Carib Scope

标签： Guyana

圭亚那

  • Guyana to train its own pilots- Pres Ali; globally-recognised aviation cadet scheme targets youths

    Guyana to train its own pilots- Pres Ali; globally-recognised aviation cadet scheme targets youths

    In a strategic move to develop domestic aviation capabilities, Guyana has announced plans to establish a premier aviation training institution that will certify local professionals across multiple aerospace disciplines. President Irfaan Ali confirmed the initiative, emphasizing that this will enable aspiring Guyanese pilots to “earn their wings right here in Guyana” rather than overseas, where training currently costs approximately US$140,000 per pilot.

    The groundbreaking effort is being advanced through the Guyana’s Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Programme, a collaborative partnership between the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), the United Kingdom’s International Air Cadets organization, Air Cadets of Guyana, and the University of Guyana. This program represents one of the first implementations of i.ACT’s fully integrated NGAP+ framework, aligning with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) global standards.

    Under the newly signed memorandum of understanding, the NGAP+ partnership supports Guyana’s ambitious goal of training 1,500 internationally qualified aviation personnel by the end of 2028. The program will create a comprehensive pathway for participants aged 16 and above, offering internationally benchmarked aviation education, technical training, and industry-focused life skills. A pre-vocational “Air Cadets” track will also engage youth aged 12-16, introducing them to aerospace careers early.

    Malcolm Evans, CEO of i.ACT, described the program as “a transformational pipeline from classroom and community air cadet activities right through to internationally recognised qualifications.” He noted that “Guyana is sending a clear signal that aviation is a strategic national economic asset and that investing in young people” is a priority.

    The initiative addresses both economic and developmental objectives, with President Ali noting that “our government’s economic philosophy is built on the principle of inclusive development” as Guyana’s domestic aviation network continues to expand. Captain Gerry Gouveia Jr., Head of Air Cadets Guyana, highlighted the program’s accessibility aspects, noting that it provides alternative pathways into aviation beyond traditional expensive routes or military service.

    The University of Guyana has committed space, expertise, and technical support to the program, which will roll out over an initial three-year period as a adaptable national framework. The curriculum will eventually expand across disciplines including airport operations, air navigation services, airline operations, safety management, and emerging aerospace technologies.

  • ExxonMobil hires new ground transportation provider; CEO promises high quality service

    ExxonMobil hires new ground transportation provider; CEO promises high quality service

    In a significant development within Guyana’s energy sector logistics, locally-owned Scoop Inc has been appointed as the exclusive ground transportation provider for ExxonMobil Guyana. Chief Executive Officer Edmond Braithwaite confirmed the contract award on Sunday, highlighting the company’s commitment to international service standards and substantial local investment.

    The transportation company, which represents a fully Guyanese-owned enterprise, has already deployed US$2 million in capital investments and created approximately 200 jobs. With anticipated expansion into additional oil and gas sector contracts, Braithwaite projects investment growth to US$5 million and workforce expansion to nearly 400 employees.

    This contractual shift follows the termination of previous provider Cyril’s Transportation Service, whose owner was involved in a December 2024 incident involving the discharge of a licensed firearm that disabled the vehicle assigned to ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge.

    Scoop Inc emphasizes rigorous safety protocols, including international-standard defensive driving training, random substance testing for alcohol and narcotics, and comprehensive GPS monitoring of all vehicles. The company’s fleet features emergency preparedness equipment and premium amenities including complimentary beverages from local producer Banks DIH.

    Braithwaite brings four decades of U.S. business experience to the venture, which was initiated following encouragement from family members within Guyana’s transportation industry. The launch event garnered support from Prime Minister Mark Phillips, who noted that Scoop Inc’s emergence reflects broader technological advancements and infrastructure development within Guyana’s transportation landscape.

    In a related business development, Braithwaite confirmed his leadership role at ERES Guyana Inc, a property management firm connected to U.S.-based Energy Real Estate Solutions, which counts ExxonMobil among its major clients.

  • Rodrigues woos investors to Rupununi

    Rodrigues woos investors to Rupununi

    Guyana’s Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues has issued a compelling call to action for domestic investors, urging them to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo) area. This appeal comes alongside significant infrastructure advancements, including the ongoing construction of the critical Linden-Lethem Road and planned development of a major international airport in Lethem.

