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MONDAY 5th January, 2026

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No. 108034

National prosperity will translate more directly into personal, community advancement SEE PAGE

- President Ali says, highlights govt’s plans to strengthen manufacturing sector, expand tourism, support small and medium-sized enterprises

During a recent visit to Region One to engage Guyana Defence Force troops and ranks of the Guyana Police Force operating in border communities, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips took some time out to interact with vendors and shoppers. Housing Minister Collin Croal and other officials accompanied him (Photo: President Irfaan Ali/Facebook)

Revenue survey reveals Christmas Village vendors garnered some $182M

SEE PAGE

- Tourism Ministry says results indicate event was a viable, impactful platform for MSMEs

‘Focus, drive, motivation are necessary’ SEE PAGE

14 - Education Minister says as new school term begins

Guyanese women Lethem, Toka creating massive farmers earn opportunities direct income in leadership, business, technology from first mango SEE PAGE

- President Ali

shipment

Waramuri residents to reap benefits from newly-constructed guest house

SEE PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

Lethem, Toka farmers earn direct income from first mango shipment - more than 2,000 pounds sold under gov’t-led initiative; more communities to come on board in the near future

FARMERS in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) are generating income for their harvest after they successfully sold more than 2,000 pounds of mangoes to a local agro-processor in January 2026. This is the first shipment under a new initiative led by the government to strengthen food security while creating income opportunities for farmers in the hinterland. A total of 2,070 pounds of mangoes were sourced directly from Lethem and Toka village farmers, fulfilling a commitment made by President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. Regional Chairper-

son Vania Albert told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that as production ex-

pands, additional shipments will be made. Additionally, an effort is already being

made to coordinate future deliveries. Albert noted that plans are in place to

Region Nine’s Regional Chairperson, Vania Albert

2,070 pounds of mangoes have been sold to a local agro-processor

include other villages across the region, so that more families can benefit from the initiative. “Once they are pro-

ducing these fruits, mangoes, they will be benefiting directly,” she assured. “This will at least help our farmers in terms of their livelihoods and then help them to earn income when the day comes,” she said. The government-led initiative addresses a long-standing challenge faced by farmers in the hinterland, where produce often goes to waste due to limited and unreliable access to markets for perishable

produce during peak seasons. President Ali stated that the government, via the Ministry of Agriculture, will help farmers find markets so they can earn incomes to support their families by increasing agricultural production. Region Nine is poised for massive development as the government moves to further advance its agricultural sector through similar initiatives. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

National prosperity will translate more directly into personal, community advancement - President Ali says, highlights govt’s plans to strengthen manufacturing sector, expand tourism, support small and medium-sized enterprises

By Naomi Parris GUYANA is moving beyond unrealised promises and embracing measurable progress, marked by deliberate policy choices and a clearer sense of national direction, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said. While strong economic growth is expected to continue this year, the President during his New Year’s address said the government’s priority would be to deepen the quality of that growth and how it translates at the community level. “Guyana’s story is no longer written in the language of potential alone. It is now written in the language of progress made real by opportunity seized, of a nation stepping confidently into its moment. We are not merely turning a page; we are writing a new chapter in our history. And its opening lines are bold.” Central to this approach is a national digital backbone designed to improve public services by making interactions with the state faster, simpler, and more transparent. He added that services would be decentralised further, ensuring efficiency is felt at community level rather than remaining an abstract goal. “This year, we will change how growth serves you. Public services will be improved through a national digital backbone, making interactions with government simpler, faster, and more transparent. “Services will continue to move closer to communities, so efficiency is

not an aspiration, but a daily reality. This year, national prosperity will translate more directly into personal and community advancement,” he added. To this end the government will increase disposable income through direct support, higher wages, and reduced taxation. Meanwhile, a modern national electronic identification system is expected to streamline access to government services, while an accelerated housing programme will seek to expand home ownership and strengthen household security. ORANGE ECONOMY Economic diversification remains a priority, with plans to strengthen manufacturing, expand tourism and support small and medium-sized enterprises. The President highlighted the development of the Orange Economy, noting that increased investment in artists and cultural entrepreneurs would turn creativity into sustainable livelihoods. “Communities will benefit from better roads, lighting, playgrounds, and sporting facilities. We will strengthen manufacturing, expand tourism, and support enterprise. Our Orange Economy will grow as we invest in artists and cultural entrepreneurs, turning creativity into sustainable livelihoods,” he said. In addition to this he reiterated that the government would bring on stream several major infrastructure projects including bringing natural gas onshore to generate cleaner and cheaper elec-

tricity, and the construction of new hospitals and water treatment plants to widen access to healthcare and potable water. “These are not promises for some distant future. These are plans already in motion. But no nation can truly rise unless its young people rise with it.” YOUTH Dr Ali placed particular focus on young people, describing them as central to the country’s future. He said the government is committed to integrating youth more fully into national life. “To the young people of Guyana, I say this plainly: You matter, you are needed, and you belong at the centre of our national life. Your energy, creativity, discipline, and ambition are strengths to be. We are committed to bringing our youth fully into the mainstream of national life through education and skills, through entrepreneurship and employment, through culture, sport, technology, and service.”

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

“We call you to a life of productivity not as a burden, but as a pathway to dignity, independence, and prosperity. In building your future, you are building Guyana’s future. And this nation will walk with you as you do so,” he added. The Head of State further made a personal assurance to citizens that his administration would

continue to govern with integrity, discipline and compassion. He pledged to safeguard the country’s resources, extend development to every region and community, and uphold national unity. “I make a personal pledge to you, the people of Guyana. As your President, I pledge to govern with integrity, discipline, and compassion. To lis-

ten before I decide, to act with fairness, and to place the national interest above all else,” the President said. Dr Ali also reaffirmed his commitment to defending Guyana’s sovereignty, protecting its people, and pursuing the peaceful resolution of all matters in keeping with international law.

MOLMP clarifies reports on fire at former Ministry facility in New Amsterdam

THE Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning (MOLMP) has taken note of reports circulating on social media regarding a fire at a building formerly associated with the Ministry of Labour on Princess Elizabeth Road, New Amsterdam, Berbice. According to a press

release issued by the MOLMP on Sunday, this incident is most unfortunate and thankfully, no injuries were reported. The release noted that while the ministry regrets the damage to the property, it must be further clarified that regional operations of the Ministry of Labour and

Manpower Planning have been relocated to another facility, located at Grant 228 Vryman Erven, New Amsterdam, Berbice, and this relocation has been in effect since February 2025. This new facility was commissioned in February last year by former Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton,

and now houses the Department of Labour in Region Six and the Board of Industrial Training’s Development and Certification Centre and Office. The ministry confirmed reports that the affected building has not housed or facilitated any of its regional services to citizens since that date.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

The public is hereby reassured that all services remain uninterrupted and continue to be available at the current Vryman Erven edifice. For any inquiries or assistance, please

contact the New Amsterdam location at Telephone: 500-2185. The understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders is deeply appreciated, the release said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

Waramuri residents to reap benefits from newly-constructed guest house AMERINDIAN communities are benefitting directly from the government’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) Carbon Credits Funds, which help these villages to launch community projects, create jobs and expand eco-tourism, building a sustainable future for all. In Waramuri, Region One, this rings true as the community now has a guest house that is expected to provide jobs for residents, ensuring that they have a stable source of income in their village. On New Year’s Day 2026, Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Sarah Shadeek-Browne, stated that the construction of the guest house

shows how the LCDS and funding through the ministry are making a positive impact on communities. “This project here is an economic project. It will definitely bring income into the community, create jobs and many more opportunities for the village. And it shows how village councils are investing and are using the resources given to them to develop their communities,” she said. Just last week, Minister Shadeek-Browne said the LCDS benefits some 248 Amerindian villages and she committed to continuing to work with leaders to ensure they have the capacity to lead and help residents ensure that they receive

transparency and accountability from their leaders. Further, she noted that Guyana’s prosperity is meaningless if it does not uplift all its people. Minister ShadeekBrowne said, “When Amerindian villages thrive, Guyana thrives. When Indigenous youth succeed, the nation succeeds. When development respects culture and land, the future is secure. This government remains committed to walking this journey together with respect, with unity, and with a shared purpose. We look forward with humility and purpose to further enhance the lives of our people.”

