New $143.9M teaching block for Campbellville Secondary School
THE Campbellville Secondary School is set to undergo a significant transformation with the construction of a new teaching block, valued at $143.9 million.
On Tuesday, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand visited the site, where she turned the sod for the new building.
The new teaching block will feature eight classrooms, two sanitary blocks, and a staff room, all in the interest of providing modern facilities that will enhance the learning environment for both students and staff. The contract for the construction has been awarded to Kaiveri Construction Inc., and the project is expected to be completed within eleven months.
This investment underscores the Ministry of Education’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure across the country.
The school community is eagerly anticipating the completion of the project, which promises to foster a more conducive atmosphere for academic excellence, and accommodate more students.
“We are thrilled about this development,” Minister Manickchand said, adding: “It represents a significant step forward in our efforts to provide high-quality education, and better facilities for our students and teachers.”
Wakenaam Solar Project on track for December completion
PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips received an encouraging update on the Wakenaam Solar Project during a high-level meeting recently with key stakeholders from MASDAR, BSW Energy, Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) and the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) at his office on Camp Street.
The US$2.3M initiative, which is part of the UAE-Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund (UAE-CREF), is set to transform energy access on the island of Wakenaam.
During the meeting, discussions centred on the project’s progress, and its expected completion date.
Project Manager for MASDAR under the UAE-CREF, Mr. Oliver Broughton reported that the Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips received an encouraging update on the Wakenaam Solar Project during a high-level meeting recently with key stakeholders from MASDAR, BSW Energy, Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) and the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) at his office on Camp Street
our citizens.”
The Wakenaam Solar Project is expected to significantly boost the island’s energy generation capacity, complemented by planned upgrades to the existing power plant. This initiative underscores the Government of Guyana’s dedication to providing clean energy, which plays a pivotal role in Guyana’s energy transformation and long-term sustainability goals.
Along with Mr. Broughton, representatives of BSW Energy, Mr. Miguel Themer and Mr. Roque Bocius; CEO of the GEA Dr. Mahender Sharma; Acting CEO of GPL Mr. Kesh Nandlall, and GPL’s Divisional Director of Engineering Services Mr. Ryan Ross were also at the meeting.
The Campbellville Secondary School is set to undergo a significant transformation with the construction of a new teaching block, valued at $143.9 million
Tim Walz: Kamala Harris picks Minnesota governor for Vice-President
VICE-PRESIDENT
Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will appear together for the first time on Tuesday as the Democratic Party's White House ticket at the start of a multi-day tour of swing states they hope to win in November.
Harris, the Democratic presidential candidate, and Walz, her pick for vice president, will hold a rally in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a state seen as critical to their ability to beat Republican rival Donald Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance, in what is expected to be a close election.
"I couldn’t be prouder to be on this ticket, and to help make Kamala Harris the next President of the United States," Walz will say at the rally, according to excerpts of his remarks released by the campaign.
"These same values I
learned on the family farm and tried to instill in my students, I took to Congress and the state capital, and now, Vice-President Harris and I are running to take them to the White House," he is expected to add.
Harris announced her choice of Walz earlier in the day, opting for a vice-presidential running mate with executive experience, military service and a track record of winning over rural, white voters who have gravitated to Trump over the years.
"As a governor, a coach, a teacher and a veteran, he's delivered for working families like his own," Harris said in a statement released by her campaign.
Walz was elected to a Republican-leaning district in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006 and served 12 years before being elected gover-
nor of Minnesota in 2018 and again in 2022.
He has pushed a progressive agenda that in-
competition as too liberal.
"This is the most Radical Left duo in American history," Trump wrote on
with the Republican saying Walz was not assertive enough in combating the rioters.
state, Shapiro said in a statement that Harris had his "enthusiastic support" and called Walz "an ex-
cludes free school meals, goals for tackling climate change, tax cuts for the middle class and expanded paid leave for workers.
Trump and Vance were quick to criticize the new
his social media platform. Vance knocked Walz for his handling of protests after George Floyd, a Black man, was killed in Minneapolis by a white police officer in 2020,
"The biggest problem with the Tim Walz pickit's not Tim Walz himself. It's what it says about Kamala Harris, that when given the opportunity she will bend the knee to the most radical elements of her party," Vance told reporters in Philadelphia.
