Across multiple locations in Suriname, the annual Ganga Nahaan ritual took place on Wednesday, honoring the sacred Ganges River. This ceremonial bath, held during the full moon between October and November, drew hundreds of devotees to the pilgrimage site at Weg naar Zee. Among the participants were Assembly Chairman Ashwin Adhin and his wife, who joined the crowd on the steps leading to the sea, where the rising waves soon embraced them. Ramon Baynath, Chairman of the Weg naar Zee Pilgrimage Site Foundation, highlighted the event’s deep-rooted tradition, noting that while people in India bathe in the Ganges daily, Suriname observes this ritual once a year. The celebration typically attracts between 2,000 and 3,000 participants, with activity peaking after 3 PM as the tide rises. Adhin emphasized the spiritual significance of the ritual, describing it as a symbol of rebirth and purification—both physical and mental. This year, Ganga Nahaan was celebrated not only at Weg naar Zee but also at seven other locations across Commewijne, Wanica, Saramacca, and Nickerie, according to the Hindu Media Organization.
标签： Suriname
苏里南
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Column: Met het mes tussen de tanden
Suriname is poised at a pivotal juncture in the Concacaf region’s FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers, currently leading Group A. With two critical matches ahead—against El Salvador at home in Paramaribo and Guatemala away—the team remains firmly in contention for a World Cup berth. Initially underestimated due to their FIFA ranking, Suriname has defied expectations, transforming from underdogs to formidable contenders. Early in the qualifiers, opponents dismissed Suriname with little respect, but the team’s resilience and growth have since commanded recognition. Despite setbacks during the Gold Cup, where Costa Rica and Mexico emerged victorious, Suriname has steadily built a competitive squad. Their performance in the final phase has been commendable, with a hard-fought draw against Panama marking a turning point. The match saw Panama abandon their aggressive strategy as Suriname proved their mettle, earning mutual respect and a shared point. Subsequent encounters with El Salvador and Guatemala have further solidified Suriname’s reputation, with opponents now approaching matches with caution rather than overconfidence. As the qualifiers reach their climax, Suriname faces immense pressure. Every point is crucial, and any misstep could jeopardize their World Cup aspirations. The team must balance offensive aggression with defensive solidity, particularly against opponents known for swift counterattacks. Suriname’s supporters also play a vital role; unsporting behavior could undermine the team’s progress. With focus and determination, Suriname aims to secure their place in the 2026 World Cup, marking a historic milestone for the nation’s footballing journey.
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Alarm bij Deviezencommissie over gelduitvoer via stichtingen
The Foreign Exchange Commission of Suriname has raised alarms over a significant surge in foreign currency outflows through local foundations, prompting stricter regulatory measures. Chairman Arun Sankatsing revealed that tens of millions in foreign currency are being transferred abroad without proper accountability. In response, the Commission has intensified its scrutiny of fund origins, aligning with the 1947 Foreign Exchange Regulation and international anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) standards. The Commission emphasized that foundations must comply with these regulations and provide transparent documentation of their financial sources. Sankatsing clarified that these enhanced controls are not new but a reinforcement of existing laws and international obligations. However, notaries representing these foundations have expressed concerns, citing delays in transaction processing and increased administrative burdens due to the stringent verification requirements. The Commission maintains that these measures are essential to safeguard Suriname’s financial integrity and comply with AML/CFT laws. The surge in foreign currency outflows, particularly through foundations, has been labeled a high-risk category under international standards, necessitating additional documentation to mitigate risks and protect monetary stability. The Commission’s actions come ahead of Suriname’s evaluation at the upcoming CFATF meeting in Barbados, where compliance with AML/CFT regulations will be assessed. Sankatsing stressed that cooperation from all stakeholders is crucial to address these challenges effectively.
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Bedrijven zetten stap naar datagedreven toekomst
Suriname is positioning itself at the forefront of a data-driven future, as highlighted during the leadership seminar ‘Data as a Compass,’ organized by Consulytic. The event brought together executives, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to explore how data can serve as a guiding force for economic growth and decision-making. The seminar was inspired by the book ‘Data as a Compass’ by Dutch data strategist Rob van den Wijngaard, who was specially invited to Suriname for the occasion. Minister Andrew Basaron of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Innovation (EZOTI) opened the event, emphasizing that Suriname stands at a critical economic juncture. He stressed that with anticipated developments in the oil and gas sector, businesses must prepare for scaling, international competition, and more efficient decision-making. ‘Data-driven operations are no longer optional but a necessity,’ he stated. Van den Wijngaard, in his presentation, argued that the shift to data-driven practices begins not with technology but with people. ‘The success of data-driven organizations is not determined by the volume of data or the quality of software,’ he said. ‘It starts with leaders who demonstrate vision and guide their teams on a journey of learning and improvement.’ He expressed optimism about Suriname’s potential, citing motivation, curiosity, and a willingness to build a strong, future-oriented economy. The seminar also included masterclasses for EZOTI ministry officials and executives from leading companies, focusing on data-driven leadership, collaboration, and the role of data in modern business operations. Bibi Mustapha, Operations Manager at Consulytic, noted that the event marks the beginning of a broader movement. ‘The world is changing rapidly. Surinamese organizations have the opportunity not just to catch up but to lead. We are guiding businesses and government institutions through this transition—not just with technology but with knowledge, leadership, and sustainable collaboration,’ she said. Van den Wijngaard concluded with optimism, stating, ‘Something beautiful is coming to Suriname. The energy is palpable. This is a country ready to grow.’
