Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 22-03-2026.

22nd March, 2026

Stronger family ties, humility, social harmony

- important for Guyana’s progress, President Ali says

Exxon reports $146B spent with local suppliers in 2025

— ExxonMobil Guyana President says Guyanese now make up 70% of industry’s workforce Guyana cushioned from global energy shocks, but impacts still loom

—VEHSI Director urges long-term planning amid rising global instability

1,000 prisoners trained annually to reduce recidivism rate

Police striving to improve public transportation operations

—Traffic Chief says

‘Seize this

historic opportunity’ — MP Phillips pushes CELAC-Africa alliance

— urges unified action on climate, food security, trade, amid global uncertainty

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, while speaking at the CELAC-Africa High-Level Forum in Colombia on Saturday, issued a strong call for deeper integration between Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa, urging leaders to “seize this historic opportunity” to forge a more resilient and equitable global partnership

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Stronger family ties, humility, social harmony

- important for Guyana’s progress, President Ali says

By Trina Williams

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has urged Guyanese to embrace inner peace, humility and unity, warning that peace remains fragile globally and must be actively nurtured within families and communities.

The President said Ramadan provides an opportunity for believers to demonstrate compassion, discipline and respect for others, particularly parents and elders.

Central to the President’s message was the pursuit of inner peace and how important it is to cul-

and God being one’s foundation, are key to attaining inner peace.

He said, “Allah allows us to appreciate every aspect of life, the painful aspect, the joyful aspect, and every aspect and circumstance that we face in our daily lives.”

President Ali further

The Head of State made the call on Saturday as Muslims gathered for Eid-ul-Fitr Salaat at the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) on Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.

Reflecting on global challenges, President Ali noted that “peace is elusive,” and cautioned that those who live in peaceful societies often take it for granted.

“Sometimes, as people who enjoy this, we forget how important and beautiful peace is for our existence, how beautiful peace is for our families, our communities and our country,” he said.

Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan, during which Muslims engaged in fasting, prayer, charity and reflection.

tivate inner peace through faith, patience and service to others.

“When we achieve inner peace, we are able to spread peace with those around us. We're able to be peaceful to those around us. We're able to be positive with those around us. We're able to lift those around us up. We're able to spread joy. We're able to teach patience in our own life and, of course, we cannot cultivate that inner peace without prayer, without repentance, without trusting Allah's plan, without kindness,” President Ali said.

He drew important life lessons from Islamic teachings, the life of Prophet Muhammad and the Quran to underscore how several principles, including a reassured soul

with honour, and in times when we are blessed, being thankful, being thankful for those blessings,.”

The other aspect is the purification of one’s heart and protecting it against negative traits such as jealousy, pride, greed and hate.

After highlighting those fundamental pillars, the President said, “If we are able to do these things, as we have demonstrated to ourselves in Ramadan, we will be building a heart and an inner being that understands what inner peace is, that experience inner peace not based on what someone else says to us or how someone else judges us, or how society places us, but by how our heart is protected, how we build our system to protect ourselves and protect our inner peace.”

HARMONY

underscored that contentment with the creator is fundamental for inner peace.

The third aspect is accepting Divine Decree and trusting God’s plan, which the President noted can reduce anxiety and self-doubt.

He told the gathering: “You know many times the hardest trials for us is when we have to place someone in their final place in the grave, when you’re broken to pieces and you have to find the strength to pick up, the strength to lift yourself up, the strength to reassure those around you, it is then that you have to trust in Allah the most, trust in His plan, accept His plan, and even in those times of hardship, accepting it with patience, accepting it

In a strong appeal to social harmony, the President called for all to remember the elderly, parents and overall, community, emphasising that: “I want to remind you that even if our parents are no longer with us, we are reminded that we have a duty in maintaining kinship and friendship, upholding ties with relatives and honouring, visiting or helping the friends of deceased parents.”

The President said that too many families are broken by siblings fighting against each other.

In this regard, the President made the call, “Let this Eid be the one in which you bury your pride and regardless of the circumstances, pick up the phone and call your sibling and just say, ‘Eid Mubarak, Eid Mubarak, Eid Mubarak.”

Islamic scholar, Shaikh

Moeen ul-Hack, in a sermon, noted that Eid-ul-Fitr is more than just a day of celebration but a demonstration of one’s discipline and faith.

Notably, he spoke about health and one’s well-being, underscoring the importance of physical and spiritual strength.

He also addressed pressing social concerns, especially the need for stronger community involvement to address challenges, such as bullying.

In addition, the sermon stressed the importance of education and self-reliance as pathways out of poverty and Moeen ul-Hack encouraged all to take advantage of the

free scholarships being provided and employment opportunities, drawing on Islamic teachings on the dignity and value of earning through honest work.

Reinforcing that “we are each other’s keepers,” he encouraged all to reject harmful elements like selfishness and instead, actively support one another.

“Ramadan helped us to remove selfishness, selfish thinking and inculcated in us a sense of responsibility. We are each other's keepers. We are Guyanese and known for our hospitality. Let us be kind and helpful to each other, and we will succeed individually and collectively,” he said.

‘Seize this historic opportunity’ — PM Phillips pushes CELAC-Africa alliance

- urges unified action on climate, food security, trade amid global uncertainty

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d)

Mark Phillips on Saturday issued a strong call for deeper integration between Latin America, the Caribbean and Africa, urging leaders to “seize this historic opportunity” to forge a more resilient and equitable global partnership.

Addressing the CELAC-Africa High-Level Forum in Colombia, Phillips positioned South-South co-operation as critical in an increasingly volatile global environment marked by climate

threats, food insecurity and geopolitical instability.

“We have an opportunity to collaborate in sharing experiences, technical co-operation and joint advocacy in these areas which impact the development of our societies.

Issues of the environment; climate change;

food security; improved health-care systems; digital connectivity and technology and peace and security, which continue to be of interest and concern to both our regions, can in reality be honed as the pillars of our development co-operation,” he said.

With Guyana among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, the Prime Minister warned that small and developing states must act collectively to secure financing and meet global targets.

He called for renewed commitment to the 1.5°C climate goal,

alongside increased support for adaptation, resilience-building and loss and damage.

On food security, Phillips urged coordinated efforts to strengthen agricultural systems across both regions through joint research, technology sharing and knowledge exchange.

“There are lots of lessons to be learned and technology to be shared… to support

sustainable and climate-resilient agri-food systems,” he said.

Turning to economic co-operation, he identified trade and investment as central to unlocking growth, proposing targeted private-sector partnerships, improved transport links and formal trade agreements between CELAC and African nations.

Phillips also emphasised the importance of institutionalising the partnership, calling for the establishment of a Joint Commission to drive sustained collaboration and deliver measurable outcomes.

He further highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between Africa and the

Caribbean, while reaffirming CARICOM’s push for reparatory justice.

The Prime Minister said stronger alignment between developing regions is no longer optional, but necessary, as global systems become more fragmented and unpredictable.

The forum, led by Colombia and Burundi, marks a significant step towards formalising co-operation between the two regions.

“Let us seize this historic opportunity as leaders of countries within our regions, to demonstrate our determination and resolve to forge a sustainable and equitable future for our countries,” Phillips urged.

Guyana cushioned from global energy shocks, but impacts still loom

- VEHSI Director urges long-term planning amid rising global instability

EXISTING measures have allowed Guyanese to be shielded from the energy instability in the Middle East, Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base Inc (VEHSI) Director Nicholas Deygoo-Boyer has stated, but cautioned that external shocks could still be felt.

During a preview of today’s episode of the ‘Starting Point’ Podcast, the discussion is zooming in on how Guyana is deliberately restructuring its economy to weather global shocks.

At the recent Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI’s) annual general meeting, President, Dr Irfaan Ali insisted that resilience in the face of crises must be designed and not left to chance.

Addressing business leaders in the wake of mounting instability in the Middle East and its spill-over effects on global energy and trade, Dr Ali warned that the world was entering a “frightening” period of disruption driven

by attacks on critical infrastructure and chokepoints in international shipping routes.

Deygoo-Boyer deemed President Ali’s remarks as “important,” underscoring Guyana’s current situation of being a large producer of crude, but still remaining heavily reliant on external sources for refined products.

Although alternative solutions, including expanding fuel reserves, have been proposed, he said having a domestic refinery definitely gives long-term stability and

not being subject to shocks.

“I think that it might be well worthwhile to re-analyse whether a refinery is feasible or a strategic reserve is feasible,” he said.

Global supply concerns are mounting, with estimates suggesting that disruptions in key transit regions could affect up to 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply.

The implications? An unavoidable rise in inflation, especially for countries that are heavily dependent on imports. But as he pointed

out, inflation is, undoubtedly, uncontrollable by the government.

Deygoo-Boyer spoke on the impacts of the external shocks to the business community, stating that shipping companies have already indicated rising costs.

He said, “This is not profiteering. This is passing costs on, so you feel it for them. And nobody's doing this with a smile on their face. They're all very gloomy when they're passing this, these messages on. But it's the reality, and for a lot of us, it's a tough thing to deal with, because especially if you have not had a large savings base, that inflation is going to hit you hard.”

He noted that the government has already deployed several measures to cushion the impact, including tax exemptions and adjustments

to how import duties are calculated.

One such policy, he said, is: “The government is allowing importers, when they calculate duties, to use a sort of hypothetical shipping cost based on shipping costs many, many years ago, so that when we calculate the duty, it's effectively giving you a discount on the duty. Without giving you a direct discount. It's a sort of indirect discount, so that the population doesn't

feel that inflation, which was a measure that was put in [place] during COVID. For the private sector, it becomes a difficult balancing act, as Deygoo-Boyer pointed out, “It is a concern for businesses. Our issue is that a lot of us are expanding and which means we have taken on debt to fund new projects, so it's very hard not to pass on the inflation.”

Peace Starts Within

AT a time when global instability has become a defining feature of modern life, the message delivered by President, Dr Irfaan Ali during Eid-ul-Fitr observances carries weight far beyond the religious setting in which it was made. It speaks directly to the kind of society Guyana is consciously chosen to build.

Guyana’s position grounded in dialogue, diplomacy and respect for international law reflects a clear recognition that de -

velopment cannot be sustained in an environment of conflict.

The assertion that “without peace, prosperity is a fragile illusion” captures the reality of this moment. Across the world, conflicts are disrupting supply chains, driving up energy and food costs and placing pressure on economies, including small and emerging ones such as Guyana’s. In such a climate, the insistence on conversation over confrontation is not merely moral, it is an imperative.

Yet, the strength of this position lies in its consistency. The same principle that guides Guyana’s stance on global and regional matters, including border tensions, is the one being reinforced within its own society. Peace is not only a foreign policy posture. It is a domestic responsibility.

The “One Guyana” framework is therefore inseparable from this wider call. Unity, respect and shared purpose are not optional ideals in a rapidly transforming country. They

Cheddi Jagan and his detractors: The fault, dear Brutus

NEXT SUNDAY, at Babu

Jaan in Berbice, Region 6, the leadership of the PPP will meet to observe the birth anniversary of Cheddi Jagan, who was born on that day. Jagan remains one of the great, phenomenal figures of the 20th century. He belonged to a country that, at the height of his fantastic activism, was not known in global society.

But Cheddi Jagan of Guyana remains one of the world’s most unique, respected, decent and humane persons ever to enter politics. How does he stack up against his detractors in Guyana from the 1950s onwards until 2026? Jagan remains the definitive man of the Guyanese nationality and to understand why his larger-than-life legacy lives on, the researcher has to do use the comparative methodology.

I have been fortunate to combine my academic sta-

tus with my political praxis, thus it gives me a priceless microscope to watch Jagan and his detractors and make conclusions. This is what this column is about. The point of this analysis here must be boldly emphasised – Jagan was a better political creature and better human than all his detractors from the time the PPP was founded. Dr Jagan, in terms of morality, humanity, ethnical substance, towers above those in politics who criticised and disliked him. In a newspaper column of 800 words, it is impossible to treat the comparison with any depth. It simply will not be adequate if you are going to enumerate Jagan’s detractors and quote their reservations and or dislike for him. To help the reader with more material from those who were the flawed critics of Dr Jagan and what they later became, two research items should be consulted. One is an unpub-

lished paper by one of the Caribbean’s enduring scholars, Professor Jay Mandle, titled “Cheddi Jagan and the Ultra-Left in Guyana,” and the book by Frank Birbalsingh, “The People’s Progressive Party of Guyana: An oral history, 1950-1992. I now begin the comparison Balram Singh Rai – He left Guyana after his acrimonious split with Dr Jagan in 1962 and migrated to the UK in 1970 and never returned to Guyana, even for a day. He died in 2022. He played no part in helping his country during the Burnham dictatorship and the Hoyte presidency.

