Border controversy… Guyana submits reply to Venezuela’s Counter-Memorial at ICJ
GUYANA, on Monday, submitted its final written brief to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in the ongoing border controversy with Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela over Guyana’s Essequibo region.
The submission, titled “Guyana’s Reply to Venezue-
la’s Counter-Memorial,” was personally delivered to the Court by Guyana’s Ambassador to Brussels, Sasenarine Singh, marking a critical step in the case that has been ongoing for over six years.
After Guyana’s submission, Venezuela will have the opportunity to file its rejoinder
by August 2025, responding to Guyana’s reply.
Once both sides have submitted their written pleadings, the Court will schedule oral hearings.
Guyana remains optimistic that the ICJ will rule in its favour, reinforcing the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award and
seat of the ICJ, or colloquially the World Court, is at the Peace Palace in The Hague, Netherlands (ICJ photo)
confirming that the boundary established therein remains the definitive border between the two countries.
The controversy surfaced some six decades after the
2018. The UN Secretary-General chose the ICJ as the forum to settle the matter definitively.
The case has moved through several stages since its initiation in 2018, with Vene-
1899 Arbitral Award, which established the boundary between British Guiana (now Guyana) and Venezuela.
Guyana seeks confirmation from the ICJ that the Award remains valid under international law and should be upheld as the legal boundary between the two nations.
Venezuela, which initially accepted the Award for more than six decades ago, reversed its position in the years before Guyana’s independence in 1966, asserting a claim to the Essequibo region, which accounts for two-thirds of Guyana’s territory and is rich in natural resources.
In 1966, the governments of the United Kingdom, British Guiana, and Venezuela signed the Geneva Agreement, aiming to resolve the matter through diplomacy.
But despite numerous attempts over the subsequent years, the controversy remained unresolved, prompting Guyana to refer the matter to the United Nations (UN) in
zuela filing multiple objections to the ICJ’s jurisdiction.
However, in both 2019 and 2022, the Court rejected these objections, affirming its jurisdiction over the case. Now, the Court is examining the merits of the controversy.
In its final written brief, Guyana responded to Venezuela’s Counter-Memorial, which was filed earlier in April 2024. Guyana’s legal team argues that the Arbitral Award is legally binding and should be upheld.
The Government of Guyana expressed confidence that the ICJ would dismiss Venezuela’s challenge to the Award and reaffirm the validity of the boundary established by the 1899 tribunal.
“…Venezuela’s challenges to the Arbitral Award and the international boundary, as set forth in its Counter-Memorial, are entirely without merit, and that the Court will ultimately confirm the validity, finality and legally binding nature
The
Guyana’s Ambassador to Brussels, Sasenarine Singh flanked by Counsellor at the Guyana’s Embassy Lloyd Gunraj (left) and Daniel Muller, Law Partner, with Guyana Legal Team
Anti-corruption, human rights efforts reaching new heights
- PM Phillips, Minister Teixeira outline plethora of initiatives geared at strengthening systems, improving lives of all Guyanese
By Naomi Parris
TAKING a ‘whole-of-society' approach, Guyana has been making significant progress in combating corruption and promoting human rights, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has said.
The Prime Minister highlighted the government's position on Monday, while addressing the opening ceremony of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Expo held at the Arthur
ing awareness and fighting for justice,” he said.
Guyana's approach to combating corruption is strategically aligned with its commitment to human rights.
The government emphasises the importance of linking human rights initiatives to anti-corruption efforts, ensuring that policies and legal frameworks are strengthened to tackle corruption effectively.
“It is interesting that we link human rights and the work that we are doing in that area with anti-corruption activities in Guyana,” Phillips said.
With continuous efforts being made to enhance training and promote awareness, Minister Teixeira noted that not only has Guyana been able to advance its works across several agencies but it has also set a benchmark in the region, being the only country to establish an annual conference on human rights and anti-corruption, and offer training and certification in International Human Rights Law and other training courses.
“We’ve also created a fact sheet that describes Guyana’s
Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), at Liliendaal.
He said that the strengthening of initiatives that uphold human rights and fight corruption in society remains at the centre of the government’s work.
“Our government is prepared and continues to work [through] the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance to ensure that we protect the human rights of all Guyanese, that we respect all the international organisations pertaining to the observance and promotion of human rights,” he told the gathering of stakeholders from several agencies and organisations.
The government, the Prime Minister said, is not only promoting multiagency collaboration, but is also working with all partners, highlighting the importance of local advocacy for human rights and combating corruption.
“Grassroots movements, NGOs [non-governmental organisations], the private sector play important roles in promot-
STRENGTHENING AGENCIES, ENHANCED TRAINING
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, in her address said that Guyana has set out on an ambitious venture, and though the ministry is small, it has successfully been able to host several training programmes and workshops, all aimed at building recognition of human rights and combating corruption.
Pointing out the links between human rights and corruption, Teixeira explained: “We felt we needed to show the interconnection between corruption and human rights, and the way in which corruption can diminish a country’s democratic institutions… programmes and work and resources that are meant for the taxpayers and the poor and the vulnerable.”
She added: “For every dollar that is taken by whether greasing the palm or whatever bribe, this takes away money and resources from communities.”
anti-corruption framework.
We have a national monitoring mechanism for reporting and follow up to our human rights conventions. We also have the national stakeholders’ forum,” she added.
Looking at Guyana’s progress through a wider lens, Teixeira noted that the country has come a long way from once being one of the poorest countries in the hemisphere to now boasting of massive transformation.
She said: “Our democratic governance has become better, more inclusive, more participatory; we have much
to celebrate and we shouldn’t be shy or apologetic about it.
"From one of the poorest countries in the hemisphere to a country on the move and able to not only psychically transform our country, but also strengthen human rights and increasing equitable access to these rights.”
The two-day expo which is being held under the theme: "Building Resilience: Safeguarding human rights and combating corruption," is the third of its kind being held in Guyana and the only one in the region.
The event coincides with two crucial international observances: International Day against Corruption (December 9), and the International Day for Human Rights (December 10).
With over 40 exhibitors and several agencies collaborating, the expo ratifies Guyana’s commitment to honouring its oath to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, as well as the Inter-American Convention against Corruption, which is the oldest global anti-corruption treaty.
Prime Minister Brigadier Ret’d Mark Phillips
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira
Acting Chief Magistrate sets Dec. 30 to rule on preliminary issues in election fraud cases
After years of delays, the high-profile election fraud cases stemming from Guyana’s 2020 General and Regional Elections is progressing under Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty.
The cases, which have captured national attention, have resumed with a fresh set of preliminary issues, igniting legal debates that are set to be resolved when Magistrate Mc Gusty delivers her ruling on December 30, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
The matters were heard on Monday, during which both sides presented brief oral arguments on the preliminary issues. Magistrate Mc Gusty will now
deliberate on the issues and render her ruling by the end of the year. The trial, previously overseen by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly, is now in the hands of Magistrate Mc Gusty after her predecessor went on medical leave in September 2024. The shift in leadership has prompted discussions on whether the case should restart entirely, an issue that could significantly affect its timeline and scope. At a case management conference held last month, defence attorney Nigel Hughes raised the principle of de novo, arguing that the case should restart entirely from the beginning. According to him, this process should include formally reading the charges to his cli-
ents.
Hughes relied on his written submissions and explained to the court on Monday that de novo means exactly as it suggests—it requires the case to return to the very beginning, as if the charges had just been read, with no prior determination made regarding whether the matter should proceed indictably or summarily (trial conducted by a magistrate).
For indictable matters, the magistrate conducts a preliminary inquiry or committal proceeding to assess the merits of the charges. After hearing and evaluating the evidence presented, the magistrate may commit the accused to stand trial in the High Court if there is sufficient evidence. If the evidence is deemed insufficient, the accused will be discharged.
Hughes contended that prior rulings by Magistrate Daly, including critical decisions about how some charges would be tried, should not bind the current
court.
Magistrate Daly had previously ruled that some charges should be heard indictably—requiring a preliminary inquiry to determine if they merit a trial in the High Court—while others would proceed summarily in the Georgetown Magistrates’ courts.
The defendants also entered not guilty pleas during the summary proceedings, which were initially under Magistrate Daly’s purview and are now being handled by Magistrate Mc Gusty.
In relation to those proceedings, Hughes emphasised that these earlier rulings should not carry over, asserting that legal principles outweigh procedural expediency.
He remarked: “There is a practice driven purely by expediency. When people come to court…the [magistrate would ask them] Yuh want this matter tried in the High Court or in the Magistrates’ Courts? Invariably, the defendant, represented or unrepresented, would say get it
done here [magistrates’ courts] for many reasons…the penalty is less and pure expedition.
In contrast, the prosecution, led by King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani, advocated for continuity, stressing that the cases should proceed based on decisions already made.
Ramdhani argued that the rulings, particularly on the format of the trial, were grounded in legal reasoning and should remain valid. Ramdhani also pointed out that reintroducing pleas and revisiting past rulings could create unnecessary delays.
He explained that while procedural restarts may be warranted for some preliminary matters when a case transfers to a new magistrate, the existing framework generally stands.
“I would urge this court that this has been the practice and should be recognised to be so,” the King’s Counsel submitted. He further noted on Monday that the de novo principle, if contested, should be addressed at the High Court level rather than in the Magistrates’ Court.
Drawing from his research, Ramdhani contended that jurisdiction over matters related to the de novo principle lies with a High Court judge rather than a magistrate. “If it is, for a moment, that you want to consider that we are not right, we say this is the case in which the court should not do anything but carry out a summary trial in these proceedings,” he submitted on Monday.
The defendants in this case are former District Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo; former health minister under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government Volda Lawrence; People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) activist Carol Smith-Joseph; former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Keith
former Deputy Chief Elections Officer Roxanne Myers; and GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller. In total, they face 19 charges of conspiracy to commit electoral fraud.
All defendants have pleaded not guilty and are currently out on cash bail.
The allegations stem from claims that the accused manipulated the results for Region Four, the country’s largest electoral district, to favour the APNU+AFC coalition. Prosecutors allege that these actions sought to inflate the coalition’s vote count and undermine the democratic process. Central to their case are key pieces of evidence, including flash drives containing Statements of Poll (SOPs) and Statements of Recount (SORs), approximately 72 witness statements, and official documents. The defence team also includes attorneys-at-law Ronald Daniels, Eusi Anderson, and Darren Wade. On the prosecution side, there is also attorney-at-law Latchmie Rahamat and several state counsel from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The reportedly altered elections results, announced by Lowenfield, indicated an APNU+AFC win with 171,825 votes against the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) 166,343.
However, a subsequent recount, overseen by a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) team and GECOM, reversed the outcome, revealing a PPP/C victory by over 15,000 votes.
The recount clearly demonstrated that the PPP/C won with 233,336 votes while the coalition received 217,920. GECOM made the decision to dismiss Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo in August 2021, after the allegations of fraud came to light. Many welcomed this decision.
Criminal charges were subsequently filed against the defendants. If convicted in the Magistrates’ Court, the defendants could face up to three years in prison for each charge.
