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Two people have died following a crash involving a car that struck a roadside rail and a utility pole along the East Coast of Demerara, police said.

The victims were identified as Seerochanie Khemraj of Tuchen New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, and driver Nicklas Lillah.

Police said the incident occurred around 18:45h on Friday along the Huntly Public Road, Mahaicony. Lillah was driving hire car HD 5859 eastward with five passengers: Khemraj (who died), a 14-year-old female, a 17-year-old female and two males aged 14 and 12 – all from Tuchen New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo.

According to investigators, the vehicle was travelling at a high speed and overtook a line of traffic. During the manoeuvre, it clipped the rearview mirror of another vehicle, PAN 2760, which was proceeding in the same direction.

The driver continued before losing control while negotiating a sharp bend near Airy Hall Public Road. The car struck an aluminium rail and then a Guyana Power and Light utility pole.

Lillah, and Khemraj (who was seated in the front passenger seat), sustained severe head and body injuries. They were pulled from the wreckage by a passer-by and taken to the Mahaicony Public Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.

The four other occupants were also taken to hospital, where they were treated for minor injuries and admitted.

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Full message from Al-Hajj Shahabudeen Ahmad, President of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana in observance of Eid-ul-Fitr:

All Praise is due to Allah, Lord of the Worlds. Allah’s peace and blessings be upon our Master Muhammad and His (saws) household, companions and followers.

O Allah, send prayers upon our master Muhammad (saws), the opener of what was closed, and the seal of what had preceded, the helper of the truth by the Truth, and the guide to Your straight path. May Allah send prayers upon his Family according to his greatness and magnificent rank.

My dear Brothers and Sisters in Islam and Humanity,

Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakaatuh.

May the Peace, Guidance, Mercy, and Blessings of Allah (swt) be upon us all!

Eid Mubarak, Eid Mubarak, Eid Mubarak! On this joyous day of Eid-ul-Fitr, the Executives and Staff of CIOG join you in celebration.

Alhamdulillah, by the limitless mercy of Allah (SWT), we have been granted the honor of completing the blessed month of Ramadan — a month that trains the soul in patience, discipline, and devotion. Throughout this sacred journey, we increased our worship in both private and public, engaged in reflection and self-accountability, strengthened our spirit of charity and compassion, and sought to purify our hearts and character for the sake of Allah (SWT). Now, as we arrive at the end of this blessed month of fasting, we rejoice with grateful hearts, hoping to be among those whose efforts were accepted and who stand among the truly thankful servants of Allah.

Allah (SWT) reminds us in Surah Yunus (Jonah) Chapter 10, verse 58 of the Holy Quran:

‘In the grace of Allah (swt) and in His (swt) mercy, in that they should rejoice; it is better than all [the worldly wealth] that they may amass!’

On this blessed day, the first of Shawwal and the day of Eid, we celebrate with gratitude the mercy and generosity of Allah (SWT). As we rejoice in the completion of Ramadan, we pause to reflect on the powerful lessons this sacred month leaves within our hearts. However, this Ramadan felt heavier for many of us — not due to the physical challenge of fasting, but because of the immense trials and suffering affecting our Ummah and humanity at large.

Our beloved Prophet, Rasoolullah (peace and blessings be upon him), captured the spirit of this shared bond when he said:

“The believers, in their mutual love, mercy, and compassion, are like a single body; when one part of the body suffers, the rest of the body responds with sleeplessness and fever.”

This Ramadan was marked by profound sorrow as we witnessed the ongoing oppression and hardship endured by our brothers and sisters in Palestine, South Sudan, and other parts of the world. Our hearts felt the weight of their suffering. Yet even through these trials, they became a source of powerful inspiration. Their unshakable Imaan (faith) and sincere Tawakkul (trust in Allah SWT) reminded us of the true meaning of patience, resilience, and reliance upon our Creator, Allah (SWT). May their example strengthen our own faith and motivate us to respond with both conviction and action. May Allah (SWT) alleviate their suffering, Aameen.

Emerging from Ramadan this year cannot be the same as before. The lessons we learned—both inside and outside the Masjid—must translate into action. True gratitude is not merely spoken; it must be lived. The self-restraint and discipline we practiced must extend beyond food and drink to all aspects of our lives.

