Guyana Times - Saturday, April 18, 2026

Private investments key to positioning Guyana as hub for medical tourism – Pres Ali

Young people are no longer seeking lifelong careers with one employer –survey Porter accused of

Guyana signs air services agreement with the Kingdom of Morocco

Guyana and The Kingdom of Morocco signed an Open Skies Air Services Agreement on Thursday aimed at promoting and facilitating the operation of air services between the two countries, as well as beyond to any third country. The agreement was signed by the Minister of Transport and Logistics with responsibilities for Aviation, Abdessamad Kayouh, and the Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field.

The signing ceremony took place during the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) in Marrakech, Morocco, which occurred between April 14 and 16, 2026. In addition to standard provisions covering the grant of traffic rights, designation and authorisation, user charges, recognition of certificates and licences, customs duties and other similar charges tariffs, and commercial activities, among

others, the agreement presents a significant opportunity for airlines of both countries to expand their air connectivity and broaden the routes they serve. Further, the agreement establishes the legal framework to open market access for airlines, with the aim of enhancing competitive air transport services, boosting trade and driving economic growth between the two nations. It is anticipated that the agreement will stimulate airlines’ interest in considering Guyana as

part of their international route networks. Currently, there are no direct flights between Guyana and the Kingdom of Morocco. The

agreement complements the more than 50 air services agreements Guyana has established with other ICAO States to develop air connec-

tivity among states. Guyana and the Kingdom of Morocco established diplomatic relations on December 14, 2012.

Essequibo man remanded for cocaine possession

– another gets 12 months for malicious damage to property

Thirty-three-year-old Cleon Alphanso of Henrietta, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) was on Thursday remanded to prison on a

possession of narcotics charge. Alphanso was arrested on Wednesday at Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast, with 3.2 grams of cocaine. He was subsequently charged and appeared before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court. He pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him. As such, he was remanded to

prison until April 30, 2026. Meanwhile, 48-year-old Poonraj Samaroo, a labourer of La Belle Alliance, Essequibo, was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment by Magistrate Mohabir after he pleaded guilty to the offence of malicious damage to property. The act was committed on Sunday at Anna Regina.

BRIDGE OPENING

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, April 18 –17:10h–18:40h and Sunday, April 19 – 05:00h-06:30h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.

WEATHER TODAY

Sunny conditions are expected during the day with light rain showers in the mid-morning and earlyafternoon hours. Partly-cloudy skies and light rain showers are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 3.58 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 17:21h reaching a maximum height of 2.82 metres.

Low Tide: 110:53h and 23:08h reaching minimum heights of 0.25 metre and 0.46 metre.

Private investments key to positioning Guyana as hub for medical tourism – Pres Ali

– says Govt leading in providing

PAli

underscored the importance of private investments in advancing his Government’s agenda of positioning Guyana as a premier destination for medical tourism in the region.

The Head of State made this remark on Friday evening during the inauguration of the US$5 million (G$1 billion) Optique Eye Hospital in Georgetown.

Built by Optique Care Vision, this state-of-the-art facility provides comprehensive ophthalmology services, including examinations, advanced diagnostics, and specialised surgeries such as cataract, glaucoma, orbit and oculoplastic, corneal, pterygium and vitreoretinal procedures.

According to Ali, while attention has been focused on the Government’s efforts to transform healthcare locally, the significant investments being made in private healthcare services are equally notable - the construction of this eye hospital being one.

“Private healthcare providers play an essential role in expanding services, raising standards, reducing waiting times, introducing new technologies and importantly aligning with national goals. They complement the national healthcare system, broaden patient choice and create healthy competition that improves quality. But beyond that, private healthcare investment also lays the foundation for something much bigger and something that is part of our vision for our country. That something is medical tourism.”

“Guyana wants to become a prime destination for medical tourism. We want our country to be known not only for its natural beauty, its energy potential, and its economic growth, but also for excellence in healthcare services. We want people from across the Caribbean, from the diaspora, from

able, efficient, modern medical care. I would like to see the private sector continue to drive this process at an even faster pace,” the Guyanese leader posited.

Incentivising private investments

In fact, in order to push the transformation of the local healthcare sector, the Guyana Government has been incentivising private investments - something that President Ali says the country is leading

for

care economy because the care economy is not just a provision of health services. It’s an entire ecosystem that will allow us to provide services for economic value and financial returns, and that is why the private sector is critical to this national strategy, and that is why we have incentivised healthcare and the private sector like no other country in this region, and I dare say we are among the top 5 per cent globally when it comes to incentives for in-

North America, and beyond, to look to Guyana as a place where they can receive high-quality, afford-

in. “The investments that we are making are to align our health services with the

vestment in healthcare,” he noted.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Empowering ability & advancing independent living

The graduation of 84 persons living with disabilities from a series of vocational training programmes marks a meaningful step towards a more inclusive and equitable society. Such initiatives, facilitated through collaboration between the Office of the First Lady and the Board of Industrial Training, underscore the importance of expanding access to practical skills and economic opportunities for a segment of the population that has historically faced systemic barriers to full participation in national life.

For far too long, disability has been viewed through a narrow lens of limitation rather than potential. That perspective has contributed to the marginalisation of capable individuals who, when given the appropriate tools and support, demonstrate resilience, creativity, and productivity equal to any other group. The completion of training in areas such as arts and craft, floral arrangement, pastry making, small electronic repairs, and garment construction provides tangible evidence that opportunity, rather than charity, remains the most effective pathway to empowerment.

Independent living stands at the core of dignity and selfdetermination. The ability to earn an income, manage personal affairs, and contribute meaningfully to community life represents not merely an economic milestone but a fundamental human right. Skills-based training plays a critical role in bridging the gap between potential and opportunity. By equipping persons living with disabilities with marketable competencies, such programmes help dismantle long-standing stereotypes and reduce dependency on social assistance systems.

However, sustainable inclusion requires a societal commitment that extends beyond certification ceremonies. Access to employment opportunities, supportive workplace environments, and the removal of physical and social barriers remain essential components of a truly inclusive framework. Employers must be encouraged, and where necessary incentivised, to recognise the value of a diverse workforce. Public and private sector institutions alike must move beyond tokenism and embrace genuine integration, ensuring that skills acquired translate into meaningful employment.

Equally important is the need for accessible infrastructure and supportive services. Independent living is closely tied to mobility, communication, and access to public spaces. Without adequate transportation systems, adaptive technologies, and inclusive design standards, the promise of independence risks remaining out of reach for many. National development strategies must, therefore, incorporate disability inclusion as a central pillar, rather than a peripheral consideration.

The success of the recent training programmes also highlights the importance of partnerships in advancing social progress. Collaboration between governmental bodies and training institutions demonstrates what can be achieved when resources and expertise are aligned towards a common goal. Continued investment in such partnerships will be necessary to expand the reach of similar initiatives, ensuring that more individuals benefit from opportunities for skills development and economic participation.

At the same time, societal attitudes must continue to evolve as stigma and discrimination often present more significant obstacles than physical limitations. Public education campaigns, community engagement, and representation of persons living with disabilities in leadership and decision-making roles can help shift perceptions and foster a culture of respect and inclusion. Recognition of ability, rather than focus on disability, must guide national discourse.

The graduation ceremony at the Empower Guyana Centre serves as more than a symbolic achievement. It represents a call to action for policymakers, employers, and society at large to build on this progress. Expanding access to training programmes, strengthening support systems, and ensuring equitable access to employment opportunities will determine whether such milestones translate into lasting change.

Ultimately, the pursuit of independent living for persons living with disabilities aligns with broader national goals of equity, productivity, and social cohesion. Empowered individuals contribute to the economic and social fabric of the country.

The achievements of the 84 graduates stand as evidence to what can be accomplished when opportunity meets determination.

Use jungle experts: A smarter way forward for SAR in Guyana

Dear Editor,

In the ongoing discussions surrounding the recent ASL Caravan accident and many others before it, one idea continues to surface again and again: the role of our indigenous communities in search and recovery operations.

And it’s a conversation we can no longer treat as a passing thought.

If we look at the history of aviation incidents in Guyana, a clear pattern emerges. The majority of crashes occur in the Mazaruni, Potaro, and surrounding interior regions. These are not empty, unknown lands. These are areas where indigenous communities have lived, worked, and navigated for generations.

In many cases, it has been a villager who first heard the aircraft, a hunter who noticed something unusual, or a farmer who pointed search teams in the right direction. Before GPS tracks and satellite overlays, it was local knowledge that often broke the case open.

That reality still exists today. Our indigenous brothers are natural jungle operators. They move quickly through terrain that slows even the most trained soldier. They understand the land instinctively. They don’t need formal jungle survival training or even a compass to orient

themselves. The jungle is not an obstacle to them; it is home.

At the same time, many of them choose not to be enlisted in the military, and that must be respected. Their lives are built around their communities, their farms, their hunting, and their traditions.

So instead of trying to pull them into a system that doesn’t fit, why not build a system that works with them? It is time to consider establishing a structured Indigenous SAR Support Programme across key interior regions.

This would involve identifying and training a small number of volunteers, perhaps four per village, in strategically located communities near high-risk aviation corridors. These individuals would not become soldiers but trained support personnel who can be activated when needed.

The training should be practical and focused: basic helicopter safety and insertion/extraction procedures, so they can safely work around aircraft; radio communication and signaling, allowing direct coordination with GDF units; basic GPS use to complement their natural navigation skills; photography and documentation of crash scenes to assist investigators; body recovery

and respectful preparation of remains; chainsaw operation for cutting access paths through dense vegetation; and basic first aid and casualty handling.

Once trained, these individuals return to their normal lives in their villages but remain part of an on-call network. When an incident occurs, they can move immediately.

In many cases, they may reach the crash site faster than any external team, especially when weather, terrain, or aircraft limitations delay the response. They can secure the area, provide an initial assessment, guide incoming military units, and in some cases, begin the early stages of recovery.

This is not about replacing the Guyana Defence Force. The Special Forces and Air Corps will always remain the backbone of SAR operations. This is about enhancing their effectiveness.

Because the truth is, there will be times when aircraft cannot land, when helicopters cannot safely insert, and when weather shuts down aerial operations completely.

In those moments, the only people who can get there are the ones who already live there.

A structured programme like this can be supported through a simple funding

model. A small safety levy added to charter operations, combined with Government support, can fund stipends, training, and basic equipment. Annual refresher training can keep skills sharp and ensure coordination remains seamless.

This approach has been used in various forms around the world, where local populations are integrated into SAR frameworks in remote environments. It works because it respects local knowledge while strengthening national response capability.

And in Guyana, it makes even more sense. We already have the people. We already have the knowledge. We already have the need.

What we don’t yet have is the structure. If we are serious about improving search and recovery in our interior, we must start thinking beyond aircraft and equipment alone.

Because in the jungle, technology will only take you so far. After that, it’s the man on the ground who makes the difference.

And in many parts of Guyana, the best man for that job is already there, waiting, watching, and ready to move.

Sincerely,

Capt Miles Williams (Former GDF/Special Forces /Military Pilot)

Minister Kwame ‘shuts down’ Mohamed

Dear Editor, When Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, slammed Azruddin Mohamed as ‘a notorious, barefaced liar,’ he was simply reminding us all of a well-established fact: Azruddin Mohamed is a congenital fabricator. Indeed, it is no secret that this troubled blatherskite, named Mohamed, has dug an inextricable hole for himself with his ‘distortionist tales’ that border on the bizarre at times. I will illustrate with a classic case where his dissembling was well delineated in the local press.

For this, I revisit the occasion when the dissimulating, now turned Opposition Leader, had to face several charges from the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) for ‘allegedly’ making false declarations regarding his luxury vehicle imports. The evidence-based facts are quite accessible and very revealing, giving credence to

what Minister McCoy blasted him for.

The details of this GRA case revolve around deliberate ‘alleged undervaluation’ of high-end vehicles for the sole purpose of evading significant legal tax payments concomitant with the transactions regarding the said vehicles.

For example, concerning the Lamborghini Roadster SVJ, Mohamed was accused of declaring a purchase price of merely US$75,300 in December 2020, while the GRA contended the actual value was US$695,000.

From my personal inquiries, a “low-end” (lower-priced) used Lamborghini Aventador SVJ Roadster typically starts around US$750,000 to US$900,000.

This kind of fabrication for the purpose of ‘tax evasion’ means that Mohamed wants to circumvent approximately GY$383 million in taxes. And this is not all.

Mohamed and his family

have significantly and willfully undervalued other luxury vehicles, seeking a total of roughly GY$1.2 billion in unpaid taxes. From what I gather, these issues and more will resurface, as there is a ‘stay of proceedings’ to avoid a conflict with the ongoing United States extradition proceedings against the Mohameds for separate federal charges, from which condemnatory evidence is going to be cascading when the matter is heard.

