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标签： Guyana

圭亚那

  • Ghanaian company inks agreement for 400 million barrels of oil Guyana concession

    Ghanaian company inks agreement for 400 million barrels of oil Guyana concession

    In a landmark deal signaling growing international investment in Guyana’s energy sector, Ghana-based Cybele Energy has secured exploration rights to the S7 offshore concession with a winning bid of US$17 million. The agreement was formally signed Tuesday at Pegasus Corporate Suites in Georgetown by Cybele CEO Beatrice Mensah-Tayui and Guyana’s Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat.

    The S7 block, spanning less than 1,500 square kilometers in shallow waters, represents significant potential with preliminary estimates suggesting approximately 400 million barrels of oil. Minister Bharrat emphasized that this figure remains speculative until comprehensive geological studies are conducted. “That’s an estimate based on geology that they have currently, so you can extrapolate but until you do actual work, you really don’t know,” he told reporters.

    Cybele’s bid exceeded the government’s stipulated minimum by US$7 million, demonstrating both financial capacity and serious commitment to the project. The evaluation process considered not only financial offers but also technical capabilities and exploration experience. The company has announced plans to collaborate with Norway’s Elemental Energies, renowned for its well-engineering expertise with industry supermajors like Total.

    This agreement marks the second major production sharing pact finalized by the Guyanese government within three weeks, totaling US$32 million in signing bonuses. The previous agreement involved a TotalEnergies-led consortium with a US$15 million bonus.

    Notably, Cybele Energy makes history as both the first African-led operator in Guyana and the first woman-led exploration and production company to secure a block outside Africa. The company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives include creating opportunities for women in the energy sector.

    The S7 concession is strategically positioned approximately 50 kilometers from ExxonMobil’s prolific Liza 1 and Liza 2 fields, with 20% overlap with REPSOL’s Carapa-1 3D seismic survey area. Cybele’s geological leadership includes Segun Jebutu, a former lead subsurface scientist with over 25 years of experience working on ExxonMobil’s Guyanese operations.

  • Guyana proposes to supply high quality food to Grenada

    Guyana proposes to supply high quality food to Grenada

    In a significant move to bolster Caribbean food security, Guyana has formally proposed establishing a comprehensive agricultural partnership with Grenada. President Irfaan Ali announced the initiative during the official opening of Grenada’s Consulate in Guyana, signaling a new chapter in bilateral relations between the two Caribbean nations.

    President Ali revealed that Guyana is preparing to supply Grenada with high-quality agricultural produce through an elaborate bilateral agreement targeted for signing in the first quarter of next year. “We are investing heavily in regional food security and we hope that our two sides can sit down and sign an agreement where Guyana can be your most trusted partner in supplying quality, consistent food at consistent prices to Grenada,” President Ali stated during the ceremony.

    The Guyanese leader emphasized substantial investments in infrastructure and technology, noting collaboration with several international players to enhance agricultural capacity. Beyond basic food supplies, the proposal includes joint investment opportunities to revitalize Grenada’s spice industry, particularly in developing processing and packaging capabilities for regional and international markets.

    The newly established consulate, headed by Honorary Consul Komal Singh—a prominent Guyanese businessman—will serve as a crucial bridge for economic cooperation. Singh expressed commitment to stimulating greater awareness among Grenadians about opportunities in business, investment, education, and cultural exchange. “This office will serve as a bridge; a place where connections are made, support is given, and initiatives are built that benefit both nations,” Singh affirmed.

    The diplomatic advancement comes against the backdrop of Guyana’s substantial support following Hurricane Beryl’s devastation in 2024, which Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell described as “rock hard” assistance. Mitchell emphasized the strategic importance of strengthening ties with regional partners rather than distant nations with limited common interests. Direct flights between the two countries already facilitate transportation and exchange.

    Both leaders identified the removal of artificial trade barriers as essential for regional progress, noting that outdated laws and regulations remain significant obstacles to Caribbean economic integration. The partnership represents a concrete step toward deeper diplomatic, political, and economic cooperation within CARICOM, with Guyana positioning itself as both a reliable food security partner and gateway to South American markets.

  • APNU pickets Irfaan Ali’s office for cash grant

    APNU pickets Irfaan Ali’s office for cash grant

    A modest gathering of fewer than one hundred demonstrators assembled outside the Office of the President in Guyana on Monday, responding to a mobilization call by the opposition coalition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). The protest targeted President Irfaan Ali’s unfulfilled campaign pledge to distribute a Christmas cash grant to citizens grappling with escalating living costs.

    Protesters brandished placards with messages including “The money belongs to the people of Guyana. Pay it now” and “We can’t eat beauty. Fancy don’t pay bills. We need the cash grant for Christmas.” The assembly featured chants and visual demands emphasizing the urgent need for financial relief during the holiday season.

