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In a heartwarming gesture to support new parents, the government of Guyana officially launched its newborn cash grant on Saturday, with a special gift from First Lady Arya Ali and the distribution of birth certificates for over 600 newborns.

The event, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, was attended by hundreds of parents who gathered to celebrate this historic moment for their families.

First Lady Arya Ali, who was unable to attend in person, sent a thoughtful gift for the new mothers—diapers and baby wipes—providing a small but significant support to help ease the early days of motherhood.

Along with the First Lady’s gift, another key aspect of the launch was the provision of birth certificates for the newborns. This initiative, in partnership with the General Register Office, is part of the government’s effort to streamline administrative processes and make essential services more accessible to parents across Guyana.

A small section of parents gathered at the ACCC

The newborn cash grant, which was first announced in January by Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, offers a one-off $100,000 voucher to every newborn born in Guyana to a Guyanese mother.

The programme, designed to ease the financial strain on new parents, is expected to cost the government approximately $1.3 billion annually. This initiative is open to all qualifying births, with no other restrictions, and will even be provided retroactively to families with babies born in January and February 2025—amounting to over 2,000 newborns.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, speaking at the event, emphasised that this is more than just a financial handout. “This is a historic moment for Guyana,” said President Ali. “It speaks to the soul of who we are as a society. We refuse to let potential go untapped, or dreams unfulfilled. Children are not just our future—they represent a promise and a blank page waiting to be written.”

The programme aims to be an investment in Guyana’s future, helping families to cover the costs associated with raising a child. The President assured parents that in the future, mothers will receive their cheques before leaving the hospital. For home births, the vouchers will be delivered within the first week.

“This is more than just a grant; it’s a seed planted in the future of our nation,” President Ali continued. “This is not a burden on taxpayers, but a commitment to tomorrow’s leaders. It is an investment in a brighter, more prosperous future.”

Dr. Vindhya Persaud, the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the broad impact of the programme across Guyana. She noted that the newborn cash grant is just one part of a broader effort to support families throughout the different stages of life, whether through schoolchildren assistance, support for children with disabilities, or care for orphaned children.

“This initiative is part of our manifesto, and it is all about making life easier for parents and children across Guyana,” Dr. Persaud explained. “We are happy to be investing in the wellbeing of our youngest citizens, and we hope that fathers, grandmothers, and other family members will continue to support the mothers in this crucial phase of life.”

Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony also spoke about the government’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare for mothers and children. He pointed to the improvements in health facilities, particularly in remote areas, and the establishment of new neonatal units in regional hospitals to better care for premature babies.

“We are making strategic investments in healthcare to ensure that mothers are well taken care of,” Dr. Anthony said. “From safe health facilities to better infrastructure for mothers in the interior, we are working hard to improve the quality of care.”

Looking ahead, the government plans to open six new hospitals this year, each featuring modern birthing suites and operating theatres to provide women with better care. The new specialty hospital at Ogle, East Coast Demerara, will also provide specialised services for women and children.

As of February 2025, over 2,000 babies have already been born in Guyana, and with the newborn cash grant set to cover an estimated 17,000 births this year, the government is on track to support an entire generation of children.

“This is a programme that speaks to our collective responsibility,” President Ali concluded. “The future of our children is something we must intentionally invest in. This cash grant is not a privilege—it is a right, and it is a right that every child in Guyana is entitled to.”

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In an update on the nation’s healthcare system, Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony on Saturday outlined a series of strategic investments aimed at ensuring mothers receive the care they deserve.

Speaking at the launch of the newborn cash grant at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Dr. Anthony highlighted key advancements in healthcare that will directly benefit women and children, especially in rural and interior regions.

“One of the most critical investments we’ve made is in creating safe health facilities for deliveries, which has directly contributed to a decline in maternal deaths,” Dr. Anthony shared.

For many years, women in remote areas faced the significant challenge of travelling long distances to access hospital care during pregnancy and childbirth. However, Dr. Anthony revealed that this is no longer the case.