Lowenfield;
Volda Lawrence Clairmont Mingo Keith Lowenfield
Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani Roxanne Myers
Home Affairs Ministry signs $593M in contracts for infrastructural upgrades
THE Ministry of Home Affairs has taken a significant step toward enhancing public safety and operational efficiency by signing contracts worth over G$593 million for key infrastructural projects.
Permanent Secretary Andre Ally officiated at the signing on Monday, marking a pivotal investment in
capital works and facility upgrades aimed at advancing critical infrastructure across the country.
Among the major projects is the construction of an administrative building at Lusignan Prison in Region Four, awarded to AA Construction for G$165.9 million. Region Five will see the establishment of the
Mahaicony Fire Station, a G$164.4 million project awarded to KNV Designs, Construction, and Supplies. Additionally, Region Two will benefit from a new fire station at Onderneeming, to be constructed by Teon Peters Construction Services for G$174.1 million.
The ministry also approved several smaller proj-
ects aimed at repairing and upgrading existing facilities. These include repairs to the officers’ living quarters at Fairs Rust by Civil EC Engineering Solutions for G$7.2 million; upgrades to the Enmore Police Outpost for G$2.5 million, and the Clonbrook Police Outpost for G$2.6 million, both to be undertaken by V. Ram-
Guyana submits reply...
of both the Award and the boundary,” the Governm ent of Guyana said in a release on Monday.
In response to Venezuela’s threat to seize the Essequibo region, Guyana had previously requested the ICJ to issue provisional measures.
In December 2023, the Court responded by ordering both countries to refrain from actions that could disturb Guyana’s control over
the Essequibo region until the case is concluded.
The controversy is not only a matter between Guyana and Venezuela but has wider implications for the region and international law.
The Essequibo region is rich in oil and gas resources, and the outcome of the case could have significant economic consequences.
As a result, Guyana has garnered substantial international support in its efforts to uphold the 1899 Award.
Guyana has also received diplomatic backing from several countries, highlighting concerns over Venezuela’s actions and its continued military presence near the border.
One year ago, the two countries signed the Argyle Declaration, reaffirming their commitment to peace and stability in the region, despite the ongoing controversy.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, Venezuela has con-
tinued to take steps that raise concerns over the potential for conflict.
In addition to its military presence, Venezuela passed the “Organic Law for the Defense of Guayana Esequiba,” further entrenching its claims to Guyana’s Essequibo territory.
Guyana, however, remains resolute in its stance that the boundary is settled under international law and will continue to pursue the case in the ICJ.
lal Contracting Service. Additionally, MS Trading will supply and install a fire pump for the Ministry of Home Affairs at a cost of G$2.6 million.
COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND SAFETY
Addressing contractors at the signing ceremony, PS Ally underscored the government’s expectations for quality and adherence to safety standards. “Every worker must be equipped properly, and we expect the highest quality in execution within the budget and timelines,” he emphasised.
Ally also highlighted the pivotal role of project engineers and supervisors as liaisons, urging contractors
to maintain open communication and address challenges promptly to ensure smooth project execution.
As the fiscal year nears its end, the ministry is accelerating the commencement of these projects to meet community needs effectively. The government’s commitment to these initiatives reflects its broader aim to foster development and enhance public infrastructure across Guyana.
These investments align with the ministry’s ongoing efforts to strengthen public-safety frameworks while fostering economic and social development through improved facilities and services.
Permanent Secretary Andre Ally officiated at the signing on Monday with contractors marking a pivotal investment in capital works and facility upgrades aimed at advancing critical infrastructure across the country
Global Sustainability
IN an era of increasing environmental challenges and energy insecurity, the call for a balanced and inclusive approach to global resilience has never been more critical.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali recently highlighted this pressing need, emphasising the importance of addressing key issues surrounding the transition to renewable energy, climate action and food security.
Dr Ali’s perspective
offers a refreshing and pragmatic view of the complexities of achieving global sustainability. His recent recognition by the Wilson Center’s Latin America Programme for his efforts in environmental and biodiversity sustainability underscores the significance of his message.
One of the most compelling points raised by Dr Ali is the often-overlooked question of supply chain se-
curity in the renewable energy sector. While many nations advocate for a shift to solar energy, the President rightly points out that critical questions about material sourcing remain unanswered.
The fact that 70% of battery requirements come from a single market raises serious concerns about energy resilience and geopolitical dependencies. Furthermore, Dr Ali’s emphasis on energy
poverty is a crucial reminder that the global push for sustainable energy solutions must not leave behind large populations who still lack access to reliable electricity.
A truly just transition must ensure equitable access to energy for all people, bridging the growing energy gap within and between nations.The President’s call for a collaborative approach, bringing together stakeholders
from various sectors, including oil and gas, is both pragmatic and necessary.
By fostering dialogue between the economy, science, and ecology, we can develop more comprehensive and effective solutions to our global challenges.
Balancing the needs of a developing economy with global environmental standards is no easy task. The political environment,
as he acknowledges, is harsh and any policy that fails to improve people’s lives while meeting global standards will ultimately be judged a failure.
As we move forward, it is crucial that we heed this call, fostering global co-operation and developing solutions that truly serve all of humanity while protecting our planet for future generations.
Freddie Kissoon’s Legacy: A voice for Democracy and Equality in Guyana
Dear Editor,
THANK you for allowing me space in the newspaper to offer congratulations to academic, journalist and human rights activist, Freddie Kissoon, for completing 36 years as a newspaper columnist,. There has been a central theme that dominates Kissoon’s writing and activism: He mostly agitates for and defends the rights of all Guyanese to enjoy the mani-
festations of democracy such as freedom of expression, the right to share the resources of the country and be treated fairly regardless of religion, class, social standing, race and more.
Kissoon may be considered controversial by many, but his activism is characterised by his ebullient, aggressive style and yes, some will be offended. Some letter writers like Prescott Mann have also referred to
his changing positions on people and issues. That may be so because Kissoon, as projected in his writings, consider people like himself, as not perfect, thus they, ( people who are the subjects of his writings, especially politicians), are also capable of making both positive and negative transformations. This he acknowledges, which is a testimony to the dynamic thinking which he possesses. This is a great
attribute.
Kissoon has had falloust with many people because of the positions they took during the five months elections
Impasse in which there were brazen attempts to rig same. It is understandable that Kissoon would be angry, because he doesn’t want Guyana to fall under another period reminiscent of the Burnham era and maybe that is why Kissoon keeps
reminding Guyanese of the terrible time in our history because of its significance to the eroding of democracy. People like Mann, who criticise Kissoon, fail to castigate those who remained silent during those five months. These are the people whom Kissoon has angst against because they are now shouting on the rooftops about the lack of democracy when they participated or remained silent during this
turbulent period when democracy was almost stolen. Congratulations again Kissoon and may you continue to shine the light for those like the young mother who sells water to help her family, to the workers who have to take toilet paper to work, to those who want to hijack our democracy and more.
Sincerely, Mahindra Persaud
The impact of food trade on diets, nutrition
By Gillian Smith, FAO Representative Guyana, a.i Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago
AS you shop this holiday season, you'll find an abundance of enticing food options on every street corner, supermarket, and at local markets. Some locations have more variety than others and of course, prices vary.
In this context, the recently published State of Agricultural Commodity Markets (SOCO 2024) report of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, provides a different and interesting perspective on food.
This report examines the impact of food trade on diets and nutrition, offering valuable insights and guidance for making informed purchasing decisions in today’s rapidly evolving global food systems.
In 2023, trade in our global food systems moved more than 3 billion metric tonnes of food, at a value of USD 2.02 Trillion. Trade enables countries to export foods they produce abundantly and import those made elsewhere, enhancing the diversity of food year-round and contributing to food security worldwide. International food markets connect people and countries, provide
access to a wider variety of foods and ingredients, support incomes for farmers and workers in agriculture and food industries, and utilise the natural resources of countries. Responsible and fair trade is essential for sustainable development, economic growth, social well-being, and environmental care.
Guyana benefits from agricultural exportation, earning USD 283.1 million in 2022. Rice (USD 195.6 million), fish (USD 57.4 million) and sugar (USD) 15.9 million) were key earners, as well as non-traditional crops (USD 14.1 million).
According to 2015 data, Guyana produced just under 60 per cent of locally consumed food, making it a net food exporter and recent reports highlight increased production in agriculture, including emerging crops. Guyana is also leading efforts to expand intra-regional food trade in the Caribbean, The SOCO 2024 reminds us that one important aspect of trade is that it can double the variety of food available on the local market. Greater variety promotes healthy, diverse diets that meet not only more nutritional requirements but also support varied preferences and tastes. At the same time,
however, we know that international food trade can also triple the accessibility of processed foods available to consumers.
Minimally processed foods that are close to their fresh state can be very convenient for meal preparation and support healthy nutrition. Consumption of ultra-processed foods, which are often high in sugars, fats, and calories are linked to obesity, overweight and non-communicable diseases (NCD) such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Reports demonstrate a strong link between the increasing income levels in countries and the demand for ultra-processed foods. A 10 per cent increase in income is related to an 11 per cent rise in ultra-processed food imports and a seven per cent rise in less processed foods like meat, fish, dairy, eggs, fruits, and vegetables.
To avoid potential ill effects from the importation and consumption of ultra-processed foods on national health outcomes, there must be a strong collaboration at the national level, to promote coherence between health and food trade policies.
Clear nutrition guidelines and open forums involving government, civil society, and experts can help address nutrition issues
in trade agreements, ensuring they support food security, economic growth, and public health.
Coherence in health and trade policies can also be enhanced at the local level by building capacities of trade and health technicians and practitioners. In some countries, food labelling is part of the package of initiatives that are used to inform consumers about nutritional content. Front-of-package labels, recommended by the WHO since 2004,
use symbols, warnings, or scores to simplify nutrition information and encourage healthier choices.
Additionally, public nutrition awareness and education is a vital and complementary component that encourages individuals to better understand the implications of what they eat and to make better dietary choices for themselves and their families.
Working with the school feeding programme provides an excellent opportuni -
ty to promote lifelong healthy eating habits among children and create an environment where healthy diets support healthy lives.
FAO’s objective is to support countries in achieving better nutrition and food security by ensuring that all individuals, at all times, have access to safe, healthy, and affordable diets that align with their aspirations and foster their development. Sustainable food trade is a critical component of this effort.
Where is Percy Hintzen?
PERCY Hintzen, Guyana-born American sociologist (who left Guyana over 50 years ago) made a concerted attack on my series on the Mulatto/Creole class of which he is a leading propagandist for that class. I can’t remember the number, but I think I must have done about 14 in the se-
ries for this newspaper. Hintzen’s dismissal of my theory of MCC activism since the MCC government fell in August 2020 was carried a year ago in the Stabroek News forum titled, “In The Diaspora” (ITD). Around that time, I replied to Hintzen. See Hintzen in the September, 25, 2023 edition of
ITD and my response in the Guyana Chronicle edition of September 29 and October 2, both in the year of 2023.
Why have I returned to Hintzen one year after? Before I answer that, let’s quote what Hintzen wrote about me: “There appears to be an ongoing campaign in the government-controlled
Daily Chronicle to associate Guyanese hybridity with a Mulatto Creole Class (termed MCC), whatever that means. According to a series of ill-informed, poorly argued, badly researched and frequently factually inaccurate articles in the state newspaper that often seem to be an outlet for little more than personal insults, the intent of publicly named and identified members of this fictitious “class” including myself.”
