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The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), which has already extended over $US1.5 billion in financing to Guyana, has lauded the Government’s small and medium business development bank (SME Development Bank) establishment and says it also stands ready to further partner with Guyana for the success of the entity. “It is great news, and that entity will readily fall into the category that we’ll be happy to work with. I think it’s a right step in the right direction because creating a platform that can support SMEs unconditionally will lead to more economic prosperity in the country, given that the traditional banking sector has a few limitations as to what they’re able to do directly, “ Acting Chief Operating Officer (COO) Okechukwu Ihejirika told the Guyana Times in a recent interview.
“So, such a development bank will be key to providing capital to the budding entrepreneurs in the country and also help create employment, create wealth, and improve the well-being of the people. We will be open to work with that entity once it’s fully established. Our financing commitment to small businesses is just as critical as the fact that we recognise how important they are and it is something that we take very seriously,” he added. As the bank prepares for its annual AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) aimed at strengthening economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean, where SMEs take a strong focus, Ihejirika reasoned that sometimes SMEs are small because of scale, and the forum can be a catalyst for entrepreneurs to expand, as there are numerous investors and opportunities for networking. “Now, sometimes SMEs are small because of scale. They’re just producing for a specific jurisdiction, a specific region, which, of course, we know the constraints of the consumer space in the region because of the number of people in the region. So that’s a factor. The fact that we could potentially be opened up to the African market, to talk about the highest-growing consumer market space in the world with over 1.4 billion people, will present a huge opportunity for these SMEs when they come in to participate. It doesn’t matter what they’re producing or which space they work in. The mere fact that one good contact could turn the whole equation around is a valid one,” he said. Further, he added, “What we’ve done previously in those instances where we see SMEs go into big spaces and sign new deals is that, yes, we realise that there could be the next gap, which is the ability to finance these new mega-opportunities that will come up. And that’s also where Afreximbank will come in to provide backup and support to them.” Ihejirika also stressed the importance of mobilising diaspora capital. “You have people who have their deep pockets who are looking for investment opportunities. They are the ones that we expect will be coming in to also look for opportunities to invest. We’re also seeing possibilities where joint funds can be created to address specific areas of need.” He said that for this country, it could mean leveraging its diaspora networks to attract investment into SMEs, infrastructure and climate-resilient projects.
And as the countdown begins to ACTIF2026, the COO highlighted that anticipation is building across Africa and the Caribbean, while the bank’s mandate has widened to now include Brazil, Panama, Colombia and the Dominican Republic, reflecting a broader vision. Scheduled for July 29-31 in St Kitts and Nevis, this year’s forum promises to be more than just another gathering of policymakers and investors. He said that the event is being framed as a pivotal moment in the pursuit of a unified vision of Global Africa – a concept that seeks to transform centuries of cultural and historical ties into a modern economic powerhouse.
“Global Africa does not end only within the Caricom region. There are still members of Global Africa, as we define them, living beyond the Caricom member states. That’s why the name changed to Caricom Caribbean Office and I’m happy that ambition is now being realised,” he said while noting that this expansion signals Afreximbank’s intent to consolidate a South-South trade corridor linking Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America. He said that attendees can expect high-level sessions, site visits and networking opportunities across sectors including tourism, renewable energy, financial services, creative industries, construction, health, digital innovation and agriculture. Food security and agribusiness collaboration are highlighted as particularly important areas for Africa and the Caribbean to strengthen resilience and reduce import dependency.
Since opening its Caribbean Representative Office in Barbados in 2023, Afreximbank has signed partnership agreements with 13 Caribbean nations, extended a US$1.5 billion credit facility, and introduced the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) in the region.
Other notable initiatives include financing facilities in Grenada, Barbados, Suriname and The Bahamas, support for the COVID-19 Africa Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT), and the groundbreaking of the Afreximbank African Trade Centre in Barbados – the first outside Africa. Afreximbank’s COO said that the bank’s initiatives demonstrate its commitment to strengthening Africa-Caribbean ties beyond rhetoric and noted the strides made in just three years of operation here in the region. “This is happening just within three years of operation. That’s a massive step made on our part to show that we’re not just talking; we’re doing. We talked about important projects within the group of projects that have been approved,” he said.

