Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09-06-2026

President Dr Irfaan Ali received a visit from reigning Men’s Masters Bodybuilding Champion, Lindon ‘Muscles’ Burnett, at State House, on Monday. Burnett captured gold in the Men’s Masters Bodybuilding category and silver in the 85kg Open Bodybuilding category at the IFBB Roger Boyce Classic 2026, held in Barbados on May 16–17. During the visit, the seasoned bodybuilder shared his experience at the competition and presented his medals to the President (Office of the President photo)

A new chapter in Guyana’s cultural landscape was marked on Monday evening as the Euro-Guyanese Classical Music and Opera Association staged its inaugural concert, bringing internationally acclaimed opera and classical performance to the historic St. George’s Cathedral in Georgetown

GDF officers engage CARICOM on regional crime and security initiatives

A DELEGATION of officers from the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF’s) Senior Command and Staff Course Number 20 has engaged officials of the CARICOM Secretariat in discussions focused on regional crime and security co-operation, highlighting the importance of collaborative approaches to addressing emerging threats across the Caribbean.

The visit, which took place on June 4 at the CARICOM Secretariat in Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, formed part of efforts to strengthen understanding of the regional body’s role in advancing collective security initiatives among member states.

During the engagement, the officers participated in a knowledge-sharing session

hosted by the Secretariat’s Crime and Security Programme, where discussions centred on CARICOM’s approach to tackling current and emerging security challenges through functional co-operation and regional partnerships.

The session was led by Sherwin Stephenson and Mareesha Stephens, who provided insights into the Community’s crime and security framework and the mechanisms used to support co-operation among member states. The interactive exchange examined CARICOM’s role in coordinating regional responses to security concerns and fostering collaboration among defence, law enforcement and other security stakeholders throughout the Caribbean.

According to the Secretar-

iat, the discussions offered participants a deeper understanding of how regional institutions work collective-

Cancer survivors honoured as initiative calls for greater focus on early detection

EIGHTEEN cancer survivors were honoured on Sunday as the Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc., in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Massy Foundation, hosted its inaugural World Cancer Survivors Day celebration, highlighting the importance

of early detection, prevention and support services in Guyana’s fight against cancer.

The event, dubbed “Stories of Strength: Celebrating Survivors,” brought together survivors, healthcare professionals, government officials, corporate partners and

community supporters to recognise the resilience of individuals who have overcome cancer and to raise awareness about cancer prevention and treatment.

Delivering the feature address, Chief Executive Officer of the Lotus Cancer Initiative Inc., Dr Shivani

ly to address transnational crime, emerging security threats and other challenges affecting member states.

As part of the visit, the GDF delegation also toured the CARICOM Secretariat, where they received an

overview of the institution’s functions, operations and contribution to regional integration and development.

The engagement underscored the Secretariat’s ongoing collaboration with defence and security agencies across the region and reinforced CARICOM’s commitment to strengthening collective responses to crime and security issues through co-operation, information sharing and capacity building.

The visit forms part of broader efforts to enhance professional development and regional awareness among officers participating in the GDF’s Senior Command and Staff Course, which prepares military leaders for senior command and strategic decision-making roles.

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony (centre standing) who attended the event, commended the work of the Lotus Cancer Initiative and urged the organisation to make the survivorship celebration an annual national observance

Samlall, paid tribute to the survivors and underscored the organisation’s commitment to improving cancer outcomes across the country.

“Today is about our survivors. Thank you for your courage and your strength. Thank you for showing us what resilience looks like,”

Dr Samlall said, adding that the experiences of survivors demonstrate that hope can prevail even in the face of fear and uncertainty.

She explained that the organisation was founded on the principle that no one should die from preventable cancers and that no individual should face the disease alone.

Drawing on her experience in healthcare, Dr Samlall highlighted persistent challenges such as delayed screenings, late diagnoses, limited access to information and barriers to treatment and support ser-

vices. According to Dr Samlall, the Lotus Cancer Initiative seeks to address those issues through education, prevention, early detection, advocacy and patient support, while complementing national efforts to reduce the burden of cancer.

One of the most emotional aspects of the programme was the sharing of personal testimonies by survivors who recounted their experiences battling the disease.

Cancer survivor and advocate Desiree Edghill reflected on her diagnosis with leiomyosarcoma in 2017, describing how her life changed after years of working to support others through HIV-related programmes.

“Cancer changed my life, but it also strengthened my commitment to helping others,” Edghill said, noting that TURN TO PAGE 9

Single national dashboard for drugs and supplies to go fully live on July 1

-- President Ali says, cautions that any officer flouting new SOPs will be sent home

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan

Ali has announced that a single, centralised system for managing pharmaceuticals and medical supplies across Guyana’s public health sector will become the only platform in operation from 1 July, as Government moves to tighten accountability, cut wastage and guarantee drug availability countrywide.

Speaking at a meeting with health officials on Monday, the Head of State said the new Materials Management Unit (MMU) dashboard system is already live, but from next month all parallel arrangements will be scrapped.

“On the first of July, every other system will be collapsed out of operation, and this will be the only system in operation from the first of July,” the President said.

He stressed that the State has made “enormous investments” in medical services, customer care, pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, and that the new system is designed to ensure the public sees the benefit of that spending through consistent access to medicines and better service.

“We have invested heavily in medical supplies and pharmaceuticals, and there is no reason why any health centre should not have about 90 per cent availability every single day of the year,” the president said.

ONE UNIFIED PLATFORM, STRICT SOPS

According to the President, the MMU-run platform is built around clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

items, such as anti-venom, must be stocked even if usage is low, but insisted the system is built to constrain unnecessary accumulation and wastage.

“Our goal in this new system is to minimize loss through exploration, damage, and overstocking to minimize it to below industry standard. We know there are certain things that you can’t avoid stocking,” he added.

The MMU will work with regional health services to

governing procurement, stock management and emergency purchasing. Regional Health Officers (RHOs), hospital administrators and other senior officials will be held directly accountable for adhering to the new procedures.

“We’ve invested in a system now at the MMU that has clear SOPs, and all the regional health officers, the hospitals, administrators, you’ll be held accountable based on that system. Any-

body who work outside of that system, outside of the SOPs in that system, you will be sent home,” he warned.

The system is configured as a dashboard that allows officials to see what is available across the network of facilities in real time and to plan accordingly.

“The system is designed as a dashboard, so that you can see what is available,” he said.

He warned that any of-

ficial working outside the established MMU framework and its SOPs will face removal.

CUTTING LOSSES BELOW INDUSTRY STANDARDS

A key objective of the new platform is to reduce losses from expiration, damage and overstocking to levels below accepted international benchmarks. Dr. Ali acknowledged that some

monitor stock patterns, use the dashboard data to anticipate needs, and avoid both shortages and costly surpluses.

TRAINING AND IT SUPPORT IN EVERY REGION

The President disclosed that training on the new system is ongoing in several regions, and that Government will ensure each region has

adequate IT support staff assigned to keep the platform functioning smoothly.

“Currently, they are completing training in some regions… In every single region, we have to have the IT support staff assigned.”

He also signalled that some changes in regional health leadership are under consideration to match the demands of the reformed system, with discussions and appointments now under way.

SECTOR-WIDE REACH, TRANSPARENCY AND TRUST

Dr. Ali emphasised that the MMU dashboard will not be limited to the Ministry of Health’s internal operations but will extend across the entire health ecosystem, including the Georgetown Public Hospital and regional hospitals.

Beyond stock control, he framed the reform as part of a wider push for transparency, efficiency and public trust in the healthcare system.

“We are building a worldclass healthcare system… by the way we manage, by our level of transparency and accountability,” President Ali added. Linking the backend reforms to the patient experience, the President reiterated that investments in infrastructure and supplies must translate into better service at health centres, from waiting areas and washrooms to the way staff interact with patients.

“Quality healthcare is about customer service, patient management, assertive management, it’s not only the medical, the hardcore medical component,” he stressed.

Carnegie School expands vocational training through community partnerships

MORE Guyanese will soon have access to technical and vocational training closer to their communities following the signing of new partnership agreements between the Carnegie School of Home Economics and two Practical Instruction Centres.

On Monday, the Carnegie School signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Fellowship Practical Instruction Centre and the Beterverwagting Practical Instruction Centre, a move aimed at decentralising skills training and increasing opportunities for individuals to acquire workforce-ready competencies.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the Ministry of Education to equip citizens with practical skills needed to participate in

Guyana’s rapidly expanding economy.

Under the agreements, the Beterverwagting Practical Instruction Centre will offer Level One programmes in Commercial Food Preparation and Garment Making, while the Fellowship Practical Instruction Centre will introduce Level One Commercial Food Preparation training.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Deputy Chief Education Officer responsible for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Dr Ritesh Tularam, said the partnerships represent an important step in ensuring equitable access to quality education and skills development.

“As our country continues to develop, it is important that we create opportunities

for people in every community to gain the skills they need to contribute meaningfully to national development and improve their own livelihoods. These partnerships ensure that access to quality training is no longer limited by geography,” Dr Tularam said.

Education officials noted that the initiative is expected to bring training opportunities directly into communities, reducing barriers to participation while enabling more residents to pursue vocational qualifications that can lead to employment, entrepreneurship and income generation.

The programme expansion comes at a time when Guyana is experiencing significant economic growth across several sectors, increasing demand for skilled workers in industries ranging

The Carnegie School signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the Fellowship Practical Instruction Centre and the Beterverwagting Practical Instruction Centre, a move aimed at decentralising skills training and increasing opportunities for individuals to acquire workforce-ready competencies

from hospitality and services to manufacturing and small business development.

According to the Ministry of Education, the agreements represent the first phase of a wider expansion strategy. Plans are already being developed to establish similar partnerships with additional Practical Instruction Centres across the country, allowing more

communities to benefit from specialised training programmes.

For decades, the Carnegie School of Home Economics has played a key role in developing practical and occupational skills among Guyanese. Through its latest collaborations, the institution aims to broaden its reach beyond its traditional campus setting and support the government’s objective of building a skilled, adaptable and competitive workforce. Education officials believe the initiative will not only strengthen workforce development but also empower individuals with marketable skills that can improve livelihoods and create new economic opportunities within their communities.

Gov’t ramps up hinterland agriculture investment with

focus on food security and economic opportunity

HUNDREDS of farmers across Region Nine are already benefiting from agricultural support programmes implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture following commitments made during a ministerial outreach to the region last month, according to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha.

The interventions, which include the distribution of poultry, beehives, agricultural inputs, planting materials and livestock support, are aimed at strengthening food production, improving livelihoods and creating economic opportunities in hinterland communities.

Among the major initiatives undertaken so far is the distribution of 2,000 Black Giant birds to 80 farmers across several villages. Farmers from Marcanata received 160 birds, Potaranau received

400, St. Ignatius received 440, Tabatinga received 800, and Hiawa received 200 birds.

Minister Mustapha said the Black Giant Programme, implemented through the Guyana Livestock Development Authority, has expanded significantly over the past five years as part of efforts to make hinterland communities more self-sufficient in poultry production.

He explained that the ini-

tiative not only strengthens food security but also creates opportunities for families to generate income and contribute to the growth of village economies.

The ministry has also continued efforts to promote apiculture in the region.

Farmers and community groups from Nappi received beehives and related support to expand honey production. Members of the Nabbee group were provided with 15 beehives and 200 coffee plants to diversify their agricultural activities and increase income-generating opportunities.

In St. Ignatius, beekeeper Rolston Usher received replacement hives after 12 of his beehives were washed away during adverse weather conditions, helping him restore his operations.

Crop farmers have also benefited from targeted interventions. In Moco Moco, residents received agricultural inputs to assist with land preparation as well as rice seeds to cultivate five acres of rice.

Meanwhile, the Bina Hill Institute and the Aranaputa Women’s Group received shade-house netting, plastic and other materials to support agricultural training and food production activities.

Cassava farmers in Quari and St. Ignatius were supplied with cassava planting

materials to increase production, while farmers in Sawariwau received 40 bags of fertiliser to boost crop yields. Pasture seeds were also distributed to several villages to improve grazing areas and support livestock development.

According to Minister Mustapha, the interventions reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring that agricultural resources and services reach communities across the country, including those in remote hinterland regions.

“When we visit these villages and communities, and farmers raise issues and commitments are made, we have an obligation to deliver,” the minister said.

He added that the government remains focused on implementing short-, medium- and long-term solutions aimed at improving livelihoods, expanding economic opportunities and promoting sustainable development in communities nationwide.

