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In a major step toward strengthening the standards of boxing officiating in Guyana, the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) successfully concluded a four-day Referee and Judges Seminar held from May 29 to June 1 at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis Gym in Albouystown.

The seminar was conducted by James Beckles, an esteemed International Boxing Association (IBA) Three-Star Referee and Judge.

Beckles, who also serves as an Olympic and World Boxing Referees Instructor and Evaluator, brought unparalleled expertise to the certification process.

Most notably, he recently served as the Chief Instructor and Lead Evaluator for officiating at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games, a testament to the high calibre of instruction received by participants.

The seminar was a blend of theoretical training and hands-on practical application, offering participants a well-rounded understanding of the rules, ethics and procedures involved in boxing officiating.

The initiative comes as part of the GBA’s ongoing efforts to professionalise the sport, particularly at a time when amateur boxing in Guyana is undergoing a significant resurgence, especially within its youth and junior divisions.

A total of 15 individuals successfully completed the course and earned their certifications.

At a modest closing ceremony, each participant was presented with a certificate in recognition of their achievement.

Beckles, alongside GBA President Steve Ninvalle, handed over the awards and officially welcomed the new referees and judges to the sport.

Ninvalle praised the group for their commitment and expressed optimism about the positive impact their involvement will have on the future of local boxing.

The seminar marks another key milestone in the GBA’s strategic push to improve officiating quality and uphold international standards, ensuring that the next generation of Guyanese boxers competes in a fair and professionally managed environment.

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England sealed a comprehensive one-day international series clean sweep over West Indies with a nine-wicket thrashing in a rain-affected encounter at Taunton.

Set a target of just 106 in a match reduced to 21 overs a side, England cruised to victory in 10.5 overs with captain Nat Sciver-Brunt finishing unbeaten on 57 from 33 balls.

Sophia Dunkley made 26 at the top of the order as England re-jigged their batting line-up, while Alice Capsey finished unbeaten on 20 in another one-sided affair.

West Indies, who were again without their star all-rounder Hayley Matthews because of a shoulder injury, had slipped to 4-3 inside the first four overs after England chose to bowl first under gloomy skies.

Stand-in captain Shemaine Campbelle and opener Qiana Joseph gradually rebuilt with a partnership of 39 before heavy rain led to a five-hour delay after 12.3 overs had been bowled.

Campbelle fell to Charlie Dean from the first ball after the resumption as the tourists slumped further to 58-6, but they smacked 31 from the last two overs to post 106-8.

Leg-spinner Sarah Glenn was the pick of England’s bowlers with 3-21, while seamer Em Arlott took 2-15.

England also won the preceding T20 series 3-0, and their summer continues with three T20s and three ODIs against India, starting at Trent Bridge on 28 June.

Poor West Indies batters wilt again

Without Matthews, West Indies’ batting hopes were already bleak and in bowler-friendly conditions, England dominated as expected.

With plenty of movement on offer from the surface, Kate Cross had Realeanna Grimmond caught behind in the first over as the 20-year-old was unable to back up her promising half-century on debut at Leicester on Thursday.

Em Arlott bowled Zaida James with a full delivery in the second over, and pinned veteran batter Stafanie Taylor lbw for one in the fourth.

Despite the rain looming, Campbelle and Joseph had to rebuild the innings at a 50-over tempo which left them needing to attack from the outset once play resumed.

Instead, the wickets tumbled. Campbelle was stumped off Dean for 18, Shabika Gajnabi was bowled by Glenn for one and Jannillea Glasgow was caught at mid-on by Alice Davidson-Richards off Lauren Filer.

Joseph’s 34 held the innings together but Aaliyah Alleyne whacked five consecutive fours from the penultimate over bowled by Filer to provide a late flurry, and Jahzara Claxton added 11 from four balls including an enormous six off Glenn to eventually push them past 100. (BBC)

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Moeen Ali expressed his pride in playing for the Guyana Amazon Warriors once again, ahead of the upcoming ExxonMobil Global Super League (GSL), which will be held at Providence Stadium from July 10 to 18.

