Govt serves CGX/Frontera with 30-day notice before final eviction from Corentyne Block
Capsized fishing boat found off Berbice River; crew's whereabouts unknown Cancer identified as leading cause of death among children in Guyana
“We have an open-door policy to international cooperation” – Bharrat …says Guyana embraces Chinese investment
Teen remanded for murder of M&CC Councillor
“Our partnership extends beyond the military domain” – GDF to visiting French ranks Logger sentenced to life in prison after slitting man’s throat
Fisherman pleads for “last chance” after assaulting mother
100 ATMs to be rolled out countrywide
Govt serves CGX/Frontera with 30-day notice before final eviction from Corentyne Block
…Joint Venture partners signal intention to consult with lawyers
The Guyana Government has given Canadian joint venturers CGX Energy and Frontera, a 30 days’ notice before they are once and for all evicted from the Corentyne Block.
The Government of Guyana and CGX/Frontera have been in disagreement over the status of the Corentyne Block, which the company was initially undertaken to develop. While the Government have said that the partners no longer hold a licence for the block due to a lack of development, the companies assert the opposite.
In a recent statement, however, the partners revealed that they received a letter from the Government of Guyana, giving them until February 22, 2025 to
state their case on the status of their licence. Further, the partners noted that they were informed that “any such licence” will be null and void on March 10, 2025.
“The Government has taken the position that the Licence, together with the Joint Venture’s Petroleum Agreement with the Government (as amended, the “Petroleum Agreement”), have terminated and that, in the opinion of the Government, there are no reasonable grounds to grant any extensions to the Joint Venture in respect of its appraisal or exploration obligations under the Licence or the Petroleum Agreement,” the partners explained.
“Furthermore, the Government says that, if it is determined that the
Licence has continued, or that the Joint Venture holds any other type of licence contemplated by applicable legislation, the Letter serves as a 30-day notice of the Government’s intention to cancel such licence.”
According to the joint venture partners, they were also assured in the letter of the Government’s willingness to extend the good faith negotiations to consider any representation the two companies wanted to make.
At the same time, however, the joint venture partners noted that the letter made it clear that this offer was not an admission that the Joint Venturers still hold a licence. CGX and Frontera in their statement were adamant that they still believe they hold a licence, going on to warn that they
would be consulting with their lawyers.
“Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Joint Venture is assessing all legal options available to it to assert its rights and will respond to the Government. The Joint Venture looks forward to expeditiously resolving this matter and continuing its multi-year efforts and investments to realise value for the people of Guyana and its shareholders from the Corentyne block,” the two companies said.
In 2021/2022, CGX Energy Inc, a Canadianbased oil and gas company, said it had successfully drilled the Kawa-1 well in the eastern channel sand complex of the northern segment of the Corentyne block.
In 2023, the joint venture partners successfully drilled the Wei-1 well, the second well in the Corentyne Block, as part of their appraisal programme for the Kawa-1 discovery, which ended on June 28, 2024.
That drilling exercise fulfilled the operators’ obligation under Phase Two of the Second Renewal Period of the original 10-year licence. However, the company has since not progressed towards fully developing the potential of the block.
Back in June 2024, CGX and Frontera had announced that they had submitted a ‘Notice of Potential Commercial Interest’ for
the Wei-1 discovery to the Guyana Government, which preserves their interests in the Petroleum Prospecting Licence for the Corentyne Block, offshore Guyana. However, that move was seen by some as a lastditch effort to avoid having to relinquish their acreage in the Block. In 2024, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had also pointed out that if the joint venture partners wanted to pursue a development offshore in Guyana, then they needed to detail that project and prove financing prospects.
Already, CGX has had to give up two other blocks offshore Guyana, along with parts of the Corentyne Block, after failing to develop them as per its agreement with the Guyana Government.
In December 2024, the joint venture partners in their fourth quarter update had expressed concern over comments on its Corentyne Block interest, noting that these comments “have created confusion amongst stakeholders” and even blaming the comments for hampering their efforts to develop the block.
Moreover, the companies had said that they sent the Government of Guyana a letter to activate a 60-day negotiation period to determine the way forward in the Corentyne block, something which they noted was catered for in their agreement.
Map showing the Corentyne Block previously held by CGX/ Frontera
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Wednesday, February 12 –04:00h-05:30h and Thursday, February 13 – 03:45h-05:15h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Wednesday, February 12 –16:15h-17:45h and Thursday, February 13 – 05:10h-06:40h.
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 28 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 3.13 metres and 5.81 metres.
High Tide: 16:48h reaching a maximum height of 2.61 metres.
Low Tide: 10:22h and 22:45h reaching minimum heights of 0.72 metre and 0.61 metre.
Inclusion of New River Triangle on Suriname’s map
Guyana’s Foreign Minister reaffirms commitment to sovereignty, meets with Suriname’s Ambassador …as Chair of SGCC backtracks, apologises for statement on issue
Amid the issue surrounding the New River Triangle map incident at the International Business Conference (IBC) earlier this month, Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd has met with Suriname's Ambassador to Guyana, Liselle Blankendal.
According to a statement from the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Tuesday’s meeting was arranged at the request of the Surinamese Ambassador. During the meeting, the IBC was discussed, as well as the convening of the Border Commission between Guyana and Suriname.
In the statement, it was also revealed that Ambassador Blankendal “noted the recently circulated reports in the media.” While the statement does not specify those reports, it was noted that the Ambassador “reiterated Suriname’s commitment to advancing its bilateral partnership with Guyana.”
“The ambassador also reaffirmed the commitment of the Government of Suriname to the Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform (SDCP) between the two countries, and alluded to the immense potential for collaboration to strengthen the bilateral relations.”
Meanwhile, Minister Todd affirmed Guyana’s commitment to the rule of law and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. It was also noted that the Minister assured the Ambassador that Guyana remained committed to strengthening its regional cooperation and bilateral ties with Suriname.
The meeting came amid the ongoing backlash to the inclusion of the New River Triangle, an area that is part of Guyana’s territory, in a Surinamese map that was recently on display at the IBC while it was being held in Paramaribo, Suriname. This occurred despite a Guyanese delegation that included the Guyana Ambassador to Suriname, Virjanand Depoo, being present at the event.
Shortly after the reports became public knowledge, the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry issued a statement pointing out that the internationally-recognized boundary between Guyana and Suriname has been settled and agreed upon since 1936, and any depiction suggesting otherwise is inaccurate and does not reflect the legally established boundary.
Additionally, Foreign
Secretary Robert Persaud confirmed on Monday that Guyana has registered objections with the Suriname authorities over the incident. When contacted by this publication, he affirmed that Guyana would continue to register objection to any and all infringements on Guyana’s territory.
Apology
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC), Dr Vishnu Doerga, recently stirred up controversy of his own over statements he made on the issue. In a comment published in one section of the media, Doerga said the false map is one taught in Surinamese schools, and he compared it with the map of Guyana taught in local schools and the differing beliefs of the
two populations. Further, he suggested that the border commission should be left to do its work. His comments had prompted swift backlash, with the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) headed by Manniram Prashad expressing strong disagreements with him. According to GOGEC, the New River Triangle is, and remains, an integral part of Guyana. This, according to GOGEC, is affirmed by internationally recognized legal processes. As such, GOGEC said, any suggestion that its status is subject to differing “beliefs” is misleading and does not reflect the binding nature of Guyana’s sovereignty over the territory.
Dr Doerga has since backtracked from his initial comments. In a video
message on Tuesday, Dr. Doerga apologised for his comments and any harm they may have caused, and further assured that steps have been taken by the chamber to prevent a recurrence of the controversy at the IBC.
“I do want to confirm my understanding that the New River Triangle is an integral part of Guyana’s sovereign territory, as recognized by international law. I understand that this is a government-to-government matter. Both governments are committed to strong and cooperative relations with each other, guided by principles of mutual respect and international law, and will continue to advance discussions through the mechanism established to address outstanding issues on the border between the two countries,” he said.
From left: Suriname's Ambassador to Guyana, Liselle Blankendal, and Guyana's Foreign Affairs
In recent years, the health challenges facing Guyana have intensified, with cancer emerging as the leading cause of death among the younger population. This concerning trend was recently highlighted by Dr Shanique Greaves, the Coordinator of Cancer Services at the Health Ministry’s Chronic Disease Unit. On the Health Matters programme, Dr. Greaves revealed that childhood cancer rates have been rising steadily, with conditions such as brain cancer, leukemia, Wilms tumors, and neuroblastomas now becoming more common. These revelations emphasize the urgent need for early detection and proactive responses from parents in order to ensure their children receive the necessary health checks in a timely manner.
Cancer, although a disease often associated with adults, is increasingly affecting children in Guyana. The types of childhood cancers most frequently diagnosed — such as leukemia and brain cancer — are not only aggressive, but can also be highly treatable if detected early. Unfortunately, the statistics reveal a troubling reality: cancer has become the leading cause of death in children largely due to delayed diagnosis and inadequate access to timely treatment. Dr. Greaves pointed out that these delays in diagnosis and prevention, combined with resource constraints in low and middle-income countries like Guyana, contribute significantly to the low survival rates among children diagnosed with cancer.
The situation in Guyana mirrors global patterns observed in lowincome nations, where the likelihood of survival for children with cancer is starkly lower compared to high-income countries. While over 80% of children with cancer survive in wealthier nations, the survival rate in countries like Guyana remains alarmingly low — below 30%. The disparity arises from a combination of factors, including delayed diagnosis, difficulties in obtaining accurate diagnoses, and limited access to life-saving treatments such as chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy.
The importance of early detection cannot be overstated. While some cancers may not be preventable or detectable through traditional screening methods, many forms of childhood cancer can be successfully treated if identified at an early stage. Early intervention often leads to better treatment outcomes, including higher survival rates and a reduction in the long-term side effects of cancer treatment. In Guyana, however, the lack of sufficient awareness about the signs of cancer in children and the delayed medical attention they receive contribute to the challenges in combatting the disease.
