20 students awarded US$1,000 each in Guyana-China youth competition
“Win for local content” –Pres Ali as Muneshwers, John Fernandes partner in US$14M to enhance port services
Guyana working to increase egg production as US hit with bird flu
Taxi drivers warned over dangerous road practices
“Is me weed” – Berbice man caught parcelling off over 2kg ganja
After failing to challenge
“Exercise mutual respect” – ERC after intolerant remarks on Shiva Murti in Reg 2 Healthcare investments show 700% increase in patient aid, care – Pres Ali Opposition Leader now claims APNU not submitting objections, since it will benefit PPP …early cancer detection, free dialysis, more hearing aids & eye care upgrades
Fisherman admits to vandalising suicide victim’s tomb
“I am happy with our advice” – Norton says no remorse for misleading Mocha squatters
GBTI Invoice Financing to eliminate cash flow struggles for O&G businesses
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, February 15 –05:00h-06:30hand Sunday, February 16 – 06:45h-08:15h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, February 15 –06:05h-07:35h and Sunday, February 16 – 06:25h-07:55h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery to light showers are expected throughout the day and at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 3.13 metres and 5.81 metres.
High Tide: 05:40h and 17:55h reaching maximum heights of 2.61 metres and 2.69 metres.
Low Tide: 11:30h and 23:49h reaching minimum heights of 0.58 metre and 0.56 metre.
Mount Sinai to help set up world-class oncology centre in Guyana – Pres Ali
– as sod-turned for new $11.4B West Demerara Regional Hospital
With support from the United Statesbased Mount Sinai Health System, Guyana will commence work this year to establish a modern oncology centre here to enhance cancer treatment and care.
This is according to President Dr Irfaan Ali at the sod-turning ceremony for the new $11.4 billion West Demerara Regional Hospital on Friday afternoon.
During his remarks, the Head of Statement disclosed that US energy major, Hess Corporation – one of the partners operating in the oil-rich Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, has agreed to continue financing Guyana’s partnership with Mount Sinai for another three years.
This, he pointed out, paves the way for continued collaboration, which will see the New York-based health institution assisting Guyana to set up its oncology centre here.
“They will be coming in to help us in the building out of a modern oncology centre that will treat cancer. We’re not only looking at diagnostic but building facilities for treatment,” he explained.
An oncology centre is a medical facility that specialises in the diagnosis, treatment and research of cancer.
Construction of the oncology centre in Guyana will start this year, and it is slated to be completed by 2027.
In addition to the oncology facility, President Ali also disclosed that Guyana is also in discussion with Mount Sinai on rehabilitative care.
“Many times, beds are occupied in hospitals, space is occupied whereby the patients do not necessarily need to be in the hospital but require rehabilitative care. For the ordinary person, that is managing a stroke patient, for example…”
“And very soon in April, a team is coming down from Mount Sinai to discuss with us, a modular manner in which we can build up our rehabilitative care centres across the country. So, we are not sleeping. We’re addressing healthcare in a holistic way,” the Guyanese leader noted.
These are part of efforts by the Guyana Government to modernise and digitize healthcare delivery in Guyana. Since 2020, the Aliled Administration has invested billions of dollars to build the healthcare infrastructure across the country.
The most recent is the new West Demerara Regional Hospital, which is being constructed to the tune of more than $11.4 billion, and will be completed in 2028.
The new hospital will have more than 150 beds, four operating theatres, in-patient and out-patient facilities, an Accident and Emergency (A&E), an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a general ward and a paediatric ward, among others.
Dermatology, ophthalmology, internal medicine, dialysis, gynaecology, ultrasound, cardiology, and digital imaging such as MRI, CT scan, angiography and mammography are among the vast services that will be available.
“We have to have worldclass infrastructure, and today, what you're seeing is another representation of that world-class infrastructure that we're building to support the healthcare system. Secondly, we have to have world-class equipment and diagnostic facilities, and we’re building in all of these [new] facilities and other facilities across the country, world-class diagnostic systems and equipment to support that,” President Ali said at Friday’s sod-turning ceremony.
The Head of State also announced plans to integrate health management and patient management systems from the various health centres and hospitals across Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) to enhance healthcare delivery to citizens.
“What we're going to develop in the region here now is an integrated health management and patient management system through digital health and digitization. So, at this [new] hos-
pital, for example, they will have a control room that integrates all the health centres, the health posts and the hospitals on a common platform, and all the doctors will be available on that platform.”
“But more importantly, that platform would be linked to the national platform in Georgetown and all the other regions. And then guess what? We've already negotiated for this platform to be integrated into [USbased healthcare provider] Northwell platform, Mount Sinai platform, and now some of the best providers in India. That is what we’re doing so that our doctors will have speciality services to support their decision-making. We will be integrated into the global healthcare system, and we'll be able to pool all our medical talent on one platform,” President Ali stated.
According to the Head of State, this platform will be available for both the private and public health sectors 24/7.
President Dr Irfaan Ali
An artist's impression of the new $11.4B West Demerara Regional Hospital
The Government of Guyana has taken a laudable step in intensifying its healthcare initiatives, particularly in response to the alarming rise in cases of prostate and cervical cancer. With 203 confirmed cases of prostate cancer among men and an overwhelming 2,000 cases of cervical cancer among women in 2024, the need for robust early detection and treatment strategies has never been more urgent.
Recognising this growing health crisis, President Dr Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding screening and treatment programmes nationwide. This proactive approach not only enhances the healthcare system, but also underscores Government’s dedication to safeguarding public health.
A major milestone in this effort is the nationwide cervical cancer screening initiative launched in 2024. This initiative has provided valuable data to guide public healthcare expenditure and policy decisions. As of now, over 12,000 women between the ages of 21 and 65 have undergone screening, with a startling 17 percent testing positive, translating to more than 2,040 confirmed cases. This data is instrumental in shaping targeted interventions to combat cervical cancer effectively.
Similarly, prostate cancer screening has been expanded significantly. In 2024, more than 13,688 Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests were conducted, revealing that 19 percent of men tested had elevated PSA levels. Of those, 536 individuals underwent biopsies, with an alarming 38 percent testing positive for prostate cancer. These statistics highlight the urgent need for increased public awareness and participation in early screening programmes.
President Ali, in a live broadcast on Thursday, urged citizens to prioritise early screening to facilitate timely intervention and treatment. He emphasised the importance of early detection in not only improving patient outcomes, but also reducing the longterm financial burden on the healthcare system.
Beyond cancer care, the Government’s broader healthcare investments are yielding remarkable results. The number of patients benefitting from Government’s assistance programmes has surged by 700 percent in recent years. A striking example of this is the increase in individuals receiving hearing aids. In 2019, only 684 patients had benefitted from this programme; in 2024, that number has risen to nearly 3,000.
Additionally, dialysis treatment has been expanded exponentially, ensuring that more citizens receive life-saving care. In 2019, only 64 patients had access to free dialysis treatment. Today, over 550 patients benefit from this initiative across multiple regions.
This demonstrates the administration’s resolve to make essential healthcare services more accessible and affordable to all citizens.
Eye care services have also seen significant improvements. In 2024 alone, an astounding 68,320 eye tests were conducted, leading to nearly 55,000 individuals receiving free prescription glasses. Further, cataract surgeries have surged dramatically, with 3,665 procedures having been performed at Port Mourant Hospital in the past four years — a stark contrast to the mere 16 surgeries conducted between 2015 and 2020. These advancements exemplify the Government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens through improved vision care.
President Ali has reiterated his government’s dedication to providing a world-class healthcare system that prioritises prevention, early detection, and treatment. The expansion of regional medical facilities, increased accessibility to diagnostic tools, and the implementation of free treatment programmes illustrate a forward-thinking and proactive approach to public health.
As Guyana continues to advance its healthcare infrastructure, it is imperative that citizens play an active role in their well-being by utilising the services available to them. Public awareness campaigns, community outreaches, and educational initiatives must complement the Government’s efforts to ensure that early screening becomes a norm, rather than an exception.
The strides made in healthcare over the past few years are commendable, but there is always room for further improvement. Continued investments in technology, training for medical personnel, and strategic partnerships with global institutions will be crucial in sustaining these gains. The Government’s vision of a healthier, more resilient population is well within reach, but it requires collective effort from both policymakers and the public.
Transparency International’s manipulation
Dear Editor, I noticed the recent coverage of Transparency International's latest commentary on Guyana, which reminded me of the serious allegations surrounding the role played by Transparency International in manipulating Brazil’s democratic process.
While the organisation claims to champion anti-corruption and good governance, there is growing evidence that its interventions in several countries have been politically motivated, including in Brazil, where Transparency International has been accused of undermining Brazil’s democratic institutions rather than strengthening them.
One of the most glaring examples is Transparency International’s strong support for Operation Car Wash (Lava Jato), which was initially presented as a corruption probe, but ultimately became a tool for political interference. The operation disproportionately targeted leaders from one political party, particularly former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who was jailed on dubious grounds that Brazil’s Supreme Court later annulled.
Politicisation of the anti-corruption agenda resulted in the 2018 election of Jair Bolsonaro, and Operation Car Wash played a major role in shaping the political environment that led to this.
Moreover, leaked messages from the prosecutors involved in Lava Jato, revealed through The
Intercept’s Vaza Jato reports, showed direct collusion between prosecutors and Sérgio Moro, the judge at the time, who privately advised the prosecution on strategy while publicly presenting himself as an impartial arbiter of justice.
The messages exposed political motivations behind the case, including discussions about ensuring Lula’s exclusion from the 2018 elections. This severe breach of judicial ethics demonstrated how the anti-corruption banner was manipulated to serve a political agenda.
Instead of condemning these abuses, Transparency International continued to provide legitimacy to a flawed and biased process. Even after the Supreme Court overturned Lula’s conviction, Transparency International refused to acknowledge its role in the manipulation of Brazil’s democracy.
Transparency International’s support for Operation Car Wash and Sérgio Moro raise questions about its impartiality. The organization awarded Operation Car Wash and Moro its annual anti-corruption prize in 2016, at the height of Lava Jato, despite growing concerns about the operation’s selective targeting.
Moro later joined the Jair Bolsonaro government as Minister of Justice, revealing his true political loyalties. Transparency International, however, remained silent on this clear conflict of interest, demonstrating that its so-called
anti-corruption efforts were not applied equally.
This raises an important question: Is Transparency International attempting to do the same thing in Guyana? Recent actions suggest the organisation is increasingly aligning itself with interests that do not necessarily reflect the democratic will of the Guyanese people. Its selective approach to transparency and governance raises concerns about whether its interventions are truly impartial, or are part of a broader effort to influence the country’s political landscape.