The latest interventions come as the government continues to invest heavily in agriculture as a key pillar of national development, with particular emphasis on increasing production, improving food security and creating greater economic opportunities in hinterland and rural communities.

GPF ready for future major events following Independence success - says Top Cop

By Shaniya Harding

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) is now better equipped than ever to manage large-scale national events after successfully overseeing security operations during Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary celebrations, according to Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken.

Speaking during a recent edition of Police RoundUp, Commissioner Hicken said the smooth execution of the nationwide celebrations demonstrated the Force’s growing capacity to coordinate complex security operations and has positioned it to handle future major events without incident.

“Independence period was well managed. We recorded a peaceful environment across most regions, and this was because of early planning, coordination and cooperation with members of the public, members of the police generally, and citizens,” Hicken said.

The celebrations, which featured activities across multiple regions and attracted thousands of participants, required one of the most extensive security operations undertaken by the Force this year.

Police ranks were deployed across the country to maintain public order, manage traffic and ensure the safety of participants attending the events.

According to the Commissioner, the operation was intelligence-led and focused heavily on prevention.

The Force deployed a combination of foot and mobile patrols, traffic officers, marine units and rapid response teams, all supported by real-time communication and monitoring systems.

He explained that preparations began well in advance and involved a coordinated

approach among police commanders, departmental heads and other security agencies.

“This is part of our posture whenever there’s a big event in the country. We first coordinate internally with commanders and heads of

maintain situational awareness throughout the celebrations.

Among the technologies utilised were radio communication systems, surveillance cameras and body-worn cameras, all of which assisted

departments, then engage the Guyana Defence Force and other sister services, along with stakeholders from the private sector and other organisations involved in the event,” Hicken said.

A major contributor to the operation’s success, he noted, was the increased use of technology.

The Commissioner said modern communication and surveillance tools enhanced command and control capabilities, allowing officers to make faster decisions and

in monitoring activities and responding quickly to emerging situations. “We started with a safe city. Now, we are moving towards a safe country,” Hicken said, adding that technology would continue to play a central role in the Force’s future operations.

The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong police presence in public spaces. He said visible policing not only reassures citizens but also serves as a deterrent to criminal activity.

The operation was executed in three phases: deployment of personnel, management of activities during the celebrations and the safe withdrawal of ranks following the completion of events.

Traffic management formed a key component of the strategy, with officers stationed along major roadways and at transportation hubs to ensure the orderly movement of people and vehicles.

Security operations also extended to major river crossings and stellings, where large crowds gathered during the festivities.

While other agencies managed passenger transportation, police focused on maintaining public order and preventing disturbances.

Hicken credited the operation’s success to extensive collaboration among law enforcement agencies, regional traffic departments, marine units, community policing groups, emergency response teams and other members of the joint services.

He noted that national events require a unified approach involving multiple agencies and levels of leadership, including the police, military, fire service and prison service.

According to the Commissioner, this coordinated framework aligns with President Irfaan Ali’s vision of a unified national security structure capable of responding effectively to any

situation.

Despite challenges associated with crowd management, traffic control and maintaining public order, Hicken said the operation achieved its objectives without major incidents.

“The main challenges were crowd control, traffic management, maintenance of order, planning, discipline and execution. These were all efficiently and effectively managed,” he stated.

The Commissioner commended ranks of the Guyana Police Force and members of the joint services for their

professionalism and commitment throughout the celebrations.

Reflecting on the operation’s outcome, Hicken expressed confidence that the lessons learned and partnerships strengthened during the Independence celebrations have prepared the Force for future national events.

“Based on our objectives and the successes we gained, we are now a team together. We are ready to plan any other major event for Guyana incident-free based on the experience we had,” he said.

Stronger Systems, Better Care

PRESIDENT Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s declaration that a single national dashboard for pharmaceuticals and medical supplies will be fully functional from July 1, 2024, may be a game-changer for Guyana’s healthcare system.

The new MMU platform, when properly implemented, could solve one of the biggest headaches for patients and healthcare providers: the unavailability of key drugs and medical supplies despite huge public investment.

For years Guyanese have been hearing of shortages in health centres, delayed deliveries, expired medicines and inefficiencies in the distribution of supplies.

These problems have not only inconvenienced patients but also eroded public confidence in the healthcare system.

It is a reasonable expectation for the President to call for health facilities to have at least 90 per cent availability of pharmaceuti -

cals throughout the year, especially when one considers the billions of dollars poured into the sector.

So, the decision to consolidate existing systems into a single national platform is a welcome one.

It has been so fragmented for so long that it has been difficult to accurately track stock levels, anticipate shortages and avoid waste.

A real-time dashboard that can track supplies across regions and facilities has the potential to improve planning, increase accountability and ensure that medicines reach people who need them when they need them.

Also important is the focus on standard operating procedures and accountability. President Ali’s warning that officials who operate outside the established system and its protocols will be removed from their positions sends a strong signal that the era of informal workarounds and weak oversight must come to an end.

Such language may sound harsh to some but accountability is needed if reforms are to deliver meaningful results. But technology alone will not solve systemic problems. The success of the new platform depends critically on the competence of its managers, the quality of the training given and the availability of technical support in all regions.

This is the critical element in the reform, the government is committed to providing dedicated information technology staff to support the system.

And most importantly, the President recognised that healthcare quality is about much more than medicines and medical devices.

His comments on customer service, patient management and the state of the healthcare facilities touch on issues that have been raised by many Guyanese over the years.

Patient experience is not just about the treatment they get from

doctors and nurses but also about the cleanliness of washrooms, comfort of waiting areas, professionalism of security personnel and courtesy of front-desk staff.

These might seem like minor details, but they contribute to public trust and confidence in the healthcare system.

The government’s ongoing drive to modernise health facilities, establish standards for patient comfort and build mechanisms by which citizens can directly report concerns are steps in the right direction.

But a world-class healthcare system is not just about the equipment and the modern hospitals. It’s about how well it serves people on a day-to-day basis.

Now the challenge is implementation. Guyana has invested heavily in health care infrastructure, specialist services and pharmaceutical supplies.

Citizens will rightly expect these investments to lead to tangible

improvements at clinics, hospitals and health centres across the country.

Therefore, the launch of the single MMU dashboard on July 1 should be viewed as more than an administrative upgrade. It tests whether technology, accountability and leadership can combine to deliver an efficient, transparent and patient-centred health care system. If the reforms work, patients will spend less time looking for medicines, health workers will have the means to do their work and public confidence in the system will swell. If they fail, the cost will not be measured only in wasted resources, but in lost trust.

Building a world-class healthcare system is an ambitious goal. More than investment will be needed to achieve it. It will require discipline, accountability and an unswerving commitment to placing patients at the centre of every decision.

Development Bank governance must be built on competence, oversight and institutional discipline

Dear Editor,

THE criticisms advanced in the Monday, June 8, 2026 edition of the Kaieteur News are not persuasive. The Guyana Development Bank is not conceived as a political institution; it is a financial institution with a development mandate. That distinction is fundamental. A development bank should be governed on the basis of competence, fiduciary judgment and relevant sectoral expertise.

It is, therefore, entirely appropriate that its Board of Directors comprises professionals drawn from banking, finance, economics, law, agriculture, technology and other relevant disciplines necessary to guide a modern development finance institution.

On that basis, there is no

compelling case to embed civil society or Opposition representation at Board level.

Experience across other institutions has shown that such arrangements can introduce unnecessary disruption and politicisation, with adverse consequences for institutional credibility and effectiveness. Avoiding that outcome is prudent institutional design.

Importantly, the absence of such representation at board level does not in any way diminish oversight or public scrutiny; it simply preserves the governance integrity of the bank while leaving accountability to operate through the appropriate constitutional and statutory channels.

The claim that the bank will operate without oversight from the Opposition, transparency bodies or civil

society is equally without merit. Oversight already exists through the National Assembly, to which the bank’s annual report and audited financial statements must be tabled.

That alone creates a formal mechanism for parliamentary scrutiny, including by the Opposition. Beyond that, the bank’s operations and finances will be subject to public examination, given that audited accounts and reporting obligations place its performance squarely in the public domain.

In other words, the suggestion that the institution will somehow function in darkness is simply false. Its governance, finances and performance will be open to scrutiny by Parliament, the media, civil society and the wider public.

As for the handwringing over bribery, kickbacks and

corruption, that criticism ignores a basic principle of legislative drafting: An Act does not need to redundantly restate legal prohibitions that are already covered under other applicable laws. Guyana’s legal framework already provides for offences relating to fraud, bribery, corruption, misconduct in public office, financial misappropriation and related wrongdoing.

The absence of repetitive wording in this Bill does not create a legal vacuum. It simply means that the legislation is not cluttered with provisions that are already addressed elsewhere in the statute book. To argue otherwise is either a misunderstanding of how laws are drafted or a deliberate attempt to manufacture alarm.

The criticism about vagueness in relation to eligibility criteria is also mis-

placed. The Bill is intentionally structured to allow the bank sufficient flexibility to innovate and evolve in its financing products over time. That is a strength, not a weakness. Development finance is not static. Products, risk tools, target sectors and eligibility rules must adapt to economic realities, policy priorities and the needs of borrowers. It would be poor institutional design to attempt to hard-code every operational detail into primary legislation.

That is precisely why the credit manual, operational manual and other internal instruments exist—to deal comprehensively and in much greater depth with eligibility criteria, risk assessment, approval thresholds, monitoring and recovery processes.

The Act establishes the framework; the operating in-

struments provide the detail. That is standard, sensible institutional architecture. Taken together, the objections raised in the article do not withstand serious scrutiny. They confuse politics with governance, ignore existing mechanisms of parliamentary and public oversight, misrepresent basic principles of legislative drafting, and attack flexibility in institutional design as though it were a flaw. It is not. If anything, the criticisms lack merit, substance and constructive value. A development bank should be judged by the strength of its framework, the integrity of its governance, the quality of its operational rules and, ultimately, its developmental impact.

Yours faithfully, Joel Bhagwandin

All fictions, no facts: The Aubrey Norton Interview

THIS is my second assessment of the interview Aubrey Norton gave to Mr. Kadackie Amsterdam of Kams TV (which is not a television station but a podcast). The first take was published on Thursday, June 4, 2026, captioned, “Aubrey Norton expresses his Freudian mind.”

In this piece here, I examine some deceptions that show the deep decline in Norton’s politics.

First, he said he wants the PNC at the moment to be a party of unity and not one in which there are factional quarrels (my words).

To emphasize the point, he says when congressional competitions are over, the PNC would unite around its leaders. The facts do not support Norton’s contention.

Mr. Norton has always had troubled relations with PNC leaders and they were never kept away from the public eyes. All of Norton’s

quarrels with his leaders were done in full view of the public’s gaze and in all instances, Mr. Norton’s fights weakened the PNC.

When he was contesting the leader position at the last congress against Norton, Roysdale Forde said on the Freddie Kissoon Show that Norton was against partly leaders making public criticism of the party. But Forde went on to say that Norton himself used to do the exact thing that Norton was chastising other PNC leaders for.

And the facts are gargantuan.

Party leader Desmond Hoyte sacked Mr. Norton as General Secretary (GS) of the PNC with a statement that has become indelible. Hoyte said that the GS is a creature of the party leader. Party leader, Robert Corbin sued his own executive, Aubrey Norton, for libel for public pronouncements Norton is alleged to have made. The incident was in 2009. Then

in 2012, the fight went public again with the Stabroek printing these words over the confrontation: “Norton has had a long-running rivalry with Corbin.”

There were hardly any unity instincts in the PNC, so either Norton is happy to spout fictions or has a faulty memory. Vincent Alexander challenged Corbin for party leader, and the quarrel among the two led Corbin to ask Alexander to resign as a PNC GECOM commissioner. The spat between the two led to Alexander’s resignation from the PNC which was never renewed. James McAllister, who backed Alexander, was recalled from parliament by Corbin.

Party leader, Desmond Hoyte was openly challenged by two of his executives, Deborah Backker and Raphael Trotman. PNC stalwart Dr. Faith Harding, who ran against David Granger for leadership, openly said that

the process was not above board. Which party unity Norton is talking about when, as leader, he suffered more public internecine quarrels among his executives than Hoyte, Corbin and Granger?

Mr. Norton in his interview had no clue as to what he was talking about. He said that in 1992 and in 2015 the PNC brought in newcomers, some of whom in 2015 went into parliament, but they proved not to be loyal soldiers because they were not from the bosom of the party (my choice of words). He said you have to be careful with such newcomers.

