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PM announces $885m Solar Energy Investment for Amerindian Villages at NTC Conference

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Prime Minister, Brigadier Mark Phillips during the National Toshaos Conference on Tuesday
Guyana, May 23, 2025 – Prime Minister Mark Phillips made this disclosure on the second day of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, where he reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive community development. He also reiterated the administration’s priority to bridge the energy and digital divides, improving the lives of Guyana’s Amerindians in hinterland and riverine regions.

In highlighting the ongoing transformation, the Prime Minister referenced Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo (Region 9), which currently has an installed generation capacity of 5.2 megawatts through a combination of fossil fuel generator sets, hydropower, and solar installations. However, only two megawatts are currently in use. According to the Prime Minister, this underutilised capacity presents significant potential for the development of agro-processing and micro-enterprise initiatives. He noted that such opportunities could support the growth of small-scale industries and value-added production, particularly in mango and cashew processing within the region.

The Prime Minister also highlighted several additional measures aimed at improving the lives and livelihoods of residents in the hinterland. He spoke of initiatives to enhance ICT connectivity and the opportunities this would bring.

“I’m using Region Nine as an example to show that we are serious about development in your communities. You are connected to the rest of Guyana through ICT; you are connected to the world, to the future. That is how we improve the delivery of medical services and education. Because you are now connected, you could access universities and colleges throughout the world.”

He reminded attendees that through this level of connectivity, many individuals from the hinterland have enrolled in the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme, while others have already graduated, thanks to the Government’s transformative agenda.

Meanwhile, the heads of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), and the ICT Access for Hinterland Poor and Remote Communities (HPRC) Project Management Unit—all under the purview of the Prime Minister—provided comprehensive updates on the Government’s ongoing efforts to expand energy access, enhance digital infrastructure, and foster innovation and empowerment across Amerindian communities.

The GEA reported that, over the last five years, 37,230 solar home systems have been procured, primarily for hinterland households. Additionally, 55 solar mini-grid installations are supplying more than 2.15 megawatts of electricity to schools, health facilities, village offices, and other public infrastructure. Noteworthy projects include the 1.5-megawatt and 0.65-megawatt solar farms in Bartica (Region Seven) and Mahdia (Region Eight), respectively, along with a 1-megawatt solar plant in Lethem (Region Nine). The Moco Moco and Kumu hydropower projects are also contributing to Region Nine’s energy grid. These interventions are reducing diesel dependence, lowering emissions, and improving access to essential public services.

The NDMA reported that 228 of the 253 targeted hinterland and Amerindian communities have been connected to high-speed internet under the Government’s 2024 connectivity rollout, benefitting more than 129,000 residents. These installations include government buildings, as well as 139 operational ICT hubs. The remaining 25 communities, which initially lacked reliable power or suitable facilities, are expected to be connected by August 2025 through specially designed solar-powered solutions.

To date, over 1,900 residents across 70 communities have participated in digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness training. These sessions cover critical topics such as safe browsing, password protection, and access to government e-services. The “Girls in ICT” initiative has also expanded into Region Nine, with completed sessions in communities such as St Ignatius and Aishalton. Additional training is planned for the year as part of the Government’s broader push for digital inclusion and youth empowerment.

The Office of the Prime Minister, through the HPRC Project Management Unit, reported that 140 ICT hubs have been completed to date. Of these, 10 are currently being retrofitted with digital equipment, while 30 hubs remain under construction. A further 20 hubs are slated for development, bringing the national total to 200 ICT hubs once fully implemented. These facilities are being equipped with laptops, printers, smart TVs, solar power systems, and security infrastructure to support digital access in remote communities.

To sustain these hubs, 192 ICT Hub Managers have been trained in areas such as ICT operations, facility management, and photovoltaic maintenance. Additionally, 32 ICT technicians have received professional certification in computer repairs, software configuration, and network systems. Approximately 1,518 community members have already benefitted from basic ICT training, with the programme aiming to reach 4,000 beneficiaries nationwide.