Moses Bhagwan – He was expelled from the PPP in 1965 and later became part of the WPA. He hated Jagan from then on and that hatred despoiled his politics because he developed a Freudian resentment of the PPP. This explains his refusal to condemn the fivemonth-old attempts to derail

are essential safeguards. Economic growth, infrastructural expansion and increased global attention bring opportunity, but they also test social cohesion. Without unity, progress becomes uneven. Without trust, development becomes fragile.

This is why the message of inner peace matters.

A nation’s stability is built from the inside out. Individuals who are grounded, disciplined and respectful contribute to households that are stable. Those house-

holds, in turn, shape communities that are cohesive. When communities function with a sense of shared responsibility, the country is better equipped to withstand both internal pressures and external shocks.

The emphasis on family is therefore deliberate. Respect for parents, care for elders and reconciliation among relatives are not simply cultural values; they are mechanisms for maintaining social balance. When families fracture, communities weaken. When com-

munities weaken, national unity becomes vulnerable.

Equally, the call for humility and reconciliation, urging individuals to set aside pride and restore relationships speaks directly to the kind of society Guyana must preserve. In a small nation, division spreads quickly; so too can unity, if it is actively practised.

As President Ali himself puts it, “peace is elusive,” in the end, is not something imposed. It is something lived.

the 2020 general elections. He has lived outside of Guyana for the past 35 years.

Eusi Kwayana – He accused Jagan of being pro-Indian and putting race above class. This very man spent a lifetime preaching the very thing he accused Jagan of. Kwayana’s love of Guyana was so great that he left Guyana in 2004 and has lived in the US since then. In April 2020, he refused to condemn the conspiracy to deny Guyanese their right to vote in the 2020 general elections.

Martin Carter – Suspected of being an MI6 plant in the PPP in the early 1950s. He was a harsh critic of Jagan and was expelled in 1955. He later became a senior figure in the British Council, then worked as the chief spokesperson for the Booker empire in Guyana.

Rupert Roopnaraine — Endowed with Anglo-Saxon characteristics, he felt he

was intellectually superior to Jagan and held Jagan in contempt. Ravi Dev opined that Roopnaraine might have been recruited by the CIA when he was at Cornell University. Roopnaraine had a long, secret relationship with the PNC. He lent his support to the rigged 2020 election.

David DeCaires — Very critical of Jagan in the Birbalsingh book, he became a frenetic advocate of capitalism in Guyana. He founded a newspaper, the Stabroek News, that became the main vehicle for Western political theories in Guyana.

Clive Thomas — As reported by Mr. Ralph Ramkarran, the PPP and WPA were cooperating against the Burnham dictatorship in the 1970s and met monthly. In 1979, the WPA planned a day of uprising. When the PPP delegation to the talks asked Thomas about the day of the big rebellion, Thomas said that when it happens,

the PPP will learn about it. Thomas became head of GuySuCo in the APNU government when sugar workers were being brutalised. Paul Tennasssee. His father hated Jagan, so he followed in his father’s footsteps. Like Balram Singh Rai in 1964, he formed an electoral party to dent the PPP’s vote in 1992. He lost. He left Guyana in 1993 and never returned.

This is just a sample of the People who hated Dr Jagan but look what became of them. They couldn’t see that the fault was not Dr Jagan, but themselves. Dr Jagan will always remain the best human Guyana has crafted.

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.

Op-Ed: The West Asian conflict underscores why Guyana must prioritise building its own oil refinery

By Ambassador Sasenarine Singh, MSc – Finance, ACCA (CA)

THE ongoing conflict in West Asia is exerting considerable upward pressure on global oil prices, with crude-oil prices in early March 2026, surpassing US$100 per barrel. For Guyana, this is more than a distant geopolitical issue; it is a pressing economic reality with tangible consequences, since we must buy gasolene, diesel and aviation fuel and other refined petroleum products from the world market which is a matter outside of our domestic control.

In 2025, Guyana imported approximately 48,000 barrels per day of refined petroleum products at an average price of US$69 per barrel, according to the 2026 National Budget. Should the ongoing conflict in West Asia persist for another month, this could increase the country’s fuel-import bill by an estimated US$45 million per month (approximately G$9.5 billion).

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the government took the prudent and people-friendly step of reducing excise taxes on fuel imports from 10% to zero. This measure helped cushion the dollar-impact on the lives of our Guyanese residents and consumers, while supporting economic activities during a period of significant uncertainty. While effective, this policy intervention came at a considerable fiscal cost to the treasury, but this is what compassionate governments do. This is a trait easily associated with the Irfaan Ali government. With excise taxes now already at zero, Guyana’s ability to further adjust fuel taxation as a

policy tool is significantly constrained.

At present, one of the limited options available would be to subsidise fuel imports; however, this would be both costly and difficult to sustain, particularly given that fuel and lubricant imports exceeded US$1.3 billion in 2025. In this context, constructive engagement and input from the Private Sector Commission would be both timely and valuable in identifying practical and collaborative responses.

International experience offers useful perspectives. In the United Kingdom, for example, the Automobile Association has encouraged drivers to limit non-essential travel, adopt car-pooling practices, and maintain moderate driving speeds to improve fuel efficiency. Evidence indicates that driving smoothly at speeds of 30–40 mph can significantly enhance fuel economy, while increasing speed by 30% above these levels may raise fuel consumption by as much as 25%. Maintaining proper tyre pressure further contributes to efficiency gains. Such measures, if adopted locally, could also have the added benefit of improving road-safe -

strategic case for Guyana to invest in its domestic oil-refining capacity. Establishing an indigenous oil refinery would help reduce exposure to geopolitical disruptions and the associated costs of maritime transportation of refined petroleum prod-

bankable project for the owners. While crude-oil exports continue to contribute significantly to the Natural Resource Fund, domestic refining of Guyana’s share of production could generate additional economic returns and lower transportation costs

cient petrochemical hubs, supporting approximately 28,000 jobs in the sector. While Guyana’s context differs, the potential for meaningful employment generation and industrial expansion is evident.

Given its resource endowment, Guyana need

ty outcomes and reducing road-accident related deaths.

Meanwhile, major oil-importing economies such as China, South Korea, Thailand, and India have already adjusted domestic fuel prices upward in response to rising global crude-oil prices. By contrast, the Western Hemisphere, supported by significant crude-oil production (including recent expansion in Guyana), benefits from relatively greater resilience to such external shocks. Notwithstanding these dynamics, the current situation reinforces the

ucts to Guyana. With national oil production now exceeding 900,000 barrels per day (supported in part by developments such as the Yellowtail project). With this information, there appears to be sufficient scale to consider a private sector-led modular and expandable oil refinery. Such an investment could reduce reliance on imported refined products, enhance local value added, improve the retention of economic benefits from Guyana’s natural resources and serve as a

through more direct distribution channels to key demand centres, including Georgetown. Moreover, a refinery could serve as a catalyst for broader industrial development, particularly in regions such as Berbice, which has been identified as a potentially suitable location for such infrastructure. The experience of Singapore is instructive in this regard. Through sustained investment in refining and petrochemical capacity, Singapore has developed into one of the world’s most effi-

not remain dependent on imported refined fuels over the long term. The development of domestic oil-refining capacity represents not only an opportunity for industrial advancement, but also a strategic investment in economic resilience, value creation and sustainable growth. Such efforts would complement ongoing initiatives, including the gas-to-shore project, being advanced under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

As the Strait of Hormuz narrows, Guyana’s prospects widen

WHEN President Irfaan Ali promised a cash grant to the people of Guyana last August, no one could have predicted that it would arrive at a time of an insane war in the Middle East that is fuelling a climate of global economic uncertainty.

While the juve nile Opposition leader spent the week moving around coins and small bills in two wheelbar rows, the steady Dr Ashni Singh was un veiling the first phase of the grant for 50,000 government employ

ees. Another promise made and kept, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.

The longer Iran can effectively close the Strait of Hormuz, which sees the traffic of some 20% of global oil supply, the Brent, which is now near or above US$100, will have refiners scram bling for alternative barrels. Although Guy ana’s BPD output is relatively small, com paratively speaking, it nevertheless stands to benefit from this turn of events. Still, though, there is no escaping the

impact this war will have on our lives, as President Irfaan recent ly forecasted.

Drone strikes and missile launches cer tainly make for flashy headlines, but Iran’s real strategy is to push the battlefield far be yond the Middle East. It knows it cannot win a conventional war; that’s not a debate. With much of its lead ership gone, the war is already lost, but Teh ran’s fight is far from over.

For nearly two de cades or more, Iran has been planning to ex

port the consequences of this very existential moment in its 47 years of the Islamic Repub lic. The shockwaves of Iran’s fall will ricochet in the Middle East, first and foremost, but it will spread to the far corners of the world, and that’s what victory smells like in Tehran. We are already seeing glimpses of what is to come.

The next move on Iran’s chessboard, and remember the Persians invented the game of chess, is to urge the Houthis in Yemen to effectively blockade the 32‑kilometre‑wide Bab el‑Mandeb Strait between the Arabian Peninsula and the Horn of Africa. That choke point handles nearly 300 ships a week to and from the Suez Canal, the vital shortcut link ing Asia and Europe. Taken together, block ades in both straits would bring close to 800 ships to a standstill and cripple the global trade in vital resources.

The potential con sequences of blockad ing the Bab el Mandeb mean that Egypt will lose its primary source of income from the traf fic of carriers through the Suez, forcing them to take the longer Cape of Good Hope route, adding 10 to 18 extra days to their journeys and driving up the cost of goods even more.

If you’re thinking it would be impossible for a militarily degrad ed Iran to block the traffic of ships through the two straits, you may be right. However, Iran needs only to sink or cripple a ship or two,

something it has al ready done, for it to bring a halt to commer cial traffic.

The reason has to do with the risk cov erage tankers require from the largest and oldest insurance mar ket on earth Lloyd’s of London. If a tanker loses its insurance, it’s essentially grounded. Before the war, the in surance premium was 0.25 per cent of hull value, renewed week ly. War sent premiums up to 1 per cent. Say, a super tanker’s hull val ue is $100 million, its insurance premium is now four times as high and climbing fast.

Qatar supplies 20 per cent of all global liquified natural gas (LNG), and all of it travels through the Strait of Hormuz. After Russia’s war in Ukraine in 2022, Europe built its entire winter en ergy system on Qa tar’s LNG. To put it in simple terms, Europe’s heat in the winter is dependent on the Strait of Hormuz being open.

An estimated 40 per cent of India’s LNG comes from Qatar. The story with India is not only about heat ing homes, but LNG is used to produce ammo nia, and from it, urea, the most widely used fertiliser in agriculture. Some 33 per cent of the globally traded fer tiliser makes its way through the Strait of Hormuz. We are now in the early stages of spring, a time when farmers in the north begin to prep for plant ing season and without a third of the global supply of natural gas,

they are left in the dirt, to put it mildly.

The average bill for a mid size American corn farm of, say, 500 acres, is approximate ly US$80,000. With the war, the cost, on average, shoots up by an additional $50,000.

Translated in layman's terms, it means more closures in a sector that is in decline. In 2025, 15,000 American farms were shuttered. Amer ican farmers walked away from 160,000 farms between 2017 and 2024. These are staggering numbers, and the real impact on our pockets will only show up when crops make their way to glob al markets in Septem ber.

The US Israel war with Iran and the clo sure of the Strait of Hormuz may decide the price of oil and the global supply of LNG, but how President Ali, Dr Singh and Minis ter Zulfikar Mustapha steady our own ship will decide how we pull through this crisis.

Guyana’s real test is not about a cash grant, but about how wisely we use this moment to our advantage. And given the ridiculous an tics of the Opposition, I can’t imagine why anyone could question or doubt the prudence of this president and his ministers.

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.

Child protection and care

By Vanessa Cort

WHEN two child protection officers are seen dragging a young girl across a city bus park by her hair and arms, it does not look good for the agency for which they work. In fact, it is appalling and begs the question whether they understood the purpose of their jobs.

And even though the two officers in question, attached to the Child Protection Agency (CPA), have since been suspended, their action has sparked outrage among citizens and politicians and brought the Agency under intense scrutiny.

