‘We have to adapt to the changing environment’
–– President Ali urges fellow Caribbean leaders; says digitisation vital to economic transformation
Hundreds flock streets of G/T to celebrate Guyana’s rich diversity
UNDERSCORING that human transformation is integral as it relates to economic development, President Dr Irfaan Ali has called upon his fellow Caribbean leaders to adapt to the evolving world.
During his address to the St Lucian Parliament on Wednesday, President Ali highlighted that the region is always playing the ‘catch up’ game when it comes to technology.
According to him: “We also face the challenge of human transformation. Today, the world is moving apace, whether it is AI, robotics [or] digitization. We are now catching up on modernisation and industrialisation and the world has now gone past that, to digitisation.
He added: “So, our human asset, our human resource transformation must also address the changing circumstances or the changing global environment in which our human asset must operate. In fact, the human transformation and digitisation is linked to economic transformation...”
Additionally, the President underscored that digitisation would bring systemic changes.
“For us to remain competitive, for us to remain relevant in the world that we live
in today, we have to adapt to the changing environment. Government must become more efficient,” he told the St Lucian Parliamentarians.
Using Guyana’s chairmanship of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to address issues like these, Dr Ali noted that opportunities exist globally, and, as a result, he called on his Caribbean counterparts to take advantage of them.
President Ali cited nearshoring jobs as an illustrative example of how they can augment the skillset of the workforce and generate more lucrative employment prospects.
The Guyanese Head-ofState then went on to say: “So, what we are seeing in many developing countries is a retooling and reskilling of our human resource asset to meet the needs of major cor-
porations internationally...”
As a matter of fact, during November 2023, he made public Guyana’s strategy for preparing 2,000 individuals for nearshoring employment opportunities within the oil sector.
He mentioned that the Government of Guyana will allocate $10 million towards a grant programme aimed at partnering with others to train individuals for nearshoring positions.
To provide context, nearshoring involves the relocation of production from foreign countries to neighbouring ones with a similar market, language, or time zone.
Moreover, in light of Guyana’s upward trajectory, Dr Ali underscored the importance of examining how the region can be merged with the nation’s development.
According to him: “Today, I want to highlight that our country, Guyana, as part of our region, is open for investment. We are experiencing tremendous opportunities, including double-digit growth rates. We recently achieved a growth rate of 40 per cent, nearly 60 per cent the previous year, and anticipate rates in the upper 20 per cent in the coming years.
He added: “However, the question remains. How do we integrate the region into Guyana’s economic expansion? This is a conversation we are eager to have.”
“We are all too small to have different technology and different platforms operating in the region. We are going to get back to the same problem if we do not operate on a common platform,” the president firmly remarked.
Furthermore, President Ali
used statistics and disclosed: “In the last ten years, when you look at our trade numbers, Guyana would have exported to St. Lucia commodities to the tune of US$71 million, and interestingly, St. Lucia would have exported to Guyana, products to the tune US$79 million,” he said while highlighting the trade imbalance.
He then went on to look at St. Lucia’s existing housing market, which, according to him, is an avenue for fostering collaboration.
“Let us say conservatively that you have a deficit in the housing market of 2,500 homes in the next three to five years; that is the immediate need, the medium need, and you use the conservative figure of US$30,000 for a low-income home; that is what we are building…You are looking at an export potential of US$75 million in the immediate and medium term from Guyana to St. Lucia,” he said before highlighting the export potential within this area.
The Guyanese Headof-State then went on to firmly remark: “These are the opportunities, the real opportunities that exist in expanding the relationship and expanding the trade between Guyana and St. Lucia.”
THE musical vibration that could be felt miles away, the sounds of laughter, sights of happy children, and enthusiastic vendors are just a few of the elements that create the Mashramani atmosphere we all know and love.
Mashramani has always been among the most anticipated celebrations on the annual calendar, and it would seem as though this year was no different.
This year’s ‘Mash’ had
a beautiful mix of cultural togetherness that showcased the essence of our motto: ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny.’ Venturing out into the mass of beautifully adorned people would prove the majesty and creativity that Mashramani ignites. Hundreds of people crowded the streets, making their way along the floats’ route towards Camp Street.
Among the most popular floats were those from the various ministries. The Ministry of Education was
among the first, presenting an explosive ensemble of revellers dressed in red and accompanied by an accurately themed float, adorned with books.
The Ministry of Labour followed shortly after, boasting an appropriately themed ‘job’ float. Their revellers, all dressed in blue, were sure to catch the attention of the judges.
The float by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs stayed true to its nature, displaying many of Guyana’s indigenous people who were dressed in
creative costumes and culturally-themed clothes.
Various other companies, both private and public, graced the road, each with their own theme and a creative, authentic message behind it.
The road lit up as people cheered and danced to the music from the passing trucks, while the various mascots danced and moved to bring their floats to life.
Places like Church Street saw hundreds of people lining the thoroughfare, and countless families picnicking
and taking in the festivities together.
Families were especially happy to be out and about taking in the excitement.
Theodore Dominicka, a father of two, emphasised that Mashramani, regardless of the year, celebrates nationhood and the hard work it took to achieve that.
Theodore and his family were out on the road since the morning hours. He stated that the atmosphere of the celebration and the intense creativity of the floats were truly captivating.
Amidst the celebratory atmosphere and carefree essence of the occasion, it is easy to forget the importance of Mashramani. But the reason for the celebration is exactly why Theodore and his family took time out to experience ‘Mash.’ He shared: “I like the scene so far.
I say that because of all that we have been through—post-COVID, then the economy, and all that stuff. I think people are
looking forward to this and coming out. We are out here to celebrate our Republic.”
His wife Roxanne shared similar sentiments, highlighting the true nature of Mashramani. She stated the importance and magnitude of celebrating 54 years as a nation.
Throughout the years, Roxanne has brought her children to view the parade, and this year will be her son’s second year experiencing Mashramani. And according to Roxanne, this year, the costumes lived up to expectations.
She said: “Just about eight bands have passed, and I would say, from last year to this year, there is more of an improvement in costumes. Every year we come out to see floats, revellers, and creativity.”
Every year, Guyana sees an influx of tourists, and this year was no exception. A
Springer and a few friends taking in the ‘Mash’
number of people from all around the world came to Guyana, some on holiday, others solely for Mashramani. The Guyana Chronicle spoke to a few of them.
Phillipp Springer, from Europe, was thrilled to be a part of the nation’s republic celebration.
He said that he is happy to be in Guyana, stating,
“I love the culture; it is so alive.”
His colleagues mirrored his sentiments as they expressed the seemingly magical and intrinsic nature of being immersed in Guyana’s culture. One thing is for certain; they plan to return next year.
Mashramani is one of the very few things that is cited as being authentically Guyanese. With its roots in the nation’s history, the very word being an Arawak word, Mashramani, is undoubtedly a reflection of the nation and
is one of the few times the country puts all strife aside.
Feona Williams participated in this year’s Mashramani and although she never found the ‘Mash’ scene particularly captivating, how it brings people together is what attracts her the most.
