October 17th, 2024

 Fact of the day: Did you know that there’s a fruit that taste like chocolate pudding? Native to Central and South America, the “black sapote” is a fruit that when ripe, or even overripened and turning brown, has a pudding-like texture and while some say tastes like chocolate, has honey, caramel and date-like tones in its flavor. Many say it is best consumed when it looks like it’s past its prime, that is, entirely browned on the outside. The fruit is native to Mexico, Central America and Columbia.

Humor of the day:

1. Two fish are in a tank. One turns to the other and says, “Any idea how to drive this thing?”

2. There are only two things I don't eat for breakfast. Lunch and dinner.

3. What's the best way to make a bandstand? Take away their chairs.

4. What’s red and bad for your teeth? A brick.

Energy & Manufacturing

Guyana Plans Mega Increase in Energy Production

Guyana is gearing up for a significant increase in energy production, with plans to expand from just over 200 megawatts (MW) to 3,000 MW by the end of the decade, according to Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud. Speaking at the La Jolla Energy Conference in San Diego, Persaud outlined the country’s strategy to harness natural gas, hydropower, and solar energy to meet future energy demands. Key projects include the transformative Gas to Energy Project, a small oil refinery, and the Amaila Falls Hydro Project.

The government aims to supply 70% of its energy needs through renewable sources by 2030 while reducing its reliance on imported fossil fuels. Guyana’s energy strategy is part of a broader effort to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, guided by the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

Beyond Amaila Falls: Guyana Pursues Second Hydropower Project

Guyana is seriously considering the development of a second hydropower project, in addition to the 165 MW Amaila Falls project, according to Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud. Speaking at the La Jolla Energy Conference in San Diego, Persaud confirmed that the second project aims to generate 370 MW of power by 2035, followed by an additional 150 MW by 2040.

The Amaila Falls project, first identified in 1976, has faced delays but remains a priority under the government’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030. A site for the second hydropower project will be identified in 2025, with the goal of contributing to Guyana’s growing energy demand by 2030. Smaller hydropower projects in the hinterland are already being developed in Moco Moco, Kato, and Kumu.

Guyana’s broader energy plan includes a mix of hydropower, solar energy, and natural gas, with a goal to increase energy production from just over 200 MW to 3,000 MW by the end of the decade.

Business & Economy

Lower Electricity Costs Expected to Boost Manufacturing Sector’s Growth

The President of the Guyana Marketing and Services Association (GMSA), Ramsey Ali, has emphasized the importance of reliable and high-quality electricity to ensure the continued growth of Guyana’s manufacturing sector. Speaking at the International Business Conference (IBC) in Georgetown, Ali praised the government's commitment to reduce electricity costs by fifty percent next year.

While this reduction is promising for manufacturers, Ali highlighted the need for improvements in the quality of energy supplied, noting that many companies operate sensitive equipment that can be affected by unstable power. Recent investments in upgrading the energy grid have given manufacturers confidence to expand operations and bring high-tech equipment to the country.

The IBC event, hosted at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, brought together international investors and businesses. Nearly half of this year's speakers hail from global markets, showcasing the potential for partnerships across sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and logistics. The conference is designed to encourage international collaboration and improve the ease of doing business in both Guyana and Suriname. With over 1,000 trade visitors expected, it’s a clear sign of the region's growing importance on the global stage.

Guyanese Manufacturers See Record Profits as Consumption Booms

At the inaugural International Business Conference (IBC), Ramsay Ali, President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) and the Caribbean Manufacturers Association (CMA), highlighted the remarkable growth in Guyana’s business sector, driven by a surge in local consumption. As both the local population and incomes increase, more consumers are spending on goods, particularly those produced locally. This has significantly boosted the manufacturing industry, benefitting businesses of all sizes, from food producers to those making construction materials.