Parents have a critical role to play in this fight against childhood cancer. Regular health checkups and vigilance are essential in ensuring that potential health issues are identified early. Symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent pain, fatigue, or abnormal growths should not be overlooked, as they could be indicative of serious conditions, including cancer. By taking their children for regular checkups and seeking medical attention at the first sign of anything unusual, parents can significantly increase the chances of early diagnosis and successful treatment.
Moreover, the role of the Ministry of Health in addressing childhood cancer cannot be underestimated. Dr. Greaves and her team are working tirelessly to roll out action plans that focus on childhood cancers, as well as other common forms of cancer, like breast and prostate cancer. These initiatives include enhancing screening programmes and improving access to care. According to Dr. Greaves, the ministry is committed to creating strategies that would make early cancer detection more accessible and efficient across Guyana, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This is a step in the right direction, but it requires the collective effort of both health authorities and the general public to truly make a difference.
The importance of public awareness and education is also crucial in the battle against childhood cancer. The Health Ministry’s efforts to educate the public about the signs and symptoms of childhood cancer, as well as the availability of screening programmes, would be essential in ensuring that children receive timely treatment. Awareness campaigns can empower parents with the knowledge they need to seek medical attention early, and in doing so, improve the survival rates of children diagnosed with cancer.
Childhood cancer is a growing concern in Guyana, and it requires urgent attention. Early detection and prompt medical response are critical in improving the prognosis for children diagnosed with cancer. By ensuring that children receive regular health checkups and are promptly referred for further testing when necessary, parents can make a significant difference in their children’s health and survival chances.
Reject with one collective voice all external threats to our sovereignty
Dear Editor,
As we enter into an election year, when every Guyanese of voting age who has been properly registered to vote is expected to go to the polls on election day and cast his or her vote in favour of the political party of their choice to govern our country, we need to be particularly alert to the fact that our country continues to be under external threat.
None of the major established political parties – nor, for that matter, the minor parties -- has as yet presented its manifesto, setting out its policies and programmes for the governance of our country, but already each is busy finding fault of the other; and, as is always the case, those parties in the Opposition quickly target the Government on their performance, or failure to deliver on promises made to the electorate. The very nature of this contest for political power is therefore divisive, albeit expected to be conducted under the rule of law and the rules and regulations under the Constitution for administering the Regional and General Elections.
Our country, as a result, becomes significantly vulnerable at the time of elections, if threatened externally; and that is very much the case for Guyana. So, as we enter into an election year, let us all be conscious of the fact that the security of our country continues to be threatened from outside, demanding that we remain united against that
threat even while we are divided on the choice of which political party should govern us.
On February 5th, Venezuelan newspaper El Nacional reported extensively that “the government of Nicolas Maduro described the Essequibo region as an area of the highest strategic importance, insisting that the Venezuelan authority will be elected for the first time in this area during the regional elections on April 27”. Those are Venezuela’s Regional Elections.
“You know that, for the first time, we will elect a governor for our Guayana Esequiba. This is a territory of the highest strategic level for us; the highest strategic level”, according to Venezuela’s Minister of Interior and Justice, Diosdado Cabello, broadcast on the Venezuelan state television channel VTV.
Cabello happens to be the First Vice President of the United Socialist Party (PSUV).
The day before Cabello’s pronouncement, Maduro himself confirmed, in his words, that the “first governor of Guayana Esequiba” will be elected.
Anyone in Guyana who believes the Venezuelan regime’s determination under Maduro to take possession of the Essequibo region of our country has somehow lessened must think again.
During an International Business Conference held in Paramaribo, Suriname, hosted by the Suriname-Guyana
Chamber of Commerce and organized by Action Invest Caribbean Incorporated (AICI) under the leadership of Mr. Vishnu Doerga, a map depicting the New River Triangle area of Guyana as part of Suriname was presented by a Surinamese minister, unfortunately without protest from Guyanese persons present at the time.
This incident has prompted a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, reminding that “the New River Triangle is situated at the tri-junction of Guyana, Suriname and Brazil. The territory is firmly part of Guyana’s sovereign territory, as established by a legally binding process and international agreements from 1936. That agreement, involving Great Britain, Brazil, and the Netherlands, set the boundary between British Guiana (now Guyana) and Suriname, defining the New River Triangle as part of Guyana”.
The Ministry’s statement went on to point out that the internationally recognized map of Guyana includes the New River Triangle as part of Guyana.
Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud immediately reminded us on his Facebook page that “every Guyanese, particularly those in leadership positions, must be unwavering in their understanding of the nation’s territorial limits”.
It is particularly heartening that the Georgetown
Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), and the Private Sector Commission of Guyana (PSC) have all condemned this incident as a direct affront to Guyana’s sovereignty. The Private Sector Commission, in expressing its “profound concern and disappointment” at the incident, condemned and disassociated itself from “this significant lapse in national responsibility by those Guyanese present”: for not having protested immediately at the time, and has called upon Mr. Vishnu Doerga “to issue an apology to the Government and people of Guyana for permitting this offensive incident to occur without raising any objection or taking appropriate action”.
Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amanza Walton-Desir of the People’s National Congress, has also condemned the incident, though unfairly criticizing Guyana’s diplomatic efforts in Suriname in this regard. All of this brings us back to the central point of my letter; and that is: as a nation and as a people, especially as we will be contesting a divisive election this year, we have to be able to rise above and reach beyond our internal political differences at any and all times; to reject with one collective voice any and all external threats to our sovereignty.
Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento
Parliamentary Representative for Region One (Barima-Waini), Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, led the Government's Spectacle Distribution Initiative in Santa Rosa, where children received their spectacles. The programme was made possible through a partnership with Optique Vision Care, Eyewear Optical, and the Health Ministry (Housing and Water Ministry photos)
Introduction to rigged elections in Guyana
Dear Editor, Guyana’s political history has been marred by electoral manipulation and rigged elections, particularly between 1968 and 1985, when the People’s National Congress (PNC) under Forbes Burnham maintained power through fraudulent practices. Those elections were characterized by vote-rigging, voter suppression, military intervention, and intimidation of political opponents.
The roots of electoral fraud in Guyana can be traced to the Cold War era, when the United States and Britain sought to prevent the rise of Cheddi Jagan’s People’s Progressive Party (PPP), due to its socialist leanings. With Western backing, Burnham and the PNC secured power in 1964, and used authoritarian control to manipulate subsequent elections, ensuring continued dominance.
During this period, elections were systematically rigged through methods such as inflated voter lists, overseas ballots, ballot box tampering, and state control over electoral institutions. Opposition parties, particularly the PPP, and international observers frequently condemned the elections as fraudulent, but the PNC remained in power until democratic reforms were enacted in 1992.
The rigging of elections in Guyana had profound consequences, including political instability, economic decline, ethnic tensions, and international isolation. It was not until the early 1990s, following international pressure and electoral reforms, that Guyana transitioned to free and fair elections, beginning with the 1992 victory of the PPP under Cheddi Jagan.
This introduction provides the foundation for understanding Guyana’s history of electoral fraud, setting the stage for a deeper examination of the rigged elections between 1968 and 1985.
The 1968, 1973, 1980 and 1985 elections in Guyana were all marked by allegations of electoral fraud and manipulation, primarily under the rule of the People's National Congress (PNC), led by Forbes Burnham. Here’s a breakdown of each election:
1968 General Elections Held on December 16, 1968.
Conducted under PNC leader Forbes Burnham, who had been in power since 1964.
Allegations of widespread fraud, including claims that votes were cast in the names of deceased people and voters who were overseas.
The PNC won 30 out of 53 seats, securing an absolute majority and consolidating its control.
• The opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP), led by Cheddi Jagan, denounced the election as rigged.
1973 General Elections
• Held on July 16, 1973.
Marked by military intervention, with security forces seizing ballot boxes in several PPP stronghold areas.
• The PNC, under Burnham, declared victory with 37 out of 53 seats, giving it a two-thirds majority to amend the Constitution.
• The election was widely condemned as fraudulent, and two PPP polling agents were killed by security forces at New Market Primary School – No. 64 Village, Corentyne Berbice.
• The PPP and other opposition groups refused to recognize the results.
1980 General Elections Held on December 15, 1980.
• The most controversial election, following a 1978 referendum that allowed Burnham to introduce a new executive presidency with sweeping powers.
• Forbes Burnham
Guyanese at India’s Kumbh Mela
Dear Editor.
officially won, becoming Executive President of Guyana.
• The PNC claimed 41 out of 53 seats, an overwhelming majority.
• Massive vote-rigging, intimidation, and manipulation of voter lists.
• The opposition and international observers rejected the results as fraudulent.
1985 General Elections
Held on December 9, 1985.
First election after Forbes Burnham’s death in August 1985. He was succeeded by Desmond Hoyte as PNC leader and President.
• The PNC claimed victory again, winning 42 out of 53 seats.
• The elections were again widely considered rigged, although Hoyte later introduced economic and political reforms in the late 1980s.
• Marked the last fraudulent election under PNC rule, as electoral reforms in the early 1990s led to the first free and fair elections in 1992.
Editor, all four elections (1968, 1973, 1980, and 1985) were heavily criticized for fraud, manipulation, and authoritarian control by the PNC government. These rigged elections helped maintain the PNC's dominance until 1992, when international pressure led to democratic reforms and the first free and fair elections, won by the PPP under Cheddi Jagan.
Sincerely, Pharamdai Roberts
Several Guyanese and other Indo-Caribbean people have visited, and others have planned to visit, Prayagraj: for worshipping and darshan (blessings) during the holy Maha Kumbh Mela period. It is the holiest pilgrimage for Hindus.
Guyanese and others took a dip in the holy river - three rivers meet (confluence) at Prayagraj for this Maha Kumbh – in a oncein-a-lifetime experience, as the next one in that city will be decades away. They offered prayers to the sun and the Ganga River amid the chanting of mantras, and made offerings to the Lord. They performed rituals, including ‘aarti’, and some also went for a boat ride where the three rivers meet.
The Maha Kumbh began on Jan 13 (Makar Sankrinti – when the earth begins its journey to end the winter solstice as it tilts closer to the sun for warmer and longer days) and will conclude on Shivratri (February 26), one of the holiest festivals for Hindus. Many Guyanese from the diaspora plan to spend Shivratri in India.
