17-acre plot identified for development of approximately 90 house lots in Mabaruma
— as gov’t moves to complete work at ‘prime location’ for
Aseventeen-acre plot of land has been identified for the development of 85 to 90 house lots in Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini), and within six months, works will be completed to facilitate the massive housing project.
During a site visit on Monday, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, outlined a visionary plan to transform the area into a sustainable housing project.
“One of the things that we're going to do in this development, is that we're going to try to keep all the big trees. You have big mango trees, fruit trees and other big trees. So the design layout, we're going to try to keep all the trees, so you will see when they come in this area,” the Head of State said. He stressed that there
will be a ‘special effort’ to ensure all trees remain
standing as it is a vital part of the sustainable housing ecosystem the government is aiming to construct in the region.
The project is part of a broader effort to provide affordable housing, with $1.5 billion already invested in the region.
According to Minister Croal, there has been a need for housing development in the region; however, the government has had challenges to acquire land, but has been actively engaging with owners of private lands.
“The land is very much scarce in the Mabaruma sub region, and even for government facilities, sometimes we have to acquire from the private persons,” Croal said. Despite the setbacks, he said that the design for the
sustainable housing
housing project has already commenced and it is anticipated that opportunities will be abound in the area.
The minister said: “Mabaruma itself is growing…we have a lot of persons too, who were looking for occupancy, as they outgrown where they are in the region. This is very much a prime location.”
In a preliminary block plan, officials have already completed the design layout.
“This is a beautiful example to show you how we start, and in six months, we'll be back here so that we can demonstrate to you how development takes place,” President Ali added.
The project is expected to progress significantly within six months, with community engagement and ecological considerations
being key elements.
The Head of State noted that the government will continue to work in acquiring lands in the region.
“So far, in this region, [we] spent $1.5 billion on housing and housing infrastructure alone. So, this will add to that investment. But as I said, in this sub-region alone, based on the existing demands, we are going to continue to look for additional lands that we can have the complete demand satisfied,” Croal said.
Meanwhile, Regional Chairman, Mr. Brentnol Ashley, highlighted that already investments have been made to enhance infrastructure, such as electricity and water systems, and will continue to expand to meet housing demands.
Foreign Affairs Minister clarifies misinformation in Stabroek News report
The following is the full text of a statement from the Department of Public Information:
“STABROEK News has issued yet another erroneous report and this time it pertains to a conversation between the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, the Honourable Hugh Hilton Todd, and its reporter, Khadidja Ba.
“The minister wishes to clarify from the outset that his conversation with the Stabroek News reporter was always cordial. It culminated with her acknowledging that the report the minister was referring to, which was not written by her, was indeed plagued with misinformation that needed to be flagged with the Editor-in-Chief.
“At issue, was the minister’s observation that though he had earlier given an interview to Ms Ba, the story which is now purportedly causing unease, was in fact written by someone else and omitted the vast majority of information the minister had graciously provided during the interview.
“The outrageous claims in the report that were attributed to the minister
about migrants working harder than locals, and that the majority of Lindeners are squatters, are wholly untrue. It is a callous misrepresentation of the minister's remarks and a grave breach of the universal ethical standards of journalism to [sic] which Stabroek News claims to uphold.
“What the minister reinforced in the conversation with Ms Ba were the points he had already expressed in their interview and which were completely misrepresented in the article written by her colleague. This included his emphasis on the international obligations of Guyana and its state apparatus under ratified conventions, to receive and exercise humane treatment of migrants to our shores, particularly those fleeing atrocities and severe hardships in their homeland.
“The minister reiterated that beyond its international obligations, our country is morally obliged to receive and integrate, as far as practicably possible, as many migrants as possible, who arrive seeking help not dissimilar to the historical migration of Guyanese who fled in droves under similar circumstances in the 1970s
and ‘80s.
“The minister underscored the point that the vast majority of migrants who have arrived in Guyana are seeking better livelihoods, as they are doing across the Latin America and Caribbean Region and further [sic] afield, and are normal human beings with dignity; most of them being hard workers already making significant contributions to the national economy here through the deployment of their skills and labour.
“With specific regard to Venezuelan migrants who have sought refuge within the municipality of Linden, the majority of whom have already found meaningful work within the locale; the minister emphasised that local leaders and residents of the town should demonstrate more empathy and hospitality to their beleaguered guests, as they did so warmly and exceptionally for their fellow Guyanese who sought refuge in Linden during the 2005 flood disaster on the East Coast of Demerara.
“Minister Todd also referenced a sensitive point of convergence that should be considered in the treatment of the migrants by local
leaders and residents in Linden; the reality that many parts of the mining town which emerged through squatting, remain unregulated, with the government having already made significant progress to remedy the situation, as it continues to work assiduously to fix those long-standing social issues in Linden, as in other parts of the country. As such, while squatting in any form should not be encouraged and remains illegal, the minister explained to the reporter, as he had previously done during their interview, that survival squatting by the migrants on the outskirts of Linden, among other critical welfare issues, are
sensitive matters being addressed by the central government within the framework of the Multi-Agency Coordinating Committee (MACC), since it is a matter of national importance with international implications.
“The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation further explained to the reporter, that while it was indeed the case that local leaders were not included in his initial direct engagement with the migrants during his visit to the town on October 8th and 9th; the migrant matter, for the most part, resides at a national level with his ministry, in conjunction with the MACC, and is therefore not
one to be handled directly by or with local leaders. Notwithstanding, Minister Todd reiterated to the reporter, as he had previously done during their interview, that as a matter of courtesy, all stakeholders will be kept abreast with government interventions on this critical matter.
“What is again front and centre in this extant matter, is the continued flagrant resort to misinformation, distortions, and half-truths when reporting on important and sensitive matters of state by some of Guyana’s leading news outlets, in the name of sensational journalism, while the ‘custodians’ of the Fourth Estate remain conveniently silent.
“The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation therefore demands that the Stabroek News withdraw its erroneous account of his cordial engagement with Ms Ba, and take stringent and immediate steps to correct its reportage on the minister’s remarks about the Linden migrant issue made during his interview with the said reporter at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre.”
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Hugh Todd
Region One gets $7B education boost in the past four years
— President Ali says, commissions modernised North West Secondary School at Mabaruma
ENSURING quality and equitable education is delivered to children across hinterland communities in Guyana, President, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Monday said that the government has invested approximately $7 billion dollars to enhance the delivery of education and training in Region One (Barima-Waini).
The Head of State made this disclosure during the commissioning of the North West Secondary School at Mabaruma. In 2021, the school was destroyed by the hands of an arsonist.
Now outfitted with modern amenities, the newly
designed institution will not only cater to Mabaruma, but also to all the communities within the sub-region. It will be a centre for opportunities with planned programmes to offer universal education, teachers training and practical-skills development.
“These are the investments that are important for us, not only the physical demonstration of the building, but the physical demonstration of the building means nothing if we don’t invest in the people who must deliver what the building encompasses,” the President said.
Intended to be a catalyst for development and growth,
the government, he highlighted, is investing in personal welfare.
“So, by 2030, all the major centres in the hinterland community, we want stateof-the-art practical instruction centres and technical institutions that will give you world-class certification from right here in your communities,” Dr Ali said.
He pointed out too that the government is concurrently investing in the welfare of educators.
The President said: “We want to ensure that every teacher in the hinterland must have the ability to become a trained graduate from right
where you teach.”
Ultimately, the government’s aim is to ensure that quality, equitable and dignified services are provided to all Guyanese. It is to this end that he charged the region’s educators to fulfil their mandates of giving the best service to children.
President Ali highlighted, since 2023, $226 million in basic amenities such as chalk and teaching aids were provided to classrooms, and $4 billion for maintenance and construction. Over $80 million has been spent on textbooks and $1 billion on a school-feeding programme.
Further, under the ‘Be -
cause We Care’ cash grant initiative, the region has received more than $1.8 billion.
Meanwhile, Education Minister Priya Manickchand disclosed that some five secondary schools are currently under construction in the region.
These institutions, she said, will be modern, topclass institutions that will provide equitable education to children within the region.
She noted too that the government has already highlighted plans to further advance the infrastructure at the North West Secondary School.
President Ali said: “We
believe to build out Guyana, to grow this country, we have to get the talent of each and every child, each and every adult; we have to make you the best you can be so that Guyana can benefit. We don’t just see that in every speech, we don’t see that on a poster…we match it with action.”
Following the 2021 fire, students and teachers from the district had been displaced and scattered.
“This, for us, is a dream come true; we have been working very hard to deliver the finished school to you,” Manickchand said.
Ensuring quality and equitable education is delivered to children across hinterland communities in Guyana, President, Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday said that the government has invested approximately $7 billion dollars to enhance the delivery of education and training in Region One (Barima-Waini) (Office of the President photos)
Minister Anand Persaud demands retraction, apology from ‘Big Smith’ over ‘false, malicious’ article
IN a letter dated October 14, 2024, attorney Sanjeev Datadin representing Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Anand Persaud, issued a formal demand for a retraction and apology from journalist Leroy Smith.
This action follows the publication of a news article on Smith’s website, ‘Big Smith News Watch,’ which contained serious allegations
against Minister Persaud, claiming he was among a group of persons involved in a plot against high-ranking police officials.
The article in question, titled “Text messages forwarded by minister exposes plot to have SOCU target ‘Top Cop’ and Brutus,” was circulated widely on social media platforms including Facebook and WhatsApp.
SOCU is the abbreviation for Special, Organised Crime Unit.
Journalist Leroy Smith
In his letter, Datadin contended that the claims made in the article are “false and malicious,” asserting that Minister Persaud is not involved in any such conspiratorial activities against Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus or Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken.
Datadin outlined that Smith operates multiple social media accounts under his name and the ‘Big Smith News Watch’ banner, as well as a website, all platforms where the article was dis-
Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Anand Persaud
seminated.
The attorney emphasised that the allegations were not only baseless, but were part of a larger pattern of misinformation aimed at swaying public opinion regarding the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and its senior members.
