Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 19-03-2026

Guyana’s climate services being translated into significant economic commodity

–– President Ali

GUYANA’S climate services are rapidly emerging as a significant economic commodity, with revenues generated through its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 helping to fund major national sustainable projects; this is according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali.

“Climate and environmental stewardship is not a gift only that we’re giving to the world; it is part of our new economy,” the Head of State said during a Wednesday broadcast of the Tea on the Terrace programme.

services, along with traditional oil and tax revenues, according to Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, significantly contribute to Guyana’s national treasury.

“We have actually achieved something in Guyana that very few, if any other country, really has, and that is earning revenue for the climate services that we are providing globally,” the finance minister shared as he joined the discussion with President Ali.

but they will dramatically reduce the risk.”

EDUCATION HUB

President Ali further highlighted Guyana’s efforts to position itself as a hub for environmental and biodiversity education and research.

“We have been focusing a lot on positioning Guyana as an education hub for environmental, biodiversity and nature-based solutions.”

He noted that environmental, climate and biodiversity services are gaining global recognition as valuable economic commodities, with Guyana strategically positioning itself to capitalise on these emerging opportunities.

Revenues from climate

“Climate revenues are now a significant source of revenue to the treasury. So, in addition to oil revenue, which obviously we’re earning, traditional tax revenue, which we’ve been earning, we now have a significant flow of climate revenue coming in.”

Despite being an emerg-

ing oil producer, Guyana, he stressed, is simultaneously deepening its reputation as a global climate leader.

Minister Singh pointed out that Guyana has attracted global attention for its strong economic performance, particularly on the oil and gas front. However, he emphasised that there is a “second,

equally remarkable story”: Guyana remains a net carbon sink and is projected to do so even at peak oil production. Guyana’s climate revenues have been generated under successive phases of the LCDS, starting with a bilateral partnership with Norway under the original strategy and continuing under LCDS 2030. Funds earned from the sale of carbon credits have been channelled into a range of projects.

These include:

The Guyana (GUYSOL) solar project, delivering around 33 megawatts of solar energy; inland electrification initiatives, expanding energy access; drainage and irrigation (D&I) investments; and an Amerindian land titling programme.

LIVELIHOODS AND RESILIENCE

Minister Singh highlighted other projects, such as the Hope canals and

village sustainability plans, funded by these climate revenues, improving livelihoods and community resilience.

Modelled on the existing Hope Canal, these new canals in Regions Two, Three, Five, and Six aim to reduce the risk of catastrophic flooding in farming areas such as Black Bush Polder. For generations, a single episode of intense rainfall combined with high tide has been able to wipe out crops and entire annual incomes.

“For a long time, our farmers and our farming communities and their families of farmers have struggled with climate change and extreme climate events,” he said adding: “What they will allow us to do is finally achieve a situation where our farming communities will now be better protected from flooding, and therefore their livelihoods will be protected. It may not eliminate the risk of flooding completely,

Back in January, the President had announced plans for a Commonwealth Centre of Excellence on Biodiversity in Guyana and revealed renewed backing from King Charles III for the country’s pioneering work on climate, forests and the environment.

During an official visit to the United Kingdom (UK) Dr. Ali had met with His Majesty King Charles III, King of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey, at Buckingham Palace.

“I think there are some exciting announcements, some exciting programmes and exciting opportunities ahead of us, and this is all part of building that resilient, sustainable economy that has diversified; not only diversified in traditional areas, but diversified in new areas that are future proof,” the President said back in January following discussions with the UK officials.

The goal he said is to build a resilient, sustainable economy through environmental services, ensuring future-proofing and global leadership in biodiversity and ecological services.

Education Ministry takes immediate action following sexual abuse allegations

THE Ministry of Education has confirmed that a teacher at a secondary school in Georgetown has been placed on administrative leave following allegations of a sexual nature made by students, with officials insisting that swift action was taken in line with established procedures. In a public statement, the Ministry said it was first informed of the allegations on Friday, March 13, 2026, and moved immediately to remove the accused teacher from ac-

tive duty on the same day.

The Ministry’s Welfare Department has since engaged the parents of the affected students, holding meetings over the period March 13 to March 17. During those engagements, each parent was issued a referral to

the Childcare and Protection Agency to facilitate further investigation and support. According to the statement, all affected students are required to undergo forensic interviews to be conducted by the agency, with one interview com-

pleted to date. The Ministry also addressed reports circulating on social media, dismissing claims that there had been delays in the response to the allegations. It maintained that all actions taken so far have been timely and in

accordance with standard operating procedures.

Officials underscored their commitment to safeguarding students, noting that the welfare and protection of children remain a top priority as the matter continues to be investigated.

Hanoman urges “reset” in Mohamed extradition case, says court’s role being stretched

–– adds extradition case “bordering on a circus” amid delays

FOLLOWING Wednesday’s extradition hearing for businessmen Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed, prosecuting attorney Glenn Hanoman spoke candidly about what he described as a pattern of delays and procedural manoeuvring by the defence.

Hanoman highlighted the role of diplomatic notes exchanged between Guyana and the United States. He explained that one note from the Guyana government requested assurances “as a precaution” that the Mohameds would not be re-extradited to a third country or for other offences without ministerial consent.

The United States responded with an assurance, “even though they didn’t recognise anything amiss with the laws on this issue, just as a precaution in this particu-

lar case, they were given an assurance for the Mohameds that they were not going to be extradited to a third country or for any other offence.”

“These diplomatic notes were clearly an attempt by the government of Guyana to “protect” the Mohameds from re-extradition,” Hanoman said. “So, it’s hard to imagine that this is a document that the defence or the Mohameds can have any complaints about.”

Hanoman then turned to the conduct of the defence, asserting that the Mohameds’ legal team has repeatedly sought delays.

“Every single manoeuvre that they make is to effect this purpose [delays]. They have filed applications for stays in the High Court, in the Court of Appeal, and all of those courts have found that there are no grounds for these

Attorney Glenn Hanoman

proceedings to be stayed,” he said.

He recounted the confusion surrounding court dates, including a claim that Thursday was a Muslim holiday, conflicting information about

Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde’s Friday appearances in the Court of Appeal,

and the absence of two of the Mohameds lawyers on Wednesday. The attorneys are Siand Dhurjon and Damien Da Silva.

Attorney Dhurjon is appearing for the elder Mohamed, while Forde represents his son.

“We had originally fixed Thursday, meaning tomorrow, for the continuation. And Mr. Forde had long ago indicated that he had certain appearances in the Court of Appeal on Friday. So, we had already decided that on Friday, we will not have court.

Hanoman said that Forde submitted documents on Wednesday admitting he made a mistake, clarifying that his court appearance was actually scheduled for Thursday, not Friday.

He said that on Tuesday, Azruddin, through his attor-

ney, had indicated their belief that Thursday would be observed as a Muslim holiday and that they should therefore be excused from attending court. However, Hanoman noted that he had clarified that his information indicated the holiday would instead be observed on Friday.

“The two lawyers [Siand Dhurjon and Damien Da Silva] did not show up today. I understand that a letter was sent to the court. That courtesy was not extended to us [the prosecution],” the prosecutor added.

“Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde was specifically instructed that he is not allowed to hold the matter for his colleagues. And Mr. Nazar Mohamed said he didn’t understand what was happening. “It is highly unusual for a senior counsel—a man who has always represented the team—to now say he is not in

a position to hold the matter,” Hanoman noted.

Reflecting on the overall situation, the prosecutor said: “All of that proves, in my view, that all sorts of shenanigans are going to go on to try to achieve delays. I expect that various persons will fall ill on the defence side, whether the lawyers or fugitive offenders.”

He added that while the court has given the defence latitude, the irrelevant questioning has no bearing on the substantive issues before the court.

Hanoman stated: “The court is giving the defence a lot of latitude and that is the court’s right…We’re now bordering on the verge of this thing becoming a circus,” he said, pointing out that the defence attorneys are asking a series of irrelevant questions.

Police hunt suspect in fatal stabbing in Werk-en-Rust

POLICE in Region -

al Division 4 ‘A’ have launched an investigation into the alleged murder of 56-year-old Michael Dazzell, who was fatal-

ly stabbed on Tuesday evening at Leopold and Cross Streets, Werk-enRust. According to preliminary reports, the inci -

dent occurred at approximately 19:30 hrs when the suspect, who was riding a bicycle along Cross Street, reportedly became involved in an altercation with Dazzell, who was standing in an alleyway on the eastern side of the street.

Investigators said the confrontation escalated, during which the suspect allegedly armed himself with a pair of scissors and stabbed the victim multiple times about the body.

The injured man reportedly fled through the alleyway but collapsed a short

distance away. The suspect then escaped the scene on the bicycle, heading south along Cross Street.

Emergency Medical Technicians were summoned, and Dazzell was later pronounced dead by a doctor on duty at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Police subsequently recovered a three-quarter pair of pants bearing what appeared to be bloodstains and a pair of scissors believed to be linked to the attack from a residence associated with the suspect. A black pedal cycle was

also found at the location. Authorities have also identified several CCTV cameras in the vicinity, which are expected to be reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.

The body of the deceased has since been transported to Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, where it awaits a post-mortem examination.

The suspect remains at large as police continue their investigations and intensify efforts to locate and apprehend him.

Guyana sold carbon credits to 19 int’l airlines

–– country’s forest credits in high demand as operators look to meet global emission targets

–– local climate director says

GUYANA has sold forest carbon credits to 19 international airline operators over the past 18 months, Senior Director for Climate and REDD+ at the Ministry of Natural Resources Pradeepa Bholanath has said.

Bholanath, during an appearance on the Tea on the Terrace programme hosted by President Dr. Irfaan Ali and broadcast on Wednesday, explained that the country has received its latest tranche of forest carbon credit in February.

It was the highest in the country’s issuance, standing at nine million credits under the ART-TREES programme.

“Each of these credits have been awarded CORSIA label, which means it’s eligible for use by airlines in offsetting their emissions. We’re really pleased to report

that over the last 18 months, we have seen sales to over 19 airlines,” she said adding: “19 airlines at prices that have gone beyond the levels that we have sold our carbon credits for under our existing agreements, so at higher prices, and it’s an accelerated momentum.”

The demand for Guyana’s credits is expected to grow further as airlines move to meet global emission reduction targets set out by the United Nations.

“Four years ago, we wouldn’t have thought that we would have cemented our place so solidly in this private sector segment that really is showing not just innovativeness, but bold action being taken by airlines and uniting with nature-based solutions that we in Guyana have been the lead in providing to the world,” Bholanath added.

Guyana had officially entered the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART) TREES programme back in 2021. This allowed the country to earn payments for climate services, with revenues supporting the Low-Carbon Development Strategy, including direct investments in Indigenous communities across the country.

