Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 25-04-2026.

George’s University joins Guyana-led Global Biodiversity Alliance

St George’s University is now officially a member of the Global Biodiversity Alliance (GBA). President, Dr Irfaan Ali presented the certificate of membership to the university’s President, Dr Marios Loukas, during a simple ceremony at State House. With this step, the university joins a growing network of more than 120 member organisations and countries, including Germany and the United Nations, whose membership was recently accepted. The President thanked the university for its commitment and interest. By joining, it is taking an important step towards advancing a shared global mission (Office of the President)

Private sector pivotal to Guyana maintaining competitive edge on the world market –– Agriculture Minister says

Gov’t action unlocks massive financing for private sector

–– as IDB Invest pumps over US$260M into local projects, eyes over US$300M in new opportunities

AS the partnership between the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and Guyana continues to evolve further with more development projects underway in the country, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance Dr Ashni Singh, recently hosted a round-table meeting on the occasion of a visit to Guyana by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IDB Invest James Scriven.

The meeting provided a platform for representatives

historically been the largest provider of development finance to Guyana.

He also noted that this private sector arm of the bank recognises the importance of the mobilisation and deployment of private financing as an indispensable contributor to the realisation of the hemisphere’s economic growth aspirations.

“For a very long time, I spent every available opportunity advocating that IDB Invest do even some businesses in Guyana and for many years, it did little

involvement, IDB Invest has now approved US$264 million worth of financing for private-sector projects and these range across an extremely broad spectrum of sectors,” Minister Singh added.

Following the roundtable discussion, Scriven and team, accompanied by Ministry of Finance officials, toured some project sites for which the IDB Invest had provided financing support.

The first site the team

See page 4

of the local private sector and IDB Invest to discuss further investment opportunities in the country and how the institution can assist businesses in terms of their investments to contribute to the country’s rapidly growing economy.

CEO Scriven was on a two-day visit and while in the country, met with President Irfaan Ali.

He also toured a number of project sites and participated in the grand opening of the Four Points Sheraton Hotel.

During the round-table discussion, Minister Singh welcomed the CEO to Guyana on behalf of President Ali and all Guyanese, and explained that the IDB is the premier hemispheric development institution and has

or no business with only four transactions totalling US$6 million being completed in the entire first three decades of Guyana’s membership of the IDB,” Minister Singh related.

He noted, however, that in 2020 when President Ali assumed the presidency, government immediately set about re-engaging with IDB-Invest and invited the institution to establish and ramp up a presence in Guyana, recognising that the rate of economic growth would be creating private investment opportunities.

“…and I am extremely pleased to say that in the space of the five and a half years that elapsed since then, under James’ leadership and I know with his

Gov’t action unlocks massive...

visited was Demerara Distillers Limited for which the IDB Invest in 2020 provided US$22 million to support food security by financing the expansion of milk and fruit juice production capacity, along with another US$7 million in 2023 to further boost production and diversification of agro-processing operations.

Additionally, the team toured Muneshwers Limited where in 2022, the IDB Invest provided US$4 million for the procurement of a mobile harbour crane to increase port-terminal capacity, and in 2023, an additional US$10 million for the expansion of port and warehouse facilities.

The IDB Invest has also partnered with Guyana’s private sector through the provision of financing for a number of other projects, including US$45 million in 2023 towards Unicomer Guyana Inc.’s sustainable commercial complex that

will employ micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in local supply chains; US$30 million in 2024 towards One Communications connectivity and networking infrastructure; US$5 million in 2025 to the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) to assist in expanding access to financing for micro and small enterprises (MSEs); as well as US$55 million under its Trade Finance Facilitation Programme to provide working capital and liquidity to commercial banks including Republic Bank Guyana Limited, Demerara Bank Limited and the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI).

The visit culminated with Minister Singh and the IDB Invest CEO joining President Ali for the grand opening of the 172-room Four Points Sheraton Hotel owned by Mauricio Van Dam, for which the IDB Invest pro-

vided financing of US$18 million towards its construction.

DELIBERATE ACTION

While delivering the feature address, President Ali said, “Guyana’s future is bright not by accident but by action, not by chance but by choice, not by rhetoric but by results.

Under my administration, development in Guyana will be continuous because we have the right vision, the right policies, the right team, and the support of the Guyanese people, and importantly, we are building the right partnerships”.

He added that those who invest in Guyana today are not taking a gamble of uncertainty they are placing confidence in one of the most exciting growth stories of the world.

“To the team of Four Points Sheraton, thank you for believing in Guyana, thank you for investing

in Guyana, thank you for helping to build Guyana!

“This hotel is more than an impressive structure, it is a statement, it says Guyana is moving, it is growing and attracting talent and opportunity,” President Ali added, noting that Guyana is experiencing a wave of construction and transformation like never seen before and that the country is readying itself for a boom in tourism, road improvement and expansion, an expansion of air connectivity, a strengthening of security and an increase in quality of services among many other developments underway. soon to come.

Minister Singh, while delivering remarks recalled that President Ali’s vision for all that is happening currently started since when he was Minister of Housing and Water and Minister of Tourism, as at that time ‘he already had a map with every dam in every cane field mapped out with remark -

able clarity’.

“So today when we fast forward to 2026 and we hear conversations about the dozens of hotels that are being opened up and the thousands of rooms that are being created, and the thousands upon thousands of jobs that are being created in the tourism and hospitality sector, I can’t help but cast my mind back to that period when these ideas were being conceptualised, with the clarity with which they were being conceptualised and with a vision that really today makes me wonder about how much of it was foresight and fortuitous circumstances.

“Of course, the discovery of oil did help and will continue to help, but I want really to make the point to all of you today that we did not get here by accident and we did not get here only because of oil,” the finance minister explained.

CEO of IDB Invest

James Scriven in his remarks said the opening of the hotel marks a significant milestone in sustainable development and investor confidence.

He highlighted that his two-day visit to Guyana had already surfaced new

investment opportunities exceeding US$300 million.

Scriven also noted that the hotel is setting a new regional standard for eco-friendly luxury and is anticipated to be the first EDGE Advanced certified hotel in Guyana and potentially in all the Caribbean.

“You are leading sustainable tourism by featuring a large solar roof footprint and energy-efficient design, and the hotel aligns perfectly with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy,” Scriven pointed out.

In attendance also at the opening of the new hotel were Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues.

Joining the CEO on his visit to Guyana were the Managing Director for the Caribbean Region, Darryl White and the Director of the Caribbean Region, Corporates Division, Isabel de Caires, of the IDB Invest, as well as the Executive Director for the Caribbean at the IDB, Navita Ramroop, and the IDB’s Country Representative, Lorena Solórzano Salazar

Vendors to relocate as Dennis Street rehabilitation gains momentum

IN a proactive step to advance the ongoing rehabilitation of Dennis Street, Minister of Public Works

Bishop Juan Edghill recently convened a meeting in the Ministry’s boardroom with vendors currently operating along the corridor in the vicinity of ‘C’ Field, Sophia.

The primary objective of the engagement, according to the Ministry of Public Works, was to establish a clear and mutually beneficial path forward, ensuring that the vendors’ economic activities remain completely undisrupted as critical roadworks continue.

During the discussions,

Minister Edghill announced that within two weeks, the vendors will be smoothly transitioned to a newly-constructed designated tarmac prepared specifically for them by the Ministry. To guarantee fairness, a transparent lottery system will be utilised to allocate the new vending spaces, with the ministry offering additional transition support on a needs basis.

Emphasising the project’s strict timelines and the necessity for swift cooperation, Minister Edghill stated: “Once you pull your number for your spot, you must move to the tarmac by the following day, because

the road will be handed over to the contractor, and all hindrances in the path of the project will be removed for the continuation of the road.”

Beyond the immediate logistics of the relocation, the minister underscored the importance of establishing a high standard for the new vending area’s aesthetics, challenging the business owners to elevate their operations.

“This can’t be a shanty town operation, therefore I encourage all of you to utilise the Development Bank loan to beautify your space as a long-term goal for your respective businesses,” he

VP Jagdeo meets King Charles at Dumfries House

VICE President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo met with King Charles III at Dumfries House in Scotland on Tuesday, 21 April, 2026.

According to a press release, he also participated in engagements with The King’s Foundation and representatives from across the Commonwealth, focused on advancing sustainable development, low-carbon growth, and practical solutions for vulnerable countries.

The Vice President further met with the King’s Foundation team supporting Guyana’s programme to advance sustainable urban development.