“Your allegation is utterly false and without merit,” Datadin wrote, noting that Smith made no attempt to seek comments from the minister before publishing the article.
Attorney-at-Law
He characterised the journalist’s use of vague language as having clear and damaging intent, suggesting that it was crafted to mislead the public.
The letter further highlighted Minister Persaud’s status as a public official, pointing out the professional and personal repercussions of such false allegations.
According to Datadin, the publication has caused significant harm to Minister Persaud’s reputation and could impede his ability to perform his public duties effectively.
“Your false and malicious assertions have caused my client much professional and personal harm and will continue to cause my client harm in his ability to fulfil his public duties and to engage with persons local and internationally…,” he stated.
In view of the severity of the situation, Datadin demanded that Smith issue a “clear, unqualified and unconditional apology and retraction” by 14:00hrs on October 16, 2024.
He also noted that Minister Persaud is entitled to substantial compensation and legal costs due to the gravity of the allegations. The attorney requested a proposal from Smith regarding damages and costs, along with a draft of the apology.
The attorney’s letter serves as a warning to Smith, stating that failure to respond satisfactorily by the specified deadline would result in legal action against him.
“In the meantime, my client reserves all his rights,” Datadin concluded, indicating that Minister Persaud is prepared to pursue all available legal avenues to address the issue.
Sanjeev Datadin
Cathy Hughes’ credibility further challenged in ‘low life’ trial
–– Plaintiff points to Granger, Ramjattan when asked about APNU+AFC’s refusal to leave office after 2018, alleged Russian interference in 2020 elections
–– admits her claims against Jagdeo stemmed from a 14-second clip of full press conference on TikTok
CATHERINE ‘Cathy’
Hughes faced a rigorous cross-examination in her defamation case against Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo over his alleged “low life” comment, with questions focusing on the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC)’s refusal to leave office after being toppled by a no-confidence motion in 2018, and concerns about alleged Russian interference in the 2020 elections.
The trial continued on Monday before Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif at the High Court in Demerara. Hughes, a prominent member of the opposition party, AFC, initiated legal action against Vice-President Jagdeo following comments during one of his weekly press conferences on November 23, 2023, in which he allegedly referred to her as a “low life”.
During Monday’s session, Hughes faced a series of questions aimed at further testing her credibility.
For instance, she was questioned by Jagdeo’s attorney Sanjeev Datadin concerning a statement she made at a press conference regarding the 2020 general and regional elections.
In that statement, Datadin said that Hughes had asserted that Russians were in Guyana to “hijack the elections”. When asked if she had made the statement, Hughes responded, “Those were not my exact words”.
A recording of Hughes making the statement was played by Jagdeo during his November 23, 2023 press conference. In court, the portion of Jagdeo playing the recording at
the press conference was presented.
Hughes then admitted that she had received information about four individuals, including two Russians, who were staying at a prominent hotel, and were in possession of questionable surveillance equipment.
She said that these individuals were in the country without proper authorisation. When
Datadin asked if anyone had been deported, she responded, “I think it was four”.
Asked by Datadin whether these individuals were Russians or if they held Russian passports, she responded: “I can’t answer that question. I think it is best directed to the Minister of Security at that time [Khemraj Ramjattan].”
Datadin suggested that during a press conference, Hughes expressed concerns that certain individuals possessed equipment capable of interfering with the 2020 elections. Jagdeo’s lawyer pointed out that voting in Guyana is conducted with paper ballots and pencils, emphasising the improbability of election interference through electronic means.
During the cross-ex -
amination, Hughes was questioned about the APNU+AFC government’s refusal to leave office and call elections after being toppled by a no-confidence motion in December 2018.
Asked why the APNU+AFC remained in office after the passage of the motion, Hughes responded that she could not speak for the government at the time, and that “the President” could answer that question.
The President of Guyana at that time was David Granger.
On the first day of the defamation trial on Friday, September 6, 2024, Mrs. Hughes was the sole witness and faced extensive cross-examination.
Under cross-examination, Hughes admitted that Jagdeo’s “low life” comment was related to two issues: Her accusation that Jagdeo had granted a “channel” to Venezuela, and allegations that her company, Videomega, had received millions of dollars in contracts while she served as a minister under the APNU+AFC government.
In October 2015, while Jagdeo served as Opposition Leader, he responded to questions from the
media corps on the border controversy, where he recalled that “there were other options that involved a negotiated settlement; a negotiated settlement which did not see any land concession– that the 1899 award would remain intact– but there was one view that you could, probably on the maritime area, give Venezuela a channel out to the sea.”
The APNU+AFC coalition government had then taken the statement and reduced it to a 14-second clip, with the words: “... you could probably on the maritime area, give Venezuela a channel out to the sea.”
She admitted she was aware that the channel issue with Venezuela had been raised before Jagdeo’s involvement in government.
She also conceded that Jagdeo had no role in government in 1989, and that it was former Speaker of the National Assembly Dr. Barton Scotland who’d initially raised the issue of the “channel” and not Jagdeo.
On Monday, after being pressed about the source, she admitted that her only basis for the claim was a 14-second TikTok video.
Additionally, she said that Jagdeo’s assertion that she had given millions of dollars in contracts to her company was true “to some extent”.
Despite being aware of public commentary about her actions, she confirmed that she had not sued anyone else for similar statements.
The claimant acknowledged that Jagdeo had made similar claims, but stated she did not sue him because she was aware that he had documentation
to support his statements, as seen in newspapers and on social media.
When questioned about Jagdeo’s comments, Hughes admitted that the Vice-President had not mentioned her appearance, gender, or ethnicity during the press conference.
She is expected to face further cross-examination, as well as re-examination on November 1, 2024. Another trial hearing is also set for November 28, 2024.
Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes and his wife, Catherine Hughes at the High Court in Georgetown
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
Justice Priscilla Chandra-Hanif
Attorney-at-Law Sanjeev Datadin
A Necessary Commitment
IN the realm of governance, procurement processes are a critical barometer of a government's integrity and commitment to public service. Recently, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), made a compelling case against the endemic issues of corruption and conflicts of interest within Guyana’s procurement system. His assertion that contractors and officials who breach procurement laws will face consequences is not just a promise, but a
vital call to action.
The allegations surrounding a regional engineer winning a contract while also supervising it epitomise the systemic flaws that plague many governance structures. Such conflicts of interest erode public trust, and undermine the very foundation of democratic governance.
Dr. Jagdeo’s unequivocal stance; that no one should be allowed to simultaneously wear the hat of both engineer and contractor, reflects a necessary clarity in policy that should be embraced
universally.
Furthermore, the PPP’s ongoing efforts to identify and address corrupt practices through community engagement and collaboration with various stakeholders demonstrate a proactive approach.
Engaging with over 2,000 contractors and regional officials is not merely a public relations exercise; it represents a genuine attempt to create transparency and accountability. Dr. Jagdeo’s emphasis on open public tenders over restrictive ones is particularly note-
worthy. By expanding access to the bidding process, the government can ensure a fairer and more competitive landscape, which ultimately benefits the public.
However, the real measure of success will be in the execution of these principles. As Dr. Jagdeo pointed out, multiple transgressions have already come to light, ranging from tampering with evaluation reports to soliciting bribes.
These revelations must not be treated as isolated incidents, but as symptoms of a broader mal -
aise. The government’s commitment to clamping down on such behaviour is commendable, but it requires sustained vigilance and systemic reform.
The mention of potential ‘sting’ operations to root out misconduct is a promising development, but it raises questions about the depth of enforcement mechanisms. The political will to hold wrongdoers accountable is essential, yet it must be matched with robust frameworks for monitoring and enforcement. The promise of accountability must transcend rhetoric;
it must translate into tangible actions that deter future violations.
Public engagement is another crucial element of this equation. Dr. Jagdeo noted that residents are becoming more emboldened to report wrongdoings. This grassroots involvement is vital for fostering an environment where transparency is valued, and corruption is actively challenged. Empowering citizens to speak out not only helps expose malfeasance, but also cultivates a culture of integrity within public institutions.
Dr Gampat’s defence of his thesis raises more questions on credibility of his estimates on net migration
Dear Editor,
I REFER to Dr Gampat’s letter in the Stabroek News edition of October 14, 2024, with the caption, “I reiterate the fundamental point that the difference between arrival and departure cannot serve as an estimate or substitute of net migration.”
Dr Gampat sought to defend his thesis on the methodology he utilised in his book to arrive at
the net migration rate for the period 2000-2018. The goodly professor intimated that he is uninterested in part II of my essay, which I wrote on the issue citing the World Bank/UN data on net migration and expanding on the context of the argument.
He further stated that he reads only Stabroek News. Unfortunately, Stabroek News did not publish part II of my essay, which is not surpris-
ing, but that’s fine.
With respect to his “clarifications,” I have a few questions for Dr Gampat, since he’s taken the time to lend clarity on the methodology he employed in his book. He explained that to estimate the net migration rate, he employed the “Beautiful Population Identity” method to solve for [sic] the unknown variable (net migration). To this end, he demonstrated that for the 19-
year period from 20002018, that the country’s population fell by 25,262.
My questions are: what is the source of his population data that showed the decline in the population for that period, when the latest official census data available was the 2012 census? Did he estimate the population for those years, and if so, what were the bases for his assumptions?
It could not have been that he used the estimated
population rate by the Bureau of Statistics for that period, because those estimates showed an increase in the population. Did he conduct his own house-to-house verification to derive his estimate on the population for that period? If so, please publish the report.
Dr Gampat would appreciate that the integrity of his data is as equally important as the integrity of the methodology employed, as well as the
results derived therefrom. As such, Dr Gampat’s clarification on his book raises concerns about the integrity of his data source and/or method of assumption, and more so, the quality of the end result of his analysis. I would appreciate some clarifications on these questions for the benefit of the readers.
Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin
Ambassador Michael Brotherson has taken the NY Consulate to greater heights
Dear Editor,
UNDER the distinguished leadership of Ambassador Michael Brotherson, the Guyana Consulate in New York has been transformed into a people-oriented, people-centred organisation that reflects the philosophy of the PPP/C government’s “One Guyana” doctrine.
The Consulate’s regular engagements with the Guyanese communities in the Greater New York region is fulfilling a powerful mechanism of inclusivity.
Like Guyana’s President Dr Irfaan Ali, Ambassador Brotherson takes his Consul Office and staff to the people who need urgent service. This approach leads to swifter processing of issues and major reduction of frustration.
Guyanese who travel for long distances to reach the Consulate to file applications for birth certificates, passports, and other services are now relieved of that burden and are also certain that within a specified time their matter would be satisfactorily resolved.
Saturday, October 12, 2024 marked the beginning of a second series of outreaches organised by the Consulate. Earlier in the year, they held outreaches in Brooklyn, Queens, New Jersey, and Upstate New York Connecticut. In this second series, the Consulate would conduct outreaches in Queens (October 19), followed by Brooklyn (October 26) and Upstate New York (November 2). At the New Jersey outreach on Saturday, October 12, 2024, they attended to scores of Guyanese drawn from East Orange and Newark areas.
The services rendered include: processing applications for new passports; applications for lost or mutilated passports; emergency travel documents; applications for birth/marriage/ death certificates; registration of overseas births; notarisation of powers of attorney and other documents (like Bank)and notarisation of Life Certificates. The people served were very grateful and expressed gratitude to Ambassador Brotherson and his hard working staff who also assisted with other personal issues.
Outreaches are conducted
for other purposes too. These include the Independence and Republic Flag Raising ceremonies, the Emancipation Day Observance at Medgar Evers College (Brooklyn), public engagements with top government officials; and the Guyana Government-Private Sector Job Fair at the Marriott in New York near to La Guardia Airport.
Ambassador Brotherson and his staff have shown a readiness and capacity to be guided by the “One Guyana” vision of the President, and have been carrying out their
tasks with care, concern and respect for the people they serve.
They have set a good example for other public servants to follow. It is this approach to service at the NY Consulate that has led to community and religious leaders showering praises on Ambassador Brotherson and his staff for their hard work and professionalism. Congratulations!
Yours sincerely, Dr Tara Singh
Naysayers will collect the same $200,000 they are criticising
Dear Editor,
I SHALL be highly obliged if you could provide me the opportunity to share my thoughts on the recent announcements made by President Irfaan Ali during his address to a special parliamentary sitting.
I must say those an -
nouncements are welcoming and will be of great benefit to all Guyanese, particularly the $200,000 one-off cash grant to every household. The $200,000 grant brings great relief to the family and countless others who were affected by the post-COVID-19 inflation and other economic impacts
created primarily by global conditions.
They would finally get that TV they needed because the old one was going bad, or the computer and printer combo for the children's school assignments, or a car repair that would help the taxi or bus driver to get back on the road to feed his family.
I could vividly recall the days when the APNU+AFC was in office, they imposed taxes on essential services, imposed restrictions on the importation of older vehicles, applied VAT to utilities and education, and a range of other essential services that previously didn’t attract tax or were zero rated, and they
also took away the children’s $10,000 cash grant, just to name a few.
It is totally disgusting to hear some people saying $200,000 is nothing. If it were $1,000,000, the people telling you that $200,000 is nothing would be telling you that $1,000,000 is nothing.
Most of them saying
$200,000 is nothing have never had a poor person’s expenses nor were ever in need in their entire lives, and rest assured they will turn up and quietly collect that same $200,000, while they are encouraging you to reject it.
Yours truly, Quincy Anderson
From multi-racial saviour to Afro-centred biology
WHEN you consider the abject, pathetic, colossal nonsense the PNC, WPA and AFC did when they held power for five years, it may be scientifically impossible (although human behaviour is not subject to scientific determinism) for any of those parties to have a plausible showing in the next two general elections (2025 and 2030).
In Guyana, once a political party is born, one question is automatically asked: How multi-racial is the organisation. That question is always asked and, given ethnic realism in Guyana, will always be uttered by all Guyanese. No third party in the 2020 election was purely of one ethnic make-up.
For this reason, David Granger should be made to answer for a suicidal campaign strategy he adopted for the March 2020 election. Mr.
Granger brought in a consultant group which was a White British outfit. The head of the group addressed a meeting of the top brass PNC, WPA and AFC at State House. Dominic Gaskin told me that the consultants did not meet with the AFC alone, and he described the work of the consultants as mambo jumbo.
The White British electoral expert (the man probably never heard of Guyana, prior to Granger inviting him to Guyana) in his address, suggested to the PNC, WPA and AFC leadership who were at the State House affair, that the strategy for the election should be total emphasis on Granger, the leader. The policy was adopted to use Granger’s image on all billboards and no faces from the AFC.
It was an atrociously asinine direction because in Guyana, the emphasis must be the two contenders- the
Indian and the African. No party can garner substantial votes if that party does not focus on multi-racial faces.
The AFC was there when the British consultants birthed their silly strategy. Not having learnt from Granger’s mistake, the AFC is seeking power on an Afro-centred platform.
No Indian or Portuguese is in the top four positions of the AFC. All are African
Guyanese. It was sad, perhaps tragic, that the AFC leadership had a meeting with State Department officials and there was no Indian from Guyana in the delegation.
One Indian was in the photo and he is a man who left Guyana more than 50 years ago and absolutely no one in Guyana has ever heard about him. That the AFC could humiliate itself so foolishly is a large indication that
it will suffer ignominiously at the election next year.
Is the leadership of the AFC competent to do political analysis? In 2005 when it was born, the AFC’s physiology was driven by multi-racial saturation. The Indian faces consisted of high profile Indians – Khemraj Ramjattan; Moses Nagamootoo; Rajendra Bissessar; Gerhard Ramsaroop; Charrandas Persaud; Geeta Chandan; Sasenarine Singh; Dr. Tarron Kemraj; Dr. Ramayya; attorney, Raj Poonai, Imran Khan and others too numerous to mention.
After 2005, the diaspora groups of the AFC in London, Toronto, New York, and Trinidad were headed by an Indian respectively. The 2011 campaign was financed by rich Indian businessmen both in and out of Guyana. These were people who once belonged to the party of Ravi Dev named ROAR. It will be no exaggeration to say that in 2011, the multi-racial label of the AFC was known throughout Guyana.
If the leadership of the AFC has any intellectual capability to do research, then it will know there are documents in GECOM that
are available to them so they can see the voting patterns for all the districts in Guyana. From those documents, the AFC can see in which African, Amerindian, and Indian villages it got it votes from. Those GECOM documents will reveal that the AFC did well in areas where Indians resided. We do not know where the AFC collected its votes from for the 2015 election because it went into contest as APNU+AFC. But logical deduction can tell you that there was still a support for the AFC from Indian people.
It is an amazing transformation that after its congress this year, no Indian is in the top four positions. Now there is some confusion here. Most, if not all of the small parties that participated in the 2020 poll had multi-racial leadership. If the leader was African, his second-in-charge was Indian and vice versa. It dents the credibility of the current AFC leadership that it could not find a high profile Indian to be number two or number three when in fact those smaller parties in the 2020 election had well known African and Indian faces. The photo of the AFC delegation meeting State Department officials with no Indian who is a member of its top brass in the delegation, is something the AFC should not have made public because it was a suicidal image.
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.
Clinical psychologist urges Guyanese to utilise services provided by Mental Health Unit
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
ENCOURAGING the public to capitalise on the services offered by the Ministry of Health via the Mental Health Unit, clinical psychologist and Head of Psychology Services, Training, and Education, Dr Mark Constantine, emphasised that people should take pride in seeking help for themselves or a loved one rather than focusing on the stigma associated with their mental problems.
Recognising that there are several challenges that contribute to mental health issues, Dr Constantine said human beings in general are faced with different levels of stress on a daily basis, and Guyanese are no different from the rest of the world.
According to him, there is a lot more to stress than just what someone feels, and sadly, a number of schoolaged children are affected by it.
Dr Constantine explained that in Guyana they have observed that school-aged children as well as adults are involved in self-harm such as cutting, anxiety, panic
attacks, and depression.
He also added that stress is a part of life, but it is how we cope with it that makes the difference in our everyday lives.
“These are some of the common things that people suffer with or have challenges with in Guyana, and it is no different than any other part of the world. As long as there are human beings around and you are alive, you will have to deal with stress and all these factors of mental health. However, one of the major challenges is how we deal with it when it creeps up on you in life; how do you handle it and how do you cope with it?” the doctor explained.
Furthermore, Dr Constantine said that the MoH has a national mental health strategy and plan that is in the process of being updated from 2023 to 2030.
According to him, the national plan is a very comprehensive one that allows everyone in every region to be involved and recognise that mental health is everyone’s right and should be treated as one priority.
While they are working to eradicate stigma asso -
Clinical Psychologist and Head of Psychology Services, Training and Education at the Mental Health Unit, Dr Mark Constantine
ciated with mental health problems and bringing more awareness to mental health, the psychologist also mentioned that the government, along with the MoH, recognises that people are faced with real issues in mental health and that everyone deserves the right to the best services.
Meanwhile, Dr Constantine recently reported in an article published in the Guyana Chronicle that there is a
significant decrease in suicide attempts and suicides as of recent, which according to him is primarily because of the proactive work that the Mental Health Unit and the Ministry of Health have been putting in.
While highlighting several risk factors for suicide, such as relationship problems, drug or alcohol addiction, depression, schizophrenia, and chronic anxiety, Dr Constantine also dispelled some myths surrounding suicide.
According to him, people do not attempt to, or commit suicide because they want to die.
He said: “That, of course, is a myth. That is not a fact. Persons commit suicide because they wanted to end the pain; they wanted to end the struggle. They wanted a solution to whatever challenges they were dealing with.”
