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A new $880 million multi-purpose wharf is being constructed in Charity, Region Two to replace the current dilapidated port facility.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill on Friday said construction work will commence immediately.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill delivering remarks at the launch of new $880 million multi-purpose wharf at Charity, Region Two

The project has been in development for several years, with heavy focus placed on community involvement, ensuring the new facility meets the satisfaction and critical needs of the residents.

“When we do something, it is not just about the money, it is not just about the contractors, it is about you the beneficiaries, the end users.

We want to ensure that people are satisfied, they are fully aware and that their inputs are considered,” Minister Edghill emphasised during the project launch.

Residents in attendance of the launch of new $880 million multi-purpose wharf at Charity, Region Two

The Charity Wharf has been an essential hub for the movement of goods and  commerce in the Essequibo region.

The construction of the new concrete wharf with a frontage of approximately 140 feet, will significantly enhance these operations.

The port facility will  feature a floating link-span bridge and dock, allowing for the docking of much larger vessels than the current structure can accommodate.

Minister Edghill stated that following the discussions with stakeholders, the government has envisioned the incorporation of deck space for the storage of goods and the potential implementation of loading mechanisms for the offloading and seamless transportation of goods.

The new wharf will also accommodate the docking of boats and medical vessels traversing the Pomeroon River.

As part of the government’s commitment to supporting farmers, the minister revealed that three wooden boats are being built to boost the transportation of agriculture.

“In the Pomeroon  you will be getting a brand new goods carrying boat to bring farmers produce to the wharf that is being built.The boats will be operated by the government to ensure that farmers could get their produce to the market,” he said.

The remaining boats being built will transport farmers produce from the Demerara and Berbice River to destinations where they can be sold and even exported.

The Public Works Minister noted that the contract for the project was publicly tendered, evaluated, and approved by the Cabinet before being awarded by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board.

Contractor, S.Jagmohan Contracting Services hailing from the region, will execute the wharf’s construction. Construction will commence with the driving of piles and the establishment of a contractor’s site office.

The project has a timeline of 24 months.

The minister was accompanied by Chief Sea and River Defense Officer Kevin Samad, Senior Engineer of Sea and River Defense Jermaine Braithwaite, Chief Works Officer of Works Services Group Ron Rohoman, Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva, and other regional representatives.

[Extraced and modified from DPI]

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On Sunday, March 23, Guyanese will travel to Corentyne, Berbice to celebrate the life and legacy of former President, the Late Dr Cheddi Berret Jagan.

Dr Jagan, who is also the founder of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), served as president from 1992 to his death in 1997.
In honour of his contribution to Guyana after becoming president in what was the first “free and fair” election since 1964, the PPP hosts an annual event at Babu Jaan, Corentyne.

General Secretary of the PPP, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has stated that the party’s celebration will be an effort to show the party’s intention to unify the country.

“I do not want to talk too much about what we intend to speak of at Babu Jaan, but one thing you’re not going to get from us is divisive politics. You’re going to find a party that will mount that stage there, in the form of different people, including the president, that would [speak] entirely positive about our future, that will reinforce what we want to do for Guyana in the next five years,” he said.

The party general secretary also continued by saying that, “We will speak of the challenges we face, from different [aspects] too, because we are a party that tends to be realistic about those challenges, and a party that wants to build a unified country, where people of every race, every religion, every gender, they feel comfortable, they feel that they have a government working for them, and that is what they’re going to find.”

Dr Jagdeo explained that his party has maintained a consistent strategy with how they govern the country, citing pivotal themes in the party’s philosophy.

“We do not [try] every day to look smart and come up with some brilliant ideas. We have stuck with the core messages: jobs, housing, security, health, education, leisure. recreation, national unity. These are our basic themes,” according to the party’s GS.

Further substantiating the important work that his party has contributed to Guyana, Dr Jagdeo said,

“We don’t try to reinvent what we are working on every week. That is why we have been consistent. And when you talk to people, these are the things that matter most to them, every person. And so that’s what you can expect from us.”