So why have I returned to Hintzen? There are three reasons. Firstly, one year after he wrote his ITD column about violence dished out by the state to Guyanese who are against oil extraction, we no longer see long letters disparaging oil extraction. In fact, one of the most vociferous voices against oil production in Guyana, Ms. Vanda Radzik, has defected from the anti-oil agenda.
Earlier this year, when Hard Talk of the BBC asked for her position on the oil industry, she declined to give it, telling her interviewer that there are two spectrums in Guyana. One is to leave it in the ground; the other is to get more money from the contract. But Ms. Radzik didn’t offer her position.
The second reason for revisiting Hintzen is the dilemma he and the dozens of American-Guyanese who live in the US who are against oil production in Guyana are currently in. The anti-oil bandwagon’s and Hintzen’s predicament is that the incoming president of
the United States will support oil extraction in the US. So, since they live in the US, we are eagerly looking forward to their condemnation of the fossil fuel industry during the new American administration. They do not live in Guyana but they write on Guyana and not the country they live in.
This reminds us of a German citizen, Professor Andre Brandli. He informs us he has Guyanese blood. He describes Guyana as a flawed democracy. He once made the ludicrous statement that in the 2020 election there were about 600,000 votes cast (total votes were 464,565). Brandli never touches the subject of democracy in Germany.
One assumes that he is embarrassed by the recent viewpoint of a Guyanese woman living in Germany, Ashma John. Here is what she wrote: “Over the past year, as democratic as Germany pledges itself to be, we have seen excessive police brutality involving protesters, censorship, raids and outright harassment. We have heard of discussions surrounding Nazi-style deportation policies.” After that perspective on Germany, I guess Guyanese will no longer hear from Brandli.
The third reason is to remind Hintzen that what we are seeing in Guyana in 2024 is the crystallisation of MCC politics. MCC personalities have opted out of a New and United Guyana (ANUG), MCC personalities have taken over the leadership of
the Alliance for Change without any Indian face in the leading role in the top four slots.
We are also reminding Hintzen that Guyana is about 11 months away from a general election and the MCC newspaper, the Stabroek News, is going all out to get at the ruling PPP. I don’t know, but I am assuming that given his work as a sociologist and interest in Guyana that Hintzen reads the Stabroek News. It is as if that newspaper has become an opposition party.
I close with a quote from Hintzen and a question to him. He wrote: “Even mere reporting on persons and groups that criticise oil extraction exposes one to harassment.”
My question is, one year after he wrote that fiction, can he point to any episode of harassment of any human in Guyana that has campaigned against the oil industry.
Now for my question: Why is it that he, Hintzen, can write and condemn the Government of Guyana and make accusations against it but when people like me reply to them, I am described as sowing hatred? In fact, Dr. Hintzen’s September 23 article is replete with hate-filled descriptions.
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.
Healing Hands: UG’s role in advancing rehabilitation services through physiotherapy
By Faith Greene
PHYSIOTHERAPY is increasingly being recognised as a rewarding career, offering both personal fulfilment and the opportunity to make a profound impact on patients’ lives. In Guyana, the
With an annual intake of 25 to 30 students, the programme has consistently graduated between 12 and 15 professionals each year. Since the first cohort of three students graduated in 2014, the programme has made significant strides in
ment of a curriculum in partnership with VSO.
In 2010, the first cohort—comprising Simone Seckle, Isha Urlin, and Pravesh Parsaram Bhola—was admitted to the BMR programme, marking the beginning of a new era for physiotherapy
University of Guyana (UG) has been at the forefront of advancing this field through its Bachelor of Science (Medical Rehabilitation) programme, known as the BMR programme.
This ground-breaking initiative, launched in 2010, has produced a cadre of skilled physiotherapists, filling a critical gap in the country’s healthcare system. The programme has grown significantly since its inception, with over 50 students currently enrolled.
Dr Sheena Villarreal, Coordinator of the BMR major and lecturer at UG, emphasised the programme’s commitment to producing high-quality professionals. “While we know the need for physiotherapists is high, our focus is on ensuring the quality of graduates,” she stated.
addressing the shortage of rehabilitation professionals in Guyana and the Caribbean.
ESTABLISHING THE BMR PROGRAMME
Senior Physiotherapist and UG lecturer
Barbara Lawrence recalled the collaborative efforts that led to the creation of the BMR programme. Before its introduction, Guyana heavily relied on international agencies such as the Volunteer Service Overseas (VSO), for support in physiotherapy and related fields.
Lawrence explained that VSO conducted a needs assessment in consultation with various stakeholders, including rehabilitation staff, disabled persons’ organisations and special-needs schools. The findings underscored the urgent need for a local training programme, leading to the develop-
iotherapist and Lecturer at UG, highlighted how the programme equipped her to address various ailments, from sprained ankles to stroke recovery. “It has taught me to appreciate the human body and share knowledge on how to heal and strengthen it,” she shared.
Dr Villarreal empha-
sised that rehabilitation programmes such as UG’s BMR are rare in the Caribbean, positioning Guyana as a leader in this critical healthcare sector. With continued support from the Ministry of Health and international partners, the programme aims to further expand its reach and impact.
As the BMR pro -
gramme continues to grow, it serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the vital role physiotherapy plays in improving lives. For those seeking a career that combines science, empathy, and tangible results, physiotherapy offers unparalleled rewards.
in Guyana.
Graduates of the BMR programme have seen their skills and knowledge expand significantly, allowing them to deliver advanced care.
Simone Seckle, now a Senior Physiotherapist at the Ministry of Health, transitioned from being a rehabilitation assistant to a fully qualified therapist. She noted how the programme deepened her understanding of holistic patient care and enhanced her ability to assess and treat diverse conditions.
Pravesh Bhola, a nurse turned physiotherapist, uses his dual expertise to provide unique and comprehensive patient care. His passion for mobilising orthopaedic patients stems from his personal experience as a rehabilitation patient.
Isha Urlin, a Phys-
Pravesh P Bhola, Simone Seckle and Isha Urlin, the first batch of Physiotherapists graduating from the University of Guyana BMR programme (Simone Seckle photo)
Gov’t continuing road works on East Bank Berbice main access road
THE People's Progressive Party/Civic government is continuing efforts to improve the East Bank Berbice main access road, with ongoing works aimed at enhancing the road's condition and infrastructure.
Some $400M is expected to be expended on the ongoing project with close to four kilometres expected to be completed.
Initially, the plan was to carry out one km of roadworks annually along the East Bank Berbice main access road. However, recognising the growing need for improved infrastructure in the area, the government accelerated the project and decided to complete several kilo-
metres of roadworks this year – a plan that was in motion this year.
This initiative is part of the government's broader development plans to improve transportation and connectivity in the region. The upgrades are
expected to benefit local communities, farmers, and commuters by providing better access and reducing travel time.
Regional Vice Chairman Zamal Hussain on Monday visited the location where he checked
on the ongoing works. According to Hussain, the current works are being carried out in sections by four contractors.
The Guyana Chronicle was told that under this current administration necessary roadworks from Light Town, East Bank Berbice heading inwards were carried out.
A total of three sec -
Gov’t
tions heading into the area was done in the last three years with one kilometre also being done heading outwards.
However, according to regional officials, continuous maintenance works were being carried out on the remaining sections.
“Every single year we maintaining and the remaining road that you
see, that is crusher run we maintaining it all the way.”
Hussain on Monday pointed out that “ [the]majority of the road was done under this government and in the five years they [APNU+AFC government] spent a huge sum of money to maintain the road with no significant improvement, but under our government from 2020 to now we will be completing as far as PlegtAnker going in and considering we doing from Jermania at the end of the road coming straight up to Scapemode.”
With this major improvement, Hussain noted that approximately four kms will remain on the main access and it is likely that it will be scheduled to be rehabilitated in next year’s budget.
funding revolutionizes prison rehabilitation -
says Director of Prisons
Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, emphasized the transformative impact of government funding on prison rehabilitation during his end-of-year muster and general inspection of officers at the Prisons headquarters on Monday.
Elliot asserted that creating correctional facilities that prioritize self-improvement and personal growth is essential for effective rehabilitation. To this end, he noted that the government is implementing architectural changes aimed at fostering environments that promote learning, creativity, and reflection among inmates.
Looking ahead, Elliot outlined a commitment to holistic rehabilitation efforts within the prison system, along with enhanced support for the reintegration of prisoners into society. He stressed the importance of collaboration with community partners, the private sector, family support networks, government ministries, and law enforcement agencies to ensure the success of these initiatives.
Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot
Elliot also underscored the need for prison officers to actively contribute to realizing the government’s vision, as ongoing efforts to
rebuild prison infrastructure and strengthen security are undertaken nationwide. Meanwhile, Acting Deputy Director of Prisons Kevin Pilgrim highlighted the crucial role that officer training plays in the overall effectiveness of the service.
Ongoing works aimed at enhancing the road’s condition and infrastructure in East Bank Berbice
Joint Services Officers undertake advanced leadership training with UK collaboration
Senior Officers of the Joint Services are currently participating in a fiveday Psychology of Leadership Course, designed to enhance their leadership skills and equip them with advanced tools to lead effectively in dynamic and challenging environments.
This collaborative effort with the Armed Forces of the United Kingdom, led by Colonel Ronnie McCourt of the British Army, focuses on essential areas such as: Motivation and Team Dynamics, Communication and Conflict Resolution, Leadership and Managing
Change, and Problem-Solving and Decision-Making.
At the opening ceremony Monday morning, British High Commissioner, Her Excellency Jane Miller, emphasized the critical importance of leadership in today’s complex world. She noted that this program is designed to equip participants with fundamental skills to navigate challenges in their roles while fostering a strategic approach to managing teams and promoting synergy.
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, shared his vision for
the program, highlighting its focus on leadership through psychology principles and the importance of understanding Guyana's unique context. He noted that the security of the nation is fundamental to its success and therefore, “how we lead will determine how successful our nation is, how our country grows and how we prepare for the future," he urged.
This initiative is part of the ongoing UK-Guyana collaboration to build capacity and strengthen the leadership of the nation's security sector.
Lifelong learning triumphs at BIT graduation in Region 10
THE air was electric with pride and accomplishment as 150 graduates celebrated their achievements in skills-training at the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) graduation ceremony, held on December 6, 2024, at the Watooka Guest House. Among the graduates was 61-year-old Judith Grenville, who stood as a testament to the transformative power of education at any stage of life.
Grenville, now a certified Interior Decorator, shared her journey of overcoming selfdoubt. "When I started this course, I thought I wouldn’t be able to keep up with the younger participants. But with the support of my family and trainer, I achieved this goal," she said, expressing her gratitude to BIT and the government for the opportunity. She encouraged others, regardless of age, to seize the free skills-training programmes offered by BIT.
Grenville is one of many individuals whose lives have been transformed by BIT’s initiative. The programme awarded certificates in a wide range of fields, including Heavy-Duty Equipment Operation, Welding and Fabrication, Electrical Installation, AC & Refrigeration Servicing & Repairs, Interior Decoration, Commercial Food Preparation, and Cosmetology.
