Author: Zena Henry

75 Venezuelans intercepted and deported

Posted on by Zena Henry

Seventy-five Venezuelan nationals, including adults and children, were intercepted around 06:45 hrs on Monday by police ranks on mobile patrol in the vicinity of Abram Zuil (seawall) on the Essequibo Coast.

According to a police report, the Venezuelans were traveling in a boat approximately 45 feet in length and eight feet in width, powered by two 75 HP Yamaha outboard engines.

Members of the Immigration Department were summoned, and it was determined that the Venezuelans had failed to present themselves to the Immigration Department or any official port of entry, having arrived via the Atlantic Ocean.

Authorities treated them humanely, providing basic necessities, including food, before placing them at an institution.

They were deported today to their country of origin with the necessary fuel and other amenities for their journey.

The group comprised 57 adult males, nine adult females, and nine children.

President launches cash grant for newborns, hails initiative as investment in future

Posted on by Zena Henry

President Dr Irfaan Ali has launched the government’s $100,000 cash grant for newborns, hailing the initiative as an investment in the future.

“This is a deposit into the children’s future… it is not a burden on taxpayers but an investment in a brighter, more prosperous Guyana,” he told a well-attended gathering at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

The $100,000 cash grant for newborns is part of the government’s broader support initiatives, introduced under the theme “Celebrating Women, Supporting New Beginnings.”

More than 500 mothers received their cash grants at the launch, along with 11 packs of nappies and baby wipes.

The Ministries of Health and Finance are working to ensure that all cheques are distributed to mothers within the first week of delivery.

Mothers will receive their cheques before being discharged from the hospital.

According to Tourism, Industry, and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond, the government anticipates the birth of approximately 17,000 babies in 2025, an increase of 2,000 from the 14,742 births recorded in 2024.

Human Services and Social Protection Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud, who also spoke at the event, reiterated the government’s continued efforts to support women through various initiatives.

She described the newborn cash grant as another significant milestone in the administration’s commitment to improving the lives of all citizens.

During his presentation, President Dr Irfaan Ali also praised the contributions and leadership of women in society.

“You are that guiding light, you are that foundation of our nation, you are that solid rock on which our nation stands today, women,” he told a packed ACCC gathering.

He continued, “I want to share some statistics today that will show you, men, that the women in this country are bearing the weight of responsibility and holding the foundation of the rock on which this beautiful country is built.”

The President emphasised that this progress is not accidental but the result of the government’s investments, policies, and opportunities aimed at supporting and uplifting women.

Over the past four years, the government has invested $156 billion in initiatives that directly and indirectly benefit women. These include $40 billion allocated to the “Because We Care” Grant, $10 billion for the Textbook Initiative, $15.5 billion for the National School Feeding Programme, $4.7 billion for the National School Grant Initiative, and $134 million for special education needs, with four additional special schools under construction.

He also highlighted that nearly 60 per cent of hinterland scholarships are awarded to women.

Additionally, within the last four years, the government has invested $32 billion in the University of Guyana (UG), where nearly 10,000 of the 14,000 graduates were women.

The President noted that this trend continues in the education sector, with over 4,000 of the 4,600 teachers who graduated in the last four years being women.

Underscoring the vital role women play in shaping the future, he stressed the need for continuous support and protection.

“They are carrying the burden of our future on their shoulders, making sacrifices, and investing in the future of our country by delivering and creating within themselves vessels and assets of our nation. Let us not take the work of our women for granted. Without them, we will be futureless,” he stated.

President Ali also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing free daycare services for working women after 2025.

Transformative legal justice system programme concludes

Posted on by Zena Henry

The Support for the Criminal Justice System (SCJS) Programme concluded on Friday with an exit workshop at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre in Kingston, Georgetown.

The increasing prison population and overcrowding in Guyana’s prisons have been causes for concern, leading to the establishment of the programme. Its primary aim was to reduce the proportion of inmates on pre-trial detention and promote alternative sentencing mechanisms.

Funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and executed by the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Ministry of Legal Affairs, the initiative was conducted under the theme, “Contributing to the Reduction of the Prison Population in Guyana.”

IDB Country Representative Lorena Solorzano Salazar highlighted the programme’s transformative impact on the legal justice system. She commended the collaboration among ministries, noting that it demonstrates the government’s commitment and political will to modernising the justice sector.

