announces plans for high-level team to support greater integration of
Dr. Irfaan Ali; Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond; and other officials joined ranks for the opening ceremony of the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) Annual Senior Officers Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, on Monday (Delano Williams photos)
‘We
TARGETED reorientation and data-driven strategies must be among the solutions to address the resurgence of gang-related school violence in Guyana and the wider Caribbean.
This was according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali during his address at the open-
ing ceremony of the Guyana Prison Service Senior Officers Conference on Monday.
“We have a pandemic of gangs in the secondary
schools across the region; let’s not shy away from it,” the President said, stressing: “We have to get into those schools; we have to get into
those communities. We have to get into those homes.”
He noted that all security apparatus, social services and stakeholders must take an integrated approach to address the root causes of gang violence, trauma and other challenges.
“If we can bring the religious community and civil society as part of this movement and identifying all the at-risk homes in a community, the broken homes in a community, identify, if we can do all of this, we will be able to address this challenge at the root cause. We have to look at targeted reorientation; the way we deal with trauma,” the Head of State said.
He noted that a behavioural model could be developed to analyse social cliques among the prison population as well as in vulnerable communities.
“I would like to see the prison service, every prison service in our region, develop a data- driven behavioural model. I would like to see the data on the prison population in every single country, what type of music they prefer,” he said.
Last week, parents across Guyana were urged to play a more active role in guiding and monitoring their children after a meeting at the West Ruimveldt Secondary School highlighted
concerns about prohibited items being brought onto the school compound and broader issues of bullying and violence.
The call came after a concerned parent who attended the meeting shared images on social media showing a table filled with items that had reportedly been taken from students over time. Among the items displayed were lighters, toy guns, knives of various types and other objects considered inappropriate for the school environment.
Only recently Education Minister Sonia Parag had declared a zero-tolerance stance on gangs and violence, following an incident involving a Zeeburg Secondary School student who was beaten by a group of boys while on his way home.
“There is no way under my tenure that I am going to tolerate any group of persons calling themselves a gang; any group of persons infiltrating a school to create what is called a gang or a clique or a group. I will work with every single authority to dismantle it.
Because you cannot develop unless you are in a safe environment,” the Education Minister said during an engagement with students and teachers at that institution.
By Naomi Parris
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
of the Armed Forces, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, has called for a strategic overhaul of the Guyana Prison Service, urging the officers to move from a reactive role to a proactive pillar of national security.
Addressing the open ing ceremony of the Guy ana Prison Service (GPS) Annual Senior Officers Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, on Monday, the President said the country’s approach to security must be unified and collabora tive.
He stressed the need for the prison service to play a constructive societal role, proposing the development of a “prison avoidance” sys tem focused on preventing people, particularly young people, from entering the criminal justice system in the first place.
“Over the past five years, we’ve been integrat ing our systems, integrating our leadership, and building on the success of each oth er, because that is the only way we can confront the multifaceted nature of the challenges of the future,” he said.
“We talk about rehabil itation, which is important, but before we get to prison, how do we avoid getting
there?” he questioned.
To this end, Dr. Ali an nounced that in the coming weeks, he will announce a high‑powered group of experienced individuals to guide the integration of systems and lead the imple mentation of the initiatives outlined.
He emphasised that the Guyana Prison Service is an integral part of the na tion’s security architecture, and must be afforded equal standing alongside the po lice and defence forces as it works to secure the country and reshape outcomes in communities
“Today, I want to spend some time speaking about what we want to create and how do we go about creating an in-
stitution that is not only reactive, but one that will play a proactive role,” he said, noting that the security apparatus can play a greater role in shaping more positive outcomes, especially in vulnerable communities.
President Ali further warned of migrating criminal networks seeking to recruit persons who are vulnerable.
He cautioned that youths, especially those who dropped out of school, suffered some form of trau ma and live in stigmatised communities, often fall victim to these networks.
“In the long term, the
prison service must be re defined and realigned with a heavy focus on avoiding more persons, especially youths entering the system. As pressure grows in other large economies, criminal networks are pressed. When they are pressed, they look for new grounds,” Dr. Ali said.
He noted that data and key analysis from these vulnerable groups and ar eas will be crucial in first adopting a system that pre vents persons from entering the criminal justice system.
The President said: “We
How do we prepare for that? How do we analyse the data?”
He added: “I hope that at this level, we are having access to that data that allows us to do the analysis so that we can craft measures based on paper, based on reality, based on the awareness of what surrounds us.”
Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond highlighted the conference’s theme, “Fostering growth,
have to identify where those grounds are. And here in Guyana, we know with the growth in the economy, there is a natural attraction.
driving synergy and securing the future of corrections,” as central to the country’s wider national security agenda.
She stressed that a “modern state cannot exist with outdated security insti tutions,” noting that for too long, corrections have been treated as the “forgotten arm” of the justice system.
The minister noted that under the leadership of President Ali’s adminis tration, billions of dollars are being invested across the security sector in new infrastructure, training, technology driven security systems and leadership de velopment.
She said: “The transfor mation of the Guyana Pris on Service is not accidental. This transformation is the result of memory policy de cisions by this government to strengthen and modernise our institution.”
Strong emphasis was placed on rehabilitation as a smart security policy, with the government ex panding vocational train ing, education, psycholog ical and social support, and reintegration programmes for inmates. Security and rehabilitation, Minister Walrond stressed, are “two sides of the same strat egy”.
“Security without reha bilitation creates a revolv ing door. Rehabilitation without discipline creates instability.
A modern correctional service must combine both,” she added.
THE Ministry of Public Works has announced the implementation of a new daytime clearance policy along Sheriff Street to improve safety and accessibility during peak hours.
According to a notice posted on the ministry’s official Facebook page, the decision comes in recognition of Sheriff Street’s “vibrant
economic life” and its importance to the wider Georgetown community.
The ministry, however, noted that maintaining a clear thoroughfare during busy daytime periods is essential to public order and safety.
Under the new measures, all trucks, caravans, and vending stalls must be removed between 06:00hrs and
18:00hrs. Vending will only be permitted outside those hours, the ministry said.
Officials further advised that no stalls or portable structures should occupy road shoulders or reserves between the specified hours, effectively covering the full width “from property line to property line” on each side of the street.
The ministry also cautioned that any encumbrances found on the roadway or pedestrian pathways during the restricted period will be removed.
Vendors and businesses were urged to cooperate with the policy to keep the corridor open and orderly for both motorists and pedestrians.
By Shamar Meusa
OVER the next few weeks, the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) Mission will work with local health authorities to strengthen medical capacity as the mission begins its 2026 initiative here.
During the opening ceremony, which was held on Monday at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, it was noted that this is the third such mission here, and the collaborative medical mission will be conducted from March 16 to March 27.
The visiting contingent comprises around 80 U.S. medical personnel who will execute the LAMAT 2026 medical mission.
Speaking at the opening ceremony for the mission, Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, welcomed the return of the United States-led
medical team and emphasised the value of the exchanges between local and visiting professionals.
“We’re very appreciative of this mission coming to Guyana, and this is the third mission, so probably we must be doing something right to get you guys to come back so often,” the minister remarked.
Reflecting on the impact of the previous engagements, Dr Anthony noted that the collaboration has already helped to expand the scope of medical services offered locally.
“One of the things that we learned from those missions was that the team coming from the US was able to work seamlessly with our local teams, and we were able to build a lot of capacity,” he added.
Dr Anthony pointed to an example from a previous
mission, during which specialists were able to perform a complex ophthalmological procedure that had not previously been attempted in Guyana.
“There were surgeries that we hadn’t done in Guyana before… one that stood out was surgery for a child that was almost nine, and they were able to operate on that child to provide some vision,” Dr Anthony said.
Against this backdrop, he noted that such exchanges allow local professionals to extend the boundaries of where they can go in medicine, while also giving visiting teams an opportunity to gain experience working in different healthcare settings.
This year’s engagement is expected to be the largest since the mission began operating in Guyana, with visiting medical teams working alongside local health-
care providers at several institutions, including the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, the Cheddi Jagan Dental School, Diamond Regional Hospital, West Demerara Regional Hospital and the De Kinderen Regional Hospital.
Dr Anthony also noted that the mission will include an additional training component, with specialists from the University of Miami expected to join the programme to support training, and professional development for local healthcare workers.
“We look forward to this partnership being an enduring one, because we really want to see many more training opportunities,” he said.
The Health Minister went on to add that collaboration with international institutions can help to strengthen what is already being done here.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Guyana, John Crippen, said the mission forms part of broader regional efforts to strengthen healthcare systems and partnerships.
“LAMAT’s overall goal is to work with and support the medical professionals in Guyana, Suriname, St Lucia and St Kitts and Nevis to provide medical and dental treatment to patients in need,” Crippen said.
He added that the initiative will utilise more than US$300,000 in medical supplies while facilitating the exchange of knowledge and experience among medical professionals.
“Over the next two weeks, we look forward to working alongside Guyanese partners to deliver essential medical services, exchange expertise and engage with
communities across the country,” he said.
Additionally, mission commander Colonel Theodore Liszeski underscored that the initiative is built on partnership rather than one-sided assistance.
“LAMAT is about working side by side, sharing expertise, strengthening medical capacity and building the relationships that make our teams stronger together,” he said.
Liszeski disclosed that such collaborations are critical for improving readiness to respond to future public health emergencies and natural disasters.
“Readiness begins with relationships. By working together today, we ensure when future challenges arise… we are already ready to respond with trusted partners,” he noted.
AT the opening of the 2026 Annual Senior Correctional Officers’ Conference of the Guyana Prison Service on Monday, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Dr. Irfaan Ali advanced an idea that deserves serious national reflection: The creation of a “prison avoidance system”.
For decades, discussions about correctional services in Guyana and across the Caribbean have largely focused on what happens after a person enters prison, security, rehabilitation programmes, and reintegration into society.
While these elements remain essential, the President’s remarks rightly challenge policymakers and society at large to confront a more fundamental question: How do we prevent people from entering the prison system in the first place?