Waramuri in Region One now has a guest house

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

Prudence and Prosperity WHILE much of the world struggles with rising household costs, Guyana is taking a different economic path. This path focuses on policies that prioritise the well-being of everyday families instead of strict austerity measures. President, Dr Irfaan Ali recently said the government's cost-ofliving agenda highlights an important truth often missed in narrow economic discussions. Macroeconomic outcomes are not just the result of global forces. They are shaped by the conscious decisions made by those in power. The amount of financial relief provided to Guyanese households is impressive and deserves more public recognition. The government has

removed over 200 taxes and heavy measures, many put in place by the previous APNU+AFC administration between 2015 and 2020. This has returned more than $40 billion each year to workers, farmers, entrepreneurs, and consumers. This is real money that would have been taken from citizens if the government had continued the previous administration's heavy fiscal policies. The removal of fuel excise taxes alone saves consumers $90 billion a year. Additionally, the elimination of bridge tolls, a five percent reduction in water charges, and the removal of Value-Added Tax on electricity and water provide benefits that add up for households. The agricultural sector shows how focused cost-of-living

actions can work. In Region Five alone, farmers now save $1.6 billion on drainage and irrigation charges and land-rental fees. This relief contrasts sharply with the increases in 2017, which devastated smallholder incomes with annual charges ranging from $3,500 to $15,000. When the government removes such burdens while also providing fertiliser subsidies and improving critical infrastructure, it changes the economic landscape for productive sectors and benefits communities. Besides tax cuts, the government has sustained and expanded direct support during ongoing fiscal challenges. The Because We Care cash grant for schoolchildren is now $50,000 per child. Other initiatives in-

clude school-feeding programmes, transportation and uniform grants, reduced loan rates, and cash grants for newborns. These collectively create a social safety net that shows a longterm commitment, not just during election cycles. The 2025 budget increases the income tax threshold to $130,000 monthly, doubling the 2020 amount. This boosts household purchasing power, bringing in an additional $8.5 billion in disposable income, while removing 22,000 workers from the tax base completely. Yet, President Ali's most nuanced point deserves ongoing discussion: rising prices connect to changes in consumption patterns as the economy grows. As living standards rise and disposable in-

comes increase, spending shifts towards higher-value imports and services—such as diverse diets, vehicle ownership, and dining out. These are not policy failures; they reflect the aspirations that come with a developing economy moving towards greater prosperity. The president points out that when households shift to imported goods, they also import the inflation linked to global supply chains. This presents a challenge that local monetary policy can influence only to a limited degree. Recognising these structural realities, rather than simplifying them, sets apart effective economic governance. Guyana's inflation rate, around 2.9 per cent at the end of 2024, is expected to rise to

about four percent in 2025, but it remains lower than the averages in the Caribbean and around the world. This performance is not due to luck. It results from ongoing policy choices that prioritise relief and structural stability over fiscal pressure. A government focused on real development doesn't just respond to global economic challenges. It actively protects its citizens through distribution, smart investments and the safeguarding of hard-earned benefits. Guyana's approach to addressing cost-ofliving issues, supported by billions in tax cuts, increased direct support, and targeted sector assistance, reflects this commitment. This is governance that truly serves the purpose of creating prosperity.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

Fatal flaw: Maduro, Castro and Burnham

THE fatal flaw of a nation’s unelected leader who does not enjoy extensive popularity among the citizenry is the rejection of compromise. If you are unelected and unpopular and you refuse to compromise with your critics that have sufficient leeway in the country, then your rule is doomed. There is no other graphic example of that than Forbes Burnham in Guyana. At the lowest point of his popularity Mr. Burnham did four things that made his future a nightmare – banned popularly used food items, made National Service (NS) compulsory, rigged a referendum to change the constitution and implemented paramountcy of the party. These four things could have been accepted by the nation if Burnham had done the commonsensical thing which is older than the seas and go to the major political and social players in the country and ask them if they would support these four directions and what it would take to gain their consent. Mrs. Janet Jagan was willing to concede compulsory NS in return for women being exempted. Burnham refused. The world became enchanted with Castro. He came to power in 1959. Thirty years after, the aura and charisma of Castro had faded. The economy was limping along. The American embargo was hurting. But Castro refused to talk or listen to his critics. When Mikhail Gorbachev came to power in the USSR, he made it clear to Castro that it was time to reconsider the path he had taken since 1959. He ruled Cuba six months short 50 years. That was sufficient proof that power replaced vision.

I will look at the implications of the US action against Maduro in the context of international relations. While as a student of international relations it is difficult to support what the US did; I think we Guyanese are faced with a very complex situation. At the mental level, we do not support invasions. At the emotional level, Guyanese cannot be discomforted at the removal of Maduro. He was simply a terrible man that Guyana must not forgive. He wanted to invade Guyana, and his constant threats caused the lives of some top-level army officers and in a country of 800, 000 people, that was a huge loss. If Maduro had not threatened to invade Guyana, those five men would have been alive today. It was his lack of popularity at home that generated jingoism in him. He thought that by invading Guyana, it would galvanise support for him at home. As it stands, unless officially removed, Venezuela continues to include Essequibo as part of the country as decreed by Maduro and he has appointed a governor for Essequibo. This was the nature of the man who got a taste of his own medicine when the Americans invaded Venezuela a few days ago. What was going through his head as he heard the jet fighters roar over Caracas? He wanted his jet fighter to roar over Essequibo in similar fashion. There is now strong circumstantial evidence that his elite school of bodyguards and intelligence officers sold him out. They no doubt despised him because of his repressive ways. He missed the fundamental point of politics the way Burnham and Castro did. When you are unpopular, try to embark on com-

promise with those who have strategic placements in society. The characteristic of Maduro’s rule was identical to that of Burnham and Castro. The need to talk to those who oppose you knowing that you are not an elected leader is something that unelected leaders cannot do for a strange reason. What is important to note about unelected leadership is that there are two types. There are those who are arrogant, pompous and

very unpopular and those who do not have a system of electing leaders through nation-wide one vote by one person, but are popular and respected by their people. Singapore with Le Kuan Yew is the perfect example. For decades he ruled Singapore without legitimate elections. But his nation thought he was a genius that would make Singapore a great nation and he did just that. At the height of Singapore’s

transformation into one of the world’s most successful economies, Lee Kuan Yew became synonymous with Singapore. That was the extent to which his people admired him. China at the moment has a similar position like Singapore when Lee Kuan Yew ruled. Unfortunately, Castro though unelected was as popular as any elected leader anywhere in the world, but it didn’t last. As for Maduro, he had

none of the qualities of his predecessor, Hugo Chavez. Maduro was a dictator who tried to use the intended invasion of Guyana to stay in power. All Guyanese should welcome his removal. 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.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

PWDs upliftment, empowerment, development key factors in government’s agenda IN recent times, the government has underscored its ambitious plans and goals for the next five years, ranging from infrastructure to initiatives that directly impact citizens’ daily experiences. One ministry that is continuing to execute these initiatives and is actively supporting Guyanese is the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS) that is led by Minister Vindhya Persaud. The minister has highlighted that while her ministry is known for its successful Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programmes, they do a lot of work with persons with disabilities (PWDs) throughout Guyana. Minister Persaud stated that she has had the privilege of working in this area since taking office and has recognised that inclusivity and accessibility

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud Photo taken from Dr Vindhya Persaud/ Facebook page

are important things to have. For nearly six years, the ministry has been working closely with PWDs to not only improve the quality of services offered to them, but to develop new programmes and build new buildings in order to offer more services. According to Minister Vindhya, “In 2020, we started a number of concepts and those rolled out in 2021, but I

think in 2023 when we realised the first learning lab in our country, we were able to successfully work with persons living with disabilities in a building dedicated to their free technical vocational training and from then to now we've managed to train 1,898 persons from every region in Guyana,” The minister said they focused on critical areas of development,

recognising that attention needed to be paid to literacy and numeracy. This resulted in the inclusion of programmes tailored to that critical need. Persons were able to benefit from training in garment construction, audiovisual technology, learning utilising the JAWS (Jobs Access With Speech) software, and a few other programmes that focused on interaction with PWDs. Dr Persaud pointed out that in training these persons, the ministry wanted to ensure that not only PWDs benefit, but ensure those in the public service who are engaging and serving PWDs do this in a professional,

sensitive way. Some 247 persons in the public sector were trained on how to engage and interact with the PWDs, allowing them to become more conscious about their special needs. Additionally, the minister said they want to expand the number of courses and types of courses offered to PWDs. These include: climate smart practices, sustainable agriculture, introducing PWDs to the City and Guilds Programme for training in carpentry, masonry, electrical installation and plumbing, training in the culinary arts, among many other uplifting programmes. “One of the beautiful programmes that we did was the socio-economic training programme where persons learned about business literacy, how to develop a business plan with their focus on accessing funding through the revolving loan that would have been in existence since in 2023,” the minister said adding, “To date 59 persons would have benefitted from this and they had comprehensive training. This was a collaboration between the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security and the Small Business Bureau.”

