October 11th, 2024

 Fact of the day: Did you know that ants don’t have lungs? They instead have 10 pairs of openings called spiracles along the side of their body. These spiracles are connected to finer branches of tubes; these are called trachea. Each branch of trachea spread throughout the body of the ant and are connected to various cul-de-sacs. This is how oxygen travels through their bodies.

Elton Dharry Moves Closer to World Title Shot

Elton Dharry, at 38 years old, is ranked fourth in the WBA super-flyweight division, bringing him closer to another shot at a world title after his 2019 loss. His recent victory against Dexter Marques and undefeated streak in the last four fights mark a significant achievement in his career, with national figures expressing support for his potential title bout.

Sol Guyana Launches Mobil-Branded Fuel Stations with Superior Performance

Sol Guyana launched its first Mobil-branded fuel station, promising improved fuel efficiency and engine protection with advanced Mobil Synergy fuels. A total of nine new stations are set to follow, bringing enhanced customer safety and performance. This partnership with ExxonMobil represents a significant development for the country's fuel industry.

New Guyana Defence Force Headquarters to Strengthen Military Operations

President Irfaan Ali announced plans for a new GDF headquarters to enhance operational efficiency and national security. This facility is part of broader military modernization efforts, reflecting the GDF’s growing role in both defense and regional humanitarian aid. Brigadier Omar Khan will lead the project, aiming to boost morale and ensure the force can meet evolving challenges.

New Fellowship Practical Instruction Centre Opens to Boost Workforce Skills

A $1.2 million vocational training center was opened in Demerara to equip up to 400 students with skills in technical areas like electrical work. This center is part of a larger initiative to improve employability across the country, funded by the Caribbean Development Bank. It marks a significant step towards preparing Guyana’s workforce for modern job demands.

Government to Convert 40,000 Acres for Agricultural Development in Upper Corentyne

The government plans to invest $2 billion to develop 40,000 acres in Upper Corentyne for agricultural use, focusing on shrimp, hemp, and sugarcane. The initiative includes modernizing farming practices, with a tissue culture lab and new sugarcane varieties expected to double yields. This effort aims to revitalize agriculture and create opportunities for former sugarcane workers.

6,000 Berbicians Receive Small Business Grants

6,000 Berbicians received small business grants from the government to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses. This initiative, part of the government's economic empowerment strategy, is designed to create jobs and stimulate growth across all demographics. High-ranking officials supported the initiative, underscoring its broad inclusivity.

Hurricane Milton Causes Damage but Avoids Catastrophic Flooding

Hurricane Milton hit Siesta Key, Florida, causing extensive property damage and power outages for over three million people. The storm, which made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane, generated tornadoes and severe winds but spared areas like Tampa Bay from catastrophic flooding. Four deaths were reported in St. Lucie County, and emergency crews are still assessing the damage while recovery efforts are underway.

Guyanese Golfers to Compete in Prestigious Suriname Open

Twelve golfers from Guyana’s Lusignan Golf Club are set to compete in the DSB Golfclub Paramaribo Invitational in Suriname on October 12-13, 2024. The team includes prominent players such as Orson Ferguson, Avinash Persaud, and Brian Hackett. Guyana has a strong history of competitive participation in the tournament, with past successes in multiple categories.

Brook and Root Shatter Records in Multan Test Victory

Harry Brook scored a historic 317 and Joe Root contributed 262, as England dominated Pakistan in the Multan Test. The duo's partnership of 454 runs was one of the highest in cricket history, leading England to a score of 823-7 declared. Despite Pakistan’s strong first-innings score of 556, England’s bowlers dismantled their opposition, leaving Pakistan at 152-6 and heading toward an innings defeat.

President Ali Announces $200,000 Cash Grant for Every Household

Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced a one-off cash grant of $200,000 for each household in the country, with distribution starting immediately. This initiative, aimed at reducing income disparities and providing more disposable income to citizens, will inject $60 billion into the economy.

Public Sector Minimum Wage to Reach $100,000 by 2025

President Ali has pledged to raise the minimum wage for public sector workers to $100,000 per month by 2025. This wage increase is part of broader government efforts to reduce societal inequities and comes alongside other salary adjustments for different categories of public workers.

Guyana Digital School to Incorporate AI for Learning

President Ali unveiled plans for Guyana’s first-ever digital school, which will integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support learning across nursery to Grade 12. The digital platform will also focus on subjects such as nursing, entrepreneurship, and accounting, with the aim of providing CARICOM citizens access to this innovative educational initiative.

University of Guyana to Offer Free Tuition from January 2025

President Ali confirmed that starting January 2025, university education will be free at the University of Guyana, benefiting around 11,000 students. This move will cost the government $8 billion annually and follows the earlier writing off of $203.7 million in student loans.