[Extraced and modified from DPI]

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At approximately 03:10hrs Saturday morning, a police team acted on information received and proceeded to Harpy Drive, North East La Penitence, Georgetown, near Freeman Street. Upon arrival, officers spotted a man known to them as Jamal Halley, aka “Biggs,” a Guyanese male of African descent. Halley is wanted for discharging a loaded firearm with intent on March 14, 2025, at Independence Boulevard, Albouystown.

Halley was seen standing among a group of individuals. As police approached, two officers exited their vehicle and made their way toward him. Upon recognising the officers, Halley attempted to flee, running eastward from the roadway and onto a dam leading to the North East La Penitence squatting area.

A chase ensued, during which officers observed Halley discard an object onto the dam while continuing his escape. Despite jumping over several zinc fences, Halley managed to evade capture.

Following the pursuit, a search was conducted in the area, and a .45 Glock pistol was discovered on the dam. Police seized the firearm and continued their search for Halley in the surrounding area, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

The firearm was taken to the East La Penitence Police Station, where it was dusted for fingerprints. Upon inspection, it was found to contain a magazine with ten .45 rounds of ammunition.

Investigations are ongoing as police continue efforts to locate the fugitive.

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By Shania Ally

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) made history with the election of Kathy Smith as its first woman President. During its 135th annual general meeting, the Chamber’s members selected a 21-member Council, which later elected its Executive team.

Smith, a CEO and Managing Director, expressed her gratitude for the role and outlined her vision as President of the Chamber.

“It is indeed a privilege for me to be given this opportunity. Even more so, to be the first woman president of the GCCI,” she stated.

Smith relayed her academic and professional journey and gave thanks to her family, colleagues, and God. She emphasised her willingness to work towards women’s empowerment and equality in Guyana’s business world.

“I want to focus my commitment to building the capacity of our members (as I continue within this new role). But as the first woman president of the GCCI, I want to utilise this privilege to positively contribute to the development of women entrepreneurs.”

Smith further mentioned the development of a “Women Micro-Business Learning Centre” at the GCCI. This Centre will provide the necessary training for women entrepreneurs to ensure proper sustainability and profitability for their businesses.

“It does not matter if it’s a micro-business, that is, a woman doing her thing by herself, or a small firm. The GCCI wants to see our women-owned MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) strive and succeed,” she added.

Continuing the outline of her vision, Smith relayed, “I want to see our women also be equipped with the skills needed to successfully navigate the business world. And I also want to see them have opportunities. My vision is to have the Chamber of Commerce establish programmes which support women being trained in financial literacy, digital marketing, and of course negotiation.”

Acknowledging the pressure that comes with being the first woman President of the Chamber, Smith is certain of the supportiveness towards the presidency from members of the Chamber. She is prepared to take on this role, with their support, to continue the work of the Chamber and to drive meaningful change in Guyana’s business landscape.

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Rosalinda Rasul, Head of the Diaspora Unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and a local observer during the March 2020 elections, remains on the witness sand as the trial concerning the 2020 General and Regional Elections continues.

During her cross-examination on Thursday, defence attorney Eusi Anderson asked Rasul about reporting suspicious activities during the elections to the police. Rasul responded by stating that she did not report any suspicious activities to the police, as she did not believe it was her duty to do so.

“It was not my role to report to the Police. I did what I was required to do,” Rasul told the court.

On Friday, Rasul returned for another day of cross-examination, maintaining her previous stance.

Special Prosecutor Darshan Ramdhani K.C. highlighted several points raised by the defence, one of which suggested that observers like Rasul should have reported irregularities to the police.

Ramdhani explained the three main themes the defence is focusing on:

1. The defence claims that independent observers, including Rasul, should have reported any suspicious activities to the police.
2. It has been suggested that Rasul could have gone to the police if she witnessed any criminal actions.
3. There are allegations that Rasul may have shown partiality towards the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), as she provided a statement for court proceedings initiated by the PPP.