More than this, the minister noted that there was a referral path where persons were trained and received business literacy training. From the socio-economic workshop executed, persons benefitted from training in several social issues including things related to gender-based violence, domestic violence, and mental health. Aside from training, Dr Persaud pointed out that they started assistive aids programme and have been able to serve hundreds of persons in communities, provide thousands of Guyanese PWDs with wheelchairs, walkers, and white canes, and partner with the Ministry of Health to have a referral system in place for PWDs to access free hearing aids and free prosthesis. With a wide agenda set for development this year, the minister emphasised, “we're going to be working to ensure that the persons who will benefit from all the different pro grammes and initiatives catering to this population, they are aware of it, and they can also easily access these programmes.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

New biosafety laboratory, major upgrades to national reference laboratory imminent

THE Ministry of Health is moving to significantly strengthen Guyana’s laboratory services with the establishment of a new biosafety laboratory, upgrades to the National Public Health Reference Laboratory and the construction of several specialised facilities to support expanded clinical services. This is according to Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, who recently said these improvements form part of a wider push to modernise health infrastructure alongside the construction of new hospitals across the country. “Apart from the hospitals that we are building, we also recognise that we need to improve

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony

our laboratory services,” the minister said, noting that each new hospital will be equipped with enhanced clinical laboratories. He explained that these facilities will be interconnected, allowing results to be accessed easily and thereby improving efficiency and coordination across the

health system. At the centre of the plan is the upgrading of the National Public Health Reference Laboratory, where new technological capabilities will be introduced. Dr Anthony said the facility will be developed to include gene sequencing, which he described as important in relation

to tracking new diseases using molecular surveillance. Also critical for Guyana is the establishment of a biosafety level three laboratory, he noted. “We’ll be adding a new ‘lab’ where we’ll be able to handle pathogens. This would now become a biosafety ‘lab’ level three, which would be the first time Guyana would be able to establish such a lab,” he said while noting that such a facility would allow the country to safely manage and study more dangerous pathogens locally. Further, the health minister noted that improvements are also planned for regulatory testing and oversight, to which he added that

authorities have begun construction of a new food and drug laboratory at the University of Guyana campus to enhance the services offered by the Food and Drug Administration. He said, “Over the next couple of years, you would see all of this infrastructure being completed and these ‘labs’ being fully operational.” Additionally, another key development is the planned establishment of a Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) laboratory, which is critical for transplant medicine. Dr Anthony said, “This ‘lab’ is absolutely essential if we are going to expand our transplant programme,” explaining that Guyana currently has

to send samples overseas to match donors and recipients. He noted that the necessary equipment has already been procured and that local capacity is being built. “We have already bought the equipment, and we are in the process of training Local experts so that we can do HLA testing right here in Guyana.” Further, the minister emphasised that these initiatives would play a critical role in strengthening the health sector. He said, “All of these things would help us not just to modernise our infrastructure, but to be able to expand the range of clinical services that we are offering to our patients.”

Region Two officials inspect Andrews Pump Station, sluice REGION Two’s Chairman, Devin Mohan and Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Omesh Sasenarayan, over the weekend, visited the Andrews Pump Station and sluice as part of the region’s ongoing efforts to strengthen flood management and safeguard surrounding communities. During the visit, the regional officials met and engaged the sluice attendant and the district ranger, holding detailed discussions on the day-to-day operations of the facility. Attention was paid to the functionality of the pumps and sluice, routine maintenance practices, and the challenges faced in ensuring smooth and timely water discharge, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. Chairman Mohan emphasised the critical role the Andrews Pump Station and sluice play in protecting farmlands, homes, and livelihoods in the area. He noted that effective water management is essential not only for flood prevention but also for sustaining agricultural productivity and ensuring the safety and

Region Two officials inspect the sluice at Andrews Pump Station during a recent visit well-being of residents. The chairman reaffirmed the region’s commitment to ensuring that drainage and irrigation infrastructure remains operational and well-maintained. Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Omesh Sasenarayan, highlighted the

importance of collaboration between regional authorities and on-the-ground personnel. He commended the dedication of the sluice attendant and district ranger, noting that their vigilance and timely response are key to managing water levels

and minimising risks during adverse weather conditions. The engagement also allowed for the identification of areas requiring attention, including maintenance needs and opportunities to improve efficiency. Regional officials reiterated that feedback from

frontline workers is vital in shaping responsive and practical solutions to community challenges. Such visits form part of the region’s proactive oversight approach, aimed at strengthening coordination, improving infrastructure management, and fostering

closer collaboration at the community level. Through continued monitoring and engagement, the Regional Administration remains committed to protecting communities and ensuring resilience against flooding and other water-related challenges.

Education sector undergoing profound transformation

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

- President Ali

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has said Guyana’s education sector is at a critical stage of change, with the country moving rapidly towards universal secondary education and the modernisation of teaching and learning across schools.

The President made this remark while addressing members of the Teaching Service Commission who were recently sworn in to office, noting that they were assuming their responsibilities “at a moment of profound transformation in Guyana's

education system”. It was then that he pointed to the considerable progress being made in access, quality, and infrastructure, stating, “The country is moving decisively towards universal secondary education.” At the same time, he

President Dr Irfaan Ali

said efforts are being intensified to ensure teachers are properly trained, supported and equipped to meet the demands of a modern education system. According to the Head of State, “Rapid progress is also being made to ensure that all teachers are properly trained and professionally equipped.” The President highlighted the use of technology as a major pillar of reform, stating that “Education is being modernised through the introduction of smart classrooms.” He added that plans are being rolled out for the increased use of digi-

tal technology to support teaching and learning. In addition to digital upgrades, schools are being prepared to deliver a broader and more practical curriculum. Dr Ali said, schools are being equipped to develop labs while teacher training programmes are also being strengthened. He noted that “Teachers’ training is being enhanced and there are expanded opportunities for professional upgrade.” Against this backdrop, the President underscored the central role of the Teaching Service Commission in ensuring that reforms are sustained.

He said the work of the Commission will play a pivotal role in supporting and sustaining the transformation of education. Further to this, he emphasised the importance of professionalism among educators, stating that the transformation of the sector must be matched by strong standards and dedication. According to the President, this approach would ensure that the modernisation of education in Guyana is matched by corresponding growth in professionalism and dedication.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

Revenue survey reveals Christmas Village vendors garnered some $182M

- Tourism Ministry says results indicate event was a viable, impactful platform for MSMEs A POST-EVENT revenue survey conducted among vendors participating in the One Guyana Christmas Village has revealed significant revenue performance throughout the holiday season, underscoring the initiative’s role in expanding market access and income-earning opportunities for small businesses. According the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, the survey assessed the revenue performance of 100 vendors who operated at the Christmas Village over a 25-day period. Using a sample size of 41 vendors, self-reported daily earnings were analysed to determine average performance levels and revenue ranges. The findings indicate that vendors earning at the lower end of the scale, approximately GY$55,000 daily, generated aggregate revenues of GY$1.37 million over the vending period. Meanwhile, vendors reporting average daily earnings of GY$250,000 recorded aggregate reve-

nues of GY$6.25 million over the same timeframe. Collectively, vendor revenues are estimated to have exceeded GY$182 million over the duration of the event, the ministry said adding that overall, the results point to consistently strong sales across the majority of vendors, reflecting notable consumer engagement and sustained economic activity during the holiday season. F u r t h e r, t h e d a t a highlights the Christmas Village as a viable and impactful platform for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), including artisans, food vendors, and creative entrepreneurs. The ministry said it has noted that the positive outcomes align directly with the Government of Guyana’s broader agenda of fostering inclusive economic growth by creating structured marketplaces, expanding access to new consumers, and supporting small business development. “Initiatives such as the Christmas Village are designed to reduce barriers