The vendors responded positively to the directive, pledging their full support for the upcoming relocation exercise, and welcoming the financial initiative pitched by the minister to help grow their enterprises.

The relocation exercise is a necessary component

of the wider infrastructural transformation taking place in the Sophia area.

Dennis Street is currently undergoing a major upgrade, from the Eastern Highway heading east to Red Road (also known as ‘E’ Field, Sophia). This is being executed simultaneously with ongoing works

on the internal main access points for various fields, including ‘B’ and ‘C’. Upon completion, this major upgraded artery will boast two widened lanes, significantly improved drainage systems, and the complete rehabilitation of several bridges along the alignment.

All academics should reject V-Dem vulgarities Vision Restored

SIXTEEN Guyanese can now see better, thanks to a recent eye surgery mission at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

That is a big deal. There are people behind those numbers whose lives have been changed in a big way.

They can go back to work, become independent again, and reconnect with the world around them.

This is a big step forward, but it also raises a more important question: How can Guyana build on this progress to make sure that advanced eye care is not just a one-time thing, but a permanent national standard?

When the GPHC works with a specialist team from Duke University, it shows what can happen when international partnerships work with local knowledge.

Over the course of several days, a planned schedule of pre-operative evaluations, surgical procedures, and training sessions led to 16 successful corneal transplants.

These aren’t normal operations. Corneal transplant surgery needs exactness, specialised training, and careful care before, during, and after the surgery.

That these kinds of procedures are being done in the area is a sign that the public health system is making real progress.

What happened outside of the operating room is just as important, though. The mission included wet-lab training, continuing medical education sessions, and classroom instruction for nurses. This emphasis on transferring knowledge is very important.

Visiting teams can help for a short time, but long-term healthcare depends on building up the capacity of the people who work there.

Guyana is getting closer to relying less on outside missions, and making sure that people can always get specialised care by training doctors, technicians, and nurses.

Local leadership, especially the work of GPHC’s ophthalmology team, also shows a change in capability.

When local specialists are not just helping but also planning and carrying out complicated procedures, it shows that the health system is changing. The need for more expert help in handling difficult cases shows how important it is to build a strong and cooperative medical network in the country.

But the bigger picture can’t be ignored. Corneal disease is still a major cause of vision loss, and getting transplant surgery is hard because of things like the availability of donor tissue, the infrastructure, and the need for long-term follow-up care.

For every patient who benefits from a successful transplant, there are others still waiting, some are losing their sight without saying anything because their conditions can be treated.

This is where national policy and planning need to be clearer. To grow ophthalmic services, we need more than just missions every now and then.

It needs a lot of money spent on equip-

ment, training, and getting the word out to the public.

It also calls for making systems like eye banking and donor programmes stronger, which are important for making corneal transplants more widely available.

We should also think about the social side of things. Loss of vision impacts not only individuals but also families, workplaces, and communities.

Bringing back sight is not only a medical procedure; it is also an economic and social one.

Every patient who gets their sight back means more work, less dependence, and a better quality of life.

The recent success at the GPHC should be seen as both a victory and a reason to act. It shows that Guyana can provide high-quality, specialised care.

The next step is to make sure that this kind of care is routine, easy to get, and lasts. It shouldn’t be a matter of chance whether or not someone can see again.

IN my last Wednesday piece, I looked at the Kaieteur News (KN) assigning an entire page to the 2026 global democracy assessment of an organisation at a university in Sweden named Varieties of Democracy Institute.

There is no need to repeat sections of that Wednesday column, so I will move on to the comparative assessment section of the report. This is where countries are categorised as being more and less democratic. Once you follow world political trends, then it is clear to a university freshman in the social sciences that this institute’s work is not only highly suspicious, but may in fact be made of bogus stuff.

The democratic comparisons simply make no sense. Obvious editorial incompetence and a colonial mentality allowed Kaieteur News to devote an entire page to this bogus institute. I called KN’s editor, Arianna Gordon, to get a comment from her as to her judgement in giving a whole page spread to the V-Dem nonsense. She said she was at a meeting and will get back to me. She never did.

V-Dem listed 31 countries that are the world’s most democratic states. Of that 31, 22 are White countries. Of that 31, 20 are European. Australia heads the list as the most democratic. Now what social, legal and political structure Australia has that the other 30 do not. What things in Australia make it more democratic than the rest of world? What exactly are these things?

The fraud in the V-Dem publication is that it does not explain its ratings. So, the researcher will never know why Australia is numero uno. But does Australia deserve its top spot? Australia is one of the world’s

most shameless violators of international laws governing refugee treatment.

They forcefully remove refugees and send them to an island in the South Pacific. Australia is one of the White countries of the world that is known to be racist.

The V-Dem farce becomes more intriguing because if Australia commits these two immoral things and is yet at the top, then logical deduction will inform you that the other 30 states commit greater immoralities than Australia. Interestingly, Ireland has a more humane approach to refugees and Ireland is generally viewed by the non-White races of the world as the least racist White country.

So, it begs the question – why is Australia number one and not Ireland? Could it be rule of law, right to free speech, freedom of the press, governmental accountability, governmental transparency, etc…? It cannot be! Ireland is on par with any democratic country in the characteristics listed above. So why is Australia above it?

The more you examine V-Dem research, the more it stares you in the face that this is a con job. Canada is not in the highest bracket of liberal democracy. It is situated in the second-bracket electoral democracy. This V-Dem thing is a circus. Canada in every area of national life is more democratic than all of the countries of Europe.

Canada is less racist than all of the European countries that are in the upper bracket of democracy. Canada is number two on the list of electoral democracies. Brazil is on top. In every aspect of governance, Canada is more democratic that Brazil. The average policeman in Canada

is an angel compared to his counterpart in Brazil.

The fraud and racist bias of the V-Dem institute gets uglier when you look at the third category which is given the title electoral autocracies.

The highest classification is liberal democracy, then, below that is electoral democracy. Then there is electoral autocracy. It is when you come to examining this category, you see the nastiness in the V-Dem research.

India is listed as a country in the category of electoral autocracy. Can you believe that Israel is classified as a more democratic state than India? Let’s do some logical deduction. The central government of India’s policy towards Muslims in India could have led to India being deemed an electoral autocracy. But Israel’s genocidal brutality of the Palestinian is a crime against humanity.

How, given its anti-civilisation re -

cord, Israel is listed by V-Dem as more democratic than the following countries –Guyana, Jamaica, Greece, the Dominican Republic, Suriname, Portugal, and dozens of other nations.

So, what makes V-Dem report an immoral, degenerate act of dishonesty? Three reasons stand out: one is that there is no research done in 90 percent of the countries V-Dem reports on. Secondly, and this is closely tied up with number one, V-Dem is involved in cut and paste. Many of the countries V-Dem reports on is done through cut and paste without research personnel living in the countries themselves.

Thirdly, V-Dem is simply Eurocentric, so Europe will always come out on top.

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.

Water at refilling station exceeds WHO standards for consumption

–– frequent testing to be conducted, Minister Indar affirms

THE GUYANA Water Incorporated (GWI) has announced the successful re-opening of the Pouderoyen Bottle Refilling Station, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing nationwide initiative to improve access to clean, safe, and affordable water for all citizens.

The re-opening event, held on Friday, welcomed residents, community leaders, and stakeholders who gathered to witness the relaunch of the upgraded facility.

The station is now fully operational and equipped with modern infrastructure designed to deliver high-quality service efficiently and reliably.

As part of GWI’s commitment to accessibility and affordability, residents of Pouderoyen and other communities can now refill their five-gallon water bottles for a nominal fee of $100.

This initiative is expected to significantly ease the burden of accessing potable water, particularly for households and small businesses.

Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, stressed that these facilities are not meant to rival private water distributors,

but rather enhance potable water access for Guyanese as envisioned by President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

“It is not our intention to compete with the private sector. When prices for simple commodities, which is a sovereign right, become very expensive for poor people or any person to have access to quality water, we have to step in as a government,” he said.

The minister further assured residents that the quality of the water meets and exceeds the World Health Organization (WHO) standards for consumption.

“It is safe to consume. It is properly treated,” he affirmed.

Speaking at the event, GWI Chief Executive Officer Shaik Baksh emphasised that the Pouderoyen station is one of several refilling stations being rolled out across administrative regions nationwide.

These stations were strategically located on the basis of key criteria, including water quality from treatment plants, availability of adequate space, and accessibility to the public.

“They are all closely linked to water-treatment plants to ensure that you are getting the best quality

Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar samples the water water. We are testing all the time to ensure that the water is safe, clean and of a high quality,” he told attendees.

