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  • Unemployment slashed by more than half- Ali

    Unemployment slashed by more than half- Ali

    In a landmark economic announcement, Guyanese President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali revealed a dramatic halving of the nation’s unemployment rate since 2020, crediting strategic economic diversification for creating over 104,000 new jobs. Official data from the Bureau of Statistics shows unemployment plummeting from 12.8% in 2020 to just 6.8% by the end of 2024, signaling one of the most remarkable economic turnarounds in the Caribbean region.

    The President, addressing the nation via social media, emphasized that this transformative job growth extends beyond urban centers, with employment opportunities now “evenly distributed between rural and urban areas.” This balanced regional development reflects infrastructure investments and policies supporting multiple sectors including agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and agro-processing.

    Women have particularly benefited from the economic expansion, with female unemployment dropping significantly from 14.4% to below 9% during the same four-year period. The employment surge has lifted total workforce numbers from approximately 264,000 to nearly 370,000 persons.

    Beyond job creation, the economic transformation has generated substantial wage growth across nearly all sectors. Average earnings increased between 50% to over 100% from 2020 to 2024, with particularly strong performance in professional, scientific and technical services (over 100% increase), arts and entertainment (over 114%), and agriculture, forestry and fishing (84% increase).

    President Ali specifically noted that these wage increases have not triggered inflationary pressures, with Guyana maintaining “one of the lowest inflation rates” due to sound economic policies. The President challenged the narrative that this growth stems primarily from oil and gas, instead highlighting how economic diversification has created widespread prosperity.

    International assessments now indicate Guyana faces an unexpected challenge: labor shortages rather than unemployment. Studies by the Centre for Local Business Development and International Organisation for Migration project workforce shortfalls between 52,000 to 100,000 workers to fully realize the country’s growth agenda. Future job growth is anticipated in construction, hospitality, specialized services, agriculture, health services, and green technology sectors.

  • Illiard Kings Maintain Control in Week 1, Night 2 Victory Over Paradise Ballers

    Illiard Kings Maintain Control in Week 1, Night 2 Victory Over Paradise Ballers

    The National Professional Pool Players Association (NPPA) 8-Ball Team Competition witnessed a masterclass in precision and control during Week 1’s second night, as the Billiard Kings delivered a comprehensive 5-1 defeat to the Paradise Ballers. This matchup demonstrated strategic superiority and clinical execution from the victorious team.

    The evening commenced with Marshall (Billiard Kings) confronting Big One (Paradise Ballers) in the opening match. Marshall established immediate dominance through flawless tactical play, securing both racks for a clean 2-0 victory that set a powerful precedent for his team.

    Subsequent action featured Killa (Billiard Kings) against Hercules (Paradise Ballers), where Killa’s assertive approach neutralized his opponent’s efforts. Demonstrating remarkable confidence in shot selection, Killa achieved another 2-0 sweep, further solidifying his team’s advancing momentum.

    The third encounter paired Mac-10 (Billiard Kings) with Sky (Paradise Ballers), whose background included previous competition with the inaugural champion Titans team. Despite Sky’s experienced pedigree, Mac-10’s refined technique proved insurmountable, resulting in a third consecutive 2-0 triumph for the Kings.

    Sniper (Billiard Kings) maintained the relentless pace against Obi (Paradise Ballers) in the fourth match. Although Obi displayed momentary promise with competitive play, Sniper’s unwavering concentration secured yet another 2-0 victory, bringing the Kings to the threshold of overall match victory.

    The Paradise Ballers ultimately avoided a complete shutout during the fifth matchup. Robbie (Paradise Ballers) fulfilled his pre-match declaration to halt the Kings’ advance by capitalizing on an opening created when Grim (Billiard Kings) relinquished the first rack of the evening. Robbie’s confident performance earned two straight racks, delivering the Ballers’ sole point.

    Final proceedings featured Demolition Man (Billiard Kings) opposing Magic (Paradise Ballers). Responding to the interrupted momentum with professional composure, Demolition Man systematically overcame the challenge to claim the set and finalize the 5-1 team triumph.

    Through disciplined rack management and strategic responses to minimal opposition threats, the Billiard Kings established an early benchmark for performance standards in the ongoing competition.