The Government of Guyana had announced the world’s first Paris Agreement corresponding adjustment, a significant step reported to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). These developments fulfilled requirements to label the credits as the world’s first eligible for use by airlines towards their targets in the 2024-2026 phase of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)’s global emission

reduction programme, CORSIA. The issuance by ART, known as TREES credits, recognises Guyana’s efforts at successfully reducing emissions from forest loss and degradation, while maintaining one of the world’s most intact tropical forests through jurisdictional REDD+ initiatives.

Gov’t denounces WIN MP’s claims on Caslene Toney tragedy as false

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, with relatives of 39-year-old mother of six, Caslene Toney, of Long Creek

MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, has refuted recent statements made by WIN Member of Parliament Natasha Singh regarding the death of 39-year-old mother of six, Caslene Toney, of Long Creek.

In a public clarification, McCoy described Singh’s claims as “false and misleading,” emphasising that the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Am-

erindian Affairs, the Childcare and Protection Agency (CCPA), and other relevant state agencies, has been actively providing support to the Toney family since the tragedy occurred.

“The tragic death of Caslene Toney must never be used to advance political narratives or spread misinformation,” McCoy stated, noting that the children are not abandoned and the family continues to receive immedi-

ate and ongoing assistance.

The Minister criticised suggestions that the system has “collapsed” or that no psychosocial support has been offered, calling such claims inaccurate and disrespectful to the professionals working with the family.

McCoy also highlighted what he described as the WIN Party’s pattern of using tragedies for political gain. “This is a moment that demands responsible leadership, truth, and compassion,” he said, urging that the focus remain on the continued care, protection, and support of the children rather than political posturing.

The statement underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that the Toney children receive the support they need during this difficult period, reaffirming the role of state agencies in providing ongoing assistance.

‘Certified Sampson’ brings popular ice cream brand to Guyana with TAJ Dream Ogle location

TRINIDAD and Tobago social media sensation Jamel Sampson, popularly known as “Certified Sampson,” is expanding his ice cream brand, Certified Scoop, into Guyana. The new outlet will open at the TAJ Dream Ogle development near Ogle International Airport, marking the brand’s first location outside of Trinidad and Tobago. Set to launch in mid2027, the Georgetown store will be the third Certified Scoop location overall. Sampson, who has amassed a combined following of over four million

across social media platforms, described Guyana as “one of the most exciting markets in the Caribbean” and said the decision to open the store, and purchase a condo within the development, reflects his confidence in the country’s future for both business and real estate.

The brand is known for blending premium ice cream with a vibrant, entertainment-driven experience. The Guyana location will continue this approach, incorporating Certified Sampson’s roster of characters into the in-store experience while

creating new local employment opportunities.

“Certified Sampson is one of the most influential social media personalities in the Caribbean, and we are thrilled to welcome him to TAJ Dream Ogle,” said Giovanni Mola, a lead developer with Coastal Rim Properties, the U.S.based firm behind the project. “His decision to both open a business and invest in real estate here demonstrates the growing confidence regional entrepreneurs have in Guyana.”

TAJ Dream Ogle is a major mixed-use development undertaken by Coast-

al Rim Properties in partnership with former NBA Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon. The project is part of a wider wave of commercial and residential investment across Guyana, spurred by rapid economic growth following offshore oil discoveries.

Construction of the development is ongoing, with an official opening scheduled for mid-2027. Sampson’s expansion into Guyana underscores the country’s rising appeal as a destination for regional entrepreneurs seeking new opportunities in retail and real estate.

Trinidad

Leadership and law

IN Guyana, the recurring political theatrics surrounding the issue of squatting continue to reveal a troubling gap in leadership and accountability.

Each time unlawful occupation of land makes headlines, some opposition figures rush not to educate or guide citizens, but to assign blame to the government, regardless of the facts.

Squatting, by law, is illegal in Guyana. The principle is neither new nor ambiguous; it is a cornerstone of the legal framework that safeguards property rights, orderly development, and the foundations of a stable society.

Yet, some political actors repeatedly attempt to exploit humanitarian concerns around squatting for political gain, misrepresenting evictions of individuals

occupying private lands as evidence of government negligence or hostility.

It is important to acknowledge that the Government of Guyana has undertaken one of the most ambitious housing programmes in the nation’s history.

Thousands of house lots have been allocated, new housing schemes are under development, and critical infrastructure, roads, electricity, and water, is continuously expanded to meet growing demand.

These initiatives provide legal pathways for citizens to achieve homeownership, build wealth, and secure long-term stability.

Despite these efforts, opposition rhetoric often ignores the reality that many squatting cases involve individuals knowingly occupying private property.

Reports of substantial concrete or even double-storey homes being erected on lands with no legal claim illustrate that this is not always an act of survival, but sometimes a deliberate defiance of property rights.

This is not to suggest that compassion should be absent from policy. Government intervention remains vital to prevent families from descending into crisis when disputes over land arise.

However, compassion must not undermine legality, responsibility, or order. Respect for the rule of law and the rights of lawful property owners is essential to ensuring a fair and functioning society.

Leadership demands more than criticism; it requires education, guidance, and solutions.

Citizens must be informed of their legal rights, the opportunities for lawful homeownership, and the responsibilities that come with property ownership.

Political actors should champion these pathways rather than perpetuate confusion or exploit hardship for shortterm gain.

Guyanese deserve leaders who balance empathy with accountability, leaders who protect the vulnerable while upholding the law, defending property rights, and promoting responsible development.

Only by striking this balance can the country build a society where opportunity, fairness, and progress coexist with discipline and respect for the law.

Kissoon and Westmaas, part 3: Specter of permanent power

IN part 2, I ended with these words: “In part 3, I explain why the people I so admired supported rigged election in 2020. Class and race are the answers.” Here is the analysis. The tampering with the 2020 election results is the largest assault on a national election in the history of Guyana.

People who struggled for free and fair elections went into self-destruction mode in March 2020. Great friendships were shattered when comrades who stayed in an enduring friendship over decades took different positions on the election. But there was only one position to have been taken – the denunciation of rigged elections and its Macbethian consequence of permanent power.

There were three broad categories of support for the five months of conspiracies to reshape the election results to keep APNU+AFC coalition in government. A caveat is in order at this point. This has to be a very abbreviated analysis because the material cannot fit into one column. The first sector was the intellectuals in the WPA. Rupert Roopnaraine, Moses Bhagwan and Eusi Kwayana were driven by overpowering Freudian instincts against the PPP.

Each of these individuals harboured a long resentment of Cheddi Jagan. Although Jagan was not leading the PPP in 2020, for these three gentlemen, a victory of the PPP was a victory for Jagan. Kwayana hated Jagan. Bhagwan hated Jagan, and Roopnaraine was contemptuous of Jagan as an Indian leader whom he felt was culturally inferior to lead a Mulatto/Creole Caribbean country. Roopnaraine felt he was better suited to lead Guyana after Walter Rodney died.

These three individuals, along with a few

others like Clive Thomas, Maurice Odle, Desmond Trotman, Bonita Bone, Joycelyn Dow, among others, did not want the return of the PPP to power. They felt history had moved decisively in 2015 and had swept the PPP out of Guyana’s life. The election results favouring the PPP in 2020 were too much of a mental burden for these people.

The second category involved the entitlement school. These were Afrocentric personalities from the WPA like David Hinds, Tacuma Ogunseye, ACDA, and others in that same vein. Their position on Guyana is that African people came here as slaves and saved Guyana and thus are entitled to own the state after the colonials left.

At this point, the relevance of an incident involving Deputy Vice-Chancellor of UG, Melissa Ifill is extremely relevant. It shows vividly how this category sees Guyana. Dr Ifill, Leonard Craig, and a number of us became close friends after we founded a grassroot movement named People’s Parliament which came out of the Linden shooting incident in 2012.

During the 2020 election disaster, Dr Ifill wrote that in life she sees herself firstly as a Black woman, and her thoughts in life stem from that instinct. Had I known this was the way Dr Ifill thought of herself, I would never have cultivated a friendship with her. In the People’s Parliament, I thought we were all activists in search of people’s liberation, and we saw life through the lens of human liberators. They rejected the continuous electoral success of the PPP since 1992. The 2015 victory of the PNC, they saw as the overjoyful moment where Guyanese history had recognised the entitlement claim. There was

no way these people were prepared to let the PPP rule again after 2020.

The third group that gave support to the attempt to derail the election came from the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC). This school included the Guyana Human Rights Association, Red Thread, MCC elements in the WPA and Alliance For Change, Guyana chapter of Transparency Institute, certain women’s groups, and the Stabroek News (don’t be fooled, yes, the Stabroek News) among others. There are so many famous names in this ensemble, but I think Guyanese know who they are. This entire group of MCC personalities is against oil production because it brings immense political capital to the PPP.

The return to power by the PPP was a deeply traumatising moment for the MCC. This class in Guyana’s social structure despised the PPP historically. The contempt sprung from eugenics, cultural superiority,

and anthropological perceptions. The MCC never accepted the PPP as part of the claim to power before and after colonialism. Their position was extremely simple to understand. It argued and continues to argue that Indians in Guyana are not culturally suited to politics and should remain in business.

The MCC was betrayed by Forbes Burnham, whom they trusted. They founded the WPA and the AFC.

They felt that the APNU+AFC in government was the eventual vindication of the MCC, and the thought of the PPP returning to power was a personal nightmare for each member of the MCC. Part 4 is coming up.

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

Guyana poised for human capital boom as AI, global challenges reshape world

– STARR Computer President tells students during tour

PRESIDENT of STARR Computer Inc., Mike Mohan, on Wednesday, positioned Guyana as a future global hub of human capital and innovation, as he addressed scores of secondary school students during an educational field visit focused on technology, artificial intelligence and emerging global challenges.

Approximately 80 students and six teachers from institutions including Lodge Secondary School, South Ruimveldt Secondary School, Freeburg Secondary School, New Campbellville Secondary School and Vrymans Erven Secondary School toured the company’s facilities, gaining firsthand exposure to the country’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Mohan used the opportunity to outline what he described as a defining moment for Guyana, arguing that global instability, from war to climate change, will reshape migration patterns and place the country at the centre of a new economic and demographic reality.

“Conflicts across the world and the accelerating effects of climate change will force populations to move,” Mohan indicated, noting that Guyana’s economic growth

and political stability make it an increasingly attractive destination. “In time, we may face a surplus of human resources, and that means preparation is critical.”

He stressed that the rise of artificial intelligence and robotics will fundamentally transform how societies function, making digital literacy and technological adaptability essential skills for the next generation.

TECHNOLOGY AS A NATIONAL STRATEGY

During the visit, students were introduced to STARR Computer’s operations, which Mohan said reflect a model of integrated

digital transformation already taking shape locally.

The company’s infrastructure, spanning three interconnected buildings, demonstrates advancements in computer production, networking, surveillance systems and solar-powered energy solutions.