Rasul defended her actions, stating that when she was asked to provide a statement for the PPP’s court proceedings, she was merely fulfilling her role as an observer. She maintained that she had only shared what she had witnessed during her time at Ashmin’s Building.

The trial, which is being heard before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, resumed on Friday for the fourth day of testimony. However, Thursday’s focus was on Rasul’s involvement in the recount process, her interactions with party officials, and whether she took any action when she observed suspicious activities related to the tabulation of votes in Region Four at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Command Centre at Ashmin’s Building.

Rasul clarified that, although she was present at the location, she only interacted with representatives of the PPP/C. She also reiterated that, according to her training as a local observer, it was not her role to report any issues to the police.

Rasul acknowledged interacting with several prominent figures, including GECOM Chairman Retired Justice Claudette Singh, who she spoke with on March 12, 2020, when the Chief Justice (ag), Roxanne George, ordered the resumption of the verification process. She also had interactions with Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, Sonia Parag, and Sasenarine Singh. However, she stressed that she could not comment on whether GECOM Chairperson Singh’s actions during the vote tabulation were in support of or against any individual or party, stating, “I cannot say whether her actions were in support or against anything.”

Other key topics of questioning during the cross-examination included the vote tabulation process and false declarations made by the Region 4 Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo. However, Rasul maintained that she followed her training and had no direct interactions with APNU/AFC officials, despite having access to them.

Nine individuals are currently facing charges in relation to the alleged electoral fraud, including former APNU+AFC government minister Volda Lawrence, former GECOM Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, former Region 4 Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, former GECOM Deputy Chief Elections Officer Roxanne Myers, APNU+AFC Chief Scrutineer Carol Smith Joseph, and former GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Michelle Miller, and Denise Babb-Cummings.

The accused face nine conspiracy charges related to actions allegedly taken between Election Day (March 2, 2020) and August 2, 2020. The charges relate to a conspiracy to defraud the electors of Guyana by manipulating the election results and denying the PPP a victory. The election was delayed for five months until August 2020, when Irfaan Ali was sworn in as President and the PPP took office.

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From a childhood full of challenges to becoming a joyful and active presence at the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre, Rodrick Griffith has proven that, with the right support, anyone can overcome obstacles and find their own path.

Diagnosed with down syndrome, Rodrick faced many hurdles early in life. He spent his early years at Georgetown Public Hospital, where doctors closely monitored him for malnutrition.

Later, he moved to specialised care. But even in those tough times, Rodrick’s spirit shone through. He began standing in his crib, singing songs, and showing a keen interest in helping out around the centre, something that would become a key part of his personality.

Now, at Ptolemy Reid, Rodrick’s transformation is nothing short of remarkable. He may not be able to speak, but his actions tell you everything you need to know. Every day, he proudly walks around the centre, saying “I’m a nurse” as he sweeps, mops, and helps take out the bins. Rodrick takes real pride in contributing to the daily routines, and in doing so, he teaches everyone around him about the power of purpose and consistency.

His nurse, Candacee Kewley, explains how important routine is for children like Rodrick. “When their day-to-day life is disrupted, it can cause distress,” she says.

For Rodrick, having a structured day at the centre has been key to his development. It’s not just about physical care; it’s about making sure his emotional and social growth is nurtured as well.

Rodrick’s love for life is infectious. Despite some struggles with sleep, he brings energy to everything he does. Whether he’s joining in cricket matches, dancing, or putting on a skit, Rodrick gives it his all. One of his favourite things is doing the laundry. He folds and presses clothes with care, making sure everything is just right. These simple moments show just how much Rodrick enjoys life and takes pride in everything he does.

But there’s more to Rodrick’s story. Candacee shared something that’s so important: many people don’t fully understand down syndrome, and that leads to misconceptions about the behaviours of people like Rodrick.

