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ExxonMobil Guyana and its co-venturers, Hess and CNOOC, announced on Wednesday that they have reached a significant milestone of 500 million barrels of oil produced from the offshore Stabroek block.

The achievement comes less than five years after Guyana officially became an oil-producing nation, marking a rapid and industry-leading pace of development.

“Our unrivaled success in developing Guyana’s oil resources at an industry-leading pace, cost and environmental performance is built on close collaboration with the government of Guyana, as well as our co-venturers, suppliers and contractors,” said ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge.

“We remain committed to Guyana for the long-term and look forward to continue delivering for the country.”

ExxonMobil, Hess, and CNOOC have invested nearly US $55 billion to develop six government-sanctioned projects on the Stabroek block.

The first three projects – Liza Phase 1, Liza Phase 2, and Payara – are currently averaging more than 650,000 barrels of oil per day.

The companies plan to more than double production capacity to over 1.3 million barrels per day by the end of 2027, once all six projects are fully operational.

The oil production from the Stabroek block has already generated substantial revenue for the country, with more than US $5.4 billion in oil revenues and royalties paid into the Guyana Natural Resource Fund since the start of production in December 2019.

The growing oil sector is also creating significant economic opportunities, with more than 6,000 Guyanese currently employed in supporting the Stabroek block operations. This represents nearly 70% of the industry workforce.

ExxonMobil Guyana Limited operates the Stabroek block and holds a 45% interest. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. owns a 30% stake, while CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25%.

With production continuing to rise and further projects in the pipeline, ExxonMobil and its partners are confident that their ongoing investments will contribute to the sustainable growth and prosperity of Guyana for many years to come.

 

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Rejecting recent calls for a referendum on the 2016 Profit Sharing Agreement (PSA) between the Government of Guyana and ExxonMobil, Attorney General Anil Nandlall labeled the proposal a “waste of time,” noting inherent limitations and contradictions in the push for such a vote.

His comments, made during his Tuesday night talk show, bare the call’s uselessness when the practicality of the referendum and possible motives are assessed.

The demand for a referendum was raised by the Alliance for Change (AFC) and the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), two political groups that have been critical of the terms of the 2016 PSA which was signed while they were in government.

The purpose of the proposed referendum would be to gauge public opinion on whether the agreement should be renegotiated. However, the Attorney General questioned the logic of the timing and the political credentials of those pushing for the referendum.

Nandlall directed a pointed critique at the WPA, a party he argued no longer had the political strength or membership to make legitimate calls on national matters.

He also turned his attention to the AFC, accusing the party of hypocrisy. The AFC, as part of the coalition government, was instrumental in signing the 2016 PSA in the first place.

“It is the AFC who essentially signed that 2016 PSA,” Nandlall pointed out, noting that it was the AFC’s leader, Raphael Trotman, who was the responsible minister at the time.

Nandlall questioned why the AFC did not seek a referendum or public consultation before signing the agreement, suggesting that the call for a referendum now was politically motivated and out of touch with reality.

Beyond the political dynamics, Nandlall stressed the futility of seeking to alter the PSA through a referendum, given the legal framework of the agreement itself.

“The contract itself sets out in about 10 clauses that it cannot be altered unilaterally,” he explained, emphasizing that any renegotiation would require the agreement of ExxonMobil, which has made it clear it is not interested in revisiting the terms.

The Attorney General also pointed out that a referendum, in this case, would be powerless to effect any meaningful change.

Nandlall dismissed the calls for a referendum as a futile exercise, criticizing the political motivations behind the proposal and highlighting the legal and practical constraints of altering the 2016 PSA.

With both ExxonMobil and the contractual terms standing firm, he made it clear that a referendum, no matter how popular the cause, would not lead to any meaningful change.

For Nandlall, the push for a referendum is little more than a distraction from the real, complex challenges of renegotiating the oil deal.

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With a focus on hiring locals and partnering with businesses here, GPEC Energy Products Inc. has entered the Guyana market as the first distributor of engineered equipment for the evolving oil and gas sector.

The certified local content company specialises in pipeline and flow line products and distributes engineered equipment to meet industry demands.

Their services include package management procurement, engineering support, and maintenance and repairs.

A launch-to-market event was held at the Marriott Hotel on Tuesday night to mark the official launch of GPEC Energy Products Inc.