The conference, held under the theme “Fostering Growth, Driving Synergy, and Securing the Future of Corrections”, provided an important platform not only to evaluate the progress made within the correctional system but also to examine the deeper social forces that shape crime and punishment.
President Ali’s call for a prison avoidance framework represents a shift towards
prevention; one that recognises crime is often the result of complex social conditions rather than isolated individual decisions.
Research and experience both point to several underlying drivers of criminal behaviour and repeat offending: Poverty, limited education opportunities, substance abuse, mental health challenges, broken family structures, and the absence of positive role models.
These realities are not unique to Guyana; they are visible throughout the Caribbean.
Addressing them requires far more than stronger prison walls or new facilities. It requires early intervention in communities, schools and homes.
In this regard, the government’s Men on Mission initiative was highlighted as one example of how targeted mentorship and support can redirect vulnerable young men towards more positive paths.
Such programmes recognise that many at-risk youths simply lack guidance, opportunity and support.
But prevention cannot rest on government programmes alone. As the President suggested, a truly effective prison avoidance system must involve a broad coalition that
includes religious organisations, educators, community leaders, and civil society groups.
These institutions remain among the most influential forces in shaping behaviour and values at the community level.
Equally significant was the President’s emphasis on integration within the national security architecture.
The Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Prison Service do not operate in isolation; they are interconnected components of a wider justice and security framework.
If any one part of that system is weakened or inefficient, the entire chain, from investigation to prosecution to incarceration becomes strained.
The call for greater use of technology and data-driven strategies in managing prisoners and analysing crime trends also reflects a forward-looking approach. Modern correctional systems increasingly rely on information, research and behavioural data to guide policy decisions.
Yet, even as the focus shifts towards prevention, it must be recognised that prisons will continue to play a necessary role in maintaining public safety.
Effective prison management remains critical for securely housing offenders, protecting society, and providing meaningful rehabilitation opportunities.
Indeed, the President was correct to underscore that the prison service is not a lesser institution within the security sector.
Like the police, the military and other agencies, it performs an essential function within the national justice system.
In many respects, the challenge facing Guyana’s correctional system mirrors a broader global debate: Should societies invest primarily in punishment, or should they invest more heavily in prevention?
The answer is increasingly clear. Sustainable public safety is achieved not only through enforcement but through addressing the social conditions that give rise to crime.
If Guyana succeeds in building a system that reduces the number of young people entering the prison pipeline, while maintaining strong and professional correctional institutions, it could set an important example for the wider Caribbean region.
The goal, ultimately, should not simply be better prisons.
It should be a safer society where fewer citizens ever need to enter them.
NOTHING surprises me in this country.
I still think Guyana ranks as one of the weirdest or perhaps the weirdest nation of Planet Earth. Do you see more appalling written nonsense, shocking written absurdities coming out in a newspaper than what we have seen with Stabroek News (SN). Maybe the exception is the United States.
Guyana’s politics has always been left-wing in perspective and orientation. Both the PPP and PNC are parties with a huge ideological belief in anti-imperialist narratives. I cannot conceive since the demise of the United Force, a newspaper in Guyana would carry a column heaping praise on a former Mossad chief.
Mossad is the intelligence agency of Israel. The past 60 years Mossad has been a state terrorist organisation. It goes around the world killing officials belonging to governments and organisations that support Palestinians’ struggle for their own land occupied by Israel. The victims of Mossad’s assassination include Iranian scientist, Iranian intelligence operatives, government officials from Arab countries, academics that write in favour of Palestinian statehood and journalists that expose Israel’s emulation of Nazi barbarities.
So, the former head of Mossad, Yossi Cohen, wrote his autobiography and SN columnist, Bertrand Ramcharran reviewed it and referred to Cohen as a philosopher and humanist. Cohen left out in his memoir all the assassinations around the world that he ordered. Now if Ramcharran is a fool (and that is putting it mildly) to praise Cohen, where was the editorial judgement of SN editor, Anand Persaud?
Should a newspaper in Guyana carry a column praising a notorious state terrorist from Israel? Since SN announced it is closing its doors, the outpouring of admiration has gone in berserk direction. And berserk is not the relevant word.
A harsher adjective is needed. Read now what Ralph Ramkarran wrote: “… the restoration of democracy in 1992 and its survival in 2020 would not have been possible without the Stabroek News.” The fight for free and fair election began in 1968. SN was born at the beginning of 1987.
So, all the efforts of the PPP, WPA, trade unions, the smaller political parties, the Catholic Standard, the Catholic church, the Anglican church, the Guyana Human Rights Association, GUARD, Patriotic Coalition for Democracy, Bar Association and organisations and individuals were small and hardly mattered until the SN came along in 1987, and in six years SN played the central role in Guyana’s road to have free and fair elections? This is what I mean by the bizarre outpouring of eulogies.
Here is a Guyanese newspaper operating in a country that has from day one supported liberation movements, aided anti-imperialist efforts around the globe and established diplomatic relations with strong anti-imperialist nations, and it publishes a column praising a globally known state terrorist and not one of SN’s sycophants could muster the decency to ask SN for an explanation.
Just look at what we have become as a nation. Not one person in Guyana and in the diaspora found Ramcharran’s praise of a known Israeli state terrorist obnoxious and asks SN how it could allow for such a publication? Even though the paper is gone, the eulogies of SN will continue in the Kaieteur News. And no one will use their moral compass and pen at least one line expressing their disagreement and there is so much to castigate SN for.
On its final edition last Sunday, SN devoted almost two pages to Alissa Trotz talking about her 18-year-old stint as editor of “In The Diaspora.” Interestingly, in the same edition, the two co-owners, Brendan and Isabella DeCaires signed off with these words: “Over time, this newspaper has earned a reputation for editorial independence.”
These two co-owners would not recognise “editorial independence” if it appears as an elephant on the step of Isabelle DeCaires’ favourite building –Moray House on Quamina Street. In 18 years of publication, In The Diaspora (ITD), has not printed one (not three or ten but just one) column in support of Dr. Ali’s presidency.
Ms. Trotz is a shameless editor. And to think in all the cascading panegyrics of SN, we haven’t sent one human belonging to the nationality named Guyanese that has asked the DeCaires siblings why after 18 years, their friend, Ms. Trotz has not featured a column positively assessing President Ali’s accomplishments. ITD never carried a column that denounced the 2020 election conspiracy.
Just imagine, not one of the misplaced, soulless minds that are heaping sermons of adulation on SN can muster just an ounce of objectivity and ask Mr. Anand Persaud and Brendan and Isabella DeCaires why SN never carried a pro-government columnist but all, every one of its commentators have been anti-government. Yet, the siblings have the temerity to say the paper had editorial independence. Stabroek News was once great.
Then, one day it slipped and fell into the gutter.
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.
UNITED States-indicted
businessmen Nazar Mohamed and Azruddin Mohamed were cautioned by Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman, on Monday, after the court was told they had not been consistently adhering to the reporting requirements attached to their bail.
The issue arose during their ongoing extradition proceedings at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where police records showed that the father and son had been irregular in their weekly reporting to the Ruimveldt Police Station in Georgetown.
The Mohameds were granted bail of $150,000 each on October 31, 2025, with conditions requiring them to report weekly to the Ruimveldt Police Station and to surrender their passports.
These measures were imposed to ensure their availability for the ongoing court process.
“There is a pattern we are seeing here. There are more breaches than there is compliance with the court’s order. The fugitives feel they can go when they feel like They go at 9pm, sometimes early in the morning, shortly after midnight. And sometimes they are just absent,” Hanoman said.
According to the police records presented, the men had on several occasions reported outside of the stipulated timeframe—sometimes arriving earlier than required, at other times late, and in some instances as much as one or two days after the designated reporting date.
Under their original bail conditions, the Mohameds were required to report to the Ruimveldt Police Station every Friday between 13:00 hrs and 15:00 hrs. If a Friday fell on a public holiday, they were required to report on the preceding Thursday.
Prosecuting attorney Glen Hanoman informed the court of the alleged breaches, arguing that the men had repeatedly failed to follow the specific reporting timeframe ordered by the court.
Station Sergeant Tobin appeared before the court on Monday and was asked whether the father and son had been reporting every Friday between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., as initially ordered.
“On some occasions,” Tobin responded.
Hanoman maintained that the breaches were serious to warrant revocation of the bail, telling the court: “The fugitive offenders need to understand that orders of the court have to be complied
with or else it would be contempt of court. Their liberty is conditional based upon strict compliance with the order.”
He further stated, “There is a reason for the strict reporting. The police need to monitor them. If they don’t report between 1 and 3pm, police should start looking for them to determine whether they are attempting to flee the jurisdiction or not.”
Hanoman added that Nazar had failed to report on February 13, 2026, but appeared on February 14.
In response, one of the lawyers for the Mohameds, Siand Dhurjon, told the court that Nazar Mohamed had been ill on February 13 and 14, but still made an effort to report on the latter date. He also reminded the court that a medical certificate had been submitted to account for the period of illness.
After hearing of the inconsistencies, Magistrate Latchman ordered that the bail conditions be varied.
Under the revised order, the businessmen must now report to the Officer-in-Charge of the Ruimveldt Police Station at any time between 00:00 hrs and 23:59 hrs on Fridays and sign their attendance in an official station register.
However, if a Friday coincides with a scheduled court appearance in the matter, they will not be required to report to the police station on that day. Moreover, if a Friday fell on a public holiday, they were required to report on the preceding Thursday.
The court also directed that if either man is unable to report due to illness, a medical certificate must be produced and forwarded to the police station. Police are also required to make an entry in the station’s property book to record the submission of the document.
The amended reporting requirement will take effect from March 20.
