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Press Release from the Guyana Basketball Federation

President of the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF), Michael Singh, has reaffirmed Guyana’s readiness to host this year’s FIBA Women’s Caribbean Championship, scheduled for November 12-16 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The highly anticipated tournament will feature five teams- the Bahamas, Jamaica, Suriname, the Virgin Islands and hosts Guyana- all battling for three coveted spots at the 2026 Centrobasket Women’s Championship.

According to Singh, the GBF has received the full backing of the Government of Guyana to ensure the successful staging of the championship, which returns to Guyana for the first time since 1994.

Singh explained that following an inspection visit by FIBA officials, several key areas requiring upgrades were identified, and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport has been actively addressing each of them.

“We’ve been having constant discussions with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and they’re just as excited as we are to see this tournament being held in Guyana,” Singh said.

“Both Minister Charles Ramson Jr. and Minister Steven Jacobs have been following the preparations for this championship step-by-step, and we’re very grateful for their support.”

The GBF president expressed confidence that Guyana will deliver a world-class event, describing the upcoming tournament as one of the best Women’s Championships the region will ever see.

“This is an important tournament, and the GBF, along with the Government of Guyana, is doing everything possible to ensure its success,” Singh stated.

“We have an experienced Local Organising Committee, and we look forward to seeing every Guyanese come out to support our national team and enjoy top-level basketball.”

The championship will follow a round-robin format, with each team facing every other once. At the end of the group stage, the top three finishers will secure qualification for the 2026 Centrobasket Women’s Championship.

Mexico, El Salvador and Nicaragua have already booked their spots at Centrobasket 2026 after finishing on the podium at the 2025 COCABA Women’s Championship held in June.

At the last Women’s Caribbean Championship in 2022, host nation Cuba emerged champions.

With the countdown underway, Singh assured that all systems are in place for Guyana to deliver a memorable championship, and one that will showcase the country’s ability to host major international basketball events.

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Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Guyana’s Rosanna Fung, following her historic triumph at the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) World Championship.

The event was held as part of the prestigious Binous Classics in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where Fung became the first athlete in Guyana’s history to win a World Championship title at the IFBB.

Ninvalle described Fung’s victory as “a proud moment” for sports in Guyana, noting that her accomplishment has elevated the nation’s profile in international bodybuilding and demonstrated the potential of Guyanese athletes to excel on the global stage.

“The National Sports Commission (NSC) joins the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the Government of Guyana, and the people of Guyana in congratulating Rosanna Fung on her continued success and climb on the international stage of bodybuilding,” Ninvalle said.

The Director of Sport added, “Her victory is not just a personal milestone, but a national achievement that will inspire generations of athletes to follow their passion and pursue excellence.”

Competing in the highly competitive Wellness category, Fung delivered a world-class performance that outshone elite competitors from across the globe.

Her poise, symmetry, conditioning, and stage presence impressed both judges and spectators, earning her the coveted gold medal, which is a first for Guyana at the IFBB World Championship level.

The Binous Classics, widely regarded as one of the largest and most respected bodybuilding shows and expos in the Middle East, attracts top-tier athletes and fitness professionals from around the world.

Ninvalle pointed out that Fung’s victory on that stage signals not only her individual brilliance but also Guyana’s growing presence and influence within international fitness and bodybuilding circles.

“Rosanna’s story, from humble beginnings in the sport, to earning her IFBB Pro Card, and now proudly representing Guyana as a World Champion, speaks volumes about the passion of our athletes and the spirit of our people,” Ninvalle stated.

“It shows that with hard work, discipline, and belief, Guyanese athletes can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world.”

He added that her achievement reflects the success of the many athletes, coaches, and organisations who continue to build Guyana’s reputation as a rising sporting nation.

“This victory belongs to Rosanna, but it also belongs to Guyana, to every young athlete who dreams of greatness, and to every supporter who believes in our potential,” Ninvalle noted.

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Residents of Vilvoorden and neighbouring Fairfield on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two, say they are finally seeing some hope after years of enduring heavy dust and smoke pollution from a rice mill operating in their community.

Head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Kemraj Parsaram, confirmed on Monday that the agency has been actively addressing the issue and that the matter is now before the court.