The English all-rounder revealed that prior to joining the franchise in 2024, he had only visited Providence once.

Now, he’s thrilled to return and represent the Warriors in the second edition of the five-team tournament.

“Guyana for me to visit is amazing. The people are obviously very supportive and brilliant towards cricket. I get that cricket is huge out there, much bigger than I thought it was. And the ground to play, you look forward to every game. So yeah, we are looking forward to playing in front of a big crowd again.”

Known as a globe-trotter in the world of cricket, Ali has represented England across all formats and featured in various domestic leagues worldwide.

He first appeared on the international scene in the Caribbean in 2014.

However, it wasn’t until 2024 that he finally made his debut in Guyana- first in the T20 World Cup semi-final between England and India, and later in the CPL and GSL.

In the inaugural edition of GSL, Ali scored 93 runs in four innings including a fighting half-century at the top of the order against Victoria

Having played 298 international matches before retiring from international cricket in 2024, Ali relishes the high-level competition and atmosphere that the GSL brings.

“I think for GSL to have the teams coming from different countries, strong sides, it’s something that feels a bit closer to playing against country to country. I’m representing Amazon Warriors, I feel very proud to do that. And I’ve only been there for a year, and it really does feel like home and feels like I’m part of something special.

“I’m representing a group of people where the passion for the game is amazing. And GSL does give that international feel to it.

“It’s a great competition. Last year was obviously the first one. The first one is always the hardest to do. I think now it’s going to flow and it’s amazing that it’s been set up. It’s going to feel like a Champions League almost.”

Reflecting on the tournament’s timing this year- being held before the Caribbean Premier League instead of after- Ali believes it could be a crucial advantage for his team if they can carry winning momentum into the CPL.

“I genuinely think if we win GSL the preparation for CPL will be amazing. I think winning trophies is a habit and winning competitions is something you get used to and it’s something that we obviously want to try and do.

“Once you get that feeling and you are in those moments, that crunch moment when you win the trophy, then I think it’s going to stand us in good stead for CPL. It’s a massive one, so it’s a very, very important one, not just for GSL but also for CPL.”

In the inaugural edition of GSL, Ali scored 93 runs in four innings including a fighting half-century at the top of the order against Victoria that helped the Guyana Amazon Warriors to finish third, ahead of Lahore Qalandars and Hampshire Hawks on the points table.

In 2025, the Warriors will begin their quest for supremacy against defending GSL champions, Rangpur Riders under lights on the opening day.

 

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Coco Gauff won the first French Open singles title of her career by fighting back to beat world number one Aryna Sabalenka in a rollercoaster final played in testing conditions.

American second seed Gauff claimed a 6-7 (5-7) 6-2 6-4 victory after a tense battle between the WTA Tour’s two leading players.

It is the second Grand Slam victory of the 21-year-old’s career, adding to the US Open title she won in 2023, also by beating Belarus’ Sabalenka.

Gauff recovered from a difficult start where she trailed by a double break, eventually finding her rhythm and benefiting from a huge number of mistakes from 27-year-old Sabalenka.

A stiff breeze played havoc with serve in the opening two sets, leading to the pair exchanging 12 breaks in an entertaining if not high-quality affair.

Gauff, who lost in the 2022 final, settled quicker in the deciding third set to move a break up and kept her nerve to serve out victory.

She had to survive another break point before winning her second match point, falling to the clay on her back when Sabalenka pushed a forehand wide.

With her parents Candi and Corey dancing euphorically in the stands, Gauff shared an affectionate hug with Sabalenka before running off court to celebrate with her family. (BBC)

 

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Located at Amelia’s Ward in the Bauxite Mining Town of Linden, HMS Mining Inc. is the latest corporate entity to come on board with tangible support for the ‘One Guyana’ Kings and Queens of the Sand Football currently ongoing in Linden.

Organiser of the competition, which has attracted eight female and 20 male teams, Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major visited the sponsors office where three of the principal officers handed over the sponsorship cheque.

