GPL to be ready for operationalisation of Gas-to-Energy Project – Min Indar assures
CH&PA urges greater focus on energy-efficient housing as construction sector expands
Man wanted for body found stuffed in barrel at Le Repentir arrested
Govt restores homes, public buildings after devastating Reg 2 storm
The alleged prime suspect wanted in the connection with the murder of Levi Williams,
whose body was discovered in a barrel at the Le Repentir Cemetery in December 2025 has been arrested on Saturday. Kevin Lawson also called “Baby” was reportedly arrested during a police operation at Bougainvillea Park, Farm, East Bank Demerara (EBD) on Saturday evening. With the arrest of Lawson, one other person remains at large for the murder of the 39-year-old victim. Lawson is being interrogated and is expected to make his court appearance shortly. Randy Mars, also known as “Ratty,” of Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke/Linden Highway; Aaron Khan, also known as “Tattoo Man,” of Charlotte Street and Jamal David, also known as “Hundred,” of West Ruimveldt were all charged with the murder of Williams. Williams’ body was
found in an advanced state of decomposition inside a barrel between Louisa Row and St Stephen Street in the Le Repentir Cemetery on Christmas Day, 2025. Police stated that Williams was allegedly killed sometime between the early hours of December 23 and the night of December 25, 2025, at a location on Charlotte Street, Georgetown. Police said Williams was accused by a group of men of stealing a firearm. It was reported that Williams was confronted at a drug block in the Charlotte Street area, where he was severely beaten with wire. Due to the beating, Williams became unconscious and was reportedly placed into a blue plastic bag. A Post-Mortem Examination (PME) later revealed that he died from multiple injuries.
Following the death of Hemat Kumar Mohamed, 44, of De Groot-Enkline, Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara (WCD) whose body was discovered in the lockups of the Leonora Police Station on Saturday, an investigation has been launched by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR). Mohamed, who was in connection with the alleged murder of Shavannie Hanuman, was found dead between 10: 45 h and 11: 24h on the day in question. Police also confirmed that Mohamed was found hanging from the window grill inside the lockups with an item of clothing and was subsequently escorted to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty. It was reported that at 11: 24 h on Saturday, the deceased’s son, Rajkumar Mohamed, took lunch for him, and as he made his way down to the station lockups, he called out to
his father but got no response. He later discovered his father hanging from a white vest that was tied to the grill of the window. Mohamed was accused of murdering his wife, 46-year-old Shavanie Hanoman, also called “Bo,” a housewife. She was reported missing after she failed to return home last Wednesday. One day later, residents discovered her body floating in a trench in the community and alerted the police. According to police, an examination revealed injuries to her
neck and other parts of her body. While being interrogated, Mohamed related that his wife told him she would be returning home late and did not want him accompanying her; he followed her on his motorcycle. He told investigators that he confronted her at a bridge, where an argument developed. Police said Mohamed admitted that after being shoved during the confrontation, he took out a knife and stabbed Hanoman twiceonce to the chest and once to the chin - before pushing her into the trench. He also told investigators that the knife fell at the scene.
After the confession, Mohamed accompanied investigators back to the scene, and he escorted them to a wooden bridge at De Groot-Enkline, where he indicated the location where he allegedly stabbed Hanoman and pushed her into the trench. Mohamed remained in custody until the time of his demise.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, June 29 –16:20h-17:50h and Tuesday, June 30 – 16:55h–18:25h
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Thundery to light rain showers are expected during the morning to early-afternoon hours and at night, interrupted by afternoon sunshine. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.47 metres.
High Tide: 16:16h reaching a maximum height of 2.33 metres.
Low Tide: 09:49h and 21:59h reaching minimum heights of 0.75 metre and 0.88 metre.
As part of efforts to advance primary healthcare delivery and raise awareness of healthier lifestyles, the Guyana Government will be partnering with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) to establish clinics at the centre’s various locations across the country.
ISKCON has four locations namely, Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara (ECD); Crane, West Coast Demerara (WCD); Essequibo and Berbice.
This was announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali on Saturday evening at the Ratha Yatra Festival 2026, held at the West Central Mall, Leonora, WCD.
“Tonight, I want to announce a special initiative where the Government of Guyana will partner with the ISKCON movement on primary healthcare, having
also known as the Festival of Chariots, celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath - an incarnation of Lord Krishna - and his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. It is believed that participating in or witnessing the Rath Yatra cleanses one’s sins and brings good fortune. The act of pulling the chariots, known as “Ratha,” is considered a highly meritorious deed. According to President Ali, the Ratha Yatra festival reminds us that sacredness is not confined within the walls of places of worship but is reflected in one’s lifestyle and actions, especially towards others and the environment in which they live.
Development & conservation
“To see the world is to see the hand of the creator, but seeing is not enough. Recognition must lead to
responsibility. If the environment is sacred, then destruction of the environment is not just an ecological issue; it is also a moral issue. We, therefore, have a duty - not optional, not symbolic, but urgent-to care for what has been entrusted to us,” Ali stated. This, he pointed out, is especially important for Guyana at a time when the country is undergoing unprecedented transformation. He underscored the importance of ensuring that the environment is preserved in this process. “We must protect our forests, our rivers and our biodiversity. We must resist practices that degrade land, pollute waterways, or destroy ecosystems for short-term gain. Development and conservation must walk together. A nation that destroys its environment destroys its future. Guyana stands today at a critical moment where the choices we make will determine the legacy we leave for generations to come. We must therefore embrace the principle that progress without preservation is not progress at all.” Equally, the head of state outlined the responsibility towards the immediate environment, that is, homes and communities.
clinics in a box at all your facilities,” he revealed. According to the Guyanese leader, this collaboration will allow the religious organisation to “...encourage your devotees through spirituality, through education and through having regular tests and checks on the importance of good health, through spirituality, through consciousness, through education, through what to eat and how we practice our daily activities.” President Ali also recognised the work and contributions that ISKCON has made over the years to the Guyanese society. He said ISKCON has grown to become a force for good in society - a source of spiritual nourishment, an anchor of moral grounding and an instrument of practical service.
“Through its temples, its outreach, its educational activities and its consistent emphasis on peace and discipline, ISKCON has contributed meaningfully to the moral fabric of our nation,” he posited. Saturday’s Ratha Yatra Festival 2026,
Editor: Tusika Martin
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For centuries, nations blessed with abundant natural resources have faced the same troubling question: who truly profits from their wealth? Along with other resource-rich countries, even before independence 60 years ago, leaders have bemoaned our status as remaining exporters of raw minerals while the greatest profits are earned elsewhere through refining, trading, finance, and international markets. The lesson should be clear: owning the resource is only the first step. Capturing its full value is the real challenge.
Gold has long been one of Guyana’s most important exports –starting as far back as the 1890s – and generates foreign exchange while providing livelihoods for thousands of miners, suppliers, transport operators, and hinterland communities. Yet, despite this contribution, much of the industry’s highest-value activities still occur outside our borders.
Raw gold leaves Guyana. The refining, international certification, bullion trading, financial services, and investment products built around that gold largely benefit other economies. Guyana earns from extraction, but others often profit from transformation. That does not have to remain our reality.
Several African nations – including Ghana, Tanzania, and Guinea – are adopting policies designed to retain more value from their gold sectors. Their strategies vary, but the objectives are remarkably similar: encourage domestic refining, formalise small-scale mining, strengthen oversight, reduce smuggling, increase transparency, and build national gold reserves. Rather than viewing gold solely as an export commodity, these governments increasingly regard it as a strategic national asset that can strengthen economic resilience and financial sovereignty. These reforms have been accompanied by debates about how to balance stronger State participation with maintaining investor confidence. Governments that provide clear rules, regulatory stability, and meaningful consultation tend to be better positioned to attract investment while increasing domestic benefits. Guyana can do worse than pursue a similarly-balanced path.
The Government, represented by President Irfaan Ali, has already signalled support through incentives for internationallyaccredited gold refining within Guyana beyond the start initiated by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). Every ounce refined locally would create skilled jobs, develop technical expertise, and keep more economic activity at home.
Our financial institutions could also play a greater role. The Bank of Guyana could consider gradually increasing its holdings of locally-produced gold as part of its reserve management strategy, strengthening national financial resilience while providing an additional stable domestic market for miners. Gold has re-emerged as a strategic reserve asset in an increasingly fragmented global economy. Unlike fiat currencies, it is widely seen as retaining value during periods of inflation, geopolitical tension, and financial uncertainty. Across the Global South, central banks have increased gold accumulation in recent years as part of efforts to diversify reserves and reduce exposure to external financial systems.
Guyana must also continue transparency initiatives. As with oil, there must be formal reports on gold production, exportation, royalties collected, and how those revenues are spent. Transparency builds trust, deters illegal activity, and reassures responsible investors that Guyana operates under predictable, rules-based governance.
Environmental stewardship has been pioneered by the Government. Responsible mining practices, stronger land reclamation requirements, mercury reduction initiatives, and partnerships with Indigenous communities have become central pillars of a modern mining policy. Sustainable mining is not only an environmental necessity – it is increasingly a competitive advantage in global markets.
Importantly, pursuing greater national benefit does not require hostility toward private investors or international companies. Guyana’s success has always depended on partnerships. The objective is not to discourage investment but to ensure that investment creates broader opportunities for Guyanese businesses, workers, engineers, financiers, and communities.
As our petroleum sector transforms the national economy, it would be easy to overlook gold. That would be a mistake. Gold remains one of Guyana’s oldest and most resilient industries, with enormous potential to support economic diversification long after commodity cycles change. The question is no longer whether Guyana possesses valuable resources. We undoubtedly do. Guyana should not simply mine more gold.
We should ensure that more of its value stays where it belongs: here at home.
Dear Editor,
On Saturday, June 20, Jags Aviation, an accredited subsidiary of the BK Group of Companies, commissioned two 19-seat HAL 228 aircraft purchased from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited of India. Based on the proven Dornier 228 platform, the HAL 228 high-wing twin turboprop aircraft are designed specifically for rugged environments like Guyana. Their Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capability, along with the ability to operate on short, unpaved hinterland airstrips , coupled with excellent passenger capacity , strong reliability, and low operating cost per seat, means that they are perfectly suited for interior operations where conditions are tough and challenging and profit margins are tight.
Acquired by one of the most devoted, authentic, successful, competent and accomplished businessmen, Mr Brian Tiwari, founder and executive chairman of the BK Group of Companies, in 2014 with just four aircraft, today, Jags Aviation’s fleet of aircraft has more than tripled in just over a decade. Mr Tiwari’s bold vision to reduce costs and raise the standard of domestic and regional aviation will surely boost the aviation industry and Jags’ ongoing operations, as well as its commitment to making a significant contribution to developing the tourist industry in Guyana.
The commissioning ceremony was held at the company’s Bradley Hangar at Ogle, and the attendees included President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Vice President Dr Bharat Jagdeo, members of the Cabinet, diplomats and other distinguished guests, members of the private
sector, and Jags employees.
There were several speakers, among them Jags ‘ Accountable Manager Lieutenant Colonel Miguel Benjamin, who told the audience that the acquisition of the two HAL 228 aircraft marks a strategic step towards modern efficiency and excellence in both regional and domestic air services. He stated that such significant investments contribute directly to the Government’s broader vision of positioning Guyana as a leading aviation hub in the Caribbean. Benji, as he is often called, explained that the aircraft are built for short-field performance and regional connectivity and that they are ideally suited for Guyana’s diverse and jagged terrain and remote airstrips.
With a seating capacity for 19 passengers, the aircraft offers a spacious, air-conditioned cabin, USB power ports, and an advanced avionics system, which brings a new level of comfort and efficiency to local and regional air travel.
Managing Director of Jags Aviation, Ms Briony TiwarieGabriel, explained to the audience that the new additions would enhance both domestic and regional connectivity, particularly in strengthening tourism links to the interior and other outlying areas of the country. She said that the expanded fleet of aircraft will improve accessibility to remote communities, facilitate increased passenger movement, and contribute to economic activity in the hinterland, regional markets, and Guyana’s development. Ms TiwarieGabriel explained to the audience that Jags Aviation has always placed safety first and that the two new HAL 228 aircraft have an excellent safety and reliability record.
BK Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr Kyle Tiwarie remarked that the HAL 228 aircraft acquisition is a striking reminder that Jags Aviation is committed to commuter airworthiness standards and the safety of passengers. According to the CEO, the aircraft’s upgraded technology and its modern twin engines are designed to support passenger travel, increase reliability and versatility, and enhance pilot situational awareness, thus making the aircraft ideal for Guyana’s jungle environment in the hinterland regions of the country.