“Digital transformation is not a concept for the future; it is happening now,” Mohan told the students, pointing to the role of technology in driving economic expansion, financial inclusion and productivity.

He highlighted partnerships with global technology brands and the company’s efforts to make innovation accessible, particularly through

initiatives aimed at young people.

Among these is the Student Advantage Card, a digital platform offering identification services, retail discounts, educational resources and pathways to internships.

Mohan said the programme is designed to bridge the gap between education and employment, preparing students for a workforce increasingly shaped by automation and data-driven systems.

PREPARING FOR A CHANGING WORLD

Mohan warned that while Guyana’s rapid development presents oppor-

tunities, it also demands foresight and strategic investment in human capital.

He explained that climate-related pressures, such as rising sea levels and extreme weather, combined with geopolitical tensions could accelerate both migration and “remigration,” with members of the diaspora and foreign nationals seeking opportunities in stable, resource-rich countries like Guyana.

In that context, he argued that the country must leverage technology not only to sustain growth but to manage the social and economic implications of population expansion.

“AI and robotics will not

replace humanity,” he said. “But they will redefine the kind of skills that are valuable. Countries that invest in digital education and innovation will lead.”

The field trip formed part of ongoing efforts to expose students to real-world applications of technology and entrepreneurship. Many participants expressed interest in careers in information technology, business and engineering after engaging with STARR’s operations.

Mohan encouraged the students to embrace innovation and position themselves as future leaders in a rapidly changing global economy.

“As Guyana rises on the world stage, you will be the generation that sustains and advances that success,” he said.

According to one student, the visit provided valuable insight into the level of technological advancement taking place in Guyana, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence and digital systems.

Another student stated: “The remarks delivered emphasised the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship, which are essential for future national development.”

Celebrating Eid: CIOG President reminds community of justice, compassion and unity

THE President of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), AlHajj Shahabudeen Ahmad, extended warm greetings to the Muslim community and the nation at large on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr 2026, emphasising reflection, gratitude, and service to others.

In his message, President Ahmad celebrated the successful completion of Ramadan, describing it as a period of spiritual discipline, patience, and devotion. He highlighted the importance of carrying the lessons learned during the holy month into everyday life, urging the faithful to translate gratitude and self-restraint into meaningful action.

“True belief is not limited to what we say; it must be visible in our deeds, our character, and the way we live,” Ahmad said. He encouraged Muslims to uphold justice, support their communities, and extend compassion to those in need, especially individuals facing illness, hunger, or hardship.

The CIOG President also drew attention to the suffer-

CIOG President, Al-Hajj Shahabudeen Ahmad

ing of communities around the world, including Palestine and South Sudan, noting that their perseverance and faith offer inspiration to others. “May their example strengthen our own faith and motivate us to respond with both conviction and action,” he stated. Ahmad called on the community to reaffirm the significance of daily prayer and charity as central pillars of spiritual growth. He also emphasised fostering harmony across families, communities, and the

nation, encouraging the inclusion of non-Muslims in Eid celebrations to promote understanding and unity.

The message concluded with a reaffirmation of reliance on Allah, quoting the Quran: “Allah (Alone) is

Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs” (Surah Al-Imran 3:173). President Ahmad extended

Eid greetings to all, wishing peace, mercy, and blessings for Guyana and the global community.

Westford blasts opposition parties for exploiting humanitarian concerns for political mileage

PEOPLE’S Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Member of Parliament, Jennifer Westford, has accused the political opposition in Guyana of failing to demonstrate leadership and honesty in its response to issues surrounding squatting.

In a statement on Wednesday Westford argued that opposition figures have consistently sought to blame the government for displacements, even in cases where individuals have been occupying privately owned lands illegally.

She maintained that such responses misrepresent the legal reality, noting that squatting remains clearly prohibited under the country’s laws governing property rights and land use.

“Instead of providing guidance and education to

their constituencies, opposition figures are quick to assign blame to the government for every displacement that occurs, even when those situations arise from individuals occupying privately owned lands illegally. Squatting, by law, is illegal in Guyana. This is not a new or ambiguous principle; it is clearly established within the legal framework that protects property rights and orderly development in a civilized society,” Westford wrote.

Westford said that rather than educating on these legal principles, opposition representatives have instead “exploited humanitarian concerns for political mileage,” creating what she described as a misleading narrative of government hostility.

She pointed to the administration’s housing drive as

PPP/C Parliamentarian, Jennifer Westford

evidence of efforts to provide lawful alternatives, highlighting what she described as one of the most expansive housing programmes in the country’s history. According to the PPP/C parliamentarian, thousands of house lots have

been distributed, alongside the ongoing development of new housing schemes and the expansion of infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and water.

The programme, she said, is intended to create legitimate pathways to homeownership, allowing citizens to build long-term security and wealth.

“Thousands of house lots have been allocated, new housing schemes are being developed, and infrastructure—roads, electricity, and water—is being expanded continuously to accommodate growing demand. The programme is specifically designed to provide legal pathways for citizens to become landowners and homeowners, allowing families to build wealth, security, and stability through legitimate

means,” she added.

Addressing the issue of enforcement, Westford stressed that the rule of law must apply equally, particularly in cases where private property is involved. She argued that the rights of legal landowners cannot be disregarded, even as authorities respond to sensitive social situations.

While acknowledging the need for compassion, Westford emphasised that humanitarian considerations should not override legality and personal responsibility. She said government intervention may be required to prevent hardship when disputes arise but warned against encouraging the belief that illegal occupation can lead to ownership.

“Despite these efforts, there remains a tendency by some political actors to exploit humanitarian con -

cerns surrounding squatting for cheap political mileage. When individuals are removed from lands that belong to private citizens, the narrative is immediately twisted to suggest government neglect or hostility. This is misleading. The rule of law must apply equally, and the rights of lawful property owners must be respected,” she added.

Westford called for what she described as more responsible political leadership, urging that public discourse focus on educating citizens about their rights, responsibilities and available opportunities.

“Leadership requires more than criticism.

It requires educating people about their rights, their responsibilities, and the opportunities available to them.”

South Rupununi Conservation Society wins prestigious international environmental award

THE South Rupununi Conservation Society (SRCS) has been named the winner of the 2026 St Andrews Prize for the

Environment, a prestigious international award recognising innovative solutions to pressing environmental challenges.

The accolade, announced on March 17, was accepted by Ms. Alyssa Melville, Environmental Education Coordinator for

on March 17,

SRCS.

The global prize, presented annually by the University of St Andrews in Scotland, selects only one winner each year, awarding US$95,000. For SRCS, the recognition highlights the impact of its flagship project, Transforming Environmental Education in Guyana, which blends scientific learning with Indigenous knowledge to empower

young people. Launched in 2018, the initiative targets students aged 8 to 18, integrating environmental education with local culture and community engagement. Over two years, participants develop the skills and confidence to design and lead their own citizen science projects. To date, more than 2,000 students across 20 communities in Region

9 have benefitted from the programme.

“This award is a powerful affirmation of the work being done right here in Guyana,” said SRCS in a statement. “It belongs to everyone involved—facilitators, teachers, schools, parents, Toshaos, Village Councils, and, most importantly, the young people driving this change.”

The model is already expanding into Regions 1, 4, and 6, with plans to develop a national environmental education curriculum and a guide that could support communities worldwide. SRCS emphasised that the recognition reinforces the value of community-led approaches and Indigenous knowledge in tackling environmental challenges.

Ms. Melville, whose leadership has been central to the project’s success, is expected to return home soon to continue scaling the programme. The achievement also serves as a celebration of the Rupununi, showcasing Guyana’s potential on a global stage.

“The journey is far from over,” SRCS noted.

“This award strengthens our commitment to continue the work, expand its reach, and empower young people to lead meaningful environmental change.”

Gov’t advancing strategic workforce planning to support industrial expansion

THE Government is advancing a strategic approach to workforce planning as part of efforts to support Guyana’s rapid industrial expansion, according to Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith.

The minister, during a recent interview, noted that his ministry is moving to align skills development with emerging economic opportunities.

Griffith stated that the initiative reflects a deliberate policy direction aimed at ensuring the country’s workforce is adequately prepared to meet the demands of the transforming economy.

“So, His Excellency, in his wisdom, understood the

trajectory in which Guyana was going and, through his own deliberate judgement, added the element of manpower planning,” Griffith explained,

He noted that the function is designed to undertake “gap analysis” and ensure “strategic alignment” between labour supply and industry needs.

According to the Minister, the new manpower planning component is particularly critical as Guyana positions itself as a major industrial player within the Caribbean.

“Guyana is now going to be, or I feel we’re already the industrial capital of the Caribbean, and so what is our response to being the industrial capital?

500 appointments booked since e-health app launch

THE government’s push to modernise healthcare delivery is already yielding results, with approximately 500 online appointments booked since the official launch of the digital booking system on January 17, 2026.

The initiative forms part of the broader Electronic Health Record (EHR) system currently being utilised at the Festival City Polyclinic, allowing patients to schedule appointments digitally while improving the management of medical records.

According to data received, the system shows growing

EHR system will bring about many benefits to Guyana’s health sector

utilisation with hundreds of patient records created, appointments scheduled, clinical assessments completed, pharmacy items dispensed, and users logging into the system daily.

On average, 128 clinical assessments are conducted daily at the Festival City Polyclinic using the EHR system. Before the app’s implementation, about 79 patients were seen daily.

Now, on average, 129 patients are seen at the clinic.

The EHR system represents a major shift from traditional paper-based medical records to a fully digital system.

Patients’ medical information is stored in a single electronic database that can be accessed by authorised healthcare providers.

This means a patient visiting different clinics, such as chronic disease, surgery, or cardiology, will now have one unified medical record. This ensures healthcare professionals can access important medical history quickly and accurately.

The integrated system also helps healthcare providers better monitor patient treatment, particularly where multiple medications are involved (DPI)

We have to now strategically see how we can provide

and supply jobs to meet the needs of this industrial revolution,” he said.

Griffith pointed to several large-scale projects across the country that will require a skilled, ready workforce, including the deep-water harbour in Region Six, the gas-to-energy project in Region Three, and agro-processing initiatives in Region Five.

“We have to ensure that we train and skill persons in Region Six so that they can access those jobs… the very same for Region Three… and Region Five,” he said while emphasising that training must be both targeted and responsive to regional development.

Against this backdrop, he added that the aim is

not only to prepare citizens to benefit from emerging opportunities, but also to ensure they contribute meaningfully to national development.

“The manpower planning element seeks to see how we can provide strategic training so that persons can be skilled to benefit, not just benefit from, but to be a benefit to these sectors and to our resources,” the Minister stated.

Addressing concerns about labour shortages, Griffith acknowledged that the issue remains a significant challenge, even as the Government moves to build local capacity.