Executive Secretary, De-Yi Lin made the presentation to Major stating that the HMS Mining Inc. was happy to lend support to the competition which features dozens of players including female players and young people.

“We are happy to be backing a tournament of this nature which creates the space and time for youths to showcase their talent and in the process, they can earn some incentives. More importantly though, it helps to build the community in a positive way, which is important. We wish all the teams the very best.”

Major in response thanked De-Yi Lin and her company for their support including Managing Directors Hualeng Liang and Jie Lin.

“We are more than grateful to your company for this support which will add more value to this competition. It is always great to see companies within communities giving back to activities such as these and we say thank you.”

A total of seven matches- two in the Queens segment and five in the Kings- are carded for Saturday night commencing from 18:00h at the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP-C) Linden office ground.

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Guyana has asked China to play a role in guarding against Venezuela’s continued threats to its territorial integrity, even as it reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation with Beijing in pursuit of national development.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali made the appeal during his address at a diplomatic reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy on Thursday evening to mark the 53rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Guyana and the People’s Republic of China.

“Ambassador, we have already had many discussions on ways in which we can advance our partnership—discussions surrounding every aspect of our national life, including the safeguards of our sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the role China must play in ensuring this region remains peaceful,” President Ali said at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown.

“We expect that our neighbours, in a just manner, follow what we all believe in—that is, international order and the rule of law, and respect our sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

The comments come at a time when Guyana continues to face increased pressure from Venezuela over the Essequibo region, a territory that accounts for more than two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass. Venezuela has intensified its illegal claims, including through a controversial national referendum and aggressive rhetoric, despite the ongoing case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where Guyana is seeking a final and binding judgment.

In response, Guyana has taken a proactive diplomatic stance—garnering international support and leveraging bilateral partnerships to uphold its territorial rights.

Guyana’s appeal to China is seen as strategic. Beijing is not only a long-standing development partner but also a permanent member of the UN Security Council, wielding significant influence in matters of global peace and security.

President Ali’s remarks signal Guyana’s expectation that its allies, including China, will stand in support of international law and defend regional stability.

“The international system must be free from threats and extremism, and based on policies that promote peace, democracy, and the rule of law,” the President asserted, drawing a clear line between Guyana’s development ambitions and its need for a secure and respected territorial framework.

Despite the delicate geopolitical issues at play, President Ali reiterated Guyana’s commitment to deepening collaboration with China across a wide range of sectors—including agriculture, infrastructure, education, telecommunications, and energy.

He thanked the Chinese government and people for their decades-long support and noted that the bilateral relationship continues to grow, rooted in mutual trust and a shared vision for development.

“We are confident that as Guyana rises to new heights, China will be there—offering friendship, partnership, and support in advancing mutual benefits and development,” he said.

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President Dr. Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to building an inclusive society, one where people of all nationalities are welcomed and valued for their contributions to national development.

Speaking at a reception to commemorate the 53rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Guyana and the People’s Republic of China, the President said Guyana’s transformation is a collective mission, and all who support that journey—regardless of origin—have a place in it.

“We emphasise that every person who contributes to development, regardless of nationality, is welcome,” President Ali declared during the event hosted also in honour of China’s newly appointed Ambassador to Guyana.

The President spotlighted the deep roots of the Chinese community in Guyana, noting their presence for over 170 years and their indelible contributions to the country’s growth.

“The Chinese community in Guyana has contributed significantly to our cultural diversity, to commerce, and to our national development,” he said. “These people-to-people connections have enriched our society and continue to serve as a living bridge between our two nations.”

From small businesses to the presidency—former President Arthur Chung was of Chinese descent—the Chinese Guyanese community has played a central role in shaping modern Guyana.

Guyana was the first English-speaking Caribbean country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China back in 1972, just six years after gaining independence. President Ali described the relationship as a “respectful, multifaceted partnership grounded in mutual trust and shared values.”

