Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 08-05-2024.pdf

Unanimous support!

VICE-PRESIDENT, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, was, on Monday, unanimously re-elected to the post of General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

This occurred when the

In addition to the election of the General Secretary, 18 persons from within the Central Committee were elected to serve on the Executive Committee.

Those persons appointed to the Executive Committee

gel Dharamlall, Neil Kumar, Shyam Nokta, Dr Vindhya Persaud, Donald Ramotar, Clement Rohee, Dharamkumar Seeraj, Pauline Sukhai and Gail Teixeira.

Additionally, Kwame Mc Coy, Anand Persaud and

as Executive Secretary, and Dr Ali as the Finance Secretary while the other secretaries will be elected at the next Central Committee meeting.

According to a PPP press release, in an address at the meeting, Dr Jagdeo thanked

party’s newly appointed Central Committee met for the first time at Freedom House, on Tuesday.

are Dr Irfaan Ali, Zulfikar Mustapha, Anil Nandlall, Dr Frank Anthony, Vickram Bharrat, Collin Croal, Ni -

Ricky Ramraj were elected as candidate members of the executive committee.

Mustapha was re-elected

the outgoing Central Committee members for their contributions and stressed that the recently concluded congress

-

Jagdeo re-elected PPP General Secretary

was a resounding success.

Following the conclusion of the PPP’s 32nd Congress last weekend, Dr Ali and Dr Jagdeo were at the top of the list of candidates voted into the party’s Central Committee.

Some 35 persons were elected to the Central Committee with an additional five persons elected as candidate members.

A number of the persons appointed to the Central Com-

mittee at the conclusion of the congress were “new faces” in the party’s leadership.

During the congress, President Ali hailed the leadership of Dr Jagdeo in the party and noted that he sacrificed every hour of his time for the PPP and to ensure that the PPP remains strong and resilient.

He added that Dr Jagdeo in that sacrifice ensured that the PPP remained the champion of the people of Guyana.

PPP General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

The PPP’s Central Committee

Guyana’s trajectory positive under President Ali’s stewardship

- Former Colombian President acknowledges; confident that country’s leadership will continue to pursue a rapid pace of transformation, address social issues effectively - points to potential for massive gains in the areas of energy, the environment, food security

By Clestine Juan

FORMER Colombian President, Ivan Duque, has highlighted Guyana's potential as a burgeoning superpower in energy, environment, and economic transformation.

In outlining the nation’s potential, Duque also commended President, Dr Irfaan Ali for his leadership, and efforts towards developing solutions to local, regional and global issues.

In an exclusive interview with Arick Wierson for Newsweek Magazine, the former Colombian President expressed optimism about Guyana's trajectory under President Ali's stewardship.

He said, too, that with concerted efforts and international support, Guyana has the potential to realise its vision of a prosperous and sustainable future for all its citizens.

Duque highlighted President Ali's proactive approach towards addressing social and economic challenges, stating: “President Ali is working on a development agenda that can provide long-awaited social solutions for the people of Guyana.”

He acknowledged the challenges of accelerating the pace of transformation, but noted President Ali's commitment to intensifying these efforts day by day.

Highlighting Guyana's unique position, Duque outlined its potential to emerge as a regional powerhouse, particularly in the realms of energy and environment.

With vast biodiversity and burgeoning oil and gas reserves, Guyana stands poised to become a significant player in the Caribbean region.

“Guyana today is a country that is a superpower in terms of biodiversity and is on track to become a superpower in oil and gas,” Duque remarked.

He underscored Guyana's pivotal role in addressing food security concerns in the Caribbean, and highlighted that with its expansive terri-

tory and favourable energy prices, Guyana has the capacity to emerge as a leading provider of food for neighbouring nations.

“Regionally speaking, it is a territory of more than 200,000 square kilometres [and] with good energy prices and good logistics can be one of the main providers of food for the whole Caribbean nations. So, it can be one of the solvers of food security concerns in the Caribbean.

“If you put that in the context of a country with literally no deforestation, with a great environmental vision, I think you will see a lot of energy, environment, social and economic transformation,” the former president said. Duque reaffirmed the importance of supporting Guyana in achieving these transformative goals “as soon as possible”.

Guyana's commitment to environmental conservation also earned praise from Duque.

With approximately 85 per cent of its territory covered in tropical forests and minimal deforestation, Guyana sets a commendable example for sustainable development.

“Guyana today, it's a country that as I said is a leader in conservation. I mean, imagine 85 per cent of the territory in tropical forest, an Amazon country with almost zero deforestation, almost 14 per cent of the territory in the hands of indigenous groups with legal titling, and having the possibility to be protectors of that environment. I think those are very important indicators,” he said.

Duque also lauded Guyana's low carbon development strategy, in place for over a decade, as a testament to its environmental stewardship. He also highlighted Guyana's strategic investments in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, as part of its transition away from heavy oil dependency.

He commended Guyana's utilisation of oil and gas revenues to invest in education, healthcare, housing, and human development, emphasising the importance of inclusive growth.

Addressing the issue of income inequality, Duque also praised Guyana's efforts to implement a universal income system, providing

support to vulnerable families while simultaneously expanding investments in human development.

SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION

He expressed confidence in Guyana's ability to leverage its newfound prosperity for the collective benefit of its citizens, fostering sustainable economic transformation.

The international community has long praised Guyana for its dedication to environmental sustainability and leadership in addressing climate change.

Recently, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US envoy to the United Nations, acknowledged President Ali’s dedication to environmental priorities, particularly supporting rural communities and maintaining forest cover.

Meanwhile, the World Bank’s Vice-President for the Latin America and Caribbean Region, Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, has said that the international financial institution is interested in the good learning practices that Guyana has to offer in its efforts to combat the effects

of climate change.

Guyana’s commitment is evident in the initiatives to combat climate change and enhance economic resilience within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), as it contributed US$2 million to the Regional Adaptation Fund.

Guyana also makes strides in biodiversity conservation by setting up a state-of-the-art biodiversity centre, as part of its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030. This strategy aims to balance economic growth with environmental preservation.

Guyana’s historic $1.146 trillion 2024 budget, is also set to transform the country’s economic landscape.

Major projects such as the gas-to-energy initiative and the Amaila Falls Hydro Project are underway, aiming to provide affordable, reliable energy while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Some of the other alternative energy sources that Guyana is investing in include biomass and bagasse-based cogeneration, rice husk, biodiesel, ethanol and wind.

Those investments align with Guyana’s goal to transition to renewable energy sources and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.

The country aims to achieve a 75 per cent renewable energy consumption by 2030, as outlined in the LCDS

Additionally, the country is making significant progress in renewable energy, with a focus on solar projects expected to provide power to nearly 90 per cent of the hinterland population by 2025. These efforts align with global sustainability goals and support inclusive growth and energy access.

The government is also taking regional leadership through initiatives such as the ‘25 by 25’ plan, aimed at reducing CARICOM’s food-import bill by 25 per cent by 2025 and creating innovative financing models

for environmental sustainability, such as the landmark agreement with Hess Corporation for the purchase of 2.5 million carbon credits annually.

Economic forecasts for Guyana are exceptionally positive, with the World Bank predicting unparalleled growth rates in the coming years, driven by oil production and the diversification of sectors such as agriculture and construction.

The forecast predicts an astounding 38.2 per cent growth in 2024 and 15.2 per cent in 2025 for Guyana, the highest in the Caribbean. Overall, the country’s economic landscape is set for continued expansion, with growth averaging 20 per cent annually from 2024 to 2028. This growth is supported by an ambitious budget focused on development, infrastructure, and social welfare, without new taxes. However, the spectre of climate change and environmental degradation looms large.

Guyana is addressing these challenges head-on, with comprehensive strategies for low-carbon development and significant investments in renewable energy projects, including solar, hydropower, and wind initiatives.

The country’s transition to cleaner energy sources is also reflected in the development of infrastructure such as the Corentyne River Bridge, enhancing connectivity and trade potential.

In preparation for the future, Guyana is enhancing its safety and environmental protection measures, particularly in the oil sector, with a National Oil Spill Response Plan and regular training exercises.

This proactive stance ensures that while the country harnesses its natural resources for economic gain, it remains vigilant against potential environmental risks.

Former President of Colombia, Ivan Duque, greets President Irfaan Ali at State House (Photo: Office of the President/February 13, 2023)

Global health heavyweights team up for climate, disease funding

THREE of the biggest global health funders have joined forces for the first time in a $300 million partnership aimed at tackling the linked impacts of climate change, malnutrition, and infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance.

The Novo Nordisk Foundation, Wellcome and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced the research partnership, focused particularly on finding affordable solutions for

people in low and middle-income countries in Denmark on Monday.

Each will put $100 million into the threeyear initiative.

A key aim is to "break down barriers between often isolated areas of research", said Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, chief executive officer of the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

For example, COVID-19 showed that obesity can be a risk factor for the severity of some infectious diseases, while extreme weather events linked to climate change can cause food insecurity, leaving undernourished children even more vulnerable to killer diseases such

as measles and cholera. The partners said advances in nutritional science, and understanding the gut microbiome opened the door to understanding more about "the impact

over-and under-nutrition have on all aspects of health and development".

The Novo Nordisk Foundation has a controlling interest in the drugmaker Novo Nordisk (NOVOb.CO), whose blockbuster weight-loss drug, Wegovy has brought in billions for the foundation since its launch in 2021.

The partners said the initiative was important, given faltering global attention to health post-pandemic.