Under the grant component of the HPRC project, 180 Amerindian Village Councils and Community Development Councils have received funding of up to USD $40,000 per community to support the establishment and operation of these hubs. These grants are fostering employment creation, stimulating economic activity, and ensuring long-term sustainability at the community level.

Collectively, these initiatives are laying the foundation for a digitally inclusive and energy-resilient hinterland.

Caribbean News

Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts celebrate a night of wins, and take home a total of 16 titles at the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards

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~Sandals Resorts hosts the 32nd Annual World Travel Awards Caribbean and The Americas Gala & celebrates its 32nd consecutive win as The Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand~

 

MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA, October 8, 2025 – Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts have been honoured with 16 awards at the 2025 World Travel Awards Caribbean and The Americas, underscoring their continued leadership across the hospitality landscape.

The Gala Ceremony held at Sandals Grande St. Lucian honoured the visionaries and trailblazers shaping the travel and tourism industry. The evening united government leaders and hospitality professionals for a night of celebration, recognition and inspiration.

Among celebratory toasts, Sandals Resorts International was named the Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand for the 32nd year in a row. Beaches Turks and Caicos also celebrated its 18th win as the Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Family Resort, a recognition that comes ahead of the debut of its Treasure Beach Village, the resort’s $150 million expansion set to open spring 2026.

Other key wins include Sandals Dunn’s River, recognized as the Caribbean’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort for the third year in a row after opening its doors in 2023 and Sandals South Coast, awarded the Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort.

The 16 awards won under Sandals’ portfolio are:

  • Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand 2025: Sandals Resorts International
  • Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Family Resort 2025: Beaches Turks & Caicos
  • Caribbean’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025: Sandals Montego Bay, Jamaica
  • Caribbean’s Leading Dive Resort 2025: Sandals Royal Curaçao
  • Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort 2025: Sandals Grande St. Lucian
  • Caribbean’s Leading Luxury All-Inclusive Resort 2025: Sandals Dunn’s River, Jamaica
  • Caribbean’s Most Romantic Resort 2025: Sandals South Coast, Jamaica
  • Bahamas’ Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025: Sandals Royal Bahamian
  • Curaçao’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025: Sandals Royal Curaçao
  • Grenada’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025: Sandals Grenada
  • Jamaica’s Leading Adult-Only All-Inclusive Resort 2025: Sandals Negril
  • Jamaica’s Leading All-Inclusive Family Resort 2025: Beaches Negril
  • Jamaica’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025: Sandals Montego Bay
  • Jamaica’s Leading Resort 2025: Sandals Royal Caribbean
  • Saint Lucia’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025: Sandals Grande St. Lucian
  • Saint Vincent & The Grenadines’ Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025: Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Surrounded by the beauty of Gros-Islet, St. Lucia, the peninsula location of Sandals Grande St. Lucian created the perfect backdrop for World Travel Awards’™ guests to enjoy an unforgettable dining experience and breathtaking island views.

“At the heart of every Sandals and Beaches vacation is pure, inviting Caribbean soul, paired with world-class hospitality experiences for all our guests. The recognitions bestowed to our brands tonight are truly meaningful. They serve as a testament to the incredible passion and dedication of our talented team members,” said Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts. “It is yet another reminder of why we will never stop evolving, listening to our customers and refining our experiences year after year.”

For more information about these award-winning resorts, please visit www.sandals.com and www.beaches.com. For more information on the World Travel Awards™, please visit https://www.worldtravelawards.com/.

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Caribbean News

Caribbean Powerhouses to Inspire at CaribCon in the Turks and Caicos Islands  

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Dr. Terri-Karelle Johnson is the keynote speaker at CaribCon

 

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (October 6th, 2025) – CaribCon, the Caribbean conference celebrating culture, innovation, and creativity, will welcome some of the region’s most influential voices to its inaugural edition in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The event, set to be a dynamic gathering of thought leaders and cultural icons, will feature impactful panel discussions, inspiring and intimate fireside chats and a flow of knowledge from some of the Caribbean’s brightest and best in the creative sector.