It is common knowledge now that all of these legal troubles evolved from the 2024 sanctions by the US Department of the Treasury (OFAC) against Azruddin and his father, Nazar Mohamed, for alleged extensive gold smuggling and public corruption.

Now getting back to the Minister, it is very observable that, as he said, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) is “a massbased political party with

hundreds of thousands of supporters,” adding, however, “that while supporters are not controlled in their personal lives, the party expects them to live a life of lawfulness and decency.” This kind of philosophy then precludes the party from ‘intervening’ in any form or fashion in extending ‘collusive’ protection to anyone in exchange for party patronage.

The core of Minister McCoy’s haranguing of Mohamed is that he, Mohamed, is fundamentally accusing the PPP and the DPP of being in some kind of machination regarding “the criminal case involving PPP/C councillor for the Haslington-Grove Neighbourhood Democratic Council, Ronita Stuart Ram.”

The unfiltered truth is that according to “the public record, Stuart was charged [for drug trafficking] alongside Ranjeev Ram, Maikhram Ram, and Savitri Ram.”

This issue is ongoing,

and nothing untoward inheres in it. The PPP/C and the DPP are not only independent entities, but they are not attempting to disembarrass or disburden the accused lot where the legal unfolding is being ‘true to legal’ course and procedure.

The Minister tersely puts it that “... there is no difference between the way that the case of Stuart and the case of the Mohameds were (and are being) dealt with.”

What Azrudin is vainly trying to do is to foist on the public that senior Government officials had influenced the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in Stuart’s matter.

Of note too is that the justly piqued DPP, Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, in her separate and detailed statement “... strongly condemned Azruddin Mohamed for what she described as “the deliberate dissemination of false, misleading, and damaging informa-

tion.” In fact, as she referenced, it was her office that green-lighted the charges to be laid “... based on the evidence contained in the police file and the applicable law.” It is now documented history that “ the four accused were subsequently charged on March 4, 2026, appeared before Magistrate Orinthia Schmidt at the Cove and John Magistrates’ Court, and pleaded not guilty.” Granted bail in the sum of $1 million each, the matter will follow the ‘Rule of Law,’ and the public will follow. What is Mohamed pettifogging about? I guess he is seeking distractions as his ‘day’ is rapidly approaching. Instead, he needs to summon his wit and garner his ‘evidence’ to counter his charges. If not, he will not even have a platform to voice his mythomaniacal urges.

Yours truly, Hargesh B Singh

Dear Editor, Forbes Burnham did not technically bribe his way into becoming Prime Minister or President of Guyana in the traditional sense of paying for votes; rather, he established and maintained his power through widespread electoral fraud, constitutional manipulation, and foreign support from the US and UK. Based on declassified US documents, Forbes Burnham was not merely an informant but a recipient of CIA financial support during the 1960s to oust his left-leaning rival, Cheddi Jagan. He accepted covert funding, including $5,000 USD a month in the late 1960s, to build his party (PNC) and facilitate his rise to power.

Declassified files also show Burnham requested and received funds from the CIA between 1962 and 1968 to assist in winning the 1964 and 1968 elections. In 1969, Burnham asked the US Government for a subsidy of $10,000 USD per month for two years to maintain his political party and its organisers. Covert assistance continued to be discussed and provided by the US “40 Committee” into 1970-1971, though it was later reconsidered as he adopted his own socialist policies. At that time, the US (and Britain) favoured Burnham over Jagan, who was perceived as too close to Cuba and the Soviet Union.

While he did not directly “bribe” the electorate, his regime was supported by a strategy of patronage, political maneuvering, and, in some cases, the allocation of land, such as the 1974 agree-

ment allowing Jim Jones to set up his sect’s settlement in Guyana. Burnham operated under a political philosophy that treated the People’s National Congress (PNC) as the sole legitimate guardian of the state. His actions, particularly after 1974, suggested a belief that the PNC was destined to rule Guyana to prevent the opposing party from creating an “Indian State. “ Burnham declared the PNC to be “paramount” over the state, meaning all institutions, including the courts, civil service, and military, were subordinate to the party.

This fundamentally aligned the existence of the state with the life of the party, suggesting only the PNC was suited for leadership. He articulated that the PNC was necessary to prevent the PPP from regaining power. He was also supported by various regional leaders who, at that time, encouraged him to form a party to block Cheddi Jagan, framing it as a necessity to keep the country out of the hands of what he perceived as a “communist” opposition.

There is no question that his rule was extremely dictatorial, marked by systematic rigging of elections, intimidation of the opposition, and the use of the military to break up opposition meetings. This indicated a belief that staying in power was more important than democratic processes.

His power base was largely Afro-Guyanese, and he played upon the fears of this community to maintain the PNC’s power, cultivat-

RULE”

ing an “us vs. them” political climate (which they still practice today, decades after his passing). While some supporters saw him as a “visionary” who built Guyana into a republic, the consensus among most Guyanese, many historians, and political critics is that Burnham’s actions aimed to create a “lifetime” rule for himself and the PNC.

This dictator ‘s delusion of a “ divine right to rule” continues to live on in the PNC today and actively shapes their policies and agendas within that camp. Most notable in this regard was their “desperate attempt” to cling to the spoils

of Government by rigging the 2020 elections in broad daylight just to stay in power. Prior to this, they independently appointed their own Chair of GECOM, ignoring the legal framework to do so, and in the process, offered up a lame excuse to justify their actions-all with the intent of scrapping the list of electors. They attempted to pass the NRF bill in January of 2019 while technically being a defunct Government.

That legislation gave the then former Finance Minister too much power over the fund’s management and investment decisions; there was no separation be-

tween political and national interests, which raised fears of abuse and malicious spending (I personally believe this because of their attempt to “smuggle out” $18 million USD in signing bonuses from Government coffers, which became quite the public scandal).

It is unfortunate because they have managed for 60 years to stymie their supporters, forcing them to abandon their morality to parrot their divisive gospel of political indoctrination, publicly naming and shaming them when they choose to act with their own conscience and critical thinking instead. Guyanese need

to wake up and understand this dynamic because the PNC’s sole objective is power, not national development, and they will use all tools at their disposal to achieve this.

History, however, is the primary indicator of it (something they wish they could erase today). Guyana is a democracy, not an autocratic state; we do not want kings. Again, history serves as solid evidence that Guyanese continue to reject that style of leadership; just look at their dwindling numbers over the years.

Kind regards, Dev Harry

00:00 Sign Off 06:00 TVG Devotional Hour

07:00 Evening News (RB)

08:00

NGSA Questions

Ring in spring one drop at a time! Embrace April showers (before May flowers!) with this crayon-melting suncatcher craft.

Supplies/tools

Crayons

Scissors

Tape Sharpener

Duct tape

Hair dryer

String Wax paper Wooden dowel

Directions

Step 1: Unwrap 4-6 crayons, then use crayon sharpener to create shavings.

Step 2: Lay piece of wax paper on a protected surface. Evenly sprinkle shavings onto wax paper.

Step 3: Place slightly larger piece of wax paper over the top of

the first. Seal edges with duct tape.

Step 4: With the help of an adult, use hair dryer to melt shavings. Let cool 15 min.

Step 5: Cut raindrop shapes out of wax paper.

Step 6: Tie the piece of string onto the wooden dowel.

Step 7: Tape raindrops to string.

Step 8: Repeat steps 6-7 until suncatcher is complete.

Step 9: Hang and enjoy

catching a sun shower! (Adapted from crayola.com)

By PhiliP Metres

unless it’s made of stone. ل

migrating from Persia, smuggled from Farsi to Arabic & thrown like a wingless bird across the sky-dark sea until its version

spills from English mouths. Lapis lazuli.

O trap of beauty, you are a fiction

Exhausted at day’s end of an oven-summer

I duck out of the house into the truth of twilight blue: no other name than azure, azure, and no other home the color of this sky struck above this earth, no path to heaven except through this dirt.

(Source: Poetry [September 2021])

Include the words “That went sideways” in your story.

Govt invites investors for US$340M gas bottling, fertiliser facilities with 10% annual returns

– Guyanese, including Diaspora, to be given preference

The Guyana Government is inviting investors, especially Guyanese, to support two major projects: the cooking gas bottling plant and the fertiliser facility, which will utilise natural gas that will be brought onshore via the Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Phase Two Project at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

This is in keeping with previous commitments by the Government to ensure that Guyanese citizens, both here and abroad, have a stake in major projects and actively participate in the country’s development. Now, the Government, through the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), which has oversight for the energy sector, is inviting Preliminary Expressions of Interest (EoIs) from investors to be part of the entities that would be set up for these energy projects.

For the Guyana Ammonia and Urea Plant Inc (GAUP), which is pegged at US$300 million, the Government is targeting investments with a cap of US$5 million per investor. Additionally, the Guyana Gas Bottling and Logistics Company Inc. (GGBLC), which is estimated at US$40 million, has a cap of US$1 million per investor. However, it was noted that interested parties may indicate the maximum amounts they are willing to invest. Investors can assume a Government guarantee of a 10 per cent annual return on both projects. Moreover, both GAUP

and GGBLC will be private companies and not publicly traded entities. While the Government is inviting all interested investors to apply, it noted that preference will be given to Guyanese investors, including those in the diaspora. It was further explained that this is only a preliminary Expression of Interest. Based on the response, the Government will then structure appropriate details of the investment and make a formal call for investments. The deadline for submission of interest will be May 15, 2026, and proposals must be sent to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).

Construction proposals

Meanwhile, earlier this year, the Guyana Government received 10 proposals each for the construction of the GAUP and GGBLC facilities. Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, when contacted on Friday told the Guyana Times that the evaluation teams are currently being set up to review the proposals and shortlist the bidders for the construction of the gas bottling and fertiliser plants.

Among the 10 regional and international firms that submitted Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) proposals for the Ammonia and Urea Plant was United States (US)-based Lindsayca Guyana Inc. - the company that is constructing the highly anticipated

GtE Project at Wales. Also interested are: Trinidad-based Phoenix Welding & Fabricating Inc.; Ideal Engineering Services Inc., a locally registered company in consortium with Nigeria-based Montego Upstream Services Ltd.; Northern EPC Alliance (NEA), Lee Kieswetter Heavy Civil (LKHC), and Valor EPC of Canada; China CAMC Engineering Co. (CAMCE), China National Chemical Engineering Co. (CNCEC), and Dubaibased East Consulting Engineering Company (ECEC); China Railway First Group Co. Ltd and SEDIN Engineering Co. Ltd; Hualu Engineering & Technology Co. Ltd, and China National Machinery Import & Export Corporation; China Wuhan Engineering Corporation Limited; Japan-based Morimatsu, Arkad SpA of Italy, and Netherlands-

based CC7 Europe; and Kalpataru Projects International Limited out of India.

According to the EPC document, interested companies will enter into a public-private partnership model, via the GAUP company, to manufacture 300,000 tonnes of fertiliser per annum, using no more than 20 million cubic feet per day (mmscfd) of gas.

The project, which is expected to be ready by 2027/2028 when the GtE Phase Two comes on stream, will manufacture and sell fertiliser with the aim of lowering fertiliser prices for Guyana and the broader region, including northern Brazil and the Caribbean. On the other hand, EPC proposals for the cooking gas bottling facility in Guyana were received from: local company Guygas in a joint venture with Makeen Energy out of

Denmark and the Indianheadquartered Ramco Industries; Lindsayca Inc.; Trinidad-based Massy Gas Products; Sol Guyana Inc.part of the Caribbean operator Sol Group; French-owned Rubis Guyana Inc.; Indianbased Divyan International Inc. (Guyana); Gas Zipa SASESP ( Colombia ) JV Fix It Depot and Standard Energy Company; Gate Ventures and Consulting Guyana Inc in consortium with Propak Systems Limited (Canada) and Makeen Energy (Denmark); ILF Consulting Engineering Inc. India in collaboration with MAHAPREIT (Mahatma Phule Renewable and Infrastructure Technology Limited); and BB Energy (BBE) and Dec Ogeco (Ogeco) (Singapore).

