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  • MMG goes offline tonight until Monday to upgrade app

    MMG goes offline tonight until Monday to upgrade app

    Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) has announced a temporary system shutdown to implement a significant upgrade to its mobile app. The upgrade, scheduled from 11:00 p.m. on Friday, November 7, until 6:00 a.m. on Monday, November 10, aims to enhance security, introduce new features, and streamline the user experience. During this period, all MMG services will be unavailable, and customers are advised to complete any urgent transactions beforehand to avoid disruptions.

    Mark Singh, CEO of MMG, emphasized the importance of this upgrade, stating, ‘This marks a new chapter for MMG. We’ve developed a more robust, intelligent, and secure platform that empowers users with greater control and confidence in managing their finances. The brief downtime is essential to ensure a seamless transition.’

    The upgraded app will offer several user-requested features, including password resets, account unlocking, wallet loading via credit and debit cards, and personalized profile management. Enhanced data encryption, self-registration with ID verification, and an onboarding tutorial for new users are also part of the update. Additionally, the app will introduce privacy features like the ability to hide wallet balances and improved customer support tools, including an in-app Help Centre with FAQs.

    Singh added, ‘Our aim is to make digital payments effortless and intuitive. Whether you’re topping up your phone, paying bills, or managing a small business, the new MMG app ensures a faster, easier, and more secure experience.’

    This upgrade aligns with MMG’s commitment to advancing digital inclusion and financial accessibility in Guyana. For further information, users can contact mmgcommunication@mmg.gy or visit www.mmg.gy. Updates are also available on MMG’s social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

  • Official Public and Bank Holidays for 2026

    Official Public and Bank Holidays for 2026

    The Belizean government has officially unveiled the public and bank holiday schedule for 2026, as confirmed by the Belize Press Office. The comprehensive calendar features 14 national observances, commencing with New Year’s Day on January 1 and concluding with Boxing Day on December 26. Notably, several holidays, including Holy Saturday, Emancipation Day, and Boxing Day, coincide with weekends, potentially influencing how businesses and institutions plan their operations. This announcement provides clarity for citizens and organizations alike, enabling them to prepare for the year ahead. The full list of holidays ensures that key cultural and historical events are recognized nationwide, fostering a sense of unity and tradition.

  • Saint Lucia unaffected by largest BYD battery recall

    Saint Lucia unaffected by largest BYD battery recall

    Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant BYD has initiated its most extensive recall to date, impacting over 115,000 vehicles in China. The recall stems from battery-related risks and design defects, raising concerns about vehicle safety. However, JQ Motors, BYD’s local distributor in Saint Lucia, has assured customers that models sold in the Caribbean nation are unaffected by this recall.

    A spokesperson from JQ Motors emphasized the manufacturer’s rigorous notification process, stating, ‘Our models are not part of this recall. In the event of any recalls, whether safety-related or not, the manufacturer promptly informs all dealers and specifies the affected chassis numbers.’

    The recall, announced by China’s State Administration for Market Regulation on October 17, includes 44,535 Tang series SUVs manufactured between March 2015 and July 2017. These vehicles are being recalled due to component design flaws that could lead to abnormal functionality. Additionally, 71,248 Yuan Pro EVs produced between February 2021 and August 2022 are being recalled over manufacturing issues related to battery installation.

    This latest recall follows a separate incident in September 2024, where nearly 97,000 Dolphin and Yuan Plus EVs were recalled due to steering system faults that posed a fire risk. The consecutive recalls highlight ongoing challenges in BYD’s quality control and manufacturing processes, despite its rapid growth in the global EV market.

  • Free Zone Businessman Survives Cartel-Style Attack

    Free Zone Businessman Survives Cartel-Style Attack

    In a harrowing incident on Wednesday night, Nitin Buxani, a well-known businessman from the Corozal Free Zone, narrowly escaped a violent assassination attempt near the Mile 8 roundabout in Hattieville, Belize. Buxani, accompanied by his driver, was traveling in a pickup truck when it was ambushed by gunmen. Witnesses reported hearing at least 19 gunshots during the attack. Despite the severity of the assault, the driver managed to navigate the vehicle to Belize City, where both men received medical attention and are now in stable condition. Buxani reportedly sustained multiple injuries, with a chest plate credited with stopping two potentially fatal bullets. Authorities and sources close to the investigation suggest that the attack may be connected to internal disputes within the Corozal Free Zone, an area notorious for cartel activities, particularly in the tobacco trade. This incident has raised concerns about the escalating violence and the influence of organized crime in the region.

