The Foundation for Forest Management and Supervision (SBB) has declined a request from Suriname’s Energy Companies (EBS) to lift the seizure of a large batch of brownheart timber. The decision was communicated in a letter from SBB Director Ruben Ravenberg to EBS General Director Leo Brunswijk, which was obtained by Starnieuws. The investigation into the allegedly illegally obtained timber is ongoing, and SBB has emphasized its legal obligation to inform the Attorney General of suspected violations. The first interim report was submitted to the Attorney General and the government last Wednesday. SBB continues its work, meticulously inspecting each piece of timber. As of October 6, 508 seizures had been made after inspecting 1,444 pieces of timber, bringing the total number of seizures to nearly 1,000. In the letter, Ravenberg referenced EBS’s October 3 request, which cited ‘public interest’ as the reason for lifting the seizure. However, SBB rejected the request, stating that all citizens, including state-owned enterprises like EBS, must adhere to the law and cooperate in combating illegal activities that cause irreparable damage to forests. SBB also highlighted that previous cases of illegally harvested brownheart timber at EBS’s landing site have already been transferred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office. Additionally, SBB inspectors were denied access to the EBS site on Bethesdaweg multiple times. When it was discovered that more allegedly illegal brownheart timber was brought to the site on September 29, SBB sought assistance from the Environmental Crime Unit. SBB is working to conclude the investigation swiftly, after which the full dossier will be handed over to the Public Prosecutor’s Office. Only then can EBS submit its request to the Attorney General. SBB reiterated its willingness to advise EBS on future purchases and verify information regarding brownheart timber offerings in advance.
标签： Suriname
苏里南
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Column: Borrelpraat no. 893
In a multifaceted geopolitical landscape, the anticipated release of hostages by Hamas on Monday has sparked intense discussions about the broader implications of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The situation is further complicated by the role of international actors, including the United Nations, and the internal political dynamics within Israel and Palestine. Critics argue that the two-state solution is increasingly untenable, with Israeli settlements on the West Bank and aggressive military actions in Gaza exacerbating tensions. The UN’s perceived ineffectiveness, particularly due to the veto power in the Security Council, has been a point of contention, with calls for reform to address global conflicts more effectively. Domestically, Israel faces scrutiny over its handling of illegal immigrants and internal dissent, with some labeling the country as a de facto dictatorship. Meanwhile, the potential displacement of millions of Palestinians from Gaza raises concerns about humanitarian crises and the capacity of other nations to absorb refugees. The discussion also touches on historical and ongoing internal conflicts within other nations, such as the struggles for land rights and autonomy among indigenous and Maroon communities in Suriname. The broader narrative underscores the complexities of achieving peace and stability in a world fraught with competing interests and unresolved historical grievances.
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340 jaar Beraha VeSalom Synagoge: 12-10-1685 – 12-10-2025
On October 12, 1685, the Beraha VeSalom (BVS) Synagogue, a monumental structure in Jodensavanne, Suriname, was officially inaugurated. This synagogue, whose name translates to ‘Blessing and Peace,’ stood as the heart of the Jewish village and left a lasting impression on visitors due to its grandeur and architectural significance. It was the first synagogue of architectural importance in the Western Hemisphere. Over the centuries, BVS has been extensively documented in writings, paintings, and prints, often depicted from a distance. Approximately 240 years ago, its centennial was celebrated with great pomp in the presence of Governor Wichers, members of the Council of Police and Justice, and numerous dignitaries from Paramaribo. Beyond its religious function, BVS served as a courthouse for minor legal cases, an archive, and a meeting space for the church board. It also acted as a fortress against attacks by maroons, with armed Jewish men preparing for potential assaults during significant religious observances like Yom Kippur. Historical records reveal that on September 30, 1790, Jodensavanne was thrown into turmoil due to a rumored maroon attack, prompting the local militia to guard the synagogue. The construction and maintenance of this once-imposing building were carried out by enslaved individuals, whose contributions are now being honored by the Jodensavanne Foundation as part of the 340th-anniversary commemoration. The foundation has planned several activities to mark this milestone, including the publication of articles, exhibitions, and volunteer programs, all aimed at celebrating the legacy of the Beraha VeSalom Synagogue.
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Onze eigen O.S. Maretraite
In a heartfelt tribute to their alma mater, the parents of Aashna Kanhai recently visited Openbare School Maretraite, a school that has been a cornerstone of their family’s educational journey for generations. The visit, marked by the symbolic handing over of an envelope to the school’s principal, Juffrouw Makdoembaks, was a gesture of gratitude and support for an institution that has shaped the lives of their children and grandchildren. The school, celebrating its 65th anniversary this year, has long been a beacon of discipline, community, and holistic education.
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Kameroen kiest president: Paul Biya (92) maakt kans op achtste termijn
Cameroon’s citizens headed to the polls today for a pivotal presidential election, with 92-year-old Paul Biya vying for an unprecedented eighth term. Biya, who has held power for over four decades since 1975, remains the frontrunner despite his advanced age, largely due to the dominance of his ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) over the state apparatus. The election unfolded under tight security, particularly in the English-speaking regions, where separatist groups have long challenged central authority. Reports of low voter turnout and isolated incidents emerged in some districts, but the overall process remained calm. The Electoral Commission (ELECAM) anticipates announcing official results within 15 days, with the Constitutional Council set to validate the outcome by October 26. Biya’s primary challengers include Cabral Libii, leader of the Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation (PCRN), who appeals to the youth with promises of reform, and opposition leader Maurice Kamto, who contested the 2018 election results. International observers, including representatives from the African Union, emphasized the importance of transparency and peaceful acceptance of the results. A victory for Biya would further cement his status as Africa’s longest-serving president, even as Cameroon grapples with economic inequality, security challenges, and political discontent.