“We’ve been dealing with it, and it is in court. Earlier this month, the court issued an order giving the rice mill until December to comply with the directions given by the EPA,” Parsaram told News Room.

Among the immediate directives issued by the EPA is the removal of large heaps of paddy husk stored on the mill’s compound—one of which is reportedly on fire, causing thick plumes of smoke to affect nearby residents.

The order was clear: remove the paddy heap immediately, control the fire, and ensure no further burning takes place. There are also fresh, additional instructions to take away the remaining piles, Parsaram explained.

He noted that, over the past few months, the EPA has been working with the mill owner to install a water system while retrofitting sections of the facility to reduce dust emissions. Parts have been imported to improve dust control, he said.

“In the short term, while the retrofitting is ongoing, the mill is required to remove the old paddy husks that are burning and ensure that any fresh husk generated is immediately taken away,” Parsaram added.

In the past, frustrated residents staged picketing exercises, insisting that the mill has continued operations in defiance of previous EPA orders. They argue that the dust and smoke have made living conditions unbearable, coating their homes and crops with soot and affecting their health.

The EPA has reiterated that no burning of rice by-products should take place and that the mill must fully comply with environmental standards by the court’s December deadline.

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See below the full message from the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha: 

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, shines brightly in the hearts and homes of Guyanese, embodying a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and spiritual significance. As the flickering diyas illuminate the dark, they symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. In Guyana, the celebration serves as a powerful reminder of positivity, unity, and hope. The entire country is engulfed in a feeling of peace and happiness.

Thousands of people of diverse backgrounds and faith throng the roads as the spectacular Diwali Motorcade passes and this visibly illustrates the unifying dimension of the festival.

Families sit for Maha Lakshmi Puja and welcome friends, neighbors and families to their homes with warmth and love.

The festival revolves around Maha Lakshmi Puja and reminds each person to keep the divine light within burning. Each person is reminded to dispel darkness and negativity within and let the light of positivity and good extend beyond themselves.

The festival showcases the country’s diverse cultural mosaic while emphasizing the importance of togetherness.

The spirit of Diwali in Guyana encourages the practice of generosity and selflessness, reflecting the deeper values that the festival imparts. It reminds everyone that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in the love and compassion we extend to others, echoing the teachings of ancient scriptures that have shaped the moral fabric of society.

As diyas light up the night sky, they symbolize the aspirations and dreams that illuminate our lives. Diwali urges us to reflect on our journeys and to set new intentions for the months ahead. It is a time for self-renewal, where individuals are encouraged to shed negativity and embrace positivity. The festival reminds us of the power of faith and perseverance, urging us to move forward with courage and conviction. In Guyana, where the celebration unites people of all backgrounds, Diwali stands as a beacon of harmony, reminding us that together, we can illuminate the world with compassion, understanding, and unyielding hope.

Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha and President of Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Vasini Persaud extend Diwali greetings to all. Shubh Diwali.

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West Indies quick Shamar Joseph was in line for a return to international cricket this weekend after missing the Test tour of India, but he has been set back by “some discomfort in his shoulder.”

The 26-year-old, who was with the ODI squad in Dhaka, has now been sidelined from the three-match series against Bangladesh as well.

Joseph had been picked for the T20I leg of the tour too. A Cricket West Indies (CWI) release on Monday said “he has been recommended for consultation with a specialist in England to start the rehabilitation process.”

Before the Bangladesh series, Joseph had missed the two Test matches in India with an unspecified injury. He hasn’t played any cricket since the CPL ended in September. There he represented Guyana Amazon Warriors for five of their 12 matches.

Left-arm seamer Jediah Blades also joined Joseph on the sidelines. The 23-year-old, who has played nine white-ball internationals for West Indies, was ruled out of the Bangladesh tour and the following New Zealand tour with a stress fracture of the lower back. Blades will return home for his rehab.

Allrounder Akeal Hosein and left-arm seamer Ramon Simmonds have been added to West Indies’ squad for the remaining two ODIs against Bangladesh. Hosein and Simmonds were already scheduled to play the three-match T20I series, which will conclude West Indies’ tour of Bangladesh.