She stated: “Coming out here is nice. Mashramani is nice because it is one of the times when you see all the people together. African, Indian, Amerindian, Chinese—everybody is out here to celebrate as one.”
IN observance of Guyana’s 54th Republic Anniversary, the Regional Democratic Council of Region Six, hosted its annual flag-raising ceremony on the lawns of State House, New Amsterdam, on Thursday evening.
Senior Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, in delivering the feature address, highlighted the significant role East Berbice and its residents has played in Guyana becoming a Republic.
“Because we are marking this occasion in Region Six and because this is the Region Six observance of Republic Day, I want to place on record the remarkable contribution that Region Six has
made to the building and making of the Republic today. I believe as residents of Region Six, we have every right to be proud of the role that this region has played in forging and contributing and building the Republic of Guyana as we know it today.”
cation, which have helped to build the country over the past 54 years.
In continuing, he said that despite such remarkable achievements, Berbicians should not sit back and be content but rather, they should look to the
Dr. Singh pointed to the many instances throughout history where Berbicians played significant roles in events such as the Berbice slave uprising, the fight against indentureship and the fight for independence.
He noted that the contributions of Berbice and Berbicians are not only limited to political and economic success but to various facets of life such as sports, culture and edu-
future to make an even greater contribution.
Dr. Singh believes that given the current trajectory, Berbice is poised to make an even greater contribution in the next 50 years. He highlighted major projects such as Guyana’s first oil refinery, which have commenced in Berbice or will soon be launched.
“I cite these examples and not an exhaustive list but a selected sample of
examples to say to you that we are on the verge of Region Six playing an even bigger role in national life and economic life and sporting life and in social and cultural life in the next 54 years of our Republic and beyond. We have a duty as we cele -
brate our 54th Republic Anniversary in Region Six to recommit to our Region, making an even bigger mark in national life going forward,” he said.
Dr. Singh highlighted the many developments in Guyana before cautioning those gathered to not allow
seeds of division to be sown but rather unite as one and commit to building a prosperous Guyana for all Guyanese.
“We must first and foremost recommit ourselves to the oneness of
See page 7
IN recent days, Guyana has been thrust into a whirlwind of controversy and concern over statements made by prominent political figures, particularly Hamilton Green, a stalwart of the People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R).
Green’s remarks, insinuating the legitimacy of election rigging, have ignited a firestorm of criticism and highlighted deep-seated tensions within the political landscape.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s swift condemnation of Green’s reckless statements serves as a beacon of hope for unity and democracy in Guyana.
In his response, President Ali reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to bridging historical divides and fos-
tering an inclusive society. His call for eradicating divisive politics resonates deeply, especially in a nation scarred by past ethnic tensions exploited for selfish gains.
Moreover, President Ali’s emphasis on the professionalism and diversity within Guyana’s key institutions stands in stark contrast to Green’s implications. By highlighting the integrity of Guyana’s security forces, President Ali emphasises the nation’s dedication to upholding democratic principles and rejecting any hint of electoral manipulation.
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall S.C., rightly characterises Green’s statements as an attack on democracy and a
dangerous incitement of racial discord. Nandlall’s call for the Ethnic Relations Commission to investigate Green’s remarks underscores the seriousness of the situation and the urgent need to address such divisive rhetoric.
In the face of these challenges, Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton’s attempt to downplay Green’s remarks is deeply concerning. Norton’s defence only serves to perpetuate a culture of impunity and undermine efforts to uphold democratic norms and the rule of law.
As Guyana braces for the trial of several individuals implicated in electoral fraud, including former District Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo and former PNC/R Chairperson, Vol-
da Lawrence, the wheels of justice must turn unhindered. The trial represents a crucial moment for Guyana to reaffirm its commitment to fair and transparent elections, free from manipulation and coercion.
Moving forward, Guyana must prioritize unity and inclusivity, rejecting the divisive rhetoric of the past and embracing a vision of collective progress. President Ali’s leadership in condemning reckless statements and promoting dialogue sets a positive precedent for the nation’s future.
It is imperative that all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation, work together to uphold democracy, strengthen institutions, and build a brighter future for all Guyanese.
Dear Editor,
TRUTH, however unpalatable should always be appreciated, so while Dr. Randy Persaud takes umbrage with Hamilton Green’s message to attendees at a commemorative event at the Burnham Foundation: “I say we should keep rigging to save us from these devils, these bastards, these demons that we have…”, my opinion is quite the opposite.
I welcome the honesty and the bluntness that comes from the aged politician.
Hamilton Green did not say anything new, offer a fresh perspective, or suggest a course of action previously unthinkable. Green was speaking to an audience who were there to commemorate Forbes Burnham, admirers, followers, and protégés. Why would talking about rigging elections to gain power offend this group? Forbes Burnham allegedly rigged every election in the independent nation of Guyana in his lifetime.
In 1968 the rigging was allegedly done
via the overseas vote. The PNC won 93.7 per cent of the 36,745 overseas ballots. An independent review by the Opinion Research Centre of London was only able to verify 15 per cent of the entries on the overseas list.
An investigation looking into the identity of some of the voters amusingly found that two unnamed horses on an empty lot near Manchester had been counted as registered voters among numerous examples of fraud.
In 1973, the army collected the ballot boxes nationwide and delivered them to a central counting centre.
It is alleged that the boxes were either stuffed with extra ballots or broken into and their contents replaced entirely. On a personal note, my mother was a PNC activist and we (my siblings and I, as children) helped to mark the X next to thousands of palm trees on those ballot papers in the days leading to this election. Burnham received 70 per cent of the votes and 37 of the 53 seats in the National Assembly.
During the collection for transporta-
tion of ballot boxes by military aircraft flying out of Atkinson Field (Under the command of David Granger at the time), GDF soldiers shot dead two Indo-Guyanese poll workers, who became known as the “Ballot Box Martyrs.”
1980 was a repeat of 1973 and Burnham died in August of 1985. There are claims that the rigging did not die with Burnham, however, and according to reports, the 1985 poll was so blatantly fraudulent that the PPP pulled out on Election Day, handing the PNC under the leadership of Desmond Hoyte a thoroughly rigged, fraudulent, hollow ‘victory’
Hamilton Green was an integral cog in the PNC during this period and he knows well of what he speaks; we should not condemn a man for speaking his truth, nor should we feign surprise or outrage. What we should do is mark the words and the audience with great care and ensure we thwart their plans accordingly.
It is easier to treat with this elder version of Hamilton Green, one that uses words, not sticks and stones to break
bones, instead of the younger Hammie, whose threats would have sent chills throughout households in the nation and doubtless precipitated another wave of northern migration.
For many, it would have evoked memories of brutal thuggery, beatings, rapes, murders, riots and fears of every kind of violence. Time has healed much of what Guyanese endured during the Burnham years, but the wounds are still prone to rupture, thankfully the old wolf is now toothless and has a bigger bark than bite.
Editor, as to the characterisation of political opponents as ‘devils, bastards and demons’ I would say that is ‘par’ for the course in a game played in muck and it is refreshing to see Hammie discard his sheepish ‘elder’ frock and emerge as a wolf in wolf’s clothing once again.
There is a certain nostalgic comfort in the same old Hammie and the same old rigging PNC.
