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Guyana Development Bank to become operational in weeks –– President Ali No.1081882

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Guyana, US reaffirm strong partnership

–– as President Ali engages Bipartisan Congressional Delegation

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President Dr Irfaan Ali, on Tuesday, met with a bipartisan United States congressional delegation led by Senator Christopher Coons as part of its Western Hemisphere mission (Office of the President photo)

All CCJ judges will now sit on 05 Over 250 Melanie families to secure land every panel in sweeping reform titles through regularisation exercise 07 PAGE

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Changing consumption patterns adding to cost-of-living pressures — Gov’t examining consumer habits, fuel security and direct farmer-to-consumer access as part of a multi-dimensional response

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Gov’t intensifies push to ready schools for reopening PAGE

–– combines virtual oversight with hands-on inspection

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Guyana, US reaffirm strong partnership - as President Ali engages Bipartisan Congressional Delegation

President Dr Irfaan Ali met on Tuesday with a bipartisan United States congressional delegation led by Senator Christopher Coons, which arrived in Georgetown as part of a Western Hemisphere mission aimed at deepening ties between the two nations (Office of the President photos)

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali met on Tuesday with a bipartisan United States congres-

sional delegation led by Senator Christopher Coons, which arrived in Georgetown

as part of a Western Hemisphere mission aimed at deepening ties between the two

nations. The discussions centred on strengthening the Guyana-US partnership and advancing shared interests in prosperity, security and regional stability, the President said following the meeting. President Ali used the engagement to outline his government's transformation agenda since taking office in 2020, pointing to

sustained investment in infrastructure and development, food and energy security, health care, education and agriculture. The President also reaffirmed Guyana's commitment to working closely with the United States to combat drug trafficking and transnational organised crime, strengthen security cooperation, and uphold respect for

territorial sovereignty, reflecting the growing depth of collaboration between the two countries on regional security. The visit is th e latest in a series of high-level exchanges between Georgetown and Washington, underscoring the United States' continued interest in Guyana as a key partner in the Western Hemisphere.

Guyana Development Bank to become operational in weeks

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

–– President Ali

THE Guyana Develop‑ ment Bank is expected to become operational with‑ in the coming weeks as the government moves to finalise its board, organ‑ isational structure and staffing arrangements. President Dr Irfaan Ali said on Tuesday the focus is to have the necessary structures in place, with the bank also expected to work closely with commercial banks to expand access to financing and support for prospective entrepreneurs. “We are right now putting together the board, putting together the structure, and hoping to operationalise within the coming weeks, so we’ll have the staff in place,” he told reporters during a press conference. Plans are being developed to establish desks within commercial banks, while regional facilitators will help identify interested persons and connect them with opportunities

through the development bank. The bank will also promote a cluster-based approach to business development, particularly in areas where small operators are working independently but could benefit from pooling resources and operating at a larger scale. The President pointed to poultry production as one example, noting that communities may have dozens of individuals each rearing relatively small numbers of chickens. By bringing these producers together into a shared operation, the government expects to reduce community complaints while creating a more efficient business ecosystem. “For example, you have one of the complaints also in the community. You may have 50 persons, each of them doing 100 chicken each. Those 50 persons can come together and do it on a house, and

that such an approach could also help producers achieve lower mortality rates, higher returns and improved production conditions through greater economies of scale and better management prac-

tices. He said sensitisation efforts surrounding the Guyana Development Bank have already begun, with strong interest from members of the public seeking to become part of the institution and benefit from the opportunities it is expected to provide. Eligible small and medium-sized enterprises will be able to access loans of up to $3 million without the requirement for collateral and without interest, providing entrepreneurs with an alternative source of financing to support the establishment, expansion and development of their businesses. The bank is also expected to provide technical and advisory services to small-business operators, including assistance with preparing business plans, improving financial management and strengthening the overall capacity of enterprises. The support is intended to help businesses become more sustainable and bet-

ter positioned to eventually qualify for financing through the formal banking system. The bank will operate through a bottom‑up, field‑driven structure anchored by a board and chief executive officer at the top, and regional credit officers on the ground who work directly with applicants to shape ideas, process interest‑free, collateral‑free loans and monitor projects. These officers are supported by regional facilitators who organise clusters of similar businesses, deliver financial literacy and basic management training, and link borrowers to wider government support. He said that as busi‑ nesses grow, sector special‑ ists and technical officers will step in to right‑size investments, provide tech‑ nical advice and prepare projects for expansion with commercial banks, ensur‑ ing a continuous pipeline of support from start‑up through to larger‑scale operations, even after the initial loan is repaid.

same team. So, we might be working on different projects, but collaboration is important.” Senior Engineer Gittens, addressing site management, reminded contractors that they carry absolute liability for the safety of their sites and stressed the value of maintaining positive relationships with the communities hosting the projects. “You are responsible for that structure and everything around it... safety is not optional,” Gittens said, noting, “Having good relations with the people within the community you are working in solves almost 90 per cent of problems that could arise.” Closing out the meeting, Minister Edghill issued firm directives on workplace safety, taking direct aim at the lax use of personal protective equip-

ment (PPE) on construction sites. “Our Guyanese seem to have an aversion to safety, so please ensure you enforce safety on your sites. Your contracts stipulate this, and I don’t want to show up at any one of your projects and see any worker without their safety gear, nor anyone attired in slippers while mixing cement. I’ll have none of that,” the Minister said. Minister Edghill also introduced a strict policy governing the dismantling of existing bridge structures, making clear that current infrastructure must only be taken down once all materials needed to complete the replacement structure are already on site. “We don’t want complaints of contractors opening the bridges, driving only two piles, and then

parking their machinery for months. That will not be accepted at all,” he said, adding, “We need great management from you on these projects for the sake of the people whose lives will be disrupted, and for both yourselves and the government.” The minister reminded contractors that his engineers remain available seven days a week to support the works and reiterated an open-door escalation policy: any issue with an engineer that remains unresolved for more than two weeks should be escalated directly to his office. Individual site visits for the awarded projects are scheduled to begin in the coming days, with construction expected to commence immediately after contractors are offi‑ cially shown their respec‑ tive project areas.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali you take away the complaints from the community, one, and you create a business ecosystem that will have lower mortality rate, higher returns, and better conditions,” he said. President Ali added

Public Works Ministry pushes timely, safe delivery of new community bridges –– in meeting with contractors

MINISTER of Public Wo r k s , B i s h o p J u a n Edghill, met with a group of contractors recently awarded contracts to construct bridges across communities in Regions Two to Six, using the en‑ gagement to set firm ex‑ pectations for project execution, timeline man‑ agement, and site safety. The meeting was held in the ministry’s boardroom and included senior engineers Sherod Parkinson and Colin Gittens, who will work directly with the contractors as the projects move forward. The contractors, selected from a pool of more than 600 bidders, were assured that the ministry will maintain a hands-on approach to ensure the works are completed in

a timely, quality-driven manner, with due consideration given to the unique geographical and logistical challenges present in each project area. Minister Edghill placed strong emphasis on the need for open communication between contractors and the ministry’s engineering team throughout execution of the works. “We will hold your hands and show you the ropes as you execute the work,” Minister Edghill told the gathering, adding: “Therefore, supervisorcontractor relations ought to and have to be good because we don’t want issues arising during the construction phase because of poor relations between you, our partners, and our engineers.”

Senior Engineer Parkinson echoed the minister’s call for strong working relationships, stressing the critical importance of time management on the projects. He urged contractors to work efficiently, to lean on the ministry for support when needed, and to foster good relationships with fellow contractors operating in their respective regions so that progress continues even if unforeseen site issues arise. “The ultimate objective is to get the work done within a timely manner so that we can present to the community something they are satisfied with,” Parkinson said, adding, “The faster you get in, the faster you should try to get out... We are now all on the

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

Gov’t intensifies push to ready schools for reopening –– combines virtual oversight with hands-on inspection

Education Minister, Sonia Parag, combined virtual oversight with hands-on inspection on Wednesday, as the Ministry of Education pressed ahead with efforts to ensure that every school across Guyana is in a state of complete readiness for the reopening of the new academic year EDUCATION Minister, Sonia Parag, combined virtual oversight with hands-on inspection on Wednesday, as the Ministry of Education pressed ahead with efforts to ensure

that every school across Guyana is in a state of complete readiness for the reopening of the new academic year. Early in the day, Minister Parag met virtually with all Regional Execu-

tive Officers (REOs) and their teams, directing that every school be physically inspected and that the ongoing preparations satisfy a checklist developed at an earlier multistakeholder meeting. That meeting had brought together government ministers Kwame McCoy, Pauline Sukhai and Vikash Ramkissoon, along with Members of Parliament Suresh Singh and Sonia Latchman.\ “We must not have any complaints when schools are reopened,” Minister Parag told the REOs during the virtual session, a directive that appeared to set the tone for the rest of the day’s activities. Also present for the virtual meeting were Permanent Secretary, Shannielle Hoosein-Outar; Chief Planning Officer, Mischka White-Griffith; Deputy Chief Education Officer – Admin, Tiffany Harvey; and Assistant Chief Education Officer – Secondary, Sherwyn Blackman. Later in the day, the minister took her over-

sight from the screen to the schoolyard. In addition to activating a multistakeholder task force and requiring regional and school officials to submit photographs of every school, Minister Parag travelled to Region Five, visiting West End Nursery, Mahaicony Primary and Mahaicony Secondary, along with the latter’s adjacent dormitory, to see conditions for herself. At each stop, she engaged directly with teachers, cleaners and the contractors carrying out extension works at the schools, pressing to ensure that children will return to classrooms that are clean, conducive and safe. She was accompanied by Regional Executive Officer, Mary Samaroo, and Regional Education Officer, Selestine LaRose. Wednesday’s dualtrack push comes with the Christmas Term officially set to begin on August 31, and mirrors readiness efforts already underway in other regions.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

New West Demerara Hospital taking shape as construction progresses

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony recently toured the construction site of the new West Demerara Hospital, reporting that work is progressing steadily on the facility HEALTH Minister Dr Frank Anthony recently toured the construction site of the new West Demerara Hospital, reporting that work is progressing steadily on the G$11.4 billion (US$54 million)

facility. According to information from the Ministry of Health, rising in Vreed-enHoop on the West Coast of Demerara, the more than 150-bed hospital will replace the current West

Demerara Regional Hospital, which has served the region for nearly 80 years. Once completed, it will bring advanced healthcare closer to thousands of residents by expanding emergency, inpatient, diagnostic

and specialist services, including a CT scanner, an MRI, and a state-of-the-art Cath Lab for on-site cardiac care. The Ministry of Health said the hospital is expected to be fully operational

by the end of 2027, sparing Region Three residents the long trips to Georgetown that many currently face for specialised treatment. The project forms part of a wider push to modernise healthcare

across Guyana, which has already brought several new regional hospitals on stream, delivering thousands of outpatient visits, lab tests and Xrays to communities nationwide.

THE Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has overhauled how it assigns judges to hear cases, in a reform that follows a turbulent period for the court following a breach of confidentiality when an email regarding internal affairs was leaked. In a notice issued Wednesday, the CCJ said it has implemented, with immediate effect, revised

Three panel leaders, President Justice Winston Anderson and the court’s two most senior judges, will oversee the new system. The court said the changes are meant to promote consistency, transparency and flexibility in the allocation of judicial work and to support the efficient administration of justice. Leaked internal correspondence, first reported

running the institution in an “authoritarian” and “dictatorial” manner. Given the nature of the claims, the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission has pledged an independent review. Justice Anderson broke his silence five days lat-

er in a lengthy, nine-page statement. He rejected panel-fixing allegations outright, saying Justice Chile E b o e - O s u j i ’s r e m o v a l stemmed solely from a dispute over the judge wearing traditional Nigerian dress rather than court attire, and had nothing to do with the

case’s legal merits, noting the panel that eventually heard the matter ruled unanimously. He dismissed the leap from that dispute to claims of manipulating outcomes as unreasonable and made in bad faith. On the dress-code ep-

isode itself, however, he conceded he “may have approached the matter ... too strongly.” He also condemned the unauthorised leak of confidential court correspondence as damaging to judicial independence and public trust.

arrangements under which all judges of the court will sit on all panels, with exceptions only when a judge is formally excused for a legitimate reason.

by the Trinidad and Tobago Sunday Express on August 9, revealed CCJ judges had accused Anderson, who became the court’s fourth president in July 2025, of

All CCJ judges will now sit on every panel in sweeping reform

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Let Institutions Work

IN the weeks since the MV Barima went down off the Essequibo Coast in the worst maritime disaster in Guyana's history, President Irfaan Ali has resisted the easiest, most politically tempting response: naming a perpetrator before the facts are in. That restraint is not evasion. It is leadership. Look at what has actually happened. Within hours of the sinking, the government mobilised the largest search-and-rescue operation the country has ever run, pulling together the Coast Guard, MARAD, the Fire Service and ordinary fish-

ermen who put their own boats to sea. That effort recovered 73 of the dead and rescued 76 survivors, even as 30 people remain lost to the Atlantic. Nothing about that response was slow or indifferent. Nor has accountability been shelved. Within days, the Director of Public Prosecutions, who was acting under her own constitutional authority and independent of the Cabinet, reviewed the police file and moved to charge the vessel's captain and two other crew members with murder. That is not a government stalling for time; it is Guy-

ana's institutions functioning as they should, each in its own lane, without an anxious executive reaching for a headline. And where public conversation has outrun the facts, as with claims that the 87-year-old ferry had been neglected, officials say it was on a routine maintenance schedule, with dry-docking already planned for later this year alongside two other vessels in the fleet. That is precisely the kind of claim a commission of engineers and disaster investigators exists to verify, not a press scrum.

The commission itself deserves the same confidence. It is chaired by a Belizean judge and staffed with a Jamaican maritime surveyor, a Trinidadian attorney, a Polish naval architect and a retired Trinidadian rear admiral; this reflects a genuinely independent, international panel with no incentive to protect anyone in Georgetown. Asking Guyanese to wait a few more weeks for that panel's on-the-ground work, rather than demanding an instant verdict from a podium, is not weakness. It is exactly what a "thorough, transparent and impartial"

inquiry requires. The calls to suspend or remove ministers before that inquiry reports are understandable as grief, but premature as policy. Firing an official to satisfy a news cycle would not make a single family whole, and risks punishing the wrong person while the real causes go unexamined. The President is right to say those decisions belong after the findings, not before them. What families need most, this government is already delivering, and it has rightly defined "families" to include those still

missing loved ones and the relatives of crew, not only the bereaved. The Heart Initiative's medical, mental-health, spiritual and financial support reaches through regional hubs rather than funnelling grief through Georgetown, while salvage of the wreck moves through a careful, competitive process rather than a rushed one that could cost more lives in dangerous waters. Thirty families are still waiting for their dead. They deserve a government that gets this right, not one that simply moves fast.

