–– Prime Minister says as five Commissioners of Title, six Magistrates sworn in to strengthen justice delivery
PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Wednesday reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to preserving an independent, adequately resourced and efficient judiciary, describing it as a cornerstone of democracy, as he swore in five new Commissioners of Title and six new Magistrates.
The Prime Minister made this known during the swearing-in ceremony at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, where he indicated that the Executive has invested heavily in strengthening the judicial system through improved infrastructure, technology and human resources, while maintaining the
judiciary’s constitutional independence.
“The most fundamental component of an efficient judiciary is that it must be resourced. The Executive that I represent here today is largely responsible for providing those resources. At no time in the history of independent Guyana has the judiciary been better resourced than during the period 2020 to 2026,” Phillips said.
The five Commissioners of Title appointed to serve in the Land Court are Alicia Lowenfield, Annette Singh, Alisha George, Shivani Lalaram and Utieka John.
The six newly appointed Magistrates are Ocelisa Marks, Nikkisha
Logan, Jimelle Joseph, Shareefah Parks, Taneisha Saygon and Caressa Henry.
The appointments come as the judiciary continues efforts to address staffing shortages and improve the timely disposal of matters before the courts.
Earlier this year, acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Roxane George, disclosed that seven magistrate vacancies existed following promotions to the offices of Commissioner of Title and High Court Judge, while five vacancies also remained among Puisne Judges.
Phillips noted that the Government has made significant investments to strengthen the justice system, including the construction and rehabilitation of courthouses and the procurement of an upgraded e-litigation system.
According to him, the technology has modernised court operations, strengthened case management and supported the efficient disposal of cases.
The Prime Minis -
ter also highlighted the steady expansion of the judiciary in recent years, pointing to the appointment of nine Magistrates in February 2024, three Commissioners of Title in April 2024, 10 Puisne Judges in June 2024 and seven Justices of Appeal in May 2025.
Despite the Government’s investment in the sector, Phillips stressed that the Executive does not interfere in the appointment or functioning of judicial officers.
“We do not control the judiciary, we do not determine whom they appoint, we do not determine how they function. The judiciary must remain functionally independent. It is a fundamental constitutional concept which we embrace,” he said.
He added that an independent and competent judiciary is critical not only to upholding the rule of law and maintaining public confidence, but also to fostering a stable environment for investment.
“All the Executive asks, on behalf of the people of Guyana whom
we are elected to represent, is that the judiciary functions independently, fairly and makes decisions in accordance with law,” Phillips said.
Meanwhile, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC, welcomed the appointments, noting that the additional judicial officers will strengthen the capacity of both the Land Court and the Magistracy.
He said the new Commissioners of Title and Magistrates would “certainly augment the efficiency and expedient disposal of cases in the Land Courts and across the Magistracy.”
The Attorney General also echoed the Prime Minister’s assessment of the Government’s investment in the sector.
“I once again reiterate that the Judiciary has never been more resourced than it is now, since independence.
All that the public demands and to which it is entitled is a system that delivers justice efficiently and in accordance with law,” Nandlall said.
THE Government of Guyana’s state-of-the-art tunnel-ventilated poultry pens project at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara was commissioned on Wednesday, marking another milestone in the country’s agricultural transformation, with Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips declaring that the initiative signals “a new era of technologically driven agriculture.”
The Prime Minister made this known as he delivered the feature address at the commissioning ceremony, during which
he stated that the project represents far more than the construction of modern poultry facilities, describing it as a clear indication of the direction in which Guyana’s agricultural sector is heading.
“This initiative is a declaration of intent. It signals that the days of subsistence farming and fragile harvests are giving way to a new era of resilience, a new era of abundance, and a new era of technologically driven agriculture,” Phillips said.
He noted that the tunnel-ventilated poultry project forms part of the gov-
ernment’s broader strategy to modernise agriculture through innovation, climate-smart technologies and major infrastructure investments designed to improve productivity while protecting farmers from external shocks.
“This project represents the new direction in which Guyanese agriculture is moving; a direction where science meets the soil, where inventiveness overcomes uncertainty, and where the farmer is no longer left to battle nature alone,” he said.
Phillips reflected on the many uncertainties con -
fronting farmers, including unpredictable weather, volatile global input prices, pests, diseases and fluctuating markets, noting that these challenges have shaped the government’s long-term vision for the sector.
“We begin by putting ourselves in their shoes, by listening to their stories and acknowledging that the path to a prosperous agricultural sector must first respond to their deepest anxieties.”
Against this backdrop, he indicated that the government’s response has been to invest heavily in drainage and irrigation systems, agro-processing, local fertiliser production, modern farming technologies and improved market access to build a more resilient agricultural sector.
The Prime Minister said the vision for the next five years is aimed at cementing Guyana’s status as the food-producing capital of the Caribbean while strengthening agriculture as a major pillar of the country’s non-oil economy.
Meanwhile, he indicated that the poultry industry has been one of the strongest performers, with production more than doubling from 2020 to 2025 with production projected to climb even more in 2026.
Adding to this, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said the newly
commissioned facilities form part of a nearly $1 billion investment in modern poultry infrastructure, equipment and training under the Agriculture and Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP).
He explained that the initiative builds on the government’s efforts to move agriculture “from sustenance to sustainability and from traditional practice to technology-driven enterprise,” while attracting more young people into the sector.
“We are not just preparing for the future. Today, we are actively building it,” Mustapha said.
As such, the minister noted that the programme, which initially focused on high-value crops grown in shade houses and hydroponic systems, has already reduced Guyana’s dependence on imported vegetables for the hospitality industry by enabling young farmers to produce crops such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, lettuce and sweet peppers locally.
He said the poultry initiative is now being expanded across Regions Three, Four and Five, with plans to extend it to Regions Two and Six in the near future.
The Minister went on to add that the facilities at Mon Repos, Coverden and Burma are already operational, with each tun -
nel-ventilated pen capable of housing between 20,000 and 40,000 birds under internationally recognised production standards.
Mustapha said the climate-controlled facilities are particularly important as Guyana experiences increasingly warmer conditions, helping to reduce bird mortality while improving production efficiency.
He also underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that women and young people remain at the centre of agricultural development.
“We have had an instruction from the President that all the projects in the Ministry of Agriculture must include 35 per cent women and 30 per cent youth. This project has almost 100 per cent young people today. That’s a proud achievement,” he said.
Further to this, the agriculture minister said additional tunnel-ventilated pens will become operational before the end of the year, significantly increasing poultry production and positioning Guyana to become a net exporter of poultry products within the Caribbean.
“We will continue to expand this model, integrating technology, youth entrepreneurship and regional collaboration to make Guyana the agriculture
THE sod was turned on Wednesday for the construction of a new $388 million market at Buxton, East Coast Demerara, marking the beginning of a project aimed at revitalising commerce in the village and providing modern facilities for residents there.
The new project, which it was said would cost $388,147,745, will see the demolition of the existing structure and the construction of a brand new two-storey market capable of accommodating approximately 136 vendors.
Delivering brief remarks at the ceremony, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, highlighted that the project was a complete reconstruction rather than a rehabilitation.
“This is not a rehabilitation. This clearly cannot be rehabilitated. This is a brandnew construction,” she said.
The minister explained that the decision to construct
a new market followed visits to the community where she observed vendors operating along the roadside while the existing market remained largely unusable. “There are people outside
making a living, feeding their children and supporting their families, because they cannot come into this market in its present state,” she said.
According to Manickchand, the new facility is intended to provide vendors and residents with a safe, organised and hygienic space where economic activity can flourish.
She said the market has
been designed following consultations with vendors and the Buxton/Foulis Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) to ensure it meets the community’s needs.
The modern facility will include dedicated sections for meat, fish, vegetables and dry goods; modern sanitary facilities; CCTV surveillance; an integrated waste-management system and organised vendor allocation.
She disclosed that R&P
Engineering and General Construction is the contractor that has been awarded the project with Skyline Architecture Inc. serving as the project consultants.
Manickchand noted that the contractor has committed to completing the project within eight months and warned that penalties would apply for delays or cost overruns.
“I expect the people of Buxton/Foulis to pay attention to the building of this market because it is your market. We are doing this together,” she said.
The minister said the Buxton project forms part of a broader national programme to modernise markets across Guyana.
She noted that the sod was recently turned for the reconstruction of the East Ruimveldt Market, while new or upgraded facilities are also planned for Plaisance, Mon Repos, Bath, Port Mourant and several other communities across the country.
“Our trajectory for every neighbourhood and every community is one where we’re developing, we’re working hand in hand with people, we’re listening and we are delivering,” she said.
Chairman of Region Four, Clemsford Belgrave, described the project as an important investment in the economic development of Buxton and neighbouring communities.
He said modern mar -
ket facilities create opportunities for farmers, vendors and small businesses, while strengthening local economies.
“This is not just about turning the sod. It is about economic development for the local area,” he said.
He encouraged residents to take ownership of the completed facility and ensure it is properly maintained.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Buxton/Foulis NDC, Walton Martins, said the project represents a long-awaited investment in the community.
He noted that the original Buxton Market, established in the 1900s, was once among the busiest trading centres on the East Coast of Demerara before commercial activity gradually shifted elsewhere during the 1960s.
Martins too, said the new market will create opportunities for farmers, fishermen, vendors and small-business owners, while providing residents with a clean, safe and organised environment to buy and sell goods.
“For many years this community has looked forward to a modern market that will stimulate economic growth, encourage entrepreneurship and improve the quality of life for our people,” he said.
Once completed, the market is expected to become a major commercial hub serving Buxton, Foulis and surrounding East Coast communities.
ATTORNEY General and Minister of Legal Affairs
Anil Nandlall, SC, has dismissed allegations of corruption, abuse of office and unexplained wealth levelled against President Dr. Irfaan Ali over his privately owned farm.
He argued that United States-sanctioned and criminally indicted Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed has failed to produce any evidence to support the claims.
Speaking on Tuesday during his weekly programme, Issues in the News, Nandlall responded to allegations made days earlier by Mohamed, who claimed the President’s farm along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway spans about 150 acres, was developed using Sate resources and is evidence of corruption and abuse of office.
President Ali has since rejected the accusations, insisting that the farm was acquired long before he assumed office, was financed through bank loans, and that all related assets and liabilities have been declared to the Integrity Commission.
The Integrity Commission is the constitutional body responsible for receiving and examining declarations of assets, liabilities and income submitted by public officials to promote transparency, accountability and integrity in public office.
Addressing the controversy, Nandlall said the President has provided clear explanations while those making the allegations have failed to produce any evidence to contradict them. According to Nandlall, President Ali has maintained that
the farm measures between 60 and 70 acres rather than the more than 150 acres alleged by Mohamed, and
that he acquired the property years before taking office as President in 2020.
The Attorney General further said the Guyanese leader has explained that the farm was financed through loans obtained from the banking system and that all his assets and liabilities have been properly declared to the Integrity Commission.
Nandlall also rejected suggestions that the President had improperly used his office for personal gain or placed himself in a conflict of interest.
He asked, “Now tell me which piece of evidence, which of these allegations, which of these contentions of the President have you seen a scintilla of evidence to contradict?”
He questioned whether any proof had been present-
ed showing that the farm is 150 acres, that the President failed to obtain bank financing, that the property was acquired after he assumed the presidency, or that public office had been used to benefit the venture
“None,” he declared before asking, “So, I ask again, where is the controversy?”
Nandlall said President Ali’s involvement in agriculture predates his presidency by many years and described farming as one of the President’s longstanding interests.
He recalled that Dr. Ali had been engaged in commercial poultry production while the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) was in opposition and was also involved in vegetable cultivation and a fruit juice business.
According to the Attorney General, he personally remembers Dr. Ali bringing fruit juices to Georgetown for sale alongside his late uncle, maintaining that these activities occurred years before the PPP/C returned to government in 2020.
“I know this for a fact,” Nandlall said, adding that he felt compelled to speak because of his firsthand knowledge of the President’s agricultural activities. He also dismissed suggestions that public office prevents elected officials from owning businesses.