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS (seated, centre) next to British High Commissioner, Her Excellency Jane Miller along with other officials and the participants of the Psychology
“It will help me support my family financially, and I’m grateful for the opportunity provided by Minister Hamilton and BIT.”
Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton lauded the graduates for recognising the importance of technical skills in shaping their future and the country’s development. He underscored that their achievements exemplify the PPP/C government’s commitment to empowering citizens through accessible, life-changing opportunities.
Seventeen-year-old Samuel Valdes, another proud graduate, received his certification as a licensed Electrical Installation technician alongside his mother, Tinesha Victor. “This certificate is something I never imagined I would achieve,” Valdes said.
"Graduates, your journey doesn’t end here; it’s a stepping stone to achieving more than what previous administrations may have set as limits," Minister Hamilton said. “Aim higher, beyond the stars, and become ambassadors for BIT’s skills-training programmes.”
BIT CEO Richard Maughn also commended the graduates for their resilience and dedication. “Our mission is to develop skills, unlock potential and reduce skill mismatches,” Maughn stated. “This journey has been about more than gaining skills; it’s about preparing you for sustainable careers and contributing to Guyana’s development.”
The graduates’ achievements reflect BIT’s commitment to creating opportunities that enhance employability, foster entrepreneurship, and uplift communities. For Grenville, Valdes, and the many others who walked away with certificates, this ceremony marked not the end but the beginning of a new chapter in their lives—one filled with promise, purpose, and the potential to inspire others.
of Leadership Course
Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton presents the certificate to Judith Grenville
Govt begins 2025 old age pension books distribution
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has commenced distributing the 2025 Old Age Pension (OAP) books, aiming to complete the process by January 31.
The books will remain available throughout the year for individuals turning 65.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud attributed the delayed distribution to the discovery of unauthorised pension books in circulation, necessitating the redesign of the books with enhanced security features.
“We sincerely apologise for
the delay…we had to change the security feature on the book to ensure transparency, accountability, and prevent any recurrence of this issue,” the minister stated during a recent video broadcast.
Despite the setback, the ministry began distributing books in December and is intensifying efforts ahead of Christmas.
Minister Persaud noted that since 2021, the ministry has distributed pension books before the start of the new year, enabling pensioners to plan effectively.
Moreover, pensioners are advised to check distribution schedules published in newspa-
pers and on the ministry’s social media page.
Locations have been organised for efficient service, with attendees seated in rows and served sequentially.
Pensioners are required to present their National Identification (ID) card and previous pension book to collect their new books.
Officials will verify their identity and issue the updated book.
The ministry has integrated the registration process for the government’s $100,000 cash grant with pension book distribution.
Special sections at most sites facilitate this.
Shut-in or homebound pensioners will have both their grant registration and book delivery conducted at their residences. Additionally, distribution of the 2025 Permanent Disability Books has begun in regions 1, 7, 8, and 9 at the same pension distribution sites.
Dates for other regions will be announced soon.
Minister Vindhya reaffirmed its commitment to a seamless process, pledging to provide regular updates to keep pensioners informed. (DPI)
Old age pension distribution
Education Ministry launches programme to empower inmates, prison officers
IN a historic move aimed at fostering rehabilitation and social reintegration, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has introduced an innovative educational programme targeting inmates and Prison Service Officers. This initiative, launched under the ministry’s EduReform programme, highlights the transformative power of education in modern correctional systems.
According to a MoE press release, the programme offers a structured two-year curriculum, culminating in participants sitting five Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects in 2026. The selected subjects— English A, Mathematics, Social Studies, Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM), and Human and Social Biology (HSB)—are tailored to enhance literacy, critical thinking, and employability skills.
The programme incorporates virtual learning technology, enabling classes to be conducted within the prison environment from 09:00hrs to 11:00hrs daily. This approach ensures structured, consistent learning, while accommodating the unique constraints of the prison setting.
By integrating education into the rehabilitation process, the initiative represents a significant shift from punitive correctional measures to a rehabilitative model. The programme aims to: reduce recidivism by equipping inmates with marketable skills; enhance employment opportunities post-release; promote public safety through social reintegration; and build self-esteem and foster personal growth among participants.
Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, em -
phasised the importance of providing individuals with second chances, noting that a single mistake or crime should not define a person’s entire life. “The state has a responsibility to create opportunities for rehabilitation and transformation, but the decision to embrace change rests with the individual and often requires counselling and support,” she stated.
The Ministry of Education’s initiative complements several ongoing rehabilitation programmes spearheaded by the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) and the Ministry of Home Affairs.
In partnership with the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), the GPS recently launched the Prison Trade Instructor Training Programme—the first of its kind in Guyana. This initiative trains 30 prison officers to equip inmates with vocational and technical skills, including carpentry, barbering, crop husbandry, and anger management, to facilitate successful reintegration into society.
Additionally, the Ministry of Home Affairs’ “Fresh Start” programme, introduced in 2022, focuses on reducing recidivism by providing inmates with occupational training designed to prepare them for employment after release.
Together, these initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to empowering individuals through education and skills training, fostering hope and opportunities for a brighter future. As inmates and officers embark on this educational journey, the programme underscores the belief that rehabilitation and second chances are critical pillars for building a safer, more inclusive society.
A preview of one of the CSEC courses attended by prisoners
Works progress rapidly on $15B Sheriff Group’s specialty hospital in Berbice
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
CONSTRUCTION
of the state-of-the-art speciality hospital in Palmyra, Berbice, Region Six, is moving at an impressive pace, bringing the Sheriff Group of Companies closer to revolutionising healthcare in the region. Managing Director, Ameir Ahmad, expressed his satisfaction with the progress, crediting the dedication of the contractors and the urgency of the project as driving factors.
Scheduled for completion in 2026, the hospital, spanning 15 acres, will house advanced medical equipment valued between $10 billion and $15 billion, ensuring access to cutting-edge treatments.
The facility will provide specialised medical services, including heart and eye surgeries, cancer therapy, plastic surgery, and other critical treatments. Ahmad underscored the Sheriff Group’s commitment to affordability, promising
"Considering the type of hospital that we are building here and the significant impact it will have on the region and the nation, there is no room for a laid-back approach,” Ahmad said.
The three-storey, 150-room facility is projected to create over 400 jobs for Berbicians, spanning roles from medical professionals to support staff. Ahmad highlighted the hospital’s dual purpose as both a healthcare hub and a major economic driver. "This project is more than just a hospital; it’s a catalyst for local economic growth and community development," he stated.
he shared, highlighting the economic and healthcare benefits of this initiative.
Ahmad emphasised the comprehensive approach to healthcare at the new facility, which will provide on-site accommodations for physicians and select staff.
He also reaffirmed the group’s commitment to local development, stating, "We are investing heavily in these facil-
ities not just for profit but to ensure Guyanese have access to worldclass healthcare without the need for costly overseas travel."
The establishment of this speciality hospital is part of the Sheriff Group’s broader strategy to capitalise on Guyana’s rapid economic development under President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s leadership. By enhancing healthcare
services and fostering medical tourism, the Sheriff Group aims to make Guyana a key player in the regional healthcare sector.
With its ambitious plans and steadfast commitment, the Sheriff Group is poised to transform Berbice into a healthcare hub, setting a new benchmark for medical care in the Caribbean.
high-quality services at accessible prices. "Our mission has always been to deliver the best medical care at a cost people can afford," he noted.
As part of the Sheriff Group’s broader vision, the new hospital is set to position Guyana as a regional leader in medical tourism. Ahmad detailed plans to attract patients from the Caribbean and beyond, offering specialised care at a fraction of the cost abroad.
"Procedures like brain surgeries or tumor removals, which cost a fortune overseas, will be available here at one-third the price. Plus, we will accept international insurance,"
Works progressing on the Sheriff Palmyra Hospital
Ameir Ahmad, Managing Director of Sheriff Group of Companies
CARICOM appoints new permanent observer to the United Nations
THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has appointed a new Permanent Observer to the United Nations (UN) to provide representation at all relevant meetings at the UN, and to promote diplomatic interactions for the CARICOM Secretariat.
Dr. Leslie Wade, a national of St. Kitts and Nevis, presented her credentials to the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres on December 5 in New York.
With close to four decades’ experience in the UN system from 19852023, Dr. Wade most recently held the position of Director in the Office of Intergovernmental Support and Coordination for Sustainable Development in the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA).
She was also the Senior Liaison Officer in the New York Office of the World Health Organization (WH O) and served in the Office of the Special Adviser on Africa and the Least Developed Countries (OSCAL).
Other positions the new Permanent Observer
held include Economic Affairs Officer specialising in Regional Economic Integration and Trade at the UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in Santiago, Chile; Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago and Mexico City, Mexico.
Dr. Wade also participated in Peacekeeping Missions (Namibia, 19891990 and Cambodia, 1992-1993) and Electoral Assistance Missions in El Salvador and Mozambique in 1994.
Other notable accomplishments include developing the proposal to create the ECOSOC Ad Hoc Advisory Group on African Countries Emerging from Conflict, as a General Assembly follow-up to the Kofi Annan’s Seminal 1998 Report on the Causes of Conflict and the Promotion of Durable Peace and Sustainable Development in Africa.
Dr. Wade is the 5th Permanent Observer of CARICOM to the UN.
Mr. Hamid Mohamed was the first CARICOM Permanent Observer (1995-2005); followed by Mr. Miles Stoby, (2005-
2006); Ambassador Noel Sinclair, (2007-2014), and Ambassador Missouri Sherman-Peter, (2014- 2023). (CARICOM)
Civil Aviation Training School accomplishes 100 per cent pass rate in Air Traffic Controller Programme
The Civil Aviation Training School (CATS) held its graduation ceremony on Monday at the Umana Yana, where 36 persons graduated in various disciplines such as Flight Information and Alerting Services and Approach Control. Twenty-three out of the 36 persons graduated as Aeronautical Information Management Officers and Air Traffic Control Assistants after completing 6 months of classroom training.
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, during his feature address said that the Civil Aviation Training School has recently completed
an audit and acquired its TRAINAIR PLUS accreditation from the International Civil Aviation Or-
ganisation (ICAO), which means that the training provided by CATS will be globally recognized by
ICAO member States.”
Minister Edghill said “we will no longer have to go to seek the training, because now we will be offering the training, and our people can benefit from it right here in Guyana.”
Minister Edghill noted that the country’s record on safety and its capacity to regulate the aviation industry and the excellent work done by Air Traffic controllers must be applauded.
The Civil Aviation Training School has conducted 14 training courses for 2024, one of which
was done for the Cayman Island Airport Authority, making it the first international training delivered by the school. The training was done virtually through a recently acquired Moodle Learning Management System, which is used for the development and presentation of online training.
Minister Edghill challenged the graduands to not only have a good attitude but also to have a good conduct as they discharge their responsibility in the profession.
(DPI)
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill (center) Civil Aviation Training School graduands
Guyana has made significant progress in anti-corruption efforts
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh has highlighted Guyana’s significant progress in anti-corruption efforts.