As President Ali pointed out in his recent address, globally credible institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Commonwealth Secretariat have all contradicted the points made by Transparency International. Their assessments of Guyana’s governance and financial management stand in stark contrast to Transparency International’s claims, further calling into question the organisation’s credibility and motives.
It is worth asking: Why does Transparency International consistently target leaders like Lula in Brazil or Ali in Guyana?
The common thread is that these leaders derive their strength from deep connections with the working class and grassroots movements. They represent a political orientation that prioritises
inclusive economic growth and social development — values that often run counter to the interests of powerful elites.
Transparency International, instead of applying its standards universally, appears to favour leaders aligned with corporate and financial elites while undermining those who prioritise equitable development. This pattern suggests that the organisation is less about true accountability and more about serving the interests of a particular political and economic class.
Guyana has made significant progress in strengthening its democratic institutions and ensuring transparency in governance. However, international organisations like Transparency International must be scrutinised when their actions appear to be less about accountability and more about advancing political agendas. If the organisation is truly committed to fighting corruption, it must apply its standards fairly, without serving as a tool for regime change or external influence.
Brazil has already seen the devastating consequences of such interference. Guyana must remain vigilant to ensure that its democracy is not similarly undermined. The Guyanese people deserve transparency — not just in governance, but also from those who claim to promote it.
Sincerely,
Roger Rogers
Children’s Mashramani Competition 2025: Scenes from the 14-to-18-year category of the Individual Dance Competition finals at the National Cultural Centre on Friday (Education Ministry photos)
Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index is evidently, not perceivably, fraudulent
Dear Editor,
It is unfortunate that some of our local media houses of good standing, as well as some of our most highly educated, adopt these “so called” international reports without performing an iota of critical analysis.
It is imperative that one should seek to competently interrogate the integrity of these reportsany report, for that matter - such as the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) of Transparency International (TI), before parroting and reselling its contents wholesale.
First, let’s examine the methodology by which the CPI is compiled. The methodology states “the CPI aggregates data from a number of different sources that provide perceptions among businesspeople and country experts of the level of cor-
ruption in the public sector” (Corruption Perceptions Index Report, pg8).
In other words, the CPI is based on a compilation of opinions expressed by a group of people. This means that there is no real, practical, scientific and empirical analysis and/or assessment of the country’s anti-corruption framework. The CPI is simply not based on a factual, credible, data-driven analysis, thus the methodology in of itself is unscientific and untrustworthy.
It is interesting to note that more than 60% of TI’s funding comes from governments. This information can be independently verified from TI’s own website, which can be accessed here: https://www.transparency.org/en/the-organisation/ who-supports-us.
More interestingly, there are fourteen (14) countries that provide fund-
ing to the organization: Denmark, France, Bhutan, Germany, Australia, Canada, Netherlands, Taiwan, Sweden, United States, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, New Zealand and Ireland. And somehow – miraculously, or coincidentally, or both - all fourteen of these countries obtained scores that are from above 65 to 90, with Denmark scoring the highest, at 90. This means that Denmark is “perceived” to be the least corrupt country in the world, but is this so in actual fact? Let’s find out. Most importantly to note is that Guyana is not one of the countries that finance this organisation.
With the aforementioned being established, let us now examine the facts in respect of the actual state of affairs of Denmark’s anti-corruption framework by
a legitimate and credible organization that Denmark is a member of; namely, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
The OECD is a “unique forum where the governments of 37 democracies with market-based economies collaborate to develop policy standards to promote sustainable economic growth” (cited from the US Department of State).
According to the OECD’s “Anti-Corruption and Integrity Outlook: Country Fact Sheet 2024” for Denmark, the country that scored the highest (90) on the corruption perception index, or the perceivably least corrupt country in the world,
“Denmark fulfills 7% of standard OECD criteria on the quality of its [anti-corruption] strategic framework and 7% for implemen-
tation in practice, compared to the OECD average of 45% and 36%, respectively. E.O. no. 116 of 2018 does not include a situation analysis that identifies existing public integrity risks. It also has no outcome-level indicators to measure implementation of strategic objectives, and does not include an action plan to facilitate implementation”.
The full report can be accessed here for ease of reference: https://www. oecd.org/en/publications/ anti-corruption-and-integrity-outlook-2024-country-notes_684a5510-en/denmark_84a628ae-en.html.
This situation is not the first of its kind, nor is it unusual. There was a similar case involving the World Bank’s ease-of-doing-business index. Bear in mind that the World Bank is a far more credible organization than Transparency
International. In 2021, the World Bank discontinued the “Doing Business” report, “following allegations of data manipulation, undue influence, and unethical behaviour by several staff members”. The full statement on this matter can be accessed on the Bank’s website here for ease of reference: https:// www.worldbank.org/en/ news/statement/2021/09/16/ world-bank-group-to-discontinue-doing-business-report.
In the final analysis, it has evidently been demonstrated herein that the Corruption Perception Index is by no means and standard whatsoever credible. It is erroneous. In fact, we can unarguably conclude that the index is evidently, not perceivably, fraudulent.
Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin
When the Black Supremacy ideology boils over
Dear Editor,
The recent racist outbursts of Dr David Hinds came as no surprise to all those of our emancipated peoples of this country. We knew that such outbursts were about to hit the airwaves sooner rather than later. With the mass movement of people of African descent over to the PPP/C, we knew that such racist demeaning rants would occur.
These wild, impassioned, verbal onslaughts are symptomatic of Hinds's Black Supremacist ideas running amok. He is not insane; far from it. Instead, he is up front revealing his true self.
Hinds has become a miserable soul because Blacks
are moving over into the PPP/C, and this worrisome trend has sent him over the edge. The fact that more and more Blacks are becoming emancipated from the decrepit and backward ideology that a Black Man is duty bound to support the PNC Party without question is a painful problem for Hinds.
Well, Hinds must take note that we are no longer slaves to race and that form of divisive politics. Gone are the days when you were told that your race is superior to all others, and the PNC is your saviour. This salient fact has sent Hinds into convulsive fits of anger, and he has become a raving lunatic.
While we condemn Hinds for his racist remarks,
I must state that I have a different opinion: Hinds's statements are a true revelation of all the race-based Black parties in Guyana. Hinds's statement exposes the genetic backdrop of an AFC; that party is now purely an Afro-centric party, as the PNC Party is.
The AFC, for its part, has publicly insulted our Amerindian brothers and sisters by showcasing them to the world as lazy and backward people of the bush.
Nigel Hughes further humiliated them when he contemptuously highlighted their plight as people who use "pit latrine" and people who are not worthy of the finer qualities of modern liv-
ing. The PNC, for its part, has always been a racebased, Afro-centric, Black Supremacist party holding the view that all other races should be subservient to them. This was expressly so when Burnham ensured that Cheddi and his wife were put in prison, and other instances relate to Indians being robbed and killed. The Lusignan Massacre is a prime example.
Every Indian in the Coalition was put in his place. Roopnaraine and Charandass readily come to mind, while others like Nagamootoo were relegated to positions of being a figurehead and a rubber
Dr David Hinds’s ship sank a long time ago
Dear Editor,
While working at The Evening News years ago, I was introduced to Dr David Hinds by host of the weekly program “Plain Talk”, Christopher Ram.
Mr. Ram boasted of Hinds’s brilliance, accomplishments, and possible contributions to Guyana if given an opportunity; but, over the years, listening to Dr Hinds spew his hatred of the PPPC and those who support the PPPC, I have had cause to question his sanity and his bitterness against the PPPC, and have pointed out that his utterances not only question his motives, but also indicate the harm he’s creating, especially against East Indians.
It must be noted that, more than once, Dr. Hinds made racist statements against East Indians in such a manner that I’ve come to conclude that he’s not only bitter against the PPPC, but
he has something against East Indians. Perhaps he could show where I might be wrong.
Editor, Dr. Hinds’s recent criticism and name calling of Africans who are showing support for the PPPC are not only disrespectful to the African community, but are also disrespectful to Guyana as a whole.
Joseph Hamilton, a former member of the PNC, is presently a member of the PPPC, and is a serving minister who seems to be doing an amazing job.
Carl Greenidge, member of the PNCR, served in different portfolios as minister, and is presently representing Guyana in the Border Controversy case because he was asked to do so by the PPPC.
Dr. Richard van WestCharles, son-in-law of Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, one of the founding fathers
of the PNC, is a former Minister of Health, and is now Guyana’s Ambassador to Venezuela, appointed by the PPPC.
There are many other African names that could be mentioned, but I’ll pause here to point out that these gentlemen are performing duties for the betterment of Guyana. Should they heed Dr Hinds’s rhetoric and refuse to be part of the governance of Guyana because desperation has caused him to attack his fellow African brothers and
sisters who are working with the PPPC for the best interest of Guyana?
It’s my opinion that Dr Hinds’s ship has sunk a long time ago, and the straws he’s clutching to (creating a racial war in Guyana) are escaping his grasp, so he’s now trying to antagonise the Africans to turn against each another. His consistent action makes me wonder if his only vision is to see bloodshed in Guyana.
Sincerely,
Sahadeo Bates
stamp. The PNC revel in the theory of humiliating other races. Even the party of which David Hinds is a member was so embarrassingly humiliated when Burnham murdered the leader, Dr. Walter Rodney. Hinds has now crawled back into union with the party that murdered his leader… how comforting! Dr Rodney is turning in his grave to see how Black Slavery is still alive and well in Guyana. But I will tell you this: that servile
mentality of Hinds should only be visited upon persons like himself and those who are of that low-life way of thinking. We are no longer slaves to the PNC, the faster Hinds get that through his thick skull, the better. Neither are we subscribing to the theory of Black Supremacy or any other race claiming to be superior to the others. We embrace One Guyana!