Ali noted that this surge in demand has created a thriving market for local manufacturers, but it has also posed a challenge for businesses struggling with labor shortages. The shortage of skilled and semi-skilled workers has become a pressing issue, making it difficult for companies to meet production demands and expand operations. Ali stressed the need for greater investment in education and training to equip the workforce with the technical skills required for the manufacturing sector.

“The future of our manufacturing sector depends on addressing the labor shortage,” Ali stated, calling for efforts to enhance the skillset of the local workforce to sustain the current growth trajectory.

U.S. Pushes Oil Investments While European Diplomats Advocate for Green Transition in Guyana

The International Business Conference in Georgetown brought differing perspectives on Guyana's economic future, particularly regarding its oil sector. U.S. Ambassador Nicole Theriot emphasized the importance of oil in Guyana’s transformation and encouraged continued American investment in the sector. She highlighted the U.S. as the largest foreign investor, involved in both exploration and workforce development.

In contrast, British High Commissioner Jane Miller and EU Head of Delegation Rene Van Nes advocated for a shift towards renewable energy and sustainable development. Both diplomats emphasized their countries' focus on investing in agriculture, infrastructure, and climate resilience, rather than oil and gas. Van Nes also pushed for greater attention to renewable energy as part of the EU’s global gateway initiative.

The discussions reflect the broader debate on balancing Guyana’s booming oil sector with environmental concerns. President Dr. Irfaan Ali reaffirmed the country’s stance on maintaining a balance between exploiting natural resources and protecting the environment.

New Insurance and Medical Concierge Service Launched in Guyana by Copassa Group

Copassa Group, an independent insurance agency with over 40 years of experience, has officially launched its services in Guyana. During the International Business Conference, founder Lida Guichard Henning announced the company’s expansion into the local market, offering tailored health and life insurance solutions with a focus on medical concierge services.

Henning explained that Copassa’s concierge service aims to assist individuals in navigating complex medical crises, especially when treatment is required abroad. Drawing from her experience across the Caribbean, Latin America, and the U.S., Henning highlighted the importance of helping Guyanese access necessary medical care in foreign territories while also preparing for future healthcare needs.

Copassa’s services are designed to bridge healthcare gaps by providing financial security for families and ensuring that clients receive quality care, whether domestically or internationally. Henning also expressed optimism about Guyana’s potential as a medical tourism destination as its healthcare system develops.

Scotiabank Named Guyana’s Best Digital Bank and Wins Best Mobile Banking App Award

Scotiabank has been awarded Guyana’s Best Consumer Digital Bank 2024 by Global Finance (New York), along with the title of Best Mobile Banking App in the country. The awards recognize financial institutions for their innovative digital banking solutions and customer migration to digital platforms.

Nafeeza Gaffoor, Country Manager of Scotiabank Guyana, expressed pride in the bank's digital achievements, citing the success of the newly introduced Scotia Caribbean App, which has made banking more secure, fast, and convenient. The app has also been recognized for its enhanced security features and accessibility.

Scotiabank’s digital excellence extends across the Caribbean, earning similar awards in countries such as Bahamas, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, and Barbados.

Government & Policy

Guyana Aims for Sustainable Growth, Not Regional Dominance, Says President Ali

During the inaugural International Business Conference (IBC) held in Georgetown, President Dr. Irfaan Ali outlined Guyana's strategic focus on long-term sustainable growth rather than becoming a regional powerhouse. Addressing an audience of international investors and business leaders, President Ali stressed the importance of regional cooperation, stating that no country can succeed in isolation in today’s interconnected global economy.

“Our goal is to build long-term, sustainable growth, positioning ourselves as a competitive partner in this region and beyond,” Ali said, adding that collaboration is crucial for the success of the region as a whole.

President Ali highlighted key initiatives such as Guyana’s plans to establish a training hub for deep-water offshore industries, including oil and gas. With an investment of over one billion dollars, the hub will house the world’s largest Full-Scale Floating Offshore Simulator (FESO) to enhance workforce readiness for deep-water exploration. The project is expected to strengthen Guyana’s leadership in the energy sector, while promoting regional human resource development.

