- says significant opportunities will open up for local private
President, Dr Irfaan Ali was among hundreds of persons who participated in the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain inaugural 5K Run/ Walk on Sunday morning. The walk was held under the theme, “Energise Guyana: Run Towards Wellness,” with the aim of promoting the importance of leading healthy lifestyles for a sustainable future. The President was joined by representatives of the Guyana Defence Force and ‘Men on Mission’ (Office of the President photos)
‘Melanie’ Fire Station EMTs praised for swift response at accident scene
- say saving lives is their true calling
By Michel Outridge
PHEBE Scott, an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) stationed at the Melanie Damishana Fire Station, was one of two EMTs who responded to
the report of a serious road accident on the Lusignan Public Road, East Coast Demerara, on February 6. Their professionalism that day has attracted tonnes of praise from members of the public.
The pair went into action using their training and skills to save the life of a truck driver, who was trapped between twisted metal and was bleeding profusely from deep wounds he had sustained as a result of
the impact.
Scott recently told the Guyana Chronicle that she was at work when a call for assistance came in through dispatch and herself and colleague, Lynsia Pyle, geared up and responded to the accident.
She reported that after arriving on the scene, she immediately assessed the condition of the truck driver. She discovered that he was badly injured and bleeding profusely from multiple wounds.
After seeing this, Scott asked for help from public-spirited citizens and they managed to remove the truck driver, Atash Singh, 28, from the mangled cab of the truck. She knew he would lose consciousness and movement of his neck
could cause further injury if she didn’t act quickly.
Singh was removed and she managed to stabilise the bleeding. She stayed by his side until he was handed over to the doctor at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).
“We had him talking because if he was unconscious, it would have been difficult to handle him. As such, I stayed with him at his side, because he asked me to stay with him and I engaged him in small talk to keep him awake,” she said.
Scott added that she went back to GPHC to see the truck driver that afternoon and she was relieved when she saw he was doing much better having received the medical intervention he
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The mangled truck following
Guyana hoping for ‘greater appetite’ for energy projects – President Ali
- says significant opportunities will open up for local private sector
By Naomi Parris
WITH chances of a more favourable climate for energy investments, Guyana is optimistic that there will be a greater appetite for financing energy projects.
In a recent engagement, Guyana’s President, Dr Irfaan Ali discussed the evolving landscape of energy projects, the opportunities for local and regional investments and the significant economic benefits that Guyana stands to gain through strategic partnerships and enhanced infrastructure.
“We hope that there will be greater appetite for lending for energy projects and the cost of that financing will be more manageable because the cost was ramping up.”
He pointed to a shift in policy under the new United States (U.S.) administration, which could potentially see financing for energy-related projects ramping up.
Just last month, Guyana and the US-EXIM bank officially inked a financing agreement for the country’s premier gas-to-energy (GTE) project.
Back in December, the financial institution granted its final approv-
al for the US$526 million loan at their board meeting, after having completed the 35-day congressional notice period.
The benefits of this project go beyond cheaper electricity. It was highlighted that there could be additional revenue potential from gas liquids extracted during the process.
DOWNSTREAM OPPORTUNITIES
The Head of State further highlighted that the downstream sector presents significant opportunities for local private sector participation.
“In the downstream, I think there are some opportunities here, for a store, local private sector. We want to ensure that we can leverage to
President, Dr Irfaan Ali
the maximum local capital, local private sector, local individuals,” he noted.
“We want to work on a strategy that maximises local capital, that brings together all the local capital in the market. And we h ave to work on a culture of working together, building consortiums, building, you know, corporations raising capital and then secondly, maximise [sic] regional liquidity.”
The President emphasised that the approach would begin with local investments, expand regionally and then look toward international partnerships with investors who bring expertise, technology and experience to the table. This ap -
proach, according to President Ali, would allow Guyana to not only meet its energy needs, but also ensure that the country reaps the full benefits of upstream and downstream economic activities.
“So, we have first local, then regional, creating that partnership and then to the international investors with the experience [and] expertise of technology, looking at their experience, technology and expertise, to partner with our local private sector to maximise the benefit[s] that will be coming upstream and downstream,” President Ali stated.
One of the key areas the President focused on was the potential of Guyana’s natural re -
sources, particularly in the area of cooking gas.
He highlighted the significant impact the GTE could have on the local population, stating that the price of cooking gas could be lowered substantially.
“From Wales, government alone, we will— in layman’s terms—be able to lower significantly the price of cooking gas for the local population.”
This he said would save Guyana foreign currency from imports and open even wider opportunities for the country.
“Just imagine the transport and logistics infrastructure that have to be built across the country. And then we will have enough excess to go back into the region or even northern Brazil, where there is high demand, so creating new markets and new export and a new stream of foreign currency earning.”
President Ali also noted the importance of using Guyana’s gas resources to support other industries, particularly agriculture.
He spoke about plans to utilise remaining gas from a first project to establish a small fertiliser plant, which would help meet national demand and reduce the reliance on costly imports.
“Then we are of the view that will have just enough gas remaining on the first project for a small fertiliser plant. That could satisfy national demand. So that is an input cost now that will save all that US dollars that would go to agriculture.”
This, he emphasised, aligns with Guyana’s vision of becoming the breadbasket of the region and a major player in the global food industry.
“If you could subsidise or bring down the cost of fertilisers for the farmers, then we are incentivising agriculture production and that is linked to our vision of becoming the breadbasket of the region and a major player in the food industry.”
These initiatives he noted, reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to foster economic diversification, enhance local and regional collaboration and build sustainable infrastructure that can support both national and international demand.
With an eye on expanding opportunities across sectors, particularly in energy and agriculture, Guyana is poised to continue its path toward economic growth and development.
‘Transnational crime must never see a welcoming home in Guyana’- President Ali
LEVERAGING
technology and strategic partnerships, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has been urged to remain vigilant and proactive in combatting transnational crime.
This was a charge delivered by President, Dr Irfaan Ali during his address at the opening
ceremony of the GDF officers conference.
“Human trafficking and the illegal movement of firearms across our borders pose significant challenges to Guyana's security and stability,” the President stated. “The economic implosion in Venezuela has contributed to a migrant crisis that has
increased vulnerabilities along our borders. Criminal networks exploit these conditions, engaging in illicit activities that undermine our national security, fuel violence, and erode the rule of law.”
Emphasising that transnational crime knows no borders, President Ali made it clear that such activities are a threat not only to Guyana, but to the entire region also. He stressed that dismantling these criminal networks requires a united, regional approach.
“The scourge of transnational crime is not confined by borders. It requires a coordinated and robust
response to dismantle networks that profit from human suffering and instability,”
President Ali declared. “These operations must never see a welcoming home in Guyana.”
The President called on the GDF to intensify its efforts, leveraging advanced intelligence, technology and strategic partnerships to disrupt criminal activities that threaten national security.
Guyana, he noted, must remain vigilant and proactive.
President Ali emphasised that collabo-
ration with regional organisations, including the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Regional Security System, is vital in tackling these shared threats. He underscored the importance of strengthening regional security, not just for Guyana, but for the prosperity and stability of the Caribbean as a whole.
“Transnational crime is a shared problem that demands a collective solution.