But if Norton has memory of the unreliability of newcomers to the PNC, how come he chose these newcomers to become MPs who joined the PNC just a month before the 2025 general elections in 2025? What is even more frightening is

Turning financial reform into real development

Dear Editor,

IN 2006, my friend, Tarron Khemraj, now a professor, presented a paper at the Bank of Guyana in which he demonstrated why the local banking system’s contribution to development was relatively limited. In his study, later published in the Journal of Social and Economic Studies, he attributed this outcome to the size of both the economy and the banking system.

According to Professor Khemraj, Guyana’s small economy meant that the volume of bankable business opportunities was limited and relatively risky. Given the prudential regulations that banks are required to observe, financial institutions tended to target lowrisk projects and invest their funds in safe securities, both locally and overseas.

The remaining funds, described as excess liquidity, often remained idle and unremunerated. As a consequence, many businesses were starved of capital, and the economy did not fully benefit from the financial

reforms implemented since the 1990s.

Professor Khemraj also noted that the banking system was highly concentrated. This concentration helped explain the high lending rates and wide interest-rate spreads. Apart from the collateral requirements that are standard throughout the banking industry worldwide, these high interest rates effectively locked many businesses out of the formal financial system.

Since 2020, the number of bankable business opportunities across multiple sectors has grown significantly, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) poised to benefit from these emerging prospects. However, one of the most significant constraints preventing these businesses from fully capitalizing on these opportunities remains the combination of high interest rates and stringent collateral requirements. Recognizing this reality, the Government promised to establish a Development Bank. Within months of being re-elected, it moved to advance plans for the institu-

tion. This bank, which could address a critical gap identified in Professor Khemraj’s earlier analysis, is expected to provide more accessible financing options for SMEs. Businesses that have been burdened by high borrowing costs or excluded from traditional lending channels could gain greater access to affordable capital to expand their operations.

The Development Bank is also expected to help derisk projects through co-financing mechanisms that could unlock a portion of the excess liquidity currently held within the banking system. For the first time, many SMEs may have access to affordable financing on a scale not achieved through previous financial-sector reforms alone.

We are now only days away from the establishment of what could become one of the most transformative institutions in Guyana’s post-independence history. The Government has allocated the necessary resources and is moving to enact the legislation required to establish this important institution

that Mr. Norton chose not to put one of these newcomers on probation but made him leader of the parliamentary opposition. The gentleman, Terrance Campbell has no experience in parliament, while PNC stalwart, Ganesh Mahipal, does. A sensible thing to do if Norton wanted to elevate Campbell was to announce that he would be understudying Mahipal for a year.

Finally, the mediocrity of the interview went straight to the skies when Norton used two words; “rebuilt” and “consolidate.” The use of these words will allow Norton detractors to pounce on him. But has Norton got any detractors? Not since Burnham has a PNC leader held absolute hegemony over the PNC.

Mr. Norton indicated that he will run again for the leader position, but he thinks the

congress slated for this year will be postponed to next year so the party can rebuild and consolidate things. But the reality on the ground shows that the hemorrhaging that began for two consecutive years is continuing. Less than two weeks ago, six big names defected to the PPP including the PNC’s deputy leader. So instead of rebuilding and consolidating, the party is losing its foundation. Not to mention that finance has become a nightmare for the PNC. What Norton is rebuilding and consolidating is something that does not exist, like the Emperor’s new clothes.

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.

in a relatively short period. The projected benefits are significant. In a paper I recently co-authored with Professor Khemraj, titled “Bank Concentration, Interest Rate Spread and the Case for a Development Bank in Guyana,” we quantified some of the potential gains that such an institution could deliver. Our findings suggest that Guyana has an opportunity to develop a financial system that is more closely aligned with its development aspirations and better equipped to support sustained economic growth.

If successfully implemented, the Development Bank could help transform idle capital into productive investment, expand opportunities for SMEs, and strengthen the link between financial-sector development and national development. In doing so, it may become an important pillar in Guyana’s ongoing journey toward broader economic growth and shared prosperity.

Yours faithfully, Sukrishnalall Pasha

Bringing government closer to the people

Dear Editor,

RESIDENT Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s recent outreach to Region Seven offers an important example of what people-centred governance should look like in practice.

Despite challenging weather conditions and concerns about travel safety, the President, members of Cabinet, and technical teams proceeded with planned engagements in Kamarang, Batavia, and surrounding communities, reinforcing the principle that development should not be delayed because of geography or adverse conditions.

The President’s statement that “the people live in that weather” captured a simple but powerful reality. Too often, remote and hinterland communities face delays in accessing services, infrastructure, and opportunities because of logistical challenges. By choosing to continue the outreach despite heavy rainfall, the Government demonstrated that citizens living in these areas

deserve the same level of attention and commitment as those living on the coast. Equally significant was the emphasis placed on direct engagement. Rather than treating the outreach as a ceremonial exercise, the President described it as a “family conversation”, encouraging residents to openly discuss their concerns, priorities, and aspirations. This approach reflects a model of governance that values listening as much as decision-making. The presence of technical officers from agencies such as the National Insurance Scheme, Ministry of Agriculture, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, Guyana Forestry Commission, Guyana Water Incorporated, Housing, Social Services, and the Office of the President further underscored the practical nature of the engagement. Residents were not merely given promises; they were provided with direct access to officials capable of addressing individual concerns and advancing TURN TO PAGE 8

Thirty-two young entrepreneurs graduate from national business development programme

THIRTY-TWO students from across Guyana have successfully completed the Young Entrepreneur Smart Start (YESS) Programme, marking another milestone in efforts to equip young people with the entrepreneurial, leadership and financial skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.

The graduates were honoured during a ceremony on Saturday attended by parents, educators, Ministry of Education officials, programme facilitators and other stakeholders.

The YESS Programme is a collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Education and ActionCOACH Guyana that provides students with free access to internationally recognized entrepreneurial training.

Over the course of three months, participants engaged in interactive lessons, practical assignments, business planning exercises and personal development activities designed to strengthen their business acumen and leadership capabilities.

Addressing the ceremony, Chief Training Officer Tatianna Elcock congratulated the graduates and encouraged

The event celebrated the achievements of participants who completed the intensive 12-week entrepreneurship and personal development programme.

them to continue applying the skills and knowledge gained through the programme. Programme Facilitator Premendra Parsan also reflected on the participants’ growth and development throughout the training period.

Feature remarks were delivered by Omwattie Ramdin, who underscored the importance of fostering innovation, entrepreneurial thinking and leadership among Guyana’s youth as the country continues to diversify and expand its economy.

Graduates Bhumika Mangal and Emma Munro shared personal reflections on their experiences in the programme, describing how the training enhanced their confidence, strengthened their understanding of business principles and helped them better prepare for future opportunities.

All 32 participants received certificates recognising their successful com-

pletion of the programme’s requirements. The certificates were presented by Ministry of Education representatives and programme facilitators.

President of the YESS Foundation, Olga Gonçalves, congratulated the graduates and urged them to continue developing their entrepreneurial skills while seeking opportunities to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

The YESS Programme forms part of a global initiative supported by the ActionCOACH Foundation, which aims to cultivate entrepreneurial mindsets among young people through practical business education and real-world learning experiences. The curriculum covers areas including entrepreneurship, financial literacy, goal setting, leadership, sales and marketing, customer experience, business planning and mindset development.

As part of the programme,

participants completed vision boards, developed business plans and prepared business pitches while working toward earning a Business Basics Certificate.

Organisers said the graduation represented more than the completion of a course, describing it as the beginning of a journey for the young participants.

“These 32 young people have demonstrated initiative, resilience and a willingness to invest in their futures,” organisers noted. “We are confident they will become leaders, innovators and contributors to Guyana’s continued growth.”

The programme’s organisers also reaffirmed their commitment to expanding opportunities for youth entrepreneurship across Guyana, with the aim of empowering more young people to pursue business ventures and leadership roles in the future.

Bringing government...

solutions.

The outreach also highlighted the Government’s continued investment in community development. In Batavia, residents received updates on plans for additional water systems, road improvements, river safety initiatives, landing upgrades, food security programmes, eco-tourism opportunities, and community safety measures.

The announcement of two additional water projects, including one for the school and another for Section Two, demonstrates the importance of sustained engagement between government and communities.

Perhaps most important-

ly, the Region Seven visit reinforced the principle that leadership requires presence. Effective governance cannot be confined to offices in Georgetown; it must involve going into communities, understanding local realities, and ensuring that development reaches every citizen regardless of location.

The challenges facing hinterland communities are often complex and long-standing.

Addressing them requires more than policy announcements. It requires consistent engagement, accountability, and follow-through.

The recent outreach showed that meaningful de-

velopment is best achieved when government officials are willing to meet people where they live, listen to their concerns, and work alongside them to find solutions.

As Guyana continues its rapid development, it is essential that no community is left behind. The commitment expressed during the Region Seven outreach— that development should continue regardless of distance, terrain, or weather—is a principle that deserves continued support and implementation across the country. Yours faithfully, Suelle Findlay

Local Government Ministry reviews progress at 20th weekly departmental meeting

THE Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development on Monday held its 20th weekly departmental meeting, bringing together senior officials to review ongoing programmes, assess emerging priorities and strengthen coordination across key areas of work.

The meeting was chaired by Minister Priya Manickchand and included heads of departments and senior technical staff responsible for delivering services across the country’s local government system.

According to the Ministry, the discussions focused on a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving community infrastructure and enhancing the delivery of local services, with particular emphasis on the management and upgrading of markets and recreational spaces nationwide.

Officials reviewed ongoing efforts to modernise municipal and neighbourhood markets, improve operational

efficiency and promote increased economic activity within these key commercial hubs. Attention was also given to the maintenance and enhancement of recreational areas to ensure they remain safe, accessible and beneficial to residents.

The Ministry noted that these spaces play an important role in supporting com-

munity life, facilitating small business activity and providing social and recreational opportunities for citizens across urban and rural areas.

The meeting also examined opportunities for expanded partnerships with international and local organisations, including discussions on potential collaboration with The King’s Foundation.

Cancer survivors honoured as initiative calls for greater...

she continues to advocate for cancer patients and provide support to those facing similar challenges.

Prostate cancer survivor Aubrey Knight used the opportunity to encourage men, particularly those over the age of 40, to undergo regular screenings. He pointed out that advances in testing have made early detection more accessible through simple blood tests, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, who attended the event, commended the work of the Lotus Cancer Initiative and urged the organisation to make the survivorship celebration an annual national observance.

The Health Minister said that survivor stories serve as powerful reminders that cancer can be overcome and can help encourage individuals to seek screening and treatment at an early stage.

“Seeing survivors is proof that cancer can be beaten. Their stories help replace fear with hope and motivate

others to seek screening and treatment early,” Dr Anthony said.

He also highlighted government’s efforts to reduce cancer rates, including the ongoing Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme. According to Dr Anthony, increasing HPV vaccine coverage from the current 69 per cent to 90 per cent and maintaining those levels over a five-year period would place Guyana on a clear path towards eliminating cervical cancer. The event culminated with the recognition of 18 cancer survivors whose stories of perseverance, faith and determination underscored the importance of awareness, prevention and timely access to healthcare.

In a symbolic gesture to mark World Cancer Survivors Day, the Lotus Cancer Initiative partnered with the authorities of the Demerara Harbour Bridge to illuminate the structure in lavender, a colour associated with cancer survivorship. The tribute honoured survivors while

FROM PAGE 2

also expressing solidarity with individuals currently undergoing treatment.

The organisation also expressed appreciation to its title sponsor, the Massy Foundation, along with other corporate and community partners whose contributions supported the event. Among those in attendance were Region Four Regional Executive Officer, Juan Edghill Jr., Massy Foundation Chairperson, Teisha Milner, and Jean Cristophel of Expertise France.

The Lotus Cancer Initiative’s leadership team includes public health and medical professionals dedicated to advancing cancer awareness and improving access to care throughout Guyana.

As cancer remains a major public health challenge, organisers said the initiative will continue working to ensure that more lives are saved through prevention, education, early diagnosis and compassionate support for patients and their families.

These partnerships are expected to support capacity building, community development initiatives and broader efforts to strengthen local governance systems.

Officials underscored that such collaborations could provide technical expertise, training and development support as the Ministry continues to advance its programme of modernising local government structures and services.

The Ministry stated that its weekly departmental meetings serve as a key mechanism for monitoring progress, addressing operational challenges and ensuring coordinated implemen -

tation of policies and programmes across all divisions.

