Ferry Safety Update: The MV Canawaima ferry between Guyana and Suriname has been cleared to sail again after an August 13 re-inspection, with operators saying further technical follow-up will continue while authorities monitor safety systems and equipment. Regional Health & Environment: Suriname’s Public Health Bureau says chikungunya is no longer in the epidemic phase, but the virus is still circulating—so residents are urged to prevent mosquito breeding by cleaning stagnant water and properly covering water storage, especially during dry, warm conditions. Cross-Border Malaria Push: Suriname and PAHO opened a Guiana Shield subregional meeting on malaria elimination, bringing together Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, and Suriname to strengthen cooperation across border communities and high-risk groups. Plastic Pollution in the Amazon: New research finds microplastics in Amazonian wildlife—including fish, tapirs, crabs, and bats—even inside protected areas, showing how contamination can move through aquatic and land food chains. Water Resources Snapshot: A global ranking highlights that Suriname has among the highest freshwater availability per person, tied to heavy rainfall and vast forest cover. Pesticide Pressure: Barbados authorities are reviewing whether to ban or tighten controls on paraquat, as more countries move to phase out the toxic weedkiller. Policy & Trade Watch: Brazil faces a new EU push to curb agricultural imports by tightening pesticide residue rules, raising concerns for exporters and prices. Governance & Energy (Regional): Ghana’s Petroleum Commission launched its 15th anniversary under a theme of regulatory excellence for a sustainable upstream petroleum industry.