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VWA en PAHO versterken samenwerking rond welzijn en arbeid
In a significant meeting on October 12, Suriname’s Deputy Minister of Health, Welfare, and Labor (VWA), Raj Jadnanansing, engaged in discussions with Yafflo Ouattara, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) representative in Suriname, to enhance cooperation in the fields of welfare and occupational health. The talks centered on aligning PAHO’s new five-year strategy with Suriname’s national welfare policy, currently under development by the ministry. Both parties emphasized the need for closer collaboration to promote safe and healthy working conditions, particularly in high-risk sectors such as mining and oil and gas. PAHO expressed its readiness to provide technical assistance in training labor inspectors, developing guidelines for safe working environments, and reducing exposure to harmful substances. The discussion also addressed mental health, focusing on suicide prevention and tackling domestic violence. A key outcome was the agreement to organize a multi-stakeholder meeting in the near future to draft a joint roadmap for collaboration. Concluding the meeting, Deputy Minister Jadnanansing presented PAHO’s representative with a copy of ‘The System of Labour Administration in Suriname,’ symbolizing the commitment to shared goals in improving worker health and well-being.
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SEC en overheid bundelen krachten voor Local Content Conference 2025
In a significant step toward advancing Suriname’s energy sector, Ashwin Adhin, Chairman of the National Assembly (DNA), highlighted the critical importance of collaboration between parliament, government, and the private sector during a meeting with the Suriname Energy Chamber (SEC). The discussion, held in preparation for the upcoming Local Content Conference 2025 scheduled from October 21 to 23, focused on refining the local content policy to drive national development. The conference, organized by the SEC in partnership with Afreximbank, the Energy Authority Suriname (EAS), and the Surinamese government, aims to produce actionable recommendations, including a national definition of local content and a comprehensive roadmap for its implementation. Adhin emphasized that local content is a vital tool for Suriname’s economic growth, with DNA’s legal staff and parliamentary committees actively engaging to identify necessary legislative support. SEC Chairman Orlando Olmberg underscored the broader vision of local content, stating that it extends beyond oil and gas to encompass collaboration, knowledge sharing, and economic diversification. A key objective of the conference is to identify projects worth $200 million that align with the $5 billion in available funding for sector development, facilitated by Afreximbank. Additionally, the initiative aims to foster joint ventures between Surinamese and foreign companies, further boosting the country’s energy sector and economic prospects.
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Hamas bevestigt vrijlating gijzelaars vanaf maandag
Hamas has officially announced that the release of hostages will commence this Monday, in accordance with the newly brokered ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement with Israel. This development is part of a broader effort to de-escalate tensions in the Gaza Strip. In exchange, Israel has agreed to release a number of Palestinian prisoners. Both parties are under significant international pressure to execute the agreement meticulously and without incident. The first groups of hostages are expected to be handed over to representatives of the International Red Cross on Monday. Preparations for logistics and medical care on the Israeli side are already underway. Security sources indicate that dozens of hostages, some in poor health, have been held since the escalation of the conflict. Israeli medical teams are on standby to immediately examine and assist the released individuals. The announcement comes as the international community hopes this agreement marks the beginning of a prolonged period of calm. Diplomatic mediation led by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States played a pivotal role in reaching the deal. While the implementation of the agreement is a crucial step, the region remains tense. Israel has stated it reserves the right to military action if Hamas violates the ceasefire terms.
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Zonnige zondag met warme middagtemperaturen
This Sunday, Suriname is experiencing predominantly dry and sunny weather. Early morning temperatures across much of the country remain pleasantly cool, ranging between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius. As the day progresses, the heat intensifies rapidly, with afternoon temperatures soaring to 33 to 34 degrees, particularly in coastal regions. Winds are light to moderate, blowing from the east, while humidity levels gradually rise. No significant rainfall is anticipated. Along the coast, including areas around Paramaribo, Commewijne, and Nickerie, the skies remain sunny with occasional thin cloud cover. In the Brokopondo and Sipaliwini districts, the weather is similarly warm and dry, though the perceived temperature may feel higher due to low wind speeds. The evening promises clear and calm conditions, with temperatures slowly dropping to around 26 degrees, and the likelihood of precipitation remains minimal.
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Column: De last van de favoriet
In a stadium brimming with anticipation, Suriname’s national football team, Natio, faced Guatemala in a crucial World Cup qualifier. Despite the absence of key players like Myenty Abena, Liam van Gelderen, and Gyrano Kerk, the team exuded confidence, bolstered by the return of playmaker Tjaronn Chery and the debut of Jay-Roy Grot and Djavan Anderson. The first half saw Natio dominate possession, with Richonell Margaret and Sheraldo Becker leading the charge. However, a lack of precision in the final third kept the scoreline level at halftime. The second half brought a shift in momentum as Guatemala capitalized on a defensive lapse, with Darwin Lom scoring a close-range volley. Natio, visibly shaken, fought back fiercely. In the dying moments, Virgil Misidjan equalized with a powerful strike, sending the stadium into euphoria. The match ended 1-1, setting the stage for a decisive clash against Panama in the next qualifier.