the Kings play their domestic fixtures at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground on August 12, 14, 16, 19 and 21.

Complex on Sunday, August 9, where the ultimate Berbice Zonal Champions will be crowned under the lights.

Semi-Final one ignites at 14:00hrs as the winner of match three meets the winner of match six. Semi-Final two follows at 16:00hrs, pitting the winner of match nine against the winner of match 12. The two surviving titans will then face off in the grand Berbice Zonal Final at 19:30hrs to decide who claims the regional crown.

In a major departure from traditional knockout formats where early exits offer no financial return, the 2026 edition guarantees cash rewards for teams making deep runs into the zonal stages.

Losing quarter finalists in each zone will pocket G$25,000, while losing semi-finalists take home G$50,000. The stakes rise sharply from there, as defeated zonal finalists earn G$200,000, and the region-

al champions bank a cool G$500,000 purse before stepping into the national bracket. The ultimate jackpot awaits in the national playoffs, where the crowned national champions will walk away with a massive G$2,000,000 first-prize purse.

The national runners-up will secure G$1,000,000, while both losing semi-finalists will be rewarded with G$500,000 each.

In a landmark move for the tournament, the national grand finale on October 11, 2026, will head to the Anna Regina Stadium in Region Two, bringing the ultimate showdown of Guyanese tapeball cricket directly to Essequibo for the very first time.

Following the Berbice curtain raiser, the tournament caravan moves to East Bank/ West Demerara on August 15–16, before rolling into the Essequibo Zone on August 22–23. The competition will take a brief hiatus to accommodate the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL), before resuming with the powerhouse Georgetown/ East Coast Demerara leg across two weekends on September 26–27 and October 3–4.

With remaining slots filling rapidly, organisers have issued an urgent directive to teams in the remaining three zones to finalise their squads and register via official social media channels or direct WhatsApp (+592 635-2235) ahead of their respective deadlines.

Jamaica closes in...

track, Jordan Scott was writing a new chapter in the field. The jumper delivered when it mattered most, unleashing a fourth-round effort of 16.72m to become the first Jamaican male ever to win the triple jump at this level.

Scott’s victory adds another major accolade to his growing reputation, following his World Indoor Silver medal earlier this year. His winning leap came at a crucial juncture, demonstrating the composure that has come to define his season.

In the men’s discus throw, veteran Fedrick Dacres proved that age is just a number as the 32-year-

FROM PAGE 23

old added another piece of silverware to his collection. Dacres secured the silver medal with a best throw of 65.10m, adding to the gold he won in 2018. The event was dominated by Australia’s Matthew Denny, who successfully defended his title with a formidable mark of 67.73m. Jamaica’s Ralford Mullings also featured in the final, finishing fifth with a solid throw of 62.85m. With the athletics program now in full swing, Jamaica’s medal count stands at 15, placing the nation tantalisingly close to the record of 22 set in 2006 and matched in 2014.

Johannesburg, Windhoek, Bulawayo among 12 host cities for 2027 men’s ODI World Cup

THE ICC has confirmed 12 host cities for the 2027 men’s ODI World Cup, which will be held in Southern Africa for the first time in 24 years. In South Africa, the eight cities Johannesburg, Centurion, Durban, Gqeberha, KuGompo City, Cape Town, Paarl and Bloemfontein will stage the bulk of the 54 matches with the final to be held either at the Wanderers or at Newlands.

Seven to 10 games will be played between Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Windhoek in Namibia will also host at least three matches.

Of those, Victoria Falls is the only addition after the

original venues were agreed upon several years ago. The city’s new 10,000-seater stadium is expected to be completed later this year, with domestic matches scheduled for the home summer. It is likely to be officially opened in the first quarter of 2027 for international matches. Benoni and Potchefstroom will be used as warmup venues and are likely to co-host the World Cup Qualifier with Namibia. That tournament is scheduled to take place early next year, at a time when South Africa’s six main stadiums - Wanderers, SuperSport Park, Newlands, Kingsmead, St George’s Park, and Boland - will be occupied with the SA20.