Through these regular engagements, the Ministry aims to improve accountability, strengthen inter-departmental communication and ensure that development initiatives are effectively aligned with national goals for community development and improved public service delivery.

As Guyana continues to experience rapid growth and urban expansion, the Ministry said its focus remains on building stronger, more efficient local governance systems capable of meeting the evolving needs of communities throughout the country.

Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill proposes fines, jail time for failure to report suspected abuse

A NEW provision in the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill 2026 would make it a criminal offence to fail to report suspected sexual offences against children and vulnerable

adults, with offenders facing a $250,000 fine, or two years in prison. The measure, contained in a proposed Section 86A of the Act, is among several reforms designed to strengthen

protections for vulnerable persons and improve the handling of sexual offence cases.

The sweeping amendments were tabled in the National Assembly last Fri-

--unlawful disclosure of registry information could attract three years’ imprisonment

day. The proposed Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill 2026 seeks to strengthen protections for children and vulnerable adults through a series of new provisions, including mandatory reporting requirements, expanded witness protections and the establishment of a National Sex Offender Database.

One of the most significant changes is the insertion of a new Section 86A into the Sexual Offences Act, creating a legal duty for employees of both State and non-State institutions to report suspected sexual offences.

Under the proposed section, an employee who works with children and has a reasonable suspicion that an offence under the Act has been committed against a child must submit a written report to the officer in charge of the nearest police station.

Similar obligations would apply to employees who work with vulnerable adults and suspect that a sexual offence has been committed against a person

in their care.

The proposed law defines a vulnerable adult as a person with a disability as defined under the Persons with Disabilities Act.

Special provisions have also been included for Indigenous communities where no police station exists. In such instances, reports may be made to the Toshao of the Amerindian village or community, or the Toshao of the nearest Amerindian village or community.

Failure to comply with the reporting requirement would constitute an offence.

According to the bill, any person who fails to make the required report would be liable on summary conviction to a fine of $250,000 or imprisonment for two years.

The mandatory reporting requirement forms part of a broader effort to strengthen the response to sexual offences and improve the protection of victims.

Another major feature of the legislation is the insertion of a new Part IXA into the principal Act establishing a National Sex Offender Database.

Under the proposed provisions, the database would be established and maintained by the Commissioner of Police and would contain

information relating to persons convicted of specified sexual offences.

The database would not be accessible to the general public, but certain authorised persons working with children and vulnerable adults may apply for information relating to a specific offender.

The amendments would apply to Guyanese citizens and residents convicted of designated sexual offences both within and outside Guyana, subject to conditions outlined in the legislation.

The bill also proposes penalties for the unlawful disclosure of information contained in the proposed National Sex Offender Database. Under new Section 91C (7), any person who has been granted access to the database and unlawfully distributes, transmits or reproduces information obtained from it would commit an offence.

Upon summary conviction, the offender would be liable to a fine of $100,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.

The provision is intended to safeguard sensitive information contained in the database, which would not be accessible to the general TURN TO PAGE 11

Young entrepreneur champions innovation, AI literacy and local talent in Guyana

AT just 25 years old, Guyanese entrepreneur Amrita Naraine has amassed an impressive list of achievements, but she says her greatest ambition is helping more people harness technology, creativity and innovation to unlock new opportunities.

Naraine, founder of the artificial intelligence company Artellica AI, is already recognised both locally and internationally as a Chevening Scholar, a World Bank Group Ambassador and a Guinness World Record holder for participating in a global music collaboration involving 195 women from around the world.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Monday, Naraine reflected on her journey and shared insights that she hopes will encourage young people and aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace new opportunities and challenge traditional boundaries between creativity and science.

“I also believe that we can be selective towards the opportunities that we receive, but at the same time, say yes to as many new opportunities as you can,” she said, explaining that stepping outside one’s comfort zone is often the key to learning and personal growth.

A trained data scientist with a specialised focus on artificial intel-

ligence for the creative industries, including fashion, music and film, Naraine has accumulated eight years of experience in policy development and research. She credits careful time management, curiosity and a willingness to explore new ideas for her success across multiple fields.

Central to her philosophy is the belief that creativity and science are deeply connected rather than separate disciplines.

“There is an art to the human body as well, and a problem that needs to be solved,” she explained, noting that fields such as medicine, engineering and data science all require creative thinking alongside technical expertise.

That outlook eventually led to the creation of Artellica AI, a multidisciplinary innovation studio focused on developing ethical and sustainable technological solutions for cultural and creative sectors.

The company’s name combines the concepts of “art” and “intelligence replicated.”

After returning to Guyana in November 2024 following the completion of her master’s degree in the United Kingdom, Naraine began examining how technology and creativity were intersecting locally.

In May 2025, she launched Artellica AI and introduced its flagship software, Biz Insights, a platform designed to help entrepreneurs manage their businesses remotely.

Beyond software development, the company has sought to address what Naraine describes as significant gaps in artificial intelligence, media literacy and data literacy education.

Sexual Offences (Amendment)

Bill proposes fines, jail...

public.

The bill also introduces new evidentiary provisions aimed at strengthening the prosecution of sexual offence cases.

Through the insertion of a new Section 43A, courts would be permitted in certain circumstances to admit written statements or depositions that were previously tendered during committal proceedings.

Such evidence may be admitted where a witness has died, is medically unable to attend court, is outside Guyana and cannot reasonably be brought to court, cannot be located despite reasonable efforts, or has been prevented from attending through threats of bodily harm or death.

The court must, however, be satisfied that the interests of justice require the evidence to be admitted and that there is independent evidence supporting its reliability.

Further amendments seek to reduce the trauma often experienced by victims during legal proceedings.

Changes to Section 56 would expand the use of audiovisual evidence to include pre-recorded video evidence, while amendments to Sections 58, 73 and 74 would extend protections currently afforded to child witnesses and complainants to vulnerable adults.

The bill also proposes amendments to Section 19 of the Act to include Toshaos

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among persons recognised as holding positions of trust, while replacing references to “child-minder” with the term “caregiver”.

The Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill 2026 was published in the Official Gazette on May 29 and is expected to be debated in the National Assembly.

If enacted, the legislation would represent one of the most comprehensive updates to Guyana’s sexual offences framework in recent years, introducing new reporting obligations, enhanced protections for victims and witnesses, and a system for monitoring convicted sex offenders through a national database.

To tackle those challenges, Artellica established Creative Computing Labs—controlled learning environments where participants receive both theoretical and practical training on the use of artificial intelligence for business and personal applications without requiring specialised equipment.

The company has also expanded into digital preservation initiatives. One of its recent projects involved supporting archival and heritage data management at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre, where artificial intelligence tools were used to help organise historical records and research materials.

According to Naraine, the venture has experienced encouraging growth during its first year of operation. She believes one of the company’s strengths is its willingness to openly discuss challenges facing both the technology and creative sectors while promoting innovative solutions.

That transparency, she said, has helped Artellica establish a unique position within Guyana’s emerging technology landscape.

Beyond her business achievements, Naraine is also advocating for broader support for local innovators. She believes greater efforts are needed to decentralise access to funding and resources for technol-

ogy-based enterprises and to ensure that local entrepreneurs can benefit more directly from investments in the sector.

She also called for increased attention to consumer needs and stronger support for Guyanese talent in both technology and the creative industries.

“I would want to encourage those companies to also support those locals in the tech space in Guyana,” she said, adding that the country’s arts and entertainment sector could benefit significantly from the adoption of new technologies.

Naraine argues that while many resource-intensive industries often attract foreign investment and expertise, Guyana possesses the talent and creativity needed to build home-grown solutions.

Her message comes as Guyana continues to experience rapid economic transformation, creating new opportunities for technology-driven entrepreneurship, digital innovation and creative industries. For many young Guyanese, Naraine’s story serves as an example of how combining technical skills with creativity can open doors not only to personal success, but also to community development and national progress.

Trade expert to headline World Trade Centre

Georgetown luncheon on U.S. business opportunities

THE World Trade Centre Georgetown (WTCG) will host a business luncheon later this month aimed at helping Guyanese companies strengthen commercial ties with the United States and better navigate an evolving global trade landscape.

The event, titled “Growing Business with the United States,” is scheduled for June 17 and will feature international trade specialist and former senior United States commerce official, Arun Venkataraman.

According to WTCG, the luncheon forms part of its ongoing efforts to deepen trade and investment relations between Guyana and international markets while providing local businesses with direct access to high-level expertise on U.S. trade and commercial policy.

Venkataraman brings more than 20 years of experience in international trade, economic policy and commercial diplomacy. From 2022 to 2025, he served as Assistant Secretary of

Commerce for Global Markets and Director General of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service at the International Trade Administration, where he oversaw initiatives designed to expand global business opportunities for American companies and encourage foreign investment into the United States.

During the luncheon, participants will receive insights into U.S. trade policy, market access opportunities, available trade preferences and mechanisms that facilitate commercial engagement with the American market. The presentation is expected to focus on practical strategies Guyanese businesses can use to increase exports, establish partnerships, attract investment and improve their competitiveness.

The event comes as businesses worldwide adjust to changing geopolitical dynamics, shifting supply chains and evolving trade policies among major economies. Organisers

noted that decisions taken by the United States regarding tariffs, trade agreements and market access increasingly influence international business strategies and export competitiveness.

For Guyana, these issues have taken on added significance following recent changes in U.S. tariff policies affecting exports from Guyana and other countries. The shift from duty-free treatment for certain products to tariff rates of up to 15 per cent has presented new challenges for exporters seeking to maintain and expand their presence in the U.S. market.

WTCG said the luncheon will provide businesses with an opportunity to better understand these developments and identify ways to respond to emerging challenges while capitalising on new opportunities within the U.S.-Guyana commercial relationship.

The session is expected to attract exporters, manufacturers, service providers, investors, entrepreneurs and business support organisations seeking to expand beyond Guyana’s borders. Attendees will also have an opportunity to engage directly with Venkataraman during a question-and-answer segment and through private discussions following the formal presentation.

The organisation said the event aligns with its mission of connecting Guyanese enterprises to international markets and providing access to global expertise, market intelligence and business development opportunities. WTCG is part of the World Trade Centers Association, a network comprising more than 300 World Trade Centers across over 100 countries.

Members of the business community and other interested stakeholders are encouraged to attend. Registration and additional information are available through the World Trade Centre Georgetown Secretariat.

Housing push to target home ownership in Amerindian, riverain communities - in Region Seven

- as

demand for housing support grows beyond urban centres

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has noted that his government is preparing to roll out a new programme aimed at expanding home ownership opportunities in Amerindian and riverain communities.

During a recent outreach in Region Seven, the Head of State said the initiative will be unveiled in the coming weeks and is intended to support residents seeking to own and improve their homes in hinterland areas.

According to Dr Ali, the move comes as housing has emerged as one of the most common issues raised by residents during government

outreaches across the region.

“Most of the persons have an interest in housing, and that is because the Ministry of Housing has been doing an extraordinary job,” the President said.

He noted that demand for housing support is no longer confined to urban centres, but is increasingly being seen in Amerindian and riverain communities.

“Housing has moved now beyond the urban centres to the Amerindian villages, the riverain villages, where the number one priority from all of the villages now is about support for improved home ownership,” Ali stated.

Against this backdrop, he stated that this shift reflects the positive impact of government policies and investments in communities across the country.

“That tells you something important. That tells you that our government policies are working, and people today are striving harder and harder to achieve better things – better things for their families, better things for themselves and the community,” he said.

The Head of State disclosed that the forthcoming programme will specifically target residents living on village lands and in riverain TURN TO PAGE 14

Minister Teixeira warns of growing mental health risks linked to children’s social media use

THE increasing use of social media among children is contributing to growing mental health and develop-

mental concerns, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira has warned.

- cyberbullying, exploitation among key concerns

The minister made this known during a recent consultation on social media and its effects on children, during which she indicated that the government is concerned about a range of online risks affecting young people, including cyberbullying, harmful content and excessive screen time.

“Why should we take action in the first place? Of course, mental health concerns,” the minister said.

She added that cyberbullying and harassment, online exploitation and grooming, exposure to harmful content and “addictive platform design” are among the issues policymakers are now examining as part of efforts to strengthen protections for

Health Ministry reviews national healthcare delivery at leadership meeting

Minister of Health Frank Anthony and Director General, Vishwa Mahadeo at the Ministry’s Brickdam headquarters, brought together senior ministry officials, departmental directors and Regional Health Officers (RHOs) from across the country to review ongoing programmes and assess the performance of healthcare services nationwide

THE Ministry of Health on Monday convened a high-level leadership meeting aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery and improving operational efficiency across Guyana’s health system.