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Dear Editor,
On Saturday, June 20, Jags Aviation, an accredited subsidiary of the BK Group of Companies, commissioned two 19-seat HAL 228 aircraft purchased from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited of India. Based on the proven Dornier 228 platform, the HAL 228 high-wing twin turboprop aircraft are designed specifically for rugged environments like Guyana. Their Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capability, along with the ability to operate on short, unpaved hinterland airstrips , coupled with excellent passenger capacity , strong reliability, and low operating cost per seat, means that they are perfectly suited for interior operations where conditions are tough and challenging and profit margins are tight.
Acquired by one of the most devoted, authentic, successful, competent, and accomplished businessmen, Mr. Brian Tiwari, founder and executive chairman of the BK Group of Companies, in 2014 with just four aircraft, today, Jags Aviation’s fleet of aircraft has more than tripled in just over a decade. Mr. Tiwari’s bold vision to reduce costs and raise the standard of domestic and regional aviation will surely boost the aviation industry and Jags’ ongoing operations, as well as its commitment to making a significant contribution to developing the tourist industry in Guyana.
The commissioning ceremony was held at the company’s Bradley Hangar at Ogle, and the attendees included President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Vice President Dr. Bharat Jagdeo, members of the Cabinet, diplomats and other distinguished guests, members of the private sector, and Jags employees.
There were several speakers, among them Jags ‘ Accountable Manager Lieutenant Colonel Miguel Benjamin, who told the audience that the acquisition of the two HAL 228 aircraft marks a strategic step towards modern efficiency and excellence in both regional and domestic air services. He stated that such significant investments contribute directly to the government’s broader vision of positioning Guyana as a leading aviation hub in the Caribbean. Benji, as he is often called, explained that the aircraft are built for short-field performance and regional connectivity and that they are ideally suited for Guyana’s diverse and jagged terrain and remote airstrips.
With a seating capacity for 19 passengers, the aircraft offers a spacious, air-conditioned cabin, USB power ports, and an advanced avionics system, which brings a new level of comfort and efficiency to local and regional air travel.
Managing Director of Jags Aviation, Ms. Briony Tiwarie-Gabriel, explained to the audience that the new additions would enhance both domestic and regional connectivity, particularly in strengthening tourism links to the interior and other outlying areas of the country. She said that the expanded fleet of aircraft will improve accessibility to remote communities, facilitate increased passenger movement, and contribute to economic activity in the hinterland, regional markets, and Guyana’s development. Ms. Tiwarie-Gabriel explained to the audience that Jags Aviation has always placed safety first and that the two new HAL 228 aircraft have an excellent safety and reliability record.
BK Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Kyle Tiwarie remarked that the HAL 228 aircraft acquisition is a striking reminder that Jags Aviation is committed to commuter airworthiness standards and the safety of passengers. According to the CEO, the aircraft’s upgraded technology and its modern twin engines are designed to support passenger travel, increase reliability and versatility, and enhance pilot situational awareness, thus making the aircraft ideal for Guyana’s jungle environment in the hinterland regions of the country.
Kyle praised Jags employees for their efficiency and for their outstanding achievements and expertise in high maintenance standards over the years. He concluded his remarks by stating that the acquisition of the aircraft by Jags Aviation is a major step in strengthening its fleet and expanding its role in Guyana’s aviation landscape, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and expansion.
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali delivered the keynote address at the commissioning ceremony of the two new HAL 228 aircraft. He praised the Tiwarie family, especially the Executive Chairman of the BK Group of Companies, Brian Tiwarie, for acquiring the two aircraft and for their continued ingenuity and vision to invest in human development.
His Excellency commended the investment by Jags Aviation as a major step forward in modernizing the aviation industry and improving connectivity to remote hinterland communities. President Ali noted that the acquisition aligns with his vision to lower passenger costs to the hinterland and that Jags Aviation has positioned itself for new opportunities and perhaps as a leader in the aviation industry.
He highlighted his government’s 10-point plan for the aviation industry, which includes new terminals, municipal airports, modernized hinterland airstrips, eco -tourism connectivity, and a national aviation school, among others. The Head of State urged local aviation operators to invest in a regional carrier and transform Guyana into a regional aviation and maintenance hub. He officially challenged Hindustan Aeronautics to establish a commercial and maintenance hub in Guyana to serve the Caribbean and South American markets.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of a portrait to Mr. Brian Tiwarie of his parents, Seelochanie Hargobin (mother) and Hargobin Tiwarie (father), the two aircraft named after them by Ms. Briony Tiwarie-Gabriel, the Managing Director of Jags Aviation.
It is important to mention that Brian Tiwarie, also known as BK, the founder and chairman of the BK Group of Companies and the former Honorary Consul General of the Kingdom of Spain, is the recipient of several prestigious national awards, including A.A. (Cacique’s Crown of Honor), O.M.C. (Order of Roraima), and the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Civil Merit from King Felipe VI of Spain, recognizing his diplomatic service and his contributions to strengthening relations between Guyana and Spain. The event was well attended.