“Mothers in these communities no longer have to travel long distances for hospital care,” he said. “We’ve built waiting homes within hospital compounds, giving women a safe place to stay before they give birth.”

In addition to improving access to healthcare facilities, the government has introduced a new programme that ensures pregnant women receive comprehensive care from the moment they visit a clinic. The initiative includes early testing to identify high-risk pregnancies, enabling safer deliveries for both mothers and babies.

Dr. Anthony along with other health officials during a visit to the GPHC maternity ward by President Dr. Irfaan Ali. [Photo: Office of the President/ March 07, 2025]

“Through this programme, we can detect high-risk pregnancies early, allowing us to take preventive action and ensure a safe delivery,” Dr. Anthony explained. This move is expected to significantly reduce complications and improve the overall health of mothers and their newborns.

In another major improvement, babies born prematurely will no longer have to be transferred to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Instead, all regional hospitals now feature neonatal units, meaning that premature babies can receive the specialised care they need close to home.

This year, Guyana will also open six new hospitals, each equipped with modern birthing suites and advanced operating theatres. “These new hospitals will offer women better healthcare facilities, ensuring a higher standard of care during pregnancy and childbirth,” Dr. Anthony remarked.

Dr. Anthony also pointed to the modern speciality hospital at Ogle, East Coast Demerara, which will provide specialised services for women and children. This facility is expected to make a significant difference in the quality of care available to those in need of specialised attention.

Looking ahead, Dr. Anthony expressed optimism about the future of healthcare in Guyana. “In the next three to four years, we will see a completely transformed healthcare landscape, with more hospitals and improved services,” he said.

As Guyana celebrates International Women’s Day, Dr. Anthony took the opportunity to highlight the positive changes underway in the healthcare system, adding, “There is a lot to look forward to. We are making real progress in building a healthier future for our mothers and children.”

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On the occasion of International Women’s Day 2025, President Irfaan Ali has reiterated the nation’s steadfast commitment to advancing gender equality and celebrating the resilience of women across the globe and in Guyana. The President’s message also marks the 30th anniversary of the landmark Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women.

The Beijing Declaration, a groundbreaking framework for advancing women’s rights and empowerment worldwide, continues to inspire policies and actions aimed at improving the lives of women and girls everywhere. Guyana has made significant strides over the years in line with the principles outlined in the Declaration, emphasising women’s rights and gender equality as central to the nation’s development.

In his message, President Ali highlighted key initiatives that have contributed to the empowerment of women in Guyana. “We are equipping women with the resources, skills, and support they need to thrive as entrepreneurs and leaders,” the President stated. He underscored the importance of programmes such as the part-time jobs initiative, which has provided thousands of women with income-earning opportunities, helping them achieve financial stability and contribute to household welfare.

Further bolstering women’s economic standing, the government’s Women in Agriculture Initiative has opened doors for women to access greater economic opportunities in the agricultural sector, significantly contributing to Guyana’s food security and economic growth.

The Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) has also proven pivotal in empowering women through education. With the majority of its participants being women, the GOAL programme has equipped many with the knowledge and skills required to excel in various fields, unlocking greater opportunities for personal and professional growth.

In addition, the government’s provision of house lots to women-headed households serves to promote home ownership and long-term financial security for women, reinforcing a comprehensive approach to gender equality.

President Ali also reaffirmed the government’s ongoing efforts to increase women’s representation in decision-making processes, including political and leadership roles. He highlighted the importance of women’s voices in governance and their critical contributions to shaping policies that drive national progress.

However, the President expressed deep concern about the continued levels of violence against women and girls. “This is a scourge that continues to undermine their safety, dignity, and well-being,” President Ali said. He assured that the Government of Guyana is committed to eradicating gender-based violence, noting the implementation of strict measures to hold perpetrators accountable and offer justice to survivors. Through initiatives such as the Spotlight Initiative, as well as strengthened legal protections, the government is working to ensure that women and girls are not only protected but also provided with the necessary resources to rebuild their lives.