The Kumbh is the largest religious gathering, with hundreds of millions of people in attendance. Some days attracted over twelve million people, with the holiest day attracting 35 million worshippers. Every dignitary of India, including the President, PM, Ministers, Governors, actors (such as Amitabh Bachchan), actresses (such as Hema Malini), and cricketers, took a dip in the holy river.
This Maha Kumbh takes place after a gap of six years, following a mini
Kumbh in January 2019 at which this writer was an invitee. The Maha Kumbh comes around every twelve years, and is rotated at four different rivers and cities - Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik. A mini Kumbh is observed, according to the Hindu scriptures, every three years at the bank of a holy river, rotating to another holy river, followed by the Maha Kumbh on the 12th year. Ganga Puja is usually conducted at the river bank, and there are cultural programs and feasts.
Kumbh usually attracts hundreds of millions of worshippers. People came from all over the world to witness and/or partake in the festivities and rituals. The present Maha Kumbh has so far attracted 420 million people, who have taken a dip in the river. It is believed that those who take a bath in the confluence of three rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, called the Holy Triveni Sangham, would have their sins or bad deeds washed away.
A massive tent city has been set up to accommodate the throngs of worshippers and visitors. The Indian Government provided free
transport (air and ground) and hospitality to foreign Ambassadors (and High Commissioners) in Delhi for a tour of the Maha Kumbh a week ago; some 78 missions (over Ambassadors and spouses) went on the tour. Some emissaries took a dip in the river. The Government of India tendered an invitation for one or two Ministers of diaspora governments and selected media to visit and/ or partake in the Kumbh Mela and a conference on the banks of the river from February 20 to 23. This writer will be at the Kumbh from February 20, following a visit in December and January for the 2025 edition of the Pravasi Bharatya Divas, or celebration of the 40 million Indian diaspora.
Guyanese, Trinis and Surinamese who went to the Maha Kumbh said they engaged in intense spiritual devotion - describing the experience as heavenly with a feeling of divine connection with God. They said they prayed for peace, happiness, prosperity, wisdom, and good health for themselves, their families, and their nations.
Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
Page Foundation
1. In which of the following numbers is the 7 in the ones place?
(A) 1723
(B) 2137
(C) 3271
(D) 7312
2. Which number completes the sum 34 ÷ 10 =_?
(A) 0.034
(B) 0.34
(C) 3.4
(D) 340
3. How many even numbers are between 1 and 10?
(A) 4 (B) 5 (C) 6 (D) 8
4. Which of the following shapes would not show a line of symmetry?
(A) trapezium
(B) heart
(C) square
(D) circle
(A) 800
(B) 400
(C) 500 (D) 700
6. Which of the following is a set of even numbers?
(A) {1, 3, 5, 7}
(B) {2, 4, 6, 8}
(C) {3, 6, 9, 12}
(D) {1,2, 4, 8,}
6. What is the digit in the hundreds place in 11,090?
(A) 0
(B) 1 (C) 4
(D) 11
8. What time is just after dawn?
(A) 01:25h (B) 06:25h (C) 07:00h (D) 13:25h
9a. Two girls share 40 per cent of their birthday sweets with their friends and are left with 320. i) How many sweets have they shared? ii) Draw a pie chart to represent the above information with appropriate labels b.
i) Determine the size of the unknown angle that includes m ii) Calculate the size of m iii) Identify the types of angles seen above. c.
i) Which shapes constitute a whole? ii) Which shapes are equal proportion-wise?
By RoBeRt FRost
storm clouds fly tattered and swift, quartz stones lift, And the hoof-prints vanish away. The roadside flowers, too wet for the bee, Expend their bloom in vain. Come over the hills and far with me, And be my love in the rain.
The birds have less to say for themselves In the wood-world’s torn despair Than now these numberless years the elves, Although they are no less there: All song of the woods is crushed like some Wild, easily shattered rose. Come, be my love in the wet woods; come, Where the boughs rain when it blows.
There is the gale to urge behind And bruit our singing down, And the shallow waters aflutter with wind From which to gather your gown. What matter if we go clear to the west, And come not through dry-shod? For wilding brooch shall wet your breast The rain-fresh goldenrod.
Oh, never this whelming east wind swells But it seems like the sea’s return To the ancient lands where it left the shells Before the age of the fern; And it seems like the time when after doubt Our love came back amain. Oh, come forth into the storm and rout And be my love in the rain.
“We
have an open-door policy to international cooperation” – Bharrat …says Guyana
embraces Chinese investment
The Guyana government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering international investment with an open-door policy, specifically with its trade counterparts in China.
With bilateral trade between Guyana and China increasing by US$1.4 billion in 2024, Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat said the Guyana Government is keen on promoting free trade, minimal restrictions on imports and exports, and equal access to markets for all trading partners, especially China.
The minster made the comment during the Spring Festival celebration held at Berbice High School on Saturday last, explained that this policy aims to encourage economic growth,
competition, and international cooperation.
On this point, he highlighted contributions of Chinese companies in major sectors, including gold mining, quarrying, bauxite, and manganese, with Zijin Gold Company operating Guyana’s first underground gold mine.
“Guyana as a country and with our government, we have an open-door policy to international cooperation among all countries. But what we want out of a partnership is to ensure that that partnership is a winwin partnership and that is what is being demonstrated by investors in Guyana today”.
“We have major Chinese companies operating in the bauxite and manganese sectors as well. So, this just
shows the kind of investments that are being made by Chinese companies in Guyana and it's something that we welcome, something that we are happy about, and something that we will continue to collaborate and cooperate to ensure that we have more and more investment flowing into Guyana across different sectors,”
Bharrat said.
The Natural Resource Minister lauded the long-standing partnership between Guyana and China, noting President Dr Irfaan Ali’s visit to China and his discussions with President Xi Jinping as a step toward further strengthening bilateral relations.
With in this in mind, Bharrat expressed gratitude for Chinese investments in Guyana’s infra-
structure, from roads to airports and commercial businesses such as supermarkets and restaurants.
He noted that with major projects underway and a commitment to making investment seamless, Guyana is poised for a new era of modernisation and econom-
ic expansion.
“They are many other things that we can celebrate about the your (China’s) presence here in our country. We spoke about your economic stewardship, the economic development that’s taking place in China, it is almost second to none”.
“Not only are we’re one of the fastest growing economies in the world but we have the front seat to see Guyana unfold, to see the new Guyana that we all long for, to see the new Guyana that our ancestors sweat and work to achieve,” he added.
Capsized fishing boat found off Berbice River; crew's whereabouts unknown
aw enforcement of-
Lficials, including the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard, are investigating the discovery of a capsized vessel in the Atlantic Ocean, just off the mouth of the Berbice River.
The capsized fishing boat was on Tuesday discovered in the Atlantic, about two miles off the mouth of the Berbice River.
Reports indicate that the whereabouts of the crew is unknown.
This publication understands that an anonymous caller made contract with the DeEdward Fishing Coop indicating that a boat was seen capsized.
Chairman of the 3-Door Sluice Fishing Coop Noresh Jairam said two boat crews were sent to investigate.
He said that it has been
confirmed by the crews sent to confirm the report that the capsized boat was discovered but with the limited resources, they will be unable to bring in the vessel.
The Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard also went out to investigate.
According to reports, no one has come forward to claim ownership of the boat.
Nevertheless, the Coast Guard has commenced a search operation for the possible missing crew.
Up to press time there was no information on the crew.
Meanwhile, Jairam confirmed that the boat did not originate from the DeEdward or Rosignol area, as all vessels from those fishing sites have been accounted for.
It was suggested that the boat could have come from a port along the Lower Corentyne either Fyrish or Port Mourant based on the fact that the vessel was discovered in the vicinity of East Coast Berbice. Fisherfolk from the two Lower Corentyne ports have accounted for all of the boats attached to those ports, except for one.
The owner of that vessel is attached to the Number 66 Fisherman’s Coop but lives in the Albion area and would sometimes use the Port at Fyrish.
The fisherman’s wife said he left on Saturday and is expected back on Thursday. Meanwhile, the investigating teams are expected to go back to sea today when the tide is low in an effort to identify the sunken vessel. (G4)
Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat and Chargé d’Affaires Huang Rui at the Spring Festival celebration held at Berbice High School
Logger sentenced to life in prison after slitting man’s throat
After nearly four years of legal proceedings, 29-yearold Marlon LaRose, a logger from Maria Henrietta, Upper Berbice River, has been sentenced to life in prison for the brutal murder of Kevin Hercules of Wiruni Village, Berbice River.
The ruling was handed down on Monday by Justice Sandil Kissoon, following the conclusion of LaRose’s trial before a panel of jurors.
LaRose, who was arrested on September 17, 2021, had confessed to the killing during an altercation. However, throughout the trial, he showed no remorse for his actions—a fact that weighed heavily in the judge’s decision. As part of the sentencing, LaRose will be eligible for parole only
Sentenced: Marlon LaRose
after serving 30 years behind bars.
The murder occurred between September 12 and 13, 2021, in Wiruni Village, Berbice River. Hercules, who had been drinking with friends that evening, reportedly asked for a ride home. Witnesses saw him entering a boat with other individuals, but he never
Dead: Kevin Hercules
made it to his destination.
Concerned family members reported him missing, and on September 14, 2021, his body was discovered floating in the Berbice River.
Police has said that Hercules’s body showed signs of extreme violence with his face was mutilated, and his throat had been slit.
A jury was empaneled on December 4, 2024, and the trial commenced on December 9. The prosecution, led by Attorneys A. Ramotar and D. Fraser, presented compelling evidence against LaRose, while the defence, represented by Attorney R. Bostwick, sought to argue his case.
After both sides closed their arguments on December 11, 2024 Justice Kissoon set December 16 for the summation and verdict. The jury found LaRose guilty of the lesser count of manslaughter.
During sentencing on Monday, Justice Kissoon condemned LaRose’s lack of remorse, stating that the brutality of the crime and the pain inflicted on the victim’s family warranted the life sentence.