  • IHO Nature Rangers Host Successful Community Consultations on Conservation in the NEMMA

    IHO Nature Rangers Host Successful Community Consultations on Conservation in the NEMMA

    In a significant stride toward community-driven conservation, the IHO Nature Rangers orchestrated two pivotal consultations within Antigua and Barbuda’s North East Marine Management Area (NEMMA). These gatherings, integral to the “Strengthening Conservation Actions in the North East Management Area” initiative, convened local residents, leaders of community organizations, and key stakeholders to shape the future of environmental stewardship.

    The first session unfolded on January 26, 2026, at Parham Primary School, with a subsequent meeting on January 28th at the Glanvilles Community Center. Project Manager Britney McDonald presented a comprehensive update on conservation measures already implemented, setting the stage for collaborative planning.

    Dialogues centered on forging partnerships and identifying actionable strategies to bolster biodiversity protection, enhance waste management systems, and promote sustainable practices. In Parham, deliberations highlighted the urgent need to safeguard Byam’s Wharf, a critical habitat for the endangered West Indian Whistling Duck plagued by improper waste disposal. The community also proposed vocational training in sustainable skills like fish pot construction and designated sites for new regulatory signage and bulk rubbish skips.

    The Glanvilles and Seatons communities advocated for the restoration of local pond ecosystems, the installation of waste collection infrastructure, and targeted clean-up operations at notorious illegal dumping sites. A strong emphasis was placed on engaging youth through educational programs focused on biodiversity, reflecting a shared commitment to intergenerational environmental education.

    These consultations underscored the profound cultural and economic ties binding these coastal communities to their marine environment. Both meetings culminated in the development of a detailed action plan, reinforcing collaborative partnerships and a unified dedication to preserving NEMMA’s ecological heritage.

    Forthcoming project activities include a birdwatching and ecotourism training session scheduled for February 15th, 2026, alongside community outreach through local churches. As McDonald emphasized, “We’re guided by community activists and organizations. This project aims to empower sustainable conservation actions that will endure long after its completion.”

    This ambitious endeavor is supported by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund and the World Bank, with implementation expertise provided by the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute and Integrated Health Outreach.

  • GPA tells House Speaker he’s referring to COVID-19 agreement on media access

    GPA tells House Speaker he’s referring to COVID-19 agreement on media access

    In a significant development for press freedom in Guyana, the Guyana Press Association (GPA) has publicly refuted claims by House Speaker Manzoor Nadir regarding an existing agreement on media access to parliamentary proceedings. The controversy emerged during the February 3-4, 2026 parliamentary sessions when Speaker Nadir asserted that current media arrangements were established in consultation with the GPA.

    The GPA issued a comprehensive statement clarifying that any previous agreement with the Parliament Office was specifically limited to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in 2020 and has been obsolete since national restrictions ended in March 2022. The association emphasized that Speaker Nadir’s continued reference to this expired agreement represents a fundamental misrepresentation of the current media landscape.

    The dispute centers on the Speaker’s decision to limit parliamentary access to only seven journalists while banning all private television news cameras from the chamber, permitting only the state-affiliated Department of Public Information (DPI) to provide video coverage. The GPA maintains that these restrictions are unjustified, noting that the parliamentary chamber has historically accommodated up to twelve journalists and multiple camera operators simultaneously.

    Speaker Nadir challenged opposition parliamentarian Sherod Duncan to formally propose changes to parliamentary rules through a motion while simultaneously expunging Duncan’s concerns from the official record. The Speaker maintained that no journalists are restricted from covering proceedings, despite implementing the seven-reporter cap.

    The GPA has identified multiple concerns with the current arrangement, including the unreliable nature of the DPI-provided video feed, which frequently experiences audio breaks and interruptions. The association also rejected the Speaker’s suggestion that smartphone recordings could substitute for professional broadcast equipment.

    This conflict represents the latest chapter in an ongoing struggle between Guyana’s media community and parliamentary authorities. The GPA characterizes these restrictions as an attack on media freedom that compromises transparent coverage of the nation’s legislative processes, particularly during critical events like budget presentations.

  • Senator Dwayne George Praises Finance Ministry After IMF Commendation

    Senator Dwayne George Praises Finance Ministry After IMF Commendation

    A prominent senator has extended high praise to Antigua and Barbuda’s Ministry of Finance following a favorable International Monetary Fund assessment that signals robust economic recovery. Senator Dwayne George publicly commended the ministry’s “exceptional work and unwavering commitment” to fiscal discipline, highlighting how the IMF’s recent Article IV consultation review validates the nation’s economic trajectory.

