Guyana Times - Sunday, May 10, 2026

Pres Ali woos Guyanese diaspora in Canada to invest, own

vacation

in Silica City – says deal signed with Saudi Arabia investors for 2nd phase of construction

Berbice duo busted with 100lbs of cocaine destined for Europe

Moblissa

…urges Canadian investors to capitalise on Guyana’s expanding economy

Multiple homes, businesses go up in flames at Apaiqua Landing See story on

Guyana advocates diplomacy, sovereignty during WWII anniversary event

1st batch of high-yield milking cows arrives from US Mining equipment seized as MNR cracks down on illegal discharge of waste materials

Bystander shot after bandits open fire during money-changer robbery Farmers trying to manipulate subsidy system will be prosecuted –Mustapha warns

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Sunday, May 10 – 10:35h–12:05h and Monday, May 11 – 11:45h–13:15h

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

WEATHER TODAY

Thundery showers are expected during the day, clearing in the evening before clouding over again at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East-North-Easterly to Easterly between 3.57 metres and 5.81 metres.

High Tide: 10:50h and 23:40h reaching maximum heights of 2.15 metres and 2.16 metres.

Low Tide: 17:01h reaching a minimum height of 1.02 metres.

COMMODITIES

Pres Ali woos Guyanese diaspora in Canada to invest, own vacation homes in Silica City –

says deal signed with Saudi Arabia investors for 2nd phase of construction

As work advances on the model smart and sustainable city along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, Silica City, President Dr Irfaan Ali is encouraging members of the

International Airport (CJIA), Silica City is designed as a climate-resilient urban ecosystem that integrates innovation, nature, and smart technology. It will be Guyana’s first

Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s climate change mitigation initiatives under the Low Carbon Development

Guyanese diaspora to explore investing in vacation homes there.

The Head of State was addressing the Guyanese diaspora in Canada during an engagement at the Pearson Centre in Brampton, Ontario, on Saturday morning.

Touting Silica City as a development ahead of its time, President Ali noted that his Government wants to see a percentage of the occupancy there taken up by overseas-based Guyanese.

“In that city, modernity will meet tradition. And tradition will be an envelope in the environment. It is designed to be a city of sustainability, a city of wellness, a city of the future... And we want at least 25 per cent of this city to be dedicated to meeting the needs of the diaspora,” he posited.

Showing a promotional video depicting the layout and design of Silica City, the Guyanese leader contended that, “Visuals give you a better understanding of what we are planning... I want you to see what the city will look like so that those of you who want to own your vacation home, own your second home, or invest in your home in Guyana can be part of Silica City... Here is your opportunity.”

Located approximately 40 kilometres (km) from Georgetown and 5km from the Cheddi Jagan

Strategy (LCDS 2030).

Silica City was initial-

ly conceived in 2009 by Ali during his tenure as Housing Minister. The Government has set aside some 3800 acres of land for the new city, with approximately 15,000 houses to be constructed in various phases over the next two decades.

In its first five years, the city is expected to cater to just over 3000 households, all of whom will enjoy access to high-end developments, including smart homes equipped with the newest energy-saving technologies. The Guyana Government has worked with the University of Miami, as well as other major developers and planners, in the building out of the city.

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Mother’s Day

Today, on Mother’s Day, we honour mothers: biological mothers, adoptive mothers, stepmothers, queer parents, single parents, co-parents, and people who mother without fitting traditional definitions. It is a cliché to say that every day ought to be “Mother’s Day” because of all that every mother has done for every living human being. Motherhood in the 21st century is less a single social role and more a constantly negotiated identity shaped by work, technology, economics, culture, and personal choice. While in many societies, including Guyana, becoming a mother is no longer treated as an automatic life stage, the traditional biological foundations of motherhood still place constraints on women.

Those constraints were given sociological significance in terms of defining the “woman’s role” in every society throughout history. Who would stay home and “mind baby”? In the last century, there were many proposals to rectify that situation of “biology as destiny”, such as the communes of the sixties imitating earlier efforts in the 19th century. While they died on the vine, with the increasing number of women in the workforce seen as an inevitable outcome of modern economic development, there is renewed interest in reformulating the “childcare” role of “mother”.

In China, which is leading the former Third World countries into this brave new world, a facility to care for children is part and parcel of every new factory constructed. Interestingly, such facilities called “crèches” had been introduced during indentureship on every plantation to facilitate the “bound women” working. As Guyana continues on its accelerated development path with our oil revenues, these are issues that we should ponder over and not, as usual, wait for them to ambush us. Back to the future with crèches?

But even as women are offered some respite from “minding baby”, modern parenting culture still ultimately places on mothers not only the responsibility of raising children safely but also of optimising them emotionally, socially, academically, and psychologically. Childhood itself has become highly managed and supervised, which can make motherhood feel less communal and more individualised. We have the paradox of mothers today having more choices and visibility than previous generations, yet often facing more scrutiny and psychological pressure.

In the meantime, apart from the gifts of chocolate, flowers, or a dinner that we, especially the men in our society, may offer our mothers today, we can also rethink our conception of motherhood so that our mothers, and all other mothers present and future, can live happier, more satisfying lives. Today in Guyana, violence against females – the majority of them being mothers – has taken on epidemic proportions, and it does not appear that the official sanctions enforced by the forces of law and order are changing the status quo.

To a large extent, this is a legacy from our history of slavery and indentureship on the psyches of our people as they passed through the “total institution” that was the plantation. Extreme violence was the tool used by the planters to resolve any variation from the norms they created for their purposes to extract labour. What replaced those norms was the use of interpersonal violence by the labourers as a salutary device to elicit compliance with their social roles. With society patterned on the hierarchical and patriarchal relationships of the plantation, it is not surprising that violence, especially against women and other weaker groups in society, such as children, remains stubbornly entrenched.

It is a greater tragedy that Mothers’ Day is celebrated today, when the entrenched attitude of viewing women as lesser beings still dominates among many of those presenting their gifts. The mothers and their children are being socialised into believing that this single act of propitiation, on this single day, excuses and erases the other three hundred sixty-four days of neglect, abuse, and even violence. The point we are making is that if women in general, and mothers in particular, are to be given their due honour, we must revise our conception of “motherhood”.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Time for Guyana to be heard

Dear Editor, I firmly agree with President Dr Irfaan Ali that “countries protecting environmental resources must be fairly compensated.” The Head of State made this vital global call from Houston, Texas, during his Baker Institute Centre for Energy Studies, titling it “The Future of Guyana”. It was poignant and quite necessary, and hopefully this “call” will become a universal mantra.

Right off the bat, I can think of Brazil. The country receives funds for REDD+ initiatives and forest protection, particularly in the Amazon, supported by international donors. By way of information, REDD+ is a UN-backed climate change mitigation framework that incentivises developing countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by protecting, managing, and restoring forests. It stands for “Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation”.

There is also Indonesia, receiving significant payments from Norway for curbing emissions by conserving peatlands and forests. There is no need to keep itemising, and hopefully readers will delve into the issue and thus be able to join in the president›s chorus.

It was noteworthy that President Ali clearly delineated that “Our carbon credits are certified at a jurisdictional scale”, meaning that even though Guyana is rightfully maximising its oil and gas sector, “... it has simultaneously maintained one of the world’s lowest deforestation rates and preserved more than 85 per cent forest cover.” This kind of stewardship must be commended and compensated, as greed was never allowed to take over. Guyana, all the while, has been balancing “... pushing for market-based mechanisms that reward nations maintaining standing forests and safeguarding biodiversity...” even as the oil and gas sector is undergoing expansion.

President Ali, in a very succinct and bold manner, informed all that “Here (Guyana) is a country that is growing its oil and gas sector at unprecedented speed but, at the same time, securing a standing forest better than anyone else in the world.”

Just for a revision, I remind all that forest preservation is essential for maintaining life on Earth, acting as the planet’s primary carbon sink, biodiversity hot spot, and water regulator. Forests, in fact, mitigate climate change by

absorbing billions of tonnes of CO₂ annually. We know first-hand too that they serve as protection against erosion and floods and provide medicines for billions.

As is his wont, the Guyanese President was well-armed with historical and scientific data as he sounded his clarion call. His point of contention remains quite tenable as he highlighted that “... global financing systems continue to disadvantage countries that have historically protected their natural resources (since) the world is ready to incentivise and pay countries that took down their forests and give them resources to replant the forests. But for those who kept this standing, you’re given a thank-you note. “And for him, that’s not how international economics works. That is not how countries survive,” and therefore, there must not be any kind of equivocation regarding “advocating for stronger international frameworks that allow forest and biodiversity services to be monetised through market-based systems.”

May I remind people that the Industrial Revolution (c. 1760-1840) wreaked havoc on the environment. Be reminded too that it immensely benefited Great Britain, Western

Europe, the United States, Belgium, Germany, France, and Japan. Bear in mind too that the said Industrial Revolution caused severe, long-term environmental damage through the massive adoption of coal, leading to intense air pollution, massive deforestation, and severe water contamination. Rapid urban growth overwhelmed sanitation, while industrial waste poisoned landscapes and ecosystems. This shift began accelerating greenhouse gas emissions and resource extraction that still drive modern climate change and habitat loss today. So, it is fitting (as President Ali reminded his audience) that Guyana is co-chairing the Global Tropical Forest Alliance as part of efforts to advance international discussions on forest valuation and climate services. Since, as he said, “We live in a world where 60 per cent of our biodiversity is already lost in the last 60 years, biodiversity preservation must be viewed not only as an environmental issue but also as an economic and developmental concern tied to industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, research, and indigenous heritage.”

Yours truly, Hargesh B Singh

GRANDPARENTS’ HAPPILY EVER AFTER

By Ryhaan Shah

It doesn’t need research to tell us how vital a role grandparents play in their grandchildren’s lives. Nevertheless, there are studies that confirm this, showing that grandparents’ relationships with their grandchildren result in such benefits as providing unconditional love, emotional security, and cultural continuity by handing down important traditions to the new generation.

Far from being redundant or useless to family life, having grandparents actively participate in your children’s upbringing provides the children with the kind of support that helps to build their confidence, self-worth, and emotional resilience.

Grandparents also act as historians, passing down family stories, cultural values, and personal histories that come from their lived experience, all of which anchor their grandchildren to their family and community identity.

While it may seem like just playing and amusement, this kind of storytelling, playing, and knowledge-sharing helps to build their grandchildren’s vocabulary, language skills, and development and also aids in their ability to solve problems.

The studies did find that having grandparents involved in their grandchildren’s lives actually results in better mental health and development for those children. They have lower rates of depression and anxiety and often exhibit better social skills and less anti-social behaviour.

Because grandparents have a different kind of bond than parents, a bond that is a mix of friendship and wisdom, they can become confidants and mentors for children and teenagers, especially if the family is going through rough patches with financial problems or a divorce.

In these circumstances, grandparents can often become a safe haven and offer a stable and loving environment to help the children through difficulties that they often cannot understand.

For some families, grandparents also provide critical childcare support, which helps to lower the stress level of the family as a whole.

Having built a close relationship with their grandchildren, grandparents can often become central to advising them on important life decisions like career choices or their choice of marital partners.

Taking on the grandparent role is a transition from that of being a parent and often comes in our middle years, which is when grandparents most often welcome the arrival of grandchildren. They most often, also, do not mind sharing the parenting responsibilities with their grown children.

Co-parenting between parents and grandparents, when it goes well, has considerable benefits for everyone involved. Grandparents feel useful and important, and their help can help reduce the stress that comes with parental responsibilities.

When parents are less stressed and feel more assured, they tend to have more positive attitudes about parenting and can better contribute to their children’s overall development. And if they have to be away from home all day or for longer periods, they can feel less guilt knowing their children are safe with their grandparents.

Grandparents, in turn, benefit from increased socialisation as they engage with their grandchildren’s friends, teachers, and other parents. This serves as an antidote to loneliness and isolation, which can be a frequent occurrence among older people.

It is true that they can find themselves becoming physically exhausted and mentally fatigued because of the demands of caring for young children at a time when they were expecting to live more quietly and independently.

However, the sentiment that is most often expressed about grandparents’ attitudes towards their grandchildren is that they “spoil” them with all sorts of indulgences. And children raised by their grandparents most often remember feeling deeply cherished and safe.

They appreciate that their grandparents were there for them if their parents were absent and provided a stable home when they needed it most.

A child who was brought up by her grandmother said that she taught her the value of food and how precious it is. She taught her to be considerate and to think of others. She taught her that family was one of the most important things in life. She taught her manners and to be as gracious as possible, no matter the circumstances.

Grandparents are a child’s link to the past, and their relationship with their grandchildren is one of the special joys of growing older. One grandparent said of the experience, “Being a grandparent is my happily ever after.”

Here in Guyana, it is not uncommon to find grandparents, especially grandmothers, taking on the parenting role completely because of circumstances such as absent fathers and mothers working full-time to provide for the home.

On this Mother’s Day, it is most fitting that we honour these grandmothers for taking on that mothering role and for providing the unconditional love and care their grandchildren need.

Happy Mother’s Day to you all.

Linden Town Week failed to capitalise on repositioning the township

Dear Editor,

There are moments in the life of a community when reflection must give way to candour. Linden Town Week, in its most recent form, presents such a moment. While we celebrate the vibrancy of our people and the richness of our culture, we must honestly ask whether we are using these platforms to advance the long-term interests of Linden.

