Guyana on course to become most competitive manufacturing destination
–– President Ali says, endorses upcoming local business conference
LEVERAGING Guyana’s geographic position and expanded trade relations, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has outlined a vision to expand the country’s manufacturing industry.
The Head of State in an interview ahead of the highly anticipated International Business Conference (IBC) emphasised the vital role the conference will play in fostering partnerships between regional and international stakeholders to drive growth and development in the sector.
“Historically, Guyana has been competitive in every area. In manufacturing, we have a very skilled workforce, a very talented workforce, and we know that we have to invest in the continuous upskilling of the workforce, and we have been doing that.”
President Ali pointed out that the government has been investing in continuous upskilling of the local workforce, as well as welcoming skilled and specialised labour from abroad to complement the nation’s efforts.
“We are also very open to bringing in skilled labour, and also specialised labour depending on the manufacturing activity. And we want to invest and get investment in manufacturing at every level, from the micro level, the medium-sized level, and of course, upskill sophisticated manufacturing activities.”
The Head of State further highlighted that Guyana is poised to become one of the most attractive places for manufacturing investment, with energy costs soon to be cut in half and energy reliability to be improved when the country’s flagship gas to energy project comes on stream.
He noted too that the government plans to launch a second power plant soon, which will ensure not only the availability but also the affordability of energy—a
game-changer for manufacturing businesses.
“One of the areas that we were never competitive in was the cost of energy. Very soon this will be fixed, because the cost of energy will be reduced by half of what it is today, and the reliability of energy will also improve because of the building of new power plants and so on. We have already assessed that we’ll need a second power plant, and very soon we’ll be launching a request for proposal for the second power
plant.”
Guyana, he noted, will be one of the most competitive locations for investment in manufacturing.
“Our geographic positioning also offers us easy access to Brazil. And right now, you’re investing in infrastructure to integrate northern Brazil with all of Guyana. So, the market potential and given our expanded trade relations, not only in CARICOM [Caribbean Community], but in Latin America, Central America.”
The President also high-
lighted the importance of bilateral trade agreements within the wider region, adding: “the ease and access to markets is becoming much simpler, less bureaucratic.”
President Ali has urged local businesses, especially those in the manufacturing sector, to capitalise on the upcoming event to forge stronger partnerships.
“This gives you an opportunity to build that local partnership, the local private sector. They have the know-how, they understand the market, they understand the culture and the foreign companies have the technology. They have a bit more capital,” Dr. Ali said as he endorsed the IBC.
The conference, which will bring together key players from the business communities in Guyana and Suriname, is slated to be held at the Marriott Hotel from October 15 to 17.
It is being hosted by the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC) and the GMSA.
Meanwhile, the Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA), Executive Director Nizam Hassan in a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle stated that businesses will be catapulted to new levels.
He pointed out that the conference’s agenda has been strategically crafted to ensure that businesses, especially those within the manufacturing sector in the region can access investment opportunities both locally and internationally.
Business owners and investors alike will have access to key information all in one space.
“It’s sort of like to shorten the learning curve in a new marketplace,” Hassan said.
He further urged local manufacturers to participate in the upcoming conference, pointing out the opportunity to share with international partners the expansive prospects that exist for investments.
“We’re pushing to position Guyana as the manufacturing destination for the Caribbean, especially with energy costs projected to be lower than what they currently are. And energy being one of the major contributors in any manufacturing process, in terms of the cost structure, the cost of energy plays an important part in any business taking the decision to go into manufacturing in Guyana,” he said.
“The conference aims to address challenges and promote collaboration, particularly in energy-efficient manufacturing to position Guyana as a Caribbean manufacturing hub. It will also provide information on setting up businesses, networking opportunities, and supply sourcing within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM),” Hassan said.
Guyana recognises AI as tool for good governance
– Foreign Secretary
AS the world observed International Democracy Day, Guyana’s Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud on Sunday underscored the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to good governance and the democratic process.
“As this year’s Democracy Day focuses on Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for good governance, Guyana recognises the potential of AI to promote democratic processes through enhanced full and active participation and empow-
erment of citizens to be part of decision making.
“Important also is the recognition that if left unchecked, AI can pose a threat to democracy, peace and stability through the spread of misand disinformation and hate speech.
Guyana, as a conscientious global actor is committed to strength -
ening the resilience of democracy at all levels, at all times,” he said in a statement.
Persaud also used the opportunity to emphasise government’s unwavering efforts to ensure that civil liberties, free speech, the rule of law, protection of human rights and good governance prevail.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali
Guyana’s Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud
Over 100 dead in Myanmar floods after Typhoon Yagi
MORE than 100 people have died in flooding and mudslides caused by the remnants of Typhoon Yagi in Myanmar.
Spokesman for the nation's ruling junta, Zaw Min Tun, said in a statement on Sunday that 113 people had been confirmed dead, with a further 64 missing - though regional reports suggest the true death toll may be higher.
Meanwhile, over 320,000 people have been forced to evacuate to temporary shelters, according to the AFP news agency.
Yagi, Asia's most powerful storm this year, has already proved devastating as it swept across Vietnam, Laos, the Chinese island of Hainan and the Philippines.
At least 287 people were thought to have died as a result of the storm before it reached Myanmar.
While the typhoon has been downgraded to a tropical depression since making landfall in northern Vietnam, it has con-
tinued to cause deadly landslides across southeast Asia.
In Myanmar, state media reports that nearly 66,000 houses had been destroyed as of Friday
Officials say at least 64 people are missing in the floods
evening, along with 375 schools and a monastery. Several miles of road and other infrastructure have been washed away.
Also as of Friday, more than 236,000 people were being accommodated at 187 relief camps.
The impacts of heavy rainfall have centred on the Kayah, Kayin, Mandalay, Mon, and Shan states - which cover the central region of Myanmar.
Some say the number of deaths is already far higher than official estimates.
Radio Free Asia, a USbacked broadcaster, reported that at least 160 people had died in Myanmarwith social media accounts loyal to the ruling junta suggesting 230 people had died in the Mandalay region alone.
Japan's state broadcaster, NHK, reported that
on September 10.
"I could see trapped families in the distance standing on the roofs of their houses," he said.
"I heard there were 40 bodies in the hospital."
A woman who runs a company in Kalaw claimed her staff had said 60 people had died in the town, AFP reported.
Myanmar's information ministry says emergency and health workers have been deployed to areas affected by floods, and that it has provided funds for food and drinking water for evacuees.
Emergency responders have also begun repairing damaged roads and bridges, state media reports.
more than 120 people had died as of Saturday.
In Kalaw, a hill town in the Shan state, at least 12 people had died as of Saturday, one of whom was eight years old, the privately-owned Eleven Myanmar news website reported.
One man told AFP how he had tried to rescue people with ropes, as floodwaters 4m (15 ft) high surged through the town
Scientists say typhoons and hurricanes are becoming stronger and more frequent with climate change. Warmer ocean waters mean storms pick up more energy, leading to higher wind speeds.
A warmer atmosphere can also hold more moisture, which can lead to more intense rainfall.
Yagi is expected to move away from Myanmar in the coming days.
Another tropical depression is forecast to develop in the western Pacific in the coming week. (BBC)
Crime stressing families, social fabric
NO place is considered safe in T&T, as crime seems to be on the minds of everyone despite what appears to be the best efforts of law enforcement, stakeholders and many citizens.
So says Dianne Joseph, chief operating officer of the Co-operative Credit Union League of T&T, as the organisation added its voice to the growing concern of criminal activities taking place in the country.
“And, our members are correct, to look towards the governors of our country for solutions or as some may say comfort. But from a real-life perspective, our governors may not have all the answers. In some cases, we have crime in the home, we have it on the streets, we have it at our workplaces and everywhere. Therefore, it may appear impractical to treat with all of the issues all of the times,” Joseph told the Sunday Business Guardian.
Reiterating that it may be safe to say that every citizen is concerned about the protection of themselves and their families, Joseph said gone are the days when a person could feel a sense of comfort and ease upon arriving home from a hard day’s work.
“Now, it is fear on the inside and fear on the outside, due to the robberies, murders, gang violence, home invasions, extortion and many other forms of criminal activity,” she added.
Noting that there are varying views about the problem, Joseph said
some attribute the cause of the crime scourge to parents and advocate holding parents accountable for the breaches of their children.
However, she said, “Is this fair, when in some cases the parents are out working to earn and an honest dollar to put food on the table, buy school books and uniforms and to honestly take care of the children? On many occasions, parents have gone beyond the call to seek the best for their children, but they are not aware when the children get caught up with the wrong crowd that leads them in the wrong path.
“In other cases, it may be because of the negligence of the both parents, the absence of the father or mother in the home.”
Therefore, Joseph said, holding parents accountable for the wrongdoing of their children would need much thought and consideration and must be done on a case-by-case basis, not by putting every parent into the same pool.
She said there must be a balance in every situation and equity must be the hallmark of what is done.
It is important, she said, the society must not lose sight of the fact that many adults and children would have already been in financial distress and this was exacerbated with the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022.