He noted, “There is no law, there is no code of conduct, there is no regula-
tion, which stipulates that a member of government can’t have a business while he holds the office of government, or office of a minister, or the presidency.”
Nandlall acknowledged that he, too, maintains private business interests, stressing that there is nothing improper about doing so provided those interests do not conflict with official responsibilities.
“If we want to change that, then we should change it. But unless it is changed, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that,” he added.
Nandlall also questioned the rationale behind calls for a Commission of Inquiry (CoI), stating no evidence had been presented to warrant such a process
He accused the opposition of trying to mislead the public into believing that President Ali’s farm and other assets were acquired while he was serving in public office, when they had, according to the President, been obtained years earlier.
Nandlall argued that the opposition’s criticism of the farm is part of what he sees as a broader effort to manufacture political controversy for public attention. He dismissed the allegations as baseless and predicted they would ultimately lose momentum.
“This attempt at a scandal is the act of a desperate bunch in the opposition. And it will fizzle out,” Nandlall noted.
In a Facebook video responding to Mohamed’s
allegations, President Ali maintained that his farm was acquired long before he assumed office, financed through bank loans and fully declared to the Integrity Commission.
He rejected claims that the property benefited from state resources or preferential treatment, insisting that every aspect of the investment can be independently verified.
The Head of State also accused Mohamed of attempting to blackmail him and described the allegations as part of a campaign of misinformation.
Moreover, Dr. Ali said he intends to publicly show -
case the farm’s operations and reaffirmed that he has “absolutely nothing to hide.”
In his Facebook address, President Ali also questioned Mohamed’s credibility, pointing to the Opposition Leader’s legal troubles. He said Mohamed had been indicted by a United States (U.S). grand jury and referenced allegations against him, including gold smuggling and other serious criminal offences.
The President stressed that the sanctions and criminal charges facing Mohamed originated with U.S. authorities and were not actions taken by his administration.
GUYANA has done something that appeared ever more distant for almost a decade, meeting and exceeding its half-year gold declaration target.
The country’s second-largest economic sector has sent a clear message that strategic policy, strong enforcement and industry collaboration can reverse years of decline, with declarations approaching 240,000 ounces – some 25,000 ounces above the corresponding period last year.
That’s an achievement worthy of note, not only because of the sheer numbers involved, but because of what those numbers mean.
They are signs of a renewed confidence in one of Guyana’s most vital productive sectors that still provides livelihoods for approximately 30,000 Guyanese and remains a major contributor to national gross domestic product, excluding the oil and gas industry.
Years of fighting against a backdrop of declining declarations, illegal mining, smuggling concerns and lax compliance have taken their toll on the gold industry since 2016 was the peak for production, which then began a long decline, leading to legitimate concerns about the long-term sustainability of the sector. That trend has now been decisively broken.
The latest figures did not happen by accident.
Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat said the improved performance was the result of a number of deliberate policy
interventions.
These include strict monitoring of declaration compliance, refusal to renew licences of operators who repeatedly failed to declare production, blacklisting of foreign operators who flouted the country’s mining regulations and an uncompromising campaign against illegal mining activities.
These actions demonstrate a key principle that goes beyond mining itself: good regulation should never be perceived as anti-business.
Quite the opposite. Strong enforcement levels the playing field, protects legitimate operators and holds accountable those who are trying to exploit loopholes.
The mining sector in Guyana has long been plagued by the perception that illegal operators and under-declaration undermine honest miners who do the right thing. Where enforcement is weak, legitimate businesses lose their competitiveness, government revenues fall and public confidence erodes.
The Government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance approach sends a clear signal that Guyana’s natural resources are owned by the country and must be managed transparently and responsibly.
Importantly, this revival has come even as extended spells of heavy rain have disrupted mining operations across much of the country.
And that makes the achievement all the more remarkable, implying stronger governance has beaten operational difficulties that
might have otherwise depressed production.
The larger context is also deserving of attention.
The Government has always articulated a vision for Guyana to get more value from its mineral wealth.
The launch of the national gold and jewellery brand “Eldorado Reimagined” earlier this year reflected an ambition to move away from exporting raw gold to value-added manufacturing, local refining and jewellery making.
Meanwhile, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has also advanced proposals for a nationally owned mining consortium to increase Guyanese participation in large-scale mining opportunities.
Taken together, these efforts suggest a strategy broader than just increasing production. The aim is to retain more value in Guyana, create more employment opportunities and build local ownership across the mining value chain.
But success should not lead to complacency.
Illegal mining remains a serious threat, not only to revenues for the state, but also to environmental protection, indigenous communities and Guyana’s international reputation.
Vigilance will have to be maintained by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and other enforcement agencies if recent gains are to be sustained.
Equally important is constructive en-
gagement with the thousands of small-and medium-scale miners who are the backbone of the industry.
Enforcement alone is not enough to induce compliance, education, improved services and policies supportive of responsible mining practices should also be used.
Global market conditions continue to underpin the sector as well. Given the geopolitical uncertainty and investors’ appetite for safe-haven assets, gold prices have held up well historically providing an opportunity for Guyana to capitalise on legitimate production and to bolster fiscal revenues.
The lesson of the first half of 2026 is simple: sectors once assumed to be in decline can recover when good policy is paired with steady implementation.
The figures released by the Ministry of Natural Resources are more than just encouraging statistics. They demonstrate that accountability, improved regulation and responsible management of resources can yield tangible economic outcomes.
If Guyana continues its path of rewarding compliance, deterring illegality and encouraging investment, the country’s gold industry can remain a pillar of economic diversification long after oil production has matured.
That is an outcome worth fighting for, not only for the miners who work in the country’s interior but for every Guyanese who benefits when the nation’s natural wealth is managed in the public interest.
–– President Ali receives credentials from new Peruvian Ambassador
PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan
Ali received the Letters of Credence of Peru’s newly accredited Ambassador to Guyana, His Excellency
Enri Tica, on Wednesday, as both countries indicated their intention to strengthen bilateral co-operation in areas including climate action, energy, food security and private sector development.
Following the presentation of credentials, President Ali held discussions with
Ambassador Tica on ways to strengthen the longstanding relationship between Guyana and Peru, particularly through increased co-operation in areas of mutual interest.
The President highlighted Guyana’s vision to be a global leader in climate action, biodiversity conservation, energy development, food security and human capital advancement, noting that technology and innovation remain at the core of the
country’s ongoing transformation.
During the meeting, the two sides also discussed opportunities to boost engagement between the private sectors of Guyana and Peru with a view to encouraging greater investment, partnerships and economic co-operation.
President Ali said he looked forward to the two countries soon establishing a comprehensive development framework that would further
promote common priorities and broaden bilateral ties.
Ambassador Tica’s accreditation comes at a time when Guyana continues to build out its international relationships, particularly in areas linked to sustainable development, energy security and economic diversification. Peru and Guyana have diplomatic relations for many decades and cooperate in areas like trade, culture and regional co-operation.
Mohamed Irfaan Ali when we sat on the Council of the University. At that time I was a critic of the PPP government but Ali never let that prevented a slow, developing camaraderie between us. Ali back then was a very modest, friendly man who was instantly likeable.
From those days, it was impossible for someone who knew him not to like him.
From 2020, when he became president, I have been writing about him. As he settled down in power, Ali became a phenomenon. He was simply a different kind of politician, the likes you hardly see in the world. As it is my job to study our politicians, I assessed Ali as the years went on.
The past two years, I have compared Ali with scores of Guyanese, regional and global heads of government, and my analysis led me to believe that Ali would leave a huge legacy in Guyana and the Caribbean. I believe Ali is the most people-orientated president Guyana has produced and has a pull that I have never seen in other presidents.
I have written a sizeable amount of columns on him, so jokingly I said to him as I got up to leave his official residence yesterday (Wednesday) that maybe he should compile them in book form. I requested to see him because since the farm controversy broke out, I have stood by him because I believe in him. When Azruddin Mohamed shouted out that the President has a megafarm with extraordinary facilities, I didn’t believe Mohamed then and I don’t believe him now.
I wanted to sit with the President and have
his side of the story. I wanted his side of the story to be made public because my limitless experience of Guyana told me Mohamed was lying. I met with President Ali at State House yesterday morning. As he came downstairs, he looked dapper in an immaculate White shirt-jac with formal black business trousers. His jet-black pair of shoes reminds me of when I was young.
President Ali had a medium sized brown envelope in one hand and a white coffee mug in the other. He asked me to sit, and as he put down his mug, I could see that unlike me for my entire life, he drinks his coffee with milk. He took out a number of documents and before he showed them to me, he said; “Freddie, look at this grave injustice done to me.”
I felt sorry for him when he said those words because you do not like to hear those words coming from someone you know is fundamentally a good human.
President Ali showed me the financial documents about the functionalism of his farm. I saw documents pertaining to three huge loans. One large loan in 2012, another similar-sized loan in 2015 and a mega loan in 2023. That 2023 loan should cover the basic operating facilities of the farm.
I saw authentic documents from one of Guyana’s leading banks that is graphic evidence that the president borrowed from the commercial banks for his farm. I was shown the original valuation of the farm which is 62 acres. I wrote several columns referring to the farm as 70. It is 62 acres. The president showed me all documents pertaining to
the farm contract with GPL. And he named the private contractor he employed to do his road work.
I looked at all the documents the president showed me and I was shaking with anger. This man has been ridiculed over his private business for which he has genuine financial documents. For the record, President Ali’s farm was financed by two large loans and a very massive loan. That kind of money he took from a bank and not from anywhere else.
President Ali has a modest farm for which his finances have been accounted for. It would be below his presidency to disclose publicly his documents because no head of government does that because a few vultures want to see it. No president or prime minister should besmirch their office by publishing their private business arrangements. That is
no one’s business.
The reasoning is that, after all, he is the president. But what does the presidency have to do with the man’s private business? He is entitled to his privacy. Why should he show the public the name of the bank through which the loans were facilitated? Those are confidential matters between bank and customer. Yesterday (Wednesday) I had seen enough, and it taught me one lesson about politics – ignore your insane detractors and get on with the administration of the country for which you were elected. This man is owed an apology.
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.
–– stakeholders collaborate on policy to improve access for persons
THE Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/ WHO), has begun developing Guyana’s National Priority Assistive Technology List, a key initiative aimed at improving access to essential assistive products for persons with disabilities and others requiring specialised support.
The stakeholder consultation, held on Tuesday, brought together representatives from government agencies, healthcare institutions, disability organisations and development partners to identify the country’s most pressing assistive technology needs and lay the foundation for a comprehensive national policy.
Among those attending were Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony, Minister
Seated: Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony; Minister of Labour and Manpower planning, Keoma Griffith; PAHO/WHO Representative to Guyana, Dr Kim Dickson and Director of Disability and Rehabilitation, Dr Ariane Mangar, flanked by stakeholders
of Labour and Manpower Keoma Griffith, PAHO/ WHO Representative to Guyana, Dr Kim Dickson and Director of Disability and Rehabilitation, Dr Ariane Mangar, who led the discussions.
Participants included representatives from the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), the University of Guyana, Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society,
rehabilitation service providers, the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities, the National Commission on Disability, healthcare professionals and other key stakeholders.
The consultation focused on identifying and prioritising the assistive products most needed across Guyana to better support persons with disabilities and indi-
viduals requiring assistive technology.
Discussions examined products that improve mobility, vision, hearing, communication, cognition and the ability to carry out activities of daily living.
Stakeholders also reviewed challenges affecting access to assistive technology, including procurement, distribution, service delivery, maintenance and the
long-term sustainability of programmes.
The meeting provided a platform for technical experts and partner organisations to offer recommendations to ensure that the National Priority Assistive Technology List accurately reflects the country’s needs and available resources.
According to the Ministry of Health, the agreed list will become a central
component of Guyana’s national assistive technology policy and is expected to guide future procurement, improve service planning and strengthen coordination among agencies involved in disability services.
Officials said the initiative is intended to expand equitable access to quality assistive products, enhance the independence of persons with disabilities and improve their participation in education, employment and community life.