Respectfully, Neil Adams
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2025
Page Foundation
1. Which of the following numbers is a common multiple of 5 and 9?
(A) 8 (B) 3 (C) 45 (D) 10
2. How many grams in 25 kilograms?
(A) 250 (B) 25000 (C) 2550 (D) 25
3. Which of the following numbers has 6 in the tens place? (A) 6823
(B) 2638
(C) 3286
(D) 8263
4. Which number completes the sum 0.1 x 10 =_?
(A) 0.01
(B) 0.10
(C) 1.0
(D) 10
5. Which of the following plane figures has no vertices?
6. Which of the following is not equivalent to 1/5?
(A) 2/10
(B) 1/2
(C) 20/100
(D) 4/20
7. If P = { 2, 3, 5, 7} the best description is (A) odd numbers between 1 and 10
(B) even numbers between 1 and 10
(C) prime numbers between 1 and 10
(D) composite numbers between 1 and 10
8. What is the size of the angle in a semi-circle?
(A) 1800
(B) 450
(C) 900
(D) 700
a) i) What is the total cost for 5 apples and 10 mangoes?
ii) Greta is a fruit vendor at a primary school. If she sells the mangoes she purchases for $100 each and the apples for $200 each, calculate the profit she make on each fruit and the percentage gain.
b) If John and Harri need five coconuts to make a batch of sugar cakes, how many do they need for five and a half batches?
c)
i) Complete the tally chart ii) Draw a bar chart to represent the information
By Mark Twain
And did young Stephen sicken, And did young Stephen die? And did the sad hearts thicken, And did the mourners cry? No; such was not the fate of Young Stephen Dowling Bots; Though sad hearts round him thickened, ’Twas not from sickness’ shots. No whooping-cough did rack his frame, Nor measles drear, with spots; Not these impaired the sacred name Of Stephen Dowling Bots. Despised love struck not with woe That head of curly knots, Nor stomach troubles laid him low, Young Stephen Dowling Bots. O no. Then list with tearful eye, Whilst I his fate do tell. His soul did from this cold world fly, By falling down a well. They got him out and emptied him; Alas it was too late; His spirit was gone for to sport aloft In the realms of the good and great.
WORD SEARCH:
9.
“Win for local content” – Pres Ali as Muneshwers, John Fernandes partner to enhance port services
…US$14M investment on mobile harbour cranes commissioned
Local shipping competitors, Muneshwers Limited and John Fernandes Limited, have teamed up to enhance port services in Guyana with the procurement of two mobile harbour cranes – a US$14 million investment that has been lauded as a win for local content in the country.
The two mobile harbour cranes were purchased at US$8 million, and another US$6 million was spent on joining the berths of the two shipping companies at their neighbouring Water Street, Georgetown wharf facilities, to accommodate the massive machines.
At the commissioning of the cranes on Friday, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of John Fernandes Limited, Philip Fernandes, said this acquisition is the first step in modernising Guyana’s port services.
Previously, vessels needed to come with cranes on board to the local ports, in order to load and off-load cargo – something that will change now with the two mobile harbour cranes –‘Atlas’ and ‘Hercules’.
“They're designed to serve Panamax class vessels… They have a working
radius of 49 metres – that is, the radius that they can they can operate in – and then a lifting capacity of 125 tonnes… And for the first time in Guyana now, we can say that gearless vessels, which are vessels without cranes on board, can actually call at the port and be serviced, be loaded and discharged here in Guyana. This means faster and safer operations. So, this we see as a big win for Guyana, because it is a marked improvement to what we've always had,” he noted.
With Guyana boasting as one of the fastest growing economies in the world, Fernandes is optimistic about the business climate here, which is driven by Government’s support.
“We think this is a very most important first step in terms of modernising industry here in Guyana, and modernising our facilities for what can be anticipated,” he stated.
Through this partnership, Muneshwers Limited and John Fernandes Limited, a few years ago, had established Cranes Guyana Inc, under which the two mobile harbour cranes were procured.
According to Executive Director of Muneshwers Limited, Robin Muneshwer, these cranes will play a crucial role in the future of Guyana’s port industry.
“These cranes represent the future of the shipping industry in Guyana and the future of our respective companies and our combined will. The future beckons, and the future dictates that we cannot continue to operate the two busiest ports in Guyana in the busiest square mile of the country. So, we have been engaging the Government and our very forward-looking and progressive President on the path forward, which is to have a national port in Guyana – something that we were all committed to, and these cranes will be the harbinger of that future,” Muneshwer stated.
According to the businessman, the partnership between Muneshwers Limited and John Fernandes Limited is not just the first for the shipping industry but also an object lesson for the local private sector.
In fact, similar sentiments were expressed by President Dr Irfaan Ali, who hailed the joint venture
as a win for local content in Guyana.
“The establishment of this joint venture signals the proactive approach our local businesses are taking to ensure that they remain competitive and relevant in the face of changing demands. I therefore wholeheartedly welcome this investment. It is a major plus for our country and for these two companies. It is a significant win for local content.”
“It is a significant win for local content, demonstrating the capability of Guyanese businesses to step up, innovate and expand their operations to meet the needs of the sector. This kind of initiative aligns perfectly with our Government's vision for ensuring that our local businesses have a fair and substantial share in the wealth generating activities of the oil and gas industry,” the Head of State noted.
According to Ali, the establishment of Cranes Guyana Inc is demonstrative that collaboration is the way to go – local companies pooling their resources, expertise and capital to ensure a greater footprint in a highly competitive and capital-intensive industry.
“John Fernandes Limited and Muneshwers Limited have demonstrated
leadership by forging this alliance, leveraging their long established expertise in freight and logistics to meet the evolving needs of our country. It is time for our local companies to embrace a new mindset, one that encouraged them to think bigger, act bolder and grow together. The rapid growth of our oil and gas sector and other sectors in our country demands a shift in perspective. No longer can businesses operate in isolation or remain content with small-scale operations,” the President asserted.
The Guyanese leader went on to say that his Government will continue to create the environment and provide the incentives for similar investments especially to position Guyana as a transport and logistics hub in the region.
The purchase of the two mobile cranes was financed
by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and according to the IDB country representative, Lorena Solórzano Salazar, the financial institution will continue to support private sector development in Guyana.
“The courage, the trust and the faith demonstrated by both companies in forging such a partnership is truly commendable. Your unwavering commitment to this project will undoubtedly lead to significant improvements in efficiency within the transport sector and the logistics sector, overall, helping and supporting the economic growth of the country. As we celebrate this achievement, I wish to reaffirm the IDB group is dedicated to provide longterm support to the private sector in Guyana,” the IDB representative noted.
The two US$8M mobile harbour cranes
President Dr Irfaan Ali and Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh joined the John Fernandes and Muneshwers families to commission the two mobile harbour cranes on Friday
“Is me weed” – Berbice man caught parcelling off over 2kg ganja
Ahusband and wife were arrested on Thursday after police discovered 2.025 kilograms (kg) of marijuana in their possession during a mobile patrol operation in the Crabwood Creek School Dam area, Corentyne, Berbice.
The bust occurred at about 17:30h, when two police ranks, acting on intelligence received, proceeded to the residence of Premchand Kalicharran, known as “Boyse,” a 37-year-old laborer of Lot 29, Grant 1780, Crabwood Creek. Kalicharran, according to police, is well-known to law enforcement for previous narcotics trafficking and other offences and had only recently been released from prison for simple larceny.
As the ranks approached the residence, they observed Kalicharran sitting at the front of the house, appear-
ing to be parcelling an unknown substance. The officers exited their vehicle and entered the yard, reportedly catching him red-handed with a multi-colored bucket containing transparent wraps,
plastic bags, and multiple small ziplock bags, all filled with leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.
While police were securing the illegal substance, Shazeeda Kumarie, Kalicharran’s reputed wife, exited a bedroom in the house. Both individuals were immediately shown the suspected cannabis, informed of the offence, and arrested.
Kalicharran allegedly admitted ownership of the drugs, stating, “Is me weed, you all come and find me with it.”
The arrested couple was transported to the Springlands Police Station, where the marijuana was weighed in their presence, confirming a total of 2.025 kg. They remain in custody as investigations continue, with charges expected to be filed soon.
Fisherman admits to vandalising suicide victim’s tomb
A52-year-old fisherman, who was arrested last week in connection with the disturbing desecration of a 13-yearold girl’s tomb, has pleaded guilty to malicious damage to property and is now awaiting sentencing. Parsram Tapsie, also known as ‘Radesh’ or ‘Ranchie,’ of Phase 3, Good Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was taken into custody on February 11 and later charged on February 13
by at the Cove and John Police Station. The charge was brought under Section 160 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act Chapter 8:01.
The case stems from a tragic incident involving a 13-year-old girl,
Mykala Miguel, who died by suicide. She was laid to rest following the devastating event, but in a shocking turn of events, her tomb was discovered broken into just days after her burial.
Reports alleged that someone had not only vandalised the tomb but also violated the child’s body. Following investigations, Tapsie was arrested after allegedly going into hiding.
On Friday, Tapsie appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was formally read to him. He pleaded guilty, and the court ordered that he undergo a probation and psychiatric evaluation before sentencing.
Tapsie has since been remanded to prison, and the matter has been adjourned to March 17 when he is expected to be sentenced.
In the eyes...
…of the beholder?
Pres Ali just protested thescore of 39 given to Guyana on a scale from zero (“highly corrupt”) to 100 (“very clean”) by “Transparency International” (TI). It’s said that “beauty is in the eyes of the beholder”, but is “corruption” also so defined?? We know of “the ugly baby only a mother could love”, but, on the other hand, are there also paragons of probity who’re seen as corrupt by others?
Well, over two decades ago – 1993, to be exact – a group of ex-World Bank/UN workers from Germany, who must’ve been exposed to corrupt governments across the world, decided to form TI, to rate the corruption perception of countries. TI now have a global network of more than 100 National Chapters and Individual Members; a Board of Directors; an International Council; Chair and Vice-Chair; and the Chief Executive Officer, who’s leading the operations in Berlin. Wow…how they’ve grown!! But how?? Well, they’re not alone in their mission to oust “corrupt” governments. Another group that has been doing its bit is USAID – that’s been in the news lately!! On its site, it explained the dangers of corruption: “From impeding service delivery, to exacerbating humanitarian emergencies, to stoking conflict — corruption undermines human dignity and collective progress. That is why USAID has prioritised investments in anti-corruption — building on decades of efforts alongside local partners that promote transparency, accountability, and integrity.”
Isn’t that noble?? We shouldn’t be surprised that USAID – which worked with the World Bank - also hooked up with TI. As it boasted in one of its publications: “USAID’s partnerships with international NGOs have likewise yielded impressive results. For instance, the support that USAID’s Bureau for Global Programs, Field Support, and Research has provided to Transparency International (TI) has helped to heighten international recognition of corruption as a development problem and promote the broader participation of citizens in the fight against corruption. Specifically, USAID and other donor contributions have enabled TI to develop and disseminate the TI Source Book, which documents best practices, and the widelyknown Corruption Perception Index, which has caused a number of countries to take their own corruption problems more seriously. These contributions have also helped TI to sponsor regional and international anti-corruption workshops, and foster local TI chapters in more than 70 countries worldwide”. The neo-liberal billionaire George Soros has also funded TI!! Imagine that!!
But now that the Trump administration has declared USAID as “corrupt”, and has frozen its funding, what’s to be done about the cancer of corruption while it excises the mote (plank?) of corruption in USAID, and by extension TI’s eyes!?!
Shouldn’t we now examine the mote in our local TI affiliate, that was pointed out by Pres Ali in its treatment of the APNU/AFC regime??