The area where the One Guyana Christmas Village was held

to entry, stimulate entrepreneurship, and provide tangible income opportunities, particularly during peak commercial periods. “While the survey provides a clear picture of vendor performance, the Ministry emphasises that the findings are based on a representative sample and will be used to inform future planning, targeted vendor support initiatives, and continuous improvements to the Christmas Village experience,” the ministry said. It added that further analysis will guide enhancements in vendor placement, marketing support, and operational logistics to ensure even greater participation, profitability, and sustainability in future editions of the event. According to the ministry, it remains committed to working closely with stakeholders to deliver initiatives that stimulate local enterprise, drive economic growth and create sustainable platforms where local businesses of all sizes can thrive.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

Bartica workers, families to benefit from major local quarry investment

BARTICA and communities across Region Seven are set to benefit from expanded job opportunities and increased economic activity following a major local investment by the BK Group of Companies, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to people-centred development and true local content.

The BK Group Inc. acquired 19 pieces of Caterpillar excavators from Machinery Corporation of Guyana Limited (MACORP), which will increase its capacity to employ additional workers from Bartica and surrounding communities. Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, said the expansion represents

more than machinery and output. He said it expresses confidence in Guyana and its people. “This investment is a blessing not only to the Tiwari family and the BK Group, but to Bartica, Region Seven, and Guyana as a whole, because it translates directly into employment and economic opportunities for

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat our people,” Minister Bharrat said. The BK Quarry’s growth

Some of the machinery that were handed over

has had a direct impact on ordinary Guyanese families who rely on quarrying, transportation, construction, and supporting services for their livelihoods. “When we speak about production moving from 650,000 tonnes in 2020 to almost 5.5 million tonnes today, we are really talking about income, stability, and long-term jobs for Guyanese households,” the minister explained. Minister Bharrat also noted that the investment reflects the trust that local businesses have placed in the Government’s leadership, even during periods of uncertainty. “This is a company that chose to invest heavily in 2020, at a time when the world was still facing COVID and when there was uncer-

tainty. Today, we are seeing the results of that confidence and that risk taken in Guyana,” he said. Minister Bharrat reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that Guyana’s natural resources are managed responsibly and for the benefit of all citizens. “Good leadership and good governance are what turn resources into opportunities for people, and that is what we have seen over the last five years,” he said. As Guyana continues its rapid development, the Minister encouraged other local investors to follow suit. “This is the most exciting period in Guyana’s history, and now is the time to invest in our country and our people,” Minister Bharrat urged. (DPI)

Region Two officials visit Coast Guard floating vessel in Pomeroon River - reinforces commitment to river, border security

REGION Two Chairman, Devin Mohan, along with Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Omesh Sasenarayan and Captain Anthony Lyttle of the Guyana Defence Force, over the weekend, visited the Guyana Coast Guard floating vessel stationed at St. John’s in the Lower Pomeroon River. The visit formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration between regional authorities and national security agencies tasked with protecting Guyana’s waterways. While aboard the vessel, the delegation engaged GDF officers and other ranks, gaining firsthand insight into their daily operations, challenges, and the critical responsibilities

they shoulder in monitoring river traffic and maintaining security along the nation’s rivers and borders. Chairman Mohan commended the Coast Guard for their unwavering dedication and professionalism, noting that their presence along the Pomeroon River is vital to ensuring public safety, supporting lawful river transport, and deterring illicit activities. He emphasised that the region recognises the strategic importance of a wellequipped and well-supported Coast Guard, particularly in safeguarding Guyana’s extensive river network and border areas. Meanwhile, Sasenarayan highlighted the importance of ensuring that officers

stationed at riverine bases have the necessary resources, equipment, and logistical support to effectively carry out their duties. He noted that strong coordination between the regional administrations and the Coast Guard is essential for timely response, effective oversight, and enhanced security within communities that rely heavily on river transport. Captain Lyttle expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a meaningful show of support and recognition for the ranks serving under challenging conditions. Discussions also touched on operational readiness, surveillance, and the continued need for vigilance in overseeing Guyana’s rivers

Region Two Chairman, Devin Mohan; Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Omesh Sasenarayan and Captain Anthony Lyttle interact with a rank during a visit to the Coast Guard floating vessel in Lower Pomeroon River and borders. The courtesy visit served not only as an opportunity to acknowledge the commitment and sacrifices of the Coast Guard ranks, but it also

reaffirmed the region’s continued support for their mission. Through such engagements, the Regional Administration remains committed to fostering strong partnerships that

enhance river and border security, protect communities, and uphold safety across Guyana’s waterways.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

Guyanese women creating massive opportunities in leadership, business, technology - President Ali

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has said Guyana has emerged as a trailblazer in advancing women’s empowerment, pointing to statistics that show more than 70 per cent of the country’s university graduates are women. Speaking during a recent interview with a group of journalists and students, he said women are increasingly taking up and creating opportunities across leadership, business, technology and sport, reflecting sustained investments by the government to expand access and opportunity. “We are a trailblazer. When you have more than 70 per cent of our graduates from university being women, it tells you the story. Today, women in this country are taking and creating massive opportunities in leadership, in business, in technology, in sports,” he said adding: “The investments that we have made and continue to make to empower women, most of the persons on the part-time programme, are women who never had the opportunity to earn who

today are independent because of that programme, who today are more confident because of that programme, who today, because of that programme, are upgrading themselves.” President Ali also pointed to policy outcomes that show women playing a growing role in national development. “So, it is doing more of that, 35 per cent of all new farms, setting policies like that, being owned by women today. More women are taking housing loans than men, more women are being allocated house lots than men and I would say that women are being far more responsible than men in our society today, and that they are bearing far more of the burden of development, the burden of family, than men in our society today. And I will go as far as to say that our men are lagging behind, and we are disappointing the women of our country and we have to address this,” he said. He called for a renewed focus on addressing this imbalance, urging men to

President Ali during a recent interview with five women journalists and students adopt the drive, passion and enthusiasm demonstrated by women in Guyana. The President said

stronger, more confident men leading positive lives are essential to reigniting what he described as a missing flame in society.

“Women love confident men, strong men, who are living positive lives, and I think that we need to take a leaf out

of the women’s book in Guyana and convert their drive, their passion, their enthusiasm in our own lives,” the President said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

‘Focus, drive, motivation are necessary’ - Education Minister says as new school term begins

Minister of Education, Sonia Parag (Photo: Hon. Sonia Parag, Minister of Education/ Facebook)

A NEW school term begins today, and Minister of Education, Sonia Parag, has urged students to remain focused, especially those scheduled to sit key examinations in the coming months. Taking time out of her busy schedule to welcome parents, teachers and, more importantly, learners back to the classroom, the minister said that this new term is a significant and critical one for learners in Grades Six and Grade 11 (Form Five), who will be sitting the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and Caribbean Secondary

Education Certificate (CSEC) examination respectively. She emphasised that focus is necessary, along with drive and motivation to ensure that they put in the effort in this final lap. As she encouraged learners to put their best foot forward and to work hard, she urged them to keep focused and to put in 100 per cent effort to get to the finish line. Minister Parag said, “I want to say to you that education is the key to success, and therefore, I encourage you to show up every day at school, put in the work as your teachTURN TO PAGE 15

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

‘Focus, drive, motivation...