He went on to explain that for a person suffering from clinical depression, life
can feel like standing in a tunnel with no light at either end.
“When they look left or in front of them, there’s no light. They look behind, and there’s no light either. What we have to do is show them the light.”
Dr Constantine further stated that individuals in need can receive free therapy and counselling services from the Mental Health Unit, and people can seek assistance without worrying about being judged or exposed. He also urged more people to use the resources at their disposal by saying, “Here, we practise confidentiality.”
Emphasising how awareness has grown over time and played a major role in the evolution of suicide prevention, Dr Constantine also highlighted that preventing suicide calls for teamwork, saying, “The prevention of suicide comes with a lot of awareness. We spread a
lot of awareness. It is very important for me to say that trying to alleviate the scourge of suicide is not a one-man show. And we are not going to be successful if we approach it from that angle. It is basically everybody’s business to try to prevent suicide.
“As a result of that, the Ministry of Health and the Mental Health Unit… we have been partnering with different agencies and NGOs [non-governmental organisations] in trying to prevent this problem that we have. And we do so through training sessions, printing of educational materials, and awareness in schools. At the community level, we have partnered with NGOs that are doing a lot of work in this area.
They have done so by going into communities across all 10 administrative regions and spreading the message of suicide prevention and awareness,” he added.
Audit report on WIIN riddled with flawed conclusions, inaccuracies, omissions
THE following is the full text of a statement from the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security in response to an article published in Stabroek News on the Audit Report for WIIN:
“The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is disturbed by the numerous inaccuracies, serious flaws and significant omissions within in the Performance Audit of the Women’s Innovation And Investment Network (WIIN) Programme for the period January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2022 by the Audit Office of Guyana.
Since its launch in 2021, WIIN has revolutionised access to training for women across Guyana, offering the first-ever free hybrid model
with zero entry requirements. This programme, unprecedented in its scope and impact, ensures that women in every region—regardless of background or circumstance—can gain valuable skills through the Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute.
WIIN directly aligns with this government’s unwavering commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, breaking down barriers that have long kept many women from opportunities for advancement. It stands as a bold and transformative initiative that challenges the status quo and expands opportunities for all.
During the period under review, 6,203 women were trained under the WIIN Pro-
gramme (2,170 in 2021 and 4,033 in 2022), surpassing the target of 6,000 persons for that period. With an investment of $185.5 million over two years, including $64 million allocated to WIIN in 2021, the initiative focused on strategically training women in several areas which are needed in the country and aligned to diverse sectoral initiatives to drive women’s empowerment and economic independence.
Although extensive documentation and information for the said period were provided, it is disappointing that the report contains many unsubstantiated conclusions. It begs the question as to whether the report is framed negatively to diminish the
–– Minister Persaud says
tangible impact that this programme has on the lives of thousands of Guyanese women. No doubt there was, and will be room for improvement, as this is a new programme, a three-year old, programme, which continues to evolve and expand.
While the report acknowledges the significant progress made since WIIN’s inception, it undermines these achievements with skewed, overly negative conclusions. Instead of giving due credit to the transformative impact of this programme, the report distorts the narrative, diminishing the strides made and failing to recognise the full scope of WIIN’s success.
It is crucial to correct the inaccurate and misleading conclusions presented in this report.
When WIIN commenced in 2021, the Audit Report failed to document the dilapidated state of GWLI at the time the new administration took over in 2020. It overlooked key issues such as the defunct kitchen and computer lab, damaged infrastructure, leaking roof, lack of staff equipment, and the fact that only one technical staff member was employed.
While the report concluded that the physical environment and facilities were adequate, this was not the case during the audit period. The report fails to consider that the photos presented were taken at the end of 2023, after significant repairs and enhancements were made, and overall upgrades done GWLI.
None of these were inherited in 2020 and these occurred during and beyond the audit period and were a direct result of the ministry’s efforts to improve the institute’s facilities.
This context is critical in highlighting the significant transformation by 2022, including ongoing staff increases to meet the programme’s needs.
During the audit period, the ministry worked diligently to build capacity and recruit staff within the existent structure approved by the Public Service Ministry (PSM). The audit overlooks the significant impact of COVID-19, which disrupted recruitment, training, and operations well into 2021. These delays, directly tied to the pandemic, were not once considered in the report.
The report underplays the board’s role in providing oversight and guidance to ensure that programs were aligned to the institute’s longterm objectives during the audit period
The audit report adopts an overly narrow and simplistic view of vulnerability, focusing exclusively on unem -
ployed single-parent women. Vulnerability encompasses a much wider range of groups, such as women with disabilities, survivors of domestic violence, and those from impoverished communities.
By limiting its definition, the report overlooks the full scope of the ministry’s targeted efforts. Consequently, the 16 per cent figure presented is both misleading and incomplete, making the overall conclusion flawed and inaccurate.
Furthermore, the report fails to provide any data, tools, or methodology used to arrive at this 16 per cent figure, nor does it demonstrate that the other women reached were “not vulnerable.” Without a clear basis for this calculation, the claim lacks credibility and ignores the ministry’s comprehensive outreach to diverse vulnerable groups.
No mention is made of the many women from hinterland and rural areas who benefitted from training for the first time in their lives. It further fails to acknowledge that the overall number of women trained exceeded the target, with training provided both online and directly in communities, effectively bridging the access divide.
The WIIN programme was designed as a woman-centric programme to complement, not compete with, existing vocational programmes.
The report’s assertion that there was a lack of full participation from relevant government agencies and technical and vocational institutions in the course development process is blatantly false. The ministry collaborated extensively with key stakeholders, including the Board of Industrial Training (BIT).
The training during the identified period was delivered by reputable institutions such as the University of Guyana’s Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (UG-IDCE), University of the West Indies - ROYTEC, and the Association of MBAs (ABMA) in the UK, through Nations Inc., ensuring that the courses met high standards.
The claim that the certificates awarded are of “no value” is based on an anecdotal reference from a single individual. This isolated opinion does not reflect the legitimacy of the certification, which was conducted through respected educational bodies.
The report incorrectly identifies CTVET as an accreditation body. In reality, the ministry has engaged the National Accreditation Council (NAC) for the accreditation process.
The practical value and
relevance of the training provided should not be overlooked by a performance audit, as it directly contributes to the economic empowerment of women and their immediate readiness for the job market.
The audit correctly identified some inconsistencies in the database, including duplications and missing information. However, the leap from identifying these issues to concluding that the Institute has used inaccurate information to make decisions is unfounded. Minor data inconsistencies do not imply that decision-making was compromised. The Institute actively maintains a database for applicants, participants, and courses by year, course, and region, which provided a solid foundation for decision-making.
The audit report asserts that the Institute had no system in place to follow up with graduates, and therefore it could not determine whether participants progressed economically. The Institute has maintained databases for participants from 2021 to 2023, including those trained through the business incubator.
The ministry also sent letters to potential employers, encouraging them to hire graduates of the programme. Contrary to the audit’s findings, these systems do exist, and while improvements are being made, they reflect our commitment to supporting participants’ post-training success.
The audit fails to capture the full scope of the ministry’s efforts, overlooking key improvements made to expand access, provide hands-on training, and ensure job readiness. Our commitment to addressing any gaps is unwavering, but it must be made clear that the audit’s skewed conclusions misrepresent the programme’s actual progress and impact.
The ministry continues to push forward, developing practical solutions that not only tackle identified issues but also build a stronger foundation for future growth, reaching even more women across the country.
The ministry hopes that the observations presented of the current report are taken into consideration and looks forward to a fair and balanced evaluation that reflects the true value of the WIIN programme.”
UG’s applied research, innovative abilities to go on show from October 17-19
— at the Institute for Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship’s second exhibition at Turkeyen Campus
THEUniversity of Guyana’s (UG) Institute for Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (UGIRIE) will be hosting its Second Exhibition of Innovations from Thursday, October 17 to Saturday, October 19 at the University’s Multipurpose Centre at the Turkeyen Campus.
According to a press release from the university, over 40 innovations and applied research projects will be on display this year.
The highly anticipated three-day event will give University of Guyana’s researchers, students, entrepreneurs, and innovators an opportunity to showcase their works to the general public, collaborate with other researchers, explore business opportunities, and engage with potential sponsors.
The event is largely faceto-face, will be free and open to the general public from 10:00 hrs. to 17:00 hrs. on Thursday, 9:00 hrs. to 17:00 hrs. on Friday, and 9:00 hrs. to 12:00 hrs. on Saturday.
The opening ceremony, which will be held on Thursday at 9:00 hrs. at the University’s Education Lecture Theatre and will also be streamed via the University’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uniofguyana.
Additionally, the exhibition will be aired virtually on the University’s Facebook on Friday from 10:30 am to 12:00 hrs.
Among the persons expected to deliver presentations at the opening ceremony are the Minister of Education, Dr. Priya Manickchand; Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI), and Director of UGIRIE, Profes-
sor Patsy Francis. Innovators are expected to showcase their work in climate smart applications, food science technology, coconut technology, renewable resources, biotechnology applications, ICT applications, and newly published books, among others.
The selected innovations are aimed at stimulating scientific inquiry, promoting business opportunities, and sharing UG’s research. Research is the second major mandate of the University, with the aim of solving problems and stimulating national development.
The UGIRIE is one of the newer institutes created in 2021 as a Technology Transfer Facility (TTF) that provides a platform for researchers and innovators within the University of Guyana and allied institutions/individual researchers to share new products and services with industry. The programmes and courses offer practical approaches to establishing, accelerating, and scaling up businesses.
The Institute focuses on concepts that are grounded in sound science and technology. This supports UG Blueprint Goal numbers three and four, to create centres of excellence to solve the grand challenges of Guyana and the region and to create successful citizens who are fit for navigating complexity.
Additionally, the Institute was established to ensure that research was documented, scaled up, protected, and publicised. It was also set up to provide solutions to problems in industry and commerce as well as share new information in many areas of societal development.