Sincerely,
Robin SinghGuyana, comprising Essequibo to the West, Demerara in the centre and Berbice to the East; one Guyana comprising our three counties as we have always historically known it. We must equally recommit ourselves to the oneness of our nation comprising persons whose ancestry can be traced to different parts of the world.”
Meanwhile, Regional Chairman, David Armogan, took the audience down memory lane as he spoke of the pivotal moment in 1970 when Guyana shred its colonial bonds.
He reflected on Guyana’s journey to becoming a republic, intertwining the historical significance of this transformation with a vision for the future that places Berbice at the heart of unprecedented development.
He spoke of the region being transformed by investments in infrastructure, health, education, and agriculture and much more, signalling a new era of prosperity and opportunity for citizens.
The anticipated construction of a bridge connecting Guyana to Suriname and the development of
a new four-lane highway were cited as pivotal projects that would enhance connectivity and economic activity, further boosting Berbice’s development trajectory.
In his address, the regional chairman called for unity and collective action, while urging every citizen to contribute to Guyana’s development.
He emphasised the importance of working together beyond political or personal differences.
“So my call to you is to ensure that each and every one of us play our part in our county’s development and make sure that we work in unity; that we work in harmony, work in togetherness and put our political differences aside, and put our shoulders to the wheel to ensure we make sure that we make our individual contribution to the development of our region and by extension our country,” he said.
He spoke of a future where Berbice, and Guyana as a whole, would reach unprecedented heights of development and prosperity. This future, he asserted, would be within reach if everyone works hand-in-hand, fostering a spirit of inclusivity, innovation, and perseverance.
“So, it’s incumbent on
us as citizens of Guyana to ensure that we heed the call of His Excellency, the President of our country to ensure that we work and build one Guyana. That is the only way we will be able to progress.
If we continue to be divided, if you continue to be disunited, we will go nowhere. The President’s call is very important and very opportune and so as Guyanese we all have a very important role to play in the development of our country,” he said.
Also delivering remarks was Regional Executive Officer, Narindra Persaud, who also took the time to urge attendees to recommit to building a society where every citizen can fulfill their potential and contribute to the common good, while standing together as one nation, one people, strong and united.
“As we celebrate this momentous occasion, let us not only remember but also embody the national motto: “One People, One Nation, One Destiny,” making these words an integral part of their lives and actions”.
Drumming, songs, dances, calypsos and steel pan music were among the items on the programme that provided entertainment for the audience.
DESPITE Bob Marley’s fantastic presence in CARICOM lands, his religion of Rastafari failed to achieve embrace among mainstream society in CARICOM countries. Why is this so?
Whatever movement or whichever personality caused the spread of the religion in the Caribbean, it was Marley who gave Rastafari a defined presence in the Caribbean. The religion had a long existence in the Caribbean, particularly in Jamaica. When one speaks of Rastafari in the region, one simply means Jamaica. It was in Jamaica in the early 20th century that the religion made its presence felt.
There isn’t a human alive today that would deny it was Bob Marley who singlehandedly spread the influence of Rastafari in the Caribbean. Before him, reggae and Rastafari always had a close con-
nection but his mega-stardom catapulted the religion into the eyes of the world. Marley relentlessly preached the gospel of Rastafari in music that was simply phenomenal. The music was penetrating but unfortunately Rastafari even when Marley had become a global icon did not penetrate Caribbean society.
What follows here is a class analysis of the failure of Rastafari to become a mainstream religion. A caveat is in order. There will be severe truncations because this is a mere newspaper column that cannot do justice to the subject. Today, Rastafari adherents are an extremely small sect in all Caribbean countries. In, Jamaica it tend to be more pronounced.
I can’t speak about other CARICOM nations but in Guyana, Rastafari worshipers are exclusively from the lower levels of the working class. Rastafari adherents could be
found among labourers, vendors, animal drawn drivers, and the unemployed. These are working class people and not folks from the lumpen proletariat where there are elements of dubious legality as Marx described the lumpen proletariat. Rastafari worshipers in Guyana are peaceful people who frown on crime and other sociological aberrations. They are not to be confused with criminal elements that have similar hair styles.
The religion entered the veins of Jamaica society at a time when colonialism was rampant in the West Indies. A number of factors in Jamaican society militated against the spread of the movement. One was that it found acceptance among the peasantry and rural poor of Jamaica. Secondly, there was always a colour issue that doomed Rastafari from the inception. Rastafari was
practiced mostly by darkskinned Jamaicans.
The colonial administration, the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC) and mainstream political parties did not embrace Rastafari in all Caribbean countries. For the colonial administration, it was dangerous because it was inherently, anti-establishment and anti-imperialist. It was perceived as a sect not a religion and should not be encouraged because of the positive role the religion placed on a prohibitive drug – marijuana.
The MCC’s views on Rastafari did not differ from the colonial administration but Jamaican class society in the colonial period would have had nothing but contempt for Rastafari folks because of colour and class and its Africanness.
Mainstream political parties in Jamaica never sought to embrace Rastafari for two reasons. Rastafari worshippers were too small to matter electorally and secondly, there were seen as a sect
that was far removed from mainstream society. Rastafari on the other hand had equal contempt for modern, mainstream society with its practice of extravagant materialism.
The explosion of reggae with its embrace of Rastafari gave Rastafari a new meaning and an enhanced presence but still Jamaican society saw the religion as a cult, not be taken seriously. Ironically the Marley phenomenon did not change that. What Marley’s super stardom did in the Caribbean was to generate awareness of the role of White domination in the Caribbean and in Africa and the oppressive rule of the post-colonial state.
Marley denounced imperialism in Jamaica and Africa and the world at large using the teachings of Rastafari in his music. What Caribbean youths and the Caribbean proletariat did was to extract that message without embracing its Rastafari foundations. Thus the Walter Rod-
ney riots in Jamaica were a political protest that was not infused by Rastafari values but simply anti-oppressive emotions.
On the other hand, the MCC in the Caribbean extracted from Marley’s music, its coruscating and phenomenal beauty without paying attention to its Rastafari roots. For example, Marley had girl friends from the MCC including Miss World who was from Jamaica but none of them touched the Rastafari religion.
Today, in all CARICOM countries Rastafari remains a tiny religion that failed to become a mainstream project because the MCC and the establishment politicians never sought a relationship with it. Ironically, it is White imperialist countries today that show more appreciation for the use of marijuana than Caribbean countries. Rastamaan vibration did not vibrate and Marley must be turning in his grave.
–– Jagdeo says in response to Opposition labelling Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo as ‘pageantry’
GUYANA’S Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo was more than just “pageantry”. It was actually a platform for international investors to be well-informed about the security of their capital investments within Guyana’s territory, according to People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo.
He provided this perspective while responding to statements made by Opposition about the event.
During a press conference on Thursday, the PPP General Secretary squashed the narratives being peddled in the public domain and provided insight into the impact that the conference had on South America’s rising powerhouse.
“I actually think that he [Norton] should really review the press conferences that he occasionally would have because those conferences are perfect examples of pageantry and grand standing... No attention to details, no vision, no substance...just griping about everything that is positive in this country,” Jagdeo said in response to Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton’s, criticisms.
