Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 12-06-2024

President, Dr Irfaan Ali on Tuesday commissioned the Coast Guard vessel ‘GDFS Shahoud,’ named in honour of Colonel Michael Shahoud, one of the five officers who tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash last December. The ‘GDFS Shahoud’ is a 115 Defiant monohull patrol vessel, constructed by the American company Metal Shark Boats (Office of the President photo)

Guyana, US deepen defence relations with new marine vessel ‘GDFS Shahoud’

–– President Ali says vessel will protect Guyana’s offshore assets, maritime waters

AS part of the Government of Guyana’s ongoing efforts to enhance the capabilities of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), a new marine vessel, the ‘GDFS Shahoud,’ was officially commissioned at Coast Guard Headquarters on Tuesday.

The 115 defiant monohull offshore patrol vessel is the army’s newest patrol vessel named in honour of Colonel Michael Shahoud. He was one of the GDF officers who perished in the fatal helicopter crash last December.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, who commissioned the vessel said that naming the vessel in honour of the late Colonel was fitting, since the task of the vessel embodies his valour, dedication and unwavering service.

He highlighted its significance to the Coast Guard’s fleet and Guyana’s overall maritime capabilities of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

In his address, he emphasised the vessel’s role in protecting the country’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and the valuable resources within its maritime waters.

He noted that the commissioning of the ‘GDFS Shahoud’ is not just an addition to the fleet, but is also a celebration of the strong bilateral relationship between Guyana and the United States, aimed at integrating and expanding asset ranges and enhancing human-resource capabilities.

“This asset is not only about the Guyana Defence Force (GDF); we know for a fact that we are losing maybe billions of dollars in our Exclusive Economic Zone with illegal fishing and other activities. We have committed to a coordinated and interagency approach to the defence and safeguarding of our maritime space and territorial integrity,” Dr Ali stated.

He further expressed that the vessel’s addition demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s defence-response capabilities. The ‘GDFS Shahoud’

to name the vessel after Colonel Michael Shahoud, acknowledging his legacy of honour and dedicated service.

“He truly embodied the strongest commitment to duty, and as this vessel begins its own tour of duty, his spirit lives on in both the vessel itself and in the crew who were deeply affected for the better by his astute leadership,” Theriot said.

Theriot also noted that the commissioning of the vessel signifies Guyana’s strong commitment to the rule of law and a rulesbased international order.

She mentioned that Metal Shark, the U.S.based manufacturer of the vessel, will continue to support the GDF Coast Guard by operationalising this strategic asset and assisting in the growth and modernisation of Guyana’s coast guard.

Guyana’s Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, reiterated the GDF’s commitment to building capacity and consolidating capabilities through strategic acquisitions and partnerships.

“We have been doing just that to the point that our existing partnerships are at their highest peak in the history of our defence relations,” he stated.

Brigadier Khan also mentioned ongoing talks with the United States regarding training and spare parts for the new vessel.

The ‘GDFS Shahoud’ is designed for a range of missions, including national defence, search and rescue, law-enforcement operations, and environmental protection. The vessel will be commanded by Lieutenant Commander Ronald McIntyre and will be crewed by six officers and 18 ranks, ensuring that Guyana’s waters remain safe and sovereign.

will be crucial in protecting offshore assets essential to Guyana’s economic future, ensuring that maritime waters, which play a critical role in the economy receive greater protection.

United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, also spoke at the

ceremony, marking the commissioning as a significant milestone in the GDF’s history and the evolving partnership between Guyana and the United States.

“It was truly an honour to attend the commissioning of the Guyana Defence Force Ship (GDFS) Sha -

houd, named after dedicated serviceman Colonel Michael Shahoud. With the arrival of this state-ofthe-art vessel, Guyana is not just acquiring a physical asset, but a strategic partner. Metal Shark, the U.S.-based company that manufactured the vessel,

will also work with the GDF Coast Guard to operationalise this strategic asset, and the company will continue to play a supporting role in the growth and modernisation of Guyana’s Coast Guard,” Ambassador Theriot noted. She praised the decision

The commissioning of the ‘GDFS Shahoud’ marks a significant step forward in Guyana’s efforts to enhance its maritime security and defence capabilities, reflecting the government’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s interests and resources.

Commander in Chief, President, Dr Irfaan Ali on Tuesday commissioned a new marine vessel. The 115 defiant monohull offshore patrol vessel is the army’s newest patrol vessel named in honour of Colonel Michael Shahoud. It will bolster surveillance of Guyana’s waters and offer security of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) (OP photos)

US$1M approved to maintain Coast Guard vessels

APPROXIMATELY

US$1 million has been approved by the United States Embassy for the maintenance of the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard’s vessels, along with ongoing training provided by the US Coast Guard.

This is according to the United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, who was speaking during the commissioning ceremony for the GDFS Shahoud, a 115 Defiant monohull patrol vessel on Tuesday.

This collaboration extends beyond just government agencies, with Metal Shark Builds, the US-based company that constructed the Shahoud, pledging its assistance in Guyana’s Coast Guard modernisation efforts.

“We just recently approved approximately US$1 million for the sustainment of the Coast Guard’s other vessels, as well as U.S. Coast Guard provided training for Guyana. Hand in hand with the private sector, our embassy and SOUTHCOM (Southern Command) will continue to provide

subject-matter expertise, training, maritime-focused security cooperation, and security assistance opportunities,” she said.

This ongoing partnership aims to ensure Guyana’s defence force remains effective.

The ambassador said that the US will continue to work with the government to transform Guyana’s defence and security sector to achieve collective security and regional stability.

“Together, the United States and the government of Guyana will uphold our commitment to peace and prosperity for all, and maintain this region as a zone of peace,” she added.

Building on this partnership, the Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, revealed that discussions initiated by the US Military Liaison’s Office to facilitate training to operate the GDFS Shahoud.

“This is being facilitated through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative platform,” he explained.

Brigadier Khan emphasised the importance of partnerships for shared development. He stressed that acquiring equipment

–– US Ambassador

United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot is just one piece of the puzzle. Guyana must leverage the training and experience offered by regional partners to enhance its capabilities.

“This forms an integral part of enhancing our capacity and consol-

idating our capability, and I must say we have been doing just that to the point that our existing partnerships are at their highest peak in the history of our defence relations,” he underscored.

US treasury imposes sanctions on Mohameds, business entities and PS Thomas

IN response to the sanction imposed by the United States Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on three Guyanese individuals, the Government of Guyana (GoG) is actively communicating with the relevant US entities regarding the significant allegations made.

On Tuesday, the OFAC sanctioned father and son, Nazar Mohamed, and Azruddin Mohamed, respectively, their company Mohamed’s Enterprise, and a Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Labour (MoL), Mae Thomas, for their alleged roles in public corruption.

Additionally, OFAC designated two other entities, Hadi’s World and Team Mohamed’s Racing Team, for being owned or controlled by Mohamed’s Enterprise and the son, respectively. As a result of the allegations, the GoG said that the Ministry of Finance and relevant statutory agencies, including the Guyana Revenue Authority, will be requesting additional information on the matters highlighted, with a view to aiding local law-enforcement agencies.

In the meantime, PS Thomas has been sent on leave with immediate effect.

“The Government of Guyana will continue to work with the United States government on all matters of mutual interest, including the respect for the rule of law and order,” the release read.

Further, US State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller said that between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10,000 (10 thousand) kilogrammes of gold from import-and-export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the GoG.

“Today’s actions support the U.S. Strategy on Countering Corruption which identifies the fight against corruption as a national security priority.

The United States is committed to exposing corruption and promoting accountability for corrupt acts worldwide. We will continue to use the tools at our disposal to protect our financial system from abuse by corrupt actors,” he said.

PROTECTING GUYANA

According to the statement by the OFAC: “These individuals and entities are sanctioned pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13818, which builds upon and implements the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act and targets perpetrators of serious human rights abuse and corruption around the world.

“Today’s action underscores our commitment to holding accountable those who seek to exploit Guyana’s underdeveloped gold sector for personal gain,” said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson. “Treasury, in close coordination with our partners in U.S. law enforcement, will continue to take action to safeguard the U.S. financial system from abuse by corrupt actors.”

It was further stated that these actions

were conducted in coordination with Homeland Security Investigations New York Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Strike Force, Diplomatic Security Service, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Intelligence – New York Operations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Miami Field Office, with assistance from HSI Miami, CBP Miami and New York Field Offices, New York City Police Department Intelligence Bureau, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

THE MOHAMEDS’ ABUSE OF GUYANA’S GOLD INDUSTRY

Within the statement, the OFAC highlighted that gold is one of Guyana’s main exports, but it remains a highly fractured industry with small-scale gold-mining operations in Guyana occupying a majority share of the country’s gold production.

“These small, family-owned businesses have informal relationships with larger purchasers and traders like Mohamed’s Enterprise. Once mined, Guyanese gold is sold and traded throughout international markets, including the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, and the European Union,” the OFAC stated.

The statement further outlined that Nazar founded Mohamed’s Enterprise in Guyana before expanding to the United States as a moneychanger and transitioned into gold trading, growing Mohamed’s Enterprise into one of Guyana’s largest gold exporters. In time, the son, Azruddin ultimately took over Mohamed’s Enterprise, which also now does business as “Confidential Cambio.”