Sincerely,
Dr Asquith Rose

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Dear Editor,
The main duty of the opposition political parties is to keep the government on its toes positively, and not to oppose for the sake of opposing.
This duty, which is a sworn testimony to be a true representative of the people, is constitutional. This national duty does not need theatrics or a waste of energy and resources that could have been channeled in a positive direction.
It appears as though there is a competition among opposition parties based on which party can use their monotonously outdated tactics to try to embarrass the government.
The exposure of our lapses and delinquent behavior should be highlighted in a truthful manner, and suggested solutions must accompany the genuine complaints.
When it comes to the handling of our natural disasters, the government has systems in place to take care of this unwelcome phenomenon; this is catered for in the national budget.
As heartless as some of us may be, we have a natural bond that promotes our hospitality, resulting in giving a helping hand to our neighbours.
Natural disasters are unpredictable and may occur in the twinkling of an eye. This is the reason for the appropriate name of that responsible organization to be called Disaster Preparedness.
This does not mean that private individuals cannot contribute. As a matter of fact, it was private individuals who started this type of philanthropy. Remember Mr. N. Sharma and his contribution to disasters in Guyana?
The competition between the two opposition political parties to only highlight calamities that they try to blame on the government is piped over by the opposition leader, who claims to use his own funds to help the people who are suffering from national disasters.
This is an attempt to falsely highlight to the world that the government is blatantly discriminating against its own people. Distributing hampers to flood-prone Kwakwani and the promised repair of rooftops due to the squall, which unfortunately occurred in Region 2, should be done in secrecy and silence.
Governments should always highlight their services to the people, with which they have a binding social contract, so that they can promote the fulfillment of their manifesto and reveal their true purpose of service to their people.
When donations are given by a private person, this must be done in privacy and in sincerity. When it comes to people’s welfare, there is no room for highlighting people’s unfortunate dispositions for cheap political gains.
Man ‘s wants are insatiable and he is always willing to receive. This situation makes most of us very vulnerable to accept a goodie with the thinking that we have been neglected by those in government who have the means to avert the suffering.
The president, along with his entourage, promptly visited the affected areas and immediately dispensed emergency relief to the scared residents, offering them reassurance and confidence that the government has their backs.
When acts of national importance have to be executed, it is time for a coordinated approach by all and sundry. There is no room for individualistic theatrics to transform our beautiful country into a Hollywood/Bollywood circus.
The leader of the opposition should donate his whole salary to cleaning up all junkies and the homeless on the streets, and also try to curtail the increase of mental illness in Guyana.

Sincerely,
John Marcus

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…Parag urges parents to follow school schedules

