GDP & Forecast Upgrade: President Irfaan Ali says Guyana’s economy grew 33.3% in the first half of 2026, with non-oil up 10.1%, and lifts the full-year real GDP growth forecast to 20.8% (non-oil 10.2%). Power Reliability Crisis: Ali admits blackouts are “unpleasant” and “unacceptable,” pointing to rising demand and no “spinning reserve,” with InterEnergy projecting demand could jump 138% by 2029; he flags major grid overhaul needs. Grid Investment Plan: GPL/InterEnergy recommendations include smart metering, digitising, more generation, and transmission & distribution upgrades, with government seeking financing support (including discussions with Qatar). Guyana Development Bank Launch: The Guyana Development Bank is set to operationalise Oct 5 with US$100M capital, offering affordable loans (including zero-interest/zero-collateral up to G$3M) for agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, tourism, services and technology. Oil Boom, But Diversify: Ali tells Al Jazeera Guyana must use the expansion to build a non-oil economy via infrastructure, housing, education, health, and support for sectors like agriculture and tourism. MV Barima Recovery: HEART initiative support now reaches 750+ affected persons; needs assessment is 99% complete and $122.35M in financial assistance has been provided. Cost-of-Living Debate: Government claims lower prices for some foods, but reporting notes shoppers’ actual costs vary widely by market and vendor. Drug Bust: Police investigating 72.1 lbs of cocaine found along the Five Miles–Ituni Trail; no arrests yet. Sports (Local Interest): Warriors and Tridents set for WCPL playoff clash after Warriors’ win secured a playoff spot.