Adding to this, he remarked: “Norton would not understand this because he’s never accustomed to playing in the big league... and so he only thinks about pageantry, etc.”
While remarking that investors were impressed with the array of diverse interests that lie within the confines of Guyana’s 83,000 square miles, Jagdeo said that most persons and even media have left with knowledge of the Guyana-Venezuela controversy, as this topic was frequently raised.
While noting that these individuals have seen ExxonMobil “pressing ahead” with its investments and expanding its footprint, the PPP General Secretary firmly remarked: “Every person they’ve spoken with is now positive on Guyana.”
For context, in 2018, Guyana took a decisive step by approaching the International Court of Justice (ICJ)
seeking affirmation of the award’s legitimacy.
Venezuela, taking a defiant stance, initially claimed that the ICJ lacked jurisdiction, a contention flatly rejected by the World Court in a crucial ruling in December 2020. The door was thus opened for the ICJ to delve into the substantive case’s merits.
Recent developments have heightened the geopolitical situation, as Venezuela, through its National Electoral Council, unveiled plans for a “Consultative Referendum” on December 3.
Guyana contends that this move is a thinly veiled attempt by Venezuela to gather support for abandoning the ongoing ICJ proceedings, and unilaterally assert control over the Essequibo region.
Rodriguez has expressed her nation’s complete disregard for the ICJ’s authority in addressing the border controversy.
The substantive case which highlights the historical context and the 1899 Arbitral Award, remains before the World Court.
Moreover, the PPP General Secretary stated: “I was extremely pleased because when these [potential investors] read some of the international reports, they get a different impression because some of the reports start off by saying, ‘oh, Venezuela
tive year, featured some 200 exhibitors and hundreds of participants from 21 countries, including foreign Heads of State.
While this conference
is not the first of its kind in the country, the magnitude of these events has been increasing over the years.
These numbers are not just reflective of an influx
in travellers to the country with economic benefits for the tourism sector; they speak to a marked increase in investor interest in the nation.
has resurrected a longstanding claim for two-thirds of Guyana.”
Although the conference was more than just speeches, the PPP General Secretary did not shy away from the fact that the presentations placed the nation on a high pedestal, because, according to him: “We have things to be proud of.”
Furthermore, he disclosed that even Guyanese, during the conference, were able to explore partnerships.
“Now this conference is privately organised and it grows from strength to strength every year and a large number of people pay a considerable sum of money to come and participate and they do so because they think that the information shared at these conferences is very valuable to them in their business planning processes and also they represent many opportunities for them to invest in this country,” he noted.
Since Guyana’s oil and gas industry emerged over the past few years, there has been a notable increase in the frequency of conferences and seminars being held in the country—a change which has been a catalyst for an increased influx of potential investors.
This year’s energy conference and expo, which was held for the third consecu-
ON the occasion of Guyana’s 54th Republic Anniversary, the country’s Head of State, Dr. Irfaan Ali, sounded a call, once again, for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Just before midnight on Thursday and mere minutes before the Golden Arrowhead, Guyana’s national flag was hoisted, President Ali, in a stirring address at the Public buildings, affirmed the country’s commitment to assist in maintaining peace in the Caribbean, the Western Hemisphere and the Middle East.
“On our 54th Republic, we make a call, once more, to the world that the atrocities in Gaza must come to an end now. The killing must stop now,” he said.
According to several
international news agencies, an armed conflict between Hamas-led Palestinian militant groups and Israeli military forces began on October 7, 2023.
Since then, thousands have been killed and displaced; among these are women and young children.
“The only solution is a ceasefire and for the two countries to move towards a two-state solution. That has always been our fundamental position, and we call on all parties to move in this direction,” he further posited.
He reminded that the small South American nation has been consistent in its position on the Israel/ Palestine conflict, with the country for years advocating for this two-state solution at various interna-
tional events.
Guyana is also a founding member of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, which was established back in 1975.
President Ali had previously bemoaned the division in a global call for a cease-fire.
The Guyanese Head of State, while addressing a regional forum on gender equality and empowerment earlier this month, said it is “unacceptable and heart-wrenching” that women and children are being “slaughtered” in Gaza and “killed” by criminal violence in Haiti and the war in Ukraine.
At the same time, some leaders remain mute on these matters, he had pointed out.
“Our women and children are being slaughtered. Women and girls are being raped, killed through criminal violence in Haiti. And women and girls suffer in the war in Ukraine. Yet some of the most powerful voices in the world lay silently,” he had said.
“I make that point knowing full well that many arrows may be pointed, but knowing full well that I stand on the ground of truth.
There cannot be much more hypocrisy in the world.” the president further added while zeroing in on the current crisis in Gaza.
In November, the United Nations General Assembly voted in favour of a resolution for an immediate humanitarian truce between Israel and the Palestinian group, Hamas. Guyana voted in favour of the resolution.
PUBLIC Works Minister Juan Edghill has bemoaned the difficulties in removing roadside sellers.
At a recent contract signing held at his ministry, he made this call to action, urging people to make sure that roadside obstructions that impede traffic movement are removed.
He emphasised that in the event of an emergency, the road shoulders must be clear.
According to Minister Edghill, he has received reports of persons selling along the roadside at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) in the vicinity of Red Road.
The Public Works Ministry had removed stalls in this area in May 2023 because they were hampering traffic flow and impeding the government’s
efforts to beautify the environment.
But the vendors are back out in their numbers.
The Public Works Minister said: “As a matter of fact, I have gotten calls and I have received reports that the vendors from Red Road have now come out and they are now on the road shoulders, from Red Road right back to Princess Hotel with caravans and so on. We need to get that fixed.”
In order to highlight how crucial it is to keep the roadside clear, he brought up an incident with a truck that resulted in a traffic jam at Coverden, EBD. A massive 40-foot container that “was on the shoulder of the road where everybody could have just diverted” caused traffic to stop while a ministry crew was working on the lane to fix
the problem, according to him.
As a result of renovations made to Sheriff Street in Georgetown, Minister Edghill stated that the ministry has removed several items from the road and would keep
doing so.
“We can’t every time we build a road people decide that that’s their prime place of vending and creating problems. Some of them come out at nights and some of them are now leaving things there permanently. We don’t want to shutdown economic activities… There are lots of places where you can get business done but highways and main roads, we must keep them open.”
Roadside vending has become a concern, according to the police, since some vendors are putting themselves and other road
users in danger by standing in the midst of traffic to sell their products.
The government has stated that while it encourages the opening of small businesses, it does not promote vending along major highways because it is seen as an obstruction to traffic movement.
Furthermore, vendors on the Road Reserve at Mocha Access Road, Herstelling/Farm Housing Scheme Access Road, Diamond Public Road, and Grove through to Timehri along the EBD have been forced to remove by the Public Works Ministry.
Reports state they were relocated.
The ministry has also launched an aggressive operation to remove unused materials and objects, including derelict vehicles from the country’s roadways and reserves.
At the first nationwide national environmental enhancement and beautification exercise for 2024, Minister Edghill told reporters last Saturday that while the government is working to improve the environment, delinquent persons are keeping these efforts from being realised.