Director of UGIRIE Prof. Francis said: “These innova-
tions are important for us to stimulate our economy and for working in partnership with the Government of Guyana and the business sector because much has to be done to scale up some of the projects and to get the prototypes to the marketplace.
“I want us to recognise that we are producing a different type of student as they are innovators and entrepreneurs... Our Institute is working on two platforms, one on the level of generating innovation and secondly to encourage all staff and students to be entrepreneurial-minded.”
For more information on the innovations and about UGIRIE, kindly contact director.irie@uog.edu.gy or 592-624-6091 or 592-6006647 or visit the website at https://ugirie.uog.edu.gy/
The University of Guyana School of Graduate Studies and Research (UGSGSR) also recently held its Third Graduate Symposium under the theme ‘Vulnerability, Resilience, and Change Towards Sustainability: Multidisciplinary and Interdisciplinary Perspectives’.
The University of Guyana, through its students, faculty, and research institutes, has consistently produced path-breaking research which continues to add to the existing body of knowledge in various areas of academic research.
Within the last four years alone, the world ranking of the University of Guyana has risen over 300 points and is steadily climbing towards the upper quartile of academic institutions worldwide. To learn more about UG’s research, please visit: https:// researchandinnovation.uog. edu.gy/
A UG researcher showcasing several types of aquaponics applications at the inaugural UGIRIE Exhibition in 2022
A UG researcher showcasing how plastics and other aggregates could be used to make good quality concrete blocks at the inaugural UGIRIE Exhibition in 2022
Rice production to surpass 700,000 tonnes Historic achievement …
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
AS the harvesting season comes to a close, the rice industry in Guyana is set to achieve a remarkable milestone, with production of rice expected to exceed the 700,000-tonne mark for the first time in the country’s history.
The government has invested significantly in the rice industry, providing farmers with essential resources, training, and access to modern technology. These initiatives have empowered local producers, enabling them to maximise their yields and improve the overall quality of their crops.
sector, but also highlights the resilience and hard work of Guyanese farmers.
By fostering a collaborative environment between the government and the farming community, the country is witnessing unprecedented growth in rice production.
This historic production level not only underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening the agriculture
During a recent outreach at Tarlogie, Corentyne, Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha announced that
this year, for the first time in Guyana’s history, the rice sector is poised to surpass the 700,000-tonne mark.
He said: “This year, for the first time since we start growing rice in Guyana, we will surpass the 700,000-tonne mark, and that will be an achievement for us.”
Minister Mustapha emphasised that the impressive
As the harvesting season comes to a close, the rice industry in Guyana is set to achieve a remarkable milestone, with production expected to exceed the 700,000-tonne mark for the first time in the country’s history
yield this year is averaging about 6.7 tonnes per hectare.
He highlighted Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) as a key contributor to this success, showcasing the region’s vital role in reaching this historic target.
As the nation celebrates this milestone, the government remains committed to maintaining this momentum.
Continued investments and innovative support programmes will focus on sustainability and advancement, ensuring that the rice sector remains a cornerstone of Guyana’s economy.
Addressing earlier challenges, Mustapha acknowledged the “serious threat” posed by paddy bugs earlier in the year.
However, thanks to proactive measures and solutions developed in collaboration with stakeholders following a series of meetings at Albion, Corentyne, the impact on this season’s crop has been minimal.
“I think we were able to manage it to a certain level, the paddy bug, and we haven’t had much damages this crop from the paddy bug”, he reported.
Mustapha also outlined exciting developments in the poultry sector, emphasising the government’s commitment to modernising and enhancing production capabilities. The introduction of modern tunnel houses is a key strategy aimed at significantly increasing poultry output, he said.
To facilitate this initiative, the government is col-
laborating with financial institutions to provide funding, making it accessible for those interested in expanding their poultry operations.
With each modern tunnel house expected to cost around $40 million, Mustapha said: “We are working with the bank, so you only have to come up with a small amount of cash if you want to do it individually.”
The government is also prioritising youth involvement in the project, with its having already been launched in Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Four (Demerara-Mahaica), and Five (Mahaica-Berbice), and soon expanding into Region Six.
In addition to poultry advancements, Mustapha pointed to the establishment of the hydroponic facilities, with the largest currently in Enmore and housing 100,000 plantlets.
Three additional facilities are set to be built in Essequibo, Region Five, and Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), with the aim of further engaging young people in innovative farming techniques.
Minister Mustapha also drew attention to the implementation of the prawns programme in Onverwagt, Region Five, which showcases the government’s commitment to diversifying agricultural production, and shows that the ministry is eager to collaborate with farmers to explore the cultivation of other crops.
Regional leaders advance discussions on defence diplomacy, disaster response, transnational threats
–– at CDMA XVI
PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips is heading a Guyanese delegation to the XVI Bienni-
al Conference of Defence Ministers of the Americas (CDMA), which is being held in Mendoza, Argentina, from October 13-16, 2024.
The delegation comprises Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS; Head of Defence Secretariat, Colonel Ronald Hercules; and other Guyana Defence
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips is heading a Guyanese delegation to the XVI Biennial Conference of Defence Ministers of the Americas (CDMA), which is being held in Mendoza, Argentina, from October 13-16, 2024
Force (GDF) military officers.
The Conference brings together defence leaders from across the hemisphere to foster collaboration, enhance regional security, and strengthen diplomatic ties.
The CDMA, which includes over 30 member states, serves as a crucial platform for promoting dialogue and cooperation on security issues.
Its primary objectives are
to address shared challenges and bolster collective security in the region.
Prime Minister Phillips emphasised the significance of Guyana’s participation, said: “Our involvement in this conference underscores Guyana’s dedication to fostering robust diplomatic relations, strengthening our defence diplomacy, and enhancing our national defence capabilities. The dialogue and partnerships formed here will contribute significantly to our nation’s security and development.”
The conference provides an invaluable opportunity for Guyana to demonstrate its commitment to democratic values and international cooperation. Additionally, it serves as a vital forum for discussing strategies related to defence diplomacy, disaster response, and transnational threats.
Stakeholders enhance capacity to operate in seabob value chain
LAST week, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM), conducted a two-day “Training of Trainers” workshop for workers in the seabob sub-sector.
According to a press release, the workshop aimed to increase awareness on emerging local and international market requirements related to quality and safety of seabob products, from harvesting through to preparation.
Seabob (Xiphopenaeus
kroyeri), a shrimp species harvested from the Atlantic Ocean, is one of Guyana’s key exports, with the country being one of the world’s leading exporters.
This is the first in a series of planned trainings in this crucial area. The first cohort of about 15 participants, included per-
–– through ‘training of trainers’ workshop
sonnel from the Fisheries Department, Ministry of Agriculture, and Pritipaul Singh Investment (PSI), a leading private sector processing firm.
Dr Gillian Smith, FAO Representative, noted that this mix of public and private sector participants is important to ensure that
stakeholders across the value chain have the right information to increase the opportunities for reaching new and demanding markets.
The participation in the workshop also marks a step toward a long-term commitment to improving food handling and safety in seabob production.
Key focus areas of the workshop included a deeper understanding of food-safety principles, hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP), the importance of food safety standards for enhancing market access, as well as strategies to further reduce waste and minimise public-health risks.
Trainers from the CRFM commented that,
before the end of this year, more training will be offered to other industry stakeholders and to interested vendors and fishers.
The FISH4ACP project will also assist stakeholders in developing and implementing a comprehensive Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Strategy for the seabob value chain.
This will help to drive a strategy to enhance safety across the industry, further reducing the risk of injury and illness to workers and fisherfolk along the seabob value chain.
These initiatives are part of the FISH4ACP Programme which is implemented by the FAO and the seabob industry, with funding from the European Union (EU).
Participants engaging demonstration on food-safety handling of a cold chain.
TOTALTEC launches hospitality group, complex in Guyana
The TOTALTEC Inc., a provider of integrated services to the energy and construction sectors, on Monday, announced the launch of
THETOTALTEC Inc., a provider of integrated services to the energy and construction sectors, on Monday, announced the launch of CampBOSS Inc., its wholly-owned hospitality group.
According to a press release from the company, CampBOSS is set to open its first state-of-the-art hospitality complex in Houston, Greater Georgetown, in December 2024.
This new facility will offer a comprehensive range of amenities, including: 52 comfortable rooms with plans to expand to over 100 rooms in the next six-eight months; restaurant seating for 88 guests, including a VIP/ conference dining room, and a second kitchen dedicated to catering services; a fully equipped spa and fitness centre for guest relaxation and well-being; a modern confer-
ence centre for meetings and events; and a refreshing pool and a relaxing roof terrace.
"CampBOSS is designed to provide affordable, high-quality accommodation and services to meet the growing demand in Guyana's dynamic market," Chief Executive Officer of TOTALTEC Inc., Lars Mangal said.
He added: "We are committed to delivering exceptional cuisine and outstanding service, setting a new standard for hospitality in the region."
This complex is strategically located in a secure, safe, and quiet environment in Houston, providing convenient access to key business districts and transportation links.
CampBOSS will offer flexible room rental models to cater to various needs and budgets, with integrated services including catering,
Security guard dies in Region Seven accident
POLICE are investigating a fatal incident which occurred at about 17:25 hours on Sunday, on the Sand Hill Trail in Cuyuni-Mazaruni, Region Seven, involving an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV).
The ATV at the time was being driven by Marlon Davison (now deceased), a 37-year-old security guard employed with Hopkinson Mining Security Firm and a resident of Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara.
In a statement, police said that enquiries disclosed that the driver was proceeding east along the northern side of Sand Hill Trail at a fast rate when he lost control of the ATV.
As a result, the vehicle turned turtle, and the driver was pinned, receiving injuries to his body.
Davison was picked up by public-spirited citizens in an unconscious condition and taken to the Bartica Regional Hospital, where he was seen and examined by a doctor who pronounced him dead.
maintenance, laundry, and a dedicated camp concierge.
The facilities boast a modern architectural design, featuring floor-to-ceiling glazing and stylish furnish-
ings, creating a comfortable and sophisticated atmosphere.