  • Education is the antidote to ignorance

    Education is the antidote to ignorance

    A recent poll conducted in August and September 2025, targeting nearly 230 older teenagers, has shed light on their perspectives regarding the Age of Civil Responsibility (ACR) Bill and sex education. The survey, which focused on critical aspects of reproductive health education, revealed a clear preference for comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) over abstinence-only instruction. A striking 68% of respondents opposed limiting sex education to abstinence-only content, with only 18% in favor. Conversely, an overwhelming 93% supported the inclusion of age-appropriate CSE in schools, with 58% expressing strong agreement. This data underscores the growing demand among youth for informed and inclusive reproductive health education. Critics of the ACR Bill argue that legislation alone cannot address the issue. However, advocates emphasize the need for legal frameworks to create societal space for meaningful action. Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, in his recent address to the UN General Assembly, highlighted education as the antidote to ignorance, particularly in the context of reproductive health. The Caribbean region has long struggled to meet international CSE standards, with no country coming close to compliance. The poll results reflect the high expectations of older adolescents for quality CSE, urging leaders in education and health to take bold steps toward reform. Tonia Frame, President of the Grenada Planned Parenthood Association (GPPA), and Fred Nunes, Consultant at Advocates for Safe Parenthood: Improving Reproductive Equity (ASPIRE), have called for courage and action from policymakers to replace sexual ignorance with education.

  • GTA to host 3-Day immersive strategic session for Carriacou and Petite Martinique

    GTA to host 3-Day immersive strategic session for Carriacou and Petite Martinique

    The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has unveiled an ambitious three-day strategic session aimed at equipping stakeholders in Carriacou and Petite Martinique for the upcoming 2025/2026 tourism season. This initiative, designed to bolster brand positioning and messaging, will also provide critical insights into the GTA’s long-term vision for 2026 and beyond. The sessions, scheduled from November 12 to 14, will feature a series of presentations and interactive discussions led by key GTA executives. The program kicks off with a visit to Petite Martinique on November 12, followed by a comprehensive presentation of the 2026 Global Strategy by GTA CEO Stacey A Liburd on November 13. Social media expert Kered Clement will lead an engaging session on leveraging digital platforms for tourism promotion. The final day, November 14, will focus on Quality Assurance and Marketing 101, presented by QA Manager Keron Moore and CMO Tornia Charles, respectively. Stacey A Liburd underscored the importance of these sessions, stating, ‘It is essential for all stakeholders to be aligned and prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Our collective effort in marketing these destinations will be pivotal in positioning them on the global stage.’ The GTA’s commitment to fostering collaboration and equipping stakeholders with the necessary tools highlights its dedication to strengthening the tourism sector in Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

  • PM Gaston Browne Arrives in Brazil for COP30, Urges Urgent Climate Action for Small Island States

    PM Gaston Browne Arrives in Brazil for COP30, Urges Urgent Climate Action for Small Island States

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has arrived in Belém, Brazil, to attend the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Upon his arrival, Browne engaged in high-level discussions with global leaders, including Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), and President Irfaan Ali of Guyana. These talks focused on collaborative strategies to enhance climate resilience, promote sustainable development, and ensure global health security in the face of a rapidly changing climate. Accompanied by a delegation of climate experts and officials, Browne delivered a compelling address at the COP30 Plenary Session, emphasizing the existential threats faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) due to climate change. He called for honesty, courage, and immediate action, stressing that the 1.5°C global warming limit is a lifeline for nations like Antigua and Barbuda. Browne highlighted the need for equitable climate finance, stronger global accountability, and accelerated emissions reduction, asserting that climate finance is a matter of justice, not charity. He also commended Brazil for hosting COP30 in the Amazon and launching the Tropical Forest Forever Facility, describing it as a symbol of global solidarity. Browne reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to resilience, adaptation, and the principles of Loss and Damage, urging the world to act with political and moral will to address the climate crisis.

  • OECS congratulates new Director General of IICA, Dr Muhammad Ibrahim

    OECS congratulates new Director General of IICA, Dr Muhammad Ibrahim

    The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has warmly congratulated Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim from Guyana on his election as the next Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) for the term 2026–2030. In a formal statement, the OECS Commission celebrated this significant achievement alongside the governments and citizens of the Caribbean Community, highlighting it as a proud moment for Guyana and a reflection of the Caribbean’s pivotal role in advancing agricultural innovation and sustainable development across the Americas.