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LVV-directeur Chotkan in de cel wegens verduistering; smet op ministerie
Anand Chotkan, the 48-year-old Director of Livestock at Suriname’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (LVV), has been arrested on allegations of embezzlement and fraud against the state. The arrest follows an investigation into the disappearance of approximately 100 sheep and cattle, a excavator, a tractor, and an ATV, which were reported missing on October 18. Minister Mike Noersalim of LVV expressed deep concern, stating that such fraudulent activities tarnish the department’s reputation, especially when senior officials are involved.
Preliminary findings suggest that Chotkan had been selling livestock, including breeding bulls, cows, and calves, from the State Farm without authorization since February 2022. The proceeds from these sales were never remitted to the state. Chotkan initially claimed that the money was stored in a drum that had been lost. However, during a search of his home, authorities discovered a drum containing a substantial amount of cash in US dollars and euros.
Further suspicions arose when it was revealed that Chotkan allegedly attempted to defraud the state of over SRD 86 million. He is accused of forging his signature on a performance statement for the delivery of cattle from Brazil, despite the animals never being supplied. The Ministry of Finance was on the verge of transferring the funds to the supplier, but the Central Land Accounting Service (CLAD) intervened, preventing the transaction.
Minister Noersalim emphasized the importance of rooting out corruption within the ministry to ensure the accelerated development of the agricultural sector. He acknowledged the severity of Chotkan’s arrest, given his role in overseeing the State Farm, which is reportedly in dire straits. However, Noersalim remains optimistic, highlighting the training of new personnel and the willingness of retirees to contribute to the ministry’s efforts.
“We are committed to the accelerated development of the agricultural sector and will continue to refine our policies,” Noersalim concluded, reaffirming his determination to combat corruption and restore integrity to the ministry.
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Ravenberg geeft gehoor aan rechterlijk vonnis in zaak Joerawan
Ruben Ravenberg, the General Director of the Foundation for Forest Management and Supervision (SBB), has complied with a court ruling in a defamation case filed against him by Krishnadath Joerawan. The court mandated that Ravenberg issue a public rectification regarding previous statements linking Joerawan, a board member, to criminal activities. The apology will be published in prominent Surinamese newspapers, including De Ware Tijd, Times of Suriname, Dagblad Suriname, and Starnieuws. The case stemmed from allegations made by Ravenberg, which the court found to be unsubstantiated. By publishing the rectification, Ravenberg has fulfilled the court’s decision, bringing the legal dispute to a close. This case highlights the importance of accountability in public statements and the legal consequences of defamation.
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Voormalig president Ronald Venetiaan is niet meer
Suriname has lost one of its most revered leaders, Ronald Runaldo Venetiaan, who passed away at the age of 89. The former president, known for his integrity and dedication to the nation, served three terms as the head of state, guiding the country through periods of significant transformation. Venetiaan’s death was confirmed by his family, who were by his side during his final moments. His leadership, marked by a focus on education, ethics, and stability, left an indelible mark on Suriname’s political landscape. Born on June 18, 1936, in Paramaribo, Venetiaan began his career as an educator before ascending to the highest office in the land. He first became president in 1991, serving until 1996, and returned to power from 2000 to 2010. His tenure was characterized by financial recovery, democratic strengthening, and national reconciliation. Venetiaan’s modest lifestyle and unwavering moral compass earned him the affectionate nickname “Papa Venetiaan” among his peers. Even after retiring from active politics, he remained a moral beacon in national discourse. His legacy is not defined by grand infrastructure projects but by his commitment to honest governance, discipline, and moral values. Venetiaan is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. The nation has been informed of the passing of this great Son of Suriname, and tributes are pouring in from across the country.