Joseph explained that many have not yet returned to full-time employment and while some may be back, they may not be at the same compensation packages, while other may.
“This scenario has placed many of our members and citizens under ongoing distress. It is therefore necessary to motivate children to attend school and to help them to understand and appreciate the value of education, now and into the future. If we fail as a society to do this, it may create further challenges for our country as a while,” she added.
From the perspective of the school system, Joseph said it is important for the leadership to assess those who genuinely cannot cope with the academic side, but may be a very good prospect at pursuing an area of trade.
In such cases, she recommended to shift the focus for those children in that area and coach them along this path, noting that in this way, they may be able to earn an honest income from the trade perspective while those academically inclined will move on to other jobs.
“After all, we need
tradesmen, automotive, mechanics, tailors, dress-makers, wood-workers, plumbers etc,” Joseph added.
MORE LAYOFFS INCREASE STRESS LEVELS
Further, she said unemployment and underemployment remain a challenge for various reasons and the latest concern is that of newspaper reports about Stork Technical Services TT advising staff of its intended phased shut-down which is likely to affect 389 workers.
“This is cause for further concern. This will add to the already challenging situation of families in distress,” Joseph said, advising that the labour ministry and social services may have to take an early step to and offer appropriate guidance and support the affected workers.
“We must also ask ourselves, will this separation create mental issues? Will there be domestic challenges in the home where
the breadwinner becomes frustrated and ends up in domestic violence? Will there be a risk to the employees who may have debt to institutions for some product or service that may now create challenges when they cannot repay?
She questioned whether Stork’s planned shutdown would result in further crime or if anyone would turn to crime due to the vulnerable state of losing their jobs.
“There must be some form of appropriate support for these employees. This moreso, if we look at these 389 employees by an average household of four persons, it means that a large number of our members and citizens are left exposed to a type of stress and pain that only they may be able to explain. This must be early intervention to shield this group any potential danger,” Joseph said.
From the national perspective, she said, con -
tinuous stakeholder engagement may serve as a vehicle to obtain ideas for restoring peace and calm to the country and to best guide those in authority along this path.
Stating that the answers are not in the minds of any one leader or individual, Joseph said it may possibly be in the minds of the ordinary man who is ‘on the ground’ and may have ideas that may be workable.
“It is therefore, not too late for our governors to embrace in more direct ways the many stakeholders who have been calling for further inclusion.
“Trinidad and Tobago remain a place where our members, in large part, will want to remain and serve at various levels. We must motivate them to do so. If we fail, we may end up with brain drain as they will move to other countries that they feel safer, included or protected,” she added. (Trinidad Guardian)
A unique and compelling opportunity
GUYANA’S recent economic transformation is nothing short of remarkable.
With President Dr. Irfaan Ali at the helm, the country has emerged as a beacon of growth, driven by a surge in economic activity that has turned its once modest market into a global business opportunity.
The recent launch of the London branch of the British Chamber of Commerce Guyana (BritCham Guyana) underscores this pivotal moment in Guyana’s history, and it heralds an era of unprecedented economic potential and international engagement.
President Ali’s address from the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London effectively communicated the gravity of Guyana’s economic leap. The data speaks volumes: Guyana’s economy has tripled since 2019, making it the fastest-growing in the world. With a
staggering GDP growth of nearly 50 per cent in the first half of this year, it’s clear that the South American nation is no longer just a small player on the global stage. Instead, it has become a hotspot for international investment, ripe with opportunities across various sectors.
Historically, Guyana’s small population and limited domestic market shaped its economic strategies, necessitating a strong focus on exports and international trade. However, the dramatic shift since 2019 has transformed Guyana from a niche market into a powerhouse of growth. This rapid expansion opens new avenues for international investors, particularly those from established economies like the United Kingdom.
The UK’s involvement is crucial. As President Ali emphasised, the UK’s expertise in finance, manufacturing,
clean energy, and engineering makes it an ideal partner for Guyana’s ambitious economic diversification plans. The recent visa-free travel agreement further smooths the path for deeper economic ties, facilitating greater mobility and interaction between the two countries. This is a significant milestone that promises to bolster trade, tourism, and investment.
Moreover, the burgeoning oil and gas sector in Guyana creates a pressing demand for machinery, engineering services, and other specialised industries. This presents a golden opportunity for UK businesses to leverage their expertise and capitalise on Guyana’s growing market. The potential for collaboration is vast, extending into key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, agro-processing, and tourism, all of which are poised for development.
President Ali’s vision for Guyana includes not only tapping into the vast potential of these emerging markets but also ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are broadly shared. By investing in energy infrastructure and aiming for reduced energy costs, Guyana is positioning itself as an at -
tractive destination for further industrial development. For UK businesses, this is an opportunity to engage with a market on the cusp of a manufacturing boom, potentially shaping its future and reaping the rewards of its growth.
The establishment of BritCham Guyana in London is not merely a formality; it is a strategic move designed to act as a catalyst for trade and investment. It aims to bridge the gap between Guyanese and British businesses, fostering partnerships that could drive significant economic advancements on both sides. BritCham’s role will be pivotal in creating a dynamic platform for exploring new opportunities and strengthening economic bonds.
Guyana’s economic ascent presents a unique and compelling opportunity for international investors. With its rapid growth, strategic location, and abundant resources, Guyana is not just a country to watch but a nation ready for collaboration and investment.
As President Ali aptly put it, the time is ripe for the UK and other global partners to engage with Guyana and contribute to its exciting journey of growth and development.
SN editorial was based on fiction
Dear Editor,
STABROEK News Editorial of August 17, 2024 had, as its opening paragraph, “In an August 11th letter brimful of nostalgia and social history, Claudius Prince outlined elements of the self-help housing scheme which had been pioneered under the Forbes Burnham administration in the 1970s and 80s and which resulted in several well-developed settlements.”
The contents of Mr. Prince’s letter are neither nostalgia nor history. It is an absolute fiction. It amazes me that the contents of this letter appear as an editorial. While I had tremendous confidence in Stabroek News, I now have serious reservations.
While not quoting the contents of either Mr. Prince’s or Stabroek’s text, I wish to inform the reading public of the following: In 1961, the co-op group, to which my
father belonged, was selected and awarded house lots, on which self-help houses would be built.
The group consisted of 21 members, three Indo-Guyanese and 18 Afro-Guyanese. In the group there were two single-women, Miss Majeed and Miss Monderson. Each of these women had several children.
Simultaneously, another group was selected, also of 21 members, consisting of two Indo-Guyanese, one Amerindian and 18 Afro-Guyanese.
The PPP was the party in government in 1961, and Dr. Cheddie Bharat Jagan was the Premier.
Please observe that 86 per cent of these houses were for Afro‑Guyanese. Has the PNC ever awarded even 50 per cent of any project to Indo-Guyanese?
Late in 1961, both groups commenced construction of 21 houses each, in East La
Penitence.
At the time of construction, and several years after, neither Mandela Avenue nor the East La Penitence Police Station existed. In 1971, Sheriff Street was extended southward, beyond Bel Air, across the back of the Lamaha Canal pumping Station and the back, or through the Botanical Gardens. The extension continued through Lodge, Le Repentir Cemetery, North‑East La Penitence, East La Penitence and East Ruimveldt, eventually linking with what was then, back-road, East Ruimveldt.
The housing area was immediately east of the current East La Police Station. Our house was on Arapaima Street, the fifth house, west of Morocut Square Street. Morocut Square Street is the first north‑south‑running street, from Arapaima Street, east of the Police Station. I spent my teenage, and some of my adult years, in that house.
On the first day of work, members brought their own cutlasses to the site and commenced clearing the land. Cutlasses were not provided by the government. However, please note that it was the PPP Government that provided the resources for the construction of those houses. Self help house‑construction was NOT started by Forbes Burnham.
I spent my pre-teen years in Albuoystown, at 55 Albuoys Street, in a yard of six families in three houses.
Of the six tenants, there was always one Afro‑Guyanese. In the early fifties, the Afro-Guyanese tenant moved to East La Penitence, a few houses east of Vlissengen Road, on Middle Road. While I am not certain, I suspect that that/those house(s) were built by self-help.
The PNC was not in office at that time.
Genocide on Youman Nabi
TODAY is Prophet Mohamed’s birth anniversary and it comes at a time when history is witnessing one of its most infamous acts of brutality of one nation against another nation.
In society, it is called genocide. Genocide against the Palestinian people by Israel’s government and army has been taking place in Gaza since October last year.
We are on the verge of one year of unrelenting genocidal violence against the Palestinian people in Gaza that may not have any parallel in world history when we look at the statistical dimensions. Here are those statistics. More doctors, journalists, babies, children, women and aid workers from international agencies, have been killed in one month than any other conflict between nations at war in the entire history of the world.
There have been two internecine global wars in world history – the First World War and the Second World War. In both of these wars, there are no statistics to match what has been written above. Yet the genocide goes on. I was not born when the Nazi government of Germany from 1933 was killing Jewish people.
