$100k cash grant: Registration for NIS pensioners set to start Monday
THE government on Friday announced that National Insurance Scheme (NIS) pensioners across the country can now register to receive the one-time cash grant of $100,000.
The registration process will take place from December 2 to December 6, 2024 at NIS offices nationwide. The government has urged all pensioners to ensure they register within this period to receive the financial assistance.
Registration will open Monday through Thursday from 07:30hrs to 16:30hrs,
with extended hours on Friday from 07:30hrs to 15:30hrs.
In Region One (Barima-Waini), pensioners can visit the Mabaruma Compound in the North West District, while in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), the office at Anna Regina, on the Essequibo Coast, will be open.
Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) has multiple locations: Lot 11 Public Road, Klien Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara (WBD), and Leonora, on the West Coast Demerara (WCD).
In Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), pensioners can register at offices located on Brickdam and Winter Place, Georgetown; Camp and Bent Streets, Georgetown; First Street, Melanie Damishania, East Coast Demerara (ECD); and Lot 2, Seskendren, in Mahaicony, ECD.
Offices that are situated in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) at Fort Wellington, West Coast Berbice, and multiple locations in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), include 14B Free Yard, Port Mourant; Lot 8 Springlands, Corriverton; and
01-106 Vryman’s Erven, New Amsterdam. Additionally, registration is available in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) at Triangle Street, Bartica; in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) at the Regional Democratic Council; and in Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) at 50-51 David Rose Avenue, Mackenzie, Linden.
The government has
announced that additional registration locations for pensioners will be made available shortly.
To complete the registration, pensioners must present a valid national identification card or passport.
For further assistance or more information, pensioners can call telephone numbers: 750-0620, 750-0622, or 750-0554. Every Guyanese age
18 and older are eligible for the $100,000 cash-grant initiative, which was announced by President Dr. Irfaan Ali on October 16, 2024. This one-time grant is part of a series of measures being taken by the government to improve the quality of life of every qualified Guyanese, placing over $60 billion into their pockets.
More than $10B invested in healthcare in Region 8 under PPP/C gov’t
- President Ali announces at sod-turning for $6B Kato Hospital
By Feona Morrison
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has revealed that his government has invested over $10 billion in healthcare infrastructure and services for Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) since taking office in 2020.
The announcement came during Friday’s sod-turning ceremony for the new modern Kato Hospital, a flagship project aimed at transforming healthcare access in the hinterland.
The healthcare facility is being constructed at a cost of nearly $6 billion, with completion expected within 24 months.
Addressing a packed audience of residents, village leaders, and regional officials, President Ali emphasised that the initiative reflects his government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing healthcare access and delivery in Guyana’s hinterland regions.
The Guyanese leader revealed that the new healthcare facility will span over 57,000 square feet which is 57 times larger than the existing Mahdia Hospital.
It will feature 75 beds, including 45 designated for inpatients, and a $200 million modern housing facility for doctors and nurses. Unlike traditional open wards, this hospital will have wards with a maximum of five patients, each equipped with private washrooms and dedicated support systems.
According to him, the fa-
care unit and an intensive care unit.
President Ali pointed out that this single hospital represents a greater investment in healthcare for Region Eight than what was spent by the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government in the region during their five-year tenure in office.
continues to be that government that delivers to you every single day. Every single thing we have promised in the manifesto, we have delivered. And we are delivering more than what we have promised in the manifesto,” he added.
According to Dr Anthony, this development has allowed residents to save both money and time that would otherwise be spent travelling to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).
He said the facility can now perform ultrasounds and has an upgraded laboratory.
"Before, we had to send samples to Georgetown for testing, and they would run the tests and send back the results to the doctors in the region. And of course that took a lot of time," he explained.
Meanwhile, Minister of
Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, urged citizens to support the government's ambitious development agenda.
“If we all unite towards providing the contribution to our country’s development, Guyana will not only be the fastest growing economy… it will be the country that has transformed and transitioned the fastest as it relates to a modern beautiful country.”
Additionally, she pointed out that prioritising Guyana's first peoples has been a defining feature of the PPP/C government.
To support the hospital, the president announced that individuals in the region with five Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects are being enrolled in the nursing programme and the Community Health Worker programme.
“The Kato Hospital will provide 24-hour high-quality service and care. We are not just
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony
cility will include 100 per cent first-grade hospital beds (not cots), an operating theatre for procedures such as cataract surgeries and Caesarean section (C-section), and a modern emergency room with a dedicated procedure room for minor surgeries.
Additional services will include diagnostic imaging such as X-rays and CT scans, a laboratory, outpatient department, pharmacy, a digital health control room, a dialysis centre, a modern maternity unit, pediatric services, a neonatal intensive
Under the APNU+AFC government, he said, $1.4 billion was spent, whereas the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government has invested over $10 billion, marking a 700 per cent increase in investment.
Emphasising the government’s commitment, he stated, "We care, and we will not stop until every citizen, every community has equal access to the same standard of service. You deserve the same standard of service like anyone else across the country."
“Healthcare is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right,” Dr Ali declared.
“This region is exploding with development, and we want all of you to be a part of this. The People’s Progressive Party
healthcare landscape of the region. Dr. Anthony highlighted the failure of the APNU+AFC government to upgrade the region’s healthcare system, stating, “Not long ago, in 2019, when we look back at what was available for healthcare here, it was not much. I recall the hospital in Mahdia, while they were calling it a hospital, we were not able to do any surgeries. I’m not sure how we say it is a hospital—it was only doing primary healthcare services, basically outpatient clinics. A few patients were admitted, but nothing serious could be done for them.”
Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai
turning the sod; we are turning the page of a new chapter in the story of Kato and people of Region Eight. This hospital symbolises progress, equality, and hope. It shows what is possible with a genuine caring government, with an administration that is built on policies that are people-centred.”
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, stated that the sod-turning marked a historic moment, not only for Region Eight but for all of Guyana.
He emphasised that it signifies a transformation in the
Fast forward to 2020, and for the first time in the history of the region, he said his government was able to establish an operating theatre at the Mahdia Hospital.
With the addition of the operating theatre and the necessary equipment, the minister explained that the hospital gained the capacity to perform surgeries.
Over the past year, it successfully carried out 46 surgeries for people living in Mahdia and the surrounding communities.
This is what the Kato Hospital is expected to look like when construction works have been completed
President Ali delivers remarks at the sod-turning ceremony
AFC ‘rep’ now calls for more climate financing after trying to block it
INDIGENOUS
representative of the Alliance For Change (AFC) and former member of the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) Laura George is now calling for more access to climate financing for Amerindian communities, after failed attempts by her party and the Association to block that same funding.
Over the last two years, the APA has made several failed attempts to get the Architecture for REDD+ Transaction (ART) Secretariat to sus-
pend the issuance of carbon credits to Guyana. George, who was a senior member of the APA, was part of those efforts until she resigned earlier this year to join the AFC.
Those carbon credits, the sale of which the APA attempted to block, are what Guyana has been able to sell to Norway and Hess Corporation for close to US$1 billion. Of this amount, 15 per cent goes directly to Amerindian communities for development projects, which are approved by the com-
munities themselves.
This year, the government decided to allocate a whopping 26.5 per cent instead of 15 per cent of the earnings, amounting to US$23.2 million (or G$4.7 billion) to more than 240 Amerindian communities.
However, no mention was made on Friday by George about the repeated attempts to block that funding by the APA over the last few years. Instead, she used the AFC’s weekly press conference to call for more funds to be made available to Amerindian communities.
“Climate change is happening, so there is drought. Communities should not have to wait for the government to say, annually, this is your
allocation from carbon credits; it should go into a fund that communities can access all the time,” George said.
General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has repeatedly underscored the importance of climate financing, and the important role it can play in transforming the lives of the Amerindian people and developing their communities.
Previously, the PPP General Secretary spoke extensively on the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 and the government’s commitment to advancing Amerindian development.
“We came up with a formula approved by the
NTC, which is the elected body of a gathering of all the elected bodies, the officials, the toshaos, senior councillors, etc. across the whole country,” he explained.
The number of villages were agreed upon, and it was also decided that the amount dispersed to each will depend on the population size.
In response to the APA’s criticisms about the process and the efforts being made by government to improve the lives of Amerindians through the sale of carbon credits, Dr. Jagdeo had pointed out that the body had failed to halt the development.
“What they [APA] were trying to block is money going to 242 vil-
lages to assist there. So, they believe that they’re the monopoly voice. We must not consult with the Toshaos that are all elected leaders; we must consult with the APA. We must get their permission…,” he’d said at the time.
“That is what we are talking about; monopoly behaviour. So, should we not fight that? That is what I said [at] our Congress; we will fight it. They never had a mandate from the Amerindian people; they never had a mandate from the electorate, but they want to block any initiative for the development of Amerindians,” the PPP General Secretary had firmly stated.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines to accelerate climate action with new US$3M GCF Project
THE Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC), in collaboration with the Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (GoSVG), has launched a US$3 million project to fasttrack climate action.
The launch took place on November 26, 2024, in the presence of key national stakeholders from sectors such as agriculture, tourism, fisheries, forestry, economic development, environment conservation, met services and others.
Addressing the event was Mr. Earl Green, Project Manager at the CCCCC who emphasised the importance of the project towards strengthening SVG’s capacity to implement actions that improve climate adaptation.
Mr. Green further acknowledged that, despite the myriad of ongoing activities and the constant pressures from recurring climate events, the success of the project hinges critically on active national participation. “It is expected that this will allow SVG to implement its Long-Term Readiness Action Plan to enhance its national capacity to effectively respond and address the impacts of climate change in a strategic, consultative, participatory, and comprehensive manner with national stakeholders to ensure country buy-in and country ownership”, he articulated.
The project is funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and will span a 3-year period, from 2024 - 2027.
Ms. Giselle Myers, Senior Economist in the
Ministry of Economic Development, explained that SVG has been receiving financial support from the GCF through the CCCCC since 2017.
The new project in-
mate impacts, which affect every sector. These events, she said, “depict clearly the urgency for St Vincent and the Grenadines to mobilise climate financing that
devastation”.
She urged stakeholders of their role in delivering this readiness Project, the 6th of its kind.
While thanking Mr
the CCCCC as a delivery partner.”
The CCCCC, along with the Economic Planning Division of the Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning, and
creases the total economic value of GCF climate-related contributions to US$8 million.
"Support to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) continues towards its path of increasing climate resiliency.