Teen remanded for murder of M&CC councillor
A16-year-old boy has been remanded to prison for the murder of Georgetown City Councillor and businessman, 47-year-old Kyle Anthony Solomon. The accused appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where the indictable charge was read to him. He was not required to enter a plea and was remanded to prison. The case will continue on March 16.
The murder took place around 04:00h on February 5, 2025, near Solomon’s home in D’Urban
Backlands, Georgetown, where he also operated a small shop. According to police reports, Solomon
saw the teenager attempting to break into his shop and raised an alarm, causing the suspect to flee. Solomon pursued him, and during a confrontation, the teenager pulled a knife from his waist and stabbed him multiple times in the chest, lower abdomen, left rib, left arm, and left elbow. Solomon collapsed at the scene while the suspect escaped.
Days before the murder, Solomon’s shop had been broken into, and several items were stolen, including household supplies and cases of beer. He had recently restocked the shop
Can’t ignore…
…Suriname’s
land grab
Looks like when it comes to Suriname, we never learn. Sigh!! How many times are we gonna have them disrespect us with their “official” maps ostentatiously including our New River Triangle as theirs?? Wasn’t it just late last year that their Foreign Minister, Ramdhin, protested at Pressie simply mentioning that we were developing facilities there to serve our citizens?? Imagine the chutzpah!!! Do we have problems with them doing the same on their side of the Corentyne River that forms our boundary? No, siree Bob!!
And that’s because they - unlike us – DON’T accept the said boundary!! And it’s for this reason that, in ANY interaction with them, every Guyanese man jack has gotta be alert to their surreptitiously sneaking in their claim via their make-believe maps!! Remember, a few years ago - at some Conference of Forestry at the UNthey did the same thing?? And the oh-so-woke Guyanese researcher – who today wants us to stop drilling for oil!! – didn’t protest?? Your Eyewitness is astounded that the organizer of the business conference - Action Invest Caribbean Incorporated (AICI) - didn’t do what should be Standard Operating Procedure by now: directing that any map of the two countries should indicate that the New River Triangle belongs to Guyana!! It’s Chairman Anodyne’s statement afterwards was insulting!!
when the suspect allegedly attempted to break in again.
Residents of the community reported that the teenager, who is known in the area, had been involved in previous incidents of theft. Witnesses stated that after hearing the confrontation, Solomon was heard questioning the suspect before he was fatally attacked.
Solomon was well-regarded in his constituency, representing Constituency Number 9 on the Georgetown Mayor and City Council. Residents described him as a dedicated councillor who frequently assisted those in need, helped with employment opportunities, and advocated for community development.
The teen was handed over to the police by his mother shortly after the incident. (G9)
And if the Surinamese don’t like that, then it’s “see you later, alligators!!” – which clearly they are, if not crocodiles! not to acknowledge our sensibilities!! And what about the ambassador fella?? Your Eyewitness knows he’s new on the scene, but didn’t Tacuba Lodge brief him on the snake pit he was being posted to??
These Surinamese skin their teeth with us right now, but we can’t forget that they have been looking to snag the New River Triangle as long as the Venezuelans have been trying to do the same with our Essequibo!!
That’s right - as far back as 1899, when the Venezuelan Border was settled, the Dutch tried unsuccessfully to elbow their way in with the New River Triangle!! Then in 1962, when the Venezuelans tried a thing at the UN, up popped the Dutch/Surinamese like a cuckoo with their “claim!! And when, in 1969, the Venezuelans backed that uprising by some Amerindians in the Rupununi - which the GDF had to put down - the Surinamese actually sent in troops into the New River Triangle, where they started constructing an airstrip!!
After our brave GDF’s hastily assembled air wing drove them out, they found plans showing the Surinamese had planned to build a series of armed bases to keep the 15,000 square miles of our territory!!
Then came this nonsense about our development plans!! We NEVER should’ve explained anything to them. They read our desire for friendship as weakness!!
…our fishermen
If there were any doubts about how the Surinamese view us, those should’ve been cleared up also by how shabbily and disrespectfully they’ve dealt with their promise to issue fishing licences to our fishermen to fish in the Corentyne River, which they own. The Surinamese authorities have been regularly shipping our fishing boats for ages - and the owners have to pay through their noses to get them back.
As far back as on 26 November 2020, during a visit to Suriname, their President Santokhi promised our Pres Ali that his government would grant licences to our fishermen. Yet this had to be reiterated at a subsequent meeting in Georgetown between them at the end of 2021, that “arrangements would be put in place to facilitate the issuance of the 150 SK licences to Guyanese fishermen by 1 January 2022”. And three years later – nada!!
Now, your Eyewitness knows about illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, but Suriname just issued some licences to French Guiana; why not to us??
…Venezuelan infiltrators
Your Eyewitness is pleased that Government seemed to’ve awakened to the dangers of letting Venezuelans have unrestricted entry into our country. Not just the criminals could be coming in, but Mad Maduro’s fifthcolumn infiltrators!! Screen them!!
Dead: Kyle Solomon
“Our partnership extends beyond the military domain”
– GDF to visiting French ranks
…as Guyana & France strengthen military ties at Regional Exchange Meeting
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is currently hosting a delegation from the French Armed Forces, French Guiana contingent, for the 3rd Regional Military Exchange Meeting, taking place at the Officers’ Mess, Base Camp Ayanganna, Georgetown.
The meeting focuses on strengthening military cooperation and exploring new areas of partnership between Guyana and France.
In a post on social media, the GDF said that at the formal opening ceremony on Tuesday Chief of
Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, welcomed the French delegation, led by Superior Commander of the Armed Forces in French Guiana, Major General Marc Le Bouil and expressed his gratitude for their visit.
He acknowledged the strong, enduring relationship between the two nations, built on both military and civil partnerships. Brigadier Khan emphasised the importance of continued collaboration, particularly as France prepares to establish its first embassy in Guyana.
"Our partnership ex-
tends beyond the military domain and includes economic, trade, and diplomatic relations," Brigadier Khan noted. “We look forward to deepening our relationship and reinforcing our shared commitment to regional security and stability."
Khan also expressed appreciation for France's continued support to Guyana, and noted that this support has been instrumental in fortifying Guyana’s security posture, fostering mutual trust, and enhancing bilateral ties.
TURN TO PAGE 18
The 3rd Regional Military Exchange Meeting, taking place at the Officers’ Mess at Base Camp Ayanganna, Georgetown
Health Ministry expands vaccination drive to reach every child in 2025
The Health Ministry will be increasing resources to increase efforts towards community-based vaccination outreach in order to reach unvaccinated children wherever they are. This is among the wide range of measures being catered for in the $143.2 billion budgeted for the Ministry of Health for 2025.
This was explained by the Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, during
the debate of the budget estimates last week. This year’s budget sees an additional $4 million being allocated to ramp up the vaccination outreach across the country, targeting areas with the greatest need.
“We want to meet the children, what we call the last mile, to make sure that they’re getting their vaccine and so forth. So very often we would empower the community health workers or nurses… so that
they can go out, call these ppl, make sure they’re home, reach out to them to ensure that we can find them and bring them into the programme and ensure they get their vaccines,” Minister Anthony explained.
This increased investment in vaccination for children adds to a growing menu of measures in the health sector that continues to target children and improving the services available for children, and other vulnerable groups.
In the 2024 budget, children were among the target groups benefiting from the ministry’s $1.8 billion eye-testing, spectacles initiative which saw persons being able to access financial assistance from the government to get their eyes tested and outfitted with the required spectacles. The initiative catered for over 205,000 school children.
Through the initiative each child was eligible to
receive a $2,000 voucher towards the cost of an eye test, and an additional $15,000 towards the purchase of spectacles. The programme formed part of the government’s holistic approach to healthcare. In 2023 the Ministry launched the Comprehensive Child and Youth Health Programme (CYHP) which facilitated oral health, hearing and vision screening for children and pupils in nursery and primary schools. The initiative aimed at improving the health of school children aged 5-17. For this initiative the Health Ministry collaborates with the Ministry of Education.
Ramsammy’s Ruminations
Despicable things of the past political parties brag about are warnings for the future
The Government rigging elections, banning food items, forcing people to wait for days in long lines for food and other necessary items are things that traumatized people in the 1970s and 1980s. No political party in their right mind would, should, be proud of these things. Yet, the PNC are not just unapologetic, but brag about these things.
There are those among us who insist and demand that we must not look back in history, but history reminds us what we should be careful not to repeat in the future. Now that the PNC tell us they remain unapologetic, and are proud of the things stated above, we must wonder what else they are proud of, because these are the things they will repeat.
Dr Leslie Ramsammy
Recently, in Parliament, the Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, passionately declared how proud he and his party, the PNC, are that they banned many food products that were part of the daily lives of the Guyanese population in the 1970s and 1980s. A few months ago, another senior leader of the PNC, Hamilton Green, spoke proudly of rigged elections, and intimated that, given any chance, the PNC should rig elections even more blatantly; because, as he explained it, only one group in Guyana has the legitimate right to occupy the seat of government. He was proud to deem those who support the PPP as “devils”. Since, in his eyes, only Indo-Guyanese supported the PPP, he was making a racist statement.
Banning food items and making lines for days to get food remain a traumatic experience for the Guyanese people. The majority of Guyanese now were born after 1990, so they did not experience the humiliation, the struggle, the discrimination and harassment that people experienced simply to feed their families. The young people have heard stories about this experience, and many find it difficult to believe that this had actually taken place in Guyana. The audacity to brag today about what the PNC did to the Guyanese people is simply mind-boggling.
After 1970, faced with a collapsing economy, the PNC did three despicable things, and we wonder if they remain proud of these things. First, they went on a borrowing binge. The debt stood at US$267M in 1970, but skyrocketed to US$638M by 1973, more than doubling in just three years. The debt reached US$2.5B by 1980. The debt-GDP ratio was already about five times, or 500%. By the time they left office, the debt-to-GDP ratio was 953%, one of the worst in the world. At the time, Guyana needed 153% of its revenue to service the debt. In fact, by 1985, Guyana could not service its debt, and suspended all payments. Yet, today, the PNC hypocritically rail about the “increasing debt crisis” under President Irfaan Ali and the PPP government, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of only about 25%.