As a born Lindener, I must state plainly and honestly, as I always do, that this year’s Town Week represented yet another missed opportunity to reposition Linden as a centre for investment, tourism, entrepreneurship, and regional connectivity.

Linden is uniquely positioned. It is the only town in Guyana divided by a river, offering tremendous potential for waterfront tourism, river tours, and recreational enterprise. Its blue lakes, historical sites, and industrial heritage remain under-marketed assets. More importantly, Linden serves as the gateway to Guyana’s interior and, with the

Linden-Lethem corridor, stands poised to become a critical logistics and trade hub connecting Guyana with Brazil, the largest country and economy in South America by a wide margin, boasting an estimated nominal GDP of over $2 trillion.

The possibilities for port development, cargo transport, duty-free zones, and the operationalisation of the Linden airstrip are real and urgent. Yet, these opportunities were largely absent from the Town Week agenda.

Instead, the event relied heavily on entertainment. While our local promoters deserve commendation for bringing life and energy to the town, entertainment alone cannot drive economic transformation. The Linden Town Week should also function as a strategic platform for investment promotion, tourism marketing, and business development. Equally disappointing was the failure to deliberately and aggressively promote local businesses and entrepreneurs. Across Linden and Region Ten, our people are producing wines, baked

goods, bottled seasonings, pepper sauces, herbal teas, cassava and plantain chips, soaps, skin and hair products, clothing, crafts, and many other high-quality products. These enterprises reflect the creativity and resilience of our people, yet many continue to operate without the exposure and institutional support needed for growth.

Town Week should have showcased a strong “Made in Linden” brand through trade expos, agro-processing exhibitions, culinary showcases, business forums, and partnerships with tourism and hospitality stakeholders. Such initiatives could stimulate investment, create jobs, and strengthen community pride.

One bright spot, however, was the return of the Kashif and Shanghai football competition. The overwhelming support and attendance demonstrated Linden’s capacity to host major sporting events in a safe environment. This is clear evidence of the potential for sports tourism as part of Linden’s broader development strategy.

The core issue of this conundrum remains leadership and vision. The municipal Government should prioritise strategic initiatives for Linden’s long-term growth rather than focusing on internal minuscule conflicts, ego contests, or celebratory events.

Future Town Weeks must include investment forums, tourism expos, local business showcases, and deliberate efforts to market Linden’s strategic advantages.

Linden stands at a crossroads, both literally and figuratively. As Guyana rapidly transforms, our town cannot afford to remain on the margins of national development. Town Week must become more than a celebration; it must become a declaration of economic intent and future ambition. We owe it to the people of Linden – past, present, and future – to ensure that opportunities are not merely recognised but realised.

Yours respectfully, Jermaine Figueira Former Member of Parliament

Pres Ali woos Guyanese diaspora...

Phase One of Silica City involves significant infrastructure development alongside ongoing housing construction to the tune of some $1.2 billion. Already, construction works are ongoing for the first 110 Young Professional houses under this first phase. These houses comprise four designs, with prices ranging between $27 million and $35 million.

Housing Minister Collin Croal had previously reported that a number of these houses are already completed and allocated to beneficiaries. Another $2.9 billion has also been allocated for infrastructure works in the city.

Phase Two

According to President Ali during Saturday’s diaspora engagement, “We have just signed on with investors from Saudi Arabia in the building out of the second phase of homes in this city.”

Phase Two of Silica City caters to the development of over 374 lots that will have various aspects of construction, including a retirement resort, a healthcare hub, and sports tourism facilities. This aspect of the project will target the Guyanese diaspora, including investment opportunities.

In December, it was reported that Guyana received several proposals for the construction of the retirement resort and a healthcare hub. This was in response to an Expression of Interest (EoI) issued by the Housing

Ministry’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), inviting qualified developers to design, finance, and construct an eco-focused retirement resort and a healthcare-focused mixed-use development hub within Silica City.

The CH&PA had explained in the EoI invitation for the healthcare hub that the initiative aims to integrate modern healthcare services with commercial and residential spaces, supporting the city’s vision of innovation, sustainability, and improved quality of life for its residents.

The proposed Healthcare Hub will span 80 acres and include a state-of-the-art hospital and speciality medical facilities, innovation and research centres, a university campus, and residential development consisting of approximately 580 households. The project will also incorporate integrated green spaces, parks, and ecological landscapes to ensure a sustainable and environmentally friendly urban environment.

The invitation further emphasised that proposals must demonstrate strong environmental sensitivity, efficient land use, and the integration of renewable energy and smart infrastructure, such as solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations, and energy-efficient building systems. As it relates to the retirement resort, the project will span 20 acres and will ca-

ter to residents aged 60 and above, offering a sustainable and wellness-orientated living environment consistent with Silica City’s broader green vision.

The planned development will feature 40-50 individual eco-homes ranging between 500 and 600 square feet; a wellness and outpatient clinic; a community kitchen and dining hall; a community garden; renewable energy systems (including solar and wind instal-

lations); as well as native trails and a forest buffer to maintain environmental balance.

Interested developers were required to demonstrate capacity and experience in designing and developing retirement or senior-living communities, applying sustainable and low-impact spatial design, integrating smart technologies and renewable systems, and financing and delivering design-build projects.

Page Foundation

How can we make better food for honeybees?

Did you know that right here in Guyana, more people are starting to raise honeybees?

In some communities, the Government has been giving beehives to families so they can produce their own honey. That means more buzzing bees and more sweet honey for everyone!

But taking care of bees is not just about giving them a hive – it’s also about making sure they have the right food to survive and grow.

Good nutrition is as important for honeybees as it is for humans. Where do honeybees get their nutrition?

Honeybees eat nectar and pollen from flowers. Pollen provides honeybees with nutrients including proteins, fats, and micronutrients

If honeybees cannot find enough food, they may become sick. Worker bees may stop taking care of larvae and pupae. They may even abandon the hive, leaving the queen and babies behind. When this occurs, the colony collapses.

Without healthy honeybee colonies, it is difficult to grow many crops that are important parts of the human diet. That’s because honeybees are pollinators

When they gather food from flowers, honeybees transfer pollen from one part of the plant to another. This causes the flowers to produce seeds and fruit that we harvest. Without honeybees, orchards and fields would produce less food, and food prices would increase.

To maintain honeybee populations, beekeepers started feeding human-made pollen substitutes to their honeybees.

But the food they use does not meet the nutritional needs of the honeybees. These substitutes do not include all the sterols found in flower pollen. Sterols are a group of chemicals used to build cell membranes and make hormones. Honeybees cannot make sterols on their own. They must get them from their diet. That is why scientists wanted to develop a new food additive for honeybees.

They wanted to put this additive in the human-made food for honeybees so they can have the sterols they need to be healthy.

They analysed honeybee tissue to determine the type and amount of sterols honeybees use and measured the sterols in queen, work-

er, and male pupal tissue. Then they genetically engineered a type of yeast called Yarrowia lipolytica so that it would produce a mixture of these sterols. Scientists grew the yeast on their own to make enough to feed the honeybees. Then they dried and ground it into a powder to make it easy to add to honeybee food.

Small colonies of honeybees were fed one of three diets for three months. All three diets included hu-

man-made honeybee food with important nutrients like protein. The test diet contained our modified yeast. The other two were the control groups: one diet contained unmodified yeast (without added sterols), and

number of eggs, larvae, and capped pupal cells every 15 minutes. Then they compared the number of eggs, larvae, and pupae for the three diets from Day 45 to Day 91. They also compared the results to data from col-

ditions but that also had access to pollen.

The honeybee food additive can be important for beekeepers to maintain their hives. It will help beekeepers provide food that promotes population growth during

the other did not contain any yeast.

During the feeding period, scientists counted the

onies fed with natural pollen and colonies starved of pollen.

They learned that honeybees require six sterols from pollen. All honeybees used the same sterols, but the amounts of each differed in worker, queen, and male pupae. Scientists discovered that there was no relationship between the number of eggs and diet. However, by Day 75, the colonies fed the mixed-sterol diet had produced more larvae. They found that the mixed-sterol colonies had a greater number of pupae as well. At the end of the experiment, the mixed-sterol colonies had between 10 and 40 capped pupal cells. There were no capped cells in the colonies that received an unmodified yeast diet. There were between one and three capped cells in colonies that received no yeast. The mixed-sterol yeast provided essential nutrients to honeybees. Without the added sterols, the number of honeybees reaching the pupal stage was much lower. The numbers of pupae in the control groups at the end of our experiment matched the numbers in colonies starved of pollen. Adding a mixed-sterol yeast caused more honeybees to reach the pupal stage and survive into adulthood. This is comparable to colonies in similar con-

dearth periods. These are times when there are few to no blooming flowers. Dearth periods occur when it is too hot or too cold for plants to bloom. They also occur when there is a drought. While these periods occur naturally, climate change increases their frequency. Land use changes can also decrease the amount of pollen available. For example, transforming natural areas into cities or farms. Using mixed-sterol yeast can provide the honeybees with the food they need. This will help against the decline of honeybee populations. You can support honeybee populations in your own community. The next time you plant flowers, select bee-friendly plants. These plants will be pollen- and nectar-rich. And many will be native to your area. If you are not sure which plants are the best for your yard, garden, or window boxes, ask at a local garden store. They will help you pick the best plants. You can also keep honeybees healthy by protecting their habitat. Support organisations and Government programmes that protect open spaces. By making sure that there are plenty of bee-friendly flowers in your community, you can help keep local honeybees healthy.

(Adapted from sciencejournalforkids.org)

Pres Ali urges Canadian investors to capitalise on Guyana’s expanding economy

– says investors yet to fully tap into economic potential

Guyana’s rapid transformation demands a reset in the bilateral economic relationship with Canada, especially with the diaspora, according to President Dr Irfaan Ali, who made an appeal for renewed investments and policy engagement with interested investors and the private sector.

“Canada was our largest trading partner. I want to repeat that... and this forum allows us to reflect on that a bit and to see whether we have done enough to respond to the changing opportunities, respond to the changing economic conditions, or respond to the new economy of Canada, and those questions are for us to honestly answer if we are to reset and reposition the opportunities for the Canadian private sector in Guyana,” Ali told a Canadian Business Forum on Friday in Ontario.

He noted that, with all the opportunities in Guyana, alongside Canada sharing 60 years of bilateral partnership, Canadian firms have not maximised the investment prospects.

“Those opportunities are not only in mining. But for this to occur, there must be a reset at the policy level, and our Canadian High Commissioner in Guyana is working towards this reset because the economy is changing and the economy is diversifying, but when you look at the power of Canada in hydroelectricity, grid transformation, the development of smart grids and the development of transmission, you have enormous experience. You have tremendous liquidity waiting to be deployed,” he said.

Missed opportunities in energy infrastructure and pharmaceutical manufacturing, where Canadian firms have global expertise but remain absent from Guyana’s investment landscape, were also pointed out. “Take, for example, the second power plant. We

have two American firms and two firms from across the world... yet you can’t find one Canadian firm,” Ali said. Guyana’s evolution from a little-known nation to a rising global player was reflected upon as Ali noted that this country has consistently “punched above its weight” through innovation and leadership.

Investment prospects

He contrasted Canada’s cautious approach with the more aggressive moves by other partners, including UK Export Finance (UKEF), the ExportImport Bank of the United States (US Exim Bank), and African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), all of which have significantly expanded allocations to Guyana.

Ali outlined a wide spectrum of opportunities for Canadian investors where, in the areas of energy and smart grids, Canada’s expertise in hydroelectricity and grid transformation could be pivotal, while in healthcare and education, partnerships can be forged as Guyana aims to build “the most modern healthcare and education systems in the world”, with export-orientated services.

Agriculture and agro-processing, which sees zero corporate tax and access to a $4 billion CARICOM market, offers unmatched incentives, the President reasoned while he pressed for tourism investments, especially ecobased. That is because the latter remains a priority, with fiscal incentives designed to attract large-scale investment.

“We have massive opportunities in tourism, worldclass opportunities that can build out at scale and that can target your market with the best fiscal incentives in the world. I don’t think there’s anyone who can beat our fiscal incentives on health, education, agriculture, well, the whole food ecosystem, or tourism.

President Ali addressing members of the Guyana-Canada Business Forum

These are low-hanging opportunities,” he said.

Urging Canada to join the Global Biodiversity Alliance, Ali warned that its absence undermines Canada’s climate leadership.

“Some of the most advanced economies and the best institutions in the world are joining that alliance. Canada has not joined as yet, but I believe that it is important for Canada to be part of the Global Biodiversity Alliance because, if Canada projects itself as a leader on environment, climate, and biodiversity, how can it not be part of the Global Biodiversity Alliance?”

“We have to be able to make the case because the Global Biodiversity Alliance unlocks opportunity for a sophisticated climate economy like Canada,” he added.

Manufacturing

On the manufacturing front, the Guyanese Head of State related that medium-sized Canadian enterprises could thrive with Guyana’s falling energy costs and expanding industrial base. But he stressed that Canadian private sector engagement hinges on Government policy. “The private sector follows the Government’s lead,” he said, noting that Canadian

firms quickly align with Ottawa’s trade deals with China or Indonesia.

“If at the Government level we don’t create the lead... then it becomes difficult for the private sector to understand where those opportunities are.” The President also urged that forums like the GuyanaCanada Business Forum must go beyond speeches.

“I don’t want these forums to be captured as just a symposium or an information-sharing platform,” he said. “I believe that these forums must be structured to direct results.” During a wide-ranging question-and-answer session with the business leaders, investors, and diaspora members present, discussions ranged from rapid economic rise, its embrace of artificial intelligence (AI), and the Ali Administration’s push to ensure that development benefits ordinary citizens, a People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) framework designed to build real capacity rather than superficial partnerships.