FROM PAGE 12

ers are teaching you in class. You have two more terms to make it through whichever grade you're in, and then you'll move on to the next grade.” To other children in their first year of nursery school, the minster extended best wishes to them, noting that they will build friendships and learn so much more while having fun in their school environments. Not forgetting our teachers, the education minister encouraged them to head out with all the zest and zeal that they can for the new term ahead. She reminded them that they are the shapers of the great minds of our children- the future leaders and changemakers of our country. “You are so important to the fabric of education, and therefore, I encourage you to come out in your numbers, to teach with that same zest that you will place into any other self-development and ensure that our students will shine,” Minister Parag remarked. Speaking directly to parents, the minister shared that like many, she too will be preparing for the new school term. Whether doing bag checks to ensure that all the necessary textbooks and exercise

books are papered, and all other school tools are in their children’s bags, or waking extra early to ensure children have a solid breakfast, and nutritious snack and lunch in their bags as well, the minister applauded parents for making an effort to ensure their children are taken care of and prepared for the new school term. “You're like every other parent who are heading out there, but you're making that sacrifice to ensure that your child gets a great education, and that your child will be able to do much better than perhaps you did,” the minister related. Just a week ago, President Dr. Irfaan Ali had underscored that in the government, they embarked on one of the largest investments in the education sector; investments not only in buildings, but in the quality of teachers, in access to textbooks, in equitable access to each area of specialty in the education system and to the modernisation of education systems through the Guyana Digital School which serves the entire Caribbean. Looking forward, the plan is to push extensively for universal education across the board, ensuring that access is gained and no one is limited in their pur-

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

From fashion designer to farmer

- Claire Richards talks about her career change, developing bestseller products

One of Claire Richards’ creations

By Michel Outridge CLAIRE Richards has come a long way as a North West Dist r i c t re s i d e n t . S h e has carved a path for herself and daughter, transitioning from a fashion designer to a successful farmer. She has established Mother Nature’s Organic Farm Products. The crops she grows are hand-made into fascinating and interesting products, which are highly favoured by many. Richards is no stranger to expos and night markets housed in Guyana as she never missed an opportunity to market and introduce new products or to network. This farmer was among those who participated in the recently concluded One Guyana Christmas Village and Supermarket held on Main Street, Georgetown during the festive season. She had on sale and for sample her signature products which included sorrel jam, bread-

fruit, cassava and banana flours, pumpkin pepper sauce, plantain pepper sauce, pineapple pepper, pumpkin spice, exotic spices and herbs known for its medicinal purposes, among others. Richards told the Guyana Chronicle that she became a farmer in 2021 during the pandemic in a bid to earn. She started to cultivate plants in containers and every space she had in the city before she relocated to Madewini on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, where she now cultivates fruits, ground provisions, sorrel, plantains, bananas and other crops on seven acres of land. The mother of one explained that she also took regular spices to the next level by investing time in doing research. Her products would later become bestsellers. When she had a bountiful crop of pumpkins and there was no market for it, she did not fret. Instead, she dried it and turned it into pumpTURN TO PAGE 17

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

From fashion designer to...

FROM PAGE 16 kin spice. She also made pepper sauce which was also successfully introduced to the local market. Richards stated that instead of waiting for good market prices, she would convert her fresh produce into home-

Richards again surprised herself. She managed to successfully cultivate decorative plants which are sold every Sunday at Ramkawall’s Supermarket at Hillfoot on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. Presently, she has

Claire Richards and her products

made products, adding value to it. As a single parent whose roots are grounded in Port Kaituma, North West District, Region One, she had no choice but to leave her place of birth in search of opportunities. She explained that she knew how to use the sewing machine owned by her mother, who is a seamstress and she developed such skills at an early age. She could easily manipulate stitches, and it was easy to make designs from simple fabrics. Two months ago,

about 19 products that are sold on supermarket shelves and the reactions from customers regarding some of her unique products are encouraging. “People would say, I never saw this before. Then they would try it and become hooked on it. Products like pickled pineapples, carilla and cucumber, pumpkin spice, plantain pepper sauce, passion fruit, pumpkin and pineapple concentrate, siracha oil, scotch bonnet pepper sauce, among others,” she said. As someone who

Some of the farm fresh products Claire Ricards makes

thinks outside the box, Richards is always inventing new products from what is grown on her farm. Everything is organic. She currently has two kitchen assistants and is always looking for reliable persons to work on her farm. Most of the time she does the bulk of the work alone. Looking back from when she was 20 years

old, when she made the decision to relocate to the city, Richards said it was the best decision she had made despite the challenges she would later endure. Since then, she has made strides as an independent woman, morphing from a fashion designer to an everyday farmer who started with no experience. She had to learn

quickly. She recalled how she was forced to tend to 600 ducks after her helper did not show up. To d a y, s h e h a s moved away from poultry farming and only has a few creole chickens and turkeys remaining. “My daughter, who is studying is my sole motivator. She depends on me and I vowed to give her the best educa-

tion possible, so I have to get it right and do the work daily without a day off. There is no off time as a farmer, but it is worth it,” she said. Richards has long learned that she has no support system in place and depends on herself. This she says is what keeps her grounded on days when she doesn’t feel like doing anything.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

Cameroon see off South Africa to set up Morocco tie CAMEROON will face hosts Morocco in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) after goals from Junior Tchamadeu and Christian Kofane gave them a 2-1 win over a South Africa side led by their former coach Hugo Broos. After a bright start from the South Africans, it was a stroke of luck which helped set up Stoke City right-back Tchamadeu for the opening goal in the 34th minute. After a corner was half

cleared, Carlos Baleba's shot played pinball inside the penalty area, first striking Bafana Bafana midfielder Nkosinathi Sibisi and then also Indomitable Lions defender Samuel Kotto before dropping kindly for Tchamadeu to tuck home from close range, with the goal confirmed following a long video assistant referee check (VAR) for offside. With the rain pouring down, striker Kofane glanced a perfect near-post header across goalkeeper

Ronwen Williams just two minutes into the second half following an inviting leftwing cross from Mahamadou Nagida. Cameroon goalkeeper David Epassy was forced into two good saves as South Africa finally rallied, while Kofane could have grabbed his second after a raking long ball over the top from Bryan Mbeumo. Bafana set up a frantic finale when Evidence Makgopa tucked home from three yards out with two minutes

Stoke City's Junior Tchamadeu scored his first goal for Cameroon in the win over South Africa

of normal time to go, but the Central Africans held on to send their thousands of fans home in delight. The hosts now await

the Indomitable Lions in what looks like a mouth-watering tie back in Rabat on Friday (19:00 GMT)

Curran, bowlers lead Desert Vipers... (From back page) Hasan, depositing him over wide long-on second ball of the innings. MIE were sloppy with their fielding, and both Fakhar and Jason Roy cashed in. After Fakhar collected a boundary off first ball off AM Ghazanfar, Roy hit left-arm quick Muhammad Rohid for back-to-back fours as Vipers raced to 34 for 0 after three overs. But Fazalhaq Farooqi helped MIE hit back with a

double-wicket opening over. Roy first flat-batted a short-of-a-length delivery straight to short midwicket before Farooqi cleaned up Fakhar with a peach of an inducker that pitched just outside off and swung back in breaching the opener's defences. Curran took five balls to get off the mark but closed out the powerplay in style with three straight fours off Farooqi as Vipers reached 59 for 2 in six overs. While Holden took his time to settle, Curran kept the scorecard ticking. He pulled offspinner Tajinder Singh

twice through midwicket before guiding Kieron Pollard past short third. Holden, going just about a run-a-ball, found his groove as well as he took Tajinder inside out over covers and then planted him over long-on as Vipers raced past 100 in the 12th over. (Cricinfo) Mystery spinner Arab Gul broke the 89-run third-wicket stand by accounting for Holden but Lawrence ensured the momentum wasn't lost. He smoked Gul over covers second ball before Curran reached his fifty off 39 balls as Vipers eyed a late

Murray: Shallow and... (From back page) er this month. “Admittedly, I have thought long and hard about this. My conviction is that the work ahead requires steady leadership and a commitment to completing the reforms already set in motion. It is for this reason that I will conclude my current term, but with the intention not to seek re-election.

“While the journey has not been without its challenges, and we have not achieved every goal, we have made significant and measurable progress… My conviction is that the work ahead requires steady leadership and a commitment to completing the reforms already set in motion,” he added.