The distribution of the Government of Guyana’s 2026 ‘Because We Care’ cash grant kicks off across the country today, with Education Minister Sonia Parag urging parents and guardians to attend their children’s schools according to the published schedules to ensure a smooth collection process. In a social media message on Sunday, a day ahead of the nationwide rollout, Parag reminded parents that every child enrolled in the public and private school systems is eligible to receive $85,000 this year. The package comprises a $60,000 ‘Because We Care’ cash grant, a $5,000 uniform grant, and a $20,000 transportation grant is being introduced for the first time. The Minister encouraged parents to familiarise themselves with the distribution timetable for their children’s schools and to be present on the assigned day, noting that payments will continue throughout the week. “So, parents, I hope you know the schedule for your child’s school and that you will be present there, whether it’s tomorrow or the other days, which will be Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and ensure that you show up there,” Parag said.
She said the financial assistance is intended to ease the burden on families as they prepare children for the new academic year in September. “I know that this is going to be of great benefit to you because you want your child or children to be in a position to attend school. In September, this is going to assist them with whatever they need to get back to school, to be properly prepared for school,” the Minister stated. Parag also assured parents that extensive preparations have already been completed to facilitate the nationwide exercise. According to her, she will personally visit several schools during the distribution period, while other Government Ministers will also be on the ground supporting the exercise.
“So, we’re looking forward to seeing you. I, myself, am going to be at several schools, as well as other Ministers. So, we are preparing. We have teams on the ground right now in every region, preparing to ensure that we have a seamless process,” she said. The ‘Because We Care’ Cash Grant programme was first introduced in 2014 by the then People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration as a $10,000 grant aimed at helping parents meet back-to-school expenses. The initiative was discontinued following the change in Government in 2015, before being reinstated after the PPP/C returned to office in 2020. Since its reintroduction, the programme has been expanded significantly. Last year, eligible parents received $55,000 per child, comprising a $50,000 ‘Because We Care’ grant and a $5,000 uniform grant. This year’s package represents the largest investment in the programme since its inception, with the introduction of the $20,000 transportation grant increasing the total benefit to $85,000 per child.
The Government has said approximately 206,000 children enrolled in public and private schools across Guyana are expected to benefit from this year’s programme, representing billions of dollars in direct support to households.
The initiative forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to improve access to education by helping families offset expenses associated with uniforms, transportation, books, stationery and other school-related needs ahead of the new school term.

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As part of efforts to advance primary healthcare delivery and raise awareness of healthier lifestyles, the Guyana Government will be partnering with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) to establish clinics at the centre’s various locations across the country. ISKCON has four locations namely, Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara (ECD); Crane, West Coast Demerara (WCD); Essequibo and Berbice.

This was announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali on Saturday evening at the Ratha Yatra Festival 2026, held at the West Central Mall, Leonora, WCD.
“Tonight, I want to announce a special initiative where the Government of Guyana will partner with the ISKCON movement on primary healthcare, having clinics in a box at all your facilities,” he revealed. According to the Guyanese leader, this collaboration will allow the religious organisation to “…encourage your devotees through spirituality, through education and through having regular tests and checks on the importance of good health, through spirituality, through consciousness, through education, through what to eat and how we practice our daily activities.” President Ali also recognised the work and contributions that ISKCON has made over the years to the Guyanese society. He said ISKCON has grown to become a force for good in society – a source of spiritual nourishment, an anchor of moral grounding and an instrument of practical service.
“Through its temples, its outreach, its educational activities and its consistent emphasis on peace and discipline, ISKCON has contributed meaningfully to the moral fabric of our nation,” he posited. Saturday’s Ratha Yatra Festival 2026, also known as the Festival of Chariots, celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath – an incarnation of Lord Krishna – and his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. It is believed that participating in or witnessing the Rath Yatra cleanses one’s sins and brings good fortune. The act of pulling the chariots, known as “Ratha,” is considered a highly meritorious deed. According to President Ali, the Ratha Yatra festival reminds us that sacredness is not confined within the walls of places of worship but is reflected in one’s lifestyle and actions, especially towards others and the environment in which they live.

Development & conservation
“To see the world is to see the hand of the creator, but seeing is not enough. Recognition must lead to responsibility. If the environment is sacred, then destruction of the environment is not just an ecological issue; it is also a moral issue. We, therefore, have a duty – not optional, not symbolic, but urgent-to care for what has been entrusted to us,” Ali stated. This, he pointed out, is especially important for Guyana at a time when the country is undergoing unprecedented transformation. He underscored the importance of ensuring that the environment is preserved in this process. “We must protect our forests, our rivers and our biodiversity. We must resist practices that degrade land, pollute waterways, or destroy ecosystems for short-term gain. Development and conservation must walk together. A nation that destroys its environment destroys its future. Guyana stands today at a critical moment where the choices we make will determine the legacy we leave for generations to come. We must therefore embrace the principle that progress without preservation is not progress at all.”
Equally, the head of state outlined the responsibility towards the immediate environment, that is, homes and communities.