Moral authority requires a consistent moral record Dear Editor, If one is able to take off their partisan political lens and put aside their emotions and try to be rational in their analysis then a reasoned outcome may be achieved. I believe Guyanese can accept that moral authority in politics as in life cannot simply be proclaimed. It has to be earned through consistency, credibility and a willingness to submit oneself to the same standards of accountability demanded of others. That is why I put it to the public that the Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed’s increasingly forceful lectures on corruption deserve scrutiny against his own political history and present legal circumstances. Mr. Mohamed remains entitled to the presumption of innocence regarding the allegations underlying the United States’ extradition request. After all allegations are not convictions. Equally,

however, a political leader who places others on trial in the court of public opinion cannot reasonably object when the public examines his own record. If he maintains that the American allegations are false, he is entitled to every lawful defence available to him. But there remains a legitimate political question: if he is as confident in his innocence and moral standing as he projects himself to be, why not ultimately confront the allegations before the court with jurisdiction and seek complete vindication? Let me be clear, exercising legal rights to resist extradition is not evidence of guilt, but legal entitlement and political credibility are not the same thing. What is of paramount importance is an even greater contradiction. M r. M o h a m e d h a s publicly taken credit for helping the PPP/C return to government. His family also became extraordinarily

wealthy during decades in which they operated successfully within Guyana’s lucrative gold sector under the said PPPc administrations. Wealth itself is not evidence of wrongdoing. Neither is success in mining. But acquiring unmatched favourable possession of highly prospective gold-bearing state lands endowed with significant mineral resources obviously creates not only suspension of political favourability, but enormous commercial opportunity, particularly when gold is sold into a market governed substantially by international prices. The legitimate question, therefore, is not whether the Mohameds became wealthy. It is this: was the political and economic system Mr. Mohamed now so vigorously condemns acceptable while he and his family were prospering within it? Where was today’s relentless voice against corruption during the years when

relations with the Government were apparently cordial and beneficial? Where were the sustained interventions on the major social issues affecting Guyanese? If such a record exists, it should be produced and judged fairly. But if this extraordinary political awakening principally followed the deterioration of that relationship and the extradition request by the United States Government, Guyanese are entitled to question whether they are witnessing principled reform or political retaliation dressed in moral language. Mr. editor there is also a remarkable American irony in Mr. Mohamed repeatedly tagging the United States Embassy in his social-media postings while simultaneously confronting an extradition request originating from the said United States authorities. The fact is social media cannot establish innocence. Neither government nor opposition propaganda can do so. Ultimately, evidence test-

ed through due process must determine criminal liability. I must hasten to say that none of this means Mr. Mohamed has no right to criticise the Government. He absolutely does. Democracy requires scrutiny and opposition, it is what help makes governments serve the people more. But the central question remains: Had Mr. Mohamed never fallen out with the Government he once supported and under whose tenure his family’s businesses prospered extraordinarily, Guyana and the people who support him would not have heard these denunciations today. That question should be answered by the historical record, not speculation: what did he condemn or speak out against when relations were good? What national causes did he champion before becoming an opposition politician? When exactly did he conclude that the Government he benefited from

socially and economically, the government he publicly declared he helped politically was fundamentally corrupt? People can change. Political relationships can change. Principles, however, become most credible when they are defended even when doing so is personally inconvenient. Moral authority is not measured by how loudly one condemns yesterday’s friends. It is measured by whether one’s principles remained intact when those friendships were powerful, profitable and politically convenient. Until that contradiction is convincingly answered, one question will continue to follow the Opposition Leader: Was the system always unacceptable or did it become unacceptable only when it stopped working for him? Yours respectfully, Jermaine Figueira Former Member of Parliament.

In The Diaspora on the seawall with my dog

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

ALISSA Trotz, the Guyanese-Canadian, who presented the column titled “In The Diaspora” (ITD) in the Stabroek News (SN) has co-founded with the staff of the now defunct SN, an anti-government online thing named Kiskadee Watch. A more appropriate title would be “Kakariki Watch.” Given the type of journalism SN produced, the new name is a desecration of that lovely Guyanese bird, kiskadee. A more appropriate appellation would have been Kakariki Watch. The kakariki is a small, noisy, ordinary looking parakeet whose colour is very bright green. SN showed its true colour after the 2020 election fiasco. Green is the party colour of - you know who. It is common knowledge in Guyana that the people behind the kakariki watch were prevented from using any title that originated with the SN. So, they could not continue with the title, ITD. They chose the headline Diaspora Voices. In introducing Diaspora Voices to the readers of kakariki watch, here are their words: “Welcome to Diaspora Voices, which picks up from the In the Diaspora column which for eighteen (18) years had found a home in the former Stabroek News. Diaspora Voices is excited to begin this new chapter with Kiskadee Watch, offering reflections and commentaries on Guyana, the Caribbean and the diaspora” I find Ms. Trotz to be one of the most barefaced Guyanese I have known. And in my 39-year presence in the Guyanese newspapers, I find the former editor of SN, and

now Kiskadee Watch Editor, Anand Persaud, the most incompetent editor in the history of Guyana. First, the barefaced accusation. Ms. Trotz had the temerity to state the length of time she spent doing ITD – 18 years. Isn’t this lady ashamed of herself? In those 18 years, there wasn’t one column that took a positive angle on successive PPP governments. Not one column was written by someone with a sympathetic pen for the PPP government in those 18 years. In those 18 years, there were not even one ITD column that condemned the No Confidence Motion disaster of 2018. In those 18 years, there was not even one article from ITD that condemned five months of attempts to rig the 2020 national election. With that track record, it is logical to assume that Ms. Trotz is an uncompromisingly anti-PPP person. But it is important to mention that in the masthead for ITD it noted that the column was intended to highlight issues that interest the Guyanese diaspora. But Ms. Trotz had a bizarre understanding of what issues the Guyana diaspora was and is interested in. In Guyana, when you want to see visiting Guyanese, then go on the esplanade of the Eve Leary seawall. Over the years, while walking my dog there, they would stop and always the tone would be: “Aren’t you Freddie Kissoon.” In 90 percent of the conversations with those diaspora Guyanese, there were words of praise for President Irfaan Ali. I can tell Trotz she doesn’t know a damn thing of what issues the Guyanese diaspora is interested in.

If you had the experience I had on that seawall then you would know that Trotz and the SN did an injustice to the Guyanese living abroad. Those visiting Guyanese people that I met over the years on the Georgetown seawall were most definitely interested in political and sociological aspects of Guyana that I never saw Ms. Trotz carried for 18 years. Now for the accusation of incompetence of Mr. Anand Persaud. For the 18 years that ITD existed, the SN editor was Anand Persaud. Among the roles of an Editor-In-Chief is to bring journalistic balance to a newspaper. A simple example should suffice. If the paper is doing a weekly analysis of African countries, before the series conclude, all African countries have to be featured. It is the job of the editor to enquire of the series writer why a particular country was excluded. That is definitely the role of the editor.

For 18 years, Trotz invited anti-government Guyanese in the diaspora and anti-government Guyanese residing at home to do an article for ITD. I am tempted to believe that Ms. Trotz never invited an academic or writer with sympathies for the PPP government to pen an analysis. Over those 18 years, it was the task for the editor to suggest to Ms. Trotz that balance must be seen to be present in ITD series and she should seek out someone to put the government’s position in perspective. Mr. Persaud never did that? How do you explain that? He was either ragingly anti-government like Ms. Trotz or incompetent or both. 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.

Over 250 Melanie families to secure land titles through regularisation exercise

MORE than 250 families in Melanie and surrounding communities are expected to secure formal titles to the land they currently occupy, as the government resumes its land regularisation exercise in the area. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, speaking during an engagement with residents at the Melanie Nursery School on Wednesday, said the process is being advanced with the support of the Ministry of Housing and will provide residents with formal legal ownership of their properties. He stated that the exercise covers both occupied properties and vacant lots

that were previously allocated to residents, with surveys already conducted to establish the occupants and allocations. “This exercise that we have embarked upon… will ultimately result in each of you getting title for the land that you are currently occupying,” he said. The minister explained that formal title provides residents with greater security and economic value, allowing them to legally transfer or sell their property, use it as collateral when seeking financing, and pass the asset on to their children. In addition, the government is also bearing the major costs associated with the regularisation process,

with Minister Nandlall noting that residents are not expected to shoulder the substantial expenses involved in surveying and preparing the necessary documents. He urged residents to co-operate with officials and ensure that all information provided, particularly names and ownership details, is accurate, as these details will be reflected in the final title documents. One resident, Shenolfa Walters, who attended the engagement on behalf of her daughter who had been occupying land in Melanie for over 20 years, expressed her gratitude to the government for finally providing them with the land title document. “I feel so happy, and I

More than 250 families in Melanie and surrounding communities are expected to secure formal titles to the land they currently occupy, as the government resumes its land regularisation exercise in the area Melanie is also being purappreciate it. The people of residents’ cooperation. Melanie thank the governHe noted that some may sued ahead of its proposed ment because without them, have to make adjustments development as one of Govthis could not have been to fences, bridges or other ernment’s pilot model vilpossible,” she said. structures to bring their lages, with the aim of resolvThe Attorney General properties into compliance ing outstanding land issues and bringing greater order said the pace of the process with the approved layout. will depend significantly on The regularisation of to the community. (DPI)

Minister Mustapha commits to addressing ECD livestock farmers’ woes

MINISTER of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, has committed to the immediate examination and followup of concerns raised by livestock farmers along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), as the government continues to work with farmers and other stakeholders to remove constraints to agricultural production and strengthen the livestock sector. According to a press release from the Agriculture Ministry, the minister made this commitment during an engagement with livestock farmers on Wednesday, when producers highlighted several challenges affecting their operations and sought the Ministry’s intervention and support. Among the key concerns raised were the availability and accessibility of suitable pasture lands for cattle farmers, drainage and irrigation challenges affecting agricultural areas, and the need for suitable and properly managed facilities or designated areas for the safe and hygienic drying of fish. Minister Mustapha said the concerns raised by farmers are important and require

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

practical solutions, noting that the ministry will engage its technical agencies and other relevant stakeholders to determine what interventions can be implemented. On the issue of pasture, the minister said the ministry will work with the relevant technical agencies, local stakeholders and farmers to identify areas that can potentially be developed or utilized to provide additional pasture for cattle producers. He explained that, in the coming week, a team from the ministry along with farmers will visit identified areas in Enterprise, Mon Repos to Buxton, and La Bonne Intention to Diamond. Once these lands are available, Minister Mustapha said that infrastructural works will be done to establish pastures for the livestock farmers. When speaking directly about the established pasture at Lusignan, Minister Mustapha said that the Ministry will also conduct rehabilitation works to develop the area so that farmers can utilise it. He said the process must also include proper technical guidance to ensure that pasture areas are appropriately

managed, maintained and utilised in a sustainable manner. The minister noted that access to adequate pasture is critical to the productivity and expansion of the cattle industry, particularly as farmers seek to increase their herd sizes and improve the quality of livestock. Minister Mustapha also highlighted the government’s continued investments in the livestock sector, pointing to initiatives aimed at improving breeding, genetics and overall productivity. These include improved breeding programmes, the provision of breeding bulls, artificial insemination and embryo transfer technology, which are being utilised to help farmers improve the genetic quality of their herds and increase production. The minister said these interventions form part of the government’s broader strategy to modernise the livestock industry, improve the quality of locally produced livestock and create greater opportunities for farmers to expand their businesses and benefit from growing market demand. He further assured farmers that their concerns relat-

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, has committed to the immediate examination and follow-up of concerns raised by livestock farmers along the East Coast of Demerara ing to drainage and irrigation will be examined immediately by the relevant technical agencies. While responding to concerns raised, Minister Mustapha said all the canals in the area will be desilted to ensure effective drainage and better access to irrigation. Minister Mustapha said technical teams will assess the areas identified by farmers and determine the interventions required based on the specific conditions and needs of those communities. He stressed that effective drainage and irrigation remain essential to agricultural production and to ensuring that farmers can maximise the use of available lands. The issue of suitable areas for the drying of fish was also raised during the engagement. Minister Mustapha said that the ministry will work with NICIL to identify an appropriate area so that the producers can

be facilitated with safer and more suitable spaces for the activity. The minister emphasised that the government’s approach is not only focused on responding to challenges after they arise, but also on working proactively with farmers to identify constraints and develop solutions that can support increased production, productivity and investment in agriculture. “We have to continue listening to our farmers and addressing the challenges they face. When farmers raise concerns, we must examine those concerns and determine what can be done to provide practical solutions,” Minister Mustapha said. He assured the farmers that the ministry will maintain engagement with them and the relevant technical institutions as the issues identified are followed up. The minister said strong-

er collaboration between farmers, government agencies and other stakeholders is necessary to ensure that the agricultural sector continues to grow and that producers have the necessary support and infrastructure to increase production. The engagement forms part of the Ministry of Agriculture’s ongoing efforts to engage farmers across the country, identify constraints affecting agricultural production and implement measures to strengthen the sector, improve farmers’ livelihoods and enhance food production and food security. Minister Mustapha reiterated the government’s commitment to working closely with farmers and ensuring that issues raised at the community level receive the necessary attention and are advanced through the appropriate channels for action.