MAJOR Gordon Nedd heads the list of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) promotions for this year. He has been promoted to Acting Lieutenant Colonel, GDF said in a statement on Friday.
Apart from him, the promotions of 29 other officers have been approved by President Dr Irfaan Ali.
Substantive Majors
Raymond Archer, John Mohanlall, and Jose Ferreira have also been promoted to the rank of Acting Lieutenant Colonel.
Substantive Captain Lloyden Layne has been promoted to the rank of Substantive Major while Substantive Captains Stephen Castor, Texine Daw and Kareem Graham have been promoted to the rank of Acting Major.
Meanwhile Substantive Lieutenants Garvin Douglas, Britany Van Lange, Berachah Garrett, Hanisi Chandler, Travis Marcellino, Brandi Johnson, and Ivor Semple have been elevated in rank to Captain.
Additionally, Second Lieutenants Joel Harewood, Rawle Williams,
Delmar Headley, Joel Glasgow, Hakeem David, Seanden David-Longe, Delon Abrams, Joshua Ferdinand, and Jeremy Charles have been promoted to the rank of Substantive Lieutenant.
In the Coast Guard, Substantive Lieutenant Commander Adrian McLean is heading the list of newly promoted Officers. He has been promoted to the rank of Acting Commander.
Substantive Lieutenants (CG) Ronald Mc Intyre and Andre Kwang have been promoted to the rank of Substantive Lieutenant Commander while Substantive Sub Lieutenant Gerald Gomes has been promoted to Substantive Lieutenant (CG).
Also in the Coast Guard, Mid Shipman Jevon Reid has been elevated in rank to Substantive Sub Lieutenant.
Further, in the Guyana National Reserve, Substantive Lieutenant Sando George has been promoted to Substantive Captain.
The promotions take effect from January 1, 2024.
THE Caribbean Biodiversity Fund (CBF), with support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and in partnership with the Environmental Foundation of Jamaica (EFJ), is embarking on a project to increase environmental project grants in the Caribbean.
Funded by the USAID, the five-year project will benefit 11 Caribbean countries: Antigua & Barbuda, The Bahamas, Dominica, The Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts- Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Despite their low contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions, climate change poses a serious threat
to all Caribbean nations. Caribbean small island developing states (SIDS) are particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change due to their reliance on sectors vulnerable to climate patterns; the sectors are tourism, agriculture, and fishing. Rising sea levels, changes in rain patterns and temperatures, and increasing intensity of natural disasters identified by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change also affected Caribbean nations. Addressing the severe challenges affecting the Caribbean’s biodiversity natural resources requires a coordinated effort.
Signed in August 2023, the USAID Sustainable Financing for Caribbean Regional Conservation Project valued at US 3,999,050 mil-
lion dollars, is dedicated to increasing the region’s climate and disaster resilience.
The project, implemented by the CBF and EFJ, will strengthen grant processes for CBF partner national conservation trust funds (NCTFs) and increase technical capabilities for them in implementing critical conservation efforts across the region. The CBF’s funding is awarded through NCTFs to implement activities that help communities conserve biodiversity, build resilience to climate change and pursue sustainable development in the Caribbean.
“The USAID Sustainable Financing for Caribbean Regional Conservation Project is an opportunity for CBF partners which are awarding grants that align with the
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 13, 14 and 15. Contributing to these goals: Climate Action (SDG
13), Life Below Water (SDG 14) and On Land (SDG 15) will make a significant difference in the region,” said
Karen McDonald-Gayle, CEO of the CBF.
She further stated, “The CBF is particularly pleased that SDG 17, which refers to building partnerships for the sustainable goals, is a core component of this project. To that end, the CBF is partnering with the Environmental Foundation of Jamaica in implementing the project to learn from their wealth of experience in grantmaking for conservation.”
This USAID’s Sustainable Financing for Caribbean Regional Conservation Project is expected to provide positive change in the conservation and protection of the region’s natural resources, allowing the Caribbean’s people and nature to continue thriving for years to come.
AS part of Guyana’s commitment to a renewable energy transition, Starr Computer has initiated its Sustainable Initiative aimed at promoting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country.
The launch took place on Wednesday at the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo held at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown.
Under this initiative, Starr Computers will provide free electric vehicle charging for its customers while also hosting monthly seminars to educate the public on EVs and sustainable energy practices. Mike Mohan, President of Starr Computer, emphasised that this initiative underscores the company’s dedication to carbon neutrality and technological innovation.
“We plan on doing that so the general public can learn more about electric vehicles, and about the good energy initiatives the government has come out with. The government is very concerned with helping the people to develop,” Mohan stated during me-
dia interactions.
He further expressed the company’s goal to encourage other private sector entities to integrate electric vehicles into their operations, highlighting the importance of addressing transportation-related carbon emissions.
While supporting the ongoing oil exploration projects, Mohan stressed the significance of achieving carbon neutrality, citing transportation as a major contributor to carbon pollution. He urged for collaboration between industries to reduce carbon emissions in the transportation sector.
Acknowledging the government’s efforts to incentivise the usage of electric vehicles, Mohan emphasised the importance for private sector participation in eco-friendly ventures aligned with the national energy shift.
The government’s measures include 100 per cent duty and VAT exemption for imported EVs and chargers, as well as 100 per cent tax write-offs for electric vehicles on annual tax returns. Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, Chief Investment Officer at Guyana Office
for Investment, commended Starr Computers for its proactive stance towards sustainability, noting the initiative’s significance in transitioning to a greener economy.
“This is a great initiative that Starr Computers has taken on and it will become more and more relevant as we encourage the build out of these electric vehicles in Guyana. So, the more and more we get these things out in our nation, the more and more we will move to that green technology that all of us want for a cleaner economy,” Dr. Ramsaroop remarked.
In addition to private initiatives, the Guyana Energy Agency has installed electric vehicle charging stations at various locations for public use, further facilitating the adoption of EVs across the country.
These efforts align with Guyana’s ambitious drive to transition to renewable energy sources outlined in the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030, aiming to foster a sustainable economy for future generations.
EACH of the two men who murdered Rose Hall, Region Six grocer, Lomenzo Johnny was sentenced to life in prison by Berbice High Court Judge Sandil Kissoon, with the condition that they spend at least 30 years before being eligible for parole, for what he called the senseless slaying of the man.
At their virtual sentencing hearing on Tuesday, Satram Kushlay, 30, of Rose Hall and Bilall McLennon, 33, of Hampshire, Region Six, were handed the lengthy jail sentences.
The time the two convicted men spent on remand awaiting trial has to be subtracted from the 30-year stipulated parole eligibility period, according Justice Kissoon’s ruling.
He also mandated that the two participate in skill training programmes while they are behind bars in order to support their rehabilitation for reintegration
into society.
The 49-year-old businessman was murdered during a robbery in February 2020.
Following hours of deliberation last month, the mixed 12-member jury returned with its guilty verdicts, convicting the two men of the capital offence.
State Counsel Muntaz Ali had presented the case for the prosecution.