The ODI World Cup returns to Africa after 24 years. South Africa, Zimbabwe and Kenya had hosted the 2003 tournament. Since then, South Africa have hosted the inaugural men’s T20 World Cup in 2007, the women’s T20 World Cup in 2023 as well as men’s and women’s U-19 World Cups. Namibia, meanwhile, will be hosting a senior ICC tournament for the first time, having hosted the Under-19 men’s World Cup along with Zimbabwe earlier this year.

The ODI World Cup has been provisionally inked into the calendar to run from October 4 to November 21 in 2027.(Cricinfo)

Three segments of action for Today’s Dakota 100 Round Two

RACING fans will be treated to a full afternoon of racing when the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) hosts Round Two of the 2026 Endurance Championship -dubbed the Dakota 100 -- at the South Dakota Circuit.

The action begins at noon and features three racing segments. The day’s action will open with an exciting 20-minute Toyota Vitz race, followed by a 15-lap motorcycle feature before drivers take on the headline event: a demanding 100-lap Endurance Race that will see competitors battle for valuable championship points.

Adding to the excitement, Round One’s class winners will all be looking to defend their early championship leads, with every point becoming increasingly important as the title race begins to take shape. Chris Lall enters the second round as the overall championship leader after producing a dominant performance in Round One. Lall completed 100 laps to claim overall honours and victory in the Enduro 1501cc-1600cc category, establishing himself as the early favourite.

The father-and-son pairing of Mohamed Saifudeen Roshandin and Mohamed Shahabudin Roshandin will be determined to erase the one-lap deficit that denied them victory in the opening round after an impressive

99-lap performance.

Mark Williams will be looking to strengthen his hold on the Enduro 1601cc2000cc standings after claiming class honours with a third-place overall finish. He is expected to face renewed challenges from Randy Moharally and Randel Singh, as well as from Richard and Reeyaz Hamid. The Enduro 0-1500cc division promises another close battle after Zachary Persaud and Ryan Rahaman emerged victorious with 97 laps in Round One.

Paul Jiwanram finished just two laps behind, while Nyron Maraj and Christopher Samaroo Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club | Tel: (592) 2315457 | E: gmrscgy@gmail.

Stokes return would not surprise England chief Key

ENGLAND’S director of men’s cricket, Rob Key, says he “wouldn’t be surprised” if Ben Stokes came out of international retirement at some stage, adding “anything is possible”.

Former captain Stokes, 35, announced his decision to retire from international cricket during England’s third Test defeat by New Zealand in June. Stokes missed the second Test of that 2-1 series loss while an investigation took place into an incident at a London nightclub after he breached the team’s midnight curfew.The all-rounder, who was subsequently found blameless for the incident, said the controversy had “added” to his thoughts about calling time on his illustrious England career.

succeeding Stokes as skipper.

Key said the door remains open for Stokes to return for next summer’s home Ashes series against Australia

- although he has received no indication that Stokes intends to reverse his decision.

“It would be a brilliant story if he does,” Key told

Sky Sports News. “Anything’s possible with Ben.”

Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes the appointment of Fleming and Root’s return as Test skipper might tempt Stokes to return to the England setup.

“Root’s difficulty will be getting a structure in his team - getting a formula without an all-rounder like Ben Stokes,” Vaughan told BBC Sport.

“And I’ll keep saying it, I just wonder over the next few months if - I’m sure Ben won’t be back in 2026 - but I just wonder if this appointment has given us a little bit of a glimmer that it may happen, that the dream may happen next year, that Ben might come back.”(BBC Sport)

com completed the podium, ensuring the class remains one of the most competitive in the championship.

The Unlimited category also delivered a thrilling contest in the opening round.

Kamal Seebarran and Shayne Seebarran claimed maximum points after edging Ravin Ramoutar and Ryan Ramoutar on finishing position despite both crews completing 94 laps. Retesh Singh and Kenneth rounded out the podium with 92 laps.

Several competitors suffered mechanical setbacks during the opening event and are expected to return with improved machinery, adding another layer of intrigue to the championship battle.