But from reading, I learnt that the world did not intervene to stop Germany from committing genocide and the atrocities stopped when Germany was defeated, primarily by the Soviet Union (now Russia) and secondarily by the Western Allies. The genocide committed against the Jewish people is termed the Holocaust.
The Holocaust was so deeply anti-human that world civilisation was determined that it should never happen again. Many organisa-
tions were set up to prevent an occurrence such as the United Nations, the World Court and the International Criminal Court. But it is happening again, in Gaza right at this moment, at this very moment.
How does one explain the current genocidal plans of the Israeli government that has been in motion for 11 months now? Why hasn’t the world intervened to stop the second Holocaust in the contemporary world? There are a number of factors that explain this, but three hold special significance in understanding current international relations.
First, the small state of Israel is not the powerful, global hegemon that cannot be stopped by the world community. Israel is in fact a small country (8,000 square miles and eight million people) that has no special niche in world politics and global political economy. Israel is not a significant achiever in any endeavour of life.
It is not a producer of any special resource that global trade depends on. It is not a country that has a resilient industrial and manufacturing base. Agriculturally speaking, Israel is barren land. This small country depends on its livelihood from its special relation with the United States.
Against this background, Israel’s capacity to wage genocidal war against the Palestinian people of Gaza is because it is nurtured and protected by some of the most powerful countries in the world. If these countries terminate their special relationship with Israel it would crumble the way the hand crushes a piece of paper. The brutal reality then, is that by complex logic, it is not Israel by itself that is sustaining its war in Gaza.
Secondly, there is a huge element of culture that is involved in Western support for Israel which is pyrotechnically manifested in the proclamation of the German Government that Israel is the reason for Germany’s present existence. Two German chancellors have referred to this in this way: Israel is Germany’s reason of state; a very frightening concept that may impinge on international law.
The West is closer to Israel than any other country in the Middle East, because Israel is the only quasi-Christian, English-speaking country in the entire Middle East (even Lebanon is not Christian and Western), whose essential cultural fulcrums are similar to the West.
Israel is accepted as a European nation in most sport competitions in the world, which is an absurdity because it is not in any way situated in the continent of Europe. Yet Lebanon which is closer geographically to Europe is not a European participant in
world sports. Perhaps the most powerful manifestation of this cultural realism is Türkiye’s relation with the European Union (EU). Türkiye has been applying for membership of the EU the past 40 years and has been rejected each year. It is a Muslim nation that will never see membership in the EU in millions of years. There is then an automatic, deep, ideological sympathy for Israel once Israel is involved in a confrontation with its Muslim neighbours. Finally, the genocide in Gaza has shown the nature of Arab civilisation in the Middle East. The Arab nations which when combined have a figure of over 200 million people, just lack the backbone to read the Riot Act to Israel.
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.
SN editorial was based ...
I suspect that it was this Afro-Guyanese family’s move which informed my father of the possibility of home-acquisition by means of self-help.
For the construction, the PPP Government provided a foreman, who supervised every aspect of the construction. Only the plumbing and electrical work were executed by contract.
Workers were expected to be at the job site by 17:00 hours on weekdays. Work ceased at 23:00 hours on those days.
I’m not certain of the starting times on either Saturdays (a working day, to 12 noon) or Sundays. On Sundays, work ceased at 16:00 hours.
My father, a messenger with Bookers, (from 16 to 55 years of age), also had a business, a record store (initially at home). On Sundays, he travelled to the West coast of Demerara to conduct business. Since he could not be at the job site on Sundays, my mother stood-in for him. Since he assumed my mother would not be able work “as a man”, my 15-year-old older brother also worked at the site.
I recalled that there were two single mothers who were in the group. Therefore, my family contributed twice the labour as the other families.
One of the men mixed the cement to make the concrete blocks, while the women loaded the mixture into the moulds and compacted
it. A man would then carry the blocks to the “rack” where they would “cure,” dry and “harden,” in the sun.
The block-making shed was next to the bond so the women were able to observe the men as they carried materials from the bond. The women would comment that my fifteenyear-old brother would carry more material than any of the men. So, my family contributed more labour than two families.
When a septic-tank was being cast, the casting had to be completed before work stopped; occasionally this would be 04:00 hours. Should casting cease and be completed the next day, the “joint” would not fuse completely and would develop a leak. Hence the casting, having started, would have to be taken to completion.
Materials were delivered to the site during the working day, at a time when group members were at their regular work, so they were not present to inspect the quality of materials delivered. This function was executed by the foreman, who was at the site 24/7. He lived in a room in the office building. Therefore, the workers were not present to inspect and reject sub-standard materials.
These houses were expected to cost $3,000. However, our group was informed that, as a result of loss (theft) of some materials, the cost would be $3,300.
The houses were built about two feet off the ground. They were 20 feet square and had
two bedrooms, a kitchen, bathroom and living room. My family consisted of nine members: parents and seven children.
It was the understanding that, upon completion, allocation of the houses was to be done by drawing cards from a bag. If this event was ever conducted, my father was not invited. He was simply told that he has been awarded the second house that was constructed.
There was reluctance to accept the first-constructed houses. It was believed that those houses were not properly constructed since the members were learning construction and made mistakes. Also, the front of the house did not “face” the road.
Subsequent to the construction of the 42 houses, additional houses were constructed. Those immediately - adjacent houses were raised approximately six feet off the ground.
This group was called the Bookers group. The members were workers of Bookers. Further east of the Bookers houses, was another group of houses, built similar to ours. These houses were adjacent to the bridge to Tucville and Uncle Eddie’s Home.
To this point, the houses were constructed by the PPP Government, not Burnham’s PNC.
After the PPP Government lost the election in 1964, and the PNC/UF assumed office, Tucville was constructed. The Tucville houses were constructed by contractors. The reason advanced for the construction of Tucville at
that time was that the TUC was being rewarded for calling the strike which destabilised the PPP government.
In addition, it was my understanding that the PNC-built Tucville houses costing $15,000, five times the cost of those built by self-help by the PPP.
Readers, much of this information may be verified from government records. The Burnham Government did NOT commence house construction by self-help.
Also, contrary to Mr. Prince’s claim, such construction was started at least a decade, and possibly two decades, before Mr. Prince’s claim of the 70s. I moved into our PPP’s self-help-built houses in September or October of 1962.
In a future letter, I will outline the extremely successful PPP’s agricultural project(s). The PNC attempted to emulate those projects but failed miserably. Many of us may recall the numerous co-ops, established and failed under the PNC.
The PNC nationalised and destroyed numerous businesses. One such, which was mentioned in the media, only once, but completely overlooked in every other mention of the PNC failures, was the largest ship-building yard in the Caribbean, Sprostons.
Sincerely, Zamir
Region Two Education Department hosts literacy exposition
SCORES of Region Two learners gathered at the Department of Education’s Regional Literacy Unit Exposition on Friday to witness an array of creative learning tools designed to enhance classroom learning.
Regional Literacy Officer Ronald Ragoobeer explained that the event was part of the region’s Ed-
ucation Month activities. The aim of the exposition was to promote reading and writing, with learners actively participating in activities such as writing and drawing at various booths.
Teachers from both the primary and nursery levels showcased creative and innovative teaching aids designed to positively impact classroom learning.
Ragoobeer emphasised that children have the potential to learn and write, and when teachers employ creativity, it can significantly boost this potential.
He also highlighted that greater efforts will be made to further improve literacy in the region.
This was the first event of its kind in Region Two, and Ragoobeer expressed
hope that teachers would continue to be inventive in the classroom so as to inspire learners.
He noted that children were using paintbrushes
to create their own stories, adding a hands-on, artistic element to literacy development.
Throughout the exposition, children were
excited to explore the booths, which featured a variety of creative displays aimed at fostering a love for reading and writing.
Scenes from the Region Two literacy exposition
MoE releases September schedule for ‘Math Intervention Programme’
THE Ministry of Education on Sunday released a schedule for its Math Intervention Programme and encouraged parents to play a role in ensuring that their children watch the various lessons.
“We’re excited to announce a series of enriching math lessons designed to strengthen students’ understanding and skills,” a post on its official Facebook page said.
The lessons will be broadcasted on the Guyana Learning Channel, Channel 80 and on E NET Cable’s GLC Elevate
Additionally, the lessons will be streamed live on the MoE page and the Guyana Learning Channel.
“All episodes will be uploaded to the Guyana Learning Channel’s YouTube Channel under
the **Math Intervention Playlist** for your convenience. Make sure to take advantage of these valuable lessons to help you excel in mathematics!” the post said.
In response to concerns regarding the poor Mathematics performance at this year’s Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, Guyana’s MoE last Tuesday launched an innovative Mathematics intervention programme.
Among the interventions will be the deployment of 50 new monitors to 50 secondary schools across the country to assess classroom challenges, global models, and teaching practices and the setting up of a hotline (736-MATH). The programme targets
Grades 10 and 11 students, including those in remote parts of the country such as Region One.