The CPA was already facing criticism for its handling of two matters involving teen mothers. According to the post-mortem report, the 14-year-old died of heart failure and anaemia, while the 15-year-old mother of an 18-month-old baby was hospitalised after being viciously stabbed by the father

of the child.

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, responsible for the CPA, faces allegations of a failed child protection system, with high turnover in experienced staff, neglect of vulnerable citizens and unprofessional staff conduct.

While the Ministry has defended its work, the Minister, Vindhya Persaud, has acknowledged weaknesses in the system. The Ministry has launched an investigation into the death of the 14-yearold mother, while a tribunal has been set up to probe the actions of Agency officers.

The incident where the two CPA officers were caught on video dragging the child occurred during a crackdown on truant schoolchildren. In conjunction with the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the CPA last month launched a campaign to apprehend schoolchildren found loitering, particularly at the city's bus parks, during school hours.

A laudable initiative aimed at safeguarding young people and encouraging regular attendance at school, the operation was marred by the actions of these two officers and has brought into question the functioning of the Human Services Ministry and its personnel training.

The outcry surrounds the fact that employees of an agency tasked with protecting children are seen being abusive to a child, with total disregard for many who witnessed their actions and voiced concern whether the girl was being uncooperative or not, does not excuse the method the officers chose to remove her from the scene.

Their training is supposed to equip them with strategies for dealing with difficult situations and individuals.

According to the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), "Child Protection is the prevention of and response to exploitation, abuse,

neglect, harmful practices and violence against children".

It is enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child, is universal, and intended for children everywhere, regardless of socioeconomic bracket or country status. UNICEF, now known simply as the UN Children's Fund, reveals that each year over one billion children experience violence, with an estimated cost of US$7 billion annually. Proper and effective childcare would no doubt reduce this figure significantly.

And in an article on 'Training Child Care Workers: Three Essentials', a professional trainer makes the point that training is not "like some magic elixir" solving all the problems a childcare worker may encounter.

After presenting scenarios in which a childcare worker may become disillusioned, cynical or emotionally exhausted, the expert states em-

phatically,"...all training programs for childcare workers (whether provided before or during employment) must in some fashion take such issues into account and indeed offer more than short-term, quick fix solutions for them".

The writer, who is "involved every day in the training of childcare workers", identifies the three essential themes as "self-exploration and personal growth; creation of the powerful environment and routine use of support systems".

In light of the recent incident involving our local child protection officers, it is clear-

ly advisable that these three themes be incorporated into any child care programme and in particular 'self-motivation and growth'. For as the expert says, “...the effectiveness of the childcare worker is in the end determined by a rather internal reality: i.e. who he or she is as a person.”

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.

Dust complaint against Essequibo Coast rice mill before court — EPA to submit compliance report

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has confirmed that the long-standing dust complaints involving Vilvoorden Investment Inc. on the Essequibo Coast is before the court, even as frustrated residents of Fairfield and Vilvoorden continue to accuse the agency of abandoning their community.

The matter, which centres on persistent dust pollution linked to operations at the Golden Fleece Rice Mill, is set to return to court on June 4, 2026, when the EPA is expected to present a formal compliance report as directed by the Magistrate.

According to the EPA, the court has mandated an assessment of whether the company has adhered to required mitigation measures.

“The court has requested a formal assessment of Vilvoorden’s compliance with required mitigation measures; the EPA will prepare and present a compliance report at the next court hearing,” the

Agency said in a statement. Vilvoorden Investment Inc. has been asked to submit documentation outlining mitigation steps already taken and any proposed alternatives. The EPA said it will review those submissions and determine whether they meet regulatory standards before conducting a compliance inspection.

However, the Agency’s update comes against the backdrop of mounting criticism from residents, who argue that enforcement has been inconsistent and largely ineffective.

There has growing frustration among villagers, who claimed that despite years of complaints, protests and reported court action, the rice mill continues to blanket the community in hazardous dust.

Residents alleged that mitigation efforts implemented by the mill were superficial.

“The fire truck was only doing the front part of it. It was just a show. It wasn’t anything effective,” said Abdool

Shameer, a spokesperson for affected residents had told the Guyana Standard news. Shameer further claimed that the EPA has not been visible in the community for months and that residents remain unaware of the status of legal proceedings.

meer rejected suggestions that residents had encroached on an industrial zone.

“The villagers were here long before the rice mill,” he asserted, accusing the company of attempting to deflect responsibility for ongoing pollution.

Residents have also raised serious health concerns, reporting daily accumulation of dust in their homes and an increase in respiratory issues, particularly among children and the elderly.

The situation has, at times, escalated into confrontation, with at least two residents previously detained following protests against the mill’s operations.

“We don’t know what’s happening. The last we heard, the EPA withdrew the case without any explanation to us. Why are the ones filing the case withdrawing it?” he told the publication.

In a public statement shared on social media, Sha-

The villagers had said that while seasonal rainfall provided temporary relief late last year, the problem persists beneath the surface. Shameer noted that while the outer layers of paddy husk may appear damp, the core of the heaps continues to burn and smoulder.

Against this backdrop, the EPA maintains that it is actively engaged in the matter and is proceeding in accordance with the law.

“The EPA remains committed to protecting community health, enforcing environmental standards, and pursuing all necessary administrative and legal remedies,” the Agency stated. It also noted that its officers have visited the site multiple times and attempted to engage residents, though those efforts were only partially successful.

The Agency is now urging affected residents to co-operate with its officers as it prepares its compliance assessment and subsequent inspection ahead of the next court hearing.

Further developments are expected following the submission of the EPA’s report, the outcome of the compliance inspection and continued court proceedings.

Exxon reports $146B spent with local suppliers in 2025

— ExxonMobil Guyana President says Guyanese now make up 70% of industry’s workforce

EXXONMOBIL Guyana

spent approximately $146 billion with local suppliers in 2025, as the company highlighted continued expansion of local participation in the country’s oil and gas sector.

The figure was disclosed by ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge, during a press briefing at the company’s Ogle headquarters on Thursday, when he outlined the company’s latest local-content performance and broader economic impact.

According to Routledge, some 2,000 suppliers were engaged in supporting operations last year, reflecting what he described as a steadily expanding local supply chain.

Cumulatively, since 2015, ExxonMobil estimates that spending with Guyanese businesses reached approximately $753 billion.

“So huge opportunities for local businesses to grow and support further investment… which ultimately… [is] beneficial, not just for our sector, but also for other parts of the economy,” Routledge said.

The figures come as Guyana’s oil and gas industry continues to scale rapidly, with multiple offshore projects in operation and several more

under development, creating sustained demand for goods and services across a wide range of sectors.

WORKFORCE LOCALISATION ACCELERATING

Beyond supplier engagement, ExxonMobil also reported continued progress in workforce localisation.

Routledge disclosed that approximately 9,000 persons are currently employed in Guyana’s oil and gas industry, with Guyanese now accounting for about 70 per cent of that workforce, a notable increase from the early years of production.

“Absolutely fundamental that we not only deliver money into the Natural Resource Fund… but… deliver as much benefit to people through jobs and business opportunities as we possibly can,” he said.

He noted that this upward trend reflects sustained investment in training and capacity building by ExxonMobil, its prime contractors, and local companies, enabling Guyanese workers to take on more advanced and higher-paying roles.

“It reflects the level of investment… giving people the opportunity to take more and more senior, more com-

plex roles and to ultimately be better paid,” Routledge explained.

The expansion of local employment is widely seen as a key pillar of Guyana’s Local Content Act, which aims to ensure that citizens and businesses derive tangible benefits from the country’s petroleum resources.

Routledge emphasised that the growth of the local supplier base is not only strengthening the oil and gas sector, but it is also creating spill-over benefits for the wider economy.

With thousands of Guyanese businesses now integrated into the supply chain from logistics and transportation to catering, fabrication and environmental services, the sector is increasingly acting as a catalyst for broader privatesector development.

The cumulative $753 billion spent locally since 2015 represents one of the most significant injections of capital into the domestic economy in recent history, positioning local companies to expand capacity, invest in technology, and compete at higher standards.

LOCAL COMPANY SETTING

NEW

BENCHMARKS

As part of efforts to recognise local participation, ExxonMobil hosted its second supplier-recognition ceremony on February 5, acknowledging companies that have demonstrated strong performance and commitment in meeting industry standards.

Among those recognised was Environmental Technical Solutions (ETS), a 100 per cent Guyanese-owned company that has expanded significantly through its engagement in the oil and gas sector.

Represented by Director and General Manager Shane Singh, the company has leveraged a five-year contract with ExxonMobil to invest in workforce development, including internship programmes, staff training, and external certification.

Routledge said the company’s growth reflects the level of risk-taking and investment required for local firms to meet the stringent requirements of the oil and gas industry.

“They’re not always recognised for that, and we know

how much risk they take, how much effort it takes to meet the standards of the oil and gas industry,” he said.

Notably, ETS has become one of the first companies in Guyana capable of safely handling certain types of low-level, naturally occurring radioactive materials associated with oil production, work that requires specialised procedures and strict safety protocols.

“You need the right procedures… to take that safely to a point where it can be cleaned and the radioactive material disposed of,” Routledge explained.

The company’s workforce is entirely Guyanese, with women comprising 50 per cent of its leadership—an achievement that underscores growing inclusivity within the sector.

While ExxonMobil’s figures point to increasing

local integration, Routledge stressed that local content must go beyond revenue flows into the Natural Resource Fund and translate into tangible opportunities for citizens.

According to the company’s 2024 Annual Report, it injected over $170 billion into the economy through Guyanese suppliers that year with over 6,100 Guyanese reported working to support offshore operations.

The sectors benefitting from these opportunities range from Cargo Management Services, Engineering and Machining, and Pipe Welding to Blasting and Coating. Additionally, emergent sectors such as Warehousing, Civil Works and support services, Industrial Cleaning, and Janitorial services are also experiencing growth and investment.

Gov’t to begin direct talks with investors on Eco-lodge projects

THE government is preparing to begin direct talks with investors for a series of eco-lodge and resort developments, as the evaluation of proposals nears completion.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, stated that a technical committee is in the final stages of assessing expressions of interest for 10 locations across the country.

eco-tourism infrastructure.

In 2025, the ministry invited local and international developers to submit proposals for projects spanning Regions Two, Three, Four, Seven, Eight and Nine.

Several sites were earmarked for development, including Mashabo Region Two, the Vreed-en-Hoop waterfront, Stabroek waterfront and Leguan.

In Region Seven, areas

“We have a technical committee that is reviewing those submissions and we will, after the completion of their work, be engaging those investors which are viable and financially sustainable,” she said.

“The review is almost complete and then we will start the direct engagement with those who submitted expressions of interest.”

These projects are part of a wider government strategy to unlock the country’s tourism potential through targeted, sustainable investments in

included Bartica, Sakaika and Kumerau while in Region Eight, Kamana and Orinduik. Lethem, Region Nine, was also earmarked.

The initiative is intended to attract community-driven investments, with a focus on creating jobs and expanding economic opportunities across both hinterland and coastal communities.

With the assessment process nearing its conclusion, the next phase is set to determine which proposals advance to development. [DPI]

Eid morning turns devastating for Good Hope family

The family standing in the ruins of their Good Hope home

By: Indrawattie Natram

WHAT was meant to be a day of celebration quickly turned into heartbreak for a family in Good Hope, Region Two, after an early morning fire left ten persons homeless, and a 74-year-old grandmother hospitalised.

Around 02:10 hours on Saturday, the family’s Eid observances were abruptly dis-

the reality of starting over with nothing.

At the time of the incident, the household’s main breadwinner was on duty as a security guard at the Good Hope Nursery School, unaware of the unfolding disaster.

“I am so sad and broken, I ran to save my old mother and I am glad she was, but everything went up in flames,

The

remains from Saturday’s fire

rupted when flames engulfed two homes on the rented property. The fire, reportedly set by a mentally ill relative, spread rapidly, leaving little time to save belongings.

At the centre of the tragedy is pensioner Nermea Haliman, who was alone in her home when the incident began. Her cries for help alerted nearby relatives, who rushed to her aid. In a desperate attempt to save her life, family members urged the frightened elderly woman to jump to safety as the fire intensified.

“I couldn’t believe my eyes, everything went, just tears flowing and we don’t know our next move, this is so sad”, Merlyn Gomes said. Though shaken, relatives expressed relief that no children were injured. However, the emotional toll remains heavy, as the family now faces

our fridge, our stove, bed, mattresses, all documents… everything”, Mohamed Haliman said.