He acknowledged China’s role in supporting Guyana’s development across a wide range of sectors: agriculture, education, infrastructure, health, telecommunications, technology, trade, culture, and investment.

“China has stood with us, partnered with us, and supported critical national priorities,” President Ali said, crediting the collaboration for tangible progress.

The Guyanese Head of State used the occasion to reiterate the importance of inclusive growth. As Guyana undergoes rapid economic transformation—particularly driven by its expanding oil and gas sector—he said the development model must be equitable and participatory.

Ali described his vision of a “One Guyana” in which all people, regardless of race, religion, or nationality, feel they belong and can thrive.

“Our development model is one that emphasises equity and opportunity for all. Those who choose to invest in Guyana’s future and become part of our society are not only welcomed—they are integral to our shared success.”

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As-Salaamu Alaikum WaRahmatullahi-WaBarakaatuh.

Eid Mubarak! Eid Mubarak! Eid Mubarak!

 

All praise is due to Allah (SWT), the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate. Peace and blessings be upon our noble Prophet Muhammad (SAW), his family, his companions, and all those who follow in his footsteps. As we gather to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha, I extend warm greetings on behalf of the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana. May this blessed occasion bring joy to your hearts, unity to our communities, and strength to our faith.

Eid-ul-Adha is a commemoration of unwavering devotion, deep sacrifice, and complete submission to the will of Allah (SWT), as exemplified by the life of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him), his son Prophet Ismail (peace be upon him), and his wife Hajar (may Allah be pleased with her). Their story is one of sacrifice, of trusting the divine plan, and of showing what it truly means to live a life in obedience to the Creator.

The Quran tells us in Surah As-Saffat:

“We called out to him, ‘O Abraham! You have fulfilled the vision.’ Indeed, this is how We reward the doers of good.” (Qur’an 37:104-105)

This sacred day reminds us that true success lies not in material wealth, but in our commitment to our faith, our willingness to sacrifice for righteousness, and our compassion for others. As millions of our brothers and sisters perform the pilgrimage of Hajj, let this remind us of the unity of the Ummah—regardless of race, status, or nationality—we are one body worshipping One God.

The Muslim Ummah all over, especially in Palestine and South Sudan, continues to experience unimaginable trials and tribulations; we must remember them in all our prayers.  We are in a period of immense testing. However, our Beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) trained us to turn to Allah (SWT) in solitude, in profuse prayer, prolonged prostration, and to confide in Allah (SWT). Our Beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) lifted his arms into the sky as he made du’a (supplication) – an action reserved for the most desperate of prayers and requests. Afterwards, seek the counsel of sincere and trusted people. The Prophetic methodology is to combine unwavering Tawakkul reliance in Allah (SWT) while putting in the effort with one’s own hands.

Let us take comfort in the beautiful and powerful words of the Qur’an:

“Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal wakeel”
Allah (alone) is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs. (Qur’an 3:173)

This verse reminds us that in times of hardship and uncertainty, we place our full trust in Allah’s wisdom and mercy. Adversities are an opportunity to connect deeply back to Allah (SWT), God Almighty. Let us use the trials as an impetus to drive us towards our Creator, the Infinitely Merciful. For Allah (SWT) reminded us in Surah Al-Baqarah, chapter 2, verse 286:

Allah does not burden a person beyond his scope. He gets reward for that (good) which he has earned, and he is punished for that (evil) which he has earned…

Eid al-Adha is the celebration of the reformation of the human condition from that of servitude to other men to that of devotion to the Creator of all living and non-living things. Do not fall into the trap of considering yourself better than others. Allah (SWT) reminds us,

“People, we created you all from a single man and a single woman and made you into races and tribes so that you should get to know one another. The most honored of you are the ones most mindful of Him: God is all knowing, all aware.” (Qur’an 49:13)

The sacrifice of Eid is not merely about the animal; it is about sacrificing pride, ego, and selfishness. The Quran reminds us:

“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him.” (Qur’an 22:37)

Let us make this Eid a time to strengthen our ties with family, reach out to our neighbors, and support the vulnerable in our communities. Let us be generous, kind, and forgiving. As citizens of Guyana, let us also work hand in hand for national unity, peace, and prosperity, respecting the rich diversity that makes us stronger together.