The full commitment of the NDA and key stakeholders play crucial roles in the execution of the activities and also to strengthen policies for effective delivery of the programme and or projects,” she stated.
Reflecting on the numerous natural disasters that have battered Saint Vincent and the Grenadines over the past decade, Myers lamented the relentless and pervasive nature of cli-
will support projects to position the country to strengthen adaptation and mitigation efforts and decrease potential
Ahnivar Peralta, Project Development Specialist at the CCCCC, she said:
“We are pleased to once again collaborate with
Information Technology, will execute the project on behalf of the people and government of St Vincent and the Grenadines. By the project’s conclusion, the institutional, technical and climate finance needs of the Member State are expected to be strengthened, ensuring a more resilient and sustainable future. (CCCCC)
Push for food security
GUYANA is on an ambitious journey to strengthen its agricultural sector, reduce its high food-import bill, and ensure all Guyanese have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food.
The government’s commitment to promoting the cultivation of high-valued and traditional crops, in addition to the establishment of model hydroponics farms and shade houses, marks a pivotal step towards enhancing food security, not only for Guyana, but for the entire Region.
For decades, Guyana has faced the challenge of a significant food-import bill. The
country has relied heavily on the importation of food items to meet the dietary needs of its population.
This over-reliance on foreign markets not only threatened the country’s food security, but also drained valuable foreign-exchange reserves.
In a move to address this issue, the current PPP/C government has prioritised the cultivation of high-value and traditional crops as a means of increasing domestic food production.
Crops such as exotic fruits, spices, and specialty vegetables have the potential to generate substantial revenues in both domestic and
international markets.
This approach not only helps to reduce the food-import bill, but also boosts the incomes of local farmers, and contributes to the diversification of the agricultural sector.
One of the key initiatives in this endeavour is the establishment of the model hydroponics farm at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).
Hydroponics, a soil-less farming technique, offers a sustainable and efficient way of growing crops in controlled environments.
By adopting hydroponics on a larger scale, Guyana can secure a consistent supply of high-value crops, regardless
of external factors. Moreover, hydroponics allows for year-round cultivation, thereby reducing the nation’s vulnerability to seasonal fluctuations in food production.
Like hydroponics, shade houses are part of an innovative approach that marks a substantial shift towards modernising agriculture. This alternative farming method ensures food security, and promotes sustainable farming practices.
By creating controlled growing environments, and protecting crops from harsh weather conditions and pests, shade houses help to boost productivity and crop quality.
This initiative, which is being pushed by the Ministry of Agriculture and its subject minister, has yielded positive results, and has attracted growing interest.
Recently, in Region Six, farmers proudly showed off their produce, noting how much this farming technique has changed their lives.
Aside from improving their livelihood, the farmers are now empowered to further pursue their agricultural dreams, and improve their livelihoods.
The advantages of using these sustainable, environmentally-friendly farming methods are numerous, especially in a country such
as Guyana, where access to arable land is limited, and traditional farming methods are subject to unpredictable weather patterns and climate change.
The strides being made in promoting hydroponics and shade houses exemplify the government’s commitment to transforming Guyana’s agricultural landscape. Such farming methods not only enhance food security and economic resilience, but also position Guyana as a leader in innovative and sustainable agricultural practices in the region
Donald Trump, the deep state and maybe a new world
WHATEVER one thinks of Donald Trump, he remains a phenomenon and we will not see another like him for generations to come. I do not share and accept many of the political perspectives of Mr. Trump, but what I find disdainful about those who criticise him is that they pick on his faults but never seem to give him credit for innovative and unique way of thinking about America’s role in the world. And that is of seminal importance because when America sneezes the world catches a cold.
The entire media landscape, the Wall Street world, the entrenched libel establishment (including the journal, “Foreign Affairs”), the military industrial complex and corporate America never ever touch on Mr. Trump’s criticism of American involvement in endless wars and what purpose these wars serve the US. They never touch on Mr. Trump’s criticism of a congenital unprofessionalism in American journalism. They never touch on what Mr. Trump says he discovered when he became
president – the deep state that runs America.
Why do they avoid these aspects of Mr. Trump’s vast output? Because he threatens their interests and his presidency could remove the vast, invincible power of these arms of American society. One example of the deep state should suffice. There are thousands of pages of the inquiry into the assassination of President John Kennedy that successive president since 1964 have refused to release.
After almost 60 years, these presidents have kept those documents away from the American people. Why? What is there to hide? Mr. Trump’s discovery of the deep state has led him to the decision that he would declassify the remaining pages and Mr. Kennedy’s nephew, Robert Kennedy Jr. has asked Mr. Trump to release the stuff so he could learn more about the persons behind his uncle’s assassination.
Enter the former German chancellor, Angela Merkel. In her recently published autobiography, Ms. Merkel noted that she saw Trump as a man who likened politics to real
estate business. Ms. Merkel saw that as a huge fault in Trump but she is beyond capacity to understand that trait in Trump in the context of what America does in the world and how that undermines the ontology of the United States.
How is the real estate approach to politics a positive for Trump? Mr. Trump has been painted as an unhinged person by the American media. But there are things Mr. Trump comprehends about the US that the media and the deep state conveniently ignore. The most simplified and rudimentary lesson in politics is that empire weakens a country because that is where the money goes and nothing is left to spend on anything else.
The US’s expenditure on its armed forces combined that of the entire world. And this is happening even after the collapse of the NonAligned Movement and the USSR. The US has over 255 military bases around the world and has just opened another in Poland. The CIA, foreign espionage arm of the US government, is allocated
a budget of more than 100 billion.
Mr. Trump with his real estate approach knows that you invest money to buy assets and those assets grow and make you wealthier but the US Empire is not making the US wealthier. On the contrary, US spending on wars and military engagements have killed the American dream. His slogan of Make America Great Again is about making the US wealthy again so America can have the American dream again.
Mr. Trump would not frown on the idea of the US being the controller of the world but that status must not be at the expense of America
being poor. This is in sharp contrast to the entire Democratic Party. Leading the school of fighting wars is Mrs. Hilary Clinton, her husband Bill Clinton, President Biden, Kamala Harris among others, are all supporters of an expanded war in Ukraine.
Mr. Trump is no fool. Mr. Trump knows the Europeans want to defeat Russia because of historical envy and race feelings they want the US to do the job for them. This is one of the strong beliefs of Mr. Trump. He thinks Europe uses the US for their own military purposes.
Mr. Trump if he remains consistent may save the world from the Third World War.
The European state system was born out of war. Europe sees war as a natural outcome in the international system. Europe wants a war with Russia and the want the US to lead it. Mr. Biden is prepared to play the European game because that is the thinking of the Democratic Party. But not Trump. The Europeans are in for a rude awakening after January 2025.
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.
Region Nine CSOs participating in shade house technology training
COMMUNITY Service Officers (CSOs) in Region Nine are participating in a two-day shade house technology training to boost agricultural production in the region.
The CSOs are representing areas such as Deep South Rupununi, South Central Rupununi, the South Pakaraimas, Central Pakaraima, and North Pakaraima.
This training is being hosted by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).
The sessions, which began on Friday, will in-
clude both practical and theoretical components.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, Ryan Toolsiram stated that the ministry has been focusing primarily on capacity building and the entrepreneurial development of CSOs.
He made these remarks during the opening ceremony of the training at the Ariwa Village Benab in St. Ignatius.
The training is being conducted through the Youth Entrepreneurial and Apprenticeship Programme (YEAP), which was conceptualised by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali to engage
youths in the country’s agricultural production.
The aim of the programme is to enhance the management skills and agricultural capacity of the CSOs.
“So, all the shade houses that we are setting up in your community, we expect you to manage them upon completion of this training. It will help you to make money for yourself, in addition to the stipend that we are paying you,” the permanent secretary stated.
To support this venture, the ministry is in the process of establishing 23 shade houses.
The permanent secretary committed to en-
suring market is secured once production begins, through the school dormitories and the hot
meal programme.
To add to the entrepreneurial capabilities of the CSOs, Toolsiram disclosed that in 2025, the ministry will be allocating funds to support business ventures for the CSOs.
“We will be setting up four mechanical workshops in Region Nine. These workshops will be as modern as those in Georgetown, and we intend for the workshops to be managed by CSOs. You will use this workshop as a business, so that you can generate funds for yourself,” Toolsiram explained to the CSOs.
Also present was Regional Chairman, Brian Allicock, who emphasised the importance of the region contributing to the country’s food security goal.
“The main thing is food security, and our government is concentrating on that specific practice in this region. The president told us that we must be the leading region to ensure that food security is achieved,” Allicock said Meanwhile, NAREI’s Hinterland Coordinator, Aaron Ramroop stated that the agriculture ministry is committed to rolling out training programmes in far-flung areas in the region to promote modern-day farming.
The government has been actively promoting agricultural practices to ensure the country’s sustainability, and to reduce CARICOM’s food security bill by 25% by 2025. (DPI)
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs Ryan Toolsiram
The CSOs participating in the training programme
Gov’t exploring solutions to regularise Tuschen/ Vergenoegen Sideline Dam squatting area
– occupational survey to be done at Parika Façade Informal
THE government, through the Ministry of Housing and Water, is exploring various solutions to regularise the informal settlement at the Vergenoegen Sideline Dam in Region Three, where over 40 individuals are squatting.
This assurance was given by Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal on Friday, during a site visit to the area, where he was joined by the Director of the Community Development Department at the CHPA Gladwin Charles; Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI)’s Regional Manager Aggrey Anderson; and other technical officers from the ministry.
Minister Croal underlined that the official boundary is ap -
proximately in the middle of the area where the residents are occupying, emphasising that the ministry has already examined the possibility of regularisation for the area.
“We will proceed with regularization, once I can clarify the legal process [for the area],” Minister Croal promised.
Based on the survey, Minister Croal pointed out that the last eight houses at the end will not be regularised due to their sizes.
However, he explained that the ministry may potentially consider processing two titles; one from the Vergenoegen end and the other from the Tuschen end, which would indicate the boundary’s location.
Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal and a technical team from the ministry inspect the informal settlement at the Vergenoegen Sea Dam
Minister Croal further stated that an additional option includes annexing the portion of land.
He assured several residents that a follow-up engagement with them will be undertaken next week by a team from the Central Housing and Planning Authority.
Settlement
Meanwhile, Minister Croal also spearheaded a site visit to the Parika Façade Informal Settlement, where nearly 50 lots are being occupied.