The funding will also include support for researchers based in low- and middle-income countries, and the partners said they are on the lookout for private, philanthropic and public partners.

“The most effective solutions to pressing challenges often emerge from the very communities they affect,” said Catherine Kyobutungi, executive director of the African Population and Health Research Centre, a leading scientific research institution. (Reuters)

Wellcome's chief executive, John-Arne Røttingen, also said it was about tackling "market failures" and signalling a global commitment to equitable access to medical advances.

A boy receives a polio vaccine during a three-day immunisation campaign in Sanaa, Yemen November 29, 2020 (Reuters/Nusaibah Almuaalemi/File Photo)

Mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis eliminated in Jamaica

TWENTY years after the introduction of a transference prevention programme, Jamaica has achieved the elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT) of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and syphilis, which stakeholders say is momentous, and has been long in coming.

Jamaica, which embarked on the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT+) Programme in 2004, joins two other Caribbean nations — Belize and St. Vincent and the Grenadines — as the latest countries in the region to achieve this zero-transmission feat.

To celebrate this milestone, the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), hosted a high-level certification ceremony at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel in Kingston on Tuesday.

“It’s a big achievement; it’s something that we’ve worked hard on over the years with our strategic partners, which, of course, includes PAHO, UNAIDS, USAID and a range of other critical partners who have contributed to supporting financially, strategically, and operationally the effort to address this issue. So, it’s a big day for us, a good day for Jamaica, as it relates to the fight against HIV and syphilis, where a mother can now have their child without fear— once they follow certain procedures — of transmitting any of these conditions to the child. It doesn’t mean that the fight against HIV is over, but this is an important milestone from which we can all take some encouragement,” Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton told the Jamaica Observer on Monday.

Caribbean regional director at AIDS Healthcare Foundation Dr. Kevin Harvey agreed, describing the development as “a tremendous achievement” which is long overdue, and is as a result of the work of many people over the past 20 years.

“It’s really a signal to the country that not only can we eliminate mother-to-child

transmission, but we now have all the tools necessary to actually control the HIV epidemic, if we are able to apply them,” he said.

“We now need to work on controlling new infections among young people and others,” he added.

He also congratulated the team from the Ministry of Health and Wellness, including former members who worked on the programme for the past 20 years.

Executive director, Jamaica AIDS Support for Life (JASL) Kandasi Levermore said the organisation is excited about “this very significant milestone in the fight against HIV and AIDS in Jamaica”.

“For us to be witnessing in our lifetime the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis really just brings sheer joy,” she said.

Levermore said the country’s move from a high number of children living with HIV to now having no children being born with HIV “is really something to celebrate”.

“Of course, it’s something to maintain as well and so Jamaica AIDS Support for Life will continue to work with the Ministry of Health to ensure that pregnant women who come into our space are connected and referred to the appropriate healthcare facilities, that they can best manage their maternal health,” she said.

She also congratulated the Ministry of Health and Wellness, specifically the HIV/Sexually Transmitted Infection Unit, “for unwavering and tireless efforts to get the country to this place”.

“They worked so hard to

ensure that the advancements and the programme would have been sufficient to this day that we are here to celebrate. I just want to big up the guys because I know that they really did work hard,” she said.

PAHO said Tuesday’s high-level certification ceremony “not only recognises the extraordinary efforts of these countries but also serves to champion the ongoing commitment to the elimination of EMTCT Plus initiative within the wider elimination agenda framework”.

In September 2010 PAHO member states unanimously approved the Strategy and Plan of Action for EMTCT of HIV and Congenital Syphilis in this region.

Following the approval of the PAHO action plan, Caribbean countries and territories commenced the implementation of interventions to strengthen the primary prevention and treatment services for HIV and syphilis within the maternal and child health services, an ongoing process.

The overall aim of the scale-up of services was to advance to EMTCT certification, ensuring a generation free of HIV and syphilis.

Just before the COVID-19 pandemic it was reported that more than 90 per cent of HIV-exposed infants received antiretrovirals to lower the risk of transmission of HIV.

The transmission rate of HIV from mother to child was estimated to be less than 10 per cent in 2020, coming from a baseline of 25 per cent. (Jamaica Observer)

“It’s big day for us, a good day for Jamaica as it relates to the fight against HIV and syphilis where a mother can now have their child without fear — once they follow certain procedures — of transmitting any of these conditions to the child,” says Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton

A Historic Congress

THE 32nd Congress of the People's Progressive Party (PPP) ended on a high note. Apart from being the largest in terms of Delegates and Observers, the congress mapped out a number of strategic and far-reaching amendments to its Constitution, which took into account the changing dynamics, both at the local and international levels.

As is characteristic of all living organisms, adaptation to environmental changes is key and critical for survival and longevity. This is true for political parties as it is for any other

organisation. The laws of dialectics postulated that nothing is immutable. Everything is subject to change and development. In the case of the ruling PPP, the party has evolved over the several decades to become the largest, strongest and most ethnically diverse political organisation, not only in Guyana, but in the region as a whole. This is due in no small measure to the unflinching loyalty to principles and values which places people at the centre of all policy prescriptions.

As pointed out by PPP General Secretary

Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo at the closing ceremony of the historic congress, the PPP remains committed to the creation of a socially just society, while at the same time embracing ideological and political pluralism, racial unity and religious harmony. This re-affirmation was made in view of a decision taken by the congress, which is the highest decision-making forum of the party, to remove all references to Marxism-Leninism from the party's Constitution.

According to the party's General Secretary, this was a decision that was unanimously

endorsed by congress, but does not mean that the party has given up on its working-class history and credentials.

The PPP, he said, is guided by the ideology of the working-class and the party will ensure that the primary objective of its policies and programmes is geared towards improving the lives of working people, the poor and the dispossessed. Such a dispensation will be achieved through a pro-poor approach to economic growth and development.

These sentiments were also shared by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who noted

that the PPP remains the champion of the Guyanese people in all facets of national life, not least of which is the preservation of the democratic fabric of the society.

The PPP/C administration, he said, is also examining new and innovative ways of putting more money into the pockets of Guyanese, especially the poor and the dispossessed.

As is to be expected, there are likely to be some both within and outside of the party who may harbour nostalgic if not sentimental feelings about the ideals of a 'socialist'

vision. However, as pointed out by President Ali, it is not the embrace of ideology, however defined, that is the determining factor in development but the implementation of policies and programmes that impact directly the working and living conditions of people that really matter.

In this regard, it is instructive to reflect on the words of the late Nelson Mandela at a town hall meeting in the United States when he famously said: “It does not matter whether the cat is white or black; once it catches mice.”

Roysdale Forde needs to revisit his priorities

Dear Editor,

THE critique posited by Roysdale Forde in his recent letter about President Irfaan Ali's dancing at the PPP/C congress is, frankly, a case of misplaced priorities and a gross misunderstanding of what truly affects the dignity of a democracy. His contention—that a simple cultural expression could undermine the gravity of the presidential office—is unfounded and

smacks of hypocrisy, especially given his party’s sordid political history. First and foremost, it is imperative to point out the irony in Roysdale's concern for presidential decorum. As a vocal defender during the dubious proceedings of the 2020 elections, his sudden pivot to a moral high ground on the "appropriateness" of presidential conduct is laughable.

This selective outrage seems more like a political manoeuvre than a genuine

concern for democratic values. If Roysdale is truly worried about the image of leadership and its impact on democracy, he would first address the unresolved shadows over his party's electoral practices. Moreover, the idea that President Ali dancing at an event could somehow detract from his ability to address national issues is an overly simplistic view of leadership.

Great leaders are multifaceted; they can connect with their people culturally

and still handle the rigours of statecraft with utmost seriousness.

To suggest that these brief moments of levity could overshadow substantive policy-making is to underestimate the intelligence of the Guyanese people.

It is also critical to dismantle the outdated notion that leaders must always present a stern facade. Authenticity and approachability are assets in a leader, helping to bridge the gap between the gov-

ernment and its citizens.

President Ali's engagement in a cultural performance does not trivialise his office. Instead, it showcases a leader comfortable in his skin, capable of sharing a moment of joy with his nation.

In essence, Roysdale’s argument is not just weak, it's a diversion from the more pressing issues his political faction might want to avoid discussing.

It’s about time he and his colleagues focus on substantive governance and

integrity issues in their party, rather than policing harmless cultural expressions.

President Ali’s dance is not the problem here; the real issue is the audacity of such baseless criticism being used as a political tool. Guyana deserves better than this cynical, hypocritical outrage.

Yours sincerely, Alfonso De Armas

CLEARLY, the PPP’s leaders must be thrilled because in many ways the 32nd Congress ranks as one of the most successful congresses of a political party ever in Guyana’s history. It also is, arguably, one of the most successful ever in the history of political parties in CARICOM.

Not only was it the largest ever in Guyana’s history, it is difficult to find another party congress larger anywhere in the Caribbean. But the unity, enthusiasm and confidence that oozed out of the congress were felt not only by the members present, not only by the supporters of the PPP in Guyana and in the diaspora, but clearly frustrated and stressed out its opponents.

The PNC, AFC and other political parties took note and became despondent. The many anti-PPP commentators have been stunned into either silence or have sunk into the abyss of fault-finding.

At the very beginning of the congress, while clutching for some straw to avoid drowning, the PNC came out with the absurd statement denouncing the use of the convention centre and the flying of the PPP’s flags at the convention centre.