He said a clean environment is not only an aesthetic matter but a reflection of discipline, dignity and respect for one another. “Clean surroundings reflect a clean and clear conscience. We must move beyond the idea that cleanliness is someone else’s responsibility. It is ours collectively. The environment we complain about is often the environment we create. If each household takes responsibility, if each community embraces cleanliness, if each citizen sees themselves as a steward rather than a spectator, then transformation becomes possible,” he stated.

Devotion through action
This consciousness, President Ali added, is what the Ratha Yatra Festival celebrates. He noted that this is more than a festival but a reminder of how life should be lived-with purpose, guided by devotion and one that recognises the sacred in all beings and places. “At the heart of ISKCON’s message, and indeed at the heart of Ratha Yatra itself, is devotion expressed through action. The chariot does not move by itself; it moves because people come together, pull together, and participate together. That is a powerful moral metaphor. It tells us that society advances when people are willing to act in unity, guided by compassion and shared purpose,” he stated. To this end, President Ali urged devotees to carry this message into their homes, communities and daily lives. “We need that same spirit. We need compassion that is not occasional but consistent. We need kindness that is not selective but universal. We need service that is not symbolic but sincere because ultimately a better world is built act by act, heart by heart… May this Ratha Yatra inspire us to live with greater compassion, greater awareness and greater responsibility toward each other and the world we share,” the Guyanese leader noted.

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By: Dr Tariq Jagnarine
Fam Med, Endocrinology/ Diabetes

Almost everyone has experienced itchy skin at some point. Whether it is caused by a mosquito bite, dry weather, or an allergic reaction, itching is usually temporary and harmless. However, when itching becomes persistent, widespread, or occurs without an obvious rash, it may be your body’s way of signalling that something more serious is happening.
As a family physician, I have cared for many patients who initially sought help for persistent itching, only to discover an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid disorders, or iron deficiency. This is why persistent itching should never be ignored, especially when it lasts for several weeks or interferes with daily life.

What Is Itching?
Itching, medically known as pruritus, is an unpleasant sensation that triggers the urge to scratch. While scratching may provide temporary relief, it often worsens skin irritation and can lead to infections, scarring, and further inflammation.
Itching can affect one small area of the body or become widespread, involving the entire skin surface.

Common Causes of Itchy Skin
Dry Skin (Xerosis)
Dry skin is one of the most common causes of itching, particularly in older adults. Frequent bathing with hot water, harsh soaps, air conditioning, and low humidity can strip the skin of its natural oils.

Allergic Reactions
Allergies to soaps, detergents, fragrances, cosmetics, medications, foods, or plants may cause itching accompanied by redness or a rash.

Skin Conditions
Several skin disorders commonly present with itching, including:
• Eczema
(atopic dermatitis)
• Psoriasis
• Contact dermatitis
• Urticaria (hives)
• Scabies
• Fungal infections
These conditions often require specific treatment and should not be self-diagnosed.

When Itching May Be a Sign of Internal Disease
Sometimes the skin appears normal, yet the itching persists. This may indicate an underlying medical condition.

Chronic Kidney Disease
Persistent generalized itching is common in people with advanced kidney disease, especially those receiving dialysis. Waste products that accumulate in the blood may contribute to this symptom.

Liver Disease
Diseases affecting the liver or bile ducts may cause severe itching, sometimes before jaundice develops. This occurs because bile salts accumulate in the skin.

Diabetes
High blood sugar levels can cause dry skin, poor circulation, and nerve damage, all of which may contribute to itching.

Thyroid Disorders
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism may cause changes in the skin that lead to persistent itching.

Iron Deficiency
Low iron levels may present with generalized itching even before anemia becomes severe.

Blood Disorders and Cancer
Although less common, persistent unexplained itching can occasionally be associated with blood disorders such as lymphoma or polycythemia vera. This is why long-standing itching without an obvious cause should be medically evaluated.