Changing consumption patterns adding to cost-of-living pressures

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

— Gov’t examining consumer habits, fuel security and direct farmer-to-consumer access as part of a multi-dimensional response — President Ali says PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali says the rising cost-ofliving pressures must be tackled through a holistic, structural approach that goes beyond grants and financial assistance, with Government examining changing consumer habits, food prices, market margins and the country's exposure to global shocks. Speaking at a Tuesday press conference, Ali said grants remain important for supporting vulnerable households and supplementing family incomes but cannot by themselves resolve the underlying factors driving the cost of living. "Grants are there to support different levels of vulnerability and to support injection for family income. We have to address it in a structural way," he said, adding, "What is happening between the farmer and the retailer? What is happening in terms of the input costs? What is happening in terms of the input costs for the farmers? How do we address that? We've already removed the VAT, removed all taxes to help reduce that input cost. We've given subsidies to the farmers, so we have exhausted almost every policy tool to support the cost of production." IMPORTED INFLATION He pointed to the need for Guyana to establish a refinery and expand its fuel storage capacity as part of efforts to strengthen the country's energy security and protect consumers from global price shocks. Dr Ali said that while Guyana is now a major crude oil producer, the country continues to import refined petroleum products, leaving it exposed to international price movements. "I can go through hundreds of measures that we have already implemented," the President said, while acknowledging that some factors affecting prices are beyond the Government's control. "Now, there are certain things that we don't

President Dr. Irfaan Ali have control over: the global environment and imported inflation." He noted that Guyana produces crude oil but imports refined products, including gasoline, meaning international developments continue to influence domestic prices. "So, we import back all the price differentials. Since the war, you know what has been happening. That is why I believe that we have to have a refinery. We cannot have crude oil and not have security of supply; security brings with it stability, and gives us some shield against shocks that currently exist," he said. According to the President, a refinery would not only improve Guyana's security of supply but could also provide greater stability and some protection against external shocks. "There are interests in the refinery, and we're hoping that we can have investment in that refinery, and that refinery can be linked to what a national company can look like — not as an investor, but a company that looks holistically at the entire ecosystem in terms of the supply," he said. He added that consideration is also being given to how a refinery could be linked to a national oil company that takes a broader view of Guyana's fuel supply

ecosystem. The President also highlighted storage capacity as another area requiring attention, questioning whether Guyana should have 30, 90 or 120 days of fuel reserves. "There is also the issue of how we increase our security in terms of storage, whether you have 30-day storage, 90-day storage or 120-day storage, because that is a major problem," Ali said. "If our storage remains where it is, then it's not matching the development aspirations of our country." CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR The President also pointed to changing consumer behaviour as another factor influencing household expenditure, noting that more Guyanese are shopping in supermarkets and eating outside the home than they did four years ago. He noted that while households globally face higher prices, Guyanese families have been shielded from these adverse impacts, as government policies have led to the reduction of taxes, expanded social support and cost-of-living relief measures, including lower utility and fuel prices. He said the shift from traditional markets to supermarkets has implications for prices, as supermarkets operate with higher overheads

and therefore different profit margins. "The same person who was buying sweet potato, cassava and plantain in the market is now buying it in the supermarket, and there's a whole different margin of profit because, of course, they have higher overheads,"

he said. President Ali also noted that more families are visiting restaurants and cooking less at home, describing the changing shopping and eating patterns as issues that need to be addressed. Against this backdrop, he said Government may need to explore ways of bringing consumers and farmers closer together. "We may need to look at the creation of farmers' markets across the country as a prominent part of our buying ecosystem, so that farmers have direct access to the market," Ali said. Notably, Guyanese families would be under greater financial pressure had the People's Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) administration not removed the more than 200 taxes and onerous measures introduced by the former APNU+AFC administration during its time in government, from 2015 to 2020.

Direct financial support and subsidies extended by the government to ordinary citizens include the newborn cash grant and the "Because We Care" cash grant. Farmers have also benefited from numerous measures, including fertiliser subsidies, removal of drainage and irrigation (D&I) rates and expansion of D&I services, which have saved them from flooding, increased productivity and provided a subsidy on every bag of paddy produced. Other initiatives to cushion the cost of living and assist families include textbooks for school children, the school feeding programme, the transportation grant for children, the uniform grant, no increase in the cost of electricity, a five per cent reduction in the cost of water, the removal of Value-Added Tax (VAT) on electricity and water charges, and subsidies to local fisherfolk.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

From Lima Sands to a future in medicine - Kiara Tyrell’s journey of determination

By Indrawattie Natram FOR 17-year-old Kiara Annalisa Tyrell, living in the remote community of Sparta, Lima Sands, in Region Two was never going to determine how far she could go academically. Her recent performance at CSEC has shown that with determination, sacrifice and the right support system, distance does not have to stand in the way of success. Kiara completed 17 subjects, achieving results that surpassed even her own expectations. Before the results were released, she had prepared herself for around eight Grade Ones, believing that the remaining subjects could result in Grade Twos or Threes. As the awards ceremony approached, she estimated that she may have earned 12 Grade Ones—what she thought would be enough

to secure her place among the top performers. When the actual results came, however, Kiara found herself pleasantly surprised. Behind those results was a demanding routine that required discipline and sacrifice. Attending extra lessons often meant returning home late and giving up valuable hours of rest and recreation. For a student living in Lima Sands, travelling to night classes also presented an additional challenge. But Kiara’s parents, Aubrey and Carmelita Tyrell, were determined that geography would not limit their daughter’s opportunities. Her father works as an ambulance driver at the Oscar Joseph District Hospital, while her mother is a cook at the Essequibo Technical Institute dormitory. Despite their own demanding schedules, both parents made

the effort to ensure Kiara got to her lessons and remained focused on her studies. Many evenings did not end when she arrived home from classes. There were still quizzes to prepare for, tests to study for and assignments to complete before the next school day. Exhaustion was often part of the routine, but giving up was never an option. Her parents played a major role in keeping her motivated. During trips to and from lessons, her father would encourage her with conversations about her future and remind her of the importance of staying focused. Her mother kept a close eye on her schoolwork and encouraged her to remain committed to her responsibilities. Kiara also credits her headmaster for helping to keep her motivated.

Through humour, encouragement and reminders about the opportunities that education can create, he helped students maintain their focus even when the pressure became difficult. To d a y, t h e y o u n g scholar is already looking beyond her secondary school achievements. Kiara hopes to become a doctor, inspired by her interest in science and her fascination with the human body. Her ultimate goal is to study medicine and use her profession to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Her immediate plan is to pursue CAPE at Anna Regina Secondary School, before continuing her medical studies at the University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus. While celebrating her achievement, Kiara has not forgotten the people who helped make it possible. She expressed

Kiara Annalisa Tyrell and her mother

gratitude to her parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, teachers and extra-class instructors, whose encouragement and guidance helped her remain on course. She also acknowledged the Government’s free transportation service

for students travelling from Lima Sands, saying the service has made it easier for students in the community to reach school and attend classes on time. “Do not let your location determine your success” Tyrell said

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Soesdyke-Linden Highway schools to get significant connectivity boost - as Region Four RDC procures Starlink devices

HUNDREDS of students and teachers along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway are set to gain access to high-speed internet after the Regional Democratic Council of Region No. 4 (Demerara-Mahaica) procured a fleet of high-powered Starlink devices for 10 schools and the Department of Education (DOE) at Friendship. According to information from the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Juan Edghill Jr., the initiative gives effect to President Irfaan

Ali’s vision for a digitally inclusive Guyana and reflects two key commitments in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s manifesto: “Building an Inclusive Digital Society” and “Development of Amerindian Communities.” The REO said the move will strengthen digital connectivity across the highway communities, giving students and teachers greater access to online educational resources, digital learning platforms, and other tools that support modern teaching and

learning. The rollout covers two nursery schools, at Yarrowkabra and Kuru Kururu, along with seven primary schools serving Moblissa, Silver Hill, Yarrowkabra, Kuru Kuru, Long Creek, St. Cuthbert’s and Kuru Kururu. Dora Secondary and the DOE Friendship round out the list of 11 institutions set to benefit from the new systems. According to the Region Four administration, the Starlink systems are expected to be fully installed and operational in time for the com-

mencement of the new school term. The project forms part of Region Four’s continued efforts to ensure that geography does not determine a child’s access to opportunity, and that children in hinterland and highway communities have the digital resources they need to learn, grow and compete. “Connecting our schools. Empowering our teachers. Creating greater opportunities for every child,” the REO said in announcing the initiative.

Hundreds of students and teachers along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway are set to gain access to high-speed internet after the Regional Democratic Council of Region No. 4 (DemeraraMahaica) procured a fleet of high-powered Starlink devices for eleven schools in the corridor

Bygeval Secondary records 100 per cent Mathematics pass rate at CSEC among Grade 10 students BYGEVAL Secondary School has recorded a historic 100 per cent pass rate in Mathematics at the 2026 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, marking a major achievement for the East Coast Demerara institution and its Grade 10 students. The school announced the achievement on Tuesday as students, teachers, parents and communities across Guyana celebrated the release of the 2026 CSEC results. In a statement shared on its Facebook page, Bygeval Secondary said it was “bursting with pride” over the performance of its students, describing the results as a historic milestone in the school’s history. “Our students have

A section of Bygeval Secondary’s Class of 2026 at their graduation in July

written their names into the history of Bygeval Secondary School by achieving a remarkable 100 per cent pass rate in the 2026 CSEC examination,” the school said. It attributed the performance to the determination, discipline and commitment demonstrated by the

students, noting that the achievement showed what could be accomplished when preparation was matched with opportunity. The school also commended its teachers for their dedication, guidance and additional effort in preparing students for the examinations.

“Thank you for your commitment, guidance, extra effort and unwavering support in preparing our students for success. This achievement is also a reflection of your dedication,” the school said. Parents and guardians were also recognised for supporting the students throughout

their CSEC journey. The Mathematics achievement comes alongside strong individual performances, with the school recently highlighting 14 of its top achievers. Lashon Samuels emerged as the leading performer with 17 passes, followed by Nalie Dookie with 16

passes. Samira Waheed secured 14 passes, while Leanna Rodney and Bibi Saleima Rai each recorded 13. Darshanie Persaud earned 11 passes, while Bipasha Ramlakhan, Umadevi Persaud, Nathan Harmon, Shawn Nobrega, Priyanka Singh, Dessean Prince, Sarita Ramsarup and Kevon Wilson each recorded 10 passes. The school said the results represented more than examination scores, describing the 100 per cent Mathematics pass rate as “a historic milestone and another proud chapter in our school’s story.” The achievement adds to a broader national celebration as students, teachers and schools across Guyana assess their performances in this year’s CSEC examinations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Rotary Club workshop empowers women - two-day workshop helps rebuilding their lives women build path to self-reliance FOR women rebuilding their lives, empowerment can begin with something as simple as believing that a different future is possible. This was among the messages emerging from a twoday workshop held last Saturday at the Grand Coastal Inn on the East Coast, where women transitioning from difficult circumstances were given space to reflect on their lives, explore economic opportunities and begin thinking about the future they want to create for themselves and their families. The workshop, led by Rotarian Carlotta Boodie of the Rotary Club Stabroek focused on self-reliance and empowerment, with participants drawn mainly from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security Help and Shelter unit. For these women, the discussions were about more than finding employment. They centred on moving from difficult lifestyles toward greater independence, stability and personal well-being. Rotarian Boodie said the programme recognises that some women, particularly those caring for children, are unable to leave home to take up conventional employment. The question, therefore, becomes how women can create economic opportunities within the realities of their lives. “We need to see how they can create some microbusinesses or small businesses. We are not expecting to see huge ventures,” Boodie said. “But once either having the idea generation, having that in mind, and understanding the processes, or even taking

the second step of actually making a start in terms of registering a business and so on.” For some participants, the goal over the next six months may simply be to say, “This year I want to start,” and then take that first step. The programme is therefore measuring empowerment through small growth rather than dramatic overnight transformation. The women will eventually be contacted again to see what progress they have made. But before economic independence can take root, Rotarian Boodie believes women must also learn to invest in themselves. “One of the first things is just self-awareness and well-being,” she said. “Understanding that checking in with yourself, taking care with yourself, your mental health, etc is a big piece.” The two-day programme reflected that broader understanding of empowerment, and closed with a session on Sunday which was focused on nutrition and self-care, reinforcing the message that rebuilding one’s life also involves taking care of the body and mind. The discussions also included sexual and reproductive health, with participants encouraged to understand their bodies, make informed decisions and recognise the relationship between reproductive health, family life and overall well-being. “We need to understand our bodies,” the Rotarian said. “We need to talk about family, we need to talk about safe sex, because those things have a huge impact on our well-being.”

The workshop, led by Rotarian Carlotta Boodie of the Rotary Club Stabroek focused on self-reliance and empowerment, with participants drawn mainly from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security Help and Shelter unit Economic empowerment was also connected to legal and social protection. Participants discussed the importance of understanding the process of registering a business and the significance of contributing to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). For women working from home or operating small businesses, she noted that NIS can become particularly important during periods when circumstances such as illness or childbirth affect their ability to work. The activity message was clear in that self-reliance requires knowledge as much as income. It means that knowing how to earn, how to save, how to register a business, how to access social protection and how to care for one’s health can give a woman greater control over the direction of her life. But the workshop did not frame women’s empowerment as a battle between women

and men. Instead, Rotarian Boodie placed equity and equality at the centre of the discussion. “Well, it’s not for me putting women in the forefront, but it’s balanced. Empowerment is not about one gender becoming more important than the other. It’s equity first and then equality,” she said. She believes men and women are both valuable to the family and that each has a role to play. “It’s just the understanding and looking that we are both sexes and we are people who are both valuable to the family. We all have a role.” Empowerment does not mean asking women to carry every responsibility alone. It means ensuring that women have the knowledge, opportunity and confidence to participate fully in decisions affecting their lives, while also recognising that healthy families require co-operation between both men and

women. Rotarian Boodie acknowledged that some traditional cultural and societal roles may no longer work for every family. Her vision is therefore one of collaboration. The objective, she added, is to understand how men and women “collaborate and co-operate with each other so we can have a healthy society.” That message gives the workshop a significance beyond the two days. It is about rebuilding confidence, developing economic independence and strengthening women’s ability to make choices, while also encouraging a family structure in which both genders are recognised as valuable contributors. The work will continue on August 30, when participants are expected to take part in another session focused on practical financial

management. The upcoming workshop will explore budgeting, the power of saving and how to balance income and expenditure, with participants encouraged to apply what they learn over a period of time. The approach is intentionally practical. Rather than simply discussing financial independence, participants will be encouraged to examine where they are financially, where they want to go and what steps they can take to get there. For some, that may mean saving more consistently. For another, it may mean developing a business idea. For another, it may mean taking the first step toward registering a micro-business. The programme’s success will ultimately be measured in those small changes. Six months from now, the organisers hope to reconnect with the women and see what has changed. The expectation is not that every participant will emerge as a major entrepreneur. It is that each woman will have moved one step forward. The workshop forms part of Rotary’s broader tradition of service to communities. Rotary International describes its network as people working together to create lasting change in communities and around the world, with areas of focus including maternal and child health, education, economic and community development and other humanitarian priorities. Its work on diversity, equity and inclusion also reflects the principle that people should have meaningful access to the resources, opportunities and support needed to thrive.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Purple Arts workshop nurtures next generation of Guyanese theatre talent By Faith Greene

