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The 20 children who lost their lives in the tragic Mahdia dormitory fire were remembered and honoured on Wednesday.

Today marks two years since the devastating blaze shook the nation.

The memorial ceremony was held in the village of Micobie, where families, friends, students, and leaders gathered in solemn remembrance.

The day was filled with tributes, songs, poems, and candlelight reflections, highlighting the enduring pain and resilient spirit of the affected families and communities.

Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill joined the observance and offered encouraging words of comfort.

He reaffirmed the government’s continued support to the bereaved families.

“We have lent support to all the families. Just like how we were there then, we were there in the months after. My presence here today is to say the government continues to stand with you,” he stated.  “Let us find courage, let us find strength and encouragement in the arms of each other.”

Minister Edghill acknowledged the collective sorrow that persisted two years on, as he urged families, particularly the parents, not to carry guilt for pursuing education for their children.

The fire claimed the lives of 19 girls and one boy, sparking national mourning and outrage. A commission of inquiry was launched after the incident, and a criminal charge was filed against the individual responsible for starting the blaze.

While Minister Edghill recognised the demand for justice, he pointed to the legal processes that are already in motion.

He assured community members and parents of the extensive efforts the government has made and continues to make to ensure this tragedy never occurs again.

“We will not relent. We will make the education of our children more achievable. We will ensure that you [the students] go to school in safe spaces, we will ensure that you can enjoy the benefits of a quality education and that your dreams and your aspirations and those of your parents will come alive and will come to full realisation,” the minister said.

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The Ministry of Natural Resources has issued a comprehensive update on the status of three audits into the expenses claimed by ExxonMobil and its co-venturers in the Stabroek Block, part of the Government of Guyana’s ongoing cost recovery verification process under the Petroleum Agreement.

The audits, covering the years 1999 to 2023, were commissioned to ensure that costs declared by ExxonMobil, Hess, and CNOOC for petroleum operations are legitimate and in keeping with the provisions outlined in the Production Sharing Agreement.

The first audit, conducted by international consultancy IHS Markit, reviewed expenses incurred between 1999 and 2017. As a result of the audit, the Government of Guyana has disputed approximately US$214 million of the submitted costs.

This dispute has triggered the contractual mechanism of appointing a sole expert to resolve disagreements. In accordance with the agreement, the Government has submitted multiple nominees for the role, and ExxonMobil, representing the co-venturers, has until 31 May 2025 to respond. The sole expert process is a binding resolution mechanism outlined in the Production Sharing Agreement.

The second audit examined declared expenses totalling US$7.2 billion for the period 2018 to 2020. Following the audit, the Government did not accept US$65.1 million in costs. This was communicated to the co-venturers, who have since provided updated documentation. These revised submissions are now under review by the Government.

Both the final reports for the first and second audits are publicly accessible via the Petroleum Management Programme’s website at: http://petroleum.gov.gy/

The third audit, covering the more recent period from 2021 to 2023, has been completed and submitted to the Government. The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is currently reviewing the initial report. The GRA continues to play a key role in Guyana’s oversight of petroleum sector expenditures.

The Ministry of Natural Resources reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and the prudent management of Guyana’s natural resources, particularly as the country’s oil and gas sector expands rapidly. It assured the public that it will continue to provide timely updates on the cost recovery audits and other oversight activities.

This multi-phase audit process underscores the Government’s intention to safeguard national interests and ensure that oil revenues are accurately accounted for and fairly distributed.

The post Gov’t disputes over US$279 million in Stabroek Block oil expenses following three cost recovery audits appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Hand-in-Hand, Guyana’s longest-established and AM Best-rated insurer, has announced its support for national squash player Michael Alphonso as he prepares to represent Guyana at the 2025 South American Senior Squash Championships in Brazil.

The company’s partial sponsorship of Alphonso’s flight is part of its ongoing commitment to youth and sports development in Guyana.

Hand-in-Hand believes in “investing in our athletes and empowering them to compete—and shine—at the highest levels.”

The 2025 Pan American Senior Squash Championships, which include the South American event, are scheduled to take place from August 21 to 27 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Alphonso will be aiming to make a significant impact on the international stage.

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Amla Marshall, the Toshao of Kamarang/Warawatta in Upper Mazaruni is among leaders passionately speaking up about concerns and development needs for her village at this year’s National Toshao’s Council (NTC) Conference.

Marshall used the platform on Tuesday to command respect when women leaders like herself are speaking.

“I don’t want to be intimidated. I come here to be understood, to be listened to, and this is what we call development. I am a woman. Most of them here are leaders as well, women leaders, who have to be respected when we speak,” Marshall said with applause from other leaders.

Infrastructural development was listed a major concern for Kamarang.

According to the Toshao, her village along with Kako and Waramadong have plans to upgrade road networks to connect these communities.

“I have numerous requests that I am going to be giving to the ministries and I wish this project can become a reality before the year is up,” Marshall said.