    Addressing attendees at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s annual awards ceremony, Minister Rodrigues emphasized that Guyanese businesses should not delay their strategic positioning until project completion. “Now is the time to make strategic decisions about your presence, your services and your role in that region,” she asserted, highlighting that the roadway will create direct access to substantial economic zones in neighboring Brazil.

    The Minister confirmed that contract awarding for the modern Lethem airport has been finalized, with construction scheduled to commence in 2026. Rodrigues delivered a sense of urgency to potential investors, stating plainly: “If you are not there, you’re almost late already.

    Tourism development features prominently in the government’s regional strategy, with Rupununi identified as one of ten priority locations for eco-lodge construction. Rodrigues specifically invited GCCI members to submit proposals for these initiatives, noting they represent “potential opportunities for business expansion through engagement and partnership with local communities.”

    The investment push coincides with Guyana’s remarkable tourism growth trajectory. Official projections indicate a 20 percent increase in visitor numbers compared to the previous year, with the Caribbean Tourism Organization confirming the country achieved the region’s “highest percentage increase” in tourist arrivals during the first seven months of 2025.

  • Stop paying in gold, declare all to reach national target- Miners Assoc

    Stop paying in gold, declare all to reach national target- Miners Assoc

    In a significant move to bolster national gold reserves, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) has issued a stern directive to mining operators, demanding an immediate cessation of using raw gold as currency for transactions and worker compensation. The call to action emerged from the association’s Annual General Meeting held Friday, where Ronaldo Alphonso was re-elected as President.

    The GGDMA’s position received strong governmental backing as the Ministry of Natural Resources concurrently released a statement reinforcing that all mining sector employees must be compensated exclusively through lawful financial channels in accordance with labor regulations. “Paying workers in gold undermines transparency, weakens declaration accuracy, and exposes workers to exploitation and unsafe practices,” the ministry emphasized, announcing plans to intensify compliance inspections with penalties for violations.

    Central to this initiative is the national target of 500,000 ounces of gold for 2025. Current declarations to the Guyana Gold Board stand at approximately 420,000 ounces, with projections suggesting a year-end total between 450,000 and 475,000 ounces—falling short of the ambitious goal. This compares to 434,067 ounces declared in 2024 and 432,113 ounces in 2023.

    The crackdown extends to eliminating the practice known as the “Blai box,” which both entities deem illegal. Miners are instructed to conduct sales exclusively through the Guyana Gold Board or authorized licensed dealers to ensure accurate national production data and fair trade practices.

    In a related development, the GGDMA membership unanimously supported stronger measures against gold smuggling, including potential blacklisting of members engaged in such activities. Alphonso committed to enhanced collaboration with government authorities to eradicate illegal gold trading operations and unlicensed buyers.

  • “Shoulders” pleads guilty to burglary, theft from home affairs ministry, four others

    “Shoulders” pleads guilty to burglary, theft from home affairs ministry, four others

    In a significant court development in Guyana, a 48-year-old unemployed man has confessed to a series of burglaries targeting both government institutions and private citizens. Neil Medas, also known as “Shoulders,” entered guilty pleas on Wednesday for five distinct counts of break-in and theft offenses committed on December 8, 2025.

    The most notable target among the burglaries was the Ministry of Home Affairs, a key government security institution. Additionally, Medas targeted the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre on Carmichael Street in Georgetown and three individual victims. According to police statements, the Guyana Human Rights Association/Policy Forum Guyana offices were not among the locations burglarized.

    With no fixed address provided to the court, Medas faced charges encompassing all criminal incidents. Following his comprehensive admission of guilt across all charges, the presiding judge ordered his remand to prison pending sentencing. The judicial proceedings have been formally adjourned until January 7, 2026, when the case will resume for potential sentencing considerations.

    The Guyana Police Force confirmed the details of the case through an official spokeswoman, highlighting the successful investigation that led to these charges. The consecutive burglaries within a single day raised particular concerns about security protocols at government facilities, though authorities have not disclosed the specific items or valuables taken during these incidents.

  • Private Sector Commission prefers non-legal regulation of campaign financing

    Private Sector Commission prefers non-legal regulation of campaign financing

    In a significant development for Guyana’s electoral integrity, the nation’s foremost business consortium has proposed a novel approach to campaign finance regulation that stops short of immediate legislation. The Private Sector Commission (PSC), chaired by Captain Gerry Gouveia Jr., has released its comprehensive election observer report following the September 1 general and regional elections, calling for structured national dialogue rather than statutory mandates.