“The reality is we have a major labour shortage in this country… it’s a num-

ber one issue highlighted by His Excellency,” he said, adding that manpower planning will also examine “how we can effectively import” labour where necessary.

To this end, he disclosed that the ministry is currently in the process of establishing the manpower planning department, including staffing and developing a supporting legal framework.

Griffith noted that work is also ongoing to examine international models to guide the initiative, with an inter-ministerial approach involving collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Attorney General’s Chambers.

Compassion in action: Rodion McBean’s journey supporting patients, families

–– veteran social worker reflects on nearly two decades of service at GPHC

FOR more than 18 years, Rodion McBean has quietly worked behind the scenes at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, helping patients and families navigate some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

A social worker in the hospital’s Psychiatry Department, McBean describes his profession not simply as a job, but as a calling shaped by compassion, faith and a deep-rooted desire to help others.

His journey into the field began long before his formal training, through early involvement in community and church activities where he found purpose in supporting those in need.

Today, that sense of purpose is reinforced by strong academic credentials, including a degree in Social Sciences (Social Work), a postgraduate diploma in Disaster Management and a Master’s degree in Christian Counselling and Psychology. Before entering the field, he also spent nine years teaching Technical Drawing, a role that helped shape his communication and mentorship skills.

At the hospital, McBean plays a critical role in supporting patients dealing with mental health challenges. His daily responsibilities include counselling individuals who may be struggling to cope with treatment, while also working closely with families to help them understand how best to support their loved ones, particularly in areas such as medication adherence.

He collaborates with doctors and other healthcare professionals, often serving as a bridge between medical teams and patients who may have difficulty understanding or accepting their diagnoses or treatment plans.

But his work frequently extends beyond the hospital’s walls. McBean is part of outreach efforts that bring care directly into communities, particularly for patients who are unable or unwilling to attend clinic appointments. Families also turn to him

for guidance on encouraging relatives to seek treatment, while in some cases, he provides counselling and psychotherapy for individuals dealing with complex domestic issues that can contribute to mental health conditions.

Among the many cases he has encountered, one stands out as a powerful example of the impact of sustained intervention. He recalls assisting a patient who had long been isolated from society. Through consistent care and support, the individual was able to reintegrate, access treatment and ultimately rebuild their life—eventually securing employment at the hospital itself.

Despite such successes, McBean acknowledges that challenges remain. Limited

resources and persistent stigma surrounding mental illness can prevent individuals from seeking help. In response, he and colleague Audrey Shultz helped establish a Mobile Unit service, allowing healthcare teams to reach patients in their communities and ensure continuity of care.

He believes social workers play an essential role within the healthcare system, bringing specialised training and empathy to situations that require both technical knowledge and human understanding. Yet, he noted, the profession is often under-recognised.

For those considering entering the field, McBean offers clear advice: a genuine desire to help others must be the foundation. Without it, he

said, the work can become routine; with it, the profession offers deep personal and societal rewards.

He also emphasised the role of families in the recovery process, encouraging them to remain engaged and to follow guidance from healthcare professionals, noting that collaboration can significantly improve outcomes for patients.

After nearly two decades of service, McBean continues to make a lasting impact, helping individuals move from crisis toward stability and recovery.

His work, colleagues say, reflects the quiet but vital role social workers play in strengthening not only patient care, but families and communities as a whole.

Labour Minister engages Women’s Chamber to expand workforce opportunities for women

MINISTER of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, on Wednesday, met with representatives of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana as part of ongoing efforts to expand economic opportunities and workforce participation for women.

The engagement focused on increasing awareness of the Ministry’s mandates and services, particularly those aimed at strengthening workforce development and supporting women’s advancement across various sectors.

During the meeting, Griffith emphasised the need to equip women with practical, market-driven skills to enhance their participation in both traditional and non-traditional industries. He pointed to potential collaboration between the Board of Industrial Training and the Women’s Chamber as a key avenue for achieving this goal.

Among the areas identified for expanded training were heavy-duty machine operations, cosmetology, commercial food preparation and other technical and vo-

cational disciplines aligned with current labour market demands.

Officials said the initiative is part of a broader government strategy to promote inclusive economic growth by ensuring women are provided with the tools, training and opportunities necessary to succeed in the workforce.

The collaboration is also expected to support increased female enrollment in skills training programmes, further strengthening women’s contribution to national development.

Caribbean correctional leaders embrace financial readiness as key to institutional stability

SENIOR correctional leaders from across the Caribbean have identified financial stability among officers as a critical factor in strengthening prison systems, following a high-level training session held during the 2026 Senior Officers’ Conference in Guyana.

The session, facilitated by Outliers Zone Caribbean, brought together 50 senior officers from 13 Caribbean countries at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Tuesday. It formed part of the conference hosted by the Guyana Prison Service.

According to organisers, the training introduced the concept of “operational financial readiness,” highlighting the direct link between an officer’s personal financial stability and their professional performance, decision-making and overall institutional effectiveness.

Leading the session was Financial Readiness Strategist, Athalyah Yisrael, who presented a structured

framework aimed at reducing financial vulnerability among correctional officers and enhancing system-wide stability.

Participants examined underlying factors affecting correctional readiness within their respective institutions, with discussions revealing that unaddressed financial stress can negatively impact focus, discipline and operational efficiency.

A central feature of the training was the introduction of the “7 F’s Framework for a Financially Fulfilling Legacy,” which outlines seven core pillars—faith, fitness, family, finance, fun and fulfillment, future, and friends—as a pathway to achieving financial security within a five-year period. Officers also engaged in a “7 F’s Legacy Assessment,” a real-time evaluation tool that enabled participants to identify gaps in financial management, long-term planning and work-life balance. The exercise was followed by the

development of individual five-year financial security roadmaps aimed at reducing stress and improving workplace performance.

Facilitators noted that financial vulnerability can increase institutional risk, while improved financial readiness can strengthen discipline, presence and overall effectiveness within correctional environments.

The session was widely described by participants as “eye-opening,” with several senior officials indicating interest in adopting the approach within their own institutions. Many noted that financial readiness has not traditionally been addressed as a core component of correctional operations.

Each participant received a corporate wellness guide and implementation playbook developed by Outliers Zone Caribbean to support ongoing application of the framework.

The 2026 Senior Officers’ Conference, held

Minister Edghill represents Guyana at South American infrastructure summit in Uruguay

MINISTER of Public Works, Juan Edghill, is representing Guyana at a high-level regional summit in Montevideo, where leaders are shaping the future of infrastructure and transport connectivity across South America.

The Second High-Level Meeting on Infrastructure and Transport has brought together ministers and senior officials from all twelve South American nations to deliberate on strengthening continental integration through improved logistics, transport networks and coordinated development strategies.

Edghill’s participation underscores Guyana’s ambition to position itself as a strategic link between the Caribbean and South America, ensuring that national infrastructural projects align with broader regional objectives.

A key outcome of the summit was the official launch of the South American Infrastructure Observatory, a centralised, data-driven platform designed to harmonise infrastructural standards, monitor cross-border transport efficiency and support

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, is representing Guyana at a high-level regional summit

informed decision-making for regional development.

Delegates also approved the 2026 Strategic Work Plan, marking the start of the second phase of the multinational initiative aimed at deepening co-operation and accelerating infrastructure development across the continent.

The plan outlines a comprehensive framework focused on enhancing intermodal connectivity by strengthening linkages between road, rail and maritime transport systems, as well as aligning regulatory policies

to facilitate smoother movement of goods and services across borders.

It also places significant emphasis on infrastructure sustainability, prioritising resilient and environmentally conscious engineering practices within regional transport corridors.

Guyana’s presence at the summit reflects its growing role in regional integration efforts, as the country continues to expand its infrastructure network to support trade, investment and long-term economic growth.

One of the scenes from the session during the 2026 Senior Officers’ Conference under the theme “Fostering Growth, Driving Synergy, and Securing the Future of Corrections,” brought together regional leaders to address evolving challenges within modern correctional systems. Organisers said the inclusion of financial readiness marked a significant expansion of the conversation on institutional reform.

Visiting delegates also

expressed appreciation to the Guyana Prison Service for incorporating what they described as a timely and forward-thinking initiative into the conference agenda.

Site committee launched to strengthen management of Kanuku Mountains Protected Area

A NEW Site Level Committee (SLC) has been established to enhance the management and protection of the Kanuku Mountains Protected Area, marking a major step toward

collaborative conservation governance in Guyana’s hinterland.

The Protected Areas Commission (PAC) announced that the inaugural meeting of the committee was success-

fully held on March 11 in Quarrie Village, Region Nine, bringing together key stakeholders and partners with direct interests in the protected area.

Formed under the framework of the Pro -

The Protected Areas Commission (PAC) announced that the inaugural meeting of the committee was successfully held on March 11 in Quarrie Village, Region Nine, bringing together key stakeholders and partners with direct interests in the protected area

tected Areas Act of 2011, the committee provides a formal mechanism for shared responsibility and coordinated decision-making. It comprises representatives from five surrounding communities, Rupunau, Yupukari, Kumu, Nappi and Katoka, alongside a range of government agencies and conservation organisations.

Participating entities include the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, Guyana Forestry Commission, Guyana Defence Force, Environmental Protection Agency, the Region-

al Democratic Council of Region Nine, as well as non-governmental partners such as Conservation International Guyana, Frankfurt Zoological Society Guyana, the South Rupununi Conservation Society, the South Rupununi District Council and the North Rupununi District Development Board.

A key feature of the meeting was the formal handover of the Kanuku Mountains Protected Area Management Plan for 2024–2028.

The document outlines strategic priorities to guide the committee’s advisory role to the PAC, including strengthening protection measures, promoting sustainable resource use, expanding stakeholder involvement, and advancing education and public awareness initiatives.

The PAC expressed appreciation to Quarrie Village for hosting the meeting, as well as to the participating communities, partner organisations and the Protected Areas Trust for their continued collaboration in safeguarding one of Guyana’s most significant ecological landscapes.

President Ali engages Deep South Rupununi leaders on development agenda

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali, on Wednesday, met with Toshaos from the Deep South Rupununi at State House, where wide-ranging discussions were held on advancing development across the district, with a strong focus on sustainability, economic expansion and community wellbeing.

During the engagement, the Head of State underscored the vast potential of the Deep South Rupununi, particularly in the areas of forest preservation and biodiversity conservation, noting that the region plays an increasingly important role in both the local and national economy.

Key discussions centred on expanding sustainable economic activities, including large-scale cattle rearing, crop cultivation and agro-processing initiatives. Opportunities within the mining sector and tourism industry were also

explored, alongside replanting programmes aimed at strengthening environmental resilience.

The meeting further addressed a number of challenges currently affecting residents in the district, with President Ali and the village leaders examining practical solutions to improve livelihoods and infrastructure in the hinterland communities.