In addition to Pouderoyen, similar facilities will be established in areas such as Lima (Region Two), Vergenoegen and Wales (Region Three), Grove and Caledonia (Region Four – East Bank), Mon Repos and Bachelors Adventure (Region Four – East Coast), Vlissengen Road and Mandela Avenue (Region Four –Georgetown), Cotton Tree in Region Five, Sheet Anchor,

Port Mourant and Queenstown (Region Six), Central Bartica (Region Seven) and Amelia’s Ward in Region 10.

The Pouderoyen Bottle Refilling Station will operate daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Guyana Water Incorporated said it remains steadfast in its mission to enhance water-service delivery nationwide and will continue to expand this programme to reach more communities in the coming months.

Hospitality sector expansion key driver of Guyana’s economic transformation

–– Go-Invest CEO says

GUYANA’S Chief Investment Officer, Office of the President, and Member of Parliament, Dr Peter Ramsaroop, has emphasised the importance of Guyana’s growing hospitality sector to the country’s economy.

“A single hotel room can power an entire economy, and every sector in Guyana has a role to play,” Dr Ramsaroop said in his remarks at the opening of the Four Points by Sheraton Guyana on the Heroes Highway.

He addressed growing questions around the surge in hotel development and what it means

for the country.

The Chief Investment Officer said: “People ask what we’ll do with all these hotel rooms. I tell them each room is an economy. It feeds farmers, moves taxis, creates services, and drives events. The question isn’t rooms, the question is: are you part of the ecosystem around them?”

Dr Ramsaroop said that each room activates a full value chain, from agriculture and food supply to transport, entertainment and services, creating opportunities for Guyanese to participate and build ownership within the sector.

He further pointed out that farmers gain the opportunity to supply premium produce to meet rising hospitality demand, while

Dr Ramsaroop also linked this to the vision of President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, noting that over 1,000 new hotel rooms are expected in the next two years, including developments such as Hilton Georgetown and Hyatt Regency Georgetown, positioning Guyana for its next phase of growth.

“How do we own these services in the ecosystem?” he asked, pointing to the broader transformation taking shape along the Heroes Highway.

transport providers and creatives stand to benefit from increased visitor flows.

He emphasised that this expansion is in preparation for the country’s next economic boom, which the President has highlighted in his address through the development of the new industrial zone at Wales, including a second energy plant, glass-manufacturing facility, gas-bottling plant, and fertiliser production complex.

With infrastructure such as the Eccles to Ogle Road enhancing access to the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Dr Ramsaroop noted that what was once uncertain is now a prime corridor linking Guyana’s oil economy, aviation hub and expanding urban footprint.

He commended the developers for trusting the President’s vision, expressing confidence that the project will thrive as the country’s economic landscape continues to evolve.

Guyana showcases Indigenous healthcare advances at co-hosted high-level UN forum

healthcare access.

THE Government of Guyana, in partnership with Colombia, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and the National Toshaos Council (NTC), co-hosted a high-level side event during the 25th Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, highlighting efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in Indigenous communities through self-determination

The event, titled “Promoting Self-Determination while Advancing Quality Healthcare in Indigenous Communities”, brought together international stakeholders to examine inclusive, culturally grounded approaches to healthcare.

It was moderated by Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, while Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah

Browne-Shadeek underscored the importance of empowering Indigenous communities to shape policies affecting their well-being.

Presentations reflected a range of global and local perspectives. Colombia’s Deputy Permanent Representative Ambassador Raúl Sánchez addressed Indigenous health governance in conflict settings, while WHO’s Werner Obermeyer highlighted ongoing disparities in

Guyana’s contribution, delivered by Dr. Orin Lewis, emphasised the country’s commitment to integrating Indigenous voices into healthcare planning and delivery.

Additional contributions from government officials and NTC rep -

resentatives spotlighted grassroots initiatives, and the critical role of community leadership in advancing sustainable health outcomes.

The forum drew participation from delegations including Kenya, Nicaragua, Indonesia, Colombia, and Canada, along with

Guyanese civil society actors.

Notably, the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) commended Guyana for its significant progress in improving healthcare access and promoting self-determination among Indigenous populations.

FAO expands free public access to agrifood knowledge through collaboration on Wikipedia

THE Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Wikimedia Sverige and Wikimedia UK to expand public access to reliable information on food, agriculture and related topics.

The agreement provides a framework for collaboration with Wikimedia UK, the largest English language Wikimedia chapter, and Wikimedia Sverige, a lead member of the Wikimedia Content Partnerships Hub. Based in the UK and Sweden, respectively, the two non-profit organisations support free access to knowledge through Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons, and Wikidata as part of the global Wikimedia movement.

“Through its collaboration with Wikimedia partners, the FAO is bringing its high-quality, open-access knowledge to widely used platforms, strengthening information integrity while reaching global audiences through a community of volunteer editors and multilingual content,” said Yasmina Bouziane, Director of the FAO Office of Communications.

At its core, the partnership, which builds on an existing informal collaboration that was showcased at Expo 2025 as a best practice, is about sharing knowledge more effectively.

The FAO produces around 3000 publications every year, containing information and data on subjects such as food security,

agriculture, fisheries, forestry and nutrition. Since 2024, the FAO has made most of this content Open Access, available under the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY 4.0) licence, meaning that anyone can access and share it, providing they attribute the source.

Taking Open Access a step

nity, strengthen understanding of how the platforms work, and support sharing of knowledge across the 300+ languages represented in Wikipedia.

Contributing to information integrity and a healthy information ecosystem

further, the joint work represents a concrete endeavour to improve the presence of the FAO’s authoritative, evidence-based content on one of the world’s most widely consulted platforms, while supporting Wikipedia’s efforts to provide well-sourced, verified information.

The agreement seeks not only to contribute open text, images and data to the platform, but also to engage with the wider Wikimedia commu-

In today’s digital environment, access to reliable information is increasingly important. Open platforms such as Wikipedia play a central role in how knowledge is accessed and shared globally, including as a source for many digital tools and emerging technologies. In the context of artificial intelligence, where large volumes of information are drawn from open sources, the availability of accurate, human-curated content is essential to ensure quality and trust.

The agreement places FAO as one of the first United Nations agencies to formalise collaboration

with Wikimedia chapters, marking an important step in strengthening the connection between the UN system and open knowledge platforms. Through this partnership, FAO is taking a leading role in efforts to ensure that reliable, verified information is available in the places that people – and the digital tools that they use – search for it.

The initiative reflects FAO’s commitment to open access and its mandate to collect, analyse, interpret and disseminate information on food and agriculture.

The agreement will be implemented over an initial five-year period, supporting activities globally.

Its signature on World Book and Copyright Day further emphasises the value of making knowledge more accessible and widely shared. (FAO)

Long hours, stress, harassment causing hundreds of thousands of early deaths globally

–– UN labour agency says

MORE than 840,000 people die each year from health conditions linked to risks such as long working hours, job insecurity, workplace harassment and bullying, according to a new report by the International Labour Organization (ILO).

The way that jobs are designed, organised and managed has a major effect on the health and safety of workers, and, according to the study, –The psychosocial working environment: Global developments and pathways for action – the impact is growing, manifesting itself in rising rates of cardiovascular disease and mental disorders, including suicide.

The report’s authors

looked at three interrelated areas of work: the nature of the job (including the demands, responsibilities and tasks), how it is organised and managed and the broader workplace policies in place (such as performance and reward processes and rules preventing violence and harassment).

They estimated the figure of 840,000 deaths per year by looking at global levels of workplace risk factors: job strain, an imbalance between effort and reward, job insecurity, long working hours, bullying and harassment.

Scientific research shows how these risks increase the likelihood of serious health condi-

tions and the risk levels were matched with the latest global mortality and health data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Burden of Disease study to arrive at the number.

A SIGNIFICANT CHALLENGE

Many of these risks have been around for a long time, but the

problems or create new ones.

ILO is concerned by the effects of the current transformations that are taking place where we work.

These upheavals include digitalisation, AI, remote work and new job arrangements which – if not addressed properly – can intensify existing

“Psychosocial risks are becoming one of the most significant challenges for occupational safety and health in the modern world of work,” says Manal Azzi, Team Lead on OSH Policy and Systems at the ILO. “Improving the psychosocial working environment is essential not only for protecting workers’ mental and physical health, but also for strengthening productivity, organisational performance and sustainable economic development.”