A DRAMA workshop aimed at equipping Guyana’s young people with skills in acting, playwriting and directing is giving aspiring performers an opportunity to develop their confidence while exploring issues affecting children, families and society. The annual programme, hosted by Purple Arts Productions, culminates this year in “Emerge 2026”, a showcase featuring about 20 young performers between the ages of nine and 16. The production is scheduled for August 22 at 6 p.m. at the Theatre Guild Playhouse in Kingston, Georgetown. Led by actress and director Simone Dowding, the workshop provides participants with practical, hands-on training in several areas of theatre, including acting, directing, playwriting, stage management and costume design. Participants are also exposed to stage breathing, stage geography, effective listening, building confidence and drama therapy for children. This year’s programme also includes University of Guyana Communication Studies interns Temika Rodney and Aquila, who are participating in the production. The publication visited a rehearsal session at the Playhouse last week, where several participants spoke about how the programme has helped them develop both their theatrical skills and their ability to work with others. For nine-year-old Kyrie Bourne, the workshop has already provided an opportunity to take on the responsibility of directing. Bourne, who has participated in the programme since 2024, is directing “Cry of A Child”, one of the plays being staged as part of this year’s production. “The play that I'm directing is about children trying to find justice,” Bourne said. The play depicts chil-

Ms. Simone Dowding, along with the participants of this year’s workshop, and Emerge 13 (Sachin Persaud photo)

dren appealing to adults to make better decisions and help bring an end to violence. Bourne said one of the most rewarding aspects of directing was being able to develop the visual presentation of a production, including creating props and positioning actors to enhance the delivery of lines and the overall performance. For 13-year-old Cassia Connelly, who is participating in the workshop for a second year, the programme has strengthened her desire to pursue acting. “It's been very helpful because I really want to be an actor and all the stuff that I've learned, it's really paying off,” she said. Connelly is directing “Man Whipped”, a production that addresses the often-overlooked issue of domestic violence against men. She said the play seeks to encourage men experiencing abuse to speak out and seek help, while challenging the perception that domestic violence affects only women. “It's about a husband being abused by his wife,” Connelly explained, adding that the production highlights the importance of recognising abuse regardless of the gender of the victim. She also said being given the opportunity to direct had allowed her to bring her

own interpretation to the production while learning how to collaborate with people with different personalities and approaches. Fifteen-year-old Ethan Archer, a member of the Theatre Guild, said participating in the workshop had been one of the most rewarding experiences of his life. Archer initially joined with an interest in voice acting but said the programme exposed him to the wider possibilities of theatre, particularly the opportunity to step into complex characters and tell meaningful stories. “What I really fell in love with is how you can also step out of being yourself while also being able to tell great stories behind very complex characters,” he said. Archer has been cast in “Cry of A Child”, “In the Name of Love” and several other productions being staged as part of Emerge 2026. He said the workshop had also strengthened the relationships among participants, allowing them to exchange ideas, analyse scripts and help each other develop their characters even outside formal rehearsal sessions. According to Archer, participants regularly return to their scripts, make suggestions and examine the finer details of their characters and dialogue as they

prepare for performances.

Beyond the stage, the programme provides young people with skills that can contribute to confidence, communication, teamwork and critical thinking. Its focus on issues such as violence and domestic abuse also gives participants a platform to explore difficult social concerns through creative expression. Emerge was conceived by Dowding after she established Purple Arts Productions and has since become an annual showcase of the young talent emerging from the programme. The 2026 production is being sponsored by North American Life, Fire and General Insurance Company Limited, Continental

Agencies Limited, Handin-Hand Mutual Fire and Life Insurance Company Limited, and Abby’s Touch of Magic (New York/Guyana). Admission is $2,000 for adults and $1,000 for children. For the young performers preparing to take the stage, however, the production represents more than an evening of entertainment. It is the culmination of weeks of training and an opportunity to demonstrate the confidence, discipline and creative skills they have developed while helping to shape the next generation of Guyanese theatre practitioners.

Against the odds: Karishma’s 13 Grade Ones mark a journey of determination

FOR 17-year-old Karishma Dhanoopdarie, success at this year’s Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations is more than a collection of impressive grades. It is the result of years of determination, sacrifice and a refusal to allow difficult

circumstances to define her future. The Anna Regina student, the daughter of Devika Ahwad and Jagjeet Dhanoopdarie, achieved an outstanding 17 subjects at this year’s examinations, comprising 13 Grade Ones and four Grade Twos.

The achievement represents a major milestone in the young woman’s journey, which began with an ambition to build a better future through education and was shaped by the values she learned from watching her parents work to provide for their family.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Karishma grew up in a household closely connected to the beauty and grooming industry. Her mother, the owner of Devika’s Beauty Salon, works as a hairdresser, while her father is a barber. Watching them build their livelihoods through their skills taught Karishma early

Karishma Dhanoopdarie lessons about commitment, discipline and the importance of earning success through perseverance. While her parents built their own businesses, Karishma set about building a path of her own through education. Her academic journey, however, was not without challenges. Balancing schoolwork, responsibilities and the pressure to perform sometimes tested her confidence, while financial constraints made certain opportunities difficult to access. Still, she refused to allow those circumstances to become limitations. Instead, Karishma remained focused on the future she envisioned for herself, using every challenge as motivation to work harder. “I wanted to make something of myself and know that all the hard work and sacrifices were worth it,” she said. After 11 years of schooling, her results have given her every reason to celebrate. Karishma described herself as “very elated and beyond grateful”, particularly because the achievement represents years of preparation, dedication and sacrifice. For her, however, the CSEC results are only one milestone in a much larger journey. She plans to pursue further studies, build a successful career, gain valuable

experience and eventually become financially independent. Ultimately, she hopes to create a comfortable and fulfilling future while making her parents proud. Her parents, she said, have been among her strongest sources of encouragement throughout her educational journey. She also received support from teachers, private tutors, relatives and friends, who offered encouragement, advice and reassurance during difficult periods. Now, with 13 Grade Ones to her name, Karishma hopes her story will inspire other young people who may feel discouraged by the circumstances around them. Her message to them is simple: believe in yourself, remain focused and never compare your journey with someone else’s. “Don’t give up on yourself. Keep going, even when it’s difficult,” she encouraged. From watching her parents work tirelessly in their salon and barbering businesses to earning 13 Grade Ones of her own, Karishma has begun writing a story of success that is uniquely hers. Her CSEC results are not simply grades on a results slip. They are the first major step towards the future she has spent years preparing to build.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Police probe alleged firearm threat on Robb Street POLICE are investigating an alleged threatening behaviour incident on Robb Street, Georgetown, involving two businessmen, one of whom was arrested after a firearm was reportedly displayed during a

confrontation. The incident occurred at about 10:25 hrs on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, and involved a 29-year-old businessman of Grove, East Bank Demerara, and a 60-year-old businessman of

Bel Air, Georgetown. According to preliminary police investigations, an incident developed between the two men during which a firearm was allegedly displayed and a threat reportedly made. The matter was subsequently reported to the police, who arrested the 60-year-old businessman. A licensed .32 Taurus pistol was also lodged as part of the investigation.

The businessman was later released on cash bail. Police said investigations are continuing into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Police probe fatal shooting at Prasville - one in custody

A 26-YEAR-OLD miner was fatally shot during an altercation at Prasville, Wismar, Linden, on Wednesday morning, with police detaining a 29-year-old man as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing continue. Dead is Keron McDonald, of Block 22, Wismar, Linden, who was shot once to the left side of his chest at about 10:00 hrs. According to the police, McDonald was engaged in a conversation with the 29-yearold suspect, of Half Mile, Wismar, when an altercation developed between the two men. During the confron-

tation, the suspect allegedly retrieved a firearm from a motor car and discharged a single round in McDonald’s direction, striking him in the chest. McDonald was subsequently taken to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor. Police rank later intercepted the 29-yearold suspect and escorted him to the Wismar Police Station, where he remains in custody assisting with the investigation. Police said no firearm has been recovered at this stage. Investigations into the fatal shooting are ongoing.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Outliers Zone Caribbean advances financial readiness talks with Prison Service

OUTLIERS Zone Caribbean is advancing discussions with the Guyana Prison Service on a proposed programme aimed at strengthening the financial preparedness and long-term financial security of correctional officers. The discussions centre on the organisation’s Operational Financial Readiness™ (OFR) Annual Licensing Programme, which seeks to position financial preparedness as part of workforce resilience, institutional integrity and operational readiness. The initiative was discussed last Friday during a courtesy visit by Outliers Zone Caribbean CEO and architect of Operational Financial Readiness™, Athalyah Yisrael, to Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot. The organisation said correctional officers work in demanding environments requiring sustained concentration, sound judgement, resilience and integrity, and that financial pressures could contribute to vulnerabilities that affect employees beyond their personal lives. Among the concerns identified are excessive debt, inadequate savings, family financial obligations and insufficient retirement planning. At the centre of the proposed engagement is annual institutional licensing of the OFR Digital Hub, which would provide correctional officers with an ongoing framework for assessing and improving their financial preparedness. According to Outliers Zone Caribbean, the programme would begin with a baseline Financial Readiness Assessment designed to identify financial stressors, behaviours and vulnerabilities among participating ranks and determine how these factors could affect workforce focus, resilience and operational performance. The assessment would

then form the basis for a structured financial security planning process throughout the licensing period, supported by the Digital Hub and the 7 F’s for a Financially Fulfilling Legacy™ manual. During Friday’s meeting, Elliot received a copy of the manual, which forms part of the proposed learning process for correctional officers during the annual licensing period. Outliers Zone Caribbean said the model is intended to move institutions beyond one-off financial literacy workshops towards an ongoing system that assesses, equips, reinforces and measures employees’ financial preparedness. The latest discussions build on two previous engagements between the organisation and the Guyana Prison Service. These included an introductory OFR session held for International Men’s Day and an engagement with senior correctional leaders during the Service’s Annual Senior Officers’ Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in March. The initiative is also part of Outliers Zone Caribbean’s broader engagement with Guyana’s disciplined services. Yisrael has held discussions with the Minister of Home Affairs on further engagements involving the Guyana Police Force, Guyana Prison Service and Guyana Fire Service. The organisation said those engagements form part of a wider effort to encourage recognition of financial preparedness as an institutional capability, rather than solely a personal financial matter. It contends that stronger financial foundations among members of the disciplined services could contribute to improved workforce resilience and operational preparedness while also benefitting officers’ families and communities. Since 2018, Outliers Zone Caribbean said it has

worked with more than 43 organisations, reaching over 3,475 employees and more than 14,000 children through its programmes and national financial education initiatives. It has also expanded its engagements with government agencies and disciplined services. “Financial preparedness should be viewed as part of workforce and institutional preparedness,”

Yisrael said. “When we strengthen the financial foundations of the men and women entrusted with protecting our institutions, we strengthen their families, their organisations and ultimately our nation.” Outliers Zone Caribbean said it intends to continue promoting Operational Financial Readiness™ across Guyana’s disciplined services and government agencies.

Outliers Zone Caribbean advances OFR discussions with the Guyana Prison Service

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Rodrigues-Birkett discusses vision for a stronger UN with Latvia’s Foreign Minister

Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and the country’s candidate for UN Secretary-General, met, on Wednesday, with Latvia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braže, to discuss her candidacy for the UN’s top post

AMBASSADOR Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Guyana's Permanent Representative to the United Nations and the country's candidate for UN Secretary-General, met, on Wednesday, with Latvia's Minister

of Foreign Affairs, Baiba Braže, to discuss her candidacy for the UN’s top post. Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett shared her vision for a more agile, efficient, and effective United Nations, and welcomed

the opportunity to hear Latvia's own views and priorities on UN reform. The meeting is the latest in a series of engagements Rodrigues-Birkett has held with Member States since President Irfaan Ali formally nomi-

nated her in June to succeed Secretary-General António Guterres, whose second term ends on December 31, 2026. If selected, she would become the first woman to lead the UN in its 80-year history.

The conversation carries added weight given Latvia's current seat on the UN Security Council, the body responsible for recommending a candidate to the General Assembly for appointment. Ambassador Ro-

drigues-Birkett said she looks forward to continuing her engagement with Latvia, and with all other Member States, as they work together to build a stronger United Nations for present and future generations.

Region Three Private Sector calls for residents to support Government’s Model Villages vision

- says community responsibility must match Gov’t investment in cleaner, safer and more beautiful communities HEAD of the Region Three Private Sector Inc. (R3PSInc), Halim Khan, has urged Guyanese to take greater responsibility for the cleanliness and appearance of their communities, saying residents must play an active role in supporting the Government’s vision to transform villages into cleaner, safer, healthier and more economically vibrant places. Khan said the Government, under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, has embarked on an ambitious programme to improve drainage, infrastructure, recreational spaces, markets and other community facilities, but the success of the wider transformation will also depend on the willingness of citizens to maintain and beautify their surroundings. His call comes as President Ali advances the Model Villages Initiative, which has already seen consultations in several Region Three communities as part of a national programme that is expected to eventually reach villages across Guyana. Khan said residents should not wait until local authorities or Government agencies organise clean-up exercises before taking action.