“We don’t want own-

ership or rental. We want actual involvement,” the President declared, underscoring the importance of local equity in energy and infrastructure ventures. He pointed to Trinidadian firms that once dominated Guyana’s oil services sector but have since partnered with or sold to Guyanese interests, proving that “the ownership structure is geared towards giving realism to the policy itself”.

No gender bias

Women in business were underscored with the President reminding that his Government does not tolerate gender biases in any area. He noted that opportunities are available for all and that in agro-processing here, some 35 per cent is set as the minimum for women-owned businesses.

“I want to say that I don’t discriminate between male and female. I believe that we do women a tremendous injustice when we try to believe that we have to carve out special spaces for them. You have to do it by incentive, but when you do that, we are not celebrating the power of women and what they have done in this world. And the power of women does not rely on handouts. I’ve seen women build businesses. I’ve seen women invest. I’ve seen women deploy their skills. Women do not need handouts. Women are the greatest builders,” he said.

Ali continued, “Today, we have the most women-owned contracting companies in all of the region. Today, we have more lending from the commercial bank to women-owned businesses than any time in the history of our country because women are leading; women are developing.”

Today, 70 per cent or more of all the graduates from

our universities are women. Women are not looking for handouts.”

Healthcare Healthcare of the populace took prominence at the forum as concerns were raised about rising lifestyle diseases amid Guyana’s development boom, but in response, the President acknowledged the challenge, noting that “one of the most important pieces of information to fix this problem is data.” He revealed that Guyana, with Mount Sinai’s support, has completed health analyses of all nursery and primary school children to anticipate longterm trends.

The Government, he noted, is also rolling out containerised self-testing labs where citizens can check blood pressure and sugar levels, feeding into a national database for early intervention. The partnership this country has with Mount Sinai has completed health analyses of all nursery and primary school children, the President noted.

“So, we know in 20 years what type of problems we are looking at. We are now completing the secondary school, and the strategy will be built on data,” he explained. “We are integrating AI and digitisation with this whole process,” Ali said. “It’s intervention, education, management... but unfortunately, we still have a generation that needs urgent intervention.”

And with candour and commitment, he told the cardiologist that he sees a place for him helping Guyana, and this week he [Dr Rambihar] would be receiving an appointment as part of the public health initiative “that we have with public health education at the grassroots level”, the Guyanese leader related.

Farmers trying to manipulate subsidy system will be prosecuted – Mustapha warns

– as Govt rolls out billion-dollar support package for rice farmers

Agriculture Minister

Zulfikar Mustapha on Saturday warned that police could be called in if rice farmers attempt to manipulate the Government’s newly announced subsidy programme by falsely dividing acreage among relatives to qualify for higher payments. The warning came during a farmers’ meeting at Auchlyne Primary School, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), where he addressed concerns surrounding the Government’s multi-billion-dollar support package for rice farmers.

According to Mustapha, the Government has already registered attempts by some farmers to restructure acreage declarations following President Dr Irfaan Ali’s recent announcement that rice farmers cultivating 50 acres or less would receive $15,000

thorities could become involved if there are deliberate attempts to defraud the system. Mustapha said the new assistance programme forms part of a wider effort

would have sold paddy over the last two years, last year, both crops, we gave $300 a bag for every bag of paddy sold to the mill. So, farmers who planted both crops

per acre, while those cultivating more than 50 acres would receive $10,000 per acre.

“Sometimes, we are seeing people who want to cheat the system. They would have planted 100 acres, 150 acres, or 200 acres. And because of the Government announcement, some of them are now trying to say that, look, my wife will plant 50 acres and the son will plant 20 acres; divide it. That can’t work,” Mustapha told farmers.

He explained that the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) already possesses cultivation records for rice farmers across the country and warned that the Government intends for the process to be transparent and accountable.

“GRDB already has a register with the amount of acreage you are cultivating. So, over the years, the amount of acreage you are cultivating, the GRDB has a register,” Mustapha said. At another meeting earlier in Black Bush Polder, the Minister reportedly warned that law enforcement au-

by the Government to cushion the impact of declining paddy prices and rising input costs affecting the rice industry.

“Instead of farmers receiving $4000 a bag for their paddy, they now start receiving $2500 or $2700 a sum,” he said. According to the Minister, the Government has spent the last two years implementing a series of measures aimed at supporting rice farmers, including fertiliser assistance, seed paddy support and direct subsidies linked to paddy sales.

“So, over the last two years, we have tried as much as possible to bring relief to the farmers in terms of helping them with fertilisers, paddy seed, helping them with inputs in the rice industry, things like chemicals, different varieties of seed paddy, and other inputs,” he said.

Mustapha noted that rice farmers also benefited from a subsidy programme tied to paddy sales during the last two crops.

“So, every farmer who

last year would have received $600 for every bag of paddy for last year,” he explained. Mustapha added that the Government had also increased fertiliser support from half a bag per acre to one bag per acre for both rice and cash crop farmers. However, he said interna-

fertiliser normally comes from the areas in the Middle East… and because of that, we have seen fertiliser prices jump from $6000 to almost $10,000 a bag or more,” Mustapha said. He said the Government is now examining options to source cheaper fertiliser supplies ahead of the second rice crop of 2026.

“We are looking to see if we can get cheaper fertiliser for the new crop or the second crop of 2026,” he said. President Dr Irfaan Ali announced on April 30 that the Government would provide $3 billion in support to rice farmers. Farmers cultivating 50 acres or less are to receive $15,000 per acre, while those with more than 50 acres are to receive $10,000 per acre. President Ali said the assistance is intended for farmers actively cultivating rice and not absentee landowners.

The announcement was linked to rising input costs, shipping challenges, fuel and fertiliser pressures, and wider global disruptions affecting the rice sector. Mustapha, on Saturday, defended the Government’s continued investment in agriculture, saying the sector remains critical to Guyana’s long-term economic stability

tional conflicts have significantly increased fertiliser prices globally.

“We had the UkraineRussia war to deal with when the input costs would have gone up too, because Ukraine produced a lot of fertiliser. But most of our

Dealing with…

…Duplicitous Delcy

You, Dear Readers, might think your Eyewitness has it in for Devious, Duplicitous Delcy – and you’d be right!! But his antipathy didn’t begin with her being catapulted into the hot seat from which her boss, Mad Maduro, had been ejected by Pres Trump. It burst forth when she was chosen as Mad Maduro’s spear carrier to the World Court – as he escalated Venezuela’s campaign across all fronts to seize our Essequibo!! That’s right… It was Delcy who schizophrenically played the “good lawyer; bad lawyer” charade in front of the ICJ Judges – pleading from one side of her mouth as to how Venezuela wuz robbed by perfidious Britain and from the other side that she didn’t even accept their jurisdiction over the matter!!

Now – as he warned yesterday – we gotta expect that Dubious Delcy’s gonna be attacking on all fronts, knowing fully well that Venezuela’s “case” was never one as such – just a concocted “controversy” – and the ICJ will rule in our favour. Now a modern state has at its disposal power through its DIME national resources – Diplomacy, Intelligence, Military and Economic – and Deceitful Delcy will be using them all!! On the diplomatic front we’ve already seen her courting of members of CARICOM –supposedly our closest diplomatic allies – with Grenada’s Dickon and Barbados simpering over her brooch that signalled Venezuela’s annexation of Essequibo!! Expect more courtings – so we gotta counter, using Trinidad’s stance as the model we should reward!!

The big enchilada and whale, however, is President Trump – who holds practically all the cards over Devious Delcy!! She had to’ve signed on to the former’s invasion plan long before it was launched!! The Yanks weren’t gonna remove the centre of Venezuelan power without having someone to fill that vacuum!! To do so would’ve encouraged diehard Chavistas in the army to make their move!!

Meanwhile, she’s not only doing whatever Pres Trump asks – like opening up the oil, mining and other business opportunities to the Yanks – but has also become one of his biggest boosters. At a function early this month welcoming two-billion-dollar oil investors – including Hunt Oil – on the inaugural daily flight of American Airlines between Miami and Caracas, she coyly burst out:

“Please tell President Trump, WHO IS A MAN OF ACTION, that in Venezuela there are men and women of action but also of their word. And we have made a commitment to build solid, long-term relations between the US and Venezuela.” Trump’s rep replied that the White House is looking to promote oil, gas, and mining investments!!

So to those who’re criticising Pressie for opening up to investments from the Yanks – this not only addresses the latter’s concerns about Chinese investments but also counters Dirty Delcy’s manoeuvres!!

…mothers’ love

Today being Mother’s Day, your Eyewitness offers excerpts from Sundar Popo’s classic, “A Mother’s Love”: “Your mother’s love should never forget;/ The wrong things you do, child, you’re bound to regret. (twice). / Many nights she lost her rest to nurse you from her breast;/ Many nights she woke up late and put you to rest. / Many nights she grieves to see you grow from infancy;/ And many nights she wanted to know what will you be. / So, use your conscience and sympathy/ God said to worship she and then go to He.

You may be the one they call Your Majesty;/ You may have money in a large quantity, / You may have friends in a high society;/ Don’t be too proud to know whatever you may be, / You may have riches to comfort your soul;/ But your mother is the master key of this world.

despite the growth of the oil and gas industry.

“As a Government, we see agriculture as one of the bedrocks of our country’s economy. As long as oil and gas could finish, agriculture will remain,” he told farmers.

Never treat your mother bad, never make her sad;/ Make your mother happy and glad, she’ll never wish you bad. / Never treat your mother bad, never make her sad;/ Make your mother happy and glad, she’ll never wish you bad. / You never miss the water ‘til the wells run dry

Just like your mother when she closes her eyes.”

Happy Mother’s Day!!

Venezuela’s Claim: Political, Not Legal

Even though Mallet-Prevost’s posthumous allegation, released in 1949, that the 1899 Arbitral Award on the Venezuelan Border was marred by collusion between the British and Russian arbitrators, Venezuela only created the present border controversy on August 18, 1962, by claiming before the UN General Assembly that the Award was “null and void”. The timing of their claim reveals that their motive was political opportunism rather than legal bona fides.

Venezuela also had a border dispute with its eastern neighbour Colombia that had been submitted to Spain for settlement in 1891. The results of that arbitration award in 1898 were mostly in Colombia’s favour, and Venezuela claimed the Colombians had unduly influenced the Spanish Queen, asserting they had evidence of collusion. A demarcation was conducted in 1907, but disputes led to the Swiss being called in to mediate a border agreement by 1922, which was demarcated in 1932. Another dispute necessitated further negotiations in 1941, resulting in another demarcation, which Venezuela again protested as a “sell-out” to Colombia. But Venezuela never raised this dispute at the UN as it did with the controversy it manufactured over our Essequibo border. Why? The latter was a low-hanging political, not legal, fruit.

What were the political factors motivating Venezuela? Firstly, after decades of dictatorships, democratic governance was introduced in 1958 with the election of Romulo Betancourt, leading to great expectations of improvement in living conditions. When these failed to materialise, armed leftist insurrections inspired by Castro’s exploits in Cuba were launched by several groups, such as the Revolutionary Left Movement (MIR), based near the Guyanese border. Betancourt’s energies began to be increasingly consumed trying to contain the “communist terrorist threat”. Similar movements were also launched in several other Latin American countries, and the US, under JFK, launched USAID and the Alliance for Progress to counter “the spread of communism in the Western Hemisphere”.

In Guyana, Jagan’s PPP won the August 1961 General Elections and expected they would lead Guyana to independence from the British. When the US expressed concerns about Cheddi Jagan and his “communist” inclinations after JFK’s meeting with the latter on October 25, 1961, these would have matched Betancourt’s fears of an independent Guyana providing a sanctuary to Venezuelan leftist “terrorists”. President Kennedy visited Venezuela and met Betancourt on December 16-17, 1961, to promote his anticommunist Alliance for Progress. The very next day, on December 18, Jagan addressed the 4th Committee of the United Nations, calling for the British Government to decide on a date for independence. By that time, the US, via JFK, had convinced the British, via PM Macmillan, to hold off granting independence to British Guiana, which had been promised by 1962. On February 19, 1962, there were CIA-AFL/CIO-inspired “Black Friday” riots in Georgetown. MIR was banned by the Venezuelan Government in May 1962.

It was against this background that Venezuela raised its border controversy at the UNGA in August 1962 as a political strategy to kill two birds with one stone: rally Venezuelans on a nationalistic line against “perfidious Albion” for elections due in 1963 and preempt a “communist threat” on its eastern border. They would have calculated that the Americans would not oppose them because of their common concern. They were also holding a seat on the UN Security Council during 1962 and may have felt they were in a stronger position to raise their border controversy then. They would have also calculated that to maintain their credentials in the Non-Aligned Movement, it was better to tweak the British Lion’s tail than to be seen bullying a small, newly independent Guyana.

While the US-UK combine eventually prevailed in installing the PNC into office in December 1964, before independence was eventually conferred on May 26, 1966, they went along with Venezuela’s request for a re-examination of the historical documents and outlining a procedure for dealing with the controversy Venezuela had created over the finality of the 1899 Arbitral Award. The Geneva Agreement, as it was dubbed, was reached in February 1966, three months before independence.