“By working closely with organisations such as CARICOM, the
Regional Security System and international partners, the GDF can advance its capacity to monitor borders, intercept illicit shipments and prosecute those involved in criminal activities, and we are investing in the assets to allow us to do this.”
President Ali stressed that strengthening regional co-operation will not only bolster Guyana’s security, but also contribute to the stability and prosperity of the entire Caribbean region.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali
‘Melanie’ Fire Station EMTs praised...
needed to curb the loss of blood.
The EMT stated that it was because of her quick thinking and the use of her training that she was able to render assistance to the injured truck driver, while her colleague assisted the driver of the motorcar that was also involved in the accident that morning.
Scott had been on the job for two months following her three-month-long training in both the medical and fire aspects.
The 29-year-old is the mother of a six-year-old boy, and she hails from Good Hope, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara. The humanitarian calling within her inspired her to become an EMT. She has always wanted to help others.
Scott disclosed that a few years ago, herself and boyfriend were in a freak accident at Haslington, also on the East Coast and he died, and she was injured.
She always felt that if they had medical intervention administered by an EMT, he would probably have been alive today. That incident stuck with her and it was the motivation behind her becoming an EMT.
Scott added that she is also a volunteer at the Guyana Red Cross and would assist anyone who asks for
She and another EMT work in a 24-hour shift system at the ‘Melanie’ Fire Station, and they are off-duty for 48 hours at a time. At any given time, two EMTs are always on duty to respond to calls for assistance.
“I love my job, I appreciate every new experience
and I am always ready to assist any call for help, to save a life or lives,” she said.
Meanwhile, Pyle told this publication that when they arrived at the scene, they were unsure what kind of injuries the victims had so they split up to find them. She related that she went
to look for the driver of the motorcar, who was lying on the side of the road. She tended to her since she had abrasions on her body, but was not bleeding and after her vitals were checked, it was determined that she was in a stable condition.
Pyle reported that she then went to see if her col-
league needed help and she found her on top of the truck trying to assist the driver, who was pinned.
“I stayed with her to make sure she got everything she needed and when they pulled apart the wreck to get the driver out, we did our part to stop the bleeding from deep wounds he had sustained in the crash,” she said.
Pyle, 22, who has been an EMT for one year and three months, told the Guyana Chronicle that she rotates between being stationed at headquarters in the city and at the ‘Melanie’ Fire Station.
She related that they often respond to calls for assistance and on February 6, 2025, it was just like any call. They didn’t know what to expect, but they were prepared and ready to go.
“We get calls for help, we get ready as fast as possible and go to the scene via the ambulance and it was just like any [other] day of work, but this time we were captured on camera, so people learned of the role we played in saving a life,” she said.
Pyle added that she has always liked helping people and science. So, she became an EMT and she is loving her job.
She revealed that they were gifted a trip to Kaieteur Falls which they will see for the first time. She thanked the sponsor for recognising their efforts in saving lives.
Presently, Pyle is on 33 days annual leave and is enjoying every bit of it. According to the Guyana Police Force, it was the swift and extraordinary work executed by the two EMTs that saved the life of the truck driver.
In a press release, the police said ambulance#23 and crew together with water tender #102 from the ‘Melanie’ Fire Station responded to the accident call at approximately 11:25hrs.
Upon arrival, EMT Scott immediately climbed onto the truck and mobilised a rescue operation, while rendering medical care to the driver who was later removed and transported in conscious states to the GPHC by EMTs. According to the police, Singh lost control of his truck and collided with a car driven by 31-year-old Jameela Kelvin, and a house owned by Bibi Navia Shaffie, causing severe damage. Kelvin sustained abrasions about the body and had pain in the shoulder.
Confronting Child Abuse
THE alarming figures on child abuse in Guyana—more than 4,000 cases reported in 2024 alone, of which 1,202 pertained to sexual abuse—signal a severe issue that requires immediate and creative solutions.
The move by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security to establish an after-hours Rapid Response Team is to
be welcomed as a step in the right direction to confronting this endemic situation.
Child abuse is not constrained by working hours, so having a special team to answer night calls is overdue, but welcome.
Testing the pilot programme in Region Four is smart, given that it would fill that gap in responding to cases of vulnerability
at night.
Still, while that step is welcome, it points to more systemic challenges in general that need to be confronted in earnest, namely, lack of trained human resources to implement these initiatives nationwide, not to speak of in hard-to-reach hinterland areas.
Apart from quick reaction, though, the integrated approach of
Transparent imperialism in Guyana and the Third World
IN my Monday, November 25, 2024 column headlined, “Intellectual imperialism in Guyana, this is what I wrote: “Here is the list of institutions that many intellectuals in Guyana (but not only in Guyana) use as their standard bearer for judging democracy in Guyana. They are Varieties of Democracy (Sweden), Reporters Without Borders (France), Transparency International; and Freedom House (New York). Some intellectuals in each country arrogated to themselves the right to judge the world and they employ their cultural and ideological conceptualisations in arriving at judgement.”
There is a controversy right now involving one of those bodies listed above (Transparency International -TI) and the Guyana Government. TI has released its 2024 report and Guyana had dropped down the ladder, from last year. If you
examine the reports of the four institutions listed in my November column, all the Western countries are above most of the Third World (TW) nations.
Why is this so? Because TI, Varieties of Democracies (VD), Reporters Without Borders (RB) and Freedom House (FH) are Western tools for achieving two goals: ensuring that the world believes that the West is the standard bearer for democracy and two, making sure that the world accepts that the Global South is not a receptacle of democracy.
How is this imperialist intellectualism achieved? By juxtaposing the West with the Global South, using the index of performance, and by defining terms and words that are Eurocentric. Take one country - Israel. Take one word – democracy. In all the ratings of TI, VD, RB and FH, the Western world and Israel are way above the majority of nations in the
Global South. Why is this so? Because of the way they define democracy.
Central to their definition of democracy by these Western institutions is elections. A country is essentially free for these four institutions by party competition in periodic elections. But deconstructing the word democracy leads to other conclusions. Israel has periodic elections. It is a country of 8,000 square miles with approximately eight million citizens. Cuba is 41, 000 square miles with nine million people. Cuba does not have competitive general elections among competing parties.
In all the ratings of TI, VD, RB and FH over the past decade and beyond, Israel appears way ahead of Cuba. But how can that be? Cuba is not a violator of international law by the violent occupation of lands belonging to other nationalities and the perpetuation of an apartheid system. Israel is just that. By what
the ministry from parent-training to policies on early childhood development gives cause for optimism in confronting root causes of abuse.
The roll out of para-professionals for Indigenous Peoples to receive special training to provide bridging of gaps in underserved areas is yet another progressive step in narrowing that divide.
Still, these measures need to be followed through with consistent investment and partnership with organisations such as UNICEF to have enduring effects on these efforts.
Fighting child abuse in Guyana requires more than these measures alone; it requires culture-shifting to prioritise child welfare at every level.
The Rapid Response Team is not only part of that strategy, but is also part of a more comprehensive plan that would have to include public- awareness drives, legislative reform and community sensitisation, for us to break that cycle of neglect and brutality that continues to haunt so many young people.
methodology can Israel be above Cuba?