“Pick up the garbage. We can avoid many of the mosquito-borne diseases and other health problems if we keep our surroundings clean,” Khan said, urging residents to remove discarded containers and other items that could collect water or create unhealthy conditions. He argued that personal responsibility must become a central part of community development, noting that indiscriminate dumping not only affects the appearance of communities but can also create public-health risks. Khan said individuals who illegally dispose of waste should be held accountable, particularly in cases where dumped materials can be traced back to the persons responsible. “We do not want to fill up the police stations or the lock-ups, but people must understand that keeping the environment clean benefits them and their own surroundings,” he said. The R3PSInc head emphasised that the responsibility to maintain communities should not be placed entirely on the State, local authorities or contractors. According to Khan, residents can make a meaningful difference through simple acts such as clearing

overgrown areas, properly disposing of garbage, maintaining drains and verges, and planting flowers and other greenery around their homes. “We should not wait until the bush grows five, six or seven feet high and then say the Government is not doing anything,” he said. “If we see the small vines coming up, let us deal with them.” Khan said the same spirit of shared responsibility could help complement the major investments now being made by the Government in drainage and other infrastructure across the country. He pointed out that while contractors and Government agencies will execute large-scale works, residents can help preserve the

improvements after the projects are completed. “We can plant flowers in front of our homes and use the things that are already around us to help beautify our communities,” Khan said. “It is not only about playfields, grounds and public spaces. We must also look at the front of our homes.” He said cleaner and greener surroundings would contribute to healthier lifestyles and leave a better environment for future generations. “It is our responsibility to keep our surroundings clean, not only for ourselves but for our children and grandchildren,” Khan added. Khan’s comments closely reflect President Ali’s call for development to be built through partnership, with citizens, businesses, local authorities, religious organisations and community groups sharing responsibility for maintaining safe, orderly and caring communities. During consultations on the Model Villages Initiative, the President outlined a development strategy centred on Connectivity, Community, Commerce and Care, with the latter placing particular emphasis on environmental responsibility, waste management, clean drains, maintained verges and green

spaces. President Ali has stressed that Government can provide the infrastructure and facilities required for development, but communities themselves must play a role in sustaining the transformation. Khan said this approach presents an opportunity for every Guyanese to become directly involved in the development of the country. As Region Three continues to undergo rapid transformation, he said residents and businesses must embrace a culture of community pride and responsibility, ensuring that the improvements being made are maintained and enhanced over time. “When the contractors finish their work, we can continue to do our part,” Khan said. “We can maintain the area in front of us and make our communities places we can all be proud of.” He said the transformation envisioned by the Government should not be viewed solely as a programme of roads, drains and buildings, but as an opportunity to foster healthier lifestyles, greater civic responsibility and stronger, more beautiful communities throughout Guyana.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

US delegation visits IICA headquarters for high-level agriculture talks - trade, disease control and food security dominate meeting

A HIGH-LEVEL delegation from the United States government visited the headquarters of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), the Agricultural Agency of the Americas, for a wide-ranging meeting with Director General Muhammad Ibrahim. The visit comes as Ibrahim leads institutional reforms sharpening IICA‘s role as the hemisphere’s lead technical partner on agriculture, serving all 34 Member States without duplication or delay, and advancing common food security and trade priorities in the Americas. The officials discussed global food security and nutrition, regional emergency and disaster response, and interagency co-operation. Talks also covered priority trade and

Representatives of the United States Government and IICA authorities exchanged perspectives on food security, nutrition, agricultural trade, and regional co-operation to address emergencies, disasters, and transboundary diseases affecting agriculture across the Americas

animal health issues, including the fight against transboundary diseases such as New World Screwworm. The U.S. delegation

included Permanent Representative to the UN Agencies in Rome, Ambassador Lynda C. Blanchard; U.S. Ambassador to Costa Rica, Melinda Hildebrand; Dep-

uty Assistant Secretary of State, Laken Rapier; and State Department Regional Advisor for Disasters and Humanitarian Affairs, Kumar Lakhavani.

Ambassador Blanchard proposed closer, more effective partnership between IICA and the UN‘s Rome-based food agencies, IFAD, FAO, and WFP, to expand trade opportunities for farmers and ranchers across the Americas, protect the Hemisphere’s food supply chain, and ground regional agricultural policy in sound science: “To unlock greater trade opportunities and safeguard our food supply, the Americas and the Caribbean must unite around agricultural policies grounded in sound science. By strengthening collaboration between IICA, FAO, and other organisations – and eliminating redundant efforts – we can support American farmers through science-based international standards, cutting-edge biotechnology, and robust plant and animal health defences. Together, we are building safe, efficient, and resilient agricultural markets across the Western Hemisphere,” Ambassador Blanchard said. Ambassador Hildebrand pointed to the scope of IICA‘s work and the United States‘ role as its largest contributor: “IICA has a long track record of partnering closely with the United States to improve the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities throughout the Western Hemisphere. My visit to IICA headquarters reflects the value of an America First diplomatic agenda that delivers tangible security and economic results for the American taxpayer while ensuring stable, resilient agricultural supply chains across the hemisphere. I look forward to further engaging with IICA to address some of the greatest threats to agriculture in the region, including New World Screwworm and African Swine Fever,” Ambassador Hildebrand said. Deputy Assistant Secretary Rapier, who leads U.S. engagement with international organisations, outlined where the Department will look to IICA for

delivery ahead: “Partnering with IICA provides the United States with a direct, strategic avenue to champion American agriculture. By cutting through international bureaucracy, we are focusing our partnerships on eliminating regulatory barriers, championing American innovation, and aligning our regional partners around sound science to bolster food supply and security,” Rapier said. “IICA exists to serve its Member States, and that means becoming faster, more focused, and more accountable every day. The reforms underway are sharpening our role as the Agricultural Agency of the Americas, delivering real results for our Member States, not duplicated bureaucracy. I am proud of the partnership we share with the United States, and I look forward to working even more closely with our colleagues at the Romebased UN food agencies, FAO, WFP, and IFAD, to ensure the unique needs of the Western Hemisphere are met with the urgency they deserve,” Ibrahim said. Lakhavani empha sised the importance of expanding collaboration with IICA on global food and nutrition challenges, including the Institute’s ongoing work to control and prevent the spread of New World Screwworm. The visit builds on a partnership dating to IICA‘s founding in 1942, conceived under the vision of then U.S. Vice President Henry A. Wallace, with the United States among its original Member States. More than eight decades later, that partnership has grown into a strategic alliance advancing agricultural development, food security, and economic growth across the Americas, carried forward today by a reformed, results-driven IICA delivering on its role as the Agricultural Agency of the Americas.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

GPL begins integration of Skeldon Energy workforce following acquisition

Team Leader of GPL’s Management Committee, Kesh Nandlall, told employees that the transition would not result in job losses and the acquisition would instead create opportunities for workers to expand their skills and professional development within GPL

GUYANA Power and Light Inc. (GPL) has assured that no jobs will be lost as a result of its acquisition of Skeldon Energy Inc. (SEI), with the power company moving to integrate the facility’s 49 employees into its wider operations and provide opportunities for training and professional development. The assurance was given during a recent visit by a GPL delegation to the Skeldon Energy facility and power plant, following Cabinet’s approval of GPL’s acquisition of the 55.5 per cent shareholding in SEI previously owned by the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL). GPL already held a 44.5 per cent stake in SEI, making it the company’s sole owner following the acquisition. The takeover forms part of the Government of Guyana’s broader efforts to consolidate operations and achieve greater cost efficiencies within the energy sector. The GPL delegation was led by the Team Leader of GPL’s Management Committee, Kesh Nandlall, and included Director Gary Hall and Berbice Zone

Manager, Ravindra Jagnanan. During the visit, the delegation toured the Skeldon facility and power plant and met with employees to discuss the transition and their integration into GPL’s operations. SEI currently operates a 10-megawatt generating engine that supplies electricity to the national grid, contributing to GPL’s overall generation capacity and supporting the country’s electricity supply. Nandlall told employees that the transition would not result in job losses and said the acquisition would instead create opportunities for workers to expand their skills and pursue further professional development within GPL. As part of the integration process, the 49 employees will be offered training and upskilling opportunities in power generation, transmission and distribution, as well as administrative areas. The programme is expected to broaden employees’ competencies and enable them to contribute to GPL’s wider operations. GPL said the integration of Skeldon

Energy is being pursued with a focus on ensuring a smooth transition, improving op-

erational efficiencies and strengthening the company’s workforce. The acquisition

also positions the Skeldon facility and its generating capacity within GPL’s broad-

er efforts to enhance the reliability of electricity service across Guyana.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

Major restoration underway at Bourda Burial Ground - Minister Manickchand outlines national plan to improve public cemeteries

MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand has announced that the rehabilitation of the Bourda Burial Ground on Regent Street forms part of a wider national push to establish minimum standards and improve public cemeteries and burial grounds across Guyana. Manickchand recently visited the historic cemetery, where a major clean-up and restoration exercise is underway after years of heavy overgrowth and deterioration left several areas inaccessible.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, announced that the rehabilitation of the Bourda Burial Ground on Regent Street forms part of a wider national push to establish minimum standards and improve public cemeteries and burial grounds across Guyana

Work carried out over the past several days has included the clearing of

dense vegetation and accumulated debris, restoration of the perimeter

fence, improvement of pathways and the general beautification of the

grounds. Special care is also being taken to ensure that graves and monuments are respected and protected throughout the rehabilitation process. During her visit, Manickchand said the transformation at the Bourda Burial Ground was already significant. “You couldn’t even see into the cemetery before because it was so taken over by bush and a jungle, really, in the city,” the minister said. She explained, however, that the initiative is not limited to the Georgetown cemetery, with the ministry examining burial grounds throughout the country as part of efforts to establish and maintain minimum standards. “ We ’ r e n o t d o i n g this only for Bourda. All across the country, we’re looking at cemeteries and burial grounds that have minimum standards,” Manickchand said. According to the minister, those standards include regular maintenance, proper fencing, adequate washroom facilities and conditions that allow persons to comfortably visit and pay their respects to loved ones. “We want people to be able to go in and pay their respects to their loved ones and for these spaces

to be pleasant and not carry with them more of the morose nature of death generally,” she explained. Manickchand also drew a distinction between public and private burial grounds, noting that while the ministry is directly undertaking improvements to public cemeteries, it is prepared to share its proposed standards with owners and managers of private burial grounds, including churches and families. “This is all part of the beautification and restoration of Guyana and our public spaces,” she said. “We’re bringing back some order and making these spaces pleasant so that people who have to use them can feel respected and feel that they’re part of the process.” The restoration of the Bourda Burial Ground is among several initiatives being undertaken by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development to improve public spaces while preserving sites of historical, cultural and community significance. The ongoing works are expected to transform the once heavily overgrown cemetery into a cleaner, safer and more dignified environment for families and other visitors.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

ERC’s Nirmala Bisessar Persaud reflects on 40 years of public service

FOR more than four decades, Nirmala Bisessar Persaud has quietly built a career defined by hard work, resilience and service, leaving her mark across several of Guyana’s key public and private institutions. Her professional journey, which began in 1985 at the Accountant General’s Department, has taken her through the Auditor General’s Office, Demerara Mutual Life and, most notably, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), where she served for two decades. In 1988, Miss Persaud was transferred to the Auditor General’s Office, where she continued to build her knowledge and experience in finance and public administration. She remained there for 10 years before embarking on another chapter of her career. In 1998, she joined Demerara Mutual Life, taking with her the discipline, knowledge and experience gained during her years in public service. However, it was in 2006

a period of employment. They reflect years of commitment, responsibility, collaboration and service, as well as the friendships and experiences formed along the way. Miss Persaud’s career has not been defined solely by the institutions in which she worked or the positions she held, but also by the consistency with which she approached her responsibilities. Throughout her working life, she remained committed to serving, often going beyond the call of duty and contributing to the building of capacity and relationships that have endured over the years. To those who worked with her, she is remembered as a dedicated professional. To her family, however, she is much more. Miss Persaud is also the proud mother of a 35-yearold daughter, who pursued a career in education. Her daughter said her mother’s example has been a constant source of inspiration, particularly in demonstrating how dedication to a professional career can be balanced with

Miss Nirmala Bisessar Persaud and her daughter that Miss Persaud began what would become one of the most significant periods of her professional life when she joined the ERC. Over the next 20 years, she served the constitutional body with dedication, developing professional relationships and contributing to the work of an institution responsible for promoting harmony and good relations in Guyana’s diverse society. Her two decades at the ERC represent far more than

the responsibilities of motherhood. Growing up, she watched her mother navigate the demands of work and family life with commitment and perseverance. Those experiences, she said, helped shape the woman she has become and influenced her own approach to her profession as an educator. For her daughter, Miss Persaud has been more than a mother. She has been a role model, a source of strength

and a living example of perseverance. As she reaches this important milestone and reflects on a professional career spanning more than 40 years, her journey stands as a testament to the value of dedication and service. From the Accountant General’s Department in 1985 to the Auditor General’s Office, Demerara Mutual Life and, ultimately, the Ethnic Relations Commission, Miss Persaud has devoted much of her life to the organisations and people she served. Her story is one of quiet strength, sacrifice, com-

mitment and resilience. It reflects a life centred on service, the development of professional capacity and the building of relationships that have lasted for decades. Her 20 years at the ERC may signal the close of an important professional chapter, but they also mark the beginning of a new phase of life, providing an opportunity to reflect on the legacy created through years of dedication. Miss Persaud’s journey demonstrates that success is not always measured by titles or public recognition. Sometimes, it is reflected in

Chairman of the ERC, Shaikh Moeenul Hack, as he presented an award to Miss Nirmala Bisessar Persaud for her long service the responsibilities faithfully carried, the people positively influenced and the contributions made over a lifetime. A proud Guyanese and patriot, Miss Nirmala Bisessar Persaud’s life has been

centred on service. Her enduring commitment and selflessness stand as a lasting example of what can be achieved through resilience, dedication and a genuine willingness to serve.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 20, 2026

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

England to face Pakistan Champions, Int’l stars set for... and Sri Lanka in tri-series experience into an already stacked field. With Olympic Kremlin and Olympic National already representing Slingerz, the addition of Vitruvian gives the stable a formidable threehorse attack. From Gate 9, the Brazilian newcomer could prove to be one of the biggest dangers in the entire race.

England have won their past two ODI series under Harry Brook - against India this year and against Sri Lanka in January

ENGLAND will play Pakistan and Sri Lanka in Lahore and Rawalpindi in a one-day international tri-series in October. Each team will play each other twice with the top two finishers meeting in a final on 31 October. It is England’s first ODI tri-series since a contest against Australia and India in Australia before the 2015 World Cup.

After Pakistan and Sri Lanka open the series on 18 October, England will play the hosts on 20 October in Rawalpindi before meeting Sri Lanka on 22 October at the same venue. Matches then move to Lahore with England playing Pakistan on 25 October and Sri Lanka again on 29 October. The final will also be played in Lahore.