Elizabeth “Lady” Montano

Jamaica’s own Dr. Terri-Karelle Johnson, celebrated communications specialist, media personality, and global keynote speaker, will headline CaribCon as the official keynote speaker. Known for her ability to connect authentically and inspire audiences worldwide, Dr. Reid will share her insights on Caribbean identity, storytelling, and the power of representation in shaping global narratives.                                                                                                                                                                                      Another highlight of CaribCon will be the presence of Elizabeth “Lady” Montano, mother and former manager of soca superstar Machel Montano. Lady will launch her award-winning book, King of Soca, in which she is positioned as the ultimate insider, chronicling the evolution of one of the Caribbean’s most iconic entertainers. She will also share her invaluable experiences on nurturing talent, building a brand, and sustaining longevity in the competitive music industry in an intimate fireside chat.                                                                                                                                   Adding further star power to the event is Simon Baptiste, CEO of Question Mark Entertainment, co-founder of ODOS, a global collective network spanning over 1000 professionals in 35 countries, film director, talent manager and creative strategist. Baptiste will bring his expertise to conversations on shaping the region’s creative sector and talent.

Simon Baptiste

“CaribCon is where the Caribbean’s voices, ideas, and creativity converge,” says Omega Simmons, founder of CaribCon and CEO of SOS Media. “Having leaders like Terri Karelle, Lady Montano, and Simon Baptiste share their stories and expertise truly embodies the spirit of this event. Their presence reinforces the power of Caribbean culture to inspire and influence on the world stage.”                                                                                                                                                               CaribCon will take place at the Shore Club in Providenciales, the Turks and Caicos Islands, from October 23rd to 26th. Attendees can look forward to networking opportunities, panel discussions, and meaningful dialogue to foster an ecosystem that develops the region’s creative sector and propels it onto the global stage.

Sponsors are:

Signature Experience Partners: Ministry of Tourism, Experience Turks and Caicos, and The Shore Club.

Other sponsors: PPID, Invest TCI, InterCaribbean Airways, Subtronic Sounds, Spotlight Communications.

Hotel partners: Ocean Club Resorts, Waterloo Hotel Management, The Somerset on Grace Bay and Ports of Call Resort.

For more information, tickets, and updates, visit www.caribcon.co or follow @caribconhq on all social media platforms.

For more information please email: contact@caribcon.co

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Caribbean News

Guyanese Scholar and Olympian Arrested in Iowa ICE Crackdown

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Deandrea Hamilton | Editor

 

September 27, 2025 – In a shocking breach of public trust and institutional oversight, Ian Andre Roberts, superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, who is a citizen of Guyana, was arrested on September 26 by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under a string of serious offenses that raise troubling questions about hiring practices, accountability, and public safety.

Roberts, born in Georgetown, Guyana, is a former Olympian and accomplished scholar.  According to online reports, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Coppin State University after transferring from St. Francis College in Brooklyn, where he played soccer.  He holds two master’s degrees—from St. John’s University and Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business—attended an Executive MBA program at MIT Sloan School of Management and earned a doctorate in education with a focus on urban educational leadership from Trident University.

Despite these accomplishments, Roberts was living and working without legal authorization.  ICE reported that he fled a traffic stop and abandoned his school-issued vehicle.  At the time of his arrest, he was reportedly in possession of a loaded handgun, a fixed-blade hunting knife, and $3,000 in cash.  He also has a prior weapons-related charge.

ICE officials questioned how Roberts could hold such a prominent role while subject to a final deportation order issued in May 2024.  The school district said they were unaware of his immigration status, noting that he had undergone background checks and completed an I-9 form confirming work authorization.  Roberts was placed on administrative leave pending further investigation.

This case highlights vulnerabilities in systems meant to safeguard public institutions and underscores the challenges ICE faces in identifying individuals operating outside U.S. immigration laws while in positions of authority.

For many, Roberts has become a near-literal poster child for these enforcement gaps.

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