Then there is Germany? Germany is always in the top category of TI, VD and FH. But Germany has a policy which is a violation of international law and international morality. Germany has announced that Israel is Germany’s reason of state. Therefore, it is committed to the life of Israel.
Germany is naturally tied to a state that has perpetuated genocide on a nation that does not have a navy, air force and military and that state has killed about fifty thousand Palestinians, a majority of whom are women, children, and civilians. In any methodological use in the definition of democracy, Germany cannot be above the majority of TW nations in the index of TI, VD and FH.
It is pathetic and humiliating that in our own country, Guyana, there are people
with education that cannot see the cultural imperialism of these four organisations. Can you imagine that VD puts India as partly democratic and not the United States when more citizens of the US have been arrested and victimised for protest action than India in 2024?
More protestors have been seriously injured by police brutality in France in 2023 than in any democratic country in the Global South, yet France in the index of all these four Western bodies is always high and always above countries in the Global South.
What about research that brings evidence that leads to definitive conclusions? None of these four bodies do any research and send researchers down to the Global South. What goes on is “word of mouth.” They hear from people who live in the TW and they take their word and run
with it. They read editorials and letters in the newspapers and on that basis pass judgement on the Global South. The height of absurdity is RB citing Travis Chase as a victim of state victimisation. RB read about a so-called shooting involving Travis Chase and formed an opinion without doing journalistic investigation. If the Government of Guyana should compile a list of its critics, Chase will be number 499 on the list.
TI also talks about erosion of press freedom in Guyana. Is it more so in Guyana than in the US and Germany? Only a colonial mind would think so.
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.
Unmistakable, unmitigated racist sentiments
LAST week I thought I was teleported into the realm of the paranormal when directed by a friend to Dr David Hinds’ vlog, Politics 101. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing.
Apart from being vulgar, Hinds’ hate-ridden monologue was laced with racial invectives and vile racists epithets for Afro-Guyanese who dare to join or associate with the PPP/C.
Hinds views the PPP/C as a perpetual political home exclusively for Indo-Guyanese and only for Afro-Guyanese who have family ties from the founding of the party. No African has any business associating with the PPP/C, much less joining with it. They should leave the Indians to themselves and spend every waking energy trying to build up the PNC and align it for African domination of the reigns of power.
Hinds even took offence and wouldn’t even countenance the fantasy scenario created on social media that placed Mohamed, an Indo-Guyanese, as presidential candidate over prominent Africans to lead a combined opposition ticket.
I can’t recall any parallels in Guyanese politics for the last half century. There were no innuendos, euphemisms or veiled language, Hinds went all in on a full racist blitz. I generally believe that all humans have innate redemptive qualities, but I am not sure I am prepared to attach these sentiments to Dr Hinds. He has since doubled down on those comments and declared that he knew exactly what he was saying and that he is not prepared to apologise to anyone.
Hinds mentioned me by name and directed his
racist chiding towards me for using my influence and efforts in leading young Africans to the PPP/C.
I guess that Hinds and others of his ilk ascribe ancestral shame to Africans for being part of the PPP/C. They believe that attaching racist epithets may cower Africans into silence or direct general ridicule to them and discourage others who want to escape being similarly assaulted. In short, create a coercive tabu around themes associated with the “threat of violence” and Africans will avoid or flee the PPP/C.
Apart from being the most self-defeatist path, such an approach will only strengthen the resolve of those who have chosen to support the PPP/C.
I can speak for myself. I want to be pellucid; I am undaunted in my support for the re-election of President, Dr Irfaan Ali; and if the opposition can countenance and produce the thinking on the level of Dr Hinds without a word of condemnation and dissociation from either the AFC or APNU, which were both recently engaged in coalition talks with the said Dr Hinds, WPA’s presidential candidate, then there is no alternative to the PPP/C in these 2025 elections
Dear young people of Guyana, regardless of your racial nomenclature, it is time to help rid Guyana of the divisive politics of the past. Please unashamedly associate with any political party or group that best represents your views.
From where I stand, the PPP/C is best poised than any other organisation in Guyana to unify our people and advance the agenda and realise the aims of our national
motto. It is time to step away from the mentality that Hinds is attempting to box you into. A defeatist mentality that suggests that as long as you are African you must never utter a word of criticism against any leader of African descent in the opposition, regardless of their shortcomings.
On the other hand, if you are African stay away from the PPP/C, nitpick and racialise everything the PPP/C leaders utter.
As I have said at other forums, the leadership of the PPP/C in the past did not exercise foremost carefulness in managing African relations.
While some PPP/C leaders are still a bit hesitant, some have stepped forward and owned the party’s past carefree approach to African relations. The PPP/C has a visible agenda to ensure that it reforms its approach to inclusivity. More than any period in the last half century, we find that there are more Afro-Guyanese seeing the PPP/C as an attractive political destination. This is due not only because the PPP/C has been making a renewed effort at African inclusion and avoidance of the points of carelessness of the past.
There is also a lot of recency bias associated APNU+AFC being in power with a poorer record of interventions that demonstrates it barely has a modicum of carefulness for the affairs of Africans.
Guyanese of all political persuasions have demonstrated that when a new president of any party takes office, they are prepared to temporarily lay down political arms for a honeymoon period before stepping up political pressure. Desmond Hoyte, Cheddi Jagan, Bharrat
Jagdeo and David Granger all benefitted from a “leh we see wha he gon do” posture from the general voting public.
The two most contrasting are the presidencies of Granger and Ali. Granger started like a rock star. There was virtually no opposition impact on his presidency for the first year and a half. Then Granger’s downhill trajectory was rapid from there. By his third year in office, he faced a successful no-confidence motion. His record of unity was also abysmal, and he ended his term in public contempt
and obloquy.
On the other hand, Dr Ali started in a cloud of uncertainty, he was regarded somewhat as a political haggard.
During that period as we waited, to see ‘wha he guh do,’ we saw a president swiftly growing in political stature, one who restored effervescence to the office; we saw a president making tangible efforts to bring unity and inclusivity; we saw a president who is prepared to reach out to anyone (of all persuasions) who is prepared to work towards a shared national agenda for
unity and development. As a result of what the people saw, they are prepared to get on board.
Africans are prepared to support Dr Ali for a second term. Dr Hinds could talk cheese, many Africans remain unconvinced that the opposition can properly articulate or represent their needs.
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.
Figueira condemns Hinds’
‘divisive
and dangerous’ rhetoric
- says language used was deliberate, undermines the foundation
OPPOSITION Parliamentarian Jermaine Figueira has strongly condemned the recent remarks made by the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) Co-Leader, David Hinds, noting that the language used was callous, divisive and offensive.
Figueira made these comments in an opinion piece which he posted on his Facebook page on Sunday. Before dealing with Hinds’ remarks, the young politician spoke about the power of words, particular those coming from political leaders. He spent some time addressing the positive impacts of Guyana’s
“evolution” and its link to vigilance, unity, and, most importantly, responsible leadership.
Turning his attention to hinds, he noted that the statements that the WPA leader uttered on his programme have the potential to deepen ethnic tensions in Guyana.