LOCKED UP
Both Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed apologised
counts, while Azruddin Mohamed faces an additional charge relating to the importation of a 2020 Lamborghini Roadster SVJ into Guyana. Court filings allege that the two conspired to commit wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, and customs-related offences, including conspiracy, aiding and abetting. The allegations are linked to what investigators describe as a US$50 million gold export and tax evasion scheme. The indictment was handed down by a grand jury in October 2025.
to the court for failing to strictly observe the reporting requirements.
While addressing the men in court, Magistrate Latchman reminded them of their obligation to comply with court orders.
“It is important that you follow the court’s orders. You are to follow orders. You are to report when you have to report. That is accountability and being responsible citizens. You must endeavour to do your best. You must seek perfection of character at some point in time. You must be responsible in all that you do,” Magistrate Latchman told the father and son, scolding them for their lapses.
She also cautioned the individual who stood as bailor for the men, warning that any further breach of the reporting conditions could have serious consequences.
The magistrate said that if the order is violated again, the bail can be forfeited to the State and the two men would be remanded to prison pending the outcome of the extradition proceedings.
“They [the Mohameds] would find themselves locked up on the next occasion it happens,” she warned the bailor, emphasising the seriousness of his role as their surety.
The extradition proceedings are set to resume this morning at 9 a.m.
The extradition case stems from a request by the United States, which is seeking the men to face charges linked to alleged gold smuggling and violation of customs laws.
On the morning of October 31, 2025, businessman Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed were taken into custody in Georgetown following an extradition request from the United States, which had been transmitted the previous day.
The father, 72, and son, 39, are the subject of an 11-count indictment filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. They are jointly charged on 10 of those
In June 2024, both men and their associated companies were sanctioned by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, a division of the United States Department of the Treasury, over allegations of gold smuggling and large-scale corruption. The sanctions announcement also referenced claims that more than US$50 million in taxes owed to the Guyanese state had been evaded.
United States authorities are believed to have begun investigating the Mohameds as far back as the mid-2010s. The probe reportedly involved intelligence sharing and law-enforcement cooperation between Guyana and the United States.
Several American agencies were involved in the investigation, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Department of Homeland Security. Prosecutors allege that between 2017 and 2024 the two businessmen participated in a scheme to export large quantities of gold from Guyana to the United States using falsified customs declarations and reused government export seals.
Investigators claim the operation enabled the shipment of more than 10,000 kilogrammes of gold while avoiding the payment of taxes and royalties owed to the Guyanese state.
United States authorities further contend that the alleged scheme resulted in approximately US$50 million in losses to taxes and duties and involved acts of wire and mail fraud, money laundering and conspiracy.
The indictment also references a shipment of gold valued at approximately US$5.3 million that was seized at Miami International Airport during the course of the investigation.
Following the indictment, the United States formally sought the surrender of the two men under the extradition arrangements between the two countries, giving rise to the ongoing proceedings now before the local court.
THE government is pursuing an extensive review of the Co-operative Societies Act Cap 88:01 with the goal of positioning the co-operative sector to efficiently function within Guyana’s rapidly expanding economic framework, according to Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith.
The minister highlighted this during his keynote address at the Caribbean Development Educators Programme (CaribDE) 57 opening ceremony at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Georgetown.
CaribDE stands for Caribbean Development Education, and is a regional leadership programme designed specifically for people within the Credit Union Movement.
Minister Griffith underscored the importance of ‘co-ops’, which are peoplecentred enterprises owned, controlled and run by and for their members to realise their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations.
Importantly, the Co-operative Societies Act, Cap 88:01 governs the registra-
tion, operation, and dissolution of co-operative societies.
“The government is currently undertaking an extensive review of the Co-operative Societies Act with a view to strengthening the legislative framework, improving governance structures, and ensuring greater accountability across the sector,” he said, adding: “This review forms part of a broader effort to modernise the co-operative movement and to position it
to operate effectively within Guyana’s rapidly evolving economic landscape.”
The minister stated that Jamaica’s legal framework regarding co-operative legislation is being examined, along with other models.
Also, Minister Griffith said that credit unions have long stood as pillars of social and economic stability in Guyana and play an essential role in strengthening communities and expanding economic participation.
As the movement continues to grow steadily and Guyana continues to advance, he said it is imperative that the benefits of growth reach all segments of society.
After he highlighted the strides of the co-operatives sector in strengthening communities by encouraging savings, supporting entrepreneurship and facilitating responsible lending, the minister noted that the sector, however, faces governance and accountability challenges.
He stated under the most recent mutual evaluation report, the overall money laundering and terrorism financing risk associated with
these legal structures saw cooperative societies rated low, and friendly societies rated as medium.
“These ratings reflect the inherent characteristics of this sector, while also highlighting areas where supervisory and institutional improvements are still required,” he said.
Nevertheless, it has also been noted in recent assessment that the anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CFT) supervisory framework for this sector remains limited, and that greater attention must be given to strengthening oversight mechanism and improving the understanding of money laundering and terrorist financing risks affecting these organisations, he said.
“The Government of Guyana has also acknowledged that the situation within parts of the co-operative sector reflects long standing governance and accountability challenges that must be addressed,” Minister Griffith said.
To address these issues, the government is reviewing the Co-operative Societies
Act with support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and regional partners.
“The Government of Guyana remains firmly committed to strengthening the co-operative movement as a key pillar of economic participation and social advancement,” the minister said, emphasising the commitment from his ministry’s Department of Co-operatives and friendly societies.
He said that the government vows to strengthen governance structures, improve regulatory oversight and support the growth and sustainability of the co-operative movement across Guyana.
He added that these efforts include advancing modern policies and a framework that encourage digital innovation and expanded access to financial services, particularly for youth, women and workers.
“Above all, members themselves, as both owners and customers, must be equipped with financial and business education to make informed decisions,” he said, noting that this is exactly where the CaribDE distinguishes itself.
Speaking further on the regional programme, the minister said over the years, CaribDE has earned a distinguished reputation as one of the region’s premier leadership development programs for the cooperative movement.
As the Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, he voiced the need for all stakeholders to take advantage of the training opportunity and deepen partnerships, exchange knowledge and best practices, and explore how cooperatives and credit unions can leverage innovation, finance and cross border collaboration to remain resilient and competitive in an increasingly dynamic global economy.
He said: “Guyana’s co-operative future, and indeed that of the wider Caribbean, depends on our ability to innovate while remaining grounded in our core co-operative values: trust, mutual support and shared prosperity.”
THE Cheddi Jagan Research Centre, on Monday, unveiled a photographic and book exhibition in honour of the life and legacy of former President, Dr Cheddi Jagan, at the National Library
in Georgetown and the National Library in New Amsterdam, Berbice.
The exhibition opened at 10:00hrs and features a collection of photographs and publications highlighting Dr Jagan’s life,
struggles, and contributions to Guyana’s political development.
Dr Jagan, widely regarded as the Father of the Nation, played a pivotal role in the country’s struggle for democracy, social justice, and nation-
al independence.
The display offers the public, students, and researchers an opportunity to reflect on his enduring legacy and his service to the working people.
The exhibition also includes books and publica-
tions authored by and about Dr Jagan and Mrs. Janet Jagan, providing insight into their political philosophy and vision for Guyana.
Members of the public, students, and interested organisations were invited to attend
and view the display, as the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting Dr Jagan’s history and ideals for present and future generations.
OWING to the more than $28 billion in government investments and the expansion of access to vocational training and formal schooling, Guyana has maintained the lowest recidivism rate across the Caribbean.
This was according to the Director of the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) Nicklon Elliot, during his address at the 2026 Annual Senior Officers’ Conference, on Monday.
The GPS Director said some 1,000 prisoners are being exposed to skills training
and now have access to the Guyana Digital School.
“A total of 1,000 prisoners are exposed annually to skills training programmes in technical and vocational areas, entrepreneurial skills and academics. I am pleased to say that the prison population has started to enrol on the Guyana Digital School platform to further improve their personal skills,” Elliot said.
The country’s recidivism rate stands below 20 per cent, he emphasised.
“We continue to expand the reintegration process by providing prisoners with a toolkit on release from prison, which would contribute to their employment, thus giving them a fresh start,” Elliot said.
blueprint for safer, more rehabilitative corrections.
“Overall, these efforts contribute significantly to the decline of persons committing offences and returning to prison,” the Prisons Director added.
enrolling in the Guyana Digital School to strengthen competencies in key academic subjects such as Mathematics and English language, with the aim of improving professional performance and standards across the service.
He highlighted the construction of a new headquarters and command centre, and the nationwide digitalisation of prisoner and staff records. Initiatives, Elliot said, have helped push the country to the lowest recidivism rate in the region and set a
He outlined, too, that staff development now plays a central role in the service’s operations. Prison officers have been exposed to a wide range of training in prison management, leadership, and human rights best practices.
A total of six prison officers completed their master’s degree in the area of public administration, human resource management, health care management and social work.
Director of the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), Nicklon Elliot [Delano Williams photo] See page 11
Officers have also begun
By Shaniya Harding
INNOVATION, creativity and talent were on display on Monday as students of the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) hosted their annual Food Science and Technology and Agribusiness Management Exhibition.
Hosted at the institution’s Mon Repos campus, the event saw students who are part of the Diploma in Agriculture Year Two programme showcase a wide range of innovative food products made from locally available produce.
A major part of their academic journey, the exhibition sought to highlight Guyana’s food security potential, as students were also tasked with designing packaging
and marketing their products to demonstrate their skills in food safety and entrepreneurship.
Giving insight into the exhibition, Stacia McDonald, Assistant Manager of the Guyana School of Agriculture Agro-processing Facility, said the event was vital for the students and an integral part of the programme.
She explained that students were tasked with practically demonstrating the concepts of food development, food safety and entrepreneurship. The group of more than twenty students were given several weeks to create each product, including concept creation, development, and branding.
“The students spent ten weeks developing these products. Each group chose
a main produce, and they exhaust that produce, using the skins, the flesh, and in some cases the seeds,” she added.
However, this is only the beginning, McDonald noted, as she emphasised that the hope is for students to return to GSA following the programme to continue developing and marketing their products, and eventually seeing them on the shelves of supermarkets in Guyana.