The contest begins England’s winter and is immediately followed by three ODIs and five T20s against Australia from 13 November. England then play three Tests and three ODIs in South Africa, two Tests in Bangladesh and the 150th anniversary Test in Melbourne against Australia in March. (BBC Sport)

SAND PIPES — SPEED FROM AMERICA Gate 10 | Jockey: Jose Da Silva Completing the field from the outside is Sand Pipes, another American-bred newcomer with an interesting résumé. Foaled in Kentucky in 2021, Sand Pipes is a son of Summer Front out of Birkenhead. He has competed on the American circuit and demonstrated the ability to win there, including a victory at Mahoning Valley. Sand Pipes has also shown toughness in close finishes. In one Maryland race, he was bumped by another runner late in the contest, regrouped and still fought through to a narrow finish — the type of competitiveness

that could serve him well in a crowded ten-horse Guyana Cup. He may start from the widest gate, but Sand Pipes gives the 2026 field yet another dangerous American-bred challenger.

TEN HORSES. ONE MILE. ONE CHAMPION. The storylines could hardly be better. Dataman is defending his crown. Olympic Kremlin wants to end a decorated career by reclaiming his. Stat has already shown he can defeat the champions. Mapa Do Brasil carries proven winning form for J’s Racing Stables. Frontline Warrior brings experience and local toughness. Olympic National arrives with a Brazilian Listed victory. Vitruvian brings Group 1 credentials. Santorini, I’m Sam and Sand Pipes add fresh American firepower to a field filled with uncertainty. When the gates open, reputations will mean little. Ten horses will have approximately one mile to settle

(From page 27)

the argument. On Sunday, August 23, Guyana will crown its champion. The Banks DIH Guyana Cup — this is the one nobody will want to miss. OFFICIAL FEATURE RACE FIELD 1 — DATAMAN (USA) — Yovin Kissoonchand 2 — STAT (USA) — Colin Ross 3 — FRONTLINE WARRIOR (USA) — Michael Semple 4 — MAPA DO BRASIL (BRZ) — Dillon Khelawan 5 — OLYMPIC KREMLIN (BRZ) — Acendir Gulart 6 — OLYMPIC NATIONAL (BRZ) — Francisco Chaves 7 — SANTORINI (USA) — Wilkey De Xavier 8 — I’M SAM (USA) — Kaua Gonsalves 9 — VITRUVIAN (BRZ) — Alexandre Correia 10 — SAND PIPES (USA) — Jose Da Silva Distance: 1 Mile / 1600 Metres Race: Banks DIH Guyana Cup Feature Date: Sunday, August 23, 2026.

New OMSCC Legends Over-50 champions... (From page 28)

Participants of Barbados and last Saturday. ing any opponents’ attack. also include the other experi- care of Ramblers to ensure Trinidad... (From page 30) Always fierce competiSkipper Seeram has been enced trio of Jaimini Singh, their place in Sunday’s final tors, Toronto Blizzards will lean heavily on veteran opener Sunil Dhaniram, the division leading scorer who on his day is capable of destroy-

ENGLISH RACING TIPS NEWMARKET 09:00 hrs Minkaas 09:35 hrs Tie A Navyribbon 10:10 hrs Venetian Lion 10:45 hrs Round The Table 11:20 hrs Cherry Cobbler 11:51 hrs Travelling Man YORK 08:50 hrs Star Of State 09:25 hrs Sun Goddess 10:00 hrs Bullet Point 10:35 hrs Kalpana 11:10 hrs A La Prochaine 11:45 hrs Revels 12:20 hrs Stsrlight Lass NEWCASTLE 13:19 hrs Niffler 13:54 hrs Queen's Name

a shadow of himself in this year’s tournament but his experience could also be a factor in the final. Coupled with that, Toronto Blizzards

14:24 hrs Spirit Gesture 14:54 hrs Star People 15:24 hrs Azuinthejungle IRISH RACING TIPS LEOPARDSTOWN 11:56 hrs So Lovely 12:27 hrs Banks Of The Boyne 13:00 hrs Altimara 13:30 hrs Pizza San Marcos 14:00 hrs Cooley's Mist 14:30 hrs Goddess Of War 15:00 hrs Bella Columbia AMERICAN RACING TIPS SARATOGA Race 1 Oath Race 2 Light Fantastic Race 3 Max O Nodas Race 4 Cash Burn Race 5 Deported Race 6 Valtellina 15:54 hrs Gemini Star

Jesh Parasnauth and Mohan Harihar. Meanwhile, Better Hope who upstaged Car Tec in last year’s Over-40 final to claim the Over-40 title, after finishing fourth in the regular season, are set to defend their crown against Canadian Legends who sent Car Tec packing in a contentious super over semi-final contest last Sunday. Better Hope, led by Sunil Ramkissoon, took

which will also be played at St Bede. The Over-60, which was introduced for the first time this season, will see overwhelming favourites Dirty Dozen clashing with Littles Sports Club at Littles Park on Sunday. Dirty Dozen defeated Friendship Masters while Littles won from KC Stalwart in last Sunday’s semi-finals in the four-team contest. (Frederick Halley)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Thursday August 20, 2026) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) SLK (2) GAW Today’s Quiz: (1) Who was voted Man of the Match in the 2024 CPL final? (2) Who was declared Man of the Tournament? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

eligibility for the 2027 World Cup, tactical awareness, temperament and competitiveness, fitness and the overall balance and composition of the squad. The camp will focus on technical, tactical, physical and mental development, while providing the players with greater exposure to the standards, intensity and expectations associated with progressing to the international level. On the field, the players will work with several members of CWI’s High-Performance coaching staff, led by senior women’s assistant coach Ryan Austin, alongside Shane Dowrich, who has been part of the West Indies Women’s recent assignments, including the ICC T20 World Cup in England and Wales, and West Indies Academy head coach Ramesh Subasinghe. UNDER-19 WOMEN PARTICIPANTS: Eboni Brathwaite, Davehjah

Eboni Brathwaite of Barbados, the leading run scorer in the recently concluded CWI Rising Stars Under-19 Women’s Championship, is part of the 22-member squad for a High-Performance training camp

Brown, Zaniyah Bruce, CQuinya Dasent, Jessica Davis, Kaela George, Brianna Harricharan, Sabriel Headley, Allia Henry, Theanny Herbert-Mayers, Jadaeya Holder, Shriya Jairam, Danielle Manns, Jannah Mohammed, Brianna Plummer, Sian Ramnarine, Samara Ramnath, Zara Skerritt, Amrita Ramtahal, Jaeda Tyrell, Leanga Warner, Aaliyah Weekes.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

Champions, Int’l stars set for most epic Banks DIH Guyana Cup clash THE stage is set for what promises to be one of the most competitive feature horse races in Guyana Cup history, as ten elite thoroughbreds prepare to battle over one mile in the Banks DIH Guyana Cup on Sunday, August 23, at Rising Sun Turf Club. The field brings together past Guyana Cup champions, proven local campaigners, exciting new imports from the United States and accomplished Brazilian runners — creating a genuine international showdown. From defending champion Dataman to 2024 champion Olympic Kremlin, rising Brazilian force Olympic National, proven campaigners Stat, Frontline Warrior and Mapa Do Brasil, and intriguing newcomers Santorini, I’m Sam, Vitruvian and Sand Pipes. This line-up ensures that there is no easy path to the Guyana Cup crown. DATAMAN — THE CHAMPION RETURNS Gate 1 | Jockey: Yovin Kissoonchand Every contender will know that the road to the 2026 title goes through Dataman, the talismanic Master Z horse. Dataman, an American-bred gelding captured the 2025 Guyana Cup over the same one-mile distance, defeating a quality field to claim Guyana’s biggest prize. Before coming to Guyana, Dataman competed in the United States and established himself as a serious performer. The Kentucky-bred son of Tapit has competed at stakes level, and his American résumé gives an indication of the class he brought to the Caribbean. Now he returns with something every other horse wants — the crown. Can Dataman make it back-to-back Guyana Cups? STAT — THE DANGEROUS CONTENDER Gate 2 | Jockey: Colin Ross If recent Guyana form is the yardstick, Stat cannot be

American conditioner Michael Maker. His previous connections also included top-level American jockey Flavien Prat. Now representing J’s Racing Stables, Santorini begins an entirely new chapter of his career. The Guyana Cup will provide an immediate examination of his ability against the best horses currently competing locally. From Gate 7, Santorini is the unknown quantity — and sometimes the horse the competition knows least about can be the most dangerous.

All eyes will be on top horses at Rising Sun Turf Club

overlooked. He finished fourth in the 2025 Guyana Cup behind Dataman and has continued to demonstrate that he belongs among Guyana’s top horses. More importantly, Stat recently turned the tables on some of the country’s biggest names, defeating Mapa Do Brasil, Olympic Kremlin and Dataman in the CARICOM Gold Cup. That performance sent a clear message: Stat is no supporting act. From Gate 2, he enters the Guyana Cup as a legitimate threat capable of upsetting the established champions. FRONTLINE WARRIOR — READY FOR BATTLE Gate 3 | Jockey: Michael Semple Few names fit the occasion better than Frontline Warrior. A familiar campaigner on the Guyana circuit, Frontline Warrior has been building towards this moment. Earlier in the season, reports from Jagdeo Racing Stables described the horse as working smoothly and looking particularly sharp as Guyana Cup preparations intensified. Frontline Warrior was also part of the high-class 2025 Guyana Cup field, meaning the atmosphere and pressure of the country’s biggest race will be nothing new.

He enters Gate 3 as the battle-tested warrior looking to produce the biggest performance of his campaign. MAPA DO BRASIL — J’S RACING’S PROVEN STAR Gate 4 | Jockey: Dillon Khelawan Mapa Do Brasil has already proven that he can win major races in Guyana — and that makes him one of the horses to watch carefully. Representing J’s Racing Stables, the Brazilian-bred campaigner produced an impressive feature-race victory at the 2026 Pagwah Cup at Kennard Memorial Turf Club. He subsequently demonstrated his stamina over nine furlongs, powering to another victory and showing that longer distances pose no fear for him. Mapa Do Brasil has therefore demonstrated something invaluable heading into a onemile championship: he knows how to win in Guyana. From Gate 4, J’s Racing’s Brazilian star will attempt to turn proven local form into the biggest victory of his career. OLYMPIC KREMLIN — ONE LAST SHOT AT GLORY Gate 5 | Jockey: Acendir

Gulart This may be the most emotional storyline of the entire race. Olympic Kremlin, winner of the 2024 Guyana Cup, is scheduled to make his final competitive appearance before retirement. But this is no ceremonial farewell. The Brazilian-bred son of Agnes Gold has serious international credentials. Before becoming a star in Guyana, Olympic Kremlin won Brazil’s prestigious Grande Prêmio Cruzeiro do Sul in 2021. Recent performances suggest that the veteran still has fight left in him. He finished second behind Dataman in the Banks DIH Classic and third behind Stat and Mapa Do Brasil in the CARICOM Cup. He has already worn the Guyana Cup crown. Now, in his final race, Olympic Kremlin has one last opportunity to leave the track as champion. One final mile. One final Guyana Cup. One final shot at glory. OLYMPIC NATIONAL — BRAZILIAN FIREPOWER ARRIVES Gate 6 | Jockey: Francisco Chaves If there is an international wildcard capable of turning this race upside down, Olympic National may be it.

The Brazilian-bred runner comes to Guyana with serious credentials. Representing Slingerz Racing Stable, Olympic National produced an authoritative victory in Brazil in the Much Better Classic, a Listed race contested over 1,900 metres on dirt at the famous Gávea Racetrack in Rio de Janeiro. He has also competed at Group level in Brazil, finishing fourth in the Grand Prix City Hall of Rio de Janeiro (G3) earlier this year. That means Guyanese racing fans are about to see a horse arriving directly from competition at one of South America’s important racing centres. Olympic National makes his Guyana Cup debut from Gate 6 — and he arrives with a résumé that demands respect. SANTORINI — THE AMERICAN IMPORT WITH SOMETHING TO PROVE Gate 7 | Jockey: Wilkey De Xavier One of the intriguing new faces in the field is Santorini, an American-bred gelding preparing to make his mark in Guyana. Foaled in Kentucky in 2020, Santorini previously raced in the United States and was trained by respected

I’M SAM — THE AMERICAN WILDCARD Gate 8 | Jockey: Kaua Gonsalves Another fascinating addition is I’m Sam. The American campaigner brings race experience to Guyana and has already demonstrated his ability to find the winner’s circle. In September 2025, I’m Sam scored as the favourite with three-time Jamaican champion jockey Anthony Thomas aboard. He has continued competing in the United States, including at Gulfstream Park in Florida. Now the scenery changes completely. From American racing to the biggest stage in Guyana, I’m Sam enters Gate 8 as another international challenger looking to announce himself in spectacular fashion. VITRUVIAN — THE GROUP 1 PERFORMER Gate 9 | Jockey: Alexandre Correia The late addition of Vitruvian dramatically raises the international quality of this field. The five-year-old Brazilian-bred campaigner has been described as a Group 1 performer and was specifically recruited by Slingerz Racing Stable to strengthen its assault on the 2026 Guyana Cup. By American stallion Hofburg out of Brazilian mare Organic Lady, Vitruvian brings Brazilian racing (Turn to page 26)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

‘Missing’ Baptiste jailed in Morocco for sexual assault AN English athletics coach and former gold medallist said by media reports to be missing is serving a prison sentence in Morocco for sexually assaulting a minor, BBC Sport can reveal. Leon Baptiste, who was coaching a clutch of top British track athletes in the run-up to this summer’s Commonwealth Games and European Championships, suddenly went off the grid more than three months ago. Neither UK Athletics, for whom he worked as a consultant sprinting coach, nor the sprinters he coached knew why he was out of contact. In May, Baptiste sent the group of athletes he coached a short message saying he would be absent from training “for a while”. They have been given no further explanation. Over the weekend, he was reported in the media as being “missing” and was said to have disappeared in Morocco. On Tuesday, a brief

email was sent to the people coached on behalf of Baptiste - the 200m gold medallist at the 2010 Commonwealth Games - in which he resigned from the position, citing unspecified ill health. A source at the Moroccan Ministry of Justice confirmed to BBC Sport that Baptiste was arrested in Marrakech in May, has subsequently been convicted and is now serving a custodial sentence in Al-Oudaya prison. Baptiste was originally sentenced to 10 months in prison, later reduced to eight months on appeal. “In relation to the reports concerning the alleged ‘disappearance of Leon Baptiste’ - an English athletics coach reportedly missing in Morocco for more than two months under questionable circumstances - please note that the information published in this regard is inaccurate and does not reflect the facts of the case,” said the source. “The foreign national concerned had not lost con-

tact with his surroundings and was not subject to any disappearance or unexplained absence. “He is currently being held at the local prison in Marrakech, where he is serving a custodial sentence following his conviction by the competent judicial authorities in connection with a misdemeanour case.” They added Baptiste, 41, was “in good health”. A spokesperson for the Morocco Public Prosecution Office confirmed the sentence and nature of the conviction, adding: “The British national is currently being held at the local prison in Marrakech, where he is serving a custodial sentence following a court judgment against him in connection with his involvement in a criminal case.” In Morocco, a minor is deemed to be under 18. Asked directly about Baptiste, a UK Foreign Office spokesperson said: “We are supporting a British na-

Leon Baptiste won two golds at the 2010 Commonwealth Games - in the 200m and 4x100m relay - but retired aged 28 after suffering knee issues

tional who is detained in Morocco and are in contact with the authorities.” Sources told BBC Sport that Baptiste travelled to Marrakech with three other British former athletes, who have all since returned to the UK. BBC Sport has made attempts to contact the athletes but had no reply. Baptiste’s family are understood to be aware of his

imprisonment. Baptiste’s absence left some British sprinters - including Olympic bronze medallist Charlie Dobson and Paralympic silver medallist Zac Shaw - without a designated coach before the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and European Championships in Birmingham. Four-time European gold medallist Adam Gemili and

relay coach Martyn Rooney stepped in to provide extra assistance to the athletes affected by Baptiste’s abrupt departure. But BBC Sport has been told the sprinters’ training was heavily disrupted during a crucial period of their careers, leaving them ill-prepared and frustrated. BBC Sport has approached UK Athletics for comment.