Cabinet members were also present at the meeting, reflecting the government’s multi-sectoral approach to advancing development in the region.

The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by the administration to work closely with Indigenous leaders to ensure that development in hinterland regions is inclusive, sustainable and aligned with national priorities.

‘Guyanese

farmers learning,

adopting modern technologies’ –– agriculture minister says as thousands access training, support from IDB programme

WITH thousands of farmers and extension officers accessing training in modern agriculture techniques, Guyana is not only advancing its food production systems but also empowering its citizens.

This is according to Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, who, on Wednesday, delivered remarks at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)-funded Sustainable Agricultural Development Programme (SADP) Project Completion Exit Workshop at the World Trade Center in Georgetown.

Under the SADP, over

200 extension officers were trained to provide hands-on technical support to farmers, while more than 6,000 farmers received training in modern agriculture techniques.

The objectives of the workshop were to assess the project’s results in alignment with its development objectives; identify key successes, innovations, challenges, and sustainability considerations that emerged during implementation; and distill lessons learned to inform the design and execution of future projects.

While addressing participants, Minister Mustapha said that the programme represent-

ed a key partnership between the Government of Guyana and the Inter-American Development Bank, working together for the benefit of the people.

He also noted that the SADP clearly achieved its objectives of assisting farmers to enhance productivity and improve their livelihoods, while also strengthening Guyana’s agricultural institutions and modernising the systems that guide the sector.

“Our farmers are learning, adapting, and progressing using modern techniques and technologies to grow more, waste less, and build a system like never before. Our extension officers are better

trained to guide them in the field, ensuring that these investments translate into real improvements for families across the country,” the agriculture minister said.

Meanwhile, IDB Country Representative, Ms. Lorena Solórzano-Salazar, said the project was fully aligned with the government’s vision for the agriculture sector and was one of the most successful the Bank has funded in the country.

Several technical officers from agencies such as NAREI, GLDA, Hope Estate, the Fisheries Department, the Guyana Food Safety Authority, and other agencies under the ministry’s umbrella participated in the workshop.

In March 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture received equipment valued at $150 million through the SADP to strengthen the ministry’s extension services to smalland medium-scale farmers in Regions Two to Six and Ten. Similarly, in August of that year, thirty small- and medium-scale farmers from Region Four (Demerara–Mahaica) received inputs worth $3.3 million through the project.

Under Component Two of the project’s funding was also allocated to strengthen the ministry’s extension system, including the training of both staff and farmers, as well as the establishment of research and demonstration plots.

Ministers underscore workplace safety as public servants undergo specialised training

MINISTER of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, and Minister of Public Service, Zulfikar Ally, on Tuesday, visited an ongoing workplace safety and health training programme, highlighting the government’s push to strengthen occupational standards across the public sector.

The three-day training, hosted by the Training and Development Department of the Ministry of Public Service, began on March 16 and concludes on March 18, 2026. It is being facilitated by Assistant Chief Occupational Safety and Health Officers Maxean Bess and Roydon Croal of the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning.

The programme is aimed at promoting safer, healthier and more productive workplaces by equipping public servants with knowledge on workplace hazards, preventative strategies and established safety protocols.

During their engagement with participants, both ministers delivered brief remarks outlining new systems being developed to enhance workplace safety and health standards across government agencies. They also encouraged officers to take advantage of opportunities for professional development and skills advancement.

Participants in the training are being exposed to a wide range of core areas, including occupational safety and health practices,

hazard identification and risk assessment, safety management systems, fire prevention, accident reporting and investigation, and strategies for building a strong safety culture within the workplace.

The programme also features awareness sessions facilitated by the Gender Affairs Bureau and the National AIDS Programme Secretariat, alongside modules focused on customer service and public engagement.

Officials say the initiative forms part of broader efforts to ensure that public sector employees are better equipped to foster safer, more responsive and service-oriented environments across ministries and government institutions.

Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, and Minister of Public Service, Zulfikar Ally, on Tuesday, visited an ongoing workplace safety and health training programme, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening occupational standards across the public sector

Minister Persaud pledges expanded training, support for social workers

MINISTER of Human Services and Social Security, Vindhya Persaud, on Tuesday, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the social work sector, announcing plans to expand training opportunities in partnership with the University of Guyana.

The Minister said the collaboration will see the introduction of additional programmes tailored to equipping social workers with the skills needed to respond to increasingly complex social challenges, while also encouraging more young people to enter the profession.

Describing social work as central to the fabric of society, Persaud noted that the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security remains the largest employer of social workers in Guyana. She emphasised that the profession carries significant responsibility, particularly in safeguarding vulnerable groups including children, the elderly and persons in underserved communities.

“Social work is more than a profession; it is a commitment to people,” Persaud said, adding that interventions by social workers often have transformative impacts on the lives of those they serve.

ing nature of societal issues requires continuous development and higher levels of training. She urged practitioners to pursue further education and adapt to the changing demands of their roles.

Among the initiatives highlighted was a draft Social Workers Act, which aims to strengthen accountability within the profession and ensure higher standards of service delivery.

The Minister further encouraged social workers to remain self-reflective and committed to improvement, acknowledging that there have been instances where services could have been delivered more effectively. She stressed the importance of identifying gaps and working proactively to address them.

The Minister acknowledged that while social workers in Guyana have demonstrated dedication and resilience, the evolv-

Persaud also pointed to ongoing and planned training programmes being developed in collaboration with the University of Guyana, including courses in grief and trauma, as well as a new paraprofessional programme expected to be launched this year. The initiative is intended to serve as a pathway for individuals to enter diploma and degree programmes in social work.

At the same time, Persaud commended social workers for their tireless efforts and pledged continued support from the ministry to enhance the profession and maintain its standards.

Her remarks were made in observance of World Social Work Day 2026, held under the theme “Co-building Hope and Harmony: A Harambee Call to Unite a Divided Society.”

MS Hebridean Sky docks in Guyana as cruise tourism gains momentum

MS Hebridean Sky arrived in Guyana on Wednesday with 89 passengers and 79 crew members on board, marking another milestone in the country’s expanding cruise tourism sector.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, welcomed the vessel during a ceremony, describing the visit as a significant step in positioning Guyana as a premier destination for boutique and expedition cruise experiences.

She extended greetings

on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana, noting that the ship’s three-day stay will allow visitors to experience a range of the country’s unique tourism offerings.

According to the Minister, passengers are set to participate in a curated itinerary that includes guided city tours, a visit to the renow ned Kaieteur Falls, and a nature-focused excursion along the Mahaica River, catering especially to birdwatching enthusiasts.

Rodrigues also highlighted the significance of

the visit coinciding with International Women’s Month, pointing to the leadership aboard the vessel. She commended Captain Philippa Bowden and noted that the ship is operated by a predominantly female crew, reflecting the growing role of women in maritime leadership.

The Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening the cruise tourism industry through continued investment in infrastructure, enhanced port facilities and strategic international partnerships.

She disclosed that she will represent Guyana at the upcoming Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, where efforts will be made to promote the country’s tourism product and build new relationships within the global cruise market.

During the welcoming ceremony, Captain Bowden presented a tra-

ditional Dala Horse to the Minister as a gesture of goodwill and appreciation. She noted that Guyana’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and wildlife were key factors in selecting the destination.

The arrival of the MS Hebridean Sky follows the recent visit of the SH Vega, signalling growing

international interest in Guyana as a gateway to authentic, nature-based tourism experiences.

Tourism officials say such visits continue to reinforce the country’s reputation as an emerging destination for travellers seeking immersive and sustainable travel opportunities.

INSPIRE YOU 2026 to unite global voices for Women’s History Month

A MAJOR virtual forum focused on empowerment, leadership and social impact will bring together voices from across the globe this weekend as INSPIRE YOU 2026: Empowerment Through Purposeful Giving unfolds on March 21 and 22.

The two-day event, produced by the Sonia Noel Foundation in collaboration with Women Across Borders, is expected to attract a wide international audience, reinforcing its evolution into a

global platform for dialogue on purpose-driven leadership and community transformation.

Organisers say the initiative, which coincides with Women’s History Month, will feature thought leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers from the Caribbean, North and South America, Africa and Asia, all engaging in discussions aimed at inspiring action and fostering resilience.

Originally conceptualised as the culminating event

of the Women in Business Expo—Guyana’s first exhibition dedicated to women-owned enterprises—INSPIRE YOU has grown beyond its local roots. The Expo itself played a critical role in advancing female entrepreneurship, providing a platform for women to showcase products, build visibility and expand into new markets.

Over time, organisers note, several participants progressed from launching single products to develop-

ing full product lines now stocked in supermarkets and distributed regionally.

Founder Sonia Noel said the initiative was always intended to extend beyond a single event, creating opportunities that deliver longterm benefits for participants and their communities.

While the Women in Business Expo will not be staged this year, INSPIRE YOU continues that legacy through a broader, fully virtual format designed to expand its regional and international reach.

In a shift from traditional conference formats, organisers have introduced a participation model centred on social impact. While the event remains free, attendees are required to perform an intentional act of kindness for a woman or girl in order to secure access—an approach that aligns with the theme of purposeful giving.

The 2026 programme

will feature an extensive lineup of speakers representing multiple sectors and regions.

Among them are attorney and leadership advocate Vidushi Persaud McKinnon; pioneering microbiologist and entrepreneur Dr Andrew Boyle; aviation and logistics professional Leah Smith; and internationally recognised physician and speaker Dr Safeeya Mohammed.

The event will also feature empowerment advocate Aretha Auguste, leadership coach Samantha M Holder, and transformation expert Saurel Quettan, alongside entrepreneur Valentina Molina Velez and publisher Kea Modise Moloto.

Additional perspectives will be provided by executive leader Dr Tonya Bailey, global fashion entrepreneur Shafaque Ali, and business development advocate Edward Lee.

Discussions will be mod-

erated by Richard Young, a returning facilitator known for guiding dynamic conversations within the INSPIRE YOU series.

The event will be streamed across multiple platforms, including OMG Media and Caribbean Broadcasting Network, ensuring accessibility to audiences across the Caribbean and the wider diaspora.

Organisers emphasise that INSPIRE YOU is designed not merely as a forum for discussion, but as a catalyst for tangible action. Participants are encouraged to translate inspiration into meaningful contributions within their own communities.

As Women’s History Month continues, the initiative offers a space not only to reflect on the progress of women globally, but also to actively advance empowerment through intentional, community-focused efforts.

Top Cop moves to strengthen police operations through improved logistics management

COMMISSIONER of Police, Clifton Hicken, has directed a nationwide push to improve inventory management and upgrade police stations, as part of broader efforts to strengthen the operational capacity of the Guyana Police Force. The directive came during a meeting on Wednesday with Logistics Officers from across the country at the Force’s headquarters in Eve Leary Police Headquarters, where the Commissioner underscored the critical role of efficient logistics systems in effective policing.