Guyana, like the rest of the Caribbean, saw a decline in Mathematics grades this year. Guyana’s CSEC pass rate dropped to 31 per cent compared to 34 per cent in 2023, while the rest of the Caribbean saw a seven-percentage point decrease. This prompted an immediate response from the Government of Guyana, with President, Dr Irfaan Ali urging regional leaders to address the troubling issue.
In response, Guyana’s MoE took the necessary steps to formulate its own initiative to enhance Mathematics education.
This is what was made public last Tuesday.
Drainage works ongoing in Anna Regina
THE Anna Regina Town Council is actively desilting community drains across the township under the leadership of Mayor Devin Mohan.
This initiative fulfills a promise made to the residents of Bush Lot, Richmond and Danielstown.
During community meet-
ings hosted by Madanlall Ramraj, Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture who has responsibilities for Region Two, residents had requested that overgrown bushes and clogged drains in their neighbourhoods be cleared.
Thanks to Ramraj’s intervention, more than 2,000
rods of drains have been desilted this far.
Residents of Walton Hall had requested the clearing of several drains, which was completed.
The entire drainage network in the area is set to be desilted, reducing the risk of future flooding.
Meanwhile, Mayor Devin
Mohan noted that the council has responded to residents’ concerns and is continuing efforts to transform the township.
The Anna Regina Town Council (ARTC) remains committed to addressing the needs of its residents, said Mayor Mohan.
The focus is on improving drainage and preventing flooding in the municipality.
Currently, desilting efforts are underway in Danielstown, where residents have expressed their gratitude for the council’s proactive approach.
Residents of Richmond Village also expressed their appreciation after an excavator was sent to clear a clogged drain next to the Richmond Sports Ground.
This crucial action will enhance the facility’s usage and protect it from potential flooding.
Committee members praised the mayor for his swift intervention and support of the community’s recreational space.
“We are very thankful because we’ve wanted this for a long time. After a meeting, we requested it, and we are glad it was done in a timely manner. This ground is perhaps one of the best in the region,” a resident said.
Guterres calls for ‘culture of peace’ and global unity, as crises mount
AMID escalating global conflicts, deepening divisions and mounting crisis, the UN Secretary-General recently urged everyone around the world to “cultivate a culture of peace”.
Speaking at the annual Peace Bell Ceremony, António Guterres warned that war is spreading, inequalities are growing, and new technologies are being weaponised without safeguards.
Peace, which will be marked on 21 September.
“It is a cause all us devotees of peace and justice must rally behind, this day and everyday –through the Summit of the Future and beyond,” he said.
peace. Let us work towards tolerance and dialogue,” he urged.
In so doing, we can also accelerate progress towards sustainable development and ensure universal respect for the human dignity of everyone, everywhere, he added.
ple all over the world, including the Pope, as a symbol of hope for peace.
The Bell is rung twice a year: on the first day of
spring, at the Vernal Equinox, and to commemorate the International Day for Peace.
The Peace Bell has also sounded on other
special occasions, such as on 26 April 2011 to mark 25 years since the devastating Chernobyl nuclear reactor accident. (UN)
BELL RINGS OUT
“International institutions must be better positioned to respond,” he stressed.
Establishing the International Day in 1981, the General Assembly declared that it should be devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.
The ceremony included the traditional ringing of the Peace Bell, which was cast in the 1950s from coins and medals donated by peo-
The Secretary-General’s appeal comes ahead of a pivotal moment for global co-operation.
Later this month, world leaders will gather for the Summit of the Future, a landmark event aimed at tackling pressing challenges impacting human rights, climate change and security, military technology – and efforts to get the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) back on track.
“We have a chance for change…in short, we must ‘cultivate a culture of peace’,” he emphasised.
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE
That, Mr. Guterres continued, is also the theme of this year’s International Day of
Two decades later, in 2001, the General Assembly further designated the International Day as a time of non-violence; calling for ceasefires worldwide.
WORK OF TOLERANCE
Also speaking at the ceremony, Philémon Yang, President of the 79th session of the General Assembly, underscored the need to restore trust and solidarity among nations. He noted conflicts and crises mounting - from Ukraine and Gaza to Sudan, Myanmar, Haiti and elsewhere - adding that people are “desperately looking for a glimmer of hope”.
“Let us ring the Peace Bell today and send a message of hope for
Secretary-General António Guterres rings the Peace Bell during the ceremony held at UN headquarters ahead of the September 21 observance of the International Day of Peace 2024 (UN Photo/Mark Garten)
2024 Youman Nabi Messages
PPP/C: Youman Nabi
is a time to reflect on fundamental values
ON this sacred occasion of Youman Nabi, the People’s Progressive Party extends warm greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters across the nation and around the world.
His exemplary life encourages us all to strive for greater understanding, empathy, and respect for each other, regardless of our differences.
As we commemorate this special day,
Youman Nabi serves as a profound reminder of the teachings and life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), whose message of peace, compassion, unity, and justice continues to inspire millions globally.
we urge all citizens to reflect on the values of love, kindness, and mutual respect, which are the foundation of a harmonious society. Let us use this opportunity to strengthen the bonds of friendship and solidarity in our diverse nation, fostering an environment of tolerance and inclusivity for all.
The People’s Progressive Party reaffirms its commitment to promoting equality, unity, and the upliftment of
all communities. May this Youman Nabi bring peace, blessings, and spiritual renewal to everyone, and may we continue to work together for the prosperity and well-being of our beloved nation.
GAWU: We must endeavour to emulate the qualities of Prophet Muhammad
As we celebrate Youman Nabi, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) extends warm greetings to all Guyanese, especially our Muslim Brothers and Sisters. This special occasion holds deep significance as it marks the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (On Whom Be Peace).
The teachings and examples of the Holy Prophet (On Whom Be Peace) continue to inspire and guide the lives of millions of Muslims around the world. His compassionate and virtuous messages resonate with people from all walks of life, contributing to the steady growth of Islam in recent times.
As we reflect on the
Day of the Prophet, let us encourage each other to ponder deeply his teachings and be uplifted by his humanitarian spirit, which was characterised by courage, humility, kindness, charity, and unwavering devotion to Allah.
May we all seek to emulate the noble qualities of the Holy Prophet in our own lives, drawing inspiration from his profound example.
Unchecked AI threatens democracy, warns UN chief
LEFT unchecked, artificial intelligence (AI) could destabilise democratic systems by spreading disinformation, fuelling hate speech and distorting public opinion through deepfakes, the UN Secretary-General has warned.
These risks are particularly critical this year, as over 50 countries – representing half the world’s population, hold elections.
In a message for Sunday’s International Day of Democracy, Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated the importance of upholding free speech, civil liberties and the rule of law, as well as ensuring accountable institutions and protecting human rights.
“Yet, these rights and values are under attack around the world. Freedoms are being eroded; civic space is diminishing, polarization is intensifying and mistrust is growing,” he said.
A TOOL FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE
Despite the dangers, artificial intelligence has the potential to play a positive role in strengthening democratic systems, he continued, noting that AI can promote full and active public participation, enhance equality and contribute to human development.
“AI can boost education on democratic processes, and shape more inclusive civic spaces where people have a say in decisions and can hold decision-makers to account,” Mr Guterres said.
By utiliSing AI for good governance, countries can create more transparent and accountable systems, that allow citizens to engage more effectively. However, this will require effective governance of AI at all levels, including internationally.
FOSTERING RESPONSIBLE AI USE
Mr Guterres also highlighted the recent report of the UN’s High-Level Ad-
visory Body on Artificial Intelligence with recommendations on harnessing the benefits of AI while mitigating the risks.
“The message is clear: AI must serve humanity equitably and safely,” he stressed, adding that the upcoming Summit of the Future will be a critical platform for nations to discuss ways to strengthen international co-operation on AI.
“On this International Day of Democracy, let us keep working to build a more inclusive, just, and equal world.”
WOMEN’S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION ESSENTIAL
It is equally crucial to address another fundamental aspect of democracy: the equal political participation of women, as emphasised by UN-Women, the lead agency for gender equality.
“Their inclusion is a matter of justice and a key factor in creating more effective governance,” the agency said, noting that women’s representation is vital for advancing issues such as health, education, and gender-based violence.
Despite this, women’s voices remain underrepresented in decision-making globally.
Only 27 countries are led by women – an increase from 18 a decade ago – while women hold just 23 per cent of cabinet positions worldwide, and only 15 countries have achieved gender parity in their cabinets.
CHALLENGES TO REPRESENTATION
Harmful social norms and gender-based violence continue to hinder women’s political rights and media stereotypes often undermine their leadership capabilities. Additionally, online threats of violence against women in politics and public life are rising, potentially exacerbated by AI technologies.
To address these pressing problems, UN-Women urged governments to take
pacity-building for women candidates and promoting fair and transparent media coverage of women’s political roles.
THE INTERNATIONAL DAY
proactive measures to close the gender gap in political participation.
This includes implementing gender quotas;
combatting violence against women in politics; ensuring equal treatment of women voters and candidates; investing in ca -
Commemorated annually on 15 September, the International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. This year, the focus is on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for good governance.