    The comprehensive IMF evaluation confirmed that the twin-island state is experiencing a remarkable fiscal transformation while maintaining a sustainable economic course. This assessment, which systematically examines economic performance, policy frameworks, and structural reforms, positions the country for enhanced growth and stability throughout the current fiscal cycle according to legislative officials.

    Senator George emphasized that this demonstrated progress stems from coordinated efforts across the finance ministry’s leadership and staff, whose professional dedication has substantially bolstished public confidence in national economic governance. The ministry’s implementation of disciplined fiscal management and effective policy execution has been instrumental in achieving this turnaround.

    Beyond immediate fiscal improvements, the ministry’s work is credited with establishing foundational frameworks for long-term development, economic resilience, and sustained prosperity for Antigua and Barbuda’s citizens. These regular IMF consultations serve as critical diagnostic tools that provide member states with tailored recommendations to promote macroeconomic stability and sustainable growth objectives.

  • IMF Presses Government to Reform Fragmented Social Assistance System

    IMF Presses Government to Reform Fragmented Social Assistance System

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a compelling call for the government of Antigua and Barbuda to undertake a comprehensive overhaul of its social assistance infrastructure. A recent Article IV consultation mission concluded that the existing framework, dispersed across five distinct ministries, is critically flawed. This administrative fragmentation is resulting in significant operational redundancies, diminished targeting accuracy, and overall inefficiencies in service delivery to citizens.

    A cornerstone of the IMF’s recommendation is the urgent establishment of a unified, centralized beneficiary database. This integrated system is deemed vital for enabling authorities to accurately identify eligible recipients, thereby eliminating coverage gaps and minimizing wasteful overlap between various aid programs. The Fund emphasized that without enhanced inter-agency coordination, the nation’s constrained public resources are being diluted, severely undermining the support available to vulnerable households. These communities continue to face heightened exposure to global economic volatility and escalating costs of living.

    Furthermore, the IMF underscored that modernizing this social protection network is not merely an operational improvement but a fundamental step toward bolstering fiscal sustainability and national economic resilience. Successful reform hinges on overcoming institutional barriers and fostering unprecedented cooperation among ministries. The ultimate goals are to ensure life-saving benefits reach those most in need and to strengthen accountability in the management of public finances.

  • Senator Delivers Smart TVs and CCTV System to Potters Primary After Break-In

    Senator Delivers Smart TVs and CCTV System to Potters Primary After Break-In

    In a powerful demonstration of community solidarity, Potters Primary School has received significant technological and security enhancements following a devastating burglary. The initiative, spearheaded by Senator Michael Freeland in partnership with local stakeholders, has resulted in the donation of three 40-inch Smart TVs and an advanced 14-camera CCTV security system to the educational institution.

    The collaborative effort involved Mr. Dane Martin and the Potters Reunion Group, represented by Miss Casmin Knowles, who joined forces to address the school’s urgent needs. The formal handover ceremony occurred on school grounds with Principal Miss Jasinter Athill accepting the equipment in the presence of students and faculty.

    The burglary had deprived the school of critical digital teaching tools that form an integral part of modern educational methodology. Rather than simply replacing the stolen equipment, Senator Freeland emphasized the comprehensive approach taken to address both immediate needs and long-term security concerns.

    The newly implemented surveillance system represents a substantial upgrade to the school’s security infrastructure, providing continuous monitoring capabilities designed to deter criminal activity and ensure student safety. This strategic intervention comes at a crucial time for the St. George community, where residents and community organizations have increasingly advocated for collective action to protect educational facilities.

    Senator Freeland highlighted the broader implications of the initiative, stating that creating secure learning environments transcends mere physical infrastructure. He emphasized that such conditions are fundamental to educational success and teacher effectiveness. The senator further called for sustained cooperation among community members, organizations, and leadership to foster safer, more resilient communities.

  • IMF Calls for Faster Tax Reforms, E-Filing and Customs Modernization in Antigua and Barbuda

    IMF Calls for Faster Tax Reforms, E-Filing and Customs Modernization in Antigua and Barbuda

    The International Monetary Fund has issued a compelling call for Antigua and Barbuda to intensify its pace of fiscal reforms, emphasizing that accelerated modernization of tax administration and customs operations is vital for enhancing revenue collection capabilities. Following its comprehensive Article IV consultation assessment, the IMF underscored that technological transformation represents the cornerstone of effective fiscal governance.