The statement then read: “Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise evaded Guyana’s tax on gold exports and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues by under-declaring their gold exports to Guyanese authorities. Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilogrammes of gold from import-and-export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.

“Mohamed’s Enterprise has bribed customs officials to falsify import-and-export documents, as well as to facilitate illicit gold shipments. Mohamed’s Enterprise had paid bribes to Guyanese government officials to ensure the undisrupted flow of inbound and outbound personnel that[sic] move currency and other items on behalf of Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise.”

In addition, Azruddin is the principal and owner of Team Mohamed’s Racing Team, a drag- racing organisation in Guyana. Hadi’s World is a Guyana-based subsidiary of Mohamed’s Enterprise.

MOHAMED’S CORRUPTION

ENABLED BY GUYANESE OFFICIALS

According to OFAC, Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise have engaged in extensive bribery schemes involving government officials in Guyana, such as providing direct

–– Gov’t sends PS on leave with immediate effect, pledges to work with US entities to investigate allegations

and recurring bribery payments to officials to ensure favourable treatment in criminal or civil matters that would otherwise suggest their involvement in illegal criminal activity.

“In return, corrupt officials receive[d] cash and gifts for incidents that are overlooked. Additionally, Mohamed’s Enterprise has paid bribes to corrupt Guyanese government officials to facilitate the award of government contracts,” the statement read.

PS Thomas, who previously served at the Ministry of Home Affairs, was cited in the statement.

“A corrupt Permanent Secretary could manipulate procurement processes to suit their preferred bidder by providing inside information at the early stages of evaluation. Access to a Permanent Secretary of any Ministry could afford contractors insight into upcoming projects and bid values. Permanent Secretaries can act as the legal authority to sign contracts on behalf of their ministry,” the OFAC said.

It was said that Thomas used her stint at the Home Affairs Ministry to offer benefits to Mohamed’s Enterprise and Azruddin, among others, in exchange for cash payments and high-value gifts and she misused her position to influence the award of official contract bids and the approval processes for weapons permits and passports on behalf of Mohamed’s Enterprise.

“OFAC is designating Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise for being persons who have materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, corruption, including the misappropriation of state assets, the expropriation of private assets for personal gain, corruption related to government contracts or the extraction of natural resources, or bribery, that is conducted by a foreign person,” the statement read.

The OFAC also designated Nazar for being a foreign person who is or has been a leader or official of Mohamed’s Enterprise, an entity whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 13818, as a result of activities related to Nazar’s tenure.

Team Mohamed’s Racing Team was also designated for being owned or controlled by,

or for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Azruddin.

Adding to the designation by the OFAC was Hadi’s World for being owned or controlled by, or for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Mohamed’s Enterprise.

“OFAC is designating Thomas for being a foreign person who is a current or former government official, or a person acting for or on behalf of such an official, who is responsible for or complicit in, or has directly or indirectly engaged in, corruption, including the misappropriation of state assets, the expropriation of private assets for personal gain, corruption related to government contracts or the extraction of natural resources, or bribery,” the statement read.

SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS

“As a result of today’s action, all property and interests in property of the designated persons described above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC.

In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. Unless authorised by a general or specific licence issued by OFAC, or exempt, OFAC’s regulations generally prohibit all transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of designated or otherwise blocked persons,” the statement read.

According to the OFAC, financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions or activities with the sanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselves to sanctions or be subject to an enforcement action. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.

It was said that the ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behaviour.

Nazar Mohamed (left), PS Mae Thomas (centre) and Azruddin Mohamed (right)

Structural Metamorphosis

GUYANA is experiencing its best moments from a developmental perspective. Never before in our history has there been so many infrastructural works going on in all facets of national development. This multi-sectoral approach to development is in evidence in all the regions of Guyana. It is no exaggeration to say that the economic and social landscape is in the process of a structural “metamorphosis.”

Take the health sector as an example. New and modern hospitals are currently under construction in several regions of the country including the hinterland regions.

Topping the list of new hospitals is the construction of a new and state-of-the-art Paediatric and Maternal Care Hospital in Ogle, East Coast Demerara at a cost of some $4.12 billion or 57 million US dollars.

The hospital, when completed

by the end of next year, will feature specialised services including a paediatric cardiac unit equipped to perform surgeries on children. This is the first of its kind in the Caribbean and is expected to have its first set of patients by early 2026.The 256bed facility is intended to provide comprehensive healthcare services to both mothers and children.

The construction of this facility is taking place against the background of a decline in infant mortality rates and also a significant reduction in maternal deaths in Guyana.

The changing landscape of the health infrastructure is also evident in the proliferation of several hospitals that are owned and operated by private operatives, which is a further boost to the government’s efforts to upgrade access and quality of healthcare delivery to the Guyanese people.

President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan

Ali has repeatedly emphasized the importance of quality healthcare to the Guyanese people. According to President Ali, Guyanese must have access to the best possible health care.

Towards this end, partnerships will be forged between other healthcare providers in and out of Guyana in order to benefit from best-practices in the sector. The President underscored the importance of technology and patient management system. The importance of private sector involvement in the transformation of the health care sector was also stressed.

The involvement of the private sector in the delivery of quality health care is a welcome development especially in the context of ongoing efforts by the PPP/C administration to make quality health care affordable and accessible to Guyanese in all the regions of Guyana.

One advantage of the opening up of the health sector to private operatives is that it provides for an element of choice in terms of access to medical care. It is no secret that access to medical treatment at some public institutions can be problematic. There are many who would rather pay their way out of situations which can be stressful.

This reality is no justification for any lack of professionalism on the part of health personnel in public institutions, some of whom can do with some more training in customer care.

The above notwithstanding, there can be no doubt that the quality of healthcare delivery has improved significantly over the past few years.

The PPP/C administration has been investing heavily in the health sector, both in terms of infrastructure and human resource development.

Dr. Thomas Singh’s economic theory in reverse order

Dear Editor,

REFERENCE is made to Dr. Thomas B. Singh’s letter in the Stabroek News edition of June 11, 2024, with the caption “the BOG policy seems to be a pursuit of exchange rate targeting as against inflation targeting or price stability”.

In the said letter, the author concluded by inviting “commentators, and especially those who only care about politics, would add to the discussion in a meaningful way”.

While this author is inclined to add to the discussion in a meaningful way, there is nothing meaningful to add or even counter Dr. Singh’s contention, because his argument which ordinarily rests on elementary economic theory, is fundamentally wrong.

Dr. Singh contends that (i) the central bank is more concerned about exchange rate targeting and not inflation rate targeting. Dr. Singh, who is a trained economist forgets that inflation rate is linked to exchange rate especially in the case

Bank of Guyana statistical abstract

of Guyana since we import ≥90 per cent of the goods we consume, intermediate goods and capital goods.

It therefore means that by managing the exchange rate, the inflation rate is also being taken care of. And (ii) he argued that we should allow the exchange rate to appreciate to increase exports. But this is another fundamental error on the part of Dr. Singh. Export

Dear Editor,

INVESTING in education is not only a wise choice but an economic necessity. It establishes the groundwork for innovation, nurtures skilled labour, and ensures sustainable growth in our rapidly advancing world.

The Ministry of Education, over the past few years, has made noteworthy progress in enhancing the educational prospects available to the nation’s children. These developments, carefully curated, are advantageous to all students - coastal or rural. With more resources and support available to students than ever before, the educational landscape is experiencing a tremendous transition.

One such mechanism put in place to ensure that education arrives at the door

of every child is EdYou FM: The Ministry of Education’s radio station. EdYou FM is a game-changer, making education accessible to children. As the only station in Guyana broadcasting educational content across all ten administrative regions, EdYou FM is on a quest to broadcast to even the most remote areas.

With thirteen live shows in its arsenal, the station provides a mix of educational programs, community development features, and engaging content that enriches students’ learning experiences.

Mr. Editor, we must recognise that the interest of the students of today have begun to pivot from the traditional “chalk and talk” and paperback methods of learning. EdYou FM, through the EdPal App., a potent tool intended to further improve students’ access to education,

supports this metamorphosis.

With a multitude of resources, these audio lessons and stories complement the national curriculum. Students can review lessons by subject, get help with tasks, and participate in self-paced learning, all from the comfort of their mobile devices. This Mobile Application is especially beneficial for students in rural areas who may have difficulty accessing traditional educational materials.

EdPal is available for download on the Google Play Store. Students, parents, and teachers can engage with the live broadcast on the radio station directly from the app. Essentially, the EdPal app ensures that every student, regardless of their location, has the opportunity to succeed by utilising this technology.

Dr. Thomas Singh’s economic theory ... The future of education in Guyana is promising

competitiveness is more linked to exchange rate depreciation, not appreciation.

An appreciation of the exchange rate will in fact make exports more expensive and imports cheaper, thus inflationary.

On the other hand, exchange rate depreciation would make exports cheaper, hence more internationally competitive. This was one of the main reasons why we had exchange rate devaluation in the 1990s and early 2000s. It was part of the economic recovery programme when the country was bankrupt, to generate foreign exchange earnings through exports.