The Arthur Chung Convention Centre, as convention centres in every single country, is used not just for state events. Corporations, other groups, including religious groups, usually rent convention centres to conduct their business or hold mass events. During these events, the organising groups fly flags, if they have flags, and decorate with their paraphernalia. There is nothing unusual in this.

The PPP, given that its membership has grown and that it anticipated the largest congress ever, looked to find a suitable location and concluded that the convention centre was fit-for-purpose. The PPP’s executive, therefore, proceeded to rent the convention centre to hold its 32nd Congress.

Other political parties could also seek to rent the convention centre. During the period of the rental agreement, the convention centre was sacred ground for the PPP. It was free to fly its flags. It did and the scenery in and around the convention centre was simply spectacular.

The PNC’s denunciation

The PPP’s 32nd congress leaves its opponents giddy, confused and clueless

was simply unfounded and disgustingly hypocritical. When the convention centre is being used to host parliament, the Guyana flag flutter sproudly. There has never been a PPP flag flown in its full glory at the convention center when parliament is in session.

In no public building has the PPP flag ever been flown officially. Given the circumstances where the convention centre was rented by the PPP, the party had every right to fly its flag proudly. No law or no convention was violated by anything that the PPP did during its 32nd Congress.

Those who believe the PPP violated any law should challenge in court.

But if there is an organisation that should never make this an issue, it is the PNC. In making this an issue the PNC merely added to its considerable credential of hypocrisy. But then again, Burnham’s party carries hypocrisy around as a badge of honour. This is the party that enshrined party paramountcy as a part of its governance. As part of that governance model, the PNC hoisted its flag over state buildings and institutions, such as the Supreme Court of Guyana. Does the PNC think we will ever forget these egregious acts?

This is a party that spent hundreds of millions of taxpayers’ monies to paint buildings green, branding government with the colours of the PNC, even violating the convention of colours for State House, when they coloured the State House green. It went so far as to intimidate people to paint their own homes green and to paint their vehicles green in order to show support.

Public servants were intimidated into wearing green clothes. Certain government institutions, in fact, required persons to wear green uniforms. No Guyanese citizen has forgotten this.

But the desperation to find something they can criticise forced Aubrey Norton to make a long statement in which all he could find to criticise about the PPP’s 32nd Congress was that the PPP violated the law. This is the party that is not timid when it comes to ridiculousness, such as 32 is greater than 33.

Now, one of their MPs, Sherod Duncan from the AFC, alleges that the Prime Minister Mark Phillips was

sidelined at the congress. The allegation shows that Duncan is ignorant or thoughtless. Either of these possibilities show that the opposition is not ready for the big time. The truth is the PM was not eligible to be on the ballot for delegates to vote for him. The PM is a member of the Civic component of the PPP/C coalition.

The PPP has honoured its 1992 contract with the Guyanese people and a member of the ‘CIVIC’ is always the PM candidate for the PPP. Between 1992 and 2015, Sam Hinds held that position and was the leader of the ‘CIVIC.’

Elizabeth Harper occupied that position in 2015. In 2020 Mark Phillips took

up the challenge of being the PPP’s nominee for the PM position. He has served as Sam Hinds did with distinction and has become an adored member of the PPP/C Cabinet. At the congress, PM Phillips had a front seat with President Irfaan Ali and VP and GS, Bharat Jagdeo. Although congress was for PPP delegates, PM Phillips was welcomed to participate throughout.

The PNC/APNU+AFC are digging in the proverbial muck to find something they can criticise. The same Duncan shamelessly asked where are the SoPs to show who got what votes during the congress.

The PPP’s election went smoothly, and the results

were available almost immediately and fully published.

But the PNC/APNU+AFC, almost four years later, is still hiding its copies of the SoPs from Election 2020. It is sheer hypocrisy.

The commentators are finding all kinds of muck in order to say something negative. They now are renewing the old, worn-out arguments of “isms” to insist that the PPP has abandoned Cheddi Jagan’s principles and values. For one, they insist that the PPP has abandoned its working-class credentials, something that Cheddi Jagan scrupulously guarded.

The 32nd Congress of the PPP, contrary to those claims, reiterated and emphasised its working-class ideology and

By Dr Leslie Ramsammy

commitment. It is why the PPP has created more than 70,000 jobs since August 2020, put back to work all the sugar and bauxite workers that the PNC/APNU+AFC sent home during 2015-2020, and has increased public servants’ salaries and benefits. It has also increased minimum wages for the private sector and increased the income tax threshold for all workers in Guyana.

The removal of references in the constitution to Leninism/Marxism/Socialism through a resolution at the 32nd Congress is not a denunciation of socialism. It is aligning better the party’s founding principle of ideo-

Continued on page 9

Norton, the lunatic fringe and electoral politics

TWO years ago, I argued in these columns that the dilemma the PNC faces is that it gets blamed for the extremist, outlandish and horrifying emanations from the lunatic fringe (TLF) because people associate the PNC with the TLF. In many cases, the PNC stood silent or subtly avoid commenting on some of the politically terrifying things TLF said.

The examples of the insane outpourings of TLF run into dozens but two will suffice for now. One of them asserted on social media that people should run PPP leaders off the road. Another said that an Indian PNC parliamentarian is a slave-catcher. In all these pools of political insanities from TLF, the PNC never made a public statement in support and that was sensible politics.

It is not only sensible politics but commonsensical politics. There are people out there that say alarming things but they are not leaders of political parties asking people to

vote for them in a country where the demographics do not easily make for electoral victory of over 51 per cent from any particular demographic site.

Rickford Burke, Mark Benschop, David Hinds, Tacuma Ogunseye, and their acolytes are not party politicians who depend on multi-racial, multi-religious, multi-cultural, multi-class support for their party at election time. They don’t have a party and they are not contesting elections.

Such people have immeasurable latitude to say wild things. Politicians do not have such maneuverability. If any politician in any political party does not understand that, then, they have no place in electoral politics and should not participate in parliamentary contests. President Ali recently visited certain sections of New York, where there are visible areas of African Guyanese presence. He was warmly received. As a reaction to the positive embrace, Rickford Burke and Mark Benschop called on Guyanese

in those districts to boycott the Guyanese business places that showed warmth and affection for the President.

The reaction to Burke and Benschop was expected. People see them as extremists who are outside the main frame of Guyanese politics. In what can only be a disaster for the PNC, its leader, Aubrey Norton endorsed the boycott call. Up to this time, the collective leadership of the PNC had stayed away from collaborating with such extremist activism.

The boycott call simply makes no sense and it is yet another indication that Aubrey Norton has lost his political compass. What is wrong with Guy-

anese business owners welcoming the President of Guyana on his visit to New York? What logical argument can one invent to justify that? Important to note is that Burke and Benschop don’t have to give one. That is their modus operandi.

Only Norton from the PNC has publicly endorsed the exhortation of Burke and Benschop. Two central committee members of the PNC –Samuel Sandy and Jermaine Figueira - have rejected the wild advocacy. None of the major names in the PNC’s leadership has offered words of support for the boycott. Why have they chosen not to side with Norton?

Electoral politics is the answer. None of the major race groups has a 51 per cent majority in the population. Indians stand at 41, the Africans

at 31.

A party needs 51 per cent for victory. Important to note the census of a country is not reflected in the voting population. Some 41 per cent Indians and 31 per cent Africans do not mean the voting population reflects those percentage points.

The PNC has to get votes from Indians, the mixed race group and Amerindians to get over 51 percent and that is assuming that it gets all the votes from Africans. I doubt that. I think the Irfaan Ali factor will cause the PPP to collect an acceptable percentage of votes from this section of the population.

The election is 18 months away and all parties need to avoid a scandal that will dent cross-over votes. Asking Guyanese in New York to boycott businesses

that welcomed President Ali a few weeks ago is self-destructive politics. I cannot believe Norton’s intellectual capacity has diminished so rapidly that he cannot see that the boycott call has racial pandering all over it.

But more importantly, if Norton thinks that by endorsing the foolishness and race-laced advocacy of Burke and Benschop, it is going to cement the African ballots for the PNC in 2025, then how is the PNC going to go over the 51 per cent without cross-over votes? And do those cross-over voters accept that when a Guyanese president visits New York, Guyanese businesses must reject him?

It is clear to me that this is not the intellectually competent Norton I once knew. I think his politics has been joined with the politics of TLF. Self-destruction is on its way

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

Gov’t injects $1.7B in Region One’s road infrastructure

THE transformation of Guyana’s hinterland region is advancing significantly, as the government has injected the sum of $1.7 billion for the rehabilitation of vital roads in Region One (Barima-Waini).

Spearheaded by the Ministry of Public Works Hinterland Roads Programme, this investment paves the way for improved accessibility, connectivity, and economic activities in many communities.

One of the primary initiatives is the rehabilitation of the Compound to Settlement Road in Mabaruma, undertaken by International Import and Supplies for $296.9 million. This completed project catalyses further infrastructural developments in the area.

Supreme Contracting and Supplies have significantly progressed in rehabilitating Compound Internal Roads in Mabaruma. This $198.3 million project is 40 per cent complete.

Additionally, the reconstruction of the Independence (Wharf) Road Bridge in Mabaruma, executed by Aruca Investment for $56.4 million, faces technical challenges such as unsuccessful pile driving due to boulders being encountered in the sub-base.

However, the project has reached 40 per cent completion, with a bypass constructed to mitigate disruptions in the area.