Based on the EPC document, the proposed GGBLC, under the same public-private partnership model, will

bottle, transport and distribute cooking gas for domestic use. The objective of GGBL is to lower the price of domestic cooking gas. Through the GtE Project, the Guyana Government is looking to significantly lower the price of cooking gas by piping natural gas from offshore operations to the Wales, WBD, site where the Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility and power plant are currently under construction and will utilise the rich gas from ongoing oil operations in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana. Already, some 250 kilometres (km) of 12-inch pipelines have been laid to bring the gas onshore by this year-end. However, only 40 per cent of the pipeline’s capacity will be used by this first phase of the GtE Project to gas up the power plant and NGL facility, bringing 50 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) of dry gas. With the pipelines having the capacity to push as much as 120 mmscfd of gas, the Government is moving ahead with Phase Two of the GtE Project that will utilise the remaining 60 per cent capacity of the pipeline to bring additional gas onshore. The GtE Phase Two will see the construction of another 300-megawatt (MW) power plant and NGL facility at the Wales site, using only 20 mmscfd. With the remaining natural gas available, the Government is planning to set up the gas bottling and fertiliser projects at the Wales site.

Private investments key to positioning Guyana...

While the new $1 billion Optique Eye Hospital is Guyana’s first privately owned facility, Ali emphasised that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has long recognised the importance of delivering specialised services to the Guyanese people.

He recalled the establishment in 2009 of the Ophthalmology Hospital at Port Mourant, Region Six, which deteriorated under the previous Coalition Administration and had to be revitalised when the PPP/C returned to office in 2020. Today, the Head of State said, the hospital is once again conducting meaningful work, performing an average of more than 1,000 surgeries annually.

Similarly, with enhanced capacity and international partnerships, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) conducts an average of 1,300 cataract surgeries per annum.

“That means thousands of citizens had their sight

restored, their independence improved, and their quality of life enhanced ... That is what investment in healthcare means in practical terms. It means a grandmother reading again. It means a father returning to work. It means a child seeing clearly in the classroom. It means dignity, productivity and hope,” he noted.

Eyecare Voucher Programme

Despite these surgical successes, however, the Guyanese leader went on to outline the importance of prevention through early detection and routine checks. He pointed to the Government’s National Eye Testing and Spectacles Subsidy Programme, which provides beneficiaries with vouchers-$2,000 for eye tests and $15,000 for spectacles. According to the President, “At the end of last year, a total of 175,272 vouchers were utilised for eye tests, and 160,282 Guyanese benefited from spectacles support. Too often, people delay eye exam-

inations. We have proactively gone into every primary school, and we are now on the verge of completing every secondary school... The goal is to do this three times before that child moves out of the primary and secondary school systems.”

“Too often, vision issues are ignored because of cost, inconvenience, or lack of awareness. Too of-

ten, manageable conditions become more serious, more expensive, and more damaging because intervention comes too late. We want people to test early. We want problems detected early. We want treatment to begin early, and we want Guyanese to enjoy healthier vision throughout their lives.” This programme, the Guyanese leader explained,

is not only a compassionate social policy but also a smart economic policy. He said it also reflects how the Government’s initiatives do not crowd out but support the private sector in alleviating some of the burden on the public health system.

“In delivering this [ National Eyecare] programme, we are utilising the services of private eye

care providers to undertake many of these tests and services. This helps us utilise existing and spare capacity within the private sector and that is efficient. Why build entirely new state-run systems where capable private facilities already exist? Why duplicate infrastructure when partnerships can deliver faster results? ...This publicly financed, privately delivered model allows the state to subsidise care while private specialists and eyecare providers dispense services,” he stressed.

President Ali noted this modern model of governance through public-private partnerships has tremendous potential across many areas of healthcare services. To this end, he declared that the Government is ready to work with responsible private healthcare providers that are committed to quality, affordability and national development, thus playing a significant role in building out the best medical tourism programme in this region.

Developing…

…private enterprise

Now that the hitches in the financing of the Wales Gas-to-Shore project’s being sorted out -in the wake of the visit by the head of the US EXIM Bank that’s providing a good chunk of the financing for the 300MW Power Generation plant that will be the foundation for our industrial development - the government has once again announced that it’s looking for investors to finance the initial two projects kicking it off!! The EXIM loan also covers the Natural gas processing (NGL) plant that’s gonna extract the methane from the landed Exxon-pipeline gas for use by the Power Plant. They’ll pass on the Butane and Methane to be bottled for local cooking gas sales. They’ve gone as far as giving the projects namesstating that the “Guyana Ammonia and Urea Plant Inc.” (GAUP) is estimated to cost US$300M and investors can provide up to US$5M up front. It’s supposed to be a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) with major privatesector financing so the US$5M is just a deposit to show seriousness by the “Engineering, Procurement, and Construction” (EPC) contractor (or consortium) that’s gonna be selected. They’ll be expected to arrange financing supposed to come from their private equity or commercial loans to build and operate the plant!! Ditto on the “Guyana Gas Bottling, and Logistics Company Inc.” (GGBLC), that the govt had set “A cap of US$1 M per investor” towards a total cost of US$40M. So, what we’re seeing here is that in this PPP business structure, there’s a need for private financing for a total of US$340M - for which the most likely handful of investors are guaranteed a return of 10% on their investment!! Very attractive, innit?? More than TWO AND A HALF TIMES US TREASURY BONDS – seen as the safest investment and in which we plunk down our oil revenues!!

Anyhow, your Eyewitness has a suggestion for the government. Right now, it’s in the throes – some really PAINFUL throes, if your Eyewitness’ experience is any guide!! – of distributing some US$500 to 716,000 Guyanese adult citizens. This will amount to a total of US$358M. Now Pressie’s already announced that there’s gonna be other cash grants coming down the pike – so your Eyewitness’ suggestion is that the next set of cash grants be invested in the name of our 716,000 adult citizens into the companies. They should be registered as corporations so that each citizen will then have shares in the companies and will be GUARANTEED a 10% return ad infinitum!!

The company shares should be allowed to be traded freely on the stock market and if any citizen wants to cash out, they can do so. D’Aguiar did this to launch DIH back in 1957 – and look how well their shareholders have done since!!

…Fla cover

Well, it looks like Sanction Man has resigned himself to being fitted for an orange jumpsuit for a looong stay over in Florida!! NOT a STAY-OVER – that’s what girls do when overnighting at friends’!! Nah…his stay over in Florida gonna be at the Federal Detention Center holding 1500+ inmates in a facility designed for 900!! Sadly, a 2005 U.S. Department of Justice report said that an estimated 12 percent of the complaints received by the department’s inspector general involved inmates claiming sexual victimization by prison staff!! Ouch!!

So why does your Eyewitness feel Sanction Man has accepted his extradition to Miami to face trial for his 11 criminal charges? Well, he announced he’d hired a Florida flack to represent him there. The flack has written to the US Ambassador here - but that’s just a pappy show to hide his acceptance of defeat locally!!

A US lawyer suggesting his country’s ambassador might’ve overstepped her authority ain’t even worth a bucket of warm spit!!

…defamation suits

Sanction Man’s sissie posted that the PPP government “burns” hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars hiring 15 lawyers in the GRA legal battle against the Mohameds.” She included three Court Research Counsels!

Though she deleted the names after the Court protested, it’s defamatory!!

Welder slapped with manslaughter charge for death of teen at Hot & Cold Lake

A23-year-old welder was on Friday slapped with a manslaughter charge in connection with the death of 15-year-old Aarif Azeez, who died by drowning during an outing at Hot and Cold Lake, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam). Shemar Smith, also called ‘Short Man’ of Adventure Essequibo Coast, appeared before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to him. As such, a paper committal Act was applied, and he was not allowed to plea to the indictment. The

prosecutor objected to bail, but the Magistrate granted bail in the sum of $750,000. He will make his next court appearance on April 30, 2026.

Azeez, 15, went missing on Easter Monday at about 16: 30 while riding a jet ski at Hot and Cold Lake in Onderneeming Sand Pit/Red Village. Family members said he had left home that morning with a cousin and four friends, planning a recreational outing and expected to return by mid-afternoon.

When he failed to return, a search traced his location to the lake. It was reported that Azeez had been operating a

red and white jet ski while a 23-year-old friend rode a blue one. While navigating along the shoreline, the jet ski reportedly began running low on fuel.

Azeez’s friend, approximately 300 feet away at the time, observed him moving in a zigzag pattern before falling headfirst into the water about 50 feet from the eastern shoreline. Attempts to rescue him immediately were unsuccessful. A search was launched by Azeez’s father, Abzal Azeez, along with relatives and friends, using boats. His body was recovered the next day.

Following the incident,

the dead teen’s sister, Malika Azeez, told sections of the media that her brother’s body bore multiple injuries, including a broken foot and head trauma, which she described as “baffling.”

This had left more questions than answers with relatives suggesting that he might have been beaten before tossing overboard. An autopsy performed on the body of Aarif Azeez revealed that he died from drowning compounded by multiple injuries. Meanwhile, following further investigations, it was revealed that Smith would have collided with the teen before his death.

Berbice duo busted with guns, ammo during CANU operation

A23-year-old businessman of Dukestown and a 23-year-old labourer of Springlands, Corriverton, Region Six (Corentyne-Berbice) were seized with black ZORAKI 9mm pistols, along with one round of ammunition during an operation by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) on Thursday. CANU stated that, acting on information received, its ranks traveled to the Dukestown seawall area, where they observed a wooden boat in the Corentyne River with four male occupants, while two others were seen standing on the seawall,

each holding one black box.

As the ranks approached and identified themselves, the two men reportedly dropped the boxes and attempted to flee, while the boat sped away in the Corentyne River. The two men were subsequently apprehended, and the boxes were opened in their presence, during which two black ZORAKI 9mm pistols, along with one round of ammunition, were discovered.

The suspects were escorted to the Springlands Police Station along with the firearms and ammunition. They remain in custody pending charges.

Optique Vision Care opens 1st privately-owned eye hospital

Optique Vision Care (OVC) on Friday opened its US$5 million Optique Eye Hospital (OEH) at New Market Street, Georgetown, which marks a significant advancement in the delivery of specialised eye care services in Guyana. The newly established, state-of-theart facility is dedicated to the outstanding work and lifelong commitment of one of Guyana’s leading ophthalmologists, Dr Shailendra Sugrim, whose contributions have played a pivotal role in advancing eye care in the country. At the opening ceremony, Chief Executive Officer

(CEO) Dhani Narine related, “Our vision is not only to deliver eye care but to elevate the standard of what is possible within Guyana and the Caribbean. This project demonstrates that with the right partnerships, a supportive investment climate fostered by the Government of Guyana, and unwavering commitment, highly complex subspecialty procedures can be performed locally at an international standard. We remain committed to investing in advanced ophthalmic services so that no child or adult has to leave the country for sight-saving care when it can be de -

livered safely and effectively at home.”

The establishment of OEH represents a major step toward increasing equitable access to high-quality ophthalmic surgical services nationwide. The facility is designed to enhance the quality of life for patients experiencing a wide range of eye conditions by delivering advanced, patient-centred care in a modern, fully equipped environment. Strategically positioned, OEH also aims to strengthen partnerships within the Caribbean and the wider diaspora through a comprehensive referral programme targeting both re -

gional and international patients. OEH is committed to delivering exceptional patient care and outstanding service through various initiatives, including the utilisation of stateof-the-art equipment and advanced operating theaters , with a continuous commitment to upgrading medical technologies and procedures; ongoing inhouse and external training and development programmes to ensure staff remain highly skilled and equipped to provide quality care; implementation of robust monitoring and evaluation systems to maintain and enhance service standards; and continuous execution of vision health education initiatives, including community outreach programmes and eye screening campaigns, to promote aware -

ness and early detection of eye diseases. The hospital also offers a comprehensive range of specialised ophthalmic surgical services such as cataract surgery, glaucoma surgery, orbit and oculoplastic surgery, corneal and pterygium surgery, and vitreoretinal surgery. The opening of OEH underscores OVC’s ongoing commitment to advancing healthcare standards in Guyana and ensuring that patients have access to world-class eye care services close to home.

UG Job Fair 2026

Young people are no longer seeking lifelong careers with one employer – survey

Vice Chancellor (VC) of the University of Guyana (UG)

Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin emphasised that today’s job seekers are no longer interested in spending their entire careers with a single company. She shared these sentiments at the opening on the institution’s Annual 2-day Open Day and Job Fair at the Turkeyen Campus on Friday which is being held under the theme “Innovation. Opportunity. Impact.” The event like previous years, features two main components. The first is an Open Day, which provides prospective students with an opportunity to explore the university’s 180 programmes and learn about various career paths. The second is a Job Fair, which offers information on job and internship opportunities from local and international organisations for students and other interested persons. More than 40 companies are participating in the job fair, representing sectors such as energy, manufacturing, retail, banking and finance, as well as public sector entities drawn from education, security, tourism, and labour.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, UG Registrar Nigel Gravesande noted that the job fair comes at a timely moment, coinciding with the influx of applications for the upcoming academic year. He highlighted

that since the application portal opened on March 30; the university has experienced an unprecedented surge in submissions.