Second, they plundered the national reserve. Not only did they go on a borrowing binge, but also squandered the total foreign currency reserve. The reserve stood at US$250M in 1973. By 1980, the reserve was minus US$350M. Recall they did the same things between 2015 and 2020. They used up all the reserve gold, almost G$25B worth, and they also almost totally depleted the national reserve of foreign currency, almost US$750M.
Third, they started to print money. This was perhaps even more reprehensible than the borrowing binge. The money supply doubled between 1973 and 1975, and increased by 40% in the 1975–1977 period. These increases in money supply were not because Guyana earned more through an invigorated economy, but it was fake money. It created an inflation that added to the already high poverty rate. It is no wonder that, by 1985, economists estimated poverty at between 67 and 88%.
Would Norton tell the nation if they are proud of their record of illegally printing money? Of their legacy as one of the world’s historical worst in increasing national debts? And of plundering the national reserves?
Let us list other failures between 1970 and 1980 for a moment, and ask Norton if the PNC are proud of these too: the road to Brazil, the potato scheme, cassava factories, the glass factory, the toothpick factory, the tomato factory, the leather factory, the Sanata fabric factory, the aborted hydro-electric project, and the incomplete MMA project.
In the period after 1970, the PNC removed subsidies for agriculture; increased taxation; increased prices for virtually all items needed for everyday living, not just on food; retrenched workers in the public sector; froze salaries and wages for public servants and for sugar workers; rationed access to foreign exchange; cut social sector spending, with health and education being reduced to between 1 and 1.5% of budget; and closed the Housing Ministry while increasing spending on Joint Services to an average of 18% of the national budget.
Adding to this long list of terrible, reprehensible things, the PNC also used the security forces to thief elections and as scabs to break strikes in the sugar industry; they practised party paramountcy; flew the PNC flag over the Court of Appeal. If those were not enough, they coerced the nation through violence such as the murder of Father Darke, Ohene Koama, Edward Dublin, Walter Rodney, the Ballot Box Martyrs, the use of PNC thugs to attack opposition members, the use of the court to intimidate and harass people with treason charges, etc.
Since the leader of the PNC told us how proud they are of some of their despicable history, and since they repeated some of these things between 2015 and 2020, it is in our interest to know if they are proud of these other things. This is not looking back; this is looking forward to ensure we never ever allow the repeat of these things we disdained in the past.
Fisherman pleads for “last chance” after assaulting mother
A24-year-old fisherman from Grass Field, Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, was on Tuesday taken before the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court where he faced multiple charges, including assaulting his mother.
Ravindra Lall stood before Senior Magistrate Sunil Scarce, where six charges were read to him. He was accused of throwing missiles, using threatening and abusive language, and unlawfully assaulting his mother, Savitira Visicaar, also known as Naderia, on January 4.
In addition, he allegedly assaulted her again, caus-
ing bodily harm, on January 23 at their home. Lall was also charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding Marvin Harry on January 18.
When asked to enter his pleas, Lall pleaded not guilty to all charges involving his mother. However, for the wounding of Harry, he initially pleaded guilty with an explanation. He told the court that Harry had stolen bicycles belonging to him and his brother. When confronted, Harry allegedly denied the theft and began throwing bricks at him.
Lall claimed he had a knife in his hand at the time and only intended to
push Harry away, but in the process, he accidentally stabbed him. After hearing this explanation, Magistrate Scarce altered his plea to not guilty.
During the proceedings, Visicaar made it clear that she wanted nothing more to do with her son. She refused to assist with bail, stating she did not care whether or not she had the money to pay. She also expressed her wish for him to be incarcerated and insisted that he should not return to her home.
In response, Magistrate Scarce questioned Lall about alternative living arrangements. Lall stated that his
uncles would take him in, as he often went to them for food, and they had invited him to live with them. Upon hearing his mother’s rejection, Lall pleaded with her for forgiveness and promised, “This gon be my last chance.”
Despite his mother’s firm stance, Lall was granted bail in the sum of $20,000 for the unlawful wounding charge and another $20,000 for the assault against Visicaar. He was placed on self-bail for the remaining charges, with a strict condition that he must remain at least 500 feet away from his mother. The case has been adjourned to March 17.
Security guard admits to ganja possession, remanded to prison …tells court wife bought it for birthday celebration
Charged: Tishawn McKenzie
Asecurity guard of Laing Avenue, Georgetown was remanded to prison on Tuesday after pleading guilty to cannabis possession before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.
Tishawn McKenzie, who appeared visibly shocked at the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence, is now awaiting a probation report before sentencing.
He was charged with possession of 75 grams of cannabis, which was found at his home, on February 6.
During his court appearance, he admitted to the charge but claimed he was taking the fall to protect his wife.
According to the prosecution, McKenzie’s home was searched after police received information linking him to a break-in and robbery at a Chinese supermarket. McKenzie, who is employed by a security service, was reportedly on duty at a location close to the establishment that was burglarised.
Days after the incident, acting on a tip, police searched his residence, where they found a blue haversack containing the cannabis.
During his explanation to the court, McKenzie in-
sisted that the drugs were not intended for sale or distribution but claimed that it was purchased by his wife for her birthday celebration. However, he claimed the party never took place, and the narcotics remained in their home.
When asked why he pleaded guilty, McKenzie
stated, “I can’t let my wife suffer, so I gotta take the blame.” He explained that she has five children, and he has three of his own, and he did not want her to face legal consequences.
The Magistrate questioned whether he was aware that possessing cannabis is illegal, to which he responded affirmatively. She also asked if he understood that the charge carried a possible prison sentence rather than just a fine. At that moment, McKenzie appeared visibly shaken and pleaded for leniency.
Man jailed, fined for disorderly conduct
A30-year-old man was fined $20,000 and placed on $30,000 bail after appearing at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday to answer seven charges related to disorderly behaviour
and the use of abusive and threatening language.
Seaton Daphness, of Cane View, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was charged with behaving in a disorderly manner in public and using abusive and threatening language toward three individuals, Kennard Blackman, Shakeel Welcome, and Kester Bethune. The incident reportedly took place on December 28, 2024, at Princess Street, Mandela Avenue, Georgetown.
The charges were read to him by Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore. Daphness pleaded guilty to the disorderly behaviour charge but maintained his innocence on the six charges related to abusive and threatening
language.
In his defence, Daphness told the court that he was on his way to visit his brother when he encountered an argument. Out of curiosity, he approached the scene but soon found himself caught up in the altercation.
After considering the matter, Magistrate Azore imposed a $20,000 fine along with a two-week prison sentence for the disorderly behaviour charge. Additionally, Daphness was granted bail at $5,000 for each of the six charges of abusive and threatening language, amounting to a total of $30,000.
He is expected to return to court on February 17 for the other cases.
Security guard admits to ganja...
Magistrate McGusty ordered a probation report before determining her sentencing. The report, which will take two to three weeks to be completed, will assess McKenzie’s background and circumstances to guide the Magistrate’s decision.
Until then, McKenzie has been remanded to prison and is expected to return to court on March 5 for sentencing.
This is not McKenzie’s first brush with the law. Over the years, he has faced multiple charges, including escape from lawful custody, attempted murder, and drug trafficking.
In 2021, McKenzie, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for escaping from police custody. He had been detained at the Ruimveldt Police Station, Georgetown for a pending break and enter and larceny charge, a sexual offence allega-
tion against a tenant, and another break and enter charge related to a neighbour’s house. While in custody, McKenzie reportedly unlocked a padlock and escaped but was later recaptured.
Additionally, he was accused of breaking into a tenant’s home between June 20 and July 6, stealing a gas cylinder valued at $12,000, a gas stove worth $25,000, and a fan worth $9,000. He pleaded not guilty to the charge and was denied bail due to a pending sexual assault matter under investigation at the time.
In 2022, McKenzie was remanded on an attempted murder charge after allegedly attacking and wounding Robert Samaroo over a stolen glass door. The prosecution stated that Samaroo had gone to McKenzie’s house on January 19 to retrieve the sliding glass door
that McKenzie had allegedly stolen from his grandmother and given to Samaroo for safekeeping. An argument ensued, during which McKenzie armed himself with a piece of wood and repeatedly struck Samaroo before fleeing the scene. He later admitted to the crime under caution but was denied bail due to the seriousness of the charge.
In 2023, McKenzie was charged with possession of 225 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. He appeared before Principal Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where he denied the allegation. The charge stated that on April 25, at Lot 60 Laing Avenue, he had the narcotics in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.
Despite the charge, McKenzie was granted $20,000 bail.
Convicted: Seaton Daphness
TAU students visit Palms Elderly Home, donate essentials to support elderly care
Students from Texila American University (TAU) earlier this month visited the Palms Elderly Home, continuing the university’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and community engagement.
The visit, the university said, was aimed at providing support to the elderly residents, while also giving students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in geriatric care. As part of the initiative, the students donated adult pampers, a vital need for many residents in elderly care homes. This thoughtful contribution addressed an important aspect of daily living that greatly enhances
comfort and dignity for the elderly population. Beyond the donations, the visit was designed with dual objec-
tives, the university said, which includes assisting the elderly residents and giving the students expo-
sure to the complexities of elderly care.
Through their interactions, students gained a
deeper understanding of the physical, emotional, and social challenges faced by older adults.
They had the opportunity to observe firsthand the impact of chronic illnesses, mobility issues, and cognitive decline on daily life.
Students were also introduced to the importance of holistic care while at the same time they learnt about the significance of providing not just medical assistance, but also social and emotional support to enhance the quality of life for the elderly. By engaging with the residents, students were able to practice their communication skills and gain valuable insights into the role of healthcare profes-
sionals in managing both physical and mental health in elderly populations. The visit emphasised the need for a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to elderly care, with students observing how different services, including medical treatment and social interventions, must be coordinated to meet the needs of the residents effectively.
“By bridging academic knowledge with real-world experience, these efforts equip students with the skills, empathy, and understanding they need to excel in geriatric medicine and provide the best care possible to an aging population,” the University said on Tuesday.