The reserve area has been inhabited by some of the residents for nearly 20 years.
He explained that an updated occupational survey will be done, due to the recent construction works there.
Minister Croal also examined the informal settlement at the Vergenoegen Sea Dam, where five households are residing.
These families have been residing in this area for between 27 to 32 years.
He reiterated that the ministry has a policy that prohibits regularisation of individuals who reside within a specific distance within the “no-zone” area for sea defences.
He elaborated, “We have to discuss this with sea defence, and conduct some measurements and plans as to where they fall. And then we will explore if they can be further regularized, or if we will have to relocate them.”
The information will be used to compile a report, and based on that, Minister Croal will further engage the relevant sub-agencies to expedite this matter. President Ali had set a deadline of mid-December for the resolution of this issue.
“Those persons who are on the reserve are also in front of a transported land area… From the occupational survey, we have to look at the land behind which is the transported land to see how we can incorporate the possibility of regularising,” Minister Croal stated.
The minister pointed out that the decision would be informed based on the occupational survey.
“There are some persons who are on the transported land who have fenced off in front of the reserve. There is a mixture of occupancy; we will do the groundwork and make some policy decisions,” he said.
Upon completion, the ministry will engage the residents about the next steps.
About 43 structures on the reserve were identified during an occupational study that was conducted three years ago.
These visits by Minister Croal fulfill part of several commitments made to the residents by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali during a walkabout in the region on Tuesday. (DPI)
New $239.8M magistrate’s court, living quarters commissioned at Port Kaituma
A NEW $239.8 million magistrate’s court and living quarters was commissioned at Port Kaituma, Region One.
This forms part of the government’s continued effort to support and improve the administration of Justice in Guyana.
The unveiling and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday was led by Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC, and Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill.
This landmark facility, the first of its kind in the area, will serve approximately 800 residents of Port Kaituma, and a broader population of 18,000 across the region.
It replaces the arrangement where court sessions were held in Matthews Ridge, and, most recently, at the police station.
This development addresses longstanding challenges, including the burden of travel for legal services, which often strained resources, posing barriers for those who needed justice most.
The court serves as a statement that justice should be close to home by ensuring access for all.
Minister Nandlall, during his address reiterated the government’s commitment to the Rule of Law and the constitutional rights of every Guyanese, regardless of their geological location.
Underscoring the importance of this achievement in improving the judicial infrastructure, he noted that years ago, such a facility would have been deemed impossible.
Ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Port Kaituma Magistrate’s Court
“Today you are here to see it as a reality and that is our commitment as a government to work with every sector of our country and work in every sector of our country to ensure that the highest quality of services is delivered to the people or country where so ever, they are located,” the AG stated.
Further demonstrating the importance of the justice system, the minister said a people without justice will never advance, as he highlighted the clear connection between a functional justice system and the social and economic well-being of a nation.
The building includes modern amenities, a spacious courtroom, and three living quarters for the magistrate, court clerk, and staff.
It will also host services for domestic violence cases, probation, and social work, further demonstrating the judi-
ciary’s responsiveness to public needs.
Meanwhile, Minister of Public Works
Bishop Juan Edghill noted that the court will reduce bottlenecks in the judicial system,
leading to greater efficiency.
“The opening of this Magistrate Court marks
a meaningful fulfilment of a promise made to the people within this catchment area. It represents a critical expansion within the Judicial network of Guyana by addressing the growing needs of our citizens,” the minister stated.
Similar facilities are set to be opened in Mabaruma and Mahdia shortly to ensure the judiciary’s mission remains to uphold the rule of law and provide fair, transparent, and efficient access to justice is being executed, while fostering public trust and confidence.
Meanwhile, presentations were made by Vice-Chairperson Anasha Peters, and the Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Hon. Mme. Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards. (DPI)
GBTI introduces suite of loan products tailored for small businesses
- with new GROW initiative; expands operations to Mon Repos
THE Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) has taken a significant step towards supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the launch of its GROW initiative and the opening of a new branch in Mon Repos.
These moves were lauded by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh during the launch of the initiative, which highlights the bank's commitment to economic growth and financial inclusion in Guyana.
The GROW initiative is set to revolutionise SME financing in the country by offering a suite of tailored loan products designed to address the unique challenges faced by small and medium businesses.
This programme will
be available across all GBTI branches, making it accessible to entrepreneurs throughout Guyana. According to the Senior Finance Minister, the opening of GBTI's new branch in Mon Repos demonstrates the bank's recognition of the significant business opportunities in the area and
surrounding communities on the East Coast of Demerara.
This expansion is expected to stimulate economic activity, and provide better access to banking services for local residents and businesses.
During the launch event, the Ministry also called on the broader
banking sector to prioritise improving access to credit. This includes exploring innovative collateral types, and working towards bringing more individuals into the formal banking system. These efforts are seen as crucial to fostering economic growth and financial inclusion in Guyana.
The GROW initiative is being hailed as a timely and important response to the credit access challenges faced by SMEs.
By listening to its customers and recognising the underserved market segment, GBTI aims to tap into new opportunities while providing much-needed financial
support to the SME sector. This strategic move by GBTI aligns with the government's broader economic development goals, potentially catalyzing job creation, innovation, and economic diversification through enhanced support for small and medium-sized businesses.
GBTI now has a branch at Mon Repos, where residents of the area and surrounding communities can access a suite of loan products that are tailored for small businesses (Photos: Ashni Singh/Facebook)
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service Dr. Ashni Singh
Guyana sets benchmark for climate transparency with pioneering report submission
GUYANA has made a significant stride in climate action by being the first country in the Caribbean to submit its final transparency report, positioning it as a regional leader in climate accountability.
This is according to Global Ambassador for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Chief Executive Officer for the Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator (CCSA) Ms. Racquel Moses, who, at a Friday’s post-COP29 news conference commended Guyana for its pioneering efforts.
The report, a critical component of the global ‘Together for Transparency’ initiative, reflects Guyana’s commitment to transparency in its climate
actions, ensuring that the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are not only ambitious but also measurable and accountable.
Moses, a leading voice on climate policy, stressed the importance of these transparency efforts for gaining access to climate finance, and demonstrating the country’s genuine climate needs.
“There were over 42 events on the together for transparency initiative, and that helps to prepare nationally determined contributions, and execute them with integrity to ensure that there is clarity from our region.
“Only Guyana has submitted their first final transparency report; we hope the others follow,” Moses said, adding:
“This underscores the importance of capacity building to ensure that other Caribbean countries can meet their reporting commitments, enabling better access to climate finance and a clearer demonstration of our region's needs.”
The ‘Together for Transparency’ initiative, which saw over 42 events focused on enhancing climate accountability, plays a crucial role in helping countries prepare and execute their NDCs.
For Guyana, it’s a step towards greater integration into the global climate finance system, allowing for clearer demonstration of the country’s vulnerabilities and needs.
With climate finance being one of the critical drivers of effective
climate action, Moses emphasised that for Caribbean nations to fully access these resources, they must be able to demonstrate their climate actions clearly and reliably.
Capacity building, she added, is key to ensuring that countries like Guyana can continue to meet their reporting commitments.
According to Moses, Guyana’s achievement shows that with the right support and resources, smaller nations can lead on global issues like climate transparency.
She stressed that it is vital that other Caribbean nations follow Guyana’s lead, by strengthening the region’s ability to meet its climate goals, and securing the financial support needed for adaptation and mitigation efforts.
UNFCCC Global Ambassador and CCSA Chief Executive Officer Ms. Racquel Moses
COP29 sets carbon market framework, but concerns rise over quality and equity
- Guyana highlights need for safeguards to ensure high-quality carbon credits,
AFTER nearly a decade, world leaders during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) agreed on the final building blocks to set out how carbon markets will operate.
Though a notable achievement, there are still concerns about how forested countries like Guyana will navigate the market.
“Safeguards are crucial to prevent low-quality carbon credits from entering the market. If low-quality products flood the market, it could dilute the quality, and lead to a collapse in prices,” Guyana’s Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday argued, as he pointed out the need for equity and certification in maintaining the markets standards.
Dr. Jagdeo, while responding to questions posed to him by the Guyana Chronicle at his weekly news conference stated that even though the government here is ‘pleased’ that there was some progress, the agreements emerging out of the Conference of Parties do not live up to the goal of keeping the world on a sustainable
trajectory.
“We are disappointed in that regard,” he said, noting that Guyana will show its full support for market developments that promote financing for forest and biodiversity credits.
“For Guyana, anything that supports market development, particularly in forests and biodiversity credits, is something we support. Certification is key to maintaining high-quality forest carbon. We hope credible organisations will certify carbon before it enters the market. Without proper certification, any country could introduce substandard products, undermining the market. In our case, we use the ART-TREES certification process, which is robust, and ensures our carbon is of the highest quality,” he said.
Guyana has established its own unique mechanism, through the creation of one of the first Low-Carbon Development Strategies in the world, which enabled it to enter a voluntary market for the sale of carbon credits.
The Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART)
UNFCCC Global Ambassador and CCSA Chief Executive Officer Racquel Moses
had issued 7.14 million vintage carbon credits to Guyana, marking a ground-breaking achievement in the global fight against climate change.
Simultaneously, the Government of Guyana had announced the world’s first Paris Agreement corresponding adjustment, a significant step reported to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
These developments fulfilled requirements to label the credits as the world’s first
eligible for use by airlines towards their targets in the 20242026 phase of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)’s global emission reduction programme, CORSIA.
The issuance by ART, known as TREES credits, recognises Guyana’s efforts at successfully reducing emissions from forest loss and degradation, while maintaining one of the world’s most intact tropical forests through jurisdictional REDD+ initiatives.
Meanwhile, Global Ambas-
“We have to be vigilant; we have to be vigilant on the safeguards that are required to ensure that the carbon credits that are entering the market are quality credits,” Ms. Moses said.
She reiterated the need for vigilance to ensure high-quality carbon credits enter the market, stressing the importance of proving additionality, and advocating for fair pricing. She called for proactive engagement in global carbon exchanges to monitor and influence the market.
sador for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Chief Executive Officer for the Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator (CCSA), Racquel Moses, during media engagement on Friday highlighted the inequity in the assessment of carbon credits, where most assessors are from the global north, which also produces much of the carbon.
She is advocating for a global south entity funded by the north to build capacity in assessing carbon credits fairly.