“CampBOSS also provides fully integrated services to companies operating in
Guyana and beyond, specialising in catering, maintenance, laundry, and camp management for remote site operations. Their modular facilities are renowned for their
quality and unique design,” the company said. The grand opening of the CampBOSS hospitality complex is scheduled for December, 2024.
CampBOSS Inc., its wholly-owned hospitality group
US$10,000. scholarship, other
prizes up for grabs in Guyana Energy Conference’s inaugural essay competition
THE
Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo has announced an exciting new initiative aimed at engaging the nation’s youth in conversations about the energy sector.
According to a press release, the inaugural essay
competition is open to all secondary school students in Guyana, providing a platform for young minds to explore the dynamic energy landscape and its implications for the country's future. This competition is designed to inspire students to think critically about pressing
issues related to energy and sustainability. Participants will compete in three categories based on their school Forms.
For Forms One and Two, topics include hypothetical management of Guyana’s oil revenues, the role of youth in nation-building and what
makes the country an attractive tourism destination.
Forms Three and Four students will delve into the importance of community engagement in energy projects, explore how the nation can leverage its oil wealth sustainably and consider investments necessary to combat
climate change.
For the senior category, encompassing Forms Five and CAPE students, the topics challenge participants to discuss local community involvement in energy initiatives, the economic transformations brought about by oil discovery and the prospective contributions of youth to the future energy sector.
In addition to the educational opportunity, the competition offers substantial prizes. First-place winners in all categories will receive US$1,000. while the top winner in the senior category will be awarded a US$10,000. scholarship.
Second-place winners will take home US$500. and an iPad, while third-place winners will receive US$250. and a cellular phone. The awards ceremony is scheduled for February 18, 2025, coinciding with the opening day of the Guyana Energy Conference.
To participate, students must ensure their essays are original works, submitted by a single author. Each entry should include a cover page with essential details such as the essay title, participant's name, age, class, school, and
contact information.
Essays must be written in English and can be submitted via email or delivered in person to a designated address in Georgetown.
Participants are required to adhere to specific word counts based on their category, ranging from 600 to 1,200 words, and must directly address the assigned topics.
The guidelines emphasise the importance of originality and clarity in writing, discouraging the use of AI tools for assistance. The organisers will employ techniques to verify the authenticity of submissions, and any entries that do not comply with the guidelines will be disqualified.
With a submission deadline set for December 31, 2024, the competition not only seeks to cultivate a deeper understanding of the energy sector among students but also empowers them to voice their ideas and insights.
As Guyana's energy landscape continues to evolve, this initiative provides an invaluable opportunity for the youth to contribute to the national dialogue on sustainability and development.
Two arrested during police ‘cordon and search’ operation
RANKS of the Guyana Police Force’s Regional Division Number Three, conducted a 'cordon and search' operation at two West Coast Demerara (WCD) homes last Monday between 04:35 and 05:30 hours.
Ranks first visited the Den Amstel squatting area, West Coast Demerara (WCD) home of Micheal Charles called 'Mikey', a 41-year-old vendor.
According to the police, during the search ranks alleged found 187.9 grams of marijuana in the kitchen cupboard. Charles, the police said, subsequently admitted ownership of the suspected marijuana, and was arrested.
He is currently in police custody.
Subsequently, the ranks went to Uitvlugt, WCD, where contact was made with Deon Carew, a 38-year-old Regional Sports Officer.
A search was also carried out on his person and premises but nothing illegal was found.
However, he was told of an allegation made against him that he, on September 4, 2024 at Uitvlugt, obtained credit by false pretense from Sheldon Abrams.
Police said he was cautioned, and he in reply said: "I gon deal with that man".
He was arrested and escorted to the Leonora Police Station, where he was placed in custody pending further investigation.
New high-yielding GRDB-18 rice variety released for commercial cultivation
AGRICULTURE Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Monday officially released the GRDB-18 rice variety for commercial cultivation at Nooten Zuil, East Coast Demerara.
The new variety is set to be a game changer for the local rice sector, as it has the potential to produce approximately nine tonnes per hectare, is tolerant to lodging and delayed harvesting for up to fifteen days, and is blast-resistant.
While offering remarks at the launch, Minister Mustapha said that the introduction of this new variety highlights the government’s continued dedication to the rice sector, and is a shining example of the progress being made to ensure the nation’s food security.
“The GRDB 18 variety has been meticulously bred to meet the unique challenges faced by our rice farmers. With the potential to yield between seven and nine tonnes per hectare, it is on par with other popular high-yielding varieties,” Minister Mustapha said, adding:
“Also, it not only boasts excellent tolerance to water lodging, which is crucial for maintaining high-quality harvests, but it ensures that our agricultural sector remains resilient in the face of climate change and other adversities. By introducing this candidate variety of rice, we are paving the way for greater productivity and food security; it underscores the fact that innovation and technology are key drivers in transforming our agricultural landscape and ensuring that we can meet the challenges of tomorrow head-on.”
Minister Mustapha also reported that rice production in Guyana has increased considerably over the past five years.
“We heard the target for this year, and we’ve seen rice production increase tremendously. Prior to 2020, farmers would reap an average of 36 bags per acre. Today, the average is between 40-42 bags per acre, and, with good agronomic practices, farmers are reaping more. We’ve moved production from 5.9 tonnes per hectare to about 6.6 to 6.7 tonnes per hectare,” he said.
“I’m hoping that by the first crop of 2025, we can move that to about 6.9 tonnes per hectare. The government’s policy is that by 2030, we must be a large producer of rice, exporting
to about 50 different markets globally. For the first time in the history of this country, rice production is expected to surpass the 700,000 tonnes mark by the end of this year,” he added.
GRDB’s Chief Scientist Dr. Mahendra Persaud said that in developing this new variety, a number of factors were considered.
“Since 2010, the GRDB has embarked on a pro -
–– able to withstand delayed harvesting for up to 14 days
gramme, taking into consideration the challenges Guyana’s farmers continue to face. From the breeding perspective, it is becoming increasingly difficult for us to achieve our objectives,” Dr. Persaud said, adding:
“Whatever conditions we have in Guyana, we have to develop plants that will perform well for our farm-
ers. This candidate variety is mixed with different genetic backgrounds, both local and foreign. When developing this variety, we didn’t only consider yields, but also the environmental challenges. We conducted between sixty to seventy yield trials, plus another fifty to sixty onfarm trials across Guyana. From those tests, we’ve
concluded that this variety can yield up to nine tonnes per hectare. From those trials, we’ve seen that the average is around 7.2 tonnes per hectare which is equivalent to about forty-five bags per acre.”
This new high-yielding variety is the third variety launched in less than four years, and represents the
government’s commitment to research and innovation to boost the rice industry.
In 2020, Minister Mustapha launched the GRDB -16, a variety with the potential to produce up to 60 bags per acre. Last October, the government launched the GRDB-IICA 17 Biofortified variety. (Ministry of Agriculture)
Babar Azam ‘rested not dropped’ as Pakistan explain selection reshuffle
PAKISTAN has moved to explain the selection decisions that saw a number of big names omitted from the men’s Test squad for the final two matches of the ongoing series against England.
The new Pakistan selection committee announced on Sunday that there would be a new look to the squad following defeat in the first Test in Multan, with Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah all rested.
And assistant coach, Azhar Mahmood, said that the decision to leave the players out is about long-term strategy, with the se-
lectors feeling that a rest would be hugely beneficial for players who are expected to play a great deal in the coming season.
"Babar is our number one player, there is no question about that,” Mahmood said.
“If you look at Pakistan's FTP (Future Tours Programme), there's a lot of cricket coming up. So, because of that, the selection committee decided that this was the best time to give Babar a rest. After this, we have to go to Australia and Zimbabwe and there is a South Africa tour as well. So that's important.
"He hasn't been dropped. He has been rested," Mahmood added. "The management also understands that there has been a lot happening in the last few months.
“Mentally, even if you say you're strong, it still goes on in the back of the mind. He was willing to play. But it was the decision for him and Pakistan team to give him a rest so that he can come fresh. Because after this, we're playing until April next year.”
Naseem and Shaheen were both given a heavy workload as England racked up a mammoth 823/7 in last week’s first Test in Multan.
And the assistant coach says that the need to bring more spin into the team has given the selectors the chance to rest their two strike bowlers ahead of matches on pitches that could potentially utilise their skillset better.
"If you look at the fast bowling, this was the third test under new management. Before that we were also struggling as we wanted to know how to get 20 wickets,” Mahmood said. “So now we think we have more options with spin.
“There were also a few niggles. Naseem had a few niggles and Shaheen was playing a lot of cricket. So we decided to rest him.”
Pakistan Squad (for 2nd and 3rd Tests): Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Haseebullah (wicket-keeper), Kamran Ghulam, Mehran Mumtaz, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha and Zahid Mehmood. (ICC Media)
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Tuesday, October 15, 2024)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Nicholas Pooran-35 sixes (TKR) (2) Rovman Powell-11 catches (Royals)
Today’s Quiz: (1) Which wicketkeeper effected most dismissals in CPL 2024? (2) What was the highest partnership in CPL 2024 (in terms of runs)?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
ICC Women’s T20 World
Cup
Pakistan and India bow out as New Zealand win to reach semis
NEW Zealand are through to the semi-finals of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup after a fascinating game against Pakistan in Dubai.
New Zealand's qualification for the knockout stages of the tournament comes at the expense of both India and Pakistan, following a 54-run win for the White Ferns in Dubai on Monday.
Matchday opponents Pakistan knew they could qualify if they chased down a target of 111 in quick time, while India would have qualified instead of both teams had Pakistan still gone on to win in a slower fashion.
But a combination of superb bowling from New Zealand and a Gung-Ho approach from Pakistan saw the match race to a conclusion in just 11.4 overs of the second innings, as Pakistan crashed to 56 all out.