During a panel discussion at the Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Expo on Monday, Dr Singh pointed to the visible transformation underway in Guyana, citing new highways and modern infrastructure. He said that these changes are further supported by substantial institutional changes.
He underscored the importance of establishing a strong constitutional and legal framework to enhance transparency and accountability.
“Guyanese democracy in contemporary times is perhaps only about 32 years old, if you consider that democracy was restored to Guyana in 1992, after three decades of dictatorship and dictatorial rule, mismanagement of the economy and destruction of institutions and infrastructure,” the minister said.
Minister Singh pointed to the 2001 constitutional
amendments that proved critical in introducing human rights commissions, parliamentary oversight committees strengthening the independence of the Auditor General’s office.
“We enacted, for the first time, a modern central bank legislation, new financial institutions act to lay the framework for sound and strong prudential regulation and oversight of the financial sector. We enacted a new Insurance Act. We enacted a new Securities Industry Act, and of course, subsequently, we will enact a new anti-money
laundering and countering the financing of terrorism Act, all of which comprise critical elements of the suite of legislation,” he added.
The government has also been keen on deploying information technology solutions to modernise government operations and enhance transparency.
The Senior Minister also highlighted the benefits of bipartisan, consultative approach to institutional reform. This was demonstrated in the drafting of the 2001 constitution through national stakeholder engagement.
The government also engages stakeholders on amendments or the introduction of other critical pieces of legislation, such as the Representation of the People Act (ROPA) and the Protection from Harassment Bill.
Additionally, new laws were enacted for procurement, revenue administration, and financial sector
regulations, all aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability. He explained that Guyana’s experience in rebuilding institutions after a difficult period requires a multi-faceted, sustained effort, but can ultimately lead to significant improvements in governance and the fight against corruption. (DPI)
Guyana’s exports to rise by 77 per cent this year
- largely driven by oil and gas, agriculture sectors, ECLAC reports
AS 2024 draws to a close, Guyana has emerged as the standout performer in Latin America and the Caribbean, with exports set to increase by an astounding 77 per-cent, largely driven by the country’s oil and gas, and agriculture sectors.
This was according to the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC)'s ‘International Trade Outlook for Latin America and the Caribbean, 2024’ which was released this month.
The report highlighted that following a contraction of 1.2 per cent in global goods trade in 2023, the world economy is tentatively rebounding in 2024, with global goods trade growing by one per cent.
In contrast, Latin America’s trade outlook is more optimistic, with regional goods exports projected to increase by four per cent in value for the year.
However, Guyana’s growth stands out in the region, fuelled by a significant rise in the volume of its oil exports and agricultural products like soybeans.
This exceptional performance positions Guyana ahead of other nations. Suriname, for example, is expected to see a more modest 12 per cent export growth.
Larger economies like
Brazil and Mexico are forecast to experience more restrained growth, with export increases of just three per cent and two per cent, respectively.
In fact, the report found that some nations are grappling with export declines, with Panama’s exports set to plummet by 71 per cent due to the closure of the Cobre Panamá mine.
Across the broader region, agricultural exports have experienced significant volume increases, including a rise of up to 100 per cent in certain products like maize and soybeans.
However, the Caribbean continues to face challenges, particularly in food security.
The region remains a net food importer, and the cost of accessing a healthy diet is the highest in Latin America and the Caribbean, surpassing the global average by 30 per cent.
This food insecurity is compounded by high import tariffs and logistical challenges. Services trade is also contributing to the region’s recovery.
In 2024, regional services exports are projected to grow by 12 per cent, with travel and modern services being the primary drivers.
This marks the fourth consecutive year of double-digit growth in services
exports, signalling that while goods exports are important, services—particularly tourism and digitally delivered services—are becoming an increasingly significant contributor to the region's economic activity.
Despite these positive export trends, the region’s economic growth remains weak.
With a projected 1.8 percent GDP growth for 2024, Latin America continues to face sluggish demand for imports, with regional imports expected to rise by only two per cent.
Nevertheless, the region’s trade balance is improving. Latin America and the Caribbean are set to move from a US$26 billion trade deficit in 2023 to a US$36 billion surplus in 2024, driven by strong export performance in countries like Guyana and Argentina.
Guyana’s exceptional export growth is helping to boost the overall Caribbean trade performance, with export volumes in the subregion set to expand by 24 per cent.
This surge is largely attributed to oil exports, which have been the backbone of Guyana’s export growth. However, the Caribbean’s food trade deficit and high import costs remain persistent challenges, with food security continuing to be a
critical issue, particularly in countries like Haiti.
While Latin America and the Caribbean are recovering from the global trade slump of 2023, this year’s trade figures emphasise the region’s continued reliance on commodities for export growth.
As of December 2024, Guyana’s remarkable 77 per cent export growth reflects its resource-rich economy and highlights the region’s uneven recovery, with some countries seeing strong growth while others face contraction.
The country had recorded export earnings of US$10.221 billion in the first half of 2024, according to the Mid-Year Report released recently by the Ministry of
Finance.
According to the report, the merchandise trade balance registered a surplus of US$6.976 billion in the first half of the year, compared with the surplus of US$2.340 billion recorded in the corresponding period of last year.
This improvement was largely supported by a significant ramp up in crude oil production offshore, following the start-up of Guyana’s third FPSO – Prosperity
Importantly, outside of the oil and gas sector, growth was also seen in non-oil export earnings in the first half of 2024 by some 23.4 per cent.
The earnings from rice and gold expanded by US$24.7 million and US$12.2 million, respective-
ly, with the increase for gold reflecting favourable price developments.
At the start of 2024, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh had projected that Guyana’s total export receipts could grow by 41.9 per cent for 2024.
This growth, he added, was expected to be driven by a robust expansion in both oil and non-oil earnings.
At that time, Dr Singh said that the government would continue its focus on developing a conducive environment to boost the country’s trade in both the import and export of goods and services.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh
(Tuesday, December 10, 2024)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Ridley Jacobs-20 (15 catches/5 stumpings – 10 matches) (2) Mushfiqur Rahim-38 (32 catches/6 stumpings – 29 matches)
Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the recent WI/BANG Test series? (2) Who was voted Man of the Series?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
MAHONING VALLEY
Race 1 Ubetchamister
Race 2 Irish Unity
Race 3 Sage Runner
Race 4 Smash
Race 5 Roll On Max
Race 6 Blushing Betty
IRISH RACING TIPS PUNCHESTOWN
08:20 hrs. Dancing City 08:50 hrs. Jame's Gate
09:20 hrs. Hey Sunshine
09:50 hrs. Port Joulain 10:20 hrs. Colonel Mustard 10:50 hrs. Gaye Winnie 11:20 hrs. Milanaway
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS GREYVILLE
08:15 hrs. Rollo The Viking
08:50 hrs. Faire Advantage
09:25 hrs. Linganomore 10:05 hrs. Admiral 10:37 hrs. Mac Hardy
ENGLISH RACING TIPS FONTWELL
09:00 hrs. Milanka 09:30 hrs. Getaway Drumlee
10:00 hrs. Groom De Cotte 10:30 hrs. Valirann Gold
11:00 hrs. Hollygrove Cha Cha 11:30 hrs. Footloose Man
SOUTHWELL
12:30 hrs. Mr Ubiquitous 13:00 hrs. Triumph Of Peace
13:30 hrs. Fast Fred 14:00 hrs. Kylian
14:30 hrs Arz Zoosve
15:00 hrs Joseph
15:30 hrs. Hidden Secret
16:00 hrs. Izzari
16:30 hrs. Kats Bob
Guyana National Futsal
Championship…
Stabroek B, Show Stoppers shine bright
IT was a night where some of the best Futsal teams in the country clashed at the National Gymnasium for the third playing date of the National Futsal Championship and it did not disappoint.
Stabroek B wasted little time in getting the ball rolling, registering a 7-0 stopping of West Side Ballers.
Four goals from Nikolai Andrews 4 along with one each from Jonathan McKenzie, Randy Maynard and Jamal Cambridge made sure that the side were the first in the winner’s circle.
Show Stoppers were not in a mood to be toyed with either as they steam-rolled South Side Ballers 6-2.
A hat-trick each from Delon Lanferman and Chediebere overcame the challenges of South Side Ballers two goals which came from Christophe Agustuo and Darnell Sealey 1.
Spanidad were another team in the winners’ circle when they overcame Red Force - thanks to a brace from Jason Moore and single strikes from Randell Parks and Sherwin Caesar.
Buxton also overcame Linden All Stars 5-2 thanks to a pair of goals from Clevon Barnwell as well as needles from Akeem Jarvis and Courtney Oden 1 as well as an own goal.
Linden All Stars 2 had Mar Brewlwy and Rodensio Tudor on the score cards.
Español 6 continued in the same goal scoring vein as the teams before it, beating Broad Street 6-2.
Braces from Carlos Gil and Joseito along with single strikes from Darwin and Adrian Martinez helped the side overcome Broad
Street’s Floyd Jonas and Nicholas Nieuelder.
An own goal cost Region 9 in their loss to Bent Street 1-2.
Bent Street had Jamanine Beckles and an own goal from Region 9 helped the scoreline overcome Maguiver Park’s goal.
Matches continue this evening at the same venue with Kitty Hustlers taking on Lima Dam; Red Force against Vryheid's Lust, Tiger Bay battling Timehri Hustlers, Laing Avenue opposing Finishers and Gold is Money battling Region #7.
Waramuri Primary produce classic performance – to edge
ON Saturday last, top challenger Waramuri Primary produced an awesome display against defending MVP sports girls U11 football champions Marian Academy at the Ministry of Education Ground to become the 2024 champions.
Waramuri, playing their first final, showed they belonged with a strong showing as 2023 winners Marian Academy, led by Ella Fernandes and Haley Haberkorn, who presented a staunch opposition to the challenger in the 50 minutes contest.
It was a fight from the opening whistle as the two teams traded blows back and forth without a goal for the entirety of regulation and extra time.
It would require penalty kicks to separate the two sides, with the challenger showing better nerves on the
Marian Academy in thriller
day to dethrone the champions to win it 3-0 at the line. In the third-place contest, St. John The Baptist Primary defeated Potaro Primary 2-nil after an own goal and the other from Jaziah Rodrigues. Fifth place went to West Ruimveldt Primary after Stella Maris Primary after a hattrick from Ariel Farley with goals in the 5th, 24th and 40th
Guyana’s Delroy Tyrrell in record breaking performance at Snow Flurries Swim Meet in New York
From Joe Chapman in New York
Guyana’s Delroy Tyrrell continues his impressive swimming performances of recent in the New York, despite not being given a chance to represent his place of birth at the World Aquatics World Championships which gets underway from December 10-15 in Budapest, Hungary.
On Saturday young Tyrrell displayed a dominant swim meet record breaking performance when he smashed the 100 yards breast stroke record with a time of 51.18s to erase the previous record set by John Schnell, in 1995, at the Cortland Snow Flurries Meet in New York.
A couple hours later another meet record was broken. The old record of Kevin Rusch, in the 200 Yards backstroke done in 1983 in 1:56.90 was grabbed by Tyrrell in a new meet time of 1:54.93.