Five months later, Venezuela invaded and occupied our half of Ankoko Island as an intimidatory measure, but Guyana correctly refused to enter into any subsequent negotiations with Venezuela – either directly or through arbitrators, as Colombia did. After a long and tortuous process dictated by the Geneva Agreement over the status of the Arbitral Award, the controversy was turned over to the ICJ in 2018 by the UN Secretary-General. And judgement for us is nigh!!

Guyana advocates diplomacy, sovereignty during WWII anniversary event

Prime Minister (PM)

Brigadier (Ret’d)

Mark Phillips, performing the function of President, attended a reception on Friday evening to commemorate the 81st Victory Day Anniversary of the Second World War at the Russian Embassy in Georgetown. The PM, during his address to the gathering, honoured the memory of those who gave their lives during the Second World War and acknowledged the immense sacrifices made across the Soviet Union and among all Allied nations.

“In hindsight, this was not the achievement of any single nation. It was a collective victory, one forged through shared sacrifice,

resilience and an unyielding commitment to a common purpose. That lesson remains as relevant today as it was in 1945,” he noted. The end of the war remains a defining moment in history, not only because of its military significance but also because of the principles it helped to preserve.

He also reflected on Guyana’s place in that history, noting that although Guyana is a small nation, its contribution to the wider Allied effort remains a source of national pride. Phillips noted that the occasion also served as a reminder that every nation, regardless of size or geography, has a role to play in advancing peace and safeguarding the values that bind the international community.

“Guyana continues to support a global order rooted in cooperation, mutual respect, and dialogue. We believe firmly that diplomacy must remain at the forefront of efforts to address conflict and preserve peace. On this basis, Guyana reiterates its firm commitment to the rules-based international order as an essential system for fostering human progress, international

peace, and comity.”

The acting Head of State noted, however, that cooperation, collective action and respect for the sovereignty of all peoples remain central to building a more peaceful and equitable world. “Let us work together to ensure that the sacrifices of those who came before us were not in vain and that future generations inherit a world that is peaceful, just, and secure.”

Phillips was accompanied by his wife, Mignon BowenPhillips, and Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, who is also acting as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Ministry of Tourism to focus on AI to improve service delivery

The Tourism, Industry and Commerce

Ministry is moving toward adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance customer service delivery in Guyana. This was according to Subject Minister Susan Rodrigues when she appeared on the Guyana Dialogue Show on Thursday evening, where she was asked about how youths are being involved in technology and social media and how these platforms are changing the way Guyana markets itself to the world. The Minister noted that social media is now an unavoidable part of modern society.

“Social media is not something that we can run away from in today’s world,” she stated.

She explained that while there is a clear distinction between real customer service and artificial systems, AI and social media can play a supportive role in strengthening the tourism sector.

seamlessly book flights, book accommodation, and view and possibly interact with tour operators so that they can curate an itinerary,” Rodrigues added.

However, she emphasised that once visitors arrive in Guyana, the focus must remain on human interaction and experience.

“But once you get to that destination, it’s all about the human experience. It’s about ensuring an immersive experience. Customer service plays a huge role in that. Technology can never replace the human element that tourism offers,” she added. The Minister also stressed the need to upgrade

tinue to train people,” she said. She noted that Guyana has already trained thousands of individuals over the past five years, with more than 8500 people receiving training in areas such as customer service, financial management and planning, CPR, food handling, mixology and other tourism and hospitality-related fields.

According to her, these programmes are aimed at strengthening the human element within the industry,

reinforcing that while technology continues to advance, it cannot replace the importance of human interaction in tourism and hospitality. Rodrigues further noted that while the online space can be challenging, particularly for adolescents and young people, it also presents significant opportunities for promoting businesses and creative ventures.

She highlighted that social media has been effectively used to expand reach

and connect with global audiences, helping to increase visibility for Guyana. She added that this digital presence has been instrumental in strengthening the country’s international profile, with continued efforts being made to position Guyana as a destination of choice through investment in events and tourism experiences that attract visitors for cultural and promotional purposes.

Gov’t halts Reg 4 awarding of small contracts for additional transparency checks

tourism industry. We have every intention of ensuring that we can leverage AI to improve service delivery in terms of booking a destination and curating itineraries so we can reach people using technology and help them

“Artificial intelligence or AI and social media could never replace customer service. Many people ask how AI is going to change the

the service sector through continued investment in training and capacity building.

“We will have to invest in improving our service sector. We have to invest in capacity building. We have to con-

The Government on Saturday announced that a decision has been taken to suspend the awarding of contracts for small contractors undertaking projects valued at $15 million and under so that further verifications and checks could be conducted.

According to the Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill, the Government over the last several months engaged in a public pre-qualification process for small contractors undertaking projects aimed at enhancing transparency, ensuring fairness and accountability, and promoting widespread participation and involvement in national development opportunities.

He added that this is in keeping with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration’s manifesto promise as a measure of empowering small contractors.

This process, which was noticed by all and open to all, commenced on March 2, 2026, and ended on April 6, 2026.

In a missive to the public, the Minister added

that pre-qualification was published on the recently launched centralised procurement website (eprocure. gov.gy), designed to make all public procurement opportunities easier to access, as well as in the customary daily newspapers.

As such, a team comprising both technical staff and Government Ministers conducted verification exercises on the ground to scrutinise the list for various errors and anomalies, including duplicate submissions and same-family/household ownership of businesses/companies, with the aim of ensuring no family or individual was benefiting unduly to the detriment of others.

“Over the last few days, Phase One of awards/signing of contracts was initiated in a public manner with the utilisation of public spaces. This phase involved the award of contracts for projects being executed by the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development through its regional offices,” the release added.

However, during that

process in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), he reported that several complaints were received, and based on information reviewed, a decision was taken to suspend the process until further verifications and checks are conducted.

“The Government of Guyana, through its various procuring agencies and Ministries, will continue the engagement as soon as it can be ascertained that all issues raised are satisfactorily addressed,” the Minister stated.

Further, he reiterated that this massive undertaking, with the engagement and evaluation of more than 10,000 persons who submitted applications utilising the aforementioned online platform, should not be seen as a simple task.

“Our promise to the people of Guyana will be fulfilled – ensuring equal opportunities, equal access, and advancing the vision of One Guyana, where every citizen, regardless of background or region, can share in the nation’s progress and prosperity,” Minister Edghill related.

Internationally acclaimed Caribbean soca groovy powerhouse KestheBand has sent the internet into a frenzy, delivering a vibrant and culturally rich performance for their electrifying debut on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts. Recorded at NPR Music Headquarters in Washington, DC, the globally renowned series is currently celebrating 18 years of spotlighting worldwide music excellence.

KestheBand’s Tiny Desk performance is a seamless, high-energy medley that

showcases the depth and evolution of their genre-bending sound. The set featured reimagined fan favourites and timeless classics including “Hello”, “Fallin”, “Rum and Coca Cola”, “Jolene”, “Cocoa Tea”, “Wotless”, and “Savannah Grass”. Each track flows effortlessly into the next, generating high energy from the audience and creating an immersive experience that celebrates the band’s popularity and global appeal.

A defining highlight of the performance is its au-

thentic representation of Caribbean unity through Soca music. The set is elevated by the powerful presence of backup vocalists Teddyson John of Saint Lucia and Terri Lyons, Trinidad and Tobago’s Calypso Monarch 2026 –both widely recognised as cultural ambassadors in their own right. Their inimitable contributions add depth, soul, and regional pride to an already magnetic showcase. Bringing a seamless blend between vocals and instrumentation,

every note and harmony of the performance moves in perfect sync.

Rich live arrangements –including the addition of the

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It doesn’t take four months to bake a loaf of bread or a cupcake, but rushing the process often means the results won’t turn out the way you expect. However, dedicating four months to mastering the art of freshly baked cuisine every day can put someone on the path to becoming one of the best bakers in the field.

This is the story of 24-year-old Nandanie

A BIRTHDAY CAKE PREPARED BY NANDANIE SHAIRALLI

of her time to learning the craft of baking,

quietly grinding and building her skills like a diamond under pressure.

To better understand Shairalli’s story, one should know that she has her roots in the cosmetology industry, having entered the field eight years ago. She is a certified cosmetologist and is currently pursuing Level Two in her makeup journey. While baking is now her current passion, she made it clear that her professional background is

diverse and multifaceted. According to her, this journey, which ultimately led to the creation of her business, began in her mother’s kitchen, where she experimented using her mother’s utensils and ingredients.

She explained that although operations began on December 1, the business was officially registered in January. She further revealed that both her brother and mother inspired her to pursue the venture, noting that watching YouTube videos and similar content also motivated and guided her journey. However, even before posting anything on her social media pages, she said her start was one of trial and error with her own recipes.

“That’s how I reached out. But before I started to put out stuff on the internet, I tried to make my own recipe and menu – my own stuff –before I put it out on the market. That’s how I started to build my customers through social media.” She explained that her mother is a baker, and she drew inspiration from her, as well as from her husband and her brother, who is currently a chef.

TURN TO PAGE 23

She noted that her family played a key role in motivating her to pursue baking. When asked why she left her previous job, she said she wanted to experience something different and gain broader work exposure. She stated that she previously worked as a pharmacy assistant and cashier but decided to resign in order to gain more experience outside of that field, explaining that she did not want to limit herself professionally.

“Yes, in four months, I put out a lot of work, effort, energy – everything. I stopped working and then started baking in like one week. After I quit my job, nothing came to mind about what I wanted to do. I just sat down one day and said, ‘Let me get up and go in the kitchen and just start.’”

Among the treats she offers are mini cupcakes, champagne glass cheesecake with spoon, popcorn cups (baby-themed blue/ pink, etc.), wafer rolls, tres leches, Oreo crunch, rice crispy cake pops, cakesicles, strawberry-cov-

CUPCAKES PREPARED BY NANDANIE SHAIRALLI FOR A BIRTHDAY EVENT

ered cheesecake cupcakes, chocolate churros, jumbo marshmallow pops, chocolate-covered marshmallow pops, and wafer drizzle kits, which include 18 wafers, two packs of sprinkles, chocolate/icing, piping bags, among other things.

She revealed that she recently created a business page but usually operates everything through WhatsApp. She added that she was never someone who used to post publicly before. Describing the taste of her products, she said they carry a unique flavour and texture.

“So far, my product is different from what I’m using. The flavour, the texture – everything has a different taste. Mine might not taste like how other persons make theirs, and theirs might not taste like mine. But so far, everybody gives me good compliments about it. So, when I’m doing cake and all those things, I stick to the recipe that I’m using.”

She explained that she focuses on all aspects of baking, including buttercream, icing, frosting and

coatings, and that she works with her imagination while maintaining one core flavour style. This, she said, allows her to meet customer requests exactly – for example, producing six items when a customer orders six – rather than working in large, impersonal batches.

She also spoke about the challenges she faced when starting out, particularly with mixing buttercream. At times, she said, it would become too runny and fail to hold its design, causing it to drip. She added that cakes would occasionally overbake, but she emphasised that she tests everything before releasing products to customers to avoid disappointment. Shairalli also stated that she firmly believes that when one door closes, many more open and expressed excitement about new opportunities and “advantages” on the horizon. She added that she is deeply grateful for how far she has come and remains committed to continued growth and success.

“God sent me back here because I was almost gone” – accident victim –

still seeks justice 7 months after near-fatal smash-up

It has been almost seven months since 39-year-old Ryan Sarjoo of Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD), gained the slightest bit of closure following a tragic accident that occurred in the vicinity of Victory Valley along the Timehri Public Road.

At the time of the accident, Sarjoo was driving

out of Victory Valley in his Toyota Allion bearing registration number PNN 7566 when a minibus reportedly stopped to allow him onto the main access road. But as he was doing so, another car reportedly overtook the minibus and slammed into his car with tremendous force, pushing it more than 60 feet away and wrecking

the vehicle with him inside. It is alleged that the driver of the vehicle was identified as Saif Lumelino, who was driving a black Audi at the time of the accident.

The crash ultimately left Sarjoo unconscious and hospitalised. He suffered severe head injuries, internal bleeding, and several other complications. Moments after the accident, witnesses and relatives who saw the wreckage feared the worst.

After weeks in the hospital and attending therapy, the father of two made a miraculous recovery, stunning those around him. The owner of Body Max Gym stated that his toned body was tough enough to withstand the impact of the accident. During a telephone interview with the Guyana Times, Sarjoo, who is presently employed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), recalled that moment of darkness in his life.

“A bus stopped to allow me to come out from the street, and a car from behind it was speeding and hit me; he knocked me directly on my right-hand side. I had already cleared the lane onto the next lane, so if he hadn’t overtaken my vehicle on the double line, he wouldn’t have hit me. So, when I cleared the bus, it was on the opposite side of

the road.”

Even with all the evidence that he stated he provided to the court, he revealed that no justice was granted to him or even any assurance of compensation for the complications he faced.

“All this happened to me, and the court said I don’t have any evidence and dismissed the case. I’m suffering from brain injuries, a broken foot, and medical issues. Guyana doesn’t have a justice system; people who record or take pictures are not valid if they don’t testify. I was unconscious for two months; it’s like I wasn’t supposed to record my accident.”

He further cited the speed limit for the Timehri roadway, stating that the driver who hit him was clearly in the wrong.

“Timehri is a 50-mph speed zone, and he was going faster than that; he was speeding and had a child in

the front seat. Guyana is not a real country. Multiple accidents and robberies take place every day. My car was written off with me inside, and I still can’t get any justice or compassion from the

“God sent me back here...