The President concluded his message by extending heartfelt best wishes to the women of Guyana and the Guyanese diaspora, recognising their resilience, strength, and indispensable contributions to the nation’s development.

“On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate your achievements, and I reaffirm our pledge to advancing gender equality,” President Ali stated. “Together, we will continue to build a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous Guyana where every woman can thrive and realise her full potential.”

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The MV Kimbia will resume operations on the Georgetown to Region One route today following the installation of two new engines and gearboxes valued at $75 million.

The 44-year-old ferry has been a longstanding transport link for Region One communities supporting trade and travel.

Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill provided an update on the vessel’s return during an inspection at the dockyard Friday morning.

He noted that its resumption is expected to ease transportation challenges, particularly for businesses and residents reliant on the ferry for the delivery of goods and supplies.

“I would have announced before that the MV Kimbia is being prepared to expedite the movement of cargo in and out of Region One. We have the MV Barima and the MV Malisha handling passengers and some cargo. Due to the accelerated pace of development and the boost in agriculture in the region, there is a greater need for cargo movement,” Minister Edghill stated.

The MV Kimbia was docked in December last year for extensive repairs, including the removal and replacement of its old engines and gearboxes along with crucial underwater works.

Additional maintenance, such as hull scraping and the installation of anodes, was also carried out.

Hull scraping is the process of removing marine growth from a vessel’s hull while anodes are metallic components attached to boats to prevent corrosion of essential underwater metal parts by corroding in their place.

Ahead of its return to service, the vessel will undergo test runs to ensure it is fully operational and meets safety standards.

The MV Kanawan is undergoing similar repairs and is expected to return to service within 10 days. The ferry, docked on February 20, is receiving general dry-docking, superstructure maintenance, and underwater repairs.

In addition to ongoing repairs, the government is moving to strengthen transportation services to Region One by procuring new ferry vessels through the 2025 budget.

With new vessels in operation, ferry services on the Region One route will increase in frequency and capacity.

The service has expanded from operating twice a month to several trips per month with further improvements expected once additional vessels are acquired. [DPI]

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By Gillian Smith, FAO Representative in Guyana

In the heart of Guyana’s Rupununi region lies a unique story of balance—       between nature and human communities,      tradition and progress, and       conservation and sustainable livelihoods. This vast and pristine landscape, often referred to as the “Land of Giants” for its healthy populations of large-bodied neotropical species, holds the key to a future where wildlife thrives alongside empowered communities. Central to this vision is the role of women in driving sustainable wildlife management and community development.

The Rupununi is a region of breathtaking beauty. Rolling savannahs, majestic mountains, and lush waterfalls form the backdrop of a rich tapestry of biodiversity. It is also home to approximately 24 000 people, predominantly from three Indigenous groups, whose lives are intertwined with the wildlife and ecosystems around them. Wildlife provides these communities with food and income, while also holding deep cultural significance. However, the delicate balance between human needs and wildlife conservation is increasingly under threat. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions, and women are at the heart of this transformation.

The Sustainable Wildlife Management (SWM) Programme, supported by the European Union and implemented by a dynamic consortium of four partners, including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), has been working to develop such solutions in fifteen countries. In Guyana, FAO supports the Centre for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF) in implementing this approach, which recognizes that sustainable wildlife management must be community-driven and inclusive, with women playing a pivotal role in conservation efforts.

Gillian Smith joins wildlife checkpoint rangers during a training session organized by the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC) © FAO/Luke McKenna

 

Women as catalysts for change

Women in the Rupununi have traditionally been custodians of knowledge, culture, and community well-being. They produce food, educate the young, and contribute to the local economy. Their involvement in wildlife conservation efforts magnifies their impact on both their communities and the environment.

To date, the SWM Programme has supported 491 women through technical training, engaged 450 girls in environmental education classes, and created employment opportunities for 177 women. These numbers are more than statistics—they represent a shift in how communities perceive the role of women in conservation and sustainable development.