“By the close of business yesterday, we recorded, for the first time in our history within a three-week period after opening, 3,500 local applications and 45 international ones. The top areas of interest so far were drawn from engineering, management, education, medical sciences and law, covering all 10 administrative regions.” In the case of Guyana, he noted that Regions Two, Three, Five, Six, and 10 all recorded strong application numbers - 162 in Region Two, 486 in Region Three, 159 in Region Five, 161 in Region Six, and 234 in Region 10-while Region 4 recorded a four-digit total of 1,648 applications.

However, he added that the Distance Education Centre (DEC), supported

by the Registry in the hinterland regions, continues to show strong interest in its programmes. He added that they look forward to two productive days of engagement involving UG students, participants from outlying regions across the country, and dedicated staff led by DEC, whose efforts in organising well-structured activities reflect their commitment and professionalism. In addition, VC Professor MohamedMartin, referenced two surveys conducted earlier this year examining the workforce landscape and young people’s attitudes toward work and education. She noted that the findings indicate a shift in mindset, with many young people no longer interested in spending their entire careers with a single company adding that there is a growing view that people are no longer likely to remain in a single job or vocation for their entire

working lives.

Instead, individuals are increasingly expected to work in ways that finance their present goals and lifestyles rather than commit to one long-term career path.

“Research is showing that there is not a future in which one job is going to be a lifelong vocation. They are telling us that we are going to do what we need to do now. We are going to work not to live, but to finance what we want to do in our lives at this moment. And if you think about what that means, it means that you can no longer recruit a person who is 15 years old or 18 years old and expect them to be with your company until they are 60.”

She added that this shift means organisations can no longer assume that young people recruited at 15 or 18 will remain with the same company until retirement. She further explained that there is also a rising demand among workers for greater autonomy and agency in their roles, with individuals wanting less instruction and more opportunity to innovate and create.

“Secondly [research] is saying that autonomy and agency will be more common in their work, so it is telling us that we are seeing a lot more entrepreneurial spirit coming up, and for us educators, it is telling us that the way in which we have structured our education is too settled. They want more

innovation. They want to design their degrees.”

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Education Officer (DCEO) of the Ministry of Education, Marti DeSousza expressed that the Ministry remains steadfast in its mission to ensure education is accessible and relevant to produce a workforce that is skilled, adaptable, and ready to meet the demands of the evolving economy.

“We are working to strengthen the alignment between academic programmes and labour market needs so that our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and practical skills required to thrive. Events like this demonstrate what is possible when institutions and industries come together for a shared purpose. They create opportunities for real-world exposure that cannot be found in textbooks. I encourage students, prospective students, and patrons, as we navigate the activities and visit booths, to remain open, curious, and to ask lots of questions.” UG is also collaborating with the Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI) to host the Essequibo leg of the event on May 8, while the activity will be hosted at the Berbice Campus on April 24.

Swan residents to benefit from $84.2M road rehabilitation project

– as construction of 870-metre concrete roadway underway

Residents of Swan, along the SoesdykeLinden Highway, are set to benefit from the reconstruction of a key access road under the Rehabilitation/Construction of Swan Madawini First Entrance project. The initiative, valued at $84.2 million, will see the development of an 870- metre-long concrete roadway designed to significantly improve access and mobility for residents. Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj, during a visit to the community to-

day, met with residents to provide reassurance that the road will be fully redone. He emphasised the Government’s people-centred approach, noting that the engagement was important to hear firsthand the concerns of residents and ensure that their needs are addressed through responsive action.

“Our Government’s 2026 National Budget, themed ‘Putting People First,’ is not just a slogan. It is a guiding principle that shapes how we respond to the needs of citizens. We, as a

Government, are committed to ensuring that all projects not only meet the standards required but serve the people effectively. That is why I am here today, to listen, to engage, and to ensure your concerns are addressed,” the Minister related. The road had previously undergone construction but failed, with several defects emerging after completion. Residents raised concerns with the Ministry regarding the poor condition of the surface, citing challenges with daily access and usability, which prompted a detailed assess-

ment of the issues.

Under the scope of works, the road will be reconstructed using six inches of structural reinforced concrete, incorporating BRC mesh and high-tension steel dowels, and will be completed with hard shoulders. Addressing concerns raised by residents about access during construction, Minister Ramraj assured that alternative arrangements will be put in place, guided by continued consultation, to minimise disruption and maintain connectivity.

“We do not want any Guyanese utilising roads that are not up to standard. When families, especially children, have to use these roads daily for school, work and essential activities, it

is our responsibility to ensure they are safe and reliable. That is why we acted quickly, because this kind of intervention brings immediate relief to residents who depend on this road every single day,” he added.

The Public Works Ministry continues to reaffirm its commitment to delivering quality, durable infrastructure, underscoring that investments must translate into meaningful improvements in the lives of citizens, in keeping with the Government’s broader development agenda.

SBB, Govt roll out $6M youth entrepreneurship initiative for tertiary students

– top 15 students to receive $400K grants

The Small Business Bureau (SBB), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, has officially launched the Tertiary Entrepreneurship Award (TEA), a new initiative aimed at equipping young Guyanese with the skills, financing and support needed to transform innovative ideas into viable businesses. The programme will be rolled out across five tertiary institutions, including the Government Technical Institute (GTI), Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC), Carnegie School of Home Economics (CSHE), Mahaicony Technical and Vocational Training Centre, and the Leonora Technical and Vocational Training Centre. Some 120 students between the ages of 18 and 26 are expected to benefit from

this initiative, which represents a strategic investment of $6 million in youth entrepreneurship development. Participants will receive training in key areas, including Marketing Fundamentals, Financial Management and Record Keeping, Business Proposal Writing, and Small Business Management. Upon completion of the training, participants will be required to undertake an assessment. Those who successfully pass will receive a Certificate in Small Business Operations and will be given the opportunity to submit a business plan. Submitted business plans will be evaluated, and the most viable proposals will be shortlisted. Shortlisted participants will then receive targeted training in business pitch devel-

opment and presentation skills to prepare them for the next stage of the programme. Following this, participants will present their business concepts before a panel of judges. The top 15 participants will each be awarded a grant of $400,000 to support the development and implementation of their businesses.

In addition to financial support, awardees will benefit from ongoing business advisory services, technical guidance and monitoring support from the Small Business Bureau to strengthen business performance and ensure long-term sustainability. Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SBB, Simon Pollard underscored the importance of investing in youth entrepreneurship. “Youth entrepreneurship

is critical to Guyana’s longterm economic growth and diversification. This initiative goes beyond financing. It is about equipping young people with practical skills, knowledge and support systems required to build sustainable businesses. Through the Tertiary Entrepreneurship Award, we are creating opportunities for young innovators to contribute meaningfully to national development.”

In addition, Deputy Chief Education Officer (DCEO) (Technical) of the Ministry of Education, Dr Ritesh Tularam, highlighted the importance of integrat-

ing entrepreneurship within the education system.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to ensuring that students are not only academically prepared but also equipped with practical skills that enable them to create opportunities for themselves and others. By embedding entrepreneurship at the tertiary level, we are fostering innovation, critical thinking and self-reliance among our young people.”

The Tertiary Entrepreneurship Award is aligned with the Government’s broader vision of promoting inclusive

growth, economic diversification and increased youth participation in the national economy. By addressing common barriers such as limited access to finance and entrepreneurial training, the programme aims to cultivate a new generation of innovative, business-ready entrepreneurs. Through this initiative, the SBB continues to strengthen its commitment to building entrepreneurial capacity, fostering innovation, and supporting the development of sustainable small businesses across Guyana.

“A growing Guyana demands better waste disposal” –PM Phillips as Govt hands over 9 garbage trucks to Reg 5

The Government of Guyana on Friday, handed over nine garbage compactor trucks to Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), further strengthening solid waste management systems and improving service delivery across communities. With this latest dis-

tribution, 55 NDCs have now been equipped with garbage trucks, bringing the Government 78.6 per cent closer to achiev-

ing full coverage across all NDCs. Delivering remarks on behalf of President Dr Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips emphasised that Guyana’s rapid development demands a more structured and forward-looking approach to waste management.

“A growing Guyana demands a better approach to waste disposal,” he stated, noting that efforts are being made at the central, regional, and local Government levels to ensure systems are in place to effectively manage waste.

ing that the focus extends beyond domestic waste to a broader, more comprehensive approach to solid waste management. In addition, the Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Priya Manickchand, highlighted the Government’s forward-thinking approach, noting that several models are currently being examined to recycle and reuse waste. These efforts, she explained, aim to convert garbage into useful outputs such as energy and fertiliser, with plans to expand these systems nationwide beyond existing sites such

“We have a duty to give our children what we did not have, to let them become accustomed to a new and different Guyana,” she expressed, noting that many will soon see development in areas previously unimaginable. Reinforcing the national vision, PM Phillips reiterated that effective waste management is critical to sustaining Guyana’s growth and ensuring improved quality of life for all citizens. Also present at the handing-over ceremony were Regional Executive Officer (REO) Sadiek Ishmael, Regional Chairman Recardo Phillips, Regional Vice

Referencing the words of Martin Carter, the PM reminded that, “All are involved, all are consumed,” as he stressed that maintaining cleanliness and sanitation is a shared responsibility. He further clarified that the Government is not removing responsibility from NDCs, municipalities or local authorities but rather strengthening systems to ensure they are properly supported.

“Wherever we are, we all have a very important role to play,” he said, add-

as Haags Bosch. “We want to make sure we leave a better Guyana for our children than what we have become accustomed to,” the Minister stated. She further underscored the Government’s commitment to completing the nationwide rollout of garbage trucks. “Before June, every NDC will have at least one garbage truckfor the first time,” she said. Encouraging a shift in mindset, Minister Manickchand added that the current generation has a responsibility to create a better standard of living for those to come.

Chairman Kleon Lindsey, and Regional Liaison Rion Peters. To date, NDCs across multiple regions have benefited from the initiative. In Region One, one truck was delivered to Port Kaituma, while Region Two has received 10 trucks. Region Three is now fully equipped, with 14 trucks distributed across its NDCs, including those previously delivered to Wakenaam and Leguan. Region Five has now received a total of 10 trucks, inclusive of the one provided earlier this year. In Region Six, 19 trucks have been distributed, while Region Nine has received one. Municipalities have also benefited from the programme, with trucks delivered to Mabaruma, three municipalities in Region Six, and one in Region Nine. The Government of Guyana continues to advance its nationwide waste management programme as part of its broader commitment to building cleaner, healthier communities and improving the quality of life for all Guyanese.

Cop among 11 charged with DUI, refusing to consent to breathalyser test

Apolice constable was among 11 persons who were charged with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (DUI) and refus ing to consent to breathalyser tests in Region One (BarimaWaini). Daren Cozier, Marc Marcus, Ronaldo Williams, Adrian Alberts, Kennard Smith, Damian Williams, William Duke, Joshua Thomas, Devon Chacon, and Leon Mendonca ap peared at the Mabaruma and Port Kaituma Magistrate’s Courts, where they pleaded guilty and were fined.

On Monday, April 13, 2026, Daren Cozier of Kamwatta Village; Marc Marcus of Mabaruma Settlement; Ronaldo Williams of Barbina Village; and Adrian Alberts of Sugar Hill, Mabaruma were each fined $200,000.

Kennard Smith of Khan Hill, Mabaruma and Damian Williams of Wauna Village appeared at the same court on Tuesday, April 14, and were each slapped with a $200,000 fine. In addition,

William Duke of Kumaka Waterfront and Joshua Thomas of Thomas Hill, Mabaruma appeared in court on Wednesday, April 15, and were also fined $200,000. Also on Wednesday, April

15, Devon Chacon of Train Line, Port Kaituma and Leon Mendonca of Oronoque, Port Kaituma appeared at the Port Kaituma Magistrate’s Court and were each fined $100,000.

Meanwhile, Orson Speede was also charged with refusal to consent to a breathalyser test. He pleaded guilty at the Port Kaituma Magistrate’s Court and was fined $30,000. These charges form part of

the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) ongoing traffic enforcement efforts in Regional Division 1, aimed at reducing impaired driving and promoting safer roadways across the region.