With only one round completed, teams know that a strong performance this weekend could significantly strengthen—or revive—their title aspirations. Round Two promises another afternoon of close wheel-to-wheel racing across all three categories. The Toyota Vitz competitors are expected to produce their trademark bumper-tobumper action over 20 minutes, the motorcycle racers will contest a flat-out 15-lap sprint, and the endurance specialists will once again tackle the gruelling 100-lap feature in a true test of speed, strategy and reliability. With championship leaders defending their advantage and challengers eager to close the gap, spectators can expect one of the most competitive race meetings of the season when the green flag drops at noon.

Call for ‘full review’ as pressure grows on Infantino

GIANNI Infantino’s leadership of Fifa has been publicly questioned by football’s governing bodies in Europe, North and Central America and the Caribbean.

Uefa and Concacaf both released statements on Saturday criticising the leadership at the world governing body after Infantino said Fifa would no longer proceed with the proposal to sell stakes in their competitions to private investors.

Uefa, which governs European football, welcomed the decision to withdraw the plan, describing it as a “victory for the whole game”.

The body accused of Infantino of failing to deliver on promises, quoting a

speech he gave when campaigning to become Fifa president in 2016.

Concacaf, which oversees football in North, Central America and the Caribbean, followed Uefa in criticising the plans, saying “unity had prevailed” and that the proposals were a “symptom of leadership that has stopped putting football first”.

“This recent unilateral and egregious act of poor governance and leadership follows a pattern of missteps and similar behaviour. A full review of this leadership must now take place,” a Concacaf statement read.

Unlike Uefa, Concacaf did not mention Infantino by name.

Infantino under pressure ahead of re-election bid

The fallout from the plans means Infantino is now under immense pressure as he seeks re-election for a fourth term as president at the Fifa Congress in March.

Uefa were the first major governing body to react to Infantino’s decision to drop the investment plans, saying the Swiss had failed to deliver on his promises.

“The current Fifa leadership has not only lost Uefa’s confidence but also that of many other members of the football family,” Uefa’s statement read.

“When Gianni Infantino asked for the trust and the votes of Fifa’s member asso-

Hodge strikes gold in Glasgow as Virgin Islands sprinter claims historic 200m crown

GLASGOW, Scotland, (CMC) — Adaejah Hodge of the Virgin Islands etched her name into Commonwealth Games history on Friday, capturing her first-ever gold medal in the Women’s 200m Final with a commanding performance at Scotstoun Stadium.

The 20-year-old sprint sensation, running out of Lane 6, delivered a masterclass in composure, clocking 22.07 seconds to secure the top spot on the podium.

The victory marks not only a personal milestone for Hodge but also the first

Commonwealth Games gold in the 200m event for the Virgin Islands.

Hodge faced a stern test from Trinidad and Tobago’s Shaniqua Bascombe, who pushed hard throughout the race.

However, the young Virgin Islander held her form brilliantly down the straight, crossing the finish line comfortably ahead of her rival. Bascombe took silver with a time of 22.35, while Jamaica’s Alana Reid rounded out the podium in third with 22.56. The triumph adds another

ciations to elect him as their president in 2016, he said, ‘Of course we have to be transparent’.

“He told the assembled stakeholders, ‘The money of Fifa is your money. It’s not the money of the Fifa president. You are the national associations and the money of Fifa has to serve for the development of football and not for anything else’.

“On both these promises, he has failed to deliver. The shabby, back room, opaque deal he hatched and tried to force through was anything but transparent.”

Later on Saturday, Concacaf joined Uefa in criticising Fifa leadership and said “accountability cannot be optional”.

“When people entrusted with protecting the game conclude they can no longer do so from within, the football family is entitled to ask how such a proposal was allowed to proceed and who bears responsibility for it,” a Concacaf statement read.

UK Prime Minister Andy

Burnham - the first leader of a major country to call on Infantino to resign - said Fifa made “the right decision” to back down.

Qatar’s football association became the first body to publicly back Infantino, despite welcoming his decision to scrap the investment plans.