The construction of

Stelling Roads in Port Kaituma, costing $189.4 million and executed by International Import and Supplies, has been successfully concluded. These upgrades enhance transportation networks, particularly for the new stelling constructed to accommodate the Indian roll-on and roll-off vessel, MV MA Lisha.

Furthermore, works have started on the internal roads in Port Kaituma (Phase 1) at a total cost of $185.3 million. GuyBiz Establishment is undertaking that project.

In Matthews Ridge, the internal roads were rehabil-

itated by GV Construction Inc., totalling $231.2 million.

Similarly, Blacks and Son Construction has rehabilitated internal roads in Wauna totalling $93.4 million.

Efforts are underway to rehabilitate the Rincon Main Access (Phase 1), undertaken by Mohamed Ramzanalli Khan Construction for $185.8 million.

Despite delays due to the sinking of a barge carrying essential materials, the Kwebanna to Kumaka (Phase one) rehabilitation project, undertaken by Quality Deliverer at $201.3 million, has reached

The PPP’s 32nd congress leaves its opponents giddy, confused...

From page 7

logical and economic pluralism. The PPP has always maintained that the private sector is the engine of growth in our country.

It is the PPP that totally dismantled the PNC’s model of the state in command of the heights of the economy and shifted it to the private sector. While aggressively pursuing the social-justice agenda and the working-class credentials of the party, the 32nd Congress sought to bring clarity to its dedication to ideological and economic pluralism.

The truth is that the gathering of delegates from every nook and cranny of our country, people representing

all races, all economic groupings, all religious sections of our country, presented great consternation for the opposition and the anti-PPP commentators. It has left them confused and searching for something to find fault with.

The truth is that both the political opposition and the usual suspects, the anti-PPP lunatic fringe, were left scratching their heads and disheartened because what they saw was a harbinger for Elections 2025, signalling of the biggest ever political victory in any free and fair elections in Guyana.

What they saw forced them to acknowledge that the challenge for the opposition is whether the opposition can keep the PPP to an electoral

40 per cent completion.

Similarly, the rehabilitation of San Jose Main Access (Phase 2), undertaken by Aruca Investment at

victory with less than 36 seats. Congress 32 tells the country and the world that the PPP will emerge with a victory greater than 36 seats. Burnham is restless in his grave as he sees those he left in charge have destroyed his party. Cheddi and Janet Jagan, Boysie Ramkarran, Brindley Benn, Hubbard, Jacobs, Chase and many others are smiling, proud of what they created, sustained and left. They must be proud of those who carry on, staying faithful to the principles and values they embraced when the PPP was launched on January 1, 1950, but continuously positioning the party to be fit-for-purpose in changing times.

$89.8 million, is now 45 per cent complete, focusing on improving road conditions along a 300-metre stretch.

This progressive investment underscores the

PPP/C Administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive growth and equitable development for all Guyanese. (DPI)

The transformation of Guyana’s hinterland region is advancing significantly, as the government injects the sum of $1.7 billion for the rehabilitation of vital roads in Region One (Barima-Waini)

Nurses encouraged to prepare for health sector transformation

MINISTER of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, urged nurses to ready themselves for a pivotal role in Guyana’s evolving Health Sector transformation.

Addressing attendees at the Nurses and Midwives Council of Guyana’s awards ceremony for nurses serving over 30 years, Minister Anthony highlighted the imminent changes in medical practice and emphasised the importance of continuous learning.

“The way that we are practising medicine is going to change drastically in Guyana. It has

already been changing over the years… very soon, if we are not there in some aspects as yet, a lot of what we will be doing, people from the surrounding areas, countries will be looking to Guyana as an example,” Minister Anthony stated, while addressing the nurses at the ceremony held at Cara Lodge, Georgetown.

He underscored the availability of resources under the Continuing Nursing Education programme and encouraged knowledge sharing, proposing a Nurses Research Con-

ference led by nurses themselves.

With plans to build 13 new hospitals and upgrade existing facilities nationwide, specialised training for nurses is being prioritised to meet the expanding health sector’s demands.

“If we are going to provide better cardiac care, we need to have cardiac specialisation,

or cardiac nurses, critical care; we need critical care nurses whatever area you choose because we will be doing a lot of specialised care and, therefore, we need to train people to be able to offer these types of care,” he stated.

Acknowledging the vital role of nurses, Minister Anthony proposed making the award ceremony an annual

event to celebrate their dedication and commitment to patient care.

He called for a shift in the narrative surrounding nursing, emphasising the significant impact nurses have on daily patient care.

Nurses Week is observed from May 6-12 under the theme ‘Our Nurses, Our Future, The Economic Power of Care.’ (DPI)

Senior health officials pose with the nurses who were awarded for 30 or more years of service

Investments secure in Guyana

– Foreign Secretary

FOREIGN Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Robert Persaud has provided reassurance to existing and prospective investors, affirming that their investments are secure within Guyana’s borders, despite the ongoing border controversy with Venezuela.

During a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), Persaud emphasised Guyana’s robust case, backed by widespread support from every member of the United Nations and gaining global recognition and acceptance.

“We have always maintained that Guyana is safe, stable, and is a certain place to have investments.

Persaud stressed that there should be no doubt about the safety and security standards

The secretary noted that such an economy is due to the many investments that are made by both the private and public sectors.

“A lot of it is due to the investments being made by both the private and public sectors, and a lot of it is also foreign investors. And so, that certainly holds a high level of investors’ confidence in doing business in Guyana,” Persaud asserted.

Highlighting Guyana’s status as the world’s fastest-growing economy, Persaud attributed this success to significant investments

“…There is not a single day in which you see investors both local and international looking at opportunities and seeking them here in Guyana,” the Foreign Secretary emphasised.

from both the private and public sectors, as well as foreign investors.

Regarding advice for potential investors, Persaud emphasised ‘the time is now’, noting the rapid pace of development in Guyana and the urgency to capitalise on emerging opportunities.

Persaud underscored the importance of government policies and incentives for investment credibility, highlighting the role of the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest) in facilitating such initiatives.

“One of the features and advantages that Guyana has been able to project, and attract the type of trade delegations is due to people being confident about what is taking place with the management and the economic and political level of our

country,” the foreign secretary recounted.

Assuring continued commitment from the government, Persaud reiterated their dedication to fostering a resilient environment conducive to both local and foreign investors.

(DPI)

Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud during an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI)

FAO’s environment, climate monitoring portal Earth Map receives Google impact award

- the user-friendly platform helps visualise, process and analyse extensive environment and climate data

EARTH Map, a pioneering initiative by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) that leverages freely available archives of geospatial data for climate and environment monitoring and mapping has been honoured with a Google Geo for Good Impact Award.

The award, celebrating users and organisations creating real-world impact using Google’s mapping tools, recognises the initiative as an important instrument for policymakers and other stakeholders to make informed decisions and drive positive actions for a more sustainable future.

“Achieving the global goals on climate change, biodiversity and environment requires changing the way we produce, distribute, process, retail and consume our food. Sustainably transforming our agrifood systems hinges on harnessing key data and information to inform policies, guide investments and drive actions. That is exactly what Earth Map brings in support of the stakeholders working on the frontlines of climate and food security,’’ said Maria Helena Semedo, FAO Deputy Director-General, welcoming the award.

Earth Map is a pointand-click cloud-based platform powered by Google Earth Engine and other free data sources without any need for coding. Earth Map enables any user to visualise, analyze, and monitor changes

on Earth's surface, performing multi-temporal and multi-parametric land monitoring, climate assessments and other geospatial and Earth Observation-based analyses.

With its intuitive interface and powerful capabilities, Earth Map eases access to critical information, benefiting diverse stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, and local communities making it a comprehensive and accessible tool for addressing various environmental and climate-related challenges.

The application was presented in the Dublin Google Earth Engine Summit in 2018 and launched at FAO headquarters in 2020. Its approach and methodology are published in a peer-reviewed paper on the Journal of Remote Sensing.

EARTH MAP APPLICATIONS

Earth Map, stemmed from the successful Collect Earth application, has over 33,000 signed-in users in 50 countries to date and has made a substantial impact, with its applications spanning diverse regions and projects. Its data can be used for the protection of natural ecological, or cultural lands and waters; the effective conservation of natural areas; and for revitalising and restoring ecosystems, among other initiatives.

FAO, for example, has used it as a valuable instrument for project preparation, monitoring, and cost-effective invest-

FAO’s environment, climate monitoring...

FROM PAGE 13

ment design. The tool has also proven crucial in supporting Member states in their grant applications to prominent international funding partners such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the European Development Bank and the World Bank.

Similarly, Earth Map has proved fundamental when designing large development projects and prioritising target areas for countries such as Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Tajikistan. For example, Earth Map was instrumental in the area description and prioritisation in a GCF project in Pakistan to transform the Indus Basin with climate

resilient agriculture.

The platform's integration with Google mapping tools also facilitates dynamic mapping and quasi-real-time statistics generation. Its global scope and customisation options make it a versatile tool for conservation and environmental initiatives across diverse geographic regions. As a result, Earth Map is currently

being replicated in ad-hoc customisations to fit the needs of other projects and programmes, including the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP)’s Strata portal that identifies and tracks stresses at the inter-linkage between climate change, environmental degradation and peace and security.

Countries can freely decide to contribute and

share their national data, showcasing the tools commitment to fostering international cooperation and supporting impactful projects, from global climate assessments to regional data integration initiatives. Earth Map ensures a collaborative approach, providing free training and support as needed.