    Hon. John Osborne, Montserrat’s Minister of Agriculture and Chair of the OECS Council of Ministers of Agriculture, lauded Dr. Ibrahim’s election, stating, ‘Dr. Ibrahim’s leadership exemplifies the Caribbean’s ability to shape the future of agriculture in the Americas. His career has been dedicated to integrating science, innovation, and sustainability into the lives of farmers. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with him to strengthen resilient food systems and ensure our small states continue to contribute to global food security.’

    Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, described the election as a reaffirmation of the Caribbean’s global agricultural leadership. He emphasized Dr. Ibrahim’s expertise in linking agricultural transformation, environmental sustainability, and the livelihoods of small farmers—areas crucial to the small island developing states of the Eastern Caribbean.

    Dr. Jules also reiterated the OECS’s commitment to partnering with IICA under Dr. Ibrahim’s leadership. Key areas of collaboration include advancing climate-resilient and technology-driven agriculture, promoting regional food and nutrition security, and enhancing institutional capacity while engaging youth in agricultural innovation. He expressed optimism about Dr. Ibrahim’s tenure, particularly as the region’s agricultural sector grapples with challenges such as climate change, food price volatility, and the need for transformative production and trade strategies.

    The OECS Commission expressed confidence that under Dr. Ibrahim’s guidance, IICA will continue to exemplify technical excellence and hemispheric solidarity, paving the way for a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural future for all member states.

  • General Accident Insurance to acquire Beacon Insurance

    General Accident Insurance to acquire Beacon Insurance

    In a landmark move set to reshape the Caribbean insurance landscape, General Accident Insurance Company (Jamaica) Limited (JSE:GENAC) and Beacon Insurance Company Limited have announced their intention to merge, creating a dominant regional insurer. The transaction, finalized on October 31, 2025, sees General Accident’s parent company, Musson (Jamaica) Limited, acquiring 100% of Beacon. Pending regulatory approvals, Beacon will operate as a subsidiary of General Accident, maintaining its independent brand and leadership structure. This strategic acquisition significantly expands General Accident’s footprint, granting access to new markets in Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts, St Lucia, and St Vincent, while bolstering its presence in Trinidad and Barbados. The combined entity is projected to generate annual gross written premiums exceeding J$32 billion. Beacon’s CEO, Christopher Woodhams, will report directly to Sharon Donaldson, Group CEO of General Accident, and will oversee the merged operations in Trinidad. Additionally, Woodhams and Beacon director Christian Hadeed will join General Accident’s board. The Hadeed family, now minority shareholders in General Accident, expressed confidence in the merger’s potential to uphold Beacon’s legacy of excellence. Gerald Hadeed, Beacon’s founder, praised the alignment of values between the two companies, emphasizing their shared commitment to client service and innovation. General Accident Chairman P B Scott lauded Beacon’s management and expressed excitement about the merger’s ability to enhance service delivery across the Caribbean.

  • Sykes commends court staff’s dedication amid Hurricane Melissa devastation

    Sykes commends court staff’s dedication amid Hurricane Melissa devastation

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Chief Justice Bryan Sykes has lauded court staff and managers across multiple parishes for their unwavering dedication and resilience in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which caused extensive damage to judicial facilities. During his visits to the Santa Cruz courthouse in St Elizabeth and other severely affected areas, including St James, Trelawny, and Hanover, Justice Sykes expressed his admiration for the commitment of court personnel who continue to report for duty despite personal hardships. He described the scenes of devastation as ‘distressing’ but emphasized the inspiring leadership and proactive efforts of senior judges and court operations managers. ‘What I am particularly pleased about is that in all the parishes, the senior judges and court operations managers have stepped up as leaders, which is what we expect of them,’ he remarked. ‘They have been strategizing on how to restore services, highlighting the importance of planning and risk mitigation.’ In parishes like Hanover and St James, staff have been actively cleaning up and preparing to reopen facilities. However, in St Elizabeth, the destruction was so severe that ‘there’s nowhere to clean up,’ Sykes noted. Despite losing homes and roofs, many staff members remain committed to their duties. Sykes called for collaboration among stakeholders to support the recovery of the justice system. His visits underscored the critical need for leadership training and disaster preparedness within the judiciary, as staff continue to demonstrate courage and service under challenging conditions. Justice Sykes is scheduled to visit the Westmoreland Parish Court next.