Follow the money??
…of Trump
Who says Trump’s a narcissist?? Remember Narcissus, the fella from Greek mythology who was so impossibly handsome that he fell in love with his own image, reflected in a pool of water?? Even the lovely nymph Echo couldn’t tempt him from his self-absorption. Well, Trump has shown some signs, hasn’t he?? Back in 2020, the book “Unfit: The Psychology of Donald Trump” - based on the testimony of several mental health professionals - labelled the US president a “malignant narcissist.”
Trump memorably hit back by declaring himself a “very stable genius”!! But in his meetings with Indian PM Modi during Trump I and just now in II, a case MIGHT be made that Trump isn’t actually a “MALIGNANT narcissist”!! Imagine, the President repeatedly expressed admiration for Modi, saying, “He’s doing a great job in India; everybody talks about it.” Of course, Modi also laid it on a bit thick: “I thank you for your warm words and I firmly believe that every person in India (that’s 1.4 billion persons!) respects your sentiments”!!
…of Burnham
It’s accepted that a baby’s born when it enters the world. But according to the PNC, the same ain’t true for their party. They celebrated the 70th anniversary of the PNC – from 1955, when it wasn’t even PPP-Burnham!!
The cannabis that was found in the house in Berbice
Millie
Parsram Tapsie, also known as ‘Radesh’ and ‘Ranchie’
Healthcare investments show 700% increase in patient aid, care – Pres Ali
…early cancer detection, free dialysis, more hearing aids & eye care upgrades
The Government has intensified its healthcare efforts following the detection of 203 prostate cancer cases in men and 2,000 cervical cancer cases in women in 2024.
Recognising the growing prevalence of these cancers, President Dr Irfaan Ali has committed to expanding screening and treatment programmes nationwide.
In 2024, a comprehensive cervical cancer screening initiative was launched, providing sufficient data to guide public healthcare ex-
penditure. So far, 12,000 women between the ages of 21 and 65 have undergone cervical cancer testing, with results indicating a 17 per cent positive rate, translating to over 2,040 confirmed cases.
For men, prostate cancer screening has also expanded significantly. In 2024, over 13,688 Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests were conducted, revealing that 19 per cent of the tested individuals had elevated PSA levels. Of those, 536 underwent biopsies, with a stag-
gering 38 per cent testing positive for prostate cancer.
During a live broadcast on Thursday, President Ali urged citizens to prioritise being screened at an ear-
ly age in an effort to boost access to preventable and treatable methods.
“These things are treatable with early detection and it also reduces public health
expenditure in the long term if we can detect early, if we can avoid. So we are working now to have a national programme with Mount Sinai because the technology is also advancing where we can roll out this, where we can roll out this and other tests that are applicable, that are high risk and applicable to us on a national scale so that our public health expenditure now and in the future can be properly aligned to these statistics that I've just given,” the Head of State said.
Beyond cancer care, healthcare investments have led to a 700 per cent increase in the number of patients benefiting from the Government’s assistance programme
According to the Head of State, in 2019, only 684 patients received hearing aids but in 2024, this number had risen to nearly 3,000.
Additionally, dialysis treatment has expanded significantly, with over 550 patients now receiving free treatment across multiple regions, compared to just 64 patients in 2019.
“These are the results of a health care system that is delivering a world-class health care system that is not only looking at diagnostics but it's looking at treatment, prevention because we want a healthy population,” Ali stated.
Eye care has also seen substantial improvements. In 2024 alone, 68,320 eye tests were completed, and nearly 55,000 individuals received free prescription glasses. Furthermore, cataract surgeries have surged from just 16 procedures between 2015 and 2020 to 3,665 surgeries at Port Morant Hospital in the past four years.
President Ali has reaffirmed Government’s dedication to providing a worldclass healthcare system that prioritises prevention, early detection, and treatment. He noted that the expansion of regional medical facilities, increased accessibility to diagnostic tools, and commitment to free treatment programmes highlights the administration’s proactive approach to improving public health outcomes.
President Dr Irfaan Ali
“Exercise mutual respect” –ERC after intolerant remarks on Shiva Murti in Reg 2
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) of Guyana in a recent statement on Friday has noted with great concern the increasing level of religious intolerance expressed on social media regarding the recently inaugurated Shiva Murti on the Essequibo Coast.
The Commission firmly believes that respect and understanding among all religious groups are essential to maintaining national unity and social harmony.
Through its Media Monitoring Unit, the ERC has flagged numerous religiously intolerant remarks in the comment section of posts related to the Shiv Murti.
The organisation has since issued several cautionary warnings to individuals who have made religious intolerance statements.
However, due to the escalating number of negative comments and inflammatory remarks, the Commission urges all Guyanese to exercise mutual respect and uphold the principles of religious freedom that is enshrined in our Constitution.
Guyana is a proudly multi-ethnic and multicultural society, where religious diversity has long been a cornerstone of our national identity. The majority of our population actively participates in and respects each other's religious celebrations, demonstrating a model of religious harmony that sets a global example.
The ERC strongly cautions against any actions or statements that may seek to undermine one of Guyana’s greatest strengths—our religious unity. It is imperative that we do not allow divisive rhetoric to disrupt the peaceful
coexistence that has long defined our nation.
In this spirit, the ERC urged all citizens to respect our Hindu brothers and sisters as they commemorate this historic inauguration of a sacred symbol in their faith. Let us continue to foster an environment where all religious beliefs are honoured, and where mutual respect and understanding define our national discourse.
The ERC remains committed to promoting harmony and good relations across Guyana. We encourage all Guyanese to join us in this vital effort, ensuring that our country remains a beacon of unity, tolerance, and peace.
50-foot Bhagwan Shiva Murti at the Badrinaath Ashram, Spring Garden, Essequibo Coast, Region 2
Guyana working to increase egg production as US hit with bird flu
Guyana is working towards self-sufficiency in hatching egg production as the global food supply faces disruptions due to bird flu.
According to President Dr Irfaan Ali, this measure aims to reduce dependence on imports and strengthen local poultry farming to ensure a stable supply of eggs and poultry products.
In the past six months, the world has faced significant challenges in food production due to environmental changes, resource constraints, and increasing global demand. One of the most heavily impacted sectors is poultry, a critical industry in Guyana.
With soaring demand for poultry products, including hatching eggs, table eggs, and broiler meat, the Government is ramping up efforts to ensure food security and mitigate risks posed by the global bird flu outbreak.
During a live broadcast on Thursday, President Ali disclosed that Guyana imports over 52 million hatching eggs annually, with demand expected to rise.
He explained that as the United States (US) struggles to meet its own demand, Guyana risks significant disruptions in supply.
“Almost all of that hatching eggs come from the US. Now, most of the hatching eggs, if not all, comes from Georgia, Miami area. Those are areas not affected as yet by the bird flu. But we have massive problems in the rest of the US, where some estimates put production of
hatching egg down by 40 per cent. We have had instances where the entire production system had to be removed so that they can mitigate against the widespread of the bird flu,” the Guyanese leader explained.
Beyond hatching eggs, global meat production has also taken a severe hit, with estimates suggesting a 33 per cent decline. The US and Brazil dominate the global poultry market, and while
Brazil remains unaffected, the Guyanese Leader explained that any outbreak there would trigger a catastrophic supply chain crisis.
This looming threat, the President noted underscores the urgent need for Guyana to develop self-sufficiency in poultry production.
“If Brazil gets affected, then we will have major disruption in the global poultry market and we have to plan against this. We have to plan
and mitigate against these circumstances. Fortunately for us, our annual table eggs, which is about 5.5 million eggs annually, we have been able to produce that more or less locally”.
“We never produce hatching eggs in Guyana. Last year, however, we were able to produce 1 million hatching eggs in a pilot programme. And we are looking to see how within three years, in about three to four years, we can be self-sufficient in the production of hatching eggs,” the Head of State disclosed.
President Ali believes that investments funneled into the private sector to expand local hatching egg production will reduce Guyana’s
dependency on foreign suppliers.
“This year, we'll have heavy investment and support to the private sector consortium in building out the industry so that we can increase more of the hatching eggs that we produce locally. So, the Ministry of Agriculture is having what we call an actionable task force that is tasked with liaising with the World Animal Health Organisation and the US,” he added.
The Guyanese Leader shared that enhanced monitoring of ports of entry and at-risk border areas has been implemented, with advanced technology such as drones being deployed for surveil-
lance. Additionally, Guyana has joined the global information-sharing network to ensure proactive and aggressive measures are taken against any threats.
Beyond national borders, he stated that the Government is working closely with Brazil to safeguard its poultry industry, recognising the devastating consequences an outbreak there could have on the global and local supply chains.
With robust planning and strategic investments, Guyana is determined to insulate its poultry sector from external shocks, ensuring stable production and price control in the face of mounting global uncertainty.
GBTI Invoice Financing to eliminate cash flow struggles for O&G businesses
The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) has launched a game-changing financial solution aimed at eliminating cash flow struggles for businesses operating in the oil and gas sector.
The newly introduced Invoice Financing initiative allows suppliers to access up to 80 per cent of their validated invoice value, ensuring a steady stream of working capital while awaiting payment.
In addition to immediately accessing up to 80 per cent of their invoice value, the terms are flexible, with loan maturity matched to invoice due dates ranging from 30 to 180 days.
In his address at the launch on Friday, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh praised GBTI’s move, highlighting that the financing arrangement ensures that businesses no longer face delays in receiving payments, allowing them to reinvest and scale their oper-
ty by the Guyana's private sector of a service, of a facility of the type that ordinarily the private sector would be able to access anywhere else in the world,” Dr Singh said.
Simple process
To qualify for this financing option, business-
space and potentially companies operating outside of the oil and gas space. And the leadership of GBTI has assured me that the intention is to roll this out beyond ExxonMobil Guyana, to roll this out in the first instance to Tier 1 contractors of ExxonMobil Guyana,” he
ment penalties.
This short-term capital solution is designed for registered suppliers with a proven track re-
The financing is also offered at a competitive rate, with a low monthly interest of just 1.25 per cent, coupled with no hidden fees, ensuring a transparent process with no early repay
cord in the oil and gas sector, particularly those holding validated invoices from ExxonMobil’s local affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), or its prime contractors.
ations
“The issue of pledging receivables and or contracts and or invoices as collateral for the purposes of securing credit has been an issue that we've been discussing for a very long time”.
“The transformation and modernisation that is taking place in Guyana is a very visible thing. New modern banking halls, etc. But the modernisation that we seek to achieve as a Government and as a country must also take place in the things that are not so visible, including the types and quality and efficiency of services that are available. And steps like this represent exactly that. Represent the making of availabili-
es must submit a completed credit application form and comply with GBTI’s anti-money laundering (AML) and regulatory standards. Additionally, they must provide proof of contract history and supplier performance, to ensure credibility and compliance with the bank’s requirements.
