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Despite a heavy focus on oil and gas, agriculture remains a key pillar of Guyana’s economic diversification agenda.

This was emphasised Monday by Kiana Wilburg, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Conference & Expo, as she joined the Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha in opening “Conference Village” at the Kingston Seawall Esplanade.

The Village serves as a platform to showcase Guyana’s agricultural products and attract potential investment from delegates attending the Energy Conference from 18–21 February.

“The Guyana Energy Conference is a hub for bringing international and regional experts and stakeholders from 26 industries together. We want to highlight the potential of our farmers, agro-processors, and all those involved in the agricultural sector.

“Our aim is to connect them with local partners who have the capacity to collaborate and to showcase the investment opportunities available in Guyana’s agricultural landscape,” Wilburg said during her remarks.

Kiana Wilburg, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Conference & Expo and Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha at the Conference Village on Monday

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, noted that the event seeks to integrate industries to demonstrate their collective potential.

“Although oil and gas is an attractive sector, the agriculture sector has developed rapidly over the past four years. We have seen significant growth in agriculture,” Mustapha said, highlighting the introduction of over 4,000 new products in the agro-processing market.

“We have been increasing and expanding production in traditional crops, but Guyana is now also emerging as a destination for new and innovative agricultural products,” he added.

The fourth edition of the Guyana Energy Conference is set to be the largest and most impactful yet. Alongside the main four-day conference, several major events will take place, including the recently concluded Energy Run on Sunday, an Essay Competition, the ‘Taste of Guyana’ event, and the Conference Village.

Wilburg further told News Room that over 200 companies will participate in this year’s Energy Conference and Expo, with discussions led by industry leaders from Guyana and around the world.

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The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons on Monday announced that Paul Nixon will be their new Head Coach for the 2025 season of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Nixon, 54, a former England wicketkeeper, has held several head coaching positions around the world with success.

He previously coached Jamaica Tallawahs in the CPL. Nixon replaces former West Indies batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who was Head Coach for the inaugural season of the team last year.

Kris Persaud, owner and founder of the Falcons, and general manager, Jeff Miller welcomed Nixon to the franchise and thanked Chanderpaul and for his contribution.

They said in a joint statement: “We want to welcome Paul to the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons as we prepare for the 2025 Republic Bank CPL. He is an outstanding Head Coach with an excellent track record. We believe he will have a major impact and will bring his energy and enthusiasm to the Falcons family as we look to improve on last year’s performance. We also want to sincerely thank Shiv, an outstanding legend of West Indies cricket, for the work he did with the franchise.”

Nixon said: “It is a great honour to accept the invitation to serve as Head Coach for Antigua and Barbuda Falcons this year. I extend my sincere gratitude to Jeff and Kris for their belief in my abilities.

“The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is a wonderful competition that has significantly benefitted West Indian cricket. The CPL’s vibrant atmosphere, star-studded line-ups, and high-quality entertainment have captivated audiences and sparked a renewed enthusiasm for the sport. Having achieved success with Jamaica previously, I eagerly anticipate a successful 2025 campaign, supported by great players and a first-class support staff.” (CPL)

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Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, who also holds the position of Minister of Public Service, has reaffirmed the PPP/C government’s commitment to giving public sector workers the freedom to decide whether they want gratuity or a post-retirement pension.

Responding to a question in the National Assembly on Monday from former Public Service Minister and opposition parliamentarian, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, Dr. Singh clarified the government’s stance on the matter.

He explained that, unlike the previous APNU+AFC administration, the PPP/C government will not impose a decision on public sector employees regarding their post-retirement benefits.

As of the end of 2024, there are 8,173 individuals employed on contract in the public sector, Dr. Singh told the House.

And while the details of constitutional commissions are not made public, all other agencies are included in this count.

Sarabo-Halley in a follow up question raised concerns about the potential financial implications of allowing workers to choose between gratuity and pension, suggesting that gratuity might be less economically feasible compared to a pension.

Dr. Singh, in turn, rebutted the suggestion, explaining that the PPP/C government believes in the ability of citizens to make decisions on their own behalf.

“We don’t presume to know the liquidity preferences of any individual citizen. Some people may be happy to forego gratuity… and opt for a post-retirement pension, while others may prefer the 22.5% gratuity and forgo the pension,” he stated.