“It’s like whatever pain I go through, even now, I still can’t walk properly because my ankle broke. My shinbone broke too. My left foot still has scars running through it. My entire foot was damaged. They ended up charging me instead for dangerous driving when I wasn’t even driving dangerously. Everything happened there, and I wasn’t even compensated. They didn’t even tell me, ‘Ryan, sorry,’ and they know me because all of us are Timehri people.” To this day, he said he remains confused about the outcome of the matter and is daily seeking more answers regarding the unjust hand he was dealt in this entire tragedy.

“I want to know how I got charged with dangerous driving because he overtook on the double line and he was speeding. I have video footage of everything, and he had his son in the front seat while he was speeding. When I went to court, they told me that whatever video footage I had could not stand in court. I have about forty inches of medical papers showing my head in-

juries and everything else. The sickening part is that nothing came out of this, and I ended up being the one blamed while nothing came out of the story.”

One of the most heart-breaking things about his situation, he said, was that he was unable to witness his daughter’s fifth birthday because he was hospitalised at the time.

“Put it like this: God sent me back here because I was almost gone. The hurtful part is my daughter’s birthday was on the 14th of October, and do you know what hurt me? Daddy wasn’t even there for her birthday.” Today, Sarjoo is still in immense pain, especially if it rains. He cannot do things he was accustomed to doing prior to the accident, and

more importantly, his headaches are excruciating at various intervals. With a new lease on life, he is thankful to be home with his family, whom he describes as very supportive, especially his wife, parents and siblings. They stood by his side during the trying moments, and he does not have words to express his gratitude toward them.

Multiple homes, businesses go up in flames at Apaiqua Landing

Afire of unknown origin on Friday evening destroyed several homes and businesses at Apaiqua Landing, Mazaruni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), leaving several families displaced and millions in losses.

According to reports, some nine buildings were destroyed in the inferno, affecting both residential and commercial properties within the community. More than twenty persons have been displaced as a result of the fire.

Minister of Home

Affairs Oneidge Walrond and Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat visited the devastation on Saturday, where they met with residents and business owners impacted by the disaster.

In a brief statement from the location, Minister Waldron said the Government team was dispatched on the instructions of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali to assess the situation and coordinate immediate support for those affected.

“The incident resulted

Berbice duo busted with 100lbs of cocaine

destined

for Europe

Two individuals were taken into custody on Friday following the discovery of over 45 kilograms (kg) of cocaine and an illegal firearm during an operation conducted by the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) in Berbice. According to reports, agents acting on information received conducted an intelligence-led operation at a property in Springlands, Corriverton, Berbice, which resulted in the seizure of the cocaine and the discovery of an illegal firearm with ammunition.

CANU stated that 40 brick-like parcels containing a whitish substance suspected to be cocaine were found in two cardboard boxes. The substance was subsequently tested positive for cocaine. A subsequent search led to the discovery of an EKOL ASI UZI firearm fitted with a magazine containing a quantity of ammunition. The two individuals who were on the premises at the time of the operation were arrested and escorted to CANU Headquarters along with the narcotics and firearm. The narcotics were weighed subsequently and amounted to 45.644 kg (approximately 100 pounds)

in the destruction of nine buildings and displaced more than twenty persons. Our thoughts remain with the families and business owners impacted during this difficult time,” the Minister noted. She added that officials are currently on the ground assessing the extent of the damage and working to coordinate relief efforts where possible. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.

Mustapha announces major irrigation canal, support for rice farmers during Corentyne outreach

and carry a street value of $50 million locally and almost €1.575 million in the European market since preliminary investigations indicate that the shipment was destined for Europe. The seizure highlights CANU’s continued commitment to disrupting transnational narcotics trafficking networks, intercepting illicit drug shipments destined for international markets and removing illegal firearms from communities.

CANU further reiterates that intelligence-led operations and regional cooperation remain critical in safeguarding Guyana’s borders and national security.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, on Saturday, spearheaded an outreach across the Corentyne Coast, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), where he met with residents and farmers from several villages.

At Crabwood Creek, during his meeting with those in attendance, he disclosed that work on the construction of a major irrigation canal from the Canje Creek to Crabwood Creek to provide reliable irrigation water for farmers in the area will commence next week.

He, however, addressed the multi-billion-dollar assistance package for rice farmers that was recently announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali during a meeting at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

Minister Mustapha emphasised that the programme will be implement-

ed with full transparency and accountability while explaining that the verification process will utilise records from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB).

Additionally, small committees have been established within the regional system to identify and verify the acreage cultivated by farmers. He said the verification exercise is expected to be completed by the end of the month.

Further, he told the farmers that systems are being developed through the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC) to secure markets for farmers’ produce, noting that extension officers are already engaging farmers and providing guidance on crops that are in demand and can be marketed more easily.

Meanwhile, over at Black Bush Polder, pesti-

farmer in Black Bush Polder will benefit from the initiative, which forms part of a broader intervention aimed at ensuring that agricultural chemicals are stored in a safe and secure manner.

“Black Bush Polder is one of our largest agricultural communities, and we want to ensure that the chemicals used in farming are stored safely and responsibly. These cabinets are not only important for occupational safety and protecting families, but they also form part of our efforts to address

cide and toxic chemical storage cabinets were distributed to farmers as part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to promote safe agricultural practices and protect communities.

At that meeting, the Minister disclosed that approximately $35 million will be expended to construct and distribute the cabinets to farmers across the scheme.

He explained that every

the high rate of suicide in the community by reducing easy access to toxic substances,” Mustapha stated. He further assured farmers that the Government remains committed to supporting agricultural communities through interventions that improve safety, productivity, and the overall well-being of residents.

Lead vocalist of KestheBand, Kees Dieffenthaller, reflects on the historic moment for the band, memorialising it as “a full-circle moment of fulfilment” for the beloved Trinbagonian group.

“Performing at Tiny Desk is an incredible honour that we’ve dreamt of for a very long time. This moment is a powerful reminder of how far Caribbean music can travel when it stays true to its roots. To strip it down, feel every note, and share that energy with the world in such an intimate space – it’s something we’ll carry with us for the rest of this journey.”

Dieffenthaller lauded the experience – which amasses 20 million monthly viewers – as a platform

that values authenticity and musical storytelling.

“We are vessels of sound and song, and this moment is so much bigger than us: it’s about our culture, our people, and the joyful connection we bring through music.”

NPR Tiny Desk host and series producer Bobby Carter praises the masterful performance, stating that “KestheBand brings something truly special to the NPR Tiny Desk – a sound that feels both deeply rooted and globally resonant. Ahead of Caribbean American Heritage Month, celebrated across the United States throughout June, this performance is a celebration of Caribbean culture in its most dynamic form.”

The outstanding showcase comes as KestheBand completes the European/ UK leg of the “Roots, Rock, Soca” tour, which officially kicked off in Paris, France, on April 30th – including historic sold-out dates in London and a double-run in Amsterdam.

The tour, hosted in collaboration with Live Nation and WME, is set to kickstart its North American journey with Seattle, Washington, on May 28 and marks the beginning of an expansive international journey connecting audiences through Caribbean sound and spirit.

As NPR Tiny Desk continues its legacy of elevating diverse voices from around the world, KestheBand’s iconic performance stands as a powerful testament to

stage tonight, the NPR Tiny Desk performance showcases the band’s love for Caribbean music. Together, they continue spread-

ing their signature sound across continents and borders, uniting audiences through rhythm, energy, and culture.

Local artists took centre stage over the weekend at the “Taste of Guyana and Art Live” exposition that is being held along Main Street Avenue leading up to Guyana’s 60th independence anniversary. The event showcases a vibrant platform to gain wider public recognition while celebrating the richness, diversity and originality of Guyana’s artistic talent.

This two-day event, which is the brainchild of the

tunities for local creatives and expanding their reach. Guyana’s 2026 budget allocates $3.7 billion to the orange economy, aimed at boosting creative industries, culture, and entertainment as key economic drivers. The event showcases work from artists affiliated with the Burrowes School of Art and other creative groups.

Speaking at the event, Minister Jacobs said the initiative reflects Guyana’s vast cultural identity and the

ativity, culture and artistic expression in one shared space. He singled out the Burrowes School of Art for its role in organising the initiative, commending the institution for its longstanding contribution to the local creative sector. Jacobs also highlighted that the school recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, describing it as a significant milestone in the development of art in Guyana.

“There’s something that

Minister within the Ministry of Sports, Youth and Culture, Steven Jacobs, forms part of a broader initiative aimed at creating greater oppor-

spirit of the One Guyana vision. He noted that the event serves as a reflection of national unity by bringing together diverse forms of cre-

we really need to be proud of. Today, Main Street becomes more than just a roadway. It transforms into a creative hub, showcasing the talent,

culture, and artistic expression of the Guyanese people through painting, drawing, textiles, ceramics, leather crafts, sculpture and fashion design,” he stated.

“Our artists are demonstrating the power of art to inspire, educate and unite communities across generations and backgrounds. We are especially pleased to recognise the participation and contribution of the Burrowes School of Art, an institution that has played a significant role in nurturing and developing artistic talent in Guyana for decades,” he added.

The Minister further stated that the Government remains committed to creating and maintaining spaces for creatives to showcase and earn from their work. While noting that the Main Street event is the first of its kind in this format, he emphasised that artists and craft vendors have long been displaying and selling their work along Main Street and should continue to receive public support. Meanwhile, this publication caught up with one of the pottery instructors, Don Isaacs, who noted that the richness and talent emerging from the Burrowes School of Art are finally being brought into the spotlight.

“It feels exciting to be here, especially since many may have heard about the process and exposure, but now they can experience it first-hand – seeing how pottery is created from beginning to end. It is amazing that people can finally see how powerful and meaningful things can be created from clay,” he said.

He added that art is highly inclusive and demonstrated this through live engagement on Main Street while encouraging early exposure for children.

“Right here on Main Street, I want to build a pottery foundation where peo-

ple can experience designing pottery and even specialise in it. It’s good for young people, and parents should encourage their children to get involved. They can use their hands to create so many things. It is very therapeutic, I can tell you that, and I would encourage persons to get into it.”

Meanwhile, another artist from the Burrowes School of Art – Vandike David – ex-

thing we have been longing for a long time. We have youths around us, and ceramics is very eye-catching, especially on the potter’s wheel. Once completed, pieces can even be sold. It captures the attention of both children and adults and encourages them to get involved. I am glad the Ministry has put this on public display, and I am looking forward to more events like this.”

plained his pottery process.

“So basically, my task here today on Main Street is to demonstrate that pottery is a very delicate process. It requires a lot of concentration, and not everyone can easily focus on it. We source clay from the East Bank or the Linden Highway – basically anywhere construction is taking place, we ask them to donate some.”

He added that pottery is visually engaging and can also provide income opportunities. “I think this is some-

Apart from the art, many Guyanese also showcase various African prints, and the culinary arts were in full force – from the traditional Amerindian cuisines to the most contemporary style of cooking that definitely took a toll on the taste buds. While window shopping or grabbing a piece to munch on, the sweet combination of drums and guitars filled the air with some soothing music that set the Guyana tone of rich cultural heritage.

41 units completed in Bartica CHPA Housing Development

- Agreements of Sale, processing of Certificates of Title to begin within 2 weeks

Residents of Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), who were allocated housing units within the Block CHPA Development, will soon receive their ownership documents, enabling them to officially occupy their new homes.

The announcement was made by Housing Minister Collin Croal during an on-site inspection to assess the progress of construction works. The housing development

features both bungalow and V-roof designs.

Minister Croal disclosed that 41 of the 55 housing units have already been completed while adding that the agency was forced to retender for 10 units following the termination of a previous contract.

For persons who have already been allocated units, the Minister indicated that the next phase, involving the signing of Agreements of Sale (AoS) and the processing of

Certificates of Title, is expected to commence within the next two weeks.

Additionally, Croal noted that the agency will now be moving forward with other applicants within Region Seven who had indicated their interest in built units. These persons are expected to commence the process for bank pre-approvals and pre-qualifications.

He further explained that efforts will intensify in the

coming weeks to facilitate occupancy within the development, as the first phase of infrastructure works, including electricity and water services, has already been completed.

Importantly, the project continues to create employment and stimulate economic activity within the region, as construction works are being executed by local contractors.

While noting that this housing initiative is relatively new to Bartica, Minister Croal stated that the Government will assess the public response before determining the construction of additional housing units in the area.

The total investment in housing and infrastructure for the Block CHPA development is approximately $13 million. The V-roof two-bedroom units, which include a kitchen and bathroom, are priced at $11 million.

Projects engineer Jamaal Brotherson also highlighted that one of the housing models includes a three-bedroom bungalow and V-roof design measuring 24 by 36 feet, complete with tiled ceilings, toilet and

Mining equipment seized as MNR cracks down on illegal discharge of waste materials

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), through the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), earlier this week seized over a dozen pieces of mining equipment as part of ongoing efforts to curb the illegal discharge of waste materials at the Walabaka Basin in the North West District (NWD), Region One (Barima-Waini).

In a statement on Saturday, the Ministry said it was forced to take this enforcement action to address the continued illegal discharge of tailings (waste materials) by errant miners within the Walabaka Four Miles area in Mining District No. 5.

"The [GGMC] team has since taken the necessary enforcement action to remedy the situation. To date, more than 15 pieces of mining equipment, including engines, excavators, and pumps, have been seized. This enforcement exercise remains ongoing," the MNR indicated on Saturday.