It was established in 2007 by the UN Gener -
al Assembly, which reaffirmed that democracy is a universal value based on the freely expressed will of people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems, and their full participation in all aspects of life.
The assembly also encouraged governments to strengthen national programmes devoted to promoting and consolidating democracy, including through increased bilateral, regional and international co-operation. (UN)
Two young men display the ink marks on their fingers, indicating they have cast their votes in an election (UNDP/Rochan Kadariya photo)
Reagan Martin who was killed in an early morning accident on the Versailles Public Road, West Bank Demerara
Driver turns self in following fatal accident at Versailles
RANKS of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) are investigating a fatal accident which occurred at around 02:30 hours on Sunday on the Versailles Public Road, West Bank Demerara (WBD), in the vicinity of the health centre.
In a statement, the police identified the deceased as Regan Martin, who was riding a motor cycle at the time of the accident.
Reports indicate that the
accident involved motorcycle #CL 4994, owned by Martin, a 27-year-old of Lot 532 First Avenue La Parfaite Harmonie, WBD, and motor car #PTT 2444, driven by 35-year-old Luis Alberto Moreno of Lot 39 A Independence Street, La Grange WBD.
Enquiries disclosed that the car was proceeding south along Versailles Public Road at a fast rate. It was stated that while in the vicinity of the
health centre, Luis lost control and collided with Regan, who was proceeding north along the western side of the road.
As a result of the impact, Martin was flung off the motorcycle onto the grass parapet where he succumbed to his injuries.
The car ploughed through some bushes on the western parapet and ended up in the trench partially submerged. Luis then exited the vehicle and fled the scene. He subsequently turned himself in to the police accompanied by his lawyer. He remains in custody assisting ranks with their investigation.
MoM hands over new house to Berbice couple
MINISTER of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha and the Regional Vice-Chairman of Region Six, Zamal Hussain, through His Excellency President Irfaan Ali’s Men on a Mission (MoM) initiative, on Sunday handed over a house to 62-yearold Mohamed Hassan
Government of Guyana and the private sector, which made the initiative possible.
This, he said, is an exemplification of corporate social responsibility, allowing hundreds of people countrywide to benefit from the programme.
Ramdular and his wife, 56-year-old Fazeeroon Ramdular of Lot 10 Vryheids, West Canje Berbice.
Minister Mustapha in his remarks lauded the partnership between the
The flat two-bedroom, semi furnished concrete structure was built to allow wheelchair accessibility so as to accommodate Mr Ramdular who is wheelchair-bound.
The two who have been together for over 39 years were extremely grateful for the new structure. (DPI)
Mohamed Hassan Ramdular and his wife, Fazeeroon
The couple’s new house
Pieces of furniture and several household appliances were also handed over to the couple
Over $7B allocated to modernise Region Six drainage, irrigation system
THE government is expending more than $7 billion to modernise the drainage and irrigation system in Region Six, to mitigate flooding and strengthen agricultural productivity.
This is part of Guyana’s broader efforts to lead CARICOM’s push for food security and reduce the region’s $5 billion food-importation bill by 25 per cent by 2025.
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, announced the signifi -
cant investment during the launch of the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair last Friday.
He highlighted the construction of two large canals in the areas of Manchester/Lancaster and Number 51-52 Villages, designed to reduce flooding by draining excess water directly into the Atlantic Ocean.
Additionally, an embankment stretching from Number 66 Village to Canje is under construction to prevent water from
entering the backlands, safeguarding the region’s housing-development initiative.
The minister emphasised that these projects are critical to boosting agriculture in the region,s which plays a key role in the country’s economy.
“Berbice holds a special place in the heart of our nation, known for its rich agricultural heritage and hardworking people. This region has always played a vital role in Guyana’s growth through agri-
Minister
of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha during the launch of the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair
culture,” he said.
Beyond these projects, the government is also in talks to build a deep-water harbour in Berbice, which would allow for the export of produce from northern Brazil through Guyana’s coast in under 48 hours, significantly shortening the shipping time compared to Brazil’s current ports.
Minister Mustapha also noted that Guyana’s
agricultural sector is expected to reach new heights, with the country poised to surpass 700,000 tonnes of rice production for the first time this year.
Moreover, the non-oil sector is also playing a crucial role in the country’s development, as a US $14 million food hub is under construction at Yarrowkabra on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.
The minister revealed
that Guyana has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the state of Roraima, Brazil, to prioritise key agricultural commodities.
In addition to agricultural advancements, he highlighted other developments across the region, including the construction of a state-of-the-art stadium, a Level five hospital, a four-lane highway, call centres, a world-class oil and gas training centre, and a high-span bridge.
The minister noted that these projects aim to modernise Berbice, and transform it into one of the country’s most developed regions, as he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a modern economy by 2030 and beyond. (DPI)
QC alumna Sheridan Dyal honoured to be named UWI’s top matriculant
By Faith Greene
IN 2022, Sheridan Dyal copped the award for the Most Outstanding in Sciences at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. This year, not only did she emerge as one of the top Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) performers, but has also been dubbed the top matriculant at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona Campus, for the academic year 20242025.
The Queen’s College (QC) alumna expressed how proud she felt of not only herself, but of the people around her who would have contributed to her success by motivating, pushing and guiding her throughout her journey. She identified her mom, family, friends, and teachers as being the driving forces behind her success.
Sheridan related that it is a very proud moment to know that she has gotten
thus far, with much more to accomplish in life.
During her time at Queen’s College, Sheridan completed a total of 40 Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) exams.
At UWI, Sheridan is pursuing the Doctor of Dental Surgery programme. She recently told this publication, “Dentistry is just a stepping stone as to where I would like to be. The end goal per se, in terms of my academic pursuits would be for an oral and maxillofacial
degree, and dentistry would be that bridge between the two. Aside from that, I still want to maintain my businesses, grow my businesses, and open more businesses, all while doing all of this. Yes, I know that would be a challenge. It's already proving a challenge right now because I'm so busy at UWI at the moment, but I'm trying my best to juggle both worlds.”
She related: “Initially, it was going to be medicine, but given that I own two businesses already and I
have had the opportunity to work in the private sector, I realised that what I want for myself is to be able to be my own boss eventually.”
Outside of academia, Sheridan plays the guitar, swims and is the owner of two businesses: Teen Hustle, and Royal Wigs. When asked about how she managed to balance work, school and her personal life, she stated: “Time management. It really was something perilous at the time, but when I look back at it, I realise I was really managing my time well, sometimes not so well, closer to exams, because I did still run my businesses throughout my exam period. However, I did have a bit of help from my business partners because I do run shelves, so they would have helped me in terms of the pickup and deliveries, and only would have contacted me when it was absolutely necessary. So that was a big help, but it was a lot of time management, minimum sleep at times, but
- urges students to manage time well, start ‘side hustles’ to fund academic pursuits
that was the key.” She noted as well that while there wasn’t a routine for studying; “Once I knew I finished a particular task pertaining to business or housework, I would jump straight into my books and just sit, take a break, repeat until I knew that I was at my limit then go to bed. So studying was maybe four or five hours per day. Sometimes it would be all day if I didn't go to school on that particular day.”
She encouraged students to start their own “side hustles,” as without her businesses she would not be at UWI today. Although she is the holder of a scholarship, Sheridan noted that there were many miscellaneous expenses that they incurred trying to simply get her there. Her businesses helped to offset many of her expenses.
“That's why I would encourage people to take on different ‘side hustles,’ do what you know you can do and make it a lucrative business. Aside from that, in
terms of academic inspiration, there is nothing that you cannot conquer once you set your mind to it. If there is a problem that's bothering you, you could always reach out to somebody else. There is someone who will know how to help you. You just need to know where to go and ask the right people at the end of the day,” Sheridan advised.
Continuing, she said: “There's nothing that is impossible once you set your mind to it. If man can go to the moon, so can you.”
Sheridan pointed to the many successes she has found in her personal life, in school and by achieving minor goals within her business. This, she noted, helped her to achieve the major ones that she set out to achieve -- at least every quarter of the year.
“Success, you have to look at it either from a holistic point of view, or you can look at it in terms of a smaller area. And either way you look at it, I think a win is a win,” she said.
Top UWI matriculant, Sheridan Dyal (Lictor Live photo)
$30M upgrades for Linden, Bartica hospitals
-
Jagdeo says, reiterates government’s overarching plans to improve health sector
HIGHLIGHTING the government’s overarching plans to improve the delivery of healthcare across the country, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has disclosed that some $30 million will be expended to upgrade the regional hospitals in Bartica, Region Seven and Linden, Region 10.
“We said we're currently building 12 hospitals and we have to upgrade and replace some of the existing ones. So, Bartica, Linden, they would see a $30 million upgrade,” he said last Thursday at a news conference.
He further defended the government’s decision to replace the existing West Demerara Regional Hospital with a new modern state-of-the-art facility.
“It’s wooden; it’s falling apart. You heard what we’ve said before. It’s not off the top of the president’s head that he made this announcement,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali had announced persons would soon be invited to tender for the contract to build a new state-of-theart Hospital to replace the existing West Demerara Regional Hospital in Region Three.