Amla Marshall, the Toshao of Kamarang/Warawatta

She explained that the communities are willing to work on the project “but the technical part of upgrading the road is against us, so we need help in that.”

Another major concern is an infestation of rats in the community.

“We cannot do anything at this time. We do not know how to eradicate rats because they are not nature. We don’t know,” she said.

“I don’t know if they are seasonal, but that is the problem right now and our farms are being destroyed,” Marshall added.

Marshall commended the Office of the Prime Minister for the installation of ICT and Wi-Fi in Kamarang but also requested that similar services be established in Warawatta.

“Warawatta is an Amerindian village over on the other side of the river, and I would like you to consider that the people of Warawatta village benefit from such a facility,” Marshall said.

Under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Marshall expressed hope regarding her firearm application and also called for a licensed ammunition seller in the region.

“I hope that my name is on the list because I willingly submitted my application for the firearm,” the Village leader said.

Addressing transportation issues, Marshall said it is costly to travel to Georgetown.

“This is a concern for the Upper Mazaruni district as a whole. It is a pressure for us, and the cost of living is fluctuating. Please have mercy on us, buy a new government owned aircraft for us to use,” Marshall said.

While this request saw an uproar of laughter at the conference, later that afternoon Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo stated that the government will invest in an airline service in relation to the high cost to travel into the hinterland.

Marshall also spoke about the need for transportation support for the police.

“There is a need for transportation both for land and water. They depend on the village council, but how long are they going to depend on us?” Marshall asked.

She explained that during emergencies, even in the middle of the night, the police are unable to carry out their duties without transportation.

On Wednesday, Marshall spoke about her village’s agricultural prospects, particularly honey production.

“I am not sure which village in Region 7 has been doing that project, but I am happy if my village is going to be targeted with that project because right now, honey is money,” Marshall said.

She revealed that the village will also soon have a shade house up and running.

“We received the materials, but we are still waiting for the technical person to fly into our area, so we are hoping for that project soon,” she said.

Toshao Marshall also reported that an assessment had been done for fish rearing in the village.

“We are also awaiting the return of the officers to say whether we can go ahead with the project,” she stated.

Marshall noted with disappointment that letters she submitted at last year’s NTC went unanswered. Still, she expressed gratitude for the developments in her village.

“Thank you for whatever support the government agencies have given to our village council. Please correct whatever situation is happening today,” Marshall said.

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Guyanese shooters are holding their own despite challenging conditions on the opening day of the Individual segment of the 2025 West Indies Fullbore Shooting Championships at the Paragon Range in Barbados.

Rain and fading light affected play, allowing only two scheduled events to be completed. The 600-yard event was postponed to Wednesday.

Peter Persaud was Guyana’s top performer on day one, scoring 81 out of a possible 85 points from the 300 and 500-yard ranges.

He recorded 34.2 at 300 yards and 47.5 at 500 yards.

Countryman Ryan Sampson was close behind with a total of 81.5 (33.2 at 300 yards and 48.3 at 500 yards), while Vice-Captain Leo Romalho scored 81.4.

Among the leading West Indian shooters was Laurne Benjamin of Antigua and Barbuda, who scored 83.4 (35.3 at 300 yards and 48.2 at 500 yards). Barbados’ Jason Wood was one point behind with 82.4.

Ireland’s David Calvert dominated the opening day, shooting possibles at both ranges (35.5 at 300 yards and 50.6 at 500 yards) for a total of 85.11.

Irishwoman Rebecca Laird was also in strong contention with 84.6 (34.2 at 300 yards and a possible 50.5 at 500 yards).

Four ranges are scheduled for competition on day two.

West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council President, Maj, chaired the championship’s opening ceremony on Tuesday.

Ret’d Denis John Nelson of Jamaica. Brigadier Carlos Lovell, Chief of Defence Staff of Barbados, officially declared the Championship open, welcoming teams from Ireland, Canada, USA, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and the host nation.

Brigadier Lovell emphasized the importance of the competition in raising the standard of fullbore rifle shooting in the West Indies. He fired the ceremonial opening shot at the 300-yard range, hitting a V-Bull.

The Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) extended its gratitude to its sponsors for making their participation possible, including President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Brigadier Omar Khan, Commissioner Clifton Hicken, Minister Charles Ramson Jr., Godfrey Munroe, Ramsay Ali (CEO of Sterling Products), Queensway Security Ltd, Continental Group of Companies, Crown Mining, Industrial Safety Supplies Inc., Guyana Police Force, Guyana Revenue Authority, and Caribbean Airlines.

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The highly anticipated ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 fixtures have been officially unveiled.

They promise a thrilling spectacle of world-class cricket at the National Stadium, Providence. 

The tournament will ignite on Thursday, July 10, 2025, culminating in a grand final on Friday, July 18.

The home side, Guyana Amazon Warriors, will kick off their campaign on the opening night, facing off against the defending GSL champions, Rangpur Riders from Bangladesh.