“The deliberate and feral use of language that has the ability to perpetuate ethnic division and social strife, irrespective of the message he believes he was seeking to communicate, must be condemned in the strongest possible terms,” Figueira wrote. He added, “I condemn them unequivo -
of our democracy
istence,” Figueira said.
He further emphasised the responsibility of leaders to foster inclusivity, arguing that divisive language threatens Guyana’s democratic foundations.
“When a leader, especially one who claims to represent a specific ethnic group, uses language that is exclusionary, intolerant, or dismissive of others, it undermines the very foundation of our democracy,” he wrote.
wards a common future.
“Our nation’s destiny is in our hands, and it is our duty, our moral responsibility to ensure that we pave a path that is inclusive, respectful, and united. Now, more than ever, we must stand together in demanding unity, equality, and equity for a forward, progressive destiny that offers opportunities for every Guyanese to experience prosperity at this juncture in our history.”
cally!”
To this end, he wrote that significant progress has been made in fostering national cohesion and further warned that the type of rhetoric spewed by Hinds could reverse those gains.
“For much of our past, our society was divided along ethnic and racial lines, perpetuating a cycle of inequality and discord. Yet, today, we stand in a far better place as a nation… despite our historical challenges, we have made tremendous strides as a people towards unity and coex-
Against this backdrop, he added that all should remember that words can either unite or divide and as such, everyone should strive to use their voices to inspire peace for unity and progress.
He further stressed that no political or ethnic group should assume superiority over another and that all Guyanese must work together to build an inclusive society.
Figueira indicated that it is only by embracing strength in diversity and fostering a spirit of inclusivity that the aspirations of Guyana’s motto, “One People, One Nation, One Destiny” can be truly achieved.
To this end, he urged citizens to reject divisive rhetoric and work to -
Last Monday, during his ‘Politics 101’ programme, Hinds launched an attack on Afro-Guyanese who have exercised their democratic right to align with political parties of their choice.
He described them as “lick bottoms, house slaves,” and “sellouts” for not subscribing to his political ideology.
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Sunday announced that it has initiated a review of the statements made by Hinds in keeping with its constitutional responsibilities and promised to “make public its findings and any actions deemed necessary to uphold the principles of fairness, unity, and respect.”
Opposition MP Jermaine Figueira
Gov’t providing services for citizens to live a good life - Health Minister says
MINISTER of Health
Dr Frank Anthony has said that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has been providing and will continue to provide necessary services to improve the lives of Guyanese.
Dr Anthony made these remarks during a recent engagement where he noted that the government has made significant investments in improving lives, specifically in the health sector.
Speaking on some of these services, he indicated that under a programme that was introduced last year, the government was able to test the eyes of close to 68,000 people across the country.
Further, they also provided $15,000 vouchers to help persons get their spectacles and more than 54,000 persons benefitted from that initiative.
“This is what a caring government looks like, this is the PPP/C,” he affirmed.
In relation to dialysis care, Dr Anthony said that the President authorised that every dialysis patient must
get $600,000 every year.
With this, he said that the government was able to help 129 patients in 2021, and 326 in 2022. By 2023, the number of beneficiaries has climbed to 438 and in 2024 some 550 persons received the life-saving treatment.
To this end, Dr Anthony said not only did they provide resources for persons to get access to dialysis, but also work was done with a number of private sector partners to introduce dialysis centres in various regions.
This he said is in comparison to a $300,000 one-off grant that the former APNU+AFC administration gave to some 64 dialysis patients in 2019. As a result of this, he said many persons were unable to afford their dialysis treatment.
“So, when these guys wake up and they go on press conferences and try to palaver like if they have the people’s interest at heart, we must let people know how heartless they were, because when they had an op-
portunity to be able to give service to these same patients, they did not do that,” he said.
However, he said that the PPP/C government is providing these types of services so that, “our people can live a good life.”
Additionally, Dr Anthony told the gathering that the government has also been focusing on the two main cancers that affect women here, breast cancer and cervical cancer. He noted that they are providing vaccines that help to prevent the latter.
Further to this, testing is also being provided and as such, last year for the first time in the country’s history, some 12,000 HPV tests were done.
Meanwhile, generally, the health minister indicated that President Ali and the government went further to introduce a new measure called the universal health voucher.
With this, some 500,000 persons across the country would receive a $10,000 voucher to have tests done at various laboratories across the country.
Dr Anthony said that they have met with
all the labs and have standardised the costs for these tests.
“So, we don’t talk,
we deliver and everything that we promised in our manifesto, we have delivered it, and we are now going beyond the manifesto,” the health minister affirmed.
Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony (Delano Williams photo)
Region Six residents overjoyed as cash grant distribution begins
AFTER months of wondering when they will receive the $100, 000 cash grant, residents of Region Six have expressed joy that the government has commenced the distribution of cheques in their region.
Speaking with members of the media, Dwight Punch stated that he will be putting his money to good use. He said: “I wish it could happen again. Next year, the other year, it could continue…no problem.”
Another resident, Shanta Devi Roopnarine related that she feels very happy that she was finally able to get her cheque. Meanwhile, Basdeo Dindyal, a resident of
Black Bush Polder, said: “I thank the President for this $100,000 voucher, and I feel good about it.”
According to Dindyal, “The cash grant will benefit me for good things because what I need I gonna buy.”
Additionally, Kishan Singh related that he has been waiting for a long time to collect his cash grant. He told reporters that, “I appreciate getting this cheque. I waited very long to get this.” The man noted that he has two children and will be using the money for their school needs.
Rice farmer Bekham Sukhdeo said he is also grateful for the cheque as it will be used by him in the best way possible.
The announcement of the one-off cash grant was made by President, Dr Irfaan Ali in October 2024. He
has indicated then that every Guyanese aged 18 and older are eligible for the $100,000 cash grant.
The grant is part of a series of measures being rolled out by the government to improve the quality of life of every adult Guyanese, placing over $60 billion into their pockets.
The announcement of the cash grant attracted countrywide appreciation and praise from stakeholders across various sectors.
Persons interested in knowing where and when the cash grant will be distributed next can visit the Ministry of Finance Facebook page.
Africa ‘brimming with hope and possibility’ – Guterres
THE UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has emphasised the potential of Africa and its young population and called for global reforms to right the injustices of the past, in remarks delivered to the high-level African Union (AU) summit on Saturday.
“The partnership between the United Nations and the African Union has never been stronger,” said the UN chief, striking a positive tone from the outset. “Together, we see an Africa brimming with hope and possibility.”
The secretary-general noted the “booming, enterprising” young population of the continent and the wealth of renewable resources it offers and expressed high hopes for the future of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which aims to reduce trade barriers between African countries.
Mr Guterres was speaking on the first day of the annual meeting of the regional organisation, held at African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, amid conflict and tensions in several AU member states, notably Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
TIME FOR REPARATIONS AND REFORM
In a reference to the theme of this year’s summit – Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations – Mr Guterres acknowledged that decolonisation and independence, a major preoccupation of the UN’s work during its early years, had not solved the underlying challenges faced by Africans, many of which are a legacy of colonialism and the trans-Atlantic slave trade, two “colossal and compounded injustices.”