We watched our Brothers and Sisters break their fast with a sip of precious water, while others remained in a state of perpetual fasting, without even a drop of water to break their fast. Even with their homes and places of worship reduced to rubble, they still hung lights, stood in prayer through the night. I ask, what is their source of strength? What we witnessed was the embodiment of a timeless supplication, the dua of our Father, Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be upon him.

“Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us).” (Holy Quran Surah Al-Imran 3:173)

Ibn ‘Abbas, a prominent companion of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and scholar of Islam, said in a hadith, “When (Prophet) Ibrahim was thrown into the fire, he said: “Allah (Alone) is sufficient for us, and, He is the Best Disposer of affairs.” So did the Final Messenger, Rasoolullah (saw) when he was told: “A great army … [has] gathered against him, so fear them”. But this (warning) only increased him and the Muslims in Faith and they said: “Allah (Alone) is sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us)”. [Al-Bukhari].

Our Brothers and Sisters invoked the prayer of the Prophets (peace be upon them) often with a smile, Hasbunallu Wa Nia’ Mal Wakeel, “Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us).”

This Ramadan has given us lessons that came through great sacrifice and reflection. Now it is upon us to carry these lessons beyond the Masjid and turn them into meaningful action. True belief is not limited to what we say, it must be visible in our deeds, our character, and the way we live. This has always been the legacy of Muslims throughout history. In a world often filled with hardship and despair, we must rise to our responsibility: upholding justice, supporting our Ummah, and bringing hope to those around us. Let each of us strive to be a light for others.

As we celebrate this day of Eid, let us also remember those who continue to struggle—those facing illness, hunger, unthinkable man-made hardships. Let us reach out to them with compassion and support, reminding them that Allah (SWT) is Most Merciful and that His blessings are vast.

Eid does not mark the end of our worship. Rather, it reminds us to carry forward the spiritual growth we cultivated in Ramadan, so that each year we continue to draw closer to Allah (SWT), both as individuals and as a united community.

Let us reaffirm the significance of prayer. The strength of our community and the quality of our lives will only improve as more of us commit to the five daily prayers, the spiritual nourishment of the believers. Let us continue to fill the mosques as we did in Ramadan, setting aside all excuses and delays. This simple yet powerful act brings immense blessings and countless rewards. Allah (SWT) reminds us in the Holy Quran Surah 2 verse 110:

“Be steadfast in prayer and regular in charity. Whatever good you send forth for your souls before you, you shall find it with Allah. For Allah sees well all that you do”. (Holy Quran Surah Al-Baqara 02:110)

Let us strive to cultivate harmony within our families, communities, and nation. I encourage you to welcome our non-Muslim brothers and sisters to partake in our Eid celebrations, fostering unity and understanding. It is our responsibility to embody and promote the core Islamic values of coexistence, tolerance, and khidma—selfless service to others. Let us extend our love and protection to all of Allah’s (SWT) creation.

Allah (SWT) reminds us in the Holy Quran:

“We have appointed a law and a practice for every one of you. Had God willed, He would have made you a single community, but He wanted to test you regarding what has come to you. So compete with each other in doing good.

Every one of you will return to God, and He will inform you regarding the things about which you differed.” (Surah Al-Ma’ida 5:48)

May Allah (SWT) bless and have mercy on us all. May Allah (SWT) shower His mercy upon our nation and the entire world. We humbly beseech Allah (SWT) to accept our good deeds and forgive our shortcomings. Ameen.

May He grant us healing and peace. Ameen.

I close with the unwavering pillar of reliance and absolute trust in Allah (SWT).

“Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us).” (Holy Quran Surah Al-Imran 3:173)

Eid Mubark! Eid Mubarak! Eid Mubarak!

Wa-Alaikumus-Salaam WaRahmatullahi-WaBarakaatuh.

Respectfully,

Al-Hajj Shahabudeen Ahmad

President CIOG

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For Guyana’s Lady Jags, the road to the 2026 Concacaf Women’s Championship—and by extension, the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup—has narrowed to a razor-thin tightrope.

Following a gruelling campaign, Guyana sits third in Group B. While they are level on points with leaders Jamaica and second-place Nicaragua, the table is deceptive.

With only one team from each group progressing to join heavyweights USA and Canada in the final tournament, Guyana no longer controls their own destiny.