“…fair pricing goes hand-in-hand with the quality of the credits; I would advocate for us looking at the opportunities that exist, [for] us to work together to create an entity in the global south funded by the global north to build our capacity in assessing these carbon credits and ensuring that there is fairness in how they are determined, and that there's increasing rigor, but that that rigor is not overly onerous, so that it makes it more difficult for us to sell our carbon credits.”
Woman found not guilty in attempted murder case
DENISE Hilliman was acquitted on Wednesday after a jury at the Demerara High Court returned a unanimous not-guilty verdict in her trial for attempted murder and felonious wounding.
The decision, handed down before Justice Damone Younge, concluded the legal proceedings stemming from a violent altercation that took place in July 2021.
The charges against Hilliman alleged that on July 11, 2021, she intentionally sought to murder her neighbour, Otoley Whyte, during a violent confrontation at Lamaha Reserve, Georgetown.
In addition to the attempted murder charge, the jury was also tasked with considering a lesser charge of felonious wounding.
The incident occurred in the midst of a heated dispute between the families of the two women.
According to reports, the altercation began when Quincy Whyte, Otoley’s brother, became involved in a gambling-related disagreement with Hilliman’s sons.
Whyte intervened, attempting to diffuse the tension, but the situation escalated further when Hilliman entered the fray, resulting in a verbal exchange
between her and Otoley.
The confrontation intensified when Hilliman allegedly armed her sons with a cutlass and a knife, while she herself wielded a knife.
According to Whyte, she overheard Hilliman instructing a male companion to “chop” her, though the order was not carried out. At this point, one of Hilliman’s sons allegedly discharged a gun into the air, though the weapon malfunctioned.
As chaos erupted, Whyte attempted to separate the conflicting parties but was reportedly stabbed by Hilliman with a pitchfork in the side.
Despite the seriousness of the injury, Whyte initially saw little bleeding but later lost consciousness and was rushed to surgery after it was discovered that she had suffered a life-threatening chest wound
Medical evidence presented in court confirmed the severity of the injury.
After deliberation, the jury acquitted Hilliman, delivering not-guilty verdicts for both the attempted murder and felonious wounding charges.
Hilliman’s defence was led by Attorney Konyo Sandiford, while Prosecutors Abiola Lowe and Yonika Rowland represented the State.
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
Guyana remains committed to eliminating HIV/AIDS
GUYANA, through the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS), has been rolling out programmes and initiatives aimed at eliminating HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
As efforts continue, Guyana will join the rest of the world in observing World AIDS Day 2024 on December 1, and has planned several activities for the occasion, based on the theme, “Take the rights path”.
The NAPS will be hosting a conference on HIV/AIDS for healthcare workers today at the Police Training Centre. Medical services will also be available for healthcare workers, and there will be testing services for members of the Joint Services. The Flame and Ribbon is also among the list of activities.
The final activity will be the World AIDS Day Walk tomorrow in partnership with the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA).
NAPS Programme Manager Dr. Tariq Jagnarine, in a recent edition of “Health Matters” hosted by the Ministry of Health, stated that one of the organisation’s paramount and priority areas is ensuring that the human rights of persons living with HIV and AIDS are protected.
He said: “Not just recently, our national strategic plan, HIVison 2025, has a whole section that speaks on human rights, and so we've been going to places and speaking about human rights issues, speaking about stigma, speaking about discrimination, to many workplaces, working with the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defense Force, working with men, work-
ing with youths, working with workplaces.”
The NAPS head stated that most of the work done for 2024 by NAPS is streamlined around this year’s theme. He shared that NAPS was focused on trying to take services to communities and to ensure that the service persons receive is patient-centred.
He said that in its efforts to eliminate HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among Guyanese, particularly those most vulnerable to contracting HIV/AIDS, NAPS has launched a series of initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and promoting sexual health through tailored prevention services.
With the implementation of differentiated services, NAPS aims to raise awareness about sexual health and encouraging preventative measures to reduce the risk of infection.
Just over 30,000 persons would have received PrEP (PrEP for sex bag/“lash bag”) for 2024, with around 6,000 persons regularly refilling their PrEPs. The bag includes a free HIV self-testing kit (or oral quick HIV self-testing kit), condoms, lubricants, and educational pamphlets and brochures. Another version of the bag offers PrEP medication, which stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention.
Aside from this, the NAPS also operates a mobile unit for community outreaches throughout the day and night, targeting vulnerable groups. The mobile unit also offers confidential testing services, ensuring privacy and adherence to guidelines.
While highlighting
their efforts in eliminating AIDS, NAPS continues to offer screening and testing services for HIC and other forms of STIs (syphilis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C among others).
INCREASE ACCESS
Meanwhile, UNAIDS is urging governments to prioritise rights to increase access to HIV services in the Caribbean.
In a press release, the UN agency said that with 100,000 people living with HIV not accessing life-saving antiretroviral therapy (ART), UNAIDS is urging Caribbean leaders to prioritise rights and diagnose, enroll, and retain more people in care.
“UNAIDS notes that there has been steady progress to put more of the 340,000 people living with HIV in care and on treatment, but the pace is concerningly slow.
“In the Caribbean, only seven in every ten people living with HIV are on treatment and only six in every ten are virally suppressed. Additionally, with one in every three cases of HIV identified at the stage of advanced HIV disease (AIDS), late diagnosis remains a significant challenge in the region,” the agency said.
Noting that stigma and discrimination, harmful laws and policies and operational issues are among the plethora of challenges that keep people living with HIV away from health services, UNAIDS called on health officials to work closely with communities to close the gaps.
“Therefore, as the region prepares to commemorate World AIDS Day on December 1, under the theme Take the Rights Path, it is important governments recog -
nise that without urgent attention to these critical areas, the Caribbean will not achieve Sustainable Development Goal 3.3 to end the AIDS epidemic,” the release said.
“I urge Governments and all stakeholders to embrace the rights path. Let us dismantle barriers, promote innovative health solutions, and sustain investments in resilient health systems. Together, through collective action and a commitment to human rights, we can achieve an HIV-free Caribbean,”
said Dr Richard Amenyah, UNAIDS Caribbean Director was quoted as saying.
Further, the press release said that UNAIDS firmly believes the Caribbean can end the AIDS epidemic if leaders revolutionise and scale up prevention and treatment access as well as protect and promote the rights of everyone living with and at risk of HIV.
“Health is a human right. Protecting human rights is therefore non-negotiable in the fight against HIV. Laws and
policies must be aligned with public health goals and must foster inclusion rather than exclusion. Self-stigma and fear of discrimination or disclosure of HIV status prevent people from seeking HIV services which results in late start of treatment or being lost to follow up and retention on treatment. Caribbean Governments must tackle discrimination that continue to deter people from accessing HIV testing, treatment, and care,’’ Amenyah said.
UNAIDS poster for World AIDS Day 2024 (UNAIDS photo)
GLC to introduce new initiatives to boost education across Guyana
DISTANCE learning has been a part of the Guyanese education system since the launch of the Guyana Learning Channel (GLC) in April 2011 by Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who was President at that time.
The GLC was formed to promote distance education and to revitalise or supplement the classroom-based curriculum.
In 2020, the Learning Channel started the Hinterland Riverine Project, which seeks to provide television, solar, and satellite to every hinterland and riverine community throughout Guyana. To date the Learning Channel is 96 per cent complete with this project and aims to complete it by the end of 2024.
Head of the Guyana Learning Channel, Anieshaw Mohamed, revealed that with the hinterland project, they have strategi-
cally placed televisions at schools within each community. This she said, is not restricted to the use of just the school.
“If you don't have access to our digital channels, we will be rolling out soon our digital TV box. Now, this TV box, once you have a regular TV, it allows you to connect to our digital channel. It's sort of like a cable box without a monthly subscription,” Mohamed stated.
She mentioned as well that, currently, the GLC has a total of 10,000 boxes to distribute, starting with persons that are in need first. In addition to that, each of their channels is available on E-Networks cables.
The box will be distributed to individuals, prioritised by the need.
Persons must have children, who must be attending school. “If you do not have a cable connection
with E-networks or readily available internet, then this is something you can benefit from immediately as a first preference person,” Mohamed said.
The Learning Channel has six channels, and its analog channel. “Our digital channel is GLC Junior, and the target audience is nursery to preschool for that channel.
“For GLC Elementary, the target audience is
and the type of content we aim to deliver here at the Learning Channel now. In creating content, we review the curriculum. We've had a few curriculum changes within the Ministry over the years, and we keep up to date with that.”
primary. GLC Teen is secondary. GLC Discover is for lovers of science and discoveries, and GLC Elevate is for adult or late learners. There's also GLC Plus that deals with general audiences,”
The head noted that, in 2020, during COVID-19, they were rushed with ensuring that they created content. She explained, “A lot of work was really rushed, and it did not get the quality
By the end of 2024, Mohamed said that the GLC will launch an app, allowing its users to access all of the content available on the Learning Channel, and any of the company’s six channels, live, at any given time. The app can be used on iOS or Android phones.
She said the purpose of the app is to remove the distraction of YouTube (where they have approximately 68,000 subscribers), by giving children an alternative to switch to the app and utilise the content there since it reinforces what is taught in the classroom.
Mohamed went on to say that with the type of
content they create, the GLC aims to provide content that is entertaining but also has an educational component in it.
Mohamed highlighted that one of the shows they have created is, “The Amazing World of Cho”, an animated show about Cho, a little girl in Region Nine, who attends the Saint Ignatius Primary School. Cho is eight years old, and is trying to navigate the world around her while also growing up in the Hinterland. She will be exposed to the city very soon. The show was produced and written by the GLC staff.
Apart from this series, the Learning Channel has a National Spelling Bee, Whiz Kids, Brainiacs, and very soon Mathletes. There is also a National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) Booster, along with content from Nursery School all the way to Grade 11.
A scene from the new show, The Amazing World of Cho (File Photo)
Devastating 2024 Atlantic hurricane season ends, marked by record-setting storms
THE 2024 Atlantic hurricane season officially concludes this weekend, leaving a trail of destruction, loss of life and massive economic damage across the Americas and the Caribbean, the UN meteorological agency reported on Friday.
This year saw 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes, and five major hurricanes – classified as Category 3 or higher – marking the ninth consecutive above-average season for the Atlantic basin.