While a new facility will be constructed, Dr. Ali had also pointed out that the government has made significant strides to improve the services at the existing regional hospital.
According to statistics provided by the Head of State, in the first four months of 2024, the hospital conducted some 585 surgeries.
He said this is a massive achievement compared to the year 2021 when the hospital only had the capacity to conduct just about 16 surgeries during the same time frame.
He pointed out too that referrals from the West Demerara Regional Hospital to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (the country’s main referral health facility) declined by 100 per cent.
Dr. Jagdeo had previously outlined the government’s master plan to transform the health sector. He stated that 12 new facilities are being constructed, while some existing ones are being rehabilitated.
He stated that the initiative was an integral component of the government’s manifesto plans, whereby the proceeds from oil and gas will be utilised for the advancement of infrastructure, healthcare, education, support for vulnerable groups, and other sectors.
Out of the 12 upcoming hospitals, six of them will be replacement facilities.
A new hospital is being constructed by the government in Region Six, specifically at No. 75 Village. The objective of this project is to replace the existing Skeldon Hospital and enhance the range of services available to the community.
Additionally, the construction of new hospitals at Anna Regina, Region Two; De Kinderen, Region Three; Diamond and Enmore, Region Four;
Bath, Region Five, and Skeldon Region Six, is in progress.
Ongoing construction works of at one of the new health facilities
Hague armed robbery suspect captured -
THE police in Regional Division #3 have launched a manhunt for the suspects involved in an armed robbery on Friday at Hague, West Coast Demerara (WCD).
According to the police, residents on Saturday as -
search on for three others
sisted ranks in capturing one of the armed- robbery suspects who has since confessed. The suspect has also given the names and details of his accomplices to the police, a statement released on Sunday said. Further, the police said that the suspect
has corroborated the story of the driver of the car they had hijacked prior to the robbery.
The statement said that the suspect, along with three others, carried out the alleged robbery under arms at approximately 12:40hrs on September 13, 2024, at the
home of a businesswoman in Middle Street, Ruimzeight, WCD. Three of the four suspects were reportedly armed with handguns.
According to the police, the 52-year-old businesswoman was relieved of two pairs of gold bangles, one
The armed-robbery suspect who is presently in custody assisting police with the ongoing investigation (GPF photo)
pair of gold earrings, one gold ring, and one gold hand band, while her two workers (ages 48 and 23, both goldsmiths), were relieved of their cellphones.
It was further disclosed that the businesswoman and her family reside in a wellfenced yard in a two-storey concrete structure and a goldsmith’s workshop is located in the lower flat of the building.
At the aforementioned time and date, the businesswoman was in her kitchen area while her two workers were working in the workshop. While there, three suspects appeared at her backdoor which was opened. They pointed their firearms at her and told her not to make a sound.
The police statement added that they then took her into the workshop where they met her two workers who were relieved of their possessions. The suspects proceeded to make demands for more gold and money. In the process, one of the suspects fired a shot in the direction of the businesswoman. Persons in the area heard the gunshot and ran towards the businesswoman's house.
The suspects reportedly exited the businesswoman's yard and joined a white Allion motor car with registration number HC 921, which was parked nearby.
“Realising that the businesswoman was being robbed, several residents blocked the road causing the car to come to a halt. The three gunmen and the driver then exited the vehicle and escaped on foot in the
direction of the Ruimzeight backlands.
“The police were summoned, and on arrival, the car was checked and a male was seen in the back seat with his hands and feet tied up with an injury at the top of his head.
“He was questioned about the injury and he claimed that several residents in the area hit him in the head. He gave his name to the police as Garfield Benjamin called 'Carry,' a 50-yearold fireman attached to the La Grange Fire Station and a resident/taxi driver from Stewartville, West Coast Demerara.
“Benjamin told investigators that on Friday, at around 11:30hrs, he was at the Vreed-en-Hoop junction working his taxi when the four suspects approached him and asked if he was working.
He said 'yes' and the suspects joined his car with a request to go to Crane. Whilst in the car he said two of the suspects pulled out firearms from their waists and ordered him to pull over to the side of the road. They then tied his hands and feet with plastic straps and put him in the back seat of the car. One of the suspects drove the car to the scene, where the other three suspects exited the vehicle and entered the yard,” the statement said.
The suspect in custody was interviewed and has since corroborated Benjamin's story to the police. The police are also acting on the information provided by the suspect in custody as they continue the search for his three accomplices.
‘We
not into talking business’
– Slingerz Racing stables aims to defend President’s Cup title
GUYANA Cup and President’s Cup championship winning racing stables, Slingerz Racing stables are strong believers of action speaks louder than words.
While other racing stables are sharing their sentiments on winning the President’s Cup come next Sunday September 22 at Rising Sun Turf Club, West Coast Berbice, Javid Ali and his Slingerz Racing stables
are focused on successfully defending their title.
“We not into the talking business, come President’s Cup 2024, we would be there to defend our title,” Ali said.
“We know there are a lot
of very good horses in the race and all of them have the ability to win on the day, so we would be fully prepared and ready to compete, our team is on the ground doing their best in getting the horses ready for Sunday coming.”
The decorated Slingerz Racing stables will have the defending President’s Cup champion, John Bull out to defend, while the Guyana Cup champion Olympic Kremlin will be out to attack and reign supreme.
Olympic Kremlin, who was imported from Brazil, looked a class apart at the Guyana Cup with a crushing win. Js Racing stables have recently imported two horses from Brazil, and one that will be eyeing to beat Olympic Kremlin at the President’s
Ali,
Cup feature event is Mapa Do Brazil.
In addition to Js Racing Stables, Jumbo Jet Racing Stables, Jagdeo’s Racing Stables, and Simply Royal Racing stables will be out for glory at President’s Cup.
Reliable reports have also come from the Corentyne area in Berbice, that more new horses were imported after the Guyana Cup, last month.
The high calibre of horses sets the playing field level, and fans will be treated to
another episode of quality horse racing.
Nine races are on the programme for the 2024 President’s Cup, and more than G$15 million will be up for grabs. The feature race will be open to all horses, threeyear-old and over, running at an approximate distance of eight furlungs.
Entries have opened and should close on September 17. Organisers have indicated that no late entries are permitted.
Harry Brook to captain England for Australia ODIs with Jos Buttler ruled out
Harry Brook will captain England for the first time during their five-match ODI series against Australia, with Jos Buttler ruled out for the rest of the summer with a calf injury sustained in July. Buttler's injury has also given a lifeline to Liam Livingstone, who has been recalled to the 50-over side after initially being left out.
Brook has been groomed as a future England captain for many years, having captained at the Under-19 World Cup in 2018. He deputised as Yorkshire captain for four matches in the T20 Blast in 2022 and led Northern Superchargers in the Hundred this year, winning five out of the six completed matches he oversaw as they narrowly missed out on the knockout stages.
He was also Ollie Pope's vice-captain throughout England's recent 2-1 Test series win over Sri Lanka, with the team's management keen to develop long-term leadership options. Phil Salt has captained in the ongoing T20I
series, which is level at 1-1 ahead of Sunday afternoon's rain-threatened decider in Manchester.
"It's going to be a great opportunity for Brooky to be the captain," Buttler said.
"He is a pretty laid-back character, but I think he has everything in line. He is a really good thinker about it... I'm sure he'll do that his own way, and he'll get a feel for those moments [in games]. That's what we're encouraging everyone as a side - whether that's a player or a captain - is to try and identify those moments that you think can go a long way to you winning the game and going for it and committing to it."
But Buttler's prolonged absence is cause for concern, given his recent history of calf issues. He missed most of a series against Sri Lanka in 2021 due to a tear and was ruled out of England's seven-match T20I tour to Pakistan the following year with a strain which briefly threatened his participation in the 2022 World Cup.
He has not played any cricket since England's elimination from June's T20 World Cup, when they were beaten by India in the semi-finals: he initially targeted a return in the T20 Blast quarter-finals but suffered a setback in his rehabilitation while running. Buttler has been with England's squad throughout this week's T20I series against Australia and will target a return on November's Caribbean tour.
"It's a bit slower than hoped," Buttler said of his recovery. "I'm going to be missing the ODI series as well, so that's a shame. But at my age, just got to make sure I get it right. It's obviously a shame to miss some cricket and stuff, but I just want to get it right. There's lots to look forward to in the future.
"Injuries force you to stop and take a different perspective and it's nice to be around the guys, getting to know some new faces and seeing what they're all about; trying to share my ideas and listen to theirs and how they operate and building those
relationships, which are obviously really important."
Buttler also confirmed that he would not have kept wicket if he had been fit for the T20Is, after discussions with England's incoming coach Brendon McCullum.
"Having spoken to Baz about it, he stumbled across it with injury preventing him from keeping wicket, but then he really enjoyed being next to the bowler at mid-off," Buttler explained.