“While the proposal had merit, we applaud the wisdom behind prioritising unity among member associations,” said Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, president of the Qatar FA.

“The Qatar FA fully sup-

ports president Infantino’s efforts to continue growing and strengthening the game globally.”

The decision to host the 2022 World Cup in Qatar was controversial given the country’s human rights record and treatment of LGBTQ+ people.

On the eve of the tournament four years, Infantino defended Qatar and said European countries should apologise for acts committed in their own histories, rather than focusing on migrant workers’ issues in Qatar. (BBC Sport)

Victorious Victor secures historic decathlon three-peat in Glasgow

GLASGOW, Scotland, (CMC) – HISTORY was etched at Scotstoun Stadium on Friday as Grenada’s Lindon Victor cemented his status as a Commonwealth Games immortal.

chapter to Hodge’s remarkable week in Glasgow. Just 24 hours earlier, she set the Commonwealth Games record in the semifinals, blazing to an astonishing 22.01 on July 30, a time that now stands as the new benchmark for the event.

While Hodge is the first Virgin Islands athlete to claim gold in the women’s 200m, she follows in the footsteps of fellow territory standout Kyron McMaster, the 400m hurdles specialist who has established himself as a double Commonwealth Games champion.

With a season-best score of 8,096 points, Victor stormed to his third consecutive men’s decathlon title, a feat that resounds through the annals of Games history.

The 33-year-old Grenadian produced a masterclass of consistency and grit over the gruelling ten-event odyssey.

While the scoreboard flashed 8,096, it was the number ‘three’ that told the true story.

Having triumphed on the Gold Coast in 2018 and in Birmingham in 2022, Victor now stands alone as the only decathlete in Commonwealth history to win three gold medals in a row.

Despite having his best discus throw discounted after

it was measured incorrectly, Victor’s season bests in the pole vault and javelin helped him stay far enough ahead of 2020 Olympic champion Damian Warner, who claimed the silver medal.

Warner, a legend in his own right, finished just 60 points adrift with a total of 8,036 points; however, the story of the night wasn’t just

about the veterans. In a stunning upset, India’s Tejaswin Shankar stormed to the bronze medal with a personal-best score of 7,976 points. Shankar, who has been the rising star of Indian athletics, surpassed all pregames predictions to deliver his nation a first decathlon medal since 2010.

Sir Garry remembered for his humility on and off the cricket field

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – HUNDREDS of Barbadians, members of the cricket fraternity and well-wishers flocked to Kensington Oval on Wednesday last to pay their final respects to one of the greatest cricketers the world has ever seen, Sir Garfield St Aubrun Sobers.

From as early as 07:30 hours persons made their way to the historic venue, where Sir Garry, as he was affectionately known, mesmerised the world back in 1958 with a then world record Test score of 365 not out against Pakistan.

There was no shortage of dignitaries in attendance at

the state funeral, including Prime Minister Mia Mottley; President The Most Honourable Jeffrey Bostic; National Hero Robyn ‘Rihanna’ Fenty; Chairman of CARICOM and Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Philip J Pierre; Cricket West Indies President, Dr Kishore Shallow, along with scores of other high-ranking officials from across the region.

In the many tributes to Sir Garry, he was remembered as a gentleman, an outstanding human being, and a world class cricketer, who touched the lives of everyone he met. His oldest son Matthew Sobers said his father’s gifts and talents stretched outside

the cricket field.

“Whether it was cricket, table tennis, golf or just shooting hoops with the kids. He was blessed with rare talents few people had, but as I grew older, I realised his greatest gifts had very little to do with sports but everything to do with the way he lived.

“Dad was born in a Barbados still emerging from the long shadow of plantocracy and colonial rule. At a time when opportunity was limited for so many, he became living proof that excellence could come from these shores. He didn’t simply win cricket matches; he changed what people believed was possible. A boy from the

Jamaica closes in on record medal haul at Commonwealth Games

GLASGOW, Scotland, (CMC) – The final morning session of these Commonwealth Games produced a frigid, wind-whipped fury of Jamaican excellence as the nation’s track and field athletes powered their way to three more podium finishes, including two glittering golds, to push the island’s overall medal tally to 15.