The principles guiding FAO’s Strategy on

Climate Change and Action Plan highlight the importance of leveraging innovative solutions such as Earth Map to contribute to the fundamental priority of safeguarding food security and ending hunger with agrifood systems at the core of solutions for climate change and safeguarding the environment. (FAO)

Inspiring women making a difference in Guyana

The

following is part of a series on the 25 Influential Women

Leaders 2024 Awardees:

TODAY, we introduce five of the 25 Influential Women Leaders 2024 Awardees, to give the public an insight into who they are and how they are serving our community.

The 25 Influential Women Leaders Awards is hosting its fifth iteration this year, on May 18, and the team is giving us a glimpse into the contributions of the remarkable awardees whose stories inspire us to embrace resilience, compassion, and dedication in our own endeavours.

In their stories, we find the essence of Guyanese spirit—unyielding, compassionate, and ever-determined to make a difference.

In this third batch of a five-part series, let's delve into the remarkable stories of Dr. Lachmie Devi Lall, Lexann McPhoy, Lisa Mae Agard, Maple Singh, and Maria Anita Jeffers, who are leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of Guyanese society.

Dr. Lachmie Devi Lall, left her hometown in Essequibo as a teenager to embark on an academic journey in medicine, fuelled by compassion and a thirst for knowledge. Graduating with her medical degree from Manzanillo, Cuba in 2015, Dr. Lall's path took an extraordinary turn when the COVID-19 pandemic swept across Guyana. Fearlessly stepping onto the frontline, she tirelessly worked to test and manage patients diagnosed with COVID-19, embodying the epitome of selflessness

and dedication in the face of adversity. While there were days when she felt like giving up, she found her strength in knowing she could save more lives, and with the support of her colleagues and family, she did just that for the hundreds of COVID-19 patients who were hospitalised and in her care.

Meanwhile, Lexann McPhoy, the visionary owner of NSI Nails Guyana, has redefined beauty standards and wellness practices. Through her innovative approach to nail care, she champions organic beauty, health, and wellness, touching the lives of women across the nation. Lexann's acts of kindness, such as offering complimentary services to cancer survivors and fighters during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in 2023, resonate deeply, reflecting her profound love for humanity.

Lisa Mae Agard, a beacon of effective communication and public speaking excellence, empowers individuals to find their voices. Her illustrious journey, marked by the attainment of the Distinguished Toastmaster award and proficiency in the French language, symbolises a commitment to lifelong learning and growth. Lisa's dedication extends beyond accolades; her work with Toastmasters to empower young people in Guyana and St. Lucia exemplifies her generosity and passion for nurturing future leaders.

In the realm of educa-

tion, Maple Singh stands as a guiding light, instilling Christian values and academic excellence within her school. Her personalised learning environment not only fosters academic success but also spiritual and moral growth among students. Maple's philanthropic endeavours, including the establishment of a library in memory of her late sister, underscore her belief in the transformative power of education and giving back to the community.

Lastly, Maria Anita Jeffers, a stalwart in the medical field, embodies resilience and unwavering dedication. With 37 years of service to the government, Maria has traversed countless challenges, including double brain surgery and Disc Herniation back surgery, all while providing exemplary healthcare. Her unyielding spirit, aptly recognised with the moniker

"Iron Lady" by the Minister of Amerindian Affairs, serves as a testament to her strength and commitment to serving others, even in the face of adversity.

It is because of the

commitment and exemplary service of women such as those mentioned in this feature, that The NICO Consulting Inc. and Cerulean Incorporated established the 25 Influential Women Leaders Awards five years ago. This year’s celebratory dinner and award ceremony is set for May 18, at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, Kingston.

Lisa Mae Agard

Maria Anita Jeffers

Maple Singh

Dr. Lachmie Devi Lall

Lexann McPhoy

Electoral fraud cases further adjourned

— as Chief Justice yet to rule on constitutional issues raised by defence

THE constitutional issues raised by lawyers representing those accused of attempting to rig the March 2020 General and Regional Elections in favour of the then-caretaker A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition government are still pending before the High Court.

As a result, the progress of the almost three dozen charges have been halted in the Georgetown Magistrate’s Courts, more than three years after they were initially filed.

The trial, originally set to begin on March 4, has experienced multiple delays since that date.

Magistrate Leron Daly has paused the trial pending a decision from the High Court. Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George, SC, is set to hear the constitutional issue on May 13, 2024. The cases will be brought before Magistrate Daly once more on May 29, 2024, for an update on the proceedings before the Judge.

by GECOM, such as “posting of results on spreadsheets.” He stated that these records will prove this and are required for cross-examination in the event he or other defence lawyers wish to refute the testimony of the GECOM commissioners and GECOM Chairperson Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh, who are scheduled to testify on behalf

to further delay the start of the trial.

But Magistrate Daly said she was compelled to refer the matter to a judge.

Ramdhani called Hughes’ statement that his clients were directed to use spreadsheets “most startling” because, according to him, the Chief Justice,had issued an order banning the use of

CONSTITUTIONAL ISSUES

The APNU+AFC Coalition received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received 166,343 votes, according to former CEO Lowenfield’s election report.

It was evident from the official findings of the recount process, which was supervised by GECOM and a high-level Caribbean Community (CARICOM) team, that the coalition had received 217,920 votes, while the PPP/C had received 233,336 votes, which was enough to win.

In order to help the APNU+AFC caretaker administration stay in power, Mingo allegedly inflated the results in Region Four, the largest voting region in Guyana, as the recount process also revealed. In August 2021, GECOM made the decision to sack Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo.

Following the filing of charges against the defendants in late 2020, there have been multiple postponements in their trial’s start date, primarily due to requests from the defence.

The commencement of the trial was delayed after one of the defence attorneys, Nigel Hughes’ March 4 impromptu request for the GECOM minute books and decision-making documentation. That day, Hughes submitted that even though these records are essential to support the case of his clients— especially Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo—GECOM is not allowed to disclose them according to Section 140 (2) of the Representation of the People Act (RoPA). Therein reads: “No evidence of any deliberations of the Elections Commission or communications between members of the commission regarding its business shall be admissible in court.” He pointed out that this prohibition goes against

People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) activist Carol Smith-Joseph; former Health Minister under the APNU+AFC government, Volda Lawrence; former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield; former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers; former District Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo; and Guyana Election Commission (GECOM) employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller are accused of a number of offences. These include misconduct in public office, uttering forged documents, and plotting to deceive the electors of Guyana by declaring a false account of votes. Among other things, it is alleged that the defendants inflated or facilitated the inflation of results for Region Four, the country’s largest voting district, to give the APNU+AFC coalition a majority win at the March 2020 polls, when, in fact, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) had won by over 15,000 votes. They are out on cash bail pending the determination of their matters.

Article 144 of the Guyana Constitution, which states that every person is entitled to a fair trial within a reasonable amount of time and to all the resources necessary to question witnesses on their own or with the assistance of a counsel.

He contended that RoPA’s Section 140 (2) is unconstitutional and asked Magistrate Daly to forward this matter to the High Court for a ruling on the constitutionality of that provision.

His contention is that the trio’s fundamental right to a fair trial is “impaired” by Section 140 (2) of RoPA. The Constitution is the supreme law of Guyana and, if any other law is inconsistent with it, that other law shall, to the extent of the inconsistency, be void.

Hughes contended that Mingo, Myers, and Lowenfield were “directed” to carry out specific decisions made

of the prosecution.

Lead prosecutor, King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani responded to Hughes by emphasising that there is legislation preventing the disclosure of the documentation and that the prosecution does not have the information Hughes is demanding.

He reasoned that since elections are essential to a democratic society and the topics discussed by GECOM are sensitive, the release of such information is prohibited by law.

He said that Hughes only submitted a request for the records a week before the trial was set to begin, despite the Chief Magistrate having ordered disclosure in the case more than two years ago. In view of this, Ramdhani asked the magistrate to reject Hughes’ last-minute request for the documents, characterising it as a frivolous attempt

spreadsheets for election results computation.

He pointed out that GECOM had not announced that spreadsheets will be used to tabulate votes. The state has already handed over to the defence,flash drives containing certified copies of Statements of Poll (SoPs) and Statements of Recount (SoRs), witness statements from dozens of persons along with video interviews.

Several bundles of documents were also disclosed. The over 90 prosecution witnesses include communications consultant, Kit Nascimento; Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag; Head of the Diaspora Unit, Rosalinda Rasul; Forensic Investigator, Rawle Nedd and former Region Four Police Commander, Edgar Thomas.

RECOUNT

In April 2023, the presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections found that there were collusion and collaboration between senior GECOM officials to divert votes to the APNU + AFC.

DELIBERATE ATTEMPT

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, have expressed frustration over the lengthy delays in these very important matters.

They believe that deliberate attempts are being made to stall the cases.

Nandlall had previously called the delay a “travesty,” pointing out that the charges are still pending and that a whole election cycle will shortly conclude.

Meanwhile, at one of his recent press conferences, Jagdeo accused the magistracy of frustrating the will of the people and undermining governance by hindering the administration of justice.

Top row, from left: Volda Lawrence, Keith Lowenfield, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller. Bottom row, from left: Enrique Livan, Sheffern February, Clairmont Mingo, and Carol Smith-Joseph

Senior Magistrate Leron Daly Roxanne Myers

GPL on schedule to interconnect power ship today

THE Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) is poised to complete the interconnection of a 36-megawatt power ship to the national grid by the end of today, a move that is expected to significantly boost the country’s efforts to supply stable electricity.