The development of the National Priority Assistive Technology List forms part of Guyana’s broader efforts to strengthen inclusive healthcare services and ensure that persons with disabilities have greater access to the tools and support needed to improve their quality of life.
THE Government of Guyana is intensifying efforts to equip young people with the skills required to take advantage of emerging employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, as the country continues to experience rapid economic growth and increased investment.
This commitment was highlighted on Wednesday during the observance of World Youth Skills Day, where the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning (MLMP) hosted a National Youth Skills Forum and Skills Search Expo aimed at strengthening dialogue among young people, training institutions, industry leaders, policymakers and development partners.
The event, held under the theme “Today’s Skills, Tomorrow’s Guyana”, formed part of the global observance of World Youth Skills Day, which this year focused on the importance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in preparing young people for employment, decent work and entrepreneurship.
Delivering the keynote address, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, told participants that young people represent the future of Guyana and the wider world, and must be prepared to cap-
italise on the unprecedented opportunities being created through the country’s development.
Dr Singh said Guyana’s rapidly expanding economy is creating opportunities at a pace and scale that surpasses many other parts of the world, with both foreign and domestic investors contributing to job creation and business growth.
He encouraged young people to view national investments in infrastructure, social services and connectivity not merely as physical projects, but as platforms that will create pathways for their advancement.
“When you hear that your government, led by President Ali, is investing aggressively in infrastructure, in social services and things like roads and bridges that will connect us to our neighbours, Brazil and elsewhere, ports that will connect us to the Caribbean and beyond, hospitals and schools that will improve the quality of social services, these are not just pieces of infrastructure that provide the services that they provide at a superficial level. I want to ask you today to reflect on what these things mean for you,” Dr Singh said.
The Senior Minister pointed to improvements in Guyana’s labour market, noting that unemployment
declined significantly between 2020 and 2024.
He said the national unemployment rate was reduced from 12.8 per cent in 2020 to 6.8 per cent in 2024, while youth unemployment fell from 30.2 per cent to 12.1 per cent during the same period.
According to Dr Singh, these gains were supported by the creation of more than 104,000 new jobs during the Government’s first five years in office.
However, he noted that one of the country’s major
challenges is that demand for skilled workers currently exceeds supply, describing the situation as a significant opportunity for young Guyanese to acquire relevant skills and enter the workforce.
“Lasting success and real prosperity cannot be built without education, employment and entrepreneurship,” Dr Singh told participants, while encouraging youths to take advantage of available opportunities and use platforms such as the forum to engage in meaningful discussions about their future.
Meanwhile, Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, said the Government’s role is to create opportunities that allow talent to develop, ambitions to become reality and skills to translate into meaningful employment.
He urged young people to take responsibility for
pursuing the pathways being created through education, training and workforce development initiatives.
“Preparing Guyana’s workforce requires partnership. It requires government working alongside industry, training institutions, working alongside employers, and development partners; working alongside communities. Together, I firmly believe that we can build a workforce that is skilled, innovative, productive and globally competitive,” Griffith said.
The National Youth Skills Forum brought together government representatives, private sector stakeholders, training institutions and youth representatives to discuss practical strategies for preparing the next generation for the evolving world of work.
The accompanying Skills Search Expo provided
young people with opportunities to engage directly with training providers and industry representatives, allowing them to explore career pathways, skills programmes and employment prospects.
World Youth Skills Day is observed annually on July 15 and provides an opportunity for countries to recognise the importance of skills development in addressing youth unemployment and building resilient economies.
This year’s global theme, “Skills for a Shared Future”, emphasised the need for international co-operation in addressing shared challenges, while Guyana’s national theme, “Today’s Skills, Tomorrow’s Guyana”, underscored the country’s commitment to investing in human capital as a foundation for future growth and global contribution.
By Naomi Parris in Beijing, China
WHEN most Guyanese hear the words China-Guyana relations, the first images that spring to mind are often familiar ones: the Chinese supermarket around the corner, the food shop that somehow serves enough fried rice to feed an entire family, or the hardware store where you’ll probably find exactly what you need for less than expected.
Let’s be honest, few things can rival a mixed Chinese fried rice after a long day.
But if that’s where our understanding of the relationship between Guyana and China begins and ends, we’re missing a much bigger story.
As I write this from Beijing while participating in a media exchange programme, one thing has become increasingly apparent. For all the attention given to our differences, our language, our culture, and our geography we may actually have more in common than we realise.
Both Guyana and China are countries with long civilisations and rich traditions that are now navigating rapid modernisation. Both place considerable emphasis on infrastructure as a pathway to development.
Both speak often about lifting people’s quality of life through investment, connectivity and economic opportunity. And perhaps most importantly, both are looking confidently towards the future while trying to preserve their heritage.
Back home, conversations about China can sometimes become narrowly focused on the visible presence of Chinese-owned businesses.
Over the past two decades, Guyana has seen an increase in Chinese nationals establishing supermarkets, restaurants, hardware stores and other enterprises, particularly in Georgetown and newer housing developments.
Opinions remain divided; many consumers appreciate the convenience, extended opening hours and competitive prices these businesses often provide. Others argue that the growing number of foreign-owned enterprises creates tougher competi -
tion for local businesses that have served communities for generations. Those concerns deserve thoughtful discussion, particularly as Guyana’s economy continues to expand.
Yet reducing the Guyana-China relationship to supermarkets and takeaway boxes overlooks the much larger picture.
Take the new Demerara River Bridge, officially named the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge.
The project, one of the largest infrastructural investments in Guyana’s history, was constructed by a joint venture consisting of China Railway Construction Corporation (International) Limited, China Railway Construction (Caribbean) Co., Ltd, and China Railway Construction Bridge Engineering Bureau Group Co., Ltd.
The four-lane, highspan bridge replaced the aging floating bridge and transformed connectivity between Regions Three and Four, reducing congestion while supporting trade and economic growth. That is far more than concrete and steel.
It is a statement about how infrastructure shapes a country’s future.
The same can be said for the Guyana-China Friendship Park, a recreational space that has become a gathering point for families and fitness enthusiasts. While it may not
command the same headlines as a billion-dollar bridge, it represents another dimension of co-operation, one centred on environmentally friendly public spaces and quality of life.
Then there is trade.
Standing in Beijing, thousands of miles from Georgetown, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that Guyanese products have made the journey too.
Our honey produced from the forests and savannahs of Guyana can be found on shelves here, albeit not on every street corner. After all, Beijing is no Robb Street.
You may have to look a little harder, but there is something quietly satisfying about knowing that products from one of the world’s most forested countries are finding their way into one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
It is a reminder that trade is not a one-way street.
We import goods that fill our shops, while Guyanese products are gradually finding opportunities abroad.
During lectures throughout this exchange programme, much has been said about Chinese development assistance, investment and international co-operation. Those discussions naturally invite questions, debates and differing viewpoints.
Healthy conversations about foreign investment, economic partnerships and
national development are essential for any nation, but they should also be informed by the full picture.
China’s engagement with
Guyana cannot simply be measured by the number of supermarkets in our neighborhoods or the takeaway containers leaving Chinese
restaurants on Friday evenings.
It should also be measured by trade that creates opportunities for producers, scholarships that educate young people and the countless exchanges—like the one that brought me here—that allow ordinary citizens to better understand one another.
Perhaps that is the greatest lesson of travelling, it reminds us that countries are rarely as different as headlines sometimes suggest.
And whether you’re walking through Beijing or Georgetown, you’ll quickly realise that progress isn’t just about the buildings going up around you.
It’s about the relationships being built alongside them.
Maybe the next time we think about Guyana-China relations, we should think beyond the fried rice and supermarkets.
Although, admittedly, I’ll still be ordering the mixed fried rice with two extra pieces of Chinese chicken.
LONG before Guyana’s sweeping investments in hospitals, specialist services and modern healthcare infrastructure, Region Six served as the testing ground for a bold experiment in decentralised healthcare administration that has since helped shape the country’s evolving health system.
The Berbice Regional Health Authority (BRHA), established as the nation’s only fully operational pilot regional health authority, was created to determine whether healthcare services could be delivered more efficiently by placing management and decision-making closer to the communities they served.
According to Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo, the initiative began in 2003 with the establishment of an Interim Management Committee responsible for laying the groundwork for a new
model of healthcare administration.
That effort culminated in 2005 when Parliament passed the Regional Health Authorities Act, providing the legal framework for regional authorities to manage healthcare delivery while allowing the Ministry of Health to focus on national policy, standards and oversight.
“The Regional Health Authority was set up and started functioning in Region Six as a pilot project for regional healthcare authorities in Guyana,”
Dr Mahadeo said during an interview.
Under the legislation, regional health authorities were tasked with overseeing hospitals, health centres, health posts and public health programmes within their jurisdictions.
Region Six became the only region where the concept was fully implemented, making Berbice a model for decentralised healthcare management.
The Authority as -
sumed responsibility for an extensive network of healthcare facilities spanning the region, including district hospitals, national hospitals, a regional hospital, health centres and health posts stretching from Siparuta and Baracara to Mara.
However, Dr Mahadeo said the BRHA’s mandate extended far beyond managing medical facilities.
“We had several programmes ongoing…. We had home-based care, extended home-based care, geriatric care, the geriatric mega clinic and the home-based nutrition programme,” he said.
These initiatives reflected a community-centred approach to healthcare by taking services directly to patients, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, rather than relying solely on facility-based care. Home visits, specialised geriatric services and nutrition programmes were among the interventions aimed
at improving health outcomes at the community level.
The Authority also implemented strategic three-to five-year development plans designed to strengthen healthcare delivery across the primary, secondary and tertiary levels, ensuring a coordinated approach to improving services throughout Region Six.
Although Guyana’s healthcare landscape has undergone significant transformation over the past two decades through major investments in infrastructure, medical technology and specialised services, Dr Mahadeo said the BRHA remains an important milestone in the country’s healthcare history.
Its emphasis on decentralised leadership, long-term planning and community outreach demonstrated the potential benefits of regional healthcare management and helped inform many
Dr Mahadeo also highlighted the importance of personal responsibility in maintaining good health, noting that healthcare is not only about the services provided by the system, but also about how individuals care for their own health.
THE Caribbean must strengthen its legal systems, deepen regional co-operation and deprive organised criminal networks of their illicit wealth if the region is to effectively combat transnational crime, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, said on Wednesday as Guyana hosted the 9th Annual General Meeting of the Asset Recovery Inter-Agency Network of the Caribbean (ARIN-CARIB).
The two-day conference, being held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel under the theme “From Tracing to Transformation: Building an Asset Recovery-Ready Caribbean,” has brought together prosecutors, judges, investigators, financial intelligence officials and regional security stakeholders to enhance co-operation in tracing, confiscating and recovering the proceeds of crime.
Delivering the feature address, Nandlall said organised criminal groups have become increasingly sophisticated, operating across jurisdictions through advanced technology, complex financial systems and virtual assets to conceal illegally acquired wealth.
“Asset recovery is no longer simply about identifying illicit proceeds. It is about transforming the way our institutions cooperate, strengthening our legal framework, enhancing
public confidence in the administration of justice and ensuring that organised crime can never retain the financial rewards of its activities,” he said.
The Attorney General warned that criminal organisations now move funds across borders within seconds while exploiting differences in national legal systems to evade investigators and frustrate prosecutions.
“If criminals have learned to collaborate without regard for borders, then governments, prosecutors, investigators and financial intelligence units must collaborate even more effectively,” he said, describing international co-operation as “an operational necessity.”
GUYANA STRENGTHENING ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING FRAMEWORK
Nandlall outlined several measures Guyana has implemented to reinforce its anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/ CFT) framework, noting that reforms extend beyond legislation to include stronger institutions, enhanced inter-agency coordination, expanded international co-operation and increased technical capacity.
He said agencies including the Attorney General’s Chambers, Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU),
Guyana Police Force, Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions are working collaboratively to identify, restrain, confiscate and recover criminal assets.
The Attorney General also disclosed that comprehensive amendments to Guyana’s AML/CFT legislation are being prepared to modernise confiscation measures, strengthen investigative powers and ensure compliance with evolving international standards ahead of the country’s fifthround mutual evaluation.