In his feature address, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, stated that while the project began in 2016, significant progress was only made after 2021.
“This was a well-executed project… It began with the core objective of reducing our prison population, which far outstripped our accommodation facilities. We had a prison system bursting at the seams… Prison is merely a destination to address the prison situation, particularly overcrowding,” Nandlall said.

He added that the project allowed for a broad review of institutions, policies, and legislative frameworks.

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn noted an increase in the prison population following the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasised that the initiative’s primary goal is to implement alternative sentencing and expand rehabilitation opportunities.

“In terms of the evolution of our criminal justice system… we must focus more on rehabilitation, reforms, and learning to make Guyana a safer place. The rise in transnational organised crime and the types of crime in Guyana have put the criminal justice system and policing in a more precarious position. We must match up with the best international practices,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, described the programme as a celebration of robust partnership, collaboration, and integration aimed at modernising the legislative agenda.

She emphasised that the initiative highlights how ministries and other sectors can work cohesively to ensure rehabilitation and reduce the number of prisoners in the system.
“I have been working diligently with my Cabinet colleagues, crafting legislation that will tangibly impact our population, particularly vulnerable groups. We are creating a modern, progressive framework that will position Guyana at the forefront of legislative reforms in the region,” she said.
Over 200 justice practitioners were trained under the initiative.

ICJ acknowledges Guyana’s request to prevent Venezuela’s elections in Essequibo

Posted on by Zena Henry

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has acknowledged receipt of a formal request by the Guyana government to issue provisional measures preventing Venezuela from holding of elections in its Essequibo territory while the case concerning the Arbitral Award of 3 October 1899 (Guyana v. Venezuela) is ongoing.

An ICJ statement today said that the international body has received the document.

Given Venezuela’s announcement that it will hold elections in the country’s Essequibo region scheduled for 25 May 2025 and possible preparatory measures to host the polls, Guyana has asked that the ICJ to issue an order preventing Venezuela from conducting any election in Essequibo or any other part of the territory on Guyana’s side of the boundary line as established by the 1899 Arbitral Award.

Guyana wants Venezuela prevented from issuing “rights” to any individuals living in its territory to vote in any Venezuelan elections, distributing ballot papers, poll cards, electoral materials or any other physical or electronic electoral documents to individuals within the territory.

It wants Venezuela prevented from presenting or naming or otherwise supporting candidates for any Venezuelan elections within the territory as well as establishing polling stations, counting stations or electoral offices within the Guyanese territory.

Guyana wants Venezuela stopped in purporting to establish, elect or appoint any office of governor, legislative council, deputies or any other legislative or governmental official in respect to any part of the territory; and from communicating directly or indirectly with any residents in that territory in regard to any elections planned by Venezuela.

Guyana also wants Venezuela to refrain from taking any action which purports to annex de jure or de facto any territory on Guyana’s side of the boundary line established by the 1899 Arbitral Award, including by incorporating ‘Guayana Esequiba’ as part of Venezuela.

Guyana is asking, too, to have Venezuela refrain from taking any action which would seek to modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute, where Guyana administers and exercises full control over that area.

The ICJ said that Guyana’s request is prompted by Venezuela’s announcement that it will soon hold elections in the country’s Essequibo region.

Guyana believes that all preparatory acts in the disputed territory leading to the holding of such elections, would violate Guyana’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence, as well as the ICJ’s order on the indication of provisional measures delivered on 1 December 2023, which among other things warns against exacerbating the situation by both nations, and provides Guyana full control of the territory that was awarded by then British Guiana.

The ICJ’s December 1 order directed Venezuela to refrain from taking any action in the disputed area pending a final decision in the case.

Guyana wins PATWA ‘Destination of the Year’ International Award

Posted on by Zena Henry

Destination Guyana has been awarded the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) International Award for 2025 as Destination of the Year – Natural Attractions at the Internationale Tourismus-Börse (ITB) in Berlin.

The award was won at the 25th and 2025 editions of the PATWA World Tourism and Aviation Leaders’ Summit and the PATWA International Travel Awards on Wednesday.

The Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) made the announcement via a press release on Thursday, noting that Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, was also awarded 2025 Tourism Minister of the Year – Ecological Tourism.