The minister made it clear that the government would not restrict workers’ choices.

“If someone wishes to go on pensionable service, we will not prevent that. Likewise, if an individual opts for gratuity and not a pension, they are free to make that choice,” he said.

Dr. Singh further pointed out that during the five-year period of the APNU+AFC government, there were efforts to phase out contract employees, with many individuals being forced to surrender their contracts in exchange for pensionable positions.

According to the Minister, this decision caused significant financial loss for workers, as they faced cuts in their emoluments due to the “heavy-handed” approach of the former government.

“The PPP/C government is committed to restoring the rights of citizens… We promised in our manifesto to give people the freedom to choose between contract work and pensionable service, and we are now making good on that promise,” Dr. Singh added.

Dr. Singh also spoke to the improvements in wages and salaries for all public workers, noting that there are no stark differences between the payments given to workers on contract and those on the pensionable establishment.

“We are now able in central government to attract employees from the private sector into government”, because of wage increases in the last four years, Dr. Singh added.

To make his point, he pointed to teachers leaving private schools to work in public schools.

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Veerasammy Permaul, the wily Guyana Harpy Eagles left-arm spinner, has scripted another chapter in his storied career.

Over the weekend, in a thrilling round-three day/night clash against the West Indies Academy in the 2025 West Indies Four-Day Championship, Permaul reached yet another milestone: 650 First-Class wickets.

His mesmerising spell of 6-75 from 29 overs, his 34th five-wicket haul, proved pivotal, spinning the Eagles to crucial first-innings points in a dramatic encounter.

But for Permaul, this milestone is not a destination, but a stepping stone. He now has 652 wickets.

With the Harpy Eagles still having four matches left in the season, his gaze is firmly fixed on a higher summit: 700 First-Class wickets.

Veerasammy Permaul has moved to 652 First-Class wickets

“That is one of the goals moving forward,” Permaul shared with News Room Sport.

His voice, calm and measured, betrayed the burning ambition within.

“At the same time, it’s cricket, and anything can happen. I will just go and continue what I’ve done over the years, put the ball in the right areas, and show that once you remain consistent as a bowler, you can reap rewards.”

The quiet determination, in his words, echoes a career built on relentless perseverance.

Of his 652 wickets, an astounding 574 have come while representing Guyana, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his team and his nation.

The rest are a testament to his prowess on the international stage, earned in Tests, tour matches, and while representing the West Indies ‘A’ team.

Permaul’s journey has been one of consistent excellence.

In March 2023, he cemented his place in history, overtaking Jamaican Nikita Miller’s record of 511 wickets to become the leading wicket-taker in Regional First-Class cricket.

From his debut against the Windward Islands in Grenada in January 2007, the 35-year-old has been a force to be reckoned with.

“I want to thank God for playing so long and getting to achieve this milestone,” Permaul reflected.

“It is a good feeling to get wickets, and more so, to get wickets for Guyana.”

As he continues his relentless pursuit of 700 wickets, one thing is certain: Veerasammy Permaul’s legacy as a true legend of West Indies cricket is already secured.

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It is early days into the inaugural Bartica Premeir Lague (BPL), a T20 tournament being held at Daag Point Ground, but the young players are seizing the opportunities presented, showcasing their talent, and making a name for themselves.

The BPL features a unique pitch setup: a specially prepared concrete surface for batsmen at one end and traditional mud turf for bowlers at the other.

Fans recently witnessed two captivating encounters, both going down to the wire.

Super Strikers edge Trendsetters in thriller

Bartica Super Strikers post a competitive 172 all out from 17.5 overs as Ronaldo Jeffrey led the charge with a blistering 69, ably supported by Ricardo Williams (46) and Garfield Phillips (24).

A&l Trendsetters’ bowlers fought hard, with Orrin Gibson (2-18), Massiah Joseph (2-31), Andrew Simmons (2-35), and Inzamam Bacchus (2-46) picking up crucial wickets.

Chasing a challenging total, Trendsetters fought valiantly but ultimately fell short, reaching 165 all out in 20 overs.

Andy Brunell top-scored with 36, George MacIntyre contributed 27 and Assardo Savory chipped in with an unbeaten 16.

However, the Super Strikers’ bowlers held their nerve, with Ashberk Hohenkirk (3-23), Joshua Allen (2-20), Keanu Harry (2-24), and Shane Williams (2-24) sharing the spoils.