West Indies lost the first ODI to Bangladesh by 74 runs on an unusually dark Dhaka pitch on October 18. Their next two ODIs are on October 21 and 23. (ESPNcricinfo)

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A new era for football in Berbice has officially begun with the launch of the Senior Men’s Football League, backed by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

The competition, which signals the return of structured, high-level senior football to the region after a long absence, was inaugurated at the All Saints Ground in New Amsterdam on Saturday.

Seven teams will compete in the inaugural season for a total prize fund of G$1 million.

Key figures, including National Sports Commission Chairman Kashif Muhammad and Assistant Director of Sport Franklin Wilson, attended the launch.

Speaking at the launch, Berbice Football Association (BFA) Vice President Phillip Carrington expressed gratitude to the football community, highlighting that Berbice had often been “neglected” in national football development before this government intervention.

Franklin Wilson acknowledged the league’s modest start but stressed its potential for growth.

“What we are starting here today is just the beginning of a great journey for football,” Wilson commented, confirming that planning for the league had been underway for over eight months.

The league’s prize structure is set: the winners will receive $500,000, the runners-up $300,000, and third and fourth place $200,000 and $100,000, respectively.

Wilson offered assurance regarding timely payments, a historic pain point for local players.

“In previous tournaments, you have played and are still to receive your cash prizes. But not this time,” Wilson promised the players.

“On the final day of the league, the winners, the top four teams, will be receiving their cash. All the bills are going to be taken care of.”

The government’s support, which extends to the East Demerara and Georgetown Senior Men’s Leagues, is not limited to the senior game.

The Ministry also plans to implement development structures from the Under-11 to Under-20 levels to create a pipeline feeding into the national teams.

Wilson concluded by urging fair play as the competition got underway: “Play fair, respect the referees, and may the best team emerge as champions.”

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Over the weekend, Guyana hosted the Caribbean’s most significant sport leadership summit as the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) convened its XIII Annual Workshop and XXIII General Assembly at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.

The gathering drew over 100 delegates from 28 nations and featured a powerful assembly of global sport administrators, underscoring the regional focus on modernising governance.

The two-day workshop was opened with a strong endorsement from the host nation.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. extended a welcome, stressing the value of regional synergy.

“When the Caribbean collaborates, we accelerate,” Minister Ramson Jr. stated. “Hosting CANOC here in Georgetown is about building capacity, trust, and a shared future for sport.”

The Minister praised CANOC’s mission to strengthen governance and capacity, calling the event a “significant opportunity” for nations to exchange expertise and accelerate shared development goals.

The summit’s central theme is “Charting the Future of Authentic Caribbean Sport,” and discussions will concentrate on collaboration, good governance, and sustainable development.

Day One focused heavily on the institutional frameworks necessary for future success, including a session on the CANOC/UWI MOU to map a roadmap for sport education, and legal discussions on CANOC Incorporation led by Sandra Osborne, SCM, SC. A presentation on the CANOC/Deloitte Partnership also explored financial governance and sustainability standards.

This high-level attendance signals a coordinated effort to streamline regional pathways.

The summit follows a preparatory Olympic Solidarity Financial Management Workshop, reinforcing the primary mandate for greater financial transparency and accountability across Caribbean National Olympic Committees.

The workshop CANOC Annual General Assembly on Sunday also defined CANOC’s strategy for the upcoming Olympic cycle.

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President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has extended warm Diwali greetings to all Guyanese, especially to the Hindu community, urging reflection on the deeper meaning of the Festival of Lights — the inner light of goodness, compassion, and unity that must continue to guide the nation forward.

In a heartfelt message titled “The Light Within That Gives True Purpose to the Lights Without,” President Ali said Diwali is a time that reminds everyone that light will always triumph over darkness and that goodness, knowledge, and virtue must forever prevail over ignorance, evil, and despair.

He reflected on the ancient roots of the festival, noting that Diwali originated as a harvest celebration in India before evolving into a festival rich in moral and spiritual significance. “Its origins reach deep into the soil of ancient India… a simple observance of gratitude that became a celebration of righteousness, wisdom and renewal,” the President stated.

Dr Ali highlighted the various traditions associated with Diwali, including the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana, symbolising the victory of righteousness; the triumph of Lord Krishna over Narakasura, representing truth’s power over evil; and the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, who bestows prosperity, wisdom, and peace upon those who live with integrity.