Award-winning sports... (From back page) the 2012 Olympic Games analyst panel on CVM, and later we were colleagues at SportsMax from 2016 right up until 2025,” Levy said. He remembered Oliver as a good friend to his family and a “genius producer”. “He was a friend to my wife and to me, steady, thoughtful, and unbelievably creative. He was a genius producer, one of the best I have ever worked with, and his documentaries, including the powerful

piece on Alia Atkinson, will stand forever as part of Jamaica’s sporting legacy. That was his gift: he didn’t just record history, he shaped how we understood it,” said Levy. “This one cuts deeply, the same way losing Hubert Lawrence did in 2024. Two giants, gone far too soon. Two friends whose voices helped tell the story of Jamaican sport with heart, intelligence and grace.” (Jamaica Observer)

push. That came via a 21-run 18th over with Curran and Lawrence sending Romario Shepherd over the fence three times. Vipers collected 46 runs off the last four overs to breach the 180-mark. Naseem Shah took three wickets in the final•ILT20 Muhammad Waseem, MIE's star of the ILT20, started the chase briskly. He clubbed Payne over deep

midwicket, while Andre Fletcher sent fast bowler Khuzaima Tanveer straight down the ground for six. Though Fletcher fell, mistiming Naseem to deep midwicket, Waseem kept going. He pulled Naseem through midwicket and then edged Curran past the wicketkeeper. But a flurry of wickets dented MIE's chase. (Cricinfo) 16:00 hrs Colors Of Freedom

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CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday, January 5, 2026) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Justin Greaves-202* (vs NZ, Christchurch) (2) Jomel Warrican-7/32 (vs PAK, Multan) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many Test centuries were compiled by WI batsmen in 2025? (2) Which WI bowler had the best Test match figures in 2025? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

stunner clinches Fulham Jaylen Brown (50 points), Last-gasp draw with Liverpool Celtics blast Clippers

Harrison Reed's superb strike grabbed a point for Fulham

Boston Celtics forward, Jaylen Brown (7), dribbles down the court during the first half against the Los Angeles Clippers at TD Garden

JAYLEN Brown tied a career high with 50 points, Derrick White added 29 and the sharp-shooting Boston Celtics earned a 146-115 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, who saw their six-game winning streak end Saturday at Inglewood, California. Anfernee Simons scored 15 points and Jordan Walsh added 13 points with 13 rebounds as the Celtics went 4-1 on a just-completed road trip while improving to 12-3 since November 30. The Celtics shot 55.2% from the floor in the victory, fourth-best in a game this season as they matched their season high for points in a game. They took charge in a 42-point third quarter when they shot 63.6%, including 58.3% (7 of 12) from 3-point

range. Brown scored 19 in the third quarter alone and was 18 of 26 (69.2%) from the floor in the game and 6 of 10 from 3-point range. Kawhi Leonard and John Collins each scored 22 points as the Clippers lost for the first time since December 18 against the champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Los Angeles had doubled its victory total during the winning streak. James Harden scored 18 points with 12 assists and Derrick Jones Jr. scored 19 for the Clippers, who saw Ivica Zubac return from a five-game absence to score four points in 21 minutes. Jones departed with 9:25 remaining in the game with a right leg injury. The Clippers pulled with-

in four early in the second half at 71-67 before the Celtics grabbed an 84-74 lead on a 3-pointer from White with 7:35 remaining in the period. Boston closed the period on a 9-3 run to take a 113-99 advantage. Nine consecutive Boston points from Brown put the Celtics up 128-107 with 6:15 remaining in regulation. Brown reached 50 points on a floater in traffic with 3:56 left. The Celtics led by as many as 14 points in the first quarter and pushed the advantage to 16 in the second before holding a 7163 lead at halftime. White had 23 points and Brown had 20 in the first half for the Celtics, who shot 53.2% over the first two quarters. (Reuters)

HARRISON Reed scored a stunning 97th-minute equaliser to cancel out Cody Gakpo's 94th-minute goal in a thrilling conclusion as Fulham and Liverpool drew at Craven Cottage. Florian Wirtz's equaliser initially hauled Liverpool level after Harry Wilson's opener, before Gakpo converted Jeremie Frimpong's cross in stoppage time to seemingly clinch the three Premier League points for Liverpool. But Reed had other ideas as he picked up the ball from 30 yards out and found the top corner with a superb strike. The draw means Liverpool extend their unbeaten run to nine games, while Fulham are unbeaten in their past five. Wilson scored against his former club to give Fulham the lead in a first half where Liverpool struggled to break down Marco Silva's side, despite dominating possession. Arne Slot's team upped the ante after the break and

were rewarded when Wirtz finished past goalkeeper Bernd Leno just before the hour mark, but the goal was initially ruled out for offside. However, after a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) review, the technology established that the German was onside and the goal was given. Kick-off was delayed by 15 minutes because of a medical emergency when a member of Fulham's matchday staff was taken ill and had to be taken to hospital. Liverpool - who were without top scorer Hugo Ekitike with a slight hamstring issue - started well and Gakpo wasted a good chance when he scuffed his left-footed effort wide. In the 18th minute they were punished by Fulham's first attempt on goal. Raul Jimenez did superbly to play in Wilson, who took a touch and drilled a left-footed strike past Alisson into the bottom corner. The offside flag went up to curtail Wilson's celebrations, but a VAR check

confirmed Virgil van Dijk played him onside for the Welshman's sixth goal of the season. Liverpool continued to have the bulk of the ball but failed to test Leno in the first half. The visitors started the second half strongly with Alexis Mac Allister's header from a corner striking the woodwork, and in the 57th minute they got their reward as Conor Bradley made a dazzling run before teeing up Wirtz, who finished with a left-footed strike past Leno. The flag went up again, but after another lengthy VAR check Wirtz was adjudged to be onside and a goal was given, much to the fury of the home support. Wilson hit the crossbar in the 77th minute as both sides pushed for a winner, and Liverpool looked to have sealed it when Gakpo bundled home in front of an ecstatic away end - before Reed smashed in his first goal since 2023 to send Craven Cottage wild. (BBC Sport)

Chelsea scores stoppage-time equaliser at Man. City ENZO Fernandez scored a stoppage-time equaliser as Chelsea ended a tumultuous week by claiming a deserved Premier League point at title-chasing Manchester City. Calum McFarlane, usually Chelsea's under-21s coach, has taken charge of the first team on an interim basis following the departure of Enzo Maresca on Thursday. His side frustrated City for large periods, even after

going behind, before Argentine Fernandez poked in at the third attempt to rescue a draw. The win looked to be heading to City following Tijjani Reijnders' first-half strike, but consecutive draws mean they have now fallen six points behind league leaders Arsenal. Chelsea set up with a low block and it took until the 37th minute for the first shot on target when Erling Haa-

Chelsea score stoppage-time equaliser

land's deflected shot looked to be looping over Filip Jorgensen, but the Chelsea goalkeeper recovered superbly to tip the ball wide. A minute later the Norwegian striker cut inside and thumped an effort which rattled the post as City sensed a goal was coming their way. It duly arrived just before half-time, as Reijnders picked up a loose ball on the edge of the penalty area and skipped past Benoit Ba-

diashile before hammering a finish inside the near left post. Chelsea started brightly in the second half and Pedro Neto should have equalised but scooped over from eight yards out, while substitute Liam Delap, formerly of City, smacked an effort into the chest of Gianluigi Donnarumma, before Fernandez's late leveller thrilled the travelling fans.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

Bangladesh refuses to travel to India for T20 World Cup BANGLADESH has refused to travel to India for the 2026 Men's T20 World Cup, with the BCB citing concerns around "safety and well-being" of the players in a climate of deteriorating political ties between the two countries, and sparked by BCCI instructions to Kolkata Knight Riders to release Mustafizur Rahman. Bangladesh's T20 World Cup matches were scheduled to be held in Kolkata and Mumbai, with their opening fixture against West Indies at Eden Gardens on February 7. With just a month to go for the start of the tournament, the BCB's decision throws the schedule into some disarray. "Following a thorough assessment of the prevailing situation and the grow-

ing concerns regarding the safety and security of the Bangladesh contingent in India and considering the advice from the Bangladesh Government, the Board of Directors resolved that the Bangladesh National Team will not travel to India for the tournament under the current conditions," the BCB said in a statement. "In light of this decision, the BCB has formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC), as the event authority, to consider relocating all of Bangladesh's matches to a venue outside India." The BCB's statement came two hours after Bangladesh's sports adviser, Asif Nazrul, backed the board's decision of refusing to travel to India. "The BCB has decided not to send the Ban-

gladesh team to India for the World Cup," he wrote on his official Facebook page. "We welcome this decision taken in the context of the radical communal policies of the Indian cricket board." ESPNcricinfo understands that the BCB took the decision after much deliberation, and has approached the ICC for a comment. The BCB directors had sat in two video-conference meetings over the last 24 hours. The first was on Saturday evening, and ESPNcricinfo understands that a concrete decision didn't emerge from it. The BCB reconvened on Sunday afternoon with 17 directors meeting at 1pm local time, and made the final decision to write to the ICC about their concerns and refusal to travel to India.