The Super Strikers clinched a nail-biting seven-run victory.

Gladiators triumph in high-scoring affair

It was a run-fest, with the Bartica Gladiators amassing an impressive 195-9 from their 20 overs.

Ashton Simmons and Hamel Lamb both smashed half-centuries, scoring 52 and 50, respectively. Dellon DeCosta (26) and Delroy Brown (25) also made valuable contributions.

Trendsetters’ bowlers, despite the onslaught, managed to pick up wickets, with Inzamam Bacchus (3-17), James McIntyre (2-10), and Massiah Joseph (2-43) leading the way.

Trendsetters, however, couldn’t chase down the daunting target, finishing at 184 all out in 17.4 overs.

Bacchus completed a fine all-round performance with a quickfire 50, Andrew Simmons scored 39 and Orrin Gibson added 34.

The Gladiators’ bowlers proved too strong, with Delroy Brown (3-28), Hamel Lamb (3-45), Raymond Jabar (2-11), and Ashton Simmons (2-13) taking crucial wickets as their side emerged victorious by 11 runs.

Matches are expected to continue this weekend.

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In the world of filmmaking, the path to success is often paved with passion, dedication, and an unwavering belief in one’s work. For Kevin Garbaran, a rising filmmaker in Guyana, this journey has led him to unexpected heights, culminating in a series of international screenings that have put Guyanese cinema on the map.

Kevin’s film, Old Toy Train, may be his first, but it has already made an impressive impact on the global stage.

Recently, he and his team were invited to participate in the Suriname Short Film Festival, an event hosted by the Co Pix Foundation, an organisation that promotes filmmaking in both Suriname and the Netherlands.

The festival, founded by Dwight Cooman, not only showcased local talent from Suriname but also provided an international platform, inviting filmmakers from across the Caribbean to present their work.

It was here that Old Toy Train made its third international appearance, following successful screenings at the International South Asian Film Festival in Canada and the 33 and Me Film Makers Festival in Pennsylvania, USA.

Writer and Director of Old Toy Train, Kevin Garbaran

“It’s hard to believe,” Kevin admits, reflecting on the film’s unexpected journey. “This is my first film, and even though everyone who worked on it believed in it, I never expected it to go this far. But now, it’s a reality, and it’s opening doors for more stories from our region to be told,” he told the News Room on Sunday.

Old Toy Train is more than just a film for Kevin; it’s a symbol of what can be accomplished when passion and perseverance meet limited resources.

Like many independent filmmakers, Kevin and his team work with modest budgets, often relying on funds they raise or from private backers.

In a country like Guyana, where the film industry is still in its infancy, this can be a daunting challenge. Yet, Kevin remains optimistic, driven by the belief that his team has the talent and skill to make a mark on the global stage.

“We make films because we want to, not because we have to,” Kevin shares. “The industry isn’t fully established here, so we’re not looking for profit right now. We’re doing it for the art, for the stories we believe in. But we know that for our work to be sustainable, we need to start somewhere. This is just the beginning.”

The support that Kevin and his team received at the Suriname Short Film Festival was a testament to the growing interest in Caribbean filmmaking.

The title card on the big screen.

The festival, which featured a strong turnout and a wide range of sponsors, offered a glimpse into the potential of an emerging industry.

For Kevin, it was also a powerful reminder of the importance of seeing one’s culture and stories represented on screen.

“In Guyana, we don’t often get the opportunity to see ourselves on screen. But when films like Old Toy Train get screened internationally, it sends a message: our stories matter, and they’re worthy of being told,” Kevin explains. “It’s a way of showcasing Guyanese talent to the world, and it’s amazing to see how much interest is building around our work.”

With each screening, Kevin’s belief in the importance of showcasing local talent only grows stronger. “When these films get shown to a wider audience, people start to take notice of what’s happening in Guyana. They want to know more, and that opens doors for other filmmakers in the region.”

As Old Toy Train continues its journey on the international film circuit, Kevin remains hopeful for the future of Guyanese cinema. He knows there’s still much work to be done, but he’s confident that the path forward is clear.

In the end, Kevin Garbaran’s journey is a story of resilience and belief in the power of storytelling.

He and his team are proving that, with determination and heart, even the smallest of industries can rise to global prominence—and that the world is ready to hear the stories of Guyana.