Medications Can Also Cause Itching
Certain medications may trigger itching as a side effect, including:
• Some antibiotics
• Opioid pain medications
• Aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs
• Blood pressure medications
Never stop a prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek medical attention if itching:
• Lasts longer than two weeks
• Is severe enough to disturb sleep
• Occurs without a visible rash
• Is associated with weight loss, fever, or night sweats
• Is accompanied by yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Does not improve with basic skin care
These symptoms may require blood tests or further investigation.

How Can You Relieve Itching?
Simple measures often help relieve mild itching:
• Use fragrance-free moisturizers daily.
• Avoid hot showers and use lukewarm water.
• Choose mild, fragrance-free soaps.
• Wear loose cotton clothing.
• Stay well hydrated.
• Keep your home cool when possible.
• Avoid scratching, as it can damage the skin and increase the risk of infection.
For persistent symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend medicated creams, antihistamines, or treatment directed at the underlying cause.
One of the most important lessons I have learned in medicine is that symptoms should never be dismissed simply because they appear minor. Persistent itching may seem like a small inconvenience, but I have seen it become the first clue to serious illnesses that otherwise had no obvious symptoms. Medicine is about listening, not only to our patients but also to what the body is trying to communicate. Sometimes the skin speaks before blood tests do.
For this reason, I encourage patients not to ignore persistent itching. Seeking medical advice early may lead to the diagnosis of a condition that is far easier to treat in its early stages.
Not every itch is a cause for concern, but persistent or unexplained itching deserves attention.
Your skin is one of the body’s earliest warning systems. When itching continues despite moisturizers or over-the-counter treatments, it may be time to look beneath the surface.
Remember, treating the itch is important, but identifying the cause is even more important.
If your skin keeps sending the same message, don’t ignore it.

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– offers to provide support to ensure development goals met

The Government of Guyana has made agriculture the beating heart of its diversification strategy, and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) will hold hands with President Irfaan Ali as he works to make this vision a reality, according to Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim.

“His Excellency President Irfaan Ali is very passionate about agriculture. He’s not only leading the discussion within Guyana, but also in CARICOM. What I applaud about his thinking is how he sees Guyana within a nexus of linking with Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay and joining the club of big food exporters…” Dr. Ibrahim told the Guyana Times in an interview.
“I am very impressed to see how Guyana is working towards the initiative of more food security for sovereignty and also how agriculture will be part of this economy, not only an oil-based economy but where you see clear evidence of the investments being made across sectors. This will be very important in terms of how you manage risk and also have a diversified economy; an economy that responds to and benefits the people, the livelihoods of the people. And as I also highlighted, the President is thinking about people, people first, the farmers first, and where he can provide the support for removing barriers, engaging the private sector, and strengthening this cooperation for linking the markets and branding the products of Guyana,” he added.
The IICA Director General posited that government’s stance actions on positioning agriculture as integral to this country’s economic diversification is not just rhetoric but a systemic approach that positions Guyana as both a breadbasket for CARICOM and a global player in agri-food systems.
He pointed out that the center of Guyana’s agricultural policy is the 25 by 2025 plus 5 initiatives, aimed at reducing CARICOM’s food import bill by 25% by 2030 and that IICA has been a key partner in this effort, supporting science, technology, and innovation to boost productivity in rice, beans, and other staples.
“We have bio-fortified crops that are nutrient-enriched to overcome deficiencies – zinc-enriched rice and iron-enriched beans, for example. But also, we are promoting support towards agro-tourism,” he said, while noting that the dual focus of nutrition-smart agriculture and tourism integration reflects Guyana’s ambition to make farming not just about yields but about livelihoods, culture, and health.