Americans typically focus on the person at the top of the ticket when choosing whom to vote for, but vice-presidential candidates can help or hurt their running mates based on their backgrounds, home-state popularity and ability to sway important constituencies or independent voters.
"She went with her gut on this one and chose the option that won't alienate young folks," said Republican strategist Rina Shah.
Walz beat out Pennsylvania's popular governor, Josh Shapiro, for the No. 2 role. Shapiro has faced sharp criticism from the left, especially progressive groups and pro-Palestinian activists, over his support for Israel and his handling of college protests sparked by the war in Gaza.
Ahead of the Tuesday evening rally in his home
ceptionally strong addition to the ticket."
Some Trump advisers were glad Harris did not pick Shapiro because of concerns he could help deliver all-important Pennsylvania if he was on the ticket, one adviser said.
Harris and Walz will seek to build on the momentum that the vice president has sustained since becoming the Democratic Party's standard bearer after President Joe Biden ended his re-election campaign last month. Harris has raised hundreds of millions of dollars and reshaped the race against Trump.
The White House said Harris and Biden spoke before she announced her selection of Walz. The president also spoke to the Minnesota governor.
After their joint appearance in Philadelphia, Harris and Walz plan a multi-city tour of critical swing states including Wisconsin, Arizona and Nevada. Vance is doing a similar tour, with stops in Michigan and Wisconsin planned on Wednesday. (Reuters)
Vice-President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will appear together for the first time on Tuesday as the Democratic Party’s White House ticket at the start of a multi-day tour of swing states they hope to win in November
Rice farmers to benefit from free GIS mapping, drone technology services
Co-operation funded project
AS the Government of Guyana continues its efforts to improve and increase rice production across the country, farmers in all rice-growing regions will soon benefit from free drone technology and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) services.
On Tuesday, the Ministry of Agriculture through the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) hosted a closing ceremony for its Enhancing Precision Farming Practices in Rice Production for Guyana’s Small Farmers Using Drone Technology Programme.
The groundbreaking initiative, which was piloted in Regions Two, Three, and Six, and subsequently introduced in Region Five, seeks to introduce drone technology and GIS mapping to improve rice production and build capacity in the rice industry.
It is a collaborative effort between the Government of Guyana, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the People’s Republic of China, and the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB). Through financial and technical support under the FAO - China South-South Co-operation project and a Regional E-Agriculture project, some US$165,000 was invested to procure five advanced crop management drones and laptops. Extension and technical officers from the GRDB also benefitted from drone pilots and data analysts’ training.
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, while de-
livering the feature address, said that the programme is part of the transformative power of technology in revolutionising Guyana’s rice cultivation sector.
“This project, a collaborative effort between the Government of Guyana, the FAO, China, and the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), is a testament to our unwavering commitment to empowering our farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity.
“Rice yield has moved from 5.9 tons/ha in 2019 to 6.6 tons/ha in the first crop of 2024. The project’s impact has been far-reaching. We have trained skilled drone pilots and data analysts, who are now at the forefront of agricultural innovation,” he said.
The minister also noted that by introducing drone technology and GIS, farmers will be equipped with invaluable tools to optimise their operations and even further maximise yields. He also said that the services will be made available to farmers free of cost.
Minister Mustapha also said that by 2025, the rice production is projected to be 741,054 tonnes, adding that as of June 2024, Guyana recorded some 362,030 tonnes and is on target to produce 710,004 tonnes by the end of 2024.
FAO’s Country Representative in Guyana, Dr. Gillian Smith said that there are lots of benefits to be found in using drones and GIS technology.
“This is a project that was implemented for many countries for digital trans-
formation and innovation in agriculture. Because of how quickly this project moved forward in Guyana, we ended up with a project budget of just over 165,000 USD. This project is bringing one form of technology to the rice sector. There are a lot of drones and people can fly drones. The very basic thing that the drone can do is give you an aerial view of what you have.
