Guyana has been officially declared free of African Swine Fever (ASF) following comprehensive testing conducted in 2025, while neighboring Suriname has initiated a nationwide survey to assess the disease’s potential threat. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha confirmed the results, stating that data from national tests conducted in the first half of the year were submitted to international organizations for validation. ASF, a highly contagious viral disease affecting both domestic and wild pigs, poses significant risks to the agricultural sector due to its rapid spread and high mortality rate. To bolster its defenses, Guyana has equipped its Livestock Development Association’s laboratory with advanced test kits and established partnerships with reference centers in the United States and Brazil. Additionally, the country has created a serum bank for future reference and enhanced surveillance at all ports of entry. The Ministry of Agriculture has also prioritized staff training and capacity-building initiatives in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the International Institute for Cooperation in Agriculture. Meanwhile, Suriname has launched a pilot survey to map ASF risks, collecting 100 blood samples from pigs across several districts for overseas analysis. This effort is part of a broader USDA-funded project aimed at strengthening ASF surveillance and response capabilities in the Caribbean, Central America, and the Andean region. The reintroduction of ASF to the Americas since 2021, coupled with its resurgence in Europe, Asia, and Africa, highlights the urgent need for improved preparedness and management strategies.
标签： Guyana
圭亚那
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Bank accounts important for “next phase” of wealth transfer- Ali
The Guyana government, under the leadership of President Irfaan Ali, is intensifying efforts to encourage citizens to open bank accounts as a critical step in the nation’s wealth transfer strategy. Speaking at a reception hosted by the Canada Guyana Chamber of Commerce, President Ali emphasized the importance of integrating bank accounts with the new Electronic Identification Card (eID) system. This initiative aims to streamline government services, reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies, and enhance transparency. President Ali clarified that the rollout of the eID card is not directly tied to the disbursement of upcoming cash grants, which he had previously hinted at during the 2025 election campaign. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo reaffirmed the President’s commitment to fulfilling these promises. To facilitate this transition, the government and banking sector have simplified the criteria for opening personal, small business, and corporate accounts, eliminating previously burdensome requirements. The overarching goal is to ensure every Guyanese citizen has access to a bank account, paving the way for a more efficient and transparent financial system.
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Guyana closer to 100 percent treated water
Guyana is making significant strides toward achieving universal access to treated water, with hundreds of thousands of coastal residents now closer to receiving fully treated water. This progress was highlighted during the commissioning of a GY$1.3 billion water treatment plant at Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown, on Saturday, October 18, 2025. President Irfaan Ali announced that by the end of 2026, the country aims to achieve nearly 100% treated water coverage along the coast, benefiting homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses. The Cummings Lodge plant, with a daily capacity of 12 million liters, will serve nearly 10,000 people in areas like Tucville, Stevedore, South Ruimveldt, and Heroes Highway. Additionally, plans are underway to construct the largest coastal water treatment plant at Bachelor’s Adventure, East Coast Demerara, with a capacity of 20 million liters per day. Funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), five new treatment plants are expected to boost Guyana’s treated water coverage to 95% by 2026. In remote hinterland areas, access to potable water is projected to increase from 92% to 96% next year. Nationally, 98.4% of Guyana’s population now has access to potable water, one of the highest rates in the Caribbean. The government has laid over 200 kilometers of new pipelines, built seven large treatment plants, upgraded 13 others, and constructed 18 small community systems. President Ali emphasized that these investments reflect the government’s commitment to caring for its citizens, even in economically challenging areas.
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CARICOM leaders, except Trinidad, speak out on US military build-up in Caribbean
Amid heightened security concerns, leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have voiced their stance on the United States’ military build-up in the region, emphasizing the need for adherence to international law. The discussions took place during a virtual meeting held on Thursday, where CARICOM Heads of Government reiterated their commitment to combating narcotrafficking and the illegal trade of small arms and light weapons, which pose significant threats to the region. While Trinidad and Tobago chose to reserve its position, other leaders reaffirmed the Caribbean as a zone of peace, stressing the importance of dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution. Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali expressed support for both regional peace and the fight against transnational crimes, including narco-trafficking. Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar openly endorsed US military operations targeting narco-terrorists, which have resulted in the destruction of several boats and fatalities in international waters. The US Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago has advised the public to avoid all US government facilities through the weekend due to a heightened state of alert, coinciding with the Hindu festival of Deepavali. CARICOM remains committed to assisting in achieving regional security objectives.
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Cutlass-wielding man invades Leonora Secondary School’s compound
A shocking incident unfolded at Leonora Secondary School on the West Coast Demerara when a man wielding a cutlass stormed the school compound, chasing students in a tense confrontation. According to the Guyana Police Force, the altercation began when a group of male students reportedly hurled bricks at three individuals passing by the school. In retaliation, one of the men, armed with a cutlass, entered the school premises, escalating the situation. A quick-thinking teacher intervened, successfully de-escalating the encounter and forcing the armed individual to leave the compound. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The incident occurred around 12:30 PM on Thursday, October 16, 2025. Police later revisited the school to conduct follow-up investigations, collaborating with school officials and the Welfare Department. Preliminary findings suggest the altercation may have stemmed from a prior confrontation involving students. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the event.