Among the latest developments, he noted Cabinet’s approval of staffing for the Guyana Compliance Commission, describing it as a major step towards strengthening oversight of designated non-financial businesses and professions while expanding supervision of reporting entities.
Nandlall also said the Government is developing legislation to regulate virtual assets and virtual asset service providers as financial crime continues to evolve.
He noted that Guyana’s status as a major gold-producing nation has heightened concerns over illegal gold smuggling, which is often associated with tradebased money laundering, tax
evasion, organised criminal networks and corruption.
“Our response to organised crime must therefore be comprehensive. Whether criminal wealth originates from narcotics trafficking, corruption, environmental crime, illegal mining, wildlife trafficking or financial fraud, the objective must remain the same: to identify, restrain, confiscate and ultimately deprive criminals of the proceeds of their unlawful conduct,” he said.
The Attorney General described joint investigative teams as one of the most significant advances in international law enforcement, allowing investigators and prosecutors from multiple jurisdictions to collaborate from the earliest stages of complex investigations.
“Criminals have already united. The Caribbean must be equally united from the side of law enforcement and the rule of law,” he said, urging regional governments to move beyond reactive co-operation towards sustained, coordinated and proactive partnerships.
Director of Public Prosecutions, Shalimar Ali-Hack, echoed the need for greater regional collaboration, observing that organised crime is increasingly borderless and technology-driven.
She stressed that successful prosecutions depend fundamentally on the quality of criminal investigations, which in turn require well-trained investigators, timely access to evidence and legislation that supports co-operation among agencies.
“Prosecutions are important to this fight, but they are based on the quality of the investigations. The quality of those investigations depends on investigators’ understanding of the law and their access to relevant evidence,” Ali-Hack said.
She added that regional networking enables investigators to exchange information more rapidly through trusted channels, leading to stronger investigations, increased asset confiscations and greater public confidence in the justice system.
Deputy Executive Director of the Regional Security System (RSS), Ashley Rodney, also called for asset recovery to become a central pillar of the Caribbean’s broader security strategy.
He said the conference theme reflects a vision that extends beyond confiscating illicit wealth to strengthening institutions, modernising legislation and developing professional expertise across the region.
“Asset recovery is about far more than iden-
tifying and confiscating illicit wealth. It is about strengthening institutions, modernising legislation, building professional capacity and ensuring organised crime can no longer profit from its activities,” Rodney said.
He identified three regional priorities: strengthening legislative and policy frameworks, expanding specialised training for criminal justice practitioners and deepening regional and international co-operation.
Rodney noted that the RSS has already trained more than 200 criminal justice practitioners in the use of joint investigative teams and continues to support legal reforms that facilitate international co-operation.
“Our work extends beyond criminal assets. It is about restoring public confidence, strengthening governance, protecting our communities and ensuring that the proceeds of crime are redirected to the benefit of our citizens rather than criminal organisations,” he said.
The ARIN-CARIB annual meeting continues today with technical discussions focusing on judicial expectations in asset recovery, joint investigative teams, international co-operation and emerging strategies to strengthen the Caribbean’s capacity to trace, confiscate and recover the proceeds of organised crime.
MINISTER of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, has warned that businesses and organisa -
tions which fail to remove advertising materials after events are contributing to the defacement of commu-
nities and undermining the Government’s nationwide beautification efforts.
The minister said the
Ministry of Public Works is intensifying its campaign to remove abandoned billboards, posters and banners
across the country, while urging citizens to report neglected advertising structures that continue to clutter public spaces.
In a recent video message, Edghill stressed that although individuals and organisations have every right to advertise their activities, they also have a responsibility to remove promotional materials once those activities have concluded.
He noted that many billboards and posters remain erected long after events have ended, detracting from the appearance of communities and compromising ongoing efforts to improve Guyana’s urban and rural landscapes.
“You want to know about your activity, you want to advertise. But right now, citizens, if you go across and see what is happening, the activities are gone, completed. The billboards remain there. The place looks awful. The aesthetics of the city is being compromised,” the minister said.
Edghill explained that the increasing number of abandoned advertising structures has forced the Ministry of Public Works to divert resources towards clean-up operations.
He said the ministry is now spending additional funds to engage small contractors to remove billboards, posters and other promotional materials left behind in public spaces.
“The Ministry of Public Works has to expend sums of money now to send small contractors out just to clear the billboards and to take off all this paraphernalia that has been put up,” he said.
Warning that stronger enforcement measures are on the horizon, the minister said the Government intends to take firm action against those who continue to disregard their responsibility to remove advertising materials.
“We will be taking very strong action to prevent this, because there are better ways in which we can do this,” Edghill stated.
As part of the campaign, the minister called on citizens to support the initiative by reporting abandoned billboards, posters and banners, particularly those attached to utility poles, erected along road shoulders or left
hanging in a deteriorated condition.
He revealed that the ministry has established a dedicated task force to address such issues and encouraged residents to report offending structures by contacting 624-2964.
“Citizens, again, if you see this defacing, if you see this operation in your community, and there are billboards, posters that are nailed on poles, posters that are stuck in the earthen shoulders, even cloth paraphernalia that was put up that is now defaced and tearing, we have a task force that is dealing with that. Contact us again on the 6242964,” the minister urged.
Edghill said the appeal forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to improve public infrastructure while enhancing the country’s physical environment through sustained beautification initiatives.
He noted that significant investments continue to be made in road construction, rehabilitation and other public works projects, but emphasised that maintaining these improvements requires the active participation of citizens.
“While we fix the big, major projects, while we improve our roadways, while we beautify Guyana, citizens have a role to play,” he said.
The Ministry of Public Works has been undertaking a series of initiatives to improve the appearance of public spaces as Guyana continues to modernise its infrastructure and enhance the country’s image for residents, investors and visitors alike.
THE Board of Industrial Training (BIT) is set to expand its skills development programmes to benefit an additional 2,000 Guyanese by the end of 2026, as the Government continues its investment in preparing young people for employment, entrepreneurship and the evolving demands of the labour market.
The announcement was made during the National Youth Skills Forum hosted on Wednesday by the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning, where stakeholders highlighted the importance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in positioning young Guyanese to take advantage of emerging opportunities.
Minister within the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, said the Government remains committed to expanding apprenticeship opportunities, strengthening TVET programmes and ensuring that training initiatives are aligned with the practical skills required by industries.
He noted that as Guyana’s economy continues to expand, there is a growing need for a skilled workforce capable of supporting national development.
“There has never been a better time to be a youth in Guyana than today,” was a message repeatedly echoed during the forum, as government officials encouraged young people to take advantage of available training and career development opportunities.
Chief Executive Officer of BIT, Richard Maughn, urged young Guyanese to actively pursue skills that are relevant to the country’s development needs, while emphasising that opportunities must be matched with commitment, discipline and continuous learning.
were males, a figure Maughn described as significant given ongoing concerns about male participation in educational and training opportunities.
“We are happy to know that 8,000 have sought the opportunity that has been made available to them through the services of the Board of Industrial Training,” he said.
He also noted that 10,332 females have benefitted from BIT programmes, including many who have entered areas traditionally dominated by men.
The beneficiaries were trained through 973 skills development courses delivered under BIT programmes, supported by a Government investment of $1.78 billion.
Maughn said the planned expansion to train an additional 2,000 Guyanese by the end of 2026 follows a commitment made during the presentation of the 2026 National Budget. He said the continued investment demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring that Guyanese are equipped with the knowledge
and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.
The expansion of BIT’s programmes forms part of a broader national effort to strengthen human capital development and ensure that young people are prepared to participate in Guyana’s rapidly changing economic landscape.
“We encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity now available while recognising that opportunity must be matched by discipline, preparation, and a willingness to continue learning,” Maughn said.
He reminded young people who have recently completed secondary school that their educational journey does not end there, encouraging them to explore new and emerging fields beyond traditional occupations.
Maughn highlighted the importance of developing skills in digital and technical areas, while also strengthening communication, teamwork and problem-solving abilities.
He encouraged youths to acquire skills that would not only allow them to secure employment but also create opportunities for themselves and others through entrepreneurship.
“The Board of Industrial Training remains committed to working with the Government of Guyana, employers, training institutions, community leaders, and all developmental partners in making sure that apprentices are trained, that people receive skills certification, and that there is general access to technical vocational education and training,” the BIT CEO said.
Maughn revealed that between 2020 and June 2026, BIT programmes have benefitted 18,587 individuals through skills training initiatives, with 73 per cent of participants becoming meaningfully employed or engaged.
He explained that some beneficiaries have pursued further education and training, while others have established businesses or gained employment with industry partners.
Of those trained, 8,266
A VEHICLE collision with Guyana Power and Light’s (GPL’s) electricity network, on Wednesday afternoon, disrupted power supply across sections of the Essequibo Coast, prompting emergency restoration efforts by the utility company.
According to GPL, the incident occurred at approximately 14:00 hours at Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast, when a vehicle bearing registration number PAF 1426 came into contact with the company’s electricity infrastructure, resulting in outages affecting several communities.
The company said technical teams were immediately dispatched to assess the damage and begin restoration works.
GPL advised that electricity supply was being restored incrementally as repairs prog-
ress, but customers in affected areas may continue to experience interruptions until the damaged infrastructure has been fully repaired and the network is safely returned to service.
The utility strongly condemned what it described as the reckless operation of vehicles and equipment in the vicinity of electricity infrastructure, warning that such incidents pose serious risks to public safety and the integrity of the national power grid.
According to GPL, damage to its electricity network can lead to widespread outages, costly repairs and potentially fatal consequences where live electrical equipment is involved.
The company also made it clear that persons whose negligence results in damage to its infrastructure will be held
accountable.
GPL said it is working with the relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding Wednesday’s incident and that appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible.
The utility reminded motorists, contractors and operators of heavy-duty vehicles and machinery to exercise extreme caution when working or travelling near overhead power lines and other electrical infrastructure.
It noted that careless actions can interrupt electricity service to thousands of customers while also placing lives at risk.
GPL apologised to affected customers for the disruption and thanked them for their patience and understanding as restoration efforts continue.
––– Bastille Day celebration highlights growing partnership in climate resilience, security and trade
PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to strengthening relations with France, while expressing appreciation for that country’s continued support for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Speaking on Tuesday evening at the French National Day 2026 celebration hosted by French Ambassador to Guyana, His Excellency Olivier Plançon, and the Embassy of France in Georgetown, the Prime Minister said the longstanding friendship between
and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
He also thanked France for its steadfast support of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“France has consistently demonstrated its commitment to these ideals, and Guyana deeply values France’s principled support for our sovereignty and territorial integrity.
We appreciate its enduring friendship as we continue to safeguard the independence, security and future of our nation,” Phillips said.
French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Stéphane Séjourné and the establishment of the French Embassy in Guyana.
According to the Prime Minister, these milestones have created new momentum for co-operation in defence and security, agriculture and food security, infrastructure development, digital transformation, innovation, education, tourism and trade.
“Our friendship reflects a broader conviction that nations, regardless of size, achieve more through co-op-
the two nations continues to grow through shared democratic values and expanding areas of co-operation.
On behalf of the Government and people of Guyana, Prime Minister Phillips extended congratulations to French President, Emmanuel Macron, the Government and people of France on the occasion of Bastille Day, describing the observance as a celebration of the enduring principles of liberty, equality and fraternity.
He said those ideals continue to inspire nations in their pursuit of democracy, justice, human dignity and peace.
Reflecting on Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the country’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law, respect for human rights, the sovereign equality of states
The Prime Minister noted that Guyana and France share a unique relationship through their geographic proximity to French Guiana, creating opportunities to expand collaboration on issues of mutual interest.
He identified climate resilience, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development as key areas where both countries can strengthen co-operation.
“There is tremendous scope for Guyana and France to deepen our collaboration in building climate-resilient systems, advancing our Sustainable Development Goals, and contributing to the global response to climate change,” he said.