The meeting, chaired by Minister of Health Frank Anthony at the Ministry’s Brickdam headquarters, brought together senior ministry officials, departmental directors and Regional Health Officers (RHOs) from across the country to review ongoing programmes and assess the performance of healthcare services nationwide.

Accompanying the minister was Director General of the Ministry of Health, Vishwa Mahadeo.

children online.

Teixeira noted that many parents have reported difficulties managing their children’s screen time, with some young people becoming increasingly detached from family interactions.

“A number of even my staff who have young teenagers are saying that since they’ve got their phones, it’s hard to get them off of it. They’re not coming out and looking at TV, they don’t want to go and have dinner, they just want to be on the phones all the time,” she said.

Against this backdrop, Minister Teixeira also cited

findings from studies conducted by the World Health Organisation (WHO), which have tracked social media use among children and adolescents across dozens of countries.

“The younger females between the 11 and 13 have a higher usage of online social media than the boys,” Teixeira said.

As such, she added that the research found some children between the ages of 11 and 13 spend more than eight hours a day on phones and social media platforms.

She said the studies suggest younger girls are

particularly vulnerable to body-shaming, self-image pressures and other challenges associated with adolescence.

Teixeira pointed to evidence showing how online predators use gaming and social media platforms to build trust with children before seeking personal information that can lead to exploitation.

To this end, according to the minister, these findings reinforce the need for policies that balance technological advancement with the protection of children’s well-being and mental health.

The engagement forms part of the Ministry’s routine leadership briefings, which serve as a platform for strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation of programmes being implemented throughout the public health sector.

Health officials used the meeting to assess progress on key initiatives and address operational challenges facing healthcare institutions, while reinforcing the Ministry’s commitment to improving patient care and service delivery.

The gathering also provided an opportunity for Regional Health Officers and

According to the Ministry, discussions focused on evaluating current healthcare initiatives, examining regional health service delivery and identifying ways to streamline operations to ensure that high-quality healthcare services are consistently available to citizens in all regions.

departmental heads to share updates from their respective areas and coordinate efforts to strengthen healthcare systems at both the regional and national levels.

The Ministry of Health has been pursuing a broad agenda of healthcare expansion and modernisation, including investments in infrastructure, medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, specialist services and workforce development, as part of the government’s wider effort to enhance access to quality healthcare across Guyana.

Officials noted that regular leadership engagements remain critical to ensuring effective coordination, accountability and the successful implementation of policies designed to improve health outcomes for all Guyanese.

Speeding remains leading traffic offence as police record 2,760 cases last week

THE Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department has reported that speeding continues to be the most prevalent traffic offence across the country, with 640 cases recorded during the period May 31 to June 6, 2026, as authorities intensify enforcement efforts through the use of technology and speed radar operations.

According to the depart-

ment’s latest weekly traffic enforcement report, a total of 2,760 traffic-related cases were recorded during the reporting period. Police said that while speeding remains a major concern, increased attention is also being directed toward safety-related offences, particularly the use of seatbelts and safety helmets.

The report showed that 160 motorists were charged

for failing to wear seatbelts, while 112 motorcyclists were found riding without safety helmets. An additional 38 cases involved riders carrying pillion passengers who were not wearing helmets.

Traffic ranks also recorded 48 cases of driving under the influence (DUI), an offence that continues to pose a significant risk to road users. Meanwhile, 128 cases were

made against motorists operating vehicles with illegal tinted windows.

Other offences detected during the week included 180 cases of leaving a motor ve-

In addition to enforcement activities, the department continued its public education campaign aimed at reducing road accidents and promoting responsible driving behaviour

hicle in a dangerous position, 85 breaches of prescribed fitness conditions, 77 cases involving unlicensed drivers, and 27 cases related to faulty parking. Police also recorded 59 cases of vehicles operating without front lights and 35 cases involving defective rear lights. Seventeen motorists were charged for breaching traffic light signals.

The Traffic Department noted that modern enforcement measures, including the deployment of ranks equipped with speed radar devices, continue to play a key role in identifying traffic violations and encouraging safer road use.

In addition to enforcement activities, the department continued its public education campaign aimed at reducing road accidents and promoting responsible driving behaviour. Traffic ranks conducted lectures and awareness sessions for drivers, patrons, bar owners and community members at several locations across the country.

The outreach programme covered areas including Kitty Police Station, Crown Street in Alberttown, Herstelling and Diamond Interlink Roads on the East Bank of Demerara, Turkeyen Police Station, Stone Avenue, Cool Square Bar in West Ruimveldt, Suddie Public Road on the Essequibo Coast, Brickdam Police Station, Aubrey Barker Road, Conversation Tree Road, Sage Pond Public Road, the Linden Highway, the Lamaha Street and Vlissengen Road intersection, Patterson Main Access Road in Sophia, the Railway Embankment, Ooh La La Bar on Forshaw Street, the Turkeyen Police Station compound and the Highway Patrol Base.

The Guyana Police Force said traffic education remains a critical component of its road safety strategy, noting that public awareness, coupled with strict enforcement, is essential to reducing accidents and improving compliance with traffic laws nationwide.

Housing push to...

communities, with special consideration being given to vulnerable groups.

“In the coming weeks, we will be announcing a specific programme to target improved home ownership in village lands and riverain communities, with priority for persons with disabilities, single mothers and, of course, the elderly,” he announced.

The President made the disclosure while highlighting what he described as improvements in living conditions across Region Seven, including expanded access

FROM PAGE 12

to water, electricity and other public services. He said many communities that previously lacked basic infrastructure are now seeking to expand and improve existing services, a development he believes signals growing progress and development.

The initiative is expected to form part of the Government’s broader efforts to improve living standards and increase access to home ownership opportunities in hinterland and remote communities throughout Guyana.

Macmillan launches second regional poetry competition for Caribbean students and teachers

MACMILLAN Education

Caribbean has launched the second edition of its regional “New Branches” Poetry Competition, expanding the initiative to include more participants and further promote creative writing, literacy and Caribbean cultural expression among students and educators.

The competition officially opened on June 8 and builds on the success of its inaugural edition in 2025. Organisers say this year’s programme introduces an Upper Secondary category, broadening participation opportunities beyond the Primary, Lower Secondary and Teacher categories that featured in the first competition.

Participants from across the Caribbean are invited to submit original poems exploring themes that reflect the region’s unique culture and experiences.

Suggested topics include life by the sea in the Caribbean, festivals, food and culture, community life, Ca-

ribbean voices, and journeys, roots and belonging.

Macmillan Education Caribbean said the competition aims to nurture young literary talent while encouraging self-expression and a deeper appreciation for Language Arts throughout the region.

Updated submission requirements have also been introduced. Primary school pupils must submit poems ranging from eight to 20 lines, while entries from lower secondary, upper secondary and teacher participants must be between 10 and 25 lines in length.

Entries will be evaluated by a two-member panel

Brand YOUth Global founder honoured with 2026 Illuminating Impact Award in New York

Guyanese-born Founder and CEO of Brand YOUth Global (BYG), Selwyn Collins

SELWYN Collins, the Guyanese-born Founder and CEO of Brand YOUth Global (BYG), has been named a recipient of the 2026 Illuminating Impact Award, presented during the Global Youth Summit’s annual “Be the Light” Gala in New York The Illuminating Impact Award recognises individuals whose leadership, service, and commitment have made a meaningful difference in the lives of others and the communities they serve. This year’s ceremony honoured eleven recipients from diverse backgrounds whose work reflects a shared commitment to service, leadership, and strengthening the TURN TO PAGE 18

along with Saint Lucian author and educator, Mansha Hunte-Baptiste, who recently participated in Macmillan Education’s Caribbean Author Academy.

Winning poems will be featured in the 2026 edition of the New Branches poetry anthology, with successful entrants receiving printed copies of the publication.

comprising returning judge and author Julia Sander,

The competition will close on September 8, coinciding with the observance of

World Literacy Day.

Macmillan Education Caribbean said detailed competition guidelines and submission instructions will be available through a blog post on the company’s website and via a SharePoint link distributed to schools and education stakeholders across the Caribbean.

Last year’s winners included Celine Rolle of St. Andrew’s Anglican Primary School in Exuma, Bahamas;

Shakeir Thomas of Antigua

School in Antigua and Barbuda; and teacher Sasha Maynard of Charles E. Mills Secondary School in St.

and Nevis. Organisers expressed confidence that the expanded competition will continue to provide a valuable platform for emerging writers while celebrating the rich diversity, traditions and voices of the Caribbean.

Soesdyke-Linden Highway 62% complete as paving enters final phase

—US$161.3M project moves closer to completion; ministry pushes highway lighting rollout

THE US$161.3 million rehabilitation and upgrade of the Soesdyke-Linden Highway has reached 62 per cent overall completion, with paving works now in their final stages along the 72-kilometre corridor.

According to a release from the Ministry of Public Works, core paving works have advanced to 90 per cent completion, while rehabilitation roadworks are 98 per cent complete, leaving just 1.05 kilometres of road surface to be laid. Reconstruction works stand at 93 per cent completion, with only 1.9 kilometres remaining.

In an update on the project, the ministry said paving is currently the most advanced phase of the physical works and is bringing safer and smoother travel a step closer for commuters.

“Core paving works are entering their final stages and stand at 90 per cent completion, bringing smoother, safer journeys a major step closer for commuters,” the ministry stated.

The project also includes major drainage improvements, with the installation of curb and slipper drains reaching 87 per cent completion. Drainage and water management works overall are now 52 per cent complete.

Meanwhile, construction of two new roundabouts designed to improve traffic flow and safety has reached the halfway mark. The roundabout at the Millie’s Hideout intersection in Linden has already been completed, while adjustments are being made to the design of the round-

about at Soesdyke Junction to ensure a safer connection with the Timehri road network.

The ministry also announced the start of highway lighting installation, a move aimed at addressing long-standing concerns about night-time visibility along the corridor.

“Recognising that nighttime visibility is a critical concern for drivers along the unlit corridor, the Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, has directly engaged the project’s contractors to aggressively push forward the illumination timeline,” the ministry said. It added that Edghill em-

phasised that the safety of the travelling public remains the ministry’s “absolute priority” and noted that lighting completed sections of the roadway would significantly reduce risks for night-time commuters.

According to the update, 700 lampposts, representing 51.4 per cent of the required inventory, are already on site, while the remaining units are currently being manufactured.

The ministry also urged motorists to exercise caution as the highway remains an active construction zone.

“Reckless driving, tailgating and overtaking pose a severe threat not only to

Brand YOUth Global

communities they call home.

Collins is the Founder and CEO of Brand YOUth Global, a relationship-centred ecosystem connecting people, ideas, skills, and opportunities across Guyana and the diaspora. Over the past several years, BYG has grown from a vision into a broad community built on relationships, conversations, collaboration, and opportunity. Through bonding retreats, the Women’s Forum Series, participation in the SelectUSA Tech Competition, and the continued development of the BYG ecosystem, Collins works to strengthen relationships, foster collab-

founder... FROM PAGE 15

oration, and create pathways for meaningful contribution, leadership, and impact.

Collins extended heartfelt congratulations and thanks to Kenise Etwaru — Minister of Music and a Board Member at Global Christian Ministries — who nominated him for the award, and acknowledged her own leadership and service as an example worth following.

Reflecting on the recognition, Collins noted that Guyana stands at a remarkable moment in its history, with new opportunities emerging, new partnerships forming, and new pathways opening. He reaffirmed his

the lives of the workers completing this project but also to fellow commuters,” the ministry warned.

Drivers are being encouraged to observe temporary speed limits, remain alert to changing traffic patterns and exercise patience as crews continue work on the final

sections of the highway.

The ministry said the remaining works, including drainage upgrades, lighting infrastructure and steel pedestrian bridges, will contribute to a safer and more resilient roadway designed to serve Guyana for decades to come.

Once completed, the upgraded Soesdyke-Linden Highway is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Georgetown, Linden and the country’s hinterland regions, while enhancing road safety and reducing travel time for thousands of commuters.

commitment to bringing people together, strengthening relationships, creating opportunities for collaboration, and helping build an ecosystem where individuals, organisations, and communities can thrive. “This award bears my name, but the work has never been about me,” Collins said. “It belongs to the many people who have walked alongside me over the years.

Those who believed, contributed, encouraged, challenged, and helped turn ideas into action. I accept this honour with gratitude and with the understanding that there is still much to do.”