New OMSCC Legends Over-50 champions Bears sign Australia batter Weatherald for to be crowned on Saturday 2027

Sunil Dhaniram

A NEW champion will be crowned on Saturday when the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Club (OMSCC) stages the Legends Over-50 final at the St Bede ground in Scarborough, Toronto, Canada. After easily topping the 2026 regular season chart, with just a single defeat at the hands of Dirty Dozen, defending champions Warriors suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of the evergreen Toronto Blizzards while twotime winners GTA Storm made light work of Ramblers Rampage in last Saturday’s semi-finals, played at the St

Troy Gobin

Bede and Littles ground in Scarborough, Ontario. The victory by Toronto Blizzards means they will be contesting a record eighth consecutive final despite winning their last title in 2022. Both GTA Storm and Toronto Blizzards, led Shiv Seeram and Troy Gobin respectively will undoubtedly have a score to settle in the shortened 2026 season which saw each side sharing the spoils with Toronto Blizzards winning the first encounter at Dean Park and GTA Storm bouncing back to take top honours in a low scoring

affair at Littles Park. The latter saw GTA Storm being bowled out for a paltry 108 but stunned their opponents who were dismissed for a paltry 91. Both teams are stacked with seasoned contenders with Gobin leading the fray for GTA Storm which will also have the likes of vice-captain Richard Driffield, Ian “Russian” Baldeo, Suren Persaud and opener Parbhu Balkarran who has had a fine debut season, culminating with a fine unbeaten half-century versus Ramblers Rampage (Turn to page 26)

WARWICKSHIRE have signed Australia Test opening batter Jake Weatherald for the 2027 County Championship season. The 31-year-old has played six times for his country, making his debut in last winter’s Ashes series where he hit 201 runs, with a top score of 72 in Brisbane, as England were hammered 4-1. Weatherald joined Leicestershire for the start of this summer and had a successful six-game spell at Grace Road, scoring 483 runs at an average of 60.37, with a hundred and three half-centuries. Australia are in England for the next Ashes series and the left-hander is looking to get back in the squad after being dropped following the historic defeat at home by Bangaldesh. “Jake is a player we’ve admired for a long time - he

Jake Weatherald has hit 14 first-class centuries during his career

is a proven performer who has scored heavily at the highest level and gives us additional strength at the top of the order,” Warwickshire performance director James Thomas told the club website., external “He scored runs for Leicestershire this summer and will be eager to come back to England and impress ahead of The Ashes next year.”

Weatherald, who has scored more than 6,000 runs in his first-class career, said he “couldn’t pass up” the chance to play for Warwickshire, adding Edgbaston was “one of the great grounds in world cricket”. “I enjoyed playing in England this year so to have the opportunity to join the Bears ahead of The Ashes is really exciting,” he added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

Suthar ten-for seals big victory for India in Galle INDIA displayed the required patience and persistence to seal a 165-run win against a resolute Sri Lanka middle order on a slow, new-ball pitch. Sonal Dinusha came to within 16 runs of a second hundred in the Test, Dhananjaya de Silva scored a half-century as well, and for long periods India looked content to keep a lid on the scoring so that they could do the job with the second new ball. Once he got Dinusha out in the 76th over, though, Manav Suthar ran through the rest to end up four wickets in 10 balls, a second five-for in two Tests, and the new ball unneeded.

(Scores): India 462 (Padikkal 167, Rahul 82, Jayasuriya 4-109) and 193 (Pant 66, Asitha 4-31, Jayasuriya 3-43) beat Sri Lanka 284 (Dinusha 100, Dickwella 80, Suthar 4-76, Jadeja 3-57) and 206 (Dinusha 84, Dhananjaya 59, Suthar 6-55) by 165 runs It will be a welcome win for a young transitioning team that has lost two out of its last three series in spin-friendly conditions, that too at home. They did win the big toss, but had to contend with dodgy weather through the Test, which did play a part in some of the shots their middle-order batters played in the first innings. The bowling, though, was excellent with the continuous

rise of Suthar, enough threat from Ravndra Jadeja, handy contributions from the seamers who combined for a lot of control and five wickets in the match, and slow progress of Kuldeep Yadav hopefully towards better rhythm. On the final day, needing six wickets to win, India stayed with pace at one end. Mohammed Siraj and Jadeja kept testing Dinusha and de Silva, who made their ways to half-centuries. The overnight pair saw off the first spells of these bowlers, but Jadeja came back after less than a half hour to get rid of de Silva. He went past the outside edge with one that turned big and then slowed the next ball down, drawing

a top edge on the sweep. Niroshan Dickwella played an unsettled innings, trying to reverse-sweep and sweep Kuldeep from well outside leg as he bowled around the wicket, looking for something from a new angle. Against Prasidh Krishna’s short balls, he kept moving around the crease. Following some banter with Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was goading him to play the hook, Dickwella top-edged a cut, cramped by the line even after having backed away from the stumps. Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha hung in for 15 overs, but one mistake from Dinusha opened the floodgates. Suthar had gone around the

Manav Suthar spun his way to a five-for with the old ball (AFP/Getty Images)

wicket, pitched one outside leg, and he just turned the ball straight into the hands of the only catching man, the leg gully. The extra bounce probably played a part. Suthar will be mighty pleased with the next three wickets because they were all a result of less turn than expected. All bowled quicker with a square seam rather than overspin with the seam

pointing towards slip, which is his main weapon. However, if you keep turning the ball big, you can keep going past the edge without actually taking a wicket. Suthar showed he has the variation and exposed the other edge as well. Nuwantha was the last man out, bowled off the inside edge, with 2.2 overs still to go for the new ball.

Robinson & Tongue give ideal start to new Root era OLLIE Robinson and Josh Tongue each took five wickets to give Joe Root the ideal start to his second spell as England captain as Pakistan were skittled for 171 on the opening day of the series at Headingley. Returning four years after his first stint as skipper left him and his team broken, Root’s leadership was barely tested thanks to the excellence of his bowlers and fragility of the Pakistan batting. (Scores) Pakistan 171 all out: Shafique 61; Tongue 5-46, Robinson 5-51 England 112-2: Root 37*, Gay 33; Abbas 1-34 Root won the toss, pounced on the opportunity to bowl first and Robinson set the tone by pinning Azan Awais leg before with the first ball of the match.

Robinson expertly exploited the movement on offer, relentlessly hitting a full length for his 5-51. Tongue took longer to warm to his task but when he also found the correct length, he was also too much for Pakistan to handle. Tongue’s 5-46 ended with a final devastating burst of 4-5 from 11 balls. England needed only 48.1 overs to dismiss the tourists and would have been done more quickly had it not been for 61 from Abdullah Shafique, 42 by Imam-ulHaq and a near-two-hour rain delay. It was not all plain sailing for the home side, who lost openers Ben Duckett and Emilio Gay to find themselves 48-2 in the reply. Captain or not, Root is so often the man to steady

Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson both took five-fors (Getty Images)

England’s batting, and he has said his team will not be wedded to a style of play. In the company of Jordan Cox, who is at number three in place of the injured Jacob Bethell, Root calmly

took the hosts to 112-2, 59 behind. NEW-ISH ERA, OLD CAPTAIN After the chaos of Ben Stokes’ retirement and the

sacking of Brendon McCullum, England are in a strange holding pattern. The new era does not begin in earnest until Stephen Fleming takes up his post as coach in the winter. Root has the immediate task of improving the results of a team that has won only two of its previous 10 matches. This was a strong step in the right direction. Pakistan have not won a series in this country for 30 years. There is a suspicion that little can be learned about England’s fresh start because of the quality of this Pakistan team, especially a batting line-up without injured captain Babar Azam. Wednesday did little to quell that suspicion. How different was this to the Bazball era? Root, like Stokes, posted himself at

mid-off, but did not march around and marshall the field like his predecessor. Much like Stokes, Root was happy to post plenty of fielders in catching positions, though that can be attributed to the match situation. Perhaps there was a time when the atmosphere felt flat, particularly when Imam and Shafique were adding 91 for the third wicket. Headingley gradually came to life after Tongue removed Imam, and the crowd gave home favourite Root a warm welcome before revelling in his late-evening progress. Rain is forecast for much of Thursday and much of Friday, though England’s first-day efforts have already given them ample time to begin Root’s second reign with victory. (BBC Sport)

Greaves, Matthews create history by winning Player... (From back page) our home fans,” Greaves said. “I am pleased to have played my part in some important performances for the team, and I hope I can continue to make meaningful contributions. I thank my team-mates and team staff for their support and look forward to building on this momentum in the coming

months.” Meanwhile, his fellow Barbadian Matthews copped the award for a fifth time after a superb performance against Ireland Women in their One Day International series. The 28-year-old Matthews had a prolific run for the West Indies in Ireland, scoring 265 runs over three

games to secure a 3-0 series win for her team. The all-rounder made an impact with both bat and ball in the opening game, claiming 3-52 in the first innings before smashing an unbeaten 159 in the chase, while sharing a record-breaking partnership with Realeanna Grimmond. In the second ODI, she

continued her fine run by bringing up back-to-back centuries, scoring an even 100 while also contributing with the ball through another important spell of 2-34. Although she managed just six runs in the third ODI, Matthews once again proved her value as a complete all-rounder, taking 2-37 with the ball.

She finished with an impressive average of 132.50 and a strike rate of 117.25 and also took seven wickets at an average of 17.57. “I am thrilled to win the ICC Player of the Month award once again. It is just as special as the previous ones, and I hope it inspires me to keep raising my standards, contributing to the

West Indies, and winning more such awards in the future,” Matthews said. “It is an exciting time for women’s cricket, with more attention and interest than ever before. I am proud to contribute to its growth through my performances and thank the ICC for its continued support of the women’s game.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

Supreme Transportation backs Lotto/Let’s Bet T10 Tapeball Blast SUPREME Transportation Inc. has officially joined the lineup of corporate backers for the fourth edition of the Lotto/Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast, supporting the development of grassroots cricket across the country. “The backing from corporate partners like Supreme Transportation Inc. is vital in elevating grassroots cricket to professional standards,” stated tournament representative Yusuf Ali. “Their commitment not only provides local athletes with meaningful financial rewards and national recognition, but it also ensures communities across Guyana enjoy top-tier cricket entertainment. We are deeply grateful for their partnership as the tournament continues to

gather incredible momentum.” The tournament moves into its next phase following two high-intensity regional legs. Grillmaster Sip N Play All-Stars dominated the Berbice Zone to seal the inaugural ticket to the National Grand Finale. Meanwhile, Mahdia (Movements Family) pulled off a high-scoring heist at Meten-Meer-Zorg, dethroning 2025 champions Eccles All-Stars to lock down the East Bank/West Demerara berth. Attention now shifts west to the Essequibo Coast for a bumper weekend of action on August 22 and 23. Sixteen talent-stacked outfits will clash across four grounds— Pomona, Affiance, Hampton Court, and the Anna Regina

National Stadium. Saturday’s opening round bursts into life at 10:30h, highlighted by Aurora Knight Riders taking on GT Warriors at Pomona and Riverstown facing Fibreglass Gladiators at Affiance, before a knockout quarter-final round caps off the afternoon. On Sunday, the entire spectacle moves exclusively to Anna Regina under lights. Back-to-back semi-finals bowl off at 14:30h and 16:30h, followed by a curtain-raiser exhibition between Trophy Stall Jaguars and Trophy Stall Eagles at 18:30h. The centrepiece zonal final takes centre stage at 20:00h. Beyond a spot in the October showcase, there is plenty of coin up for grabs. Shawn’s Mini Mart is fund-

From left: Faiaz Baksh, Pooranlall Balchand and Yusuf Ali of One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blasta

ing a G$500,000 winner’s purse, Jaigobin Hotel backs the G$200,000 runner-up check, and Scoop Ride Inc. ensures losing quarter-finalists walk away with G$25,000 each.

Once the Essequibo champions join Grillmaster and Mahdia in the national draw, the tournament will pause briefly for the closing stretch of the Caribbean Premier League.

Action resumes on September 26 with the Georgetown/East Coast Demerara Zone, before all roads lead back to Anna Regina for the National Grand Finale on October 11.