Speaking to Delroy after he commented: “It was two records established. I first broke the 100 yards backstroke record in the relay and it counts as I did the first leg, the record was 52.3 and I went 51.1 in that relay start.
Then I had the individual 100 yards backstroke win a few minutes later and I did 51. 3. So technically I broke it twice, but what they do in a situation like that, where you break a record twice, they just go with the faster time. And the next record I broke (on Saturday) was the 200 yards backstroke in 1:54.93 at the SUNY Cortland Campus pool in New York.”
omission of United States based swimmer Delroy Tyrrell, Scott said “I have not gotten an official statement from the athlete, and I am seeing things in the media.
minutes.
The seven-week tournament featured 16 teams playing in a round-robin knockout format.
Waramuri will benefit from a $100,000 cash in kind, along with trophies and medals, with $75,000 for second place, $50,000 for third and $25,000 for fourth place, along with trophies.
It would be apt to recall that at previous Oneonta Meet in the ‘Big Apple,’ the Guyanese swimmer became the SUNYAC Men's Swimmer of the Week the last week of November this year, for the second time this season, thus enabling his team Red Dragons to three wins, including two relay events at the Electric
City Invitational also here in New York.
At that swim meet he walked away with the 50yard freestyle with a time of at 21.87s, captured the 100yard backstroke stopping the clock at 52.67, and also won the 200-yard backstroke in 1:59.31.
The young Guyana-born athlete was key in Oneonta's 200-yard freestyle relay place win clocking 1:28.11 and the 200-yard medley relay victory at 1:37.14.
His team also was runner up in the 400-yard freestyle relay in a time of 3:18.99, and in the 400-yard medley relay was second in a time of 3:37.24.
In a recent interview outgoing President of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) Dwayne Scott in an exclusive interview told Chronicle Sport that Guyana is likely to be represented by female athlete Ms. Aleka Persaud, as fellow Olympian Raekwon Noel Noel is unavailable, for this year’s World Swimming Championships.
Scott also confirmed that Persaud’s name along with Vladimir Woodroof were the names of the athletes sent to World Aquatics, as hopes of Guyana’s next best male United States-based collegiate swimmer Delroy Tyrrell, who is in great touch showed rich on the United States was ignored by the GASA.
However, when questioned about reports that Woodruff had withdrawn from participating citing the
It’s funny because this athlete came to me saying he was training for the World Championship, so the situation as it is was Raekwon Noel was not available, Leon Eaton said he wasn’t available and the next two athletes that are local, they were banned because of a situation we had with the pool, and their suspension ends in January. So, it was left for Woodroof to be selected and we informed the member of his club when we had that meeting.”
It was felt that in the absence of the number one choice Raekwon Noel who is also in the United States on scholarship not available, that his likely replacement should be Tyrrell.
However, is being regarded as an international athlete and because of this he was sidelined.
There was a meeting according to Scott where issues surrounding the non-inclusion of Tyrrell was addressed.
Scott mentioned that the Dorado Club which Tyrrell represents when in Guyana, was fully aware of the decision of the coaches and the athletes chosen, and the conditionalities surrounding Mr Tyrrell; because by law GASA rules an ‘international athlete’ has to qualify by timings.
Now, by virtue of Tyrrell accepting a US scholarship, the term ‘international athlete’ had placed Tyrrell at a seemingly greater disadvantage to be considered for selection, even if his performances are superior to local swimmers, which is disturbing to say the leas
The swimming official has termed it discrimination and a ruling which must be addressed by GASA, since swimmers with the potential to win scholarships works be skeptical to accept such.
One
Action in the One Guyana National Futsal Championship
Waramuri Primary collecting the winner's trophy from MVP Sports’ Ian Ramdeo
Guyana swimmer Delroy Tyrrel
South Africa beat Sri Lanka to boost WTC final hopes
SOUTH Africa moved a step closer to the World Test Championship final with a 109-run victory over Sri Lanka in Gqeberha.
The Proteas needed just 14.1 overs to take the five remaining Sri Lanka wickets on day five in the Eastern Cape and secure a 2-0 series win that takes them above Australia to the top of the WTC table.
Sri Lanka opened the day on 205-5, needing another 143 to win at St George's Park, with Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis continuing a stand that had reached 83 on day four.
However, left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj broke the partnership in the fourth over of the day as Mendis edged to slip.
Kagiso Rabada had
Dhananjaya caught behind 14 balls later and the tourists quickly crumbled to 238 all out - the last five wickets going down for 19 runs.
Maharaj took three of the wickets to fall on the fifth morning to complete his 11th five-wicket haul in Tests.
Centuries from Kyle Verreyne and Ryan Rickelton helped set up the vic-
South Africa moved to the top of the World Test Championship table with victory in Gqeberha
tory for South Africa, while 35-year-old seamer, Dane Paterson, claimed his maiden Test five-to earn them a narrow first-innings lead. Bavuma and Aiden Markram then made half-centuries in the host’s second innings to set a challenging target of 348 that ultimately proved beyond Sri Lanka. (BBC Sport)
Sri Lanka rue 68 minutes of madness that changed everything
By Telford Vice
But for 68 minutes of madness, Sri Lanka's men's Test series in South Africa might have turned out starkly differently.
Indeed, it wouldn't be stretching a point to say the Lankans could have been going home still in hot pursuit of a place in the WTC final at Lord's in June.
Instead, the South Africans
are one win away from clinching a spot. Sri Lanka, who will face Australia in two Tests in Galle in January and February, are dependent on favours from the results of other teams' matches.
South Africa completed a 2-0 win at St George's Park on Monday, when they won by 109 runs. That followed their 233-run victory at Kingsmead on November 30.
That sounds convincing, and there's no disputing that the home side were the better team. But how much better might the Lankans have fared had they not been bowled out for 42 - their lowest total - in 13.5 overs in their first innings in Durban?
Marco Jansen bowled with purpose and accuracy, but did he bowl well enough to take 7/13? He was aided and abetted by bounce and movement through the air and off the pitch. But also, by reckless strokeplay from batters chasing balls they had no reason to interact with.
And all that after Sri Lanka had restricted South Africa
to 191. Then came those 68 minutes of madness ...It only adds to the mystery of the horror innings that the Lankans made a respectable 282 in the second dig at Kingsmead. Their efforts of 328 and 238 in Gqeberha provided further evidence of a batting line-up who weren't helpless in South African conditions. How did Sanath Jayasuriya handle the aftermath of their catastrophic aberration?
"We had a lot of discussions with the team," Jayasuriya told a press conference on Monday. "And as a coach, as a support staff, we backed them really well. We didn't want to go into the negative side and all the bad publicity. So I gave them a lot of confidence.
"And they came back and did well in the second innings, even though we lost the game. Even [in Gqeberha], we were
in the game throughout these five days. That's the key to us improving, and that's why I'm happy. But there are little areas where we need to get better."
Little areas have big effects. Consider that while Temba Bavuma, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton and Kyle Verreynne all scored centuries for South Africa, there were no hundreds by the visitors.
They competed better on the bowling front, where Prabath Jayasuriya claimed 5/129 in the second innings at St George's Park and finished as the series' second highest wicket-taker: he was four behind Jansen's tally of 14.
"Throughout our bowlers were outstanding except for the damage done by the South African tail," Jayasuriya said. "With the bat, we had our moments in patches. We had starts but couldn't convert them into hundreds.
"We chatted a lot to the senior group. I know they put in the effort, but if they assess they would admit that it was not up to scratch. If they had put in a better effort this could have been a different story." Indeed. At Kingsmead, the last three partnerships in South Africa's completed first innings were each worth more than 20 runs. At St George's Park, the tail contributed three stands of more than 30 across both innings - including one of 56.
As for starts with the bat, besides the Lankans' four half-centuries in the rubbertwo of them by Dhananjaya de Silva - they had five other efforts in the 40s.
There's no point wondering what might have been, but the visitors wouldn't be human if they didn't spend most of their journey home trying to understand the how and why of being bowled out for 42 in 68 minutes of madness. And resolving to make sure it never happens again. (Cricbuzz)
Bethell has proved he belongs, says Stokes
JACOB Bethell has proved he belongs in international cricket with his runs against New Zealand, according to England captain Ben Stokes.
Bethell, 21, was given a Test debut batting at number three for the first time in his first-class career in the series opener in Christchurch and made an unbeaten 50.
The left-hander followed up with 96 in the series-clinching 323-run win in the second Test in Wellington.
"I'm pretty sure there were a lot of doubters about the role we brought him into for that first Test match," Stokes told BBC Sport.
"You've got a young lad with so much potential and so much talent, why not let him go out there and expose
himself to Test cricket at its toughest?"
In Wellington, Bethell fell four runs short of becoming the youngest England batter for 85 years to score a Test century when he edged behind off Tim Southee.
"I was devastated for him to not get that three figures," added Stokes. "I walked in and I said to him: 'It's only four runs, isn't it?'
"His response was: 'Yeah, but it would have been flair if I smacked that through the covers to bring it up.' Class. I think he's proved a lot and proved why we rate him so highly."
Bethell's chance was originally earmarked for Jordan Cox. Cox was due to keep wicket in place of regular gloveman Jamie Smith,
who has missed the tour on paternity leave.
When Cox broke his thumb in the nets, regular number three Ollie Pope covered as keeper and slid to number six, opening up the slot for Bethell.
Before the Wellington Test, Stokes said England will revert to their usual formation in the home summer, with Pope at three and Smith keeping wicket.
But Bethell's success has given England options. He could stay at three or open in place of the struggling Zak Crawley. Pope could retain the gloves, giving flexibility to where Smith bats.
Asked if Bethell's runs have given him a selection headache, Stokes replied: "No, I don't see it like that.
Norris wins to seal constructors’ title for McLaren
LANDO Norris secured McLaren’s first Formula 1 constructors’ championship in 26 years with victory in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Norris led from start to finish, and his fourth win of the season was enough to seal the championship by 14 points, despite Ferrari finishing second and third with Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc.
Leclerc’s brilliant drive after starting 19th on the grid kept the tension high; had anything happened to Norris’ car, Ferrari would have clinched the title.
Lewis Hamilton took fourth place in his final race for Mercedes, passing teammate George Russell around the outside of Turn Nine with six corners of the race to go.
Hamilton did doughnuts on the pit straight after crossing the line, and then took a few moments with his car, collecting his thoughts, before congratulating Norris and McLaren F1 boss Zak Brown, and consoling Sainz and Leclerc.
The anxiety for McLaren started at the first corner when Norris’ team-mate Oscar Piastri, who had qualified second to the Briton,
wouldn't have changed anyone's mind in our dressing room of him as a player."
Harry Brook was named player of the match in Wellington for his first-innings 123, his third century of the winter.
The Yorkshireman did not field on Sunday, when England bowled out New Zealand for 259, because of an ankle problem sustained playing football.
Brook said his ankle is "a little bit sore" and "hopefully" he will be fit for the third and final Test in Hamilton on Saturday (22:00 GMT, Friday).
"If it hadn't have gone well for him in those first two Test matches, that
was tapped into a spin by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. The world champion was given a 10-second penalty for causing the incident. That put Piastri to the back of the field, and left McLaren’s hopes hanging on Norris.