Earlier, Suzie Bates topscored with 28 and many of New Zealand batters got starts, but Pakistan’s spinners kept the total under control, with Nashra Sandhu the pick of the bowlers with 3/18.
Catches were shelled throughout the innings under the lights in Dubai, and the eventual size of the target, coupled with the NRR equation, proved too much for Pakistan in the end.
Facing a tantalising equation of needing to reach their 111 runs in 10.4 overs to progress on NRR, Pakistan came out swinging at the start of the second innings, with Muneeba Ali (15 from 11) setting the tone.
But Muneeba, Aliya Riaz (0), Sadaf Shamas (2) and Iram Javed (3) all departed early as the required rate began to soar.
And wickets continued to tumble as attacking intent undid a Pakistan side not used to playing in such a manner.
Fatima Sana had returned to the XI after missing the previous match due to the sad passing of her father, and she
was the only batter other than Muneeba to reach double figures, hitting an excellent 21 (23).
But the captain had little support and the game rushed to a conclusion as Pakistan were bowled out for just 56.
Melie Kerr finished with the pick of the figures, coming into the attack after much of the early damage had already been done to bag 3/14, including the key wickets of Sana and Nida Dar, before wrapping up the win by dismissing Sadia Iqbal.
It was the excellent Eden Carson who played the biggest part in taking away Pakistan’s momentum, with figures of 2/7 from three overs helping build the scoring rate pressure to unmanageable levels.
Earlier, it was New Zealand captain Sophie Devine who won the toss and decided to bat first against Pakistan at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
And the White Ferns got off to a strong start, reaching 39/0 at the end of the powerplay with Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer looking in good touch.
But Pakistan hit back through the middle overs, as Nashra Sandhu bagged both openers.
Plimmer was first to go for 17 (from 14 balls), with Bates falling two overs later for 28 (29).
And the dangerous Melie Kerr struggled to get going, scrapping to 9 (17) before being caught by returning Pakistan captain Fatima Sana, her second grab of the innings.
Sophie Devine and Brooke Halliday rebuilt, steering New Zealand towards a decent total, but the excellence of Pakistan’s spinners meant that an insurmountable first-innings score was well out of reach heading into the death overs.
A smart stumping from Muneeba Ali ended Halliday’s time in the middle (22 from 24), and the skipper took two more catches to send back Devine (19 from 25) and Maddy Green (9 from 7).
But eight catches went down in all in the innings, including three in the final over, as Pakistan missed the opportunity to restrict New Zealand even further.
New Zealand's win means they join Australia as qualifying from a competitive Group A, but neither side yet knows their semi-final opponents.
England face West Indies in the last group match today, with both teams, and South Africa, in contention to
qualify.
All matches at the ICC
Women's T20 World Cup 2024 will be held in the two host cities of Dubai and Sharjah. (ICC Media)
New Zealand players celebrate after clinching a semi-final spot
St. Maarten team arrives for 2024 CAC Championships
IN just a few days, the National Cultural Centre will be transformed into a body building camp, fitness spectacle as the best of Central America and the Caribbean bodybuilders displays their ripped and chiselled bodies, in front of what is anticipated to be a large audience.
Following months of arduous preparations both at the administrative and athlete levels, this weekend showdown among the athletes will occur face to face as they battle for individual and regional supremacy in the sport. One such team is St. Maarten, who has sent a small contingent to represent them at this year’s championships and the word is that, despite their size, they are confident of doing well at the event.
They arrived in the country yesterday and the Guyana Body Building Camp, Fitness Federation President Keavon Bess, disclosed that more teams are expected in today to continue preparations for the ‘big’ show that commences on Saturday and culminates the following day.
Over 250 athletes from 20 countries including Guy-
ana will be flexing and posing their bodies in what is already being touted as the most exciting event to attend this weekend. Several defending champions will be returning to represent the ‘Land of Many Waters’ and they include Mr. Physique from last year, Emmerson Campbell and Hannah Rampersaud who grabbed a silver medal and Julio Sinclair, who claimed a bronze medal last year have been named on the team shortlisted to represent Guyana.
The full list is: Selwyn Grogan (Masters Under 75KG, Sylvon Gardner (Masters Under-70KG), Orlanzo Valenzuela (U-65KG), Daniel Lutchman (U-70KG), Delrae McLean (Masters-U75KG), Christopher Anthony (Masters U-75KG), Seon Budhan (U-65KG), Julio Sinclair (Over 100KG), Marley Vyphuis (Men’s Physique 186cm), Kewsie Anderson (Men’s Physique 186cm & Physique Mass), Roger Callender (U-60KG), Yusuf Khan (Physique 172cm), Antowyn Bayley
(Men’s Physique 176cm), Sachin Sharma (Men’s Physique 170cm), Jamal Pollydore (Men’s Physique 176cm), Emmerson Campbell (Men’s Physique 170cm), Renaldo Caldeira (Men’s Physique 170cm), Hannah Rampersaud (Junior Wellness), Melitha Fernandes-Anderson (Women Wellness under 158), Christine Ramsammy (Bikini Under 169), Sabita Stephenson (Bikini Under 165), Joel Caldeira ( Bodybuilding under 65kg), Vanisha Munroe (Women’s Wellness under 160), Aliya Wong (Women’s Wellness under 158) and Rawle Green (Masters Bodybuilding Under 90kg). Meanwhile, the countries confirmed to participate are Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Bonaire, Curacao, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, St. Lucia, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, Venezuela, Colombia, Jamaica, St. Maarten (Dutch side), Haiti, Nicaragua, Mexico, Costa Rica and St. Vincent and the Grenadines along with host Guyana.
Jai Hind dethrones Regal... (FROM
BACK PAGE)
Concacaf to introduce new formats for region’s U-17 Men’s and Women’s Qualifiers
CONCACAF, on Thursday last, announced new formats for the Confederation’s U-17 Men’s and Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.
The announcement follows FIFA’s confirmation earlier this year that it will increase the frequency of the FIFA U-17 Men’s World Cup and FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Both will become annual competitions with expanded participation to 48 and 24 teams, respectively.
The new Men’s Qualifiers will consist of a single round. The participating Concacaf Member Associations will be divided into eight groups, with the number of teams per group varying depending on the total number of participants.
After round-robin play, in which each team will play against each team in its group once, the group winners (eight teams in total) will qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
The first edition of the Concacaf U-17 Men’s Qualifiers under the new format will take place between February 7 and 16, 2025.
The 2025 Concacaf U-17 Men’s Qualifiers official draw will take place on October 24 at the Concacaf Headquarters in Miami, FL. Fans will be able to follow on the Confederation’s YouTube channel starting at 11:00 hours ET.
The new Women’s Qualifiers will consist of two rounds, with the four highest-ranked participating Concacaf Member Associations (based on the Concacaf U-17 Women’s Rankings) receiving a bye to the Final Round.
For the Round One, the Member Associations ranked fifth and below will be split into six groups, with the number of teams per group varying depending on the total number of participants. After round-robin play, the six group winners and the two best second-place finish-
ers (eight teams in total) will advance to the Final Round, joining the four top-ranked teams (twelve in total).
The Final Round will also be played in a group format, consisting of three groups of four teams each. After round-robin play, the three group winners and the best second-place finisher (four teams in total) will qualify for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
The first edition of the Concacaf U-17 Women’s Qualifiers under the new format will take place between January 27 and February 1, 2025 (Round One) and March 31 and April 6, 2025 (Final Round).
The 2025 Concacaf U-17 Women’s Qualifiers Round One official draw will take place on October 16 at the Concacaf Headquarters in Miami, FL. Fans will be able to follow on the Confederation’s YouTube channel starting at 11:00 hours ET. (Sportsmax)
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines stun El Salvador with 2-1 victory
SAINT Vincent and the Grenadines delivered a stunning performance on Sunday, defeating El Salvador 2-1 in a dramatic Concacaf Nations League clash at Arnos Vale Stadium. The victory cut El Salvador’s lead at the top of Group A in League B to just two points, reigniting the Vincy Heat’s hopes of advancing in the competition.
a bouncing ball in the box, slotting it home from close range to send the crowd into early celebrations. Despite El Salvador's efforts to find a quick equalizer, they were unable to break through the Vincy Heat defence in the first half.
from Bishon Richards, sending the ball past the El Salvador goalkeeper and sparking wild celebrations at Arnos Vale.
cash prize of $600,000 while the runners-up received $100,000.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson jnr., who deputised for Prime Minister Mark Phillips, who was unavoidably absent, showered praise on the organisers, the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc, for once more running a well-organised tournament.
The minister reminded the players and those present of the commitment of the Prime Minister to uphold the tradition of the tournament and urged the organisers to strive to make it even better. He also remined them of the
upcoming Vice-president softball tournament, which was inaugurated last year and is due to be staged on the weekend of November 8-10 this year.
The Minister was also presented with an appreciation plaque by GSCL Secretary Telesha Ousman on behalf of the league.
Heading into the match, El Salvador was on the verge of earning promotion and securing a direct spot in the 2025 Gold Cup with a win. However, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines had other plans, rallying in front of their home fans to secure a crucial three points.
The hosts took the lead in the 39th minute when Shakeem Adams capitalised on
El Salvador, however, responded with intensity in the second half, and their persistence paid off in the 71st minute. Captain Rudy Clavel headed in a redirected ball from a corner kick to bring La Selecta level, putting them back in control of their promotion ambitions.
But the drama was far from over. In the 88th minute, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines snatched the win with a moment of brilliance. Diel Spring slid in to connect with a perfectly placed cross
With the win, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines moved to seven points, closing the gap on group leaders El Salvador, who remain at the top with nine points. Meanwhile, Bonaire leaped to third in the group with four points after a 1-0 win over Montserrat, while Montserrat now sits at the bottom of Group A with three points. The victory marks a significant moment for the Vincy Heat as they continue their push for qualification, while El Salvador will now have to regroup to secure promotion in the final stages of the 2024/25 Concacaf Nations League. (Sportsmax)
The St. Maarten team pose for a photo op
Concacaf Nations League
Supreme Stars are new women’s champions
SUPREME Stars of Linden are the new champions of the women’s category of the Prime Minister’s Softball tournament which ended at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, on Sunday.