“What we’ve found through this experience with GRDB and the farmers is that very quickly, and with some support from technicians from China, far more can be done. As of today, as a sign of commitment to the initiative that you have shown, we’ve been able to hand over four of the most advanced crop moni-
toring drones available on the market today and three high-spec. laptops that will be used for the processing of data,” Dr. Smith related.
Chargé d’affaires of the Chinese embassy in Guyana, Rui Huang said that the deployment of drone technology will allow crop yields to increase significantly.
“This project has been a significant milestone by integrating drone technology into rice cultivation and upgrading sustainable farming in Guyana. With the deployment of drone technology, crop yields have increased significantly.
“This project has showcased the infinite potential of precision farming and has contributed to Guyana’s goal of reducing its food import by 25 per cent by 2025 under
the CARICOM Food System Agenda,” Mr. Huang said. Through the GIS technology, a more proactive approach to rice production will be taken as it allows the GRDB to document, analyse, and share critical data necessary to estimate losses as part of the government’s flood risk management efforts.
Farmers will also be able to receive data to assist them with good crop husbandry practices such as effective land preparation, and plant health.
Senior Extension Offi -
cer attached to the GRDB, Dahasrat Narin said that the GRDB was able to map all the rice growing areas in the country, identifying the various varieties being cultivated by farmers in various areas, as well as the stage of the crop.
The GRDB utilised its Farmer’s Field School Programme to engage farmers and build awareness for the project. With the success of this pilot programme, Guyana is poised to revolutionise rice farming through the power of technology.
As the Government of Guyana continues in its efforts to improve and increase rice production across the country, farmers in all rice-growing regions will soon benefit from free drone technology and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) services
Safeguarding the interests of citizens
THE PPP/C administration has embraced a path to development in which people are placed at the centre of all policy interventions.
This point was emphasised by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali during the swearing in of the Chairman and members of the Public Service Appellate Tribunal (PSAT) and the Chairman of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC).
According to President Ali, the need to ensure that the rights of consumers of
public utilities are protected is of great importance. These include essential services such as electricity, water, and telecommunications, all of which are key ingredients of a good quality of life for the nation's consumers.
The Public Utilities Commission is empowered by several Acts, including the Public Utilities Commission Act, the Electricity Sector Reform Act, and the Telecommunication Act, which provided the mandate for the PUC to regulate, investigate
and enforce standards that maintain the balance between consumer protection and investor interests.
As the economy undergoes a period of rapid expansion, the need for institutional strengthening and capacity building of agencies empowered by law to protect consumer rights becomes all the more imperative. This point was underscored by President Ali when he said that expansion is needed.
“Some expansion is needed. Critical skills will be needed to help the PUC
in this very competitive expanded environment that we must operate in.
As Guyana undergoes a significant economic transformation, the role of the PUC in enhancing services to both citizens and businesses becomes increasingly crucial. However, this enhanced role also endows the PUC with greater market power and influence which must be carefully managed to avoid potential misuse,” President Ali observed.
Of no less importance is the need to ensure that
the rights of the nation's public servants are safeguarded and not subjected to abuse by those in positions of authority. The Public Service Appellate Tribunal has a role to play in that regard. The Tribunal provides public servants with a means of recourse in matters of appointments, dismissals or other forms of disciplinary action.
Central to the establishment of constitutional bodies such as the Public Utilities Commission and the Public Service Appel-
late Tribunal is the need to protect the economic interests of the citizens of Guyana and, in the case of the Appellate Tribunal, the security of tenure of professionals in the public service. This fully accords with the people-oriented character of the PPP/C administration.
In this regard, credit must be given to the PPP/C administration for putting in place the requisite statutory bodies to safeguard the interests of the citizens of Guyana.
Nigel Hughes and the AFC are creating an Iron Triangle
Dear Editor,
THE stability, security, and well-being of any population rely on prioritising national interest, or the common good, over individual or business gains. That is a fundamental principle of politics and human rights.
By refusing to sever ties with his firm’s employer, ExxonMobil, AFC Leader Mr Nigel Hughes is effectively setting the stage for the creation of an Iron Triangle, which threatens this country’s national interest.
Editor, for the benefit of those who may not know, an Iron Triangle refers to the mutually beneficial relationship between political/government agencies, legislators, and interest
groups, in which each component supports the others to achieve specific policy goals.