GPEC Energy Products Inc. Representative Sash Sukhdeo speaking at the launch-to-market event at the Marriott Hotel (Photo: News Room/ November 12, 2024)

In his remarks, company representative, Sash Sukhdeo said the launch signifies a revolution in the industry.

“Every single economy that goes through transformation has one thing in common: you have to collaborate.

“If you don’t collaborate and grow, something is going to break at some point.

“We are here to make a difference,” Sukhdeo affirmed.

The entry of GPEC Energy Products Inc. is said to be the first of this nature in Guyana’s oil and gas sector.

And Sukhdeo highlighted that GPEC Energy Products Inc. will be training and hiring locals to fill several positions as they embark on a journey to transform the oil and gas industry here.

Highlighting the importance of partnership, ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge applauded the company for its investment.

“It is new model. It’s a great example for the country.

“Huge recognition goes to local business entrepreneurs for the seizing the moment, taking that risk to say they want to be part of this journey.

“It’s not easy particularly when you getting into an industry you know nothing about,” Routledge said.

The vision of GPEC, he opined, should be to support the industry for the long term.

“…Guyana has exploded on the international stage and… now has the fastest-growing economy in the world. So yes, it is the right place to be, it is an exciting place to be.

“We have a responsibility to develop Guyana’s resources for the best interest of the country. For the highest value while protecting the people and environment,” Routledge said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat said the launch demonstrates the confidence local and foreign investors have in the economy and country at large.

“It is a venture that will be new to our country. We have seen many other investments in our country. I don’t think we have seen any of this nature as yet in Guyana,” Bharrat acknowledged.

He noted that the company’s goal of investing and training locals is part of the government’s vision in building Guyana as a hub in the world.

“It simply means Guyana would be seen as an even better investment destination in this part of the world.

“So it is a good time to be in Guyana. It is a good time to invest in Guyana…This is when we have the front seat to witness the build out a new, modern Guyana,” Bharrat said.

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Over the last few months, approximately 260 farmers from Canal Polder on the West Bank of Demerara benefited from infrastructural upgrades on their farms.

This was disclosed by Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha during a community engagement in Canal Number One on Tuesday.

Minister Mustapha said prior to Tuesday’s engagement, farmers made requests for assistance with upgrading the internal drainage systems on their farms to improve their cultivation.

“When we were here the last time, you said that you needed help with your internal drains. We developed a programme and sent in a machine to start the works. To date, the machine has already completed 260 farmers’ holdings, upgrading their internal drainage system. We have another 200 to complete before the project ends. I’ve asked NDIA to deploy another machine so that we can get the job done faster,” the minister explained.

Responding to issues raised about drainage and irrigation, Minister Mustapha said the pump station being constructed in the area will be completed soon. He also said proper regulation of the water supply is necessary to ensure farmers have sufficient water during the dry season and do not experience flooding during the rainy season.

“We have a lot of intake pipes in this area. When the rain falls the water comes in then flooding occurs. This area is prone to flooding. This is why we are modernizing the drainage system on the West Bank (of Demerara). We have to have proper regulation of the water supply to ensure farmers have sufficient water during the dry season, but at the same time, we have to also ensure you don’t experience flooding during the rainy season. Shortly, construction of the pump station will be completed. It has the capacity to discharge 126,000 gallons of water per minute. Furthermore, we are currently fabricating a metal door for the sluice. In a few weeks that door will be installed,” Minister Mustapha said.

Minister Mustapha also told farmers that the government is working aggressively with CARICOM to remove the non-tariff barriers so that more products can be exported around the region. He said while some farmers are still practicing traditional methods of farming, in order for Guyana to become a food production hub, farmers have to embrace technology and climate-smart practices (Ministry of Agriculture press release)

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The Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) has officially confirmed Guyana’s participation in the highly anticipated 2024 FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup tournament, which will take place from December 13-15 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The competition serves as the premier 3×3 basketball event in the Americas, drawing top teams from across North, Central and South America.

Now in its fourth edition, the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup has established itself as a crucial stepping stone towards global championships, including the FIBA 3×3 World Cup and potentially the Olympic Games.

The tournament provides a unique platform for countries to showcase their talent, build their international reputation, and vie for a place among the best in the world.