WBD businessman nabbed with ganja, ecstasy & ammo granted bail

Sixty-one-year-old

Prince Bagot, of David Rose Street, Bagotville, West Bank Demerara (WBD), who was found with 390 grammes of cannabis, 3.5 grams of MDMA (ecstasy), 25 7.65mm live rounds of ammunition and $608,450 in cash, was charged and granted bail when he appeared at the Wales Magistrate’s Court on Friday. According to reports, Bagot was charged

with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking and appeared before Magistrate Rondell Weaver, where he pleaded not guilty. Despite objections to bail by the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), which said he is a repeat offender, the Magistrate granted bail in the sum of $500,000. The matter was adjourned to May 25, 2026.

Another person, Murice Fernandes who was at the time with the businessman was also taken into custody. He remains in custody pending further investigations.

Prince Bagot is a confirmed repeat offender and is no stranger to law enforcement, having a history of prior convictions and having previously served time in prison for various offens

es. Most recently, he was arrested by CANU at the same address on January 22, 2026. In that instance, he was found in possession of 912 grams of cannabis,

11 grams of ecstasy, and a significant quantity of cash. Although he was placed on $150,000 bail for the January offence, with conditions requiring him to report

to CANU monthly, he would have committed the current offence while that matter was still active before the court.

5th edition of AccelerateHer launched to empower women entrepreneurs

The Centre for Local Business Development Inc. (the Centre) has officially launched its 2026 AccelerateHer Programme, welcoming 130 entrepreneurs and building on the success of six previous entrepreneurship cohorts held between 2021 and 2025.

This year’s programme is made possible through support from the Greater Guyana Initiative and like previous cohorts, aims to enhance leadership and business capabilities, positioning entrepreneurs for growth in Guyana’s developing economy.

More than 130 entrepreneurs from across Guyana applied this year, with 40

selected to participate in Phase One — the Bootcamp. Phase One features a dynamic two-day bootcamp, where participants will engage in peer- and mentor-led sessions, develop business models, practice pitching, and brainstorm strategies for growth. Following the intensive bootcamp, participants will be further shortlisted for Phase Two. Phase Two — the Cohort — is a 12-week programme featuring tailored weekly courses, one-on-one mentoring, and a peer-learning environment.

The opening ceremony, held on the evening of Thursday, April 16, 2026, featured remarks from Programme Lead at the Centre for Local Business Development, Ron Glasgow, who outlined the strategic training participants will receive.

“Over 130 entrepreneurs applied for this programme across Guyana. To the 40 of you who were shortlisted, ladies, I want to assure you that you have earned your place to be here. But I also want to give you a grounded reminder: to whom much is given, much is expected. You stand on the literal grounds of over 100 female entrepreneurs who have soared beyond what we ever expected.”

He added that the Centre is proud to welcome the fifth cohort of female lead-

Meadow Brook woman

ers and the seventh cohort of entrepreneurs into its growing entrepreneurship community. “Programmes like AccelerateHer are designed to give women business owners and Managers the tools, strategic insight and confidence to evaluate where their businesses are today and to chart a clear path for sustainable growth in the future.” Meanwhile, Glasgow also emphasised the need for the private sector to seize and maximise available opportunities across the country.

“We have to be able to run a marathon at a sprint’s pace. And what that means is that we need to really think about this as members of the private sector. This message speaks to urgency, preparedness and the innate drive on the part of entrepreneurs to pursue and optimise the opportunities that exist.”

Meanwhile, representative of Human Services Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud commended the women for channeling their inner confidence to take on this responsibility. The programme is further supported by Programme Coordinator Cecil Maxwell, the entire Centre team, volunteer mentors and subject matter experts. The AccelerateHer Programme is financially support-

busted with cannabisinfused liquid, ecstasy remanded to prison

The narcotics found during the operation

Twenty-threeyear-old Keyola Daniels of Meadow Brook Squatting Area, Georgetown, was arrested on Wednesday following the discovery of a quantity of narcotics at her home.

The Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) stated that on the day in question, its ranks, acting on information received, conducted an operation at a residence located in the Meadow Brook Squatting Area, Georgetown.

During the operation,

several transparent Ziplock bags and a parcel contain-

ing a quantity of cannabis, rock-like substances suspected to be MDMA (ecstasy), and two 5-gallon buckets containing a cannabis-infused liquid substance were discovered. The woman was arrested and escorted to CANU Headquarters along with the narcotics, which, when weighed, amounted to 63.3 grams of cannabis, 1.82 grams of ecstasy, and 39.6 kilograms (kg) of cannabis-infused liquid.

Meanwhile, Daniels appeared before Magistrate Orinthia Schmidt at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, where she pleaded not guilty to the charges of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. Bail was refused, and she was remanded to prison until May 8, 2026.

ed by the Greater Guyana Initiative, funded by ExxonMobil Guyana, Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd, and CNOOC Petroleum Limited Guyana. The Centre for Local Business Development Inc. is a registered not-for-profit organisation dedicated to

strengthening the capacity of Guyanese businesses to meet international standards. The Centre also supports companies in the extractive and other sectors in fulfilling local content requirements through training, mentoring and supply chain development.

Since its founding in 2017, the Centre has registered over 7,000 businesses, assisted 100 companies in developing HSSE management systems, and conducted numerous industry seminars, business missions, and entrepreneurship programmes.

ERC participates in UN Forum on People of African Descent

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) participated in the fifth session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent (PFPAD5), which was held between April 14 and 17, 2026, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. The Commission is represented by its Deputy Chairman, Charles Ogle. The Forum brought together international stakeholders to engage in dialogue on advancing equity, justice and inclusion for people of African descent, with discussions focusing on the enduring impacts of slavery and colonialism, the role of education and the strengthening of institutional frameworks to promote equality and social inclusion. In his contribution to the forum, Ogle highlighted the significance of cultural heritage as a foundation of identity and historical memory; he alluded to the efforts to preserve this history that are reflected in institutions such as the Museum of African Heritage, the Guyana National Museum, and the

Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, which safeguard artifacts and narratives central to our diverse cultural legacy. He also highlighted the Commission’s continued support for the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action, with an emphasis on the importance of education, institutional strengthening and youth engage-

ment in advancing equality and achieving meaningful progress. The ERC stands resolute in its support for international dialogue on reparatory justice, including both the restitution of cultural heritage and broader measures that acknowledge and address the historical injustices of slavery.

Porter accused of raping

Essequibo woman gets 200K bail

Kalika Singh, 40, a porter from Good Hope, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), was granted bail on a rape charge on Thursday. He was charged with the offence of rape, contrary to Section 3(3) of the Sexual Offences Act, Chapter 8:03, committed against a female adult, which occurred on September 28, 2024, at Good Hope, Essequibo Coast. Singh appeared before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Anna

Regina Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, where the charge was read to him. He was not required to plead to the incident but was placed on $200,000 bail with conditions that he report to the Aurora Police Station every Friday until the determination of the matter.

In addition, he was ordered to stay 100 feet away from the victim and, furthermore, not to make contact with her. The matter was adjourned to April 30, 2026.

Min Ramraj pushes for strict timelines on Corentyne Highway expansion project

The Corentyne Highway expansion is now one of the largest ongoing infrastructure projects in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) but while work is currently advancing, records show the project did not begin recently, with billions of dollars allocated and spent over several years. Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj, on Thursday visited sections of the Palmyra to Moleson Creek Highway expansion project, where he met with engineers, contractors, and supervisory teams as the Government continues to push for timely completion and strict quality control.

The four-lane highway project has been allocated $15.1 billion in the 2026 national budget, as part of ongoing efforts to advance

development. The Minister said the initiative is aimed at transforming Region Six, noting that improved road infrastructure will enhance connectivity, support business activity and expand access to essential services. The project, which will transform the existing roadway into a four-lane highway from Palmyra to Moleson Creek, is intended to improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and strengthen trade with Suriname. However, this project has been ongoing for years, with funding, tendering, and construction activity dating back as early as 2022. In that year, $8.3 billion was allocated in the national budget for the rehabilitation of the Corentyne Main Road from Palmyra to Crabwood Creek. At the same time, procurement was already underway for

what was described as the “Expansion of the New Amsterdam to Corentyne Highway Phase One,” divided into multiple lots. By 2023, the project had moved into a more defined and heavily funded phase. The official Public Sector Investment Programme recorded a total project cost of

$105.52 billion, with $9.12 billion already spent before 2023, and a further $33.85 billion budgeted for that year. According to the 2023 mid-year report, works were already ongoing on new bridges and structures along the corridor, as well as the relocation of utilities, indicating that the

structural expansion phase was actively underway. In 2024, the Government reported that work had commenced on the reconstruction of ninety-nine structures, including bridges and culverts, and the continued clearing of utilities from the highway corridor. Works on those structures are still ongoing and some of them are far from completion in April 2026. It was in 2025 that the project was formally separated into a standalone major highway development; the New Amsterdam to Moleson Creek Highway, with a $15.5 billion budget to commence work on the four-lane road.

Procurement for that phase shows major international and regional contractors participating in the bidding process, including China Road and Bridge

Corporation and Vishwa Samudra Engineering, with bids for individual lots ranging from approximately US$189 million to over US$257 million. In 2026, the project continues to advance, with a further $15.1 billion allocated; $4.83 billion had already been spent before this year on the current highway package. The works are being executed across multiple lots by contractors, including China Road and Bridge Corporation and Vishwa Samudra Engineering Ltd., under the supervision of engineering consultants.

A major component of the project remains the expansion and reconstruction of bridges and drainage structures, works that were financed and initiated years before the current phase of highway construction and to this day are incomplete, but which are critical for both flood mitigation and the widening of the roadway. With billions of dollars already committed across multiple budget cycles, from $8.3 billion in 2022, to over $33 billion in 2023, and continued allocations through to 2026, the Corentyne Highway expansion represents a longterm, multi-phase national investment that is still very much in progress.

Norwegian wins 2026 El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition

Daniel Pappa of Svanen Bar in Norway captured the 2026 title of the El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition when the international leg was held on Thursday at the Demerara Rum Heritage Centre located at the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) headquarters in Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD). His winning cocktail showcased outstanding originality and a meaningful reflection of heritage, captivating the judges with its seamless blend of innovation and the rich legacy of El Dorado Rum.

Andrew Williams of The Crane Resort in Barbados secured second place, while Leo Coquand of Ottolenghi

Spitalfields in the United Kingdom (UK) placed third. Both impressed the judges with their inventive use of local ingredients and compelling expressions of Demerara Rum Heritage. Their cocktails reflected a strong connection to their roots while seamlessly blending Guyanese flavours with the essence of El Dorado Rum.

Following a series of regional competitions, eight finalists: Jonathan Ayala (Thompson & Twain, California, US), Veronica Alvarado (Teff, New York, US), Leo Coquand (Ottolenghi Spitalfields, UK), Justin Vail (Sugar Run, Ontario, Canada), Andrew Williams (The Crane Resort, Barbados), Manfridas Kazbaras

(Vault Bar, Netherlands), Daniel Pappa (Svanen, Norway), and Mahendra Ramkellawan (LERH Inc, Guyana) earned the opportunity to present their cocktails in pursuit of the global title.

As part of their achievement, each finalist was awarded an all-expenses-paid trip to the renowned Diamond Distillery, the home of El Dorado Rum and Guyana’s last remaining distillery, located along the banks of the Demerara River.

In an effort to succeed last year’s winner, Erick Lerch of Canada, competitors were challenged to complete two cocktail submissions. The first required them to recreate their winning cocktail from the regional heats, while the second called for the creation of an original cocktail inspired by ingredients native to the Guyanese market and featuring one of the El Dorado Single Still Rums: El Dorado Single Still Enmore, Port Mourant, or Versailles, or their respective cask strength expressions. In this highly competitive showcase, finalists demonstrated exceptional expertise in presenting cocktails that seamlessly fused local ingredients with El Dorado Rum in innovative and exciting ways. The competitors were judged on various criteria, including visual appeal, taste and

balance of flavour, creativity and originality, the story behind their heritage, and the name of their cocktail. The judging panel, comprised of seasoned experts in the industry, included Daniele Dalla Pola, International Rum and Cocktail Specialist (USA); Sasha Siegel, Bar Owner and celebrated bartender (Canada); and Sharon Sue-Hang-Baksh, Master Blender at DDL. International Rum and Cocktail Specialist, Daniele Dalla Pola posited, “We are truly honoured to have been part of this year’s competition. Being in Guyana and experiencing the warmth of the people and the richness of the culture firsthand has been incredibly special. What stood out most was the strong presence of the El Dorado brand

throughout the experience; it was evident in every detail, from the storytelling to the cocktails themselves. The competition was not only a valuable learning experience but also a unique opportunity to engage with and appreciate some of the best rum in the world.”