Kyle praised Jags employees for their efficiency and for their outstanding achievements and expertise in high maintenance standards over the years. He concluded his remarks by stating that the acquisition of the aircraft by Jags Aviation is a major step in strengthening its fleet and expanding its role in Guyana’s aviation landscape, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and expansion.
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali delivered the keynote address at the commissioning ceremony of the two new HAL 228 aircraft. He praised the Tiwarie family, especially the Executive Chairman of the BK Group of Companies, Brian Tiwarie, for acquiring the two aircraft and for their continued ingenuity and vision to invest in human development.
His Excellency commended the investment by Jags Aviation as a major step forward in modernising the aviation industry and improving connectivity to remote hinterland communities. President Ali noted that the acquisition aligns with his vision to lower passenger costs to the hin-
terland and that Jags Aviation has positioned itself for new opportunities and perhaps as a leader in the aviation industry.
He highlighted his Government’s 10-point plan for the aviation industry, which includes new terminals, municipal airports, modernised hinterland airstrips, eco -tourism connectivity, and a national aviation school, among others. The Head of State urged local aviation operators to invest in a regional carrier and transform Guyana into a regional aviation and maintenance hub. He officially challenged Hindustan Aeronautics to establish a commercial and maintenance hub in Guyana to serve the Caribbean and South American markets.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of a portrait to Mr Brian Tiwarie of his parents, Seelochanie Hargobin (mother) and Hargobin Tiwarie (father), the two aircraft named after them by Ms. Briony Tiwarie-Gabriel, the Managing Director of Jags Aviation.
It is important to mention that Brian Tiwarie, also known as BK, the founder and chairman of the BK Group of Companies and the former Honorary Consul General of the Kingdom of Spain, is the recipient of several prestigious national awards, including A.A. (Cacique’s Crown of Honor), O.M.C. (Order of Roraima), and the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Civil Merit from King Felipe VI of Spain, recognising his diplomatic service and his contributions to strengthening relations between Guyana and Spain. The event was well attended.
Sincerely, Dr Asquith Rose
Over the past few years, the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) has been investing heavily in upgrading existing infrastructure as well as installing new infrastructure in preparation for the operationalisation of the highly anticipated Gas-toEnergy (GtE) Project, which is slated to deliver some 300 megawatts (MW) of electricity to the national grid. In light of the infrastructural upgrades, Public Utilities and Aviation Minister Deodat Indar related that state-owned power company will be ready for the off-take of power, which is expected by the end of this year. “GPL will be prepared for that because we’ve been working for years now. It’s not today we started,” Indar explained during a recent appearance on the Starting Point podcast. He pointed out that more than US$720 million has already been invested to build out new infrastructure to facilitate the distribution of power from the GtE Project, located at Wales on the West Bank of Demerara (WBD), onto the national grid. These include the installation of new high-capacity transmission lines as well as the construction of a number of new substations and upgrading of existing ones. The new infrastructure will see the power moving from the Wales site across the Demerara River to the Gardenof-Eden Substation, then to the newly built Goedverwagting Substation and then to the Sophia Substation. Power will also be sent from Wales to the Vreed-en-Hoop Substation, as well as from the Goedverwagting Substation all the way to Berbice via the newly installed transmission lines. In order to facilitate the installation of the new transmission
lines, a new road network is being developed in the backlands along the East Coast corridor from the Goedverwagting Substation heading to Mahaicony in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).
Infrastructure upgrades
Only last Friday, Team Leader of the Executive Management Committee at GPL, Kesh Nandlall, led a delegation along the new energy corridor, traveling from Columbia, Mahaicony to Goedverwagting, as they conducted site inspections at Hope, Enmore, Chateau Margot and Goedverwagting, where new transmission lines are being constructed. Nevertheless, as GPL continues its preparatory works, the GtE Project is also on track to commence delivering power by December via a 300 MW combined cycle power plant. According to Indar, all of the components for the facility have already been procured, built and are either in the country or being shipped here. The 300 MW facility will be powered by four gas turbines, each
producing 57 MW and two steam turbines supplying the remaining 72 MW.
The Public Utilities Minister explained, however, that the power plant will start up in phases to deliver the 300 MW of electricity. The plant is being designed with operational flexibility, allowing it to run initially in simple-cycle mode and later transition into a combined-cycle system that captures hot exhaust gases to produce additional electricity more efficiently. “We are on track for December... For the four [gas] turbines, it will be 228 MW. The new agreement with the contractor is saying they will have first power, first smoke, in December for one of the turbines. Three months after, the other three will come on board to give you 228. Then, I think two or three months after, you’ll get the two steam turbines to take you to 300 MW. That will come on stream,” he stated.
Current capacity
Currently, GPL has a total generating capacity of ap-
proximately 267 MW. With a customer base of some 244,500 and counting, peak demand is around 228 MW. But even as GPL is conducting these updates to modernise its infrastructure and install new equipment in preparation for power from the GtE Project, Minister Indar explained that planned and scheduled power outages are necessary to facilitate some of these works. Despite this, however, he pointed out that a large majority of the outages are caused by external factors, including the recurring incidents of contractors or vehicles coming into contact with major transmission lines, causing a trip in the system. “I can tell you... 99 per cent of the outages, if it’s not something that we publish, it’s because of one of those incidents - somebody digging something, digging up a wire, hitting some kind of pole, running into it, or some crane over it pouring cement. You see that every day, all the time. And I’m appealing to everybody who’s operating, take your time,” the Minister stated. Nonetheless, assured cus-
Role of Opposition is to keep Government in check not to oppose for sake of opposing
Dear Editor,
The main duty of the opposition political parties is to keep the Government on its toes positively, and not to oppose for the sake of opposing.
This duty, which is a sworn testimony to be a true representative of the people, is constitutional. This national duty does not need theatrics or a waste of energy and resources that could have been channeled in a positive direction.
It appears as though there is a competition among opposition parties based on which party can use their monotonously outdated tactics to try to embarrass the Government.
The exposure of our lapses and delinquent behaviour should be highlighted in a truthful manner, and suggested solutions must accompany the genuine complaints.
When it comes to the handling of our natural disasters, the Government has systems in place to take care of this unwelcome phenomenon; this is
catered for in the national budget.
As heartless as some of us may be, we have a natural bond that promotes our hospitality, resulting in giving a helping hand to our neighbours. Natural disasters are unpredictable and may occur in the twinkling of an eye. This is the reason for the appropriate name of that responsible organisation to be called Disaster Preparedness.
This does not mean that private individuals cannot contribute. As a matter of fact, it was private individuals who started this type of philanthropy. Remember Mr N. Sharma and his contribution to disasters in Guyana?
The competition between the two opposition political parties to only highlight calamities that they try to blame on the Government is piped over by the opposition leader, who claims to use his own funds to help the people who are suffering from national disasters.
This is an attempt to falsely highlight to the world that the Government is blatantly discriminating against its own people. Distributing hampers to flood-prone Kwakwani and the promised repair of rooftops due to the squall, which unfortunately occurred in Region 2, should be done in secrecy and silence.
Governments should always highlight their services to the people, with which they have a binding social contract, so that they can promote the fulfillment of their manifesto and reveal their true purpose of service to their people.
When donations are given by a private person, this must be done in privacy and in sincerity. When it comes to people’s welfare, there is no room for highlighting people’s unfortunate dispositions for cheap political gains.
Man ‘s wants are insatiable and he is always willing to receive. This situation makes most of us very vulnerable to
accept a goodie with the thinking that we have been neglected by those in Government who have the means to avert the suffering.
The President, along with his entourage, promptly visited the affected areas and immediately dispensed emergency relief to the scared residents, offering them reassurance and confidence that the Government has their backs.
When acts of national importance have to be executed, it is time for a coordinated approach by all and sundry. There is no room for individualistic theatrics to transform our beautiful country into a Hollywood/Bollywood circus.
The leader of the opposition should donate his whole salary to cleaning up all junkies and the homeless on the streets, and also try to curtail the increase of mental illness in Guyana.
Sincerely,
John Marcus
tomers that with all these investments and upgrades being made, customers would soon start seeing improvements in power supply. “I would say that when Gas-to- Energy comes on board, because you will have excess generation, you will find that even if you have a shock to the system, the frequency will not drop and become unstable. And you won’t have massive amounts of shutdowns, even if somebody hits it as well, because of the turbine technology that the Gas-to-Energy now employs,” Indar explained. Only last week, Minister Indar was part of a team led by Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, which included Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, to give Jamaican PM Dr Andrew Holness a tour of the GtE Project site. During the visit, Project Manager of Linsayca, Luis Pirela, updated the officials on the works, assuring that, “The target is to start power generation in December 2026. We’re working 24 hours
a day, seven days a week, including holidays, to make sure this is achievable and to deliver power generation for Guyana.” Pirela had outlined the complex process underway at Wales, noting that the facility is designed to receive natural gas and separate it into different components to maximise value for Guyana. At the centre of the operation is methane, the primary gas component that will be used to fuel power generation and supply electricity to homes and businesses. The remaining gas components are condensed into liquids that can be recovered and stored for future use. Pirela said the site is now technically prepared for gas introduction, with commissioning activities advancing. The gas processing facility is initially designed to handle 50 million standard cubic feet of gas per day, with infrastructure already installed to expand capacity to 120 million standard cubic feet daily in the future.
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06:00 TVG Devotional
In order to use the inverse proportion formula:
1. Write down the inverse proportion formula.
2. Determine the value of k
3. Substitute k into the inverse proportion formula.
Example: constructing and solving an inverse proportion equation from a worded problem
The number of people setting tables in a restaurant (p) is inversely proportional to the time taken to set all of the tables (t). It takes 6 people, 48 minutes to set up all of the tables in the restaurant.
How many minutes would it take to set up all of the tables with 10 people?
As stated in the question, p∝ and so p=
When p=6, t=48 and so
6=
6×48=k k=288
Now that k=288, we have the inverse proportion formula
p= .
We have the extra condition that we need to determine the number of minutes it would take 10 people to set up the tables. To do this, we need to substitute p=10 into the inverse proportion formula, and solve for t
10=
10×t=288
t= =28.8 minutes
Common misconceptions
• Direct proportion and inverse proportion
You will need to learn which formula is for which type of proportionality.
Add
TMaterials:
Instructions:
• Direct proportion and inverse proportion
y∝xy∝
y=kxy=
• Check if there are any powers or roots involved Most inverse proportional formulae just involve x, but they can involve powers such as x2 or roots such as √x
• Constant of proportionality
The constant of proportionality can be an integer (a whole number), but they can also be decimals or fractions. For example,
y= = × =2.5× = and so k=2.5.
Practise inverse proportion formula questions
1. Which of these equations does not indicate y∝ ? y= y=5x xy=8 y=
2. Which of these equations indicate y∝ ? y=5x y= y= y=5x2
3 Which of these equations indicate y∝ ? y= y= y=10/x2 x2
absorbent polymer. When water is added, the instant snow powder absorbs it quickly and grows to produce fake snow. The addition of the glow powder gives the fake snow a fun glowing effect.
Make this a science project: Try adding different liquids to the snow powder to see if it absorbs at the same rate as water. Try adding things like salt to the instant snow powder to see if it changes the composition of the fake snow. Do different temperatures of water change the rate at which the instant snow absorbs the water? (sciencefun.org)
By Rae aRmantRout
Dead satellite speaks.
Person with unique blood type discovered.
Rodents evolving in real time. Ways humans can escape the earth.
Joints grind like shot brakes.
Food ignites in our stomachs.
But we’re still muffin-bunnies, muddle-buckets, cuddle-chunks.
(Source: Poetry [June 2026])
Write a story about doing something epic before summer ends.
The African ExportImport Bank (Afreximbank), which has already extended over $US1.5 billion in financing to Guyana, has lauded the Government’s small and medium business development bank (SME Development Bank) establishment and says it also stands ready to further partner with Guyana for the success of the entity. “It is great news, and that entity will readily fall into the category that we’ll be happy to work with. I think it’s a right step in the right direction because creating a platform that can support SMEs unconditionally will lead to more economic prosperity in the country, given that the traditional banking sector has a few limitations as to what they’re able to do directly, “ Acting Chief Operating Officer (COO) Okechukwu Ihejirika told the Guyana Times in a recent interview.
“So, such a development bank will be key to providing capital to the budding entrepreneurs in the country and also help create employment, create wealth, and improve the well-being of the people. We will be open to work with that entity once it’s fully established. Our financing commitment to
small businesses is just as critical as the fact that we recognise how important they are and it is something that we take very seriously,” he added. As the bank prepares for its annual AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) aimed at strengthening economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean, where SMEs take a strong focus, Ihejirika reasoned that sometimes SMEs are small because of scale, and the forum can be a catalyst for entrepreneurs to expand, as there are numerous investors and opportunities for networking.