Though not illegal, iron triangles generally undermine national interest by promoting and enacting policies that serve the narrow objectives of interest groups, often at the expense of the broader public good and democratic accountability.
Tobacco companies, for example, spend millions of dollars lobbying in the US every year in an attempt to weaken, delay, or kill life-saving public health policies.
The Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) reported this year that in 2023 the tobacco industry in the US
had 262 lobbyists registered at the federal level, 75.57 per cent of whom were former government employees likely to have increased access to highly influential people in the legislature and federal agencies, to the detriment of public health.
Imagine the uproar if, in 2017, when Guyana’s Tobacco Control Bill was being piloted by the then government, an employee of the Demerara Tobacco Company was either the leader of an opposition party represented in the National Assembly, or a sitting legislator. Just imagine.
In the early 2000s, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the US moved to prevent states from setting their own
fuel-economy standards, prompting a suit by California and several other states. To avoid contradicting then-president George Bush’s policy goals, the EPA also revised internal positions on Global Warming.
In both cases, the EPA clearly worked against its mandate which is the protection of the natural environment to the benefit of the American people. As a government agency, the EPA depends on the US legislature and the US President for patronage and funding, which leads it to act in the interests of those who, in turn, patronise the political class.
Mr Hughes would do well to know that the ‘Iron’
aspect of the triangle is that its largely impervious to outside influence; so long as donors can keep politicians in office, those politicians will support donor-friendly policies, which in turn enable the donor class to thrive within a friendly regulatory environment.
Ironically, it was Mr Hughes’ party that just a few months ago accused Guyana’s EPA of being more interested in protecting the oil company it was supposed to be regulating, than the interest of the Guyanese people, when the EPA appealed Justice Sandil Kissoon’s ruling on oil-spill insurance obligations.
Editor, as Guyana moves to strengthen its legal and regulatory frame-
work for its rapidly expanding oil and gas sector, these efforts must be insulated from the influence of oil companies which have deep pockets and extensive reach.
The creation of an Iron Triangle involving the country’s biggest investor can catastrophically harm our societal well-being and create a cycle of influence and dependency that undermines transparency, democratic accountability and good governance.
Surely, the Guyana Human Rights Association, Transparency Institute Guyana Inc and other “civil society” groups cannot remain silent on this.
Yours faithfully, Ravin Singh
President Ali and the PPP/C have established freedom, justice, honour and hope
Dear Editor,
BOB Marley sang, “Better to die fighting for freedom than be a prisoner all the days of your life”. Despite gaining independence from Great Britain in 1966 to claim sovereignty, Guyana was denied the blessings of what true deliverance meant to be relieved from the grasp of the colonial masters.
Guyanese ended up in the clutches of a callous conniver who morphed to become a corrupted criminal until his ironic death in 1985. But he became an iconic sore sight for those who think they will survive from an end in order to live forever.
Guyanese had to endure to fight an internal battle to remove the knee of despotism from the necks of Guyanese, as the tyranny of the PNC, led by Burnham, suffocated
any hope of democracy. After 28 years of gruesome PNC hardship, Guyana was able to breathe a sigh of relief and strive towards recovery for the next 23 years under the astute leadership of the PPP/C government. J. R. R. Tolkein wrote, “Not all those who wander are lost.”
Dr. Cheddi Jagan, who was banished for 28 years by the PNC to “Banbas”, returned successfully with the PPP in 1992 to reclaim the government after winning the much challenging election in 1992.
A much-demurred President Hoyte had to rescind the PNC’s ruthless reluctancy and venomous violence, and cave in to the US’ advice to recognise and accept the unquestionable winner (the PPP), as the new administrator.
Former US President Jimmy Carter, himself led the
Carter team to observe the election and to deal with PNC’s “hooliganism”, as the PNC Party took to the streets of Georgetown with their thugs engaged in illegal activities to protest and prevent Dr. Jagan and the PPP from being declared the new government.
In that perilous period, Hoyte and the PNC were in the safety net of all the armed forces and the PPP protection was poignantly precarious. But a call from Carter to his President, George Bush, straightened the wavering and intolerable vehemence of the diabolic PNC.