Many of the UN’s member states were still colonies when multilateral systems were created in the mid20th Century, and the secretary-general pointed the finger at the need for reform of his own organisation, de-
scribing the lack of permanent African representation on today’s Security Council as inexcusable. “I will keep working with the African Union and all member states to ensure the representation Africa needs and the justice you deserve – including with two permanent members of the Security Council,” he promised.
Mr Guterres went on to reiterate calls he has made on several occasions for reform of the international financial architecture, which is hampering the development of many African economies, beset by expensive debt repayments and high borrowing costs, which limit their capacity to invest in education, health and other essential needs.
‘SUDAN IS BEING TORN APART BEFORE OUR EYES’
The UN chief outlined peace and security as a priority area for multilateral action, drawing particular attention to Sudan, the largest displacement and famine crisis in the world, and a country “being torn apart before our eyes.” Here, the strong links between the African Union and the UN can provide an “anchor” for a coalition to end the war, he proposed.
As he spoke, international broadcasters carried news of the latest military gains made by the M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The group has reportedly entered Bukavu, the DRC’s second city, facing little resistance from the Congolese army.
The offensive threatens to “push the entire region over the precipice,” warned Mr Guterres, adding that there is no military solution to the country’s conflict and that it can only be solved by dialogue. Meanwhile, he declared, MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping force in the DRC, will continue to provide support.
DRIVE PROGRESS TOWARDS DEVELOPMENT AND A ‘RENEWABLES REVOLUTION’
Mr Guterres then turned to development, proposing that progress can be driven by gender equality, clean energy, food-systems transformation and digitalisation.
The Pact for the Future, a landmark international agreement adopted by the nations of the world in 2024, outlines support for reforming the international financial architecture, which currently sees African countries pay up to eight times more to borrow than developed countries and commits wealthier nations to advancing a development stimulus package of $500 billion a year.
The climate crisis was characterised as both the cause of numerous disasters and an opportunity for the continent to play a leading role in the transition to a
clean, low-carbon global economy.
Africa currently receives just two per cent of global renewables investment, but financial reforms could help the continent to become a “global clean-energy powerhouse,” and help to redress an unjust situation, in which Africa suffers disproportionately from man-made changes to the environment caused by the actions of the developed world.
Bridging the "Digital Divide" by supporting Africa’s capacity to benefit from new technology, notably artificial intelligence, was also flagged by the Secre-
tary-General as a key area of concern. Almost twothirds of all Africans have no reliable internet access and by 2035, more young Africans will enter the job market annually than the rest of the world combined.
“They need the skills to thrive,” he declared.
Forthcoming UN actions to help boost access to the digital economy include a report on initiatives to help the Global South harness AI for the benefit of all, a proposal for an International Scientific Panel on AI, and a Global Dialogue on AI Governance. (UN)
UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivers remarks at the 2025 African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (UNECA/Daniel Getachew photo)
Hess agrees to finance Guyana, Mount Sinai partnership for another three years -President Ali
THE Hess Corporation has agreed to continue its support of the monumental healthcare partnership between Guyana and the Mount Sinai Health System.
T his is according to President, Dr Irfaan Ali who made this disclosure at a recent event during which he noted that building out worldclass health services also includes establishing and maintaining world-class partnerships.
The Government of Guyana entered into a partnership with Mount Sinai and Hess in 2022 to help overhaul the country’s entire health system
The Head of state said: “I’m pleased to tell you that Hess Corporation has agreed to continue financ-
ing the Mount Sinai partnership for another three years.”
In addition to this, President Ali indicated that through this partnership, Mount Sinai will be coming to assist in the building out of a modern oncology centre here that will treat cancer.
With this, he said that they are not only looking at diagnostics but also building the facilities for treatment.
Outside of that, Dr Ali said that they are also engaging in discussions for rehabilitative care and in April, a team from Mount Sinai will be in Guyana to discuss a modular manner in which rehabilitative care centres can be built across the country.
The monumental partnership agreement was signed in July 2022 during which President Ali had indicated that transforming Guyana’s health system was the target and
with this in mind, the best possible allies were contacted with Mount Sinai identified as a viable partner.
At that time, he had indicated that the Chief Executive Officer of Hess Corporations was not only interested in opening the path for the partnership, but was also interested in
being directly part of the collaboration.
As such, Hess’ investment in the partnership was close to US$32 million.
The agreement has three components: the first of which saw Mount Sinai working closely with the Health Ministry to strengthen primary healthcare across the country.
They are also working on the development of a health informatics system and change management at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Further, there in ongoing collaboration with the private sector to develop a cardiovascular centre for excellence and setting up of an oncology centre.
New PAHO guide aims to improve early detection and survival rates of childhood cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean
ON the occasion of International Childhood Cancer Day, observed every February 15, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has launched a new interactive guide aimed at improving the early diagnosis of childhood cancer, one of the leading causes of death among children and adolescents in Latin America and the Caribbean.
“Early detection not only increases the chances of cure but also significantly improves the quality of life for both patients and their families,” said Dr. Mauricio Maza, PAHO’s regional cancer adviser. “With this new tool, we aim to equip healthcare teams with the necessary tools to act quickly and effectively,” he added.
Each year, an estimated 30,000 children and adolescents in Latin America and the Caribbean are diagnosed with cancer, and nearly 10,000 lose their lives to the disease. While in high-income countries in the Americas, more than 80 per cent of children with cancer are cured, in the rest, the sur-
vival rate averages only 55 per cent.
The new guide is part of the Global Childhood Cancer Initiative, which seeks to reduce disparities in cancer survival rates by helping save more lives through early detection.
Developed by PAHO in collaboration with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Latin American Society of Paediatric Oncology (SLAOP), the International Society of Paediatric On -
cology (SIOP), and a group of 130 regional experts, the material provides a practical framework for healthcare professionals to identify the signs and symptoms of cancer in its early stages.
With a comprehensive approach, the guide covers everything from initial assessment to symptom classification, providing specific actions to follow based on the severity of the case.
In this regard, the guide classifies care into three lev-
els of urgency: red (immediate) for children with severe symptoms, immediate referral to a hospital with paediatric emergency services is recommended, yellow (priority) for less urgent but still critical cases, patients should be referred within 48 to 72 hours and green (scheduled) for cases that require further diagnostic studies, which can be scheduled.
“The implementation of this guide will not only optimise diagnostic times but
also help reduce the longterm complications associated with delayed treatments,” emphasised Dr. Liliana Vásquez Ponce, PAHO’s technical officer for childhood cancer.
The guide also includes information on the most prevalent childhood cancers in the region, such as acute leukemias, central nervous system tumors, lymphomas, Wilms tumor, and retinoblastoma, detailing the symptoms, clinical history, physical exams, and necessary complementary studies for each type.
Additionally, it provides support tools, such as a glossary of medical terms and educational resources, to ensure healthcare professionals have the knowledge needed to implement best practices for early diagnosis. It also includes key public health indicators that will serve as benchmarks for health ministries and hospital directors, facilitating the monitoring and evaluation of childhood cancer early detection programmes.