Jamaica is the clear favourite, possessing a massive +19 goal difference and a game in hand over Guyana. For the Lady Jags, the mission in Kingston on April 18 is nothing short of a miracle.

The Great Escape: What Guyana Needs

For Guyana to leapfrog the Caribbean giants and a resilient Nicaragua, three specific conditions must be met:

• Guyana must defeat Jamaica in their final match on April 18. Anything less—a draw or a loss—and the dream is officially over. Jamaica has been clinical, scoring 21 goals in just two matches.

 

• Even if Guyana wins, they will likely need to do so by a significant margin. Because Jamaica plays Antigua & Barbuda on April 10, they will almost certainly increase their goal difference further. If teams finish level on points, Goal Difference is the first tiebreaker.

 

• Nicaragua is currently ahead of Guyana on goals scored (the second tiebreaker). Guyana needs Nicaragua to either lose or fail to run up a massive scoreline against Dominica on the final match day.

 

Remaining Group B:

Friday April 10

• 20:00 (19:00) Jamaica vs. Antigua & Barbuda – National Stadium, Kingston, Jamaica

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

• 15:00 (15:00) Dominica vs. Antigua & Barbuda – Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, Gros Islet, St. Lucia

Saturday, April 18, 2026

• 20:00 (19:00) Jamaica vs. Guyana – National Stadium, Kingston, Jamaica
• 20:00 (18:00) Nicaragua vs. Dominica – Estadio Nacional, Managua, Nicaragua

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The Jamaica Observer understands that the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has agreed to a new long-term contract with Adidas, which is set to run until 2034.

The German apparel giants’ four-year sponsorship deal was due to expire at the end of December, but it has committed to a further eight years, with the new deal to begin next January.

The Observer understands that the deal, which covers cash and equipment for Jamaica’s senior and junior teams, could be worth over $2 billion plus royalties earned from jersey sales.

The deal comes despite the Reggae Boyz not being guaranteed a spot at this summer’s FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

However, Adidas is expected to have a global presence this year with Jamaica at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar and potentially in 2027 as the Reggae Girlz eye their third consecutive Women’s World Cup.

Jamaica has become one of Adidas’ highest earning national teams in kit sales, as recently seen with their Bob Marley Collection in partnership with the Bob & Rita Marley Foundation. (Jamaica Observer)

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The Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has officially commenced a major overhaul of its youth development strategy, re-launching the ‘Get Into Rugby’ schools’ tag programme at the Parade Ground in Georgetown on Friday.

Under the leadership of newly elected President Ryan Gonsalves, the union is looking to reverse a recent decline in participation by targeting the next generation of ‘Green Machine’ stars.

The initiative, which focuses on Friday afternoon physical education sessions, saw students from across the city descend on the historic Parade Ground to be put through their paces by some of Guyana’s most decorated players and seasoned coaches.

One of those, the renowned Kevin Mackenzie, argued that, while this initiative is great for growing the sport, based on his expertise, it would be ideal if they could start engaging children from an early age, such as five, as they have many other competing sports and activities in this era.

For Gonsalves, the mission is clear: without a grassroots foundation, the national team’s future remains at risk.

“A vibrant ‘nursery’ is the absolute backbone of any successful national sports program,” Gonsalves told reporters. “Basically, we are trying to spread rugby in Guyana. Eventually, we will reach throughout the country, but for now, we are targeting areas we are capable of covering.”

By introducing tag rugby to schools, the GRFU hopes to funnel fresh talent into the local club system, revitalising a domestic scene that has struggled for numbers in recent years.

Moreover, Gonsalves explained that the new bus, donated by President Dr Irfaan Ali, has been of tremendous use, as it also offers schools the option to transport pupils and teachers to and from the grounds.

Outside of three to four tournaments for schools throughout the area, and even an expansion to Linden, Gonsalves indicated that there will be a workshop for Physical Education teachers so they can be upskilled in the technical aspects of the sport and run their own sessions in schools.

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Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has asked its players to pass fitness tests in order to be eligible for the no-objection certificates (NOCs) that would allow them to play in franchise leagues.

This is of immediate consequence for the IPL, where the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga (Lucknow Super Giants), Nuwan Thushara (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Matheesha Pathirana (Kolkata Knight Riders) and Eshan Malinga (Sunrisers Hyderabad) are due to arrive over the next few weeks.