Phillips also pointed to recent developments that have strengthened bilateral ties, including the visit of former
eration than confrontation and make greater progress through dialogue rather than division,” he said.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to advancing bilateral relations through the Guyana-France Joint Working Group, with the aim of promoting regional stability, sustainable development and shared economic prosperity.
Among those attending the Bastille Day reception were Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Hugh Hilton Todd; Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; other Government Ministers, members of the Diplomatic Corps and members of the French community in Guyana.
By Frederick Halley
GUYANESE and friends
domiciled in the Canadian Diaspora turned out in their numbers last Sat -
urday as the Guyana Independence Celebrations Committee, headed by Shiv Persaud, brought the curtains down on the prestigious Diamond Jubilee
Independence anniversary celebrations in and outside of the Malvern Resource Centre in Scarborough, Toronto. While several were regally entertained in the centre
Ms. Sharon Roopchand-Edwards, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, (fourth from left), interacting with, among others, Chairman of the Guyana Independence Celebrations Committee, Shiv Persaud (extreme left), Ms. Grace Joseph, Consul General (acting), third from left, Mrs. Bibi Ali, (fourth from left), and High Commissioner (acting) for the Cooperative Republic of Guyana in Ottawa, Cindy Maria Sauers, (sixth from left)
with a fabulous cultural show put on by Guyanese artistes and also to a spectacular Cultures in Motion Fashion show, others were treated to two riveting softball tournaments which saw several well-known local players participating.
The occasion was graced by Ms. Sharon Roopchand-Edwards, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Minister-Counsellor and Acting High Commissioner of the High Commission for the Cooperative Republic of Guyana in Ottawa, Cindy Maria Sauers; Hon. Vijay Thanigasalam, Member of Provincial Parliament for Scarborough-Rouge Park and Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions; representatives from the Consulate General of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Toronto represented by Robert Bazil, Executive Officer III, Consulate General of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Toronto, Councillor Neethan Shan, Scarborough–Rouge Park for the City of Toronto and members of the Consular staff and distinguished representatives.
Permanent Secretary Roopchand-Edwards, who was on her first official visit to Canada since her appointment almost a year ago, interacted with members of the diaspora, Canadians of Guyanese ancestry, and friends of Guyana.
Bringing greetings on behalf of His Excellency, President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Honourable Hugh Todd, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Ms. Roopchand-Edwards reflected on Guyana’s 60 years as an independent nation, and, more
particularly, the country’s astronomical progress and growth in recent years, as the world’s fastest-growing economy.
The Permanent Secretary was welcomed to Toronto by staff of the Guyana’s Missions in Canada, Ms. Sauers; and Consul General (Acting), Ms. Grace Joseph; Executive Officer III Bazil and Executive Assistant to the Honorary Consul, Ms. Devina Richmond from the Consulate in Toronto, Mrs. Bibi Ali, the mother of His Excellency, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and executives of the Guyana Independence Celebrations Committee.
Guyanese vendors, in their usual style, set up their booths early so crowds can experience nostalgic cuisines, snow cones, beverages, and tasty snacks while enjoying the entertaining cricket competitions or just “picnicking” under their tents with family and friends.
Other booths included arts and crafts and the promotion of professional services and household products.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary Roopchand-Edwards also presented trophies and medals to the winning cricket teams and handed over gifts to lucky persons who answered a few trivia questions correctly.
The Guyana Independence Festival 2026 (Guyana Festival), organised by the Guyana Independence Celebrations Committee of Canada, now proudly in its 31st year, is a vibrant celebration of Guyana’s rich culture, heritage, and community spirit. This long-standing annual event brings together families, friends, and visitors from across the Greater Toronto Area to celebrate Guy-
ana’s independence through culture, unity and community engagement.
This year’s festival featured 24 vendors offering authentic Guyanese cuisine, products, crafts, and community services, along with an inspiring Interfaith Service celebrating faith and diversity.
According to the Guyana Independence Celebration Committee, “as Guyana marks its 60th Independence Anniversary, the Guyana Independence Festival continues its proud tradition of preserving and promoting Guyanese culture while strengthening community connections and celebrating the unity and diversity of the Guyanese diaspora in Canada.”
The committee also acknowledged former leaders and contributors whose dedication helped shape these celebrations over the decades, including Mr. Ned Blair, Mr. Winston Kassim, Malcolm Cho-Kee, Kim Sue, Danny Doobay and the many pioneers who laid the foundation for what this celebration represents today.
The several sponsors also came in for high praise and they included Caribbean Airlines, Chapel Ridge Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, Stigix and KNG Entertainment for its generous support and commitment to the community.
President Persaud also paid homage to his committee, echoing the following: “I also wish to recognise the dedicated members of the Committee whose countless hours, ideas, and unwavering commitment continue to ensure the success of our celebrations.
Their hard work reflects the passion and pride we all share for Guyana.”
THE launch of the Ministry of Housing - Central Housing and Planning Authority’s (CH&PA) Foundation Programme in Region Three has been hailed by Head of the Region Three Private Sector Inc. (R3PSInc), Halim Khan, as another major step in advancing President Dr Irfaan Ali’s vision of transforming the region
one of the major financial and logistical barriers to building.
Housing Minister Collin Croal, speaking at the launch, said owning a house lot is only the beginning of the journey to homeownership and explained that the programme is designed to provide families with a strong and reliable starting point as they begin con -
into one of Guyana’s principal engines of economic growth.
In an interview on Wednesday, Khan said the initiative, which was launched Tuesdy was well attended in the Leonora and Meten-Meer-Zorg Housing Schemes and it demonstrates the Government’s commitment to ensuring that development reaches every region while making homeownership more accessible for Guyanese families.
He noted that the Foundation Programme goes beyond housing assistance and represents a strategic investment that will stimulate economic activity, create jobs and strengthen communities throughout Region Three.
“The Foundation Programme is another clear demonstration that President Ali’s vision for Region Three is being translated into practical policies that are transforming the region into one of Guyana’s foremost engines of economic growth and national development,” Khan said.
The programme, launched by the Ministry of Housing – CH&PA, provides house lot beneficiaries with access to standardised reinforced concrete foundations for houses measuring 400, 600 and 950 square feet. The initiative is intended to help beneficiaries move more quickly from land ownership to home construction by reducing
regions rather than being concentrated in the capital.
“The Foundation Programme complements these transformative investments by ensuring that the region’s growing population has access to quality housing and planned communities that support long-term economic growth,” Khan said.
He also said modern housing developments create confidence among investors by encouraging commercial expansion and
increasing demand for retail businesses, financial services and professional support industries.
The R3PSInc Head welcomed Government’s phased rollout of the programme, describing it as a practical solution that enables more house lot beneficiaries to begin building durable houses while strengthening communities.
Khan said the initiative aligns with Guyana’s national development agen-
da by creating sustainable communities capable of supporting continued economic expansion.
“As more families establish permanent houses, communities become stronger, businesses expand and investment follows,” he said.
The Foundation Programme was officially launched on Tuesday by the Ministry of Housing –CH&PA and will initially benefit house lot recipients
in the Leonora and Meten-Meer-Zorg Housing Schemes before being expanded to housing developments in other regions.
The initiative forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to increase homeownership, expand the national housing stock and encourage timely development of allocated house lots, while supporting safe, affordable and sustainable communities across Guyana.
structing their houses. Khan said the initiative complements the Government’s wider housing strategy while generating significant economic opportunities for businesses operating in the region.
According to him, every new house constructed creates demand for contractors, masons, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, hardware suppliers, transport operators and numerous other small businesses, producing a multiplier effect throughout the local economy.
He added that from the perspective of the Region Three Private Sector Inc., housing development should be viewed not only as a social programme but also as a major economic driver capable of stimulating investment and expanding commercial activity.
Khan further pointed to the unprecedented level of public investment taking place across Region Three, noting that major projects such as the new Demerara River Bridge, the Wales Gas-to-Energy Project, expanded road networks, new housing developments, healthcare facilities and educational infrastructure are collectively positioning the region as one of Guyana’s fastest-growing economic corridors.
He said these investments reflect President Ali’s broader strategy of balanced national development, where opportunities are created across all
POLICE have issued a wanted bulletin for a 30-year-old man in connection with the fatal shooting of Shawn Edwards, 38, of South Vigilance, East Coast Demerara, as investigators intensify efforts to solve the murder.
The Guyana Police Force, on Wednesday, identified Tyrese Chester as the prime suspect in the killing and is appealing to members of the public for information that could lead to his arrest.
Edwards succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday morning, a day after he was discovered critically wounded on a roadway at
South Vigilance.
According to police investigations, the injured man was found at approximately 16:30 hours on Monday lying on the roadway with a single gunshot wound to the abdomen.
Residents rushed Ed -
wards to the Enmore Regional Hospital, where medical personnel determined that the bullet had both entered and exited his body.
He was listed in critical condition and was being prepared for transfer to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation for emergency surgery after undergoing a CT scan. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he later died from his injuries.
Following his death, police upgraded the investigation to murder and subsequently identified Chester as the prime suspect.
The Guyana Police Force is urging anyone with information on Chester’s whereabouts to contact the
nearest police station, call the emergency 911 hotline, or use any of the contact numbers listed on the wanted bulletin.
Meanwhile, investigators are pursuing several leads as they seek to establish the motive behind the fatal shooting.
According to information in sections of the media, investigators are exploring the possibility that the killing was gang-related and might have been carried out as a retaliatory attack.
Police have not officially confirmed a motive and have said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the murder remain ongoing.
THE Government’s onetime transportation grant of $20,000 is now being disbursed to thousands of senior citizens across Guyana as part of a Budget 2026 move to ease travel expenses and help pensioners maintain their independence as they access healthcare, shopping and other essential services.
The grant, which is being paid out in conjunction with the increased old-age pension, forms part of the Government’s wider social protection programme aimed at improving the quality of life for older persons by lessening the financial burden associated with daily transportation.
As announced in Budget 2026, the one-off payment will help eligible pensioners with the cost of travel, particularly to medical appointments, to buy groceries, pick up medication and attend to other essential errands.
Payments have been rolling out across the country, with recipients welcoming the extra support, saying it was timely help as transport and living costs rise.
Brian (only name given) said he depends on his motorcycle to get around each day and the grant would help offset rising fuel prices, which have put added pressure on his monthly budget. “It’s better than nothing and I would like to see an increase in the
next rollout,” he said.
Brian said a portion of the grant would be used for minor repairs to his motorcycle and the rest would go towards purchasing fuel.
He also appealed to service providers to treat the senior citizens fairly and not charge them inflated prices because they are pensioners.
Another beneficiary Ronald Muninauth said the initiative acknowledges the real-life challenges faced by many elderly persons when travelling.
Muninauth explained that many senior citizens need assistance from relatives or caregivers every time they leave home, adding to the cost of transportation. “Pensioners need assistance from relatives to get out,” he said.
In many cases seniors have to pay taxi fares and also pay for the transportation of the person accompanying them, he said.
Muninauth thanked them for the grant, but urged them not to increase fares for elderly passengers and called on the Government to step in where pensioners are being overcharged.
“Thank you to the Government for this initiative,” she said. Agnes Edwin also expressed her appreciation for the initiative, saying she relies heavily on her monthly pension and carefully budgets for transportation when she needs to use a taxi.
But many beneficiaries, while welcoming the extra financial assistance, also called for more sustainable solutions to boost transportation for seniors, such as more accessible transport and increased patience and respect from transport operators.
The transportation grant is one of several initiatives introduced by the Government in recent years to strengthen social protection for older Guyanese.
The Budget 2026 also announced an increase in the old-age pension and increased funding for programmes benefitting senior citizens, demonstrating the Government’s continued focus on improving healthcare, social services and financial assistance for the country’s ageing population.
Besides financial support, the Government has also announced plans to enhance the quality of life of the elderly. It will expand home-based healthcare services, strengthen community support systems and improve facilities providing care for senior citizens.
Officials said the impact of the transportation grant will be tracked as payments are made nationwide and feedback from recipients is expected to help guide future efforts to keep seniors active, independent and better supported in their day-to-day lives.