“Year after year, the climate crisis continues to break new records, resulting in more extreme weather events, including rapidly intensifying tropical cyclones, intense rainfall and flooding,” said Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
Among them was Hurricane Beryl, which made history as the earliest Category 5 hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic basin. Striking in July, Beryl left widespread devastation across the Caribbean.
While the storm caused extensive damage to homes and infrastructure,
its impact on human life was mitigated by advances in early warning systems.
“Despite its ferocity, the hurricane resulted in fewer deaths compared to previous ones. This was thanks to advances in strengthening their early warning systems,” Ms. Saulo said.
A SEASON OF EXTREMES
After the devastation unleashed by Hurricane Beryl in July, activity slowed in August due to
atmospheric conditions over Western Africa impeding storm development.
However, storm frequency and intensity surged in early September, with seven hurricanes forming after September 25– a record for late-season activity.
Hurricane Helene made landfall in late September as a Category 4 storm on Florida’s Gulf Coast, causing catastrophic flooding in the southern
Appalachians, widespread wind damage across the eastern United States and storm surge flooding along Florida’s coast.
With over 150 direct fatalities, Helene became the deadliest hurricane to strike the country since
Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
In October, Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key, Florida, as a Category 3 storm. It unleashed 46 tornadoes, torrential rainfall and severe flooding.
Rising threats amid
climate change
The 2024 hurricane season underscored the alarming trend of increasingly severe storms fuelled by the climate crisis.
Rising global temperatures are intensifying tropical cyclones, leading to rapid storm intensification, heavier rainfall and more frequent flooding, according to the WMO.
While fatalities from tropical cyclones have decreased dramatically –from over 350,000 in the 1970s to fewer than 20,000 in the 2010s – economic losses have risen sharply. In 2024 alone, four US hurricanes caused damage exceeding $1 billion each.
Small island developing states in the Caribbean remain particularly vulnerable, with disproportionate impacts highlighting the need to scale up initiatives like the Early Warnings for All campaign, aimed at building resilience. (UN)
Aerial view of houses destroyed by Hurricane Beryl as it barreled through Union Island in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (IOM/Gema Cortés photo)
Entrance to Rosa Drive to be fixed in new week
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
FOLLOWING the receipt of reports and complaints from Aubrey Barker Road residents,
Bishop Juan Edghill, the Minister of Public Works and Collin Croal, the Minister of Housing and Water, convened a meeting with the locals at the Rosa Drive entrance on Friday morning. In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Minister Croal disclosed that he received a notification regarding the road's deterioration last Thursday evening.
After learning that Minister Edghill intended to visit the site and engage with the residents, Minister Croal said he decided to accompany him.
According to Minister Croal, the destruction is a consequence of the ongoing development in the area, as Aubrey Barker Road serves as an access point for trucks that are going to and from the Cummings Lodge Scheme.
derstands that the truck drivers have to get their jobs done, he is also requesting that they exercise safety and be cautious when they are traversing through communities.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Works, in a statement, said the two
He said: “I must say that work on filling the holes begun since last night (Thursday).”
It was disclosed to the residents that while some parts of that road were already converted into a four-lane, there are plans for a contract that has been awarded for the road’s upgrade, with the contractor set to begin mobilising next week.
While the infrastructure works are going to happen, a commitment has also been made to widen the road and convert it into four lanes. Concrete drains and other features will be added.
Residents were assured that the road will soon be made passable so that they can carry out their daily activities.
Minister Croal also added that while he un -
ministers met with residents of Aubrey Barker Road on Friday morning to address concerns over the road’s deteriorating condition, which sparked a protest on Thursday night.
“The damage has been attributed to ongoing works linked to the Cummings Lodge housing development,” the statement said.
While informing residents of the impending work, Minister Croal assured them that maintenance works will be carried out to ensure the road remains accessible.
Recognising the challenges of living in a construction zone, the ministers urged residents to remain patient as infrastructural works progress, the statement added.
The situation at the entrance to Rosa Drive, Aubrey Barker Road, which sparked protest action on Thursday night
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal and other officials inspect the section of Rosa Drive that is in a bad state
A resident outlines his concerns during the ministers’ visit early Friday morning
50 Guyanese businesses, 38 laboratories now certified by GNBS
THE Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, certified B & R Products under the ‘Permit to use the Made in Guyana Certification Mark’ programme, bringing the total number of certified local manufacturers to 50.
The business is now permitted to use the GNBS approved Made in Guyana Standards Mark on their mango achar, pepper sauce, coconut oil, dry peppers, satwa and pickles under the Intrinsic Quality brand name.
B & R Products of Auchlyne, Corentyne, Berbice, is one of 24 companies sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce (MinTIC) under a special project for the certification of women-led businesses. The project also included technical assistance and training on the criteria for the certification programme and its benefits to promoting local content and elevating authentic Guyanese products.
Owner of the agro-processing business, Budwatty Ramnarine, received her cer-
Owner and CEO of B&R Products, Budwatty Ramnarine and her daughter Adelia Ramnarine proudly display the GNBS approved ‘Made in Guyana’ certificate, alongside the certified products
tificate from GNBS Technical Officer, Rosmarie Liliah, at the GNBS Meeting Room, National Exhibition Complex, Sophia, Georgetown.
She expressed gratitude to the ministry, GNBS and her family for helping her to achieve that milestone. “When I received the call to proceed with certification, I was very
happy because it took a lot of patience and hard work to get my business to this stage. I must say working with the GNBS is very good, the staff is very amazing, they are very helpful,” she noted.
Meanwhile, the GNBS, in November, certified two new laboratories to the National Standard ‘GYS 170:2021 – Re-
quirements for Operations of a laboratory.’
On Tuesday, November 5, the GNBS certified the Executive Medical Clinic Laboratory located at 345 East Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown. Consultant, Lendon Wilson, who worked with the laboratory to get certified, said “it is a true testament of the dedication, skill and hard work of everyone involved especially in this clinic. Thank you to the GNBS for the guidance and support throughout this process and I want to say that your expertise, leadership and guidance has made this all possible.”
The certificate was also handed over by GNBS Technical Officer, Rosmarie Liliah, at the laboratory to Quality Manager, Naressa Abrams.
The second laboratory –
New Vision Medical Center Inc. Laboratory – was certified on Wednesday, November 20. The certificate was handed over by Head of Certification (Ag), Keon Rankin, to Chief Operation Officer, Bradley Chin, at the laboratory’s 176 Middle Street, Georgetown location.
Administrator of the laboratory, Theon Bourne, said the recognition will help the facility to expand its clientele while delivering accurate and reliable test results.
“We are very happy; we are excited because this is a very big step for us as a medical facility and as a laboratory. I know that this will open many doors for us so we can expand our wings to meet those businesses out there that would need to have our professional services,” he told those gathered at the simple handing
over ceremony.
Both laboratories also received plaques from the GNBS to display to their customers as an indication of their certification status. The certification is valid for two years during which there will be surveillance visits to ensure consistent compliance with the requirements of the standard.
The GNBS congratulates the companies that are certified under the various certification programmes and encourages others to get onboard. Application forms are available on the GNBS website: gnbsgy.org. To learn more, contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: 219-006466, the GNBS hotline: 2190069 or WhatsApp: 692-4627. (DPI)
RCG hands over refurbished facility to key stakeholders of Uncle Eddie’s Home
THE Rotary Club of Georgetown Central (RCGC) on Friday handed over newly refurbished accommodations to the residents, trustees, and Board of Directors of the Uncle Eddie’s Home at its Tucville, Georgetown location.
In honour of its 40th Anniversary, the RCGC initiated a signature project aimed at improving the living conditions at Uncle Eddie’s senior citizens’ residence.
At a cost of $30 million, the project is intended to create a dignified and comfortable environment for the residents that is both safe and environmentally friendly, while also promoting their physical and mental well-being.
According to a media release by the RCGC, the Club aims to restore the Uncle Eddie’s Home to a sustainable state, allowing it to generate enough revenue for ongoing maintenance and care.
The Uncle Eddie’s Home was officially opened on February 26, 1975 by its visionary founder, overseas-based Guyanese Edward Holford, also known as ‘Uncle Eddie’, who passed away shortly after the opening.
The handover was conducted by current President of the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central Jagdesh Haripershad, along with immediate Past President and Project Leader Peter Pompey, Past President Judy SempleBobb, and Sabita Liddell, who represented the Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud.
Additionally, Kory and Mrs. Diane Sellers, retired humanitarian missionaries with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), were also present. The President of Uncle Eddie’s Home, Yolanda James, was also on hand to officially accept the upgraded facility.
President Haripershad in his opening remarks said: “The Rotary theme for this year is ‘The Magic of Rotary,’ and I believe we can witness this magic
today.” He emphasized that the project reflects their commitment to serving humanity and strengthening communities.
“This journey began under the leadership of then-President Peter Pompey, whose vision and dedication brought the idea of transforming this home from a dilapidated and unsafe environment into a space of safety and comfort for its residents,” Haripershad stated.
According to the release, Haripershad recognised
Pompey also provided a brief overview of the project, detailing the journey from conceptualisation to the realisation of the now revitalized environment for the residents of the Uncle Eddie’s Home.
In expressing thanks to the sponsors of the project, he encouraged the Trustees and the Board of Directors of Uncle Eddie’s Home to continue improving the facilities while enhancing the quality of service for the residents.
Pompey’s essential role in the project, which was completed not only on schedule but also encompassed a broader scope of work than initially planned.
The president also acknowledged Past President Judy Semple-Bobb for her crucial efforts in securing funding for the project. “Judy prepared and submitted a detailed proposal to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, resulting in their generous approval of US$100,000 (equivalent to G$20M). Her commitment and dedication have been vital to our success, and we thank her.”
In addition to the G$20M in cash contributions from the LDS Church, an extra G$10M was invested in materials and workmanship by various donors, including Food for the Poor, Chung Global Inc., and the Ministry of Public Works, bringing the total project cost to G$30M.
Moreover, the project’s approved scope included: Upgrade of plumbing and bathroom facilities; upgrade of potable water system; installation of new storage cupboards; provide new kitchen utensils and equipment; new beds and bedding; purchase of waste disposal bins; purchase of motorized lawn mower; monthly maintenance of compound expanded project scope; In addition, they also contributed to the painting of walls and ceiling of main block and south wing; installation of safety signage; repairs to administration office, front facing guttering and windows; new kitchen fixtures- two stoves, one freezer, one refrigerator, and one washing machine; replacement of bedroom fixtures [safety handrails, side cabinets, 10 beds with side rails]; replacement of front entrance door and sign.