Mustafizur Rahman's situation has brought Bangladesh's participation at the T20 World Cup into focus (Getty Images)

"India said that they are unable to provide security for one player, so how can they give security for the whole team? We had to take the decision considering not just the players and support staff," a BCB official said. "We have to think about the fans and journalists who will

travel to India. We can't play in India. We can play in Sri Lanka." The BCCI has not officially said that its instruction to KKR to release Mustafizur from their squad was based on security. Relocating Bangladesh's fixtures could result in a

fresh set of complications. The 2026 T20 World Cup will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The tournament does not follow a hybrid model like the 2025 Champions Trophy, so it remains to be seen whether the ICC will agree to Bangladesh's request to move their matches out of India. Meanwhile, the BCB has also written to the BCCI, asking it to explain why Mustafizur was released from the KKR squad when the Indian board had written to the Bangladesh board, requesting it to make him available for the IPL auction. It's understood that the BCB's letter to the BCCI, however, doesn't address its security concerns. The BCB has shared those concerns with the ICC. (ESPN cricinfo)

‘Some sort of miracle’: Damien Martyn Diaz fires Afcon hosts, Morocco, into wakes up from coma quarter-finals DAMIEN Martyn has woken up from an induced coma with his family proclaiming he has managed a “miraculous” turnaround from meningitis. The 54-year-old Aussie cricket great, who played 67 Tests and was a 2003 ODI World Cup winner, was sent to Gold Coast University Hospital with the serious illness and has, according to his partner Amanda and his family, been “progressing well with his medical treatment”. However his great mate Adam Gilchrist revealed to Code Sports that Martyn “is now able to talk and respond to treatment. “He has responded extraordinarily well since coming out (of the coma) to the point where his family feels it’s like some sort of miracle,’’ Gilchrist said. “It has been so positive that they’re hopeful he will be able to move out of the ICU into another part of the hospital which is representative of what a great recovery it’s been and how quickly it has flipped around.’’ Gilchrist has spoken with Martyn’s partner Amanda throughout the process. “Amanda just really

Damien Martyn wearing his Test baggy green in 2001

wants to say to everyone she is convinced that the love, goodwill and sense of care that they felt from everybody, via messages and via the coverage in the press really helped him,” he said. “They just feel blessed so many people have wanted to support him in his time in need. “He will remain in hospital and continue to receive treatment but the turnaround has been miraculous.’’ Meningitis is an inflammation of protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord, and infection can cause harmful brain swelling. “We would like to thank

everyone for the incredible outpouring of support our family has received,” the Martyn family said in a statement to the Courier Mail. “We also want to express our deepest appreciation to the medical team at Gold Coast University Hospital who have been nothing short of amazing throughout this challenging time. “This has been a trying time and the family ask that you respect their privacy.’’ Earlier this week Gilchrist extended gratitude for all the well wishes Martyn has received on behalf of the 54-year-old and his family. (Fox Sports)

Brahim Diaz has scored in all four matches for Morocco at his first Afcon

RETURNING captain Achraf Hakimi set up Brahim Diaz's winner as host nation Morocco reached the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) quarter-finals by seeing off a stubborn Tanzania side in Rabat. Starting his first match for more than two months following an ankle injury, Paris St-Germain rightback Hakimi fed Diaz to fire past Hussein Masalanga at the goalkeeper's near post midway through the second half, sending the Atlas Lions through to a last-eight meeting with South Africa or Cameroon on Friday (19:00 GMT). The Real Madrid play-

maker became the first Morocco player to score in four successive matches at the Afcon finals, having been the top scorer in qualifying with seven goals. Hakimi hammered a free-kick against the crossbar as part of a succession of attacks by his side after the break, with Masalanga also saving impressively from Abde Ezzalzouli's closerange header and Ayoub El Kaabi glancing Hakimi's cross wide. Feisal Salum had Tanzania's best chance shortly before Diaz struck, lifting the rebound over the bar after Atlas Lions goalkeeper Yassine Bounou had been

unable to hold Mohamed Hussein's curling shot from distance. Tanzania appealed unsuccessfully for a penalty during second-half stoppage time when Iddy Nado reached the ball in front of Adam Masina, who had a hand on the substitute's arm and put his elbow into the Taifa Stars man's back as he went down inside the box. Morocco, who are looking to secure a first continental title since 1976, will discover their quarter-final opponents when Bafana Bafana and the Indomitable Lions meet later on Sunday (19:00 GMT). (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, January 5, 2026

Root-Brook stand lifts England before weather intervenes in final Ashes test By Nick Mulvenney SYDNEY, (Reuters) - England enjoyed one of their better days of the Ashes series on Sunday when a 154-run stand between Joe Root and Harry Brook drove them to 211 for three before the opening day of the fifth test was brought to a premature end at Sydney Cricket Ground. Play was stopped for bad light 20 minutes before tea with storm clouds threatening, and abandoned to boos from the remnants of the 49,574 crowd some 90 minutes before the scheduled close of play. At 3-1 down in what has been a mostly miserable series for the tourists, nothing England can do will prevent Australia from lifting the urn in triumph at the end of the series. The sight of their two best batsmen finally combining for a meaningful contribution, however, would have brought a smile to the face of skipper Ben Stokes as well as the loyal battalion of travelling supporters. After slumping to 57-3 early on, fears of another green pitch reprising the chaos of England's consolation win inside two days in Melbourne last week were assuaged when Root and Brook came together in the middle. Root brought up the 100 partnership and his 67th test half century with the same stroke to deep backward point before Brook joined him on the 50-mark with a four through the covers a few

Joe Root and Harry Brook shared an unbeaten 154-run stand

balls later. Brook, who had given fans a few reminders of his sometimes rash shot-choices, was 78 not out and Root unbeaten on 72 when they were called off for light. "We're in very good position, obviously, three down at the end of play and hopefully we can make the most of that going into tomorrow," Brook told reporters after accumulating his highest score of the series. "It was a good pitch. When I first went in, it felt like the bounce was fairly steep, but then it started to get a little bit lower and slower and it just generally feels like a good wicket out there." Stokes earlier won the toss and elected to bat first with both teams deciding, after a week of debate, against bringing in a specialist spinner at a ground once considered Australia's most spin-friendly Ashes venue.

"It's history, it's a long time ago," said Australia assistant coach Daniel Vettori. "I think you've seen over the last three years has been diminishing results for spin bowlers here, which is obviously not something that we'd like, but it's the nature of the surface." At first, the day followed the script of much of the rest of the series with Ben Duckett making a decent start with 27 off 24 balls before edging a Mitchell Starc outswinger behind to give the left-arm quick his 27th wicket of the series. England's other opener, Zak Crawley, survived an early scare with an edge through the slips only to be trapped in front by Michael Neser after eking out 16. Jacob Bethell followed shortly afterwards, edging a Scott Boland delivery behind for 10, to bring Root and Brook together.