Johnny called “Sham” operated a grocery shop at his Lot 11, East Side Line Dam, Portuguese Quarters, Port Mourant home. His body was discovered in a clump of bushes on a farm a short distance from his home on February 27, 2020.
He was last seen alive at around 19:30 hours on the night of February 26, 2020, as he went out for his usual evening jog. His remains were discovered around 07:45 hours the following morning, with his feet tied with a black lace.
There were severe
wounds to his head, injuries to his left eye and strangulation marks on his neck. Wounds were also seen on his back along with bruises to the hands.
His cause of death was given as multiple injuries.
In addition to Mc Lennon and Khuslay, three others were charged in connection with the murder following confessions and the discovery of a safe belonging to the businessman and over $2 million in the possession of two of the men.
Daniel McLennon, 27, of Rose Hall and Gopaul Ramgobin and Navindra Narine, both 27, from Tain Village, Region Six, were charged with accessory after the fact.
It is alleged that they received, comforted, relieved, maintained, harboured, and assisted Kushlay and McLennon, knowing they had murdered Johnny.
Their case is yet to be called for trial.
DESPITE Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Aubrey Norton, previously stating that there were no regrets about any of the decisions that led to the Alliance for Change (AFC) abandoning
the coalition with A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), he is now saying that hopes of a future partnership is an “open question.”
During a press conference on Thursday, Norton stated,
as it relates to the upcoming 2025 General and Regional Elections, that the two parties have to meet to find a confluence.
“...The AFC makes its decisions, the PNC/the APNU will make our decision and
then we have to meet to find a confluence,” the PNCR Leader noted.
He then went on to say: “The question as to whether we will be in a coalition with the AFC in the next election is an open question... But we can engage to determine [whether] we go forward together or separately. Both tactically and strategically, we have to make that decision.”
Just last week, AFC’s Khemraj Ramjattan attempted to “flex” the party’s muscle by saying Norton cannot make decisions for the AFC.
Specifically, during a press conference, he said Norton has no say in whether the party will be forming a partnership for the upcoming 2025 General and Regional Elections. This is despite accepting Norton’s recent unilateral decision to reshuffle the “shadow” positions of the opposition parliamentarians in the National Assembly.
“It is the AFC’s decision as to whether we contest with APNU as a partner, it is not Aubrey Norton’s decision,” Ramjattan related.
Speaking on the previous move to form a coalition with APNU, the AFC Leader said this happened because of “consent.”
The “Cummingsburg Accord” signed by the APNU and AFC on February 14, 2015, saw the parties uniting in a coalition that saw them winning the 2015 elections, but that seven-year partnership officially ended on December 31, 2022, as was announced by AFC Leader Ramjattan.
“I rather suspect that the partnership will be discussing these matters at the appropriate time… we [AFC] will be making our decision [and] APNU will make its decision but it’s by consent of the AFC as to whether we go into [a] partnership,” Ramjattan said.
In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle last year, Ramjattan had said that the party made the decision in 2022 to leave the coalition. Norton, in 2023, had maintained that there were no regrets about any of the decisions that led to the AFC abandoning the coalition with APNU.
TWO men were, on Thursday, arrested after 71.2 kilograms of cocaine worth $64 million were found concealed in four duffle bags at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).
Travis Sealey, 26, a shift leader with the New Timehri Handling Service (NTHS), and Koby Bakker, 20, a ground security coordinator with Secure Innovations and Concept (SIC), both of Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD), are being held as authorities probe the major drug bust, according to a statement from the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU).
CANU said the two men were observed retrieving four duffle bags over the airport fence from an unknown male. A search of the bags led to the discovery of 64 brick-like parcels of cocaine.
According to CANU, the
narcotic was intended to be loaded on a British Airways Flight bound for St. Lucia, with onwards connection to the United Kingdom (UK).
If the narcotic had reached its intended desti -
nation, the estimated street value would have been over £3,000,000 which is equivalent to approximately GY$679 million.
Investigations are ongoing.
MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Savitree Sonia Parag has said that the people of Guyana should be proud to celebrate democracy which was made possible under the current PPP/C administration.
According to her, the Ali-led government provides support for everyone irrespective of religion or ethnicity.
These comments were part of the minister’s address at the 54th Republic Anniversary flag-raising ceremony held at the Anna Regina Car Park in Region Two.
During her address to a mammoth audience, Minister Parag said that in celebrating Guyana’s republican status, Guyanese are free to make choices and they were wise to choose a leader that is committed and caring.
She added that the government is committed to providing education to its people and she encouraged young people in the region to enrol in the GOAL scholarship programme.
Minister Parag used the opportunity to urge residents to utilise the available resources so as to ensure sustainability and resilience that will enable a brighter future beyond 2030.
She said that Region Two residents are benefitting from a state-of-the-art hospital which has brought advanced and specialised health services to the region and has also facilitated training and job opportunities.
She said the government has a democratic approach where all Guyanese are treated under the umbrella of unity.
While commending President Dr. Irfaan Ali for
empowering women, she noted her historic role as the first woman in local government and regional development leadership.
The minister spoke about tangible development across sectors, including education, where over 100 teachers achieved master’s degrees through government-sponsored GOAL scholarships.
Mention was made of the over 2,000 individuals in Region Two who have benefitted from a variety of innovative programmes.
Minister Parag told Essequibians that the government
is committed and will continue to invest in their region.
Meanwhile Regional Vice-Chairman Humace Oodit said that in celebrating Republic Day it must be recognised that Region Two continues to experience tremendous transformation.
Oodit said that the region is attracting a lot of economic activities as it develops in all sectors.
The guard of honour was inspected by Minister Praag, Oodit and Regional Executive Officer Susana Saywack before the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted.
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
KENILWORTH
08:25 hrs Quasiforsure
09:00 hrs October Morn
09:35 hrs Thunderstruck
10:15 hrs Green With Envy
10:50 hrs Nordic Quest
11:30 hrs Speed Racer
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
AQUEDUCT
Race 1 Foxy Cara
Race 2 Kids Last Laugh
Race 3 Colorful Lady
Race 4 Night Effect
Race 5 Jolly Miss Jill
Race 6 Five To Two
IRISH RACING TIPS
FAIRYHOUSE
09:30 hrs Theatre Native
10:03 hrs Toll Stone
10:40 hrs Kilbree Warrior
11:15 hrs Jouster
11:50 hrs I Am Maximus
12:25 hrs Good Time
Jonny
13:00 hrs Jersey Des Brosses
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
NEWCASTLE
09:05 hrs Moon.Chime
09:38 hrs Netywell
10:08 hrs Anglers Crag
10:50 hrs From The Clouds
11:27 hrs Cheddleton
12:00 hrs Since Day One
12:35 hrs Chunlee
KEMPTON
09:15 hrs Largy Poet
09:50 hrs Kalif Du Berlais
10:27 hrsTahmuras
11:00 hrs Fiercely Proud
11:37 hrs Flegmatik
12:10 hrs Champagne Mystery
12:45 hrs Roman Roy
SOUTHWELL
10:45 hrs Clarendon House
11:20 hrs Military Order
11:55 hrs Moonstone Boy
12:30 hrs Artisan Dancer
13:05 hrs Spartan Army
13:35 hrs Memories Maker
14:05 hrs Mr Swivell
14:35 hrs Cusack
THE best women’s cricketers in the West Indies will be back in action as Cricket West Indies (CWI) returns to St. Kitts for the hosting of the CG United Super50 Cup and the T20 Blaze regional tournaments.