Duran scores twice as Celtic beat LASK to take big step towards Champions League CELTIC took a huge step towards the Champions League as two stunning Camilo Duran strikes helped carve out a commanding first-leg play-off lead against LASK. The Colombian struck fabulous efforts either side of half-time after a wonderful finish from Bejamin Nygren set the Scottish champions on their way. LASK did threaten throughout and had the ball in the Celtic net twice in the firsthalf, but both goals were ruled out for offside. The sides meet again in the second leg next Tuesday (20:00 BST) in Linz. On a typically raucous European night at Celtic Park, LASK stunned the home

crowd within 30 seconds when they had the ball in the net. Cameron Carter-Vickers was caught out by a ball over the top and Moses Usor raced through and dispatched a ruthless finish into the top corner, but the flag went up. Celtic looked nervy, LASK looked confident, and moments later Carter-Vickers was outpaced by Samuel Adeniran and the American striker should have done better than to drag his strike wide of the target. The Austrian champions were content to cede possession, sit deep and counter. Their tactics looked spot-on until they were undone by a moment of brilliance. 01:35 The ball dropped to

Nygren at the edge of the box and the prolific Swede curled a wonderful strike into the top corner to change the dynamic of the match. LASK thought they had an equaliser when George Bello’s pinpoint cross found Adeniran completely unmarked eight yards out and he bulleted a header past Viljami Sinisalo, but again the offside flag was up. Both sides looked threatening and another magnificent goal doubled Celtic’s lead. A dangerous cross aimed for Kasper Hogh was headed away, but only as far as Duran at the edge of the box and he unleashed an unstoppable rocket of a volley past Lukas Jungwirth. Celtic upped the tempo

after the break with Callum McGregor’s deflected strike crashing back off a post and, while LASK caused further moments of panic at the back, the third goal arrived courtesy of Duran. A smart one-two with Nygren opened up a little space in the box and the Colombian slotted a lovely finish high into the net to give his side some breathing space in the tie and further endear himself to the Celtic fans following his summer arrival. LASK hunted the goal that would lessen the scale of their task in Linz next week, but Sinisalo dealt with everything that came his way as Celtic preserved a commanding lead to take to Austria. The ball dropped to

Participants of Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago make up majority of Under-19 women selected for High-Performance camp ST JOHN’S, Antigua,( CMC )– CRICKET West Indies (CWI) has named 22 female Under-19 players to take part in a High-Performance camp ahead of next year’s ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup. The majority of the participants have been drawn from Trinidad and Tobago’s title-winning team that recently captured the CWI Rising Stars

Under-19 Women’s Championship, as well as Barbados, who placed second. Seven members from T&T make up the squad, while another five from Barbados have been included. Additionally, four players from the Leeward Islands have been selected, along with two players each from the Windward Islands, Jamaica and Guyana.

The players have transitioned directly from the successful regional tournament into a two-week High-Performance Camp in Antigua, which began on August 17 and runs until August 29. CWI High-Performance Manager, Dwain Gill, said the immediate transition from regional competition into a high-performance environment was intentional and

important to the players’ development. “The Rising Stars Championship gave us a valuable opportunity to see these players compete, respond to pressure and demonstrate their potential in a regional environment. “We did not want that assessment process to end with the tournament. Bringing the selected players directly

into camp allows us to build on what we have seen, work more closely with them and begin addressing the areas that will be critical to their progression,” Gill said. “This is an important first step in building a group that can be competitive at the 2027 World Cup, while also developing players who can contribute to West Indies women’s cricket beyond the

Under-19 level.” The initiative is part of CWI’s deliberate approach to identifying, developing and preparing the next generation of West Indies women cricketers for the demands of international competition. Selection for the camp was based on a combination of on-field performances and technical assessments, age (Turn to page 26)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 20, 2026

Beharry Group National U-19 schools T20 cricket tournament

Annandale beat Abram Zuil to play BEI in Monday’s final By Sean Devers ANNANDALE Secondary beat Abram Zuil Secondary by seven wickets in Eliminator 2 of the Beharry Group National U-19 schools T20 cricket tournament, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, yesterday at the Enterprise Community Centre ground on the East Coast of Demerara. The East zone winners who lost the Berbice Educational Institute (BEI) in the qualifier, will battle BEI in Monday’s final at the Queen’s College ground. Scores: Abram Zuil (87 all out in 19 overs), Annandale 88-3 in 16 overs) The contest was delayed by 31 minutes because the Essequibo Coast team encountered problems locating the ground which is 16 miles from Georgetown. On a day blessed with brilliant sunshine a large and vocal gathering watch as Abrams Zuil opted to bat on good track and fast outfield and suffered a ‘horror start’ when they lost the dangerous Ravi Fredericks in the first over at 7-1. Joshua Boller removed Fredericks, the son of former National U-19 batter Norman

A large gathering turned up at the Enterprise ground yesterday

Man-of-the-Match Akeem Persaud took 4-11 yesterday

Fredericks after he stroked the bowler for a boundary to take his runs tally to 288 runs only behind BEI’s Luke Amsterdam. Eshwar Tilak and Marcanthony Obermuller and their pair featured in an entertaining 39-run partnership dominated by Obermuller. Sanjay Dindyal bowled Tilak (12) and Otis Roberts (0) off consecutive balls with score on 46 in eighth over to

Persaud took a Man-ofthe-Match spell of 4-11, while Sanjay Dindyal (3-14) and Bollers (2-32) bowled well for Annandale who lost Jermiane Paton (8) at 9-1 in the third over. Nurse trapped Nicolas Ramrattan LBW for a duck at 15-2 before Bollers and Ruel Dindyal, Annandale’s best batters, put together 58

delight of the partisan turn out in the stands. Akeem Persaud got rid of Naveed Fredericks for duck to leave the team from Guyana largest County on 47-4 in the ninth over. Obermuller continued to look good but lost Emmanuel Jhablall, run out for three at 58-5 before Sanjay Dindyal bowled Rhonel Nurse (1) at 60-6. Obermuller was caught

and bowled by the impressive Persaud for a well complied 30 with three fours at 62-7 in 15 overs and bowled Dev Persaud (1) as Abram Zuil slipped to 71-8 Persaud dismissed Shivesh Bridgemohan at 71-9 before Yovesh Bridgemohan (12) and Joash Inniss (5) added 16 for the last wicket, before Bollers, who plays for city side Malteenoes, bowled Yovesh Bridgemohan.

for the third wicket to joy of the crowd which along with pulsating Music blaring from a huge Speaker beside the Southern half of the pavilion created a fantastic atmosphere. But when well set on 32 Bollers was neatly stumped off Inniss. Raul Dindyal (29) and Persaud (5) saw their team into Monday’s final with 24 balls to spare.

Mohan foresees economic boost as Lotto/Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball returns to Essequibo REGIONAL Chairman of Region Two Devin Mohan has lauded the arrival of the Lotto/Let’s Bet One Guyana T10 Tapeball tournament to the Essequibo Coast, predicting that the marquee event will deliver a major economic boost through sports tourism and local empowerment. Speaking at the newly transformed Anna Regina National Stadium, Mohan expressed his delight at the commercial and community momentum building ahead of the fixtures on August 22 and 23. “I must say that this would be a great initiative for

our region. With this magnificent piece of transformation, we’re talking about this stadium here; I’m elated to see that the T10 will bring a great economic boost to our region in terms of sports tourism, in terms of our locals being empowered,” Mohan stated. Mohan emphasised that hosting the tournament aligns with the broader economic expansion sweeping through Region Two, where increased investment and commercial stability have spurred local business activity. “Over the years, we can see a significant boost in the number of businesses coming to our region, and

it’s alluding to one thing: we talk about stability and the policies, the positive policies under this government,” Mohan noted. “In this township, you can see multiple hotels; we’re talking about other businesses… more and more investors coming into this beautiful township and, by extension, the region, because the spending power is there.” Reflecting on the evolution of the Anna Regina venue from a modest community ground into a modern facility capable of hosting major competitions, Mohan highlighted the lasting im-

pact on the regional sports ecosystem. “This piece of tangible facility would be a major, drastic boost to the sports sector in our region,” he said. “This ground was a community centre, and the transformation that we have seen here is a real transformation. So I know each and every one in this region here will benefit tremendously from this magnificent and beautiful facility in our region.” The Essequibo leg represents the third zonal stop of the competition following completed legs in Berbice and East Bank/West Demerara.

Sixteen teams loaded with talent will clash across four venues—Pomona Ground, Affiance Community Ground, Hampton Court Ground, and Anna Regina National Stadium—on Saturday, August 22, before the action shifts exclusively to Anna Regina on Sunday, August 23 for the semi-finals, an exhibition tie between Trophy Stall Jaguars and Trophy Stall Eagles, and the zonal final under lights at 20:00h. At stake for the Essequibo champions is a berth in the National Finals on October 11 at Anna Regina. Alongside a top cash prize of $500,000 sponsored

by Shawn’s Mini Mart. Jaigobin Hotel is funding the $200,000 runner-up payout and $50,000 for each losing semi-finalist, while Scoop Ride Inc. will distribute $25,000 to each losing quarter-finalist. Admission is free to all grounds across both days, with full community entertainment planned throughout the weekend. Following this leg, the tournament will observe a scheduled hiatus for the closing stages of the Caribbean Premier League before resuming on September 26 for the Georgetown/ East Coast Demerara Zone.

Paul’s all-around brilliance fires Kingsmen to victory over Patriots

Keemo Paul celebrating one of his three wickets against the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – AN electrifying performance from Keemo Paul ensured that the Jamaica Kingsmen ended their homestand in the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League on a winning note with a dominant 51-run victory over the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots here on Tuesday night. The all-rounder firstly starred with the bat, striking 65 off 36 balls, to help stage a recovery for the home side and get them up to 181 for six in their 20 overs after being sent in at Sabina Park. Paul then returned with the ball to snare three wickets,

as the Patriots were bowled out for a paltry 130 in 18 overs to give the Kingsmen their second successive win after losing their first three matches. The result propelled the Kingsmen up to second in the standings with four points from their five games, while it dropped the Patriots to the bottom of the table on two points with just one win in three matches. The Kingsmen couldn’t have gotten off to a worst possible start with pacer Saurabh Netravalkar claiming the wickets of Kirk McKenzie and Keacy Carty for ducks in the first over of the match to

leave the home side in tatters at 0 for two. Usman Khan and Reeza Hendricks added 36 runs for the third wicket, but the Patriots were back on top when spinner Wanindu Hasaranga trapped Khan lbw for 13 and had Hendricks caught behind for 19 to reduce the Kingsmen to 54 for four in the eighth over. With his side in serious trouble, captain Rovman Powell and Paul came to the rescue during a 99-run partnership for the fifth wicket that completely transformed the complexion of the match. Paul took a while to get going, scoring 16 runs at a

run-a-ball in the early stages, but found his groove in the latter stages of the match. He unleashed his fury by hitting Nikhil Chaudhary for a four and six off consecutive deliveries in the 14th over and followed up by smashing Hasaranga for two sixes in the 16th over to overtake Powell and move to 44 off 29 balls. Paul then brought up his third T20 half century off 30 balls by clobbering Netravalkar for six over long on in the next over, which also included another six and two fours and leaked 22 runs. By the time Jason Holder removed him, Paul had struck five sixes and five fours, and

Greaves, Matthews create history by winning Player of the Month Awards DUBAI, United Arab talented Pakistan batting lineEmirates, Aug 18, CMC – up in Trinidad, picking up his All-rounders Justin Greaves maiden five-wicket haul. and Hayley Matthews have Greaves bowled five achieved a rare feat by capconsecutive wicket maidens turing the ICC’s Player of during his feat, a spell which the Month awards for July. reduced Pakistan from 244 for It marks the first time that four to 267 for nine, and evenboth awards have been won tually handed West Indies a by West Indies players simulcrucial first innings advantage. taneously and is only the fifth He returned in the second time since the awards began innings to collect back-toin January 2021 that players back wickets in his first two Justin Greaves (left) and Hayley Matthews from the same nation have overs, making it seven scalps secured both honours. from seven consecutive overs occasions. The 32-year-old Greaves in the Test match. West Indies His first act came against Sri Lanka, bowled out Pakistan for 120 to secure beat out England’s Harry Brook and Tanzid Hasan of Bangladesh for the where facing a tall first innings total of a 90-run win. coveted prize, while Matthews, the 549 for nine declared, Greaves scored “I have had a memorable month West Indies Women’s captain, over- a magnificent 180 to help the Windies playing at home, and to have contribcame challenges from England’s Nat get closer to the Sri Lankan total. His uted with both bat and ball against Sri Sciver-Brunt and Sri Lanka’s Harshitha performance, which included 14 fours Lanka and Pakistan has been particuand two sixes, eventually ensured that larly special for me. Samarawickrama. Greaves claimed the award after West Indies drew the Test and secured “Having impactful performances in starring in successive Test series a 1-0 series win. Test cricket is always something I will His second memorable act, came cherish, especially when they come against Sri Lanka and Pakistan and was (Turn to page 29) named Player-of-the-Series on both with the ball, when he ran through the in front of

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the recovery was complete with the score 153 for five in the 18th over. Obed McCoy struck soon after by removing Powell for 49 off 39 balls, but Andre Russell thumped two sixes in an unbeaten 14 off seven balls to ensure they finished with a flurry. Hasaranga finished with figures of 2-36, while Netravalkar claimed 2-43. The Patriots failed to string together any meaningful partnerships in their run chase and never seriously threatened their target. Hassan Khan and Hunain Shah dismissed openers Andre Fletcher and Johnson

Charles respectively, before Paul bowled Kyle Mayers to make the score 31 for three in the fifth over. Vitel Lawes then claimed the wicket of Chaudhary for 18 and Dasun Shanaka was run out for two to leave the Patriots in dire straits at 64 for five. It was a position they would never recover from, despite a fighting 37 off 34 balls from Kevin Wickham, as Paul returned to wrap up the contest by dismissing Hasaranga and McCoy. Paul, who was named Player-of-the-Match, finished with 3-30 and Russell took 2-19.

Rishabh Pant fastest to 100 sixes in Test cricket

India batter Rishabh Pant on way to hitting 100 sixes in Test cricket (Photo: AFP)

RISHABH Pant became the first Indian batter to hit 100 sixes in Test cricket when he pulled Sri Lanka’s Lahiru Kumara over fine-leg during the Galle Test. He is only the fourth to hit 100 sixes in Tests and is currently tied at third alongside Adam Gilchrist, who was the first to reach the milestone. Ahead of Pant are Ben Stokes (138) and Brendon McCullum (107). Among the four batters to hit 100 sixes,

Pant is by far the fastest to the milestone in terms of number of matches, innings and balls faced. He took 31 Tests fewer than Stokes, and 41 innings and 1660 balls fewer than Gilchrist. Pant is also the quickest in terms of days from debut, although only 14 days fewer than Gilchrist. Pant’s Test career started with a six, having got off the mark in the format with one off the second ball he faced.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026