CREATING A HEALTHIER WORKPLACE

The report emphasises that the risks and excess deaths, can be avoided if root causes are addressed, and if psychosocial risk management is integrated into occupational safety and health systems and supported by social dialogue between governments, employers and workers. By addressing the risks proactively, the report concludes, countries and enterprises can create healthier workplaces that benefit both workers and organisations – while strengthening productivity and economic resilience (UN News)

CARICOM pushes urgent action on food security threats

AGRICULTURE Minister and Chairman of the CARICOM Ministerial Taskforce on Food Security Zulfikar Mustapha has underscored the urgent need for coordinated regional action to address the impact of ongoing global conflicts on food and economic stability across the Caribbean.

The call was made during the first CARICOM Ministerial Taskforce on Food Security meeting for the second quarter of 2026, where representatives from across the region examined measures to mitigate the effects of global shocks arising from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, according to a press release from the Ministry of Agriculture.

Discussions highlighted that although the Caribbean is geographically distant from the conflict, the region

remains highly vulnerable to its ripple effects through rising energy prices, disruptions in fertiliser supply, increased shipping and logistics costs, escalating food prices, inflationary pressures, and exchange rate volatility.

Central to the discussions was the draft Regional Food Security Response Matrix, which provides a structured policy framework outlining both immediate coping mechanisms and medium-to-long-term strategies.

The framework emphasises the importance of a coordinated regional response to safeguard food systems and economic stability.

The framework highlighted that disruptions in fertiliser supply continue to increase production costs and reduce yields across the region. In the short-term, countries are being encour-

aged to promote alternative inputs, while long-term solutions include diversifying supply sources and investing in local production.

itising essential imports and longer-term strategies centred on developing regional shipping systems and establishing food reserves.

Minister Mustapha said the report highlighted several critical vulnerabilities affecting the region, particularly in relation to fertiliser availability and shipping and logistics.

“In Guyana, we are currently advancing plans to establish a fertiliser plant. This initiative will not only benefit Guyana but also the wider region. We are working to have the facility operational by the end of the year and are currently engaging stakeholders through expressions of interest for its construction,” the minister said.

Similarly, shipping disruptions have led to delays in imports and rising food prices, with immediate responses focused on prior-

He added that governments across the region have been taking proactive steps to support farmers and maintain production levels.

“Over the last two years,

we have been working closely with farmers by providing fertilizer and other agricultural inputs to reduce production costs and boost output. Other countries in the region have also implemented similar measures to cushion the effects of these global disruptions,” Minister Mustapha noted.

The minister further emphasised that the ongoing conflict poses systemic risks to both food and economic security, making it imperative for CARICOM member states to pursue immediate interventions alongside sustained investments in resilience and self-sufficiency.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the Regional Food Security Response Matrix was formally adopted and will be presented at the upcoming CARICOM Heads of Government meeting for further consideration.

GPHC partners with Duke University to complete 16 successful corneal transplants

THE Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

(GPHC), in collaboration with a specialist team

from Duke University, has successfully completed 16 corneal transplant surgeries, significantly

improving vision and quality of life for patients across Guyana. The initiative forms

part of the GPHC’s ongoing efforts to expand access to advanced ophthalmic care while strengthening local clinical capacity.

The mission commenced with a pre-operative clinic on Friday, during which patients were assessed and prepared for surgery.

On Sunday, both teams participated in a Continuing Medical Education (CME) session and wet lab aimed at enhancing surgical techniques and facilitating knowledge transfer. Surgical procedures were subsequently carried out from Monday through Thursday.

The visiting team included Dr. Sheena Song and Dr. Kayla White, both ophthalmologists and Fellows in Cornea and Refractive Surgery, along with ophthalmic technician Mr. Adam Moses. They worked

alongside GPHC’s Consultant Ophthalmologist

Dr. Hinds, who led local coordination, and provided surgical support throughout the mission. Additional expertise was provided by Dr. Bobb Semple, who assisted with a complex case.

In addition to the surgeries, the initiative placed strong emphasis on capacity building. Classroom-based training sessions were conducted with nursing staff after clinic hours, while Mr. Moses worked closely with theatre teams to strengthen perioperative practices, including patient preparation and instrumentation.

Corneal transplants, or keratoplasty, involve replacing damaged or diseased corneal tissue with healthy donor tissue to restore vision.

These procedures are

often necessary when vision loss cannot be corrected through medication or less invasive treatments, particularly in cases involving corneal scarring, keratoconus, or severe infections. For many patients, successful surgery can restore independence, enable a return to daily activities, and significantly improve overall well-being.

GPHC expressed appreciation to the Duke University team for their partnership and commitment, noting that such collaborations are critical to advancing specialised healthcare services in Guyana.

The mission highlights the growing integration of international expertise with local capacity, reinforcing efforts to deliver sustainable, high-quality care and restore sight to those in need.

Gov’t to roll out E-ID initiative in Yarrowkabra, surrounding communities

THE government is set to bring its E-ID card service directly to the residents of Yarrowkabra and surrounding communities.

Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally, made the announcement during a community engagement at the Hauraruni/ Yarrowkabra Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) on Friday.

He was accompanied by Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy.

“We are going to come to this community. I am going to work with Minister Kwame on a date, and we will come here to roll out the digital ID so all of you will have access to the digital ID card,” Minister Ally said.

The minister cautioned residents that some persons may attempt to

spread misinformation and discourage them from registering.

“There will be people who come and tell you how government wants access to all of your information. The only thing required to get the digital ID card is your original birth certificate, and you know we already have that information,” he explained.

The digital ID card is intended to make accessing services easier

The government is set to bring its E-ID card service directly to the residents of Yarrowkabra and surrounding communities

and more convenient for citizens.

Additionally, to help citizens book appointments, report issues, and access government services from the comfort of their homes, the government has launched the My Guyana Citizen Portal.

The platform is integrated with the E-ID card system, allowing for seamless access across services.

As part of its decentralisation drive, the government has also established Open Service centres across the country.

These centres are already operational in Regions Two, Three and Five.

Minister Ally announced that additional centres will soon be launched in Region Six and along the highway corridor.

Minister McCoy said the initiatives are critical to national development.

“We have to change our mindsets and adapt to the new level of standards and opportunities, and make optimal use of the opportunities available,” he said, while encouraging residents to take advantage of the new platforms. (DPI)

Sixteen young women showcase culinary skills at BIT exhibition

SIXTEEN young women on Thursday demonstrated their growing expertise in the culinary arts when the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) hosted a Commercial Food Preparation Exhibition, highlighting the achievements of participants from the programme’s second cohort.

The event, held on April 23, 2026, featured an extensive display of both traditional and contemporary dishes, reflecting the trainees’ practical skills, creativity, and readiness to enter the food industry. Attendees were treated to a wide variety of items, ranging from locally inspired processed products to pastries, baked goods, and savoury meals.

Among the standout products on display were Sowerie Achar, Hot Pepper Sauce, Green Apple Achar, and Tomato Achar. The exhibition also featured an assortment of pastries and baked items, including Cheese Rolls, Pine Tarts, Brownies, Salara, Cakes, Cheese Straws, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Coconut Buns, Cheesecake, Oreo Cheesecake, Croissants, and Gulab Jamun.

In addition to baked goods, the trainees show -

cased their versatility with savoury dishes such as Fried Rice, Sweet and Sour Chicken, Spanish Rice, and Chicken Sausage Pizza, demonstrating a balance of local flavours and international influences.

The programme was supported by Ms Sherryann Puran and administrators of the Life Hope Centre, while training was facilitated by Ms Bibi Dennis and Ms Rovena Harrinauth, who guided participants through both theoretical and hands-on components of the course.

Also in attendance were Senior Procurement Officer, Mr Kendy Cummings; Senior Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Ms Marcel Watson and Technical Officer, Ms Queenola Legall, who observed the trainees’ progress and engaged with participants during the exhibition.

BIT officials used the occasion to reaffirm their commitment to equipping individuals with practical, marketable skills, noting that initiatives such as the Commercial Food Preparation programme play a key role in fostering personal development, strengthening communities, and supporting national growth.

Sixteen young women on Thursday demonstrated their growing expertise in the culinary arts when the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) hosted a Commercial Food Preparation Exhibition, highlighting the achievements of participants from the programme’s second cohort

Private sector pivotal to Guyana maintaining competitive edge on the world market

–– Agriculture Minister says

ON Friday, Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha said that the private sector’s role remains critical, as greater investment is needed in processing, innovation, and market development in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

At the time, the minister

was delivering remarks at the Guyana Manufacturers and Services Association (GMSA) Annual General Meeting, which was held under the theme, ‘Positioning for Progress: Advancing Industries Together’.