Dushmantha Chameera, Pathum Nissanka (both Delhi Capitals) and Kamindu Mendis (Sunrisers) have passed the “physical performance test” and are already cleared to play in the IPL.

“Nuwan Thushara’s eligibility for a NOC to participate in the IPL will be subject to the outcome of his physical performance test,” a board release said.

“Wanindu Hasaranga, Eshan Malinga, and Matheesha Pathirana, who have requested NOCs to participate in IPL 2026, are yet to undergo the physical performance test, as they are still undergoing rehabilitation to recover from injuries sustained.”

All three of those players were injured either in the lead-up to, or during, the T20 World Cup. Pathirana is already set to miss the start of the IPL season, and is expected to be available only from mid-April.

This renewed focus on fitness is understood to be driven by the new national men’s selection committee led by Pramodya Wickramasinghe, as well as from the Sports Ministry of the Sri Lankan government.

With Sri Lanka not due to play another men’s international until the end of May at least, this period was identified as a training block during which the nationally-contracted players could raise fitness standards. The physical performance test is understood to be comprised of several tests including a 2km sprint.

“At present, SLC is conducting an eight-week specialized physical training program for all nationally contracted players,” the board release said.

“This initiative aims to enhance players’ physical performance standards in preparation for upcoming international assignments. Along with this program, players are also undergoing the mandatory physical performance tests, a routine process followed to check the fitness standards of the players.

“Only those who successfully meet the required standards of the physical performance tests will be cleared to participate in the ongoing domestic tournament and also granted an NOC to take part in IPL 2026.”

The IPL is scheduled to begin on March 28. (ESPNcricinfo)

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The Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), alongside local bottled water producers, recently met with Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, and senior officials of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) to examine opportunities and challenges within the country’s water manufacturing sector.

During the meeting, the GMSA expressed strong support for President Irfaan Ali’s initiative to achieve 100 percent locally produced bottled water under HS Code 2201. The association described the move as a strategic step toward national self-sufficiency, noting that it could reduce imports by approximately $150 million annually. Such a reduction, the GMSA said, would significantly strengthen local manufacturing while contributing to broader economic growth.

Representatives from the association and key water producers emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach among industry stakeholders and regulatory bodies. They stressed that maintaining consistent standards across the sector is essential to ensuring product quality and consumer confidence.

The engagement also served as a platform for addressing critical issues affecting the industry. Discussions focused on production and distribution challenges, policy frameworks, investment incentives, as well as quality assurance and regulatory compliance.

 

The GMSA reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Government and other stakeholders to advance the development of Guyana’s bottled water industry, with a focus on improving quality and enhancing global competitiveness.

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[PRESS RELEASE] – The Linden to Mabura Hill Road project has reached a key milestone, with approximately 100 kilometres of roadway now upgraded from what was historically a “mud and slush” trail into a modern asphalt corridor. The works are progressing on schedule to accommodate increased traffic demand ahead of the Easter Weekend Rodeo.

For decades, the route between Linden and Mabura Hill has been known for its difficult conditions, particularly during the rainy season, often requiring specialized vehicles and extended travel times. The ongoing upgrade has transformed sections of the corridor into a durable, all-weather roadway designed to support both commercial activity and regular transit. 

Engineering Scope and Execution

The transformation of the corridor extends beyond conventional paving works, involving a comprehensive engineering approach to address challenging terrain and climatic conditions. The project has mobilized over 300 pieces of heavy equipment and a workforce of approximately 900 personnel. 

Key elements of the construction include:

• Earthworks: Clearing and stabilization of previously undeveloped terrain to establish a reliable foundation
• Soil Stabilization: Application of quicklime and cement to reinforce sub-base and base layers under high-moisture conditions, in addition to tranches of “all weather” stone sub-base solution
• Asphalt Works: Installation of dual layers of asphalt to ensure durability and performance
• Drainage and Structures: Construction of drainage systems and bridges to manage runoff and reduce erosion risks

Commenting on the milestone, Daniel Amaral, Contractor’s Representative for Alya Construction, stated:

“What used to be a gruelling journey through mud is now a functional transport corridor aligned with Guyana’s ongoing infrastructure development. Reaching the 100 km mark reflects the scale of engineering, coordination, and execution required to deliver in such challenging conditions, as well as the strong level of coordination achieved with the Ministry of Public Works throughout the process.” 