Speaking on the wins, Minister Walrond noted that receiving the awards is certainly a proud moment.

She highlighted that with breathtaking attractions like Kaieteur, interior savannahs, untouched rainforests, and rare wildlife, Guyana is fortunate to have such natural beauty to share with the rest of the world.

“What sets us apart is our commitment to protecting our natural attractions. Through conservation and community-driven efforts, we ensure that every visit helps preserve our environment and supports local communities. We are proud to share our country with the world and look forward to continuing to lead the way in responsible tourism,” Minister Walrond said.

PATWA is a non-profit, non-governmental, professional, international media organisation founded in 1999.

It supports the sustainable development and growth of destinations, travel, tourism, hospitality, aviation (airlines and airports), transportation (cruise liners and rail), online travel platforms, travel technology, and allied service providers worldwide.

PATWA is also an affiliate member of United Nations (UN) Tourism.

The release stated that for many years, tourism was the second-largest export sector for Guyana before the discovery of oil and gas reserves.

It noted that Guyana’s nascent oil and gas industry has propelled the country’s economic growth and development, making it one of the fastest-growing economies in recent years.

“Critically, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce is mandated to ensure that the economy is aptly diversified with investments in all sectors, especially tourism, to ensure sustainable growth by preventing dependence on oil and gas. The ministry’s core responsibility is to nurture a business-friendly environment through the creation of policies, development and amendment of legislation, and implementation of other programs and initiatives,” the release said.

The GTA is responsible for developing and promoting sustainable tourism in Guyana through collaboration with sister agencies and the tourism private sector, in order to maximise local socio-economic and conservation outcomes, as well as improve travellers’ experiences.

It is focused on Guyana becoming recognised locally and internationally as a premier destination for protecting its natural and cultural heritage, providing authentic experiences, and maximising local socio-economic benefits.

GBTI records $4B profit

Posted on by Zena Henry

The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) has reported a record-breaking financial performance for 2024, with a profit after tax of $4 billion, representing a 31 per cent increase from $3 billion in 2023.

The bank in a release also said that its total assets grew by 24 per cent, reaching $249 billion, driven largely by strategic investments, operational efficiency, and a well-diversified loan portfolio.

GBTI Chairman Robin Stoby S.C. said the bank’s sustained growth reflects its strong financial position, digital transformation efforts, and customer-centric approach.

“As Guyana’s economy continues to expand, GBTI remains committed to empowering individuals and businesses through innovative financial services,” he said.

Other key financial highlights of the bank last year include dividends of $32 per share, a 21 per cent increase, with a total dividend payout of $1.28 billion. The share trading price now stands at $1,440 per share.

GBTI attributed much of its success to a strategic push toward digital banking and innovation, aligning with Guyana’s rapid economic growth. The bank introduced new digital banking solutions, enhancing customer experience and financial accessibility, while investments in AI-driven banking, cybersecurity, and mobile banking innovations further strengthened its position in the financial sector.

“Digital transformation is not just a strategy—it is our commitment to ensuring seamless, efficient, and secure banking for our customers,” Stoby said, point out that “Our advancements in AI, mobile banking, and customer-focused innovations position us as a forward-thinking financial institution.”

The bank also reaffirmed its commitment to strong corporate governance, risk management, and ethical banking practices.

It has strengthened its governance framework with comprehensive risk management policies to ensure financial stability and resilience amid an evolving economic landscape.

In addition to its financial performance, GBTI expanded its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in 2024, focusing on education and youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, and social welfare and financial inclusion.

According to the bank, these efforts, along with strategic partnerships, have positively impacted local communities, reinforcing its role as a trusted financial partner in Guyana’s development.

Looking ahead, the release said GBTI is positioning itself for continued growth in 2025, particularly with the expansion of the oil, gas, and gold sectors. The bank plans to introduce new financial products, expand digital services, and strengthen customer relationships to meet the evolving needs of individuals and businesses.

“Our vision for 2025 is clear: to solidify GBTI’s position as a leader in the financial sector through continued innovation, strong governance, and sustainable banking practices,” Stoby said, adding: “We are excited about the future and remain committed to delivering long-term value for our customers, employees, and stakeholders.”

