THE United Muslim Association-Toronto and the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha-Toronto, on Sunday August 2, 2026, jointly hosted an Inter-Faith Service and Tribute in honour of the victims of the MV Barima tragedy.
Prayers were led by Pastor Malcom Sobers and Bishop Ram Seepaul of the Christian faith; Pandit Jai Tiwari of the Hindu faith and Brother Jabar Ali of the Muslim faith.
The solemn ceremony drew a cross-section of members of the Guyanese diaspora, in spite of race, religion or political persuasion, some of whom recited poems, delivered musical renditions and offered other forms of tribute and support.
Speakers lamented the fact that in spite of noticeable differences and beliefs, humanity was the main focus of those honouring the victims and supporting the surviving loved ones.
Honorary Consul Mr. Mani Singh, who brought greetings on behalf of His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the Government and People of Guyana, commended the religious leaders for their collaboration.
According to Mr. Singh, the tragedy has touched Guyanese and friends of Guyanese all over the world, who have offered words of sympathy, condolences and other forms of comfort.
The Consulate General of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana in Toronto has received calls of support from the Caribbean Consular Corps and other diplomatic representatives from the international community.
The Honorary Consul said he was particularly saddened because a great number of those who perished were from Guyana’s indigenous community.
The Authorities have confirmed that 73 souls, including children, perished in the incident, with about 30 still missing, and 76 rescued.