The post Kevin Garbaran’s ‘Old Toy Train’ spotlights at Suriname’s film festival appeared first on News Room Guyana.

The 2025 Soca Monarch Competition delivered a night of high-energy performances and unforgettable theatrics at the Linden Bus Park in Region 10, with Kyra and Diana Chapman emerging as the victorious champions in their respective categories.

The event, held on Saturday night, attracted a packed crowd eager to support the competitors in what was a thrilling celebration of soca music and culture.

Junior Winners:
1st – Kyra
2nd – Simeon Raywaram
3rd – So Hype
Best New Comer: Tonio Gy

Senior Winners:
1st – Diana Chapman
2nd – OKC
3rd – Omaiah Hall
4th – Chavez Sital and Vintayge (tied)

Best New Comer: Chavez Sital

The junior winners.

The night kicked off with the junior competition, where vibrant performances set the tone for what was to come. Among the highlights was Justine Hamer, who began her performance of “Fit as a Fiddle” with a regal entrance, captivating the audience in a stunning golden costume.

However, it was Kyra who stole the show with her electrifying performance of “When Party Ova.” Dressed in silver and surrounded by a group of backup dancers, her use of lights and impressive vocal control set her apart from the competition, earning her first place.

Tonio Gy, the Best New Comer in the junior category, also made a strong impression, delivering a freestyle performance that had the crowd chanting “Champion.” His confident stage presence and infectious energy made him a fan favourite.

As the evening wore on, attention shifted to the senior category, where Guyanese soca legends and rising stars took centre stage. UpTop, a visually impaired artist, delivered a heartwarming performance of “Life Over Everything,” bringing the crowd to their feet. His emotional proposal to his partner on stage left a lasting impression on the audience.

Diana Chapman’s performance of “My Home” was a true spectacle. With a dramatic costume reveal and a stage transformation into a cultural runway, Diana paid homage to her roots, turning her performance into a vibrant celebration of Linden and Guyana. The crowd went wild as she passionately delivered her song, earning her the top spot.

Omaiah Hall, with her energetic performance of “Breakaway,” also impressed the judges. Her dynamic stage presence and creative use of props and choreography ensured she secured a strong third-place finish. Meanwhile, OKC closed out the night with a bang, delivering a high-octane performance of “Bashment Overload.” The crowd’s excitement reached a fever pitch as he made a dramatic entrance and delivered a freestyle addressing his second-place finish in 2024, promising that 2025 would be his year.

Honourable mentions of the night included Alpha, who showcased his energetic dance moves despite technical vocal missteps, and Karizzma, whose performance reflected her personal struggles and triumphs after a near-fatal car accident. Short Boss, with his unique “Drink and Zess” performance, brought his own brand of charisma and determination to the stage.

Kyra’s commanding presence in the junior category and Diana Chapman’s jaw-dropping cultural showcase in the senior competition solidified their victories, proving they are at the forefront of Guyana’s soca scene. OKC and Omaiah Hall also demonstrated that the future of soca in the country is in good hands, with fierce competition and unforgettable performances.

Beyond the music, the night was filled with touching moments, from UpTop’s inspiring proposal to the sheer passion and energy that all the performers brought to the stage. Despite a few technical glitches and vocal missteps, the spirit of the event was undeniable, showcasing the love for soca music and the cultural pride of Guyana.

As the 2025 Soca Monarch Competition comes to a close, one thing is clear: the future of Guyanese soca is alive and thriving, fuelled by talent, passion, and an unwavering commitment to celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the country.

The post Kyra and Diana Chapman crowned Soca Monarch Champions in electrifying 2025 competition appeared first on News Room Guyana.

The Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited, Guyana’s longest established and AM Best Rated Insurer, continues to invest in the future of Guyanese talent by backing rising sports star Zion Hickerson as he ventures on a prestigious European tour.

Zion, a well-rounded athlete, has been making waves in both football and tennis, earning a well-deserved invitation to train with Atletico Madrid Football Club in Spain and securing victories in international tennis tournaments.

Acclaiming his dedication and exceptional achievements, Hand-in-Hand has donated towards Zion’s travel, accommodation and training expenses for the upcoming Atletico Madrid Training Camp, scheduled for April 2025.