This opening clash is expected to set a high standard for the competition, featuring two formidable T20 outfits.

The 2025 edition of the GSL boasts an elite lineup of five powerhouse franchises from across the global cricketing landscape:

• Central Stags (New Zealand): Reigning New Zealand’s Super Smash champions.
• Dubai Capitals (United Arab Emirates): The inaugural ILT20 title winners.
• Guyana Amazon Warriors (West Indies): Finalists from the 2024 Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
• Hobart Hurricanes (Australia): Champions of Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL).
• Rangpur Riders (Bangladesh): The defending champions of the Global Super League.

With domestic league champions from multiple cricketing nations converging, the 2025 GSL is poised to deliver unparalleled T20 action and unforgettable entertainment for fans. Teams will battle for the prestigious ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League title and a substantial US$1 million prize pool, adding another layer of intensity to the competition.

All 11 tournament matches will be hosted exclusively at Providence, ensuring a centralised and high-quality cricketing experience for players and spectators alike. 

Date and time	Teams	Venue
Thurs 10 July, 10am	Central Stags vs Dubai Capitals	Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Thurs 10 July, 7pm	Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Rangpur Riders	Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Fri 11 July, 10am	Hobart Hurricanes vs Dubai Capitals	Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Fri 11 July, 7pm	Central Stags vs Guyana Amazon Warriors	Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Sun 13 July, 10am	Rangpur Riders vs Hobart Hurricanes	Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Sun 13 July, ​7pm	Dubai Capitals vs Guyana Amazon Warriors	Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Tues 15 July, 7pm	Hobart Hurricanes vs Central Stags	Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Weds 16 July, 10am	Dubai Capitals vs Rangpur Riders	Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Weds 16 July, 7pm	Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Hobart Hurricanes	Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Thus 17 July, 10am	Rangpur Riders vs Central Stags	Guyana National Stadium, Providence
Fri 18 July, 7pm	Final – First Place vs Second Place	Guyana National Stadium, Providence

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The Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) team has arrived in Barbados for the 2025 West Indies Fullbore Shooting Championships.

The squad is aiming to retain their Short and Long-Range titles, with individual honours also on offer.

The 12-member team, which includes two female shooters for the first time in 20 years—Kay-Ann Ghanie and Althea Alleyne—landed on Sunday and is reported to be in good spirits after recent training at the Timehri Rifle Ranges.

Team Captain Dylan Fields expressed confidence in his squad’s preparation, noting that their focus now shifts to adapting to match-day conditions, including the current rainy weather in Barbados.

The rest of the team comprises Vice-Captain Leo Romalho, Manager/Coach Mahendra Persaud, Lennox Braithwaite, Ryan Sampson, Peter Persaud, Sherwin Felicien, Roberto Tewari, and USA-based riflemen Sigmond Douglas and John Fraser.

Various donors have supported the team’s participation, including President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Brigadier Omar Khan, Commissioner Clifton Hicken, Minister Charles Ramson Jr., Godfrey Munroe, Ramsay Ali (CEO of Sterling Products), Queensway Security Ltd, Crown Mining, Industrial Safety Supplies Inc., Guyana Police Force, Guyana Revenue Authority, and Caribbean Airlines.

Participating countries in this year’s championships include Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana, Jamaica, the US Rifle Team, Canada, the UK, and the host nation, Barbados.

The individual competition began on Tuesday morning, following the official opening ceremony.

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A US$22.58 million contract was inked on Wednesday for the construction of a 15-megawatt (MW) solar farm in Linden, and when completed, the mega project will be the largest solar farm in Guyana.

A Chinese joint venture between SUMEC Complete Equipment and Engineering Company and XJ Group Corporation has undertaken the project, working alongside the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) through the GUYSOL programme.

Team leader of GPL’s Executive Management, Kesh Nandlall said the engineering, procurement, and construction contract will lead to the development of three solar systems in Linden.

Linden’s current electricity demand stands at about 11 MW. Therefore, this solar project, which includes batteries for power storage, will ably meet the demand and cater to any growth in the Region’s energy needs.

“This is the largest single investment in renewable and solar PV energy in Guyana,” Nandlall declared at a contract signing event held Wednesday at the Watooka Guesthouse, Linden.

The contract for the Linden solar farm project was signed at the Watooka Guesthouse (Photo: Shaconeil Burnette/ May 21, 2025)

The project will also allow the government to slash the amount of money invested each year to subsidise the cost of purchasing and distributing electricity in Linden. Guyana’s Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, however, emphasised that the government will not hike the cost of electricity.

And he vowed, “The needs of electricity of linden will be supplied by this solar farm which will be ready sometime in 2026 and we will be able to use less fossil fuels… and contribute to saving the planet.”

The initiative falls under the Guyana Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaic (GUYSOL) programme. It uses funds Guyana earned from Norway to keep its rainforests intact; the money was kept in the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF).

Guyana gets ‘greenlight’ to use US $83M Norway funds for solar farms

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