In an efficient batting, bowling and fielding display, the girls from the mining town, outplayed Number
6Knight Riders of Berbice by 26 runs to claim the coveted title and an unbeaten record in the 12-team Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc. tournament. Winning the toss and opting to take first strike, Supreme Stars reached a challenging 123 for eight in their allotted 15 overs. The Berbicians were never up to
the challenge after losing the wickets of their skipper and hard-hitting batter, Jenefa Kewley, early for 10.
Wickets fell at regular intervals with opener Renita Ramdeo (19) and Leanna Collins (17) offering token resistance.
Melissa Daniels bowled brilliantly to claim three for 20 from her three overs while Alicia Stellingburg supported with two for nine. There was also one wicket each for Erica Ashby and Joyann Richards.
Earlier, opener Marissa Rodney, who slammed a blazing even hundred versus defending champions, 4 R Lioness at the Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) ground on Thursday, looked set to compile a big score before she was bowled by Kewley for a top score of 18. Melissa Daniels and Tamana Fredericks supported with 17 each allowing the new champions to reach what was an eventual winning total.
Tina Ganie was Number 64 Knight Riders best bowler with three for 15 while
there was one wicket each for Jenefa Kewley, Lynda Kewley, Tessa Parks and Cindy Alexander.
Daniels was adjudged the player of the final while Jenefa Kewley claimed the Most Valuable Player (MVP) prize, an air fryer, donated by Regal Stationery and Computer Centre. Daniels collected a trophy.
Induction ceremony held as Academy accepts third cohort of men’s cricketers
ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – The first set of men’s cricketers from the Academy to be based at Cricket West Indies’ (CWI’s) Coolidge Cricket Ground headquarters on a fulltime basis were inducted in a ceremony held here over the weekend.
The 18 cricketers in attendance – the third cohort of players to be inducted – were addressed by West Indies cricket legend, Courtney Walsh, technical staff and cricket professionals, including CWI Director, Enoch Lewis and CWI’s newly appointed chief operating officer, Lynford Inverary.
During his opening remarks, Inverary, who took over his new role on October 1, emphasised the importance of the Academy in developing the next generation of West Indies cricketers.
“CWI has invested in you because we believe you are worth the investment. You are the future of West Indies cricket.
“This is not a one-off investment; it’s part of our long-term commitment to
creating a high-performance system that ensures West Indies cricket thrives on the global stage,” Inverary said. Meanwhile, Walsh, the legendary fast bowler who still holds the West Indies record for most Test wickets, shared his unique perspective as a former player. He advised the young men to focus on their fitness; to acknowledge the
importance of constantly learning about the game and to always enjoy themselves.
Lewis, who is also the chairman of the Cricket Performance and Development Committee, also delivered a powerful address, highlighting the pride and responsibility of wearing the West Indies crest.
He reminded the young players that they are part
of a legacy that extends beyond the field.
Ramesh Subasinghe, head coach of the West Indies Men’s Academy, and CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, outlined the year’s curriculum which, in addition to onthe-field training, focuses on skill development, personal growth, and leadership training.
Supreme Stars reached the final after dethroning two-time champions, 4 R Lioness, in last Thursday’s semi-final encounter, played at GYO while Number 64 Knight Riders drew the bye after three teams were left following the knockout stages of the 15-over affair.
The winners, runner-up
and player of the final trophies were sponsored by Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall. The winners also took home $200,000 while the runner-up collected $50,000. The management of Regal Stationery and Computer Centre also made a financial donation to the winning team. (Frederick Halley)
Ben Stokes returns as England name XI for second Multan Test
ENGLAND’S captain, Ben Stokes, will be back to competitive cricket for the first time since August 2024.
A torn hamstring in the Men’s Hundred had sidelined Stokes from cricket for nearly two months. The all-rounder missed the threegame Test series against Sri Lanka, and the opening Multan Test against Pakistan. Ollie Pope led the side in his absence.
However, Stokes was a regular presence with the England squad and will now return to lead the side.
Matthew Potts also makes it into the playing XI along with Stokes whereas the pace duo of Chris Woaks and Gus Atkinson sit out.
England XI for the second Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith, Brydon Carse, Matt Potts, Jack Leach, Shoaib Bashir
Jack Leach and Shoaib Bashir will continue to lead the spin attack, with Joe Root expected to chip in as well.
England's first outing in Multan was a record-shattering win for the tourists, with numerous milestones being created including the fourth-highest innings total, highest-ever stand for England, first triple hundred for England since 1990 among many others.
England is presently placed at the fourth place on the ICC World Test Championship Standings with a point percentage of 45.59%, while Pakistan is at the bottom with 16.67%.
(ICC Media)
The victorious Supreme Stars players pose with their winnings
Player of the final, Mellisa Daniels MVP Jenefa Kewley collects her award
The newest cohort of men’s players who were recently inducted into the Academy (Photo courtesy CWI Media)
England captain Ben Stokes
Jai Hind dethrones Regal Legends to claim Over-50 title
By Frederick Halley
ON a day when none of the three defending men’s champions retained championship honours, Jai Hind of Berbice claimed the Legends Over-50 title, inflicting a five-wicket defeat over Regal Legends to end their supremacy since the category was introduced in the annual Prime Minister’s T20 Softball tournament in 2017.
Led by a superb knock of 67 from Lloyd Ruplall, Jai Hind held their nerves to register a five-wicket win with one over to spare after Regal Legends staged a fightback in defence of their 163 for nine in the allotted 20 overs,
The experienced Ruplall proved to be the catalyst in the reply. After losing his opening partner, Hasant Ali with just 13 on the board in the second over, he shared a vital second wicket partnership with skipper and former national player
Vejai Seonarine before the latter was bowled by Asiif Ali for a wellmade 39, which included five fours and two sixes.
By the time Rupall was eventually bowled by Mahendrnauth “Bobby” Parasnauth in the 17th over, after smacking two fours and five sixes, Jai Hind needed a mere 17 runs to complete the formalities.
Richard Kellowan, with three fours and a six, in an unbeaten 22
ensured there were no further hiccups as the players from the Ancient County celebrated gleefully when victory was achieved.
Former Guyana player, David Harper, ended with two for 44 while there was one wicket each for Asif Ali, Parasnauth and captain Mohendra Arjune.
Earlier, Regal Legends were jolted in the second over after the usually reliable Uniss Yusuf went caught by Khemraj Sumair after hitting a six. They slipped to 14 for three, losing the wickets of Saturday’s centurions Asif Ali (one) and Eon Abel (four). Jagdesh Persaud (0) followed at 23 for five in the fifth over.
Arjune and Surujdeo Ramdeen stabled the innings somewhat with a sixth-wicket partnership of 39 which was dominated by the former who struck three fours and two sixes before departing, caught off the bowling of Seonarine.
At 87 for seven in the 14th over, the defending champions looked dead and buried before a lower-order rally, initiated by the hard-hitting Rudolph Baker, who thumped two fours and four sixes in an entertaining 40, got Regal Legends to 163. Wayne Jones chipped in with 21 (three fours) and Ramdeen 19 (three fours).
Seonarine finished with three for 42, Hasant Ali two for 18, Azeem
Khaderoo two for 40 and Khemraj Sumair one for 30.
Ruplall easily claimed the player of the final award while Sumair, who starred with both bat and ball, claiming 10 wickets and scoring 260 runs up to the semi-final stage of the tournament, was deservedly named Most Valuable Player of the category, “riding away” with an electric scooter, compliments of Regal Stationery and Computer Centre.
The winners, runners-up and player of the final trophies were donated by Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall.
The winners also took home the hefty
Jamaul John wins Inaugural One Guyana cycling championship
JAMAUL john captured the Inaugural One Guyana 3-stage cycling road race after putting on a solid display over the final leg in the City on Sunday afternoon.
John after a fabulous ride to take the first stage in Berbice finished second place in stages 2 and 3 on the West Demerara and Georgetown on Sunday.
Briton John however put on a strong challenge to put the race leader on the brink in a stage highlighted by extreme heat, fitness and endurance.
Briton closely followed by Jamual John, who needed an Afinish to clinch the overall title.
The pressure started to show on both cyclists’ machines as they were forced to make emergency repairs down the stretch.
Briton John and Jamual John would get back into the race and pushed hard to lap the field.
Ultimately, stage 3 belonged to Briton John, with Jamual John finishing second, securing the overall winner’s jersey.
Aaron Newton made his move at the line for the bronze medal finish with Curtis Dey fourth and Segun Hubbard fifth.
John ended the 3 stages with 51 points to pocket the half million dollar winning purse with Briton John on 40 for second and Aaron Newton third after amassing 34 points.
Abigail Jeffery showed grit in a solo effort to clinch the women category while Dinesh Sookhai grabbed the Juvenile victory.
In the junior category, Alexander
Leung continued his dominance claiming victory once again in the 3 rd stage after winning the first two.
In stage 3, Sidwell Sandy was second and Alex Newton third.
Leung finished the one Guyana Cy cling series with 63 points far ahead of second place Alex Newton with 41 points.
Sidwell Sandy was third overall with 37 points.
Meanwhile, Dave Bissoon emerged as the overall leader in the Category 4/5 1111111 featuring new comers and semi-seasoned rider, Bisson finished 1 point ahead of second place Ralph Wil liams who had 33.
Robin Persaud won stage 3 in the master’s category to propel him to the overall victory with 51 points.
Elite winners 1st to 5th on podium – 1st Jamual John, 2nd Briton John, 3rd Aaron Newton, 4th Marlon Williams and 5th Curtis Dey – 21 in front of Johann Borrowes (47) and Kwame Ridley (40)
The victorious Jai Hind team and supporters pose with Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson
Player of the final, Lloyd Ruplall, collects his award from Minister Ramson