    APNU parliamentarian Dr. Dexter Todd, speaking from the picket line, articulated the coalition’s demand for a minimum payment of GY$150,000 for every Guyanese citizen aged 18 and above. Dr. Todd emphasized the people’s rightful claim to national resources, stating, “This money belongs to the people of Guyana and because it belongs to the people of Guyana, we are very serious in relation to how they must be treated.”

    The protest gained additional participation from civil society groups including the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity and the Vigilant Political Action Committee. Demonstrators marched from the Square of the Revolution to the eastern perimeter of the presidential compound.

    APNU parliamentary leader Dr. Terrence Campbell criticized President Ali’s recent remarks at a campaign meeting in Eccles, where he suggested citizens would receive “a beautiful Christmas if you behave yourself.” Dr. Campbell countered this position firmly: “The money is the people’s money; they don’t have to behave themselves to get it.”

    The demonstration highlighted growing concerns over economic distress, with Dr. Todd referencing “alarming” unemployment rates and citing numerous instances of citizens in “desperate need” of financial assistance. The opposition coalition announced intentions to pursue legislative measures that would establish specific timelines for cash transfer disbursements, moving away from reliance on political discretion.

    President Ali, who strongly hinted at holiday cash grants during the final weeks of the 2025 general and regional election campaign, has yet to announce a concrete timeline for distribution.

  • One arrested for break-and-enter, theft from Home Affairs Ministry

    One arrested for break-and-enter, theft from Home Affairs Ministry

    Authorities in Guyana have apprehended a 48-year-old individual following a significant security breach at the Ministry of Home Affairs headquarters in Georgetown. The incident occurred during the predawn hours of Monday, with the burglary taking place between 3:00 AM and 4:55 AM local time.

    According to official reports from the Guyana Police Force, the perpetrator gained unauthorized access to the government building through an eastern-side washroom window on the lower level, which investigators found deliberately opened. Once inside, the suspect systematically ransacked both the middle and lower sections of the ministry premises.

    Surveillance footage obtained from the ministry’s closed-circuit television system captured the intruder moving through the facility while carrying a substantial black travel bag. The stolen items included multiple electronic devices such as laptop computers, electronic tablets, digital cameras, along with personal belongings of ministry staff members.

    The comprehensive CCTV evidence documented the suspect’s exit strategy, showing the individual leaving via a northern fire escape before scaling the eastern perimeter fence. The perpetrator was observed proceeding eastward along Croal Street while carrying the bag containing the stolen items.

    Law enforcement officials confirmed the recovery of several stolen articles following the arrest of the primary suspect. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine whether additional individuals were involved in the security breach and to assess the full scope of compromised materials.

    The Ministry of Home Affairs, responsible for national security and public safety matters, has initiated a comprehensive review of its security protocols in response to the incident.

  • Mohameds ask Magistrate to refer constitutionality of amendments to Fugitive Offenders Act to High Court

    Mohameds ask Magistrate to refer constitutionality of amendments to Fugitive Offenders Act to High Court

    In a significant legal development, prominent Guyanese gold traders Azruddin Mohamed and Nazar “Shell” Mohamed have petitioned the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to refer constitutional challenges against amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Act to the High Court. The wealthy businessmen, indicted by United States authorities on charges of wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering related to their gold operations and luxury vehicle purchases, are contesting the legal framework that could facilitate their extradition.

    During Monday’s proceedings, the defense team comprising Trinidadian attorney Rajiv Persad and Guyanese lawyers Roysdale Forde and Siand Dhurjon presented arguments questioning the constitutional validity of 2009 amendments to the extradition legislation. They characterized the matters under consideration as “substantial questions of grave public importance” that impact the fundamental propriety of Guyana’s extradition relations with treaty partners, including the United States.

    The legal challenge centers on several contentious amendments, including provisions that grant ministerial authority to determine extradition matters based on “the interest of justice” and clauses that potentially allow for re-extradition to third countries. The defense argued these amendments represent parliamentary overreach that infringes upon judicial independence and separation of powers principles established in Guyana’s constitution.

    Prosecution lead Terrence Williams of Jamaica countered that extradition inherently involves political dimensions supported by treaty obligations and parliamentary legislation. Williams emphasized that the United States had provided diplomatic assurances against re-extradition to third countries, rendering the defense’s specialty arguments “frivolous and vexatious” according to the amended Act’s standards.

    Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman has scheduled her decision on whether to refer the constitutional questions to the High Court for December 10 at 9 AM, following additional submissions from both parties regarding the validity and applicability of the US diplomatic note.

  • Caribbean Manufacturers’ Association boss laments humbugs to regional trade

    Caribbean Manufacturers’ Association boss laments humbugs to regional trade

    Georgetown, Guyana – Caribbean manufacturers are confronting significant structural obstacles to regional trade integration, with harmonization issues and protectionist policies undermining economic cooperation efforts. Ramsey Ali, President of the Caribbean Manufacturers’ Association (CMA), voiced these concerns during a recent trade forum organized by World Trade Centre Georgetown.