The power ship arrived in Guyana last Wednesday, and will be interconnected to the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS) at Everton, Region Six.

During a tour of the vessel on Monday, the head of GPL’s Executive Management Team, Kesh Nandlall, informed the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the ship is ready to operate at maximum capacity.

“We are on track to interconnect the ship to the network for May 8 as we initially indicated. We have constructed the transmission lines and then we have to do some protection work. We will then test the ship and connect it,” Nandlall explained to DPI.

According to DPI, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phil-

lips, conducted a comprehensive inspection of the vessel during a tour on Monday. It reported that he emphasised that the ship represents a significant investment by the government to build the country’s energy infrastructure.

“I must commend the technical manager and the crew of the ship for the immaculate condition that this ship is in. It’s a 22-year-old ship and it looks brand new,” he told DPI.

The DPI reported that the Senior Minister in the Office of the President, with responsibility for Finance and Public Service, was also present at the site, where he affirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining existing power stations across the nation.

“Senior Minister Dr Ashni Singh highlighted the ship’s role, along with new generators at Garden of Eden and Colombia power plants, in assessing energy needs,” DPI noted.

“The arrival and plugging in of this power ship into the grid, along with the other investments, will help but they will not solve

the problem overnight. However, we are going to continue to monitor how demand grows and what we can do to ensure that we have adequate supply,” DPI reported Minister Singh as saying.

The power ship will be in Guyana for the next two years and last operated on the Caribbean Island of Cuba. It has two engines which produce 18.5 megawatts each.

On April 13, GPL signed a contract with Urbacon Concessions Investments, W.L.L (UCI) to charter the power ship for a period of two years, with US$1 million paid as a mobilisation fee.

The contract includes the provision of opera-

tional and maintenance services as part of the agreement.

UCI is a subsidiary of UCC Holdings, a company incorporated in the State of Qatar. UCC Holdings has a strategic alliance with Karpowership International, a Turkish company.

Once connected, the power-supply ship is expected to operate at a remarkable 96 per cent availability, and will be integrated into GPL’s grid at 69 kilovolts (kV).

Under the terms of the agreement, GPL will pay a monthly charter

fee of 6.62 US cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) for the power ship, along with a 0.98 US cents per kWh operation and maintenance fee based on electricity generation.

The utility company is also responsible for the supply of heavy fuel oil (HFO) for operation of the generators of the vessel.

The persistent power outages, attributed to various factors including aging infrastructure and increased demand, have underscored the urgent need for infrastructural upgrades within GPL’s

network. In response, GPL is actively exploring renewable-energy options, and is poised to embrace the government’s gas-to-energy project, which aims to supply around 300 megawatts of power by the last quarter of 2024. Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has reassured citizens that energy costs will not escalate because of the rental of the power supply ship, highlighting the government’s commitment to stable and affordable energy solutions.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh and Head of GPL’s Executive Management Team, Kesh Nandlall, at the site of the ship at Everton, Region Six, on Saturday (DPI photo)

Prime Minister Phillips and Minister Singh touring the vessel (DPI photo)

The 36-megawatt power ship

Head of GPL’s Executive Management Team, Kesh Nandlall

Minister Indar promotes Guyana’s investment opportunities in Houston

MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, promoted investment opportunities in Guyana at the Bilateral Chamber in Houston, Texas, on Monday.

In a press release, the ministry said that the engagement occurred on the sidelines

of the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) where Minister Indar is leading a trade delegation.

In his feature remarks, the minister provided insight into Guyana’s transformation and energy strategy, and discussed matters surrounding foreign

direct investment.

The stage was shared with Retired Four Star US General, Wesley Clark, who also served as NATO Supreme Allied Commander. General (ret’d) Clark is also a former US presidential candidate.

The release add -

ed that following the event, Minister Indar attended a ‘Guyana Night’ reception where he was presented with an instrument by the City of Houston to welcome Guyana’s participation at the OTC.

The instrument was handed over by Houston’s Mayor Pro-Temp, Martha Castex-Tatum, at the reception hosted by Guyana’s Honorary Consul General of the Southwest United States, the Honorable Lutfi Hassan.

Four friends arrested for disorderly behaviour at Diamond road block

FOUR friends were arrested on Monday night for disorderly behaviour, after, allegedly, abusing officers during a routine roadblock operation along the Diamond Public Road, East Bank Demerara.

According to a police release, the incident unfolded around 21:15 hrs, as officers from Regional Division 4B were conducting checks on vehicles.

A Land Cruiser, registered as PAE 528 and driven by Paul Daby, 29, was

stopped by the ranks.

It is alleged that Daby stopped his vehicle in the middle of the road, thereby preventing the free flow of traffic.

“What ensued was a confrontation as Daby and his companions, identified as Deion Jerrick, Sherwayne De Abreau, and Alpha Poole became verbally abusive towards the police officers and proceeded to behave in a disorderly manner, which resulted in a crowd gathering,” the police release detailed.

Despite a thorough search of the vehicle and its occupants yielded no illicit items, the quartet was apprehended on charges of disorderly behaviour.

They were transported to the Golden Grove Police Station for processing. Their next stop is the Diamond Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, where they are expected to answer to the charge of “Disorderly Behaviour.”

Deion Jerrick

Paul Daby

Sherwayne Deabrue

Alpha Poole

Minister Deodat Indar delivers his feature remarks (Ministry of Public Works photo)

WIIN programme offers avenue to advance academically

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s (MHSSS) Women Innovation Investment Network (WIIN) has made significant strides in its efforts to supply quality education, maintain gender equality and decent work and economic growth among women and youth in Guyana.

Kristoff Roberts, a beneficiary of the WIIN programme, related to the Guyana Chronicle that although he thought that it only targeted women, he decided to apply for the Project Management Level One course anyway. He was later chosen for the programme and according to him he wanted to gain knowledge and skill in that particular area.

Given his excellent experience, he advises all to

ing taught is understood. She too used the opportunity to advise others to apply and be a part of the WIIN training programme.

From 2022 to present, the WIIN has impacted more than 8,000 women who took up the various skill training opportunities that were made

available.

This year, the ministry took it a step further to include men in the programme. It was previously reported by this newspaper that some 1,000 men will benefit from a series of training opportunities offered through

the ministry’s MPOWER programme, an extension of the WIIN.

Minister of MHSSS, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, in an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI) had explained that the intention of MPOWER is to offer men the same opportunities that wom-

– beneficiaries

en have been given through the WIIN.

MPOWER was chosen as the name of this new venture, to symbolise the government’s commitment to ensuring that the vast empowerment opportunities are accessible to all segments of society.

engage in the various opportunities being offered throughout the country and to use them to improve themselves academically.

He said: “I think the opportunity right now in Guyana for persons to elevate themselves is there, and for men, I think the government is providing a lot of opportunities for both males and females and even young people to elevate themselves academically. I believe that persons should grab onto that.”

Meanwhile, Yolanda Jupiter, age 24, studied child care in May 2023, and returned this year for the Care for the elderly programme. The young woman commended the efforts made by course instructors to ensure the programme material be-

WINN beneficiaries Yolanda Jupiter and Kristopher Roberts

Guyanese urologist returns home after completing post-graduate studies in Cuba

Dr. Devendra Radhay, a promising young Guyanese urologist, has returned home after completing his rigorous post-graduate training at the prestigious Joaquin Albarran Hospital of the University of Havana in Cuba.

His return marks a significant milestone in his journey towards becoming a skilled practitioner in his field.

Originally from Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Region Six, Dr. Radhay embarked on his medical career in 2009 after being awarded a Government Scholarship to pursue his MD at the renowned Salvador Allende Hospital affiliated with the University of Havana.

Upon completing his undergraduate studies, he returned to Guyana, where he dedicated his expertise to serving various public hospitals, including Skeldon Public Hospital, New Amsterdam Public Hospital, and Port Mourant Public Hospital.

In 2019, Dr. Radhay was granted another Government Scholarship, this time to undertake specialised post-graduate studies in Urology in Cuba. After years

of rigorous training and dedication, he successfully completed his programme earlier this year, emerging as a fully trained urologist, equipped with the latest knowledge and skills in his field.

During his time in Cuba, Dr. Radhay also had the opportunity to participate in the Fourth Congress of Urologists of Central America and the Caribbean, held in Panama from August 2-5, 2023.

At the congress, he presented a paper titled "Current Scientific Findings in the Field of Urology," showcasing his commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements and research in urological medicine.

Dr. Radhay's return to Guyana brings hope for improved urological care in the region, as he brings back not only his specialised training but also a wealth of experience gained from his time abroad.

His dedication to his profession and passion for advancing healthcare services in Guyana are commendable, and his contributions are expected to have a positive impact on the medical community and patients alike.

Urologist Dr. Devendra Radhay (centre) flanked by Guyana's Ambassador to Cuba, Halim Majeed (left) and Mr. Quincy Younge

Suriname-Guyana Chamber signs landmark MoU with Berbice chambers

THE Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) has announced the signing of a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association, Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce, Upper Corentyne Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and the Region Five Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

According to a press statement, this strategic alliance marks a significant step forward in strengthening trade relations and enhancing business opportunities between Guyana and Suriname.

By fostering a cooperative network, the agreement aims to facilitate a more seamless flow of trade and investment, offering technical support and boosting regional and global business development through collaborative efforts, the SGCC said.