Minister Mustapha had said that the agriculture, and

manufacturing and services sectors are no longer operating in silos, but instead are increasingly interdependent on each other, forming integrated value chains which drive economic growth, job creation and national resilience.

He commended the GMSA for consistently providing a platform where key stakeholders can enjoy meaningful activ-

ities, reflect on the progress and chart a strategic path forward for these sectors locally.

The minister posited that Guyana’s economy remains robust, with a projected overall growth of 16.2 per cent, and non-oil economic growth of 10.8 per cent in 2026. This non-oil growth is expected to be driven by construction, which is set to contribute 25.4

per cent, manufacturing 12.9 per cent, agriculture 7.9 per cent and services 6.8 per cent.

The agriculture head stated that much of this growth in the manufacturing sector is driven by agriculture. As the agriculture sector continues to contribute tremendously to Guyana’s development, Minister Mustapha highlighted current initiatives that are taking shape in this sector to boost offerings and opportunities around Guyana and the wider Caribbean community. These include the food hub at Yarrowkabra that is being built by Blumberg Grain at a sum of US$12million plus.

“In 2026, $745 million has been allocated to advance agro-processing initiatives. This will be complemented by a suite of progressive fiscal incentives, including zero per cent tariff on agro-processing inputs, special incentives, and a graduated corporate tax regime for agro-processors, expanding financing and co-investment opportunities,” the minister added.

He explained that these measures are designed to reduce production costs, as well as stimulate private investment, and position Guyana as a leader in value-added agri-business within the region.

The minister affirmed that as we expand into the regional and international markets, maintaining high standards of quality, safety and competitiveness will be essential for us.

“While the government continues to invest in infrastructure and production, the role of the private sector remains critical. Greater invest-

ment is needed in processing, innovation, and market development,” he said.

The minister assured his audience that over the next five years, the agriculture sectors will undergo significant modernisation, supported by investments in drainage and irrigation systems, farm-tomarket roads, research and extension services, infrastructure, and input support for farmers across Guyana.

He disclosed that digital transformation is also underway, with platforms such as the Agriculture Information System and the Farmers Connect app improving access to data and extension services, while the upcoming digital seafood market is set to connect fish folks directly with buyers.

“As we look ahead, inclusive development must remain a priority. Economic growth must benefit not only large enterprises, but also farmers, small and medium-sized businesses, and communities across the country,” the minister noted.

He urged the GMSA to look at ways it can improve its services, and how it could have a consistent education for members. He called on the Association to encourage its members to take up the opportunities that will come their way.

“Let us continue to work together to build a resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking economy, one in which agriculture, manufacturing, and services are fully integrated and mutually reinforcing,” he said.

The Hebei Acrobatic Troupe performs at Queen’s College

The internationally acclaimed Hebei Acrobatic Troupe paid a visit to Queen’s College on Friday, where both students and teachers were enthralled by their breathtaking theatrical presentation. The Chinese acrobats have so far made appearances in Regions Ten, Three, Six, and Two, and in Georgetown at the National Cultural Centre, and several schools. The troupe’s appearance in Guyana comes as our country celebrates its 60th Independence Anniversary. These performances coincide with the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, and 54 years of diplomatic relations between China and Guyana. The Hebei Acrobatic Troupe was founded in 1976, and has performed in over 80 countries and earned over 60 international awards. The performances of the troupe are being staged through a partnership between the Government of Guyana and the Chinese Embassy, with sponsorship from CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited (Sachin Persaud photos)

CCJ President addresses environmental rule of law at international conference

From left to right: Sharing the panel with Justice Anderson at COP4 were Watatakalu Yawalapiti, Coordinator of ATIX Müller and Co-Founder of the National Network of Indigenous Ancestral Warrior Women, Brazil; Mariana Boy Tamborrell, Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection, Mexico; Gomin Camacho, CEO, Ethnic Relations Commission, Guyana; and Jerusa Ali, Director-General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The Bahamas

PRESIDENT of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Justice Winston Anderson recently visited The Bahamas to speak on the role of the Escazú Agreement in promoting the Rule of Law in the Caribbean at the Fourth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Agreement (COP4).

According to a press release from the CCJ, COP4 was hosted by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). The conference was held for the first time in the Caribbean in Nassau, from 21 to 24 April 2026.

President Anderson was accompanied by Marlon Prince, officer in the Chambers of the President, and Justice Mira Dean-Armorer, Justice of Appeal of the Judiciary of Trinidad and Tobago, in her capacity as Deputy Chair of the CCJ Academy for Law.

At its recent Eighth Biennial Conference, held in Port of Spain in November 2025, the CCJ academy highlighted the importance of environmental justice to sustainable development.

The Escazú Agreement, adopted on March 4, 2018 in Escazú, Costa Rica, is a landmark regional treaty aimed at advancing environmental rights across Latin America and the Caribbean. It seeks to guarantee access to environmental information, promote public participation in environmental decision-making, and strengthen access to justice in environmental matters.

The concept of the en-

vironmental rule of law was first proposed in 2012 by the International Advisory Council to the United Nations Environment Programme, of which President Anderson is a founding member.

That same year, the concept was formally recognised by the international community at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Since then, it has served as a catalyst for governmental and institutional initiatives worldwide to protect and promote environmental interests.

The environmental rule of law integrates sustainable development within the general rule of law principle. It ensures that environmental laws are clear, enforceable, and applied equitably. Application and implementation frequently involve and are depended on procedural rights.

In reflecting on the significance of the Escazú Agreement at COP4, President Anderson noted that “The procedural guarantees in the Escazú Agreement are not abstract or merely legal commitments; they operate as economic markers and enablers.

By shifting access to information, public participation, and access to justice from theory to practice, the Agreement dictates how environmental decisions are made and how risks are measured and shared.

The Agreement thus brings the environmental rule of law closer to realisation”.

Ministry of Health, National Library host Senior Citizens Health Fest

THE National Library of Guyana and the Ministry of Health on Friday hosted a Senior Citizens Health Fest at the National Library of Guyana on Church Street, Georgetown.

The event was held under the theme, ‘Living Healthy, Living Longer,’ and reflected a meaningful collaboration between the ministry and the National Library, while underscoring a shared commitment to empowering individuals and communities with knowledge and practical tools to make healthier life choices.

The National Library firmly believes that access to information is essential

years and over. By 2050, the global population will double, reaching two billion people. As a result of this, we will see increased life expectancy.

“I must say that aging is not a crisis. It’s a testament to our progress and achievement in society. Our task is to ensure that long life is ensured, and that the long life that we benefit from is for the better. Guyana stands committed to advance healthy aging for all,” he said.

Meanwhile, the National School Health Coordinator at the Ministry of Education, Jessica Anthony, had extended congratulatory messages to the National

to empowering persons. Health literacy, the library said, is just as important as traditional literacy, where persons can understand how to care for their bodies, manage illnesses, maintain mental wellness, and make informed lifestyle choices, which are all part of living full, and vibrant lives.

The health fest featured several activities including screenings and consultations, demonstrations, and transformative sessions. Along with its partners such as the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, the library aims to bring vital services to all persons in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

The Director of Regional Health Services, Dr Cerdel McWatt, in his remarks said as the world transitions, the elderly population is increasing. This, he underscored, is why there is a need for systems to be put in place to deal with this.

He revealed that in the 2030 projections, a majority of the population will be 60

“Today’s activity reflects a critical shift in how we approach aging. It is no longer only about care in times of illness. It is about prevention, wellness, and quality

of life. It is about ensuring that our elderly population remains active, informed, and supported,” Dr Forte remarked.

The Permanent Secretary

Library for hosting such an initiative as part of its Senior Citizen Programme, adding that in doing this, the library continues to recognise that well-being is not just one-dimensional, it is mental, physical, and social.

“This kind of collaboration is so important because when institutions come together like this, we create spaces where people feel supported in very practical and impactful ways. At the Ministry of Education, we strongly believe in the importance of lifelong learning. Education does not stop when we leave school, it actually continues throughout our lives. And I believe that health education is a very critical part of that journey,” Ms Anthony said.

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Erica Forte, said senior citizens represent the foundation of our society; they are the teachers, builders, caregivers and quiet pillars who have shaped the communities we serve.

added that health, education, screenings, and engagement opportunities such as the one held on Friday help to empower seniors to take charge of their well-being.

She encouraged persons to continue to promote a culture where aging is not seen as decline, but as a stage of life that deserves investment.