Despite the swift response from the Guyana Fire Service, both houses were completely destroyed in the yard.

In the aftermath, support has begun to pour in. The Good Hope/Pomona Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) had stepped in to provide grocery assistance, offering a small measure of relief as the displaced family begins to rebuild their lives.

The family is urging the general public to assist in helping them in rebuilding their home after they lost everything. The family will be staying at a relative’s home in the meantime.

The suspect remains at large and investigations are ongoing.

National Council launched to strengthen Guyana–Canada diaspora engagement

THE Guyana-Canada Diaspora & Community Council has been launched as a national platform to strengthen cultural, educational, generational, and people-to-people ties between Guyana and Canada.

According to a release from the recently-formed body, “the council unites leaders, professionals, youth, and community advocates across Canada to cel -

ebrate Guyana’s culture and heritage, foster youth engagement, and provide opportunities

for diaspora expertise to contribute to the country’s growth. Reflecting the diversity of the dias-

pora across generations, it also supports youth leadership, mentorship, and professional development.”

Described as a non-partisan national organisation, the council will collaborate with the Consulate of Guyana in Toronto, other Diplomatic missions from the Caribbean region and community partners to advance initiatives in culture, education, tourism, and diaspora engagement. “Through community programmes, partnerships, and national outreach, it will support major Guyanese commemorations in Canada, while inviting broader Canadian and community participation.”

With Guyana’s global profile rising and rapid national growth, the council aims to keep the diaspora, including first-generation settlers and their children and grandchildren, actively connected to Guyana’s heritage, opportunities, and national story. “By fostering generational engagement and sharing professional expertise, the council strengthens the bridge between Guyana and Canada while empowering the diaspora to contribute meaningfully to development both in Guyana and Canada.”

The release pointed out that “the following perspectives reflect the collective vision of the Council’s Officers

and Executives, whose leadership represents a broad cross-section of the Guyanese Canadian diaspora, stakeholders, and professionals across generations, and guides the organisation’s national mission of strengthening cultural, generational, and people-to-people ties between Guyana and Canada while encouraging the sharing of diaspora skills and expertise.”

Co-chair of the group, Omar Farouk, pointed out that “the Guyana–Canada Diaspora & Community Council represents a new chapter in how the diaspora collaborates, connects, and contributes to Guyana’s evolving global story. This council provides a national platform to unite leaders, organisations, and communities, celebrate our heritage, engage the next generation, and strengthen enduring ties between Guyana and Canada.”

Shawn Allen, who is also a C-chair disclosed that “as Guyana experiences historic growth, the diaspora has an important role to play. This council seeks to harness the knowledge, talent, and expertise of Canadians while creating opportunities for meaningful engagement by younger generations, including the children and grandchildren of those who first built Guyanese communities in Canada”

Secretary Gillian

Williams highlighted that “a key priority is building inclusive spaces where diaspora members across Canada, from long-standing leaders to emerging professionals, can share ideas, celebrate Guyana’s culture, and support initiatives that strengthen connections between our communities in Canada and our homeland.”

And according to Senior Strategic Advisor, Roy Doobay, “this Council was created to be truly national and engage the broader Canadian community, from first-generation settlers to their children and grandchildren. By linking diaspora expertise with opportunities in Guyana, we aim to help the country leverage its global community for nation-building, cultural exchange, and shared growth, ensuring every generation has a meaningful role in Guyana’s future.”

Through partnerships, collaboration, and outreach, the Council is aiming to build a vibrant, enduring bridge between Guyana and Canada while celebrating the culture, heritage, and achievements of the Guyanese people. Further announcements regarding leadership, programmes, and national initiatives will be made in the coming months. (Frederick Halley)

1,000 prisoners trained annually to reduce recidivism rate

ONE Thousand prisoners are exposed annually to skills training programmes in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to reduce the recidivism rate by focusing on rehabilitation and reintegration.

lation has started to enrol in the Guyana Digital School platform to further improve their personal skills.

He also added that the GPS continues to expand the reintegration process by providing prisoners with a toolkit upon their release, which would contribute to their employment, thus giving them a fresh start.

Beyond inmate upskilling, the director noted that officers are also undergoing training programmes to improve their personal skills and better support recidivism reduction efforts.

Inmates are benefitting from a plethora of training all geared towards behaviour modification, entrepreneurial skills and academics, so that they can seamlessly reintegrate into society.

During the opening of the 2026 Guyana Prison Service (GPS) Senior Officers’ Conference, Director of Prisons (ag), Nicklon Elliot, said the prison popu-

“Overall, these efforts contribute significantly to the decline in persons committing offences and returning to prison. Hence, Guyana has recorded the lowest recidivism rate of 14 per cent within the Caribbean region, and we are working to further reduce this number,” the director stated.

A total of six officers completed their master’s degrees in public administration, human resource management, health care management and social work.

Another 12 completed their bachelor’s degrees, 35 completed their diploma programmes, 17 earned technical certificates, and 362 participated in tertiary certificate programmes in the field of prison management.

Meanwhile, in advancing technology, the GPS collaborated with the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) to digitalise prisoners’ records and warrants, as well as staff personal files.

All staff personal files have already been digitalised, while 90 per cent of prisoners’ records and warrants have been digitalised, with the remainder to be completed shortly.

[DPI]

IPED Guyana hosts Business Expo in celebration of 40th anniversary

THE Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) is celebrating its 40th anniversary as a non-governmental, non-profit institution that helps people to help themselves.

On Thursday and Friday, the institution hosted its Business Expo on Main Street, Georgetown. Preparations are in full swing for its Business Conference, slated for March 26 and March 27, 2026, at the Pegasus Corporate Centre.

Participating in the Business Expo were IPED’s clients who are involved in agro-processing, cosmetics, health and wellness, and clothing.

Speaking at the launch

ceremony, IPED’s Chief Executive Officer, Jagdesh Haripershad, said this marks a milestone in a 40-year journey of empowering people, building businesses, and transforming lives across Guyana.

Haripershad stated that over the past four decades, IPED has stood as a pillar of support for entrepreneurs, especially those who aspire to start small but dream big.

Sharing a brief history, the CEO said that from its humble beginnings in 1986, IPED has grown into a national institution that has supported thousands and contributed meaningfully to Guyana’s economic development.

“But today is not just

about looking back. Today is about showcasing impact. This exhibition brings together 25 of our clients out of our over 5,000 clients across Guyana. Real people, real businesses, real success stories,” he said.

According to the CEO, each booth represents resilience, innovation, and the power of opportunity when support meets ambition.

He said that as Guyana continues to experience rapid economic growth, IPED remains committed to ensuring that no one is left behind. Its focus is clear: to expand access to financing, to support small and micro enterprises, to innovate through new

products and digital transformation, and to empower its clients to participate fully in Guyana’s evolving economy.

Also addressing the gathering was the Director of Commerce at the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Safrana Cameron-Baird, who said that in reflecting on IPED’s theme for the expo, ‘A Legacy of Empowerment 40 Years of Strengthening Enterprises, Transforming Lives, and Supporting National Development,’ it becomes clear that this is a story of impact.

“For 40 years, IPED has stood as a pillar of support for small business. It operated for 25 years without the benefit

of an oil-driven economy. So long before Guyana’s recent economic transformation, IPED remained resilient in its mission to empower small and medium-sized enterprises,” she said, adding that this is a remarkable achievement that is deserving of recognition.

IPED has given thousands the tools, confidence and support to transform their ideas into viable businesses, working with a diverse group of business owners, from rice farmers to fishermen, planters, small shop owners, and many others. Further, she said that strengthening enterprises and transforming lives reminds us that businesses are more than economic units.

According to her, businesses represent people, families and communities.

Each small business supported by IPED is a family uplifted, a job created, and more than that, a community is strengthened.

Highlighting the growth of many of the businesses, Cameron-Baird said that the final part of the theme highlights IPED’s role in aiding in national development, underscoring how collective efforts of the government and the private sector, continue to drive small-business development across Guyana. The Government of Guyana through its efforts to promote entrepreneurship, strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and build a more inclusive and diversified economy, is creating the conditions necessary for our businesses to grow and succeed, she said. She noted that at the ministry there is a strong emphasis on small-business development in Guyana, highlighting that they are the backbone of economic resilience and are essential to building a strong and diversified economy.

Police engagement with NDC leads to upcoming community events

REGIONAL Commander of Division 4 ‘C’, Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram on Thursday met with officials of the Enmore/Hope Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) to address pressing community issues and reinforce collaborative efforts aimed at improving public safety and community well-being.

The engagement, held between 10:30 hrs and 12:00hrs at the Regional Headquarters Conference Room, Cove and John, brought together senior officers of the Guyana Police Force and key representatives of the NDC.

Among those present were Divisional Traffic Officer ASP Massay, Officer-in-Charge of #1 Sub-Division DSP Delph, Inspectors Samuels, Sergeants Stewart and Jacobs, and Detective Sergeant Edwards. Representing the NDC were Chairman Pastor Mahendra Sharma, Councillors Aarti Ugrai, Rammarase Tiwari and Shalini Dumay, along with Overseer Rampage Sukhdeo.

Discussions centred on a number of ongoing concerns affecting residents, including illegal vending, encumbrances along parapets, noise nuisance, and the burning of garbage. Both sides underscored the need for coordinated action to tackle these issues and enhance the quality of life within the community.

Assistant Commissioner Pareshram stressed the importance of sustained collaboration between law enforcement and local government bodies, noting that such partnerships are essential for maintaining order and ensuring safer communities.

He also encouraged ongoing engagement with all Neighbourhood Democratic Councils within Division 4 ‘C’, highlighting that collective efforts remain key to addressing challenges effectively.

Additionally, the Regional Commander pointed to the value of education and digital skills development, urging councillors to promote programmes such as the Zara Computer Centre at Cove and John, which offers

Strengthening community ties for a safer East Coast, Regional Commander Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram recently engaged with the Enmore/Hope NDC to discuss local safety concerns and bolster collaborative efforts

free computer training for children and adults. He encouraged council members to ensure that residents are informed and able to benefit from these opportunities.

The meeting forms part of ongoing efforts by the Guyana Police Force to strengthen community policing initiatives and build closer relationships with local stakeholders.

Meanwhile, Regional Division 4 ‘C’ has also announced three upcoming community-focused events aimed at fostering unity and positive engagement across communities.

The festivities kick off on Saturday, March 28, with the Youth and Scout Groups Kite Flying Competition at the Enmore Community Centre Ground. Starting at 10:00hrs, the event will challenge the creativity and skill of young participants.

Categories for the competition include “Highest Flying Kite,” “Most Patriotic Kite,” and “Best Handmade Kite,” with special recognition for the “Best Young Flyer” in the under-10 and under-12 age groups. This event highlights the local tradition of kite making while providing a safe, spirited environment for the region’s youth.

Following the kite flying, the focus shifts to the Enterprise Family Fun Day on Sunday, April 5, at the Enterprise Community Centre Ground. Scheduled to begin at 09:00 hrs, this day is

organized in partnership with the Enterprise Community Development Committee

(CDC) and the Community Policing Group (CPG). Attendees can look for-

ward to a diverse sports lineup, including five-over cricket, bicycle races, and five-a-side football. Beyond the sports, the event promises a festive atmosphere with trophies for winners and BBQ and drinks available for purchase.

The series concludes on Saturday, April 25, with a Family Fun Day at the Beterverwagting Community Centre Ground, held in collaboration with the Beterverwagting Youth Empowerment Football Group.

Across all three dates, the organizers emphasize a commitment to “community togetherness” and “community spirit.” By partnering with local empowerment groups and policing committees, Regional Division 4 ‘C’ aims to provide wholesome entertainment that encourages residents of all ages to come out and support local talent and traditional Guyanese pastimes.

Organisers noted that trophies and prizes will be up for grabs, while refreshments, including barbecue and drinks, will be on sale. Both events are being promoted under themes centred on clean fun, community spirit,and togetherness.

This event, which offers free entry to the public, features a high-stakes “5-A-Side Interblock Football” tournament as its main attraction. Alongside the football, the ground will host a variety of track and field events and classic novelty competitions that emphasize “clean fun,” such as lime and spoon races, three-legged races, and dominoes.