“Now, sometimes SMEs are small because of scale. They’re just producing for a specific jurisdiction, a specific region, which, of course, we know the constraints of the consumer space in the region because of the number of people in the region. So that’s a factor. The fact that we could potentially be opened up to the African market, to talk about the highest-growing consumer market space in the world with over 1.4 billion people, will present a huge opportunity for these SMEs when they come in to participate. It doesn’t matter what they’re producing or which space they work in. The mere fact that one good contact could turn
the whole equation around is a valid one,” he said. Further, he added, “What we’ve done previously in those instances where we see SMEs go into big spaces and sign new deals is that, yes, we realise that there could be the next gap, which is the ability to finance these new mega-opportunities that will come up. And that’s also where Afreximbank will come in to provide backup and support to them.” Ihejirika also stressed the importance of mobilising diaspora capital. “You have people who have their deep pockets who are looking for investment opportunities. They are the ones that we expect will be coming in to also look for opportunities to invest. We’re also seeing possibilities where joint funds can be created to address specific areas of need.” He said that for this country, it could mean leveraging its diaspora networks to attract investment into SMEs, infrastructure and climate-resilient projects.
And as the countdown begins to ACTIF2026, the COO highlighted that anticipation is building across Africa and the Caribbean, while the bank’s mandate has widened to now include Brazil, Panama, Colombia and the Dominican Republic, re-
He said a clean environment is not only an aesthetic matter but a reflection of discipline, dignity and respect for one another. “Clean surroundings reflect a clean and clear conscience. We must move beyond the idea that cleanliness is someone else’s responsibility. It is ours collectively. The environment we complain about is often the environment we create. If each household takes responsibility, if each community embraces cleanliness, if each citizen sees themselves as a steward rather than a spectator, then transformation becomes possible,” he stated.
Devotion through action
This consciousness, President Ali added, is what the Ratha Yatra Festival celebrates. He noted that this is more than a festival but a reminder of how life should be lived-with purpose, guided by devotion and one that recognises the sacred in all beings and places.
“At the heart of ISKCON’s message, and indeed at the heart of Ratha Yatra itself, is devotion expressed through action. The chariot does not move by itself; it
moves because people come together, pull together, and participate together. That is a powerful moral metaphor. It tells us that society advances when people are willing to act in unity, guided by compassion and shared purpose,” he stated. To this end, President Ali urged devotees to carry this message into their homes, communities and daily lives. “We need that same spirit. We need compassion that is not occa-
flecting a broader vision. Scheduled for July 29-31 in St Kitts and Nevis, this year’s forum promises to be more than just another gathering of policymakers and investors. He said that the event is being framed as a pivotal moment in the pursuit of a unified vision of Global Africa - a concept that seeks to transform centuries of cultural and historical ties into a modern economic powerhouse.
“Global Africa does not end only within the Caricom region. There are still members of Global Africa, as we define them, living beyond the Caricom member states. That’s why the name changed to Caricom Caribbean Office
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sional but consistent. We need kindness that is not selective but universal. We need service that is not symbolic but sincere because ultimately a better world is built act by act, heart by heart... May this Ratha Yatra inspire us to live with greater compassion, greater awareness and greater responsibility toward each other and the world we share,” the Guyanese leader noted.
and I’m happy that ambition is now being realised,” he said while noting that this expansion signals Afreximbank’s intent to consolidate a SouthSouth trade corridor linking Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America. He said that attendees can expect high-level sessions, site visits and networking opportunities across sectors including tourism, renewable energy, financial services, creative industries, construction, health, digital innovation and agriculture. Food security and agribusiness collaboration are highlighted as particularly important areas for Africa and the Caribbean to strengthen resilience and
reduce import dependency. Since opening its Caribbean Representative Office in Barbados in 2023, Afreximbank has signed partnership agreements with 13 Caribbean nations, extended a US$1.5 billion credit facility, and introduced the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) in the region.
Other notable initiatives include financing facilities in Grenada, Barbados, Suriname and The Bahamas, support for the COVID-19 Africa Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT), and the groundbreaking of the Afreximbank African Trade Centre in Barbados - the first outside Africa. Afreximbank’s COO said that the bank’s initiatives demonstrate its commitment to strengthening Africa-Caribbean ties beyond rhetoric and noted the strides made in just three years of operation here in the region. “This is happening just within three years of operation. That’s a massive step made on our part to show that we’re not just talking; we’re doing. We talked about important projects within the group of projects that have been approved,” he said.
Aseries of major infrastructure projects is planned for Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) as the Government seeks to reduce traffic congestion and improve transport links to support the expanding industrial development. Speaking on the Starting Point Podcast on Sunday, Public Utilities and Aviation Minister, Deodat Indar related that the projects form part of a wider strategy to transform the region into a major economic hub, with new roads, a deep-water port and industrial facilities. He said work is advancing on the new Schoonord to Tuschen road network, designed to ease traffic along the busy West Coast Demerara (WCD) corridor. The new road system will build on the success of the existing bypass linking the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge to Crane, which significantly reduced traffic passing through Vreed-en-Hoop.
“Just like how we did the loop from the Harbour Bridge to Crane. It creat -
ed a whole host of traffic diversion. It was a blessing because people no longer had to travel through Vreed-en-Hoop to get to Pouderoyen,” he said. While the bypass eased congestion in Vreed-enHoop, he said traffic has since shifted further west into surrounding communities. To address this, Indar said the Government has already awarded a contract for a new road linking Schoonord directly to Tuschen. The road will include three connecting routes into planned development areas, provid -
Your Eyewitness was quite taken aback when one commentator criticised the Govt’s initiative to build 300 houses in Jamaica – after visiting PM Holness expressed admiration for their housing programme. The gist of the gripe was that why should we help Jamaica with housing when we have so many poor folks without houses right here in Guyana!! And furthermore, that they’d visited Jamaica and they saw quite a few houses much posher than ours here in Guyana – so why do they need houses from us!!
Now to start from the last jibe, can you believe such schuptideness? Guyana also has posh houses – as to whether they’re posher than Jamaica’s ain’t the point –so the critic implies the Jamaicans don’t need help in that quarter!! But by that (twisted) logic, doesn’t this mean that our poor don’t need no help with houses?? And that should be the question, shouldn’t it??
ing alternative access for motorists and supporting future housing and commercial expansion. Beyond road infrastructure, the Minister said a proposed deep-water port will anchor a wider industrial ecosystem in the region rather than operate as a standalone facility. The Minister further explained that the port will facilitate the movement of bulk cargo to and from Berbice, but additional supporting industries are needed to ensure the investment is commercially viable. “The deep-water port is part of this development because it will take bulk cargo to Berbice and move bulk out of Berbice, but it has to come with an ecosystem, too. It can’t operate in isolation,” he said. “For those things to work and pay back the investment, you have to have other developments. That is why a pipeline is going there.” He added that President Dr Irfaan Ali also envisions a glass manufacturing industry being established in the area, creating further industrial activity around the port.
Indar added that the projects are necessary as Guyana’s import volumes continue to grow and will contribute to the overall development of the region.
Weren’t over 50,000 house lots distributed between Aug 2020 and 2025? And already several thousands more this year? But the Government didn’t just stop at house lots when the poor is concerned. In every development announced, there are provisions for low-income houses – where ownership is facilitated for those who qualify. For instance, the ceilings on low-income mortgage rates at commercial banks and the New Building Society were lowered – while the principal was increased to $30 million!! Additionally, VAT was removed on locally-produced building materials – plus a steel and cement subsidy introduced for first-time home buyers!!
Your Eyewitness believes that maybe the Govt critics want FREE HOUSES to be built and handed out to the poor!! But hasn’t this been tried since the sixties in the US where those massive “Housing Projects” were created in all the major cities. And didn’t we see them deteriorate into urban jungles where crime was rampant – especially fuelled by drugs – and life was nasty, short, and brutish??
The point of the matter that must be emphasised is that home ownership as a way out of poverty depends on the homeowner appreciating the VALUE of the house!! And this will only be fostered when the homeowner has some stake in the house. Take for instance some of the so-called “poor” who’re actually refusing to work in the burgeoning construction industry and allowing that sector to be dominated by Venezuelan refugees. Should the Government just hand out houses to them – like the ones that’re gonna be built in Jamaica?
And that brings us to the point of that initiative. Hasn’t your Eyewitness already emphasised the importance of wooing Jamaica as an ally in the evolving hemispheric power moves that involve the Yanks??
And at a more mundane – but economically pragmatic level – aren’t we creating a demand for our local hardwoods in Jamaica??
…on policing?
Your Eyewitness is a sucker for police shows. And with Netflix streaming them from across the globe – even Thailand –your Eyewitness invariably wonders how come THEIR police stations are so modernistic – while ours continue to look like something out of Rudyard Kipling!! So he was pretty chuffed when he saw the latest pic of the TWELVE-STOREY edifice that’s replacing our burnt-out (ancient) Brickdam Police Station!!
So welcome to the 21st century, GPF!! But we hope this is only the beginning of root-and-branch reform in the institution standing between we, the citizens of Mudland, and the criminals who’d have us revert to the law of the jungle! But the building can only be the beginning of modernisation. Since our GPF was launched in 1839 – to protect the Whites from the newly-freed Africans! – the world of policing’s come a long way.
We gotta professionalise the ENTIRE force – and then pay them so they don’t hafta bilk citizens for fry-rice money!!
…free movement?
How long have we been promised ‘free movement of Caricom citizens”?? And it ain’t only a matter of treaties. Seems like the ferry service that was supposed to ply between Guyana, T&T and Barbados has sunk without a trace!!
The Government of Guyana has made agriculture the beating heart of its diversification strategy, and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) will hold hands with President Irfaan Ali as he works to make this vision a reality, according to Director General of the IICA Dr Muhammad Ibrahim.
“His Excellency President Irfaan Ali is very passionate about agriculture. He’s not only leading the discussion within Guyana, but also in Caricom. What I applaud about his thinking is how he sees Guyana within a nexus of linking with Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay and joining the club of big food exporters…”
Dr Ibrahim told the Guyana Times in an interview. “I am very impressed to see how Guyana is working towards the initiative of more food security for sovereignty and also how agriculture will be part of this economy, not only an oil-based economy but where you see clear evidence of the investments being made across sectors. This will be very important in terms of how you manage risk and also have a diversified economy; an economy that responds to and benefits the people, the livelihoods of the people. And as I also highlighted, the President is thinking about people, people first, the farmers first, and where he can provide the support for removing barriers, engaging the private sector and strengthening this cooperation for linking the markets and branding the products of Guyana,” he added. The IICA Director General posited that Government’s stance actions on positioning agriculture as integral to this country’s economic diversification is not just rhetoric but a systemic approach that positions Guyana as both a breadbasket for Caricom and a global player in agrifood systems. He pointed out that the centre of Guyana’s agricultural policy is the 25 by 2025 plus 5 initiatives, aimed at reducing Caricom’s food import bill by 25 per cent by 2030 and that IICA has been a key partner in this effort, supporting science, technology and innovation to boost productivity in rice, beans and other staples. “We have bio-fortified crops that are nutrient-en-
riched to overcome deficiencies - zinc-enriched rice and iron-enriched beans, for example. But also, we are promoting support towards agro-tourism,” he said, while noting that the dual focus of nutrition-smart agriculture and tourism integration reflects Guyana’s ambition to make farming not just about yields but about livelihoods, culture and health.
Agriculture policy
This country’s agricultural policy, he reasoned, is not inward-looking as it is designed to integrate with Caricom and beyond. “Ministers are very receptive. They’ve collectively made a decision towards food sovereignty. Trinidad, for example, sees cooperation with Guyana in soybean production and refining oil. Fertiliser production is another area where Guyana and Trinidad can step up,” Dr Ibrahim said and honed in that this regionalism is central to Guyana’s vision where agriculture is a collective shield against global vulnerabilities. Perhaps the most ambitious project here in Guyana Dr Ibrahim has posited is the Technology and Innovation Hub, launched in collaboration with Brazil’s renowned research institute Embrapa and for which President Ali has championed. “EMBRAPA generated cutting-edge technologies that transformed marginal soils in Brazil’s Cerrado region. These technologies, biotechnology, gene editing, crop-livestock integration, are directly applicable to Guyana and Caricom,” he said as he explained that the hub will train young scientists in drones, AI and precision agriculture, ensuring that the next generation sees farming as a prestigious, science-driven career. Earlier this month, Brazil’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Cleber Soares, joined Guyana’s Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha and the IICA Director General alongside IICA’s Guyana Representative Wilmott Garnett, to sign a Letter of Intent launching EMBRAPA. Then IICA and Government had explained that the hub is envisioned as a centre of excellence for innovation, technology transfer and agricultural training, aimed at making tangible contributions to increasing the productivity and resilience of regional agrifood systems. It will provide researchers and farmers with easier access to climate-smart planting materials, improved seed varieties and innovative agricultural technologies.