Agriculture Policy
This country’s agricultural policy, he reasoned, is not inward-looking as it is designed to integrate with CARICOM and beyond. “Ministers are very receptive. They’ve collectively made a decision towards food sovereignty. Trinidad, for example, sees cooperation with Guyana in soybean production and refining oil. Fertilizer production is another area where Guyana and Trinidad can step up,” Dr. Ibrahim said and honed in that this regionalism is central to Guyana’s vision where agriculture is a collective shield against global vulnerabilities.
Perhaps the most ambitious project here in Guyana, Dr. Ibrahim posited is the Technology and Innovation Hub, launched in collaboration with Brazil’s renowned research institute Embrapa and for which President Ali has championed. “Embrapa generated cutting-edge technologies that transformed marginal soils in Brazil’s Cerrado region. These technologies, biotechnology, gene editing, crop-livestock integration, are directly applicable to Guyana and CARICOM,” he said as he explained that the hub will train young scientists in drones, AI, and precision agriculture, ensuring that the next generation sees farming as a prestigious, science-driven career.
Earlier this month, Brazil’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Cleber Soares, joined Guyana’s Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha and the IICA Director General alongside IICA’s Guyana Representative Wilmott Garnett, to sign a Letter of Intent launching EMBRAPA.
Then IICA and government had explained that the hub is envisioned as a center of excellence for innovation, technology transfer, and agricultural training, aimed at making tangible contributions to increasing the productivity and resilience of regional agrifood systems. It will provide researchers and farmers with easier access to climate-smart planting materials, improved seed varieties, and innovative agricultural technologies.

Innovative agriculture
The initiative makes agriculture smarter and more innovative, placing farmers at the centre of knowledge and technology transfer by providing access to information and practices that have been tested and proven in other settings.
“We are in a tropical region, a tropicalised region in which climate change is a threat, with rising temperatures, increased stress, heat, and changes in water distribution. EMBRAPA has laboratories and tools that are very advanced, and it has developed methodologies that are very applicable. EMBRAPA can make the poorest soil produce large quantities of soybeans as well as corn in a low-input mixed-system approach,” Ibrahim had said at the launch.
He also noted that while there has been significant advancement in innovation and technology, discussions with other officials have focused on facilitating opportunities for young scientists from Guyana and the Caribbean region to receive training at EMBRAPA. He added that the initiative also aims to support the adoption of these technologies within the region, enabling complementary practices to be scaled up effectively. He further emphasised the need to explore blended finance mechanisms to assist farmers in overcoming existing challenges.
For his part, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha had noted that the hub allows Guyana’s agriculture sector to transcend borders and strengthen key areas, including regional research networks and collaborative partnerships.
“Hosting this hub is a natural extension of that leadership. Our institutions, such as the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), are ready to collaborate as we seek to validate technologies for tropical crops and livestock, strengthen climate-smart agriculture, improve natural resources management, enhance regional research networks, and build a pipeline of innovations ready for scaling across CARICOM.”
Whilst speaking, he underlined that the Private Sector will also be a key beneficiary and partner in this initiative, stating that the technologies validated through the Hub will enable agribusiness expansion, improve productivity, and unlock new investment opportunities across the region.”
Looking ahead, he outlined plans for Brazilian and Guyanese technical teams to begin preparatory arrangements during the second half of this year. He also underscored the importance of the hub to Guyana and its partners, particularly in advancing climate resilience and sustainable agricultural development.

Building a sustainable agri-economy
During the interview, Ibrahim said that Guyana’s agricultural diversification extends to livestock and fertilizer production. And with global supply chains disrupted, this country is positioning itself as a regional supplier. “We see bio inputs, bio pesticides, bio fertilizers as key for sustainable development. Guyana is growing soybean and corn, integrating livestock systems, dairy, pigs, poultry, with circular economies to produce bio fertilizers,” he said.
The government’s plan to build a fertilizer plant, linked to its gas-to-energy project, is also seen as a strategic move to secure regional food production and he pointed to the alliance with Brazil as a start. “Brazil has a keen interest in teaming with Guyana to have a short supply chain for fertilizers. Having connectivity in-house within the Caribbean secures food production for the world.”
Agriculture he noted is not confined to fields and he is pleased to see President Ali always emphasizing that its part of Guyana’s cultural identity.
Like the President, IICA sees agro-tourism as a way to connect small family farms with visitors. “We provide support to farmers in planning production systems, but also training people to manage tourists; understanding Guyana’s culinary diets, integrating farming with gastronomy, as Peruvians have done.”
This is agriculture as experience where tourists tasting cassava bread in Rupununi, learning about rice cultivation in Essequibo, and seeing how Guyanese diets are rooted in farming systems can be interwoven as part of the economic diversification strategy.
“We’re working in agritourism. As you can see, many Guyanese but also foreigners who are coming back into Guyana to visit and these are good opportunities …,” he said.
Overall, the ICCA head commended President Ali’s “farmers first, people first” and was quick to highlight that his organization will continue to work with Guyana where policies are shown to be translated into concrete projects such as the innovation hub, fertilizer plants biodiversity alliances, and inclusive farming programs. “Guyana is not only feeding itself; it is positioning itself as a leader in global food systems,” he said.