“We hope the students will return to GSA and use our incubator to continue developing products, extend their product line, and eventually have them in the Guyana Shop and other supermarkets in Guyana.”
A student of GSA and one of the innovative young minds behind Coco Creations, Nathan Ford said he
From page 10
Some 12 other prison officers completed their bachelor’s degree; 35 completed their diploma programmes; 17 completed technical certificates along with 362 who participated in the tertiary certificates programme in the field of prison management.
At present, there are three prisoner officers who are pursuing the doctoral studies in public administration, management and social psychology. Addi -
tionally, nine officers are reading for their master’s degree and bachelor’s degree in various fields.
“The prison service is certainly on a path to further create a positive impact and to improve staff development and adequately prepare prisoners for successful reintegration,” he said.
In partnership with the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), the Guyana Prison Service has embarked on an ambitious project to digitise all prisoner and staff records.
and his team worked over several weeks to develop a range of coconut-based products. The group produced coconut flour, shortcake, cream, cheese, candy, and coconut vinegar. Highlighting the process, Ford explained, “It took about five weeks to create these products. The first weeks were mostly pitching ideas on how to make them and planning the steps. Around week five, we started the procedures of actually making them.”
The process was also experimental, with the students turning failed attempts into new products. “We had some failures with certain products. For example, the coconut cream. We were going to make coconut milk powder by using the fat of the coconut and freeze-drying it, but there was an error. From that mistake we created a new product,” Ford added.
According to the Director, all personnel files have already been digitised, while 90 per cent of prisoner records and warrants are now in digital form, with the remaining records expected to be completed shortly.
This modernisation drive is intended to improve the efficiency, transparency, and security of information management within the prison system, creating a more responsive and data-driven corrections environment.
Also showcasing ingenuity were the students behind Serene Sips.
Speaking on behalf of the team, Marlon O’Donoghue said they developed a range of lemongrass and ginger-based products, with herbal tea bags being their main product. “Our main product is herbal tea bags. We have ginger tea bags, lemongrass tea bags, and a blended variety combining ginger and lemongrass,” he said.
The group also worked with pumpkin. “We also have
canned pumpkin which was deep frozen, and barbecue sauce. We wanted to ensure we used every part of the product. After we made the canned pumpkin, we used the seeds to make roasted pumpkin seeds,” he added.
While optimistic about their products, O’Donoghue noted that crafting the tea bags proved especially challenging for the team. However, positive feedback from exhibition attendees has made the group proud.
Participating as the only group from GSA’s Essequibo campus, Amani Alves and his team brought a variety of food products from Region Two as part of the exhibition. While the team’s main product was a unique coconut mayonnaise, they also developed several other products.
“We also have marinara sauce. It is a multi-purpose sauce that can be used on pizza and other dishes. We use pineapple, tomatoes, and bay leaves. We also made orange marmalade, and we have dry seasoning made from celery, shallots, garlic, onion, and dried fruits,” Alves explained.
On the more unique side, the students also produced pickled duck, an idea Alves said was inspired by a desire to create something different while using ingredients available in the region.
Angel Aulder of Pure Zest Guyana and her team also worked with citrus, with
oranges serving as their main ingredient.
In an effort to stand out, the students created several products including infused oil, marmalade, and orange chutney. “We also made orange chutney, which has a sweet and spicy flavour. It is made using the juice and sugar. Another product is carambola. We cut it into equal parts and boil it for several hours. From that we also made a barbecue sauce using carambola caramel,” she said.
The group noted that the preservation process required extra time and effort. “It took about three months overall to come up with the products. In the first weeks of the class, we were introduced to the assignment and had to think about the product and its benefits,” she said adding, “After about five weeks, we started producing the products. Some of the items had to be left overnight, like the infused oil, so that the flavours could soak in.”
The exhibition, marking the first step in their journey, saw students highlighting Guyana’s potential in advancing food security.
With young professionals who are educated and passionate about the sector, coupled with continued growth through innovation and infrastructure, more Guyanese are now better equipped and prepared to contribute to the country’s wider food security goals.
LOCAL businesses are being encouraged to be certified, thereby building strong standards to meet customers’ demand for quality services and products.
The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) continues to develop and implement the National Quality
Infrastructure in partnership with key stakeholders as part of efforts to drive sustainable socioeconomic development and ensure consumer protection.
Two business owners recently shared their perspective on the value of GNBS certification, as well as their experiences working along-
side the entity’s team to meet national quality standards.
Bibi Nafeeza Bacchus, the Operations Manager of Caresworth Medical Center and Pharmacy Laboratory, said that reaching this milestone with the GNBS was no easy task. However, they managed to achieve standardisation approval from
the bureau.
She said that this approval shows that their products and services meet high standards, assuring customers of accuracy as well as reliability.
Furthermore, Bacchus indicated that without the GNBS, they would not have access to markets overseas and would not have been able to build that trust and credibility among customers.
Other reasons to be certified by the GNBS include having increased profitability and a competitive advantage.
Caresworth was recertified in February this year, an achievement the laboratory said reflects more than a milestone. It was a rigorous evaluation of its processes, equipment, documentation, and team expertise.
Meanwhile, Rampersaud
Gopaul, the proprietor of Gopaul’s Jewellery thanked the GNBS for pushing the certification programme in Guyana.
“I personally gained a lot of recognition through their certification programme, and I would definitely recommend others to come onboard, to give customers that assured quality, that guarantee, because they (GNBS) have definitely bridged that gap, and have given customers that assurance that you will give quality pieces to that customer,” he said.
For inquiries about GNBS’s certification process, persons can contact the Bureau’s Certification Services Department on 219-0064-66 or email certification@gnbsgy.org. Persons can also visit https:// gnbsgy.com/.
Gopaul collects his certification document from a GNBS representative
PREPARATIONS are underway in Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), for the highly anticipated Rupununi Ranchers Rodeo set for April 3–5.
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues, who is on a twoday visit to Lethem, was updated on the plans for the activity, which is set to be the biggest edition to date.
According to information from the ministry, the Rodeo Committee updated the minister on several enhancements being implemented for this year’s event, including improved infrastructure, a new and upgraded media booth, expanded vending and stall capacity, a dedicated VIP section, and improved viewing areas to enhance the overall experience for patrons.
Additional seating capacity will also be introduced with the installation of new bleachers to accommodate the expected increase in spectators.
Plans are also underway to strengthen visitor amenities and showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Rupununi. These include upgraded washroom facilities, a green initiative aimed at reducing waste generated by the event, and a History and Art booth that will highlight
the story of rodeo, ranching traditions, and Amerindian craft and artisanship in the region.
This year’s activities will also feature a Farmers’ Market with participation from 16 villages across the Rupununi, offering visitors an opportunity to experience locally produced foods, crafts and agricultural products. The popular rodeo pageant is also expected to draw strong participation and community support.
To support the successful hosting of this event, several agencies are also undertaking complementary improvements in the lead-up to the rodeo.
The Ministry of Public Works is upgrading sections of the road network in and around Lethem, while the Lethem Power Company is installing additional transformers and lighting to enhance power supply and visibility at the venue and surrounding areas. Minister Rodrigues was accompanied on the outreach by Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority Kamrul Baksh.
The visit forms part of ongoing efforts by the ministry and its agencies to work closely with local stakeholders to strengthen Guyana’s tourism offerings, and ensure the continued growth and
international visibility of the event.
Widely regarded as one
of Guyana’s most iconic cultural and tourism events, the Rupununi Ranchers
Rodeo attracts thousands of visitors annually and plays a vital role in supporting community-based tourism and economic activity in the Rupununi.
SPEAKER of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir on Monday received a courtesy call from Elnur Ikhtiyar Oglu Sultanov, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Guyana, during a meeting held at the Public Buildings in Georgetown.
The engagement focused on strengthening parliamentary relations between the two countries, with discussions also exploring the establishment of a Parliamentary Friendship Group aimed at deepening cooperation between the legislatures of Guyana and Azerbaijan and supporting the work of their respective executive branches.
During the meeting, Nadir provided an overview
of Guyana’s parliamentary committee system, noting that both countries’ parliaments share similar structures.
He pointed out that these similarities present opportunities for institutional learning and collaboration, particularly in areas related to legislative oversight and committee work.
The Speaker also highlighted Guyana’s approach to inclusive governance, including the representation and treatment of Indigenous Peoples within the National Assembly. He indicated that this area could serve as another avenue for dialogue and the exchange of experiences and best practices between the two parliaments.
Ambassador Sultanov was accompanied by Mr. Vugar Huseynli, First Secretary at the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Brazil and Desk Officer for Guyana. Also attending the meeting were Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs, Parliamentary Executive Officer Dr. Carlleta Charles, and Production Technician Joshua Eastman.
The courtesy call forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic and parliamentary engagement between Guyana and Azerbaijan, with both sides seeking to expand dialogue on governance, legislative cooperation and areas of mutual interest.
RESIDENTS in communities located in the Mahaica Watershed area have reported a number of environmental issues affecting their daily lives to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other partner agencies.
According to the EPA, several residents, students, and local stakeholders rallied together to raise concerns, and discuss practical solutions for protecting the watershed at a series of inter-agency community meet-
bert’s Mission. In Baiboo, residents highlighted serious concerns about solid waste from the Mahaica Market being stockpiled and dumped into the Mahaica River, and the discharge of untreated wastewater and sewage from riverside properties without septic systems.
In addition to this, concerns were raised about wildlife conflicts, unsustainable fishing practices, and the environmental disturbance caused by high-speed private jet skis along the river.
dust from rice mills affecting nearby residents, teachers and students were among the issues raised.
ings hosted by the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission.