Innovative agriculture
The initiative makes agriculture smarter and more innovative, placing farmers at the centre of knowledge and technology transfer by providing access to information and practices that have been tested and prov-
en in other settings. “We are in a tropical region, a tropicalised region in which climate change is a threat, with rising temperatures, increased stress, heat and changes in water distribution. EMBRAPA has laboratories and tools that are very advanced, and it has developed methodologies that are very applicable. EMBRAPA can make the poorest soil produce large quantities of soybeans as well as corn in a low-input mixed-system approach,” Ibrahim had said at the launch. He also noted that while there has been significant advancement in innovation and technology, discussions with other officials have focused on facilitating opportunities for young scientists from Guyana and the Caribbean region to receive training at EMBRAPA. He added that the initiative also aims to support the adoption of these technologies within the region, enabling complementary practices to be scaled up effectively. He further emphasised the need to explore blended finance mechanisms to assist farmers in overcoming existing challenges. For his part, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha had noted that the hub allows Guyana’s agriculture sector to transcend borders and strengthen key areas, including regional research networks and collaborative partnerships. “Hosting this hub is a natural extension of that leadership. Our institutions, such as the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), are ready to collaborate as we seek to validate technologies for tropical crops and livestock, strengthen climate-smart agriculture, improve natural resources management, enhance regional research networks, and build a pipeline of innovations ready for scaling across Caricom.”
Whilst speaking, he underlined that the Private Sector will also be a key beneficiary and partner in this initiative, stating that the technologies validated through the Hub will enable agribusiness expansion, improve productivity and unlock new investment opportunities across the region.” Looking ahead, he outlined plans for Brazilian and Guyanese technical teams to begin preparatory arrangements during the second half of this year. He also underscored the importance of the hub to Guyana and its partners, particularly in advancing climate resilience and sustainable agricultural development.
Building a sustainable agri-economy
During the interview, Ibrahim said that Guyana’s agricultural diversification extends to livestock and fertiliser production. And with
global supply chains disrupted, this country is positioning itself as a regional supplier. “We see bio inputs, bio pesticides, bio fertilisers as key for sustainable development. Guyana is growing soybean and corn, integrating livestock systems, dairy, pigs, poultry, with circular economies to produce bio fertilisers,” he said. The Government’s plan to build a fertiliser plant, linked to its Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Project, is also seen as a strategic move to secure regional food production and he pointed to the alliance with Brazil as a start. “Brazil has a keen interest in teaming with Guyana to have a short supply chain for fertilisers. Having connectivity in-house within the Caribbean secures food production for the world.” Agriculture he noted is not confined to fields and he is pleased to see President Ali always emphasising that its part of Guyana’s cultural
identity. Like the President, IICA sees agro-tourism as a way to connect small family farms with visitors. “We provide support to farmers in planning production systems, but also training people to manage tourists; understanding Guyana’s culinary diets, integrating farming with gastronomy, as Peruvians have done.” This is agriculture as experience where tourists tasting cassava bread in Rupununi, learning about rice cultivation in Essequibo, and seeing how Guyanese diets are rooted in farming systems can be interwoven as part of the economic diversification strategy. “We’re working in agritourism. As you can see, many Guyanese but also foreigners who are coming back into Guyana to visit and these are good opportunities …,” he said. Overall, the ICCA head commended President Ali’s “farmers first, people first” and was quick
to highlight that his organisation will continue to work with Guyana where policies are shown to be translated into concrete projects such as the innovation hub, fertiliser plants biodiversity alliances, and inclusive farming programmes. “Guyana is not only feeding itself; it is positioning itself as a leader in global food systems,” he said.
The distribution of the Government of Guyana's 2026 ‘Because We Care’ cash grant kicks off across the country today, with Education Minister Sonia Parag urging parents and guardians to attend their children's schools according to the published schedules to ensure a smooth collection process. In a social media message on Sunday, a day ahead of the nationwide rollout, Parag reminded parents that every child enrolled in the public and private school systems is eligible to receive $85,000 this year. The package comprises a $60,000 "Because We Care"cash grant, a $5000 uniform grant, and a $20,000 transportation grant is being introduced for the first time. The Minister encouraged parents to familiarise themselves with
sistance is intended to ease the burden on families as they prepare children for the new academic year in September. “I know that this is going to be of great benefit to you because you want your child or children to be in a position to attend school. In September, this is going to assist them with whatever they need to get back to school, to be properly prepared for school,” the Minister stated. Parag also assured parents that ex-
aimed at helping parents meet back-to-school expenses. The initiative was discontinued following the change in Government in 2015, before being reinstated after the PPP/C returned to office in 2020. Since its reintroduction, the programme has been expanded significantly. Last year, eligible parents received $55,000 per child, comprising a $50,000 ‘Because We Care’ grant and a $5000 uniform grant. This year’s package represents
tensive preparations have already been completed to facilitate the nationwide exercise. According to her, she will personally visit several schools during the distribution period, while other Government Ministers will also be on the ground supporting the exercise.
the largest investment in the programme since its inception, with the introduction of the $20,000 transportation grant increasing the total benefit to $85,000 per child.
the distribution timetable for their children's schools and to be present on the assigned day, noting that payments will continue throughout the week. “So, parents, I hope you know the schedule for your child's school and that you will be present there, whether it's tomorrow or the other days, which will be Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and ensure that you show up there,” Parag said. She said the financial as-
“So, we're looking forward to seeing you. I, myself, am going to be at several schools, as well as other Ministers. So, we are preparing. We have teams on the ground right now in every region, preparing to ensure that we have a seamless process,” she said. The "Because We Care" Cash Grant programme was first introduced in 2014 by the then People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration as a $10,000 grant
The Government has said approximately 206,000 children enrolled in public and private schools across Guyana are expected to benefit from this year's programme, representing billions of dollars in direct support to households. The initiative forms part of the Government's broader efforts to improve access to education by helping families offset expenses associated with uniforms, transportation, books, stationery and other school-related needs ahead of the new school term.
As negotiations between the Guyana Government and Turkish energy company Karpowership continue over the ongoing operations of the two power ships that supply some 96 megawatts (MW) of electricity to the national grid, the two sides are bouncing between 9 cents and 9.5 cents per kilowatt/hour (kWh). This was revealed by Public Utilities Minister Deodat Indar during an appearance on a recent episode of the Starting Point podcast. Indar recalled that when Guyana signed the contract for the first 36 MW power ship in 2024, it secured electricity at 7.2 cents per kWh for the vessel docked in the Berbice River, the lowest rate on the market at that time. The second
ship, however, saw Guyana paying 9.5 cents per kWh for the 60 MW generated from the vessel docked in the Demerara River.
Since both of those contracts were for two years, the Government and the company have been in negotiations for a contract renewal. According to the Public Utilities Minister, “So, they asked for 9.5 cents. We said we want 9 cents, and we are working between that because they would never renew it for a concessional rate of 7.6 cents. We know that.”
He pointed out that since the demand for electricity continues to grow across Guyana, the country needs the 90-plus MW of power generated by the two ships. But in the same breath, Indar contended that at no point during the negotiations was the Government backed into a corner by the company, as reported in some sections of the media. “We know we need the generation, but they’re not the only ones in town too. So, we also let them know that we have options too. But it was a very difficult negotiation with the people, and we continue to negotiate with them because the vessel is here. It’s already
hooked up to our system. We need the power. They need to work. Let’s find a middle ground. And that is what we’ve been working on. I would say we are 99 per cent there, not fully yet, but we are 99 per cent there with a final outcome,” the Minister stated. Indar went on to explain that it was during this intense negotiation process that Karpowership’s letter to the Government was leaked. Over the past month, there have been reports that the power ship company has threatened, via correspondence to the Public Utilities Minister, to shut off operations if a new deal is not reached. But the Minister had previously assured that the two power ships were still being operated as the Government and company iron out a new agreement. “I don’t know who leaked [the letter], but...you don’t negotiate in public. You negotiate with the people, and we are back and forth. They give their position. We say, fine, we give you a position... But we have to remember too that we got the first two years at very low rates and the owner of the asset said, you know, they have never rented this to anybody at this rate...”
“You bet your bottom dollar, our Government... made sure that we took some strong positions in the negotiation. People can think we are backed into a corner. No one should believe we were ever backed into a corner. We will defend the interests of the Guyanese people. We will fight as best we can to get the outcome we want. We don’t lay back and say, well, you come and bamboozle us. That doesn’t work with us. We don’t operate like that,” he emphasised.
During all of this, the power ship company con-
tinues to supply electricity to the national grid.
The Guyana Government contracted the two power ships to provide additional capacity to meet the country’s growing demand for electricity.
Following the signing of the two-year contract between the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) and the joint venture of Turkishbased Karpowership Global DMCC and Qatar-based UCC Energy International LLC (UCC JV) in 2024, the two ships began generating power, with one vessel in the Demerara River at Meadow Bank produc-
ing 60 MW and the other at Everton in the Berbice River supplying 36 MW of electricity. At the time, the Government explained that this was a short-term solution while awaiting the highly anticipated Gas-toEnergy (GtE) Project that is slated to come onstream later this year, bringing some 300 MW of power using natural gas from offshore Guyana. These two ships, coupled with other GPL assets, take Guyana’s generating capacity up to approximately 267 MWway more than the current demand, which stands around 228 MW at peak.
More than 130 households, Government buildings and other public facilities have benefited from a comprehensive Government-led relief and recovery initiative following a freak storm last week, which ripped off roofs, utility poles and uprooted trees along the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).
In addition to residential properties, several public spaces and Government buildings also sustained damage from the high winds. The Anna Regina Fire Station, the Department of Education building, and the Anna Regina Library were all affected during the storm. Additionally, a section of the roof of the yetto-be-commissioned new Anna Regina Stadium was also ripped off during the severe winds. Within hours of the in-
cident, President Dr Irfaan Ali led a team to the region to assess the damage, engage affected residents and mobilise an immediate response. Following his visit, a regional task force was established to coordinate relief operations under the leadership of Minister within
the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj.
The task force comprised representatives from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Guyana Police Force (GPF), Essequibo Civil Society and several other stakeholders. Relief efforts commenced last Wednesday, with some emergency teams working well into the evenings to ensure affected families could return to safe and secure homes in the shortest possible time. The operation included damage assessments, the distribution of roofing materials and the completion of emergency roof repairs across several communities. Speaking on the impact of the initiative, Minister Ramraj said the response reflected the Government’s unwavering commitment to putting people
Family after family has shared how much this response has meant to them. For many, it was the difference between spending another night under a damaged roof and sleeping safely in their homes. That is the impact we set out to make and it is exactly what this Government is committed to delivering,” he added. The operation was supported by Regional Chairman Devin Mohan, Regional Vice Chairman Humace Oodit, the Prime Minister’s (PM) Regional Representative Arnold Adams, ranks of the GDF’s Infantry Battalion and 4 Engineer Battalion, Guyana Police Force (GPF) recruits, regional officials, volunteers and several businesses across the Essequibo Coast, all of whom played a vital role in the success of the relief effort.
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan said the response is a clear demonstration of Government’s commitment to
first. “His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali made it clear from the very beginning that every affected family must receive the support they need. That clear vision has guided every decision we have made over the past few days. We have worked around the clock because our priority has always been the people, and we will continue until every affected household receives the assistance it deserves,” the Minister said. Ramraj noted that interacting with residents throughout the operation has reinforced the significance of the initiative.
“Being on the ground and hearing directly from residents allowed us to make the best decisions possible to assist those affected. We spoke to elderly persons, single mothers, and even persons with disabilities, and were able to make strategic decisions on prioritising resource distribution.
its people, noting that from the very first hours of the incident, agencies moved swiftly following the President’s mobilisation to ensure support reached affected families without delay.
“This response is a clear demonstration of strong coordination and Government’s commitment to its people. We are grateful to all agencies, volunteers, and partners and I especially want to thank the 12 private contractors who volunteered their services and crews to support the relief efforts. Their contribution has been invaluable in reaching affected households in such a short space of time.” As recovery works continue, the Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every affected resident receives the necessary support while restoring homes, public infrastructure and essential services across Region Two.