Bar Owner and celebrated bartender Sasha Siegel stated, “Selecting a winner was no easy task, given the exceptional level of knowledge, skill, and expertise demonstrated by the bartenders. The standard of competition was incredibly high, making this a truly rewarding and memorable experience. It was also a great opportunity to come to Guyana and interact with the people and culture,”

In addition, Marketing Director of DDL, Sharda

Veeren-Chand stated, related “Each year, the El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition continues to raise the bar, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity within the global bartending community. It is great to see how our rums inspire originality while staying deeply rooted in Guyana’s rich heritage, and we congratulate this year’s winner for presenting two exceptional cocktails that reflect both his journey as a mixologist and El Dorado’s rich legacy.” The new global champion of the El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition receives a prize of US$5,000 and a collection of rare El Dorado Rums, cementing their place in the legacy of this prestigious competition. The El Dorado Rum Heritage Cocktail Competition continues to serve as a vital platform for fostering skill development and meaningful connections within the global bartending community while highlighting the versatility of El Dorado Rum and celebrating the rich heritage of Guyana.

Marking a significant milestone for the brand, the competition underscores its ongoing commitment to engaging bartenders worldwide and ensuring that the legacy and timeless appeal of its world-renowned rums endure for generations to come.

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Oil prices plunge after Strait reopening announced

O

il prices have plummeted after Iran said the Strait of Hormuz would be “completely open” to commercial ships for the remainder of the ceasefire in the US-Israel war with Iran.

The cost of a barrel of Brent crude fell to US$88 a barrel after the announcement, having been above US$98 earlier on Friday.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow strip of water south of Iran through which a fifth of the world’s oil and liquified natural gas is typically transported.

US President Donald Trump welcomed Iran’s statement, but maritime groups are still verifying it.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said: “The passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire.”

Global markets rallied on the announcement, with the S&P 500 index of the biggest firms listed in the US closing up 1.2 per cent.

The Cac index in Paris and Dax in Frankfurt both ended the day around two per cent up while London’s FTSE 100 closed 0.7 per cent up.

The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively shut by Iran since the US and Israel launched military strikes in the country in late February.

Tanker traffic through the waterway has slowed to a trickle, drastically reducing the amount of oil and gas available on global markets and causing prices to spike.

Before the conflict, Brent crude was trading at under US$70 per barrel. It rose above US$100 before reaching a peak of more than US$119 per barrel in March. Later on Friday, it rose back to US$92.

While Iran says the Strait of Hormuz is “completely open” and Trump has voiced his appreciation, the international shipping body BIMCO has expressed concern, in advice to operators, about the ongoing risks.

Jakob Larsen, BIMCO chief safety and security officer, said: “The status of mine threats in the traffic separation scheme is unclear and BIMCO believes shipping companies should consider avoiding the area.

“This means that the Traffic Separation Scheme is not declared safe for transit at this point.”

Meanwhile the head of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is trying to understand the details behind Iran’s commitment to reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

The IMO’s Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez said on social media: “We are currently verifying the recent announcement related to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, in terms of its compliance with freedom of navigation for all merchant vessels and secure passage using the IMO-established traffic separation scheme.”

Sharp rises in the price of oil have pushed up the price of petrol and diesel for drivers, as well as sparking concerns over the supply of jet fuel, leading to fears airlines will have to ground flights.

The closure of the key waterway has also cut off a major supply line of fertiliser, used by farmers, raising the prospect of higher food prices as a result of the conflict.

A third of the world’s key fertiliser chemicals pass through the Strait, and prices have risen steeply since the outbreak of war.

However, hours before Araghchi’s statement, motoring group the RAC said petrol and diesel prices had fallen slightly in the UK for the first time since the US-Israel war with Iran began.

Pump prices began to ease on Thursday and continued on Friday, it said, though it remains far more expensive to fill up a tank than it did in February.

Iran’s statement on re-opening the Strait of Hormuz followed a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon.

US President Donald Trump welcomed the move, writing on Truth Social: “IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE. THANK YOU!”

Trump added that Iran had agreed “to never close the Strait of Hormuz again... it will no longer be used as a weapon against the world”.

But, in a follow-up post, he said a naval blockade of Iran will remain “in full force and effect” until a permanent deal to end the US-Israel war with the country is agreed.

Despite Iran’s announcement, one oil and gas shipping operator told the BBC it “doesn’t change anything” immediately.

“We don’t feel like we need to be taking unnecessary risks and our company approach is that we won’t be the first to go through the Strait”, the operator, who did not want to be named, said.

Another company, Stena Bulk, which operates oil tankers in the region, said it was “monitoring developments closely”.

Kieran Tompkins, senior climate and commodities economist at Capital Economics, said the ceasefire, due to end in nine days, “offers only a narrow window of opportunity for oil tankers to navigate the Strait, load up, and exit”.

“That suggests that the number of vessels entering the Strait may not return to pre-war norms yet, but it does offer an opportunity for trapped tankers to leave,” he added.

Professor ManMohan Sodhi of the Bayes Business School said consumers will continue feeling the pressure even if a longer-term peace deal is reached.

“Supply chains will take months to clear,” he said. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Iran says Strait of Hormuz reopened, but US must end naval blockade

Iran temporarily reopened the Strait of Hormuz on Friday following a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon, raising optimism about peace talks, but Tehran warned that it could close the crucial waterway again if the recent US Navy blockade of Iranian ports continued.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced on social media that the strait, a slender chokepoint in global energy trade, was open for all commercial vessels for the remainder of the USbrokered 10-day truce that was agreed on Thursday between Israel and Lebanon, which was invaded by Israel after the Iran-allied Hezbollah militant group joined the fighting.

US President Donald Trump, who with Israel launched the war on Iran on February 28 that has

killed thousands of people and led to the strait’s de facto closure, told supporters at a rally in Arizona that Araqchi’s announcement marked “a great and brilliant day for the world”.

But subsequent statements and clarifications from both sides left un-

certainty over how quickly shipping might return to normal, and some vessels could be observed making unsuccessful attempts cross the strait on Friday before turning back.

Trump said a US blockade of ships sailing to Iranian ports, announced

after talks with Iran last weekend ended without agreement, would remain until “our transaction with Iran is 100% complete”. Iran responded sharply, with Iran’s parliament speaker and senior negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf saying in a social media post that the strait, which until recently carried about a fifth of the world’s oil trade, “will not remain open” if the US blockade continues. He also said Trump had made multiple false claims about the peace talks on Friday.

Trump told Reuters there could probably be more peace talks this weekend. Some diplomats said that was unlikely given the logistics of gathering in the Pakistani capital Islamabad, where the talks are expected to take place. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Jamaica in talks with other countries on unified platforms for digital payment – Holness

Jamaica is in dialogue with several countries, including India as it looks for a unified platform that will facilitate an expansion in digital payments locally.

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness made the disclosure on Thursday as he responded to questions about the level of mobile banking in Jamaica while addressing the “Recover Better Conference” or-

ganised by the Consulate General of Jamaica in New York.

The conference was billed as a one-day, action-oriented forum focused on advancing Jamaica’s post-disaster recovery and resilience efforts.

Holness noted that the purpose of mobile payments is to combat the number of individuals who are “unbanked”.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that there are

countries with lower Gross Domestic Product than Jamaica, but which have more people who can be involved in digital payments, even where they do not possess a bank account. Holness noted that Jamaica was one of few countries in the world that has established a digital currency – “we have JAMDEX… but it has not taken off as we would like,” he admitted. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

UN warns South Sudan at risk of ‘fullscale famine’ as fighting intensifies

The United Nations’ humanitarian chief has warned that South Sudan is at a dangerous crossroads as it faces the risk of famine.

Tom Fletcher, the Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and emergency relief coordinator, called on the Security Council on Friday to “prevent South Sudan from sliding toward full-scale famine and collapse”.

He warned that “hunger across South Sudan is tightening its grip”, with emergency levels of food insecurity expected for some across all 10 states during the lean season,

Elderly members of the Nuer community, uprooted by the conflict in Jonglei State, attend a community health session amid shortages of medical supplies in the POC IDP Camp in Bor, Jonglei State, on February 16, 2026 [Luis

which lasts until the end of July.

After spending a week in the country, he said that he feared his next briefing would speak of famine. He reported “humanitarian compounds looted and nutrition centres destroyed” in areas surrounding Akobo in Jonglei State, where more than 140,000 persons were in “dire need of help”.

“More than 7.5 million people will need food assistance this year,” he said. “All of this is unfolding as floods are expected to continue, cutting communities off and hitting livelihoods – once again.”

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Pressure mounts on Peru’s election authorities amid presidential race delay

Calls to remove the head of Peru’s electoral authority have intensified as delays and alleged irregularities clouded the presidential vote count. As of Friday, no clear challenger has emerged to face conservative frontrunner Keiko Fujimori in the

June 7 run-off. The general election was held on Sunday, but an extension was granted to accommodate for the difficulties in ballot distribution.

Pressure has mounted against the head of Peru’s National Office of Electoral Processes (ONPE), Piero

Corvetto. Complaints over errors and logistical problems during Sunday’s election have been compounded by a slow tally that has rattled investor confidence and heightened uncertainty.

According to the ONPE, leftist Roberto Sanchez and ultraconservative former

Lima Mayor

remain

in a close battle for second place, separated by about 13,000 votes as of Friday. With 93.3 per cent of the ballots counted, Sanchez held 12.0 percent of the vote and Lopez Aliaga 11.9 per cent. (Excerpt from Reuters)

SUDOKU

Do what’s best and right. A quick response will surprise someone who doesn’t know or understand you. Use your instincts to navigate your way through the highs and lows you encounter.

21-April 19)

20-May 20)

Before rushing into something, question whether you are doing the right thing or if your emotions are causing you to overreact. Pay attention to detail and focus on what makes you happy.

21-June 20)

21-July 22)

23-Aug. 22)

23-Oct. 23)

24-Nov. 22)

Mingle, listen and engage in conversations offering insight into something that interests you. A physical or emotional change will have a positive impact on your life. Personal growth is the goal.

Don’t make unrealistic promises. Consider what’s necessary, and don’t pile on more than you can handle. It’s time to take care of your needs. ”Me time” will do you good.

Keep life simple and your plans doable. Be willing to listen, but don’t buy into someone else’s dream when you have your own ambitions to fulfill. Choose to modify your routine, not your appearance.

You may not want to venture out, but doing so will lead to an eventful encounter. Socialize or try something new, and an opportunity will develop. A new look, hobby or skill will motivate you to embrace change.

Take time to nurture what and who is meaningful to you. Having a purpose will make life easier and increase your ability to focus. A change of scenery will lead to a positive attitude and new beginnings.

Premature decisions will disappoint you. Slow down, observe what others do and say, and size up situations to determine how good a fit someone or something is for you.

23-Dec. 21)

Put extra effort into decluttering and making your life easier. It’s up to you to engage in conversations and to discover what’s available and who interests you.

Bypass the drama and do something that soothes the soul. Spend more time nurturing your needs and doing things that boost your confidence and encourage you to find events or entertainment.

Look for more options; check the job market, and something will stand out. Stop procrastinating and start moving in a direction that will buy you the freedom you desire.

Put your money where your mouth is and invest in something that excites you. A new look, travel, educational pursuits, networking, socializing and making new contacts will all pay off.

Indian Premier League

Gill’s silken 86 keeps KKR winless after 6 games

Adisplay straight out of Gujarat Titans’ time-tested playbook – high-quality fast bowling to restrict the opposition, and a chase of a below-par target led by the silken Shubman Gill – ensured Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) remained winless six games into their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign.

KKR began the contest with a questionable selection – they left out Finn Allen, their highest-ceiling top-order option – and a questionable toss decision –they opted to bat when the home captain, Gill, expected dew to set in later in the evening. And for most of the 39.4 overs of the actual match, they were distinctly second-best.

There was only one brief period of KKR dominance, when they scored 52 in three overs (12th to 14th) as Cameron Green went on a boundary-hitting spree. Green’s 55-ball 79, however, was a strange and ultimately frustrating innings: he struggled for fluency early on, scoring 27 off his first 29 balls, and finished with a whimper, scoring just four off his last 11, a period in which KKR collapsed around him while starving him of strike: they went from 147 for 4 in the 15th over to 180 all

out.

The conditions were not the flattest – Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada swung the new ball right through the power play, and all of GT’s quicks found a bit of seam movement – but this was, nonetheless, a below-par total.

This set up a chase made for GT’s top order. Gill picked off the boundaries surgically in the power play – he scored 34 off 15 in that phase – and slowed down when the field spread. He slowed down dramatically, in fact – he only scored 52 off 35 outside the power play - but he could afford to because GT had knocked 71 runs off their target in the first six overs, with B Sai Sudharsan and Jos

scored 20 runs more.