Dr Singh revealed that discussions are underway to expand this initiative beyond ExxonMobil Guyana, extending it to Tier 1 contractors and potentially other industries where credit risks remain manageable.
“I made sure to inquire about the bank's intentions to extend this to other issuers, to other companies operating in the oil and gas
said.
“We also want to make sure that credit becomes more easily accessible at the same time, while containing risks, that credit becomes more accessible to the non-financial private sector. And it is a non-financial private sector that is expanding at a phenomenal rate, as you know, as you've seen in your client base,” he added.
The Invoice Financing initiative arrives at a pivotal moment of explosive economic growth, as private sector credit surges from $260 billion in 2020 to over $450 billion in 2024, fuelling industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, services, and real estate, among others.
Minister Singh underscored that while Guyana is witnessing unprecedented physical transformation through new roads, ports, and housing developments, financial modernisation is equally vital.
On this point, he stressed the importance of local businesses having access to world-class financial services to compete on a global scale.
“With GBTI leading the way, this initiative sets a new standard for financial services in Guyana… Our ratio of non-performing loans today is lower than it has been at any time in recent memory. And so, what that tells us is that you have not only an expansion in lending, but you have an expansion in the quality of borrowing and the quality of lending. And that, I have to say, is a reflection of, or is the result of a combination of factors.”
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh
After failing to challenge
claimed ‘bloated’ voters’ List Opposition Leader now claims APNU not submitting objections,
Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton, on Friday, said that his political party refrained from filing any objections during Guyana’s Elections Commission (GECOM) last Claims and Objections exercise because providing evidence to back their own claims of a bloated voters’ list would benefit the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C).
Norton made the statement during his party’s weekly virtual press conference.
Earlier this week it was reported that during GECOM’s first Claims and Objections exercise for the year only nine objections were received during the pe-
riod from January 2 - 22. Of the nine, none were filed by any of the opposition parties, including the party that Norton leads, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R). Given Norton’s sustained public complaints about issues with the voters’ list, he was questioned on why his party did not submit any official objections to GECOM. Norton indicated that lodging official objections with GECOM is counterproductive.
“To do that is to help the People’s Progressive Party. We are not going to do that,” Norton offered.
“Any actions now will help the PPP, by saying that, you will not be able to take off the thousands and then
NA Hospital gate vendors to be relocated – Health Committee recommends
The Regional Health Committee of Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) has recommended that vendors who operate at the gate on the New Amsterdam Hospital be relocated.
The Committee presented its recommendations to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) during its recent meeting.
The recommendation comes in light of growing concerns over congestion at the main gate of the hospital.
Councillor Camille Cox, at the RDC meeting, raised concerns, questioning where the vendors could be relocated.
“Where is the recommended spot that they should be relocated to?” she asked.
Head of the Regional Health Committee Shaun Smith, pointed out that there is a previously established vending area.
“There’s always been a well-established, known vending area on the Garrison Road side. We know that nobody should be vending in front of the hospital.” Smith
said.
Armogan in supporting the call, noted the importance of addressing the issue of congestion and that the problem has escalated to the point of endangering lives.
“I agree that this area was designated for vending. That particular gate on the Garrison Road side was used by members of the public to visit patients at the hospital, but it was subsequently changed. Now, there’s constant congestion at the front gate, and there’s always a problem with vehicles parking and people vending there. Recently, a doctor was hit by a lorry because of the same issue,” the Regional Chairman said.
Armogan said it would only be possible with enforcement; he believes that enforcement is necessary.
“The hospital will have to seek enforcement from the police because if it is the hospital policy that nobody should be vending there and people still continue to do it, then there’s a law, and the law has to deal with it. They have to move,” Armogan added.
since it will benefit
they claim that they clean the list. We ain’t stupid… we have common sense. They’re trying to get us to do Claims and Objections so that they can spin it politically.”
Political opposition parties continue to complain about the Official List of Elector (OLE), and calls for the removal of voters not-
withstanding legal ramifications. Over the years the opposition has made a number of claims, including that of dead and migrated persons voting.
As Guyana gets ready for elections in 2025, the opposition has heightened their calls for the scrapping of the OLE and the National
Register of Registrants (NRR) from which GECOM extracts the OLE. This is notwithstanding GECOM having made it categorically clear that constitutional reform would be needed before GECOM could act on any such suggestions. In 2019, Chief Justice Roxanne George ruled that names cannot be removed from the NRR except in the case of death.
Last week, Vice President
PPP
Dr Bharrat Jagdeo in responding to the Opposition’s repeated claims about the integrity of the voters’ list, said that the registration process was rigorous and carefully monitored, highlighting that once a person is registered, their name can only be removed in the event of death. He dismissed the Opposition’s argument that persons who have migrated should be removed from the list.
Vendors selling at the main gate of the New Amsterdam Hospital
Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton
Offshore Technology Conference 2025
Local SMEs urged to tap into business opportunities
…Focus to be placed on investments outside of oil and gas
With the highly anticipated Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) just some three months away, stakeholders have made a call to action for local Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) to sign up for the event, noting that they will have the opportunity to secure investments and business ventures in several key sectors.
The OTC is a series of conferences and exhibitions, focused on exchanging technical knowledge relevant to the development of offshore energy resources, primarily oil and natural gas.
The flagship event is held annually during early May in Houston, Texas, USA since 1969.
On Friday, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) conducted a press conference to update stakeholders about what they can expect from this year’s conference.
Speaking at the event, Senior Vice President (VP) of the GCCI Kathy Smith, urged local SMEs to enrol themselves for the event. She highlighted that the energy sector has a plethora of opportunities that these businesses can capitalise on.
“Most of us would look to the Government to build out the energy sector within Guyana, but if we are to encourage businesses to be part of that sector, to help grow that sector, and in return help grow their businesses, we as the chamber, as an advocacy body, want to make sure that our businesses, our members, have an understanding as to how to do that,” she said.
“So, for those SMEs who consider themselves high growth and you want to be part of the energy sector, this is an opportunity for you to go there and to get partnership. I'm not sure if anybody might be able to say, but every year that we go, members are coming
back for partnership with us every single year that we go,” she added.
Also present at the event was Senior Director of Investment at the Guyana Office for Investment (GOInvest) John Edghill. He revealed that at this year’s event, emphasis will be placed on securing investments and partnerships in several key areas outside of the oil and gas sector.
“As the Guyana Office for Investment and Investment Promotion Agency for the country, we see it as an opportunity to display all that Guyana has to offer. As you know, we want to build sustainable development in this country. We have a Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030. We have a lot of national development goals that we are linking to the oil and gas sector. But we are using the oil and gas sector to be able to build out the other sectors… We will display to them our tourism potential,
20 students awarded US$1,000
each
The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, in partnership with the Education Ministry’s Allied Arts Unit (AAU), has awarded a cash prize of US$1,000 each to two exemplary students from each of the 10 educational districts who placed first and second in the Guyana-China Friendship Youth Leadership Development Competition 2024. The 2024 competition, which was the fourth carried out thus far, focused on the importance of youth leadership in Guyana, and involved students from grades eight to ten. Regional coordinators, alongside head teachers, coaches, and community members, played a key role in
screening and ranking applicants.
To compete, students had to complete five key tasks: Community-Based Projects – Conduct a survey, analyse data, and execute a project based on the findings. Essay and Project Report –Write a short essay and report on their project. Critique of a Guyanese Work of Art –Analyse a poem, song, dance, or visual art piece. Artistic Production – Create their own work of art (e.g., a dance, painting, or performance).
Physical Fitness Challenge – Participate in a structured fitness assessment. At the end of the competition, students were required to present their work in an overall presentation.
During the award cer-
emony on Friday at the Chinese Embassy, Head of the Ministry’s AAU, Nicholas Fraser, shared the vision behind the competition.
“We wanted to forge positive relationships among youths, their families, schools, and communities. We also aimed to strengthen academic, soft, and technical skills while offering young people opportunities to execute meaningful community projects that create real impact.”
Fraser emphasised that the competition treats youth participants as equal partners, encouraging them to engage with their communities, schools, peer groups, and families in constructive and productive ways.
“The youth leaders here
our agriculture potential, our manufacturing potential, and be able to reduce energy costs by 50 per cent in a few months,” he noted.
Moreover, Senior Petroleum Coordinator at the Ministry of Natural Resources, Bobby Gossai, highlighted that the OTC will serve as a platform that will equip local businesses with the tools and resources needed to bring innovative products to Guyana.
“We know that we have countries close by, and maybe further afield that can possibly provide goods and services, that are not being able to manoeuvre to Guyana or being able to establish themselves here. We want you to be able to attend those events like OTC and be able to focus on that
and bring that home. This is where we really want the local businesses, through the established partnership with the Government, to find those avenues, to find those economic opportunities that could come back to Guyana and establish more businesses here as we look forward to 2025 and years beyond that,” he urged.
Additionally, GCCI President Kester Hutson revealed how Guyanese have benefitted from the event over the years.
“We have had delegations of approximately 35 business leaders who attended the Offshore Technology Conference and would have received very much good rewards by being exposed to the event, and the networking of course, and that even-
tually led to great partnerships.”
The GCCI President added. “And we would have known of these success stories locally. It is something that we pride ourselves with; to really organise with the local private sector and to really lead but this is not just private sector. This is Guyana at large; this is where the private sector and the public sector really collaborate in a significant way to really make this event a success.”
More than 100 Guyanese private sector members have participated in the OTC in the previous years.
Notably, new businesses who take part in this year’s proceedings of the OTC will be given a one-year free membership at the GCCI.
in Guyana-China youth competition
today exemplify moral values, intelligence, sports excellence, artistic talent, and community service. This award ceremony recognises their achievements in the 2024 Guyana-China Friendship Youth Leadership Development Competition.”
In fact, it was revealed that very soon, he will receive confirmation from the Chinese Embassy that they are ready to launch the 2025 edition of the competition.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Education Officer (DCEO), Marti De Souza, speaking on behalf of Education Minister Priya Manickchand, highlighted the competition’s impact on youth development.
“This competition provides a powerful platform for our young people to foster collaboration, creativity, and leadership while strengthening the bond between Guyana and the People’s Republic of China. It reflects a shared commitment to education, youth empowerment, and global cooperation,” he stated.
He also emphasised how international partnerships in education benefit Guyana, noting: “This initiative symbolises a deepening of our ties on many levels—political, cultural, and educational. By empowering our young leaders, we are building from strength to strength.”