As shown in the table above, non-oil exports in 2023 amounted to US$1.546 billion, while non-oil imports amounted to US$4.589 billion,

thereby giving rise to a non-oil trade balance deficit of US$3 billion.

At an appreciated exchange rate of G$200/ US$1, non-oil exports equate to G$309.2 billion, non-oil imports would equate to G$917.8 billion, with a trade balance deficit amounting to G$608.6 billion. Conversely, at a depreciated exchange rate of G$215/US$1, non-oil exports would equate to G$332.4 billion, non-oil imports would equate to G$986.6 billion, and the trade balance deficit would equate to G$654.2 billion.

As can be seen, the same value of imports in USD, would cost the Guyanese consumers G$68.8 billion more at an exchange rate of $215, up from $200, which would be inflationary. In contrast, exports will become more

expensive for the consumers in the exporting country because that country will essentially be paying more USD to purchase Guyanese exports.

Consequently, exports would become less competitive, which could result into a decline in exports value. And this is what we have to guard against, where-

by any sharp appreciation in the exchange rate would engender what is commonly known as the dreaded “Dutch disease”.

In the final analysis, Dr. Singh has the theory mixed up (in reverse order), which renders his argument contradictory. The Central Bank would have great difficulty controlling inflation rate

In conclusion, the educational landscape in Guyana is transforming through the efforts of the Ministry of Education and smart initiatives like EdYou FM and their accompanying EdPal application. Students now have unprecedented access to educational resources and opportunities, particularly in rural areas. These advancements are not just improving academic outcomes but are also empowering students to achieve their fullest potential.

As we continue to build on these achievements, I am confident that the future of education in Guyana is promising, and our students are well-prepared to thrive in the new Guyana.

Yours sincerely, Ronella Harris

From page 6

if the exchange rate is allowed to appreciate too sharply.

In this situation, it would mean that the bottled water that is imported from Trinidad and Tobago, for example, would become far cheaper than the bottled water produced right here in Guyana by Banks DIH and DDL. So, which one do

you think the Guyanese consumers would prefer, and what will become of the local producers, whose products would then become less competitive because of an appreciated exchange rate? Dr. Thomas Singh, please explain!

Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin

Defining low life, defining moral values

IN my column of Wednesday, January 18, 2023, titled, “Dark days: A reply to Yuri Westmaas,” I wrote the following: I will never stop replying to people whose prejudice, bigotry, subjective mind, propagandistic intention, false narrative and alternative facts have found presence in the society. I have argued and will continue to argue that it is incumbent on the public intellectual to offer a counter-narrative, because one side of the story is dangerous for society if that story is left unchallenged.

My response was a reaction to a newspaper letter Westmaas published on January 17, 2023 in which he denounced the PPP government and showered praise on David Hinds. From reading that letter, it was clear that Westmaas had an Afro-centric perspective on Guyana. In that 2023 correspondence, Westmaas mentioned that his brother, Nigel Westmaas, fought the Burnham dictatorship. He did not mention that his brother’s politics

has since morphed in a pure anti-Indian direction with distasteful characteristics of class and colour.

Westmaas is at it again. This time on Saturday, June 8, 2024, when the song was repeated. The lyrics are about him and his brother, Nigel, when they were young, roaming the office of a great party back then, named the People’s Progressive Party and that party has degenerated.

There is no mention of the degeneration of his brother’s politics and his own and that of the WPA’s of which his brother, Nigel, is the gatekeeper of this fossilised entity obsessed with race politics and violent incitement of which two of its leading practitioners have been charged by the state for violent advocacy.

Yuri Westmaas chose not to tell us about the huge role his brother played in this once great party. So the PPP was once a great party whose office he and his brother frequented and has now deteriorated, but nothing about the WPA which his brother still plays an essential part in.

We come now to the moral compass of Yuri Westmaas and when my argument unfolds, then readers will see how urgent it becomes a task to reply to people like Westmaas, because their malignant and racially motivated output should not go unanswered because, we have a young population in this country.

Here are the words of Westmaas last Saturday: “On his worst day, Mr Burnham would never refer to an opposition member as a “low life.” Mr Burnham used words far more insulting than those two words, most of which were directed against Dr Walter Rodney. Burnham had descended to levels that make the term “low life” look like baby language. Mr Burnham went beyond description of low life. He destroyed untold numbers of lives.

I know what Burnham did to me and my wife, so I say unapologetically that Mr. Westmaas who is in the cleaning business must clean his mind. Here is more of Westmaas who jumps on a moral mountain lecturing his readers on moral values when one can ask if he has any. Here is Westmaas, “I am proud to be associated with David Hinds and Rickford Burke.”

What word do you use to describe someone like Westmaas? I have an obligation to the newspaper I write for because if Westmaas sues over the use of pejorative adjectives that I would love to assign to him in this very column, then the paper is sued also. Here is a man telling us the use of the words, “low life” is unacceptable, but tells us he is proud to support the politics of Rickford Burke.

What is important is to read between the lines when both Westmaas brothers write. The subliminal mind is there to see. The politics of anti-Indianness and colour and class are there to see. If you can criticise Vice-President Jagdeo for using the term low life to describe others and you proudly proclaim your embrace of the politics of Rickford Burke, then you open yourself to ridicule.

But what is wrong with the term, “low life” in public debate? What is so shocking and unacceptable about describing someone whose values are destructive and racist as low life? Is “low life” a more unpleasant term than “asinine,” “idiotic,” “uneducated” among others? Let me use the term “low life” here in my rebuttal to people whom I feel have dangerous, low-life minds.

The politician or civil society activist who says Guyana must come out of oil production is a low life. The politician or civil society activist who says the teenager charged with 20 murders must have the indictment changed to only one charge - arson- is a low life.

There are people in the diaspora who sit happily enjoying the good life, but see race in everything when they talk about Guyana; they are low lives. A racist is a low life.

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.

STARR Computer hosts inspirational field trip for Charlestown Secondary graduating class

OVER 40 graduating students from Charlestown Secondary School were treated to an immersive educational experience recently during their field trip to STARR Computer’s Brickdam, Georgetown office.

The visit allowed students to explore various facets of STARR Computer’s operations, beginning with the Samsung Experience Centre and extending through the company’s Hybrid Call Centre, Standard IT Department, and POS/ Mobility sections.

They also delved into the Telecommunication department, marvelled at Smart Home appliances, and witnessed a special presentation at the Innovation Centre.

President of STARR Computer, Mike Mohan, who himself is an alumnus of Charlestown Secondary School, shared his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Albouystown to becoming a prominent figure in the tech industry.

Reflecting on his own path, Mohan stated, “Born in Albouystown and once a student with no clear career vision, I firmly believed that ‘Success is a choice.’ Always strive to be the best in whatever you do and leave the rest to faith.”

Mohan recounted his bold transition from a se -

cure career as a Financial Analyst at Citibank to establishing STARR Computer in Guyana three decades ago. His story underscored the importance of determination and faith in achieving success.

During the field trip, the students were introduced to several emerging technologies that promise to reshape the future.

Mohan highlighted innovations such as Artificial Wombs, which involve “editing” human cells to eliminate health challenges, and 3D Printing of body parts, which holds the potential to revolutionise medical treatments.

He also discussed LabGrown Meat as a sustainable alternative to traditional animal farming, emphasising its potential to eliminate the need for slaughtering chickens, beef, pork, and seafood.

Another highlight was the future of data storage, with Glass Data Storage technology offering over 300 times the capacity of current SSDs and the durability to last over 10,000 years. He pointed out that silica, a key component of this technology, is abundantly available in Guyana. Furthermore, the students learned about the concept of Smart Cities, which integrate technologies such as smart homes, humanoid

robots, autonomous vehicles, 3D Printing, drones, and 5G connectivity to create more efficient and livable urban spaces.

STARR Computer’s commitment to education extends beyond field trips. The company regularly provides free seminars to students of all grades and other groups, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

“Our featured content during the visit illustrated why education is an ongoing process,” said Mohan. “We focused on emerging technologies that will redirect our career paths and shape our future.”

The field trip not only provided the students with a glimpse into the future of technology, but also inspired them to pursue their dreams with determination and faith.

Mohan’s personal story and the innovative technologies showcased at STARR Computer highlighted the endless possibilities that lie ahead for these young minds.

As STARR Computer continues to lead the way in technological innovation and education, the company’s efforts ensure that the next generation is well equipped to navigate and shape the future.

President of STARR Computer, Mike Mohan, an alumnus of Charlestown Secondary School, spoke to students of his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Albouystown to becoming a prominent figure in the tech industry

Guyana seeks more funding for disability-inclusive development

By Naomi Parris

ACROSS the globe, developing nations grapple with significant difficulties in offering essential aid to persons with disabilities, a predicament further complicated by the limited human and financial resources accessible to specific states.

Cognisant of these challenges, Guyana’s First Lady Arya Ali has voiced a passionate and strong call for greater international financing for disability-inclusive development in developing countries during her contribution to the 17th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at United Nations, New York Head Quarters on Tuesday.

During her remarks,

the First Lady highlighted that there are limited institutional, technological and financial capacities in small developing states.

“In a truly inclusive and sustainable world, persons with disabilities must be empowered to live a life with dignity and respect; a life where they can realise their potential. What is the reality? In developing countries, the majority of persons with disabilities of working age are unemployed and many children with disabilities do not attend school,” First Lady Ali said.