Hicken emphasised that maintaining accurate and up-to-date inventories is essential for identifying resource gaps, improving accountability, and ensuring that officers are properly equipped to perform their duties. He tasked Logistics Officers with conducting comprehensive assessments within their respective divisions to evaluate existing supplies and highlight areas requiring urgent attention.

The initiative aims to ensure that police stations nationwide are adequately stocked and properly maintained, thereby enhancing service delivery and operational readiness.

According to the Commissioner, the engagement forms part of a wider strategy to modernise systems within the Force and raise standards across all regions.

He noted that improving internal efficiency is key to delivering better policing outcomes and strengthening public confidence.

Gov’t invests over $226M in technical training to strengthen workforce, economic opportunities in Region Two

MORE than 1,700 residents of Region Two have been equipped with critical job skills over the past five years, as the Government of Guyana intensifies efforts to expand its skilled workforce and drive economic development across the Essequibo Coast.

Data from the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) shows that between 2020 and 2025, a total of 1,729 persons successfully com-

pleted training programmes in 30 occupational areas, backed by an investment of approximately $226.9 million.

The initiative, implemented through the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning, targeted both technical and service-oriented fields, reflecting a balanced approach to workforce development.

Of those trained, 871 were male and 858 female,

highlighting near gender parity in access to skills training.

TRAINING EXPANSION PEAKED IN 2023

The programme saw its most significant expansion in 2023, when 646 individuals were trained across 51 projects at a cost exceeding $77 million. This marked a sharp increase compared to earlier years, with just 84 persons trained in 2020

at a cost of $6.8 million.

Training numbers remained strong in subsequent years, with 452 beneficiaries recorded in 2025 and 215 in 2024, indicating sustained government investment in human capital development.

Participants were trained in a diverse set of disciplines, including high-demand technical fields such as welding and fabrication, electrical installation, heavy-duty equipment op-

BIT’s Chief Executive Officer, Richard Maughn, hands over a certificate to one of 115 trainees that successfully graduated in the Second Phase of its 2025 Training Programme at the Essequibo Technical Institute, Anna Regina

eration, and motor vehicle repairs. At the same time, programmes in cosmetology, garment construction, commercial food preparation, and office administration catered to service-based and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Welding and fabrication emerged as one of the most popular areas, with 210 trainees, followed by electrical installation (187) and commercial food preparation (177). Notably, some fields displayed strong gender trends—cosmetology and garment construction were dominated by female participants, while heavy-duty and mechanical trades saw higher male participation.

At the recent graduation exercise, trainees received certification in key areas including heavy-duty equipment operation (20 graduates), tractor driving (30), commercial food preparation (55), and welding and fabrication (10).

Officials say these programmes are designed to directly align with labour market needs, ensuring that graduates can transition into employment or entrepreneurship.

A notable feature of the programme is its community-based delivery model. Training was conducted through partnerships with local democratic councils, schools, technical institutions, and private entities across villages such as Charity, Anna Regina, Wakapoa, and St. Monica. Institutions like the Essequibo Technical Institute and several village councils played a central role in delivering courses, ensuring accessibility for

residents in both coastal and riverine communities.

BUILDING A SKILLED WORKFORCE

The sustained investment underscores government’s broader strategy to build a resilient and adaptable workforce capable of supporting national development.

By combining technical training with community outreach, the initiative is not only improving employability but also fostering small business development and self-sufficiency across Region Two.

With hundreds more expected to benefit from ongoing programmes, officials anticipate that skills training will continue to play a pivotal role in transforming livelihoods and strengthening the region’s economic future.

BIT’s Chief Executive Officer, Richard Maughn, said the programme has maintained near gender balance and has contributed to tangible social and economic advancement.

“That is not just a statistic, that is impact,” he said, pointing to outcomes such as increased entrepreneurship, certified technical workers, and improved household stability.

He noted that BIT’s training programmes are aligned with national development priorities, particularly in sectors such as oil and gas, construction, agriculture and agro-processing, and emerging green industries.

“We are not just training people, we are preparing a workforce,” he said.

Parag urges stronger regional ties through education systems

MINISTER of Education, Sonia Parag, has underscored the critical role of education in advancing regional integration and called for deeper collaboration among Caribbean nations to address shared challenges and modernise learning systems.

Parag was at the time delivering the keynote address at the closing ceremony of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Ministerial Forum, which was held in Jamaica.

The minister said discussions among regional counterparts revealed a common understanding that education remains one of the strongest tools for unifying the Caribbean.

Reflecting on the engagements during the forum, she noted that the exchange of ideas among ministers and education officials was both enlightening and reassuring, as it highlighted the similarities in challenges faced across the region.

“Education is the one thing that we believe… can promote integration more than anything else,” she stated.

Parag further emphasised the importance of sustained cooperation in shaping policies and systems that benefit all Caribbean learners.

Minister of Education, Sonia Parag

The minister stressed that as countries move to digitise their education sectors, collaboration must remain central to ensure that no nation or student is left behind.

To this end, she pointed out that while technological advancement offers significant opportunities, disparities in access and resources across territories must be addressed collectively.

As such, she indicated that meaningful reform requires inclusive dialogue and shared ownership among all stakeholders, including educators, policymakers and students. She cautioned that changes imposed without proper consultation risk resistance and may fail to take root.

“There must be groundwork and there must be consultation… so that there is not only compliance but buy-in,” she said.

She further highlighted the importance of ensuring that regional initiatives translate into tangible benefits for future generations. She expressed hope that the discussions at the forum would lead to concrete actions that students across the Caribbean will benefit from in the years ahead.

“I would like to see… that we not only discussed, but we put actions towards [these ideas], and they are now benefiting from those actions,” she added.

Further, she welcomed moves to include students in future regional education discussions and indicated that it is a necessary step in ensuring that policies remain relevant and responsive to the needs of learners.

She urged her regional counterparts to carry the momentum from the forum into their respective countries, ensuring that the ideas discussed are translated into policies and practices that strengthen education delivery across the Caribbean.

“Let us not allow these discussions to remain within these walls… let us move forward with the courage to reform what no longer serves us,” she said.

Rampant Barca score seven as Newcastle knocked out of Champions League

RAPHINHA and Robert Lewandowski each scored twice as a rampant Barcelona dumped Newcastle United out of the Champions League.

Newcastle head coach

Eddie Howe had hoped his players would grow rather than shrink in the Nou Camp cauldron, in the second leg of this last-16 tie.

The visitors certainly showed immense spirit to twice equalise through the rapid Anthony Elanga in a competitive first half and cancel out goals from Raphinha and Marc Bernal.

Howe's men were very much still in the tie at the break - even after Lamine Yamal's penalty put Barca 3-2 in front in first-half stoppage time.

But the visitors fell apart after the restart and goals from Fermin Lopez, Raphinha and a double from Lewandowski ended their European adventure in sobering fashion.

Newcastle were ultimately left to rue the cost of some poor defending, and their night got off to the worst possible start when Barcelona capitalised on a couple of costly slips and Raphinha slotted the ball into the bottom corner after playing a one-two with Lopez.

But Newcastle quickly rallied and Elanga coolly drew his side level from close range after getting on the end of Lewis Hall's drilled cross to the back post.

Those elated Newcastle

supporters in the away end were not celebrating for long, though, after Raphinha

floated a free-kick into the box and Gerard Martin headed the ball back across goal

to the unmarked Bernal, who hooked it past Aaron Ramsdale.

Yet there were plenty more twists to come in this topsy-turvy first half and Newcastle equalised once again after Harvey Barnes picked out Elanga at the back post and the Swede finished first-time to stun the Nou Camp.

However, Barcelona were given the chance to retake the lead in first-half stoppage time after Kieran Trippier was penalised for pulling Raphinha back inside the box following a video assistant referee (VAR) intervention.

Up stepped Yamal to score from the spot - just as the nerveless 18-year-old did in the first leg at St James'

Park.

Barcelona then opened up a two-goal lead just minutes into the second half after Raphinha's exquisite first-time pass sent Lopez galloping away and the Spaniard slotted the ball past Ramsdale.

The tie then got further away from Newcastle when Lewandowski headed home from Raphinha's corner before grabbing another with a drilled finish.

Raphinha made it 7-2 on the night and 8-3 on aggregate after capitalising on a sloppy pass from Newcastle midfielder Jacob Ramsey. Barca will now meet either Atletico Madrid or Tottenham Hotspur in the quarter-finals. (BBC Sport)

Australia’s captain, Sophie Molineux, fit for West Indies tour ahead of T20 World Cup

AUSTRALIA received a boost in their build-up to this year's women's Twenty20 World Cup after captain Sophie Molineux said she was fit and ready to

return for the upcoming white-ball series against Indies.

The 28-year-old was ruled out of the remainder

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month.

The white-ball tour of West Indies begins on Thursday. "(I will be) playing in the T20s, (I am) available and looking forward ⁠to playing a role and getting back out there," Molineux said.

The bowling all-rounder, who captained Australia in three T20 internationals against India before Alyssa Healy returned to lead the one-day and test sides, is set to officially take over the captaincy for the Caribbean tour.

However, her role re -

mains under assessment, with uncertainty over whether she will feature as an all-rounder.

"Probably just to see how we go, especially towards that back end with the oneday games," she said.

"We'll ⁠keep assessing but I'm looking forward to getting back out there again with the girls."

Australia has played only nine T20 internationals since the last World Cup edition in 2024 and Molineux said every match would be crucial as they target a seventh ⁠title.

"I don't think we're far off

at all... It is very hard in T20 cricket to play the perfect game," she said.

"It's just being better for longer and realising ⁠those moments that can go either way and winning those.

"We're doing everything really deliberately to be able to align ourselves to that style. We've got ⁠a really hungry group of girls and staff that really want to buy into that."

The women's T20 World Cup begins on June 12 in England and Wales.

(Reuters)

FIFA and Concacaf delegates...

federation’s development pipeline.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Thursday, March 19, 2026)

Representing Concacaf is Andre Waugh, Senior Technical Development Leader, who is in Guyana to finalise the federation’s Coaching Development Strategic Plan and evaluate the progress of coaching education initiatives. His visit includes working sessions with Bryan Joseph, GFF Technical Director; Pushpargha Chattopadhyay, GFF General Secretary; and President Forde.

The engagements reflect continued collaboration between the GFF, FIFA, and Concacaf to strengthen football governance, technical development, and long-term growth of the sport in Guyana. (GFF)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander nets 40 as Thunder clinch playoff spot

SHAI Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points to lead the visiting Oklahoma City Thunder to a 113-108 win over the Orlando Magic on Tuesday.

The Thunder clinched their third consecutive playoff appearance with the victory, becoming the first team this season to do so.