De Souza also encouraged continued efforts in youth development and international collaboration.
“As we look to the future, let us build on the momentum created by this competition. Let us continue to encourage our young people to think critically, act with compassion, and lead with integrity. Together, we can ensure a brighter future not only for Guyana but for our global community,” he told persons at the event.
Meanwhile while giving closing remarks, China’s Charge d’Affaires, Huang
Rui, addressed the youths, saying, “Young people dare to do what you love, try your best to complete your journeys from dream to reality, and regardless of our circumstances we must strive for the greatness, putting no limitation in our aspirations. Think big and you will reach far!” The success of this programme relies on collaboration with various stakeholders, including schools, Parent-Teacher Associations, departments within the Ministry of Education, Government and non-Governmental organisations, the private sector, and the wider community.
Stakeholders at the press conference on Friday
A section of the Guyana exhibit at last year’s OTC
The 20 students who placed 1st and 2nd in the competition posing with their trophies
Charge d’Affaires Huang Rui
Ministry of Education's Head of the Unit of Allied Arts, Nicholas Fraser
“I am happy with our advice” – Norton says no remorse for misleading Mocha
squatters
Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, on Friday brazenly declared that he has no remorse for misleading the Mocha/Arcadia squatters, who recently lost their court case for rights to the land that they squatted on, and are now saddled with paying over $2 million in legal costs to the Government.
Norton also encouraged that the beleaguered residents should only accept further assistance from the Government on the condition that they be given back the lands, despite the court ruling that the lands which they occupy belong to the State. Norton is again urging those persons to hold out their challenge to the Government for occupancy of those lands.
Norton spoke on the issue during his party’s weekly virtual press conference, where he faced questions on his role in stoking the Mocha residents to refuse voluntary compensation from the Government and instead institute legal proceedings.
“I am extremely happy that we advised them to seek adequate compensation. As far as we are concerned, we gave good advice to them,” Norton declared.
“We are confident that we did engage people in Mocha, we did give them proper advice. There were people who decided they were going to take the compensation. Some of them felt it was adequate and those who felt it wasn't didn't and they were correct.”
Norton is holding out that the compensation offered by the Government, to the Mocha squatters, was not adequate. This is despite the fact that a total of $250 million in compensation was issued to 27 families from the district. An additional $6M was disbursed for farmlands.
According to reports, it was back in 2021 that the Government engaged with 35 families to provide housing and cash for the value of their homes to remove in order to facilitate construction of a road network. However, while most of the families accepted, a handful of residents, stoked by narrative from the Norton and the political opposition, challenged that the compensation offered by the Government was inadequate.
According to data released by the Ministry of Housing and Water, the resistant residents were de-
manding between $100 million to $150 million apiece to remove from the unregularised area.
One individual whose property was valued at $5.5 million at the time demanded $150 million and farmlands. Four other individuals demanded $100 million each, after being offered valuations of $8.6 million, $7.2 million, $6 million and $3.4 million. Another resident with a valuation of $14.3 million but instead demanded $45 million in addition to farmlands.
Moving ahead with the proposed road development final notices were served to the remaining individuals on June 27, 2022.
The parliamentary opposition instead encouraged the squatters to take the Government to court – a battle which they outright lost and are now left homeless. In 2023 the displaced squatters filed their court challenge in the High Court seeking more than $200 million in damages, declarations of ownership of parcels of land, and compensation for alleged breaches of constitutional rights.
Earlier this month the Chief Justice, Roxanne George ruled that the applicants had failed to substantiate their claims for prescriptive titles, property damage, and constitutional violations.
Notwithstanding the Court ruling, the Government has indicated that it will work to assist the squatters. Addressing the
Taxi drivers warned over dangerous road practices
Police are increasing efforts to ensure taxi drivers comply with road safety regulations, following concerns over reckless driving, illegal parking, and traffic obstruction. During a recent televised ‘Road Safety and You’ programme, Inspector Sherwin Henry of the Traffic Headquarters’ Education Section in Georgetown highlighted ongoing enforcement actions targeting taxi drivers in high-traffic areas.
“For the week, we went to different taxi service areas. Myself and team, which have the dedication, went to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). We engaged with the drivers there. We had an interaction with them. We spoke about the rules of the road,” Henry stated.
He also noted that authorities addressed congestion issues at key locations. “Then we went to the Soesdyke Junction where we engaged the taxis doing the short drop and so on. And they assured the police that they will comply with the rules of the road, especially if you have some complaints of force you might see, where they’re coming out from the park and they’re causing some sort of obstruction.”
Inspector Sherwin Henry of the Traffic Headquarters’ Education Section
The discussion also covered problematic areas where taxis have been disrupting traffic flow.
“And also, the red road area is another area we had to target because there are persons that are concerned about that area too, because the intersection is wide and the taxi just parked there anyhow and so on. So we were telling them and reminding them about the rules of the road, the way how to park, about not leaving the vehicles in a dangerous position, and so on.”
Henry further explained that the initiative was wide-
issue on Thursday during a live broadcast, President, Dr Irfaan Ali emphasised that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration is focused on humanity rather than politics. However, even this was
shot down by Norton, who on Thursday encouraged the squatters that they should only accept assistance from the Government if they will be given back the lands that the court ruled they have no legal right to.
“I am saying to the people, engage him, but engage him on the condition that he is giving you back those lands, regularising it and giving you the assistance to develop it,” Norton said.
NA Mayor concerned about traffic hazard as trucks park on road shoulders
New Amsterdam's Mayor Wainwright McIntosh has expressed concern over the persistent use of a section of Republic Road as a parking area for heavy-duty machinery, while creating a traffic hazard.
Many vehicle operators have taken to social media, expressing concern over the danger posed by the parked trucks and machinery.
The trucks are often parked on Republic Road between LFS Burnham and King Streets. However, all around the county, and even the country, this practice takes place.
Regarding the situation on Republic Road, vehicle operators coming out of Vryman’s Erven complain that they cannot see oncoming traffic without first driving on to the carriageway of Republic Road.
Some have expressed concerns, saying that motorcyclists frequently pass at top speed, and if the trucks are allowed to be parked there continually, there will be a serious collision.
Mayor McIntosh says the
fic dangers. Through the road safety council, we would have highlighted the dangers these trucks would have posed being parked along the road shoulders. As we speak, vehicles coming out from the Vryman’s Erven area...these trucks are posing great difficulties to persons commuting. We would have written several times to these individuals [and] we made contact with the traffic department of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), precisely in New Amsterdam,” the Mayor told the media.
One such individual the Mayor has sent notic-
the proximity of two schools in the affected area. He added that it is a disappointing situation, as the number of trucks parked at that location keeps increasing.
He called it a blatant disrespect to the Mayor and Town Council.
spread, targeting multiple locations where taxi operations have raised safety concerns.
“We went to different areas. We went even as far as Agricultural Road there, there are the taxis there, we had a talk with them and even within the hospital. Most areas we targeted were areas where we have a lot of traffic flowing and the way the taxi maneuver and cause some sort of obstruction and so on.”
With continued education and enforcement efforts, authorities hope to reduce congestion and improve overall road safety.
Last year, President Irfan Ali, along with Traffic Chief Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh and Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, directed full enforcement of traffic laws. The President emphasised the use of technology, including body cameras and ClosedCircuit Television (CCTV), to identify reckless drivers.
He also highlighted the Government’s investment in traffic cameras, which resulted in hundreds of speeding tickets being issued. Additionally, authorities focused on repeat offenders, with plans for legal action, including licence suspensions.
trucks pose a danger to public safety in a bustling commuter zone. He noted several incidents of concern raised by citizens, including a viral social media post, and previous attempts by the municipality to engage owners of the vehicles.
Mayor McIntosh says too that the situation is a dangerous one.
“While we would have noted that one truck at 54 Stanleytown, there was another video highlighting these encumbrances with the trucks. I can recall during the 4th council, we would have written to the owners of these trucks, highlighting the traf-
es to is Marvin Cameroon of King Street. In fact, in 2022, the-then Mayor Winifred Haywood raised the issue with Minister within the Ministry of Local Government, Anand Persaud, who visited the town hall.
The Minister advised that letters be sent to the owner, and when he was told that this was done, the Minister advised that the council take the owner to court.
Mayor, McIntosh says he will be re-engaging the police commander with the hope that the issue can be addressed collaboratively.
He noted that there is an urgent need for action, citing
“We would have engaged the traffic department, we would have engaged the owners of these vehicles but todate these persons are operating as if they are bigger than the law. Now is time for further action. We will re-engage the owners of their machinery here and further actions will he taken,” he declared.
Late last year, the Government announced that it will be developing parking facilities countrywide for these trucks and heavy-duty machinery.
“The necessary steps will be taken to ensure these encumbrances are removed to ensure the safety of our commuters,” Mayor McIntosh assured.
The Mayor’s remarks highlight the ongoing efforts of the New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council to improve road safety, and ensure that local roads remain clear and safe for all commuters.
Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton
Some of the trucks parked on the shoulders of the Republic Road in New Amsterdam
New Amsterdam Mayor Wainwright McIntosh
Around the World OIL NEWS
Oil settles lower, supply worries ease on hopes for Ukraine peace deal
Oil prices settled down on Friday on prospects for a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine that could ease global supply disruptions by ending sanctions against Moscow, but losses were limited by a delay in United States (US) immediate reciprocal tariffs.
Brent futures settled down 28 cents, or 0.37per cent, at $74.74 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell 55 cents, or 0.77per cent, to $70.74.
For the week, Brent gained 0.11per cent while WTI lost around 0.37per cent.
President Donald Trump ordered US officials this week to begin talks on ending the war in Ukraine after Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed a desire for peace in separate phone calls with him.
Lifting sanctions on Moscow in the event of a peace deal should boost global energy supplies. Russian oil exports could be sustained if workarounds to the latest US sanctions package are found, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said in its latest oil market report.
This week, Trump ordered commerce and economic officials to study reciprocal tariffs against countries that place tariffs on US goods and to return their recommendations by April 1.
"Positive development on the trade front in light of US tariff delays paves the way for some recovery in oil prices this morning, as the risk environment warms up to the prospects of further trade consensus being reached," said IG market strategist Yeap Jun Rong.
Also limiting the losses, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview that the US could apply maximum economic pressure on Iran.
Trump had driven Iran's oil exports to near zero during his first term after reimposing sanctions.
Global oil demand has surged to 103.4 million barrels per day (bpd), up by 1.4 million bpd from the prior year, JPMorgan analysts said on Friday.
"Initially sluggish demand for mobility and heating fuels picked up in the second week of February, suggesting the gap between actual and projected demand will soon narrow," the bank said.