“It’s crucial we educate people,” Candacee says. “down syndrome is not something you catch—it’s a genetic condition.” Rodrick, like many others, experiences a wide range of emotions, but these emotions are often misunderstood because of his condition. It’s a reminder that with awareness, we can create a more inclusive and accepting world.

Rodrick’s milestones are celebrated with so much joy. Each step he takes, whether it’s learning to walk or picking up new skills, is met with cheers from his caregivers and peers. Candacee recalls the excitement when Ezekiel, another child at the centre, took his first steps. It’s a community of support, where every victory, no matter how small, is shared.

One thing Candacee emphasises is how crucial early intervention is. With therapy focused on speech and motor skills from a young age, Rodrick has made incredible strides. Early recognition and care have made all the difference in helping him reach his full potential.

And then there’s Candacee’s message, one that sums up everything Rodrick’s journey represents: “Persons with Down syndrome, the extra chromosome makes them extra awesome.” It’s simple, but it’s the truth. Rodrick’s joy, love, and determination show the world just how much he has to offer. He’s not defined by Down syndrome—he’s defined by his heart, his spirit, and his potential.

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As IPL 2025 gets underway on Saturday, some of the league’s biggest names are on the verge of topping a number of records.

From Rohit Sharma inching closer to an all-time batting milestone to Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja chasing bowling feats for their respective franchises, the upcoming season is set to witness several record-breaking moments.

Here’s a look at a few of the key milestones that could be achieved over the next two months and a bit.

19 – Runs MS Dhoni needs to become Chennai Super Kings’ highest run-scorer in the IPL. Suresh Raina with 4,687 runs currently holds the record.

6 – Bumrah needs six more wickets to become Mumbai Indians’ highest wicket-taker in the IPL. If he gets there, he will dethrone Lasith Malinga (170 wickets), who has been leading the list for over a decade.

8 – Jadeja is eight short of becoming the leading wicket-taker for CSK in the IPL and will surpass Dwayne Bravo who heads the list with 140 wickets for the franchise.

4 – Four more fifty-plus scores this season will take Kohli to the top of the list for most fifty-plus scores in the IPL. The record is currently with David Warner, who has 66 fifty-plus scores in the league.

6 – Currently on 194, six more dismissals for Dhoni this season, will take his tally to 200. He is already at the top of the list, with Dinesh Karthik at 182 placed second.

2 – Rohit will become IPL’s second-most capped player when he takes the field in Mumbai Indians’ first match against CSK. Rohit is also just a boundary away from completing 600 fours and be the fourth player to do so.

142 – The runs Rohit requires in IPL 2025 to go past Shikhar Dhawan (6,769) and become the second-highest run-scorer in the league. Kohli with 8,004 runs heads the list.

1 – Jadeja after scoring 41 runs this season will become the first player in IPL to complete the double of 3,000 runs and 100 wickets.

5 – Jadeja, if he plays at least five games this season, will become the second-most capped player for CSK in the IPL. He is currently third on the list, with Dhoni (234) and Raina (176) ahead of him. He is also 10 matches away from becoming the fifth player in IPL to play 250 matches.

3 – Kohli will become IPL’s third-most capped player if he plays six matches in the season. He will go past former RCB team-mate Dinesh Karthik, who played 257 IPL games.

3 – Wickets needed by Bhuvneshwar Kumar to become the third-highest wicket-taker in IPL. Yuzvendra Chahal (205) heads the list, while Piyush Chawla (192) and Bravo (183) are second and third. Sunil Narine (180) and R Ashwin (180) are also not far behind. (ESPNcricinfo)

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Commissioner of the Guyana Forestry Commission, Edward Goberdhan, has called for all stakeholders—including government agencies, the private sector, partners, conservationists, and local communities—to step up their commitment to preserving our forests.

He delivered this powerful message at an event marking World International Day of Forests, held at the University of Guyana Berbice Tain Campus, under the theme “Forests and Food.”

“As we celebrate, let us also act. Let us plant trees that bear fruit, protect the habitats that sustain wildlife, and educate future generations on the critical link between forests and food security. By working together, we can ensure that Guyana’s forests continue to provide for us, not just today, but for generations to come,” he said.