Chet Holmgren added 20 points and a game-high 12 rebounds for the Thunder, while Ajay Mitchell was the only other Oklahoma City player in double figures with 16.

All five Orlando starters finished in double figures, led by Paolo Banchero, who scored 32 points and added a team-best 10 rebounds. Des-

mond Bane added 16 points.

The Magic s dropped back-to-back games after winning seven straight.

Knicks 136, Pacers 110

Josh Hart had one of the most prolific games of his career, when he scored 33 points to lead surging New York to a win over visiting Indiana.

Hart was 12 of 13 from the field, including 5 of 5 from 3-point land. The 33 points were the second most of Hart's nine-year career. Hart, who sat out the fourth quarter, added seven rebounds and five assists as the Knicks extended their winning streak to four games.

Karl-Anthony Towns (22 points, 11 rebounds) and

Jose Alvarado (16 points, 10 assists) each posted double-doubles for the Knicks.

T.J. McConnell (10 points, 10 assists) recorded a double-double while Jarace Walker scored a team-high 16 points for the Pacers, who suffered their franchise-record 14th straight loss. Indiana, which is in last place in the Eastern ⁠Conference, also had a 13-game skid earlier this year.

Nuggets 124, 76ers 96 Christian Braun had 22 points, Cameron Johnson scored 18 and host Denver used a big first half to rout short-handed Philadelphia.

Aaron Gordon, Jamal Murray and Bruce Brown finished with 12 points each

England batter Pope hopeful of Test recall after Ashes axe

ENGLAND batter Ollie Pope said he remains hopeful of returning to the national test side after accepting that his omission following a poor Ashes series was the right call.

Pope was dropped after managing just 125 runs in six innings during England's 4-1 Ashes defeat to Australia in January, with Jacob Bethell replacing him at number three for the last two tests.

"I guess I knew where I stood," Pope said.

"Getting dropped is tough. I didn't want to get dropped of course, but it was the right decision at the time."

The 28-year-old, who has played 64 Tests since making his red-ball debut in ⁠2018, said he had clear communication with head coach Brendon McCullum and Director of Cricket Rob Key after losing his place.

"For me the chats were just 'go back, score loads of runs,'" he said.

"If I'm not in that XI, can I make sure I'm the best batter in the country? I can take

my game to another level, and make sure if something happens, it's making sure I'm the man to come in."

Pope's path back into the side remains uncertain, with Bethell entrenching himself across formats after scoring his maiden first-class cricket century in the fifth Test in Sydney, ⁠by 105 in England's Twenty20 World Cup semi-final defeat to India.

Pope also lost the test vice-captaincy to Harry Brook last year and will start the County Championship season outside the test squad for the first time since 2022.

"I still feel I can become a better player to bat at number three if something were

Kelly Oubre Jr. (elbow) and Tyrese Maxey (finger). (Reuters)

⁠to happen," Pope said. "But we'll see how the next few weeks pan out and going into the season."

"My summer, I'm not 100% sure what it looks like going forward. We've got a block of seven games ⁠for Surrey in the Championship, so I just want to make sure my game keeps improving, developing, for if and when the England stuff comes around again.

"It's different when you're not constantly ⁠playing in the test matches. To have a block like this, I can go back to what really works well for me and make sure my game is in as good a place (as it can be)." (Reuters)

Senegal government alleges corruption over Afcon

By Mandeep Sanghera, BBC Sport journalist

THE Senegalese government has called for an "independent international investigation" into "suspected corruption" at African football's governing body after it stripped Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title and awarded it to Morocco.

Senegal beat Morocco 1-0 in January's final, but the Confederation of African Football (Caf) overturned the result on Tuesday because Senegal's players walked off the pitch in protest when hosts Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty.

The players returned after a 17-minute delay, and Brahim Diaz's 'Panenka' penalty for Morocco was saved before Senegal's Pape Gueye scored an extra-time winner.

Following an appeal by the Moroccan FA (FRMF), Caf ruled that Senegal had forfeited the match, with the

"result being recorded as 3-0 in favour" of Morocco.

In a statement the Senegalese government said the "unprecedented and exceptionally serious decision" was based on "a manifestly erroneous interpretation of the regulations, leading to a grossly illegal and deeply unjust decision".

It said: "Senegal unequivocally rejects this unjustified attempt at dispossession."

Earlier on Wednesday, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) said it would appeal against Caf's decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas), calling it "an unfair, unprecedented and unacceptable decision which brings discredit to African football".

"This decision is a breach of trust that is not based on any rule of law," FSF secretary general Abdoulaye Seydou Sow told Senegalese TV channel RTS 1.

"We felt that the jury wasn't there to uphold the

law, but to carry out an order.

"We will stop at nothing. The law is on our side. The fight is far from over. Senegal will defend its rights to the very end."

Some Senegal players have suggested they will not relinquish their winners' medals.

CSK plan mega reunion at Chepauk on March 22

A CHENNAI Super Kings reunion will be held in Chennai on March 22, with the franchise inviting several of its former players, including those currently associated with other IPL teams. Among those who have confirmed participation are Muttiah Muralitharan (Sunrisers Hyderabad), Matthew Hayden (Gujarat Titans) and Dwayne Bravo (Kolkata Knight Riders).

There was an element of curiosity among the IPL teams when word got out about the planned function, leading to chatter that there, possibly, may be a major announcement. However, franchise officials were quick to clarify that it is merely a formal pre-IPL do, to mark the launch of the season.

"It is just a pre-launch for the season and an exercise in fan engagement. There is nothing more to read into it,"

Chennai Super Kings CEO, Kasi Viswanathan, clarified to Cricbuzz, confirming that several former players - largely Indian and those who have represented the franchise over the past 16 seasons - will be present.

Around 19-20 former players are expected to attend, in addition to the current squad and support staff. In typical

Chennai Super Kings style, the event is expected to be a grand affair, running from 4 pm to 9 pm at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, with a segment reserved for a performance by Oscar-winning music director, AR Rahman.

The franchise has reached out to other teams to check if their coaching staff can be released for a day. Muralitharan, who is currently in India for the SunRisers Hyderabad camp, has confirmed attendance. "He will be travelling to Sri Lanka tomorrow and may attend on his return," a source close to the Sri Lankan legend said. CSK and SunRisers Hyderabad were recently involved in a court case over the use of Rajinikanth songs and alleged copyright infringement.

Among others, Suresh Raina - a CSK legend popularly known as 'Chinna Thala'

- has confirmed his presence, while R Ashwin, who began his career with the franchise, is unlikely to attend as he will be out of Chennai. "He will be out of town," Viswanathan said, a detail also confirmed by sources close to the player.

By the day of the event, Sanju Samson and Shivam Dube - members of India's victorious T20 World Cup-winning side - will have joined the camp, which has been underway in Chennai since March 1.

The Super Kings begin their IPL 2026 campaign with an away fixture against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati on March 30. Their first home fixture is against Punjab Kings on April 3. CSK are among the most popular franchises of the league, having won the title five times with their talisman, MS Dhoni, hailed as an all-time IPL great. (Cricbuzz)

"We know what we experienced that evening in Rabat. And no-one can take that away from us," Senegal and Everton midfielder Idrissa Gueye said on social media.

The walk-off by Senegal prompted the International Football Association Board (Ifab), football's lawmaking

body, to open a consultation on how to deal with situations when "players unilaterally decide to leave the field of play, or team officials instigate such action, as a means of protest against a referee's decision".

Senegal's players, apart from Sadio Mane, left the pitch after the award of a

penalty for Morocco by referee Jean Jacques Ndala shortly after he had disallowed a goal by Ismaila Sarr at the other end.

Ndala gave the penalty in the 98th minute after being advised by the video assistant referee (VAR) to consult the pitch side monitor and review defender El Hadji Malick Diouf's challenge on Diaz.

Fifa president Gianni Infantino said it was "unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner" and that the scenes "must be condemned and never repeated".

During the tournament there was much debate about refereeing decisions and VAR, with accusations from some journalists that Morocco were treated favourably by some officials.

Senegal complained before the final about how they had been treated and expressed "serious concerns" over security when they arrived in Rabat for the game. (BBC Sport)

Ishan Kishan to captain SRH in Cummins' absence

ISHAN Kishan will lead Sunrisers Hyderabad for the opening few matches of IPL 2026, stepping in for Pat Cummins, who is yet to fully recover from a back injury. Abhishek Sharma will serve as Kishan's deputy during this period.

Sources close to SRH have told Cricbuzz that the arrangement is only temporary, with regular captain Cummins set to resume leadership duties once he regains full fitness. An official announcement is expected shortly.

It is not yet clear how many matches Cummins will miss, but it is understood that the Australia captain will report to the SRH camp on March 23. He is expected to undergo rehabilitation with the franchise in India, and as reported by Cricbuzz, he could miss the first three matches of the season.

SRH begins its campaign against defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on March 28. Their second fixture is also away, against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 2, before they return home to face Lucknow Super Giants on April 5.

Cummins, 32, has been out of action since December, when he featured in just the one Ashes Test, in Adelaide. A long-standing back injury kept him sidelined before and after that game. He also missed the recently concluded T20 World Cup, but sources within Sunrisers Hyderabad have confirmed to Cricbuzz that he has received clearance from Cricket Australia to honour his IPL contract. However, he is expected to need some time before returning to match action.

Cummins has captained SRH in 30 matches and has won 15 games and lost 14, with one ending in a no

result. In 2024, he guided the side to the final, where they lost to Kolkata Knight Riders. Last season, SRH finished sixth, managing six wins and seven defeats. Sources have told Cricbuzz that the SRH management was always clear that Ishan would lead the side in Cummins' absence, despite intense speculation over the interim captaincy. Both Ishan and Abhishek played key roles in India's successful T20 World Cup campaign recently, but Ishan, 27, being the senior, has got the nod. He has featured in 119 IPL matches, while the 25-year-old Abhishek has played 77. (Cricbuzz)

Chanderpaul ‘carries hit bat’ in GHE practice match

...Junior Sinclair bags 5-11 as 19 wickets tumble on day two

By Sean Devers

Off spinner Junior Sinclair bagged 5-11 as 19 wickets tumbled on day two of a bowler dominated second Guyana Harpy Eagles practice match between Matthew Nandu’s X1 and Tevin Imlach’s X1 yesterday at the Everest ground.

Matthew Nandu’s X1 will need 73 runs to win when final day commences at 9:30 am today.

Nandu’s X1, 51-1 overnight with Tagenarine Chanderpaul on 30 and Kemol Savory on 12 before were dismissed for 146 to take a slim 19-run first innings lead.

The 29-year-old Chanderpaul who has played 13 Tests ‘Carried his bat’ in pedestrian paced 64 with five boundaries before he ran out of partners.

The left-handed Chanderpaul, who eight tons and 20 fifties from 83 First-Class game since making debut in this in 2013, batted for 78 overs and 240 balls.