US energy firms this week added oil and natural gas rigs for a third week in a row for the first time since December 2023, energy services firm Baker Hughes (BKR.O), opens new tab said in its closely followed report on Friday.
The oil and gas rig count, an early indicator of future output, rose by two to 588 in the week to February 14.
At least 10 killed by bomb blast in Pakistan’s Balochistan
At least 10 people have been killed and others wounded after a bomb struck a vehicle carrying labourers in southwestern Pakistan.
An improvised explosive device (IED) hit the truck when it was travelling in the Harnai area of Balochistan province on Friday, local officials said.
“Ten mine workers were killed in an attack in Harnai district,” Shahzad Zahri, a senior Government official, told AFP news agency.
The region’s Deputy Commissioner, Hazrat Wali Agha, told Reuters that 17 miners were in the truck when the bomb went off.
Several people were injured and taken to a local hospital. A doctor at the facility told Reuters that two of the wounded were in
Pope Francis in hospital, has 'slight fever' but is stable, Vatican says
Pope Francis, who was taken to the hospital on Friday for treatment of bronchitis, is suffering from a respiratory infection but is in a stable condition, the Vatican said.
"The Holy Father... has undergone specialist examinations and has started hospital drug therapy," said a statement, issued about eight hours after the pope was taken to Rome's Gemelli Hospital.
"The initial tests showed a respiratory tract infection," it said. "His clinical condition is fair; he has a slight fever."
Vatican spokesman
Matteo Bruni said the pope was serene and in good spirits, and had read a few newspapers. Francis, 88, has been suffering from bronchitis for more than a week.
The Vatican said earlier on Friday that the pope would skip several planned public events over the next three days as he recovers in the hospital.
Earlier this month, Francis told pilgrims at a weekly audience that he was suffering from a "strong cold," which the Vatican later described as bronchitis. (Excerpted from Reuters)
JD Vance attacks Europe over free speech and migration
US Vice-President JD Vance has launched a scalding attack on European democracies, saying the greatest threat facing the continent was not from Russia and China, but "from within".
It had been expected that Vance would use his speech at the Munich Security Conference to address possible talks to end the war in Ukraine.
Instead, he spent the majority accusing European Governments - including the UK - of retreating from their values, and ignoring voter concerns on migration and free speech.
The address was met by
silence in the hall, and later denounced by several politicians at the conference.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said it was "not acceptable".
Vance repeated the Trump administration's line that Europe must "step up in a big way to provide for its own defence".
He alleged European Union "commissars" were suppressing free speech, blamed the continent for mass migration, and accused its leaders of retreating from "some of its most fundamental values".
The EU's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, characterised Vance as "trying to
pick a fight" with Europe, home to some of the US's closest allies. Michael McFaul, the former US ambassador to
Russia, told Politico Vance's remarks were "insulting" and "just empirically not true". (Excerpted from BBC News)
Mexico could file suit against Google for 'Gulf of Mexico' name change
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Thursday urged Google to reconsider renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the 'Gulf of America' for US users, adding that Mexico could file a civil suit against the company if necessary.
Google changed the name for US users of Google Maps to reflect the decision by the Government of US President Donald Trump to rename the Gulf of Mexico.
Sheinbaum has repeatedly decried the move, arguing the "Gulf of Mexico" name has long been recognised internationally.
On Thursday, the leader said Google had not resolved Mexico's earlier complaints.
She urged Google to re-
view the decree from the White House, arguing "the only place it was effective was where (the US) has sovereignty, or up to 22 nautical miles from the coast."
For users of Google Maps in Mexico, the gulf's name remains the "Gulf of Mexico." Outside of the two countries, users see both names on Google Maps. If Google holds its ground on the name, Mexico could take to the courts, Sheinbaum said.
"If necessary we will file a civil suit," she added. "Our legal area is already looking into what that would mean, but we hope that (Google) reconsiders."
Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Antigua: Mechanical issues force second emergency landing in hours
Airport emergency crews in Antigua faced an unprecedented day of action as two aircraft made emergency landings in just over 12 hours.
The day's second incident involved an Air Canada Airbus A319 carrying 120 passengers, which touched down safely at the VC Bird International at 10:34pm Thursday after reporting landing gear problems.
The Toronto-bound aircraft executed precautionary fuel-dumping maneuvers be-
fore making its approach. Emergency teams gave the final all-clear at 10:48 pm, confirming all passengers were safe.
Earlier that day, an Amerijet Boeing 767 cargo plane had already put emergency protocols to the test.
The aircraft, carrying four crew members and more than 5,000 pounds of jet fuel, encountered flap malfunctions while en route from Miami to St Maarten. It landed without incident at 10:57am. (LOOP)
critical condition. Harnai is more than
160km (100 miles) from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province. (Excerpted from Al Jazeera)
Victims being taken to a hospital following an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in the Harnai area of Balochistan province, in Quetta, Pakistan
US Vice-President JD Vance
Do something constructive. Helping others can be gratifying, but you must take time to nurture yourself. Fix up your surroundings and enjoy the comforts of home.
Distance yourself from those trying to exploit you. Address your needs and put together a plan to market your attributes. It's up to you to sell what you have to offer and present yourself confidently.
Simplify matters by keeping your thoughts to yourself, going about your business and staying out of trouble. Concentrate on personal gains, looking your best and staying healthy.
Pick up momentum and finish what you start. Refuse to let emotional issues slow you down. Putting in extra hours will take your mind off situations you cannot control.
Use your charm to get ahead. A kind gesture will give you the leverage to gain support and ensure you come out on top. A partnership will undergo a challenge that will prove educational.
Stick to the truth and question anything you hear that sounds farfetched. Set boundaries, take precautions and follow the most comfortable path. Use your intelligence to stretch your money and lower your overhead.
Put yourself out there and engage in functions that connect you to the movers and shakers. Changing the dynamics of your relationship with someone will encourage a lifestyle adjustment that eases stress.
Head out and seek stimulation that helps you broaden your awareness and vision. An interest in something unique or in someone from a different background will be enlightening. Don't spend money just to impress someone.
Emotional mayhem is likely if you believe everything you hear or share too much personal information. Say no to anything that doesn't fit your schedule or budget.
Protect your health, secrets and ideas. When uncertainty sets in, it's time for you to take a pass and move along. Learning or trying something new and exciting will help you gain perspective.
You are in the zone and ready to act. Say what's on your mind and find out where you stand. Express yourself, make promises and follow through with your plans.
Choose minimalism over hoarding and reduce debt. Too much of anything will become a burden. Set your sights on decluttering, making extra cash or making someone happy by paying it forward.
PAHF Junior Challenge preparation…
The Guyana Girls U21
Hockey Team has intensified its training in preparation for the 2025 Pan American Hockey Federation’s (PAHF) Junior Challenge, which will take place in Bridgetown, Barbados from March 8, 2025.
Head coach Phillip Fernandes has said he is certain this squad would earn a spot at the Junior Pan American Games. The girls’ competition is set as one pool comprising hosts Barbados, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Mexico, Guatemala and Puerto Rico.
Guyana would be opposing Guatemala in the opening match of the competition, at 10:00hrs on the morning of March 6th. These two teams have never faced each other, but Guyana is ranked 36 in the world while Guatemala is unranked.
The Guyanese girls would face Mexico on the following morning. Despite their world ranking of 40, Mexico is expected to be Guyana’s toughest challenge.
After a rest day, Guyana would face Puerto Rico, then hosts Barbados, before rounding out the pool matches versus Trinidad & Tobago.
Barbados is the highestseeded team in the
Teams to have experienced and inexperienced players – Head Coach Phillip Fernandes
competition with a world ranking of 33.
Guyana Times Sport caught up with Head Coach Phillip Fernandes at a training session, and he disclosed that despite losing six players, the corps that competed in the Pan American Games of 2023 is present, and the girls are generally excited about the outcomes of the group and the vast improvement made by new players.
Fernandes said, “Yeah, you know, I think that we had a pretty good squad the last time. And I think that this time we’ve lost about five or
six players. But we still have a core base of players who competed in the last Pan Am/ Junior Pan Am which was in 2023. I’m quite excited to see what this group can do. We have a few players coming in that were beginners the last time, and they have improved significantly. And I’m really excited to see some of them.
“Very athletic players; players that have picked up the skills very quickly, and I think that I feel very positive. I think that we have a hard month ahead of us to prepare to be at the quality we need to be, but I’m positive about it.”
The group comprises experienced and inexperienced players, and Fernandes disclosed that sessions would be facilitated to merge these players to make them tactically aware going into the tournament.
“Yes! Well, we’re trying to see if we could try to merge them as much as possible. The junior ones can learn from the seniors just by association, and we’re trying to see if we could do a lot of separate sessions apart from the physical sessions. Separate technical sessions, theoretical sessions, to try to make sure
that everybody is tactically aware and on the same page going into the tournament,” he explained.
Fernandes has said a top–two finish is possible for the team, and has emhasised that patience is needed to work within the team.
“I think that we’re very confident. I think that the title is very difficult, but not impossible for us. Our target right now is to make the final, finish in the top two. So, I think that it’s doable for us to finish top two, and I would be a little bit disappointed if we don’t at least, you know, medal in this tournament.
“I think that patience in the game needs to work. These girls are young, they’re a bit impatient and they commit a bit too many unforced fouls. And so we need to train (for) that which usually comes with maturity. Train that into them, the patience and basically working as a team rather than a group of individuals. So, tactically, defending as a team, attacking as a team, these kinds of things is what we’re going to do with the finetuning,” Fernandes explained.
The teams continue to train at the GCC ground at Bourda during the week, and at the Providence Stadium on weekends. (Omar McKenzie)
Intense rivalries bring curtains down on Mash Street Football Championships tonight
Ipulsating competition in the journey for
the coveted top prize in one of the country’s premier ‘small goal’ football tournaments.
The competition, now down to the final four, started two weeks ago with 32 teams vying for the Championship Trophy and a $500,000 first
place cash prize. Tonight’s matches would determine how the four teams that qualified for the final round finish.
In the first semi-final, inform Taliban will tackle the experienced Goal is Money. In the second semi-final, defending champions Stabroek Ballers will come up against the resurgent North East. Each winner of a semi-final would advance to the finals, also set for tonight; while the losers play in the third-place playoff.
The winner will pocket $500,000, second place $300,000, third place $200,000 and fourth place $100,000. Trophies would be given to teams placing first to third while the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament would get $50,000 and a trophy.
There would also be Plate Playoffs featuring the four losing quarterfinalists and the top two teams from the Super-16 round for a total purse of $100,000, while each of the top three teams
in this competition would be rewarded with one case of Magnum tonic wine.
