Massy support farmers, entrepreneurs through Agricultural Innovation Programme

Youth and women entrepreneurs in agriculture will benefit from Massy Stores’ recent donation of one million dollars’ worth of Algas Organic Total Plant Tonic Concentrate to the Agricultural Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme (AIEP).
Made from nutrient-rich seaweed, this natural supplement enhances crop health and resilience, offering a sustainable alternative to heavy chemical inputs. The donation aims to strengthen local agricultural practices while empowering entrepreneurs to innovate and thrive in the sector.
According to a release, the donation forms part of an ongoing collaboration between Massy Stores, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the AIEP, aimed at empowering those at the heart of Guyana’s food systems. By improving access to sustainable and modern agricultural resources, the initiative directly contributes to enhancing food security, creating jobs, and fostering economic resilience in both rural and urban communities.
“At Massy Stores, we are committed to supporting the government’s food security initiative by making wholesome, locally produced foods more accessible to our communities. Our stores serve as the avenue through which families can find and enjoy these nutritious options, reinforcing our dedication to building a healthier Guyana,” said Christpen Bobb-Semple, Assistant Vice President, Massy Group.
Reacting to the donation, Teesha Mangra, CEO of AIEP, said, “The Agricultural Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme extends its sincere appreciation to Massy Stores for their generous donation of agrochemicals. This contribution will enhance the capacity of our young farmers and directly support national efforts to advance innovation, productivity, and sustainability in agriculture.”
Established by the Ministry of Agriculture, the AIEP offers mentorship, training, and tools to young entrepreneurs and farmers, helping them discover innovative methods for success in agribusiness.

Woman dies in boat accident

A woman has reportedly died following a river mishap that occurred on Friday near De Veldt Village on the Berbice River.

Police say the deceased has been identified as Kayandra Lindie, 30, of Cumberland Village, East Canje, Berbice.

Also involved in the incident were Aldwayn Denhart, a 34-year-old boat captain, and five others.

According to Denhart, who is the owner and operator of the boat, he departed Sand Hills Village on Friday morning en route to New Amsterdam, with five adults and two children aboard.

While navigating near De Veldt Village, Denhart reported feeling an impact near the engine, after which he lost control of the vessel, causing it to capsize.

Nearby residents rendered assistance and were able to rescue the passengers. However, Lindie was found unresponsive.

Emergency services transported Lindie, along with three others, to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

The other three passengers remain under observation in the Accident and Emergency Department.

An investigation is ongoing.

Man kills partner, turns gun on self

Police are investigating an alleged murder and attempted suicide that unfolded on Tuesday evening, claiming the life of 30-year-old Marissa Beete, an employee of the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture.

The incident occurred between 18:15 and 19:00 hrs at Beete’s residence at Lot 706 Recht-Door-Zee, West Bank Demerara.

According to reports, the suspect, 47-year-old Ghalee Khan—a security personnel attached to the Integrated Security Service—allegedly shot Beete before turning the gun on himself. Khan, who sustained a gunshot wound to the head, is currently hospitalised in serious condition and undergoing surgery.

Preliminary investigations reveal that Beete and Khan had been in a romantic relationship for the past two years, which had recently ended due to a misunderstanding. On the day of the incident, Beete was at home with her 62-year-old mother, Jennifer Vaughn, when she received a phone call from Khan, who asked to speak with her.

Despite her mother’s objections, Beete invited Khan into the home. Vaughn told police she left the room to give the pair privacy, but moments later, she heard her daughter cry out, “Mommy,” followed by a loud explosion.

Rushing to the living room, Vaughn reportedly found her daughter slumped on the floor, bleeding from what appeared to be a head wound. Khan was seen standing over her with what appeared to be a firearm. Vaughn said she tried to intervene, but Khan fired another shot in an unknown direction and pushed her to the ground. He then allegedly turned the weapon on himself and shot himself once in the head.

Public-spirited citizens transported both Beete and Khan to the West Demerara Regional Hospital in an unconscious state. Beete was pronounced dead on arrival. A bullet wound was observed above her right eye. Her body has since been taken to the Ezekiel Funeral Parlour, where it awaits a post-mortem examination.

Police at the scene recovered the suspected firearm, along with three live rounds of ammunition. Investigators have since collected several items for forensic analysis and are continuing to question witnesses as the probe continues.

Kathy Smith elected first woman GCCI president

Kathy Smith was elected President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Friday, making history as the first woman to hold the position in 136 years.
Women in Energy Guyana, in a statement following the elections, congratulated Smith on what it described as a groundbreaking achievement.
“Women in Energy Guyana extends our heartfelt congratulations to Kathy Smith on her election as President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI)! This is a historic achievement, marking the first time in 136 years that a woman has taken the helm of this esteemed organisation.
“As a trailblazer in business and leadership, Kathy’s election is a powerful testament to the progress of women in industry and a reminder that women belong at every decision-making table. We celebrate this milestone and look forward to seeing the impact of her leadership on the Chamber and the business community in Guyana,” the statement read.