According to the missive, the Walabaka Basin has been a source of concern since late 2022 due to persistently high levels of turbidity, commonly referred to as muddy water, resulting from mining activity

within the area.

Over the past several months, however, the Mines Technical and Environmental departments of the GGMC have been working with operators to improve the containment of tailings and prevent the release of sediment-laden water into nearby waterways.

But despite these interventions, the Ministry said some errant miners continued to directly discharge tailings and release turbid water from holding ponds into the Walabaka Creek. This, it noted, has had a direct impact on Pump Creek, where the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) pumps water for treatment and distribution to residents of Port Kaituma.

Against this backdrop, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, along with Housing Minister Collin Croal, visited the area and issued a stern warning to miners who were contributing to the pollution.

It was noted that the miners were given two weeks to bring their operations into compliance and were clearly advised that failure to take corrective action would result in consequences.

"Despite this caution, the

reckless discharge continued," the Natural Resources Ministry stated, adding that the situation caused hundreds of residents in Port Kaituma to be affected by GWI's inability to supply water due to the high levels of turbidity caused by irresponsible miners.

In response, the GGMC enforcement team, supported by members of the Guyana Police Force, was deployed to the Walabaka area on May 4 to take the necessary enforcement action.

Nevertheless, the MNR has made it clear that while mining remains an important pillar of Guyana's economy, it must be conducted responsibly and in full compliance with the law.

"Operators are required to take all necessary steps to prevent environmental damage, protect water sources, and safeguard the health and well-being of communities.

The Ministry, through the GGMC, will continue to monitor the Walabaka drainage basin and other mining areas across the country to ensure compliance with environmental and mining regulations. Operators who continue to act in disregard of the law will be held accountable," Saturday's statement detailed.

Moreover, the Ministry went on to assure residents of Port Kaituma and surrounding communities that their concerns are being treated with urgency. It further reiterated that the Guyanese Government remains committed to ensuring that mining development does not come at the expense of public health,

clean water access, or environmental protection.

In recent months, the Government has been aggressively working to streamline the rapidly expanding mining sector with increased environmental regulations, enforcement actions against illegal operators, and pushing for more sustainable practices in the sector.

Just last month, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Yang Yang had underscored the importance of the mining industry moving away from traditional practices towards a more environmentally friendly method.

She made these remarks during the recent commis-

sioning of the 49.4-megawatt (MW) Aurora Solar Farm at the Aurora Gold Mine site in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) on April 8.

According to Ambassador Yang, this project marks a solid step forward for Aurora toward low-carbon transformation and green mining development.

"Green mining is, above all, about changing the way development is pursued. Modern mining must move away from the old model of high consumption and high emissions. It must strive for resource conservation, environmental protection, and long-term sustainability. A modern mine should create

not only economic value but also environmental value and social value," the Chinese diplomat contended.

Meanwhile, later, the Iwokrama International Centre announced that three foreign nationals were fined under the GGMC Act and sentenced to five months' imprisonment each for illegal mining activities.

The two Brazilian and one Venezuelan nationals were arrested last December after being caught red-handed operating illegal gold mining operations in the Iwokrama Forest Protected Area. They were sentenced on April 16.

Bystander shot after bandits open fire during money-changer robbery

- Suspected robber arrested at hospital with gunshot wound

A41-year-old maintenance worker was shot in the leg on Friday evening during an armed robbery at a money changer on America and Longden Streets, Georgetown.

The injured man, of Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was reportedly standing in close proximity when the robbery unfolded.

Investigations revealed that a 35-year-old money changer and businessman from Ann's Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was seated on his motorcycle along America Street conducting business when two men ap-

proached him on a black XR motorcycle.

The pillion rider reportedly dismounted from the motorcycle and held the victim at gunpoint while demanding money. The suspect subsequently relieved the businessman of $200,000, which was in his right-side pants pocket.

However, as the suspect attempted to re-join the waiting motorcycle, he reportedly discharged three rounds in the direction of the businessman, during which the maintenance worker was struck in the right leg.

The businessman, who is a licensed firearm holder, reportedly returned fire, thus

striking the gunman, who fell onto the roadway. He nevertheless managed to get onto the motorcycle, and fled the scene.

Meanwhile, the injured maintenance worker was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was treated and admitted in stable condition. While at the hospital, a 24-year-old suspected to be one of the robbers was receiving medical treatment.

Investigators have since recovered two .32 spent shells and three 9mm spent shells at the scene. Efforts are ongoing to locate the second suspect as investigations continue.

GPF launches nationwide restorative justice training for officers

The Guyana Police Force (GPF), in collaboration with the Restorative Justice Centre, commenced the first phase of a nationwide sensitisation programme on restorative justice for ranks within the force on Saturday.

they can play in facilitating pre-charge referrals to the Restorative Justice Centre as an alternative to traditional court proceedings for minor criminal offences.

In her opening remarks, Senior Superintendent Sonia Herbert stated, “This training is an investment in your career development. You are being given a new set of tools to add to your kit. Restorative justice is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of a sophisticated, confident Police force that understands that the ultimate goal of law enforcement is a peaceful society.”

the cycle of crime before it begins,” she added.

The training session was hosted at the Officers’ Training Centre, Camp and Young Streets, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

She further encouraged the officers to understand the nuances of restorative justice, recognise when to apply its principles, and appreciate their role as a bridge between the law and the people.

Herbert also encouraged the Policemen and women to fully engage in the training, challenge existing biases,

and embrace the new tools being introduced. “Our success is no longer measured solely by how many people we put behind bars but by how many lives we keep on

the right track,” she added. Saturday’s session forms part of a countrywide sensitisation programme targeting Police ranks across all Police Regional Divisions.

According to a social media post, the objective of the sessions was to educate and engage officers who possess the authority to institute charges on the critical role

Moblissa

“This training is designed to equip you with the ‘restorative lens’. It will help you identify cases, particularly those involving youth or minor disputes, where a restorative approach can prevent

Dairy Project

1st batch of high-yield milking cows arrives from US

The first shipment of high-yield milking cows from the United States (US) arrived in Guyana on Saturday as Demerara Dairy Inc. (DDI), a subsidiary of Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), aims to slash national dependence on imported dairy. The 89 pregnant heifers, upon arrival, were transported to Moblissa along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway-a process which was overseen by specialists attached

to the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA).

According to DDL, the heifers are now being acclimated in a state-of-the-art facility designed with modern climate-control amenities to ensure maximum comfort and productivity. This is part of a US$30 million investment initiated by DDL to lead CARICOM’s “25 by 2025” food security initiative. By producing fresh, high-quality milk locally, DDI

aims to displace a significant portion of the tens of millions of US dollars currently spent annually on dairy imports. “The arrival of these ‘first cows’ is indisputable testimony to DDL’s commitment to being a game-changer,” Executive Chairman of DDL, Komal Samaroo, stated while adding that, “We are not just building a farm; we are building a sustainable industry that will transform Guyana’s agribusiness sector and provide long-term food security for the region.” It was reported that the Moblissa Dairy Project is expected to be completed and commence commercial production around the middle of 2026. This 200-acre facility is Guyana’s first modern, large-scale dairy farm, which will, once operational, significantly boost local milk production and support Guyana’s drive toward greater food security and reduced reliance on dairy imports.

Sophia taxi driver stabbed to death during confrontation over blocked pathway

Alate-night argument between two motorists at Plum Park, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, on Friday evening turned deadly after a taxi driver was allegedly stabbed to death. Dead is 36-year-old Casey Chapman of South Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

Based on reports received, the incident occurred at about 23:45h along Farmers Field, Plum Park, Sophia. Preliminary investigations revealed that Chapman was driving his motor car in the company of a female when his path was blocked by another vehicle that was travelling in the opposite direction.

Investigations revealed that both vehicles came alongside each other, and neither driver was able to pass clearly, resulting in an argument between Chapman and the other driver.

The confrontation reportedly escalated into a physical altercation. During the scuffle, the suspect, a 34-year-old painter from South Sophia, allegedly armed himself with a knife and stabbed Chapman in the middle of his chest.

Police said the blade broke during the attack and remained lodged in Chapman’s

chest. Despite being critically injured, Chapman reportedly managed to drive himself to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he was examined and admitted as a patient in critical condition. However, he later succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment. The suspect was arrested at the scene and taken into custody at the Prashad Nagar Police Outpost.

He was later escorted to GPHC, where he was also treated for injuries incurred during the altercation. A brown wooden knife handle was found at the scene, which is believed to be a part of the weapon used in the attack.

Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage collected from residents in close proximity to the stabbing incident.

Motorcyclist allegedly drops illegal firearm after collision at Bourda

Afirearm was reportedly discovered after a motorcyclist allegedly lost control at Bourda, Georgetown, on Friday evening.

Information indicates that a Police rank stationed at the Bourda Market Police Outpost observed a male on a motorcycle proceeding north along Orange Walk, in breach of the oneway traffic system.

The rank reportedly attempted to stop him, but in an effort to escape, he collided with a motor car and a barrier, thus causing him to lose

control of the motorcycle. The impact of the collision caused a firearm reportedly being carried by the suspect to fall onto the roadway. The motorcyclist then regained balance and made good his escape.

Upon inspection, the firearm was confirmed to be a black and silver 9mm Girsan pistol with four matching rounds of ammunition. The firearm was subsequently taken to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and lodged as investigations continue.

Around the World Lebanon says Israeli strikes killed 39

Thirty-nine persons have been killed in another day of intense Israeli strikes in Lebanon, the country’s health Ministry said.

One Israeli strike on the southern town of Saksakiyeh killed at least seven persons, including a child, the Ministry said.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said it had been targeting Lebanese armed group Hezbollah and was “aware of reports regarding harm to uninvolved civilians”.

Israeli forces and Hezbollah have continued to trade fire since US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire deal between the Governments of Israel and Lebanon on 16 April.

Most of Israel’s air strikes have hit southern Lebanon, with the military saying it is striking infrastructure and people linked to Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed militia and political party.

On Saturday, Lebanon’s

state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported Israeli strikes across the south, including in Saksakiyeh.

The health Ministry said that the raid “resulted in an initial toll of seven martyrs, including a girl, and 15 wounded, including three children”.

The IDF said it struck “Hezbollah terrorists operating from within a structure used for military purposes” in

the area.

“Prior to the strike, steps were taken to mitigate the risk of harm to civilians as much as possible, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance,” it said.

Details of the incident are under review, it added.

A total of 2795 persons have been killed in Lebanon since 2 March, according to the Lebanese health Ministry.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Israel built, defended secret base in Iraq for Iran war

Israel set up a clandestine military outpost in the Iraqi desert to support its air campaign against Iran and launched airstrikes against Iraqi troops who nearly discovered it, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on Saturday, citing people familiar with the matter, including US officials.

Israel built the installation, which housed special forces and served as a logistical hub for the Israeli air force, with the knowledge of the US just before the start of the US-Israeli war against

Iran, the newspaper said. It also included search-and-rescue teams positioned to assist any downed Israeli pilots, the Journal said.

Reuters could not independently verify the report.

There was no immediate response from the Israeli Prime Minister’s office to a Reuters request for comment.

The base was almost discovered in early March after Iraqi state media said a local shepherd reported unusual military activity, including helicopter movements in the area.

Iraqi troops were dispatched to investigate, but Israeli forces used airstrikes to keep them at a distance and prevent the site from being discovered, the paper said, citing one of the sources.

The Journal cited a complaint filed with the United Nations later in March in which Iraq said the attack involved foreign forces and airstrikes and attributed it to the US The WSJ cited a person familiar with the matter as saying the US was not involved in the attack. (Reuters)

1 survivor after latest strike on alleged drug boat in eastern Pacific kills 2 – Pentagon

The US military’s latest strike on an alleged drug-trafficking boat in the eastern Pacific Ocean killed two men Friday while leaving one survivor.

A video posted on social media by US Southern Command shows a black, boat-shaped image before what appears to be an explosion, followed by a column of fire rising from the ocean.

Southern Command said it “immediately notified the US Coast Guard to activate the search and rescue system for the survivor.” It did provide details on the rescue or the survivor’s condition.

The White House announced Wednesday that President Trump has signed off on a new US counterterrorism strategy that sets eliminating drug cartels in the Western Hemisphere as the administration’s highest priority. The Trump Administration’s campaign of blowing up alleged drug-trafficking vessels in Latin American waters, including the eastern Pacific and the Caribbean Sea, has gone on since early September and killed at least 192 persons in total. The military has not provided evidence that any of the vessels were carrying drugs.

The strikes have ramped up again in recent weeks.

The first attack in the campaign occurred on September 2. The US had then conducted a follow-on strike, or “double tap”, that killed two survivors of the initial strike on the vessel.

Some lawmakers questioned whether the follow-on strikes constitute a war crime.

(Excerpt from CBS News)

Guardian reporter, colleagues detained, beaten by Somali Police

AJournalist who covered the case of a woman who said she was being tortured in prison was detained and beaten with pistols by Somali authorities, along with two others, for his reporting for the Guardian.

Mohamed Bulbul was arrested with the Journalists Abdihafid Nor Barre and Abdishakur Mohamed Mohamud on Friday evening while in a restaurant in the centre of the Somali capital, Mogadishu. They said they were assaulted by members of Somalia’s UStrained counter-terrorism Police unit and taken to be questioned. All three were released in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Media outlets and MPs

said the arrests were unlawful and politically motivated. They come amid an intensifying crackdown as public anger grows with the ruling establishment, and the Presidential term is due to end on May 15.