In the first year of the programme, women made up only 30% of participants in capacity-building activities. By the fourth year, that number had increased to 50%, with women actively participating in environmental education, wildlife monitoring, data collection, and livelihood activities such as poultry farming and ecotourism.

Turtle conservation: a success story

One clear example of women-led conservation efforts is the yellow-spotted river turtle (Podocnemis unifilis) conservation project. With support from the SWM Programme, communities have been able to upscale hatching facilities and monitoring efforts. Lorrie Ann Thomas, a dedicated turtle conservationist, exemplifies the impact of this work.

Recognizing the importance of teaching children about natural resource management, Thomas and her team take young wildlife club members on monitoring missions. During these trips, they rescue turtle eggs from flooding beaches, teaching the children valuable conservation skills and fostering a sense of environmental stewardship.

When asked about the importance of involving more women in turtle conservation, Thomas said, “It is important to have women on board, because, as mothers, we see the need to pass on this knowledge to our children. That is important for this work to keep going.” Her work has already shown results, with more turtles now basking on the sand banks than ever before.

Turtle conservationists and members of the Yupukari Village Wildlife Club monitor beaches for turtle eggs. FAO/Luke McKenna

Gender-inclusive eco-tourism: a path to economic empowerment

Tourism in the Rupununi is evolving towards a more gender-inclusive model, thanks to partnerships between the SWM Programme and Visit Rupununi, the region’s first destination management organization. Over the past three years, the SWM Programme has tailored its activities to ensure women benefit equally from ecotourism-related opportunities.

To date, 109 individuals have received training in first aid, hospitality, health and safety, and business management—with 51%  being women. This training has opened new doors for women in the tourism industry, allowing them to take on roles that improve their economic status and advance their education.

Removing barriers for women

The SWM Programme’s approach goes beyond training and employment. It has integrated social safeguard strategies to ensure      women are involved in decision-making processes. The programme actively works to remove barriers that have historically limited women’s participation in sustainable wildlife management.

 

One such barrier is the lack of representation in leadership roles. By providing women with the skills and opportunities to engage in wildlife management, the programme ensures they have a seat at the table. Women like Lorrie Ann Thomas are leading the way, demonstrating that      conservation efforts become more sustainable and impactful when women take the lead.

A model for the future

The SWM Programme’s approach to wildlife management and community development in the Rupununi is a model that can be replicated elsewhere. By placing people’s rights at the centre of conservation efforts and recognizing the unique role women play, we can achieve conservation needs and sustainable livelihoods.

It is also a testament to the power of community-driven conservation. It demonstrates that when local communities—especially women—are empowered, they become the most effective stewards of their natural resources.

As FAO Representative in Guyana, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of this programme and I am deeply grateful to the European Union for their continued support and commitment to the initiative. Together, we are building a future where wildlife and communities thrive hand in hand.

Further information:

• https://www.fao.org/news/countries-good-practices/article/en/c/1734404/
• SWM Programme website
• Video “Empowering Rupununi women: conservation and community champions in Guyana”
• Book “Wildlife and people in the Rupununi. A comprehensive assessment based on science and local knowledge”
• CIFOR-ICRAF Forest News “Leading women in sustainable wildlife management: Meet Lorrie Thomas”

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On Thursday, Guyana formally filed a Request for provisional measures at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) concerning the ongoing territorial controversy with Venezuela over the Essequibo region. This move follows Venezuela’s announcement to conduct elections in the contested territory on 25 May 2025.

The Request, lodged at the Court’s Registry, cites concerns over Venezuela’s plans to proceed with electoral activities in the Essequibo region, which Guyana asserts would violate its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence. The Government of Guyana also argues that such actions would contravene an earlier ICJ Order issued on 1 December 2023, which calls for the preservation of the status quo in the disputed region.