VIRTUAL COURSE ON EARLY DIAGNOSIS OF
CHILDHOOD CANCER
In addition to the guide, PAHO offers a free course on its Virtual Public Health Campus, designed to provide more in-depth training on the early diagnosis of childhood cancer. The course is specifically aimed at doctors and other healthcare workers, with the goal of strengthening their abilities to detect signs and symptoms in the earliest stages.
This course covers key aspects such as risk factors, initial management, and interpretation of complementary exams, all from a primary care perspective.
PAHO is also working through its Strategic Fund to expand access to essential cancer treatments, including paediatric formulations. In collaboration with key partners such as WHO, St. Jude, and UNICEF, the region is progressing toward the global goal of increasing childhood cancer survival rates to at least 60 per cent by 2030, with the aim of saving one million lives among children and adolescents worldwide. (PAHO)
President, Dr Irfaan Ali (right) and John Hess (second from left) during the signing ceremony of the partnership in 2022 (Guyana Chronicle file photo)
GBTI launches invoice financing service targeting oil and gas sector
ON Friday last, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) launched its Invoice Financing Facility for the oil and gas sector.
Under this facility, registered suppliers with a proven track record in the sector and those with validated invoices from Exxon Mobil Guyana (or, soon to be introduced, their prime contractors) can access financing for up to 80 per cent of their value of their invoices in advance.
Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, who was present at the event, indicated that this new facility meets a need that was long identified, referring to discussions held for years on the necessity for receivables to be accepted as collateral for lending for working
capital purposes.
He pointed out that during government-led consultations on the Local Content Bill, the issue of working capital financing was raised.
A post on Minister Singh’s Facebook page, said he applauded GBTI for the structuring of this facility to meet a clear need that exists in the market, and for the role the bank has played in innovating within the financial sector and in contributing significantly to the astronomical growth observed in credit to the private sector.
It was pointed out that credit to the private sector has increased from $260 billion at the end of 2020 to $450 billion at the end of 2024, while the ratio of non-performing loans has fallen dramatically thereby improving portfolio quality.
He emphasised that it was the result of the sound policy environment created by government, as well as a responsible non-financial private sector that was seizing the oppor-
tunities bein g created for investment in the productive sector, as well as a responsive financial sector providing financing for the abundance of good quality bankable proj-
ects emerging.
Commending the bank on taking this important step, the minister urged the bank and the rest of the financial sector to expand and replicate the facility beyond the oil and gas sector in the shortest possible time.
The Chief Executive Officer of the GBTI, Shawn Gurcharran, in his remarks at the function, underscored that the launch was a significant milestone for the financial institution.
Chief Commercial Officer of GBTI, Rawattie Mahandeo, affirmed that the new service was set to revolutionise access to financing in Guyana. She remarked that, over the last three years, the bank has been diligently exploring ways it can bridge the gap.
“Today we proudly introduce the GBTI Invoice Financing, the game changing product designed to transform Guyana’s financial landscape,” she said.
The GBTI Invoice Financing service is for registered and validated suppliers and has flexible terms with no hidden fees, together with a monthly interest of 1.25 per cent.
“At GBTI, we believe in fostering long and strong relationships with our customers and this new service is a testament of that,” he said, noting that GBTI remains committed to supporting the business community with products that cater to their evolving needs, while also ensuring that financial constraints do not affect their work.
ERC investigating David Hinds’ derogatory remarks directed at Afro-Guyanese
THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) disclosed on Sunday that it has taken note of several negative remarks made by David Hinds on his online show aired on Monday, February 10, 2025.
In a statement, the commission said it is currently scrutinising and investigating the statements made, which are believed to have the potential to “sow division and disrupt social harmony.”
During his ‘Politics 101’ programme, Hinds launched an attack on Afro-Guyanese who have exercised their democratic right to align with political parties of their choice.
He described them as “lick bottoms, house slaves,” and “sellouts” for not subscribing to his political ideology.
“We’re talking to black people, those of us who are on the right side of the
fence, we’re talking to you, to help us to bring them ‘lick bamz**’ Africans on the right side of the fence,” the WPA Co-Leader said, later adding,
“And some of you lick a**, lick beet** Black people are running around the place [saying] ‘I am campaigning for the return of President Ali.’ Lick backside; that’s what y’all are. All of y’all.”
The ERC in its statement emphasised that it remains steadfast in its mandate to promote harmony and respect among all ethnic groups in Guyana.
“In accordance with its constitutional responsibilities, the commission has initiated a review of the statements made during the broadcast and is diligently assessing their impact.
“The commission as -
sures the public that it is taking this matter seriously.
Once the investigation is concluded, the ERC will make public its findings and any actions deemed necessary to uphold the principles of fairness, unity, and respect,” the statement said.
In closing, the body urged all Guyanese, particularly public figures and content creators, to exercise responsibility in their communication—especially on public platforms—to ensure that discussions remain constructive and do not contribute to racial discord.
“The commission remains committed to fostering a society where mutual respect prevails,” the statement added.
Hinds’ statements have caused outrage in some quarters. President, Dr Irfaan
Ali has since expressed his deep frustration and disappointment over the divisive rhetoric used to demean a section of the Guyanese population, particularly from a party that once advocated for all Guyanese.
“What an injustice coming from people who inherit the party of Walter Rodney, a nationalist, a true Guyanese, a patriot, a man who fought for every Guyanese,” the President said in a live address on Thursday.
Further, President Ali expressed belief that the media’s silence on the issue reflects a selective approach by journalists, social commentators and transparency advocates even though Hinds’ comments were inflammatory and designed to instill fear among the population.
The minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame Mc-
Coy, has also condemned the attack launched by the WPA leader saying that as a central figure in the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) political machine, his words reflect the opposition’s approach to race and politics in Guyana.
Minister McCoy noted that Hinds’s outbursts expose the APNU’s toxic and divisive ideology, that it continues to peddle, “while pretending to be a party of inclusion for all Guyanese.”
The Association of People of African Descent (APAD) has condemned the WPA Leader for his vile and backward-thinking comments, while A New and United Guyana (ANUG) has described the remarks as “reckless and inflammatory.”
WPA Co-Leader David Hinds
Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh (Ministry of Finance photo)
Essequibians rejoice as they receive $100k cash grant
RESIDENTS of Region Two were filled with joy and gratitude as they received the much anticipated $100, 000 cash grant, which will be given to every adult Guyanese citizen.
The initiative, spearheaded by President, Dr Irfaan Ali and his government, brought smiles, laughter, and even tears of happiness to many who are enduring financial struggles.
At Onderneeming Sandpit where Director General of the Minis-
try of Agriculture, Mr Ricky Ramraj and Regional Vice-Chairman Mr Humace Oodit met with residents on Saturday, the atmosphere was filled with excitement.
Those gathered expressed their appreciation. Their voices were filled with gratitude as they spoke of the positive impact the cash grant will have on their daily lives.
“This money came at the perfect time,” said one resident, Margaret Persaud, a single
mother of three.
“I can now buy more school supplies for my
children and put food on the table without worrying. President Ali really cares for the people and we are so thankful for his leadership.”
Many echoed similar sentiments, praising the government’s commitment to improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
The officials, in turn, assured residents that their concerns were being heard and addressed. They also provided updates on developmental plans aimed at strengthening infrastructure, enhancing agricultural oppor-
tunities and fostering economic growth in the region.