May this Eid renew in us the spirit of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)—the spirit of trust in Allah, the spirit of compassion, and the courage to stand for what is right. I pray that Allah (SWT) showers His mercy upon all of us, accepts our sacrifices, forgives our shortcomings, and grants peace and blessings to all of humanity. May Allah (SWT) bless you and your loved ones during these sacred days and always. Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal wakeel.

 

Eid Mubarak! Eid Mubarak! Eid Mubarak!

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Siyuan Chen, a Chinese electrician employed at Guyana Manganese Incorporated (GMI), lost his life on Thursday after becoming entangled in a conveyor belt system at the company’s wash plant in Matthew’s Ridge, Region One.

The fatal incident occurred around 1:45 PM on June 5, 2025, while Mr. Chen was reportedly monitoring the conveyor belt. Preliminary findings suggest he became caught in the moving machinery, resulting in the loss of his right arm and subsequently his life.

The Ministry of Labour’s Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department has since launched an investigation into the accident. OSH Officer Mr. Chavez Daniels, along with Environmental Officer Mr. Sergio Phillander from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), is leading the probe to determine the root cause and provide recommendations to prevent future incidents.

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton has expressed sorrow over the incident and extended condolences to Mr. Chen’s relatives, co-workers, and friends, reiterating the Ministry’s concern over workplace safety.

The investigation is ongoing.

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Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, on Friday officially turned the sod for the construction of two modern schools—a secondary school in Houston on the East Bank of Demerara and a primary school in the rapidly expanding Diamond community.

The two projects, valued at a combined cost of more than $1.1 billion, represent a significant investment in the country’s human capital and a tangible expression of the government’s commitment to improving access to quality education across all levels.

The Houston Secondary School will be constructed on the site of the now-demolished old Houston Secondary. The new two-storey facility will span over an acre and is designed to accommodate more than 400 students in at least 16 classrooms.

Beyond academic spaces, the structure will support holistic student development with the inclusion of a library, counselling room, and dedicated offices for the Headmaster and Deputy Headmaster. Notably, it will house a Science Research Centre, an Information Technology laboratory, and other modern teaching spaces.

Built with sustainability and safety at the forefront, the school will incorporate lightweight glass panels to enhance natural lighting, reducing energy consumption. It will also be fitted with modern fire suppressant and retardant systems to ensure the safety of staff and students.

The project will be executed by K&S General Contracting Inc. at a total cost of $296.9 million. Construction is expected to take 17 months, followed by a one-year defects liability period.

Meanwhile, in Diamond, the new Diamond No. 2 Primary School will be built on more than two acres of land and will feature a two-storey complex with 25 classrooms, capable of housing at least 750 students. The design includes a sick bay, library, and administrative offices, as well as dedicated science and IT rooms tailored for primary-level education.

The facility will also promote recreational and physical development with the inclusion of a playfield and other student-friendly amenities.

Utilising lightweight steel panels and waterproof, heat-resistant materials, the school is engineered to last over 75 years. Its energy-efficient design emphasises the use of natural lighting, aligning with the Ministry’s goal of building climate-resilient educational institutions.

This project is being delivered under a ‘Design, Build, and Furnish’ model by RENOVESS Ltd, a foreign contractor, at a total cost of $821.8 million. Construction is slated to be completed in 10 months, followed by a one-year defects liability period.

These two new schools are part of the Ministry of Education’s wider agenda to modernise the country’s learning environments and expand equitable access to education. Minister Manickchand reaffirmed that such investments are central to Guyana’s development, noting that “education remains the cornerstone of national progress.”

Upon completion, the new Houston Secondary and Diamond No. 2 Primary Schools are expected to significantly enhance the learning experience for hundreds of students and contribute meaningfully to the long-term development of Guyana’s future generations.

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