Guyana further emphasises the urgency of the situation, highlighting the irreparable harm it believes will result from Venezuela’s electoral activities within the disputed territory. In its submission, Guyana requests the ICJ to issue provisional measures to prevent Venezuela from conducting any elections or electoral activities in the area.

Specifically, Guyana is seeking the Court to:

1. Prohibit Venezuela from conducting any elections, including distributing electoral materials, naming candidates, establishing polling stations, or appointing officials within the disputed territory.
2. Prevent Venezuela from taking any actions to annex or incorporate the territory, whether de jure or de facto, as part of its territory.
3. Order Venezuela to refrain from modifying the existing situation, in which Guyana currently administers and controls the disputed region.

This move follows a series of legal proceedings between the two nations. The dispute dates back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the boundary between British Guiana (now Guyana) and Venezuela. Guyana filed its initial application to the ICJ in 2018, seeking a legal determination on the validity of the 1899 Award and the status of the disputed territory.

Venezuela, however, has contested the Court’s jurisdiction and has refused to participate in several stages of the proceedings. In its 2020 ruling, the ICJ confirmed its jurisdiction over the controversy and affirmed its authority to resolve the matter. Subsequent challenges from Venezuela were rejected, with the Court ruling in 2023 that it could continue to adjudicate Guyana’s claims.

The current controversy intensified following Venezuela’s announcement of a controversial “Consultative Referendum” in December 2023, which included a proposal to create a new Venezuelan state, “Guayana Esequiba,” encompassing the disputed region. The ICJ’s 1 December 2023 Order called on both nations to refrain from actions that would exacerbate the dispute, particularly actions that might alter the territorial status quo.

With this new request for provisional measures, Guyana is seeking urgent intervention from the Court to prevent Venezuela from taking further actions in the disputed region. The ICJ has yet to respond to the request, but its acknowledgment of the filing marks a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings.

The outcome of this case remains pivotal in resolving one of Latin America’s most long-standing territorial disputes, with both nations maintaining opposing views on the legal status of the Essequibo region.

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As the world marks International Women’s Day, GUYSOL is spotlighting its groundbreaking initiatives designed to empower women in technical fields, particularly within the renewable energy sector.

Through a series of projects, GUYSOL is advancing its solar farm development and paving the way for women’s economic independence in underrepresented regions. In an exclusive interview with Chitra Singh-Samaroo, GUYSOL’s Social Management Specialist, the News Room delves deeper into the company’s development initiatives and the remarkable impact they are having on women in Regions 2, 5, 6 and 10.

This year, 2025, marks the beginning of the full-scale implementation of GUYSOL’s development initiatives. Intending to build eight solar farms across the aforementioned regions, GUYSOL aims to generate 33 MW of renewable energy by 2026. However, the company’s focus goes beyond renewable energy generation; it is equally committed to the social development of local communities, with a particular emphasis on empowering women.

“I’m pleased to say that 2025 is a year of implementation where we’ve started with our developmental projects,” says Singh-Samaroo. “First, we launched the Solar Job Workforce programme, targeting 50 women from our project regions. This programme aims to provide them with comprehensive technical training, particularly in electrical engineering and solar panel installation.”

Chitra Singh-Samaroo, GUYSOL’s Social Management Specialist

GUYSOL’s Solar Job Workforce Confidence programme is a dynamic five-week training course designed to equip women with practical and theoretical skills in solar energy. Singh-Samaroo explains the dual nature of the programme, “We’re providing these women with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. The idea is that after five weeks of training, they’ll be prepared to take on real-world jobs in the solar industry.”

Participants will not only gain essential technical skills but also receive a study stipend for the duration of the course. However, GUYSOL’s support doesn’t end there. Following the training, the company is offering an eight-month apprenticeship programme, ensuring the women continue to develop their skills while gaining valuable on-the-job experience.

“We are linking these 50 women to jobs within their region so they can practice what they’ve learned during the training,” Singh-Samaroo adds. “The programme doesn’t stop with the apprenticeship. We’ll continue to support them through a digital platform, where they can ask questions and get feedback from their instructors, ensuring they continue to grow in their technical skills.”