Visit to Marudi reveals structured, regulated mining operations

A RECENT visit to the Marudi Mountain in Region Nine presents a clearer picture, one grounded in direct observation and engagement with those operating in the area.

What emerged was a structured, actively regulated mining environment, contrasting sharply with narratives being peddled in the public domain.

In November 2021, an

agreement was signed between the Rupununi Miners Association Co-operative Society Limited (RMA), Aurous and Romanex and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) as the

regulator to resume mining operations by small-scale miners. The RMA comprises two medium-scale operators and 38 small-scale miners.

The Special Mining Permit (SMP) issued to miners under the 2021 agreement is restricted to 40 miners once registered with RMA.

With this system in place, operations are now more controlled, enhancing safety and compliance, compared to previous years.

The two medium-scale companies undertake the initial phase of mining by removing and processing material from the mountain. This material is then processed and sold to miners, creating a more organised and controlled flow of activity.

“We used to break the big rocks with our hands and sledge,” David Benjamin, a miner in Marudi since 1998, told the Department of Public Information (DPI) in an interview on the ground.

“Now we get a big crusher come on board to crush the stone to make it smaller. The whole process now is far easier,” Benjamin stated.

This marks a significant improvement from earlier years, when mining activities were largely unregulated.

According to Benjamin, “The government is now open back here, and it’s easier for us. We don’t have to spend money to go up the mountain to bring down a load. You just pay for your load, and it reaches you at your door. Everything… changed in a nice way.”

It should be noted that in May 2023, the RMA held its 1st election, and a new governing body was elected through a free and democratic process with regional oversight. It is currently chaired by Romel McKenzie, who is a mining operator.

COORDINATED ENGAGEMENT

Before and after the 2021

agreement was signed, the Ministry of Natural Resources facilitated 11 documented consultations with leaders from Deep-South Rupununi, underscoring its commitment to Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC).

Notably, following the signing, some 180 residents from the Deep South signed a petition signalling their support for the recommencement of mining activities in the Marudi Mountain.

On Sunday (March 14), the GGMC once again brought the RMA and the South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) to the Marudi mining area to address any concerns and issues they have.

As part of these efforts, the leaders were taken on a guided tour of mining operations, which allowed them to witness first-hand how environmentally-friendly practices are being employed.

Leaders have described the recent engagements as a meaningful step towards improved dialogue among communities, miners, and regulatory agencies.

SRDC Chairman Nicholas Fredericks, who is the SRDC Chairman, noted that the process reflects progress, while acknowledging that continued collaboration is necessary. He emphasised that communities are not opposed to mining, but support efforts to ensure it is conducted in a sustainable and responsible manner.

“It was unregulated, and now you can see that the main players are here. You have the company of the Rupununi Miner’s Association, you have GGMC, and now with the communities involved, I think there is always room for improvement,” Fredericks said.

Similarly, Toshao Apollo Augustus Isaacs of Karaudarnau highlighted that open discussions allowed stakeholders to address shared

environmental concerns and work towards collective solutions.

Toshao of Aishalton Timothy Williams also shared similar remarks, noting that the operations are “much more organised”, and he is better informed on the operations of the mining activities.

“…we appreciate the organisation and the leadership, both of the miners and the regulatory agencies, and to the extent, the government,” for this undertaking, he told the DPI.

IMPROVED ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY PRACTICES

The presence of the GGMC is evident throughout the mining area, with ongoing monitoring and enforcement of regulations to ensure compliance with environmental and operational standards.

Engineer responsible for compliance, Vickram Manoo on Sunday reiterated that the GGMC maintains a regular on-site presence.

“We’re working with the best compliance. We are making sure that the gold is going to the country of Guyana and making sure that whatever requests Toshaos have, we put our best foot forward,” he said.

The SMP was issued with several strict conditions that include a Mine Plan, a Mine Closure Plan, a Social Responsibility Plan and an Environmental Management Plan are adhered to by the miners. An Environmental Bond is required to be paid to the Commission while more importantly, the SMP prohibits any Mercury Use. Additionally, the GGMC has employed three persons as Community Mines Rangers to monitor the activities in the area.

“Mining is safe and environmentally friendly, and we do comply with all these TURN TO PAGE 29

AIDS deaths down over 60% in Caribbean, but infections rising – Dr. Anthony

AIDS-RELATED deaths in the Caribbean have declined by more than 60 per cent since 2010, but rising infection rates, particularly among young people, remain a serious concern, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony has warned.

Speaking at the opening of the Tenth Meeting of National AIDS Programme

Managers and Key Partners in Trinidad and Tobago, Dr Anthony said the region has made significant progress in reducing mortality, but must now intensify efforts to curb new infections. He highlighted significant progress in the Caribbean’s fight against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), noting a

more than 60 per cent decline in AIDS-related deaths since 2010, while warning that new infections, particularly among young people aged 15 to 24, remain a major concern.

Recent years have seen remarkable progress being made in the fight against AIDS, Minister Anthony shared. In the Caribbean in particular, mortality rates

among those affected by AIDS have declined significantly, with Dr Anthony noting that AIDS-related deaths have fallen by more than 60 per cent.

This, he added, is one of the fastest declines seen internationally, stating, “According to UNAIDS, AIDS-related deaths have declined in our region, falling from 2010 by more than 60 percent. This is one of the steepest declines we have seen across the world,” he added, “In 2010, nearly 12,000 persons in the Caribbean died from HIV or AIDS-related illnesses. Today, that number has fallen to less than 5,000 persons.”

This shift, Dr Anthony emphasised, was not accidental, but rather a result of sustained work and investment by regional governments in treatment, prevention and care.

However, while the region has made significant strides in reducing mortality rates, infection rates continue to rise. As Minister Anthony explained, the rate of infection continues to grow steadily, while efforts to curb the spread of AIDS are not yet where the region needs them to be.

“While we have made significant progress, there is still much to be done. Because while deaths have fallen dramatically, we have seen new infections, and they are not declining as fast as we would like them to be in the region,” the minister said.

Growing infection rates, he added, are specifically impacting the region’s youth, with an estimated 15,000 persons being infected every year.

“Perhaps what is even more troubling is that one in four of those new infections occurs between the ages of 15 and 24 years. That means while we celebrate that we have been saving lives, we

— Says youth infections remain major concern as region urged to intensify response

are seeing that the epidemic is going to continue in the new generation,” he warned.

Another important area the minister addressed is the level of awareness among those affected by AIDS in the region. As he explained, in the Caribbean, approximately 85 per cent of persons living with HIV know their status.

While this reflects tremendous progress over the last decade, there are still thousands of persons who do not know their status and are living with HIV. This, the minister explained, places a strain on the health sector, with many patients being diagnosed far too late.

Moreover, he shared that 74 per cent of persons who know their status are on treatment across the Caribbean, while two-thirds of those are virally suppressed.

Although these figures mark significant progress in AIDS care across the region, Minister Anthony noted that much more needs to be done in treatment and preventative measures, particularly in adopting new standards and practices being introduced globally.

Citing the hurdles to combatting AIDS, he highlighted the introduction of the drug Lenacapavir, a twice-yearly injection that can prevent people from getting HIV.

Minister Anthony added that while this has proved impactful, there are still issues with affordable access to the drug in the Caribbean.

“We in the Caribbean still do not have access to this drug. And it is not clear whether, when the price comes down to about US$40 per patient per year, we will be able to get access to it,” he said.

Moreover, financing, the minister added, is also a major hurdle.

“One of the international organisations that was set up especially to help fight HIV, TB, and malaria, the funding is now dissipating. When you think about and you go through the epidemiology of the disease, the two most affected regions in the world would be sub-Saharan Africa and the Caribbean,” he

“Traditionally, when we talked about prevention, we were focused a lot on education, condom distribution and then we added pre-exposure prophylaxis, and we added HIV self-testing. But this is not enough, because we now know that there are long-acting injectable medicines that are available,” he said.

TURN TO PAGE 26

Dust complaint against Essequibo Coast rice mill before court —

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has confirmed that the long-standing dust complaints involving Vilvoorden Investment Inc. on the Essequibo Coast is before the court, even as frustrated residents of Fairfield and Vilvoorden continue to accuse the agency of abandoning their community.

The matter, which centres on persistent dust pollution linked to operations at the Golden Fleece Rice Mill, is set to return to court on June 4, 2026, when the EPA is expected to present a formal compliance report as directed by the Magistrate.

According to the EPA, the court has mandated an assessment of whether the company has adhered to required mitigation measures.

“The court has requested a formal assessment of Vilvoorden’s compliance with required mitigation measures; the EPA will prepare and present a compliance report at the next court hearing,” the Agency said in a statement.

Vilvoorden Investment Inc. has been asked to sub-

EPA to submit compliance report

mit documentation outlining mitigation steps already taken and any proposed alternatives.

The EPA said it will review those submissions and determine whether they meet regulatory standards before conducting a compliance inspection.

However, the Agency’s update comes against the backdrop of mounting criticism from residents, who argue that enforcement has been inconsistent and largely ineffective.

There has growing frustration among villagers, who claimed that despite years of complaints, protests and reported court action, the rice mill continues to blanket the community in hazardous dust.

Residents alleged that mitigation efforts implemented by the mill were superficial.

“The fire truck was only doing the front part of it. It was just a show. It wasn’t anything effective,” said Abdool Saib Shameer, a spokes-

person for affected residents had told the Guyana Standard news.

Shameer further claimed that the EPA has not been visible in the community for months and that residents remain unaware of the status of legal proceedings.

“We don’t know what’s happening. The last we heard, the EPA withdrew the case without any explanation to us. Why are the ones filing the case withdrawing it?” he told the publication.

In a public statement shared on social media, Shameer rejected suggestions that residents had encroached on an industrial zone.

“The villagers were here long before the rice mill,” he asserted, accusing the company of attempting to deflect responsibility for ongoing pollution.

Residents have also raised serious health concerns, reporting daily accumulation of dust in their homes and an increase in respiratory issues, particularly among children and the elderly.

The situation has, at times, escalated into confrontation, with at least two residents previously detained following protests against the mill’s operations.

The villagers had said that while seasonal rainfall provided temporary relief late last year, the problem persists beneath the surface. Shameer noted that while the outer layers of paddy husk may appear damp, the core of the heaps continues to burn and smoulder.

Against this backdrop, the EPA maintains that it is actively engaged in the matter and is proceeding in accordance with the law.

“The EPA remains committed to protecting community health, enforcing environmental standards, and pursuing all necessary administrative and legal remedies,” the Agency stated.

It also noted that its officers have visited the site

multiple times and attempted to engage residents, though those efforts were only partially successful.

The Agency is now urging affected residents to co-operate with its officers as it prepares its compliance assessment and subsequent

inspection ahead of the next court hearing.

Further developments are expected following the submission of the EPA’s report, the outcome of the compliance inspection and continued court proceedings.

‘He

By Trina Williams

fought for all’

REMEMBERED as a champion of the working class, former President, Dr Cheddi Berret Jagan was honoured last week as Guyanese observed his birth anniversary by reflecting on his philosophy, which was deeply rooted in compassion and social justice, and his life-long, relentless fight against poverty and inequality.

His 108th birth anniversary was commemorated at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre in an open-mic session and this saw Guyanese from all walks of life speaking extensively on the former President’s struggle for justice and equality to reach every corner of the nation.

Dr Jagan’s vision for a society where man would not exploit man and where opportunity and dignity could be extended to all was a common reflection by attendees

—Voices unite to reflect on Dr Cheddi Jagan’s legacy of humanity, fight for equality, service to the people

as they stated that the national hero’s love for humanity was true.

A veteran in the political struggle, Harripersaud Nokta also reflected on Dr Jagan’s life and his character, especially the former President’s tenacity, endurance, incorruptibility and dedication to the ordinary Guyanese.

Nokta’s personal stories brought vision to the life of the late President as he recalled accompanying Dr Jagan on trips to remote Amerindian communities, to not only share newspapers, but to also speak to them about their rights.

This, too, was not without struggle as the veteran politician recalled that often communities resisted and were hesitant at first to welcome outsiders.

In a sentimental remembrance, Nokta detailed, “Life was not easy, but comrade Cheddi wanted to meet the people that is his life. He wanted to tell them something, to teach them something, and to do so, he let them know that despite how struggles will come about and how life is hard, there is a party, the People’s Progressive Party, which is with you and the party will continue to fight and liberate this country to make Guyana a better place for all of us in this country.”