These meetings were held between March 4 and March 9, 2026, at Baiboo Primary School, Bygeval Secondary School, and at St. Cuth-
Scenes from the meetings with residents of the
Meanwhile, at Bygeval Secondary, the EPA said illegal dumping of waste along the roadsides, unpleasant odours from commercial poultry and pig-rearing activities, derelict vehicles which harbour African bees, and
At St. Cuthbert’s Mission, residents called for stronger interim solutions to waste management. This included the use of an incinerator which will add to the broader national solid waste interventions that are being developed. Coming out of the meetings, several recommendations were made and there were investigations into the reported waste dumping and sewage discharge into the Mahaica River, follow-up meetings with communities to report on actions taken, and increasing the number of environmental clubs within the Mahaica Watershed.
Along with these, resi -
dents called for additional actions to be discussed, including education and awareness sessions, litter prevention warden training, vendor responsibility for waste bins, and improved waste disposal arrangements.
The EPA noted that the meetings were not only about identifying problems but strengthening collaboration and accountability as well.
Protecting the Mahaica Watershed, requires more than one agency or intervention, the agency said, adding that it also requires community voices, coordinated actions, and a shared commitment to maintaining a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment for future generations.
THE Urology Section of the Department of Surgery at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has significantly strengthened its reconstructive urology capabilities following a recent visit by internationally acclaimed specialists.
In February 2026, Professor Kurt McCammon of Eastern Virginia Medical School, together with fellow reconstructive urologist Dr. Nima Baradaran, led a hands-on surgical workshop aimed at enhancing advanced urological care at GPHC. During their visit, several patients underwent complex, life-changing reconstructive procedures that are rarely accessible locally, improving their quality of life and providing critical learning opportunities for local surgeons and medical trainees.
Urology, a specialised field focused on conditions affecting the urinary tract and male reproductive system, encompasses the treatment of kidney stones, urinary tract infections, prostate and bladder disorders, and cancers of the urinary system. Reconstructive urology, in particular, involves procedures that restore normal urinary function and significantly enhance patient outcomes.
Local urologists at GPHC worked closely with the visiting specialists in the operating theatre, gaining hands-on experience and technical guidance that will strengthen the hospital’s capacity to manage complex cases.
Head of the Urology Section, Dr Rajendra Sukhraj, expressed gratitude to Professor McCammon and Dr Baradaran for their ongoing commitment to surgical train-
ing in Guyana and the wider Caribbean. He emphasised that such international collaborations are vital for expanding local surgical expertise and improving patient care.
GPHC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Robbie Rambaran, also met with the visiting team, commending their humanitarian contributions and dedication to medical education. He noted that partnerships with international experts are essential in expanding access to specialised care and elevating the quality of services provided to the Guyanese population.
The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining this partnership as it continues to enhance advanced urologic services and improve healthcare outcomes for patients across the country.
--Prosecutor says defence suggestion that key extradition documents were never received is contradicted by documents already in court
ney-at-Law Glenn Hanoman has dismissed the defence’s suggestion that essential extradition documents for United States-indicted businessmen Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed were never received by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, calling it a “highly strange position to adopt.”
Speaking to reporters after Monday’s proceedings at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, Hanoman said much of the session was consumed with the defence’s request to access certain books used to verify court records.
“Today, a lot of time was taken up with us discussing the breach of the reporting conditions, and some more time was taken up because some books were requested, and then the mechanics of photocopying and tendering those pages,” he said.
Hanoman emphasised that a significant amount of evidence taking was lost as a result of these delays.
He noted that the claim about the documents not being received was contradicted by the fact that the very records are already in court.
According to Hanoman, one bundle of documents was received on October 30, 2025, and a second bundle on November 26, 2025.
“I think today, the theory of the defence is that they were suggesting that those
documents were never received by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is a highly strange position to adopt,” he said, adding that the requested books contained annotations related to mislabelled records.
In response to the defence’s request, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Sharon Roopchand-Edwards, submitted two official records to the court: the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Correspondent, covered in white, and the Office of the Permanent Secretary Incoming Correspondent, covered in blue.
Both the defence and prosecution were allowed to examine the documents but were prohibited from taking photographs of the books.
Proceedings in the matter will continue this morning with further cross-examination of Roopchand-Edwards.
The Mohameds’ legal team is led by Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, with support from attorneys Siand Dhurjon and Damien Da Silva.
Hanoman had previously noted that irrelevant questioning by the defence attorneys has caused “substantial delays” in the extradition proceedings, which have been ongoing since they commenced on January 6.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh met recently with Michael Kaplan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Western Hemisphere in the United States Department of the Treasury
SENIOR Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh met recently with Michael Kaplan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Western Hemisphere in the United States Department of the Treasury.
The meeting took place on the margins of the 2026 Annual Meetings of the Boards of Governor of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and IDB-Invest, held in Asunción, Paraguay.
Discussions also centered on shared economic interests and the expanding footprint of US investment in Guyana’s rapidly growing economy.
Dr. Singh highlighted key transformative projects, including the gas-to-energy initiative financed by the US Export-Import (Exim) Bank, and noted the increasing presence of American companies operating across various sectors.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepening future collaboration.
Dr. Singh underscored the government’s continued focus on attracting more US investment as Guyana navigates an era of historic economic growth and development.
During their engagement, Dr. Singh, according to a post on his official Facebook page, expressed appreciation for the long-standing support the United States has extended to Guyana over the years, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining the strong partnership between the two nations.
THE Board of Industrial Training (BIT) has announced the appointment of a new board that will serve from January 23, 2026 to January 22, 2027, marking a historic milestone with the selection of its first female chairperson.
Following her appointment by the Cabinet of the Government of Guyana, business leader Kathy Smith will serve as Chairperson of the board for the 2026–2027 term. Smith’s appointment is regarded as historic as she becomes the first woman to
partnerships with the private sector to support Guyana’s expanding economy.
The full membership of the board for the 2026–2027 term includes Vice-Chairman Ganesh Singh and members John Edghill, Andrea Benjamin, Yannick Garraway, Sheila Verasammy, Karen Roopchand, Desa Liverpool, Penelope Harris, Michael Turner, Krishn Sharma and Suresh Singh.
Ex-officio members are Indrani Ramnarine, Jainarine Sarjoo Sookpaul and Richard Maughn.
Business leader Kathy Smith and BIT’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Richard Maughn
lead the institution in its 115year history.
She brings decades of experience in the business community and is widely recognised as an advocate for private sector development and economic growth in Guyana. Her leadership credentials were further cemented in 2025 when she became the first female President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in its 136year history.
The Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, expressed confidence that the newly appointed board will continue strengthening the role of BIT in advancing workforce development and expanding opportunities for skills training across the country.
According to the ministry, under Smith’s leadership the board will focus on enhancing technical and vocational education and training (TVET), addressing skills gaps through closer alignment with industry needs, and strengthening
The Board of Industrial Training remains responsible for supporting technical and vocational education and training in Guyana through initiatives aimed at developing a skilled, competent and productive workforce.
Kathy Smith is a prominent Guyanese business executive and private-sector advocate who has played an increasingly influential role in the country’s business community. She is the Managing Director of Dynotech Construction Chemicals, a company that imports, distributes and installs construction and waterproofing materials. She is also regarded as one of the few female leaders in Guyana’s waterproofing and construction chemicals sector.
She has also championed initiatives aimed at supporting women-owned businesses, including plans to establish a Women’s Micro-Business Learning Centre to help entrepreneurs develop skills in financial literacy, digital marketing and negotiation.
of Region
Ten are set to benefit from expanded dental services as the region continues to strengthen oral healthcare delivery. The developments were highlighted during the Region Ten 2025 Review and Leadership Meeting, where updates were provided on the progress and expansion of dental services across the region.
According to updates from the Senior Dental Surgeon of the Region, Dr. Renelso Daniels, 1,934 patients have already accessed dental services in Region Ten for 2026, including 663 children and 1,267 adults. During this period, the dental team performed 475 fillings, 265 cleanings, 323 sealants, 384 fluoride treatments, and 858 extractions, reflecting the increasing demand for oral healthcare services in the region.
Dental services are currently available at Bamia Health Centre, Leticia Holder Health Centre, Vivienne Parris Health Centre, One Mile Health Centre, Wisroc Health Centre, and Kwakwani Hospital. Services provided include simple extractions, fillings, dental cleaning, fluoride treatments, and oral health education.
Residents will soon benefit from additional services with the reopening of the Regional Dental Unit on March 16, where fillings, cleaning, simple and complex extractions, minor oral surgery, and oral health education will be offered immediately. Further expansion is expected in early April, when the facility will begin offering simple root canal procedures along with dental laboratory services,
including dentures, crowns, and bridges.
The region has also strengthened its diagnostic capacity with a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) machine, which produces three-dimensional imaging as well as panoramic views of a patient’s entire oral cavity, allowing dental professionals to make more precise diagnoses and treatment plans.
To further strengthen services, a Dental Assistant Training Programme is expected to begin in Region
Ten shortly, supporting local capacity and the continued expansion of dental services. Health officials also em-
phasised the importance of preventive care and early detection, noting that dental teams focus on preserving
and restoring teeth whenever possible rather than removing them. Residents are encouraged to visit a dental
clinic every six months for routine check-ups.
Special emphasis is being placed on pregnant mothers,
who are encouraged to access dental services, as hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Maintaining good oral health during pregnancy is essential for both mother and baby.
The progress in Region Ten mirrors broader national improvements. During his presentation at the 2026 Budget Debate, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly and Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo, noted that “We have moved from 50 largely non-functioning dental chairs to 99, nearly a 100% increase.
In just four years, annual dental procedures have risen from under 50,000 to 494,000. Each number represents a patient treated, pain alleviated, and health restored.”
Dr. Mahadeo further highlighted the impact on citizens, “When you add it all together, it amounts to over $1 billion dollars that remained in the pockets of the people.
This is not money we had to allocate in the budget; it is money that citizens did not have to spend to access essential dental care.”
Residents of Region Ten are therefore being encouraged to take full advantage of the free dental services available across the region, noting that early detection saves teeth, while late detection often requires replacement.