Helmetless riding blamed for majority of motorcyclists deaths in 2026

–– calls grow for tougher penalties on helmet offenders

MOTORCYCLISTS who fail to wear safety helmets are contributing to a growing road-safety crisis in Guyana, with police reporting that the majority of riders killed in accidents this year were not using the basic protective gear required by law.

Data released by the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department shows that 14 motorcyclists have died in road fatalities so far in 2026.

Alarmingly, 11 of those

that helmets are not optional accessories but critical safety equipment designed to significantly reduce the severity of injuries in the event of a crash.

victims were not even in possession of a safety helmet, underscoring what authorities describe as a dangerous disregard for personal safety and traffic regulations.

Under the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act Chapter 51:02, operating a motorcycle without a safety helmet breaches Regulation 3 (1) and (3) of the Motorcycles (Protective Helmets) Regulations, while carrying a pillion rider without a helmet violates Regulation 3 (2) and (3). Both offences are ticketable, each carrying a fine of $5,000.

Despite these legal provisions, enforcement data indicates widespread non-compliance. The Traffic Department reported that 2,674 tickets (two thousand six hundred and seventy-four) have already been issued this year for helmet-related violations, reflecting persistent infractions on the nation’s roadways.

Police officials warn that many motorcyclists continue to underestimate the risks, often treating the existing fine as insignificant, while engaging in reckless behaviours, including stunt riding. The department stressed

In response, authorities have intensified a range of road-safety measures aimed at improving compliance and reducing fatalities. These include daily awareness campaigns and lectures for drivers across all regions, widespread dissemination of safety tips and periodic distribution of helmets at no cost. Enforcement efforts have also been ramped up through targeted regional exercises, staggered patrols and closer collaboration with stakeholders and communities.

Additionally, the department continues to enforce provisions under the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing (Amendment) Act 2022 as part of broader road-safety initiatives, particularly in addressing impaired driving. Officials are now advocating stricter penalties to deter violations. Proposals under consideration include increasing fines to a minimum of $50,000 for a first offence and $100,000 for repeat violations, or payment in lieu of prosecution.

The Traffic Department emphasised that responsibility ultimately lies with drivers, who must ensure not only their own compliance, but also that of any pillion riders.

With ongoing road development and evolving traffic conditions, authorities stress that adherence to safety measures is essential to safeguarding all road users.

Linden, Mahdia get solid waste management boost

–– with new garbage trucks from central gov’t

THE Government of Guyana on Friday handed over two garbage compactor trucks to the municipalities of Linden (Region 10) and Mahdia (Region Eight), further advancing efforts to improve solid-waste management and enhance service delivery within these communities.

The handing over was conducted by Deputy Permanent Secretary (Administration) of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Dr Josh

Kanhai, who was joined by Director of Sanitation, Satrohan Nauth, along with representatives of the respective townships.

This latest distribution brings the total number of garbage trucks distributed nationwide to 63, as the government continues its phased rollout to strengthen waste-collection systems and support local authorities across the country.

Region One has received a total of two trucks, including one for Port Kaituma and one for Mabaruma; Region

Two has received 10 trucks; Region Three has received 14 trucks; Region Five has received 10; Region Six has received 22, with 19 allocated to NDCs and three to municipalities. Region Nine has received two, one for an NDC and one for a municipality. Region Eight has now received one truck for the township of Mahdia, while Region 10 has received one for the township of Linden.

This brings the distribution to 55 NDCs and seven municipalities equipped with

This brings the distribution to 55 NDCs and seven municipalities equipped with garbage-compactor trucks garbage-compactor trucks.

The initiative forms part of the government’s broader

commitment to maintaining cleaner, healthier communities and ensuring that

development is reflected in the everyday lives of citizens across Guyana.

Bina Hill observes International World Book Day 2026

THE Bina Hill Institute at Annai, North Rupununi, on Thursday successfully hosted its first-ever observance of International World Book Day, bringing together students, teachers, and community members in a vibrant celebration of literature and learning.

The event was held under the theme, “Go All In” for the year of reading, in alignment with UNESCO’s global focus, “Read, Make Your Star Shine.”

The programme underscored the transformative power of books and reading as foundations for education, creativity, and personal growth, and featured an array of cultural and educational presentations, including dance, poetry, drama, songs, and storytelling.

Teachers and community leaders delivered

inspiring speeches, encouraging young people and children from Rupertee Primary to embrace reading as a life-long journey and a tool for empowerment.

By blending cultural expression with academic enrichment, the Bina Hill Youth Learning Centre reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a strong reading culture in Guyana’s hinterland communities.

The observance highlighted how books can ignite imagination, strengthen identity, and prepare indigenous youth for a brighter future.

Principal Medino Abraham said the Bina Hill Institute was established in 2001 through the vision of former Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs and Vice President, Sydney Allicock and provides technical and life-skills training for Indigenous youths aged 18 to 25 years, who live in Regions Seven, Eight, and Nine.

The institute, which receives subventions from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, currently has 26 students and five staff members under Abraham’s leadership.

A native of Santa Rosa, Moruca, Region One, Abraham was engaged in youth-development work at Aishalton, South Rupununi, before assuming his current role.

He explained that after completing training, students are encouraged to return to their villages to apply their new skills—creating and marketing craft products that generate incomes, while preserving Indigenous traditions.

Kohli, Padikkal hit 50s as RCB ace the chase against GT

AN exhibition of clean hitting by Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal ensured Sai Sudharsan's measured 100 off 58 balls ended in a losing cause as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) beat Gujarat Titans (GT) by five wickets at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

After winning the toss, RCB captain Rajat Patidar had no hesitation in putting GT in. Sudharsan laid a strong foundation on a pitch he described as “two-paced and sticky to start with.” But even when the surface

became easier to bat on, GT could not get into overdrive. They scored only 35 in the last four overs and finished on 205 for 3.

In response, Kohli, who was dropped on zero, smashed 81 off 44 balls and Padikkal blasted 55 off just 27. They put on 115 in 9.5 overs for the second wicket, and despite a bit of wobble towards the end, RCB romped home with seven balls to spare.

Sudharsan hogs the strike

The GT openers prefer to take as few risks as possible and it was no different on Friday. Sudharsan was circumspect at the start and was on 17 off 16 after three overs. But he found his timing after that and moved to 41 off 27 by the end of the fifth. Gill had faced just three balls till then. GT finished the powerplay on 57 for no loss.

Sudharsan gets inventive

Sudharsan went inventive after the powerplay, scooping Romario Shepherd for a six. When Krunal Pandya bowled a bouncer, he uppercut him over deep third. Later in the

over, he slog-swept the spinner for another six, reaching 2000 runs in the IPL. Taking 47 innings, he was the fastest to get there, bettering Chris Gayle's record by one. He and Gill added 128 in 12.4 overs, with Gill contributing 32 off 24 balls. The GT captain was starved of strike throughout his stay and holed out to long-on off Suyash Sharma. Sudharsan brought up his hundred off 57 balls, the slowest of the six so far this season. There was no cutting loose after reaching the milestone either. He was out on the very next ball he faced.

RCB put a lid on scoring rate

GT were 170 for 2 after 16 overs but Suyash, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Hazlewood gave away only 17 in the next three. At 187 for 3, Rasikh Salam ran in to bowl the final over but he stopped even before he could bowl a delivery. It looked like cramps and despite the physio working on him, he had to walk off the field. Krunal replaced him and was hit for a six by Jason Holder off the first ball. After another ball, Krunal too pulled out of his delivery stride holding his groin. But

after a bit of medical attention, he completed the over, but ended up leaking 18 runs.

Bethell falls early

With Phil Salt injured, Jacob Bethell finally got a chance to play this season. Opening the innings after coming in as Impact Player, he had a close shave in the second over. He got an inside edge to a length ball from Kagiso Rabada but it missed the stumps and beat Buttler for four. In the next over, he shuffled across and hit Mohammed Siraj for a four on either side of the wicket. But when he tried the same trick later in the over, he hit it straight to the backward point. He made 14 off ten.

The Kohli-Padikkal show

Kohli was dropped off the first ball he faced. It was a length delivery from Siraj that he flicked uppishly towards short midwicket but Washington Sundar grassed a regulation chance. Kohli made his intentions clear in the following over when he hit Rabada over mid-on for a four.

Padikkal was even more ruthless. He opened his account with a first-ball six, picking up a 153.6kph length ball from Rabada over square leg. The GT bowlers didn't help themselves by bowling onto his pads, and he kept flicking them fine for boundaries.