    The PSC’s position paper emphasizes a methodical examination of international best practices through a specialized working group. This proposed body would scrutinize disclosure requirements, reporting timelines, expenditure ceilings, and oversight mechanisms tailored to Guyana’s unique political environment. Notably, the commission explicitly stated that it “does not advocate a specific legislative design at this stage,” instead favoring the development of “fair, transparent, and enforceable standards” through consensus-building.

    This stance emerges amid decades of international observer missions consistently highlighting the absence of campaign finance legislation. Current regulations under the Representation of the People Act require parties to report expenses to the Chief Elections Officer, yet compliance remains nonexistent without stipulated penalties.

    The commission’s position aligns remarkably with the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) and opposition A Partnership for National Unity’s parent party, both of which historically resisted donor disclosure mandates. The PSC further contended that government officials’ media appearances during official duties should not constitute political campaigning, asserting that any resultant advantage merely reflects “the benefit of incumbency.”

    However, the report acknowledged concerns regarding state-owned media’s electoral role, noting that using public broadcast platforms for partisan advantage “directly compromises electoral fairness”—a matter the commission recommends addressing in future elections without providing specific remedies.

    The PSC’s recommendations have sparked discussions about the organization’s perceived alignment with the incumbent administration, even as it attempts to navigate the complex terrain of political finance reform through collaborative rather than coercive means.

  • Guyana plans to buy long-acting HIV prevention anti-retroviral

    Guyana plans to buy long-acting HIV prevention anti-retroviral

    The Guyanese government has announced plans to acquire lenacapavir, an innovative anti-retroviral medication scientifically proven to provide up to six months of protection against HIV transmission. Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony confirmed the nation’s intention to purchase this revolutionary prophylactic treatment, which could significantly alter the country’s approach to HIV prevention.

    Currently marketed under the brand name Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and endorsed by the World Health Organization, the medication carries a substantial price tag of approximately $25,000 in markets like the United States. Minister Anthony revealed that Guyana anticipates negotiating more affordable acquisition terms within the next one to two years, particularly as the drug approaches patent expiration.

    “We’re optimistic that post-patent expiration will enable us to access this medication at a reduced cost,” Dr. Anthony stated. “Many experts believe this treatment could revolutionize HIV care, and we’re collaborating with international partners to facilitate its availability.”

    The Health Minister explicitly committed to providing lenacapavir free of charge to citizens if the government successfully secures it at lower off-patent prices. This initiative follows a significant precedent set in South Africa, where the Clinton Health Access Initiative partnered with the Gates Foundation and research institutions to negotiate access at approximately $40 per dose—a dramatic reduction representing just 0.1% of the original cost.

    According to BBC reports, this affordable alternative is scheduled for distribution across 120 low- and middle-income nations starting in 2027. The development is particularly crucial for Guyana, where official statistics recorded 449 new HIV cases in the previous year.

    Minister Anthony further reported that 95% of Guyanese citizens are now aware of their HIV status, though not all positive individuals currently receive treatment. The government is simultaneously working to ensure viral suppression among those undergoing treatment, ultimately aiming to eliminate transmission risks. “Achieving viral suppression to prevent transmission represents our ultimate objective, and we’re dedicating substantial efforts toward maintaining progress in this critical area,” he concluded.

  • MARAD says US-seized tanker offshore Venezuela falsely used Guyana flag

    MARAD says US-seized tanker offshore Venezuela falsely used Guyana flag

    In a significant maritime incident, the United States Coast Guard has intercepted a large crude oil tanker falsely operating under the Guyana flag in international waters. The vessel identified as SKIPPER (ex-ADISA), IMO Number 9304667, was boarded and seized on Wednesday following coordination between American and Guyanese authorities.

    The Guyana Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) confirmed the vessel had no legitimate registration with their nation. Director-General Stephen Thomas stated that investigation revealed the SKIPPER was unlawfully flying the Guyanese flag, describing this as part of an ‘unacceptable trend’ of unauthorized use of national maritime symbols.

    MARAD officials emphasized their commitment to collaborate with international partners to identify and take firm action against such fraudulent flag representations. The administration noted increasing concerns about vessels attempting to exploit maritime registration systems for potentially illicit activities.