Guyana, she added has taken a ‘life course’ approach to supporting persons living with disabilities.

Guided by the UN, the country has an established a registrar of persons living with disabilities to guide the relevant authorities in

forming policies and interventions.

“The adoption of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities created necessary momentum for removing institutional and attitudinal barriers and promoting the full participation of persons with disabilities in society. Guided by the Convention, Guyana enacted disabilities legislation and adopted a multifaceted approach to ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy equal treatment, focusing on education and empowerment,” she explained.

Highlighting several strides made by Guyana to create an inclusive economic landscape, the First Lady noted that all persons living with permanent disabilities are eligible to receive monthly financial

assistance. Additionally assistive and mobility aids are also provided free of cost and specialised support is given for children through the widespread training of teachers.

Further, she disclosed that Guyana through the establishment of a disability complex has been able to train and empower persons living with disabilities.

The Mahaica Disability Complex not only provides vital skills training but allows citizens to access business grants and interest-free loans.

Concurrently, Guyana is developing a Business Centre to advance financial independence and economic empowerment of persons

with disability.

This, according to the First Lady, will see persons living with disabilities in Guyana being able to meaningfully contribute to the country’s growing economy.

“Guyana is placing emphasis on enhancing digital connectivity and using technology to provide learning opportunities for persons with disabilities,” she said.

The First Lady was joined by Ravin Singh, Director of Projects, Policy & Public Affairs, Office of the First Lady, Dr. Ariane Mangar, Director of Disability and Rehabilitation, Ministry of Health and Mr. Ganesh Singh, Programme Manager, Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons

with Disabilities. Ambassador Trishala Persaud, Deputy Permanent Representative, Marissa Edwards, Minister Counsellor, Stephanie Savory, First Secretary and Abosede Hazlewood, Second Secretary comprised the team from Guyana’s Permanent Mission to the UN.

Meanwhile the President of the UN’s General assembly, Dennis Francis reminded that there are about 1.3 billion persons living with disabilities, with women and children being the most vulnerable.

“We must ensure that persons with disabilities are actively involved in all

First Lady Arya Ali on Tuesday led a delegation to the 17th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at United Nations, New York Head Quarters (Permanent Mission of Guyana to the United Nations)

Guyana seeks more funding for disability-inclusive ...

From page 10

aspects of life and on an equal basis with others.

The CRPD is the first comprehensive human rights treaty with a clear Social Development dimension, advancing Disability Rights worldwide with 190 States Parties,” the diplomat said.

He further highlighted the need for effective expressions and inclusion of marginalissed groups, particularly for children living with disability.

“Over the years this Conference of States Parties has become the most important forum to promote and to protect these rights as important as they are, by way of taking stock of the global status,” Francis noted.

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol was adopted in December 2006 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

According to the United Nations, the Convention follows decades of work by the United Nations to change attitudes and approaches to persons with disabilities.

The Convention is intended as a human rights instrument with an explicit social development dimension. It adopts a broad categorisation of persons with disabilities and reaffirms that all persons with all types of disabilities must enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Minister Croal announces major developments for Silica City

By Cindy Parkinson

IN a groundbreaking effort to address rising sea levels, climate change, and the need for non-coastal urban development, the government of Guyana has partnered with the University of Miami to develop Silica City.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, announced that a comprehensive plan for this ambitious project will be unveiled at the International Building Expo in August 2024.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Minister Croal highlighted that the initiative, concep-

tualised by President Ali, is rapidly progressing towards establishing Guyana’s first smart city. He revealed that construction is well underway for the first 74 Young Professional houses and various infrastructure projects.

“As you all can recall, the University of Miami sent a team here last year, and we

One of the homes under construction in the country’s first smart city on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway

signed a Memorandum of Understanding with them, allowing them to use all of its expertise in architecture and design to complete the master plan for Silica City,” said Minister Croal.

The Minister added that “As agreed upon, a draft of the plan was returned, and that plan will be revealed at the upcoming International Building Expo in August.”

The project spans approximately 3,800 acres of land with plans to expand to 10,000 acres in its first phase. Current developments include 100 residential homes, apartment buildings, condos, hotels, restaurants, and retail centres. Minister Croal em-

phasised the importance of employing specialists with global experience to ensure the project’s success.

“Like any other project, our aim is to complete this in the best possible way. In order for it to accomplish all the goals that we would like to, we have to employ specialists and people who have done this in other nations like Latin America, Europe, and throughout the world,” he stated.

Infrastructure work has already begun, including the electrical network and plans for an independent water source. Construction on an additional 36 homes is set to start in the upcoming weeks.

Despite challenges related to the soil type in the area, Minister Croal assured that progress will not be hindered.

The project will feature smart homes equipped with the latest energy-saving technologies, along with green spaces and other amenities.

The first 100 dwellings are expected to be completed by the end of October 2024.

Minister Croal also highlighted the significant infrastructural development of the Mandela-Eccles Highway, which will provide easy access to Silica City.

“This road will connect people to the Soesdyke-Linden See page 13

An aerial view of Silica City

BIT Empowers Region Ten residents with skill development opportunities

THE Board of Industrial Training (BIT) is dedicated to increasing opportunities for Guyanese in every region to develop their skill sets, enabling them to contribute to the nation’s growing economy.

This mission was highlighted in an interview with Bernadette Torres, a 40-year-old resident of Coomacka Mines in Region 10, who is one of the many beneficiaries of the BIT program.

Torres, a devoted Community Health Worker, has spent years caring for the well-being of her small community. Now, she is embarking on a new journey to serve her community in a different capacity—by establishing a cook shop/ snackette.

which has a kitchen catering to children through a feeding program, will benefit greatly from this initiative.

“With this opportunity coming to our village, the persons working in that kitchen will now have an opportunity to get a certificate, to show that they are qualified. They have the skills, but this will make it better for them,” Torres noted.

public consumption.

Torres is among 14 women from the mines in Region 10 who have embarked on the journey of learning commercial food preparation through BIT. The program not only aims to enhance their personal independence but also seeks to uplift the entire community by equipping

its members with valuable skills and formal recognition.

The BIT continues to play a pivotal role in empowering Guyanese across the country, ensuring that residents like Torres have the tools and opportunities to build better lives for themselves and their communities.

Torres expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and emphasised the importance of the training program for herself and the Village of Coomacka.

“I think this training is very important, especially for the people in my village, and we appreciate it with open arms,” she said. She pointed out that the village’s Primary School,

“Being a Community Health Worker, you work all day. Sometimes, in the afternoon when you get off work, you don’t have anything else to do. So, I decided to take this opportunity as a second choice to do something to be more independent,” Torres explained. She plans to open her cook shop upon completing the BIT course, aiming to provide a much-needed service to her community by offering meals to those in need.

She highlighted that individuals who manage small roadside cook shops would also benefit from the training program by gaining certification. This certification will formally recognise their qualifications to prepare food for others, validating their skills and serving as a testament to their ability to prepare food suitable for

Minister Croal announces major ...

Highway and travel all the way to Timehri. The road that leads to Silica City has already been constructed, so there is no issue when it comes to getting there,” he said.

At the recent International Building Expo launch, Minister Croal praised President Ali for his visionary leadership. He noted that under the President’s directive, the government aims to construct numerous houses to ensure a secure future for Guyanese families. The

government is on track to assign 50,000 residential lots within five years, having already distributed more than 23,000 lots.

“We have already handed over 1,687 houses to new homeowners, and, as I speak, we have over 1,500 houses near completion. These are the results of visionary leadership and successful partnerships between the government and industry partners,” Minister Croal explained.

From page 12

Emphasising the importance of affordable housing, Minister Croal concluded, “Access to housing is a fundamental right for all of our citizens, and therefore it is a priority of our government.”

Silica City represents a transformative step for Guyana, combining innovative urban planning with sustainable development to address contemporary challenges and improve the quality of life of its residents.

The Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal and other officials visited Silica City on Tuesday.

Bernadette Torress, BIT Beneficiary, Region Ten

Buxton farmers to benefit from improved infrastructure, inputs to boost production —

Agri. Minister commits to rehabilitating farm-to-market

THE Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Agriculture will soon commence rehabilitation work on a critical farmto-market access road in Buxton Village on the East Coast of Demerara.

Agriculture Minister Zu-

lfikar Mustapha announced this during a meeting with residents and farmers on Tuesday at the Buxton PIC Building.

While farmers in the area said that there was a vested interest in agriculture and that the village has the potential

to do more, they told the minister that access to farms is an issue.

While responding to the concerns raised by the residents, Minister Mustapha said that the Ministry of Agriculture will rehabilitate the Buxton Middlewalk farm-to-

road

market access road.

“We cannot do all of the farm-to-market roads now. This afternoon I’ll commit that the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Agriculture will do the Buxton Middlewalk farmto-market road. Those works will commence within a month. We’ll also give four mechanical tillers to be used by farmers from the Buxton-Friendship area,” he said.

One farmer said he was present at the last meeting that was held in the village with the minister and a team from the Ministry of Agriculture and was encouraged to expand his cultivation. He noted however that he recently lost a substantial amount of bearing trees and permanent crops through wildfires and sought the minister’s assistance in restoring his farm.