Rashid Khan wasn’t spared either. He dropped one short to Kohli and the batter duly pulled it over deep midwicket for a six before cutting the following delivery for four. In the spinner's second over, Padikkal hit him for two sixes, the second one taking him to his fifty off just 20 balls. It made Kohli's 30-ball fifty look pedestrian.

Rashid bowled Padikkal with a googly from around the wicket, and Kohli played Holder on but not before hitting the allrounder for back-to-back sixes.

Saturday, April 25th, 2026

225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Rashid Khan & Shubman Gill (GT) - 10 sixes each. (2) Faf du Plessis-36 sixes (RCB)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who effected most wicketkeeping dismissals in IPL 2023?

(2) Who took most catches (non-wicketkeeper)?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue.

CWI congratulates Taylor on ICC Umpire Panel appointment

CRICKET West Indies (CWI) proudly congratulates Jamaican umpire Christopher Mark Taylor on his appointment to the International Cricket Council (ICC) CWI International Panel of Umpires, effective April 1, 2026.

Taylor earned his promotion by being the most recent CWI official to successfully complete the ICC umpire accreditation process. Earlier this year the 45-year-old benefitted from valuable international exposure through the ICC Umpire Exchange Programme, officiating in Pakistan’s President’s Trophy Grade 1 competition, where his performance was rated as outstanding.

Speaking on his promotion, Taylor expressed both gratitude and pride in the journey that has brought him to this point.

“I’m humbled and honoured. I’ve been an official now for 20 years, because in 2006 is when I did my initial local examination alongside Jacqueline Williams, who is now an established and respected International Women’s Umpire. I remember starting when I was still in the corporate world and being introduced to the role by former first-class umpire Maurice Chung, and from there it has grown into something I truly love.”

He added that the road to this achievement required persistence and sacrifice.

“I’ve been on the regional second-tier panel from 2011, so it’s been a long and tough journey, but those tough times prepare you for what’s to come. So, I’m excited about it and looking forward to experiencing new things and putting all the work into practice.”

Taylor also used the moment to highlight the often-overlooked path of officiating and to encourage aspiring umpires across the region.

“Umpiring might not be seen as a glorious position because when persons are exposed to a sport it’s usually in the capacity of a player and not an official. In any sport officiating is always tough… but that builds character”, he said.

“There is opportunity in umpiring. It’s now a full career that you can dedicate yourself to, and I’d love to see younger persons

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

DONCASTER

11:35hrs Thanos

12:10hrs Proposal

12:45hrs Time To Take Off

13:15hrs Golden Muse

13:45hrs Al Azd

14:15hrs Sea Of Kings

14:45hrs Queen Of Good News

SANDOWN

08:13hrs La Luna Artista

08:45hrs Minella Yoga

getting into it, not only when they get into their 30s and 40s, but even thinking of it as an option when they’re 18 or 20 years old or coming out of university.”

CWI CEO, Chris Dehring, commended Taylor’s achievement, noting that his promotion is a proud moment for the region.

“Chris’ appointment reflects not only his personal commitment and professionalism, but also the strength of our officiating pathway. His recent international exposure and consistent performances have prepared him well for this step, and we are confident he will represent West Indies cricket with distinction.”

Taylor will commence the next phase of his officiating career by making his first appearance as an international umpire during the upcoming West Indies international home season.

09:20hrs Blow Uour Wad

09:55hrs Solness

10:30hrs In D’or

11:02hrs Kabral Du Mathan

11:40hrs Calimystic

12:15hrs Gnomon

HAYDOCK

08:25hrs Ravenspire

09:00hrs Symbol Of Majesty

09:35hrs Cerilean Bay

10:10hrs Winter Flowet

10:45hrs Strength Of Spirit

11:20hrs Paranjape

11:55hrs Fiscal Policy IRISH RACING

Regional franchise coaches applaud CWI’s Plans for High-Performance Campus at Coolidge in Antigua

FOR generations, the Caribbean blessed the cricket world with some of the most exciting icons of the game, from the swagger of Sir Vivian Richards to the lethal pace of Michael Holding and the effortless brilliance of Brian Lara.

That legacy remains unquestioned, but the global game has evolved. Across the cricketing world, nations have invested heavily in high-performance systems, sports science, and cutting-edge technology, raising the standard of preparation and performance at every level.

The reality for the Caribbean is clear; natural talent alone is no longer enough to consistently compete and dominate. To keep pace with the modern game, there must be a deliberate shift towards structured development, advanced facilities, and integrated support systems that match those of the world’s leading cricket nations.

Cricket West Indies, with the full backing of the Antigua & Barbuda government, is taking a decisive step in this direction by announcing its plans to develop a High-Performance Campus at the site of the Coolidge Cricket Ground, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem where elite sport, education, and commercial activity intersect.

For the coaches on the front lines of the ongoing West Indies Championship, this move has been applauded, with the view being expressed that it is critical to the future of West Indies cricket.

Robert Haynes, Jamaica Scorpions Head Coach and former selector, believes the planned facility is essential in bridging that gap.

“I think it’s a magnificent idea. When I was a selector, it was always spoken about

in terms of having something for the youngsters. I think it's a magnificent effort by the Antiguan government and Cricket West Indies to get this going because we need it.”

Haynes pointed to the widening gap between the Caribbean and other cricketing nations in terms of investment in elite development systems.

“With limited first-class games available, you need your younger players to be in a system that you can depend on because in international cricket, everybody else has a High-Performance centre.”

Windward Volcanoes Head Coach Keon Peters echoed that sentiment, noting that the region’s challenge is not a lack of ability, but the absence of the structures needed to maximise it.

“With the amount of talent that we have, for us to compete against the other international teams we must have this in place. We know resources have been difficult for us, and I think it's a good initiative by Cricket West Indies. It's never too late to start.”

Trinidad and Tobago Head Coach Rayad Emrit made the point that in addition to talent development, there is the issue of retention, highlighting the need for a stronger system to carry players beyond the youth level.

“I honestly think there's a lot of talent in the Caribbean coming through from Under-19, but after Under-19 a lot of them fade away and we don't get those core players coming through the system”, he said.

“I think we have enough players who have natural talent, and one of the main factors for us not producing the players that we thought we would have is the facilities.” he stated.

09:20hrs An Laochmor

08:55hrs Tribeca

09:30hrx Charles Darwin

10:05hrs Scandinavia

10:40hrs Emmeleia

11:15hrs Latin America

11:50hrs Obscenity

12:25hrs Celtic Druid

AMERICAN

Cricket West Indies Championship…

Harpy Eagles sit firmly atop rankings

THERE is a high level of anticipation surrounding the third and final round of bilateral matches in the West Indies Championship, with playoff spots still very much up for grabs.

This year’s format will see the team with the most points at the end of the bilateral series advance directly to the final from May 17–20, while the second and third-placed teams will face off in a playoff from May 10–14 for the remaining spot in the grand finale.

Reigning champions Guyana Harpy Eagles have signalled their intent early, securing two wins from their two matches to sit atop the standings with 43.2 points, ahead of Trinidad & Tobago Red Force on 37. The Jamaica Scorpions are currently third with 29.6 points, just edging the Barbados Pride on 19.8, with the two sides set to clash in their decisive series finale at Sabina Park.

Captain of the Guyana Harpy Eagles Tevin Imlach is urging against complacency as his team seeks to solidify their position at the top when they square off with the Windward Islands Volcanoes at Coolidge Cricket Ground.

“We will assess what that pitch looks like and then we will come up with our gameplan and how we want to go about things. This is how we play our cricket by wanting to focus on one game at a time because all we can control is what is in the present.”

Trinidad & Tobago Red Force have made one change to their squad, with spinner Ricky Jaipaul coming in to replace the rested Jayden Seales for the third round. Their opponents, Leeward Islands Hurricanes, have also adjusted their lineup, bringing in Cameron Pennyfeather in place of Jeremiah Louis.

Captain Joshua Da Silva expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, despite their previous match ending in a draw.

“The cricket we’ve been playing is fantastic, can’t really fault the boys for the effort that they have put in so far. Even though we will miss Jayden for the final match of the series, we have the depth in our squad to continue doing well.” Da Silva said.

With a maximum of 26 points available from a game, including bonus points, the Leeward Islands Hurricanes can reach as

high as 36.8 points, while the Windward Islands Volcanoes can climb to a possible 33.6.

While both teams remain mathematically in contention, their chances of securing a playoff spot are slim, particularly with the Jamaica

Scorpions and Barbados Pride facing each other, ensuring at least one direct competitor will gain crucial ground.