"I'll see how the calf holds up to running around in the outfield, or we might have a slip in for a long time," he joked. "But, yeah, I'm very open to those kind of things. I just want what's best for the team: what's best for the team is going to be me being the best captain I can be, and if I have to move from behind the wickets to do that then so be it."
Livingstone's return to the squad comes after his impressive performances in the first two T20Is. He has taken five wickets in six overs with his leg breaks and hit 87 off 47 to win Friday night's game
in Cardiff. He admitted on Wednesday night that he was nonplussed by his initial absence from the ODI squad, after top-scoring in England's defeat at the Utilita Bowl.
England have also confirmed that Josh Hull will play no part in the ODI series, after sustaining a minor quad injury on Test debut at The Oval last week. A team spokesperson suggested that his absence is only precautionary, and that his participation in October's three-
match Test tour to Pakistan is not under threat.
The five-match ODI series starts at Trent Bridge on Thursday and runs until September 29.
England ODI squad: Harry Brook (capt), Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethell, Brydon Carse, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Liam Livingstone, Matthew Potts, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Jamie Smith, Olly Stone, Reece Topley, John Turner. (ESPN cricinfo)
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Monday September 16, 2024)
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83
Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Chris Lynn- 454 runs (GAW)
(2) Chris Gayle-108*(Tallawahs vs TKR, POS)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Who claimed most wickets in CPL 2016?
(2) What were the best bowling figures in a single game in CPL 2016?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Javid
owner of Slingerz Racing Stables addressing the media at Guyana Cup 2024 Slingerz Racing stables
Alvarez ‘best in the world’ after beating Berlanga
SAUL 'Canelo' Alvarez remains the unified super-middleweight world champion after earning a unanimous decision over Edgar Berlanga on Saturday.
The Mexican knocked down Berlanga in the third round in front of more than 20,000 fans at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The four-weight world champion then remained dominant throughout to in-
flict the first defeat of Berlanga's career and mark Mexican Independence Day celebrations with his fifth straight victory.
The fight was scored 118109 by two judges and 117110 by the third in favour of Alvarez, who retains his WBA, WBC and WBO titles.
The 34-year-old's record improved to 62-2-2 while 27-year-old Berlanga, born in New York and of Puerto Rican heritage, is now 22-1.
World Chess Olympiad
"I did good," said Alvarez. "Before they say I fought older fighters. Now what are they going to say? I fight younger fighters?, They always talk.
"I'm the best fighter in the world. It means a lot. It's an honour for me to represent my country on this day. I feel proud about it."
Alvarez was stripped of his IBF belt in July after opting to take on Berlanga rather than the IBF's mandatory
challenger William Scull. Alvarez put Berlanga under pressure early and the younger fighter tried to respond after being caught by a right to the head in the third round, but a devastating left hook sent him down.
Vastly experienced champion Alvarez continued to go after Berlanga with fierce body blows, before rocking him with a big right in the waning seconds of the ninth.
Berlanga remained de-
as they came out for the 12th round, but he could not
Guyana take individual success but teams lose round 5 matches
INDIVIDUAL wins for Guyana as both men and women lose their team matches in the International Chess Federation (FIDE) Chess Olympiad being held in Budapest, Hungary.
Loris Nathoo won his clash against Paul Carpenter from the European island nation of Jersey, with Candidate Master Taffin Khan and Keiron Sandiford loss of their individual battles.
Sachin Pitamber however managed a draw in his
match, in a round that didn’t feature Fide Master Anthony Drayton.
In the women’s segment Aditi Joshi secured the lone draw in the fifth round against Malta for women as they loss 3.5 to 0.5 with the likes Jessica Callendar, Sasha Shariff and Treskole Archibald losing their games.
On Saturday the men’s team went down to Palestine 4-0.
While the women settle for a draw against Guernsey
top ranked opponents. The men and women grabbed their lone team victory on Friday in round 3.
Fide Master Drayton next manoeuvred his way to a classic win against Brian Cottle as he pulled on his depth of knowledge and experience to overcome some challenging positions to comfortably emerge victorious.
Youngster Keron Sandiford struggled against James Schneider before having to
settle for a draw.
National champions Taffin Khan and Sachin Pitamber won their clashes. While the women squad led by Aditi Joshi overcame Grenada 4-0.
Joshi was clinical to corner Flanders Rockisha before pressing her case to take the outright victory.
Women’s candidate masters Jessica Callender and Sasha Shariff, along with Tresk`le Archibald also won their clashes.
England remain cautious over Jofra Archer’s workload for Australia ODIs
ENGLAND will continue to take a cautious approach to Jofra Archer's workloads during their five coming ODIs against Australia, after he bowled just 3.3 overs across the drawn, rain-affected T20I series.
Archer has been steadily eased back into international cricket this year, playing two T20Is against Pakistan in May before featuring in all eight of England's matches at June's T20 World Cup. He did not play at all for Sussex in the second half of the Blast group stages and was managed carefully through the Hundred, twice being rested to the frustration of Southern Brave captain James Vince.
Since the end of the Hundred, he has played two matches: one for Sussex in the quarter-final of the T20 Blast, and the other for En-
gland in their defeat at the Utilita Bowl on Wednesday night. He was rested for Friday night's game in Cardiff and would have played in Sunday's series decider had
the sidelines for so long. He was their joint-highest wicket-taker at June's World Cup, and on Wednesday night provided a reminder of his skills at the death, clean-bowl -
it not been washed out by the Manchester rain. He has proved why England have invested so heavily in him, since his comeback from the back and elbow issues that have kept him on
ing Sean Abbott and Xavier Bartlett in successive balls. Archer is in England's 15man squad for the five-match ODI series which starts in Nottingham on Thursday, though may be rested for one
or two of them. He has not played a 50-over game in the last 18 months and while he retains long-term ambitions to play red-ball cricket, he has not played a first-class match since May 2021.
"Jofra will have to be managed throughout the series," Jos Buttler told Sky Sports on Sunday. "He's played a really good stint now of T20 cricket, but obviously you can only bowl four overs in there. There's a jump in intensity getting loads up to taking full part in an ODIand of course, as an England fan, to push those loads up hopefully to get back into the Test arena as well."
Marcus Trescothick, England's interim coach, said that Archer was "comfortable" with the ECB's longterm plan to manage his workload. "He knows the plan," Trescothick said. "It's discussed long in advance of
picking the team on each day. We know what we're doing with him, and where we're going. He's comfortable: he knows what he's doing.
"That's a bigger structure, in terms of what we're trying to do with Jofra. You come into the series knowing what we've got and what we can do with him. That's an agreed plan between the coaches, directors, physios and all the different people. We'll still be managing him [in the ODIs] - exactly the same thing."
Trescothick will be part of all three of England's tours pre-Christmas, as an assistant coach for the Test series in Pakistan and New Zealand and continuing to deputise for Brendon McCullum during the whiteball tour of the Caribbean in November. "It's going to be slightly abbreviated, but I'll be popping into all of them," he said.
He said that his manner as a coach has been informed by his experience working with McCullum, which he hopes will allow for a smooth transition when McCullum takes charge across formats from January. "I'm directing it in a way that I know will be very similar to when he comes in," Trescothick said. "He'll talk the same way, manage in the same fashion, and debrief in the same way
"We've spent two-anda-half years together coaching… It's not copying it, because I'm putting my own stamp on it, but it's done in a very similar sort of fashion involving the very similar people in terms of the coaches we have around it. It's the start of what's going to go on, and it'll carry on pretty seamlessly when he takes over in January. (ESPN cricinfo)
fiant, taunting Alvarez
find the stoppage he had predicted. (BBC Sport)
2-2 after Aditi Joshi and Ciel Clements captured victories.
Jessica Callendar and Sasha Shariff were defeated by
Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez now has a record of 62 wins, two losses and two draws
Guyana Chess Olympiad team
Jofra Archer hasn’t played a 50-over game in 18 months • (Steve Bardens/Getty Images)
GCA and Friends second division two-day cricket
GDF gun down MSC by an innings and 19 runs
By Sean Devers
LED by an incisive spell from fast bowling all-rounder Joshua Jones and a four-wicket haul in the second innings from Keith Simpson, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) registered an emphatic innings and 19 runs mauling on hosts Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) yesterday in the last match of the GCA and Friends two-day second division cricket tournament.
The Army came with heavy artillery and blew away MSC twice in two days despite a first innings 58 from MSC’s former Guyana batter Shemroy Barrington.
Jones, who represents Guyana in the Discus, bagged a six-wicket match haul to follow up his half-century in GDF’s lone innings while Simpson who also had a six-wicket match haul, captured 4-18 in the second innings to spur his team to a commanding victory.
Replying to GDF’s 276-8 declared, the home team began the final day on 53-3.
Shemroy Barrington made 58 in MSC’s first innings and a painstaking 66-ball 12 in the second
On another day of sweltering heat, Barrington overnight on 22 and Tretlon Liverpool on 18 extended their fourth-wicket stand to 70 on track which continued to be a good ‘cricket wicket’ and a slightly faster outfield than the previous day.
But with the score on 96, Jones bowled Liverpool (27) and five runs later scattered the stumps of the well-set Barrington (58) to follow up his two wickets on the opening day.