Employees of the GUYSOL project

The overarching goal of GUYSOL’s initiative is not only to train women but to provide them with the opportunity to build a sustainable career in a technical field, fostering long-term economic independence. Singh-Samaroo highlights the importance of this approach: “Women are underrepresented in technical fields, and our initiative is aiming to change that. By empowering women in renewable energy, we’re offering them a chance for better job prospects and economic independence.”

This effort is supported by the Norway-Guyana agreement and is administered by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The programme, which focuses on developing the technical capabilities of women, is a vital part of GUYSOL’s broader mission to support sustainable energy solutions in Guyana while fostering gender equality in the workplace.

In addition to the Solar Job Workforce Confidence programme, GUYSOL is also taking steps to include women within its own operations. The company recently launched its second batch of energy apprenticeships, and for the first time, this batch consists exclusively of women. Singh-Samaroo proudly shares, “This year, we’ve brought on five women, each with a unique background, including those living with disabilities. They will be shadowing our core team across various departments, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the renewable energy sector.”

Singh-Samaroo emphasises, “It’s such a positive coincidence that these initiatives are launching just as we celebrate the contributions of women globally. We’re excited to support these women and provide them with the tools they need for a successful career in the renewable energy sector.”

GPL’ GUYSOL currently has a CALL FOR APPLICATION from women for the Training + Apprenticeship Program scheduled to close by March 18, 2025

1. Terms of Reference: https://bit.ly/GUYSOL_WOMEN_TOR 
2. Application form: https://bit.ly/GUYSOL_WOMEN 

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US car giant General Motors has had its Formula 1 entry for the 2026 season formally approved.

It will name the new team after its luxury Cadillac brand.

The decision to approve GM’s bid comes just over two months after the company reached an agreement in principle with F1 to enter the sport next year.

F1 had previously rejected a bid from the US team Andretti, which was linked to Cadillac.

But the greater commitment of GM in a new proposal put forward later in the year has convinced F1 to admit Cadillac.

The entry will be run by the US organisation TWG in a revisioning of the initial bid.

The new team, which has a UK base at Silverstone, will be a joint effort between GM and TWG, with Dan Towriss, owner of US team Andretti Global, and TWG’s Mark Walter as the other key investors.

Former Indycar and F1 driver Michael Andretti is no longer involved with the team he founded.

His father Mario, the 1978 world champion, will be involved in an advisory capacity.

Last year, TWG named Briton Graeme Lowdon, a senior figure at the Manor team that raced in F1 from 2010-16, as team principal.

F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “As we said in November, the commitment by General Motors to bring a Cadillac team to F1 was an important and positive demonstration of the evolution of our sport.

“I want to thank GM and TWG for their constructive engagement over many months and look forward to welcoming the team on the grid from 2026 for what will be another exciting year for Formula 1.”

F1 was swayed by key factors that it saw as differentiators over the initial Andretti bid.

These were that there was a commitment to a full works team over the coming years, an agreement for an engine supply with Ferrari rather than relying on F1’s rules to secure a compulsory engine, and the commitment of GM to build its own engine in the future.

An investigation into F1’s original decision to reject Andretti’s entry by the US department of justice also played a part.

F1’s governing body the FIA had approved the Andretti entry before F1’s initial rejection. (BBC)

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Guyana’s Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said the country would be at-risk if it continued to do any business with the Mohameds because of the sanctions handed down on the family and their businesses by the United States Department of the Treasury.

As such, Jagdeo said, all business ties have to be severed.

“We’re never going to put the interest of a single individual, particularly if you were accused of doing something so illegal that you bring US sanctions down on your head.

“We could shut down the entire financial system if we allowed the Mohameds to continue owning a cambio license. The banks cut all ties. Just imagine if they would continue allowing the Mohameds to do business with them – they could be subjected to US sanctions,” he told reporters at his weekly press conference.