For Guyana, participation in the championship is not just about competing, but also about gaining recognition on the international basketball stage. It is a golden opportunity to elevate the nation’s standing in the rapidly growing sport of 3×3 basketball.

Guyana made its debut in the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup during its inaugural edition in 2021 and continued its participation in 2022, with both tournaments held in Miami.

Unfortunately, financial constraints prevented the team from competing in the 2023 edition in San Juan.

Nevertheless, Guyana’s performance in previous tournaments has been commendable, consistently proving themselves as formidable competitors from the Caribbean.

Shelroy Thomas in action for Guyana during the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup

In the 2022 tournament, the Guyanese squad, featuring Delroy James, Gordon James, Shelroy Thomas and Nikolai Smith, displayed exceptional skills and resilience.

The team went undefeated in the qualifying rounds, only narrowly missing out on advancing to the quarter-finals after intense, closely contested matches against Canada (17-19) and Mexico (15-16).

Guyana finished 11^th out of 17 countries, with an impressive record of three wins and two losses, cementing their status as one of the top 3×3 basketball teams in the Caribbean.

GBF President, Michael Singh, expressed his excitement about Guyana’s return to FIBA’s marquee 3×3 tournament, highlighting that the Federation is committed to fielding the strongest possible team to represent the nation, drawing from both local talent and players in the diaspora.

“The GBF is thrilled to be back in the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup,” Singh stated.

“Our focus now is on selecting the best players to compete. In our last outing, we had a great mix with two locally-based players and two from overseas, and they made us proud. This time, with the experience gained, we are confident of going further in the tournament.”

However, Singh acknowledged that corporate support will be essential to their preparations.

The GBF plans to hold a one-week training camp to bring the team together and ensure they are well-prepared.

“We are counting on the continued support of our partners,” Singh added.

“We’ve reached out to several companies, and we’re hopeful for positive responses. The Government of Guyana and the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) have always been supportive, and we trust they will once again be on board.”

Reflecting on the growth of 3×3 basketball in Guyana, Singh highlighted the GBF’s efforts over the past year to promote this dynamic sport.

“Since its inception, we’ve prioritised the promotion of 3×3 basketball across Guyana. We’re pleased to see a surge in local tournaments, which is critical for our participation in international competitions like the FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup,” he noted.

Selecting the final team will be challenging, given the depth of talent available, but Singh is confident that the best athletes will be chosen to represent the country.

3×3 basketball is one of the fastest-growing urban sports worldwide, officially recognised as an Olympic sport during the Tokyo 2020 Games.

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The Guyana Badminton Association has selected a five-member team to compete in the Suriname International tournament from November 13-17 in Paramaribo.

Carrying Guyana’s hopes of success in the championship are Akili Haynes, Priyanna Ramdhani, Nkosi Beaton, Frank Waddell and Jonathan Debidin.

The tournament will feature Singles, Doubles and Mixed Doubles events, with players from 12 countries participating at the Ring Sport Centre.

In the preliminary round on November 13, Beaton, Waddell and Debidin will compete for a spot in the main draw.

Priyanna Ramdhani and Akili Haynes are set to participate directly in the main draw, which begins on November 14, positioning themselves as key contenders in their events.

“The Guyana Badminton Association extends its best wishes to the team and expresses gratitude to the Guyana Olympic Association, Chet Bowling, Andrew Browne, Gavin Caio and Jason Stephney for their support in making the trip to this tournament possible,” the Badminton Association said in a press release.

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Press Release from the Guyana Football Federation

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is pleased to announce the official squad of the Golden Jaguars for their upcoming CONCACAF Nations League Play-In Tournament match against Barbados.

This high-stakes encounter will determine Guyana’s qualification for the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup preliminary round.

The squad, featuring a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, is set to showcase Guyana’s best as they look to secure their place on the regional stage.

Acting Head Coach, Wayne Dover expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and readiness, noting the strong line-up of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards assembled for this crucial match.

Match Details:

Date: Friday, November 15, 2024

Location: Barbados Football Federation’s Technical Centre, Wildey, St. Michael, Barbados

Kick-off Time: 19:00h

The GFF invites fans to rally behind the Golden Jaguars as they embark on this critical journey toward Gold Cup 2025 qualification.