MSC slumped from
96-3 to 124-8 when Melville Royal (15) was lbw to Keith Simpson while female West Indies player Kaysia Schultz was run out for one from 19 balls at 126-9.
Leon Andrews wrapped up the innings as the hosts were bowled out for 135 in 39.3 overs.
Jones had 5-48 and was supported by Simpson who captured 2-43. Asked to follow on, needing 142 to avoid an innings defeat, MSC started auspiciously with Adrian Hinds and Collis Rimple adding 56 for the first
wicket.
However, Simpson trapped Rimple (25) LBW and had Liverpool caught and bowled for a duck as two wickets tumbled at 56.
Hinds hit a four and a six in his 40 and along with Trevon France, carried the score to 74 before Andrews removed Hinds.
Barrington joined the left-handed France who launched an attack on the soldiers hitting a four and six in his cameo 18 before he provided Simpson with his third wicket to leave MSC on 87-4.
After Shaquille Mosley (7) was LBW to Andrews at 95-5 with 47 needed to GDF again, the 36-year-old Barrington opted to bat ‘time’ to ensure MSC drew the game.
Andrews struck again when he had Royal (1) LBW at 99-6 and eight runs later Cordell Mars was LBW to Delshawn McDonald at 107-7 Barrington’s painstaking 12 lasted 66 balls before the first innings tormentor Jones orchestrated his demise when he was LBW at 114-8 to end an uncharac-
teristic innings. McDonald bowled Vickash Asaram for a duck and at 114-9, MSC were staring an innings defeat in the face.
The victory was achieved when Simpson had Shultz LBW for a duck as she became the fourth batter in the innings to fail to get off the mark as MSC were bowled out for 122 in their second innings. Simpson (4-18), Andrews (3-40), McDonald (2-14) and Jones (1-17) were the architects of destruction for the army.
GBA’s Technical Director Terrence Poole is thankful for new boxing ring
GUYANA Boxing Association (GBA) Technical Director Terrence Poole says that the acquisition of the new boxing ring, which was facilitated by the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport, will allow the entity to decentralise their existing U-16 programme, with the community of Vergenoegen set to take centre stage on Saturday, September 21st.
The event, hosted twice monthly, will occur at 17:00 hours at the community’s
rice mill tarmac using the older ring.
The major gyms that have confirmed their participation are the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis, Pace and Power, Pocket Rocket, Rose Hall Jammers, New Amsterdam Academy, Bailey, and Forgotten Youth Foundation and Vergenoegen.
The annual initiative has formed the backbone of GBA’s nursery programme, and with the attainment of the new ring, will allow the association to utilise the old-
er equipment to be transported to the various venues going forward.
Linden is slated to host the initiative two weeks after Vergenoegen. Similarly, Berbice is scheduled to take centre stage following the conclusion of the Linden date.
Poole said, “this is one of the GBA’s developmental programmes where we are focused on the decentralisation of boxing in Guyana.
Georgetown is not Guyana, and this is the starting
point. Linden and Berbice are also scheduled, but everyone will have a share of the spotlight.”
According to Poole, the evolution of the initial U-16 initiative will naturally increase the volume of competitors, noting, “This will allow us to have even more boxers competing, which adds to our local talent pool. More fighters mean more competition and will naturally take the sport to the next level.”
Poole said, “Local boxing will develop, which improves
our regional competitiveness, which will help continue and sustain our superiority as the leading nation in the English-speaking Caribbean.”
“Overall, this developmental program is important to us because Georgetown is not Guyana and everyone would like to see their champions and fighters compete at home and get a first-hand look that they can assess their quality and recognise who is a talent for the future,” Poole added.
GBA Technical Director Terrence Poole
Joshua Jones made 60 and captured a six-wicket haul for GDF Left-arm spinner Keith Simpson had a six-wicket haulfor GDF
Quinton De Kock century tames Warriors, sends Royal top of CPL table
BRIDGETOWN,
Barbados
(CMC) – Quinton de Kock scored the second century of this year’s Caribbean Premier League (CPL), as the Barbados Royals returned to winning ways with a comfortable 32-run win over the Guyana Amazon Warriors at Kensington Oval here Saturday night.
Batting at the top of the order, the South African smashed 115 runs from 68 balls and was the mainstay of the Royals’ mammoth 205 for six from their 20 overs.
In reply, the Amazon Warriors never seriously threatened their target and eventually ended on 173 for five from the allotted overs.
The win put the Royals at the top of the CPL table with four wins from their five matches, while relegating the Amazon Warriors (3-1) to second position.
It was a masterful innings from Player-of-the-Match de Kock, who made batting look easy on a surface where the other batsmen struggled to
get going.
His new opening partner Kadeem Alleyne batted positively during his nineball cameo, scoring 22 runs inclusive of two fours and two sixes.
He dominated their 25run opening partnership before he picked out Shimron Hetmyer at cover point trying to slice pacer Dwaine Pretorius over the infield.
De Kock then came into stride during a 82-run partnership for the second wicket with Alick Athanaze, who scored a pedestrian 16 from 19 balls.
He hit pacer Shamar Joseph for a six and two fours in the seventh over that yielded 17 runs.
The diminutive batsmen brought up his 50 off 34 balls when he clobbered off spinner Kevin Sinclair for a huge six and a four in the 10th over, which saw the Royals accelerate to 94 for one.
Athanaze, skipper Rovman Powell (7) and David Miller (1), fell in quick succession, as the Royals
to victory over the Guyana Amazon Warriors
slipped to 140 for four, but it did nothing to interrupt de Kock’s majestic knock.
He smashed medium pacer Raymon Reifer for two sixes in the 14th over, and two overs later he hit the
same bowler for two more boundaries to move into the 90s.
De Kock brought up his 100 after facing 60 balls when he punched Reifer to the long on boundary for a
single in the same over. He then hit Reifer for two more sixes in the final over, but the bowler got the last laugh when he had him caught at the long on boundary.
In total, he struck nine sixes and eight fours in his innings.
Jason Holder also provided a late boost, hitting three sixes and one four in an unbeaten knock of 28 that required just 10 balls.
Reifer ended with 3-50, while Pretorius took 2-27.
Having to score at over 10 runs an over, the Amazon Warriors never recovered from the loss of two early wickets.
Several of their batsmen got starts, including Shai Hope, who top scored with 40, while Moeen Ali scored a brisk 33, Keemo Paul finished unbeaten on 30 and Shimron Hetmyer made 28.
However, none of them carried on, as the Royals took wickets at regular intervals, which saw the Amazon Warriors crumble to 126 for five in the 15th over.
Spinner Keshav Maharaj was the pick of the bowlers with 3-42, while Jason Holder took 2-32.
Huis T’ Dieren crowned Champions of Champions in Future Warriors Tapeball
HUIS T’ Dieren Primary came and conquered to seal the prized Champion of Champions title in the Future Warriors Tapeball Tournament, powered by ExxonMobil Guyana.
A display of immense discipline and skill saw them power to the title in an unbeaten run at the Georgetown Cricket Club, Bourda, on Saturday afternoon.
The tournament featured the three county tournament champions—Stella Maris (Demerara), Cropper Primary (Berbice), and Huis T’ Dieren Primary (Essequibo)—in a double round-robin format of eight overs per side and a grand final.
With Stella Maris unable to win any of their league matches, it was clear that the formidable Cropper and Huis T’ Dieren would meet in the ultimate championship match. Opting to bat first, Cropper posted 67-3, led by skip-
per Jayden Garner, who made 26 (4x4s;1x6) from 11 balls, while Tejpaul Persaud
(15*) and Liam Budram (9). Aaron DaCosta led from the front once again
as he took 3-12 from two overs, giving his team the perfect start in the chase with 16 (1x4;1x6) from seven balls.
Lokeraj Persaud and Jael Bissoon then quickly turned the dream into reality, making 22 and 20, respectively. As the only team with both male and female players, they reached 69-1 in 5.2 overs.
Persaud struck three fours and one six in the nine balls he faced, while Bissoon got two fours and one six from 12 balls.
Garner (1-29 from two overs) was the lone wicket-taker for the Berbice outfit.
The talented cricketer, the nephew of national player Jonathan Foo, ended the tournament as the leading run scorer with 124 runs in four innings.
Aaron DaCosta was the leading wicket-taker (five wickets in four innings at an average of 12.2 and an economy rate of 7.62).
DaCosta was also named the Most Valuable Player for his standout performance with the ball and 122 runs with the bat.
Huis T’ Dieren will return to play a novelty match against the Guyana Amazon Warriors on Sunday, September 22, at the Guyana Marriott.
The other two teams will also be present to engage in interactive sessions with the Warriors.
Apart from those lifelong memories of interacting with their local heroes, each team once again took home gear for tapeball cricket and stationery for the school.
Quinton De Kock smashed 115 to lead the Barbados Royals
The victorious Huis T’ Dieren Primary School along with officials from ExxonMobil Guyana celebrate their success of winning the Champion of Champions edition