These ongoing investments form part of His Excellency President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s vision of delivering world-class healthcare to every Guyanese, regardless of where they live.
MORE than 4,000 traffic violations were recorded across Guyana during a week-long enforcement exercise by the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department, with speeding, helmet-related offences and driving under the influence among the most common breaches detected.
According to figures released for the period March 8 to March 14, a total of 4,295 cases were documented by traffic ranks as authorities intensified efforts to promote road safety and enforce compliance with the country’s traffic laws.
The statistics show that speeding accounted for the highest number of violations, with 1,821 cases recorded during the period. Other offences included 116 seatbelt violations, 114 cases of motorcyclists failing to wear safety helmets and 42 instances of riders carrying pillion passengers without helmets.
Police also recorded 42 cases of driving under the influence of alcohol, 145 instances of motorists leaving vehicles in dangerous positions and 73 cases involving breaches of prescribed fitness conditions for vehicles.
Additional offences included 39 cases of unlicensed
As part of its broader road safety campaign, the Traffic Department also conducted a series of educational outreaches during the week
driving, 24 breaches of traffic light signals, 23 cases of faulty packing and a combined 164 incidents involving unlighted vehicles—76 with defective front lights and 88 with defective rear lights. Six cases involving tinted motor vehicles were also reported. When contacted for a comment Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mahendra Singh, said the increase in speeding, helmet-related offences and driving under the influence reflects the department’s intensified enforcement opera-
tions across the country.
He stressed that road safety ultimately depends on responsible behaviour by all road users.
“No one has to die in an accident if everyone complies with the law,” Singh said, urging motorists to practise the “five Cs” of defensive driving and remain mindful that pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists share the nation’s roadways.
As part of its broader road safety campaign, the Traffic Department also conducted a series of educational out-
REPUBLIC Bank Limited (RBL) Guyana is making banking easier for its customers with the introduction of RepublicOnboard.
With this new service option, persons can now open a new account online as this smooth online solution allows them to handle the entire application process wherever they are.
And the best part is that no branch visit is needed until the customer is ready to uplift their new debit card. To do this, customers will of course have to produce their Identification Cards for verification purposes.
Speaking about this new resource on the New Day
Show, Grace Hitnarine from Republic Bank said that the process to get this done is quite simple.
She listed proof of address, Identification Card, Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and a job letter or pay slip as documents required to create or open an account with the Bank.
For self-employed persons, they will need to submit an income statement.
If a customer is applying from overseas, there is a form they would need to complete with their Social Security Number (SSN).
Hitnarine said that this portal option is opened to persons living in Guyana and
abroad once they are at least 18 years old. At this point, the online platform does not allow persons to open commercial accounts, which can be opened by visiting any RBL Guyana branch.
“So, you just need to go to www.republicguyana.com and on our webpage on the top right you would see open an account. You just need to click on that, and the process is actually quite simple,” she said.
Hitnarine further said that on completion of the application process, which only takes one day, an email is sent, and contact is made with the customer via email.
Importantly, Hitnarine
reaches during the week. Officers delivered road safety lectures at several schools, including Patentia Primary and Zeelugt Primary in Region Three, Wineperu Primary and Agatash Primary in Region Seven, North West Secondary and Port Kaituma Secondary in Region One, and Kumu Primary and Kumu Nursery in Region Nine. Additional sessions were held at St. Lawrence Nursery and Parfaite Harmonie Primary, while Timehri Nursery and Timehri Primary in Region Four also benefitted from the
programme.
Public awareness activities extended beyond schools, with officers engaging drivers, community members and patrons at various locations including police stations, public roads and commercial areas such as Meadow Bank, Nelson Mandela Avenue, Independence Boulevard, Seawall Road and Vreed-enHoop Stelling Road.
Outreach efforts also reached communities in interior and hinterland regions, including Aishalton, Quiko Village and the Mabaruma
district, while engagements were conducted at several bars and public venues as part of efforts to discourage drunk driving.
Police officials say the combined enforcement and education initiatives form part of ongoing measures to improve road safety and reduce traffic-related incidents across the country. Singh warned that careless or dangerous driving can have devastating consequences and urged motorists to exercise caution at all times on the nation’s roads.
explained that if a customer opens an account with Republic Bank, they do need a valid email address.
When the bank account is created, a Republic Online account (RBL’s mobile application) is also created automatically.
Hitnarine mentioned a few perks that come with creating an account online. In addition to the automatic
RBL Online app account customers are also guaranteed online banking platform access, account visibility for transactions done online, access to bank statements, local and international money transfer, and the ability to reload Republic Bank credit cards.
All these things are accessed with less time consumed to travel to the bank for business. RepublicOnboard is applied to whichever RBL branch is closest to the customer. For more details, or if customers are experiencing any issues/ difficulties they can email Republic Bank at gyemail@rfhl.com or call or WhatsApp them at +592 600-0087, where their Telemarketing Officers will assist.
JALEN Brunson scored 30 points and added nine assists for the host New York Knicks, who mounted their biggest comeback of the season and edged the undermanned Golden State Warriors 110-107 on Sunday night.
The Knicks went 22 of 23 from the line -- the third time this season they've had one miss or no miss from the line while hoisting at least 20 attempts -- as they overcame a 21-point second-quarter deficit.
Karl-Anthony Towns posted a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while OG Anunoby had 14 points, including a pair of free throws for the game's final points with 6.2 seconds left.
Brandin Podziemski scored 25 points for the skidding Warriors, who played without injured leading scor-
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
EXETER
09:45 hrs My Boy Aaron
10:20 hrs Special John
10:55 hrs Noble Blue
11:30 hrs Bonza Boy
12:05 hrs Steal The Moves
12:40 hrs Ink Black Heart
13:13 hrs Macklin
WETHERBY
10:02 hrs Joan's Choice
10:37 hrs Geryville
11:12 hrs Ice Jet
11:47 hrs Kalhandrion
12:22 hrs Hawthorn Street
12:55 hrs Minella Premier
WOLVERHAMPTON
12:28 hrs Nobody Knows
13:00 hrs Lahan Kingman
13:30 hrs Yehudi
14:00 hrs Amelia's Joy
Jalen Brunson scored 30 points and added nine assists
ers Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler III and De'Anthony Melton, as well as hobbled veterans Draymond Green and Al Horford. The Warriors suffered their fifth straight loss.
Thunder 116, Timberwolves 103
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
14:30 hrs Al Shabab 15:00 hrs Marinakis
15:30 hrs Temple Of Athena 16:00 hrs Faithful Dream
16:30 hrs Phaedra
IRISH RACING TIPS DOWN ROYAL
09:18 hrs Barley Lane
09:53 hrs Needs Must 10:28 hrs Aswellasabentley
11:03 hrs Kanog Bay
11:38 hrs Gerri Colombe
12:13 hrs Ayiko
12:48 hrs Cause For Comment 13:22 hrs Hiva Laa
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
MAHONING VALLEY Race 1 Polizon Race 2 Solomons Gold
Race 3 Docs Legend Race 4 Hoof and Boots
Race 5 Smash
Race 6 Lordbetwentothorns
Race 7 Vesper Martini
Race 8 Eddie M
DEFENDING champion of the Jumbo Jet National Men’s Chess Championship, Candidate Master Taffin Khan, is tied for the lead after four rounds with Fide Master Anthony Drayton.
scored 20 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter, to lift host Oklahoma City to a victory over Minnesota.
Chet Holmgren added 21 points, Isaiah Joe finished with 20, Alex Caruso added 17 and Isiah Hartenstein finished with 12 rebounds as Oklahoma City extended its winning streak to eight games.
Julius Randle scored 32 points for Minnesota, while Anthony Edwards scored 19 on 6-of-17 shooting. Ayo Dosunmu had 18 points off the bench for Minnesota, which lost for the fourth time in five games in a downturn that has come after an 8-1 stretch.
Raptors 119, Pistons 108
Brandon Ingram scored 34 points and host Toronto defeated Detroit, which had won the previous seven games between the teams.
RJ Barrett added 27 points and Jakob Poeltl had 21 points and a season-best 18 rebounds for the Raptors, who have won two in a row.
Scottie Barnes tallied 14 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists and three blocked shots.
Cade had 33 points and nine assists for the Pistons. Tobias Harris contributed 21 points while Jalen Duren added 20 points and 11 rebounds. (Reuters)
While reigning National Women’s Champion Aditi Joshi has the edge after the completion of the latest round on Sunday at the David Rose School located at Thomas Lands.
The Guyana Chess Federation over the weekend began the first four rounds of their National Chess Championship.
In the Men’s National Championship sponsored by Jumbo Jet, Taffin Khan, who has won the title for the last few years, is not a runaway winner this year, as he is tied with Fide Master Anthony Drayton on 3.5 points each.
Khan opened his campaign with the white pieces, facing Leslie Campbell and winning comfortably.
He then defeated Alexander Zhang before getting the better of Rolex Alexander.
His only blemish came in round four against Candidate Master Sachin Pitamber, which ended in a draw for a share of the points.
Meanwhile, Drayton defeated the likes of Rolex, Alexader, Jaden, Taylor and Keron Sandiford but drew with Kyle Coachman.
Jaden Taylor holds the third place in the 10-man competition.
National champion and
(Tuesday, March 17, 2026)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Sachin Tendulkar-IND (463 matches) (2) Virat Kohli-IND (54 centuries)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Who has played the most T20 International matches to date?
(2) Who has hit the most T20 Int’l centuries to date? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Women’s Candidate Master (WCM) Aditi Joshi was flawless in the opening four rounds of the Diamond Fire Women’s Chess Championships, which also got underway over the weekend.
She opened her defence against Parnita Kishun with the white pieces before taking a clinical win.
She followed up with wins in rounds two, three and four against Tonne-
Chung, Anaya Lall and Treskole Archibald. In second position after four rounds is former champion WCM Sasha Shariff with three wins and a draw for 3.5 points.
While Jessica, another former national champion, is third after two wins and two draws for three points with six more rounds to go to complete the championship.