Progress and Future Outlook

Road-specific works are currently estimated at approximately 83% completion. The pace of delivery reflects a consistent level of execution despite the logistical and environmental constraints associated with inland construction. 

The upgraded corridor is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Guyana’s coastal and hinterland regions, while supporting economic activity and facilitating more efficient transport routes toward the Brazil border.

Further works are anticipated to continue extending the corridor southward, with continuity in construction approach and technical standards expected to be maintained as the project advances into subsequent phases, building on the execution capacity and operational footprint established during the current works.

About Alya Construction

Alya Construction is an international infrastructure company specializing in civil works, heavy infrastructure projects and road development in complex environments.

https://alyaconstrutora.com/

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Scotiabank Guyana has partnered with Youth Challenge Guyana for Launching Out, a six-week plumbing training programme, enhanced with life-skills instruction. Backed by a GY$6,517,440 investment, the programme aims to strengthen the employability, entrepreneurial capacity and long-term economic resilience of young people across Guyana.

Youth Challenge Guyana has over thirty years of experience, delivering life-skills, technical training, and community development programmes. This expertise will be leveraged for the Launching Out programme which commences next week, on March 23, 2026, and will equip participants with comprehensive plumbing training and preparation for the Contractor Licensing procedures.

The technical training will be delivered alongside essential instruction in topics such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship, self-management, relationship management, work ethics, and occupational safety. In addition to strong practical training by certified instructors and technical educators, internship opportunities will be sought for participants to improve their skills and develop experience with the world of work.

Dmitri Nicholson, Executive Director of Youth Challenge Guyana shred “The partnership between Youth Challenge Guyana and Scotiabank Guyana Inc. to train young people in plumbing and life skills is more than just a training opportunity. It’s a pathway to dignity and stability. Technical training equips youth with employable skills, and life skills foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution. It’s a reminder that when opportunity meets guidance, communities grow safer and futures grow brighter. This collaboration further demonstrates both organizations commitment to a successful future for Guyanese youth.”

The programme addresses critical obstacles to employment faced by vulnerable youth and responds to the growing need for qualified tradespeople in Guyana. Nafeeza Gaffoor, Country Manager, Scotiabank Guyana, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “At Scotiabank, we’re proud to support programmes that equip young people with practical skills and competencies for today’s workforce. This partnership with Youth Challenge Guyana helps young people better understand their career options and take advantage of opportunities in technical and vocational employment, as well as entrepreneurship. By building income-generating skills, we are supporting not only individual livelihoods, but also stronger families and a more resilient economy.” (Scotiabank press release)

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Deputy Commissioner “Administration” Mr. Ravindradat Budhram on Friday, March 20, 2026, addressed trainees, Sergeants, Inspectors, and ranks of the Junior Leadership Course at the Officer Training Centre, Camp Road, Georgetown, where he delivered a motivational session focused on discipline, personal development, and professional responsibility.

During his remarks, Deputy Commissioner Budhram encouraged the ranks to take full advantage of the opportunities available to them at the training institution, particularly those being created through modern technology and online learning platforms. He placed special emphasis on the Guyana Digital School platform, noting that in its first phase, over 800 police ranks and 200 members of Police Youth Groups have already been enrolled. He described the initiative as a valuable avenue through which ranks and young people can broaden their knowledge, strengthen their academic foundation, and better prepare themselves for future advancement.

He explained that members of the Force must be prepared to develop themselves through disciplined training, sound judgment, and smart decision-making. According to him, policing is not only about enforcing the law, but also about serving the public, building positive relationships within communities, maintaining professionalism, and treating people with humility and respect.

Deputy Commissioner Budhram also emphasised the importance of responsible financial management, warning ranks against harmful influences and urging them to remain focused on their personal and professional goals.

Drawing from his own experiences, he reminded those gathered that success comes through hard work, continuous learning, self-awareness, and a willingness to improve.

Present at the engagement were Head of the Guyana Police Force Academy, Senior Superintendent Sonia Herbert; Commandant of the Georgetown Campus, Superintendent Jeanette Prince, along with other senior and junior officers.

The session concluded with a strong appeal for the ranks to remain committed to discipline, effective communication, and their duties, as they prepare themselves for active service to the nation (Guyana Police Force press release)

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