As the Government makes significant strides towards addressing substance misuse, particularly among youths, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony said tackling the issue requires a multi-agency response, especially since it extends beyond the responsibility of any single institution or country. While acknowledging the work of enforcement agencies, including the Customs AntiNarcotic Unit (CANU), Dr Anthony said greater focus must also be placed on prevention and early intervention, especially among children and young people. The Health Minister made the statement while addressing a gathering at Guyana’s observance of the International Day Against
Illicit Trafficking and Drug Abuse, at the Ministry’s head office, Brickdam, Georgetown, last Friday. For context, youth substance misuse is the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs or prescription medications in a way that is harmful, illegal, or not medically intended. Dr Anthony pointed to findings from the recent screening of more than 6,000 secondary school students, which revealed that 43 per cent of students reported consuming alcohol, 32 per cent engaged in vaping, and five per cent reported using cannabis. “These results are alarming, and therefore we must develop programmes and interventions to prevent it from getting worse,” he said. The Health Minister explained
that early exposure to substances such as alcohol can increase vulnerability to further substance use. He highlighted the need for continued collaboration between the Ministries of Health and Education to build resilience among students and help them resist peer pressure. Steps were also announced to strengthen Guyana’s treatment and rehabilitation capacity through a partnership with Mount Sinai, which will see local professionals receive specialised training in addiction medicine. Stakeholders were also urged to remain focused on protecting young people and preventing substance-related harm. “If there’s any takeaway, let’s think about what we can do to prevent
harm in our children,” the Minister stated.
Meanwhile, presentations were also done by heads of other agencies including James Singh, Director of CANU. Singh told the gathering that while CANU is primarily recognised for its enforcement operations, the unit has increasingly adopted a multifaceted strategy that includes public education, intelligence sharing and proactive threat assessment. He added that to stay ahead of emerging threats, the Unit is coordinating the National Early Warning System – an initiative designed to identify and issue national alerts regarding the circulation of new and dangerous substances. “Recently, the EWS has been instrumental in warning the public about the influx of synthetic drugs, such as MDMA (ecstasy) and illegal THC vape products, which are particularly targeted at youth markets. By identifying these trends early, CANU enables health and education authorities to respond proactively,” he noted. On the other hand, he noted that the enforcement must be paired with prevention and as such, CANU has launched a robust public awareness campaign. A cor-
nerstone of this effort is the release of a 12-part booklet series titled “The Truth about Drugs.” Director James Singh described the booklets as a “wakeup call,” stating, “At the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit, we believe prevention is as powerful as enforcement. Stopping the spread of addiction begins with truth,” Singh added. The series addresses a wide range of substances, including alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, vaping, pills and new psychoactive substances (NPS). In addition to the booklet series, the gathering heard that CANU conducted prevention initiatives that reached more than 4000 individuals through school and community outreach programmes during the first half of 2026.
As a critical component of its demand reduction initiatives, the Unit actively engages in conducting specialised training sessions with teachers and awareness programmes with parents. These targeted efforts are designed to equip educators and guardians with the necessary skills and knowledge to identify early signs of substance abuse, understand the risks associated with new and emerging drugs and effectively communicate these dangers to youths. By empowering parents and teachers, CANU fosters a supportive environment that reinforces its broader educational campaigns and strengthens community resilience against drug abuse.
As Guyana’s housing sector continues to expand, industry stakeholders are being urged to prioritise energy efficiency and sustainable construction practices as a way to lower household energy costs and strengthen climate resilience. The call was made during a seminar hosted by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) as part of the ongoing International Building Expo 2026 at the National Stadium in Providence. The session focused on strategies for transforming the country’s housing stock into more energy-efficient homes, highlighting the long-term economic and environmental benefits of sustainable building. In his address at the seminar on Saturday, Housing Minister, Collin Croal noted that energy efficiency must form part of the wider conversation
on construction. He stated that housing development must go beyond the physical structure of a building.
“When you are building your home, you have to look at energy efficiency,” Croal said. He highlighted the importance of considering construction materials, design, regulations and other factors that influence the sustainability of homes.
The Housing Minister explained that with Guyana’s ongoing housing drive and thousands of allocations being made, there is an increasing need for homeowners, developers and businesses to adopt practices that improve efficiency.
Additionally, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), Dr Mahendra Sharma, emphasised that while Guyana’s development will see increased access to electricity and reduced energy costs, households and businesses must also consider how they consume energy. He explained that energy efficiency begins with simple changes in behaviour, such as switching off unused lights, using smart devices, installing sensors and choosing energy-efficient appliances. He also highlighted the importance of building design,
He said setting air conditioning units at extremely low temperatures increases energy consumption.
Dr Sharma explained that every degree below the recommended temperature can result in higher energy use. The CEO of GEA also encouraged greater adoption of grid-connected solar systems. He explained that the technology allows households and businesses to generate their own electricity while remaining connected to the national grid.
including proper insulation, shading, roof materials and ventilation, to reduce the amount of energy needed to cool homes and buildings. Dr Sharma pointed out that air conditioning can account for a significant portion of electricity use. He encouraged households and businesses to make smarter choices.
Using a five-kilowatt (kW) solar system as an example, Dr Sharma said such an investment could significantly reduce electricity costs over time, while also contributing to environmental protection. He shared his own experience after investing in solar technology, explaining that his monthly electricity bill was reduced significantly after increasing his
solar capacity and adding battery storage.
“My electricity bill has moved from above $80,000 a month to $14,000 a month,” Dr Sharma said. He also noted that the Government has introduced incentives to encourage investment in energy-efficient technologies, including the removal of taxes on solar panels, batteries and inverters. Businesses investing in energy-saving technologies can also benefit from incentives, including a 50 per cent write-down allowance, he explained. The discussions formed part of a wider two-day seminar aimed at bringing together Government agencies, businesses and industry stakeholders to explore modern construction practices, smart technologies and sustainable solutions for Guyana’s growing housing sector.
By Dr Tariq Jagnarine Fam meD, enDocrinology/ DiaBeTes
Almost everyone has experienced itchy skin at some point. Whether it is caused by a mosquito bite, dry weather, or an allergic reaction, itching is usually temporary and harmless. However, when itching becomes persistent, widespread, or occurs without an obvious rash, it may be your body’s way of signalling that something more serious is happening.
As a family physician, I have cared for many patients who initially sought help for persistent itching, only to discover an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid disorders, or iron deficiency. This is why persistent itching should never be ignored, especially when it lasts for several weeks or interferes with daily life.
What is itching?
Itching, medically known as pruritus, is an unpleasant sensation that triggers the urge to scratch. While scratching may provide temporary relief, it often worsens skin irritation and can
lead to infections, scarring, and further inflammation.
Itching can affect one small area of the body or become widespread, involving the entire skin surface.
Common causes of itchy skin
Dry skin (Xerosis)
Dry skin is one of the most common causes of itching, particularly in older adults. Frequent bathing with hot water, harsh soaps, air conditioning, and low humidity can strip the skin of its natural oils.
Allergic reactions
Allergies to soaps, detergents, fragrances, cosmetics, medications, foods, or plants may cause itching accompanied by redness or a rash.
Skin conditions
Several skin disorders commonly present with itching, including:
• Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
• Psoriasis
• Contact dermatitis
nosed.
When itching may be a sign of internal disease
Sometimes the skin appears normal, yet the itching persists. This may indicate an underlying medical condition.
Chronic kidney disease
Persistent generalized itching is common in people with advanced kidney disease, especially those receiving dialysis. Waste products that accumulate in the blood may contribute to this symptom.
Liver disease
Diseases affecting the liver or bile ducts may cause severe itching, sometimes before jaundice develops. This occurs because bile salts accumulate in the skin.
Diabetes
High blood sugar levels can cause dry skin, poor circulation, and nerve damage, all of which may contribute
• Urticaria (hives)
• Scabies
• Fungal infections
These conditions often require specific treatment and should not be self-diag-
to itching.
Thyroid disorders
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism may cause changes in the skin
that lead to persistent itching.
Iron deficiency
Low iron levels may present with generalised itching even before anaemia becomes severe.
Blood disorders and cancer
Although less common, persistent unexplained itching can occasionally be associated with blood disorders such as lymphoma or polycythemia vera. This is why long-standing itching without an obvious cause should be medically evaluated.
Medications can also cause itching
Certain medications may trigger itching as a side effect, including:
• Some antibiotics
• Opioid pain medications
• Aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs
• Blood pressure medications
Never stop a prescribed medication without consult-
ing your healthcare provider.
When should you see a doctor?
Seek medical attention if itching:
• Lasts longer than two weeks
• Is severe enough to disturb sleep
• Occurs without a visible rash
• Is associated with weight loss, fever, or night sweats
• Is accompanied by yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Does not improve with basic skin care
These symptoms may require blood tests or further investigation.
How can you relieve itching?
Simple measures often help relieve mild itching:
• Use fragrance-free moisturizers daily.
• Avoid hot showers and use lukewarm water.
• Choose mild, fragrance-free soaps.
• Wear loose cotton clothing.
• Stay well hydrated.
• Keep your home cool when possible.
• Avoid scratching, as it can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection.
For persistent symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend medicated creams, antihistamines, or treatment directed at the underlying cause.
One of the most important lessons I have learnt in medicine is that symptoms should never be dismissed simply because they appear minor. Persistent itching may seem like a small inconvenience, but I have seen it become the first clue to serious illnesses that otherwise had no obvious symptoms. Medicine is about listening, not only to our patients but also to what the body is trying to communicate. Sometimes the skin speaks before blood tests do. For this reason, I encourage patients not to ignore persistent itching. Seeking medical advice early may lead to the diagnosis of a condition that is far easier to treat in its early stages.
Not every itch is a cause for concern, but persistent or unexplained itching deserves attention. Your skin is one of the body’s earliest warning systems. When itching continues despite moisturisers or over-the-counter treatments, it may be time to look beneath the surface.
Remember, treating the itch is important, but identifying the cause is even more important.
If your skin keeps sending the same message, don’t ignore it.
Oil prices rose today following days of tit-for-tat strikes by the United States and Iran in the Middle East that underscored the fragility of their interim peace deal and again slowed energy shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Brent crude futures climbed 52 cents, or 0.672 per cent, to US$72.51 a barrel by 2313 GMT while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was at US$69.94 a barrel, up 71 cents, or 1.03 per cent.
Brent crude fell 10.6 per cent last week, its third weekly decline, after crude shipments through the Strait rose last week to their highest level since the US-Israeli conflict with Iran began in February.
However, traffic has since slowed following renewed attacks on ships in the Strait from Thursday, including a Qatarlinked oil tanker, that triggered strikes from the US and Iran in the worst escalation since they signed an interim peace deal.
“The market is likely to re-evaluate its assumption of a quick recovery of oil supply from the Persian Gulf,” ANZ analysts said in a note.
Capping oil price gains, Iran and the United States agreed to halt recent hostilities in the Gulf and renew talks in Qatar regarding their dispute over the Strait of Hormuz, Axios reported on Sunday. Reuters could not immediately confirm the report.
Saudi oil giant Aramco resumed crude oil loadings on Friday at its Ras Tanura terminal, west of the Strait of Hormuz, after they were halted for nearly four months, joining a rush to move cargoes after Middle East producers ramped up oil and gas output and exports ahead of the interim deal.
“Despite the US-Iran deal marking an inflection point for oil markets, physical flows are constrained by tanker backlogs, damaged infrastructure and production shut-ins,” ANZ analysts said.
“It could take the remainder of the year before supply is near pre-conflict levels.”
Loadings at Aramco’s Ras Tanura terminal continued, even after a helicopter belonging to the company crashed on Sunday in Ras Tanura on the country’s east coast on the Gulf, killing 14 nationals. The cause of the crash was unknown, the State news agency reported. (Reuters)
Record heatwave disrupts Europe as France warns death toll to rise
Temperatures hit 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in parts of Europe on Sunday as storms moved into other areas, with France reporting 1000 excess deaths during the record-breaking heatwave.
The French public health agency said most of the heat-related fatalities involved older people and warned the number was expected to rise as more details became available about deaths in residential care and private homes.
Scientists have said the heatwave, which began on June 20, was the worst recorded in Europe, and the blistering conditions have disrupted power generation, damaged infrastructure, and overwhelmed healthcare systems.
“Right now 150 million people are living under extreme heat, hundreds have died, schools are shut, grids are buckling,”
Afather and his son were pulled out alive from the rubble of a collapsed building on Sunday, four days after the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela.
It was a scene that gave hope to the French and US rescue workers active in the area as they race against the clock to find more survivors.