This initiative aligns with the company’s allegiance to fostering youth development and national representation on the global stage.

“As a company greatly rooted in Guyana’s progress, we are pleased to support Zion on his journey to excellence. His talent and hard work represent the spirit of perseverance, and we are assured that he will continue to make Guyana proud,” said Brandon Singh, Marketing Supervisor at Hand-in-Hand.

Hand-in-Hand Insurance extends best wishes to Zion as he takes this next step in his athletic career, inspiring other young Guyanese to go after their dreams with passion and determination.

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A shooting incident in the early hours of Saturday has led to the arrest of 41-year-old Hubert Byass, known as ‘Broomsie’.

The incident involved 29-year-old Daniel Jones, also known as ‘Duck’ and occurred around 03:12 hrs outside Staymond Food Shop in Dukestown, leaving Jones with a gunshot wound to his leg.

The violent encounter follows a longstanding dispute dating back to mid-2024, when Jones and Byass were involved in a confrontation in the Corriverton area near Munchies Bar.

According to Jones, the altercation stemmed from a misunderstanding while the two were drinking together with friends. The fight led to Byass fleeing the scene, and Jones did not report the incident to the authorities.

However, in the early hours of 15th February, Jones, accompanied by three friends, visited Staymond Food Shop in Dukestown after spending time in Corriverton. It was there that he encountered Byass, who was seen approaching with a handgun in hand.

Jones described the events as escalating quickly when Byass pointed the firearm at him and ordered him to lie on the ground. Refusing to comply, Jones told Byass to do as he pleased, prompting the suspect to fire a shot that struck Jones in his left upper leg. As Jones fled towards the public road in an attempt to escape further injury, Byass discharged two more shots, though neither hit its target.

Jones managed to reach the car he and his friends had arrived in, and they drove him to Skeldon Public Hospital, where he was initially examined by a doctor and admitted for observation. However, Jones later opted to self-discharge himself from the hospital.

In the aftermath, several individuals in the area confirmed hearing gunshots, but none could positively identify the shooter. In a twist, Byass reported to the Springlands police station shortly after the shooting and was arrested. During questioning, Byass denied any involvement in the attack on Jones, and statements have been taken from witnesses as the investigation continues.

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By 2028, the government will have constructed and operationalised 12 state-of-the-art regional hospitals, delivering world-class healthcare services to residents in Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Eight, and Nine

Speaking at the sod turning event for yet another facility, the $11.4 billion West Demerara Hospital, President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali said six of these institutions will be commissioned in the second and third quarter of 2025.

These are the Lima, De Kinderen, Enmore, Diamond, Bath and the No 75 Regional Hospitals in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five and Six respectively.

All of these institutions will have 24-hour Accident and Emergency, 24-hour labs, a suite of imaging services including ultrasound, digital X-Ray, and CT scans, along with operation theatres and more – eliminating long hours of traveling to access quality care.

“Scheduled to open in 2026 are the New Amsterdam Hospital and the Paediatric and Maternal Hospital (PMH),” President Ali further revealed Friday.

The PMH located at Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara is the first of its kind in the Caribbean region. It will offer specialised services, enhancing Guyana’s capacity to provide specialized care for mothers and children.

Alongside these major facilities, the government has also injected significant investments to improve healthcare delivery for residents residing in hinterland communities.

And according to President Ali, “the Moruca Regional Hospital, the Kato Regional Hospital and the Lethem Regional Hospital,” are scheduled to become operational by 2027. A modern hospital will also be constructed in Kamarang, Region Seven.

Meanwhile, the sod has been turned for the new West Demerara Hospital in Region Three, that will begin to serve residents by 2028. This facility is the second one to be constructed in Region Three, to cater to the region’s expanding economy.

In addition, President Ali noted that a new Stroke Rehabilitation Centre and an Oncology Centre will begin construction later this year, and set to be commissioned by 2027.

“We have 84 telemedicine sites and we’re going to expand that rapidly. We have more than 3,707 young trainees trained already in the last three years and another 3,500 undergoing training,” President Ali said, which will complement the infrastructure improvements.

The People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) Administration remains committed to delivering quality and efficient healthcare services to all Guyanese, particularly in remote areas where access remains a challenge.

In the near future, Guyana will become a major hub for modern healthcare services, due to strategic investments made by the government over the years. [DPI]

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