Avianca to Launch Direct Flights Between Georgetown and Bogotá

Avianca announced a new direct route between Georgetown, Guyana, and Bogotá, Colombia, beginning December 11, 2024. With two weekly flights, this new connection aims to provide over 700 seats per week, offering travelers a convenient link between the two capitals.

$10 Billion Allocated to Support Pensioners Through NIS

The Guyanese government has earmarked $10 billion to support pensioners, particularly those who did not meet the required contributions for National Insurance Scheme (NIS) benefits. This intervention is expected to help improve the quality of life for elderly citizens and will be outlined further in the 2025 National Budget.

Plans for International Airport in Lethem and Expansion at CJIA

President Ali announced the government’s exploration of constructing an international airport in Lethem, Region Nine, and adding a second terminal at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). These initiatives aim to enhance Guyana’s tourism infrastructure and support the increasing influx of visitors to the country.

Young Lawyer’s Journey from Small Village to Courtroom Success

Sufeena Supaul, a 23-year-old from Auchlyne, Berbice, has officially been admitted to the bar. Her journey, fueled by hard work and family support, culminated in her joining the legal profession after years of academic excellence at the University of Guyana and Hugh Wooding Law School. She aims to contribute meaningfully to the legal community and uphold the highest ethical standards.

Decomposed Body Discovered in Eccles Canal

The body of a man was found in a canal at Eccles, East Bank Demerara. The police reported that the body was discovered with no visible signs of violence. Investigations are ongoing.

Jagdeo Defends Government’s Forward-Looking Development Strategy

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo defended the government’s development strategy after President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s comprehensive parliamentary speech. Jagdeo emphasized that the government’s approach focuses on sustainable, long-term investments rather than quick fixes. Highlighting the opposition's criticism, Jagdeo argued that the government is prioritizing infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic transformation to ensure the country’s prosperity. Jagdeo stated that these initiatives, including building schools, hospitals, and power plants, are critical to securing the future of Guyana’s next generations.

West Indies Women Keep Semi-Final Hopes Alive with Win Over Bangladesh

The West Indies Women's cricket team kept their T20 World Cup semi-final hopes alive with a convincing eight-wicket victory over Bangladesh. Captain Hayley Matthews led the way with 34 runs off 22 balls, while Karishma Ramharack’s impressive 4-17 bowling performance crippled Bangladesh's batting. West Indies chased down the modest target of 104 runs with 7.1 overs to spare. This win positions West Indies at the top of Group B, tied with South Africa and England. The team will need to win their final group match against England to secure a spot in the semi-finals.

Renters and Legitimate Households to Receive $200,000 Grant, Excludes Non-Nationals

Following President Dr. Irfaan Ali's announcement of a one-off $200,000 cash grant for every household in Guyana, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo clarified eligibility criteria. The government will rely on utility data to determine eligible households, focusing on over 200,000 households connected to the national power grid. Jagdeo noted that the process will ensure transparency, with special scrutiny to prevent misuse. Renters will also be eligible, but non-nationals are excluded from the grant. The Auditor General’s office will monitor the process to ensure accountability.

Guyana’s Public Service Modernization as Part of ‘Digital Guyana’ Vision

President Dr. Irfaan Ali outlined plans to modernize public services as part of his government’s ‘Digital Guyana’ strategy during a parliamentary session. He discussed the rollout of biometric ID cards and the digitalization of key services, including the implementation of paperless airport systems. The President also emphasized the introduction of Guyana’s first-ever digital school and the expansion of 5G technology and ICT infrastructure across the country. Ali's goal is to enhance service accessibility, improve efficiency, and position Guyana as a leader in digital transformation in the region.

False Kidnapping Claims at Amelia’s Ward Primary School

Police have confirmed that recent claims of a kidnapping attempt at Amelia’s Ward Primary School were false. A teacher had reported that a man in a silver-grey vehicle tried to lure students into his car. However, after a thorough investigation, authorities found no evidence to support the allegations. The driver in question was only there to pick up his children, and no students, parents, or staff corroborated the teacher's claims. Police are urging the public to avoid spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary alarm.

President Ali Urges Accountability as GPL Overhauls Power Infrastructure

President Dr. Irfaan Ali addressed Parliament, calling for accountability from Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) management as the government invests heavily in overhauling the power sector. The administration has committed over $28.1 billion (approximately $137 million USD) to modernize the grid, with new substations, smart grid technology, and renewable energy projects on the horizon. Ali detailed the government's efforts to meet rising electricity demand and improve reliability, while stressing that despite the sharp rise in fuel prices, tariffs have not increased since 2020.