While responding to the farmer’s request, Minister Mustapha said that the ministry through the National

Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) will provide planting materials and other inputs to assist him with resuscitating his farm.

Minister Mustapha also told other farmers present that a team from NAREI will be meeting with them to develop a plan, after which planting materials, fertilisers, and other inputs will be given to them free of cost.

A village councillor from Buxton who was also present at the meeting told the minister that community drains were not being maintained. Her claims were however quickly dismissed by several farmers who also accused the councillor of having a political agenda.

Minister Mustapha said that the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) will continue to do drainage and irrigation works in the village to assist farmers. He also said that rehabil-

itation work will be done on the irrigation structure along the Crown Dam in the Buxton-Friendship catchment.

“I know for a fact that we awarded contracts to have canals cleaned in this community. A group was also awarded a contract to maintain those canals. We’ll continue to put mechanisms in place to ensure persons from the community are engaged to do these works. You also said that you want the intake to be repaired. We’ll do it and we’ll also clear the dam that the farmers are talking about. That will cost us about $14 million and those works will commence within a week,” Minister Mustapha said.

Minister Mustapha also told cattle farmers present that a breeding bull will be given to the farmers to improve their stock and that a special committee will be set up to work with all classes of farmers in the area.

Minister Zulfikar Mustapha while engaging residents in Buxton

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha while engaging farmers following the meeting in Buxton

Gov’t engages Circuitville, North Timehri residents on highway developmental plans

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, engages residents of Circuitville along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway and Timehri North, on the government’s highway developmental plan

MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, engaged residents of Circuitville along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway and Timehri North, on the government’s highway developmental plan.

The engagement was aimed at ensuring that the residents know what

will be done to propel the country’s infrastructure and what will result from such.

The minister noted that the government is pushing aggressively to transform the country’s infrastructure to benefit communities nationwide.

“We continuously, as a government and as a people, look forward to our development unfolding

regularisation.

“So, whether it’s about the consolidation of a community, establishment or settlement, the regularisation of a community or a relocation of a community, our approach is tailored in a way that will allow or assure that everyone can survive and succeed in respect

of having a home,” Minister McCoy stressed.

As the government moves to modernise the country, the minister noted that such a process requires interruptions. He encouraged the residents to cooperate since they would all reap the benefits of the transformation.

Residents were also allowed to share their concerns and ask questions during the engagement with the minister.

The highway developmental plan includes establishing three large housing schemes and expanding the Timehri road.

with the highest standards. However, there are a number of factors that are taken into consideration for the establishment,” the minister stated on Saturday.

Minister McCoy assured the residents that the government would ensure that their well-being remains a top priority when the time comes for possible relocation and

Gov’t outreach brings home mortgage assistance to Timehri residents

By Cindy Parkinson

IN a continued effort to support new landowners and aspiring homeowners, the Government of Guyana, through its Home Mortgage Initiative outreach program, extended its assistance to residents of Timehri and surrounding areas on Tuesday. The initiative aims to provide crucial support to citizens who have recently received their land ownership documents and are navigating the process of becoming homeowners.

Minister of Housing and

Water, Collin Croal, emphasised the government’s commitment to improving the lives and livelihoods of Guyanese citizens. "The People's Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) has pledged to work with our people to enhance their lives in the best possible way," Minister Croal stated during the outreach.

The outreach event was comprehensive, featuring not only government officials but also representatives from various banks. "We wanted these residents to have the opportunity to meet with different banks during the outreach, ask all the ques-

tions they may have, and find out everything they need to know about establishing their pre-qualification for home loans," Minister Croal explained.

Referencing a recent public meeting held by Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Minister Croal highlighted the government’s efforts to engage directly with the people of Guyana. "Every sector of the government is finding different ways and means to meet with the people, help solve their issues, and address their concerns," he noted.

Minister Croal further mentioned that since taking office in 2020, President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo have been actively engaging with the public. "These outreaches aren’t anything new, and our intention is to continue taking the government to the people. Just recently, Dr. Jagdeo held a public meeting where anyone from any part of the country could meet with him or us ministers to resolve their matters. Our presence in Timehri today is a continuation of this leadership and guidance," he added.

In addition to the Home Mortgage Initiative, the government, through the Central Housing and Planning Authority, continues to support the Steel and Cement Voucher Initiative. This program assists Guyanese in building the foundations of their homes, providing vital resources to new homeowners.

Minister Croal also issued a word of caution to squatters, urging residents to refrain from illegal occupation of land. "We will

continue with our vigorous enforcement program to address squatting throughout Guyana. There will be no acceptance of illegal land occupation. We have committed to regularising areas, such as along the railway line, and we assure those persons that they can sign their agreements and process ownership," he warned.

Joining Minister Croal in Timehri were Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Hon. Kwame McCoy; CEO of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Mr. Sherwyn Greaves; staff from the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission; and representatives from New Building Society, Republic Bank Guyana Ltd., Citizens Bank, and Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry. This collaborative effort underscores the government’s dedication to ensuring that every citizen has access to affordable housing and the necessary support to build a secure future for their families.

The Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, speaking to the residents of Timehri and neighbouring communities on Tuesday

A

EMTs deliver first baby in Berbice region

WITHIN a month of commissioning the Emergency Medical Services (EMTs) in Berbice, personnel attached to the New Amsterdam Fire Station were called in to address a critical situation early on Saturday morning.

At approximately 07:39 hrs on June 8, the crew, consisting of EMTs T. Smartt, J. Haney, and driver

R. Porter, successfully assisted in a delivery.

The patient, 41-year-old Michelle Moriah, was in active labour when the EMTs arrived.

Through their swift and professional response, they provided the necessary care and support for Moriah, leading to the safe birth of a healthy baby boy

“This significant

event underscores the vital impact and readiness of the newly established Emergency Medical Services in Berbice, showcasing their capability to handle urgent and complex medical emergencies effectively. To request an ambulance, call 912. We are ready and willing to assist in any emergency,” the Guyana Fire Service said.

a month of commissioning

Within

the Emergency Medical Services (EMTs) in Berbice, personnel attached to the New Amsterdam Fire Station were called in to address a critical situation early on Saturday morning

Chinese FM Wang Yi calls on BRICS to promote consensus on peace, oppose instigation of ‘new Cold War’

CHINESE Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, attended the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in the Russian city of Nizhny Novgorod, on Monday, and all parties highly praised the important role of the BRICS mechanism and the achievements of its expansion.

They believe that the inclusion of more countries in BRICS co-operation accelerates the process of world multipolarity, and promotes a more just and reasonable international order.

Over the past year, the BRICS co-operation has been marked by brightness, speed, and strength, Wang said.

By expanding our membership, we have ushered in a new era of joint self-reliance for the Global South, with the influence and appeal of BRICS continually rising, and we stood at the forefront, achieved success through mutual support, and united as one, accelerating despite headwinds, the top Chinese diplomat noted. “The BRICS brand is shining brighter, and our voice is more powerful.”

In the face of current global changes, BRICS must maintain a high and far-sighted perspective, Wang said.

The politicisation and excessive securitisation of economic issues are rampant, and unilateral sanctions and technological barriers are on the rise. In the face of the contest between forces promoting world multipolarity and those

maintaining unipolar hegemony, and the clash between economic globalisation and “anti-globalisation” tendencies, we must follow the trend of history, stand on the side of fairness and justice, and make the right choices, he said.

Looking to the future, the “Big BRICS” must undertake great responsibilities and achieve significant accomplishments. We should fully leverage the strategic significance and political impact of the “Big BRICS”, transforming BRICS into a new type of multilateral co-operation mechanism that is based on emerging markets and developing countries, globally oriented, and open and inclusive, Wang said.

The top Chinese diplomat called on nations to uphold the banner of multilateralism, leading in maintaining the inter-

national system centred on the UN, and firmly resisting actions that undermine international order and violate international rules.

The BRICS should also promote an equitable and orderly world multipolarity, and inclusive economic globalisation, enhancing co-ordination and co-operation while highlighting the Global South moment in significant international agendas and placing development at the centre.

Wang also called on promoting capacity building in the digital economy and artificial intelligence (AI) for developing countries, ensuring equal participation and equal benefits.

On security issues, Wang stressed that no matter how complex the situation, dialogue and consultation cannot be abandoned. No matter how

sharp the conflict, political resolution must be pursued.

On the Palestine-Israel conflict, we must firmly promote an immediate, comprehensive, and sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, alleviate the humanitarian crisis, and prevent the conflict from spilling over, Wang noted. He also called on supporting Palestine’s membership as a full-fledged UN member state

and restarting the “two-state solution” to achieve lasting peace in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, as the Ukraine crisis continues, China supports the timely convening of peace talks that are accepted by both Russia and Ukraine, with equal participation from all parties and fair discussion of all peace proposals, Wang noted.

The BRICS should adhere to independence and objectivity, promote the international community’s consensus on peace, and oppose the instigation of a “new Cold War” under any pretext, he said.

The top Chinese diplomat also suggested fully leveraging the resources and market advantages of the “Big BRICS”, strengthening the supporting role of financial and trade co-operation, ensuring energy and food security co-operation, driving innovation co-operation, and acting as a bridge for cultural exchanges.