On a day when the weather turned decidedly un-Ca-

ribbean, the Jamaican contingent turned up the heat on the track and in the field, headlined by a history-making performance from Dejanea Oakley in the women’s 400m. Oakley, running with grit on the cold Glasgow tarmac, clocked a superb 50.21 seconds to become the fourth Jamaican woman in history to capture the one-lap crown. The victory was a masterclass in front-running, as

Bayland became respected by kings, prime ministers, world leaders across every continent,” Matthew said.

“He gave generations of Barbadians something priceless: belief. Belief that excellence had no post code.

Persaud and Hopkinson set scorching pace in Panama qualifying

GUYANA’S contingent of motorcycle racers made a resounding statement on the 2.5km circuit at Autódromo Panamá in Capira, with Kevin Persaud and Alain Hopkinson leading the timing charts during Saturday’s qualifying sessions.

Persaud delivered a masterclass in the SB Pre-Expert 600cc division, saving his fastest pace for his eighth and final lap. The Guyanese rider clocked a lap time of 1:10.061—reaching a top speed of 128.459 km/h—to comfortably seal pole position ahead of local contenders Jorge Mendieta (1:11.538) and Mateo Castellano (1:11.585).

Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC)

Vice President, Alain Hopkinson, backed up the national effort with a dominant stint in his session, posting a time of 1:11.757 on lap six of nine in the SB Novato 600cc timing screen to record a top speed of 125.423 km/h.

In the full SB Novato 600cc standings, Guyana’s emerging talent asserted themselves across the Capira track. Elwin Chase spearheaded the Novice podium push, securing second spot on the grid after setting a best lap of 1:16.534 on lap five of seven, registering a top speed of 117.595 km/h behind session leader Cristian Henao (1:14.072).

He was shadowed closely by team-mate Cristopher Brijmohan, who locked down third on the grid with a

1:16.959 effort on lap three, clocking 116.945 km/h over his five laps.

Jerry Da Silva completed an impressive outing for the Guyanese squad, taking fourth position with a best lap of 1:18.099 on his seventh circuit, hitting a speed of 115.238 km/h.

With four Guyanese riders placed firmly inside the top four across their respective divisions, the GMR&SC contingent enters Sunday’s race day in prime position to bring home hardware.

The stage is set for a high-stakes conclusion in Capira, where the Novice competitors will clash over two 10-lap contests before the Pre-Expert field takes to the asphalt for two 12-lap feature races.

she held off a charging field down the home straight despite the blustery conditions. The battle for the minor medals was a photo-finish thriller. 2022 champion Sada Williams of Barbados held on for the silver medal, stopping the clock at 50.99, while Nigeria’s Ella Onovujwevwo was denied by the barest of margins, claiming bronze in 51.00 seconds. While Oakley was making history on the TURN TO PAGE 20

Warriors win low-scoring thriller against Unicorns to retain GSL Title

GUYANA Amazon Warriors pulled off a dramatic six-run win to retain the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 trophy against San Francisco Unicorns on Saturday evening at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

Defending champions Warriors recovered from a scarcely believable 29-8 to make 85 all out in 18.5 overs after winning the toss and opting to bat first. Unicorns, in reply, were dismissed for 79, a direct hit to the stumps at the non-striker’s end by Shimron Hetmyer finding last-

man Callum Stow short of his crease with seven balls remaining. Unicorns’ innings was demolished by off-spinner Mohammad Nabi and pacer Dwaine Pretorious, who picked up 3-12 and 3-24 respectively.

Pretorious struck first ball by removing the in-form Tim Robinson, caught by wicketkeeper Mohammad Haris, before Gudakesh Motie bowled Connor Esterhuizen with the first ball of the second over for five.

Soon after, skipper Hassan Khan (9) fell to Pretorious, caught by Hetmyer at mid-off.

Oliver Peake tried his utmost to stabilise the innings with a stubborn

31, but wickets kept falling around him with Sanjay Krishnamurti (9) and Hammad Azam (1) departing in quick succession.