Donation being made to the Palms Elderly Home, Brickdam, Georgetown
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2025 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM
“Our partnership extends beyond the military...
In his brief remarks, Major General Le Bouil echoed Brigadier Khan’s sentiments, highlighting the shared commitment to building capacity and trust between the two nations.
He noted that Guyana and France have stood side by side, tackling common challenges, adding that this collaboration is crucial as the two nations strive for continued stability, peace, and the ability
to work together in sharing information and resources.
“It is vital for both countries to maintain a strong relationship, for it is important to have a strong neighbour,” he noted.
The 3rd Regional
Military Exchange Meeting continues to provide an important platform for dialogue, partnership, and cooperation, with both countries committed to furthering their military, security, and diplomatic objectives.
Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo
Pompeo makes return to 2025 energy conference as over 7000 projected to attend
With more than 4000 delegates, the Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE) will feature a star-studded cast of speakers including President Dr Irfaan Ali and, for the second year in a row, appearances from President of the Dominican Republic Luis Abinader and former United States (US) Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
Set to be held at the Marriott Hotel from February 18th to 21st, 2025, the Guyana Energy Conference and Expo will have over 7000 total attendees, including the 4000 delegates. The aforementioned speakers are no strangers to the conference, which was first held in 2022.
Additionally, President Abinader and Pompeo made virtual appearances last year. Speaking to this publication, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Energy Conference (GEC), Kiana Wilburg explained some of the new features that will be rolled out at this year’s conference.
“We expect to have over 7000 attendees. And when I say that, it takes into account that we have a number of new initiatives that are open to the public. So, we have an energy run/ slash walk, that is hap-
pening February 16. And it kicks off at the Marriott beach front. Then we have the Conference Village that will follow on the Monday (February 17). And that will go into another event, which will coincide with the main four-day event.”
“And that is the taste of Guyana. So, Taste of Guyana and the Conference Village will be happening at the Kingston Esplanade area. And those two events, along with the energy run, will be open to the public for free. And we have several vendors and small businesses that will be taking part and it will be no charge to them.”
Meanwhile, the executives of the conference have made efforts to include as many students as possible
into the event. Just recently, Wilburg presented the University of Guyana (UG) with 50 exhibition tickets and 20 complimentary delegate passes, for students and lecturers.
The tickets were handed over to the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin, at the Office of the ViceChancellor, UG’s Turkeyen Campus. Wilburg explained the thinking behind this.
“One of the things the secretariat, as a result of the leadership of the secretariat, Anthony Whyte, has been keen on is to ensure that youths are brought more into the conversation on Guyana’s economic transformation. The opportunities and career choices available to them in the oil
Scotiabank opens ATM at MovieTowne
ATM
Scotiabank is investing in its ATM network across the country, kicking off 2025 with the opening of a new ATM at the MovieTowne Mall (in the vicinity of Massy Stores Guyana), East Coast Demerara (ECD). This ATM, the Bank said on Tuesday, has enhanced operational features and design elements such as touch screen capability.
“We continue to invest and grow our operations here in Guyana. By ex-
panding our ATM footprint, we’re extending our financial services beyond our existing branches, providing you with greater access to conduct your banking safely and conveniently,” Country Manager of Scotiabank Guyana, Nafeeza Gaffoor said.
According to the bank, features of the new ATM at MovieTowne Mall include, cash withdrawal (local and foreign issued cards); credit card cash advance (local and foreign issued cards);
bill payment; top up mobile; transfer between accounts; credit card/loan payment via transfer; balance inquiry; mini statement generation; change PIN.
The Country Manager added that additional locations for ATMs are being reviewed.
The opening of this new ATM location follows a recent upgrade of the Bank’s ATMs at Pegasus Corporate Suites, Marriott, Eugene Correia (Ogle) Airport and Courtyard Mall.
and gas sector, as well as the 26 other industries that play major and minor roles in supporting Guyana’s economic wellbeing.”
This has included supporting essay competitions to give a platform to young Guyanese to share their opinions on the oil and gas development. As a matter of fact, the winners of this es-
say will be announced during the event. Additionally, Wilburg made it clear that secondary school students and teachers will also be invited to participate in the expo “in one way or another”.
The GECSCE is an annual event that brings together industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders,
to discuss the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities in the energy and supply chain sectors. It also provides a meaningful platform to connect industry professionals, policy makers and investors, with experts in the energy sector. Hundreds of companies have been signed up for the conference from the time registration opened last year. While ExxonMobil Guyana Limited is already on board for a fourth consecutive year as Title Sponsor, this industry giant is joined by other notable sponsors. These include HESS and CNOOC, its joint-venture partners in the Stabroek block, TechnipFMC, Noble, Stena Drilling, Expro Guyana Inc, MECP Sales & Services among others. A diverse range of exhibitors has also confirmed participation at the event.
Cancer identified as leading cause of death among children in Guyana …action plan for childhood cancers to be rolled out soon
As authorities at the Health Ministry work assiduously to combat the cancer scourge in Guyana, data collected revealed that cancer is the leading cause of death among the younger population.
This was revealed by Coordinator of Cancer Services at the Health Ministry’s Chronic Disease Unit, Dr Shanique Greaves. The seasoned health professional made a recent appearance on the ministry’s Health Matters programme highlighted some of the common types of cancers found in Guyana.
On this point, Dr. Greaves revealed that childhood cancers cases have been on the rise lately this disease, she noted manifests itself in the form of tumors and brain cancer among others.
“The most prevalent cancers in Guyana, they are breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer, as well as colon and Colorectal cancer. Of course, we do have focus on childhood cancers, which are also very much prevalent. They come in the form of leukemias or brain cancers, or other types of tumors like the Wilms tumors or neuroblastomas. But they're all very much on the, they have an increasing, have been increasing over the past few years that for us that poses as a serious health problem.”
Childhood cancer, also known as pediatric cancer, is
cancer that develops in children between birth and age 14. In fact, the health professional revealed that cancer has been identified as the main cause of death among the younger population this she attributed to delayed prevention and testing.
“So cancer is the leading cause of death for children and a lot of it comes about because of the fact that when it comes to a prevention and an early diagnosis, it is something that is very much delayed… that are low to middle income resources that might not have the adequate amount of treatment or the available resources in order to be able to detect these cancers, those are some of the things that tend to cause delayed treatment and as well as it decreases your survival rate. So, it is something that we do need to, that we are currently working assiduously in order to create a strategy to combat that and
also to decrease the disease burden.”
The likelihood of surviving a diagnosis of childhood cancer depends on the country in which the child lives; in high-income countries, more than 80% of children with cancer are cured, but in many low and middle-income countries (LMICs less) than 30% are cured. Although childhood cancer cannot generally be prevented or identified through screening, most types of childhood cancer can be cured with generic medicines and other forms of treatment, including surgery and radiotherapy.
The reasons for lower survival rates in LMICs include delay in diagnosis, an inability to obtain an accurate diagnosis, inaccessible therapy, abandonment of treatment, death from toxicity (side effects) and avoidable relapse.
The new
machine at MovieTowne Mall (in the vicinity of Massy Stores Guyana), East Coast Demerara
Former US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo
Dominican Republic President, Luis Abinader
Coordinator of Cancer Services, MoH Chronic Disease Unit, Dr Shanique Greaves
Over 100 ATMs to be rolled out countrywide
…to work with any Visa, MasterCard, Amex card
Over 100 new automated teller machines (ATMs) will soon be rolled out countrywide, allowing holders of cards under brands such as Visa and MasterCard a convenient way
of accessing cash.
The project will be undertaken by Be Payments (Be!) – a financial technology company that was established in Guyana in June 2024 and is licenced by the Bank of
Guyana as a payment service provider.
The ATMs will be placed in heavily-trafficked locations such as supermarkets, malls, gas stations, hospitals, and police stations.
Be! will be responsible for replenishing the cash in the ATMs, which will be compatible with cards belonging to international networks of Amex, Visa, MasterCard, PIX and UPI.
The company has assured that the ATM transaction fees will be affordable, in keeping with existing rates on the market.
The intention is to have these ATMs placed in every administrative region of the country.
According to the company’s Public Relations Officer Sadiya Yahya, they
Guyana exploring AI integration to modernise aviation sector – GCAA Director General
As artificial intelligence
(AI) continues to transform the global aviation industry, Guyana is taking initial steps to incorporate AI-driven solutions into its own sector. Recognizing both the opportunities and challenges, authorities are focused on building the necessary infrastructure and expertise to support AI integration.
This was disclosed by Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d) Egbert Field during a panel discussion on Tuesday at 4th Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) 2025 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Field emphasised that while AI adoption is widespread in developed nations, many developing countries like Guyana are only beginning to explore its potential.
“I know that AI is on a lot of the established states, but when we come to the developing countries like my country, we don't have the kind of infrastructure and expertise in place. So, we've got to start from the bottom”.
“What we have begun to do is begin sensitizing the aviation industry as to AI, as to what it can do for you and
how they should move. We've also begun collaborating with some of the larger states or more developed states, so that we would be able to impart, because as a regulatory, we are really moving and driving the process,” Field said.
Given Guyana’s extensive domestic aviation operations, the GCAA is working to connect local airline operators with international carriers that have successfully implemented AI-based systems.
The GCAA Director General believes that by exposing domestic operators to data-driven technologies, authorities hope to encourage a shift in mindset and prepare the industry for future advancements.
“We've been able to have the port and the government install our now electronic gates. So that's a beginning portion. With the airline operators, because it is so a large domestic operation, we have begun to introduce them to other airlines that have got the kind of data driven or data that they can utilize and impart. So, we are looking at exposing our industry, getting them to realize that AI at Visual Horizon is here to stay, and they've got to move their minds towards that, and how
to go down that road when the reality hits them, they are all ready. AI is here to stay,” he added.
Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill is leading Guyana’s delegation to the 4th Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) 2025 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from February 10-12, 2025. Accompanying the Minister are Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field, Director General; Clifford VanDoimen, Principal, Civil Aviation Training School (CATS); and Ms. Francesca Wilson, Quality Officer, CATS.