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Jamaican American physician and community leader Dr. Dahlia A. Blake has been re-elected for a second term as President of The Opera Society, continuing her leadership of an organization that has supported opera and arts education in South Florida for nearly five decades.

The announcement was made during The Opera Society’s Annual Spring Meeting and Installation Ceremony on May 18, 2026, held at Best Seller Wine Shop and Bar in Wilton Manors. The event brought together members, supporters, and guests to review the organization’s accomplishments and install its executive board for the coming year.

Dr. Blake will serve alongside a returning leadership team that includes Shannon Curran as Vice President of Ways and Means, Claire Crawford as Vice President of Membership, Bonnie Pearl as Vice President of Public Relations, Matthew Dreger as Treasurer, Pam Flaherty as Corresponding Secretary, and Rakesh Khilani as Recording Secretary.

Strong Year for Membership and Fundraising

The re-election follows a year of growth and fundraising success for The Opera Society, an affiliate of Florida Grand Opera.

According to information shared at the annual meeting, membership increased by 37 percent during the past year. The organization also hosted nine events, including an inaugural summer mixer, while expanding awareness through community outreach, publications, radio advertising, Eventbrite listings, and the Broward Arts Council calendar.

Fundraising remained a major focus. During the year, The Opera Society contributed $225,000 to Florida Grand Opera. The contribution was presented during the annual meeting and will help support the opera company’s artistic and educational programs.

The organization also recognized the role of board members and supporters who helped secure major donations that contributed to the fundraising total.

A Long History of Supporting the Arts

Founded in 1978, The Opera Society was established to raise funds for opera programs in South Florida. Over the years, it has developed a reputation for combining fundraising with community engagement through educational, cultural, and social events.

The organization continues to host activities throughout Broward County aimed at promoting appreciation for opera while creating opportunities for residents to connect through music and the arts.

Its mission extends beyond fundraising. The group also works to increase public access to cultural experiences and support programs that introduce new audiences to opera.

Leadership Beyond the Arts

While Dr. Blake is known for her work in the arts community, she is also widely recognized for her accomplishments in medicine and public service.

She is a board-certified physician specializing in critical care medicine, pulmonary disease, sleep medicine, and internal medicine. Her medical training includes earning a degree from Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, followed by postgraduate training at Staten Island University Hospital and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.

In South Florida, she serves as an attending physician and educator within the Memorial Healthcare System.

Dr. Blake has also maintained strong ties to Jamaica through healthcare and philanthropic initiatives. She serves in leadership roles within the Jamaican diaspora community and has participated in medical missions aimed at improving healthcare access on the island.

Following the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica, Dr. Blake helped coordinate relief and medical support efforts that delivered supplies and assistance to affected communities. The mission included medical equipment, healthcare supplies, food, and other essential items destined for areas facing significant challenges after the storm.

Her contributions to healthcare and community service earned her the Governor General of Jamaica Achievement Award Recognizing Excellence in 2024.

Looking Ahead to a Second Term

With a second term now underway, Dr. Blake and the executive board will seek to build on the organization’s recent gains in membership, fundraising, and community engagement.

The Opera Society enters the new year with a stable leadership team, increased member participation, and continued support for Florida Grand Opera. The organization is expected to continue hosting events that bring together arts supporters while raising funds for cultural and educational programs across South Florida.

For supporters of both the arts and community service, Dr. Blake’s re-election represents continuity in leadership at a time when cultural organizations continue to rely on strong volunteer engagement and philanthropic support.

As The Opera Society approaches another year of programming, its focus remains on sustaining opera in South Florida while expanding opportunities for audiences to experience and support the performing arts.