Leclerc increased McLaren’s nerves with a stunning first lap, in which he gained a remarkable 11 places, including passing five cars in one go approaching the chicane at Turns Six and Seven.
Leclerc’s climb continued as he passed the Haas drivers Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg and Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin, and then after his pit
stop on lap 20 Pierre Gasly’s Alpine. He took third when the Mercedes of Russell and Hamilton and Verstappen pitted out of his way.
Sitting in third behind Norris and Sainz in the final 15 laps, Leclerc asked, “like this we lose the constructors’,” and was told, yes, but the race was not over.
But Norris and McLaren had everything under control, and he crossed the line six seconds ahead of Sainz to end a long and painful period without a title.
The win also ensured that Norris finished second in the drivers’ championship, 18 points ahead of Leclerc, and 63 behind Verstappen. (BBC)
England's series win is their first away from home in two years and their first in New Zealand since 2008.
Victory in Hamilton would leave them as only
the third visiting team to win a three-match series 3-0 in this country.
For New Zealand, heavy defeats in each of the two Tests against England come after a historic 3-0 win in India, arguably their greatest performance in a Test series.
"We'll head to Hamilton and if we are able to get in a position of strength, hopefully we're able to put a foot on the throat and put them under a bit of pressure too," said home captain Tom Latham.
On the prospect of making changes to his team, Latham said: "We'll have to wait until we get to Hamilton, to decide what the surface is doing. Those conversations will be had once we get there”. (BBC Sport)
Hazlewood provides fitness update ahead of crucial Brisbane Test
AUSTRALIA seamer Josh Hazlewood is hoping he will be fit enough to return for the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against India starting on Saturday.
Hazlewood has been battling a side strain and was forced to watch on from the sidelines as Australia clinched an impressive 10-wicket triumph in Adelaide to level the five-match series against India at 1-1 and boost their chances of reaching next year's ICC World Test Championship Final.
But Hazlewood was put through his paces in Adelaide on Monday and is aiming to make his return for the third Test in Brisbane should he pull up well over the next couple of days.
"I think it'll be how I pull up in the 24 hours following it really," Hazlewood revealed.
"It’s just that repetitive (action) and obviously two spells make a big difference.
"Cooling down pretty much fully and then going again in the same day, and the intensity has got to be right up there as well.
"So a few boxes to tick, but it's probably the 24 hours that follow and pulling up
again the next day and then thinking 'yeah, I'd be right to go again if I had to'."
If Hazlewood does return to Australia's playing XI it may mean Scott Boland makes way despite the pacer making a solid contribution in Adelaide and picking up five wickets across the two innings.
Both fast bowlers will make the trip to Brisbane ahead of the Gabba Test, with Australia looking to improve on their recent record at the ground that has seen them lose two of their last four matches at the iconic venue.
Josh Hazlewood has gained valuable insight into Virat Kohli's success during a two-year stint playing
alongside the India star ahead of the World Test Championship Final.
That includes a three-wicket loss to India in the Aussies' most recent Test against India in Brisbane, but Hazlewood is confident his side can continue their winning ways if they can adjust quickly to returning to using a red-ball.
“We always play pretty well in Brisbane (but) the last Test was obviously pink-ball," Hazlewood noted.
"The pink-ball gets quite soft in Brisbane quite early on, with the wicket being quite hard, it doesn't have that thatch grass that we see here at Adelaide.
"So we're back to the red-ball there, which I think suits us.
"We obviously haven't won recently up there, but it's a place we like to play as it suits our guys.
"It's an experienced team, so we've all been there a lot of times.
"It's probably more just the time differencethe going from day-night and sleeping in - to your sleeping patterns, getting that adjusted and getting back on track." (ICC Media)
Jacob Bethell was chosen to play Test cricket despite never making a first-class hundred
Lando Norris (right) celebrates winning the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the constructors' title with McLaren CEO Zak Brown (Getty Images)
Aussie pacer
Josh Hazlewood
South Australia wins last-ball Sheffield Shield thriller
SOUTH Australia dramatically beat Tasmanian Tigers by two runs off the final ball of the game to record the joint-tightest win in Sheffield Shield history.
Chasing an unlikely 429 to win, the Tigers needed four off the last ball, but Australia bowler Riley Meredith was run out, seemingly having forgotten that a draw was possible.
He picked out deep cover and was looking to complete a second run, that still would have resulted in the Tigers failing to win.
(Scores: South Australia 398-6 dec (Sangha 151, Hunt 136) & 233-9 dec (Kuhnemann 4-67)
Tasmanian Tigers 203 (Scott 3-30, Thornton 3-41) & 426 (Ward 142; Agar 3-91)
South Australia won by two runs
They were well set at 400-5, needing 29 more from the final 27 balls, but dramatically lost four wickets in a nine-ball spell in the final two overs.
It is the fourth time a Sheffield Shield game has been won by two runs, but the first since New South Wales edged out Western Australia in January 2003. The other occasions were when Western Australia beat Victoria in November 1998 and South Australia got the better of Western Australia in November 1999.
How the final two overs played out
Tasmanian Tigers were 413-6 at the start of the penultimate over, needing another 16 to win. Here's how the final two overs played out:
111.1 overs: Lawrence Neil-Smith takes a single. 15 required.
111.2 overs: Six! Mitch Owen hits Nathan McAndrew over the ropes. Nine required.
111.3 overs: Owen takes a couple more. Seven required.
111.4 overs: Wicket! Owen is caught at long-on playing a big shot. Seven required.
111.5 overs: Two in two! Matthew Kuhnemann is out first ball. Seven required. 112 overs: Dot ball. The Tigers need seven runs from the final over, while South Australia need two wickets.
112.1 overs: Neil-Smith takes a single. Six required.
112.2 overs: Gabe Bell plays out a dot ball. Six required.
112.3 overs: Wicket! Bell is bowled by Wes Agar. Six runs or one wicket required.
112.4 overs: Meredith takes a single. Five runs or one wicket required.
112.5 overs: Neil-Smith takes a single. Four runs or one wicket from the final ball.
113 overs: Wicket! Meredith is run out. South Aus-
Ravens and Eagles soar to opening wins in One Guyana basketball League
THE 2024 edition of One Guyana Basketball League tipped off on Saturday evening last at the National Gymnasium Hard Court with defending champions Ravens and Eagles taking statement victories Defending One Guyana League Ravens, coming off their win in the Guyana Basketball Elite 16 knockout tournament recently, showed their pedigree with a 25-point win over Mambas 75-50.
It was a close contest in the first period before Ravens began to pull away heading into the break, as the likes of Nikkoloi Smith and Alroy Nurse started to come into their own.
They would lead at the half 32-21, Mambas showed more fight in the third quarter as they were outscored 21-16 as Ravens extended their advantage 53-37.
Defending champions Ravens (in orange) battling Mambas in (black) in the league opener
tralia wins by two runs.
'I was content with the draw'
The win moves South Australia to the top of the table, but their captain, Ben Manenti, admitted afterwards that he had given up on the victory.
"I thought we were gone, then back in it, then gone again and back in it," he said.
"I was content with the draw more than anything.
"But Wes [Agar] nailed six beautiful yorkers back to back.
"Realistically we needed two wickets and they needed six runs. They could have hit six singles to the deep guy and walked it home.
"Hell of a game of Shield cricket."
During the chase, there was also an incident reminiscent of Jonny Bairstow being controversially run out by Alex Carey at Lord's in last summer's Ashes.
With the Tigers going well, South Australia opted to go to a short-ball plan in an attempt to limit the scoring.
Tim Ward, who made 142, ducked a bouncer off Henry Thornton, before scratching his guard and walking out of his crease.
Harry Nielsen threw down the stumps but the appeal was denied, with the umpires deciding that over had been called.
(BBC Sport)
Ravens’ Nurse, who ended with 14 points was instrumental with Smith hitting 13 points; the duo had support from Terrence Daniels with 12 and Altila Williamson with 14 points as they cruised to the victory.
On the losing side Jared Sears had a game-high 20 points, but his side was unable to mount a strong enough collective effort to give the champions a tough fight. Meanwhile, 2023 finalist Eagles also got a winning start to their 2024 campaign with a 12-point win over the University of Guyana Trojans 82-70. UG Trojans opened the clash with a first-quarter lead of three points 19-16 before Eagles flipped the script in the second period to lead by four points after the second quarter, 34-30.
Eagles coming off their second finals loss against Ravens in the GBF Elite 16 KO competition then produced an even more impressive showing in the third period to lead 59-46, as
their skipper Travis Belgrave dominated with 22 points and Zion Gray 21 points to take the game away. UG’s Kadeem Peterkin with 17 points and Jushawn Bayley with 12 buckets tried to keep their team in the contest. However, Eagles role players Denzil Ross (10), Timothy Richards (12) and Michael Turner (13) made all the difference as they played with composure to close out the encounter to win it 82-70 to get their league campaign off to the best possible start. The tournament is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.
Jokic stars again as Nuggets dominate Hawks
REIGNING NBA Most Valuable Player, Nikola Jokic, continued his big-scoring form by hitting 48 points as the Denver Nuggets eased past the Atlanta Hawks 141-111 on Sunday.
Jokic, who recorded a career-high 56 points in his side's loss to Washington on Saturday, dominated against the Hawks with 14 rebounds, eight assists and three steals.
The Hawks had come into the game on a six-game winning streak but were blown away with Michael Porter Jr adding 26 points for the Nuggets and Christian Braun 17.
And it was Serbian star Jokic's performance that earned extra praise from coach Michael Malone.
"I can't say I'm surprised because I've been spoiled by having the best seat in the house to watch this guy for 10 years, to watch him do it night-in, night-out," Malone said.
"I feel privileged to have the chance to coach him. I never take it for granted."
Elsewhere, the Golden State Warriors fought back from a 12-point deficit early in the third quarter to defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves 114-106.
Stephen Curry had 30 points and eight assists for the Warriors, including a three-point buzzer-beater from near the halfway line at the end of the third that put them 93-90 ahead.
For the San Antonio Spurs, veteran Chris Paul claimed his 12,092th career assist in the second quarter
of his side's 121-116 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans to move ahead of Jason Kidd in the all-time standings.
Paul, who now has 12,099 assists, only trails John Stockton, the Utah Jazz legend having 15,806 in the category.
The Los Angeles Lakers, without LeBron James, who has a foot injury, got the better of the Portland Trail Blazers 107-98.
Anthony Davis led the Lakers scoring with 30 points, with D'Angelo Russell adding 28 and Rui Hachimura 23.
And Joel Embiid marked his return to action by helping the Philadelphia 76ers to a 108-100 victory over the Chicago Bulls.
The 30-year-old Cameroon-born centre had 31 points and 12 rebounds after his seven-game absence because of a knee injury and personal reasons.(BBC Sport)
South Australia is top of the Sheffield Shield after the win
Nikola Jokic is enjoying a superb season with the Nuggets
Hope urges West Indies to be consistent after ending Bangladesh ODI hoodoo
WEST Indies captain, Shai Hope, has urged his team to strive for consistency after they won the opening ODI of their three-match series by five wickets.