Rescue workers carried the pair, visibly weakened and both wearing masks, on improvised fabric stretchers through debris-strewn streets to a waiting ambulance, as a crowd gathered around the emergency vehicles in La Guaira.
The coastal state was hardest hit by the earthquakes on Wednesday that left at least 1450 dead and thousands missing.
Their rescue came after 12 hours of painstaking efforts by teams that combed
the French Civil Security and American responders from the Fairfax County Urban Search and Rescue Team in Virginia, who the previous day rescued a mother and her nine-monthold baby.
Before extracting the family members, rescuers prepared intravenous drips and cleared debris. Others remained beside the rubble searching for signs of life and communicating with their colleagues among the remains.
World Health Organisation Director General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on the X platform.
“Driven by climate change and global warming, the phenomenon of the ‘once-in-a-generation’ heatwave is now occurring nearly annually. We were warned,” he wrote, adding that Europe’s homes, workplaces and schools were illequipped for extreme heat.
The heatwave would have been “virtually impossible” without human-caused climate change, which has made this week’s soaring night-time temperatures 100 times more likely than they would have been just two decades ago, according to scientists.
Temperatures topped records in Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany and Poland, while storms broke out in parts of France, causing further disruption to travel and power supplies.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
through the ruins using specialised search cameras, carefully working through unstable rubble to reach the trapped victims.
“They are extremely weak, as any patient trapped under rubble for four days would be, so we are doing everything possible to rehydrate them and administer various medications during the extraction process, which is moving very slowly,” said a member of the French Civil Security.
At least 33 persons were rescued over the weekend, though tens of thousands remain missing, heightening fears that time is running out to find survivors.
The rescue team in that area includes members of
According to specialists, after 72 hours following an earthquake, the odds of finding victims alive beneath the rubble drop dramatically. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Russian attacks killed at least four persons on Sunday in Ukraine’s southeast and northeast, regional officials said.
Strikes on the south-eastern city of Zaporizhzhia killed two persons and injured 16, Regional Governor Ivan Fedorov said on Telegram. Pictures posted online by the Governor
showed a building ablaze and parts of a neighbourhood reduced to rubble.
In the north-eastern border region of Kharkiv, a frequent Russian target, a missile strike on the town of Zmiiv killed one person and injured eight, including two children, Regional Governor Oleh Syniehubov said.
Police in the Kharkiv region also said an officer was
Iran, US agree to halt attacks and renew talks, US official says
Iran and the United States agreed to halt recent hostilities in the Gulf and renew talks regarding their dispute over the Strait of Hormuz, a US official said on Sunday, raising hopes of saving an interim peace deal that was under pressure from days of tit-for-tat strikes.
Technical talks are slated to continue on all areas of the MoU. Both sides will stand down for now and vessels can move freely,” the official said, referring to the 14-point Memorandum of Understanding that was agreed on June 17 under which the Strait would be re-opened for traffic.
Axios, which first reported the cessation of hostilities, citing a senior US official, said talks would resume Tuesday in Qatar.
A return to diplomacy would follow several days of strikes and counterstrikes since an Iranian projectile hit a cargo vessel in the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, with both the US and Iran accusing the other of breaking an interim
ceasefire that was agreed to on June 17.
Iran launched missiles and drones at US military sites in Kuwait and Bahrain early on Sunday, shortly after President Donald Trump threatened that the Islamic Republic would cease to exist if it did not honour the agreement to end the war.
Meanwhile, Israel said on Sunday it had once again struck Iran-backed armed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, destroying underground infrastructure used by the group in a village in southern Lebanon. That came after another strike on Saturday, which closely followed its latest ceasefire deal with Lebanon on Friday. Iran says the fighting in Lebanon must end if the wider agreement is to stick.
The US military said earlier it had struck Iran again, hours after a tanker was hit in the Strait of Hormuz, the world’s most important energy shipping route, which Tehran has largely closed for most of the conflict. (Excerpt from Reuters)
killed as he was trying to organise the evacuation of residents in another community further north.
In the Sumy region, also on the Russian border, the regional governor said an elderly woman was killed during the day in an area near the border.
Reuters was unable to independently verify accounts from either side. Both Russia and Ukraine deny deliberately targeting civilians in the more than four-year-old conflict. (Reuters)
Tobagonians are mourning the passing of renowned singer Oscar Benjamin, aka Oscar B, who died on Sunday morning after ailing for some time.
The former lead singer of the legendary Byron Lee and the Dragonaires died on the very day a benefit concert was scheduled to be held at Shaw Park Complex.
During the budget debate on Thursday, Chief Secretary Farley Augustine announced the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) had approved funds to assist the singer s medical expenses. Augustine had hailed the legacy of Oscar B, revealing he was in Jamaica recently and the singer was still a topic of discussion.
We have Oscar B ordinarily singing at our functions and not realising his
mark on the region and the globe. We doing the butterfly and the shadow and not realising his mark on the globe, he said.
Meanwhile, Signal Hill Secondary paid tribute to the legendary singer in a Facebook post following his passing, saying he was more than a gifted singer. Today, the music is a little quieter, the stage a little dimmer, and our hearts heavier, it said.
While noting his accomplishments on the international stage, it said Oscar B remained grounded and friendly.
Yet, despite his remarkable achievements and acclaim, he remained the very definition of humility. His warm smile, gentle spirit, and genuine kindness made everyone feel seen, welcomed, and valued.
(Trinidad Guardian)
Be careful not to upstage someone who can influence your reputation or status. Getting along will be a necessity if you want to get ahead. Listen carefully.
Devise a plan and budget that add to your convenience and comfort. Stretch your imagination, but don’t let anyone tempt you to spend more than you can afford.
Put pressure where necessary, and positive change will evolve. Don’t hesitate to do the work yourself. You will make a difference to the outcome of whatever you are trying to achieve.
Take your time, get the lowdown and hedge your bets before you make a move. It’s up to you to ask questions and to barter on your behalf. An opportunity looks good if you are open-minded.
Pay attention to how you present yourself and your ideas. Having confidence will encourage others to listen and contribute suggestions that are easy to implement. Show your leadership ability in order to highlight your profile.
Refuse to let anyone push you to change something that isn’t in your best interest. Collect your thoughts, talk to experts and offer a heartfelt reason why you prefer to take the road that offers you something in return.
If you are a good listener, you’ll avoid interference. Knowing what’s expected of you and delivering what’s necessary will help ward off criticism. You are overdue for a change.
You’re in a better position than you realize. Speak up. Refuse to let what others do deter you from following your heart and doing what works for you.
A change will do you good. Invest time and money in yourself. Refuse to spend what you don’t have or be tempted by a fasttalking salesperson trying to scam you or separate you from your cash.
Keep what you cherish and get rid of what no longer matters. Letting go is your ticket to a new adventure. Shake off the old, revitalize what you plan to keep and head forward with a renewed faith in yourself.
Keep your eyes wide open and your finger on the pulse of whatever you pursue. It’s up to you to be the driver of your prospects. Stop waiting for someone to do things for you. Put your energy into survival mode.
Motivate yourself to get involved in a cause that concerns you, and someone you connect with will help you make a difference. Having discipline will encourage you to change your lifestyle.
George Russell withstood Max Verstappen’s challenge to end his 112-day wait for a victory by winning the Austrian Grand Prix in Spielberg on Sunday, breathing fresh life into his world championship bid.
Russell headed into the eighth round of the season at the Red Bull Ring without a win since the opening fixture of the season in Melbourne on March 8.
But the British driver delivered an impressive performance in the sun-drenched Styrian Mountains to cross the line 1.6 seconds clear of Verstappen.
Championship leader Kimi Antonelli finished third, just 0.3 seconds behind Verstappen, to allow Russell to reduce the Italian’s title advantage from 50 points to 40, a week out from the British Grand Prix.
Russell’s triumph also elevates him ahead of Lewis Hamilton in the standings after a questionable three-stop strategy scuppered the Ferrari driver’s challenge.
Hamilton took the chequered flag in fifth and is now 46 points off the championship pace.
Oscar Piastri finished ahead of Hamilton in fourth, with Verstappen’s Red Bull teammate Isack Hadjar sixth and reigning world
champion Lando Norris seventh.
”Yabba-dabba-doo!” yelled Russell as he channelled his inner Fred Flintstone after the race.
Russell’s title challenge had been blight ed by bad luck, indifferent form, and a mighty impressive Antonelli, but the Englishman will feel a weight has been lift ed off his shoulders ahead of his home event at Silverstone next weekend.
After upsetting the form book to take a last-gasp pole position, Russell held his nerve on the stampede to the opening corner with the drama unfolding behind his Mercedes.
Hamilton cleared teammate Charles Leclerc for second on Lap 1 before Antonelli briefly moved into third only to drop two places after he ran off the road.
Verstappen crashed out of qualifying at the penultimate corner, but gained two positions to take third, with Hamilton firmly in his sights.
On the 11th lap, Hamilton and Verstappen traded positions at Turns 3 and 4 before the Red Bull driver dropped two wheels on the gravel at Turn 6 and called for his one-time rival to be sanctioned.
”That’s a penalty, a clear penalty,”
re – promoting Verstappen to move into second place and 5.7 seconds adrift of Russell’s Mercedes.
Verstappen changed tyres on Lap 18, with Russell stopping the next time around. And Verstappen was back on Hamilton’s Ferrari gearbox for the second chapter of their Spielberg ding dong.
Just as before, Verstappen cleared Hamilton at Turn 3 only for Hamilton to take the position back at the next corner. But Verstappen had learnt his lesson from 11 laps earlier, and rather than take Hamilton around the outside of Turn 6, he slung his Red Bull underneath the Briton’s Ferrari. Was Hamilton caught napping? Either way, Verstappen had the place, and Hamilton would not see him again.
Carlos Sainz broke down and a Virtual Safety Car was deployed. Ferrari called
THamilton in for a second time – from a net third on the track – and moved him on to the least durable soft tire compound. It meant Hamilton would have to stop at least one more time. Hamilton was at that point seventh.
Up front, Verstappen was beginning to reel in Russell, and by the start of Lap 40, the Dutchman was just over a second back. But Mercedes moved quickly, bringing Russell in for a second time, and when Verstappen stopped for tyres six laps later, he was the best part of 11 seconds behind. It was Russell’s to lose from there, and although Verstappen would gain almost 10 seconds in 22 laps, he failed to face a significant challenge, and actually spent the final lap ensuring Antonelli did not sneak past for second. (ESPN)
took any risks which meant it was only the second time since the 2023 T20 World Cup semi-final between the same two sides that Australia could not take a wicket in the power play in a T20 International
Shafali took on Gardner again in the ninth over and followed her 13-run first over with 12, with another sequence of six and a four. As Shafali started to cut loose, Captain Sophie Molineux took it upon herself and struck first ball by knocking over Shafali’s off stump. Jemimah Rodrigues started with a glorious inside-out boundary over the covers, but her mix-up with Mandhana gave India another blow. Rodrigues was ball-watching after her reverse sweep and did not respond to Mandhana’s call, which sent the opener back for 38 off 37.
he experienced duo of Ellyse Perry and Ash Gardner aced a tense Australia chase of 171 – the biggest in women’s T20 World Cups – in clinical fashion and knocked India out of the tournament in front of a packed house at Lord’s.
Australia dominated large parts of the game apart from a couple of fielding lapses to keep India in check for nearly 18 overs of their innings before a Harmanpreet Kaur blitz gave them 170, the highest to-
nals on Tuesday and Thursday at The Oval.
Shafali, Mandhana give India watchful fifty stand
Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana largely stayed circumspect through the power play. While Mandhana cruised at run a ball by peppering the legside boundary with four fours, whenever she got one on the pads, Shafali went after the offside boundary, particularly against Gardner with a four and six in the fourth over. They hardly
The scoring rate was just over seven when Harmanpreet came out and so did the sun. Unlike the batters before her, she attacked regularly with both power and placement, to up the run rate. However, Australia’s hard lengths and a slightly slow pitch meant India never ran away with the scoring rate. India had not got more than one boundary an over since Shafali had been dismissed and after Molineux’s seven-run, boundary-less 18th over they were 134 for 2 with the third-wicket stand gone past 50. That’s when Harmanpreet unleashed the Harmonster, not without some drama.