    IMF analysts identified the implementation of advanced information technology systems across revenue agencies as an immediate priority, noting that antiquated procedures persistently hinder compliance rates and operational efficiency. The Fund specifically advocated for the rapid deployment of electronic filing platforms and digital payment solutions, asserting that such innovations would simultaneously simplify taxpayer obligations and minimize administrative overhead and revenue leakage.

    Customs infrastructure emerged as another critical reform area, with the IMF pushing for expedited adoption of HS 2022 customs standards alongside comprehensive modernization of border procedures. The elimination of bureaucratic impediments to trade and competitiveness was highlighted as essential for economic growth.

    The establishment of a specialized large taxpayer unit received particular emphasis as a strategic initiative to strengthen oversight of major revenue contributors, enhance compliance mechanisms, and stabilize fiscal inflows. The IMF cautioned that timely execution of these technological and administrative enhancements remains crucial for consolidating recent improvements in tax performance.

    While acknowledging Antigua and Barbuda’s progressive steps in recent years, the Fund maintained that sustained reform momentum is necessary to achieve durable revenue mobilization and reduce dependence on irregular revenue sources. The recommended measures are projected to support the nation’s medium-term objective of elevating tax revenues to approximately 20 percent of GDP.

  • IMF Warns That Recently Announced Temporary ABST Cut Could undermine fiscal targets

    IMF Warns That Recently Announced Temporary ABST Cut Could undermine fiscal targets

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a cautionary assessment regarding Antigua and Barbuda’s fiscal outlook for 2026, highlighting significant concerns about revenue stability following the government’s decision to implement a temporary sales tax reduction. According to the IMF’s concluding statement from its Article IV consultation mission, the planned budget framework would typically achieve a primary surplus of approximately 1.6% of GDP—within the government’s target range of 1.5% to 2%—under baseline macroeconomic assumptions.

    The critical concern centers on the recently announced temporary reduction of the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) from 17% to 7%, whose implementation details and duration remain unspecified. IMF analysts warned that this fiscal measure could substantially undermine revenue performance at a crucial juncture when the nation seeks to strengthen its fiscal buffers, reduce financing requirements, and establish a sustainable downward trajectory for public debt.

    The Fund’s assessment noted that despite recent improvements, underlying revenue collection continues to fall short of government targets and lags behind regional counterparts. Restoring the ABST rate promptly was identified as essential for progress toward the administration’s goal of raising tax revenues to approximately 20% of GDP and maintaining a primary surplus aligned with medium-term fiscal objectives.

    Emphasizing the importance of sustainable fiscal practices, the IMF stated that robust revenue mobilization would alleviate financing pressures, support debt reduction initiatives, and enhance economic shock resilience. The institution specifically cautioned against dependence on temporary measures, noting that such approaches could potentially weaken the credibility of the overall fiscal framework.

  • Two new garbage trucks added to Dominica’s waste management fleet, bringing total to 8 within last 6 months

    Two new garbage trucks added to Dominica’s waste management fleet, bringing total to 8 within last 6 months

    The Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation (DSWMC) has significantly enhanced its operational capacity with the acquisition of two new garbage trucks, provided through funding from the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica. This delivery represents a major advancement in the nation’s public sanitation infrastructure, bringing the total number of new vehicles received by the corporation to eight within a mere six-month period.

    Official statements from the DSWMC hailed the government’s investment as a decisive measure to address pressing community needs, projecting a substantial elevation in the quality and reliability of waste collection services across the island. The corporation reaffirmed its foundational mission, stating, “We are committed to a cleaner, greener Dominica.”

    The expansion of the fleet was formally recognized during a handover ceremony in November 2025. DSWMC General Manager Florian Mitchell addressed attendees, presenting a holistic vision for effective waste management that extends beyond government provision of resources. Mitchell emphasized that while modern trucks are essential tools, the long-term success of sanitation efforts is fundamentally dependent on the active participation of all stakeholders.

    From a residential perspective, Mitchell explained that waste is an inevitable byproduct of consumption, placing a critical responsibility on citizens to manage their refuse properly. “We as residents have a critical role in storing the waste that we generate,” he stated. He elaborated that operational efficiency requires public adherence to protocols, including sorting waste at its source, separating different types of materials, and strictly following designated collection schedules.

    Mitchell further highlighted the indispensable role of commercial entities, urging businesses to integrate sustainable waste disposal practices into their daily operations. This collective approach, combining governmental investment with civic and corporate responsibility, is positioned as the cornerstone of Dominica’s strategy for achieving a more sustainable and environmentally sound future.