As such, Festival City will play Albouystown while Bent Street, who lost to Stabroek Ballers in the Quarterfinals, will play Showstoppers, another losing quarterfinalist. Back Circle B, a quality side that North East beat last weekend, will play Ztekk - also a losing quarterfinalist. These games are set to commence at 8pm sharp.
Hosts of the event, Sports Management Inc. (SMI) disclosed yesterday that all systems are in place for a great night of street football competition. The body has said it spent the last few days going over logistics with the Guyana Police Force and working out every detail to ensure that the event remains one that is incident-free and safe for all patrons at every level.
The organization has said that the sport is definitely growing, and therefore it is treating the finals tonight as a
mega-event with the focus of ensuring all stakeholders are comfortable in a secure and safe environment.
“There is no stone that would be left unturned to ensure a night of great, clean fun, sports and entertainment,” SMI said in a press release.
The letter has expressed “gratitude to all those who made the event possible”, especially the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Magnum Tonic Wine, Lucozade, MVP Sports, ENet, Corum Group, Starr Party Rentals, Fireside Grill, Cevons, TCL Guyana Inc., Trophy Stall, J’s Chill Spot, Nigel Hinds Financial Services, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Clifton Hicken, Sleep Inn International Hotel, Secure Innovations and Concepts, Troy Mendonca, Christopher Mathias, the Media, and “all those who supported the grassroots football initiative and contributed in some way toward making the event a success”.
The Guyana Girls Under-21 Hockey Team in stretching session
Taliban Team
CONCACAF U17 Qualifiers…
Junior Jags remain unbeaten with 2-2 draw against Costa Rica
Mikkel Mills, Quaency Fraser, Shaquan David, Dakari Drakes, Jaden Harris and Max Robinson.
When a miscued clearance from Max Robinson found its way into the Guyanese net to give the hosts a 1-0 lead early
in the game, fans at the Estadio Nacional in San Jose, Costa Rica erupted in cheers. However, it soon became quiet when, in the 38th minute, a Quaency Fraser service from the corner found Joshua Harris in front of the goal, and he headed the ball in
Then an on-target free-kick shot taken by Marcus Brown escaped Tejpal Nijjar’s grasp in the 43rd minute, and it enabled Costa Rica to go into the half
In the second half, there were near misses aplenty, but the shot that mattered came in the 54th, when another corner/ header combination resulted in Shaquan David equalizing for
Reflecting on this historic draw, Head Coach Marco Bonofiglio expressed pride in the team’s performance, and opined that his charges can compete with the best in
“I think what we see here is that Guyana can compete against the top teams at a top level. Remember that Costa Rica is a top team that performed in World Cups before, and yesterday [Thursday] showed that they’re definitely the top team in CONCACAF. If not one of the top teams in North America, South America, Europe, they can definitely compete,” he declared.
“Very very proud of Guyana! The way we implemented our
plan - we stuck to our objectives like we’ve been working on for 3-4 weeks now - they show that they can persevere under high-stress moments against high-calibre teams in highcalibre moments. So, their mental preparation, from what I’ve seen from the first day till now, has been a huge increase, and the desire and ability to remain focused and complete the objectives coaching staff asks of the players is a very, very positive note,” he explained.
Having described the last group game to be played in these Qualifiers - against the British Virgin Islands - as a tough one, the Head Coach has signalled that he and the team intend to finish the qualifiers unbeaten.
“Looking ahead to the final game, I see another tough match. British Virgin Islands is a well-disciplined team as well, and they’re very physical team, similar to Trinidad and Tobago. I’m looking for, obviously, for the team to step up and finish the tournament strongly. Yes, we’re undefeated at this point, and I’d like to continue that. I feel like the boys are very hungry to collect three points, so we hope
that we can stick with the plan,” Bonofiglio detailed.
“Yes, we’re suffering from some injuries and fatigue, as we’re playing our fourth match in 8 or 9 days. That’s going to run into some problems of its own, but we’re all staying positive.
We’re going to train hard, and be ready for the field
Ashley Persaud: Making heads turn in a male-dominated sport
“After my debut race in 2024, I knew I must continue this thrilling journey.”
Those were the words of 31-year-old Ashley Persaud, who goes by the name of “Ash86” in the motor-racing fraternity, and has declared herself set and ready to compete in the drag showdown taking place this weekend at the South Dakota Circuit.
Ashley Persaud is creating quite a stir in this highadrenaline, male-dominated sport of motor racing. Born in the East Demerara coastal village of Strathspey, and tutored at the prestigious learning institutions of Annandale Secondary School and Queen’s College, Ashley recalls that her foray into motor racing started when she met my fiancé Timothy Jewanram, whose passion for motor sport was simply contagious.
“His enthusiasm for cars, and hearing him talk about motorsports, made me fall in love with it. He is the driving force behind it all. He encouraged me to sign up and try it out. After my debut race in 2024, I knew I must continue this thrilling journey,” she told <<Guyana Times.>>
Ashley’s first race was on August 2024, when she participated in the 16sec class and the Women’s Class and reached the semifinals.
“At the start of a race, my heart would be racing faster than the speed of my car…With my mind cleared and focused on the lights at the grid, I am nothing but charged with adrenaline and excitement as I take off. All fears and anxieties would quickly vanish,” she explained when asked about her anxieties.
Being part of a male-
dominated sport is mostly empowering and challenging.
“There is a sense of pride in breaking barriers in an environment dominated by men,” Ashley related. She explained that women often face prejudice about their abilities because the belief is that racing is a “man’s sport”. As
women currently in motorsport, but it is gradually growing in popularity amongst female competitors. Rivalry is more like a fun one, but everyone is rated in their own class,” she detailed. Recalling when she competed with the guys back in Aug 2024 in the overall 16 sec class, Ashley said, “The goal was just to win one race. However, I achieved more than that,
encourage all the ladies with passion, skills and determination to join me in the next drag race event.”
She had this advice for females aspiring to enter the sport, “To the young women who would like to join the sport: believe in yourself and your abilities to take challenges that push you out of your comfort zone and to be resilient.”
finals. It was a very
When asked what could increase women’s participation in the sport, Ashley responded, “I hope to inspire many young women to join the sport, and
In regard to the races this weekend, she hopes to go out and have as much fun as possible.
Motorsport is quite an expensive sport, which often requires racers to seek sponsorship. Ashley Persaud has said she is thankful to several individuals and businesses who continue to support her, including Vish Jewellery; Twinz Imprint and Designs; Shutter Pro Photography; Andrew Arts; PowerTech Sound Company; Andrew’s Generator and Electrical Services; Darthan Investments, and Jewanram Car Tribe.
She noted of her racing team, “My racing team is very supportive. Their words of encouragement during difficult moments and physical support at the races sure do add to a tremendous racing experience.”
Ashley is aspiring to get herself a more competitive vehicle in five years’ time, as that would facilitate her participation in circuit racing. When she is not on the tracks, she enjoys taking photographs of nature and doing anything exciting.
GCB names senior female squad for CWI Championships
The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) on Thursday evening announced the national senior female team for the upcoming 2025 Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional 50Over tournament.
The 14-member team selected features a strong mix of experienced players and young emerging talents. Leading the squad is seasoned West Indies Women’s campaigner Shemaine Campbelle, who
will assume the captaincy role. The young and vibrant Ashmini Munisar, former West Indies’ Women’s Under-19 Captain, will be serving as vice-captain. The full squad reads: Captain Shemaine Campbelle, Vice-Captain Ashmini Munisar, Mandy Mangru, Realeanna Grimmond, Katana Mentore, Shabika Gajnabi, Cherry-Ann Fraser, Yonette Welcome, Plaffiana Millington, Niya Latchman, Kaysia Schultz, Tricia Hardat, Lauren Williams and Shenetta Grimmond.
The team will be looking to build on past performances, after finishing as runners-up in the CWI tournament last year; and will be under the watchful eyes of Head Coach Clive Grimmond and Manager Tremaine Smart.
The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has extended its very best wishes to the team, “as we remain resolute to supporting the growth and success of female cricket in the country”.
Guyana will take on the British Virgin Islands at the Estadio Alejandro Morera Soto in Costa Rica from 18:00hrs on Sunday, February 16. In order to qualify for the FIFA U17 World Cup, Guyana would need a massive win coupled with a draw result between Costa Rica and Trinidad and Tobago to advance.
Shemaine Campbelle
Ashley Persaud is creating waves in a male- dominated sport
A look at the action between Guyana (green) and Costa Rica on Thursday evening
A look at the action between Guyana (green) and Costa Rica on Thursday evening
West Indies Championships…
Half centuries from Ronaldo Alimohamed and Gudakesh Motie came in clutch for the Guyana Harpy Eagles on Friday, as their third-round clash with the West Indies Academy continued at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence after a rained- out day 2.
Resuming at 87-4 on Friday afternoon, Kemol Savory and Kevin Sinclair managed to put on 42 runs before a pair of quick runouts saw the duo heading back to the pavilion for 39 and 29 runs respectively.
West Indies Academy assumed they could easily roll over the two new batters at the crease, Motie and Alimohamed, but in the exhilarating 112-run partnership that ensued, Alimohamed slammed
5 fours and 4 sixes in his 66 off 71 balls before being caught on the boundary by the Academy Captain Teddy Bishop, who needed to get innovative to secure the prized wicket. And Motie, playing a more patient hand, hit 52 in 74 balls, encompassing 5 fours and 1 six.
Having little to offer, Veerasammy Permaul and Nial Smith each contributed 2 runs before the Harpy Eagles were eventually bowled out for 253 in 63.1 overs.
Jediah Blades led the charge for the Academy, snaring 4-37 from 15 overs, while Zishan Motara claimed 3-37 off 7.1 overs.
Academy openers Ackeem Auguste and Justin Jagessar got off to a good start, putting up 56 runs before Jagessar had his stumps
rattled by Nial Smith for 18 off 71 balls.
Veerasammy Permaul then took two quick wickets to reduce the visitors to 79-3. While Teddy Bishop was caught in the slips for a duck, Auguste was caught behind for 43 off 73 balls.
Having another ace up his sleeve, Permaul claimed the wicket of Carlin Bowen- Tuckett before close of play. However, Ari also Clarke brought the resistance for the Academy side, hitting a quick fire 43 off 56 balls as he headed into close of play unbeaten.
The Academy will resume Day 4 today on 123-4.
Permaul claimed 3-38 in 15.3 overs, while Smith picked up 1-39 from 10.
The 4-Day action will continue at 13:00hrs today.
Gudakesh Motie raising his bat in acknowledgement of his half-century
Ronaldo Alimohamed has crafted another entertaining innings Jediah Blades ended the innings with a 4-wicket haul