In his speech, the President also underscored the importance of integrating energy infrastructures across the region, particularly with neighboring countries like Brazil, Venezuela, and Suriname. Guyana’s growing renewable energy capacity, he noted, presents an opportunity to build a sustainable energy network that could lower costs for both industries and consumers.

Additionally, President Ali pointed to ongoing projects to improve transportation and logistics, such as the construction of a bridge over the Corentyne River and the development of deep-water ports. These advancements will enhance regional trade and investment, boosting the manufacturing and industrial capabilities of the wider South American market, which serves over 400 million people.

Ali concluded his remarks by reiterating the importance of regional cooperation, emphasizing that the Caribbean and Latin America, with a collective GDP of over five trillion dollars, have the potential to become a significant global player through strategic collaboration.

Gov’t Announces $100K Grant for Every Citizen Aged 18 and Above

In response to feedback from the public, President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced a revised cash grant initiative that will provide $100,000 to every citizen aged 18 and older. This new measure replaces the previous plan, which proposed a $200,000 grant per household but faced challenges in implementation, including difficulties verifying households and distributing the funds fairly.

The revised plan simplifies the process by offering the grant to individuals rather than households, ensuring broader and more equitable access. Citizens will be eligible by presenting a national identification card or valid passport. The government expects this adjustment to minimize family conflicts and administrative burdens, making the process easier to implement.

Dr. Ali emphasized that this initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to ensuring all citizens benefit from Guyana’s economic growth.

Crime & Law Enforcement

Police Discover Illegal Firearm in Abandoned Car at Known Drugs Block

In the early hours of Wednesday morning, police officers on routine patrol stumbled upon a grey Wagon (registration #PAG 3160) parked at a well-known “drugs block” along Norton Street and Mandela Avenue. Suspiciously, a group of men near the vehicle quickly dispersed upon noticing the police, leaving the car unattended.

Officers found the car keys lying near the vehicle, unlocked it, and conducted a search. Inside the glove compartment, they discovered a .40-caliber pistol with a magazine and 11 rounds of ammunition. The car’s registration documents identified the owner as Melissa Cox of Norton Street, Lodge, while a driver’s license belonging to Patrick Kireem Sanmoogan was also found.

Neither Melissa nor Patrick could be located, and the search for both individuals is ongoing.

Police Issue Wanted Bulletin for Suspect in Abduction and Robbery of Aurora Employee

Police have issued a wanted bulletin for 29-year-old Okeemo Arak Brummell of Bel Air Springs, Georgetown, in connection with the abduction and robbery of Kevin Fiedtkou, an Operations Supervisor at Aurora Gold Mining Inc. The incident occurred on October 10, when Fiedtkou was abducted by three men at Giftland Mall and forced to return to his residence in Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Fiedtkou was coerced into handing over $9.5 million but was unharmed during the ordeal. The suspects fled with the money, and authorities are urging anyone with information on Brummell’s whereabouts to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, with efforts being made to apprehend all those involved.

SOCU Recommends Multiple Charges Against Deputy Police Commissioner Brutus

The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) has completed its investigation into Deputy Police Commissioner (ag) Calvin Brutus and recommended multiple charges related to alleged financial impropriety. The matter has now been forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who will provide legal advice on whether Brutus should be formally charged.

Brutus has been under investigation by SOCU since July 2024, particularly concerning financial activities linked to the Guyana Police Force Credit Union and significant sums of money found in his bank accounts. The investigation uncovered over $40 million in his accounts, which was claimed to be wedding gifts. Brutus has been on leave during the investigation, and it remains to be seen whether he will face formal charges.

Three Charged with Drug Trafficking Linked to Illegal Airstrip in Region 9

Three men, including a Brazilian national, were charged with drug trafficking and illegal entry after being found at an illegal airstrip in Bashaizon Village, South Rupununi, Region 9 on October 6. The accused are Robintaine Peixoto Saraiva, a 48-year-old Brazilian miner, Hamlet Da Silva, a 53-year-old self-employed man, and Evander Phonix, a 27-year-old miner. All three were charged with trafficking in narcotics, and Saraiva also faces charges of illegal entry.