Captain Imran Tahir was on a hattrick having bowled Azam and Karima Gore off consecutive deliveries, before Fabian Allen and Peter Siddle dropped anchor with a fighting 14run partnership that lasted 33 balls. Earlier, Warriors, who dethroned Rangpur Riders last year, struggled for momentum as their batting collapsed in spectacular fashion.

Young leg-spinner Anirudh Immanuel was outstanding with 3-7, while the ex -

Chase eyes fortress finish as West Indies aim for historic Pakistan sweep

PORT OF SPAIN,

Trinidad, (CMC)

-The West Indies will stride onto the hallowed turf of the Queen’s Park Oval today with history in their sights and a fortress at their backs.

As the second Test against Pakistan gets underway, the Caribbean side is not just playing for a series victory; they are playing to extend a remarkable unbeaten streak and topple a two-decade-old domestic hoodoo.

The venue has been a bastion of resilience for the men in maroon. They are undefeated in their last six Tests at the historic ground, a run of form that has transformed the Oval into a genuine stronghold.

Looking back at the broader history between these two sides at the venue, the hosts hold the edge

Champions! Gaw are back-to-back ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League Champions

with three victories to Pakistan’s two, with the famous draw of 1988 being the only blemish on a fiercely contested rivalry. The last time Pakistan visited this turf in 1993, they left with a scar, succumbing to a colossal 204-run defeat. Standing in the way of Pakistan’s redemption is a West Indian unit humming with confidence.

Captain Roston Chase, leading from the front, made it clear that the team’s preparation has been meticulous and their ambitions sky-high.

“We’re very confident. We’re exactly where we wanted to be,” Chase stated on the eve of the match.

“After having the year last year, we sat down, we planned, and said that this is where we want to be. We’re one love up, so we want to just come into this second Test, not take anything for

granted, go through the processes that we’ve sat down and talked about, and look to get that second victory.”

A victory would mark the first time since 2022 that the West Indies have won consecutive Test series. More significantly, it would seal their first home Test series win over Pakistan since the turn of the millennium, a gap stretching back to 2000.

The pitch at Queen’s Park Oval is expected to offer turn, potentially opening the door for Chase’s off-spin to play a decisive role. However, the captain is managing a finger injury that kept him from bowling in the first Test, an issue that could dictate the balance of the attack.

Chase, however, was optimistic about his fitness. “It’s getting better. Hopefully, I think I will be ready to

perienced Siddle grabbed 3-18.

Siddle had Johnson Charles LBW for two and sent back Haris in identical fashion for six. Warriors lost their most in-form batter and opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz for eight after he was brilliantly caught and bowled by Allen.

The home franchise then slipped to 26-6, having lost Hetmyer (4), Rovman Powell (2) and Nabi (2) inside the Powerplay. However, Matthew Forde scored an invaluable 28, while Pretorious remained not out on 17.

Forde and Pretorious also shared a vital, 41-run, ninth-wicket

stand before Forde was taken in the deep and Unicorns wrapped up the innings when Tahir skied a catch to deep mid-wicket. Pretorious was chosen as the Playerof-the-Match for his match-winning all-round show, while Nabi copped the Player-of-the-Tournament prize, having topped the wicket column with 10 scalps and tallying 53 runs, including a crucial 40 not out during the preliminary stage.

Five teams- the others being Desert Vipers, Lahore Qalandars and Perth Scorchers- featured in this third edition with a pool-prize of US$1 million at stakes.

bowl by Sunday. I bowled two overs today. It still has a bit of pain, but I think by Sunday, I should be able to at least bowl probably four to five overs consistently.”

The captain’s determination to be fit is reflective of a broader cultural shift within the squad, that is a desire to make the Caribbean an impenetrable fortress.

“We’re very blessed and very

happy for the results that we’ve been having at home so far,” Chase added. “But I want to make home our fortress, where we make it very difficult for teams to come to the Caribbean and beat us because it’s our conditions. We know them inside out and better than the opposition. We want to really make home advantage count, and we’ve been doing that well so far.”