“Across all these traditions, the central message of Diwali reminds us that we must keep faith in the moral order of the universe, and that by lighting our own lamps of kindness and understanding, we help illuminate the world around us,” he said.

The Head of State also traced the history of Diwali in Guyana, recalling that it was brought by Indian indentured immigrants in the 19th century and has since blossomed into a cherished national celebration. Once a private observance, Diwali has become a unifying event marked by the illumination of homes, motorcades, shared prayers, and acts of goodwill among people of all backgrounds.

“Today, Diwali in Guyana is more than a religious observance. It has become a national celebration… a time when the spirit of togetherness shines brightest, reminding us of what we can achieve when we live in harmony and mutual respect,” President Ali affirmed.

However, he cautioned that amid the splendour of the celebrations, it is vital to remember the deeper meaning of Diwali — “the light within that gives true purpose to the lights without.” He said even a single diya, lit with sincerity, holds the power to dispel darkness, symbolising that goodness and humility need no extravagance to shine brightly.

“Diwali teaches us that it is not the abundance of lights, but the purity of the heart that lights them, which brings true illumination to our lives, homes, and our nation,” the President said.

Dr Ali concluded his message with a call for reflection and renewal. “May this Festival of Lights inspire every Guyanese to banish the darkness of hatred and division, and to let compassion, tolerance, and unity guide our nation forward. May the light of Diwali continue to shine brightly over our beloved Guyana,” he said.

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Rosanna Fung has officially become the first athlete in Guyana’s history to win a World Championship title at the IFBB World Championship, held as part of the prestigious Binous Classics in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Competing in the Wellness category, Rosanna delivered a world-class performance that earned her the gold against top international athletes.

The Binous Classics stands as one of the largest and most respected bodybuilding shows and expos in the Middle East, bringing together the best competitors from around the world.

Rosanna’s victory marks a monumental achievement for the nation, showcasing Guyana’s growing presence in global fitness and bodybuilding.

Her dedication, discipline and pride have made history, inspiring athletes across the Caribbean and beyond.

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The Guyana Cancer Society on Sunday hosted its annual Fundraising Brunch, an event dedicated to reflection, recognition and renewed commitment to cancer prevention, screening and treatment across the country.

Held in honour of distinguished guests Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, and his wife, Dr Shanti Singh, the brunch brought together board members, committee representatives, partners, and supporters of the Society for what was described as a “celebration of purpose and compassion.”

In his remarks, Dr Anthony praised the work of the Society, emphasising that collaboration between civil society and public health agencies is “critical to closing the healthcare divide and ensuring lives are saved.” He also encouraged continued community-based screening and awareness programmes, noting that cancer conversations must be normalised.

“It’s a conversation that every household in Guyana should be having,” Dr Anthony said.

Society President, Dr Syed Ghansham, reflected on the organisation’s progress over the past year, highlighting that from October 2024 to October 2025, the Society facilitated more than 1,300 mammograms—many of which led to early detection and successful treatment.

“Breast cancer awareness isn’t an October effort,” Dr Ghansham noted. “It’s a daily conversation. We need to keep up the screenings, treatment efforts, and educational initiatives to make awareness part of everyone’s life.”

He shared a poignant story of a 60-year-old woman who discovered she had breast cancer only after undergoing an unrelated X-ray while hospitalised.

“It’s a wake-up call,” Dr Ghansham said. “We want you to find out about breast cancer long before it’s a hospital conversation. Let us help you help yourself through early detection.”

The Society also spotlighted its humanitarian and patient-support initiatives, including financial and travel assistance for families seeking treatment abroad. One such case involved a young girl who accessed life-saving treatment overseas through the Society’s intervention.

“It’s not just a brunch to raise funds,” Dr Ghansham added. “It’s a brunch to raise hope. Every dollar spent, every dollar saved, every act of kindness helps someone survive another day.”

The event saw attendance from representatives of the Ministry of Health, the United States Embassy, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the private sector, and several civil society groups—all united in the cause of advancing cancer awareness in Guyana.

The brunch concluded with a moment of silence in memory of those who lost their battle with cancer, followed by an uplifting call to continue prevention, education, and compassion for survivors and their families.

“We are not just an organisation,” Dr Ghansham affirmed. “We are an army of hope.”

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