The texture of emancipation changed with a different shade of freedom in 2015 when Granger and his PNC party narrowly recouped the governance by winning a questionable election, a challenged result which remains unheard in the court to date.
From 2015 to 2020, the irascible PNC party, absconded from the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr, “Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.”
Instead, they unleashed a path of archaic animosity and executed a plan of destruction from day one, much to the chagrin of Guyanese, especially those from their embarrassed constituents. Crowning themselves with loyalty to royalty, the impoverished PNC band of imposters, improvised the art of deceit to disfigure the 23 years of PPP/C glorious gains and to generate the next five years in glamorous galore for only the boys and girls in the PNC Party. A positive three-letter potent word, “yes,” from one of their own (not their kit and kin), brought them to their trembling knees and back to their crumbling world, as their cushioned blanket was miraculously yanked from under their firm feet in December 2018.
Guyana is currently in the mood for Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. This state of mind has not changed the stage since August 2, 2020, when the PPP/C government was sworn in legally to legitimately manage the affairs of the country, after convincingly winning the General and Regional Elections as per the will of the people.
But this subtle subtlety may become unsettled, as, daily, insurgents internal -
ly and externally, attempt to tarnish the image of the country, the government and the people. Miscreants undermine the peace, progress and prosperity of the people and nation by peddling false information.
It was an uphill task to win the 2020 mother-of-all elections because, the former PNC Government attempted to rig the election in front the eyes of the whole, wide world and even refused to vacate their seats even after a recount of the votes validated the PPP/C victory. It was the diligence and vigilance of an entire international community which brought the PNC to its defeat and ordered them to do the right thing by respecting the law and acknowledging their loss by conceding.
From day two in August 2020, a rejuvenated, young and fully composed President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, after being sworn in, hit the ground running and not walking, started working and not skylarking, and became proactive and not passive.
With the constraints of a pandemic, provoking priority, the consternation of a pilfered Treasury, supporting bankruptcy, the contamination of a pampered bureaucracy, accruing uneasiness and, the corruption of a pained PNC, brewing vengeance, the knitted PPP/C Executive, functioned as a united team determined to overcome all obstacles and impediments. They were prepared for the
worse scenario as reality slowly but surely unfolded as the days to come, went by. Man is culpable of making major mistakes and capable of minimizing instead of maximizing mistakes. Mahatma Gandhi confirmed, “Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.”
The PPP/C government has achieved most of their promises made in their 2020 election campaign. Their manifesto is almost exhausted with all the projects they have accomplished in their 4-year transformative execution which has catapulted Guyana to unsurmountable heights, envied by the rest of the world.
The PPP/C has abstained from duplicating the mistakes undertaken by the PNC during their five years of pompous and bombastic reign of arrogant irritability.
The PPP/C has been on the defense and not to offend the nation by slipping through the cracks. Armored with the suite of resilience and the tool of vision, President Ali and the PPP/C Government have managed to harness the confidence of the country and win the worthiness of the world, to establish freedom, justice, honor and hope, as a dutiful servant and patriotic party to this nation and the people, for a “One Guyana.”
Yours respectfully, Jai Lall
The cornerstone for peace is found in food
By Rattan Lal and Manuel Otero
GRIM statistics are indicative of the magnitude of the global problem: some 820 million people suffer from severe malnutrition. Another 2 billion suffer from hunger. Some 700 million people live in extreme poverty, on less than US $2.15 a day, while nearly half of the world’s 8 billion inhabitants suffer in poverty on less than what the rest spend on a trip to Starbucks each morning.
This is happening on the same planet that in six decades has been able to increase the availability of calories and protein by 40 per cent, despite an alarming increase in global population, a global pandemic, and climate challenges. The knowledge and ability exist, if we are willing, to face these issues head on.
While there are multiple causes of food insecurity on the planet, one is predominant: armed conflict. This year, with 20 countries or territories plunged into violence or war, nearly 140 million people are made vulnerable to food crisis. Hunger is a weapon of mass destruction that threatens global political instability.