The newly refurbished Uncle Eddie’s Home (RCGC photo)
ERC engages residents at Paramakatoi
IN a significant outreach effort, Commissioners and staff of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) travelled to Paramakatoi, Region 8, on Thursday, November 28, 2024, to engage with residents and share the Commission's mandate.
According to a press release, that marked the ERC’s first visit to Paramakatoi since its reconstitution in March 2023.
It was a lively and interactive stakeholder engagement that allowed the Commission to connect directly with the community.
The release said that residents from surrounding areas, including Bamboo Creek, Bashville, and Taruka, gathered at the Paramakatoi All-Purpose Hall for the one-day event.
The session was led by ERC Chairman, Shaikh Moeenul Hack, alongside Commissioners Mr. Norris Witter, Mr. Deon
Dick (Ras Khafra), Ms. Chandrowtie Sarran, the Chief Executive Officer/ Secretary, Gomin Camacho and other ERC staff members.
As outlined in Article 212 of the Constitution, one of the primary functions of the Ethnic Relations Commission is to conduct public education and awareness initiatives, ensuring that all communities are informed about the Commission’s roles and responsibilities.
The stakeholder engagement in Paramakatoi provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, with ERC representatives listening to the concerns of the residents while providing clarity on the Commission's work.
During the session, Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack emphasised the importance of dispelling misconceptions about people of Amerindian descent and urged attendees to reject the use of derogatory or incorrect
terms.
Although some issues raised fell outside the ERC’s mandate, the Commission assured the residents that those would be forwarded to the relevant authorities for further action, the release said.
The engagement also served as an opportunity to educate stakeholders about the current compo-
sition of the ERC and its broader mandate to foster national harmony and promote good relations among all ethnic groups in Guyana.
As part of the outreach, ERC representatives also engaged with learners at Paramakatoi primary and secondary schools, delivering valuable lessons on respect,
peace, and tolerance.
“These sessions reinforced the Commission’s commitment to fostering positive values and understanding among the youth,” the release said, adding that thanks to the generous donation from His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, the ERC was
able to distribute toys to over 300 children, adding a festive touch to the visit.
Additionally, more than 200 youths received school supplies, courtesy of the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG).
Considering the remoteness of the location, the residents expressed deep appreciation for tokens of joy and cheer that the team brought to their community.
The release said that, to date, the ERC has successfully engaged with stakeholders in all ten of Guyana’s administrative regions, with some regions visited multiple times to ensure broad and inclusive participation.
The Commission remains steadfast in its mission to promote tolerance, combat discrimination, and advance peaceful co-existence throughout Guyana, it added.
Residents from Paramakatoi and surrounding Region Eight communities at an ERC outreach on Thursday
China follows people-centred approach, turns visions into reality
By He Yin (People's Daily)
"CHINA’S story is proof that developing countries can eliminate poverty, and that a weaker bird can start early and fly high, when there is the endurance, perseverance, and striving spirit that enables water drops to penetrate rocks over time and turns blueprints into reality."
The remarks were made by Chinese President Xi Jinping in a speech at Session I of the 19th G20 Summit under the title "Building a Just World of Common Development" in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, during which he profoundly explained what China's battle against poverty says to the world, triggering strong responses from the international community.
China's experience in poverty alleviation has garnered worldwide attention, as the country has lifted 800 million people out of poverty, and met the poverty reduction target of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development ahead of schedule.
China's experience is worth learning from because its story has proved that developing countries can eliminate poverty as well. In today's world, around 733 million people are facing hunger, and the population suffering from high levels of acute food insecurity has increased for five consecutive years. Many countries are eager to learn from China's poverty alleviation experience to achieve development and revitalisation.
"Bringing benefit to the people is the fundamental principle of governance."
The ancient Chinese saying that Xi quoted on many occasions exactly mirrors the unbreakable commitment of the Communist Party of China (CPC) to bring the people a happy life.
Everything China does, it always places the people
ation.
In Ningde, southeast China's Fujian province, he left his footprints on almost every county and township, seeking ways to "allow a weaker bird to start early and fly high".
Starting from a Party
sided over seven seminars on poverty elimination, made over 50 fact-finding trips on poverty reduction, and visited every one of the 14 contiguous poor areas across the country.
China's poverty alleviation achievement is the
front and centre, and it solemnly declares that "not a single poor region or person should be left behind".
That's why the country has been successful in the fight against poverty, and has set an example for global poverty reduction.
The CPC has always put people first, and is always committed to seeking happiness for people.
In Liangjiahe village, northwest China's Shaanxi province, Xi, as the village Party secretary, guided by the belief of "bringing tangible benefits to the people", led the villagers in digging wells, building terraces and sediment storage dams, and setting up the province's first methane-generating pit.
In Zhengding county, north China's Hebei province, he visited over 200 villages, riding a bicycle to explore the path of rural reform and poverty allevi-
secretary in Liangjiahe village, Xi worked his way up through almost every level of the Party's hierarchy. He has always been deeply aware of people's expectations, keeping the people in mind and constantly thinking about the people. He has made poverty alleviation an important part of his work, and a great cause he is determined to accomplish.
President of the Central African Republic Faustin-Archange Touadera, after a visit to Liangjiahe village, said that Xi is deeply rooted in the people, always standing with the people and serving the people.
Only a ruling party that always prioritises people's interests can provide strong political and organisational support for poverty alleviation efforts.
Since the 18th CPC National Congress, Xi has pre-
fruit of the strenuous, unified efforts of the Chinese government and people. In the fight against poverty, China has made targetted policies tailored to each village, each household and each person; facilitated growth by vigorously channeling talent, funds and technologies to underdeveloped regions; helped localities generate growth
by fostering industries with distinctive features and upgrading infrastructure, all in light of their own conditions; and promoted common prosperity by pairing up well-off regions with less developed ones. It has succeeded in the most extensive and aggressive anti-poverty campaign in human history, creating a miracle in poverty reduction.
From vowing that "a moderately prosperous society is to be enjoyed by each and every one of us", to promising that "on the path to modernisation, no one and no country should be left behind", China, while striving to improve the well-being of its own people, has also been committed to promoting the world's common development to ensure a better life for people in all countries.
During his remarks at Session 1 of the 19th G20 Summit, Xi stressed: "A single flower does not make spring. China wants to see a hundred flowers in full blossom and will go hand in hand with fellow developing countries toward modernisation."
He also outlined China's eight actions for global
development, including pursuing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, implementing the Global Development Initiative, and supporting international cooperation on poverty reduction and food security. These actions have charted the course for global development and demonstrated a broad vision for common prosperity of all countries.
Drawing on its rich practical experience, China provides strong support for the development of other developing countries. It is called "a positive force driving global development" by international observers.
With a focus on the common well-being of all humanity, China will always be a doer and go-getter working for the cause of global development. It will continue to follow a people-centered approach and continuously enhance people's sense of fulfillment, happiness, and security. It is ready to take steps together with all parties to build a just world of common development, leave poverty in the past, and turn the vision into reality.
Photo taken on October 14, 2023, shows a pocket park in Zhengding county, Shijiazhuang, north China’s Hebei province (People’s Daily Online/Wu Zhiwei)
Photo taken on November 22, 2024, shows an offshore marine ranch in the waters of Qixing village, Jiaocheng district, Ningde, southeast China’s Fujian province (People’s Daily Online/Wang Wangwang)
Diamond Mineral Water Hockey Festival… Queens Park, YMCA Old Fort take emphatic victories on Day 2
TRINIDAD’S Queens Park Hockey Club headlined the men’s category on day 2 as they achieved a 5-3 victory over Bounty GCC with action continuing in the National Gymnasium for the 2024 Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Hockey League.
Queens Park’s Cade Lue Sue got things going in the second minute of play with
a field goal before Dwayne Scott found the equaliser for Bounty GCC.
Trini top marksman Jordan Vieira was up to the challenge as he again put his side on top with the conversion of a penalty corner in the 10th minute.
Bounty’s Anthony Harry made it 2-2, four minutes after as they went into the break
level on scores.
After the resumption, goals would follow in the 22nd and 23rd minutes off the sticks T&T Darren Cowie and Vieira to make 4-2.
Scott returned to register a double and pull back the scoreline but Queens Park Dominic Young would cap off the victory as they ended winner 5-3.
In the other men’s open clash, YMCA Old Fort and T&T police side played to a 5-5 draw.
YMCA Old Fort also had a dominating performance over Pepsi Hikers winning 5-2.
Led by their skipper Warren Williams the YMCA side put former top indoor side Hikers to the sword.
Williams had with a hattrick with Omar Hopkinson and Yonnick Norton scoring the other goals.
Hiker’s captain veteran Robert France scored their pair of goals.
Meanwhile GBTI GCC defeated Saint’s Hockey Women’s Team 3-2.
Princessa Wilkie got the ball rolling for GBTI GCC
in the first period but Saints Clayza Bobb levelled the scores in the second period.
Wilkie recorded a double to give the GCC team the advantage again but Saints Makaylah Poole ensured GBTI GCC was pulled back with her Penalty Corner.
GBTI GCC skipper Gabriella Xavier would break the deadlock in the dying minutes to cap of the group stage win 3-2.
In the over 35 division, Queen’s Park’s Dominic Young was imperious as he scored six goals to see his side past Hickers 8-5 Hickers opened the scoring before Queen Park took over the contest with Darren Cowie scoring the equaliser. Young then recorded his six goals in a stretch to see them overwhelming the opposition.
Hickers Randy hope scored a late brace to give the score line some respectability as they lost 8-5.
In the over 45 class, doubles from Phillip Fernandes and Patrick Edhgill helped the GCC vintage beat Carib 4-2.
Fernandes and Edghill scored in the 5th and 11th minutes respectively before Caribs’ Samuel Carty pulled one back.
However, the vintage duo of Fernandes and Edghill again piled on the goals to extend they lead 4-1 before Carib’s Edison O’Brian scored a consolation goal at the end in the 4-2 loss.
On the opening day Saints started off with a bang as they took a 3-1 win over top rivals Bounty GCC with a double from Jabari Lovell.
GBTI GCC also took a win over YMCA Old Fort by the same margin with young sensation Abosaide Cadogan scoring a brace.
The Over 35 saw GCC the sequel hammering Hickers 6-1 with two goals each for Kevin Spencer, Peter Dr Groot and Orland Semple while in the Over 45, Hikers old boys bettered GCC vintage 2-1 compliments of converted penalty corners from Devin Munroe and Brian Asregado.