Missing teen’s body found along Dukestown Foreshore after two-day search –– police investigating circumstances surrounding suspected drowning
THE body of a 14-year-old Corentyne boy who was reported missing following a suspected drowning earlier this week was discovered on Wednesday morning along the Dukestown Foreshore in Corriverton, prompting an ongoing police investigation.
Dead is Devanand Balram, also known as “Whiteboy,” of No. 60 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.
According to the Guyana Police Force, the teenager’s body was found at approximately 07:00 hrs in the vicinity of the Dukestown seawall
after relatives resumed a search that had been ongoing for two days.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Balram was suspected to have drowned at the Springlands Foreshore on Sunday, July 13. Family members and others had been searching the area since the incident but were unsuccessful in locating him.
Police said the search resumed at about 06:00 hrs on Wednesday, when relatives made the grim discovery.
The body was found lying face down in a crouched position between several rocks
along the foreshore. He was clad only in a pair of boxer shorts and was reported to be in an advanced state of decomposition.
Investigators conducted an initial examination of the body at the scene and reported that no visible marks of violence were observed. The body has since been removed as investigators continue their inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s death. Police have not yet released further details and said investigations remain ongoing.
–– Housing Ministers inspect several locations across the capital
THE Government’s drive to modernise and enhance Georgetown continued on Wednesday as Minister of Housing, Collin Croal and Minister within the Ministry, Vanessa Benn, inspected several locations across the capital where beautification and infrastructural improvement projects are being advanced.
The site visits form part of efforts to transform Georgetown into a more resilient, connected and inclusive city through targeted urban enhancement initiatives designed to improve public spaces and the overall quality of life for residents and visitors.
The team’s first stop was East Street, where approximately 300 metres of the roadway will undergo upgrading works. The project will include improvements to the drainage system, construction of walkways and footpaths, tree planting and
landscaping, parking facilities on both sides of the boulevard, and the installation of street lighting.
According to the Ministry, the completed works will provide improved drainage, safer pedestrian access, and cleaner, more attractive public spaces, while enhancing mobility and accessibility within the city.
The East Street initiative is being undertaken as part of the broader Georgetown Urban Framework Plan, a Government of Guyana project being implemented with support from the The King’s Foundation.
The framework seeks to guide the sustainable development of Georgetown by balancing the preservation of the capital’s architectural heritage with environmentally responsible growth and modern urban planning.
The initiative is also aligned with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strate-
THE Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), on Wednesday, convened a meeting with the Toshaos from Indigenous communities across the region as preparations continue for the upcoming National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference. The meeting was held in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC).
The engagement brought together regional administrators, village leaders, and senior government officials to discuss issues affecting Indigenous communities and to strengthen partnerships aimed at advancing development throughout the region.
Among those participating in the meeting were Regional Chairman Devin Mohan, Regional Executive Officer Deolall Rooplall, and other senior officials, who held discussions with the Toshaos on matters of national and regional importance.
The meeting formed part of the region’s preparations for the National Toshaos Council Conference, which is expected to be held in Georgetown later this month under the theme, “Empowering Leadership while Building Sustainable Village Economies through Inclusive Partnership.”
During the engagement, participants addressed a range of issues impacting Indigenous villages, including community development, infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic op -
gy 2030, which promotes climate-resilient development, sustainable infrastructure and greener approaches to national growth.
During Wednesday’s inspections, Minister Croal and Minister Benn were accompanied by Engineer Kelvin Gurucharran, Deputy Director of Community Development, Donell Bess-Bascom, Ravin Singh and other members of staff.
The Georgetown Urban Framework Plan represents part of the Government’s wider efforts to improve urban spaces, strengthen climate resilience and enhance the capital’s appeal as Guyana continues its rapid economic transformation.
Minister of Housing, Collin Croal and Minister within the Ministry, Vanessa Benn, look at a plan while inspecting several locations across the capital where beautification and infrastructural improvement projects are being advanced
portunities, and strategies to improve the quality of life for residents.
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan emphasised the importance of maintaining strong collaboration between the Regional Democratic Council and village leaders to ensure that the needs and concerns of Indigenous communities are effectively represented at the national level.
The discussions also provided an opportunity for Toshaos to highlight challenges within their respective villages and identify priorities that they intend to raise during the conference.
The National Toshaos Council Conference serves as Guyana’s premier forum for Indigenous leaders, providing them with the opportunity to engage directly with government ministries, agencies, and development partners on policies and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable growth and improving livelihoods in Indigenous communities.
Chairman Devin Mohan said the RDC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Toshaos and working alongside them to foster inclusive development and build stronger, more resilient village economies throughout Region Two.
Toshoa of Mainstay/ Whyaka Marsha Williams said that the meeting was very important and gave Toshoa’s the opportunity to raise important issues at a regional level before going to National Toshoa conference.
SPAIN produced an absolute masterclass in control to secure their place in just their second World Cup final - leaving the rest of the world stunned at how France were blown away.
Les Bleus went into Tuesday's eagerly anticipated semi-final as overwhelming favourites having cruised through the tournament, with the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise making them an attacking force to be feared.
But while many were questioning how France could be beaten, Spain reminded everyone why
they are European champions and unbeaten in a record-equalling 37 matches by running out 2-0 winners.
Luis de la Fuente's men have rather flown under the radar at this World Cup - even failing to beat debutants Cape Verde in their opening match - and teenage superstar Lamine Yamal has scored just one goal.
But they appear to have hit peak form at the right time and, having kept a clean sheet in six of their seven games, can expect to be favourites for Sunday's World Cup final, where they will face either Argentina or England.
against the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday in Las Vegas, Golden State GM Mike Dunleavy said the team's roster is close to being finalized. “We’re getting close to finalizing the roster here.”
Spain into World Cup final after dominant victory over France
France, meanwhile, must prepare for the third-place play-off after being frustrated by a midfield masterclass and managing just three
(From page 24)
For the Warriors, that means their recruiting pitch still has a pulse -- but as of this week, it is no longer one of the three pitches getting the most attention. (NBC Sports)
exhibition... (From page 26)
Park Circuit, performed burnouts and took part in exhibition races.
Organisers in Guyana hope to create a similarly memorable event if the plans are finalised.
Roshandin also praised the support received for this year's Guyana Grand Prix, saying the backing of the government, private sector and fans had helped deliver a successful international meeting and laid the foundation for bigger events in the future.
attempts on target.
"Spain scalped France - they flattened France," said former Premier League champion Chris Sutton, who
was at the game for BBC Radio 5 Live.
"We have given France so much praise in this tournament, but they were swatted aside by silky Spain. In the main, Spain have outfought and outplayed this French team."
Roy Keane - another Premier League winnersaid on ITV: "France were not playing as a team. Brilliant individuals not playing as a team.
"Spain have been absolutely brilliant - an absolute joy to watch."
When De la Fuente was appointed Spain boss in December 2022, some re -
destructive mood against Cambridge Jaguars, blasting one four and seven sixes in his match-winning 70 not out as GH Reno reached the required 127 for one in 7.3 overs. Glasgow added an unbeaten 112 for the second wicket with his skipper Chien Gittens who joined the fray, hitting one four and five sixes in 52 not out.
Cambridge Jaguars were led to their total through R Boodram (38 not out with five sixes), D Cecil (35 with four sixes) and Rawle Scott who hit three sixes in 24.
The straight arm final saw Ambassadors Killer Bees winning from the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) X1 in a close en -
counter with Riaz Kadir smashing an unbeaten 56, laced with three fours and three sixes and skipper Richard Dias 25 not out (two sixes) as the winners reached the required 96 with two deliveries to spare.
Ambassadors Killer Bees advanced to the final with victory over Caribbean Sensation, while OSCL defeated Bacchus Ruff Ryders.
At the presentation ceremony which followed and which saw Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Ms. Sharon Roopchand-Edwards handing over some of the prizes, both the winners and runners-up were presented
ferred to him as: "Luis de la Who?"
Spain - world champions under Vicente del Bosque in 2010 - are used to being led by high-profile personalities, and de la Fuente was viewed as a low-key federation appointment after his time in charge of the nation's under-19s, under-21s and under-23s.
But the 65-year-old has given an emphatic response to the doubters.
Having led Spain to a Nations League triumph in 2023 and Euro 2024 glory, he has now guided them to the World Cup final.(BBC Sport)
(From page 25)
with trophies, while the players were recipient of medals. Glasgow and Kadir copped the respective Most Valuable Players (MVPs) trophies for the winning teams, while Jayden Mahadeo was the MVP for Panthers and Raja Amit Pooran the MVP for OSCL.
Prominent Guyana Independence Committee Celebrations member Jerry Karamat bowled the symbolic first ball to Minister-Counsellor
and Acting High Commissioner of the High Commission for the Co-operative Republic of Guyana in Ottawa, Cindy Maria Sauers to get the proceedings rolling.
The four umpires –Frederick Halley, Outar Dindial, Seeram Singh and Robert Dias also received medals in recognition for their services during the day’s action. (Frederick Halley)
KURU KURURU FC
capped off a remarkable campaign over the July 11–12 weekend, defeating Timehri United FC to be crowned champions of the East Bank Football Association’s (EBFA’s) U13 Youth Ensemble Programme.
The victory marks a significant milestone for the club, which just one year ago endured a difficult 2025 campaign in the EBFA U13 and U15 Leagues, failing to register a win in either category. This season, however, Kuru Kururu FC has demonstrated tremendous growth, maintaining an impressive winning streak in both age categories and securing the U13 championship.
EBFA Coordinator Hodiah Garraway commended the team's determination and commitment to development throughout the competition.
"I have seen strength and great development in the players. They came out and did their best, won all their games and stayed on top," Garraway said.
The 2026 EBFA U13 Youth Ensemble League,
which kicked off on May 16, featured four clubs: Kuru Kururu FC, Herstelling Raiders FC, Timehri United FC and Circuit Ville Jaguars FC.
Over the course of nine matches, more than 100 young footballers showcased their talent, discipline and sportsmanship, producing exciting contests and impressive individual performances.
Individual Award Winners and Top Performers
• Top Goalscorers: Immanuel Reid (Kuru Kururu FC) – 8 goals;
• Jeremiah Straut (Timehri United FC) – 8 goals
• Most Valuable Player: Okel Morrison (Kuru Kururu FC) – 5 goals
• Raheem Alexander (Timehri United FC) – 4 goals
• Leandre Benjamine (Kuru Kururu FC) – 2 goals
• Xavi Griffith (Kuru Kururu FC) – 2 goals
• Micaicah French (Herstelling Raiders FC) – 2 goals
• Best Goalkeeper: Dokari Robertson (Kuru Kururu FC)
With the conclusion of the East Bank Football Association’s U13 Youth Ensemble League, both champions Kuru
Kururu FC and runners-up
Timehri United FC have secured qualification for the national championship, scheduled to be held between July
and August 2026.
Meanwhile, the EBFA U15 Youth Ensemble competition continues to deliver exciting
football ahead of its anticipated conclusion in late July or early August.
Herstelling Raiders FC recorded a convincing 5-2 victory over Friendship All-
stars FC, while Circuit Ville Jaguars FC secured a dominant 7-2 win against Pakuri FC.
Goals for Herstelling Raiders FC came from Tyler Abrams, Robinho Abrams, Wayshawn Forde and Isiyah Williams, while Anthony Thomas and Kemo Depecizer found the net for Friendship Allstars FC.
In the day's other fixture, Circuit Ville Jaguars FC's goals were scored by Anton Sampson, Vickash John, Kennvio Bagot and Elon John. Pakuri FC's scorers were Zeron Andrews and Xian Simon.
The Youth Ensemble Programme, a first-of-itskind initiative of the Guyana Football Federation, continues to provide young players across the country with meaningful competitive opportunities, supporting their technical development while fostering teamwork, discipline and passion for football.
With the U-15 competition still underway, the programme remains committed to identifying and nurturing the next generation of football talent in Guyana.
LeBron James' NBA free-agency decision still is not here -- but the picture around it just got a lot more specific, and the news is not entirely good for the Warriors.