FORMER India captain, Sunil Gavaskar, has said Sunrisers Leeds' signing of Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed "indirectly contributes to the deaths of Indian soldiers and civilians".
Gavaskar's comments are the most high-profile criticism of Sunrisers' deal for Abrar at last week's Hundred auction.
Leeds is owned by the Sun Group, also owners of Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL). IPL teams have not been permitted to sign Pakistan players since 2009 because of ongoing political tensions between the two countries.
In securing Abrar at the auction, Sunrisers allayed fears that the four Hundred franchises affiliated to IPL teams would avoid signing Pakistan players.
There has been some backlash towards Sunrisers on social media, followed by Gavaskar's column for Indian newspaper Mid-Day.
"The furore created by the acquisition of a Pakistani player by the Indian owner of a franchise in The Hundred is hardly surpris -
Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has declined to comment.
India and Pakistan engaged in a four-day military conflict in April of last year following a deadly militant attack on tourists in India-administered Kashmir, further deteriorating their sporting relationship.
NEW DELHI, (Reuters) - India's One-Day International captain, Shubman Gill, said winning next year's World Cup is the ultimate goal for his team, especially after they fell at the hurdle in the 2023 edition on home soil.
India's unbeaten campaign in that home World Cup ended in defeat by Australia in the final in Ahmedabad.
ing," said Gavaskar. "Ever since the Mumbai attacks in November 2008, Indian franchise owners have simply ignored Pakistani players for the IPL. "Although belated, the realisation that the fees that they pay to a Pakistani player, who then pays income tax to his government which buys arms and weapons, indirectly contributes to the deaths of Indian soldiers and civilians is making Indian entities refrain from even considering having Pakistani artistes and sportspersons."
BBC Sport has contacted Gavaskar and Sunrisers Leeds. The England and
The two countries have not met in a bilateral series since 2007 and now have a policy of not travelling to international tournaments the other is hosting. The teams have declined to shake hands in recent international fixtures.
Following the signing of Abrar, there was a negative reaction to Sunrisers Leeds on social media. The team's X account was temporarily suspended on Friday morning, though that is believed to be down to an unrelated technical problem.
Privately, prominent figures in the Indian game believed the backlash would be limited to fans on social media and would ease by the time Sunrisers Hyderabad take part in the new IPL season at the end of this month. (BBC Sport)
(From page 27)
inroads, finishing with the impressive figures of four for 16 in 2.5 overs before retiring hurt with a slight niggle.
Batting at number three in the day’s opening game, Fraser stole the spotlight, taking the Avengers bowling to the sword, spanking 96 not out which was decorated with four fours and 12 sixes off 37 balls. He shared in an undefeated third wicket stand of 148 off 52 balls with Fazal Rafiek who hit a measured unbeaten 48 off 21 balls with three fours and four sixes as Regal Masters reached a challenging 217 for two in the reduced 15 overs.
Avengers also started off in a rush but the loss of seasoned campaigner Richard Latif for a rapid 25 (one four and three sixes) off nine balls was a major setback.
Seon Smith with 39 from 25 balls (four fours and two sixes) and Brian Gomes with 32 (one four and three sixes) offered token resistance but the task proved beyond them as Avengers were left high and dry on 164 for four when their 15 overs expired. Fraser took home the Most Valuable Player (MVP) for his knock in the over-40 category while Harper got the nod in the over-50s. All the trophies for both categories were donated through the kind generosity of Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall and his Canadian-based son-in-law, Zakir Hussain was there to hand over some of the prizes. Amica Persaud of Crown Road & Drainage Contractors also participated in the presentation ceremony. The over-50 game also
saw the return of flamboyant batsman Khemchand Dindiyal who had suffered a stroke over a year ago. In a heartfelt address to all the players involved in Sunday’s games, Dindiyal described his experience and pointed out how happy he was to return to active cricket.
Managing Director of Regal Stationery & Computer Centre, Mahendra Hardyal, who is also the owner of Regal teams, followed up by urging players to ensure regular checkups on a yearly basis.
The over-50 game served as further preparations for the Regal Legends players who are gearing up for the March 27-29 Florida Cup, to be staged in the Sunshine State. (Frederick Halley)
India has since won backto-back T20 World Cups but Gill has set his sights on 50overs cricket's biggest prize when the tournament takes place in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in October-November next year.
"We felt like we were so close last time," Gill said during the Indian cricket board's awards ceremony on Sunday night.
"To be able to get another crack at it in South Africa, it's going to be a great opportunity for us.
"Winning a World Cup in any for the country is the ultimate goal. So obviously, that is something that sometimes runs in my mind."
India's T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav said their 20-overs World Cup triumph in 2024 had sparked a run of success for the country's cricketers, with the men winning the Champions Trophy and the women lifting a first
ODI World Cup title last year.
"That one step was important, that taste was important for everyone to understand what it takes to win an ICC trophy," Suryakumar said.
"Now, there is no looking back. If this wonderful thing has started, let's try and collect as many (trophies) as possible."
'I hope this is just the start': Rohit on India's recent global triumphs
INDIA are the defending champions in multiple global ICC competitionsthe women's World Cup, men's Champions Trophy, men's T20 World Cup, men's Under-19 World Cup and women's Under-19 World Cup - and Rohit Sharma hopes it marks the beginning of a phase of global dominance by Indian teams.
"I am very happy and very proud to see what we have been seeing for the last couple of years now. To come out with flying colours and achieve what we have achieved, not just the men's team but also the women's team winning that World Cup in Mumbai was fantastic to watch," Rohit, himself a T20 World Cup (in 2024) winning captain, said.
.
"Recently, the men's team, what they did was phenomenal. I hope this is just the start, there is no looking back from here because once you get that momentum... we often talk about momentum and now both the men's and women's teams have that momentum. All I hope is that we carry this momentum forward."
Rohit, who was at the launch of the T20 Mumbai League for women, also
spoke about the Role of luck in a cricketer's journey and how being noticed at the right time can be just as crucial as talent and hard work.
"Right from U-14s you got to be lucky; of course you need the talent to find success but you also got to be lucky to be at the right time at the right place for people to notice you. Sometimes you can be as talented as you can be but if people are not watching you, then you can be slightly unlucky. You got to be lucky as well but there is no substitute to hard work and that is not just with the Mumbaikars but also with the players who are representing the country," Rohit further said.
"They are going through this tough grind to find suc-
cess. But (I am) very happy with the way Mumbai cricket is shaping up, also with what T20 Mumbai has done. A lot of young cricketers we saw who played this T20 Mumbai have gone on to play the IPL team and of course the national team as well so it is a big, big platform. I am sure the guys who are going to play will understand that this format is wonderful and I am happy that we are doing this again after a successful last season."
The eight-team Season 4 of the T20 Mumbai League for men and the three-team inaugural season of the women's competition will commence after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League season on May 31. (Cricbuzz)
By Sean Devers
DWAIN Dick flayed the hapless Region 1,7,8 and 9 combined bowlers to register a blistering undefeated 101 from 40 balls with seven fours and 10 sixes to power Headquarters to an emphatic eight wicket win as action resumed at the Police ground Eve Leary, yesterday in the COP T20 tournament.
Chasing 178-off 20 overs from the combined team, Dick decimated the bowling, as he rained sixes under a blue sky as he shared in an unbroken 149-run third wicket stand with Kanijaia Ramkaran, who hit three boundaries in an unbeaten 36 as Headquarters galloped to 181-2 with 23 balls to spare.
Marvin Peters dismissed Andrew Lyght Jnr (14) to leave Headquarters on 16-1 on a good track before Daimion Vantull got rid of Pernell London (12) at 32-2 to bring Ramkarran to the crease.
This was the last wicket for the combined Unit, who chased leather for the rest of
THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has officially named its 14-man Under-16 squad to face Barbados in the upcoming Cricket West Indies Rising Stars 50-Over bilateral series, scheduled to bowl off on home soil from March 27 to April 7, 2026.
Lomar Seecharran will captain the side, with Leon Reddy appointed as his vice-captain, as Guyana looks to capitalise on familiar conditions against their Bajan counterparts.
The squad, announced via a GCB release on Sunday, has been described as a “balanced group” that showcases the depth of young talent emerging from the counties.
the game as Dick raced to his 50 from 24 balls.
Dick soon reached the first century of the tournament before a scorching four ended the contest.
Earlier, the Combined team reached 21 without loss before three wickets fell at that score with Vantull, who lofted three sixes and five fours in his cameo 38 which was the top score in a futile effort.
Brandon Frank (32) and Christopher Smith (26) pro-
vided some hope with a 54-run fourth wicket partnership but once they were separated nobody else offered fight.
Man-of-the-Match Dick followed up his unfinished ton with 2- 27 while Euan Blair took 2-23 and London 2-27.
Today will feature a double- header with Officers facing Presidential Guards from 8:30 AM and Region 3 battling Region 4C from 1 PM.
Joining the leadership duo are Ravid Fredricks, Akash Ramdewar, Luke Amsterdam, wicketkeeper Nathan Bishop, Asgaralli Nabi, Altaf Ali, Makai Dowlin, Jaden Ganpat, Jonathan Barry, Gautam Dhanraj, Brandon Grimmond and Devraj Persaud.
A reserves pool featuring Ashton Collins, Ravindra Persaud, Demarcus Thomas, Trevor Reynolds, Afraz Khan, Prosper Jacobus and Usain Fredricks provides additional cover.
The team will be man -
aged by Terry Newton, with Yeuraj Khemraj taking the reins as Head Coach.
The GCB has underscored the bilateral series as a critical component of its long-term youth development strategy.
“The Board expresses confidence in the squad’s ability to perform competitively on home soil,” the GCB stated in an official release. “We continue to emphasise the development of youth cricket as a key component of Guyana’s
cricketing future.”
While the rivalry between Guyana and Barbados is steeped in senior-level history, this Under-16 clash offers a glimpse into the next generation of West Indian talent. CWI views these bilateral engagements as vital stepping stones for players transitioning into the U-17 and U-19 regional brackets.