    US President Donald Trump characterized the seizure as a major enforcement achievement, noting it represented the largest crude tanker ever apprehended by American authorities. Video footage released by BBC showed US military personnel conducting the boarding operation.

    The incident has triggered strong diplomatic repercussions from Venezuela, which denounced the seizure as ‘an act of international piracy.’ The Nicolás Maduro administration accused the United States of attempting to illegally control Venezuelan oil resources that ‘belong exclusively to the Venezuelan people.’ Venezuelan officials urged the international community to reject what they termed ‘vandalistic, illegal, and unprecedented aggression’ and called upon citizens to defend national sovereignty.

  • Guyana, Belize to satisfy CARICOM’s refined sugar demand

    Guyana, Belize to satisfy CARICOM’s refined sugar demand

    In a significant development for regional food security and economic integration, two major sugar refineries currently under construction in Guyana and Belize are positioned to fully satisfy the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) refined sugar requirements. This strategic initiative, led by U.S.-based SUCRO in partnership with local private sector entities, represents a transformative shift in the Caribbean’s agricultural landscape.

    According to official statements released Tuesday, these facilities will collectively address CARICOM’s annual demand of 200,000 tonnes of refined cane sugar, valued at approximately US$180 million. Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh confirmed the projects’ capacity to achieve regional self-sufficiency in refined sugar production upon completion.

    The Guyana operation, Demerara Sugar Refinery Inc., emerges as a joint venture between SUCRO and local investors, with construction scheduled to commence next year at Wales, West Bank Demerara. This development follows a similar September agreement between SUCRO and Belize’s Santander Sugar Limited, establishing Caribbean Sugar Refinery Limited (CSR).

    Komal Singh, Director of Demerara Sugar Refinery, emphasized the project’s potential to revitalize Guyana’s struggling sugar industry. “We’re collaborating closely with GUYSUCO to enhance their productivity while adding value to surplus sugar that enjoys substantial global market demand,” Singh stated. GUYSUCO CEO Paul Cheong endorsed the partnership as beneficial for the industry’s recovery, noting that 40% of state-owned operations have already been mechanized.

    SUCRO Vice President Oliver Hire outlined the operational strategy, explaining that raw sugar will be transported to refineries before distribution across CARICOM nations through a Trinidad-based hub. “We’re leveraging Guyana’s geographical advantage to ensure comprehensive regional coverage,” Hire remarked.

    The initiative promises substantial economic and environmental benefits. The Guyana refinery will utilize rice husk for electricity generation, significantly reducing dust pollution while creating sustainable energy solutions. Hire further highlighted that the operation will support GUYSUCO’s 8,000 workers and generate profits that directly incentivize production, reducing dependence on volatile global brown sugar markets.

  • US, Guyana agree to “expand” military cooperation

    US, Guyana agree to “expand” military cooperation

    In a significant strategic development, the United States and Guyana have formally agreed to enhance their military partnership through a newly signed Statement of Intent. The agreement was finalized during high-level talks at Guyana’s State House on December 9, 2025, between Guyanese President Irfaan Ali and senior US defense officials.

    The US delegation included Patrick Weaver, Senior Advisor to the Secretary of War, and Joseph Humire, Acting Assistant Secretary of War for Western Hemisphere Affairs. The meeting produced a framework for expanded joint military operations that maintains full respect for both nations’ sovereignty and legal systems.

    President Ali characterized the agreement as part of an ‘evolving process’ within Washington’s broader ‘Southern Spear’ security strategy—a new hemispheric initiative focusing increased attention and resources on Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations and Western Hemisphere allies. The arrangement reinforces existing cooperation mechanisms like the Shiprider Agreement, which authorizes US security personnel to pursue and intercept drug trafficking vessels in Guyanese waters.

    When questioned about potential US troop deployments in Guyana, President Ali emphasized the collaborative nature of the partnership, describing it as a regional response to criminal elements exploiting Caribbean airspace and waterways. The Guyanese leader indicated that further discussions on enhanced cooperation levels would continue in coming months, potentially leading to more formal defense arrangements.

    The diplomatic engagement occurred alongside Guyana’s strengthening ties with international partners committed to combating transnational crime. President Ali reiterated his nation’s dedication to regional security during the opening of Grenada’s Honorary Consulate in Guyana, highlighting the shared responsibility to create a safer Caribbean for future generations.