The CG United Super50 Cup matches will be played at three venues – Warner Park, the Conaree Cricket Centre, and St. Paul’s Sports Complex from 4 to 25
March with the 50 over matches starting at 10am local time.
The T20 Blaze will feature five full days of entertainment for the fans from 17 to 25 March at Warner Park. There will be three matches per day – starting at 10am, 2:30 pm and 7 pm (under lights).
Barbados are the defending champions in both the CG United Super50 Cup and T20 Blaze. The other teams are the
Trinidad & Tobago Red Force Divas, Guyana, Jamaica, Windward Islands and hosts Leeward Islands.
The Tournament starts a busy year for the West Indies Women, which see them play all their international matches away, starting with Pakistan in April, Sri Lanka in June, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh in October, finishing with a tour of India in December.
CWI’s Director of cricket, Miles Bascombe said, “This year’s CG United Super50 Cup and T20 Blaze will be a great opportunity to build on what we started in 2023, with the creation of the West Indies Women’s Academy and
CG United Super50 Cup – play starts at 10am
Round 1: Monday 4 March
Leeward Islands vs Guyana
Barbados vs Jamaica
Trinidad & Tobago Divas vs Windward Islands
Round 2: Wednesday 6 March
Leeward Islands vs Jamaica
Guyana vs Windward Islands
Trinidad & Tobago Divas vs Barbados
Round 3: Friday 8 March
Trinidad & Tobago Divas vs Jamaica
Guyana vs Barbados
Windward Islands vs Leeward Islands
Round 4: Monday 11 March
Jamaica vs Windward Islands
Guyana vs Trinidad & Tobago Divas
Barbados vs Leeward Islands
Round 5: Wednesday 13 March
Trinidad & Tobago Divas vs Leeward Islands
Jamaica vs Guyana
Barbados vs Windward Islands
CWI T20 Blaze
(all matches played at Warner Park)
Round 1: Sunday 17 March
the commendable performance of the Under 19 Women’s team in the historic inaugural ICC Women’s U19 Cricket World Cup last year. 2024 is a packed year in the women’s calendar with three away bi-lateral series in Asia along with an ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in Bangladesh.
The ladies have the perfect opportunity to put their names forward for selection into any of these squads by their performances in the CG United Super50 and T20 Blaze tournaments.
We are all looking forward to some scintillating performances over in St. Kitts.”
Leeward Islands vs Barbados –10am
Trinidad & Tobago Divas vs Guyana – 2:30:pm
Jamaica vs Windward Islands– 7pm
Round 2: Tuesday 19 March
Windward Islands vs Barbados – 10am
Leeward Islands vs Trinidad & Tobago
Divas – 2:30pm
Jamaica vs Guyana – 7pm
Round 3: Thursday 21 March
Trinidad & Tobago Divas vs Windward Islands – 10am
Jamaica vs Barbados – 2:30pm
Guyana vs Leeward Islands – 7pm
Round 4: Saturday 23 March
Jamaica vs Trinidad & Tobago Divas – 10am
Guyana vs Barbados – 2:30pm
Leeward Islands vs Windward Islands – 7pm
Round 5: Monday 25 March
Windward Islands vs Guyana –10am
Leeward Islands vs Jamaica –2:30pm
Trinidad & Tobago Divas vs Barbados – 7pm
TROPHY Stall Canada has joined the list of sponsors for Sunday’s Mashramani
Horse Race event at the Rising Sun Turf Club
The nine-card programme
promises much excitement.
The feature of the day’s events is the battle for the
THE countdown to the start of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s World T20 in the West Indies and the United States of America has commenced after host countries conducted a series of activation events on Thursday to mark 100 days to the tournament.
The festive ceremony was held at the MovieTowne Mall, where Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. said once again hosting an ICC event intricately allows Guyana to be showcased on a global stage.
“When we get an opportunity in this part of the world to show our country on the world stage, cricket gives us a perfect opportunity,” the Minister expressed.
The ICC has themed the event ‘Out of this World’.
Guyana will host group matches from June 2 – 8 and semi-final one on June 26 at the National Stadium, Providence.
This year’s World T20 runs from June 1-29 and will also see matches contested in New York, Dallas, Lauderhill, Antigua & Barbuda, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados.
Meanwhile, Cricket West Indies informed that general ticket sales for the tournament are now on sale at tickets t20worldcup com
During the ballot period, over three million ticket applications from over 161 countries were received for
“Mash” crown which will see seven of the country’s leading imported horses battling for supremacy.
With Trophy Stall Guy-
ana, considered one of the top sponsors of all categories of sports in the country, Victor Sunich of Canada has joined his brother Ra-
mesh and have consented to donate three plaques for the champion jockey, top trainer and the owner of the feature race.
the pinnacle global event for T20 cricket.
Ticket allocations are currently unavailable to nine T20 World Cup matches scheduled in the USA, with the India v Pakistan fixture on 9 June in New York oversubscribed more than 200 times.
Both semi-finals in Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana, along with the final in Barbados, were oversubscribed in the ballot, as were two Super Eight matches in Barbados and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Tickets to all other fixtures in the West Indies are available, with fans encouraged to purchase their tickets now to be a part of the biggest T20 World Cup ever.
GUYANA Football Federation (GFF) Technical Director Bryan Joseph, on Wednesday, handed over vital equipment to representatives of the 10 clubs participating in KFC Elite League Season Six and held
magnet boards.
Moreover, the discussion, which included a question-and-answer session, centred around changes to the regulations, including the introduction of player identification cards/accreditation to
FIFA-approved floodlights and an enhanced playing surface.
A total of 90 games are scheduled to be played throughout Season Six at grounds in Georgetown, West Coast Demerara, East Bank
in-depth talks regarding amendments to the tournament’s regulations.
During a straightforward ceremony on February 21 at the GFF National Training Centre (NTC) in Providence, East Bank Demerara, representatives of the defending champions, Guyana Defence Force, Western Tigers, Guyana Police Force, Fruta Conquerors, Den Amstel, Buxton United, Ann’s Grove, Santos, and the recently promoted Monedderlust and Slingerz, were presented with balls, cones, bibs and coaches
facilitate easy recognition of players during away matches.
Joseph stated that the equipment distribution is “a crucial component of our strategy to ensure thorough preparation for the tournament.”
“We also had a candid talk with the teams to clear the air regarding the changes to the rules and regulations of the league as we approach the kick off.”
The new season will kick off on February 25 at the NTC under newly installed
Demerara and Berbice.
Elite squads have undergone rigorous training in the past few weeks, fuelling heightened excitement amongst fans anxious to witness the outcome of the opening night doubleheader.
The action begins at 18:00 hours with Slingerz FC facing off against Monedderlust FC, setting the stage for the evening’s pinnacle at 21:00 hours when Santos FC clashes with the formidable Guyana Defence Force FC.