President Ali sets new standards for patient care

PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has called on health officials to improve their attitudes across the healthcare sector, stating that a world-class health system depends as much on the treatment patients receive from staff as on the quality of clinical care provided.

Addressing regional health officers, hospital administrators, and senior

health officials on Monday at State House in Georgetown, the President said that quality healthcare must extend well beyond medical services to encompass patient management and the condition of

every facility.

Against this backdrop, he called for a culture that is service-oriented and people-oriented at every level.

He placed responsibility for the full patient experi -

ence squarely on facility leadership.

The washrooms, waiting areas, the way security handles people and the conduct of front-desk staff all fall under the administrators and regional health officers, he said, adding that they are designed around patient comfort, safety and experience.

On the other hand, the President said a full assessment of all health facilities has been completed. He has tasked Presidential Advisor on Science and Healthcare Modernisation, Dr Mahendra Carpen, to work with Director General, Vishwa Mahadeo, and the Director of Regional Health Services to bring every facility up to

an operational standard. That includes proper walkways, proper waiting areas with seating and proper walk-through facilities, measured against a checklist.

He also pointed to mechanisms that allow patients to raise concerns directly, noting that the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has implemented a phone number through which patients can text their concerns or issues for follow-up.

The President was accompanied by the Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony and the Senior Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh. (DPI)

Regional trade mission targets new business opportunities in Guyana and Suriname

A MAJOR regional trade mission aimed at strengthening commercial ties and expanding investment opportunities in Guyana and Suriname got underway on Monday, bringing together dozens of manufacturers and service providers from Trinidad and Tobago for a week of business engagements across the two neighbouring markets.

The mission, organised by the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) with support from the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC), runs from June 8 to 14 and is expected to foster new partnerships, increase market access and encourage greater regional economic integration.

According to the SGCC, which is serving as consultant and local coordinating partner, the initiative reflects growing interest among Caribbean businesses in Guyana and Suriname, two countries increasingly viewed as attractive destinations for trade expansion and investment.

During the Guyana leg of the mission, the TTMA delegation will be based at the Pegasus Hotel Exhibition Centre in Georgetown,

where participating companies are scheduled to engage in an extensive programme of business-to-business (B2B) meetings, networking sessions, site visits and market engagement activities.

Organisers said more than 200 B2B meetings have already been arranged, connecting Trinidad and Tobago companies with Guyanese

The SGCC and TTMA trade

businesses, distributors, buyers, contractors and other key stakeholders across various sectors of the economy.

The delegation comprises manufacturers and service providers seeking opportunities to establish distributorship arrangements, joint ventures, supply agreements and other long-term commercial partnerships.

In a statement, the SGCC said it is committed to ensuring that visiting companies are connected with relevant opportunities in the local market and that the engagements result in practical business outcomes.

“This mission reflects the growing interest in Guyana and Suriname as key markets for regional expansion,” the

Chamber stated. “As a Chamber focused on cross-border trade and investment, we are pleased to support the TTMA in creating practical business linkages that can lead to distribution partnerships, joint ventures, supply arrangements and long-term commercial collaboration.”

The mission comes as Guyana continues to experi-

ence rapid economic growth and infrastructure expansion, creating increased demand for goods, services and industrial inputs. Businesses participating in the trade mission have expressed particular interest in sectors such as agro-processing, construction materials, consumer goods, manufacturing inputs and contracting-related products and services.

Trade officials believe initiatives such as the TTMA mission can help strengthen intra-regional commerce while reducing barriers to trade among Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states. The mission will conclude with engagements in Suriname later this week, providing participants with opportunities to explore business prospects in both countries and establish relationships that could contribute to greater economic cooperation within the region.

The SGCC has encouraged Guyanese companies interested in meeting members of the delegation or exploring distributorship and partnership opportunities to register their interest through the Chamber as discussions continue throughout the mission.

Euro-Guyanese Classical Music and Opera Association debuts with landmark classical concert at St. George’s Cathedral

A NEW chapter in Guyana’s cultural landscape was marked on Monday evening as the Euro-Guyanese Classical Music and Opera Association staged its inaugural concert, bringing internationally acclaimed opera and classical performance to the historic St. George’s Cathedral in Georgetown.

The debut event, held on June 8 under the patronage of European Union Ambassador to Guyana Luca Pierantoni, featured a high-profile lineup of performers led by renowned Argentine-Spanish baritone Leonardo López Linares and celebrated oboist Cecilia Maragno. The evening was described as a showcase of world-class musical artistry, blending international soloists with Guyanese and regional performers in a collaborative cultural presentation.

Audiences at St. George’s Cathedral were treated to a

programme that highlighted both operatic and instrumental excellence, supported by performers from the newly formed association, including Chie Clarke, Maria Rodriguez, Marilyn Dewar, Syesha Yahya, and the Woodside Choir.

The association itself is an initiative spearheaded by Ambassador Pierantoni and brings together a network of local and regional music institutions aimed at strengthening classical music education and performance in Guyana. Member organisations include the Clemsville Music Conservatory, Dewar’s Music School, Guyana Music Teachers Association, Mitchell’s Mount Academy, and the Symphonic Orchestra of Jesus.

López Linares, the evening’s featured baritone, brought international acclaim and vocal depth to the stage. Born in Buenos Aires into a musical family, he was raised

in a theatrical environment that shaped his career from an early age.

His professional breakthrough came in 1995 when he won First Prize at the Luciano Pavarotti International Voice Competition in Philadelphia, a milestone that led to collaborations with legendary tenor Luciano Pavarotti, including a performance in La Bohème. Organisers described the event as the first of many planned initiatives under the association, aimed at expanding access to classical music, fostering cultural exchange, and nurturing local talent through international collaboration.

The successful staging at St. George’s Cathedral signals what organisers say is the beginning of a sustained effort to position Guyana as a growing hub for classical music and operatic performance in the region.

Miss World Guyana launches ‘Her First Lesson’ programme to equip girls against abuse, dependency cycles

By Shaniya Harding

MISS World Guyana 2026, Kelcia Nelson, has launched a new national empowerment initiative aimed at helping adolescent girls break cycles of dependency, low self-worth and intimate partner violence by building confidence, independence and emotional awareness before harmful relationship patterns take hold.

The initiative, titled Her First Lesson, was officially unveiled on Monday as part of Nelson’s Beauty With a Purpose platform. Targeting girls aged 13 to 19, the programme focuses on life skills education, mentorship and personal development, with an emphasis on selfworth, boundaries and decision-making.

Organisers say the goal is to intervene early in the social and emotional development of young women, equipping them with tools to identify unhealthy behaviours

and avoid abusive relationships later in life.

Nelson said the project was informed both by personal motivation and national data showing the prevalence of gender-based violence. She referenced findings from Guyana’s National Survey on Violence Against Women conducted by the Bureau of Statistics and UN Women, which indicates that one in every two women will experience intimate partner violence in her lifetime.

“Relationships do not begin with violence. They begin with patterns,” Nelson said at the launch. “Patterns of dependency, patterns of control, patterns that often start long before a young woman realises she is vulnerable.”

She added that the initiative is designed to disrupt those patterns early. “These are not isolated incidents. These are patterns. And patterns can be interrupted.”

Central to the programme is what Nelson describes as “three protective shields”—

worth, voice and value—intended to help girls develop internal confidence and resist harmful relationship dynamics. The curriculum builds on her earlier life-skills initiative, Mastermindds, expanding its reach with a more targeted focus on adolescent girls.

Since its introduction, Her First Lesson has already been implemented in several communities across Guyana through partnerships with schools, youth groups and village networks. A recent cohort of 25 girls participated in pilot sessions, with plans underway to expand the programme nationwide.

Nelson also announced the launch of a digital platform to extend access beyond in-person workshops. The online space will provide resources for girls, parents and educators, along with interactive tools designed to help participants explore concepts of self-worth, identity and personal development.

“I want this project to

reach girls wherever they are, not just where I teach,” she said, noting that the digital expansion is intended to widen accessibility and engagement.

In addition to the programme rollout, Nelson revealed that a companion book, also titled Her First Lesson, will be released on June 21, 2026. She described the publication as a practical empowerment guide intended to reinforce the curriculum and serve as a long-term resource for young women navigating adolescence and early adulthood.

“This curriculum was born out of a deeper creative journey,” she said. “I wanted to provide young girls with a tangible tool they could use always.”

Nelson, who is preparing to represent Guyana at the Miss World pageant in Vietnam in September, said her international commitments will not slow the expansion of the initiative. She reaffirmed her intention to

continue scaling the programme across schools and communities, with support from partners and sponsors.

“Our goal is to ensure every girl in Guyana has access to her own toolkit of worth, voice and value,” she said.

The initiative’s organisers are now calling on corporate partners, educators and development stakeholders to support its expansion as it seeks to deepen its reach across Guyana’s youth population.

Commander Bacchus, Central Corentyne business leaders discuss crime, traffic and community concerns

ASSISTANT Commissioner

Shivpersaud Bacchus, Commander of Regional Police Division Six, has pledged continued collaboration between law enforcement and the business community following discussions with members of the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce (CCCC) on a range of issues affecting residents and businesses across the Corentyne.

The meeting, held on Friday at the Chamber’s boardroom in Williamsburg, Corentyne, brought together police officials and representatives of the business community to examine public safety concerns and identify ways stakeholders can work together to address them.

President of the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce, Adrian Anamayah, along with other members, raised concerns conveyed by residents and business operators throughout the region.

Among the issues discussed were cattle rustling, the need for safer grazing areas for livestock, marijuana cultivation, vaping and drug use among students, traffic management along the Corentyne

Public Road, the growing number of electric cycles on the road network, and noise pollution caused by motorcycles fitted with modified exhaust systems.

Participants also highlighted the need for expanded CCTV camera coverage and expressed concern about the prevalence of domestic violence affecting both

men and women within communities.

In response, Commander Bacchus outlined measures being implemented by ranks within Regional Police Division Six to tackle these challenges through enforcement activities, community policing initiatives and targeted operations.

He emphasised that while the police remain committed to addressing crime and public safety concerns, meaningful progress depends on the active involvement of communities, businesses and other stakeholders.

“The police cannot do it alone,” Bacchus indicated, stressing the importance of co-operation and

information-sharing in addressing issues that impact the quality of life and security of residents.

The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by the Guyana Police Force to strengthen partnerships with community and business organisations, improve communication with stakeholders and develop collaborative solutions to emerging social and public safety challenges.

Also attending the meeting were Traffic Officer, Assistant Superintendent C. Hooke and Woman Assistant Superintendent C. Kelly.

Fulmali, Patil star for India Women in warmup win over WI Women

CARDIFF, Wales, (CMC)

– Bharti Fulmali scored a half century and Shreyanka Patil grabbed four wickets to guide India Women to a comfortable 26-run victory over West Indies Women in their warmup match here on Monday ahead of the start of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

In a contest where both sides were allowed to utilise 14 players, India posted a competitive total of 179 for eight in 20 overs after being sent in to bat.

Fulmali led the way with an unbeaten 56 off 40 balls that included four fours and one six, while captain Smriti Mandhana made 39 off 23 balls with eight fours and Yastika Bhatia scored 36 from 26 balls with six boundaries before retiring hurt.

India looked set to post a mammoth total after blazing to 145 for three at the end of 15 overs, but leg spinner Afy Fletcher grabbed the wickets of Richa Ghosh for a duck, Radha Yadav for one and Shreyanka Patil for two to stem the flow of runs.

She finished with the

impressive figures of 4-23 from her four overs, while Karishma Ramharack, Deandra Dottin and Aaliyah Alleyne took a wicket apiece.

Despite getting off to a promising start in their run chase, West Indies Women – who were without the services of captain Hayley Matthews and veteran Stafanie Taylor – were eventually restricted to 153 for eight in their 20 overs.

The new look opening pair of Deandra Dottin and Shemaine Campbelle added 63 runs in nine overs, but once the latter retired out after scoring 25 from 22 balls, the innings crumbled.

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

SALISBURY

09:18 hrs Foscarini

09:48 hrs Harry Knows

10:18 hrs Distsnt Rumble

10:48 hrs Bold Shout

11:18 hrs Poor Relation

11:53 hrs Rossa Raheen

12:28 hrs Maid In Devon

SOUTHWELL

09:30 hrs Milan Milos

10:00 hrs Beorma

10:30 hrs Cher Monsieur 11:00 hrs Manalishi

11:30 hrs Prettylady 12:05 hrs Fighting Falcon 12:35 hrs Danger Nap

BRIGHTON

13:21 hrs Rainbow Sign 13:51 hrs Big Time Rascal 14:21 hrs Amusef 14:51 hrs Foghting Poet 15 :21 hrs Cape Toronada 15:51 hrs Kento

Qiana Joseph was bowled by Patil for four, with the offspinner also snaring the wicket of Jahzara Claxton for six.