He went on to say: “Comrades, I regret that in my age now I’m losing memory too. I’m already past 88. I’m moving. I don’t know how far more I can go, but I want to say that, so long as I have that little strength in me, I

will continue to be with the comrades who are struggling to keep the People’s Progressive Party alive and fighting to continue to make life better for [the] Guyanese people.”

Nokta stated that Dr Jagan’s vision for a prosperous Guyana will continue to live on, as his energy and dedication are still vibrant as ever in the Guyanese society.

Describing Dr Jagan as a “very simple, honest, man of integrity, a man of character,” Hydar Ally stated that the former President earned his reputation as he spent his life fighting for Guyanese.

“There are not very many people in this world who would have had that sense of humanity and love for people as Dr Cheddi,” Ally said.

Dr Jagan’s fight against imperialists and his deter -

Former President of Guyana and PPP founder, Dr Cheddi Berret Jagan leading a May Day parade in 1987

mined efforts to form global alliances that would benefit the lives of all Guyanese were highlighted during the commemoration, as all speakers pointed out that the national hero’s commitment to betterment for all citizens is a legacy that will live on.

What was evident is that Dr Jagan left a trail of what it means to dedicate one’s life to service to the people, especially at the grass-roots level and Ally, during his remembrance of that great life, pointed out that the former President understood

the struggles of the ordinary man.

Ally said, “And because he grew up in that environment of poverty, I think he understood poverty, and he dedicated his entire life for the eradication of poverty, not to only in Guyana, but in the world. That was Cheddi Jagan.”

Dr Jagan was the son of East Indian indentured labourers and was born at Port Mourant, Corentyne Coast, on March 22, 1918. His parents were staunch Hindus

TURN TO PAGE 26

Tourism training programmes building skilled workforce

--operators, guides benefitting from CPR, safety and tour guide training

THE Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, through the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), is intensifying efforts to build a more skilled and professional tourism workforce through targeted training programmes across the country.

Recent initiatives have seen tour operators, guides and young professionals benefitting from training in areas such as tour guiding, CPR, first aid and lifeguard skills, as part of a broader push to strengthen human capacity in one of Guyana’s fastest-growing sectors.

Among those benefitting is Geeta Singh of GS Transportation, who recently completed tour guide and CPR training. Speaking in a video released by the GTA, Singh described the experience as both enjoyable and highly educational.

“I took for granted our history and culture and through this training I was informed and educated by it,” she said.

She also highlighted the importance of the CPR component. “I have never done CPR before and these past two days were very informative, educational, and I learned life-saving skills that

can help someone,” Singh added.

Licensed tour guide Eon Vanderhyden, who operates in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), also praised the initiative, noting that it has strengthened his ability to deliver high-quality service.

“I would like to extend sincere gratitude to the Government of Guyana, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and

Commerce, and the Guyana Tourism Authority for providing a platform to enhance my skills as a tour guide,” he said.

He added that training in first aid and lifeguard skills has improved his capacity to ensure visitor safety.

Similarly, Colette Ault, founder of Scenic Scapes Adventures, described the training as a valuable oppor-

tunity for both personal and business development.

“I want to say how grateful I am… for providing what I might say is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Ault said.

She noted that the programme has enhanced her company’s ability to prioritise client safety.

“As a tour operating company, we want to ensure safety for our clients and those skills are being given to us

so that we are able to provide that to our clients,” she said. For young tourism pro-

‘He fought for all’

and he himself acknowledged attending many Hindu festivals as a little boy. He received his primary educa-

tion at the Port Mourant Primary and the Rose Hall Scots School. He then pursued his secondary education at R.N.

Persaud ‘s private Secondary School, the only secondary school in the area at the time. At the age of 15, he con-

FROM PAGE 24

tinued his secondary career at the prestigious Queen’s College in the city of Georgetown. This was the colony’s

premier secondary school and entry to that institution at the time was the almost exclusive preserve of the urban social upper class. There, he had a distinguished academic career culminating in successes at the Oxford and Cambridge Certificate Examinations.

Even with Dr Jagan leaving behind an unblemished political career and a footprint that marks his fierce fight for the Guyanese people’s struggle for social dignity and democracy, Ally noted that there are attempts to stain the former President’s ideology and vision.

He said, “Dr Jagan’s ideology was rooted in humanity.”

Ally rejected the efforts to ridicule the former President, noting that the outstanding national hero lived a selfless life fighting for a

better Guyana. Indra Chandarpal shared similar sentiments, stating: “For us here at Red House, it is our responsibility, because we were given that mandate, Hydar and myself, we were given that mandate to oversee the legacy of Red House, to ensure that we maintain the legacy of our leaders, of the past and the rich history of them, and we are proud to say to all of you that we have never failed from that responsibility, in taking on that responsibility.”

Other speakers, including relatives of the late President, shared similar heart-felt stories and reflected on the life of the pivotal Guyanese politician and dentist who served as the fourth President of Guyana (1992–1997) and is still revered as the “Father of the Nation.”

Tourism training...

the training has been both impactful and inspiring.

“I appreciate how they are providing classes for young people to improve skills like first aid training and lifeguard training,” Andrews said.

“I benefitted a lot from it… and with my skills I can also help my colleagues.”

The Ministry of Tourism and the GTA have been expanding training opportunities to ensure that both new entrants and experienced professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to support the sector’s growth. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve service standards, enhance visitor safety and create new opportunities within the tourism industry. By investing in human capital, the government aims to strengthen Guyana’s competitiveness as a tourism destination while ensuring that the sector continues to generate sustainable economic opportunities.

AIDS deaths down...

added.

To this end, he stated that the Caribbean must strategise, innovate and find new avenues in the fight against AIDS.

Making a passionate call to action, Minister Anthony urged regional health leaders to continue collaborating and advocating, both locally and on the wider international stage.

“We as a Caribbean, we need to look at what we are doing and to see how we can do it more efficiently. We probably need to examine the kinds of prevention efforts

FROM PAGE 22 FROM PAGE 25

that we have, get rid of those that are not very effective, focus on those that would give us more value for the money that we are investing, and make sure that we invest more directly in those areas,” he said.

The Tenth Meeting of National AIDS Programme Managers and Key Partners, which began on Wednesday and ended on Friday, saw other stakeholders and regional health leaders continue discussions, share ideas, and chart a course forward in the fight against AIDS.

Georgetown Toastmasters Club celebrates 67 years of excellence

THE Georgetown Toastmasters Club (GTC) earlier this week commemorated its 67th anniversary, a legacy that began on March 18, 1959.

Founded in Georgetown, this Toastmasters Club holds the distinguished honour of being the Mother Club of the Caribbean, paving the way for the growth of Toastmasters across the region.

The club recently said that for more than six decades, it has remained committed to shaping confident communicators and impactful leaders. The GTC was founded by Derek Adamson, and the first official public meeting was held in Georgetown on March 18, 67 years ago.

The Toastmasters Club has been described as a club that is focused mainly on public speaking and developing leadership and communication skills. More than this,

the club is comparable to a family or community where a common goal is shared: improving public speaking.

From humble beginnings to a thriving community of passionate speakers, evaluators, and leaders, the club’s journey has been defined by growth, resilience, and excellence. Each meeting, speech, and evaluation has contributed to a culture where voices are empowered and potential is realised.

“As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we honour the vision of our founders, the dedication of past and present members, and the bright future ahead,” the Toastmasters Club said in a statement adding, “Here’s to continuing the legacy of inspiration, transformation, and leadership for generations to come.”

Club President Tamica Noel in her anniversary mes-

sage, stated that as Toastmasters celebrate 67 years of growth, she is reminded that the greatest power we possess is the power of our voices.

“Sixty-Seven years ago, a foundation was laid by individuals who believed that the power of the spoken word could transform lives. Today, we aren’t just celebrating a date on calendar, we are celebrating nearly seven decades of broken barriers, conquered fears and the relentless pursuit of self-improvement. Every word we speak and every leader we become shapes a brighter future for our community,” she said.

The Toastmaster President encouraged others to continue to find their purpose and inspire others.

In commemoration of the club’s anniversary, the GTC celebrated with a church service on Sunday last. This celebration will continue with

a brunch, media engagements and membership outreaches, and other activities by the club.

The Georgetown Toastmasters Club is one that

empowers individuals to become more effective communicators, and leaders, and is committed to providing a supportive and positive learning experi -

ence, where members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, which result in greater self-confidence and personal growth.

Police striving to improve public transportation operations -Traffic Chief says

AS efforts continue to improve road safety and traffic management, Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mahendra Singh on Friday emphasised that there is no demand for credit to be given to the police for wanting to collaborate or achieve a change in the way public transportation operates in Guyana.

In an exclusive interview at Traffic Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown, the Traffic Chief related that everything possible is being done by his ranks to engage the United Minibus Association (UMA), whether it’s in Region 4A at Brickdam or in Region Three at Parika or along the various routes.

“Every possible engagement that presents itself, it is led by the police. Why? We recognise the importance of collaborating to achieve a desired result. We understand that there are several genuine concerns raised, with reference to fares, reference to how passengers are treated when they are picked up, and where they’re eventually set down. Reference to the behavioural practices of drivers and conductors, carrying

more persons than permitted, consumption of substances and alcohol. All of this we factor and we engage them,” Traffic Chief Singh said. He told this publication that the Traffic Department does this to “ensure that sanity prevails” on the roadways, and that everyone is operating within the confines of the law.

The Traffic Chief stated that there are offences that are committed on a daily basis by drivers, and even the conductors, in all spaces. He stressed that the department cannot do it alone.

“So, it’s ultimately left to us to collaborate with our partners, very important to the association, to realign the behaviour of some of the operators. Though we know that at the end of the day, the task is one which is not overwhelming, but it can get ahead of you sometimes. Because clearly what you’re doing may be seen as being too little and not enough. So, for us in the Traffic Department, I speak for myself and our traffic police, there is much more that we can do and we have to do,” he expressed.

He continued to say that there is no demand for any

Visit to Marudi...

FROM PAGE 18

credit to be given to the police for wanting to collaborate or wanting to achieve a change in how things are

done with regard to public transportation in Guyana.

The Traffic Chief warned road users, specifically mo-

torists, against giving traffic ranks any form of gifts, money or any reward to achieve anything.

“Don’t be guilty of soliciting the help of that traffic policeman to forego prosecution,” he said.

things,” Benjamin told the DPI.

ECONOMIC BENEFITS AND

LOCAL IMPACT

Mining operations in Marudi are generating tangible benefits for residents of the Deep South Rupununi, with hundreds of residents employed in the area. Community leaders also pointed out direct support from mining companies, including assistance in response to local needs.

In Karaudarnau, Toshao Isaacs noted that mining revenues have supported longterm development initiatives, with funds strategically allocated through transparent systems. Projects such as the acquisition of a crusher are managed by publicly elected committees, with regular reporting provided at Village General Meetings (VGMs).

Likewise, the GGMC has invested in building a Chicken Rearing Facility for the residents of Aishalton so that they can provide a local supply of chicken to the miners, thereby creating a livelihood opportunity.

ADDRESSING WORKFORCE GAPS

While concerns have been raised about foreign involvement, particularly the presence of Brazilian workers, this has been linked to a shortage of specialised technical skills locally. An estimated 48 per cent of the workforce consists of Brazilian nationals, primarily engaged in skilled roles.

Stakeholders, including RMA Chairman McKenzie, have indicated a willingness to address this gap through training and capacity-building initiatives aimed at increasing local participation in technical positions.

The national conversation surrounding Marudi has been shaped by concerns over governance, environmental protection, and foreign influence. However, observations from within the mining area suggest a more complex reality.

While discussions on long-term sustainability and transparency will continue, current conditions point to a more organised, monitored, and inclusive mining environment than is often portrayed. (DPI)

In August 2023, the government, with tributes from the mining in Marudi, donated sports gear and weeding machines to ten indigenous villages in the Deep South Rupununi.

Government committed to responsible, sustainable development of forestry sector -

IN celebration of International Day of Forests, the Ministry of Natural Resources through the Guyana Forestry Commission on Friday hosted a brief ceremony and exhibition at the Watooka Guest House, Linden.

International Day of the Forest is typically observed on March 21st annually, and this year, under the theme, ‘Forests and Economies,’ Guyana joins in that celebration.

