Guyana Roundup: Turkish electricity ship, security agreement, World Relays qualification

Media cooperation with Jamaica

Guyana and Jamaica signed an MOU for cooperation on media, mass communication, and public affairs. The aim is to strengthen partnerships for knowledge sharing and capacity building in the media sector. Kwame McCoy, the Minister of Public Affairs in the Office of the Prime Minister for Guyana, emphasised the significance of closing gaps between the information and communication sectors of the two nations. “We are fully committed as a country and as a government to forging enhanced relations among sister states of the Caribbean community to achieve synergy across the various sectors,” McCoy said. The MOU will open avenues for initiatives to complement a training programme for media practitioners.

Turkish electricity ship arrives to alleviate power shortages

A Turkish electricity generation ship with 36 megawatts capacity has arrived in Guyana to alleviate power shortages. The ship will be connected to the national grid and is expected to be fully operational by May 8. It will remain connected for at least a year as part of the Guyanese government's efforts to stabilise the electricity supply and meet the growing demand for reliable energy.

Security agreement with Suriname and French Guiana

Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana signed a security agreement to strengthen collaboration in the Guiana Shield following “a day of intensive dialogue” between Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana and Brazil on April 29. According to the Guyana Ministry of Home Affairs, the dialogue focused on developing a cohesive knowledge of the strategic defence and security environment in the region. “Emphasis was placed on collaborative efforts to combat security threats and address challenges affecting the populations, territories, maritime space, and interests of the countries,” the ministry said.

Guyanese wins UK conservation award

Guyanese Leroy Ignacio won the prestigious UK conservation award for protecting a local endangered bird. He was recognised by the Whitley Fund for Nature for his efforts in the Indigenous-led conservation of the endangered Red Siskin. The award was presented by Her Royal Highness Anne, Princess Royal at the Royal Geographical Society in the UK.

Failure to qualify for World Relays

Guyanese teams did not qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in the Mixed 4x400m and Men’s 4x400m Relays at the World Relays in The Bahamas. Despite their best efforts, both teams fell short, with the Mixed 4x400m team finishing in fifth place. The Bahamas and Jamaica secured the qualification spots.