    The absence of standardized food import regulations across CARICOM member states remains a persistent challenge. Ali highlighted how varying requirements force exporters to navigate disparate inspection protocols, creating unnecessary delays and increased operational costs. “The distinct different requirements, including the need for inspectors from intended buying countries, point to the absence of a common set of rules,” Ali stated, noting this non-tariff barrier has persisted for years without resolution.

    A particularly contentious issue involves the Common External Tariff (CET) waiver process. Ali criticized member states for routinely blocking waiver requests despite demonstrated inability to supply certain products regionally. The objection process through CARICOM’s Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) proves excessively time-consuming and costly for businesses awaiting essential raw materials.

    Furthermore, Ali accused several CARICOM governments of systematically violating CET provisions by permitting extra-regional imports without applying protective tariffs. This practice undermines local manufacturers who have invested substantially in production capabilities. “There are hundreds of pending court cases about that violation across the region,” revealed Ali, whose own company faces ten such legal challenges.

    The debate revealed divergent perspectives on CARICOM’s institutional effectiveness. Former Guyana Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge defended the organization’s technical staff while acknowledging COTED’s limitations as “the least effective of all ministerial bodies.” Greenidge attributed implementation failures to member states prioritizing sovereignty over collective commitments.

    Contrasting this view, CARICOM Single Market expert Neville Bissember maintained that the COTED mechanism provides adequate space for negotiating medium-to-long term exemptions, asserting that “the thing is working.” Belize’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Gale Miller-Garnett, emphasized the CET’s importance for protecting domestic industries and strengthening CARICOM’s external negotiating position.

    The forum underscored the tension between regional integration aspirations and national economic interests, highlighting the urgent need for institutional reforms to facilitate smoother trade operations across the Caribbean community.

  • Locally-made products now on sale on GMSA-sponsored website

    Locally-made products now on sale on GMSA-sponsored website

    In a significant move to bolster domestic commerce, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) has officially relaunched its upgraded e-commerce platform, the UncappeD Marketplace. This digital hub now features a wide array of locally processed agricultural goods and manufactured products, offering nationwide free delivery services to consumers.

    The initiative, supported by at least 30 businesses currently operating on the platform, represents a strategic effort to empower local producers and expand their market reach. According to GMSA Communications Officer Nikeshia Castello, this development marks a pivotal advancement in enabling Guyanese entrepreneurs to scale their operations and establish direct connections with customers across the country.

    This project emerges from a collaborative memorandum of understanding between GMSA and the International Trade Centre (ITC), funded by the European Union. The partnership aims to enhance nutritious food production, reinforce food security, and develop sustainable value chains throughout the Caribbean region.

    GMSA Executive Member Ramsey Ali emphasized the timely nature of the website’s relaunch, urging citizens to support local entrepreneurs. He highlighted the substantial improvements in product labeling and packaging over the past decade, noting that these small businesses have demonstrated remarkable progress and now offer convenient shopping experiences.

    The association has announced forthcoming developments including a dedicated mobile application and expanded payment options through Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) and bank transfer facilities.

    GMSA President Rafeek Khan issued a compelling call for patriotic consumerism, stressing that supporting local brands is essential for national economic development. He affirmed that quality and standards continue to improve significantly, making local products increasingly competitive.

    In a related development, Khan revealed that the 62-year-old association plans to invest GY$250 million in establishing a private business incubator for companies of all sizes, demonstrating the private sector’s commitment to fostering economic growth independent of government initiatives.

  • As APNU prepares for cash grant protest, President says the payout is “alive and well”

    As APNU prepares for cash grant protest, President says the payout is “alive and well”

    Guyana’s political landscape is witnessing heightened tensions as President Irfaan Ali faces mounting pressure to fulfill a significant campaign pledge. The central issue revolves around a promised cash grant payment that has become the focal point of national discourse.

    During the inauguration of the One Guyana Christmas Village and Supermarket 2025, President Ali attempted to reassure citizens about his administration’s commitment. “My fellow Guyanese, hope is alive tonight. The cash grant is alive and well,” he declared before hundreds of attendees. While emphasizing that “everything we promise shall come to pass,” the President notably avoided specifying any concrete timeline for the disbursement.

    This political development occurs against the backdrop of organized opposition movements. The People’s National Congress Reform-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has demanded immediate action, urging the government to distribute at least GY$150,000 to every Guyanese citizen aged 18 and above. According to APNU parliamentary leader Dr. Terrence Campbell, this substantial investment in citizen welfare would total approximately GY$90.6 billion for over 600,000 eligible recipients.