When Dottin was trapped lbw by Radha Yadav for the top score of 49 off 44 balls, inclusive of eight fours, the Windies had slumped to 102 for five.

Shawnisha Hector scored an unbeaten 19 off 11 balls batting at number nine, but the outcome had long been decided by then.

Patil claimed 4-36, while Yadav took 3-25.

The West Indies’ second and final warmup match will be against Australia on Wednesday.

12:20 hrs Torquay Road 12:55 hrs Family Getaway 13:30 hrs Koliath De Couely

hrs Annarubyrose 14:30 hrs Anie's Lad 15:00 hrs Tradonthebay 15:30 hrs Tacograph SOUTH AFRICA RACING KENILWORTH 08:00 hrs Final Call 08:35 hrs Kelp Forest 09:10

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday June 09, 2026) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Courtney Walsh-26 wkts (22M) (2) Mutiah Muralitharan-34 wkts (27M) Today’s Quiz: (1) What is the highest score made by a WI in an ODI against SL to date? (2) What is the highest score made by a SL in a ODI against the WI to date? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Stokes, Atkinson investigated over nightclub incident

THE England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is investigating an incident in a nightclub involving captain Ben Stokes and pace bowler Gus Atkinson following the first Test against New Zealand.

An ECB statement said the pair were involved in a "breach of team protocols" in the early hours of Monday morning, after the conclusion of England's win at Lord's on Sunday.

It is the latest controversy to hit the England team following an Ashes tour dogged with allegations of a drinking culture.

Before the Ashes, whiteball captain Harry Brook was punched by a nightclub bouncer in Wellington on the

eve of a one-day international against New Zealand.

As a result, England imposed a midnight curfew on all players and staff.

It is understood the curfew was still in place despite the first Test being over, and the investigation relates to more than a breach of the curfew.

"The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first men's Test against New Zealand," said the statement. "Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place.

"We are currently seeking further information, and

an announcement regarding the squad for the second Test will be made in due course.

"The Cricket Regulator has been informed, and we will provide a further update when possible."

England were criticised for their off-field conduct during the 4-1 defeat in Australia, particularly a boozy mid-series holiday to the coastal town of Noosa.

In the aftermath of the trip to Noosa, a video of Ben Duckett was posted on social media, with the opener appearing to be intoxicated.

Director of Cricket Rob Key investigated the time in Noosa, but denied the team had a drinking culture.

At the end of the Ashes series in January, details of

the incident involving Brook in October were revealed.

Brook initially claimed to have been alone at the nightclub in Wellington, only for it to emerge that he was alongside team-mates Jacob Bethell and Josh Tongue.

The midnight curfew was first imposed for the limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka in January and the T20 World Cup that followed, both when Brook was captain.

It has remained in place for the start of the Test summer, when Stokes, 35, has returned to lead the side.

After the conclusion of England's win at Lord's on Sunday, Stokes said: "I'm not going to lie, I'm very, very happy that we've won this week. I knew how big this game was in terms of the result and how it was going to be perceived externally if it didn't go well.

"I won't be really happy until I get to share a beer with the boys."

In 2017, Stokes was involved in an incident outside a Bristol nightclub that resulted in him being charged with affray.

He subsequently missed the Ashes tour of 2017-18 before he was cleared of the charge the following summer.

Ben Stokes made scores of 12 & 0 against New Zealand in the first Test at Lord's

England are due to name a squad for the second Test against New Zealand at The Oval, beginning on 17 June.

But the result of the investigation could have an impact on the squad, including the possible omission of Stokes and Atkinson.

Atkinson, 28, took seven wickets in the match, including 5-30 in the second innings as England completed a 115-run win.

Stokes, however, suffered a frustrating Test with the bat - scoring 12 in his first innings before a three-ball

Ince and Khalil are national...

number.

In one of the best men’s squash finals in recent times, the bets were favouring Samuel, maybe due to Daniel’s last game when he played below what was expected for a player of his standard.

The British-born cousins employed very long rallies, on several occasions they lasted over 30 shots (the record in a 2025 PSA match is 250 for a single rally which took 8 minutes) before ending with precise drop shots as they scrambled to the front of the Court for retrievals, inches from the ‘tin’ in a high-intensity game that ended 11-6 in favour of Daniel.

Daniel, 14 years older than Samuel, played wonderful squash and pushed Daniel in another fast-paced game with some hard backhand drives.

Daniel demonstrated better use of the court and used his vast experience to counter Samuel’s cross-court drives and took the game 11-8.

In a ‘must win’ third game for Samuel, Daniel

duck in the second.

Stokes' position could be in doubt - analysis

After everything that happened in the winter, this is a staggering development, one that could have long-reaching ramifications.

The win in the first Test against New Zealand was a small, positive step for England. A day later, the men's team is once again mired in controversy.

If the investigation reveals that Stokes has been involved in a serious incident in a London nightclub, it could spell the end of his captaincy.

Even a small offence casts huge doubt on Stokes' judgement. This Test, remember, was his first involvement with England since the curfew was introduced. His position may already be untenable.

The top brass of the ECB backed the management of the England team – Stokes, McCullum and Key. The judgement of the likes of ECB chairman Richard Thompson and chief executive Richard Gould will also come into question.

Once again, the reputation of English cricket is at risk of immense damage. (BBC Sport)

(From back page)

jumped out to a four-point lead as Samuel began to show signs of frustration, missing balls he should have hit and hitting the ball into the ‘tin’ by trying to hit it too hard.

With the raucous gathering on their feet, urging on both lads, it was Daniel who won the game 11-4 to successfully defend his 2025 title.

An emotional Daniel exulted on the court while a visible upset Samuel stormed out and threw his Racquet in disgust as both players received a standing ovation for playing magnificent squash.

At the conclusion of the epic battle, Daniel spoke about the contest.

Fernandes thanked Lorriane Ince for getting the Professional Squash Association (PSA) accreditation for the first time in the history of local squash.

The elite winners got 100 International points, while the losing finalists were awarded 60 international points.

Fernandes, a former national hockey player, felt that this tournament was very good preparation for the Senior CASA, scheduled for November 22-28 in Jamaica.

“Before the Senior CASA, we have five international tournaments we are hoping to attend. Four of those tournaments are set for next month, starting with the CAC Games from August 2-7 in the Dominican Republic,” posited the GSA’s top man.

“Last year when we played, I was stronger and fitter but after a year Samual had put in a lot of work had improved his strength and fitness. I got into his head… but he is only 22 and very talented …as he gets more matured, he will gain experience and not lose focus on what he has to do on court,” explained Daniel. David Fernandes, President of the GSA, said that he was very pleased with the standard of the tournament, which had the most players, making it the biggest nationals ever.

Jamaica Empress newest franchise to join WCPL

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – The Jamaica Empress has been revealed as the fourth team to compete in this year’s Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL).

The franchise will join three-time defending champions Barbados Tridents, Guyana Amazon Warriors and Trinbago Knight Riders in the competition that will be played in Barbados from September 5 to 17.

All eight matches will be played at the iconic Kensington Oval.

According to a release from the WCPL, next year’s tournament could see even more teams competing.

“Looking ahead to 2027, the WCPL is preparing to take the next step in its evolution with plans to welcome teams from outside the Caribbean and establish the tournament as a truly global competition,” the release stated.

Defending champions

WCPL title

Barbados Tridents will be looking to win their fourth title in a row, after sweeping up a hat-trick of triumphs in 2023, 2024 and 2025. Trinbago Knight Riders won the inaugural edition of the tournament in 2022.

The Tridents will begin their title defence on Sep -

tember 5 against the Knight Riders, with the Empress set to make their debut the next day against the Amazon Warriors.

Chief Executive Officer of the WCPL, Pete Russell said he was eagerly looking forward to this year’s tournament.

“The WCPL is about much more than what happens on the field. We are creating a platform where women can be celebrated, communities can come together, and young girls can see clear pathways to success in sport and beyond,” Russell said.

Hayley Matthews, captain of the Barbados Tridents, lauded the tournament, saying it provided much-needed opportunities for women.

“I’ve seen firsthand the impact of WCPL on women across the region. It’s

powerful and far-reaching. It illuminates the potential in every girl, giving them not just visibility, but something to believe in and a dream to chase,” said Matthews, who missed last year’s tournament due to injury.

WCPL 2026 Fixtures

September 5 – Barbados Tridents vs Trinbago Knight Riders

September 6 – Jamaica Empress vs Guyana Amazon Warriors

September 10 – Trinbago Knight Riders vs Jamaica Empress

September 12 – Trinbago Knight Riders vs Guyana Amazon Warriors

September 12 – Barbados Tridents vs Jamaica Empress

September 13 – Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Barbados Tridents

September 16 – Playoff –2nd vs 3rd

September 17 – Final

Andrew, Auguste, Springer recalled for T20I series against Sri Lanka

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, Jun 8, CMC – Youngsters Jewel Andrew and Ackeem Auguste, along with all-rounder Shamar Springer have been drafted into the West Indies squad for the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka, which bowls off on Thursday.

The trio represent the only changes to the 15-member squad that took part in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India earlier this year. They replace Johnson Charles, Quentin Sampson and Jayden Seales.

The 19-year-old Andrew had a commendable showing at the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup in January, where he scored two half centuries and was dismissed in the 40s on two occasions.

The Antiguan has however, failed to impress so far in the senior side, having scored just 78 runs in five T20Is at an average of 15.60.

Meanwhile, Auguste, 22, has scored 164 runs in nine T20Is at an average of 23.42. He was part of the Windies’ T20I squad that toured New Zealand late in 2025.

Springer could consider himself unlucky not to have been included in the World Cup squad after taking a hattrick against Afghanistan in his last match for the Windies back in January.

The 28-year-old has a healthy average of 35.50 in T20Is with 71 runs in six matches. He has also taken eight wickets at an economy rate of 8.07.

Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, who recently returned to the ODI squad following a 10-month layoff, has been rested as part of workload

He was part of an under-strength West Indies team that lost 2-1 to Nepal last year in their three-match T20I series and has long been earmarked as one of the region’s most promising and exciting batters.

management plans and will continue his training and preparation ahead of the twomatch test series being held in Antigua.

Fellow pacer Shamar Joseph, who returned home

ahead of the third ODI against the Sri Lankans due to personal reasons, is expected to return ahead of the series on June 9.

Head coach Daren Sammy believes the series offers

an excellent opportunity for the players to entertain home supporters while showcasing an exciting brand of cricket.

“This series is an important one for us as it’s our first since the World Cup in

India, where the team played with passion, fight and the togetherness that West Indies cricket is built on.

“Our focus now is to build on those foundations, continue growing as a team and make our fans proud with the way we compete against Sri Lanka,” Sammy said.

WEST INDIES T20I

SQUAD: Shai Hope (captain), Jewel Andrew, Ackeem Auguste, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Shimron Hetmyer, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Shamar Springer.

Match Schedule

1st T20I: June 11 – Sabina Park, Jamaica

2nd T20I: June 13 – Sabina Park, Jamaica

3rd T20I: June 14 – Sabina Park, Jamaica

Zverev beats Cobolli in tense Paris final for first Grand Slam title

ALEXANDER

Zverev finally landed the Grand Slam title that threatened to elude him by overcoming Flavio Cobolli and his own nerves to win a tense French Open final in five sets.

The 29-year-old German secured his first, long-awaited major triumph with a 6-1 4-6 6-4 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 victory over 10th seed Cobolli on Sunday evening in Paris.

After losing his three previous Grand Slam finals, second seed Zverev became increasingly tight against an opponent playing in his first championship match.

That was in marked contrast to the start of the match, with Zverev racing through the first set and quickly reasserting his authority after Cobolli snatched the second.

But the stress levels increased for Zverev in a dramatic fourth set where he twice fell a break down, produced a series of costly double faults and needed electrolytes to fight off cramp.

Cobolli could not serve the fourth set out at 5-4 up

and blew his first set point in the tie-break by framing a simple forehand volley but recovered to force a decider.

Both men continued to show anxiety in a final set which veered between entertaining and excruciating to watch.

Zverev made slightly fewer errors to move a double break ahead at 3-0 and dragged himself over the line as the 24-year-old Cobolli ran out of steam.