Fans can stay connected with live updates and match coverage on the GFF’s social media platforms.

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Azaad Hassan and Naresh Alves had a dream day at the ENet Caribbean Clash of Champions.

On Sunday, the duo swept all their respective races at the South Dakota Circuit.

Hassan, competing in Sports Tuner, had a perfect day in his GuyOil-powered Toyota Sprinter, which brought him close to retaining his championship title.

He ended three points behind Ryan Rahaman, who won the championship with a tally of 167 points.

Rahaman got one second and two third places on Sunday, ensuring he copped the title.

Adrian Fernandes (137 points) was third in the standings as he managed two second places and a third on Sunday.

Naresh Alves was in top form on Sunday (PHOTO: Jeremy Jagroop)

In Street Tuner, Alves won all three chequered flags, but Raymond Seebarran’s success earlier in the season was more than enough for him to secure the title.

Alves finished with 111 points, 51 behind Seebarran, but he would walk away joyful after Sunday’s performance.

SUMMARISED RESULTS: 

Sports Tuner (1600cc)	First	Second	Third
Race One	Azaad Hassan	Ryan Rahaman	Adrian Fernandes
Race Two	Azaad Hassan	Adrian Fernandes	Ryan Rahaman
Race Three	Azaad Hassan	Adrian Fernandes	Ryan Rahaman

 

Street Tuner	First	Second	Third
Race One	Naresh Alves	Jad Rahaman	Troy Muir
Race Two	Naresh Alves	Troy Muir	Zafiro Ramirez
Race Three	Naresh Alves	Paul Jiwanram	Troy Muir

 

 FULL RESULTS: https://speedhive.mylaps.com/events/2864970

CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS: https://speedhive.mylaps.com/Organizations/121469/Championships

PHOTOS: https://www.facebook.com/newsroomgy/posts/pfbid033sEnTVyakUFob6E3Va3bWB2F2PVLCw4v8gWigYMPStUpCFzsCvCXrS8q2qGPTmAxl

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Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn on Monday said there are new measures and laws in place to help reduce the alarming number of road deaths locally.

The country lost a whopping 178 persons by road deaths in 2023, even as the figures had dropped in the preceding years.

At the launch of Road Safety Month on Monday, at the Leonora Track and Field, West Coast Demerara, he pointed out that many changes are being rolled out to help ensure that there is improvement in road safety by 2030.

The theme, “Do the right thing,” is making the exhortation for persons to be guided by the laws when behind the wheel, he pointed out.

“Many things have been done with legislation to make sure that we improve, seatbelt laws were put in place, issues relating to driving drunk, issues relating to improving the capacity and resources of the Guyana Police Force have been put in place to improve their efficiency, their presence, their awareness and their responsiveness to bad behaviour on the roads,” Benn expressed.

“One of the things which we have to point out continuously is that we adults are not giving the best examples to our children,” he charged.

“A lot of what is happening is a result of bad adult behaviour; poor examples which children see and replicate,” he added.

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Just fewer than 500 house lots will be allocated at Hauraruni, along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) Sherwyn Greaves said during a recent site visit to inspect the progress there.

The land has already been cleared and tender documents have been sent out for the access roads and internal infrastructure works. The construction of the houses will commence shortly.

The project, spanning 150 acres of land provided by the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, is being spearheaded by CHPA, and is one of three major housing development sites earmarked along the Soesdyke Highway. The other are being Silica City and Yarrowkabra.

“The land has already been cleared and we have submitted bids; we have sent out the tender documents for persons to tender…Soon thereafter we will start constructing young professional houses. The aim right now is to build the flat three-bedroom young professional houses. We have close to 500 lots here,” Greaves shared.

The tender closes in three weeks, after which the procurement process will commence. Once this is finished, infrastructure works should commence in December or by the first quarter of 2025.

The aim is to maintain the topography and to utilise the natural resources that are available, according to Greaves.

“We have seen a great interest in Silica City which shows that persons are willing to move away from the coastland and come to these areas, and these areas will no longer be remote areas with the new roads that are coming,” he observed.

“We are doing a new highway that was joining the Hero Highway that will come all the way to Soesdyke, so those infrastructures will make access to these areas much easier,” he added.

The government has allocated an estimated $900 million for the initial phase of this housing development.

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