The excitement was not limited to Onderneeming Sandpit. Across the Essequibo Coast, from Charity to Supenaam, residents celebrated the government’s efforts to ensure that relief reaches those who need it most. Some said they will be using their cash grant to invest in small businesses, while others see it as an opportunity to utilise for certain expenses.
“The President is truly a man of the people,” said Samuel Na-
rine, a fisherman from Supenaam. “He is always looking out for us, making sure we get the support we need. This grant is a blessing.”
As the initiative continues, Essequibians remain hopeful for further growth and development under the leadership of President Ali.
With ongoing government interventions and a commitment to improving lives, the people of Region Two are looking forward to a brighter and more prosperous future. (Indrawattie Natram)
Residents of Region Two began collecting their $100, 000 cash grant on Saturday
GWCMC to host awareness sessions on wildlife conservation, management
WILDLIFE conservation
plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity, mitigating climate change and sustaining the health of the planet. It is important for not only biodiversity, climate change, and ecosystem health, but human well-being as well.
Locally, the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC), which was established by way of the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act of 2016, aims to secure the future of wildlife in Guyana through effective, sustainable management and conservation.
Speaking exclusively to this paper, the Communications Officer at the GWCMC, Deuel Hughes, said the commission has a number of departments with different roles to play to achieve this goal. One is the licensing and permitting department, which is responsible for granting licences and permits, as well as all legal documents related to the trading of wildlife. This, he explained, involves persons
utilising wildlife locally and persons who either export wildlife from Guyana to other countries, or import wildlife from other countries to Guyana.
There is also the moni-
This department is also responsible for responding to wildlife incidents.
The research department, responsible for conducting scientific research on wild
toring and compliance department which is responsible for monitoring and enforcing the provisions of the act, along with other regulations pertaining to wildlife in Guyana.
Hughes noted that there is the Wildlife Conservation Management and Sustainable Use Regulations, which covers the proper utilisation of wildlife.
species to devise measures for the protection of our wildlife, including the determination of closed seasons for wildlife and determination of quotas for the trade of various species.
And finally, there is the communications department, which is responsible for raising awareness on wildlife conservation management
and sustainable use of wildlife. It also provides general awareness about wildlife.
Hughes emphasised that some of the misconceptions about wildlife include the common opinion that wildlife belongs in forested (bushy) areas. According to Hughes, wherever wildlife is found, that environment or community is their home. Another misconception is that the trading of wildlife is an illegal activity.
Persons are allowed to trade wildlife or be in the business of wildlife. However, they do need to have a licence to be able to do this.
To be licensed to do international trade of wildlife, persons would need to submit an application and supporting documents, which include their ID cards; they must also have a business registration and must have a holding premises to hold the wildlife that they would be exporting or importing.
“Persons who are going to be in the international trade, they also need to attend an interview, whereby we basically try to en -
sure that they are aware of the needs of the animals and they need to also show knowledge of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wildlife, Flora and Fauna, …the acronym for that is CITES,” he related.
For local trade there are six categories of licences for persons who would engage in the wildlife business locally: they would need a form of ID and a TIN certificate. Persons who would be hunting would need a firearm licence and for persons selling wild meat, they would need a food handlers certificate.
In 2024, the GWCMC distributed 25 export licences and issued 83 domestic local licences. Training was also conducted for a number of officers from the Guyana Livestock Development Authority. In total, the commission received around 39
reports of wildlife incidents, which included animals such as giant anteaters, ocelots, monkeys, caimans, and snakes.
Approximately 30 awareness sessions were conducted in a number of schools as well. The GWCMC conducted outreach activities in Skeldon and Georgetown, among other areas.
For 2025, the GWCMC will be focusing on expanding its reach in terms of persons who would need licensing to use wildlife locally. Also in the pipeline are studies or research on particular species of wildlife, such as the songbird and some spiders.
Additionally, a number of awareness activities will be hosted. The GWCMC is targetting Bartica, the Pomeroon, as well as areas in Region Five and Essequibo. (Faith Greene)
Deuel Hughes, Communications Officer at the GWCMC
Liverpool hold on to beat Wolves
MOHAMED Salah continued his hot scoring streak as a nervy Liverpool dispatched Wolves to move seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.
The Egypt forward converted from the penalty spot to make it five goals in four league games with boss Arne Slot watching on from the bench.
Reds boss, Slot, was given a red card in the aftermath of Liverpool's Merseyside derby draw with Everton but the Dutchman has until Wednesday to respond to a Football Association charge.
Putting Everton's 98th-minute mid-week equaliser behind them, the Reds started well at Anfield and opened the scoring after 15 minutes, thanks to the determination of Luis Diaz.
The Colombia forward ended a run of 10 games without a goal as he bundled the ball over the line after
(1) Brian Lara & Michael Vaughn (2) Ramnaresh Sarwan
Today’s Quiz: (1) Who were the finalists of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017?
(2) Which team lost the final in 2017?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
SOUTHWELL
09:35 hrs Ali Star Bert
10:05 hrs Salt Rock
10:35 hrs Top Jimmy
11:05 hrs Wolf Moon
11:40 hrs Owl Of Athens
12:15 hrs ASA
12:45 hrs Mount Washington
CARLISLE
09:20 hrs Bishbashbosh
09:50 hrs Butch
10:20 hrs Saint Malinas
10:50 hrs Fortunate Man
11:20 hrs Joltin N
Jiving
11:55 hrs Mabis Pike
12:30 hrs Catch Catchfire
13:05 hrs Broughshane
WOLVERHAMPTON
12:25 hrs Fast Society
13:00 hrs Paradoxical
13:30 hrs El Ghaawy
14:00 hrs Neytiri Te Tskaha
14:30 hrs Eznos Angel
15:00 hrs Neptune Legend
15:30 hrs Under Curfew
16:00 hrs Angel Of England
16:30 hrs Hierarchy
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
AQUEDUCT
Race 1 Golden Symphony
Race 2 Stormin Sammy
Race 3 Army Gal
Race 4 Badge Of War
Race 5 Winnin'Onweekends
MAHONING VALLEY
Race 1 Josefina
Race 2 All My Life
Race 3 Mary Katherine
Race 4 Romanian Prince
Race 5 Buckeye Rose
Race 6 Breakout Star
Race 7 Mobil Lady
Salah's pass was deflected in the box by Wolves defender Toti Gomes.
Twenty-two minutes later, referee Simon Hooper pointed to the spot as Diaz was felled in the box by Wolves keeper Jose Sa and Salah slotted down the middle for his 23rd league goal of the campaign.
The game looked set to be a routine Liverpool win at the break but Wolves striker Matheus Cunha made it anything but as he beautifully curled home his 12th league goal of the season in the 67th minute - meaning Slot's side are without a home clean sheet since December 1.
On the hour mark, Liverpool were initially award-
ed another spot-kick after Emmanuel Agbadou was adjudged to have fouled Diogo Jota, but the decision was overturned after a video assistant referee review showed there was no contact on the Portugal forward.