When Cobolli sent a smash long on the second match point, Zverev instantly fell backwards onto the clay

and sobbed into his hands.

World number three Zverev is the first man other than Jannik Sinner or Carlos Alcaraz to win a Grand Slam singles title since 2023.

The leading two players had swept the past nine majors between them, but Sinner's early exit in Paris, and Alcaraz's absence with injury, provided a golden opportunity for the rest of the field.

Zverev assumed the mantle as title favouriteand, despite the burden of expectation, has managed to deliver at long last.

West Indies Academy lose grip on opening day of first ‘Test’

HAMBANTOTA, Sri Lanka, (CMC) – Anjala Bandara’s superb, unbeaten century led an impressive fightback by Sri Lanka Emerging Players against the West Indies Academy on the opening day of their first unofficial ‘Test’ here on Monday.

Bandara ended the day on 126 not out and was the main reason the home side finished the day in a comfortable position of 302 for eight from 77 overs after electing to bat first at the Mahinda Rajapaksha International Cricket Stadium.

It was a remarkable turnaround for Sri Lanka, who at one stage looked set to be bowled out cheaply after finding themselves 133 for seven.

But Bandara, together with Shakthi Udara and Nisala Abeyratne frustrated the Academy bowlers to carry their side to a competitive total heading into the second day.

Sri Lanka were in trouble from early on, with Johann Layne accounting for the wickets of opener Ravindu Rasantha and Sahan Kosala, while Amari Goodridge dismissed Pulindu Perera to leave them 26 for three.

Asitha Wanninayake and Sharujan Shanmuganathan repaired the damage during

Eriksen at home and 'doing well' after collapse

CHRISTIAN Eriksen says he is "doing well" and is at home with his family following his collapse in Sunday's game against Ukraine.

The 34-year-old spent the night in hospital following the incident, and wrote in a statement on Instagram that his "recovery has already started". The game in Odense was stopped on 65 minutes when he collapsed and was abandoned shortly after, with Eriksen able to walk from the field

after regaining consciousness.

The former Manchester United, Tottenham and Brentford midfielder was fitted with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) - a type of pacemaker - after suffering a cardiac arrest during a Euro 2020 match against Finland in 2021.

"As you can probably imagine, receiving a shock from my ICD has had a major effect on both me and my family, but I want to assure everyone that

this was a different situation from what happened in 2021," wrote Eriksen.

"In addition to being grateful for the support and assistance of all the players and the medical team on the field, I am also incredibly grateful to the doctors who have cared for me and my heart over the years.

"Thanks to their expertise, my ICD did exactly what it was designed to do: protect me when I needed it.

The ICD allowed Erik -

Pacer Johann Layne has taken three wickets so far for the West Indies Academy

a 69-run partnership for the fourth wicket, but once Layne struck again to remove the latter for 25, Sri Lanka suffered a middle order collapse. They then lost the wickets of Wanninayake for 41, before off spinner Ryan Bandoo removed captain Dinura Kalupahana for five and Tharinda Nirmal for just three, to see Sri Lanka slip to 133 for seven.

However, Bandara joined forces with Udara to add 60 runs for the eighth wicket to carry Sri Lanka close to the 200-mark.

Pacer Jediah Blades broke the stand by bowling Udara

sen to resume his playing career with Brentford in 2022 - eight months after his collapse at the Eurosbefore he spent three years with Manchester United.

On Sunday, Denmark national team doctor Morten Boesen said "the pacemaker responded as it should".

"For now, my focus is on recovering, spending time with my family, going on vacation, and playing football with my children," Eriksen added.

Speaking to BBC Sport

for a patient 13 off 41 balls to give the Academy hope of bowling out Sri Lanka cheaply with the score 193 for eight.

But Bandara and Abeyratne shared an unbroken stand of 109 runs for the ninth wicket to completely transform the contest.

Bandara has so far faced 165 balls and struck 13 fours, while Abeyratne is 38 not out off 69 balls inclusive of seven boundaries.

Layne has been the Academy’s best bowler with 3-58, while Bandoo (245) and Blades (2-64), have claimed two wickets apiece.

Christian Eriksen has 151 caps for Denmark

before his comeback in 2022, Eriksen - who now plays for Wolfsburg - said he had no concerns about playing with an ICD.

"I don't see any risk, no. I have an ICD, if anything would happen then I am safe," he added. Neither Denmark nor Ukraine qualified for the World Cup, which begins on Thursday. (BBC Sport)

India complete record Test win over Afghanistan

DEBUTANT Manav

Suthar took seven wickets in the match as India thrashed Afghanistan by an innings and 300 runs to claim their biggest Test win.

Left-arm spinner Suthar took 6-33 in Afghanistan's first innings in the one-off Test at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh stadium in New Chandigarh.

After centuries from opener KL Rahul and captain Shubman Gill helped India to post a mammoth 564-8 declared in their first innings, Afghanistan were quickly in trouble in reply.

They began day three on 113-5 and, despite Rahmat Shah reaching his half-century, were swiftly bundled out for 152 as Suthar completed his maiden five-wicket haul.

(Only Test, New Chandigarh (day three of five) India 564-8 dec (Gill 126, Rahul 100; Saleem 6-140) Afghanistan 152 (Rahmat 60; Suthar 6-33) & 112 (Sundar 4-36, Kuldeep 3-30) India won by an innings and 300 runs)

Having been asked to follow-on, Afghanistan began well but collapsed from

74-1 to 112 all out.

Off-spinner Washington Sundar was the pick of the India bowlers second time around, taking 4-36, before left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav wrapped up a comprehensive win with two wickets in two balls.

"A complete win, ticked all the boxes so very happy," said Gill, who registered his 11th Test hundred on day one.

India's record win in the format surpasses their hammering of West Indies by an innings and 272 runs in Rajkot in 2018. (BBC Sport)

Somali referee Artan barred from entering USA

SOMALI referee Omar Artan, who was set to be the first from his country to officiate at the World Cup finals, has been denied entry to the United States.

Artan, the 2025 Confederation of African Football men's referee of the year, was barred from entering the country at Miami International Airport and is currently in Turkey.

No reason for Artan's repatriation has been issued by US immigration authorities, but Somalia is one of several countries on a travel ban list introduced by President Donald Trump's administration.

Queen’s College beat Tutorial High to capture YBG Georgetown regional title

QUEEN’S College (QC) on Sunday emerged as the top team when Youth Basketball Guyana held the final of the Georgetown Zone finals at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Queen’s College clashed with Tutorial High in the final, defeating them 37-28 to win by 9 points.

QC was led by Darren Dublin, who put in an MVP showing with 12 points and 3 rebounds.

Deshaun Garrick was a good role player for QC with 8 points and 7 rebounds, with Liam Bart adding 8 points in the win.

On the losing side, Tutorial High had 10 points from Keion Lynch and 9 points from their top scorer Julian Charles.

Tournament MVP Darren Dublin says that chemistry will be key as they look to do well in the National Schools Basketball Festival.

“It felt great; the team had been working hard through the whole year and last year, and we made it to the regionals….. We’ve been working hard throughout the years to finally win it this year.”

QC Head Coach Osafo Johnson says it was a long time coming, and they are grateful for the regional title.

He added, “This is probably our fourth or fifth appearance at the finals as a school, the last two times coming in second place, making it to regionals this year, forfeiting our first game, and losing one against St. Rose’s, coming back out strong, especially coming into the playoffs”

Meanwhile, in the thirdplace contest, St. Rose’s High thrashed the Bishops’ High 57-29.

It was an awesome performance from St. Rose’s

with Shaquan Callender leading the way with 16 points.

Christian Williams was also fabulous on the offensive end with 16 points, while Bishops’ High’s top scorer was Kemol Pickering, who had 12 points and 10 rebounds.

The regionals are sponsored by Edward B. Beharry Ltd., G-Boats Inc., the National Sports Commission, the Ministry of Education, and Banks DIH Ltd.

Artan is among the 52 referees announced by Fifa to officiate at the World Cup finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States, which runs from 12 June to 19 July.

An official in the Somali national football league championships, Artan became a Fifa referee in 2018 and has officiated at the African Cup of Nations. (BBC Sport)

THE Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) has officially entrusted the seasoned Kashif and Shanghai (K&S) Organisation to serve as the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the upcoming FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Caribbean Pre-Qualifiers.

Renowned for managing some of the most intricate and well-attended sporting spectacles in Guyana’s history, K&S will take full control of the logistics and delivery to ensure the event matches its immense continental significance.

Ten Caribbean basketball nations will descend on

GSA

Georgetown for the highstakes, five-day showpiece running from July 8 to July 12, 2026.

By anchoring the operational backbone of the tournament, the decorated promotional outfit will shoulder the administrative burden of a demanding event in which only the top-ranked teams from Groups A and B will advance to the next phase of the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 qualifiers.

The host nation has been placed in Group A alongside Dominica, Turks and Caicos Islands, Antigua and Barbuda, and Bermuda, while Group B features Haiti, Gre-

nada, Cayman Islands, Barbados, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

For GBF President Michael Singh, partnering with Kashif and Shanghai is a strategic move designed to keep the national team focused entirely on the hardwood.

By outsourcing the colossal logistical demands to the experienced promotional firm, the federation has successfully insulated its squad from off-court administrative distractions.

"Opportunities like this come seldom to host high-level basketball," Singh stated. "With K&S running logistics, they [the national

Senior National

Kashif and Shanghai Organisation appointed as LOC for historic FIBA AmeriCup Pre-Qualifiers

team] can focus on national team preparation."

Kashif Muhammad, Co-Director of the organisation, expressed complete alignment with the national objective and praised the collaborative framework established for the showpiece.

"The ministry and the government are supporting," Muhammad confirmed, reiterating the local organising committee's absolute commitment to delivering a high-quality, world-class tournament.

The assignment places Kashif and Shanghai at the centre of a deeply symbolic milestone for Guyanese

Ince and Khalil are national champions

By Sean Devers

WATCHED by a packed Squash Hall at the National Racquet Centre (NRC), Daniel Ince and Ashley Khalil carted off the top honours when the curtains came down on the Guyana Squash Association (GSA) and Enet Senior National Squash Championships

on Sunday in a fantastic atmosphere.

The 33-year-old Khalil captured her fifth title in this tournament when she beat the 32-year-old Mary Funga-Fat, 7-11, 11-7, 8- 11, 11-7, 11-7 in a stupendous exhibition of Squash, which lasted five games.

Mary, who made her debut on the professional circuit

in 2017, took the first game 11-7.

Ashley took the second game, which was highlighted by long rallies and expertly executed drives and drop shots, to make it 1-1. Mary dug deep to win the third stanza, 11-8 to lead 2-1 and set up the hard-fought five-game match.

Ashley won the next

two games 11-7,11-7 to be crowned Guyana’s Squash Queen to the delight of her supporters, which included her brother and coach Jason-Ray and her elated parents.

Ashley, drenched in sweat, said after the match that winning a fifth title in this tournament was something she would never take

sports, marking the return of regional basketball to home soil after a seven-year competitive hiatus.

It is the first time since 1994 that Guyana has hosted this prestigious regional competition, evoking memories of the country's hosting of the inaugural edition in 1981.

The tournament will take centre stage at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, a venue that recently underwent a massive G$350 million government-funded transformation to meet strict international FIBA standards.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., emphasised that

Men’s Champion Daniel Ince and Women’s Champion Ashley Khalil pose for a photo after their victories in their respective finals of the Enet Senior National Squash Tournament

for granted.

trusting an event of this magnitude to experienced hands underlines Guyana’s rapid ascent as a premier regional sporting hub.

"This is the first time [since 1994] it will be held in Guyana; that alone is a sign that emphatically, the country is going in the right direction," Ramson Jr. said, noting that competing nations are entirely self-funding their airfare and accommodation due to the allure of the upgraded facilities.

"We have been lucky in making the investment early in the development of our facilities, and it gives us the opportunity to host."

Daniel Ince (front) beat his 22-year-old cousin Samuel Ince-Carvalhal in a high-quality final of the Enet Senior National Squash Tournament at the NRC yesterday

“Every title comes with its own hurdles, sacrifices, lessons and moments that have tested my resolve,” said Ashley, who thanked those who continue to stand beside her.

The men’s final was a repeat of the 2025 final be-

tween the 36- year-old Daniel Ince and his 22-year-old cousin, Samuel Ince- Carvalhal; the result was the same as last year.

Daniel emerged the winner by an 11-6, 11-8, 11-4 margin in a high-quality final to show that age is just a

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