Ahead of the matchup, the Jamaica Scorpions have made two changes to their squad

from the previous round, with Brandon King and Alex Hinds coming in to replace Ojay Shields and Jeavor Royal.

Head coach Robert Haynes remains confident in the team’s preparation and planning as they look to secure another victory against their rivals at Sabina Park.

“We must improve on the catching because we dropped a few that cost us, maybe if we took those Barbados would’ve made no more than 400 or 300 runs, which would make for a more competitive better game”, Haynes shared.

“We are looking at the fast-bowling department in terms of the new ball and having more penetration to put the opposition on backfoot.”

Meanwhile the Pride’s head coach Vasbert Drakes believes his players are improving with each round and the third round could be the turning point for the squad.

“We want to continue playing decent cricket because from a batting perspective we are heading in the right trajectory and getting the scores where we can control Jamaica’s bowling. However, in the bowling department we need to find ways of nullifying their opening partnership which has been a major impact on their team.”

Following the opening rounds of matches, Kevin Wickham leads the run charts with 366 runs, while John Campbell (298) and Kirk McKenzie (290) round out the top three.

In the bowling department, Gudakesh Motie leads the pack with 16 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls. He is followed by Jayden Seales with 13 wickets and Peat Salmon with 10.

All the matches bowl off at 10am local time.

West Indies Championship Second Round:

Leeward Islands Hurricanes vs Trinidad & Tobago Red Force @ Antigua Recreation Ground.

Jamaica Scorpions vs Barbados Pride @ Sabina Park

Windward Islands Volcanoes vs Guyana Harpy Eagles @ Coolidge Cricket Ground

Linden Town Week Torpedo Swim Meet tomorrow

...Nine clubs set to contest 72 events at Toucan Mall pool

COME tomorrow, swimmers from all over the country will converge at the Toucan Mall swimming pool in Amelia’s Ward, where the Torpedo Swim Club-organised meet will be staged from 09:30hrs. Some nine clubs have entered swimmers to contest this championship, which is sanctioned by the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association.

According to the Organiser of the Torpedo Swim Club Mary

Chung-Phillips, the clubs that have signalled their intentions to participate are Dolphin Speed Swim Club, Dorado Speed Swim Club, Orca Speed Swim Club, MAFRA Swim School, Mahdia Haimaras Swim Club, Sea Otters Swim Club, Silver Shark Aquatics Swim Club, hosts Torpedo Swim Club and Trident Academy Swim Club.

The various age categories are: Individual events for six years & Under, eight years & Under, 9-10, 11-12,

13-14, 15-17, and 18 years & over.

The Relay Events and Open events are open to all swimmers.

The cut-off age of a swimmer is December 31st, 2025, to determine the age group in which the swimmer is eligible to compete.

Rules for this meeting are based on World Aquatics, and there will be no heats or preliminaries.

Swimmers from foreign countries must be sanctioned by their respective national federations and be in good

standing with their clubs and national federations. Each participating team must present a “Letter of Good Standing” from its national federation sanctioning its participation.

It should be noted that there are novice swimmers in the following age categories, but not in actual competition: six years and under, eight and under, 9-11, and 13-14, for both male and female swimmers.

There will be competitive swimmers also in the following age rang-

es, such as eight years and under, nine and 10, 11 and 13, 13 and 14, 15 - 17, and 28 and over age groups, both male and female Sponsors for this year’s meet are The Trim Brothers Avery, Bonny and John, McRae’s Hardware Store, Colin Rodney and Sons, Dr Deon Anderson, Omali Dare, the Linden Mayor & Team, Torpedo Swim Club, Bonus and Sons, Joann Dhanpaul and family, Linden Fund Canada, and the Toucan Mall.

Relay Gold for Guyana at South American Youth Games

GUYANA’S 4x100 men’s relay team won the country’s second gold medal on Friday at the ongoing Youth South American Games in Panama City, Panama.

The team of Ezekiel Millington, David Williams, Gordon Thompson, and Ade Sealy crossed the line in 41.56 seconds for gold.

Guyana now has four medals at the games, including a silver and bronze medal. Chile finished in second place, with Brazil third.

In the 800m women’s final, Adanya Glen finished in 7th place in 2 minutes 32.55 seconds, while Joanna Anthon also featured in the final but did not finish.

Angel Brittney will have a chance to run for gold on Saturday after stopping the clock in second place with a time of 24.46 for second place in her semifinal heat.

Her teammate Akeelah Dover missed out on a spot in the women’s 200m finals after finishing fourth in her semi. Guyana will again be in the medal hunt today.

The men’s 200m finals will feature two Guyanese after Deuquan Farrell won his semi in 21.89 seconds and Gordon Thompson clocked 22.16 seconds for second place.

In the men’s triple jump, Keimal Gerhard fell short of the medal after finishing 5th’ overall.

AmCham Guyana postpones 2026 Golf Tournament

THE third annual American Chamber of Commerce Guyana (AmCham Guyana) Golf Tournament, which was set to be the largest in the event’s history, has been postponed due to severe weather conditions.

Originally scheduled for Saturday, April 25, at the Lusignan Golf Course, the event was called off after heavy rainfall led to significant flooding across the course.

Organisers stated that the conditions made it impossible to meet the “high-quality experience” expected for the oversubscribed field.

In a statement released by AmCham Guyana, the chamber expressed “great disappointment” at the delay.

“This decision has been made due to unforeseen weather conditions that have resulted in significant flooding of the course, making it challenging to properly prepare and deliver the high-quality experience we are committed to providing.”

The tournament has seen rapid growth since its inception, evolving from 80 players in its first year to a record-breaking 112 players and 28 teams registered for the 2026 edition.

The postponement comes at a time of peak momentum for the event. Speaking in Georgetown earlier this week, AmCham Guyana President Iman Cummings noted that the tournament had become a “highly anticipated” fixture on the corporate calendar.

Massy distribution Boys U18 football competition

Only four teams remain; semi-finals set for Sunday

SEMI-FINAL action in the Massy Distribution boys' U18 schools football tournament will get underway this Sunday as the championship road nears its destination.

Set for the Ministry of Education ground, Chase’s Academic Foundation, the most successful school's football team in the tournament's history, having hoisted the title on five occasions, will be aiming to add to their tally.

Chase's most recent successful title run was in 2024 before being dethroned last year by Dolphin Secondary.

“This year we have 112 participants, 28 teams, and more than 250 spectators expected to come out,” Cummings said prior to the weather intervention.

The tournament is a key networking hub for Guyanese and American businesses, with high-profile sponsors including Title Sponsors: Machine Tech/Trident BMC, Digicel Business, and SBM Offshore, and Hole Sponsors: Baker Hughes, Halliburton, MACORP, Marriott Hotel, and United Airlines.

But before they think about title hopes, they will have to overcome Charlestown Secondary, who are yet to clinch their first title in the tournament's 12-year history.

That game is set for 16:00hrs. in what is likely to be a mouth-watering contest.

Santa Rosa, who burst onto the scene in 2023, winning the title in their debut season, will pose a strong challenge to veteran side West Ruimveldt as they look to add to their trophy cabinet.

West, who have consistently produced good seasons, are yet to clear the final hurdle and take home the title.

The feature clash will kick off at 18:00hrs under lights at the CARFESTA Avenue ground.

Petra director Troy Mendonca says all four teams have stood up to scrutiny, and now they must deliver once again to reach the final.

‘Those four teams duly deserved to be there; they would have [sic] played unblemished throughout the tournament, and so we anticipate two very good games, Mendonca added.

The tournament started with 32 secondary school teams, divided into 8 groups of 4, in a round-robin segment before the knockout stages.

Two teams from each group advanced to the round of 16 before eight advanced to the quarter finals, with four moving on to Sunday’s semifinals.

The eventual winning team will collect $300,000, with $200,000 for second and $100,000 for third, for a school project of their choice, along with a trophy and medals.

The organiser will also award trophies for MVP, highest goal scorer, best goalkeeper, and most disciplined team.

President Ali engages boxers ahead of tonight’s showdown

President Dr Irfaan Ali, on Friday, met with US‑based Guy anese boxer Elton Dharry and his Tanzanian opponent Salmin

Cricket

Kassim, to offer them best wish es ahead of their bout for the IBO Super Bantamweight title tonight.

The boxing event, scheduled for the New Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, will feature eight fights, in -

West Indies Championship…

cluding four amateur bouts. Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce,Susan Rodrigues; Minister of Culture, Youth and

Sport, Charles Ramson and Minister within the Ministry, Steven Jacobs were also at the meeting. (Office of the President)

Harpy Eagles sit firmly atop rankings