The West Indies ended an 11-match losing streak to Bangladesh in the format, chasing down their target of 295 with 14 balls remaining at Werner Park on Sunday.
Bangladesh made a strong target, with Tanzid Hasan (60), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (74) and Mahmudullah (50 not out) all helping to carry them to 294-6 by the end of their innings.
However, after a slow start, the West Indies were indebted to Hope (86) and Sherfane Rutherford (113), who scored his maiden ODI century, as they clinched the win and took a 1-0 lead in the series.
The West Indies at one point had needed 161 off 114 balls, but Hope's partnership with Rutherford, who hit seven fours and eight sixes, turned the tide, and the captain was impressed with the fight they showed to end the losing run.
"[I'm impressed] just [by] the way the guys went out there and showed we wanted to turn around that 11-game streak," he said. "We spoke about that quite a bit.
"[Roston Chase] wasn't getting much turn on the pitch. We had the luxury of Justin Greaves and there was more on offer for pace.
"I think [Rutherford has]
really improved his batting. We ask for consistency, we always speak about it, and he's showing that. He strikes the ball really well and the hard work is paying off in the middle. He was disappointed not to finish the game.
"We ask batters to put their hands up and put up big scores more often. The top three, top four need to put their hands up. We want to continue, not relax, we have to stay as consistent as possible."
Bangladesh themselves were consistent with the bat, getting into a good position even as Romari Shepherd (3-51) tried to break up their play, taking Litton Das for two before stopping Jaker Ali (48) just short of his half-century in the final over.
Miraz admitted he was initially happy with the target they set but was left frustrat-
ed by their struggles to stop the West Indies' chase.
"Yes, we were satisfied. 294 is a very good score on this kind of pitch," he said. "Credit to them, especially Hope and Rutherford. They got a partnership on this wicket.
"It was a tough day for our bowlers. We started really well, especially Nahid [Rana], Taskin [Ahmed] and Tanzim [Hasan], they bowled really well. But after that, we didn't bowl well in the middle overs. We didn't get wickets.
"It can happen, but still, the wicket was looking good, and they played well. We'll learn from so many things. We made some mistakes. We'll focus on how to get better in the next matches. We have two matches left, so I think we have a good chance." (Sportsmax)
Dottin headlines big names for WPL 2025 auction
BENGALURU, India, (CMC) – West Indies’ dynamic allrounder Deandra Dottin is among one of the biggest names who will contest the 2025 Women’s Premier League auction slated to be held here on December 15.
The 33-year-old power hitter is one of 120 players vying to fill 19 spots for the third season of the WPL, which runs from February 21 to March 15, 2025.
Of the 19, five are reserved for overseas players.
Deandra Dottin is among 120 players listed in the 2025 WPL auction Dottin along with England’s Heather Knight, who was released by Royal Challengers Bengaluru, have listed their reserve
‘It’s what we all play cricket for - Rutherford grateful after brilliant maiden ODI hundred
EVERY cricketer dreams of the day they get to score their first international hundred and, for Guyanese left-hander, Sherfane Rutherford, that day was Sunday, December 8, during the first of three One-Day Internationals between the West Indies and Bangladesh at Warner Park in St. Kitts.
The 26-year-old made a career-best 113 off just 80 balls to help the host chase down 295 in 47.4 overs to go 1-0 up in the series, aiming to win their second consecutive ODI series after defeating England 2-1 in November.
Rutherford entered proceedings at the fall of Keacy Carty’s wicket in the 22nd over with the score at 94-3 and formed a pair of crucial partnerships with captain Shai Hope and then Justin Greaves.
He and Hope put on 99 for the fourth wicket before he added a further 95 for the fifth wicket with Greaves before he eventually fell in the 47th over for his maiden international century.
“It’s always a good feeling scoring your first century,” Rutherford said in a post-match interview.
“It’s what we all play cricket for and I’m happy that I did it for my team today,” added Rutherford who hit seven fours and eight sixes.
On the partnership with Hope, who made an 88-ball 86, Rutherford said the plan was always to bat deep and make it up in the back end of
the innings.
“It was a bit tough to start but it was a good wicket. I planned to give myself some time and once I did that, I could always make up in the end. The conversation with the skipper was to just take it deep,” he said.
It wasn’t all smooth sailing for Rutherford, however, as he was struck twice on the helmet, once by speedster Nahid Rana and once by Taskin Ahmed, the latter of which caused a cut on his chin.
Nevertheless, Rutherford said those didn’t deter him; in fact, they helped him to lock in even more.
“There was no difficulty. I just took my eyes off the ball and got hit but it’s a part
of the game,” he said.
“I think it gave me a bit of a boost and helped me to focus more. At the end of the day, I’m willing to take a hit for my team and once I score runs, I’m happy,” he added. Sunday’s innings continues a brilliant start to his ODI career for Rutherford, who now has 443 runs in eight innings at an average of 73.83. Rutherford’s 113 was also his fifth consecutive score of at least 50 in ODIs, joining Gordon Greenidge, Chris Gayle and Shai Hope as the only West Indians to ever achieve that feat. If he extends it to six in today’s second game, he will become only the 13th man to ever do that in ODIs. (Sportsmax)
price at the highest slab of INR 50 lakh, approximately US$60, 000.
Other prominent names include Lizelle Lee, Sneh Rana (released by Gujarat Giants), Poonam Yadav (released by Delhi Capitals), Shubha Satheesh (released by RCB), along with Tejal Hasabnis and Mansi Joshia.
Dottin was part of the successful Melbourne Renegades outfit that recently captured their first-ever Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) title.
She came out of retirement earlier this year and helped the West Indies Women reach the semifinals of the Women’s T20 World Cup. Dottin was subsequently named in the World Cup XI after hitting the most sixes in the tournament.
Skipper Shai Hope and centurion Sherfane Rutherford added 99 runs for the fourth wicket. Hope contributed an 88- ball 86
Sherfane Rutherford’s 113 was also his fifth consecutive score of at least 50 in ODIs, joining Gordon Greenidge, Chris Gayle and Shai Hope as the only West Indians to ever achieve that feat
Deandra Dottin is among 120 players listed in the 2025 WPL auction
Outstanding performers and officials after the presentation on
Gokarn Ramdhani Memorial Badminton Tournament
Akili Haynes and Priyanna Ramdhani capture Men’s, Women’s titles
By Sean Devers
THE Guyana Badminton Association’s (GCA) Gokarn Ramdhani Memorial Badminton Tournament Finals was held Sunday evening at the National Gymnasium.
The three-day tournament was the final one in a successful year for Guyana’s Badminton players.
There were many notable improvements, especially by the juniors.
On Saturday night the quarter-finals and semi-finals were held and the following matches were played:
In the Women’s Singles Finals Sunday night, Priyanna Ramdhani beat Mishka Beharry 21-12, 21-7 while in the Men’s Singles Finals, Akili Haynes defeated Tyrese Jeffrey 25-23, 21-9
Finals - Day 3 Matches – Sunday, December 8, 2024
Under 19 Mixed Doubles Finals - Frank Waddell/Mishka Beharry vs. Joanathan Debidin vs. Leshaunte Berkley 21-16, 20-22, 21-18
Under 17 Girls Doubles Finals – Menikshi Jaikisson/Gabrielle Felix vs. Nevaeh Eastman/Malia Haley 21-7, 21-14
Under 15 Boys Doubles Finals – Egan Bulkan/Ethan Bulkan vs. Mohamed Farouk/ Joel Rambirche 21-10, 21-10
Under 17 Boys Doubles SF – Ruel Rambiriche/Gabriel Felix vs. Christopher Jordan/ Ronit Gulchand 21-11, 14-21, 21-18
Under 13 Mixed Doubles Finals – Joel Rambirche/Anjaneysa Godette vs. Christopher Harrison/Anyha Hassan 21-2, 21-2
Under 17 Mixed Doubles Finals – Gabriel Felix/Mishka Beharry vs. Ruel Rambriche/ Gabrielle Felix 21-16, 21-19
Men’s Singles Finals – Akili Haynes vs. Tyrese Jeffrey 25-23, 21-9
Under 19 Boys Doubles Finals – Frank Waddell/Joanathan Debidin vs. Ruel Rambirche/Vishal Gopaul 21-14, 21-17
Under 19 Girls Doubles Finals – Mishka Beharry/Leshaunte Berkley vs. Neveah Eastman/Malia Haley 21-5, 21-16
Women’s Singles Finals – Priyanna Ramdhani vs. Mishka Beharry 21-12, 21-7
Under 17 Boys Doubles Finals – Ruel Rambiriche/Gabriel Felix vs. Egan Bulkan/ Ethan Bulkan 21-12,21-14
The Winners of the categories are:
UNDER 13 – MIXED DOUBLES
2nd Christopher Harrison & Anyha Hassan
1st Joel Rambirche & Anjaneysa Godette
UNDER 15 – BOY’S DOUBLES
3RD Nathan Mohalall & Anand Persaud
2nd Mohamed Farouk & Joel Rambiriche
1st Ethan Bulkan & Ethan Bulkan
UNDER 17 – BOY’S DOUBLES
3RD Nikolas Pollard & Avinash Ramnarine
3rd Christopher Jordan & Ronit Gulchand
2nd Egan Bulkan & Ethan Bulkan
1st Ruel Rambiriche & Gabriel Felix
UNDER 17 – GIRL’S DOUBLES
2nd Nevaeh Eastman & Malia Haley
1st Menikshi Jaikisson & Gabrielle Felix
UNDER 17 – MIXED DOUBLES
3RD NICOLAS Pollard & Harshini Mu -
ralidharan
3rd Ronit Gulchand & Menikshi Jaikissoon
2nd Ruel Rambiriche & Gabrielle Felix
1st Gabriel Felix & Mishka Beharry
UNDER 19 – BOY’S DOUBLES
3rd Gabriel Felix & Jonathan Robinson
3rd Percival Chester & Ronit Gulchand
2nd Vishal Gopaul & Ruel Rambiriche
1st Frank Waddell & Joanathan Debidin
UNDER 19 – GIRL’S DOUBLES
3rd Ashley Forde & Harshini Muralidharan
2nd Nevaeh Eastman & Malia Haley
1st Mishak Beharry & Leshaunte Berkley
UNDER 19 – MIXED DOUBLES
3rd Vishal Gopaul & Menikshi Jaikisson
3rd Haresh Persaud & Malia Haley
2nd Joanathan Debidin & Leshaunte Berkley
1st Frank Waddell & Mishka Beharry
WOMEN’S SINGLES
3rd Asiyah Eastman
3rd Menikshi Jaikisson
2nd Mishka Beharry
1st Priyanna Ramdhani
MEN SINGLES
3rd Nkosi Beaton
3rd Avinash Odit
2nd Tyrese Jeffrey
1st Akili Haynes
The presentation followed the finals and the medals and cash prizes were presented by Kareem Munroe of Massy Distribution (Blue Water), Ayanna Watson of SOL Guyana and Chet Bowling of Amaila Car Rentals.
Mishka Beharry (right) lost to Priyanna Ramdhani in the Women’s Singles final
Akili Haynes (left) beat Tyrese Jeffrey in the Men’s final