Guyana boasts a remarkable total forest area of 18.3 million hectares, which includes 12.5 million hectares of State Forest. In Berbice alone, there are 650,000 hectares or approximately 1.6 million acres of issued State Forest and 120 concessions.

Region 6 has approximately 80 concessions covering just over 1.1 million acres or 450,000 hectares

Region 6 and Berbice as a whole is therefore an important component of the Forestry Sector both in terms of production and Forest Holdings where close to 100,000 cubic meters of timber produce comes from this region,” he revealed.

Goberdhan added,”Annual Production 475,000 cubic meters Employment over 25,000 directly and indirectly mainly Guyanese including many indigenous persons and women. 45 Sawmills and Lumber Yards in Region 6.”

According to Goberdhan, a Supplier of construction materials for domestic construction, materials for further processing like high-end products furniture, dressed lumber, prefab housing, flooring, decking for both local and international market.

“Let us invest in research, embrace indigenous knowledge, and support policies that promote the sustainable use of forest resources for food and nutrition,” stated.

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Previously, the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) was the only public health facility offering mammography services. With this addition, residents on the Essequibo Coast now have improved access to early breast cancer detection, reducing the need to travel long distances for screenings.

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In a strong statement made during the commissioning of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Air Corps’ Hangar at the Eugene F. Correia International Airport in Ogle on Friday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening national defence.

He made it clear that the investments in the GDF are aimed at ensuring the country’s security and protection, rather than preparing for conflict.

“As a strong nation, you must have the means.

“That is why we are investing in our defence force—not for war, not for aggression, but for development and national security,” Dr. Ali said.

He emphasised the importance of a well-equipped and highly capable defence force in safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially in light of regional security challenges.

The newly inaugurated hangar, which will house the GDF Air Corps’ fleet of aircraft, marks a significant milestone in the nation’s military infrastructure development. The facility is set to enhance the Air Corps’ operational readiness, enabling it to respond quickly and effectively to any threats to national security.

President Ali also took the opportunity to address the ongoing territorial controversy with Venezuela over the Essequibo region, an issue that has persisted for decades. He reiterated Guyana’s firm stance on the matter, stating that as long as Venezuela continues to take an aggressive approach, there would be no dialogue with President Nicolás Maduro or his government.

“Sovereignty is not a subject for negotiations,” President Ali declared firmly.

The President emphasised that while Guyana is committed to dialogue, it is not prepared to engage in discussions under duress or threats. “We are all for dialogue, but dialogue with respect, dialogue with dignity, and dialogue with a sense of purpose,” he stated.

“We believe in dialogue, but not under the conditions set by Venezuela. We cannot engage in discussions with a nation that continues to violate international laws and agreements.”

Addressing the broader context of national security, President Ali made it clear that Guyana is not oblivious to the realities of the world in which it operates. He stressed the importance of having a strong and capable nation, one that can defend its borders and uphold its interests. This, he pointed out, is why the government is making substantial investments in the GDF.

“We are not blind to the realities of the world we live in. For a nation to be strong, it must have the means to defend itself and identify potential threats,” he said.

The commissioning of the hangar, President Ali explained, was not merely the opening of a new building; it symbolised a significant leap forward in Guyana’s defence capabilities.

“This is not just about new infrastructure; it is a statement,” he said.

“It shows that the GDF is evolving. Our skies will be watched and protected. Our defences will be sharper, our reach will be longer, and our response will be swifter.”

With the new facility, the GDF Air Corps will be better equipped to maintain its aircraft, train its personnel, and patrol the country’s borders with greater efficiency. “The resources we provide will ensure that our pilots and airmen have the tools they need to protect our national borders, respond to any threats, and support national development,” President Ali remarked.

The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, military leaders, and members of the public, all of whom welcomed the new development as a step forward in strengthening the country’s security infrastructure.

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