Abdirahman Abdishakur, an MP and opposition leader, condemned the arrests of the Journalists. He wrote in a post on X that the President of Somalia’s Administration “appears consumed by fear and confusion as the end of its mandate approaches”.

It is believed Bulbul’s detention was linked to reporting on the case of Sadia Moalim Ali, a 27-year-old rickshaw driver who is in prison for peaceful protest and activism on social me-

dia. He has also been speaking out about security forces’ violations and forced evictions in Mogadishu. He and the two other Journalists were facing sustained threats and intimidation in recent weeks. Their detention happened at a time of heightened political pressure surrounding planned protests expected to take place on Sunday. At the Police headquarters, the three reporters said they were threatened by Mahdi Omar Mumin, Mogadishu Police chief, should they continue to report on the protests.

The Somalian authorities have been approached for a response. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

Putin says Ukrainian conflict nearing end amid scaled-down Victory Day celebrations

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said he believes the Ukrainian conflict is nearing its end after he oversaw a military parade on Red Square commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II – a show that didn’t include heavy weapons for the first time in nearly two decades.

“I think it (the conflict) is heading to an end, but it’s still a serious matter,” Putin told reporters, according to

Agence France-Presse.

According to AFP, Putin added he was ready to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a third country only once all conditions for a potential peace agreement were settled.

“This should be the final point, not the negotiations themselves,” he said.

Earlier Saturday, security was tight in Moscow as Putin and several foreign leaders attended the

parade, which was scaled down even as a US-brokered three-day ceasefire eased concerns about possible Ukrainian attempts to disrupt the festivities.

Putin, in power for more than a quarter-century, has used Victory Day, Russia’s most important secular holiday, to showcase the country’s military might and rally support for his military action in Ukraine, now in its fifth year.

1 killed in Gaza as Turkish Foreign Minister talks peace efforts with Hamas official

APalestinian man has been killed, and several others injured, after an Israeli drone strike targeted a motorcycle west of the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza, amid Israel’s continued violations of a “ceasefire” agreed to in October.

A medical source confirmed the death on Saturday of Eyad al-Motawwaq to the Anadolu news agency, as well as the injuries of an unspecified number of people.

An Israeli drone had

struck the motorcycle west of the camp, outside the zones of Israeli military deployment under the socalled “ceasefire” agreement, witnesses told the agency.

Israel separately shelled the eastern areas of Gaza City’s Tuffah neighbourhood on Saturday, Anadolu reported, although no casualties have been confirmed.

Truce talks between Israel and Hamas have stalled, with senior Israeli military officials pressing for a return to war because

of Hamas’s stance against surrendering weapons.

Meanwhile on Saturday, Turkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Muhammad Darwish, head of Hamas’s advisory Shura Council, to discuss efforts to secure peace in Gaza.

Since the “ceasefire” in October, at least 850 Palestinians have been killed and 2433 others injured in Israeli attacks, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

GEMINI (MAY 28June 20)

CANCER

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) (March 21April 19)

A strategic approach to life will help you maintain control. Reconnecting with someone from your past will make you realize how much you’ve grown. Being able to put your ego and emotions aside will make you feel good about yourself and how you plan to move forward. Let go of the past and move forward with grace.

Emotions will lead to mixed messages. Ask questions if you don’t understand instructions. Taking on too much debt or work will cause anger and frustration. Retreating, rethinking and rescheduling will put your mind at ease and allow you to live up to your promises. Focus on self-improvement and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Implement change, spice up your life and go after your dreams. Refuse to let your emotions dictate how you deal with situations. Choose kindness and consideration over demands and discord. Be helpful and forgiving, but do not forget. Protect yourself and your reputation from those trying to outmaneuver you. Embrace romance.

Keep busy. The more you do, the better you will feel and the less time you will have to let negativity set in and the “poor me” syndrome take over. Volunteering your time and skills will give you purpose and encourage you to socialize. Create opportunities, and you will have a positive influence on those you encounter.

Cut yourself some slack, and live in the moment. Reach out to people you enjoy spending time with, and together you’ll start a new adventure. Partnerships, plans and thinking ahead will lead to something or someone new and exciting. Refuse to let ego and emotional spending be your downfalls. Stick to high standards, a budget and romance.

Share your thoughts, and you’ll make a difference. A change will spark your imagination and encourage you to start a dialogue that will improve your lifestyle. Keep your emotions under control to avoid a misunderstanding or backlash that can upset your plans. Shared expenses will cause worry if you haven’t put stipulations in place. Protect your assets

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

CAPRICORN (June 21July 22)

Simplify your life. Less is more likely to satisfy your soul. Take a timeout for selfpreservation. Rejuvenation will help you get a sense of what’s important and how to reach your comfort zone. A change to your lifestyle, surroundings or who you associate with will help you recognize who and what you enjoy most. Trust your instincts.

Stop dreaming and start doing. Be bold and passionate about life, love and the happiness you desire. Explore your creativity and the people, places and pastimes you feel passionate about. Turn something you love into an extra income. Positivity will position you for success. Take a leap of faith.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Stop, look and listen before casting your fate to the wind. You can gain ground if you take proper precautions, ask questions and get the lowdown regarding the possibilities. You are due for a change, but the wrong move can set you back. A social event or physical activity will give insight into how best to proceed.

(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Conversations will be misleading. Ask for proof, verify facts and refuse to take on a responsibility sight unseen. Take time to challenge yourself physically, blow off steam, regroup and rethink your next move. An articulate response will help you weigh the legitimacy of whoever you are dealing with. Be smart, not weak.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

(Feb. 20Mar. 20)

Stop and think before you speak. A sharp tongue will make you look bad, not the person you are directing your words toward. Change happens when you are willing to compromise and show compassion and understanding. If you can’t manage your emotions or anger, take a moment to chill, reflect or do something you enjoy. Choose peace over discord.

Set your tone and your plans to suit your needs. A social event will help expand your circle, engage in something different or encourage you to start a project that’s uplifting and geared toward boosting your confidence and emotional well-being. It’s time to put yourself first and to build the lifestyle and relationships that enrich your life.

Jaipur, Rajasthan Royals (RR) were keeping pace with Gujarat Titans (GT). They were 86 for three in seven overs, chasing 230. Dhruv Jurel looked like he had excised his slow-bat ting demons. He was on 24 off nine and ready to go bigger. Then, Rashid Khan spun one past Jurel’s slog to peg back his stumps. It was the first of his four wickets. On a night of spin choke-holds by both RR and GT, Rashid’s spell of four for 36 was the point of dif ference between both sides. zoomed up to second spot in the points table with 14 points. It was their fourth consecutive win, as they continued their late surge in this Indian Premier League (IPL).

ning, half-centuries from Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan – and their 118-run open-ing partner

Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Rashid power GT to second spot with their 4th straight win

lined GT’s biggest IPL score outside Ahmedabad.

ed by an all-pink

seys were the same

ment movement. By the end of the powerplay, Gill and Sudharsan had raced away toside Rashid’s spell, they headlined a 77-

Wide and wider in

ond-best tally in the IPL, behind Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers.

Punja and Jadeja choke the middle overs

Despite their big start, Gill and Sai Sudharsan slowed down in characteristic fashion, both reaching their 50s off 30 balls. Yash Raj Punja (one for 37) and Ravindra Jadeja (one for 34) found little turn but, bowling in tandem, cut off boundary options through the middle overs.

A leg injury while running between wickets affected Gill’s movement. Punja removed Sai Sudharsan for 55 off 36, holing out to long-

stumps, and Sooryavanshi inside-edged onto his foot and fell to the ground.

Sooryavanshi looked set for another big start, despite limping between wickets, blasting Siraj for three fours in four deliveries. On the fifth delivery, he was rushed into a hook off a fiery bouncer that carried to square leg. In the blink of an eye, Sooryavanshi went from zero to 16-ball 36, then from the middle to the dugout.

Siraj (one for 55) and Kagiso Rabada (two for 33) became the first IPL bowling pair to bowl through the powerplay four matches in a row. Jurel later took Siraj for a 22-run over, but Rashid Khan removed him

Rashid kills off the chase

With Sooryavanshi and Jaiswal gone, the onus was on Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja – who clobbered six and four off his first two deliveries – to play against type and shift into fifth gear. But Rashid got the ball to Jag and turned off a pitch like no other spinner on the night. He also bowled more leg breaks than googlies – a rarity for him – to keep the batters

Once Jurel perished, Donovan Ferreira saw the

Gujarat Titans (20 ovs maximum)

Sai Sudharsan c Archer

b Yash Raj Punja 55

Shubman Gill (c) c Deshpande

b Brijesh Sharma 84

Jos Buttler †c Ferreira

b Jadeja 13

Washington Sundar not out 37

Jason Holder c Jaiswal

b Brijesh Sharma 7

Rahul Tewatia not out 14

Extras (b 1, lb 1, nb 1, w 16) 19

Total 20 Ov (RR: 11.45) 229/4

Fall of wickets: 1-118 (Sai Sudharsan, 10.5 ov), 2-150 (Jos Buttler, 13.2 ov), 3-185 (Shubman Gill, 16.2 ov), 4-205 (Jason Holder, 18.1 ov)

Bowling O-M-R-W

Jofra Archer 3-0-46-0

Tushar Deshpande 4-0-52-0

Brijesh Sharma 4-0-47-2

Yash Raj Punja 4-0-37-1

Ravindra Jadeja 4-0-34-1

Donovan Ferreira 1-0-11-0

Rajasthan Royals (T: 230 runs from 20 ovs)

Yashasvi Jaiswal (c) c Sindhu

b Rabada3

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi c Arshad

Khan

b Mohammed Siraj 36

Dhruv Jurel †b Rashid Khan 24

Shimron Hetmyer c Holder

ball turn the other way, past an innocuous front-foot defence. Harsh Dubey soon went for another missed slog, Rashid’s third consecutive dismissal to rattle the stumps. Rashid wore a wry smile when Jadeja swiped him over backward square leg for six in the 14th over. Next ball, Jadeja was trapped lbw in front of the stumps as the ball spun into his pads.

Holder soon mopped up the tail, taking the final three wickets in five deliveries, and RR had lost their third game in four matches. (ESPNcricinfo)

b Rabada 6

Ravindra Jadeja lbw

b Rashid Khan 38

Donovan Ferreira

b Rashid Khan 4

Shubham Dubey

b Rashid Khan 15

Dasun Shanaka c Shubman Gill

b Holder 16

Jofra Archer c †Buttler b Holder 5

Tushar Deshpande c Washington Sundar b Holder 1

Brijesh Sharma not out 1

Extras

Red Force, Pride set for high-stakes West Indies Championship playoff showdown

There is a strong sense of optimism and confidence surrounding both the Trinidad & Tobago Red Force and the Barbados Pride as they prepare to square off in a playoff from May 10 to 13 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground for the chance to join reigning champions the Guyana Harpy Eagles in the final of the West Indies Championship.

The Red Force secured their place in the playoff after a dominant innings and 271-run victory over the Leeward Islands Hurricanes in their first encounter, followed by two consecutive drawn matches, to finish second in the standings with 53.6 points.

Meanwhile, the Barbados Pride rebounded from an opening-match defeat to the Jamaica Scorpions to outscore their opponents 42.2 points to 34 by the end of the bilateral series. They secured their spot in the final with an impressive innings and 11-run victory in match three to level the series at one win apiece after the second match ended in a high-scoring draw.

The previous results have set the stage for a fascinating showdown between

two fierce rivals, both determined to finish on top when the tournament concludes on May 20.

In their most recent meeting, the Red Force walked away with a memorable innings and 56-run victory over the Pride at Kensington Oval in Barbados in 2025.

The match saw the Pride dismissed for a mere 86 in their first innings thanks to the Red Force pace bowling attack before the visitors

cruised to victory inside two days.

Jayden Seales returns to the squad after being rested, having already claimed 13 wickets in two matches, while Anderson Phillip, with 17 wickets, is the championship’s leading pace bowler this season.

Sunday’s encounter, however, offers both teams another chance to renew their rivalry. Red Force cap tain Joshua Da Silva said

Appadu racing stables going places with Grande Rainha

Afamily affair was in full display at the recent Labour Day Cup at the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club. The Appadu racing stables dominated the F Class and Lower race, with jockey Ronaldo Appadu leading the way, while his father and trainer of Grande Rainha supported well.

Grande Rainha displayed consistency with another win and put herself into contention to make it big at the upcoming Guyana Cup in August.

According to owner and trainer Winston Appadu, Grande Rainha was prepared for racing action since the postponed Easter Cup.

He also disclosed that the horse is unfazed by the distance since she has shown versatility.

“She was well prepared since the Easter Cup. So she ran here and then will rest until the Guyana Cup.”

“The distance does not bother me. Preparation is the most important thing. It is the key; you have to prepare your horse properly to go any distance. She can go two times around this track and still give good results,” Appadu explained.

Meanwhile, international licensed jockey Ronaldo Appadu said he was delighted to ride Grande Rainha for the first time since he en-

tered the county.

his side will not underestimate the Pride and is instead relying on the consistency that has marked the team’s strong start to the championship.

“It is about getting back to the basics and the drawing board by sharpening up a few skills that we may need for the upcoming games, but all in all, the team is gelling well. We have a good core

win it.” Da Silva said.

For the Pride, confidence is high heading into the play-off match. They boast the most 300-plus team totals in the tournament and feature the competition’s leading scorer, Kevin Wickham, who has amassed 371 runs in four innings at an average of 123.66. Their morale was further boosted after overcoming a series deficit against the Jamaica Scorpions to secure their place in the playoffs.