China has established the “China-BRICS AI Develop -

ment and Cooperation Center” to promote co-operation in industry alignment and capacity building, welcoming active participation from all countries, Wang noted.

All parties involved in the meeting called for adherence to multilateralism, opposition to unilateralism and protectionism, and the promotion of reforms in the international financial structure, according to a readout released by China’s Foreign Ministry on Monday night. They also emphasised the need to strengthen and improve global governance, enhancing the voice and representation of developing countries. All parties stressed the importance of resolving disputes peacefully through dialogue and consultation and supported all efforts conducive to the peaceful resolution of crises.

The meeting also issued a joint statement of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, according to the readout.

TURN TO PAGE 20

Commentary: Int’l Day for Dialogue among Civilizations brings vigour to cultural exchanges

ACCORDING to a China-proposed resolution unanimously adopted by the 78th session of the UN General Assembly on Friday, June 10 was designated as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations.

The aim of China's proposal was to fully leverage the important role of dialogue among civilisations in eliminating discrimination and prejudice, enhancing understanding and trust, promoting

people-to-people connectivity, and strengthening unity and co-operation, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the UN.

It is against the following backdrop that China made the proposal: In the current context of multiple interlocking crises and challenges, the world has entered a new period of instability and change, placing human society at the crossroads of history once again.

The proposal demonstrates

China's firm support for multilateralism and the work of the United Nations, highlighting China's responsibility as a major country in a century of unprecedented changes.

In recent years, China has been building platforms for dialogue and exchanges between various civilisations, creating opportunities for the common prosperity and development of different cultures through its strong economic vitality.

The exchange and inte -

gration of cultures serve as important prerequisites for creating a better life for people and a harmonious and peaceful world.

A vivid example in this regard is this year's Dragon Boat Festival, which coincides with the newly established International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations.

When the Chinese people are celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival on Monday, dragon boat races are not only

being held in China, but also in other parts of the world.

In Frankfurt, Germany, the first International Dragon Boat Friendship Race was held, featuring dragon boat teams from China, Germany and other countries. In the Netherlands, people were eager to watch a lion dance, dragon boat races and other cultural activities and immersed themselves in the fest.

The festival embodies the increasing popularity of

Chinese tradition and culture worldwide, and China's concept of peaceful co-existence, living in harmony with nature, and agreeing to accept differences has been gradually recognised by the international community for its value in addressing today's problems.

Cultural connectivity promotes people-to-people bond. Along with other civilisations, the Chinese civilisation will build culture bridge to link the world.

10 candidates selected for China’s fourth batch of astronauts

TEN candidates, including eight space pilots and two payload specialists, have been selected for China’s fourth batch of astronauts, the China Manned

Space Agency (CMSA) announced on Tuesday.

Of the two payload specialists, one is from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and

the other is from the Macao Special Administrative Region, said the CMSA. It added this is first time it has selected payload specialists in Hong Kong and Macao,

a move which has garnered strong support and enthusiastic participation from local communities.

These candidates will undergo comprehensive and systematic training at the China Astronaut Research and Training Center.

The selection of the fourth batch of Chinese astronaut candidates began in

the second half of 2022.

China selected 14 astronauts from air force pilots in 1998 and an additional seven in 2010. In 2020, it completed the selection of the third batch of 18 astronauts, which included space pilots, flight engineers and payload specialists.

The CMSA said that China’s astronaut selection

and training system has become more sophisticated and well-established. As international co-operation in crewed space exploration deepens, foreign astronauts will be invited to participate in the selection and training process, and subsequently carry out missions in China’s space station.

BORDER CONTROVERSY: Guyana, Venezuela

to submit second round of written pleadings …as

PRESIDENT of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Judge Nawaf Salam on Tuesday convened a crucial meeting with representatives of Guyana and Venezuela to discuss the next procedural steps in the ongoing controversy over the Arbitral Award of October 3, 1899.

Leading Guyana’s delegation was Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall SC MP; Agent for Guyana at the ICJ, Carl B. Greenidge; Philippe Sands and Pierre D’Argent, Legal Counsel; and Lloyd Gunraj, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Guyana to the Kingdom of Belgium.

Samuel Reinaldo Moncada Acosta, the Agent for Venezuela to the ICJ, led the Venezuelan team, which included a delegation and legal advisers.

According to a release from Nandlall’s Chambers, the focus was on the necessity and timing of a second round of written pleadings, following Venezuela’s submission of its Counter-Memorial on April 8, 2024.

During the meeting, both nations agreed that additional written pleadings were required to advance the case. Guyana suggested a six-month period from the date of Venezuela’s Counter-Memorial submission, setting an initial deadline of October 8, 2024, for its reply.

However, Guyana expressed flexibility in extending this deadline to late October, contingent upon the Court’s schedule.

Venezuela, on the other hand, requested a 12-month period from Guyana’s October reply to prepare its rejoinder, citing the complexity of the case..

“Guyana noted that Venezuela’s request for a 12-month period was excessive, given that the case has been pending for six (6) years and that the subsequent pleadings are not intended to recite facts and legal issues already raised,” the AG chambers said.

The ICJ is now expected to issue an order setting appropriate timelines for the second round of pleadings, taking into account the persuasive arguments made by Guyana’s representatives.

The genesis of the bor-

hearing proceeds before ICJ

der controversy goes back to the 1899 Arbitral Award, a landmark decision that delineated the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

Despite the historic arbitration, tensions have persisted, with Venezuela repeatedly challenging the validity of the award.

In 2018, Guyana took a decisive step by approaching the ICJ, seeking affirmation of the award’s legitimacy.

Venezuela initially claimed that the ICJ lacked jurisdiction, a contention flatly rejected by the World Court in a crucial ruling in December 2020. The door was thus opened for the ICJ to delve into the merits of the substantive case.

Lawmakers aligned with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro have approved the creation of a new state “Guayana Esequiba,” in Guyana’s resource-rich Essequibo region. Venezuela, last year, had intensified claims to two-thirds of Guyana’s Essequibo region.

Guyana’s government reiterated its steadfast commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter, the Rule of Law, and the peaceful settlement of controversies.

However, the country issued a firm warning that it “will not countenance the annexation, seizure, or occupation of any part of its sovereign territory.”

Guyana remains steadfast in its position, asserting that its borders are non-negotiable, and reaffirming its sovereignty over the territory.

Despite ongoing proceedings before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Venezuela has persisted in asserting its claims to Guyana’s territory, even citing a controversial 2023 December referendum as so-called justification.

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) recently expressed deep concern over Venezuela’s persistent, “aggressive” stance towards Guyana amid the ongoing border controversy over the Essequibo region.

This issue was a central topic at the 27th meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), held in Ro -

seau, Dominica, from May 23-24, 2024.

Despite international rulings and diplomatic efforts advocating for a peaceful resolution, Venezuela has continued to escalate tensions.

The bloc noted that Venezuela’s recent actions have undermined these efforts.

At the COFCOR meeting, foreign ministers noted Guyana’s serious concerns regarding the continued military build-up by Venezuela along their shared border.

They highlighted the importance of regional stability and condemned any action that could further inflame the situation.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall SC MP; Legal Counsel, Philippe Sands; Agent for Guyana at the ICJ, Carl B Greenidge; and Legal Counsel Pierre D’Argent, and Lloyd Gunraj, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Guyana to the Kingdom of Belgium

Lusignan Prison inmates gain new skills through trade shops

INMATES at the Lusignan Prison are embarking on a path of reformation by learning new skills at the prison’s trade shops. The Guyana Prison Service announced that the Holding Bay area at Lusignan Prison has been transformed into trade shops where prisoners will now have the opportunity to learn auto mechanics, joinery, tailoring, welding, and carpentry.

This initiative aligns with Minister Robe -

son Benn’s 'Fresh Start' program, designed to aid the reintegration of inmates into their communities and families. The program aims to provide inmates with

valuable skills that can help them secure employment and lead productive lives upon release.

Chief Prison Officer and Trade Shop supervisor at Lusignan Prison, Owen Charles, explained in a video posted to the Prison Service's Facebook page that the inmates are taught daily skills in welding, carpentry, masonry, and joinery. "We have a team of inmates who carry out the daily function of maintenance, in and around the prison compound," Charles said, noting that their duties include ensuring the prison's structural integrity.

Charles emphasised the diverse skill set within the Trade Shops and the Prison Service, which helps address various structural issues at the prison. He also encouraged youths to consider joining the Prison Service, sharing that his employment there has been an enriching experience.

In his 2024 budget presentation, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn outlined a comprehensive agenda for the rehabilitation of inmates. He stressed the importance of equipping inmates with the tools needed for a fresh start after their release. Benn's plans include the construction of new vocational schools within the prison system, making the Prison Service self-sufficient, and compensating prisoners for their efforts in agricultural activities.

The initiatives at Lusignan Prison are part of a broader effort by the government to ensure that inmates have access to meaningful rehabilitation programs. These programs aim to reduce recidivism rates and help former inmates reintegrate successfully into society, ultimately contributing to a safer and more prosperous Guyana.

‘Party

elections can’t be won on Social media’

- Norton highlights how he is the right leader for the PNC/R

AUBREY Norton, the Leader of the Opposition, has emphasised the significance of direct engagement with party members and on-the-ground efforts over social media antics.