Siraj and Rabada dominate KKR’s power play

Every ball of Siraj’s first over was an outswinger, and while Tim Seifert – playing his first IPL game since 2022 –put away one that offered a little too much width, the others all asked questions, and one of them took out Ajinkya Rahane, the KKR Captain, skewing one high in the air with the swing causing his bat to twist in his hands.

The second over was similar, with Seifert pulling Rabada for a six before the bowler struck back to remove the other batter. This time, the ball swung from a hard length, with extra bounce, and Angkrish Raghuvanshi nicked off in a Test-match manner.

(kph) hard lengths to a backof-the-hand slower one at 106kph, also travelled, and KKR found momentum out of nowhere.

At 147 for 4 in the 15th over, KKR were well on course for 200.

Then came the strangest of collapses. Green was stuck at one end, facing just two balls while KKR lost 5 for 26 at the other. When Green finally got on strike in the 19th over – via Kartik Tyagi getting run-out in the attempt to steal a bye – Prasidh Krishna tied him down expertly, nailing his yorkers even when Green presented a moving target.

over. GT did not cede any control even when Sunil Narine took out Sai Sudharsan in the sixth over, with Buttler hitting him for two fours – one fortuitous, off the inside edge – and a six off the first five balls he faced. At 71 for 1 with 14 overs to go, there was only going to be one winner.

GT middle order finishes off, not in style

GOAPC

TButtler contributing quick cameos. The rest of the chase showed the question marks that still hang over this GT line-up - they continued to huff and puff even when the required rate was in the region of a run a ball, and eventually got home with just two balls remaining –and KKR would have ended the match wishing they had

GT stuck with their newball pair through the entire power play, and both bowlers kept asking questions with their accuracy and movement. There was one more wicket – Seifert slapping an innocuous ball from Rabada straight to point - and not many more runs. KKR’s 37 for 1 was the fifth-lowest sixover score of IPL 2026, and their second entry in the bottom five.

Green’s innings of three parts Green struggled to middle the ball early on, and went at less than a run a ball – and at a control percentage in the mid-50s – for nearly 30 balls. Then he flicked on a switch, putting his long levers to devastating use, particularly against Rashid Khan, whom he put under pressure with decisive use of the feet.

Ashok Sharma, who had dismissed Rovman Powell by changing up from mid140s kilometre-per-hour

And Green, having lost his rhythm, struggled spectacularly in the 20th over, against Rashid, whom he had till then dominated. He scored just one run off the bat off the five balls he faced in the over – a questionable single with Number 11 at the other end – and his most positive scorecard contribution came when he charged, missed, and collected four byes with the unsighted Buttler missing the stumping. Green nicked off to a wide legbreak off the last ball of KKR’s innings, bringing an odd and ultimately unconvincing knock to a close.

Gill sets it up perfectly

Gill stroked three buttery fours in the first two overs, and launched Anukul Roy’s left-arm spin for an effortless inside-out six in the third. Then he took a single and let Sai Sudharsan take on his favourable match-up, which he did with two leg-side sixes to close out a 20-run over.

GT were 40 for no loss in three overs, and Gill kept the momentum going with a sumptuous straight six off Vaibhav Arora in the fifth

hosts weekend of tape-ball cricket

he Georgetown Office Assistants Promotion Committee (GOAPC) is set to host a weekend of tapeball cricket with two competitions scheduled for today, Saturday, April 18 and Sunday at venues including the National Park tarmac and the GNIC Ground, starting from 09:00h.

On Saturday, the organisation will stage its “Spot the Talent Early” secondary school boys’ eight-a-side tapeball cricket competition, featuring teams from Berbice, the East Coast, Georgetown, the East Bank, West Demerara and Essequibo. The tournament is aimed at identifying and developing young cricketers, primarily from second, third and fourth forms, with

a focus on strengthening school-level teams across the country.

Organisers indicated that the competition would feature several matches throughout the day, with prizes to be awarded to outstanding performers at the conclusion of the event. The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to expand grassroots cricket, while the group continues to seek additional co-sponsorship from the business community to support its programmes.

On Sunday, attention will shift to the “One Guyana” Inter-Ministries 11-a-side, eight-over knockout competition, which will be played at the National Park tarmac. The event is being sponsored by Start Express and co-

ordinated by James “Uprising” Lewis of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Several Government entities have already indicated their intention to participate, including the Ministry of Education Young Guns team, drawn from secondary schools, as well as the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority, Ministry of Home Affairs, Parliament of Guyana, Audit Office of Guyana, Maritime Administration Department, Environmental Protection Agency, Ministry of Housing, Guyana Revenue Authority, Guyana Water Incorporated, Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Education teachers team.

Gill’s middle-overs slowdown made perfect sense from a situation point of view. KKR needed quick wickets to win this, and they were not going to get them from one end as long as Gill was in the middle. But boundaries dried up at the other end too, particularly when Varun Chakravarthy dismissed Buttler in the 10th over.

Washington Sundar scored a run-a-ball 13, and Glenn Phillips struggled to time the ball, and when Gill sliced Arora to a diving Green at deep point in the 17th over, the contest began to look ever so slightly interesting.

The boundaries came in a drip, and Phillips and Rahul Tewatia entered the final over with five runs needed. All of KKR’s main bowlers had bowled out,

Kolkata Knight Riders (20 ovs maximum)

Tim Seifert † c Phillips

b Rabada 19

Ajinkya Rahane (c) c Rabada

b Mohammed Siraj 0 Angkrish Raghuvanshi c †Buttler

b Rabada 8 Cameron Green c †Buttler

b Rashid Khan 79

Rovman Powell c Mohammed Siraj b Ashok Sharma 27

Anukul Roy c †Buttler

b Prasidh Krishna 9

Rinku Singh c †Buttler

b Rabada 1

Ramandeep Singh c Mohammed Siraj

b Ashok Sharma 17

Sunil Narine c Phillips

b Mohammed Siraj 0 Kartik Tyagi run out (†Buttler/ Prasidh Krishna) 6

Vaibhav Arora not out 0

Extras (b 4, lb 3, nb 1, w 6) 14

Total 20 Ov (RR: 9.00) 180

Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Ajinkya Rahane, 0.4 ov), 2-21 (Angkrish Raghuvanshi, 1.6 ov), 3-32 (Tim Seifert, 3.6 ov), 4-87 (Rovman Powell, 10.6 ov), 5-147 (Anukul Roy, 14.5 ov), 6-148 (Rinku Singh, 15.1 ov), 7-165 (Ramandeep Singh, 16.3 ov), 8-166 (Sunil Narine, 17.3 ov), 9-173 (Kartik Tyagi, 18.2 ov), 10-180 (Cameron Green, 19.6 ov)

and Roy’s left-arm fingerspin was not going to be risked with the left-handed Tewatia at the crease. Green, struggling with cramps, had not bowled all evening.

So the task of bowling the last over fell to the military-medium Ramandeep Singh, and he managed to get a bouncer to climb high enough to have Phillips caught on the boundary off his first legal ball, leaving GT with four to get off five balls. GT ultimately got there, but who knows what a more challenging target could have done to them.

(ESPNcricinfo)

Harpy Eagles banking on spin strength to extend success

Guyana Harpy Eagles started this season with a four-wicket win against Windward Islands Volcanoes in Antigua.

According to Captain Tevin Imlach, the spin power of the Guyana Harpy Eagles is the strength of the team. He credited international spinner Gudakesh Motie, who claimed 10 wickets in the match.

“Motie was brilliant for us. Our spin is our strength. To see Motie get 10 wickets for us in this game is very important for us,” Imlach said.

Reflecting on the first match this season, he also

gave credit to his opponents where it was due, noting that the Volcanoes played good cricket for the majority of the match.

“They won most of the sessions in the first two days. They bowled better than us in the first innings.

“We were good in the back end of the game. We had some good performances from some of our batters,” the Captain said.

With the weather being unpredictable in Guyana, preparations for the defending champions did not go according to plan, but experience prevailed for the Harpy Eagles.

New champions guaranteed as Massy U18 football enters knockout phase

“Experience came to play in the back end. It was a good game for us considering we had some challenges in terms of preparations,” the Guyanese skipper added.

The two teams will return to action in Antigua from Sunday, April 19 at the Antigua Recreational Ground.

Pouderoyen FC questions lack of compromise from WDFA after walkover loss to Beavers FC

Pouderoyen Football

Club (FC) has raised concerns over what it described as a lack of compromise from the West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) after being handed a walkover defeat in their most recent fixture against Beavers FC in the WDFA Senior Men’s League.

According to a club representative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, Pouderoyen FC had formally informed the association on April 9 that it would be unable to play the fixture ow-

TFootball Championship moves into the knockout phase this weekend, with round-of-16 and quarter-final matches set for today, Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19 at the Queen’s College Ground. New champions will be crowned this year after last year’s winners, Dolphin Secondary School failed to advance beyond the group stage.

begins at 10:30h with Three Miles Secondary facing Lodge Secondary, while East Ruimveldt Secondary oppose St Joseph High School at the same time.

Santa Rosa Secondary face Yarrowkabra Secondary.

At 12:15h, Ann’s Grove Secondary will meet New Amsterdam Secondary, and Charlestown Secondary will come up against Belladrum Secondary.

Action in the round of 16

The afternoon session from 14:00h will see Annandale Secondary take on New Central High, while

The final two fixtures of the day, scheduled for 15:45h, will feature West Ruimveldt Secondary against West Demerara Secondary, and Chase’s Academic Foundation opposing Patentia Secondary.

Winners from Saturday’s round-of-16 matches will advance to the quarter-finals, as the tournament intensifies towards crowning new champions.

Pouderoyen FC and Beavers FC, was instead brought for-

ing to an invitation to attend the commissioning of the Guyana-China Friendship

The issue stems from a series of weather-related disruptions to the competition schedule. Two consecutive weekends of fixtures were washed out after a prolonged period of heavy rainfall, forcing the WDFA to make adjustments. It is understood that matches from the first affected weekend, including a fixture between Westside Alliance and Beavers FC, were moved to the back end of the tournament. However, Pouderoyen FC claims that the same

Park. The club noted that an informal notice had also been communicated via WhatsApp prior to the formal correspondence.

approach was not applied across the board. The second set of postponed fixtures, which included the scheduled encounter between

ward and rescheduled for April 12. This date had originally been designated for a different fixture involving Pouderoyen FC and #1 AllStars.

The Pouderoyen representative told this publication that despite notifying the association of their prior commitment, no accommodation was made. On the day in question, the team were in attendance at the park’s opening ceremony, where Captain Darrell Abrams delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the club and residents of Region Three.

Further concerns were raised over perceived conflicts of interest, with the club noting that the WDFA Vice President is a former President of Beavers FC.

In a document seen by this publication, Beavers FC was awarded a 3-0 victory via walkover following Pouderoyen FC’s absence.

Promotech praises NTFGL success, reaffirms support for golf development

Promotech Guyana has commended the successful staging of the Promotech National Top Flight Golf League (NTFGL), which recently concluded at the Lusignan Golf Club, while reaffirming its commitment to the continued development of golf in Guyana.

The tournament, which brought together many of the country’s leading golfers, ended with Patanjilee Persaud securing the championship title after a competitive showing throughout the league. Organisers highlighted the event as a demonstration of the sport’s steady progress locally.

Speaking at the closing presentation, Promotech Guyana Country Manager Bala Vinjimoor praised both the quality of play and the overall execution of the tournament. He noted that the level of competition, along with the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie among players, reflected the core values of the sport.

ing that initiatives such as the NTFGL play a key role in advancing sport and building community engagement. He pointed out that the event not only showcased local talent but also underscored Guyana’s potential as a destination for sporting excellence.

Vinjimoor said the company was pleased to be involved as title sponsor, add-

He also called for increased corporate support for sport, noting that such investment extends beyond

branding opportunities and contributes to long-term development, particularly at the youth and community levels.

Promotech Guyana extended congratulations to the organisers, players and stakeholders for delivering a successful tournament, while signalling its intention to continue supporting similar initiatives in the future.

National

TDrayton to defend National Rapid Chess Championship title at Pegasus Suites

with Guyana’s leading players competing for the national title in a one-day, fast-paced format.

Organised by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF), the tournament will

be staged in the Atlantic Room of the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre from 09:00h. The event will follow a nine-round Swiss system, with each player allotted 15 minutes plus a

Vincente aiming to represent Guyana in 3x3 at Commonwealth Games

thing I would take for granted, because representing Guyana is something I will always want to do,” Vincente

Fresh off a recently-concluded 3x3 high-performance camp in Guyana, Vincente reflected on the changes he has made to his training approach.