Natural Resources Minister says

During the ceremony, it was said that Guyana is one of the leading voices in environmental stewardship, through strong policy guidance, strong forest-management practices and a robust system of forest management, forest monitoring, and timber tracking.

manner. While we continue to explore and produce hydrocarbons, we will do so in a responsible manner and fulfil demands as long as it exists,” Minister Bharrat expressed. He continued, “We will also continue to expand the forestry sector, but in a responsible and sustainable manner, and move towards more value added, because at the end of the day we have a responsibility to the people of this country to ensure that you too can enjoy the comfortable life that you see many others are enjoying.”

Additionally, Guyana has followed international best practices and guidance through the low-carbon de-

velopment strategy, which has enabled us to sign on to a number of international agreements.

Guyana’s forestry sector has moved tremendously over

the past years along the value chain, from being a primary producer, supplier and exporter of primary products, to one that has emerged and developed to a very “high-end and sophisticated sector and plays a major role in the country’s economic development.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat, said that Guyana has truly balanced

the model of economic development and environmental sustainability.

He said that while we continue to expand oil and gas and the mining sector, the government will continue to develop Guyana’s forestry sector.

“So, while we will continue to mine our gold and other minerals, we will do so in a responsible and a sustainable

According to the minister, the only way we can truly achieve this is if we explore and produce our natural resources in a sustainable and responsible manner.

Minister Bharrat stated that the most selfless act human beings can do in their lifetime is to plant a tree, which will not benefit us now, but the future generations to come.

LAKR unveil Knight Riders Cricket Field in California

MAJOR League Cricket’s 2026 playoffs will be played at the Oakland Coliseum from July 15, with the final scheduled for July 18. It will mark the first time that the league’s post-season will be staged on America’s West Coast.

The fourth season will run from June 18 to July 18, beginning in Grand Prairie, Texas, before moving across venues in California. The Coliseum, which emerged as a high-scoring venue after its debut last season, will also host a block of regular-season matches from June 24 to 28, featuring all six teams across eight games before the mid-July playoffs.

“The energy our fans have brought to the Championship Final in Grand Prairie the past three years has been incredible, with each one selling out and creating an unforgettable atmosphere for players and supporters alike,” said Johnny Grave, CEO of MLC.

“As our fanbase continues to grow across the country, we’re excited to break new ground and bring that same playoff intensity to the Oakland Coliseum. The Bay Area showed tremendous passion for cricket last summer, and we’re looking forward to welcoming fans for an even bigger celebration of the game with both regular season matches and the MLC Championship Final on the West Coast.”

In a historic move for cricket in the USA, Knight Riders Cricket Field was unveiled in Pomona, California. This venue will become the permanent home field for the LA Knight Riders from the upcoming season of MLC. They have been assigned to host matches from July 1 to 5.

Venky Mysore, the CEO of Knight Riders Sports expressed his delight at the development.

“Los Angeles is one of the world’s most dynamic sports markets and an

important home for the Knight Riders brand. Establishing the Knight Riders Cricket Field in partnership with Fairplex, is a major milestone for our franchise, and we look forward to a long-term partnership with Fairplex to further establish Cricket in the USA and building the sport,” he said.

Shahrukh Khan, who co-owns Knight Riders Sports, echoed Mysore’s thoughts.

“Over the years, the Knight Riders have grown into a truly global family, and every new milestone is special for us. Seeing the Los Angeles Knight Riders (LAKR) have a home of their own with the Knight Riders Cricket Field is incredibly exciting. The USA is a great sporting market with passionate fans, and we hope this field becomes a place where people come together to celebrate the game and support the team. I’m really looking forward to this new chapter for the Knight Riders in Los Angeles.”

Kane scores in Bayern win to edge closer to Bundesliga record

HARRY Kane scored to move within 10 of the Bundesliga single-season goals record as Bayern Munich beat Union Berlin 4-0 at Allianz Arena.

Michael Olise opened the scoring before a Serge Gnabry double either side of Kane’s strike moved Bayern 12 points clear of second-placed Borussia Dort

32-year-old Kane said.

“For me and the boys who get a bit of time off, you have to use it wisely, you have to stay fit, stay sharp, but just kind of mentally rest and get ready for a really busy schedule when we get back.”

Kane will get his next chance to chip into the record when Bayern travel to

Deep ruled out of IPL 2026

THERE seems to be no end to Kolkata Knight Riders’ fast-bowling concerns.

After Harshit Rana and Matheesha Pathirana, who is still awaiting clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket, the latest reversal for the franchise is Akash Deep. Cricbuzz can confirm that the India pacer has been ruled out of IPL 2026.

A top official from Kolkata Knight Riders has confirmed the development to Cricbuzz. “Unfortunately, he is out of the IPL, ruled out for the season,” the KKR official said. The 29-year-old Bengal pacer was picked by the franchise at his base price of INR 1 crore at last year’s mini-auc-

Deep has not reported for the Kolkata Knight Riders camp, which has been underway in Kolkata since March 18.

It is understood that he has been undergoing rehabilitation at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, although the

It is believed that there has been some communication regarding the player from the CoE managers to the franchise.

• Continues on Page 37

Durant stars as Rockets snap Hawks’ 11-game win streak

KEVIN Durant scored 25 points in three periods as the Houston Rockets snapped the visiting Atlanta Hawks’ 11game winning streak with a 117-95 victory on Friday.

Jabari Smith Jr. added 23 points and nine rebounds for the Rockets, who blitzed Atlanta from the deep in the third quarter. Houston hit 6 of 11 3-pointers to turn an eight-point halftime lead into a 101-76 cushion after Durant and Reed Sheppard nailed consecutive 3-pointers late in the period.

Durant shot 9 of 15 from the floor and added six assists. Sheppard, starting in place of the scuffling Tari Eason, added 14 points and four 3-pointers. Eason managed a double-double with 10 points and 10 boards.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker paced the Hawks with 21 points while CJ McCollum tallied 17. Zaccharie Risacher scored 16 points off the bench before fouling out in the fourth quarter. Houston led by as many as 34 points before both teams went to their reserves.

n Pistons 115, Warriors 101

Jalen Duren scored 23 points and grabbed six rebounds as host Detroit rolled past Golden State, winning again without All-Star guard Cade Cunningham, who was diagnosed ⁠with a collapsed lung.

Daniss Jenkins supplied 22 points, eight

India Women to play one-off Test against South Africa in December

INDIA Women are set to play South Africa in a one-off Test in Gqeberha from December 20 to 23, with the tour also featuring a three-match ODI series. The ODIs, part of the ICC Women’s Championship, will be held from December 9 to 15 across Potchefstroom, Bloemfontein and Cape Town.

The Test will be only the fourth meeting between the two sides in the format and just the second women’s Test to be played at St George’s Park. The tour will begin with a warm-up fixture against South Africa Emerging in Benoni on December 6.

India’s visit will form the first half of a high-profile home summer for South Africa Women, with Australia set to follow in the new year for a full multi-format tour from March 18 to April 11, 2027.

marking only the second time South Africa and Australia meet in the format.

“We are delighted to host two of the world’s leading teams in India and Australia for what promises to be a blockbuster home summer for the Proteas Women,” CSA Chief Executive Officer Pholetsi Moseki said.

“These tours will showcase the very best of international women’s cricket and build on the encouraging rise in fan attendance, as we continue to welcome growing crowds across the country to watch world-class players competing at some of our iconic venues.”

assists and seven rebounds while starting in place of Cunningham as six Pistons in all scored in double figures. Ausar Thompson spearheaded the Detroit defense with seven steals.

Brandin Podziemski’s 15 points led the Warriors, who took their seventh loss in eight games. Gary Payton II and De’Anthony Melton had 14 points apiece, while Gui Santos put up 13. Stephen Curry (knee) remained out.

n Nuggets 121, Raptors 115

Jamal Murray scored 12 of his 31 points in the fourth quarter, Nikola Jokic finished with 22 points, nine assists and eight rebounds, and host Denver rallied to beat Toronto.

Tim Hardaway Jr. went 7-for-10 from 3-point range and finished with 23 points while Aaron ⁠Gordon scored 16 points for the Nuggets, who moved into fifth in the Western Conference with their sixth straight win over Toronto. Denver has won four of its past six games overall.

Jakob Poeltl amassed 23 points and 11 rebounds, Brandon Ingram scored 19 points, RJ Barrett contributed 18 points, Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley finished with 15 points each for Toronto, which had a three-game winning streak end and remained in fifth place in the Eastern Conference. (Reuters)

Australia’s tour will feature three T20Is, three ODIs and a one-off Test. The T20I series will be played across Kimberley, Benoni and East London, before the ODI leg moves to Gqeberha, Paarl and Durban, with the final match doubling as the annual Black Day ODI.

The tour will conclude with a four-day Test in Potchefstroom from April 8 to 11,

“It is also exciting to host two Test matches on home soil during the season. Test cricket remains a special and historic format of the game, and providing our Proteas Women with opportunities to compete in red-ball cricket at home is an important step in the continued recognition of the women’s game in South Africa.

“We are also pleased to see the annual Black Day ODI continue to grow, with the sixth edition taking place at the Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium. The match remains an important platform to raise awareness in the fight against GBV.” (Cricbuzz)

...Injury woes deepen for Knight Riders

• From Page 36

Deep has been prone to frequent injuries which forced him to miss matches regularly, be it for India or the IPL franchise.

In four seasons since his IPL debut in 2022, he has featured in just 14 matches, claiming 10 wickets. In the last IPL, he was part of Lucknow Super Giants, who had signed him for Rs 8 crore at the 2025 auction, only to release him after one season.

With Deep unavailable, the Knight Riders have little choice but to look for a replacement. The franchise had been undecided about seeking a substitute even for Harshit Rana, who was ruled out even before their camp began, due to knee surgery. The sense within the camp was that there were no suitable replacements available for a player of Rana’s calibre.

On Friday, KKR head coach Abhishek Nayar had hinted at seeking a replacement probably with the knowledge that Deep is also doubtful for the season.

“Hopefully soon, in a couple of days I think. Obviously Harshit is with the BCCI at the CoE. Once we get an update the medical team will communicate to us. We’ll try to evaluate what we are picking before we make the announcement. (We) will take us a few more days, most probably before we leave for Mumbai,” Nayar said.

The latest setback compounds Knight Riders’ bowling woes ahead of the season. The franchise had invested heavily in Pathirana (bought him for Rs 18 crore), but the Sri Lankan pacer is yet to obtain the NOC from his board. In any case, he is expected to miss at least a part of the season.

Vaibhav Arora, Umran Malik and Kartik Tyagi are the Indian pacers currently in the KKR squad. The team management, of course, has the option of using all-rounder Cameron Green for a few overs.

KKR start their campaign with an away fixture against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede on March 29. (Cricbuzz)

Sherwin Williams’ T20 Second Division cricket round-up

By Sean Devers

IN sunny conditions yesterday, five matches at three grounds were played in the Georgetown Cricket Association’s (GCA) Sherwin Williams T20 Second Division tournament. Two batters scored fifties, while the bowlers registered a couple of 5-fors.

At the Transport ground, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) beat the University of Guyana (UG) by eight wickets. UG were dismissed for a disappointing 32 in 12.1 overs, as only Yeshua Hutson, with 10, reached double figures.

Nigel Deodat (4-8) and Shamar Angel (3-13) were the main wicket-takers for the Army, who marched to 36-2 in just 5.4 overs. Rashaad Gaffur (14) and Christopher Persaud (11) powered GDF to an emphatic victory.

At Malteenoes, MYO Mystic Marvels (MMM) beat GNIC by 16 runs. Led by 28 from Dequan Wray, 25 from Kevin Hooper, 18 from Martimah Headley and 16 from Govin Persaud, MMM reached 134 in 16.1 overs.

David Dick, Chandrika Persaud and Jamian Grosvenor captured three wickets each for GNIC, who were restricted to 118 in 19.4 overs. Persaud (27) and Grosvenor (18) were the only batters to pass 15, as Amir Khan (4-20) and Oswald Benn (2-14) led the bowling for MMM.

In the afternoon game at Malteenoes, the home team made 152-8 off 20 overs, with Nickosie Barker hitting six fours and four sixes in a 42-ball 69. He shared in a solid opening partnership with Adrian Hinds, who reached the boundary twice in his 20 runs. Marcus Watkins (17) and Jamal Jerrick

(11) were the other batters to reach double figures.

Anil Singh took 3-17 and was supported by Totaram Soohnanan, who had 2-40, but Bel Air Rubis replied with 127-7 from their 20 overs. Captain Andy Lall hit five fours and a six in 35. He got some back-up from Sachin Sahadeo, who made 21 with a six and a four. Jonte Thomas captured 3-18 for Malteenoes.

