October 9th, 2024

Fact of the Day: Five colors make up the Golden Arrowhead. Gold represents its minerals; green represents agriculture and forests; white represents the rivers; red signifies the zeal and sacrifice required to build a nation; and black represents perseverance.

President Ali to Address Parliament on Cost-of-Living Solutions

President Dr. Irfaan Ali will address Parliament on October 10, 2024, focusing on strategies to address the rising cost of living in Guyana. This marks his second official address to the National Assembly since taking office. Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo hinted at measures aimed at alleviating financial pressures, following a $7 billion budget allocation for inflation control in 2024.

Agriculture Minister Unveils ‘Situation Room’ for Regional Data Management

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha announced plans for a new “Situation Room,” a data command center for Guyana and CARICOM. The center will offer real-time data for agricultural decision-making. The initiative is part of efforts to reduce the region’s food import bill by 25% by 2025 and will improve crisis management in the agriculture sector.

Historic Victory for Saint Lucia Kings in CPL Final

The Saint Lucia Kings claimed their first-ever Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title after defeating the Guyana Amazon Warriors. Aaron Jones and Roston Chase led the team to victory with outstanding batting performances, guided by coach Daren Sammy. The victory coincides with Saint Lucia's national pride following sprinter Julien Alfred’s recent Olympic triumph.

UK Travel Authorization for Guyanese Citizens Starts in 2025

From January 8th, 2025, Guyanese citizens will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit the United Kingdom. The process is quick and digital, allowing travelers to apply online for £10. The ETA, which is valid for up to two years, is part of broader efforts to streamline immigration procedures.

Minister Anthony Elected President of PAHO Executive Committee

Guyana’s Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, has been elected President of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Executive Committee. Serving a one-year term, Dr. Anthony will lead initiatives focused on health equity and pandemic preparedness across the Americas. His election reflects his role in advancing Guyana’s healthcare reforms.

Major Housing Development Underway in Wales

Wales, located on the West Bank of Demerara, is transforming into a large industrial and residential hub. Over two thousand house lots have already been allocated as part of the Wales Development Project, which also includes roads, drainage, and public facilities. The area will house the upcoming Gas-to-Energy project, expected to lower energy costs in Guyana.

Taharally and Rogers Excel at Powerlifting Championships

Guyana’s powerlifters Nadina Taharally and Roger Rogers won multiple medals at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Masters and Commonwealth Championships in South Africa. Taharally secured two golds, one silver, and four bronze medals, while Rogers earned four silver and two bronze medals, reflecting their consistent international success.

Chinese Businessman Shot During Late-Night Argument

Fifty-year-old Jianqing Chen, a Chinese businessman, was shot multiple times outside his Georgetown supermarket. A dispute over the phone reportedly led to the shooting by an assailant on a motorcycle. Chen is currently in a serious condition at Georgetown Public Hospital, and police investigations are ongoing.

New Amsterdam Resident Arrested with Marijuana and Police Equipment

Police arrested thirty-year-old construction worker Konata Simpson in New Amsterdam after finding nearly 700 grams of cannabis and a stolen police radio at his residence. Simpson confessed to possession of the drugs, and further investigations revealed military-style clothing stolen from the police force.

Laborer Charged for Murder of Haslington Carpenter

Fifty-eight-year-old Keith Jeffrey has been charged with the murder of Theodore Baynes, a carpenter from Haslington. Baynes was found dead with multiple injuries, including a deep neck wound, outside his residence. Jeffrey has been remanded and is awaiting trial, scheduled for November 6, 2024.

Businessman Arrested After Discharging Firearm in Georgetown

Michael Thomas, a businessman from Bachelor’s Adventure, was arrested for firing his licensed firearm at the Route 44 minibus park in Georgetown. Police found a .32 Taurus pistol and ammunition in Thomas’ possession. No one was injured during the incident, and investigations continue.

Government Considers Two-Lane Bridge Over Kurupukari River

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced plans to build a two-lane bridge over the Kurupukari River, improving connectivity between Georgetown and Lethem. The bridge would replace the current pontoon system and allow larger vehicles to cross, enhancing trade and travel in the region.