GFF stages Girl’s football festival
THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) successfully hosted a Girls Football Festival recently, bringing together young female athletes from ages ten to twelve (12) to promote more participation in the sport and identify promising talent. The festival featured two legs: one held at the National Training Centre (NTC) in Providence, Region Four (4), and the other at the Richmond Ground in Essequibo, Region Two (2).
Speaking about the significance of the festival, GFF
President Wayne Forde said, “Our goal is to ensure that every girl in Guyana has the opportunity to play football and explore their potential. This festival not only showcases their talent but also emphasises our commitment to gender inclusivity and grassroots development in the sport.”
At the NTC, six secondary schools delivered thrilling performances. In the opening match, Dolphin Secondary fell 3-1 to Charlestown Secondary, with Christol Nicholas scoring
for Dolphin, while Kellyann Ellis netted all three goals for Charlestown. East Ruimveldt Secondary defeated Lodge Secondary 2-0 in the second game, thanks to a brace from Rodlesa Collins. Tucville Secondary showcased their dominance in the third match with a 4-0 victory over Dolphin Secondary, with Trienia Mars, Mariah Campbell (two goals), and Arlene Singh contributing to the win. The New Central High overwhelmed Lodge Secondary 5-0 in the fourth encounter, with goals from
Christina McPherson (two), Mary Tancredo, Kesanna Griffith, and Sarafina James. Tucville Secondary edged Charlestown Secondary 1-0 in a tightly contested fifth game, with Mariah Campbell scoring the decisive goal. In the final match, The New Central High secured a 2-0 win against East Ruimveldt Secondary, with Christina McPherson finding the back of the net twice.
In Essequibo, four teams — Abram Zuil Secondary (AZS), Cotton Field Secondary (CFSS), Charity Sec-
ondary (CSS), and Wakapoa Secondary School (WSS) — competed fiercely. AZS and WSS played to a goalless draw in their opening encounter. CFSS fell 1-0 to CSS in the second match, with Navita Baird scoring the lone goal. WSS and CFSS ended their third game in a 1-1 draw, as Taren Thomas and Briana Thornhim scored for their respective teams.
The fourth game saw CSS and AZS in a scoreless deadlock. The penultimate game between WSS and CSS concluded in a 1-1 draw,
with Davanie Wilson and Akaile Cox scoring for WSS and CSS, respectively. The championship match was a nail-biter, as CSS emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over AZS from a goal scored by Sheliza Boston.
The GFF commends all participants and continues to champion initiatives that foster talent and inclusivity in football. Events like this underline the federation's commitment to growing the game across Guyana and providing young girls with a platform to excel.
West Indies hunt second test win against Bangladesh
CMC - If the pitch at Sabina Park is anything to go by, Bangladesh’s batsmen are in for another tough test from the West Indies’ fast bowlers when the second Test bowls off here on Saturday.
During a pre-match interview on Friday, West Indies Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite indicated that the pitch contained some grass, which he believed would provide assistance to the pacers. In the opening Test in Antigua, the Windies’ fast bowling quartet of Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales and Shamar Joseph took all 18 wickets to fall in the match.
game,” Brathwaite said.
“Obviously it’s a completely different ground. The surface has on a bit of grass which is good to see, obviously a lot of moisture around, a lot of rain, so we have to start fresh this
“It’s good to see the covering of the grass on the surface, but at the end of the day that’s just the surface. We still have to go out there and bowl well, obviously take the catches and bat well and put runs on the board, so we’re looking forward to doing that.”
The home side holds a 1-0 lead in the two-match series and a win or draw would secure their first Test series
victory for the year following tough losses to England and South Africa.
Brathwaite said it was important that the West Indies close out the series with a win to carry that momentum into 2025 where they will play several Test series.
“It’s very important. You can’t ever take any Test series for granted and it’s very important that we end this year strong.
“Obviously next year
ExxonMobil Guyana global super-league…
Victoria beat Warriors by six wickets
By Sean Devers
DESPITE a 74-run second-wicket stand between Moin Ali and Shai Hope, the Guyana Amazon Warriors lost to Australia’s Victoria by four wickets under lights in the ExxonMobil Guyana Global T20 Super League.
Ali’s entertaining 51 lasted 33 balls, and was decorated with three fours and four sixes, while Hope scored 40 from 30 balls, with four fours and a six.
Hassan Khan hit a cameo unbeaten 25 from 12 balls with three sixes, while Shimron Hetmyer hit a six and a four in 18, with Victoria’s Jackson Smith on 2-38. The winners registered 166-6 in 19.2 overs.
Man-of-the-Match Karima Gore was unbeaten on 31 from 24 balls, ending the contest with his third four. He also cleared the ropes once.
Scott Edwards’ 31 with four fours, and Sanjay Krishnamurthi’s 24 with one four and two sixes contributed crucial runs for the Aussies. Imran Tahir had two wickets in a losing effort.
Watched by a good-sized crowd, which included President Irfaan AIi from the TV booth, Victoria invited the hosts to bat on another slow track and fast outfield.
The Warriors, who replaced Trinidadian Mark Dyal with West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd, started auspiciously as Ali stroked Gore nonchalantly over cover for four in the first over, before Roston Chase elegantly eased left-arm pacer Drakes for a couple of boundaries in the next over.
However, Jackson Smith bowled Chase for a run-a-ball 10, to leave the Warriors on 17-1.
Ali effortlessly punched Drakes to the cover boundary, while West Indies ODI Captain Hope got going with back-to-back fours, as Smith bowled too full.
Ali was on fire, caressing Max Birthise for four, and following up with a disdainful six over mid-wicket to post the 50 from just 35 balls, much to the delight of the raucous crowd.
Ali hit left-arm wrist spinner Callum Stow for two sixes, before he was dropped on 39.
Smith put down Hope on the boundary after not being in full control of what would have been a stupendous catch, with Hope on 19, and the score on 71-1
Ali soon reached his 35th T20 fifty from 33 balls with three fours and four sixes, before he bowled next ball at 91-2 to end the partnership.
Hetymer got going with a six off Drakes as the 100 was posted in 73 balls.
Hope clobbered Cory Anderson for six before being caught in the deep off the next ball with the Warriors on 116-3.
A run later, Kemo Paul (0) was taken at long-on to give Slow his first wicket, before Hetmyer fell to Drakes at 125-5 in the 17th wicket.
Khan deposited Birthisel for six, and disdainfully hit Smith for consecutive sixes; the second one brought up 150 in the penultimate over.
Shepherd fell to Birthisel for 10 in the last over, which cost just six runs.
Joe Clarke began the runchase with boundaries off Dwaine Pretorius, who had a 4-for in the
opening game, but Gudakesh Motie struck with the total on 27 when he trapped Blake Macdonald (6) lbw.
Without addition to the score, Clarke was lbw to Khan, who smashed four boundaries in his 17.
Krishnamurthi and Jonathan Wells batted with lots of intent, and saw the 50 posted in 46 balls, but just when the partnership was beginning to look ominous, Tahir struck twice in quick succession.
The 45-year-old South African spin wizard trapped the 21-year-old Krishnamurthi (24) and Jonathan Wells (13) lbw in the space of a run, as Victoria slipped 69-4.
Anderson (9) was run out after Edwards was caught by Paul off a free from Ali, going for a second run at 96-5 before Edwards (31) was removed, bowled by Tanzim Hasan Sakib at 123-6.
Aided by loose work in the field and a wide in the final over from Pretorius, Gore (36) and Drakes (14) saw their team to victory with two balls to spare.
we have a lot of Test cricket to play as well, so it’s very crucial for us,” Brathwaite insisted.
“The first Test is gone, that’s history, so we have to come and start right back over as a bowling unit and a batting unit, but we are looking forward to it.”
The Test match will be a historic one for Brathwaite, as he will become the first West Indian to play in 86 consecutive Test matches.
In acknowledging the achievement, the captain said he hoped he would be a player that young cricketers would want to emulate.
“I’m very, very honoured and privileged to be here and very thankful. It’s an opportunity that I’ve had for over 10 years and I’m very thankful for it,” Brathwaite said.
“To be the most is good. I just want to be an example for guys to follow and I’m really excited about it.”
‘My dream is to help Guyana to a Top 10 spot in CONCACAF’
- Golden Jaguars Interim Head Coach
By Sean Devers
AT 51, Golden Jaguars acting Head Coach Wayne ‘Wiggy’ Dover disclosed that his dream is to someday help his country become one of the top ten teams in CONCACAF.
“To make that a reality, I'm pursuing a higher coaching education toward the realisation of my dream,” explained Dover who was a ‘right full back’ in his playing days.
The Jaguars interim Coach who recently reaped success against Barbados in the CONCACAF Nations League, would like to see the
days return when all the Associations run their domestic programmes effectively to help aid football development across the country.
Guyana has now qualified for the 2025 Gold Cup Prelims which is a step in the right direction for Dover's desire to become the permanent National Head Coach.
Between 2011 and 2018 Coach Dover had different stints as Assistant Coach and Interim Head Coach until he returned in 2021 as Assistant Jaguars’ Coach to present.
“The standard of football in the Caribbean region isn't where it should be but it is a work in progress. Guyana is steadily improving at the
international level. We must continue pushing to ensure we stay within touching distance of the other countries,” noted the former footballer.
As a young boy, Dover attended the Mildred Mansfield Nursery School, Trinity Primary School and Charlestown Secondary School at a time when sport was a big part of school life.
Growing up in Leopold Street, Werk-En-Rust, Dover had a very active and humble life.
“The older folks than us would play football in the street and in the playfield at Mildred Mansfield Youth Club Ground (Dorcus) in Durban Street. Those two
places were where I watched them play and became interested in the game.
“It is hard to differentiate the differences between then and now. I grew up one way, which is humble and respectful to everyone. That hasn't changed.
“However, I can safely say that now I'm much more reserved than before since you really can't trust anyone now, as there are so many fake people around, I stay away from them to keep my peace and tranquillity.
“After I decided to hang up my playing boots in 1999, the then President of Beacon Football Club Dr. George Norton asked me to stay on as a coach for the club. That's how I started to coach. I was
doing it for my club and a friend,” disclosed Dover who spent his entire playing days at Y.S.M Beacons Football Club.