Nearly 300 million people in 60 countriesmost of them suffering from armed conflict - suffered acute hunger last year. This as the world’s governments together spent more than $2.4 trillion on weapons, equipment and military personnel.
The increase in hunger also reflects disruptions in the fertiliser trade following the outbreak of war in Eastern Europe, which accelerated cost increases to both farmers and consumers almost everywhere. Conflicts disrupted critical farming and food systems supply chains extending suffering beyond directly impacted borders.
In addition to families and lives, armed conflicts wipe out livelihoods and agri-food systems, driving people from their homes and into situations of increased vulnerability. Wars and armed conflicts turn nations into failures. They erase progress in protecting biodiversity and the climate.
Along with the weakening or collapse of government, they destroy agriculture, trust and social cooperation; make rural areas more insecure; trigger the cultivation of illicit crops; promote extortion, violence, forced migration and unbridled competition for natural resources.
They also wipe out farming communities, with the consequent loss of knowledge and know-how, generating dependence on international aid.
Two decades ago, the multilateral system called on the world to move decisively to replace the culture of imposition, domination and violence with a culture of encounter, dialogue, conciliation, partnership and peace.
With conflicts raging, this call must be renewed again, with fresh recognition of the role of agrifood systems as essential for social and political stability, as well as human development, within a framework of sustainability and global co-operation.
Agriculture is the cornerstone of this system, whose performance is strategic for rural and territo-
rial development and the well-being of both urban and rural populations.
Achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by world leaders to eradicate poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity are challenged. They can only be achieved by placing agriculture at the top of public agendas and strengthening its weakest link – small farmers – by increasing their incomes and facilitating their productive and commerce through access to knowledge and technology.
Eighty per cent of the poor live in rural areas and depend largely on agriculture for their livelihoods. Most produce food on small farms, many with degraded soils. Their role is crucial to world
agriculture and especially relevant to the livelihoods of millions of people in developing countries.
It is these smallhold farmers - men and women - who produce 65 per cent of the world’s rice, as well as most of the world’s cocoa, coffee, tea, rubber and palm. Despite their importance, their economic viability is in
the balance. They have little selling power and low social mobility.
This vulnerability feeds back into conflict and instability. For this reason, efforts to eradicate poverty and hunger require strategies to maintain and strengthen the adaptive capacity of small farmers to extreme weather events and to work resolutely to recover and maintain peace.
It is time to look at rural territories as areas of opportunity and social progress. This requires appropriate institutional designs, a new generation of public policies for family farming and the facilitation of access to digital technologies and other advancements so farmers have better yields and incomes. The time is now. Words on paper are insufficient.
To make progress, we need global leaders to turn away from armed conflict. We need instead to provide resources and solutions through global co-operative efforts to the problems associated with small-scale agriculture, such as low yields, infrastructure deficits and poor links to the market and financing. Agriculture holds the key to building a prosperous and peaceful world.
Mr. Lal is Director of the Rattan Lal Carbon Management and Sequestration Centre (Lal Carbon Centre) at The Ohio State University, and the 2020 World Food Prize Laureate. Mr. Otero is Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Co-operation on Agriculture.
Rattan Lal
Manuel Otero
Guyana records increase in rice production
THE Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) is already surpassing its half-
year target for 2024 due to the steadfast implementation of additional strategies and
programmes within the Ministry of Agriculture. This was revealed
on Tuesday by Minister Zulfikar Mustapha. During the first quarter of this year, the GRDB reported that
The minister was speaking at the closing ceremony of the drone-technology programme at the Grand
Additionally, between 2020 and 2024 (first crop), the rice yield has increased from 5.9 tonnes per
over 360,000 tonnes of rice have been produced, according to the minister.
Coastal Inn, East Coast Demerara.
The GRDB has set its entire 2024 target for rice production at approximately 710,000 tonnes.
“For the first half of the year, we have already surpassed our target and we achieved a production of 362,030 tonnes,” Minister Mustapha said.
Production has also increased incrementally during the years 2022 and 2023. In 2022, 610,000 tonnes of rice was produced, while 653,710 tonnes was produced in 2023.
“When we look at the rice industry, we are seeing also a lot of revenue coming in… For example, in 2023, it brought in US$212 million. For the year, almost US $127 million has already been generated by this industry,” the minister recounted.