Seeking new bowling reinforcements, the Pride have drafted in Akeem Jordan for Jair McAllister from the bilateral series against the Scorpions, and captain Kraigg Brathwaite is eager to see the consistency levels maintained.

“Overall, I just want to see discipline in both departments but especially bowling,” Brathwaite shared. “Batting-wise, we had four innings where we scored 300-plus, but I think will still need to make improvements all round, batting, bowling and getting better in the field, because there are always things to work on, and we can’t take things for granted because we have to get stronger.”

“She has the speed. So I just had to sit down. Since she came in this country I never rode her. I always wanted to ride her. So I have to thank Jermaine [JS] for giving me the chance to ride her.

The next official race in Guyana’s horse racing calendar is set for May 31 at Port Mourant Turf Club, the Independence Cup. Horses will be in top gear for the marquee event, the Guyana Cup for August.

The Independence Cup will see the return of champion horses Dataman and Anthem King.

Riyad Latiff’s century and Ntini Permaul’s quick-fire half-century highlighted another exciting round of matches in the Sherwin Williams Second Division T20 Cup.

The biggest win of the round came from Transport Sports Club (TSC), who defeated Police All-Star Academy by 67 runs after posting 201 for four from their 20 overs.

Latiff led the batting with 106 from 61 balls, including 10 fours and seven sixes. Jeremiah Hohenkirk and Emmanuel Lewis both added 34, while Darwin Larose took two for the Academy.

In reply, Police All-Star Academy reached 134 for

of the playoff battle, defending champions the Guyana Harpy Eagles are fine-tuning their preparations with a match against the West Indies Academy at the Antigua Recreation Ground.

The Harpy Eagles have been flawless so far, recording three consecutive victories to sit atop the standings. They also boast the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, Gudakesh Motie, who has claimed 24 wickets to date.

Jonathan Van Lange and Thaddeus Lovell have been drafted into the squad to replace the injured Isai Thorne, while Shamar Joseph has been rested.

Captain Tevin Imlach believes the match against the Academy presents another valuable opportunity for the batting unit to sharpen its skills ahead of the final showdown.

“We have some things to work on to be at our best; we need to be better as a batting group, especially our top five; we need to be more consistent and score hundreds,” Imlach expressed.

Both matches bowl off at 10:00h local time/09:00h in Jamaica. (CWI)

Away from the intensity

Latiff ton powers TSC to big win in Sherwin Williams T20 Cup

eight from their allotted overs. Ravindradat Budhram made 45 and Troy Benn scored 49, but the target proved too difficult. Reyaz Latiff then starred with the ball, taking four for 14 to complete a strong allround performance by TSC.

At the Police Sports Club (PSC) Ground, PSC defeated Guyana Defence Force (GDF) by five wickets under the Duckworth/Lewis method in a rain-affected contest.

After winning the toss and batting first, GDF made 120 for five in 18.2 overs before rain stopped play. Neil Persaud top-scored with an unbeaten 38 from 22 balls, while Leon Andrews made 24 and Shamal Angel added 16. Mark Jeffers claimed two for 19 for PSC.

Setting a revised tar-

get, PSC reached 104 for five in 14.4 overs. Andrew Lyte led the chase with 46, while Pernell London supported with 28.

Elsewhere, Eldorado Cricket Club recorded a 23run victory over Sophia. Batting first after winning the toss, Eldorado posted 131 for seven. Ntini Permaul struck a quick 60 from 29 balls with six fours and three sixes, while Elnathan Suknandeo made 17. Tyriq Walters took two for 12 for Sophia. Sophia were then bowled out for 108 in 15.5 overs. Joshua Grant top-scored with 25 from 14 balls, and Malcolm Morris made 18, but regular wickets hurt the chase. Akeem Williams and Yogendra Singh both took two wickets for Eldorado.

GFF, FIFA launch $44M per year Youth Ensemble Programme

- nationwide youth football development targeted

An annual investment of $44 million over the next four years will be directed into the newly launched Youth Ensemble Programme, as the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), in collaboration with FIFA, officially unveiled what has been described as the largest investment in youth football in Guyana’s history.

The programme was launched on Saturday at the GFF National Training Centre in Providence and is aimed at transforming youth football development across the country through structured, year-round competitions focused on player development, talent identification and long-term national growth.

Under the initiative, national competitions for boys at the U13, U15 and U17 levels will be introduced across all nine Regional Associations, with matches set to begin on May 16. An U20 Men’s Championship is also expected to be added in 2027.

For the first phase of the programme, U13 and U15 competitions will be played at the regional level, with U13 matches scheduled for Saturdays and U15 games on Sundays through July. Competition in the U17 division is expected to commence in August.

Speaking at the launch, GFF President Wayne Forde described the initiative as a major step forward for foot-

ball development in Guyana.

“This programme represents more than the organisation of football competitions. It is a deliberate investment in the future of our young people, the future of our communities, and ultimately, the future of Guyanese football.

The Youth Ensemble Programme is a joint effort between the GFF and FIFA to institute a sustainable annual calendar of structured youth football competitions throughout Guyana. It is designed to create a modern and organised framework for youth football development, while ensuring that our young players are consistently engaged in meaningful competitions and guided by proper technical support.

Under this programme, National Youth Championships for both boys and girls will be played in accordance with the GFF’s re-

vised 2026 football season calendar.

This programme would not have been possible without FIFA, our regional associations, GFF staff, match coordinators, and all stakeholders who have contributed and continue to contribute to this ground-breaking project,” Forde stated.

Technical Director Bryan Joseph said the programme is expected to significantly strengthen scouting and player development throughout the country.

“The Youth Ensemble Programme aims to expand the national scouting pool through structured competitions, providing greater opportunities for young talent to be recognised.

A core pillar of this initiative is talent identification and player development, strengthened through consistent youth competitions

similar to the UEFA and US football models. We envision engaging approximately 130 clubs nationwide and directly impacting more than 3000 boys across the various age categories,” Joseph explained.

The programme will be played in two phases. The opening intra-association phase will feature league-format competitions organised by each regional association involving registered clubs within their respective age divisions.

The second phase, known as the National Championship Playoffs, will see U13 and U15 teams divided into four groups before advancing to semi-finals and championship matches using a combination of round-robin and knockout formats. The top two teams from each regional association will qualify for the national playoffs in their respective divisions.

The GFF also confirmed that child safeguarding will remain a mandatory component of the programme through its Memorandum of Understanding with the Rights of the Child Commission and alignment with FIFA’s global Child Safeguarding Strategy.

Matches are expected to be played in communities across Guyana, with organisers aiming to expand access to structured football opportunities nationwide while also improving preparation pathways for future national youth teams.

Tutorial Academy, BEI secure wins in YBG Berbice Regionals

Tutorial Academy and Berbice Educational Institute (BEI) recorded victories when the Youth Basketball Guyana Region Six Ancient Regional Tournament continued on Friday at the New Amsterdam Hardcourt.

Tutorial Academy secured wins in both the girls’ and boys’ divisions, while BEI edged New Amsterdam Secondary in a close contest.

In the girls’ matchup, Tutorial Academy defeated JC Chandisingh Secondary 10-0. Jada Alexander was named Player of the Game after finishing with eight points and two rebounds.

BEI then defeated New Amsterdam Secondary 2118 in the second game of the night. Shaquen Marks led the winning side with nine points and seven rebounds and was awarded Player of the Game honours. Bryan Kirton supported with eight points and four rebounds.

For New Amsterdam Secondary, Dominique Rodriguez scored six points and grabbed five rebounds in the losing effort.

In the final game, Tutorial Academy defeated Vryman’s Erven Secondary 36-20 in the

GCF confirms route for Independence 3-stage race as $500,000 top prize expected

The Guyana Cycling Federation has confirmed the route and schedule for the 2026 Independence ThreeStage Cycle Race, with this year’s event set to coincide with Guyana’s 60th Independence anniversary celebrations on May 23 and 24.

According to the federation, the annual event will again receive support from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport through the National Sports Commission. The body in a press release said the race is intended to promote national unity while showcasing Guyana’s ongoing infrastructural development.

An inside source told this publication that the winner of the Elite category is expected to receive $500,000, although the official prize structure has not yet been announced.

The race will be contested over three stages, with cyclists covering distances between 45 and 60 miles per stage in the Elite,

Junior and Masters categories, while female and juvenile riders will compete over 25-mile distances.

Stage One is scheduled for May 23 and will begin at 07:00h from Linden to the Mabura Highway and back. Stage Two, also on May 23, will start at 14:00h and run from Linden to

Long Creek and back.

The final stage on May 24 will commence at 07:00h and travel from Schoonord to Parika before continuing along the Ogle Bypass Road, railway embankment and Sheriff Street, finishing at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

In a notice issued to af-

filiated clubs, the federation stated that the race route was approved following deliberations at a council meeting held on May 5. Clubs were also advised to ensure their riders are properly registered and prepared for participation.

The federation further noted that the opening

boys’ division.

ed nine points, while Trevor Abrams contributed six points. Despite the defeat, Vryman’s Erven’s Tabeal Braithwaite finished with a game high of 14 points.

The regional tournament is sponsored by Edward B Beharry Ltd, G-Boats Inc, the National Sports Commission, the Ministry of Education and Banks DIH Ltd.

stage will utilise the newly constructed LethemMabura Road, while the final stage will cross the Dr Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara Harbour Bridge as part of activities marking Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

The 2025 edition of the race was dominated by Colombian rider Mateo Garcia, who represented Trinidadian club Team Raiders and won all three stages to secure the overall title. Garcia completed the event in a combined time of 6 hours, 18 minutes and 47 seconds.

Sources close to the event have indicated that Garcia is tentatively expected to return this year with Team Raiders, although the Trinidad-based outfit has not yet officially confirmed its participation.

The federation also acknowledged the continued support of Minister Charles Ramson Jr and Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle for the staging of the event.

Ballers Empire crowned Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” national champions

By Michelangelo JacoBus

Ballers Empire pro-

duced a commanding display in the early hours of Saturday morning to defeat Leopold Street 2-1 and capture the Guinness “Greatest of the Streets” National Championship title at the National Cultural Centre Tarmac, Homestretch Avenue.

Backed by an energetic crowd estimated at more than 1200 spectators, the reigning East Bank/West Demerara zone champions walked away with the $1 million first prize following an entertaining night of street-football action which stretched beyond 02:30h.

Ballers Empire, led by standout performers Solomon Austin, Adrian Aaron and

in-form campaigner Bevney Marks, capped off an impressive run by outclassing a determined Leopold Street side in the final. In doing so, he furthered his reputation as one of the most successful players on the small-goal circuit in recent times, adding another major title to his growing collection.

The champions controlled possession for large spells of the contest through composed ball control and crisp passing, pinning Leopold Street deep inside their own half for extended periods. Despite being placed under pressure, Leopold Street remained dangerous on the counterattack, with their fleet-footed forwards threatening whenever opportunities arose.

Ballers Empire struck first before Leopold Street re-

sponded with an equaliser, sparking loud celebrations from their sizeable following. However, Ballers Empire regained the lead in the second half and managed the remainder of the contest effectively to seal the national crown.

Earlier in the semi-final round, Ballers Empire overcame Georgetown side Bent Street B 2-1 after dominating most of the encounter. Bent Street B attempted a late fightback, but Ballers Empire maintained control to secure their place in the championship match.

Leopold Street, meanwhile, needed penalty kicks to edge Supenaam All-Stars after a tense scoreless draw in regulation time. Supenaam pushed Leopold Street onto the backfoot for lengthy periods and created several opportunities but failed to capitalise. The Georgetown champions converted one of their two penalty attempts while Supenaam missed both efforts.

The quarter-final stage produced several competitive clashes. Bent Street B opened the knockout round with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Linden representatives Swag Entertainment.

Supenaam All-Stars then secured a narrow 1-0 win against Ballers United of Berbice in a tightly contested affair.

Ballers Empire began their campaign with a 3-1 tri-

umph over Island All-Stars of Georgetown. Although they appeared slightly rusty in their first outing since winning the East Bank/West Demerara zone a year ago, they gradually settled into rhythm and advanced comfortably.

Leopold Street survived a late scare before defeating Mighty Ruler of Bartica 3-2. After establishing control for most of the encounter and leading 3-0 deep into the game, Leopold conceded a golden goal in the closing minutes, with the special rule counting goals scored in the final three minutes as two. Mighty Ruler mounted late pressure, but time ran out as Leopold Street held on to advance.

In the third-place playoff, Bent Street B defeated Supenaam All-Stars 2-1 on

penalty kicks after both teams finished locked at 1-1 in regulation time. Supenaam again created chances but were unable to finish clinically, while Bent Street B continued their impressive run as one of the tournament’s surprise performers.

At the presentation cer-

National Championship Results Quarterfinals

emony,

and

received $400,000 for finishing second, Bent Street B earned $200,000 for placing third, while Supenaam All-Stars pocketed $100,000 for fourth place.

Bent Street B 3-1 Swag Entertainment Supenaam All-Stars 1-0 Ballers United Ballers Empire 3-1 Island All-Stars Leopold Street 3-2 Mighty Ruler Semi-finals

Ballers Empire 2-1 Bent Street B Leopold Street 0-0 Supenaam All-Stars (Leopold won 1-0 on penalties) Third Place

Bent Street B 1-1 Supenaam All-Stars (Bent Street B won 2-1 on penalties) Final

Ballers Empire 2-1 Leopold Street