BASKETBALL clubs in Linden will today (Saturday) meet at the Retrieve Hard Court from 17:00 hours to plan the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) elections.
The meeting will involve the five clubs Victory Valley Royals, Kings, Retrieve Raiders, Block 22 Flames and Amelia’s Ward Jets.
There have been concerns about the absence of competitive club basketball over the past year, which prompted the clubs to
seek redress and implement measures to see club basketball played once more in the town of Linden
Once a new body is elected as planned, there are hopes that club basketball, particularly among the various age groups, will be played and the staging of clinics for a new breed of referees and table officials to help promote the game.
The LABA election is set for tomorrow (Sunday) at the same venue from 15:00 hours.
–– $3M for programmes; St Ignatuis court
G-BOAT Guyana has activated their cooperate responsibility by handing over cheque to Youth Basketball Guyana to offset costs for the body’s 2024 program.
The handing over took place at the sponsors booth on Thursday at the Guyana energy conference, Marriott Georgetown.
G-boat, a local subsidiary of Edison Chouest Offshore has invested 3 million dollars towards the realisation of YBG 2024 program and the development of a basketball court at St Ignatius secondary school.
Director at G-boat Guyana Daniel Lafont says they have been making investment in the basketball program for
a while and they see its value and importance.
He added that they are impressed with the work of the grassroot organisers.
Lafont says, “We have been sponsoring youth basketball Guyana for about five years now, this is our fifth year, we have been really pleased with what they have been doing in the community and the development of the youth of Guyana.”
The G-Boat spokesman added that they are working with the YBG team to extend their reach to different regions.
YBG director Chris bowman while expressing his gratitude said, “with partners like G boat, we can reach into
the regions and we can really fully support youth development, we are delighted.”
Youth basketball Guyana will later today tip off their Challenge series and shoot-out competition at the national gymnasium.
The series is the opener for the tournament organisers and sees student athletes exhibiting the fundamentals of the game by testing their skills in shooting, passing, dribbling, and core movements with the top performer emerging the winners in each category.
YBG earlier this week announced a suite of tournaments for the year including their flagship National School Basketball Festival (NSBF).
MEMBERS of the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA), an organisation that has pioneered the game in and out of Guyana, will once again sponsor the DCB Inter Association Under 19 Cricket Tournament which will commence shortly.
The tournament will involve the five sub-associations; Upper Demerara, East Bank, East Coast, West Demerara and Georgetown.
The tournament will run
on a round-robin format, with the top two teams to play in the final.
The final will be livestreamed across the globe.
The tournament is one of the yardsticks used by the selection panel to select the Demerara team for the GCB Inter County Under 19 Tournament.
The tournament will be branded under Trophy Stall/ Ramchand’s Auto Spares/ Ariel Enterprise/Rohan Auto Spares/Steve’s Jewellery/
Petama Enterprise/Motor Trend/Cricket Equipment Guyana.
At a simple ceremony held recently, Ariel Persaud, Managing Director of Ariel Enterprise presented the cheque to Anil Beharry, Marketing Manager.
Persaud said that his company is pleased to be part of the development of young cricketers in Demerara.
The DCB thanked the sponsors for once more coming on board.
THE Guyana Squash Association (GSA) is eagerly awaiting the unveiling of the new doubles courts after announcing that the construction of international standard courts
at the National Racquet Centre is near completion. According to GSA’s Athletes Representative Alex Arjoon, when the courts officially open, it
will significantly influence the future of the sport not just locally but regionally.
“The courts are amazing; they are three courts that open up into two doubles courts, which means for the first time, the Caribbean has doubles courts,” Arjoon stated after the recently concluded Bounty Farms Handicap tournament at the Georgetown Club Courts.
“It means we can play a number of competitions, and it is setting the stage [for us] to be one of the best squash countries in the region, and I must thank the Ministry for doing this [and] I can’t wait to see where squash goes in the coming years.”
Doubles courts are larger than a standard squash court, and the new facility was funded by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport at approximately GY$65 million. Construction commenced in January 2023.
The new courts will aid the development of young Academy players and position Guyana to host international tournaments.
see story on page 33
CMC – RECENT West Indies Test newcomer Kevin Sinclair underlined his all-round talents with a majestic maiden first-class hundred that put defending champions Guyana Harpy Eagles firmly on course for victory against hosts Cricket West Indies Academy in the West Indies Championship on Friday.
Sinclair cracked 26 fours from 182 balls in an undefeated 165 that spanned close to five hours and propelled the Harpy Eagles to 415 for seven declared in their second innings on the third day of their third-round match in Antigua.
He returned to grab two
for 30 from 11 overs with his off-spin, and the CWI Academy, chasing a highly improbable, if not impossible 429 to win, were wobbling on 161 for seven in their second innings when stumps were drawn.
A half-century from Jyd Goolie led consistent batting down the order for Trinidad & Tobago Red Force and they reached 285 for six in their second innings – a lead of 104 – against hosts Leeward Islands Hurricanes in another intriguing battle in neighbouring St Kitts.
AT COOLIDGE CRICKET GROUND: Sinclair resumed from his overnight
score of 16 and dominated three significant stands with Kemol Savory, Ronaldo Alimohamed, and Veerasammy Permaul to put the Harpy Eagles in charge after they gained a narrow first innings lead the previous day.
He defied a destructive spell from Guyanese left-arm spinner Ashmead Nedd, son of Harpy Eagles assistant coach Gavin Nedd, to put on 109 with Savory for the sixth wicket, added 77 with Alimohamed for the seventh wicket, and shared an unbroken stand off 100 with Permaul for the eighth wicket.
Savory made 58, Alimohamed supported with 31, and Permaul was not out on
29, after the Harpy Eagles continued from their overnight total of 165 for five.
The younger Nedd, a former West Indies Under-19 spinner, was the pick of the CWI Academy bowlers, taking five for 97 from 45 overs after opening the bowling the previous afternoon, after the Harpy Eagles had rolled his side for 162, reply to the visitors’ first innings total of 175.
Sinclair shared the new ball with West Indies Under-19 pacer Isai Thorne and bowled Barbadian left-hander opener Rashawn Worrell in his second over to set back the emerging players’ squad early in their chase.
Thorne removed former West Indies Under-19 captains Ackeem Auguste and Teddy Bishop, as well as the unrelated Joshua Bishop for single-digit scores in a menacing opening spell that had the CWI Academy rocking on 27 for four.
Mbeki Joseph returned after earlier retiring hurt to take them past 50, but Alimohamed got him caught behind for 13 before Carlon Bowen-Tuckett joined lefthander Jordan Johnson and put 58 for the sixth wicket to get them past 100.
Jordan struck seven fours and one six in 52 from 77 balls in a little over two hours
Bowen-Tuckett, son of former Hurricanes and West Indies all-rounder, now a senior umpire, Carl Tuckett, was not out on 34.
AT WARNER PARK: A resolute 64 from Goolie, and his successive half-century stands with Jason Mohammed and Tion Webster set the tone for the rest of the Red Force batting after they continued from their overnight total of 48 without loss, still 133 behind on first innings.