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Personeel ECD legt werk neer: bond neemt actie over
Employees of the Economic Control Service (ECD) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship, and Technological Innovation (EZOTI) have initiated a work stoppage, led by the staff union headed by Glenn Samipersad. In a letter addressed to Director Suraksha Hirasingh, with a copy to Minister Andrew Basaron, the staff cited the immediate cause of the strike as the expiration of their identification credentials. They deemed it ‘unacceptable’ to perform their duties as enforcement officers without valid credentials while daily identifying violations and fining businesses. The letter also highlighted several structural issues within the service, including the delayed swearing-in of BAVP-trained officers, the absence of armed personnel following retirements and deaths of colleagues, a severe shortage of vehicles hindering inspections, inadequate security and poor working conditions, insufficient clothing and fuel allowances, and disrupted cooperation with the police since the departure of the chief police inspector at the ECD. Additionally, the staff advocated for a fixed arrangement where a percentage of collected fines would be allocated to the ECD for maintenance and operational costs. The letter stated that ‘the expired BAVP pass was the final straw,’ and the employees vowed to return to work only once the outlined issues are resolved.
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President vraagt klimaatactie: Eerlijke financiering nodig om bossen te beschermen
In her first address as a TIME100 Climate Leader, Suriname’s President Jennifer Simons emphasized the urgent need for global climate action and sustainable forest management. Speaking at the TIME100 Climate Leaders Dinner in Rio de Janeiro, she acknowledged the honor but stressed that the focus should remain on raising awareness and addressing the pressing challenges of climate change. President Simons is currently in Brazil for the Bélem Climate Summit, a precursor to the 30th United Nations Climate Conference (COP30), which Brazil will host. Despite Suriname’s vast rainforests covering over 90% of its territory, the nation remains highly vulnerable to climate change. Coastal areas, home to 75% of the population, including the capital Paramaribo, are already experiencing rising sea levels, while indigenous and tribal communities in the interior face increasing threats. President Simons highlighted the need for significant financial resources to protect these communities and build resilience. She also called for equitable climate financing, noting that while a handful of countries, including Suriname, are carbon-negative, they bear the brunt of global climate impacts. ‘Suriname’s forests and those worldwide provide essential ecosystem services—clean air, water, biodiversity, and climate regulation—that sustain humanity,’ she stated. President Simons urged the international community to provide fair and timely funding to countries actively contributing to global ecosystem preservation. She reaffirmed Suriname’s commitment to its role in climate action and will further elaborate on the nation’s carbon-negative status during the Bélem Climate Summit, where global leaders will discuss climate strategies and financing.
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Staatsolie verstevigt internationale partnerschappen in offshoresector
Suriname has taken a significant step forward in its offshore oil and gas exploration efforts with the signing of Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs) for Blocks 9 and 10. The contracts were formalized by Staatsolie, the state-owned oil company, in collaboration with international operators Petronas Suriname E&P B.V. (Block 9) and Chevron Suriname Exploration Limited (Block 10).
In Block 9, Petronas Suriname will serve as the operator, partnering with Chevron Suriname Exploration Ltd., QatarEnergy International E&P LLC, and Paradise Oil Company (POC). The ownership distribution in this block is as follows: Petronas Suriname holds 30%, Chevron 20%, QatarEnergy 20%, and POC 30%. For Block 10, Chevron assumes the role of operator, with Petronas Suriname, QatarEnergy, and POC as partners. The ownership breakdown here is Chevron 30%, Petronas Suriname 30%, QatarEnergy 30%, and POC 10%.
The PSCs grant the involved parties exclusive rights for exploration, development, and production in their respective blocks. The initial exploration phase, spanning three years, will focus on collecting and processing 3D seismic data to map subsurface structures and identify potential oil and gas reserves.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Patrick Brunings, Suriname’s Minister of Oil, Gas, and Environment, emphasized the country’s commitment to sustainable development. ‘We will continue to attract companies to invest in our basin and use the revenues to make Suriname greener and more sustainable—what we call Suriname 3.0,’ he stated.
The contracts, valid for thirty years, were signed by Annand Jagesar (General Director of Staatsolie), Danny Tan (Country Head of Petronas Suriname), Ali Al-Mana (Manager of Upstream International at QatarEnergy), Andrew Deighan (Americas Exploration Director at Chevron), and Rekha Bissumbhar (Director of POC). The event was attended by Minister Brunings and David Abiamofo, Minister of Natural Resources.
Blocks 9 and 10 are located in shallow waters approximately 50 kilometers off the coast of Saramacca. Block 9 covers an area of 2,674 km², while Block 10 spans 2,972 km², with water depths reaching up to 50 meters.
Minister Abiamofo praised the negotiation team and highlighted the government’s support for the initiative. ‘The success of Blocks 9 and 10 will not only drive economic development but also create opportunities for capacity building, employment, and community development,’ he remarked.
This milestone underscores Staatsolie’s strategy to responsibly develop Suriname’s offshore oil and gas potential in partnership with renowned international entities. The agreements mark a pivotal step in positioning Suriname as a key player in the global exploration and production sector.