The charges stem from a police operation that uncovered a suspected mercury smuggling operation. Saraiva admitted to chartering the plane, which had made stops in Venezuela and Brazil before landing in Guyana. The aircraft was seized, along with electronic devices, navigational tools, and other items.

The men appeared in Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Monday, where they pleaded not guilty. The next court date is set for October 29.

Sports

FIFA Bans Macarthur FC from Recruitment Over Unpaid Compensation to Dwight Yorke

FIFA has imposed a recruitment ban on Macarthur FC, preventing the club from signing new players until mid-2026unless they pay compensation owed to former coach Dwight Yorke. The ban stems from the club’s failure to pay Yorke AU$290,000 in compensation for wrongful dismissal after a post-match incident in January 2023.

The ruling, upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), requires Macarthur FC to pay Yorke, and failure to comply could result in further disciplinary action. The club had previously appealed, but the decision was upheld, leaving Macarthur unable to participate in upcoming transfer windows until the matter is resolved.

Golden Jaguars Relegated to League B After 5-1 Loss to Suriname

Guyana's Golden Jaguars have been relegated to League B of the Concacaf Nations League following a crushing 5-1defeat to Suriname at the Dr. Ir. Franklin Essed Stadium in Paramaribo. This loss concludes a winless run in League A for Guyana, who had previously been promoted but struggled to secure a victory this season.

Suriname's Sheraldo Becker scored twice early in the match, netting goals in the 3rd and 10th minutes. Guyana's Jalen Jones responded with a goal in the 13th minute, reducing the deficit. However, Virgil Misidjan extended Suriname's lead with a goal in the 33rd minute, followed by second-half strikes from Denzel Jubitana in the 51st minute and Ridgeciano Haps in the 69th minute.

Despite the relegation, Guyana still has a chance to qualify for the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup through the upcoming Play-in tournament. The Jaguars will face Barbados in two legs between November 11 and 19. Winners from this round will qualify for the Gold Cup qualification stage.

Joel Alleyne Receives GOA’s Support for International Sports Conditioning Course

The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) has announced its support for Joel Alleyne to participate in the 2024 International Sports Conditioning Course at the Hungarian University of Sports Science (HUSS) in Budapest. This program, running from September 29 to November 29, 2024, is part of GOA’s strategic plan to develop coaching expertise through Olympic Solidarity grants.

Alleyne, known for his background in table tennis, was selected by the GOA’s Executive Committee to expand his knowledge in sports conditioning techniques. The intensive training program will provide Alleyne with skills in fitness, strength, and endurance training, which he can apply across various sports disciplines in Guyana. GOA President Godfrey Munroe expressed his enthusiasm for Alleyne’s participation, stating that Alleyne’s experience would significantly enhance athlete performance in Guyana.

This initiative is not only an investment in Alleyne’s professional development but also a broader effort to improve the coaching infrastructure in the country. The GOA hopes that Alleyne’s expertise will help elevate the quality of training for local athletes, ensuring they are better prepared for international competition.

Guyana Grouped with Panama and Cuba for Concacaf Women’s U-17 Qualifiers

The 2025 Concacaf Women’s U-17 Qualifiers groups have been set, with Guyana drawn into Group C alongside Panama, Cuba, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. The tournament, scheduled to run from January 27 to January 31, 2025, will feature 22 Concacaf Member Associations competing across four venues.

For Round One, the teams ranked fifth and below based on the Concacaf U-17 Women’s Ranking have been split into six groups. After round-robin play, the six group winners and the two best second-place finishers will advance to the Final Round, joining USA, Mexico, Canada, and Haiti, the top-ranked teams.