At DCC, Positive Foundation Agricola were beaten by El Dorado by three wickets. Agricola made 134-7 in 20 overs with Rickford Mohammed (41), Lorenzo Chesney (23) and Leon Crawford (19). Ntini Permaul, Anand Bharat and Timothy Richmond captured two wickets each.

El Dorado replied with 135-7 in 16.1 overs as Ricky Sargent scored 68 from 35 balls with five fours and six sixes. Mark Sharma (18) and Feaz Mustapha (12) supported. Deonarine Thakurdyal bagged 5-15, while Mohammed supported with 2-41.

In the afternoon game at DCC, DCC beat Ace Warriors by four wickets in another match where the batting lacked substance. The visitors were bowled out for a paltry 73 in 12.4 overs.

Nkosi Whytes (21) and skipper Murtland Ward (10) were the only batters to reach double figures. Kaylon Callender (5-23) and Ricardo Percival (422) shared nine wickets between them for the hosts, who slipped to 52-6 before recovering to 76-6 in 10.2 overs.

Jaden Dowlin hit a confident unbeaten 31 from 18 balls to see the Queenstown side home, while Junior Phillips had 3-8 in a losing effort.

The GCA cricket continues today with matches in the Enline Security Logistics 50-over U-17 tournament.

Rajasthan keen to shield Sooryavanshi from media glare

NEW DELHI, (Reuters) - Rajasthan Royals will thrust Vaibhav Sooryavanshi into the spotlight when he opens the batting with Yashasvi Jaiswal this season but captain Riyan Parag is keen to shield the teenage prodigy from the media glare as much as possible.

Rajasthan begin their new Indian Premier League (IPL) campaign against five-time champions Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati on March 30 and all eyes will be on Sooryavanshi, who turns 15 next week, following his sensational IPL debut last season.

Replacing an injured Sanju Samson in the second half of the tournament, Sooryavanshi ⁠hit the first IPL ball he faced for a six against Lucknow Super Giants, and smashed a 35-ball hundred against Gujarat Titans in another match.

Sooryavanshi was also the architect of India’s victory at the Under-19 World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia earlier this year. The left-hander smashed 175 off 80 balls in the final against England and ended the tournament with a record 30 sixes.

With last season’s skipper Samson moving to Chennai Super Kings, Sooryavanshi will remain the opening partner of India batter Jaiswal, who ⁠would absorb the pressure at the top of the order, Parag said.

“This year, there will be hype and pressure naturally, but as a captain, I will tell him (Sooryavanshi) to let Yashasvi Jaiswal take the pressure,”

Parag told reporters on Thursday. “Jaiswal is more than capable of handling ⁠that. For Vaibhav, the role will be just to go, hit, and not to worry.”

Sooryavanshi, who scored at a 206-plus strike rate last season, has recently said he was targeting Chris ⁠Gayle’s 175 not out for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, which remains the IPL’s highest individual score.

Parag said he would try to keep Sooryavanshi away from media assignments and let ⁠him focus on playing his natural game.

“As a captain, I will tell him not to do many press conferences, not interact with the media much, just enjoy,” Parag said.

Paul Stirling resigns as Ireland’s T20I captain

PAUL Stirling has stepped down as captain of Ireland’s men’s T20I team with immediate effect. The decision was announced more than a month after Ireland’s campaign at the T20 World Cup ended.

Stirling’s own campaign was cut short by a right knee injury that he picked up during Ireland’s heavy defeat to Australia in Colombo. He was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament, with Lorcan Tucker assuming captaincy duties thereafter.

“It has been a tremendous honour to lead Ireland in this format and something I have been incredibly proud to do. Captaining your country is a privilege that carries great responsibility, and I’m very grateful for the trust and support I have received during my time in the role,” the 35-year old Stirling said in a statement.

Stirling reiterated that he will stay on as ODI captain, however, with an eye on securing Ireland’s berth in next year’s

World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Stirling led Ireland in 48 T20Is, of which the team won 20 matches and lost 26 with two no-results. Stirling, the most capped player in men’s T20I history with 163 games, remains Ireland’s leading run-getter in the format, with only four batters worldwide tallying more than his 3895 runs. (Cricbuzz)

Regal, Parika Legends wrap up Florida Cup preparations today

BOTH Regal and Parika Legends will wrap up their preparations for the Florida Cup, which gets underway in the Sunshine State on Friday, with a feature 20-over softball clash at the GYO ground today, starting at 11:00 hrs.

The only two representative teams from Guyana to feature in the biennial tournament are drawn in separate groups of five in the 10-team Over-50 category and their first aim is to reach the semi-final stages which will see the top two teams advancing from the respective groups.

Today’s game also bears bragging rights with Regal Legends dominating the last two fixtures, the one played late last year at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary for the Unity Cup and the latter at

GYO last Sunday.

While Stanley Mohabir and then skipper Uniss Yusuf were the stars with bat and ball respectively in the Unity Cup, recently-appointed captain, David Harper, bowled impressively last week to claim four wickets for 15 runs in 2.5 overs before retiring hurt with a slight niggle.

Regal Legends welcome the return of stylish middle-order batsman, Khemchand Dindyal, who was out for more than a year through illness but showed signs that he’s back to full fitness in last Sunday’s encounter versus Parika Defenders at the same venue.

Trophies for today’s encounter are being sponsored by Regal Stationery & Computer Centre of Seaforth Street, Campbellville, through

its managing director, Mahendra “Anil” Hardyal.

Meanwhile, Regal Legends have announced their star-studded 15man squad for the Florida Cup with David Harper having his first overseas sojourn as captain, succeeding Yusuf, based on the rotation policy adopted by the Campbellville-based team.

• The 15-man squad comprises: David Harper (captain), Mohendra Arjune, Eon Abel, Jagdish Persaud, Nandram Samlall, Stanley Mohabir, Richard Driffield, Troy Gobin, Mahendra “Bobby” Parasnauth, Parsram Persaud, Uniss Yusuf, Roy Persaud, Rudolph Baker, Surujdeo Ramdeen and Khemchand Dindyal.

JFF and Adidas agree to lucrative long-term deal

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC)

– The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) and sporting giant Adidas have reportedly agreed to a new long-term contract set to run until 2034.

The German apparel giant’s four-year sponsorship deal was due to expire at the end of December, but has committed to a further eight years, with the new deal to begin next January.

According to the Jamaica Observer, the new deal, which covers cash and equipment for Jamaica’s senior and junior teams, could be worth over $2 billion, plus royalties earned from jersey sales.

The deal comes despite the Reggae Boyz not being guaranteed a spot at this summer’s FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

However, Adidas is expected

President’s College captures inaugural Schools Basketball League

President’s College (PC) are the inaugural champions of the Coaches Led Schools Basketball League, which concluded on Friday at the Marian Academy Basketball Court.

President’s College finished as clear winners after claiming eight of their 10 outings to finish with 18 points. Second place went to Queen’s College with 16 points after six wins in 10 matches. Third place went to the Government Technical Institute, also with six wins in the six-team league.

In the final outing on Friday, St Stanislaus College earned a hard-fought 67-35

victory over host Marian Academy.

Saints took the lead after the first period, 17-10, and never looked back, going into the break ahead 26-16.

The second half saw Saints step on the gas even more as they outscored Marian Academy 15-8 in the third period and 26-11 in the fourth to secure a 32-point win.

Saints were led by Demetri Crandon, who scored 22 points and grabbed four rebounds, while Ralston Pollard chipped in with 18 points. On the losing side, Lucas Pinol led with 17 points and three steals.

to have a global presence this year with Jamaica at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar and potentially in 2027 as the Reggae Girlz eye their third consecutive Women’s World Cup.

Jamaica has become one of Adidas’ highest-earning national teams in kit sales, as recently seen with their Bob Marley collection in partnership with the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation.

Zeeburg, Charity Secondary Schools kick off championship with wins

ZEEBURG and Charity Secondary Schools captured wins when the Massy Schools U-18 football tournament kicked off on Saturday at the Queen’s College ground.

The opening clash saw Zeeburg kicking off their campaign with a 2-0 win over Hope Secondary.

Also in the winner’s row was Charity Secondary, who was led by a double from Johny Smith to a 2-1 win over Vryman’s Erven Secondary.

Westminster drew with St Joseph High School, and East Ruimveldt battled with Patentia Secondary, ending in a 2-2 draw.

In the opening ceremony, co-director of the Petra Organisation, Troy Mendonca, encouraged the youngsters to make the most of the intense football competition.

“For you, the player, you have 10 days of riveting football, where you are going to be supporting each other, playing together, making new friends, and competing against teams. This tournament is foundational in nature in that it, along with our Under-11 tournament, is the longest tournament that we have.

Many youngsters that came through this tournament went on to be leaders in their own rights, universities, careers and national players.”

Massy’s Brand Specialist, Tyler Suchit, welcomed the student athletes to this year’s

Shaw’s record hat-trick moves Man City closer to WSL title

MANCHESTER, England, (CMC) –Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw scored a superb first-half hat-trick as Manchester City inched closer to the Women’s Super League (WSL) title with a 5-2 trouncing of Tottenham Hotspur here on Saturday.

The Jamaican international found the back of the net in the eighth, 18th and 21st minutes, making it the fastest hat-trick in WSL history and her fourth successive one against Tottenham at home in the league.

It also extended Shaw’s lead as the top goalscorer, carrying her tally for the season to 18 goals from 18 WSL matches.

Goals from Brazilian Kerolin in the 37th minute and a 45th minute own goal, then helped City secure a comfortable victory.

All three of Shaw’s goals were headers as

Tottenham could not handle City’s set-pieces and were easily beaten in the air.

Tottenham drew level after Shaw’s first strike, when Olivia Holdt snuck in behind City’s backline to make it 1-1 in the 15th minute, before Shaw reestablished City’s lead three minutes later.

Kerolin scooped in Lauren Hemp’s pullback and City had five goals before half-time when Amanda Nilden deflected Vivianne Miedema’s header into her own net.

With the win, City moved eight points clear at the top of the WSL table to 46 points from 18 matches, with Manchester United second on 38 points and defending champions Chelsea third on 37 points.

Arsenal are fourth on 35 points but have two games in hand.

competition as he emphasised the importance of the competition.

“Today (Saturday) is about much more than football; it is about discipline, teamwork and the drive to be your best. I am excited to know this philosophy is shared by the brand

sponsors of this tournament: Milo, Tang, Ocean Spray, Cremée and Nature Valley, Club Social and Orchard. Now to the players: give it your all. To the coaches and supporters: thank you for guiding and inspiring these future stars.”

Meanwhile, today, Round one continues with another eight encounters among some of the best teams in the country.

Defending champions, Chase Academic Foundation, will make their first appearance against The Bishops’ High School in what is expected to be a mouthwatering contest at 14.00 hrs.

Anna Regina firstly lines up against President’s College, and then West Demerara Secondary plays Brickdam Secondary. Carmel Secondary also gets into action against Bartica Secondary, with Mackenzie High School and Annandale Secondary also locking horns. Good Hope Secondary and New Amsterdam Secondary teams take to the field at the same time.

Santa Rosa, former champions, then play St Stanislaus College and New Central High tackles Lodge Secondary.

Last year’s COP T20 Cup finalists set for another epic showdown

DEFENDING champions Headquarters and last year’s finalists GPF Officers are set to clash in the final of the Commissioner of Police T20 Cup 2026, with the date for the epic showdown yet to be announced.

The highly anticipated encounter will be a repeat of last year’s clash, as two of the competition’s strongest teams once again prepare to battle for the coveted title.

While Headquarters will be aiming to successfully defend their crown, GPF Officers will be determined to go one step further this year and lift the trophy.

Both Headquarters and GPF Officers have so far remained unbeaten in this year’s tournament and are the only two teams to have maintained perfect records in the Super 4 stage. Headquarters have played two matches, won both, and sit on four points with an impressive Net Run Rate of +6.000. GPF Officers have also played two matches, won both, and have accumulated four points with a positive Net Run Rate.

Region 3, meanwhile, have played two matches and lost both, while Region 6 have also played two and lost two. As a result, Region 3 and Region 6 will now face off in the third-place playoff.

With the two unbeaten sides set to meet in the final, fans can now look forward to another thrilling chapter in what is shaping up to be a memorable Commissioner of Police T20 Cup campaign. (GPF)