“Some of the things would be about being in better condition, because the game is played faster and more physical, being more vocal and playing defence. These are things we learned at the camp and I have had to change my preparations because it would not just help me in 3x3 but also in 5x5,” he pointed out.

five-second increment per move, a format designed to test speed, accuracy and decision-making under pressure.

Reigning champion FIDE Master (FM) Anthony Drayton will return to defend his title against a competitive field that includes National Chess Champion Candidate Master (CM) Sachin Pitamber, CM Taffin Khan, Kyle Couchman, Keron Sandiford and Joshua Gopaul. The female contingent will feature Woman Candidate Master (WCM) Jessica Callender and national youth champion Kataleya Sam, among others.

The championship, which is FIDE-rated, is open to players of all ages and genders. The GCF, in a press release, said it anticipated a field of approx -

imately 40 participants, a mix of experienced campaigners and merging junior talent, all vying for the 2026 national rapid title.

A total prize fund of $175,000, along with trophies, will be awarded to the top performers, including a special cash prize for the best female competitor.

Tournament pairings and results will be accessible online, while the top 12 boards are scheduled to be live-streamed by the Federation’s technical team, providing broader access for spectators.

The Federation also acknowledged the continued support of Readymix Concrete and the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre for facilitating the event and contributing to the development of the local chess community.

10 footballers achieve MACORP excavator operator certification

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF), through its continued partnership with MACORP, is creating meaningful pathways for footballers to build sustainable careers beyond their playing days. On Friday, 10 footballers were officially certified after successfully completing excavator operator training provided by MACORP.

GFF President Wayne Forde emphasised that while a football career may be short, players can lead fulfilling lives after the game by transitioning into skilled professions. He highlighted the importance of equipping athletes with practical skills that open doors to long-term employment.

Since 2021, MACORP has been a committed partner in this initiative, offering specialised training in excavator operation to foot-

ballers across the country. The programme continues to deliver valuable, handson experience that strengthens participants’ prospects in the workforce.

MACORP’s President and General Manager, German Consuegra, congratulated the participants and encouraged them to fully embrace the opportunity, develop their skills, and take advantage of the career pathways available to them. He underscored the importance of applying the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviour instilled during their training.

Reinforcing the company’s strong safety culture, Training Manager Miguel Oviedo urged participants to consistently carry out pre-operation safety inspections and adhere to Caterpillar operating standards as they transition into real-world work environments. Through this partnership, MACORP has successfully trained 28 operators in three batches. Graduates of the programme have gone

on to serve in various roles nationwide, including one who is now a trainer in Region Nine. This initiative underscores a shared commitment

to empowering athletes, investing in their futures, and contributing to national development through skills training and opportunity creation.

Hercules pleased with Harpy Eagles’ response, calls for better conversion and discipline

By Michelangelo JacoBus

Guyana Harpy Eagles

Head Coach Ryan

Hercules says he is encouraged by his team’s response under pressure following their opening-round win over Windward Islands Volcanoes, but has called for improvement in key areas as the Regional Four-Day Championship continues.

Reflecting on the performance, Hercules noted that the side showed resilience in recovering from a first-innings deficit to secure the result, highlighting the team’s mindset as a defining factor.

“Pretty much pleased with the guys in terms of how we bounced back, especially in that second innings,” Hercules said. “That has been one of the strengths of the Guyana Harpy Eagles over the past few years… to

have that steady mindset to go out there and cross that hurdle and get the job done.”

He acknowledged that the contest was not straightforward, pointing out that both teams had periods of control, but stressed the importance of starting the campaign with a win given their status as defending

champions.

“It was not a straightforward match, but that is how cricket is… it was good to get that win for the first game of the tournament. It was important that we start off well,” he added.

Hercules singled out the contributions of Gudakesh Motie and the second-wicket

partnership between Tevin Imlach and Matthew Nandu as decisive moments in the match, describing them as the turning point in the contest.

“For me that was the turning point… Motie getting 10 wickets and the partnership between Imlach and Nandu was very crucial,” he said, emphasising that the result reflected a collective effort rather than reliance on individual brilliance.

“There is no one-man team… there are still some guys who could have gone on. It is a pretty well-balanced side and we look forward to different persons putting up their hand each game.”

Despite the positive outcome, Hercules pointed to missed opportunities with the bat, particularly the failure to convert starts into

substantial scores.

“Definitely some missed opportunities… persons got starts but we need to convert those into centuries,” he explained. “That is important to help the team push further in games.”

From a bowling standpoint, he also highlighted the need for greater discipline with the new ball, especially in the first innings, while noting that there was improvement later in the match.

“Being more tight up front with the new ball, challenging the batters a bit more… I think in the second innings we bounced back well,” Hercules said, pointing to the early breakthroughs that helped shift momentum.

Looking ahead, Hercules said the focus would remain on consistency and execu-

tion, with the expectation that different players would step up as the tournament progressed.

In team news ahead of the second round, fast bowler Shamar Joseph has been drafted into the squad to replace Raymond Perez, who suffered a dislocated shoulder in the opening match and is expected to be sidelined for at least three weeks.

Meanwhile, Tagenarine Chanderpaul who was struck on the finger in the first innings and batted down the order in the second innings, has been cleared to play the second match.

Guyana will face Windward Islands again from Sunday at the Antigua Recreation Ground in St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda.

Archery Guyana’s Continental Judge officiates at Archery World Cup

Archery Guyana’s Continental Judge, Nicholas Hing joined 16 other World Archery International Judges and World Archery Americas (WAA) Continental Judges for the First Stage of the Hyundai Archery World Cup in the city of Puebla, Mexico, which ran from April 7 to April 12.

The Archery World Cup is an Olympic qualifier

which would be held in five stages, with the first one being completed in Puebla, Mexico. The others will be held in Shanghai, China in May; Antalya, Turkiye in June; Madrid, Spain in July and finally in Saltillo, Mexico in September.

This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the Hyundai Archery World Cup, which featured archers from over 30 countries.

Hing was the first Guyanese to have judged at a World Cup Qualifier event, along with a few other judges, under the leadership of International Judge and WAA Secretary General Sergio Font Milian, and his Deputy Chair Shannon Russel-Cowan.

Official practice started on Tuesday, April 7, which kept all the judges busy with field, equip-

South American Youth Games

Cummings advances before Round of 16 exit; Singh bows out in eliminations

Guyana’s youth archer Brandon Cummings advanced to the Round of 16 in the Recurve Individual category before exiting in the next stage of competition at the ongoing South American Youth Games in Panama, recording a dominant opening win, but falling to a higher-ranked opponent in the Round of 16.

Cummings secured his place in the 1/8 round with a comprehensive 6-0 victory over Paraguay’s Matias Caballero in the 1/16 stage. The Guyanese archer controlled the match from the outset, winning all three sets with scores of 23-20, 25-20 and 21-17 to complete a straight-sets result. However, he was unable to carry that momentum into the Round of 16, where he went down 1-7 to Argentina’s Gabriel Tonina. Cummings matched his opponent in the opening set with both archers scoring 27, but Tonina edged ahead on set points. The Argentine then took control of the contest, winning the

next three sets 28-15, 28-23 and 28-19 to seal progression.

Meanwhile, Guyana’s Ravish Singh exited his Compound Individual matchup after a 105-142 defeat to Colombia’s Juan Gonzalez. Singh recorded consistent scores of 24

in his first two ends but fell behind after posting 15 and 16 in the middle stages, before closing with 26. Gonzalez, in contrast, delivered a strong and steady performance throughout, registering scores of 27, 28, 29, 28 and a perfect 30 to comfortably secure the win.

Continental Judge Nicholas Hing on the line during the elimination matches at the 20th Hyundai Archery World Cup 2026

ment and uniform inspection. Wednesday, April 8; Thursday, April 9, and Friday, April 10 were ranking and elimination rounds. Judges’ meetings were held

show hosted by the state of Puebla, and on Friday evening, the teams and officials were invited to the grand opening ceremony resplendent with a laser light show,

Archery Guyana’s Continental Judge, Nicholas Hing

every morning by the Chair and Deputy Chair before the start of the day’s events to delegate the various tasks to the team.

On Thursday evening, all visiting and local teams and officials were invited to dinner and a cultural

fireworks, a contortionist archer who shot with her feet, and speeches by officials including the Governor of Puebla, Alejandro Armenta Mier; the President of World Archery, Greg Easton and the President of World Archery Mexico, Gabriel

Ramos. The final matches culminated in historic downtown Puebla on Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12, with its 450-year-old Cathedral De Puebla as the backdrop. The judges were divided into two teams. One team for the medal matches, where the International Judges along with some of the Continental Judges were based at the shooting line and target area, and the second team of continental judges at the practice field. Judge Hing’s team, which included several Mexican Continental Judges, oversaw the coordination of the archers on the practice field before and after each medal match.

World Archery President Easton personally thanked each judge for a job well done at this first stage of the Hyundai Archery World Cup.

“Since becoming a Continental Judge, I have had the good fortune of working with many wonderful judges from around the world, and this was no different, except this Archery World Cup Qualifier will be one of my most memorable experiences, especially working directly under Mr Sergio Font,” Hing said.

San Francisco Unicorns confirmed for 2026 ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League

The ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) is pleased to confirm the participation of the San Francisco Unicorns in the upcoming tournament, set to take place from July 23 to August 1 in Guyana.

The inclusion of the Unicorns, one of Major League Cricket’s leading franchises, underscores the tournament’s commitment to bringing together top teams from across the global cricket landscape. Their participation highlights the continued growth of franchise cricket in the United States and its increasing connection with established cricketing regions.

GSL Chairman, Sir Clive Lloyd welcomed the team to the competition: “We are delighted to have the San Francisco Unicorns join the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League. Their inclusion reflects the growing global footprint of the game and the strength of franchise cricket in the United States. We look forward to seeing them compete and contribute to what promises to be an outstanding tournament.”

The San Francisco Unicorns launched in 2023 as one of six founding members of Major League Cricket, a ground-breaking T20 competition bringing some of world cricket’s biggest names to the USA and the Unicorns’ home stadium, the iconic Oakland Coliseum. Cricket Victoria, the governing body for the sport in the Australian state of Victoria, serves as the Unicorns’ high-performance partner.

The Unicorns, who have reached the Major League Cricket playoffs in the past two seasons, will look to build on their strong domestic record as they take on some of the world’s leading franchise sides.

Unicorns Chief Executive Officer (CEO) David White expressed the Californian team’s excitement at participating in GSL: “We’re thrilled to be part of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League, and to become the first Major League Cricket side to play on the global stage.

“This tournament brings together some of the best franchise teams in the world, and it’s a fantastic opportunity for our players and fans to be part of a truly international competition. Guyana has a rich cricketing heritage and a passionate fan base, and we’re excited to experience that

environment, while testing ourselves against top-class opposition.”

The ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League will feature a strong line-up of international franchise teams and players, with matches hosted in Guyana. The tournament

aims to deliver world-class cricket while strengthening ties between emerging and established cricket markets.

Running from July 23 through to the final on August 1, the GSL is expected to capture global attention and provide fans with a compelling showcase of elite T20 competition.

Harvey takes bronze after narrow semi-final loss at South American Youth Games

Guyana secured its first medal of the 2026 South American Youth Games in Panama City, with Ken Harvey earning a bronze medal on Friday in the 60kg division after losing a close semi-final bout on points to Brazil’s Maicon Dos Santos.

Harvey, fighting out of the red corner, lost 3-2 on a split decision following a competitive three-round contest. Judges Latasha Washington (USA) and David Chaplin (USA) scored the bout 29-28 in favour of Dos Santos, while Roderico García (Guyana) returned a 30-27 score for the Brazilian. In contrast, Maria Del Pilar Morales (Mexico) scored the fight 30-27 for Harvey, and María Coto (Costa Rica) had it 29-28 in his favour. The bout was officiated by referee Jennifer Huggins (Canada).

The round-by-round scoring reflected how close the fight was, with Harvey and Dos Santos both enjoying periods of dominance. In the first round, two judges scored it 10-9 for Harvey, while three favoured Dos Santos. The Brazilian was ahead on three cards in the second round, and the third round again saw mixed scoring across the five judges. By reaching the semi-final, Harvey secured a bronze medal, marking Guyana’s first podium finish at this year’s Games. Harvey had advanced to the medal round with a quarter-final win over Paraguay’s Edgar Miranda. Fighting out of the blue corner, he controlled the bout from the start, landing repeated punches to the head and body of Miranda.

The referee issued two standing counts in the first round and another early in the second. The contest was stopped 24 seconds into the second round, with Harvey winning by referee stoppage (RSC).