ESPN's Shams Charania provided an update on "NBA Today" Tuesday, revisiting a report he first delivered weeks ago that identified the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Warriors as the three leaders in James' decision to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons. Those three teams still are in it, but the landscape around them has shifted -- and Golden State's position within it has changed.
Philadelphia landed Brown in a blockbuster trade with Boston on July 2, sending Paul George and four draft picks back to the Celtics. Minnesota, meanwhile, added Ball around the same time of the offseason. Both moves inserted their franchises into James' decision. That widened the field to five teams. But Charania drew a clear distinction between which five are still involved and which three still are the real focus.
"My understanding is, right now as we speak, LeBron James has the information that's needed to make a decision," Charania said.
"The feel is that those five teams remain in the mix, but a focus on Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia."
"Those three teams are still in it," Charania said. "The Sixers have since acquired Jaylen Brown. Minnesota already got LaMelo Ball. They are also two of the teams that are involved."
Golden State and Minnesota, in other words, are technically alive -- but no longer appear to be where James' attention is concentrated. That is a meaningful shift for a Warriors fan base that has spent weeks watching Draymond Green opt out of his contract and reportedly spend time with James personally, all in pursuit of pairing him with Steph Curry for one final championship run. There is also a layer of irony in the current focus group. Two of the three teams James is reportedly zeroed in on -- Cleveland and Miami -- are franchises where he has already won championships and spent significant portions of his career. Whatever "new team environment and culture" James is searching for, according to Charania, it may
end up looking a lot like somewhere he has already been.
Charania was also clear about what is not driving the decision.
"This is not a money-driven decision," he said. "So you have teams that are offering him minimum deals, exceptions, some salary-cap space as well. He's able to take his time and sift through this."
Team presidents and general managers still are in contact with James' agent, Rich Paul, this week, and James has reportedly listened to voice notes from multiple team owners delivered through Paul. Charania said a decision "could be really any day, any week now."
During the Warriors' NBA Summer League game
23)
MINISTER within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Steven Jacobs on Tuesday last visited the Area H Ground in Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club Bakewell Cricket Academy where he met a large group of youths and their coaches led by level three coach, Winston Smith.
The Minister was officially welcomed at the Academy by Rose Hall Town Clerk Natasha Griffith and RHTYSC Officials Hilbert Foster, Robby Kissoonlall, Jonathan Rampersaud, Eon Hooper and Clinton Pestano.
The former Guyana senior player in remarks to the attentive academy youths urged them to always be disciplined as it is the foundation to a successful future on the cricket field. The youthful government minister also spoke on the impor-
tance of education and the need to also be fit as cricket is a physically demanding sport. He advised the youths to listen to their coaches and to put into practice what they had learned from them.
Minister Jacobs, who also played in the Caribbean Premier League (CP) called on the RHTYSC youth players to follow in the footsteps of their club mates like Assad Fudadin, Kevin Sinclair, Royston Crandon, Kelvon Anderson, Shemaine Campbelle, Shabaki Gajanabi, Sheneeta Grimmond and Erva Giddings who have all played for the West Indies at the International level. He stated that their success was based on a formula of hard work, personal discipline and dedication. After his discussion with the Academy class of 2026, Minister Jacobs, who played in the Berbice Crick-
et Board’s first division cricket for Tucker Park, presented a large supply of sport gear to RHTYSC Club captain Clinton Pestano.
The donation included cricket bats, batting pads, helmet, cricket balls, batting gloves, volleyball, basket balls and footballs. He also congratulated the coaches for their dedication to improving the cricketing skills of the youths at the Academy and urged them to continue doing so in the future.
The Minister also paid a visit around the Area H Ground accompanied by club officials and the Town Clerk. The Minister immediately agreed that the Ministry of Sports would assist with repairs to the fencing around the venue, upgrading of the outfield and also to seek a roller for the ground that has produced 133 players for Berbice, 76
SKELDON Line Path and New Amsterdam Secondary Schools were recipients of nine red cricket balls each from “Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana,” the joint initiative between Anil Beharry of Guyana and Kishan Das of the USA.
The balls will be used by the schools to prepare for the national school cricket competition sponsored by the Beharry Group of Company.
Imran Ally, Headmaster of SLPS and former Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Region 6, received the balls on behalf of the schools and was very thankful for the support.
Total cricket related items received/purchased so far: $786,146 in cash, 13 coloured cricket uniforms, one set of stumps, two trophies, 36 pairs of cricket shoes, 40 pairs of batting pads, 49 cricket bats, 48 pairs of batting gloves, 29 thigh pads, three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest pads, two boxes, 15 gear bags, 13 bat rubbers, seven helmets, one fiber glass bat, one pair of floppy hat, 16 boxes and four of white cricket balls, 13 boxes of red cricket balls, one bat cone,
one batting inners and 28 footballs.
To date, 106 players from all three counties of Guyana have benefited directly from cash, 10 gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, 43 bats, four boxes, six helmets, 38 pairs of cricket shoes, 22 pairs of batting pads, 25 thigh pads, one bat grip, 42 pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicket-keeping pads and four pairs of wicket-keeping gloves.
Cricket related items, used or new, are distributed
national players and thirteen at the international level.
Minister Jacobs also promised that a regional engineer would visit the venue for assessment work on the way forward.
RHTYSC Cricket Manager Robby Kissoonlall expressed gratitude to Minister Jacobs for his visit and for the support offered.
free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders also assist to identify same. Progressive and well managed cricket clubs with a youth program, will also benefit.
Anyone interested to contribute can contact Anil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718 664 0896.
The management of the club also handed over several copies of the RHTYSC Youth Review booklet which was recently launched.
…Seon Glasgow sets Littles Park ablaze with scintillating knocks
GH Reno and Ambassadors Killer Bees emerged winners of the Guyana Independence Celebrations Committee softball tournaments when the curtains came down on Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee activities at Littles Park, Scarborough, Toronto, last Saturday.
After powering to a scintillating unbeaten 70 in the opening game versus Cambridge Jaguars in the roundarm category, Berbician Seon Glasgow further displayed his power-hitting ability with an unbeaten 31 not out as GH Reno romped to a commanding victory over Panthers in a lop-sided final to claim championship honours.
Chasing 71 for victory in 10-over final, after Panthers were restricted to 70 for eight, GH Reno rushed to the target in 5.1 overs with Glasgow clobbering five sixes in an unbeaten 31 off a mere six balls. He received valuable support from fellow Berbician Junior Sinclair (22 with three sixes) and Chrystan Thurton (22 with two fours and two sixes).
Glasgow was also in a
THE 18th running of the Guyana Cup will be an iconic horse-racing event. Rising Sun Turf Club will be transformed into a spectacle on Sunday, August 23, when top horses, jockeys, stables and trainers assemble to battle for the crown.
With more than G$66 million in cash and prizes up for grabs, this year’s Guyana Cup will ensure fans witness and remember the Guyana Cup as the most exciting sporting event in the country.
Fans will have more comfort, more visuals, a new and excited entrance, and a lot of giveaways, including a brand new SinoTruk pick-up.
For this year’s Guyana Cup, special emphasis will be placed on community engagements through gift vouchers for kids, and a special, designed kids fun zone will also be at the venue.
A new and excited entrance for easy access equipped
The 18th running of the Guyana Cup will be an all new experience for fans
Alfred avenges World Championships loss with blazing 10.87
BUDAPEST, Hungary,
J(CMC )– Olympic champion Julien Alfred sent a thunderous message to her rivals Tuesday night, storming to victory in the women’s 100m here at the Gyulai István Memorial with a season-best 10.87 seconds (-0.3 m/s wind). n their first meeting since Clayton edged Alfred for World Championship silver, the Saint Lucian sprint queen turned the tables decisively. Clayton, the Jamaican rising star, crossed the line in 10.97 for second place, while compatriot Brianna Lyston rounded out the podium in
Multiple Olympic gold medallist Elaine Thompson-Herah, still working her way back to peak form, finished fourth in 11.04 seconds.
Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre was quick to celebrate the achievement, releasing a statement that captured the pride of a nation.
“Congratulations to Julien Alfred on another outstanding victory, winning the women’s 100m at the Gyulai István Memorial, a World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meeting in Budapest (HUN), in a season’s best
with product sampling, and a redesigned infield to accommodate an all new VVIP elevated zones.
Screens will be strategically erected around the venue with maximum visibility, bringing instant replays and all information on jockeys and horses.
More than 700ft of additional covered bleachers will be added to the homestretch, so fans can feel the ground shake as their favourite horses reach the finish line.
A specially designed VIP brunch experience will also be at the venue for the first time in Guyana Cup history. Sponsored cabanas, will be available with each being distinct and representing a brand that is beloved.
With the absence of a mega concert, there will be a special choreographed presentation along the homestretch with performances from Guyana’s most talented artistes and
dancers.
Organised by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred racing committee, this Guyana Cup is expected to attract all the top horses and jockeys from across the region.
A total of 14 races will be running off at this year’s Guyana Cup.
The feature race which will be the Banks Guyana Cup will fetch a purse of G$22 million.
Additionally, one lucky patron will drive away with a brand new Sinotruk pick-up on Guyana Cup race day.
The races for Guyana Cup 2026 are:
Banks Guyana Cup (One Mile)- Total purse
G$22,500,000
Peter Lewis Guyana Cup Sprint (5 ½ Furlong)- Total purse G$7,500,000
Forrester’s Imported Derby (One Mile)- Total purse
G$7,500,000
Mohamed’s Excavating Sir
Balaji Derby (One Mile)- Total purse
G$5,625,000
J’s Imported Juvenile Fillies
Sprint (5 ½ Furlong)- Total purse
G$3,750,000
BM. Soat Locally Bred Dash (5 ½ Furlong)- Total purse
G$2,812,500
P. Jagdeo E-Class (One Mile)- Total purse
G$2,812,500
Jagmohan F-Class (One Mile)- Total purse
G$1,875,000
ARONCO H-Class (One Mile)- Total purse
G$1,875,000
C.I. H3 N.W.3 (One Mile)Total purse
G$1,875,000
Avinash Local Maidens (One Mile)- Total purse
G$2,812,500
Big G’s J-Class (One Mile)Total purse G$1,875,000
Garen Pro K-Class (One Mile)- Total purse
G$1,875,000
Sawh L Class Sprint (One Mile)- Total purse
G$1,875,000
GUYANA could stage its first-ever Formula 1 exhibition within the next year, with organisers confirming plans are being developed to bring an F1 car and driver to the South Dakota Circuit.
The proposal builds on the success of the Guyana Grand Prix, which recently hosted the third round of the GT Challenge de las Américas and attracted competitors from across the Caribbean, Europe, North America, and Latin America.
10.87 seconds,” Pierre said.
“Julien continues to inspire our nation through her consistency, determination and pursuit of excellence. Every race is another reminder that Saint Lucian talent can compete with, and triumph over, the very best in the world.”
The Prime Minister added that the government and people of Saint Lucia “celebrate this latest achievement” and wished Alfred “continued success throughout the season.”
“Congratulations, Julien. We are proud of you,” Pierre concluded.
Silvia Bermúdez, part of the GT Challenge de las Américas organising team, said the response to the event has strengthened confidence that an F1 demonstration can become a reality.
"We are very happy to be here and all of the teams are happy to be here," Bermúdez explained to local media.
"We have committed to being here for five years and every year we want to improve the experience for the fans."
She said discussions with the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) are centred on expanding the range of motorsport events hosted at the venue.
"The plan is to bring more
content to the South Dakota Circuit, not only GT3 racing," she said.
"One of the ideas is to organise a Formula 1 exhibition in Guyana. We are working on that with drivers from around the world, and what has happened with this event will be very important in helping make that possible."
"It would be an exhibition, but having a Formula 1 car in Guyana would be something very special."
GMR&SC president Mohamad Shairaz Roshandin said improvements to the circuit remain a priority before introducing new categories of motorsport.
"There is still fencing and other infrastructure [sic] work that needs to be completed to fully secure the facility," Roshandin said.
"Once those upgrades
are finished, we can continue developing different types of racing."
He added that the proposed Formula 1 appearance would be designed as a full entertainment event, rather than simply an exhibition run.