This event hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), will focus on the challenges and opportunities associated with several matters, including broadening AI adoption, especially in developing regions. Topics such as regulatory frameworks, ethical considerations, data privacy, and security will be explored in depth.
GISS 2025 presents an excellent opportunity for Guyana to strengthen international partnerships, exchange expertise, and position itself as a leader in aviation training and innovation.
also intend to launch mobile ATM services via special trucks which will travel around various communities.
“We will be arranging a schedule for the different communities such as Black Bush Polder, Yakasari and other farming communities where persons with limited or no access to traditional financial services can have access through us. It's all about financial inclusion. And yes, everyone would be adequately informed,” she explained.
As preparations unfold for these ATM’s to be available to the public Be!0 has not yet decided on ATM transaction fees however it will be no more than what is currently charged.
However, Yahya also expressed that once these services are rolled out persons will no longer have to travel far distances to use an ATM due to the fact of that one will be around at nearby points.
On that note, Yahya said that the ATM’s would be available in communities with a reasonable number of citizens in them.
Mobile ATM systems
Moreover, another ground breaking initiative which will soon be kicked off by the organization are Mobile ATM systems which would be on specialized trucks.
“We will be arranging a schedule for the different communities such as Black Bush Polder, Yakasari and other farming communities where persons with limited or no access to traditional financial services can have access through us. It's all about
financial inclusion. And yes, everyone would be adequately informed.”
Meanwhile another financial innovation that the company holds is their AI automated system, which allows persons to send messages via WhatsApp and it automatically onboards persons into their respective financial systems.
This the comant company stands out for accessibility, in which persons have the option of doing their transactions on their own time frame rather than having to work within a restricted time frame.
This allows for persons to not take time off of their busy schedules to go into any physical offices in order to join them, within a maximum of 15 to 20 minutes.
Speaking on the new innovations, manager of customer service and support with Be! Payments, Tamika Bidder revealed other key points about their organization.
“Rather than having to wait on someone, an individual person, to actually respond to you when you're trying to onboard, we have an AI automated system which allows you to just send us a message via WhatsApp and it automatically onboards you. So rather than having to wait on someone or a specific working hour to actually reach out and apply to us, you can do that through the WhatsApp system which allows you to be onboarded automatically.”
She added that from her stand point this is very accessible as it also aids in monitoring online fraud trans-
actions.
“AI helps in a big way in monitoring fraudulent transactions, as well as it helps with the onboarding process. AI also helps us with our mobile app, which is going to be beneficial for persons to be able to track their transactions, stuff like that.”
She added. “Be! Payments is one of these financial services systems, which is going to allow you to better yourself in the sense whereby with our AI technology, it allows you to be financially well, and enable persons to budget there selves in a more sensible timeframe, in the sense whereby they don't have to actually note down every single thing.”
Amidst this, she relayed another innovative feature which the app utilizes enables users to track their spending efficiently.
“But from our mobile app, you're able to track your spending, you're able to track your income, so you don't actually physically have to think about it, in the sense where you need to make note of your spending. But the app automatically tracks your spending, it tracks all the funds that is coming in, everything that you receive, let's say what you deposit onto the card, and it allows you to better yourself.”
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to transform industries worldwide, local company Be! AiFA Labs is also set to host an AI Expo from Feburary 25th to 28th aimed at educating the Guyanese citizens on the power of AI-driven solutions.
Cancer identified as leading...
Roll out action plan
Moreover, in a bid to tackle the cancer scourge in Guyana Dr. Greaves revealed that the health Ministry will be working to roll out action plans for several cancers such as childhood cancers and breast cancer.
“We do have other action plans that would have been carried out, which would have been on the prostate cancer program, as well as
we are currently seeking to do our strategies for breast cancer and eventually, we'll take a look into colorectal cancers as well as childhood cancers. It is a lot to process. It is an ongoing process but we are committed to ensuring that the people here of Guyana are able to access quality care and are able to get their screening done as they should.”
Meanwhile, last year the
health ministry recorded over 650 cancer cases heath minister Dr. Frank Anthony during his ministry’s year end press conference revealed that cervical, breast, prostate and colorectal cancers are some of the main variations the ministry is currently battling. These cancers he noted accounted for a significant percent of cancer cases recorded in the country
Manager of customer service and support with Be! Payments, Tamika Bidder
ATMs provided by Be! Payments
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill; Director General of GCAA, Lt Col (Retired) Egbert Field; Principal, Civil Aviation Training School (CATS), Clifford VanDoimen; and Quality Officer, CATS, Francesca Wilson
Look for the best path forward and set your sights on convincing others to see things your way. A positive and in-depth discussion will help you finetune your path.
Change only what's necessary. Taking on too much or putting someone else's battle first will diminish the progress of projects that mean the most to you. Be bold and be very clear about what you want.
Keep the momentum flowing and refuse to let someone's negativity or uncertainty stand in the way. Let your charm win you favors. Don't hesitate to rise to the occasion.
Put your energy where it counts, and you'll gain the strength, courage and drive to reach your target on time. Let your creative imagination lead the way and take care of your responsibilities.
Live with what you've got, save time and money, and ward off opposition. Impulsive spending can quickly turn into a problem if you aren't careful. Do what's best for you.
Emotions and secrets will be counterproductive if you neglect what's important to you. Spell out what you want for those who cannot see what's right in front of them. Be bold.
An open mind will help you expand your awareness and pick and choose the best way to use your attributes to get ahead. Charm, intelligence and networking will play in your favor.
Take one step at a time, ask questions and refuse to alter what's working efficiently. Take the plunge and use your skills to produce something unique. It's time to market yourself.
Travel may be necessary to explore more possibilities. Whether it's a physical, mental or emotional trip you'll be taking, the result will be a learning experience. Trust your instincts, not someone else's suggestion.
Refuse to let change lead to debt. Look for cheaper ways to make your life better. Choose to work on self-improvement, health and meaningful relationships. You cannot buy love, but you can earn it.
Refurbish what you already have, and you'll feel good about your environment and what you accomplish. Refuse to let others rain on your parade. Do what suits you best.
Set a goal, and don't stop or jeopardize your chance to reach it simply to accommodate someone else. The improvements you make will facilitate what you need to produce undeniable results.
ARCHIE
Brandon Cummings, Fatima and Saifulla Gani among top performers
The highly anticipated 2024
National Indoor Youth Open competition of Archery Guyana was held at the National Gymnasium on February 8-9, 2025, and this assembly of the nation’s finest young archers witnessed a weekend of precision, passion and competitive spirit.
When the dust was finally settled, Brandon Cummings, Fatima Gani and Saifullah Gani were among the tournament’s top performers.
According to Archery Guyana, this year’s event was a resounding success, with youth archers demonstrating remarkable skill and sportsmanship in a high-energy atmosphere. The competition was streamed live, allowing fans, coaches and supporters to follow the action in real time.
Archery Guyana also employed IANSEO, the globally recognised scoring software, to ensure accurate and instant updates, heightening the excitement for athletes and spectators alike.
The competition featured intense matchups across various categories, and the young athletes displayed exceptional talent and resilience. Judges
Afzal Karim, Umasankar Madray and Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon ensured the event maintained world-class officiating standards; while Director of Shooting, Ryan McKinnon, and the Results Management Team led by Results Manager Saeed Karim ensured seamless operations throughout the tournament.
Medalists of the 2024 National Indoor Youth Open Barebow Under-15 Men’s competition were: Brandon
Warrican named ICC Men’s Player of the Month for January
Barbadian left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican was on Monday announced as the winner of the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for January 2025.
Warrican won his maiden ICC Men’s Player of the Month award from two other standout spinners: Pakistan’s Noman Ali and India’s Varun Chakravarthy.
In an exceptional month, the 32-year-old Warrican took 19 wickets in two Test matches against Pakistan at an average of just 9.00.
Although Pakistan won the opening encounter, ten wickets fell to the left-armer in spin-friendly conditions in Multan. Figures of 3-69 in the first innings preceded a career-best spell of 7-32 in the second; where, with the addition of two runouts, Warrican played a part in the fall of all but one of Pakistan’s wickets.
His brilliance continued in the second Test, not only with the ball, but also with bat in hand. Arriving at the crease with scores at 95 for nine in the first innings, Warrican (36 not out) and Kemar Roach foiled the Pakistan onslaught and propelled the tourists to a respectable 163 all out.
Contributions of 4-43 and 5-27 came on either side of 18 more valuable runs in the second innings, and the spinner’s allround heroics heralded an historic 120-run victory alongside a richly deserved Player of the Series accolade.
Warrican has become the first West Indian to win this award since fellow spinner Gudakesh Motie did so back in May 2024. (Sportsmax)
Jomel Warrican picked up 19 wickets in two Test matches in January 2025
Cummings – Gold; Daniel CoxSilver; Christopher Cooblall –Bronze.
Barebow Under-18 Men’s results were: Saifullah Gani –Gold; Samuel George -Silver
A call to aim higher
At the closing ceremony, Director of Shooting, Ryan McKinnon, expressed appreciation to the parents, family members and supporters who came out to cheer on the
young archers; and delivering the final address, Archery Guyana President Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon commended the athletes for their dedication.
“Young archers: over the weekend, you proved that the future of archery in Guyana is bright. Competing at a national level is no small feat, and you should be proud of yourselves," she shared.
Proceeding to challenge the young participants to not stop there, Persaud-McKinnon said that with focus and commitment, they each have the potential to represent Guyana regionally and internationally. The journey to
greatness starts now, she advised, so aim higher, train harder, and come back even better in the 2025 Youth Open year end.
Archery Guyana has extended heartfelt appreciation to the individuals and organizations that made this event possible; namely: Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport Charles Ramson Jr; Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle; the National Sports Commission (NSC); Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) President Godfrey Munroe & Executive Committee; Guyana Beverages Inc’s Samuel Arjoon (Oasis Water); and members of the media.
Jones is latest recipient of Cricket Gear Initiative
Demerara Cricket Club's 13-year-old all-rounder Makhaya Jones is the latest person to benefit from the Cricket Gear Initiative that is jointly owned by Kishan Das of the USA and long-serving cricket administrator Anil Beharry of Guyana, in that this right-handed pace bowler/batsman has been recipient of one pair of cricket shoes.