Soon after Harmanpreet hit her
sixth four in 22 balls, Rodrigues got two lives in as many balls. Her pull to deep square leg went through Wareham’s hands for six before Nicola Carey put down a tougher chance, diving forward from long-off. India sought more runs and decided to retire out Rodrigues to bring in the big-hitting Richa Ghosh. But Ghosh remained a spectator in the last over as Harmanpreet launched three sixes in a row, aided by another fielding lapse from Australia. Her two straight sixes brought up a 25ball half-century, the quickest by an Indian at women’s T20 World Cups. When she went for a third in a row, the ball went through Litchfield’s hands over her head before Harmanpreet was finally caught by Perry at mid-off for 56 off 27. Deepti Sharma’s top edge off the final ball made it a 23-run over and a total of 170 that once looked out of reach for India – the highest against Australia at women’s T20 World Cups.
India, Australia trade blows
If Georgia Voll started the chase with a boundary, Renuka struck next ball to trap her lbw, with the help of a review that overturned the on-field decision. If Litchfield ended the second over with backto-back fours off Kranti Gaud, Renuka and Shafali conceded a single each in the next two overs to put the pressure back on Australia. Mooney then broke the streak of 13 boundary-less balls with two leg-side boundaries off Renuka before Litchfield dispatched a straight six in a 12-run Shafali over to give
Australia 49 in the power play.
Perry, Gardner lead the chase after India spinners strike
It was anybody’s game from there. India edged ahead when Shree Charani, India’s leading wicket-taker at the tournament, got the big wicket of Litchfield, who returned to the XI after missing three games with injury, as she shanked the ball to Mandhana at long-off for 24 and three overs later, Mooney skied one off Deepti. With 99 to get off the last 10 overs, Perry showed her class under pressure by finding the gaps on either side of the pitch whereas Gardner took the aerial route regularly.
The game was starting to drift towards India when Australia needed 86 from 48, but Gardner smashed a four and a six off consecutive deliveries as Radha erred with her lengths and Perry followed it with a four to make it a 17-run over. Two overs later, Gardner slog-swept Charani for six and again Perry followed with a four of her own and the 16-run over meant Australia now needed 46 from 30.
Even though India were holding on to their catches this game, the pressure started to show with the odd misfields amid numerous bowling changes. The boundaries flowed more easily now, Perry brought up a solid 33-ball half-century with a straight boundary and Gardner followed with hers off 28 balls in the 18th over to stamp their authority further. Perry skied one to mid-off in the penultimate over to fall for 56 before Wareham finished things off. (ESPNcricinfo)
So nice they had to do it twice. Ireland have swept the T20 World Champions 2-0. That meant India’s unbeaten run which spanned 16 series and nearly three years has been irrevocably broken. The stars of this supreme result were Harry Tector, who scored a determined half-century to help put 154 on the board, and Jai Moondra, who picked up three wickets in the blink of an eye.
A landmark innings Tector, playing his 100th T20 International (T20I), was brought to the crease in the second over. His first runs were off the inside edge. The rest were both timely and thought out. He held the innings together for Ireland and in doing so highlighted just why he is a valued member of this side. Tector absorbed the pressure at one end, willing to countenance risk only when the odds were in his favour, like when Suryansh Shedge, in the middle of leaking 22 runs in a over bowled a free-hit ball that was full toss. That went for six. Ben Calitz, at the other end, was a little more willing to go for his shots. Their 65-run partnership, off 44 balls, formed the backbone of a total of 154. At that point, Cricinfo’s forecaster only gave Ireland an 18 per cent chance of victory.
Dube’s growing reputation
Shivam Dube picked up two wickets in two balls and broke the partnership that was the biggest threat to India. He had Calitz caught at deep point, a wicket created by good process. Dube led the batter to the square boundary, which was a lot bigger than the straight one. He also made it harder for Calitz to access his power by bowling wide of off stump and making him reach out. Gareth Delany came out at the fall of that wicket and was undone by a wobble seam delivery that nipped back in and crashed into his stumps. It could’ve been the ball of the series were it not for what Moondra did in the chase.
Prince Picked in place of Prasidh Krishna, ing his T20I debut,
Prince Yadav picked up three ets and went for less than a run a ball. He was able to do so, because he had threat whether he went short and into the pitch or full and into the blockhole. His final two wickets came in the last over of the innings, which he was given ahead of the more established Harshit Rana. One was back of a length to dis-
“You have Boomrah! We have Moondra!”
That was a sign in the crowd and it had plenty of airtime as Moondra dismissed Sanju Samson with the first ball of the chase – a venomous inswinger – and added Abhishek Sharma be-
miss Tector. The other was a slower ball to topple Liam McCarthy. This varied skillset that he has, on top of the pace he can produce, might just have marked him out as a very real prospect for the 2027 One-Day International (ODI) World Cup.
fore that over was out. It was only the fourth time in the entire history of T20 Internationals (T20Is) that both openers had fallen for golden ducks.
A modest target might have been helping India hold their nerve with the score-
board reading 1 for 2, but Moondra kept making it difficult. The left-arm quick highlighted the slowness of the pitch when he had Shreyas Iyer dragging a wide ball back onto his stumps and then was part of an incident that revealed just how much this series has got under the opposition’s skin. He delivered the ball that led to Ishan Kishan’s run-out – off a direct hit by Ross Adair –and the batter left the field wringing his hands at Tilak Varma. India were 35 for 4. Their composure had been shattered.
Tilak fights in vain India went 48 deliveries without a boundary off the bat, between the fifth and 13th overs. This was a function of both the conditions and their sorry state. The Belfast pitch was loath to let the ball come onto the bat. Also, it was covered with enough grass that any scrambled/wobble seam delivery was getting purchase. Tilak and Axar Patel appreciated the situation they were in and tried to take the game deep. The 12th over though was not that. Matt Hollard dismissed Axar with a bit of extra bounce. Dube came out and even he, who scores a majority of his runs
in boundaries, could only find two.
Ireland were brave to pair him up with a left-arm spinner in the death. Matt Humphreys knowing he was at the unfavourable end of the match-up did the only thing he could. He denied
ly – and broke India’s chase. Tilak fell seven balls later for 55 off 46 and soon that was that. (ESPNcricinfo)
Ireland (20 ovs maximum)
Tim Tector c Abhishek Sharma
b Harshit Rana 5 Ross Adair c Tilak Varma
b Arshdeep Singh 16
Harry Tector c †Ishan Kishan
b Prince Yadav 53
Lorcan Tucker (c)† c †Ishan Kishan
b Prince Yadav 15
Ben Calitz c Tilak Varma
b Dube
Recently-minted Elite League side Camptown Football Club is heading into Guyana’s premier football league, not to be bystanders but to compete evenly with the best in the country, according to Head Coach Calvin “Fluman” Allen.
No stranger to the League, Allen has previously led Elite League squads in the past and is quite familiar with what it takes to compete at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)run tournament.
In the aftermath of his team’s composed 2-0 victory over Timehri United FC, which saw them punching
“You
the guys, the management staff, our Executives, they really work hard. The players worked extremely hard, I couldn’t want a better bunch, everybody came together and bet their backs to make sure we achieve our goals.”
“Like I said, the timeframe in which we did it, from rebuilding a team last Easter to now, it’s a marvellous achievement, I think my best one ever,” he added.
and tell myself we can go and do extremely well in the Elite League: you got to improve in every area – personnel, physically, tactically. You got to improve and we will improve.”
their ticket to the 2026/27 season of the League, Allen candidly reacted to re-entering the League, this time with a team that are yet to compete at that level.
The Coach told Guyana Times Sport, “It’s a marvellous feeling, I’ll tell you, for more than one reason. One, it’s not the first time I’m bringing a team to the Elite League, in fact I did it a couple of times and more importantly, this group of players is only together a year and a half. In that year and a half, we have won the Georgetown league to qualify for this and then now we qualify for the Elite League.”
“I must say kudos to
Based on his knowledge of the Elite League, Allen admitted that his team will need some intensive work before they make their debut.
“I’ve been in the League since the days of National League so, I know how tough it is,” he explained, “We definitely got to strengthen in a few areas; in terms of players, personnel, we have a lot of work to do on strength and conditioning ‘cause the Elite League, it’s a tough league, it plays faster, stronger. So, we got a lot of work to do, because I know what it’s like up there.”
The Coach went on to share, “Hopefully, we can
Apolished half-century from middle-order batsman Jeral Gildharie guided Charity Secondary to an easy win while Abram Zuil snuck in a crucial victory as part of yesterday’s double header in the ongoing Ministry of Education (MoE)/ Beharry Secondary Schools’ Under-19 T20 Cricket tour nament, which continued at the Joe Jagmohan Ground, Essequibo Coast.
Charity beat Santa Rosa Secondary by 18 runs
Taking first strike, Charity did an excellent job in getting to 141-6 after bat ting out their full 20 overs.
Despite losing a few wick ets, including opener Nickel Griffith (21) , who had a blistering start with three six es off just 13 balls, Charity found their star in half-centurion Gildharie.
After losing six of his top-order team mates, the eventu al Man of the Match stroked a classy 50* off 47 deliveries including six fours, which dug his team out of a tight spot.
Only Ramesh Henry (3-23) and Jay De Souza (235) managed to make in roads for Santa Rosa, who then misfired during their chase.
Aided by 43 extra runs thanks to some off-bowl
ing by the Charity lads, Santa Rosa still failed to reach their target as they were kept to 123-10 in 17 overs.
Much like Charity, Santa Rosa had a slight recovery thanks to a labouring, unbeaten 34 off 44 balls (1x4) by Krishon Jacobs, who tried to keep his team in the game.
Santa Rosa Secondary.
Abram Zuil defeat Aurora Secondary by 2 wickets
Decent bowling spells from Aaron Decosta (2-24), Rhonel Nurse (1-7) and Eshwar Tilak (1-20) was enough to keep Aurora under wraps as they were strangled for 93-6 by the time their overs expired.
National youth player and skipper Jathniel Nurse led the scoring with 33 off 23 (1x4, 2x6) while Chedanan Bissoon (19) and Shamar Sue (16) lent support.
Abram Zuil fought through the hurdles, but held their nerve to sneak past the required target as they ended on 94-8 with five deliveries remaining.
Most Valuable Player (MVP) Tilak then returned to score a testing 29 not out, with 15 from Ravid Fredricks, who in the end got the better of Aurora, despite strong bowling efforts from Arif Singh (2-10), Zaheer Ramkissoon (211) and Aidel Seenauth (1-13). Action continues this weekend with the Zone 1 final between Charity Secondary and Abram Zuil Secondary. That match is scheduled to play under lights at the Anna Regina Stadium.
get the required bodies in, in terms of personnel transfers and get our preparation going into the Elite League correct. We have to get it 100 per cent right to survive the Elite League. But I got all faith in my players, I got a strong administration staff behind me, so, we will work and hopefully, Camptown is here to stay.”
Sharing a bit of what to expect with this publication,
Allen disclosed that he already has new artillery in his arsenal.
He divulged to this publication, “I’ll give you a little secret, let a little cat out the bag, I already have six transfers in my card, players we couldn’t use for this playoff, so that’s six and we’ll definitely be bringing some more payers. ‘Cause like I said, we got to be stronger. I’m not going to fool myself
Quizzed on whether or not he is intimidated about re-entering the League through the qualification process which saw Mainstay FC produce a horrendous run in the 2025 season, “Fluman” said ‘not on his watch’.
“That motivates me,” Allen responded cheekily, “It’s not going to happen with Camptown, not under my body, not on my watch, it ain’t happening with Camptown. That’s too much of goals, we ain’t got a pawn shop.”
The 2026/27 season of the Elite League is likely to get underway in August or September.
Stephen Eustáquio scored in the second minute of second-half stoppage time, and Canada beat South Africa 1-0 on Sunday for their first knockout match victory in a World Cup and first-ever appearance in the round of 16.
A tense match at SoFi Stadium appeared to be headed for extra time until Eustáquio, who plays professionally for LAFC several miles away, put a stunning volley from outside the penalty area into the bottom corner of Ronwen Williams’ net.
Co-hosts Canada hung on with strong defensive play in the final minutes and advanced to face the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston on Saturday.
Canada manager Jesse Marsch gathered his players in a huddle after the whistle and gave a spirited speech, declaring, “You guys are Canadian heroes! Canadian heroes for the future children of this country who play this sport. This sport has a big future because of you guys. You should be so proud of who you are. You should be so proud of this game.”
Canada played their first three matches at home in Toronto and Vancouver while appearing in only their third World Cup, but were forced to become the first World Cup hosts to
play on the road when they lost 2-1 to Switzerland last Wednesday.
The Canadians were still the clear crowd favourites in the Los Angeles area between their traveling fans and thousands of supportive locals, including several in Eustáquio’s LAFC shirt who could not have imagined the day they were about to enjoy.
“We never stopped believing,” Eustáquio said.
“And I think the goal is really something that we deserved.”