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Several arrested for firecrackers, other uncustomed goods- GRA
In a significant crackdown on illegal activities, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) announced the seizure of a substantial quantity of firecrackers and other uncustomed goods at the Stabroek Market on Friday. The operation, led by the GRA’s Law Enforcement & Investigation Division (LEID), resulted in multiple arrests. The GRA stated that several individuals are currently assisting with ongoing investigations. This follows a similar operation in the Berbice area on Wednesday, where a large cache of firecrackers was confiscated, and suspects were handed over to the police. The GRA emphasized its ‘zero tolerance’ policy towards smuggling and urged the public to comply with national tax, trade, and border laws. The Authority warned that violations could lead to charges under the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01. The GRA also encouraged citizens to report smuggling activities through designated hotlines.
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Ansa McAl agrees to buy, distribute Guyanese products in Caribbean
In a landmark decision, the Trinidad-based Ansa McAl Group of Companies has committed to purchasing and distributing Guyanese products across its Caribbean supermarket chain. The announcement was made during a sod-turning ceremony at Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara, where a state-of-the-art mall valued at over US$50 million is set to be constructed. The project, spearheaded by a Chinese company, is expected to be completed within two years and will include sporting facilities such as volleyball and basketball courts, as well as a farmers’ market and stalls for Indigenous Peoples to showcase their products.
Ansa McAl’s CEO, Anthony Sabga II, was inspired by Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali’s ambitious vision for collaboration between the government and private sector. President Ali emphasized the importance of removing trade barriers and ensuring Guyanese products gain a foothold in Caribbean markets. He also highlighted the need for investment in the value chain to position Guyana as more than just a retail hub.
The partnership aims to support small farmers and producers by consolidating their goods into shipping containers for distribution. President Ali expressed his disappointment at the lack of Guyanese products on Caribbean shelves and urged Ansa McAl to work with the New Guyana Marketing Corporation to facilitate this initiative.
This collaboration marks a significant step in regional trade, with Guyana seeking to leverage its contributions to the Caribbean for mutual economic growth. The project also underscores the potential for further investment in Guyana’s agricultural and industrial sectors, with a focus on value creation and infrastructure development.
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New CCJ judge Guyanese Dr Arif Bulkan lauded for achievements, contributions
Dr. Arif Bulkan, a distinguished Guyanese legal scholar and human rights advocate, has been sworn in as a judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). The ceremony, presided over by President Irfaan Ali, marked a significant milestone in Dr. Bulkan’s illustrious career, which spans academia, law, and human rights activism. His appointment underscores the CCJ’s commitment to regional integration and decolonization, as the court continues to establish itself as a cornerstone of Caribbean jurisprudence. Dr. Bulkan, the third Guyanese to serve on the CCJ bench, emphasized the court’s symbolic importance in shedding colonial legacies and fostering regional unity. He expressed hope that all Caribbean nations would soon fully embrace the CCJ as their final court of appeal, replacing the British Privy Council. President Ali echoed this sentiment, highlighting the court’s role in advancing Caribbean sovereignty and justice rooted in regional values. Dr. Bulkan’s extensive experience, including his work with the United Nations and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, positions him as a valuable asset to the CCJ. Chancellor of the Judiciary Roxane George-Wiltshire praised his legal acumen and dedication, expressing confidence in his ability to shape the future of Caribbean law. CCJ President Winston Anderson also lauded Dr. Bulkan’s commitment to social justice and equality, emphasizing his potential to contribute significantly to the court’s mission. The swearing-in ceremony was celebrated as a moment of national pride and regional progress, reflecting the CCJ’s growing influence in the Caribbean legal landscape.
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Gov’t to crack down on online gambling, betting shops
In a decisive move to address growing societal concerns, Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced on Thursday, October 16, 2025, that the government will implement stricter regulations and impose higher taxes on online gambling and betting shops. This decision comes in response to widespread complaints that gambling activities are diverting essential income away from families, particularly affecting single parents and breadwinners. Jagdeo emphasized that the proliferation of gambling apps and hundreds of betting shops across the country has created a ‘major social problem,’ leading to family breakdowns and financial hardships. He highlighted that the government has already signaled its intent to curb this issue, citing the negative impact on communities. Additionally, Jagdeo noted that the religious community has raised concerns about the detrimental effects of habitual gambling on livelihoods. The Vice President also mentioned that while licensed casinos at two hotels remain accessible to registered guests, the new measures aim to discourage excessive gambling by increasing taxes on online platforms. The announcement underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the socio-economic challenges posed by the gambling industry.
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Jagdeo denies PPPC, APNU held negotiations for Region Four top posts
In a press conference held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, Bharrat Jagdeo, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), firmly denied any negotiations with the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) regarding the chairmanship and vice chairmanship of the Region Four Council. Jagdeo emphasized that no formal or informal discussions took place between the two parties. This statement came amidst speculation following the PPP’s narrow victory in securing the top regional positions by a single vote. The election results revealed a tight race, with APNU and PPP each winning 17 council seats, while the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) secured one seat. During the secret ballot for the chairmanship, the FGM candidate disclosed her vote for APNU’s Shanika Haynes. Meanwhile, Tabita Sarabo-Halley, an executive member of We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), revealed that her party’s council members boycotted the vote due to an unresolved agreement with APNU over leadership positions in Region 10. Jagdeo asserted that the PPP’s victory in Region Four reflected the will of the people, given the party’s significant plurality of 87,536 votes (49%) in the region. He accused WIN and APNU of collaborating to undermine the democratic process. Additionally, Jagdeo hinted at the possibility of instructing PPP councillors in Region 10 to abstain from voting, potentially escalating tensions between WIN and APNU. WIN has threatened legal action if the Regional Executive Officer fails to call for further elections.