Savory (18) was the first to go on a track with provided prodigious bounce and turn for spinners when he was comprehensively bowled by West Indies U-19 World Cup all- rounder Jonathan Van Lange at 73-2.

cious when National opener Raymond Perez top edged an attempted hook and was caught and bowled by off the second ball of innings as woeful batting continued.

It was soon 75-3 when Mavindra Dindyal was run out for duck and when off-spinner Looknauth Richie had West Indies U-19 World Cup left-hander Shamar Apple (9) caught at short-leg at 90-4. Left-arm spinner Antony Adams bowled Zeynul Ramsammy (1) and Test player Kemo Paul (2) was run out at 97-6, three wickets went down in the 90s to leave Nandu’s X1 on 99-6

at Lunch.

Former Test player Veerasammy Permaul (14), Ari Kadir (14) and Neil Smith (2) shared in little partnerships with the resolute Chanderpaul before Adams (4-36) bowled Smith to end to the innings.

When Imlach’s X1 began their second innings, they blown away for 92 in a sub-standard batting display in hot conditions.

They had an inauspi -

Bodybuilding Federation appoints disciplinary committee

THE Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GBBFF) has established a formal disciplinary committee and appointed permanent legal counsel, the governing body said, as part of a push to align with international anti-doping and governance standards.

Attorney Anastasia Sanford-Fredricks, who has also been named the federation’s official legal representative, will chair the five-member committee.

The panel includes Justice Nigel Niles, attorney Gabriel A. A. Benn, and fitness industry stakeholders Julio Sinclair and Alejandra Vieira.

The GBBFF stated the appointments are intended to bolster transparency and ensure strict adherence to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) protocols and International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) codes of conduct. Under its new mandate,

the committee is authorised to: Enforce Standards: Oversee athlete and official conduct during national trials and sanctioned competitions; Issue Sanctions: Levy penalties for infractions, ranging from formal warnings and fines to lifetime bans; and Ensure Due Process: Operate under principles of natural justice, guaranteeing individuals the right to a hearing before any final determination.

In her dual role, Sanford-Fredricks will manage the federation’s domestic and international legal interests, marking a shift toward more formalised professional standards for the sport in Guyana.

The move comes as regional sports bodies face increasing pressure from international regulators to modernise disciplinary frameworks and anti-doping enforcement.

Ushardeva Balgobin (3) retired hurt nursing a strained hamstring.

Paul struck again when he removed Navindra Persaud (3) on the stroke of Tea with score on 12-2 while Test batter Kevlon Anderson on eight.Imlach was run out after Anderson refused a call for their and his skipper stranded halfway down the pitch to leave his team on 13-3.

Smith, working up a good head of pace, soon dismissed Anderson (14) at

26-4 before Tomani Caeser (19) the burly Van Lange put together 48 runs for the fifth wicket with refreshing positivity before Caesar was trapped LBW to give Junior Sinclair the first of his five scalps.

Van Lange, showed lots of intent and batted with a level head.

The DCC ‘big hitter’ struck Romaro Ramdeholl onto Carifesta Avenue and followed it up with a couple of glorious cover drives for boundaries.

Sinclair bowled Romeo Deonarine for a duck a run later at 76-6 before bowling Test player Kevin Sinclair (5) 85-5.

Sinclair continued his

demolision work when had Van Lange for 38 from 42 balls with four fours and six, just when looked set to register the second fifty of day which exposed poor shot selection, negative batting and at times poor running between the wickets.

From 86-8 the end of the innings came swiftly; Sinclair bowled Renaldo Ali Mohammed (4) and Ramsammy wrapped up the innings just before the scheduled close when he removed Nityanand Mathura (3).

Today is the final day and play is scheduled to commence at 9:30 AM.

The final practice game is set for next week at Bourda.

Reyes and Urbano run riot as Mexico crush Jamaica 9-0

ALAJUELA, Costa Rica, (CMC) – It was a night of records and remarkable individual brilliance at the Costa Rican Football Federation Field as Mexico’s Under-17 women’s team launched its Concacaf Final Round qualifying campaign with a stunning 9-0 demolition of Jamaica on Tuesday.

The clash in Group C was effectively over inside the first 20 minutes, as the dynamic duo of Citlalli Reyes and Mía Urbano put on a masterclass, both helping themselves to memorable hat-tricks in the emphatic victory.

Mexico needed just three minutes to break the deadlock. Emily Delgado turned provider, slipping the ball through for Reyes, who made no mistake with a composed left-footed finish from inside the box. The floodgates had opened.

Reyes quickly turned provider, setting up Urbano for

two well-taken strikes in the 7th and 17th minutes, giving El Tricolour a commanding 3-0 lead before the half-hour mark.

The pair then combined to devastating effect again just before halftime. In the 40th minute, it was Urbano’s turn to assist, laying the ball off for Reyes, who unleashed an unstoppable drive from outside the box into the bottom-left corner for Mexico’s fourth.

The second half was more of the same. Reyes completed her hat-trick in the 50th minute, coolly finishing from close range after a pinpoint cross from Fernanda Monroy.

Urbano then matched her teammate’s feat in the 64th minute, unleashing a “banger” from long range that left the Jamaican goalkeeper with no chance.

The Mexican goal-fest showed no signs of slowing down. Ixchel Alehna Uscanga got in on the act in the

70th minute, picking out the top-right corner with a superb long-range strike.

Delgado then added her name to the scoresheet, converting from the centre of the box following a well-worked set piece in the 87th minute.

The scoring was completed just a minute later when Bianka Arredondo rifled home another long-range effort after a corner kick, rounding out an incredible 9-0 scoreline.

The victory was historic on multiple fronts. It marked Mexico’s first-ever 9-0 win and their fourth clean sheet in five all-time meetings against Jamaica.

For the Jamaicans, the defeat represents their heaviest loss on record, surpassing a 1-8 reverse against the United States back in 2016.

In other games played on Tuesday, the USA hammered Bermuda 19-0, and Puerto Rico tagged Haiti 3-1.

InSync Theraputics along with footballers who took part in the Speed Camp

INSYNC Therapeutics, in partnership with the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), has successfully wrapped up its inaugural Speed Camp, leaving coaches and scouts buzzing about the raw athletic potential unearthed at the National Training Centre over the weekend.

Under clear skies and

near-perfect conditions, Guyana's rising stars were put through a gruelling gauntlet of sprint tests, vertical jump assessments, and high-intensity change-of-direction drills.

The headline takeaway?

The data doesn't lie.

According to a press release on Wednesday, several players clocked peak sprint speeds comparable to those

seen weekly in the English Premier League.

While the gap between a one-off sprint and 90 minutes of elite football is vast, the raw physical benchmarks suggest that Guyanese talent possesses the "engines" required to compete on the global stage.

"We are showing these athletes what it takes to repli-

Nitro Kart Clash shifted to April 19 with over $10M in prizes still on offer

THE highly anticipated Nitro Kart Clash has been postponed to April 19, 2026, but excitement continues to build as more than $10 million in cash and prizes remain up for grabs across a range of racing categories.

The event, launched by Jumbo Jet Events in partnership with the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) and 555 Speedway, was initially scheduled for March 28 and 29 at the Thomas Lands karting facility.

Organiser Andre Rochford explained that the event had to be postponed to allow for the latearrival of several new karts.

“We had a shipping delay with a lot of new karts that are coming for the event, and some competitors reached out to us to plot a way forward. Giving all that’s been going on with the global landscape and shipping and the fact that we want to have a huge event where everyone can get to participate, we opted to shift the date.”

ported the initiative. Sponsors include Banks DIH, AJM Enterprise, KP Jagdeo General Contractors, J’s Supermarket, 555 Speedway, SCI (Sawh’s Construction Inc.), Precision Service Centre, and Ramchand’s Autobody.

Insync Therapeutics hails Guyana’s football future after ‘Speed Camp’

cate elite performances weekin, week-out," a spokesperson for the camp noted. "It's about bridging the gap between local talent and world-class standards."

Modern football is won in the "margins," and the Speed Camp left no stone unturned.

Beyond the track, players were immersed in a professional environment focused

on the "Holy Trinity" of sports science: Nutrition: Targeted carbohydrate fuelling to maintain high-intensity output; Recovery: High-protein protocols and pneumatic compression technology to accelerate muscle repair; and Hydration: Specialised intake strategies to combat the tropical heat.

The initiative, backed by a fleet of local corporate

sponsors including C&L Construction and Royal International Hotel, signals a shift in how Guyana approaches player development. By integrating sports medicine and applied science, Insync Therapeutics aims to move beyond traditional coaching and into the realm of high-performance engineering.

GFF appoints Hoang Nguyen as Assistant Coach of the Golden Jaguars

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Hoang Lan Nguyen as assistant coach of the Golden Jaguars, marking a significant addition to the national team’s technical staff as preparations continue for upcoming competitions.

Nguyen joins the Golden Jaguars with extensive experience from one of Vietnam’s top professional football environments, having worked with The Cong Viettel FC across both senior and youth levels.

During his tenure, he contributed to multiple championship-winning campaigns, including the club’s V.League 1 title in 2020, as well as youth national titles at the U-21 and U-17 levels. (GFF)

“The idea is to have a large field so that we can reach as many of the grassroots persons as possible, and that includes second, third, and fourth generation racers as well as those making their debuts on the track. We want everyone to have a chance at this event,” Rochford added.

Originally structured as a two-day meet with scrutineering and qualifying followed by race day action, the rescheduled event is expected to maintain its competitive edge and high-energy atmosphere when it takes to the track in April.

Corporate Guyana has also strongly sup-

Competitors will still battle across a diverse lineup of classes, including the Briggs & Stratton sealed-engine category for seniors, juniors (13–15 years), and cadets (6–12), along with the 200cc Honda 4-stroke Promoters Class and the Light Class. Additional events will feature 125cc IAME two-stroke (heavy and light), under-12 60cc IAME, a five-lap time attack open category, 555 Speedway rental kart races, and supermoto 250cc bikes.

With its revised date now set, the Nitro Kart Clash remains poised to deliver a major boost to the local motorsport scene while offering substantial rewards for competitors across all levels.

FIFA and Concacaf delegates on official mission to Guyana

THE President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Wayne Forde, met with representatives from FIFA and Concacaf at the Guyana Football Federation Secretariat, as part of an official mission to Guyana focused on advancing the country’s football development agenda.

Amiel Mohammed, FIFA’s Regional Member Association Development Manag-

er, is visiting to review the domestic football ecosystem and support the preparation and completion of FIFA Forward applications for upcoming infrastructure projects, competitions, and development programmes.

During his mission, he will also engage with President Forde and members of the GFF Council to discuss strategic priorities and the

Part of yesterday’s meeting at the GFF Secretariat (Turn to page 24)