Williams made five saves for South Africa, who played with remarkable heart while hanging in until the final moments in search of another historic win for the team known as Bafana Bafana. Canada had the best chances all day, but underdog South Africa stayed firm defensively and created a handful of excellent chances themselves.
“We lost the game because there was a lack of power and speed in our team when I compare that with our opponent,” South Africa Coach Hugo Broos said. “We had a difficult game, certainly. But when we look back, we can be fairly satisfied with what we did. We are disappointed, and we wanted to win, but we don’t have to be too much disappointed. What we did was good, and I’m
very happy and proud of my team.”
Canada finally broke through when Alistair Johnston’s long pass into the box was cleared directly into the path of Eustáquio, who chested it down, struck it purely, and started to celebrate almost immediately. After finishing second in their respective groups, both South Africa and Canada were playing for their nation’s first knockout victories at a World Cup when they opened knockout play with the only match of the day.
Canada got a boost in the 75th minute when star defender Alphonso Davies came on for his first World Cup action. The playmaking Bayern Munich defender missed group play after injuring a hamstring last month for the third time this year, but finally returned in the same stadium where he tore a knee ligament in March 2025 in CONCACAF Nations League play. Davies immediately made the best pass of the day to set up Promise David for a golden chance, but the forward hit it wide.
South Africa reached the knockout rounds for the first time with a 1-0 victory over South Korea last Wednesday, arguably the highest moment in Bafana Bafana’s chequered international history. (ESPN)
In a landmark development that underscores the meteoric rise of grassroots cricket in the region, FL Sport has officially unveiled the Guyana Lottery Company (GLC), through its premier sports betting brand Let’s Bet, as the new title sponsor for the fourth edition of the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast.
The high-profile announcement was made on Sunday during a glamorous tournament launch at RS53 Etkezo inside the Amazonia Mall.
It served as a grand prelude to what is widely regarded as the marquee tapeball tournament in the Caribbean, which was graced by Ministers Charles Ramson Jr and Steven Jacobs, along with Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, and various team stakeholders.
The launch also provided a first look at the tournament’s bespoke silverware, featuring a striking fusion of traditional wooden craftsmanship and cutting-edge 3D design.
With an expansive field of 80 teams from across Guyana expected to vie for supremacy, the tournament has secured financial backing that completely redefines the economics of domestic tapeball.
Speaking at the launch, GLC General Manager Kalima Ali expressed the corporation’s pride in aligning with a tournament that captures the raw passion of Guyanese cricket.
“At the Guyana Lottery Company, through our Let’s Bet brand, we are thrilled to become the title sponsor of the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast,” Ali stated.
“Tapeball is the bedrock of community cricket in Guyana, and this tour-
nament embodies unity, talent, and sheer excitement.
Our investment is a testament to our commitment to sports development and to empowering local athletes across every region by providing them with a grand stage to showcase their skills.”
Tournament Director John Ramsingh expressed profound gratitude to the GLC, noting that the partnership elevates the competition to unprecedented professional heights.
Ramsingh thanked Kares Engineering Inc for their support over the past three years, noting they have given the tournament immense momentum.
The 2026 edition introduces a groundbreaking, tiered financial structure designed to reward performance from the earliest stages.
In a departure from traditional knockout formats where early exits yield no return, losing teams at the zonal quarter-final stage are guaranteed $25,000, while losing semi-finalists at the zonal level will pocket $50,000.
The stakes escalate progressively, with the losing zonal finalist receiving
$200,000, culminating in a handsome $500,000 purse for the respective zonal champions before they even transition into the national bracket.
The crescendo of the tournament will see the stakes reach their absolute peak during the national playoffs.
The ultimate crown jewels of the 2026 season await
tions are also on the line, as the top four national finalists will earn automatic qualification berths to represent Guyana at a proposed Global T10 Tapeball Blast.
The tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) is set to drive away with a brand-new motorbike alongside a $150,000 cash prize.
The batsman with
the finalists: the crowned national champions will walk away with a massive $2,000,000 first-prize purse, while the runners-up will secure $1,000,000.
The two losing national semi-finalists will not leave empty-handed, with each earning $500,000.
Crucially, global aspira-
the most runs will claim $100,000, a prize matched for the top wicket-taker, who will take home $100,000, complemented by a new television set.
Additional performance-based accolades will also be presented for the highest strike rate and the most economical bowler of
the tournament.
With the lucrative structure locked in, organisers have issued an urgent directive to regional teams to secure their spots immediately, cautioning against delaying registration to tinker with squad selection as spots are expected to fill rapidly.
Registration forms can be accessed via the tournament’s official social media handles or by contacting the organisers directly on WhatsApp at +592 6352235.
The tournament caravan officially commences with the Berbice Zone on August 8-9 across four premier venues – including the historic Port Mourant Community Centre Ground, the No 69 Ground, and the Welfare Ground in Canje – before concluding with the zonal finals at the Albion Sports Complex on August 9.
The action then moves swiftly to the East Bank/ West Demerara leg on August 15-16, followed by the Essequibo Zone on August 22-23.
Following a temporary hiatus for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the tournament resumes with the powerhouse Georgetown/East Coast Demerara leg on September 26-27 and October 3-4.
In a historic first for the competition, the national grand finale on October 11, 2026, will be hosted at the Anna Regina National Stadium in Region Two, bringing the absolute pinnacle of Guyanese tapeball cricket directly to the passionate fans of Essequibo. The tournament has gathered support from: Guyana Lottery Company; KFC Guyana; Office of the President; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; Banks DIH Ltd; Star Rentals; Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc; S&K Imports; I&S Trading; Impressions Branding; Regal Stationery; SAWA Investment Inc; Scoop Ride Inc; Betcabana; Shawn Mini Mart; Trophy Stall; ENet; Supreme Transportation Inc; ETS – Environmental Technical Solutions Inc; Windsor Estates; Smart Choice Pharmacy; G Mining Ventures; V-Net Technologies; Guyana Oil Company Limited; Camille’s Academy; 3D Lee Hub; Trinchloro; Superbet Guyana; The Laundry Chute Inc; Bernie’s Pharmacy; Mannol Oil; Montra Restaurant and Lounge; Continental Transportation Inc; D&S Ramdehol and Sons Jewellery and Navin and Son Construction.
As she prepares to represent Guyana on the international stage at the prestigious International Shotokan Karate Federation (ISKF) World Shoto Cup, 10-yearold karate prodigy Miah Sampson will have peace of mind, knowing that the National Sports Commission (NSC) is in her corner. Sampson, one of Guyana’s promising young martial artists, recently received financial assistance from the NSC during a simple presentation ceremony conducted by Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle.
Her presence on the international stage will come in October 2026 where the competition is set for Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico.
The presentation was made to Sampson and her mother, Angeline Cristie, as the young athlete intensifies preparations for what will be one of the biggest competitions of her budding career.
The ISKF World Shoto
Cup is expected to attract some of the world’s finest Shotokan karate practitioners for four days of competition, learning, and cultural exchange. The event will be held under the leadership of renowned karate master
Shihan Hiroyoshi Okazaki and will bring together athletes from across the globe in a celebration of excellence, discipline, and friendship.
During the presentation, Ninvalle commended Sampson’s dedication to the
sport and expressed confidence in her ability to represent Guyana with distinction on the international stage.
“Miah has shown tremendous promise, and we wish her every success as she embarks on this import-
ant journey,” Ninvalle said.
Ninvalle also highlighted the longstanding relationship between the NSC and ISKF-Guyana, noting that the Commission has consistently supported the organisation’s annual Independence Karate Tournament, which was staged earlier this month at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.
Sampson, who will be among Guyana’s representatives at the World Shoto Cup, expressed gratitude for the assistance received, noting that the support will go a long way in helping her prepare for the competition.
“I am very thankful to the NSC for believing in me and supporting my journey to Mexico,” Sampson said. “I am training hard every day and will do my best to make Guyana proud.”
Her mother also thanked the Commission for its contribution and encouragement.
Sampson now turns her attention to the months
ahead as she pursues success against some of the world’s best young Shotokan karate competitors in Mexico.
Kemar Roach rampaged his way to his 300th Test wicket; Jayden Seales, Shamar Joseph, and Alzarri Joseph all bowled menacing spells and West Indies blasted Sri Lanka out for 101, completing a behemoth inningsand-217-run victory.
Gaining significantly more movement in the air and off the surface than Sri Lanka’s quicks had, West Indies’ fast bowlers threatened to take wickets right through day four’s 27.2 overs. It was Roach who
was getting the ball to hoop most, however, finding massive inswing into the righthander, often late in the ball’s trajectory, to threaten the pads and stumps of the right-handers he bowled to, and the outside edges of the left-handers.
Roach’s 300th wicket was the ninth of Sri Lanka’s innings, Asitha Fernando’s stumps being clattered by a full one speared in from wide of the crease. He was mobbed by adoring teammates who seemed to take even more delight in his
a team fatigued from
160.5 overs in the field on days two and three. Dinesh Chandimal was the only batter who managed even some semblance of resistance, batting out 60 balls for his 43. No other batter in the top six managed a double-figure score. Some were pinged in front by balls that jagged in. Others nicked off against deliveries that moved away. Two –Kamindu Mendis and Kusal Mendis – had the tops of their off stumps pinged after they had left the ball. West Indies bowled exqui-
site lines, and rarely bowled a bad ball. Even Sri Lanka’s exceedingly rare boundaries tended to come from full deliveries when the bowlers had gone looking for swing. After Roach opened the day’s wicket-taking in the first over, swinging a ball into Nishan Madushka’s pads, Seales struck in his own first over, getting nightwatcher Kasun Rajitha to edge to the cordon. Soon after, Shamar Joseph struck twice, pinging Kamindu’s off stump as he shouldered arms, before pinging Dhananjaya de Silva’s front pad to catch him lbw. Late in the session, Alzarri got himself a wicket too, in sim-
ilar fashion. Having got a ball to leave Kusal, he had the next one jag back into Kusal, who had also let the ball hit his off stump uninterrupted.
Sri Lanka went to lunch at 81 for 6 and it only took West Indies 6.1 further overs to remove the remaining batters. Roach struck twice in two overs to get to his 300th, and after some
strong words exchanged with Lahiru Kumara and Sonal Dinusha, Seales took the final wicket to complete a stunning victory.
West Indies, essentially, have dominated this Test from start to finish. And they were so spectacularly dominant in days three and four, they crushed an opponent that had been expected to compete. (ESPNcricinfo)
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach on becoming just the fifth West Indian to claim 300 Test wickets, achieving the historic milestone during the West Indies’ memorable victory over Sri Lanka in the opening Test at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua.
Roach now joins an elite group of West Indies bowling legends – Sir Curtly Ambrose, Courtney Walsh, Malcolm Marshall and Lance Gibbs – to have reached the coveted 300-wicket mark in Test cricket, further cementing his place among the top bowlers in the rich history of West Indies cricket.
The landmark achievement came as West Indies secured a dominant inningsand-217-run victory over Sri Lanka, marking a memorable occasion for the regional side and providing another proud chapter in Roach’s distinguished international career.
CWI President Dr Kishore Shallow hailed the achievement as one befitting one of the Region’s modern-day greats.
“On behalf of Cricket West Indies and the people of the Caribbean, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Kemar Roach on reaching the incredible mile-
stone of 300 Test wickets. To stand alongside Sir Curtly Ambrose, Courtney Walsh, Malcolm Marshall and Lance Gibbs is a remarkable accomplishment and a fitting tribute to Kemar’s outstanding career, unwavering professionalism, and exceptional commitment to West Indies cricket.
“Kemar has been the standard-bearer for West Indies fast bowling for well over a decade, delivering time and again with skill, heart and determination. His consistency, dedication and passion for representing the maroon have inspired teammates and cricket fans throughout the
Region. As we celebrate this extraordinary milestone with Kemar, we wish his continued success as he builds on his legacy.”
Dr Shallow also congratulated Captain Roston Chase and Head Coach Daren Sammy following their first Test victory in their respective leadership roles.
“This victory is a significant moment for our Test team, and I offer sincere congratulations to Captain Roston Chase and Head Coach Daren Sammy on securing their first Test wins as the leaders of the team. It is equally fitting to recognise the outstanding individual performances that underpinned this triumph, particularly Amir Jangoo’s magnificent maiden Test double century of 233 and Chase’s superb 194, a true captain’s knock that put the team firmly in control of the match.
“With much work still ahead, I appreciate that this victory gives our players and supporters renewed confidence and provides us with an excellent platform to build on. I congratulate every member of the team and support staff on an outstanding performance.”
West Indies will look to build on the momentum from the opening Test as they continue their campaign against Sri Lanka on July 3.