The GRDB is already targeting 750,000 tonnes by 2025. With the progressive increase in rice production, the minister foresees that the target will be met.
hectare to approximately 6.6 tonnes per hectare.
It means that a farmer in 2020 harvested 38 bags of rice per acre and in 2024 is getting 41 bags per acre.
“This came about because of the investment that the government has been making in the agriculture sector, especially in the rice industry,” the agriculture minister stressed.
Over the last four years, farmers have witnessed almost nine high-yielding rice varieties being released for commercial production, which have since boosted rice productivity and sustainability.
The latest variety of rice to be launched was the biofortified rice. It was launched last year during the Agri Investment Forum and Expo, in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA). This high-yielding rice attracts preferential prices within the market.
Nand Persaud Group partners with FAW TRUCKS for new local venture
NAND Persaud Group, a well-established local conglomerate, has announced its collaboration with FAW TRUCKS, a leading manufacturer of light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks.
This partnership will see the introduction of FAW TRUCKS into the Guyanese market, marking a significant milestone for both the local conglomerate and the global manufacturer.
According to a press release, the partnership is a clear reflection of FAW TRUCKS' growth strategy. as the company continuously works to increase its global reach, and tap into new markets.
For Nand Persaud Group, this partnership is a testament to their commitment to bringing worldclass products and services to the local market, and to contribute to the growth of Guyana's economy.
In readiness for this venture, Nand Persaud Group has invested an impressive US$10 million in inventory, showcasing their confidence in the FAW TRUCKS brand. FAW TRUCKS is known for its heavy-duty components that can easily handle heavy loads and rough terrains.
Nand Persaud Group, a well-established local conglomerate, has announced its collaboration with FAW TRUCKS, a leading manufacturer of light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks
With proper maintenance, FAW TRUCKS offers many years of service, providing businesses with a long-term value proposition.
The FAW line is recognised for its reliability, durability, fuel efficiency, and versatility, making them suitable for various applications. With an ideal advantage in the construction and agricultural industry, the local dealer has also made major investments in units for the oil sector. These tankers have recorded remarkable success in the local market.
The introduction of FAW TRUCKS into the Guyanese market has already seen a positive response, with Nand Persaud Group reporting strong sales and positive feedback. This early success suggests a bright future for the FAW TRUCKS brand in Guyana.
This partnership between Nand Persaud Group and FAW TRUCKS is a strategic move that promises to bring a significant boost to the local economy and marking a new era for the country's transportation and logistics sector.
Capoey is a tourism frontrunner - Minister Walrond
By Indrawattie Natram
CAPOEY has been highlighted by Minister Oneidge Walrond, the Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, as a leading tourism destination in Region Two. This success is attributed to innovative initiatives such as the cage fish project and black water resorts.
This integration of agriculture and tourism aligns seamlessly with the Ministry’s vision, and the Guyana
will showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of Capoey, Tapakuma, and Mainstay communities. Kamrul Baksh, Director of the GTA, praised Capoey’s stunning natural attractions, such as its black water and savannah. He announced upcoming training sessions in mixology, housekeeping, and guest experience management, all designed to elevate the local eco-lodge and ensure exceptional service. Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, encouraged
Tourism Authority (GTA) stands ready to support local entrepreneurs, communities with its extensive expertise.
Minister Walrond's visit was a follow-up visit to Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo’s visit to the region. During VP’s visit, many people requested tourism training. Minister Walrond emphasised that the GTA offers specialised training and guidance to ensure visitors have a memorable and comfortable experience.
She highlighted the importance of tourism diversification, noting that agriculture and sports are now integral components of the tourism strategy.
Past training programmes in Region Two, including those for tour guides and culinary arts, have already elevated the tourist experience. Capoey is set to benefit from a range of new initiatives in coming weeks aimed at enhancing visitor experiences. The GTA will conduct a thorough assessment to identify specific needs in the area. Additionally, a consultant has been appointed to develop the Essequibo Circuit, which
Capoey residents to unite in their efforts to enhance local tourism, recognising its potential as a significant economic driver for the region.