He addressed the issue in response to a statement made by Mr. Nazar Mohamed. Mr. Momahed accused the government of disadvantaging him and his family’s businesses.

Jagdeo said that was not the case.

“They want us to defy the US government sanctions and risk the lives and livelihoods of people in Guyana? That is why we have had to disengage,” Jagdeo said.

Nazar Mohamed and his son, Azruddin, were sanctioned by the US Department of the Treasury. Ventures associated with the Mohamed’s family, namely Mohamed’s Enterprise, Hadi’s World, and Team Mohamed’s Racing, were also sanctioned.

The Bank of Guyana revoked the Mohamed’s cambio license; mining and cabotage licenses were not renewed.

Jagdeo also responded to other claims made by Mr. Mohamed. The Vice President said the Mohameds weren’t being targeted by the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration but noted that the government reserves the right to defend itself.

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Georgetown remained unbeaten with a second consecutive win, while East Coast tasted victory for the first time when round two of the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) Inter-Association Under-17, 50-over competition was contested on Thursday (March 6).

At the Meten-Meer-Zorg ground, Georgetown defeated the home side West Demerara by five wickets, while over at LBI, East Coast maximised on home advantage, getting the better of Upper Demerara by 42 runs.

East Bank drew the bye in this round.

Points table after two rounds of play

Led by a superb spell from leg-spinner Dhanesh Persaud, Georgetown eased to victory to solidify their position as table-toppers.

Persaud returned top figures of 4-8 off three overs, bowling 16 dot balls.

The Georgetown Cricket Club lad closed off the innings with a hat-trick to cop the Player-of-the-Match award, as West Demerara made 67 all out from 28 overs.

Seamer Emmanuel Lewis picked up 3-19 off six overs, while Shane Prince, Dave Mohabir and Jonathan Mentore had one each.

Skipper Parmeshwar Ram topscored with 16; fellow openr Arvind Suknanand and Isiah Anderson made 10 each.

Georgetown then raced to victory at 72-5 from 14.3 overs with first round centurion Shamar Apple scoring 15 (3x4s), Mentore 11 and Danvir Seegobin 10 not out.

Ram (2-29) and Demerara Under-15 fast bowler Patrice Fraser (2-21) were the main wicket-takers.

Player-of-the-Match Marcel Nandu (right) receives his trophy at LBI

At LBI, a solid all-round performance from Marcel Nandu spurred East Coast to a comfortable win over Upper Demerara.

Nandu stroked eight fours in a top score of 53 as East Coast posted 148 in 36.5 overs.

Arun Gainda contributed 22 (1×4) and Navendra Isurdeen made 10* (1×4).

Bowling for Upper Demerara, Lomar Seecharran picked up 3-17 off seven overs and Elizah Bowen 2-30 from four overs.

Andy Ramgoolam, Triston Peters and Russle Anderson had one wicket each.

Chasing 149, Upper Demerara managed 106 all out from 29.3 overs with the left-handed Seecharran making 53 (10x4s) and Raphael Tappin scoring 12 (1×4, 1×6).

Bowling for East Coast, Munesh Outar picked up 3-6 off 5.2 overs, Nandu 3-29 off six overs and Gainda 2-27 off nine.

Eric Phillips and Isurdeen snapped up one each.

In the opening round on Tuesday, Georgetown inflicted a massive 313-run whipping on East Bank, while over at LBI, West Demerara brushed aside East Coast by nine wickets.

The competition will continue this weekend with four matches.

On Saturday (March 8), East Coast will face East Bank at Lusignan, while West Demerara will confront Upper Demerara at Transport.

On Sunday (March 9), Georgetown and East Coast will collide at the Queen’s College ground, with the LBI ground hosting Upper Demerara and East Bank.

The final round is slated for Tuesday (March 11) with Georgetown and Upper Demerara squaring off at Transport and West Demerara having home advantage against East Bank at Meten-Meer-Zorg.

All matches will start at 09:30h.

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