The MoU was officially signed during a meeting held on May 3, 2024, at the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce office, where the Chairman of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Vishnu Doerga, presented on the current la-

bour situation in Guyana and discussed potential improvements.

This was followed by a general discussion on how the chambers can better serve their members and increase membership, focusing on creating more value and support for businesses within the territories.

Additionally, in a significant move to connect Guyanese businesses with opportunities in Suriname, collaborations have been set up to include Guyanese enterprises in a trade mission to Suriname from June 5 – June 9.

This mission will feature targeted B2B meetings and a visit to the Suriname Energy Oil and Gas Summit (SEOGS), designed to foster direct connections and synergies between businesses across both countries.

The SGCC will also support the CCCC with encouraging Suriname companies to participate in the CCCC's October Berbice Expo. Attendance to the Berbice Expo will also be encouraged at the SGCC's October International Business Expo.

The MoU signifies a commitment to:

• Increased Trade and Business Relations: The

Chambers will work together to promote multilateral trade, offer technical assistance, and encourage investment partnerships between Guyana and other territories.

• Support for Businesses: The partnership focuses on creating networks to support, promote, and encourage businesses operating in Guyana.

• Improved Trade Facilitation: Cooperation will enhance trade facilitation standards, procedures, and best practices for businesses in Guyana and collaborating territories.

Further, the key objectives of the MoU include promoting multilateral trade liberalisations and technical assistance; encouraging investment partnerships across the cooperative territories, and expanding the reach and penetration of Guyanese markets through improved trade facilitations and relations.

The MoU is designed to be adaptable, allowing for future adjustments to meet the changing needs of businesses and regions, fostering strong regional collaboration that will be key to driving economic development throughout Guyana and beyond, the SGCC said.

From Left, Pradeep Bachan, Public Relations Officer of the Region Five Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Mr. Jaichan Hemchan, Vice President of the Upper Corentyne Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Dr. Vishnu Doerga, Chair of Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce; Ms. Samantha Reid, President of the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association, and Mr. Poonai Bhigroog, President of the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

THISTLEDOWN

Race 1 Rockstar Ro

Race 2 Marley Luck

Race 3 Frankly My Dear

Race 4 Bold Ruby

Race 5 Mutiny

Race 6 Remembering

Race 7 One Step Aside

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

GREYVILLE

08:25 hrs Sandringham Summit

09:00 hrs Preemptive Strike 09:30 hrs Voldemort 10:00 hrs Arividicio 10:35 hrs Rani Of Jhansi

IRISH RACING TIPS

GOWSN PARK

12:20 hrs Subjugate 12:50 hrs Chicago Fireball

13:30 hrs Dancing Tango 13:50 hrs Goldana 14:20 hrs Hanalia 14:50 hrs Special Angel 15:20 hrs Barnhill Rose

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

CHESTER 08:30 hrs Billy Webster

09:05 hrs Night In Paris 09:35 hrs Kings Merchant 10:05 hrs Galileo Dame 10:40 hrs Grovesnor Square

11:10 hrs Liam Swagger 11:45 hrs On A Session

KEMPTON

13:00 hrs All Too Well 13:30 hrs Falmouth Boy 14:00 hrs Bella Taslina 14:30 hrs Chola Empire 15:00 hrs Salamanca City 15:30 hrs Dark Dreamer 16:00 hrs Golden Dove

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday May 08, 2024)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street,Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) MI & DC

(2) MI (won by five wickets)

Today’s quiz:

(1) Who won the Man-of-the-Match Award in the IPL 2020 final?

(2) Who copped the Man-of-the-Tournament Award?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

China-Guyana Inter-Organisation Table Tennis Championships…

Fireworks, rivalry & friendship highlighted

FIREWORKS, camaraderie, competitive matches of skills, friendship, networking, love permeated the halls of the Guyana Olympic Association auditorium when the Guyana Table Tennis Association, in collaboration with the People’s Republic of China Embassy in Guyana, hosted the China-Guyana Inter Organisation Table Tennis championships

The competition formed part of the many collaborative initiatives and projects between the GTTA and the People’s Republic of China embassy in Guyana and in its effort to promote table tennis country-wide with a view of creating the framework for recreational players to com-

pete through the formation of leagues aimed at achieving several objectives.

Those include, fostering camaraderie and strengthening the bonds between the People of China and Guyana, the provision of an environment for recreational activity amongst staff members and the Development of partnerships and creation of linkages and an understanding and appreciation of the roles between the respective organisations and sectors, among others.

The Competition saw participation from Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, representing the National Sports Commission, managers of corporations, key Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and

Guyana Police Force (GPF) officers, as well as Fire Chief, Gregory Wickham.

The tournament had two categories Competitive Event and a Friendship Edition

The Competitive event allowed for each organisation to field a maximum of two representative teams, each team having between two (2) and four (4) players based on the format of the tournament.

In the competitive event Guyana Defence Force duo of Devon Richmond and lieutenant Berachah AB Garrett emerged the champion team with a 3-2 victory turning back the challenge of the Guyana Fire Service team of Section leader, Warren Hackshaw and Rank Sub-Officer Ewart Kesney. The Fire ser-

NABORS Linden U-17 Basketball Championship…

MHS survive late surge by ‘Multi’ to win

OWEN France, later named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the final, helped Mackenzie High School (MHS) stave off the challenge of Christianburg Wismar Secondary (CWSS) to capture the R-10 North American Basketball Outreach for Rising Stars (NABORS) Linden Secondary Schools U17 Basketball Tournament.

France netted eight of his 11 points in the second half in his side’s 42-35 win in the final which was played, last Thursday, at the Mackenzie High School hard court.

The tournament, the first to be organised by the recently elected Linden Amateur Basketball Association executives, saw the home side looking the superior team after holding a 20-6 advantage when the first half ended.

By the end of the third quarter MHS was still in control, ahead 38-19 and despite being outscored 16-4 in the final quarter, they were able to nudge home winners, 42-35, with France scoring their lone four points in that final stretch.

For that win MHS received $100,000 along with a trophy, replicas and two basketballs, while the losing finalist, CWSS, collected

$50,000 along with medals and two basketballs.

The cash incentives totalling $150,000 for this tournament was donated by former Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) President, Mr. Nigel Hinds, through Nigel Hinds Financial Services Group.

United States-based former National Captain, Mr. James Brush and basketball coach, Gary Stephens, donated the basketballs presented to the schools which participated in the tournament.

The MVP France from Mackenzie High School for his game high 13 points received a trophy, compliments of Trophy Stall.

All other trophies and

vice duo had gotten the better of the eventual champions in the group stages by a similar 3-2 margin.

The Friendly edition comprised a mixed team event which integrated CEOs, Ministers, heads of Agencies, Speaker of the national as-

sembly, along with members of the Embassy of China and other agencies

The quartet of Mansoor Nadir, Speaker of the National Assembly, Her Excellency Ambassador Guo Haiyan, Steven Ninvalle Director of Sports, and Warren Hack -

medals were donated by R-10 NABORS

Mr. Hinds spoke to the participating schools before the final in the presence of the LABA President, Mrs. Dawn McCammon-Barker.

The tournament ended on a high note with participating teams being very grateful for the rewards they received for their efforts.

LABA President, Mrs. McCammon-Barker expressed special thanks to R-10 NABORS, the region 10 Department of Education, Nigel Hinds Financial Services group Inc., Linden Amateur Basketball Association, James Brush and Gary Stephens. (Joe Chapman).

the winners.

This tournament was

at the

and is set to continue to be an annual event.

shaw defeated all comers to emerge as

held

Guyana Olympic Association secretariat

The winning Mackenzie High School team

Linden Foundation Secondary win ExxonMobil Elite Kayaking tournament

LINDEN Foundation

Secondary (LFS) with 71 points toppled last year’s champions, Kwakwani Secondary, to take top honours in the third edition of the Inter-Schools Kayaking Competition.

Sponsored by ExxonMobil, the 2024 edition saw the defending champions pushed to third place on 56 points,

as Harmony Secondary ended second with 63 points.

The event, which was organised by Elite Kayaking and Nature Tours, was staged last Sunday on the Demerara River outside the Watooka Hotel in Linden.

The overall performance by LFS, which copped $400,000 for

winning, was aided by the fact that the school gained points in ten of the eleven events which were completed. They picked up two wins in the Under 18 Female and the Open Female Relay races and got two second place finishes and four third positions in the process.

Harmony Secondary who got $200,000 for

placing second, must be commended for gaining the most first positions with three victories and one second place to aid in its 63-point final total.

Kwakwani Secondary could not gain any first-place finishes, gaining three second positions instead and still placed third overall with 56 points; they walked

away with $150,000.

Wisburg Secondary was next on 52 points for fourth place, with one win and one second place and three third place finishes in the events they contested.

New Amsterdam with 46 points finished fifth, their points gained from two wins and a third place while Christianburg Wismar Sec -

ondary, New Silvercity Secondary, Mackenzie High, North Georgetown, St. Stanislaus and debutants Uitvlugt finished in that order.

There was admirable support from SLB, the Ministry of Education, Guyana Tourism Authority, Rain Forest Water, Minute Made and Power Ade. (Joe Chapman)

GABA U-23 league ‘breeding’ new talent for One Guyana league

THE Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) recently tipped off action in its U-23 club league, seeking to develop and grow the sport over time through a nursery.

President of GABA and former national player, Jermaine Slater, said the league –which is similar to the just concluded eight-month-long One Guyana senior leagueis intended to cater to much younger players who will then feed into the second edition of the senior edition later this year.