Despite facing constant criticism from his opponents, Norton has remained resolute in his mission to unify the party, among other objectives.

In an interview with media operatives on Nomination Day for the party’s upcoming congress, Norton said that since he became leader of the PNC/R, he has been engaging party members and groups.

“We have worked on the ground. I have committed to a grassroots party,” he said. Adding to this, he stated that the party

members are aware of his dedication to the PNC/R and of how he has been working with them.

While many have

been attempting to cast doubt on his leadership, Norton firmly stated that he is not a newcomer and over the years, he has gained the institutional knowledge of the party.

“Some people make the mistake of believing party elections are won on social media. They are won by engaging party members and delegates,” he said.

Further, Norton stated that he is an approachable person and has been on the ground.

“Persons know they

can meet me anywhere and engage me,” he said.

Norton also highlighted that since he assumed the position as leader, the PNC/R’s policies have been consistent. This in spite of his critics stating that the party needs to do more.

Additionally, while those critics have been peddling the rumor mill that there are divisions within the party, Norton has debunked this and even welcomed the competition.

Norton secured 177 nominations; WaltonDesir, nine nominations; Forde, 20 nominations; Volda Lawrence, one nomination; Gary Best, two nominations; Carl Greenidge, four nominations; and Simona Broomes, two nominations. The 22nd Biennial Delegates Congress will be held on June 28-30, 2024.

Norton became leader of the party’s 2021 congress, when he was challenged for the post by Joseph Harmon and Richard Van West Charles.

PNC/R Leader, Aubrey Norton

Pakistan beat Canada to open T20 World Cup account

(ESPNCRICINFO)

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THERE was finally something at the T20 World Cup for Pakistan to be happy about as they produced a strong all-round show to record their first win of the tournament, beating Canada by seven wickets in New York.

The win was set up by the fast bowlers, who combined to pick up six wickets to restrict Canada for 106 for 7 in their 20 overs despite an Aaron Johnson 44-ball 52 - that score was quick by the standards at the New York venue, and Canada's total was not insignificant at all.

In reply, Pakistan stumbled in the powerplay. They had brought in

Saim Ayub in place of Iftikhar Ahmed, and Ayub walked out to open with Mohammad Rizwan, thus splitting the Rizwan-Babar Azam partnership up top. The decision did not pay dividends, though, as Ayub fell for 6 off 12 balls.

But Babar and Rizwan brought their experience into play, adding a 63-run stand off 62 balls for the second wicket. Babar fell with victory in sight, but Rizwan stayed put, crafting an unbeaten run-a-ball 53 to give Pakistan victory with 15 balls to spare.

Johnson smashes, Amir strikes

Babar won another cru-

cial toss and had no hesitation in fielding first.

He would have hoped for "first-over Shaheen Afridi" to do his magic, but instead, it was first-over Aaron Johnson setting the stage alight. He flicked the first ball of the innings, a shin-high full toss, through mid-on for four, before pumping Afridi straight down the ground for four more next ball.

This was the first time the first two balls in a men's T20 World Cup match had been hit for boundaries. The third ball would also have gone for a straight four if not for the sluggish outfield.

Johnson then smashed Naseem Shah over backward point with Pakistan looking

Mohammad Amir was the only one who got his length spot on from the getgo and he was duly rewarded. Navneet Dhaliwal picked him for a four through point first ball, but Amir exacted revenge by sending a searing in-dipper that flattened Dhaliwal's middle stump.

Afridi and Naseem too found their lengths soon. And though Johnson continued to play his shots, there were plenty of plays and misses. And Afridi changed his bowling end and had Pargat Singh edging to first slip as Canada reached 30 for 2 after six overs.

off the boil.

South Africa overcome early scare to remain unbeaten

(ESPNCRICINFO)

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South Africa survived an almighty scare to maintain a 100% win record at the T20 World Cup 2024, and in New York, where they chose to bat first in their final fixture at Eisenhower Park. On a used wicket, Aiden Markram decided to put a total on the board, and it almost looked like a mistake. South Africa were 23 for 4, but a record 79-run fifth-wicket stand between Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller took them to 113, which they scrapped hard to defend.

Bangladesh's start was not ideal. They were 50 for 4 after 10 overs, but Towhid Hridoy and Mahmudullah put on 44 for the fifth wicket and got them back on track. They almost also got them over the line and will look back on one incident which could have forced a Super Over. In the 17th over, Mahmudullah missed a flick off Ottneil Baartman, which hit his front pad and deflected to the boundary for what looked like four leg byes. But he was given out off that ball, which made it dead at the point of impact, and reviewed the decision. Ball-tracking showed Mahmudullah was not out, but because he had been given out, the four runs did not count, as outlined by the ICC's protocols on DRS (3.7.1) in the playing conditions for T20Is.

In the end. Bangladesh

fell short by four runs. That, and their inability to capitalise on Keshav Maharaj bowling the final over for the first time in T20Is and sending down three full tosses, cost them the game.

Maharaj was tasked with the final over after Markram bowled the seamers out earlier. It seemed a miscalculation, but he got two wickets as Bangladesh sought to clear the boundary though neither Jaker Ali nor Mahmudullah could. Mahmudullah was out on the penultimate ball - off a full toss - to a well-timed running catch by Markram from long-on, which all but ended Bangladesh's hopes.

South Africa leave the USA with three wins from three matches, and will move to St. Vincent to play Nepal in their last group match. They are in pole position to qualify for the Super 8s.

Bangladesh also head to the West Indies, and will play Netherlands and Nepal, with the Super 8s still in sight. Top-three troubles

For all the talk about the power of their batting lineup, South Africa's top three have underperformed thus far, albeit on tough batting surfaces. Collectively, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks and Markram have scored 61 runs in nine trips to the crease at an average of 6.77. Of teams that have played at least two matches at the tournament, only Uganda and PNG average lower.

The biggest concern will be Hendricks, whose scores of 4, 3 and 0 are the lowest of the trio, and whose methods of dismissal appear to show a technical deficiency. Twice in two games, Hendricks has been stuck in his crease and

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday June 12, 2024) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(a) WI defeated PNG by 5 wickets (b) Roston Chase (WI)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Where was the 2010 ICC T20 World Cup held?

(2) How many teams participated? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

then played down the wrong line. He'll be looking over his shoulder knowing fellow opener Ryan Rickelton is waiting on the bench, and could get an opportunity in the next match.

Things got even worse when Tristan Stubbs was dismissed for a duck in the fifth over. South Africa have only lost their first four wickets by the end of the fifth over on five

occasions in men's T20Is, and two of them came in this competition. Happily for them, they had Klaasen and Miller on hand to shore up the mid-section of the innings.

South Africa players celebrate after the win against Bangladesh•Jun 10, 2024•Getty Images

CWI Rising Stars Women U19 Regional Championship…

Grimmond named captain; Latchman is vice-captain

REALEANNA Grimmond has been named captain of the Guyana Women’s U19 team for the upcoming CWI Rising Stars Women under-19 Regional Championship. Grimmond, a West Indies under-19 player, will take over from former U-19 skipper Ashmini Munisar. Along with deputy, spinner Niya Latchman, the pair will lead an imposing unit that performed at a high level during the last edition of the regional tournament.

The Guyanese who finished

second overall last year, missed out on the title after being edged out by eventual winners Jamaica, despite being tied on 16 points. This year, experienced players like Trisha Hardat, Naomi Barkoye, Tiea Isaacs, Crystal Durant and others

Amazon Warriors resign four of five 2023 overseas players

CMC – FOUR of the five overseas signings that helped Guyana Amazon Warriors win the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Twenty20 tournament for the first time will be back for this year’s tournament, starting on August 29.

CPL organisers announced that the Warriors have confirmed their overseas signings for the tournament, and last year’s captain Imran Tahir and pace-bowling fellow South Africa international Dwaine Pretorius, as well as the Pakistani pair of opener Saim Ayub and burly wicketkeeper-batsman Azam Khan will all be returning. The quartet will be joined by Afghanistan opener Rah-

manullah Gurbaz, the most prolific batsman so far in the ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup taking place right now in the Caribbean and the United States.

The lanky Pretorius, 35, bagged 20 wickets at 15.45 apiece, and flamboyant Pakistan-born leg-spinner Tahir, 45, grabbed 18 at 15.44, and they were the top two bowlers in the CPL last season.

Ayub had the second highest aggregate of 478 runs – three less than West Indies One-day International captain and Warriors teammate Shai Hope – in the CPL last year, while Azam played a couple of handy knocks in the closing stages of matches and ended with the fourth -highest aggregate for the

Warriors of 224.

The Warriors previously announced that Hope was among five members of the West Indies squad playing in the T20 World Cup had been retained among the core group of Caribbean players for this year’s tournament. Hope, the 2023 CPL Player of the Tournament, as well as the Guyanese foursome of fast bowler Shamar Joseph, left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie, left-handed batsman Shimron Hetmyer, and all-rounder Romario Shepherd have been retained.

The Warriors have three more spots to fill in their squad, and this will be done during the player draft in July.

will have an opportunity to showcase their talents, adding to their exploits last year. Meanwhile, the ladies will wing out for Trinidad and Tobago on June 30, with the women's tournament running from July 2-14.