 

GBTI Chairman Robin Stoby

GBTI Chairman Robin Stoby

Guyana less dependent on foreign aid amid economic growth

Posted on by Zena Henry

The halt in USAID funding for initiatives in Guyana’s agriculture sector will not significantly impact the Ministry of Agriculture or, more broadly, other affected sectors, as Guyana has become increasingly self-sufficient over the years.

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, made this assertion while responding to media questions on the sidelines of Parliament last week.

Dr Singh emphasised that Guyana has shifted its focus towards economic trade and commercial partnerships rather than reliance on foreign aid.

“There was a time when USAID was doing a lot of work in Guyana. At that time, Guyana was in a very different economic position, with limited private sector activity and widespread hardships,” Dr Singh stated.

He noted that Guyana was once heavily dependent on overseas development assistance, including funding from USAID. However, over time, this dependence has significantly decreased.

“What has happened over time is that our country has become significantly less dependent on official development assistance or aid. So, whereas there was a time when USAID programmes were a major contributor, they have tapered off,” he explained.

Dr Singh also stressed that while USAID-funded initiatives have continued in Guyana, they were not large-scale projects, and their halt would not be disruptive.

“We are not worried at all that these developments could be dissociative in any way whatsoever,” he affirmed.

The government has expanded domestic social programmes and remains confident that these initiatives will effectively address the needs of citizens.

USAID has historically supported Guyana’s health, agriculture, and education sectors.

However, concerns over its future contributions intensified following a directive from former US President Donald Trump to suspend global aid programmes pending a review.

The Ministry of Agriculture told Ignite News that it had not received any official correspondence from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding USAID’s withdrawal.

A ministry official noted that, thus far, there has been no major impact on its operations, as USAID primarily provided training in a complementary capacity.

Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha assured that the ministry is making strategic investments in expansion programmes to strengthen the sector.

“Despite the decision regarding the aid, we will take the necessary steps to cushion any effects,” Minister Mustapha stated.

Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud declined to give an official comment on whether his office had received an official statement regarding the halt in USAID funding.

$1.2B silo project to transform legume farming in Berbice River

Posted on by Zena Henry

The government is supporting the construction of a $1.2bn silo facility at Kimbia, Berbice River, for the storage of legumes resulting from increased production.

President Dr Irfaan Ali recently met with farmers of the Berbice River, where he announced the allocation of 1,000 acres of land to expand the production of red beans and black-eyed peas.

He noted that through this initiative, which will receive local support, families will be able to significantly increase their household disposable income and even embark on new ventures.

The President indicated that the government is prepared to collaborate with villages to initiate operations in pig and livestock rearing, apiculture, and cash crop production to support and meet local demands.

“We’re going to work with the cash crop farmers… to see how we can introduce innovation and technology to assist you… We are committed to your success, we are committed to agriculture, and we are committed to food production. Food and agriculture will be the soul of our country; food and agriculture will be the soul of what we contribute to CARICOM,” the President said.

He noted that the government has already engaged investors interested in large-scale production of red beans and black-eyed peas to integrate with farmers’ production.

Over the past two years, the government has made significant investments in farming infrastructure.

The President expressed optimism about working with developers and farmers to establish a proper drying and storage facility for black-eyed peas and red beans, as well as supporting efforts in crop diversification.

“We want to support you in building out your community facilities and infrastructure,” President Ali said, adding that Kimbia is currently cultivating 281 acres and aims to expand to over 700 acres.

“I want to put to you that it might be difficult for us to spread out production… because you’re going to want the machinery, and we’re going to work with you… You also want to reduce your transportation costs to bring the peas closer to a storage facility. Now, instead of going out, you will have a direct market here at whatever the world market price is,” he said.

“We’re going to support you to continue your production in your village,” President Ali assured.

The President added that private investors have already contributed over $600 million towards machinery support.

41 GDF officers promoted

Posted on by Zena Henry

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Sunday announced the promotion of 41 officers following approval by President and Commander-in-Chief, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

The promotions, in accordance with Part III, Section 16 of the Defence Act 15:01 of 1977, were confirmed by Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan.

According to a GDF release, Commandant of the Guyana National Reserve, Substantive Lieutenant Colonel Lloyd Souvenir, heads the promotion list with his elevation to Substantive Colonel.