“This is the youth version of the One Guyana league, where we will see the new skill; so some of these same players, competing here now, might be available for the one Guyana premier basketball league coming up in August,” Slater said. He says the competition was critical as they looked to have sustained high-quality basketball at the senior level.

“This is a building ground and this will continue to be a building ground for out One Guyana league going forward,” the GABA head added.

The youths, Slater said, have showed their skill sets and that made the hosting of the competition all the more rewarding.

“Even though the youths

have not had much league lately, this crop here right now is playing good basketball. They understand their game, the fundamentals are there and they are now charged with ensuring they have fundamentals practice session’

He says having a youth team is a prerequisite for entering into the One Guyana

and those teams’ work behind the scenes at the youth level will improve the quality of play of the youngsters.

One of the reasons, in the past, for the average quality of play, was the absence of consistent competitions which they have set about to correct through these leagues.

“We plan at the association to ensure there are as much games as possible

for these youths; they will develop. We do have to plan a semi-professional league further into the future, so this is basically a stepping stone.”

The GABA head said that while players have lofty aspirations, they are working from the ground to ensure that GABA has the knowledge and the tools to achieve success in colleges and other

leagues outside of Guyana.

The U-23 league is sponsored by Wilson Plumbing Services and General Supplies.

Games are played every Wednesday and Saturday at the National Gymnasium hard Court.

The league features 12 teams namely Stabroek eagles, Cummingsburg Bounty Colts, Leonora D-Up Rising Stars, North Ruimveldt Ravens, Lamaha Springs Sonics, and Meadowbrook nets in group A

The other teams are Kwakwani Untouchables, Prospect Kobras, Black Caimans, Worthmanville Pacesetters, Albertown Knights and Cummings Lodge UG Trojans in Group B

The teams will battle it out in a round robin format with the top two in each group meeting in the semifinals on June 19th with the finals set for June 22.

Port Mourant Turf Club May 26 meet cancelled

THE grand one-day horserace meet at the Port Mourant Turf Club, which was billed for Sunday, May 26, has been cancelled.

According to the club’s organisers, the race was cancelled to give horse owners more time to prepare. The horse-racing calendar for

2024 now has the next horserace meet scheduled for July 1 at Port Mourant. Guyana Cup, which will be organised by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee, is set for August 11 at the Rising Sun Turf Club. The last race day was on

April 28 at Rising Sun, and labelled “a heist”, given that Stolen Money had stolen the show with a remarkable comeback win.

Fans will experience more excitement in the upcoming races, with more fresh horses to be imported for the major Guyana Cup

event in August. Behind the scenes, the promoters and the relevant authorities are working towards the horse racing legislation. All systems should be in place for the greatly-anticipated Guyana Cup race day. This impending legislation is aimed at establishing

a recognised Guyana Horse Racing Authority, tasked with regulating major stables, officials, jockeys, and handlers.

The legislative initiative comes after previous attempts in 2014, and key elements include provisions to address violations, expand the Authority’s membership,

introduce term limits, and implement licensing for owners, jockeys, and trainers. This development is expected to bring clarity, structure, and oversight to the horse racing industry in Guyana, marking a significant step toward its formal recognition and regulation.

A section of the crowd for the U-23 Club championship league GABA Head, Jermaine Slater

Home-based contingent ready for Trinidad int’l friendlies

GUYANA'S Senior Men’s National team's homebased contingent is preparing to face their old rivals Trinidad and Tobago this month in a pair of international friendlies for coveted spots in the final squad for the upcoming Concacaf Qualifiers for the World Cup 2026.

The May 13 and 15 matches will be played at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad.

A contingent of 24 players, fresh off competing in Round One of the KFC Elite League Season Six, will depart Guyana on May 11.

The international fixtures are a chance for each player to shine, both in training

sessions and during match play, under the watchful eye of Golden Jaguars' Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz and his coaching staff.

Shabazz underscored the substantial investment made between the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) to organise the games, adding that it is a chance to “expose the home-based talent and widen the international team pool."

“Trinidad and Tobago are [sic] a formidable opponent and it will provide a clear test for the home-based players vying for spots on the final squad for FIFA World Cup qualifiers in June.” He noted that "whether

it’s football, cricket, hockey or even rugby, when Guyana plays Trinidad and Tobago we want to win.”

GFF President Wayne Forde shared that the federation will continue to invest in enhancing the national team's performance through consistent on-field opportunities against formidable opponents.

"Our continuous collaborations with footballing nations throughout the Caribbean, South America, and even Africa show our dedication to providing Guyanese players with valuable international playing time and competitive matchups. I am looking forward to the matches and I am confident that the players will

seize this chance to earn a spot in the final squad for the upcoming Concacaf Qualifiers for the World Cup 2026."

Guyana has a challenging journey through the Concacaf Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup Second Round from June 2024 to 2025. Positioned in Group ‘D’ alongside Panama, Nicaragua, Montserrat and Belize, the Golden Jaguars face formidable opposition in their quest to play in the World Cup for the first time.

The qualification process features 32 FIFA-affiliated Concacaf member associations into three distinct rounds.

The initial phase featured the lowest-ranked member

associations—Turks and Caicos Islands, British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, and Anguilla—based on the December 21, 2023 FIFA World Ranking.

For the second round, which comprises the winners of the first round and the remaining 28 participating member associations, Guyana will play a series of four matches, evenly split between home-and-away fixtures. Only the group winners and runners-up will advance to the third and final round of Qualifiers.

In the final round, second-round group winners and runners-up - 12 teams in total will be divided into three groups of four teams each,

and compete in a total of six home-and-away matches during the FIFA international match windows of September, October and November 2025.

The three winners will earn their place in the prestigious World Cup.

Guyana is determined to clinch one of the highly sought-after spots for direct qualification to the World Cup, standing alongside hosts Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Training for the local contingent started Monday, May 6, at the GFF National Training Centre, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Young Gunners are One Guyana Sand Football Kings —

YOUNG Gunners are the new ‘One Guyana’ Sand Football kings following their 1-0 victory against Hi Flyers following Saturday evening’s final.

Hi Flyers were brought down by the single strike of the encounter, which was registered by Ryan Arthur when the $1M final was played

at the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Linden Office compound in Linden. In front of beach football fans, which included Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, it would be Arthur who tuck home the deciding goal in the 19th minute in the first quarter, to shock the pre-game

Speightland nab Queen’s

favourites Hi Flyers.

For their efforts, Hi Flyers received $500,000.

MS Ballers were winners of the third-place prize, where they pocketed $200,000.

In the other championship game, Speightland out-hustled Hururu to take home the Queen’s title and pocket $400,000 with a 2-1 win.

title

The defeated finalist, Hururu, collected $200,000.

Nikita Wayne netted the opening goal in the 5th minute, and Sheneesa Cornelius doubled the score for Speightland in the 17th minute.

Nikesha Persaud reduced the scores with a strike in the 37th minute for the eventual losers, Hururu, and the 2-1

scoreline lasted to the final whistle.

In the third-place game, Aroaima eased past Rockstone, 4-1, and receive $100,000, as Odessa Smith netted the quadruple of goals for the winners, and the consolation goal for Rockstone was registered by Vonita Mingo.

Rockstone for placing fourth got $50,000.

The presentation of the trophies and cash incentives were handed over following the conclusion of the championship matches, and assisting with making the presentations were Andrew Forsy

Guyana relay team set NR but misses Olympic qualifying spot

GUYANA’S Relay teams will not advance to the Paris Olympic Games after failing to make the cut in their second qualifier event on Sunday evening at the World Relay Championships in Nassau Bahamas.

The mixed 4x400 relay team featuring Daniel Williams, Tianna Springer, Malachi Austin and Aliyah Abrams placed outside the top two in both rounds 1 and 2 with a best time of 3 minutes 17.65 seconds on Sunday as they picked up 5th place in their final race.

Bahamas won it in a

time of 3.12.81s with Jamaica second in 3.14.49s; both countries qualified. The mixed relay team also grabbed a sixth place

finish in the first round on the way to setting a new National Record (3 minutes and 17 seconds). While in the men’s

4x400 race, Guyana ended 8th in the Olympic Qualifying Round 2 on Sunday evening and 5th place Olympic Qualifier 1 on Saturday.

Spain and Poland were the teams to qualify for the games after finishing in 3.02.39s and 3 .02.91s respectively.

The men’s teams featured 1st leg Daniel Williams, 2nd leg - Patrick Abel, 3rd leg - Malachi Austin and Anchor - Simeon Adams.

Guyana was originally set to compete only in the 4x400 mixed relay but opted to send a men’s 4x400

team after one of the qualifiers pulled out.

The team was accompanied by Manager James Cole.

A total of 70 teams competed at relay events seeking Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualification.

Fourteen teams in each of the five disciplines being contested in Nassau – the women’s and men’s 4x100m and 4x400m as well as the mixed 4x400m – automatically qualified for Paris places.

The first 40 qualified teams were confirmed on Saturday and the final 30 on Sunday.

USA won four of the five finals in Nassau, the nation’s 4x100m women setting a championship record with their 41.85 run and the mixed 4x400m squad achieving the same with their 3:10.73 performance.

While the majority of Paris places now secured, teams that missed out in Nassau do still have a chance to qualify.

A further two Olympic Games places in each discipline will be awarded based on top lists during the qualification period (31 December 2022 to 30 June 2024).

Guyana's World Relay championship teams and AAG officials at the event

Home-based contingent ready for Trinidad int’l friendlies