IKO Guyana and Men on Mission project impacting underprivileged youths SENSEI Jeffrey Wong says that his academy International Karate Organisation(IKO)-Guyana is making good progress working with President Irfaan Ali’s Men on Mission initiative to assist youths from various walks of life to be empowered and learn life lessons. Sensei Wong who has been involved in the discipline of Karate for more than 50 years says the many youths drawn from Tiger Bay, Albouystown, Sophia, East Ruimvelt and other areas are learning more than karate but discipline that will be vital in their lives to come. “The idea behind the Men on Mission for the children, the President provides for the children with food among other things, it not just about karate, the whole programme teaches them mathematics, school work, and different things. The President is trying hard to uplift them and bring them more into society and IKO is supporting the physical part, the karate, teaching them the discipline, building character, how we can help them be better persons.” Wong who was born and raised in Laing Avenue says that karate has had a transformative impact on his life and he is eager to see similar happen for hundreds of children that he sees from

Sensei Jeffrey Wong with Minister within the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports, Steven Jacobs

day to day. “I was brought up in a ghetto area and it was very rough and I see a different way of living when I started karate, so that is how I started to learn about karate and made me what I am today, teaching discipline and everything else, so I decided to stick with it, I started to train with Frank Woon-A-Tai and got myself a black belt with him and with Guyana Karate College, I was the vice- chairman of that college and five years ago I moved on and formed the International Karate Organisation of Guyana.” Wong said the support of President Ali has been instrumental in getting them into the schools and expanding their reach around the country and they continue to look for ways to help others. “Our Goal for IKO is to keep

improving our standards, improving the standard of karate. We want to bring karate up to a different level in Guyana. We think that modern days karate is the best created…. it is a very discipline sport and we saw karate is a way of life, so when you stick to the principles of karate and you start to learn karate then you will understand it will change you completely, make you a better person, you understand people more, it builds your character.” Sensei Wong said the many youngsters in that programme will have a chance to showcase their skills learnlng to compete in the IKO Guyana Inter-Schools’ Competition set to be hosted for the first time around May-June this year.

Bertrand, Walcott crowned athletes of the year at NAAATT awards TACARIGUA, Trinidad, (CMC) – Just days after being honoured nationally, track and field luminaries Leah Bertrand and Keshorn Walcott reaffirmed their dominance of the local sporting landscape, sweeping the top awards at the National Association of Athletics Administration (NAAATT) awards ceremony on January 3rd. Held at the National Racquet Centre, the event celebrated a spectacular 2025 season, headlined by the duo’s continued acclaim. Bertrand sprinted to the Senior Female Athlete of the Year title, while javelin king Keshorn Walcott launched himself to the Senior Male Athlete of the Year honour. This double triumph comes less than a week after both athletes claimed the TT Olympic Committee’s Sportswoman and Sportsman of the

Year awards on December 29th. The accolades are a fitting tribute to a landmark year. Walcott stormed back to the pinnacle of global athletics in September, capturing World Championship gold in Japan with a mighty throw of 88.16 metres. Bertrand, also a World Championships competitor, shattered personal barriers, setting new national standards in the 100m (10.92s) and 200m (22.54s). The awards evening further recognised their specific disciplines, with Walcott named Most Outstanding Male Field Athlete and Bertrand taking the Women’s Track Athlete of the Year prize. They were joined by an elite group of 2025 standouts. World Championships 400m silver medallist Jereem Richards was crowned Most Out-

standing Male Track Athlete, while Tyra Gittens-Spotsville earned the title of Most Outstanding Female Field Athlete. The ceremony also shone a spotlight on the nation’s promising future. Christopher Sammy, a double-gold medallist in the Under-17 1500m and 3000m at the Carifta Games, was named Youth Male Athlete of the Year. His middle-distance counterpart, Oshea Cummings, who took Carifta 1500m gold and 3000m bronze, claimed the Youth Female Athlete of the Year award. Janae De Gannes successfully defended her Junior Female Athlete of the Year title, a feat matched by Jaden Marchan, who won the junior male honour. Both secured individual medals at the Junior Pan American Games in Paraguay.

Curran, bowlers lead Desert Vipers to maiden ILT20 title

Desert Vipers players celebrate their victory

AFTER two heartbreaks, it was third time lucky for Desert Vipers as they broke the final hoodoo, defeating MI Emirates by 46 runs to claim their maiden ILT20 title in Dubai.

The win was headlined by captain Sam Curran, who held the Vipers innings together with an unbeaten 74 off 51 balls. He was helped by Max Holden (41 off 32) and Dan Lawrence (23 off

15) as Vipers notched up an impressive 182 for 4 in their 20 overs. MIE never got their chase going, losing wickets at regular intervals. Naseem Shah was at his fiery best, picking

up 3 for 18 in his four overs, while Usman Tariq curbed the runs in the middle overs, returning 2 for 20. David Payne also picked up 3 for 42, all three of his wickets coming in an over,

as MIE were bowled out for 136 in 18.3 overs. It was fitting that the most consistent team of the season took home the title. Vipers' win means that ILT20 has now had a differ-

ent winner in each of the first four seasons - Gulf Giants, MIE, Dubai Capitals and now Vipers. Fakhar Zaman didn't take time to go after Shakib Al (Turn to page 20)

Murray: Shallow and his entire Award-winning sports journalist Donald Oliver passes away CWI board must go PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Former West Indies cricketer Deryck Murray has called on Cricket West Indies (CWI) President, Dr Kishore Shallow and the entire board to step down. Speaking on the Mason and Guest radio programme on Tuesday last, the 82-yearold Murray contended that Shallow, who was recently appointed Minister of Tourism and Maritime Affairs in St Vincent and the Grenadines, could not hold both positions. Murray, a wicketkeeper who played 62 Tests and 16 One Day Internationals for the West Indies between 1963 and 1980, has maintained that it is not feasible for Shallow to continue as CWI president. “To have the president of Cricket West Indies and a functioning Minister of Government, especially one who has two portfolios, he cannot do that job. “So therefore, you need to appeal to him that in leaving he must work with the President of the CARICOM Sub-Committee and take the board with him,” Murray said. “The personnel of the board at the moment has to remove itself peacefully, amicably, and to allow a change to take place.” His comments have come following a decision by Shallow to continue in the role until his current term comes to an end in 2028. While Shallow revealed he will not seek re-election, he said he had spoken with CWI’s directors along with officials from the sport’s governing body, the International

Deryck Murray played 62 Tests and 16 ODIs for the West Indies

Cricket Council (ICC), and had been given the green light to continue as president while holding his ministerial portfolio. In giving his reasons for not stepping down, Shallow said he wanted to complete the reforms which were needed to improve the state of West Indies cricket both on and off the field. “…I know that some of you may be concerned about my recent appointment to Cabinet and what it may mean for my continued service as president of CWI. Let me be up front and transparent with you as I’ve always been,” Shallow said in the pre-recorded (Turn to page 20) statement earli-

JAMAICA Observer audio visual manager and prominent sports journalist Donald Oliver has died. Oliver, who was the Press Association of Jamaica’s Sports Journalist of the Year in 2015, died suddenly last Tuesday morning after complaining of chest pains. He was 40. An award-winning sports journalist and presenter, Oliver previously worked at CVM TV, TVJ and SportsMax, where he made his mark as a senior producer and high-profile commentator for over two decades. Following the closure of SportsMax, Oliver joined the Jamaica Observer Media Group as audiovisual manager in August of 2025. Observer Executive Editor Vernon Davidson hailed Oliver as a consummate professional and a “wonderful human being”. “I never met Donald before he joined us at the Observer earlier this year. I had only seen and heard him on television doing what he does best — sports commentary,” Davidson said. “It was very clear to me that he was a fountain of knowledge in a range of sports and his analyses were always insightful and extremely informative. I came to respect him for that,” Davidson continued, adding “I was therefore thrilled when he joined us at the Observer as I knew his contribution would enhance our coverage of sports.” He described Oliver’s sudden passing as “shocking” and noted that, “The media fraternity and Jamaica have lost a decent and extremely talented man. This one is tough.”

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The late award-winning sports journalist Donald Oliver

Sports journalist Leighton Levy was emotional as he spoke with the Observer about Oliver, who he worked with for nearly 20 years. “I’m struggling to find the words today,” said Levy, normally outspoken and a man of many words. “My friend and colleague, Donald Oliver, passed away this morning, and it feels unreal. We were preparing for a Year in Review stream tonight,” he revealed. “Just Sunday night, we were testing the stream, laughing, shaping ideas, and talking about what the conversation would be. I have known Donald for almost 20 years. He pro(Turn to page 20) duced me for

MONDAY, JANUARY 5, 2026