Toshao Wendy Francis expressed deep gratitude for the Ministry’s support and detailed ongoing infrastructure improvements, funded by the Government of Guyana and the community’s LCD fund. Residents, who have already benefitted from previous training programmes, are eager to continue developing their community’s tourism offerings. Capoey is poised to become a premier tourist destination, with its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community-driven initiatives. Visitors can look forward to an enriching experience, steeped in the charm and hospitality that Capoey has to offer.
Residents benefitted from trainings before and are very thankful to the Ministry for such trainings. A resident, Avi White, said that she will be working to enhance culture in her community too.
The Capoey mission
Nobel Abrego set to ride in...
the newly imported Nova Sol at Rising Sun Turf Club on Sunday August 11 in the feature race.
Nova Sol is now owned by Guyana’s newest horse owner, Jermaine Sripal, a renowned businessman.
Abrego is no stranger to Guyana Cup, as he featured in this event in recent years.
“Guyana’s racing has improved plenty (a lot),” Abrego said.
Owner of Nova Sol, Sripal had indicated at the Guyana Cup drawing and press conference that he is excited to feature in this prestigious running of the 16th Guyana Cup.
While he is inexperienced as an owner, his horse will be trained by the influential Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr. Sripal who is also the owner of Spankhurst, Guyana’s top horse for last year, remains confident of a good showing at Guyana Cup for
his horse, Nova Sol.
From page 31 IRISH RACING TIPS
The feature race for this Guyana Cup will have 12 horses, mostly newly imported horses.
With this year’s Guyana Cup purse being the biggest in the Caribbean, horses from various countries will be compelled to travel to Guyana and battle for supremacy.
Rising Sun Turf Club will be transformed into an electrifying atmosphere for the entire family, where kids will be treated to a fun park and fans will be thrilled to great vibes when the DJ competition takes centre stage after the race. Race time is 12:00 hours local time at Rising Sun. Horses entered and gate positions for Guyana Cup feature event are as follow:
12:00 hrs Jupiter Rock 12:30 hrs Beechwood 13:00 hrs Last Encore 13:32 hrs Gloriously Glam 14:02 hrs I'm Spartacus 14:32 hrs Saxon Land
AMERICAN RACING TIPS SARATOGA
Race 1 Zarak The Brave Race 2 Will Not Be Swayed
Race 3 Rider's Special Race 4 Itsallcomintogetha
Race 5 Speedy Traveler Race 6 Backstreet Rose
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS GREYVILLE 13:45 hrs Petit Verdat 09:20 hrs Spelling Bee
hrs Winter Games 10:35 hrs Lucrative
RACING TIPS BRIGHTON 09:25 hrs Night On Earth 09:55 hrs Nelson Rose 10:25 hrs Hawajes 10:55 hrs Dream Of Mischief 11:25 hrs Clear Justice 11:55 hrs Adace KEMPTON 12:23 hrs Ellomate 12:55 hrs Yaroogh 13:25 hrs Arabian Light 13:55 hrs Sword 14:25 hrs Sea Just In Time 14:55 hrs Ali Agleam 15:25 hrs Heathcliff 15:55 hrs Warmonger
August 07, 2024)
Garnett Street, Campbellville,
(Tel: 225-6158)
to yesterday’s quiz:
Jayden Seales-4/77 (Lord’s) (2) Gus Atkinson-7/45 (Lord’s) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many dismissals wicketkeeper (Josh Da Silva) effected in the recent WI/ENG Test series? (2) How many dismissals the ENG wicketkeeper (Jamie Smith) effected? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Stat
Bossalina
Loyal Company
Beckham James
John Bull
Olympic Kremlin
Nova Sol
Stolen Money
Stormy Victory
Nobel Abrego set to ride in Guyana Cup feature
PANAMANIAN jockey
Nobel Abrego is all set to ride in the feature event of the 16th running of the
Guyana Cup.
This historical feature event, which has a purse of G$11,625,000, will see the
top horse claiming the championship tag as Guyana’s top horse and a whooping sum of approximately G$6
million.
The experienced jockey, Abrego is expected to pilot
Continued
Jockey Nobel Abrego with Nova Sol during an exercising session