My biggest challenge as a coach was to keep myself motivated to continue Coaching. Although I love what I did there were times when I did not want to do it anymore because of the lack of real support,” added Dover, who’s youngest of six brothers; Frank Crandon, has already represented Guyana at the U-20 level.
Dover has been married for twenty-four years and has three children. He revealed that his most memorable moment was when he chose his wife.
“We were in our teens. It
is a decision I never regretted. The one thing I'm most pleased about was deciding to become a family man.
“I get the most support in life and football from my family and a few brethren. If I were to live my life over, I would dedicate it totally to help liberate my people,” said Coach Dover.
Campbell, Reifer face suspensions over Super 50 no-show
CMC – BARBADOS Pride captain Raymon Reifer and skipper of the Jamaica Scorpions John Campbell, could be facing lengthy suspensions for their roles after their teams failed to take the field in the Regional Super50 final last weekend.
Both Reifer and Campbell could possibly be suspended for up to eight months after they failed to be present for the coin toss in last Saturday’s final, which had been delayed due to persistent showers.
As a result, match referee Reon King reportedly charged
MVP sports
both captains with a Level 3 breach of the CWI Code of Conduct.
Reifer only took over the captaincy from Kyle Mayers at the semifinal stage, after Mayers was given permission to participate in the ongoing Abu Dhabi T10 tournament.
Earlier this week, Cricket West Indies (CWI) declared that both sides had forfeited the match and would not be eligible for either the US$100,000 first prize or the US$50,000 allocated for the runners-up.
It is the first time since 1972 that the competition has end -
ed without a champion being crowned.
Director of Cricket at CWI, Miles Bascombe admitted that there was an infringement of CWI’s Code of Conduct which Reifer and Campbell would have to address.
“As far as I am aware, the match referee has raised charges against both captains, so those would have to be answered to.
“The captains will decide whether they will accept those charges and the penalties proposed, or whether they are going to dispute those charges,” Bascombe said.
Girls U11 Football Championship
Semifinals…
battles Potaro; Waramuri play St. John the Baptist
Marian Academy is ready and set to take on Potaro Primary in the first of two semi-finals from 13:00 hours today at the Ministry of Education Ground in the girls MVP U11 football tournament.
In the quarter final last week, defending champs Marian defeated Smith Memorial Primary 5-nil to book a spot in this week’s semi.
Marian Academy’s Chrissyanne Persaud led with a double and saw sup-
port from Haley Haberkorn and Haley De Nobrega with goals.
Potaro Primary booked their spot in the semis after edging Stella Maris Primary 4-nil.
While Waramuri primary will look to add the girl’s trophy to their cabinet later today when they tackle St John the Baptiste at 14:00 hours on field 2 in the other semi-finals.
Waramuri Primary last week thrashed Genesis Primary 5-nil with Keshanna
Thomas scoring a hat-trick along with a double from Alina Lewis.
St. John the Baptist Primary then defeated West Ruimveldt 3-1.
In other games, West Ruimveldt Primary and Genesis will battle for placement with Smith Memorial set to take on Stella Marris.
In the event that Reifer and Campbell dispute the charges, the matter would be sent to CWI’s Disciplinary Committee.
It has been reported that the proposed disciplinary action could see the captains being banned for up to eight months.
While it has been reported that the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) is contemplating taking legal action against CWI, the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) is seemingly in support of the umpires who made the decision to resume play.
Its president, Dr Donovan Bennett said the captains ought
to have followed the instructions of the umpires.
“At the end of the day it’s the umpires who have the right to decide whether the conditions are fit for play or not,” Bennett said.
“So I would have preferred if the two teams had acted in a way acknowledging the supremacy of the umpires in this matter. Yes, I know there were problems with the conditions, I know that there were problems with the time given for warmups to take place.
“And it’s not just warmup because some of the players were carrying injuries and would
have to be taped, so I know that the players thought that there was not sufficient time to properly warmup and to be properly taped.
“But having said all of that, the umpires are the ones who have the power and the responsibility to make the assessment and to decide whether play is possible or not,” the JCA boss added
Bennett said he would have preferred if the players had taken to the field and then filed a report outlining their concerns after the match had concluded.
The tournament kicked off with 12 teams playing in a round robin then knockout format with teams initially drawn into groups of four.
Following that, the top two advanced to the quarter finals.
The winning school will benefit from a hundred
thousand dollars 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.
The most disciplined team will also be awarded and individual prizes will go towards the top goal scorer, MVP and best goal keeper.
Coach Wayne ‘Wiggy’ Dover
Semi-final action in the MVP Girls U11 football tournament is set for the Ministry of Education Ground today (Japheth Savory photo)
Emanuel Archibald and Jasmine Abrams Named Senior Sportspersons of the Year for 2023
-
Guyana Chronicle’s Leon Horatio recognised for over 25 years of service
THE National Sports Commission (NSC) 2023 Senior Sport Awards showcased the exceptional talents and contributions of athletes, coaches, and corporate sponsors within the Guyanese sports community.
Hosted at Castellani House, the event celebrated the achievements of individuals and organisations that have significantly impacted their fields for 2023.
Emanuel Archibald and Jasmine Abrams, two of Guyana's leading sprinters, were the standout figures of the evening. They were awarded the Senior Sportsman and Senior Sportswoman of the Year, respectively.
Archibald's performance in 2023 was particularly noteworthy. He made history by becoming the first Guyanese athlete to win a gold medal in the 100m event at the Central American and Caribbean Games in El Salvador.
His remarkable year continued with a bronze medal at the Pan American Games in Chile, marking him as a significant force in athletics on both regional and international stages.
Jasmine Abrams, also a prominent figure in track and field, had an impressive season, highlighted by her silver medal in the 100m at the Pan American Games. Her consistent per-
formances throughout the year established her as one of the top athletes in her discipline, earning well-deserved recognition at the awards.
In the junior categories, the spotlight shone brightly on Tianna Springer, who was awarded the Junior Sportswoman of the Year for her incredible sprinting
achievements.
Springer excelled in 2023, winning gold in the 400m at multiple prestigious events, including the CARIFTA Games, South America U-20 Championships, and the Commonwealth Youth Games. Her dedication and talent have set a high standard for young athletes in Guyana.
Raekwon Noel, a phenomenal swimmer, was named the Junior Sportsman of the Year. His performance at the CARIFTA Aquatics Championships was nothing short of extraordinary. He earned an unprecedented five gold medals, several of which broke existing records. His success exemplifies the potential
of young athletes in Guyana and their ability to compete at the highest levels.
The awards ceremony was not just about individual achievements; it also recognised the contributions of various organisations and individuals who support sports development in Guyana.
ENet, a leading telecommunications provider, was honoured as the best corporate sponsor in the large category, reflecting its commitment to fostering sports in the community.
MVP Sports and Trophy Stall received accolades as corporate sponsors in the medium and small categories, respectively, highlighting businesses' important role in supporting sports initiatives.
In the realm of sports journalism, the awards recognised the vital role that media professionals play in promoting and covering sports.
Avenash Ramzan, the Sports Editor for News Room, took home the award for Best Broadcast Journalist, while Akeem Greene, Editor at News Room, was recognized as the Best NonPrint Journalist.
One Guyana / K&S National Futsal Championship
The event also acknowledged outstanding coaching and officiating, with Mark Scott being awarded Male Coach of the Year for his contributions to athletics and Tremayne Smartt being named Female Coach of the Year for her work in cricket.
The Youth Commonwealth 4x400m Mixed Relay Team received the Team of the Year award, celebrating their collective effort and success.
The Athletics Association of Guyana was named Association of the Year, a testament to the organisation's dedication to nurturing talent and promoting athletics in the country. This recognition reflects the numerous awards won by their athletes throughout the year.
Other notable awards included posthumous honours for Terence Poole, M.S., and a special award for service in sports journalism recognising Claude David (Kaieteur News), Donald Duff (Stabroek News), and Leon Horatio (Guyana Chronicle), all of whom have made significant contributions over 25 years to the field.
Additionally, Jemima Holmes from Times Media Group won the award for Print Journalism, underscoring the importance of quality reporting in raising awareness and appreciation for sports.
Dinar Trading and Forrester’s Concrete solidify support
AS momentum continues to gather ahead of next week’s kick-off of the historic One Guyana National Futsal Championship organaised by the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation (K&S) and powered by the Government of Guyana, corporate support continues to gather momentum also.
On board in a solid way are Dinar Trading and Forrester’s Concrete. Both entities have expressed their pleasure in partnering with the K&S Organisation for this huge 64Team championship which has attracted teams from across Guyana.
In presenting their sponsorship, Ms. Akiesha Forrester, Creative Director of Forrester’s Concrete, in the presence of Ms. Althea Alli, General Secretary and Co-Director of the K&S Organisation, Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major, Ms. Forrester posited that they had no hesitation in
supporting, once approached.
She said that the entity, which has branches spread across Guyana, anticipates a solid championship which creates many opportunities for players to showcase their talent and vie for the prizes on offer.
“We would like to wish all the teams the best and we are looking forward to exciting matches throughout the tournament.”
Similarly, CEO of Dinar Trading, Bro. Iqubal Hussein said that his company was very excited to be back in partnership with the K&S Organisation for a championship that will be one to be remembered.
Hussein said that handing over the cheque brought back memories of old whenever it came to the year-end football put on by Kashif & Shangahi, noting that everyone looked forward to the end of year spectacle.
“We at Dinar Trading are
more than happy to see the return of you guys and even though it’s a new format you’ll be doing, we have no doubt
that it would be quality as usual and that the players and fans would be equally satisfied. Competition is set to kick off on Tuesday next, December 3 at the National Gymnasium with the official march pass of the contesting teams and the first set of matches, after the opening ceremony.
The Youth Commonwealth 4x400m Mixed Relay Team received the Team of the Year award, celebrating their collective effort and success. Coach of the Year, Mark Scott, is far right
K&S’ Kashif Muhammad (right) receives sponsorship from CEO of Dinar Trading Bro. Iqubal Hussein. Aubray ‘Shanghai’ Major savours the moment
Ms. Akiesha Forrester, Creative Director of Forrester’s Concrete hands over the cheque to Kashif Muhammad. At left is Ms. Althea Alli, and right, Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major
and Jasmine
Old Fort Captain Warren Williams completes his Hatrick against TT Police
Australia’s Victoria await the outcome of a review against the Guyana Amazon Warriors during their global super-league match (Japheth Savory photo)