    The opposition has announced plans to intensify pressure through organized protests beginning the following Monday. Dr. Campbell argued that the substantial government revenues make this proposal financially feasible, describing it as a “manageable percentage” of projected income. He emphasized the grant’s dual benefit: providing immediate support for basic needs while stimulating local economies through increased consumer spending.

    Statistical context from the Center for Global Development reveals the urgency of economic support measures, with 32% of Guyana’s population living in extreme poverty and an additional 26% experiencing moderate poverty.

    The current political confrontation traces back to specific campaign promises made by President Ali in August 2025, when he explicitly guaranteed citizens “a beautiful Christmas” and encouraged them to “look at the smile on my face and know that you will have enjoyable holiday.” These unambiguous commitments now form the foundation of the opposition’s demands and the growing public expectation for timely fulfillment.

  • GDF soldiers off to Jamaica for post-hurricane reconstruction

    GDF soldiers off to Jamaica for post-hurricane reconstruction

    In a significant demonstration of regional solidarity, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has deployed a specialized engineering team to assist Jamaica’s reconstruction efforts following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. The 41-member contingent, consisting of both regular and reserve personnel from the 4 Engineers Battalion, represents Guyana’s commitment to supporting Caribbean neighbors during times of crisis.

    The deployment, which includes one officer and 40 other ranks, features many engineers with prior experience in regional disaster response missions. These skilled personnel will collaborate directly with Jamaican authorities to restore critical infrastructure, rebuild affected communities, and support ongoing humanitarian operations in the hurricane-ravaged nation.

    Acting Chief of Defence Staff Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts personally briefed the troops before their departure, emphasizing the importance of their mission. He highlighted that the soldiers carry the responsibility of representing their unit, the GDF, and the nation of Guyana as a whole. “Expectations are high, but I am confident you will deliver and represent the Commander-in-Chief with pride,” Colonel Roberts stated, according to the official GDF release.

    The timing of the deployment is particularly noteworthy, occurring during the traditional Christmas season when military personnel typically prioritize family celebrations. Colonel Roberts acknowledged this sacrifice, praising the soldiers’ professionalism and readiness to serve despite the holiday period. This marks the first GDF deployment of its kind during this seasonal timeframe, underscoring the urgency of Jamaica’s recovery needs.

    The GDF statement emphasized that this mission reinforces Guyana’s emerging leadership role in regional disaster response and demonstrates the nation’s unwavering commitment to Caribbean community support. The defense force expressed confidence that the contingent’s expertise and previous successful deployment record will significantly contribute to Jamaica’s rebuilding efforts.

  • Thousands of Guyanese, Caribbean students already ‘attending’ Guyana Digital School

    Thousands of Guyanese, Caribbean students already ‘attending’ Guyana Digital School

    In a landmark initiative for Caribbean education, Guyana has officially launched the Guyana Digital School with over 20,000 students already enrolled from across the region. The platform, inaugurated on December 5, 2025, represents a significant step toward equitable educational access throughout the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

    Education Minister Sonia Parag revealed that 20,368 students from Grades 10 and 11 throughout Guyana and CARICOM member states have registered on the digital platform. The program is scheduled to expand to include Grades 7 through 9 by early 2026, creating a comprehensive digital learning ecosystem.

    President Irfaan Ali emphasized the platform’s strategic importance for disaster resilience in a region frequently impacted by natural disasters. ‘For a region that is susceptible to so many natural disasters… once electricity and communication services are restored, education is back up with the digital school,’ President Ali stated, highlighting the system’s capacity to minimize educational disruption during crises.

    The digital school employs a sophisticated four-quadrant approach that integrates technology, content, engagement, and hands-on experience into a cohesive learning model. The platform incorporates artificial intelligence elements and features an extensive library of on-demand digital resources, including textbooks for CXC and CSEC subjects. Minister Parag clarified that the initiative enhances rather than replaces traditional education: ‘This is not an abandonment of the traditional school methodology. It introduces new avenues for learning so that no child falls behind because of distance, circumstance or pace.’

    The initiative has received regional endorsement from Caribbean leaders. Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley praised President Ali’s ‘bold and innovative vision,’ while Belize expressed interest in connecting their national digital system with the Guyana Digital School. Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell has directed his education minister to ensure active participation, expressing optimism about the platform’s potential to transform educational delivery throughout CARICOM.

    Beyond academic instruction, the digital school aims to bridge cultural divides and prepare students for the digital era across multiple sectors including transportation, finance, public services, and healthcare. President Ali noted the platform will enable students from across the region to conduct experiments and share experiences, ultimately working to break down cultural barriers.

    The initiative also addresses persistent challenges revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic, when educational systems struggled with digital transition due to untrained teachers, uncomfortable parents, and limited internet access. The Guyana Digital School now stands as a resilient partner for parents and educators during times of uncertainty, helping to mitigate learning losses that continue to affect educational systems across Guyana.