A student of Campbellville Secondary School, Makhaya Jones recently participated in the Demerara Cricket Board’s inter-association under-15 tournament, which is used to select the county team to participate in the upcoming inter-county championship.
At a simple ceremony held recently, Jones, the son of softball stalwart Wayne Jones, expressed gratitude for the shoes and promised to work hard on his game.
He has been encouraged to focus on cricket and education, and to always be disciplined.
This initiative will continue its endeavours to make every community a better place, and is pleased to be part of the development of young cricketers in Guyana.
Our aim is to keep them off the streets and get them actively involve in sports, cricket in particular, the Initiative has said.
Total cricket related items received/purchased so far: $560,000 in cash, thirteen colored cricket uniforms, one set of stumps, two trophies, thirty-three pairs of cricket shoes, thirtyseven pairs of batting pads, forty six cricket bats, forty pairs of batting gloves, twenty-eight thigh pads, three pairs of wicket keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest pads, two boxes, thirteen gear bags, thirteen bat rubbers, six helmets, one fiber glass bat, one pair of floppy hat, fourteen boxes and four of white cricket balls, thirteen boxes of red cricket balls, one bat cone and twentyeight footballs. In addition to the above, gear with value of over $600,000 was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former National wicket keeper/batsman. All cash collected is being used to purchase cricket gear requested and not available at the time.
To date, ninety-four players, male and female, from all three counties of Guyana have benefited directly from cash, seven gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, thirty-three bats, four boxes, six helmets, thirty-five pairs of cricket shoes, twenty-one pairs of batting pads, twenty-four thigh pads, one bat grip, thirty-seven pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicketkeeping pads and three pairs of wicketkeeping gloves. Many others benefited indirectly. In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area benefited from two used bats. Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenaam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard also received one box of red cricket balls each, Cold Fusion Cricket Club thirteen color uniforms while RHCCCC received six boxes of balls, fifteen white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping gloves, two sets of stumps and bails. Other beneficiaries are The Essequibo Cricket Board, the Town of Lethem, youth coach Travis Persaud (one box of red cricket balls), male and female teams playing the traditional hardball and softball in the Upper Corentyne area, No.65 Young Titans with 30 T-Shirts, youths of Just Try Cricket Club, Wakenaam Cricket Academy (one box of white balls), Shamar Joseph, Nehemiah Hohenkirk, Shamar Apple, Leguan Cricket Committee, Tucber Park Cricket Club, Malteenoes Sports Club (nine cricket balls each), Kendall’s Union Cricket Club with twelve red balls, Lower Corentyne, Corentyne Comprehensive and JC Chandisingh Secondary schools with twelve red balls each, and Thaddeus Lovell with one pair of cricket shoes. Cricket related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders also assist to identify same. Progressive and well managed cricket clubs with a youth program, will also benefit.
CLASSIFIED ADS
Makhaya Jones posing with his brand-new pair of cricket shoes
President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon presenting Gold Medal to Barebow U-15 Women’s Champion Fatima Gani
President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon presenting Gold Medal to Barebow U-18 Men’s Champion Saifullah Gani
Boxing Championships – Ninvalle
Agroup of Guyanese boxers will soon jet off to St Lucia, where they will compete at the Senior Caribbean Boxing Championships in hope of bringing the coveted overall title back to Guyana for the first time since 2018.
This regional event is set to run from Thursday, February 27 to Thursday, March 3, and 20 Guyanese pugilists are currently in training under the watchful eyes of coaches Francisco
Roldan, Lennox Daniels, Clifton Moore and Jeff Roberts.
In discussing the upcoming event, wherein he disclosed that Guyana would likely field a large contingent in hope of bringing home Gold, GBA President Steve Ninvalle said, “Well, Guyana is very focused on winning the Caribbean Championships, that is why we have put such a large team into training; and it’s our hope that we will be able
West Indies Championships…
to send a large team to St. Lucia to bring back the 2025 Caribbean Championship title to Guyana.”
Speaking about a few faces to look out for at the championships, including the GBA’s young prospects and technical staff, Ninvalle said, “This year, we’ll be sending three world-rate fighters in Keevin Allicock, Desmond Amsterdam and Abiola Jackman. Jackman is ranked number 29 in the world in the female heavy-
weight elite; Amsterdam is also ranked 29 as a light heavyweight, and Allicock is also ranked within the featherweights.”
Ninvalle added, “Also, we have someone who would’ve just joined the elite ranks, Shaquain James. He is one of the best prospects across the Caribbean.”
Further, he informed, “The Guyana Boxing Association will also be sending two referee-judges and our lone ITO, Mr. Elton Chase, to the Caribbean Championship”.
GHE size up Windies Academy today in day/night encounter
…Motie, Junior Sinclair in; as Chanderpaul,
Ahead of Round 3 of the 2025 West Indies Championships bowling off today, the Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) have made some forced changes to the squad owing to injury and precautionary measures, but West Indies all-format spinner Gudakesh Motie is returning to the squad.
As Motie makes his return for Round Three of these Championships, opening batsman
Joseph battle injuries
Tagenarine Chanderpaul will not be participating therein because he has split the webbing on his hand. And Shamar Joseph, who had just returned from a shin splint injury, will sit this round out on a ‘precautionary basis’, according to the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB). As such, Junior Sinclair would make his way into the 13-member squad.
The Harpy Eagles will come up against the West Indies Academy from 13:00hrs today in a day/ night, pink-ball game. Prior to the encounter, Captain Tevin Imlach shared what would be his team’s approach to the game, and the lesson’s they would be taking from their last encounter.
“The twilight period is obviously a challenge; that’s when the ball tends to do a lot more. So, we’ll take that into account in our planning, get a few practice sessions in, and hopefully, we could build a good plan around that game,” Imlach has said.
and roll over and just give us their wickets or allow us to beat them. So, it was needed. Both negative and positive we’ll take from it, and learn and move forward.”
The Guyana Harpy Eagles squad now reads: Captain and Wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach; ViceCaptain Kemol Savory; Matthew Nandu, Raymond Perez, Kevlon Anderson, Ronaldo Alimohamed, Kevin Sinclair, Gudakesh Motie, Veerasammy Permaul, Thaddeus Lovell, Nial Smith, Richie Looknauth and Junior Sinclair.
Referring to lessons learnt from last Saturday’s victory against the Combined Campuses and Colleges, Imlach related, “A lot of confidence! Obviously, winning is a massive thing for a team moving forward, but I think we needed this little hiccup early on in the first innings; just to get them to understand that, you know, no team is going to come
Coach: Ryan Hercules
Manager: Albert Clements
Assistant Coach: Garvin Nedd
Physiotherapist: Angelica Holder
Analyst: Ryerson Bhagoo Strength and Conditioning Coach: Jarryl Moore. West Indies Academy squad reads: Captain Teddy Bishop; wicketkeeper Carlton Bowen-Tuckett; Mavendra Dindyal, Ackeem Auguste, Justin Jagessar, Rivaldo Clarke, Joshua Bishop, Johann Layne, McKenny Clarke, Jediah Blades, Zishan Motara, Michael Palmer and Nathan Edward.
After two rounds of competition, the Leeward Islands Hurricanes are currently leaders on the points table with a slim .2 advantage over the defending champions Guyana Harpy Eagles. While the Hurricanes have 45.4 points, GHE have 45.2 points. Trinidad and Tobago Red Force are third with 44.4 points. Jamaica Scorpions are fourth with 29.4 points, while Barbados Pride complete the top five with 28.6 points.
are in training for
The GBA boss has expressed high expectations of the team already in training, even as he detailed the two-fold nature of this reparation period when he confidently shared, “We expect our team to do well because they’re very hard in training. This will give us an early gauge, because just next month or so, there’s the female World Championships being held in Serbia, and Abiola Jackman will be representing Guyana there.”
The pugilists currently in training include Desmond Amsterdam, Keevin Allicock, Abiola Jackman, Leon Albert, Septon Barton, Quince Boyce, Clifton Graham, Travis Inverary, Shaquain James, Dwayne July, Colin Lewis, Orlando Norton, Emma Noel Pompey, Ronaldo Sutton, Zidan Wray and Joel Williamson; alongside Keyon Britton, Lennox Lawrence, Ken Harvey, and Tofina Barker.
2025 Gold Cup Qualification…
Golden Jaguars to play ‘home game’ in Barbados
Guyana’s senior men’s national football team the Golden Jaguars will be playing their ‘home game’ in the CONCACAF Gold Cup Qualification series against Guatemala next month in Barbados, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) confirmed on Tuesday.
Scheduled for Friday, March 21, 2025, the match will be played at the Barbados Football Association’s (BFA’s) Technical Centre in St. Michael, Barbados, and kickoff is slated for 21:00h.
In giving the update, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) did not explain why the game would not be played on Guyanese shores. The Gold Cup
Qualification against Guatemala will be played in a 2-match home and away series, which would see Guyana coming up against Guatemala on Tuesday, February 25, at the Estadio Cementos Progreso in Guatemala City for the return match.
The Golden Jaguars last played a match against Barbados on Tuesday, November 19th 2024, when Guyana thumped their visitors 5-3.
The Golden Jaguars were just coming off a rocky period, wherein all of their home games were being played in Barbados in 2024, owing to the state of the ground at the National Track and Field Center (NTFC) at Leonora, West
Coast Demerara; which saw the GFF incurring a fine in 2023 after Guyana took on the Bahamas on the dishevelled surface. After the venue was closed for repairs, the Golden Jaguars returned to their home venue during the September-November International window for the CONCACAF Nations League 2024/ 2025. As revealed by the GFF, tickets for the upcoming Gold Cup Qualification match in Barbados can be purchased online at TicketPal, using the link https://secure.ticketpal.com/event/2025-concacaf-gold-cup-preliminary. Physical tickets are also available for purchase at the BFA Technical Centre in Barbados.
Guyana’s Golden Jaguars are back to hosting their home games in Barbados
Junior Sinclair has found a place in the GHE squad for Round 3
Guyana’s boxers
the Caribbean Championships, to be held later this month