Acting Lieutenant Colonels Raymond Archer, John Mohanlall, and Jose Ferreira have also been confirmed in their rank.

Nine Substantive Majors have been promoted to Acting Lieutenant Colonel. They are Kevin Langevine, Crantson France, Jaime Castello, Marvin Simson, Kevaun Gray, Joslyn Assanah, Damon Joseph, Keith Watts, and Kirk Marlock.

Acting Major Kareem Graham was made substantive in his rank, while Substantive Captains Eon Cameron, Brentnol Bart, Michael Favourite, and Othniel Hope have advanced to Acting Major, joining the Corps of Senior Officers.

At the Coast Guard, Acting Commander Adrian McLean has been promoted to Substantive Commander.

Additionally, three Substantive Lieutenants—Clinton Venture, Kenrick Rodney, and Derrick Johnson—have been elevated to Acting Lieutenant Commander.

Nineteen Second Lieutenants have also been promoted to Substantive Lieutenant.

The GDF extended congratulations to all newly promoted officers, the release stated.

President Ali: Guyana’s progress fuelled by strong economic and sectoral gains

Posted on by Zena Henry

Guyana’s development over the past four years has significantly contributed to the transformation of the 55-year-old Republic.

With full responsibility now vested in its people, President Dr. Irfaan Ali believes that “we have done a remarkable job” in moving the country forward.

In what he described as “an account of the State of the Republic”, President Ali highlighted the progress made in every sector, the local and international partnerships being built, the pertinent services being introduced or upgraded, and the global positioning of the nation as a valuable international partner.

Delivering the national address at the Parliament Building’s flag-raising ceremony on Saturday evening, President Ali noted the economy’s record-breaking growth and the government’s efforts to sustain this momentum, particularly through inflation management.

He stated that Guyana’s infrastructural landscape continues to undergo a phenomenal transformation, marked by groundbreaking mega projects as well as developments at the local level.

Revolutionary advancements in energy and ICT, which has connected some 215 hinterland communities with high-speed internet, alongside progress in renewable energy through new hydropower projects, solar farms, and solar PV home systems, are all characteristic of the Republic’s ongoing transformation.

The vital agriculture sector will receive the necessary support to sustain its positive evolution.

“You can be assured that this government will work towards making necessary adjustments so that our farmers will not be burdened and will not feel the weight of changes in international trading and market conditions,” the President said.

Instead, the cultivation of non-traditional crops will flourish, livestock and dairy production will continue to expand, and the fisheries sector will increase its output due to ongoing investment.

The country’s petroleum, forestry, and mining sectors have achieved significant advancements, while the government continues to enhance its regulatory framework through the landmark Local Content Act, substantial amendments to the Natural Resource Fund Act, and the promulgation of the Petroleum Activities Bill.

The President applauded the significant progress made in the tourism sector over the past four years. The addition of eight hotels to the nation’s room stock, the introduction of eight new airlines, and the training of some 10,000 citizens in nature-based tourism and essential first-responder skills are just some of the improvements enhancing the country’s tourism product.

The healthcare sector is undergoing revolutionary changes, with world-class medical services, new hospitals, more health posts in some of the most remote areas, the introduction of telemedicine, and the modernisation of patient care.

Initiatives such as the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant, meals in both public and private schools, trained teachers, digital schools, free university education, and the construction and expansion of nursery, primary, and secondary schools are all part of the government’s transformative efforts in the education system.

People-centred initiatives, including labour programmes that expand technical and vocational training, increased old-age pensions, public assistance, support for persons living with disabilities, and the provision of affordable homes, reaffirm the government’s commitment to national development.

Efforts to defend Guyana’s territorial integrity remain a top priority, as the country seeks to protect its borders with confidence in the skill and dedication of its military.

The President stated that the country’s democracy will be fully demonstrated when citizens exercise their voting rights in the upcoming general election later this year.

“Today, we are not working from behind,” President Ali said, referring to Guyana’s growing global presence.

In particular, the country is playing a leading role as a green economy, and this year, for the first time, it will host the landmark World Biodiversity Summit, aimed at creating a global biodiversity alliance.

On that note, President Ali urged Guyanese to put aside their differences and work towards the nation’s advancement.

“This is the time when we must come together… when we lift each other up… and put Guyana first,” he said.