Guyana Women's U19 Team

- Realeanna Grimmond (Captain), Naomi Barkoye, Niya Latchman (Vice-captain), Tilleya Madramootoo, Trisha Hardat, Laurene Williams, Denelle Lindee, Crystal Durant, Brianna Samaroo, Shonette Belgrave, Tiea Isaacs, Danellie Manns, Tremaine

The

DaSilva, Qzel Sampson, Daniela Hicks, Areah Ally, Aneesha Chetram, Cianna Barkoye.

UG pip GTI in Youth Basketball Guyana Tertiary League

University of Guyana Trojans secured a come-frombehind victory on Sunday to take a spirited game against Georgetown Technical Institute (GTI) in the Youth Basketball Guyana, Tertiary Basketball League.

GTI started the game at the National Gymnasium with hot hands as they led at the half way point 35-29 with Martin Edwards 15 points and Peter Langevine 12 points, doing the early damage.

GTI’s Jamal Mauier 11 points and Javier St Claire 11 points came to the fore in the second half but UG Trojans’ Jushawn Bayley played fabulously to record an outstanding and game high 34 points as they took over the clash, clinching the second half 33-26 for the one-point victory.

Bayley had good support from Malachi Grimmond with

10 points.

Meantime, New Amsterdam Technical Institute also narrowly got past Upper Corentyne Combined in their encounter.

New Amsterdam had Aberone Collins to thank for their rousing start as he led their scoring with 23 points with support from Timothy Rampersaud who finished with 14 buckets.

At the half NA lead 27-24.

A strong second half showing from Upper Corentyne who were led by Adrian King 12 points and Fredrick Lansley with 16 points kept them in the contest before critical support from Aaron king and Aldon Angel with 10 points each nearly put them over the line.

Upper Corentyne outscored New Amsterdam in the second half 26-25 but New Amsterdam held on to take the close victory 52-50 after their first half lead.

Guyana School of Agricul-

ture also suffered a tough loss to Linden Technical Institute 73-60.

The unstoppable Linden team continued their dominance in the tournament by sweeping the first half 34-25 and never looked back as Kimol Grimmond with a superb 32 points, 7 rebounds and 4 steals proved instrumental on both ends of the court.

They would extend the lead after the second half to clinch a 13-point win 73-60 with Grimmond getting good support from Lerone Joseph with 13 points.

GSA’s Quintyn Dexter with 14 points, Dennis Prince with 12 and Omarion Sampson with 11 points played well for their team but in a losing cause as their combined efforts could not stop Grimmond and his LTI unit. The Tertiary League is set to continue next Sunday at the

Marks, Latoya Williams.

The manager is Treymayne Smartt and the coach is Clive Grimmond.

standbys are Aaliyah

National Gymnasium.

Imran Tahir will be back for GAW in 2024

LTI Collin Phillips going for a lay-up against GSA

Guyana women’s hockey team to attend PAHF Challenge in Bermuda

THE Guyana women’s hockey team is scheduled to compete in the 2024 PAHF Challenge set for Hamilton, Bermuda, from 20th to 28th September, 2024.

The Challenge is a qualifier for the PAHF Cup scheduled for Uruguay in 2025 and is Guyana’s only path to qualifying for a World Cup.

Six teams will be vying for the single available spot in the PAHF Cup which are hosts Bermuda, Brazil, Guyana, Jamaica, Peru and Mexico.

Of the six teams, Mexico is the highest-ranked team listed as #37 in the world, followed by Peru as

#41, Brazil at #54, Jamaica at #67, Bermuda at #68 and Guyana at #70.

A squad of 25 players has been selected to commence training for the Challenge.

The squad sees several new faces, mostly emerging from the country’s 2023 Under-21 team that competed in the Junior Pan American Championships that year.

Among the seasoned players of the squad are the Xavier sisters, Gabriella and Alysa, full back Trisha Woodroffe and right winger Chantelle Fernandes.

Fourteen-year-old phenomenon Makaylah Poole is the youngest of the squad,

which features 13 under-21 players, including overseas-based Sarah Klautky, Charlia Webb and Madison

LABA Senior Club Championship…

Royals remain unbeaten; Jets crush Kings

THE Victory Valley Royals maintained their unbeaten showing with a commanding, 101-49, demolition of Retrieve Raiders as the Linden Amateur Basketball Association’s (LABA’s) Senior basketball championship continued Saturday evening.

Meanwhile, Amelia’s Ward Jets ‘jetted’ past the winless Central Mackenzie Kings 92-42 in the second game at the Amelia’s Ward Hard Court in Linden.

Harold Adams led a brilliant all-round performance by the Royals with 24 points, as Yannick Tappin netted 18, Orlan Glasgow supported with 15 and Keifer Tappin added nine points.

Royals were ahead, 148, after the first quarter and by half time the lead was stretched to 47-22.

The Royals outscored their opponents, 30-13, to finish the third quarter ahead, 77-35, before cruising to victory, 101-49.

Shemar Savoury had the best score for Raiders with 13 points as Neil Marks got seven.

In the other game, Amelia’s Ward Jets blew past Kings, 92-42, after taking a 20-16 lead when the first quarter ended. By the half-way mark the Jets held the advantage, 40-25. They would maintain their stranglehold as they opened their lead to end the pivotal third quarter, 72-32, before romping home winners, 92-42.

Qunicy Easton and Dennis Niles both were brilliant with 25 points apiece for the

Jets, as team-mate Joel Webster scored 10 points.

For the Kings, Leon Benjamin was their best shot with 14 points as Stephen George and Jason Watson both registered eight points in a losing cause. One more game is slated for tonight (Wednesday) at 18.30hrs featuring Retrieve Raiders and Block 22 Flames.

The winner will collect $100,000 and the losing finalist $75,000, while thirdplace finisher will receive $50,000 and the fourth team gets $25,000.

Fernandes. The squad will be guided once again by national coach Philip Fernandes.

Guyana last competed in the PAHF Challenge back in 2011 when they finished runners-up to Uruguay in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Only four players remain in contention for selection from the previous squad.

The sport continues to struggle with the lack of an artificial surface and recently was crippled by the closure of the major cricket grounds in preparation for the world cup.

Fernandes indicated that creative measures have to be taken in order to prepare a squad for such an event without a full-sized pitch, as this remains the biggest challenge to improved international performances.

KFC

Elite League…

The full Guyana squad reads:

Goalkeepers: Alysa Xavier, Empress Charles, Jessica Mittelholzer, Keziah Johnason, Sarah Harry

Defenders: Julia Gouveia, Kezia Chinian, Kirsten Gomes, Kazaquah Uzzi, Makeda Harding, Tekeisha Deleon, Trisha Woodroffe Midfielders: Charlia Webb, Clayza Bobb, Gabriella Xavier, Kenisha Wills, Madison Fernandes, Sarah Klautky, Temmara Clarke Strikers: Abosaide Cadogan, Carolyn Deane, Chantelle Fernandes, Makaylah Poole, Princessa Wilkie, Samantha Fernandes.

Ann’s Grove grab third victory; Monedderlust, Den Amstel share

ANN’S Grove United collected a much sought after victory on Monday evening when they clashed with Buxton United at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) National Training Centre (NTC) in season six of the KFC Elite League.

It was the tale of two halves in the sometimes-heated clash with a sedate first half producing no goals.

The second half provided three goals.

Quincy Barry led the way in the 58th minute of play for Ann’s grove followed by a 73rd minute Shaquan David strike which hit the woodwork to double the lead.

An injury-time goal from Travis Williams completed the victory for Ann’s Grove 3-nil, their third of the season 6 campaign.

The unsung hero for Ann’s grove was Sheldon Thomas, who effected a special save off a penalty to register a clean sheet for the match.

Ann’s Grove was in desperate need for a strong start to the second half of the season after winning two games along with 2 draws in 10 games in the first round of the league.

spoils

The loss for Buxton United keeps them winless after 11 outings, making them a firm contender for relegation at the end of the season.

Meanwhile, in the night’s opener, Berbice’s Monedderlust and Den Amstel clashed but had to take a share of the spoils after their encounter ended scoreless nil.

Round two of the league, which got underway on May 25, will see the ten elite clubs competing in a total of 45 matches before its August conclusion.

The Guyana Defence Force holds a slim lead atop the standings with 8 wins in 9 games and is tied on 25 points

with Slingerz FC which also has 8 wins and the lone draw against GDF; GDF lead as a result of their goal difference.

Third is Guyana Police Force with 8 wins but having played a game more with Santos in fourth with 6 wins. Western Tigers are fifth with 5 wins.

Fruta Conquerors are sixth with Den Amstel, Ann’s grove, Monedderlust and Buxton United occupying the remaining places on the table in that order.

The teams are all vying for a two million dollars first prize, $1.2 million for the runner-up, $800,000 for the third-placed team.

The unbeaten Victory Valley Royals

Ann's Grove custodian, Sheldon Thomas, saves a penalty kick to keep a clean sheet

Guyana’s national women’s team

UG pip GTI in Youth Basketball Guyana Tertiary League

LTI Collin Phillips going for

Ann's Grove custodian, Sheldon Thomas, saves a penalty kick to keep a clean sheet