Venues across Guyana and the full fixture list are expected to be confirmed in the coming days.
By Sean Devers
AN unbeaten 97 from Emmanuel Lewis powered Transport Sports Club (TSC) to a six-wicket win over Queen’s College (QC) on Sunday, as action continued in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) U-17 Eline Security Logistics 50 overs tournament.
Lewis was a one-man army blasting eight fours and nine sixes from just 13 balls and carried TSC to 121-4 in 10.2 overs, but nobody else, including West Indies U-19 World Cup batter Shamar Apple (8), reached double figures.
Riaz Latif (5) was the
next best scorer as Mickel Johnson (1) and Caleb Bastian (0) were the batters dismissed as they made a mess of the small target, batting in T20 style.
Skipper Nathaniel Sukhnandan captured 2-10
for QC, who were earlier bowled out for 116 in 31 overs after wasting a promising start.
Lakeraj Hemraj’s 40 with three fours and six shared in a 64- run opening partnership with Afraz Ali, whose 28 in-
cluded four boundaries.
Hezekiah Hohenkirk removed Ali to break the first-wicket stand.
Altaf Ali hit a four and three sixes in his 19-ball 25, and none of the other batters offered any fight.
From 103-1, QC’s collapsed to 116, losing nine wickets for 13 runs from 8.4 overs.
Prosper Jacobus captured 5-21 and got support from Riaz Latif, who took 2-35.
In the other game, DCC hammered GCC by 121 runs after being bowled out for 224 in 41.5 overs and dismissed the Bourda Boys for 103 from 30 overs as teams struggled to bat 50 overs.
Despite no batter passing 30, five batters got into the 20s to take DCC past 200.
Stephon Seymour (29), Jermain Grovsnor (29), Jasane Craig (28), Kaylon Callender (25), and Makai Dowlin (22) all got starts but
failed to convert into at least a fifty.
Skipper Revaldo Pereira had 4-24, and Aaron Persaud took 3-45 GCC began the chase auspiciously, with Trilok Nanan (25) and the left-handed Shahid Ramzan (23) providing their team with a solid 50-run foundation before Mickel Sharma made the breakthrough by dismissing Nanan. Pereira (19) was the other batter to reach double figures as Lomar Seecharran, who made 11 with the bat, returned with the ball to take 6-20.
Sharma and Adam Mohammed bagged two wickets each.
By Sean Devers
BORN in the East Coast Village of Perseverance, Mahaicony, on November 2, 1970, to Cyril and Eileen Belgrave, former Guyana Youth and senior pacer Calvin Belgrave took his final breath on February 26, 2026, at the Georgetown Public Hospital. He was 55.
A well-attended night of reflection and wake was held at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) on Saturday night. Those in attendance included City Mayor Alfred Mentore who played against Belgrave when DCC played GCC, Minister Kwame Mc-
Coy who spoke on behalf of the Government of Guyana. Belgrave represented Guyana at the Under-19 level in Barbados (1988) and Guyana (1989).
He captured 14 wickets, with his best figures being 3-23 from seven First-Class matches between 1990 and 1993.
During that period, he represented Guyana in nine 50-over matches, in which he took five wickets. Calvin played with the Sunrises from New York before migrating to the US in 1994. He got his first contract to play in Holland as an 18-year-old and played
club cricket in London and Barbados, where both of his grandparents were born.
An emotional funeral service was held at the St George’s Cathedral yesterday morning before his body was taken to the GCC ground, Bourda where he honed his craft, for a final farewell and tributes from those who knew him and who played with and against him.
Transportation was provided for those who wanted to go to Mahaicony where he was buried next to the late Guyana and West Indies off- spinner Clyde Butts.
THE composition of the Canada Cricket Umpires Association (CCUA) remains the same following the staging of the Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at the Number 43 Police Division, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, on Sunday.
Guyana-born Azad Khan, who is also the Honorary Secretary of the West Indies Cricket Umpires Association (WICUA), was one of three executives who retained their posts, the others being Malik Ghaswala as Secretary and Terry Mathura, Treasurer. They were returned unopposed en bloc following a vote of confidence from the members.
The other three positions, which formed part of the executive committee weren’t up for grabs at this year’s meeting, based on the CCUA Constitution, which meant that Bisham Singh was retained as Vice-president, Frederick Halley as Assistant Secretary/Treasurer/Public Relations Officer and Mohan Ramadhin as Education Chairman.
In his presidential report, Khan thanked the members for giving him the opportunity to serve as president for the year 2025 to 2026, pointing out that he hoped that he fulfilled some small part of their expectations.
Khan described the presidency as being challenging but “I have enjoyed my
duties tremendously and I do hope you find my performance satisfactory.”
According to the CCUA President, “recruitment of new umpires improved significantly. Attempts to generate interest in other Provinces have been successful and are still on-going.”
Touching on the highly-touted WICUA Exchange Programme, Khan reminded members that it’s in progress with two umpires from the CCUA, Daniel Singh Sush Mahalanobis scheduled to officiate in Guyana within the coming months Khan described the annual CCUA Luncheon, which was held at Starlite Restaurant on February 15 last, as very successful, dominated by presentations of Certificates and special awards with WICUA President Vivian Johnson in attendance.
The CCUA President extended special thanks to Treasurer Terry Mathura and his team for the organisational aspects of the luncheon. He also praised the executives for working diligently during the past year while sacrificing their personal time for CCUA.
The CCUA members are gearing up for the start of the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) 2026 season which is slated to commence on Saturday, May 9 and the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) matches the last weekend of the same month.
The CCUA is affiliated to the WICUA, which also includes members from Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Guyana, Jamaica, Leeward Islands, Trinidad & Tobago, United States and Windward Islands. (Frederick Halley)
OPENER Keith Fraser was in a destructive mood at the Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) ground on Sunday, pummelling a boundary-studded 102 retired versus Parika Defenders after earlier clobbering an unbeaten 96 as Regal Legends and Masters registered easy victories over Parika Defenders and Avengers respectively.
The left-handed Berbician, who is competing in his first year in the Over-50 Division, belted 10 fours and six sixes in his knock of 102 as Regal Legends reached a commanding 233 for two in their allotted 20 overs before reducing Parika Defenders to 125 for eight, winning by a
massive 108 runs. After losing his opening partner, Eon Abel, in the first over with only nine on the board, Fraser dominated a second-wicket partnership of 126 off 70 balls with Khemchand Dindyal, whose contribution was 30 (two fours and one six) while he added a further undefeated 98 for the third wicket with Nandram Samlall who stroked 52 not out from 26 balls, spiced with five fours and three sixes.
In reply, Parika Defenders’ innings never got going as they lost wickets at regular intervals. Kabesh Persaud hit two fours and two sixes in a top score of 32 as skipper David Harper made early
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) Falcons produced a commanding performance on Saturday, defeating the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) 36–10 as the 2026 rugby season officially commenced with a 15s Club Tournament at the National Park Rugby Field.
The opening encounter, organised by the Guyana Rugby Football Union, featured an intense and highly physical contest between the two disciplined services teams, keeping spectators engaged throughout the match.
Leading the charge for the Falcons was Shawn David,
who crossed the try line twice to secure ten points for his team. Adrian Hall and Owen Adonis also made valuable contributions with tries, while James Osborne added another to extend the Falcons’ dominance.
Falcons Captain Lionel Holder played a pivotal role
THE Guyana Boxing Board of Control is in receipt of notification indicating that Elton Dharry (Guyana) has suffered an injury in training and by which he has been declared medically unfit to contest his upcoming bout against Salmin Kassim (Tanzania) for the IBO Super Bantamweight World Title scheduled for March 28, 2026.
His management has requested an extension of three weeks (21 days) from the scheduled date to return him to full fitness.
In the circumstances, please be advised that the event is hereby rescheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.
All other arrangements for the event will remain the same.
Tickets for the event will be released shortly, and a press conference will be held advising on additional bouts.
with the boot, successfully converting three tries and adding two penalty kicks to further strengthen the Police side’s advantage and seal the convincing victory.
The tournament marks the official start of the local rugby calendar and forms part of ongoing preparations for several
international engagements involving Guyana’s national team in the coming months.
President of the Guyana Police Force Rugby team, Superintendent Delon Fraser, was present at the venue to witness the Falcons’ impressive performance and to lend his support to the players.
Beyond competition, the Guyana Police Force’s participation in sporting activities continues to strengthen its relationship with the public, using sports as a positive platform for community engagement, youth inspiration, and national pride.
PARAMARIBO, Suriname (CMC) – Dutch football legends, Patrick Kluivert and Clarence Seedorf, will use their invaluable expertise to help Suriname as they seek to qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup.
Suriname will meet Boliva in a World Cup inter-confederation playoff in Mexico on March 26, and if they win, they will play Iraq at the same venue on March 31 for a place in the World Cup, which will take place in Canada, Mexico and the USA from June 11 to July 19.
Both Kluivert and Seedorf have indicated their willingness to assist Suriname and will act in unofficial positions.
“It is not an official position. Clarence will remain a member of the supervisory board at the Dutch Federation, but he will support me as a sounding board and as an ambassador for Suriname. Just like Patrick Klu -
ivert,” the team’s general manager Brian Tevreden said on Saturday.
“They both want to contribute ideas and see how we can further improve the path we have taken.”
The 49-year-old Seedorf was born in Suriname, but moved to the Netherlands at the age of two and went on to play 87 times for the Netherlands, including reaching the World Cup semi-finals in 1998.
Kluivert, also 49, scored
40 goals for the Dutch. He also has a connection to the Caribbean island as his father is from Suriname. Suriname’s coach, Stanley Menzo, quit after they failed to secure direct qualification last November. He has been replaced by Henk ten Cate, with ex-Dutch internationals, Winston Bogarde and Jimmy Floyd-Hasselbaink, added to the coaching staff in recent months.