"It won't just be one car driving around the track," he said.
"It will be a complete show, giving Guyanese the opportunity to experience Formula 1 in their own country."
A Formula 1 demonstration has previously been held in the Caribbean.
In 2016, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton visited Barbados for the Barbados Festival of Speed, where he drove a 2013 Mercedes Formula 1 car at Bushy
(Turn to page 23)
– Stafanie Taylor cracked a second successive century and West Indies’ spinners dismantled Ireland Women’s batting lineup to see them complete a clean sweep of their One Day International series via a comfortable 64-run victory here on Wednesday.
Taylor, who scored an unbeaten, even 100 in the previous match on Sunday, cracked 105 to rebuild the visitors’ innings and get them up to a competitive 257 in 50 overs at Bready Cricket Club after they were sent in to bat.
Spinners Afy Fletcher, Karishma Ramharack and Hayley Matthews then shared eight wickets between them, as they skittled out the home side for 193 in 43.1 overs after they had made a promising start.
The result gave the Windies Women a commanding
3-0 series win, their third straight bilateral ODI series win against Ireland. Despite having already wrapped up the series with Sunday’s victory, the West Indies made just one change to that side, with Ashmini Munisar replacing Shawnisha Hector.
Ireland’s decision to send the visitors in to bat paid immediate dividends when Hayley Matthews, who scored two centuries in the previous matches, was dismissed by Orla Prendergast with only seven runs on the board.
Taylor joined Realeanna Grimmond and added 34 runs before the latter was bowled by Jane Maguire for a patient 14 off 42 balls. When both Shemaine Campbelle and Jannillea Glasgow were run out for the addition of just seven runs, West Indies Women were in
ST JOHN’S, Antigua, Jul 15, CMC – Results of the third round of matches in the CWI Rising Stars Under-19 Men’s 50-over Championship here on Wednesday.
At Coolidge Cricket Ground: Barbados defeated Guyana by 63 runs.
BARBADOS 258 in 49.5 overs (Jordan Graham 78, Justin Parris 67, Seth Smith 39, Kelani Clarke 19, Raphael Lovell 13; Romario Ramdehol 3-27, Gilbert Griffith 3-37, Parmeshwar Ram 2-39).
GUYANA 195 in 44.1 overs (Adrian Hetmyer 61, Dhanesh Persaud 35, Romario Ramdehol 21, Khush Seegobin 20, Jonathan Mentore 12, Darwin Joseph 10 not out; Justin Parris 4-19, Rajeev Parsooram 2-49).
At Liberta Sports Club: Jamaica defeated Trinidad and Tobago by 106 runs.
JAMAICA 225-8 in 50 overs (Adrian Silvera 52 not out, Ryan Lyttleton 41, Pajay Nelson 25, Perico Henry
trouble at 48 for four.
Deandra Dottin looked fluid in her knock of 21 that contained four boundaries, until she was stumped off the bowling of Georgina Dempsey to leave Ireland in the ascendancy with the score 82 for five.
But with her side struggling, Taylor formed two major partnerships with Jahzara Claxton and Aaliyah Alleyne that put them back on track. She first added 73 with Claxton who made 30, and when Claxton was dismissed by Aimee Maguire, Taylor put on 50 with Alleyne, who dominated the stand by scoring 33 off 30 balls with six boundaries.
When Dempsey eventually returned to bowl Alleyne to make the score 205 for seven after 40 overs, West Indies were still well short of a par score.
However, Taylor, who
was named Player-of-theMatch, added 52 crucial runs with the tailenders in the remaining 10 overs.
The 35-year-old veteran brought up her 10th ODI century off 110 balls in the final over of the innings by scampering two runs after driving Dempsey through the offside.
She was eventually run out off the last ball after facing 113 balls and striking
10 fours.
Prendergast (2-37), Jane Maguire (2-44) and Dempsey (2-61), all took two wickets apiece for Ireland.
The home side didn’t get off to the best of starts either, losing Sarah Forbes for just two, but the pair of captain Gaby Lewis and Amy Hunter shared a 71-run partnership that carried them to 81 for one in the 18th over and left the game in the balance.
THERE had been reports in the build up to the ICC conference of plans to reduce the length of oneday internationals from 50 overs to 40 overs.
24 not out, Geovanni Grey 19, Odane Binns 18, Tyson Gordon Jr 17; Daniel Holder 3-52, Daron Dhanraj 2-37, Brendan Boodoo 2-43). T&T 119 in 35.3 overs (Brendan Boodoo 54, Daniel Holder 12, Christian Lall 12, Levi Ghanny 11, Tariq Richards 10; Jahdae Moore 3-10, Perico Henry 3-27, Nicoli McKenzie 2-29).
At Bethesda Sports Ground: Leeward Islands defeated Windward Islands by 144 runs.
LEEWARD ISLANDS 269-9 in 50 overs (Tanez Francis 79, J’Quan Athanaze 55, Lawshorn Bergan 47, Lyhte Browne 38, Rondre Daniel 16; Earshino Fontaine 3-32, Tyler Venner 2-54).
WINDWARD IS -
LANDS 125 in 29 overs (Cody Fontinelle 22, Theo Edward 18, Tyler Venner 17, Kevin Joseph 15, Kazado Henry 13, Aiden Burton 10; Matthew Miller 2-17, Tayari Tonge 2-25, Kerique Mentore 2-26).
It is understood there are ongoing ICC discussions on how to keep the ODI format relevant but a change is not imminent.
Additionally, there are no plans to revive the ODI World Cup Super League which ran from 2020 until 2023.
Lewis looked in good nick to reach a half century, but immediately after she was dismissed by Fletcher for an even 50 off 59 balls and three balls later the spinner also grabbed Hunter’s wicket for 30, to leave Ireland 86 for three.
Prendergast made just eight before becoming Matthews’ first wicket and when Rebecca Stokell was run out, the home side was reeling at 129 for five in the 28th over.
Leah Paul, who scored 32 and Louise Little, who made 23, tried to reinvigorate the run chase during a 29run partnership for the sixth wicket, but once Fletcher had Paul stumped, the innings quickly capitulated.
Both Fletcher and Ramharack finished with figures of 3-33, while Matthews, who took home the Player-of-the-Series award, claimed 2-37.
The Super League was used as a qualification structure for the 50-over World Cup and was of particular benefit for associate members who had mandatory scheduled fixtures against full members. It was scrapped for the 2027 qualifying cycle and will not return.
The ICC has, however, strongly encouraged full members to schedule more matches between their ‘A’ sides and associate members in both white-ball formats to help grow the game. (BBC Sport)
group stage.
The group stage will feature two groups of six, with the top three from each group and the nextbest ranked team progressing to a round-robin ‘super seven’ stage, replacing the ‘super six’.
The top four teams from the ‘super seven’ then progress to the semi-finals.
The ICC says the changes “creates greater context, competitiveness and consequence during the event”.
These changes will be in place for the 2027 edition, which is being co-hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
A tweak to the T20 World Cup is also said to be under review, with the ‘super eight’ stage increas -
ing to a ‘super 10’ phase.
All of the above could lead to an increase in the one fixture the ICC wants to see more of: India versus Pakistan.
The two sides do not play each other outside major tournaments but it is seen as the most marketable fixture for television.
Elsewhere, England, India and Australia have their key fixtures for the Future Tours Programme (FTP) for 2027 to 2031 locked in alongside global tournaments, but the rest of the full members are yet to sort out their schedules.
There is a meeting pencilled in for August when they will attempt to thrash out the remainder of the calendar before a final review in September.
Additionally, it seems highly likely the number of white-ball bilateral series played by teams will decrease after the next FTP cycle.
In their place will be a series of mini inter-continental quadrangular tournaments, likely to be with two teams from each full member region.
WTC semi-finals on the cards
There has been no formal progress on the possible expansion of the World Test Championship to 12 teams.
An ICC working group, headed by New Zealand board member Roger Twose, is still working through plans to expand
(From back page)
the tournament to include Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe.
As a result, no concrete proposals have been presented for approval and it now looks extremely unlikely they will be incorporated as part of the next FTP cycle.
One interesting subject which gained some traction in meetings was the possibility of adding semi-finals to the WTC in order to stimulate more interest.
There is a feeling that a greater sense of jeopardy, and giving teams in the middle of the table more to play for, would help generate more interest in a tournament for the longer format.(BBC Sports)
HOLDERS Argentina fought back from the brink to beat England and advance to Sunday’s FIFA World Cup 2026™ final against Spain.
Enzo Fernandez and Lisandro Martinez, with the help of two Lionel Messi assists, struck the late goals in a dramatic turnaround in Atlanta just as England were closing in on their first final in 60 years, following Anthony Gordon’s 55th-minute goal.
Instead, La Albiceleste, following another comeback to rival their Round of 16 recovery against Egypt, can now look forward to their seventh World Cup final, and stand a step away from retaining their world crown. This eagerly-awaited revival of one of international football’s great rivalries ended with a repeat of the scoreline in the teams’ most famous encounter in Mexico City 40 years ago. It certainly began in feisty fashion.
It was cagey and intensely contested and not until the 33rd minute did either side produce an attempt on goal. That was when John Stones nodded wide from a Declan Rice free-kick at the far post. At the other end, Fernandez flashed a fierce shot over.
Both these teams had had to dig deep to get this far.
Both had found moments of inspiration when it was most needed. Julian Alva -
ARGENTINA face the prospect of a Fifa fine after their players celebrated the World Cup semi-final win against England with a banner in support of their country’s claims to the Falkland Islands.
The defending world champions produced a dramatic late comeback in Atlanta, scoring twice to defeat Thomas Tuchel’s side 2-1 and book a showdown with Spain in Sunday’s final.
After the final whistle,
Argentina players celebrated while holding a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, which translates as “The Falklands are Argentine”.
The Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory in the south-west Atlantic Ocean, remain the subject of a sovereignty dispute between Britain and Argentina.
The two nations went to war over the group of islands, situated 300 miles off Argentina’s east coast, from April to June 1982.
The 74-day conflict led to the deaths of 655 Argentine and 255 British servicemen. Three people from the islands also died.
In 2014, Fifa fined the Argentine Football Association £20,000 after its players held up a banner with the same message before a friendly against Slovenia.
World football’s governing body said the gesture had breached rules on political action and team misconduct.
(BBC Sport)
Australia are one of only three teams to win the World Test Championship, along with New Zealand and South Africa
rez sought to conjure one such moment soon after the restart, getting beyond Djed Spence following a long ball forward and drawing a smart save from Jordan Pickford at his near post.
Instead, the breakthrough came at the other end when Morgan Rogers, one of three players brought back into England’s starting XI, delivered a terrific low cross from the right. Gordon, arriving at the back post, got in front of Nahuel
Molina to steer an excellent controlled finish into the corner of Emiliano Martinez’s goal.
Another of the starters reinstated by Thomas Tuchel, Spence made a brilliant goal-saving tackle to deny Giuliano Simeone but the close calls continued as England sat increasingly deep and Argentina’s pressure grew.
Substitute Nico Gonzalez saw his header foiled by a fine Pickford save, while
Eventually, the pressure told as following a short-corner routine Messi squared the ball to Fernandez and he unleashed a magnificent shot from outside the box that flew past Pickford to his right.
Then, in added time, Mac Allister’s shot struck a post but Messi recycled the danger, delivering a rightfoot cross that substitute Martinez buried at the far post. (FIFA)
The International Cricket Council(ICC) held its annual conference in Edinburgh last week.
A number of important issues surrounding the future of international cricket were discussedboth informally and formally - in meetings involving some of the game’s most influential decision makers.
With the ICC set for talks with broadcasters over new deals, the governing body is keen to consider how best to position the various formats to ensure they can maximise their value.
BBC Sport spoke to several sources to find out about some of the ideas proposed.
World Cup changes
One of the proposals that has been confirmed is a shake-up to the structure of the men’s 50-over World Cup.
The main tournament is being cut from 14 teams to 12, with three of the lowest ranked qualifiers taking part in a first round that would see just one progress to the
(Turn to page 27)