In the Final Round, the three group winners and the best second-place finisher will qualify for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Infrastructure & Housing

New Housing Development for Mabaruma to Provide 90 Lots

President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced a new housing development in Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini), which will allocate approximately 90 house lots during its initial phase. The project, covering 17 acres of land, aims to ensure citizens have access to affordable housing. The preliminary block plan has already been completed by the Ministry of Housing.

Dr. Ali emphasized the importance of preserving the area’s natural greenery, including the existing mango and fruit trees, as part of the development's eco-friendly focus. Citizens will also have the option of receiving government assistance to build their homes if necessary. The President stated that the government plans to return in six months to showcase the progress of the project.

Local News

Maggot-Infested Body of Pensioner Found in Corentyne Home

The body of 66-year-old Shrimattie Dowlat, known as “Leila,” was discovered in an advanced state of decomposition at her home in Brighton Village, Corentyne, Berbice on Monday. Dowlat, who lived alone and suffered from diabetes, was recently discharged from the New Amsterdam Hospital following a two-week admission.

Her niece, Jasodra Seegobin, visited Dowlat's home around 5:00 p.m. and noticed a foul odor. Upon entering, Seegobin found her aunt’s body lying on the ground, severely swollen and infested with maggots. No signs of violence were observed. The police were notified, and the body was taken to Skeldon Public Hospital before being moved to Anthony’s Funeral Parlour for an autopsy.

Lorry driver dies in accident on WCB Public Road

A lorry driver, Gokaran Lackram, 65, tragically died after a collision with a tractor on the Lichfield Public Road, West Coast Berbice. The accident occurred when the tractor, driven by Sherlock George, emerged from an access road, causing the lorry to collide with the trailer. Lackram and two porters, Havano Ally and Mohamed Ramall, were injured and taken to the Fort Wellington Hospital, where Lackram passed away while receiving medical attention. The two porters remain in stable condition.

Agriculture & Food Security

World Food Day 2024: Minister Mustapha Calls for Action on Food Security

During World Food Day celebrations at the Bourda Cricket Ground in Georgetown, Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha highlighted the urgent need for action on food security, aligning with this year’s theme: ‘Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future’. Mustapha emphasized that access to nutritious and sustainable food is essential for human dignity and well-being, and that food security is a foundation for sustainable development.

Guyana has made significant strides in reducing undernourishment, with rates falling below 2.5%, significantly lower than both regional and global averages. Minister Mustapha also pointed to a "revolution" in Guyana’s agricultural sector, focusing on modern innovations like hydroponics and technology-driven farming. Guyana is working closely with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) to build a Centre of Excellence for digital agriculture.

‘Miscommunication’ Led to Blairmont Sugar Workers’ Strike, Issue Resolved – Agriculture Minister

A strike by sugar workers at the Blairmont Sugar Estate on the West Coast of Berbice was attributed to miscommunication, according to Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha. The strike, which took place on Tuesday, stemmed from a misunderstanding regarding management’s request for workers to remove trash from sugarcane stalks before processing.

Mustapha explained that once management clarified the issue, the workers were satisfied and returned to work on Wednesday. The strike had initially been sparked by complaints about poor working conditions, weekly targets, and other concerns. Following the strike, estate management held discussions with the Guyana Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) to address the situation.

Education

President Announces Abolition of Tuition for All Government Technical Institutions

In a landmark announcement, President Dr. Irfaan Ali revealed that tuition fees will be abolished for all government technical and vocational institutions, including the Carnegie School of Home Economics and the Guyana School of Agriculture, starting in January 2025. This expansion builds on the government’s earlier commitment to make education free at the University of Guyana (UG) and aims to increase access to tertiary and technical education across the country.

The initiative, which is part of the government's broader plan to provide free education, will benefit over 3,000 additional students enrolled in technical and vocational programs. It complements a previous pledge to make university education free, a move estimated to cost $8 billion for UG’s approximately 11,000 students. Earlier this year, the government also wrote off $203.7 million in student loans for 346 students.

This latest measure aims to encourage more students to pursue careers in fields critical to the country’s development, such as agriculture, home management, and technical skills.