Vitor Pereira's side missed huge chances in the second half with debutant Marshall Munetsi drawing an excellent one-on-one save out of Alisson before Joao Gomes worked space brilliantly but fired his attempt over the top. There was a nervousness around Anfield as Wolves pushed for an equaliser late on but Liverpool held on to reinstate their seven-point lead at the summit. (BBC Sport)
McClung wins third straight NBA...
(FROM PAGE 21)
TNT after beating San Antonio Spurs' Stephon Castle in the final round.
"I had a lot of help. People were opening gyms to fit a car in. People were allowing me to use their car. I'm just really grateful right now."
McClung plays the ma-
jority of his basketball in the G League, the NBA's developmental league, and was last season named its most valuable player. He has played just five NBA games in his career, for the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls, Philadelphia 76ers and the Magic. (BBC Sport)
Eden Gardens to host IPL 2025...
(FROM BACK PAGE)
CSK and Mumbai, for instance, will meet twice despite not being part of the same group.
After their March 23 contest, these two teams will meet again on April 20, again on a Sunday evening, with Mumbai hosting Super Kings at the Wankhede Stadium. Four teams - RCB, Mumbai, Punjab and LSG - will all play their opening match away, and only play
their respective first home matches in April.
RCB, who scripted a miraculous return to form to make the playoffs last year with six consecutive wins after winning just one of their first eight matches, will end their league season with a sustained spell of home games: four of their last six matches will be at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. (ESPN Cricinfo)
Mohamed Salah has scored 101 Premier League goals at Anfield
Medvedev hopes Sinner doping ban deal sets precedent
DANLIL Medvedev says he hopes Jannik Sinner's doping ban will "create a precedent" so other players can reach similar settlements with anti-doping authorities in the future.
Three-time Grand Slam champion Sinner accepted an immediate three-month ban from the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) on Saturday.
The world number one had previously been cleared of any wrongdoing after two positive drug tests last year, but Wada appealed against the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Wada initially sought a ban of up to two years but reached a deal after accepting the Italian player was inadvertently contaminated by a banned substance and "did not intend to cheat".
"I hope that the next few times, the players will be able to do that," Russian world number eight Medvedev said.
"I hope that it will create a precedent where everyone will have the opportunity to defend themselves better than before.
"Otherwise, if it's not going to be possible, it's going to be bizarre."
Wada said it had entered into a settlement agreement with Sinner for a shorter ban under provision 10.8.2 in its code.
A spokesperson told BBC Sport on Saturday:
"This provision was introduced to the code in 2021.
Since then it has been used dozens of times for cases with exceptional circumstances such as this one.
"Given there are many
thousands of cases, it is not used that often and is the exception rather than the rule but there has been plenty of precedent for this."
Sinner is suspended until 4 May, meaning he will be able to return for the French Open.
Jamaican sprint icon, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, receives Keys to the City of
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – IN a heartfelt ceremony held on Thursday last, Jamaican sprint legend, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, was presented with the Keys to the City of Kingston, a prestigious honour recognising her outstanding contributions to athletics and her enduring impact on her homeland.
The event took place at Wolmer’s High School, Fraser-Pryce’s alma mater, where her journey to becoming one of the greatest sprinters in history began.
The ceremony followed a resolution passed in September 2024, which sought to honour her remarkable achievements and her role as an inspiration to countless Jamaicans.
“This recognition is a testament to Shelly-Ann’s extraordinary talent, which first shone brightly at this very school, and to her unwavering dedication to uplifting others,” said Kingston Mayor, Councillor Andrew Swaby.
Fraser-Pryce, affectionately dubbed the “Pocket Rocket,” has carved out an
Kingston
indelible legacy in the world of track and field. Born and raised in Kingston, she burst onto the global stage by winning gold in the 100 metres at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, becoming the first Caribbean woman to achieve the feat.
She successfully defended her title at the 2012 London Olympics and has since amassed numerous World Championship titles, cementing her status as a dominant force in women’s sprinting.
Beyond her accolades on the track, Fraser-Pryce has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes and young Jamaicans.
Through her Pocket Rocket Foundation, she has provided scholarships and support to young talents, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing the next generation and giving back to her community.
Mayor Swaby highlighted that the honour of receiving the Keys to the City goes beyond celebrating her athletic prowess.
“This is not just an accolade, it is a recognition of Shelly-Ann’s immense contributions to Jamaica’s global reputation in athletics and her tireless efforts to inspire and uplift young people.”
Medvedev thinks the settlement came about because Sinner could pay for good lawyers.
The Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) has launched a new scheme to help players facing allegations of doping or corruption
to access pro bono legal support in an attempt to ensure access to "world-class legal expertise regardless of a player's financial standing and personal resources".
"I hope that everyone will have the right to represent themselves because sometimes players don't have the money for a lawyer, they do it themselves," Medvedev, champion at the US Open in 2021, added.
"It's a bad sign if he's the only one who can do that, but it's a very good sign if, after that, everyone will be able to do it."
'So much inconsistency' American world number five Jessica Pegula said the handling of Sinner's case and Iga Swiatek's one-month ban for doping in 2024 showed the "process is completely broken".
"I think my reaction is that, whether you think he did or you don't, or whatever side you're on, the process just seems to be completely not a process," the WTA Player's Council member told The National., external
"It seems to just be whatever decisions and factors they take into consideration, and they just make up their own ruling.
"I don't really understand how that's fair for players when there's just so much inconsistency and you have no idea."
The 30-year-old said she wants the system to be "seriously looked at and considered"."I don't think any of the players trust the process at all right now. Zero. It's just a horrible look for the sport," Pegula added. (BBC Sport)
England hunt elusive Champions Trophy crown
HAVING secured wins in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the past, the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy remains the only men's white-ball event that England is yet to win.
Jos Buttler’s side will walk into the tournament with an intent to right their Champions Trophy record, and to finally break through for a triumph in this tournament, having come agonisingly close under the captaincy of Michael Vaughan (runners-up, 2004) and Alastair Cook (runners-up, 2013).
After an uninspiring run in their 2023 Men’s Cricket World Cup campaign, where they finished seventh, England haven’t had the best of times in ODI cricket, having lost all of their four series in the format since.
However, that can be attributed to the absence of big names in the setup from these encounters. Many of their first-choice players haven’t featured regularly in ODIs, given the intermittent nature of the format (the side has played only 13 ODIs between the Cricket
World Cup and the Champions Trophy- wherein the full-time captain Jos Buttler has featured in only six).
But this time, it's all hands-on-deck. A fullstrength England can pose a good challenge for its opponents.
With new white-ball head coach, Brendon McCullum, at the helm, having changed the flavour of English Test cricket after taking over in 2022, a title charge is highly possible.
Buttler, along with Joe Root and the talented Harry Brook, will form the crux of England batting, with fiery Ben Duckett and Phil Salt available for support.
England aren’t short of pace options in Jofra Ar -
cher, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Mark Wood and Saqib Mahmood, but focus will be on the guile of Adil Rashid, whose leg-spinners can be more than useful in Pakistan and UAE.
Squad: Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Tom Banton, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, Mark Wood
Fixtures: v Australia, Lahore, February 22 v Afghanistan, Lahore, February 26 v South Africa, Karachi, March 1 (ICC Media)
Daniil Medvedev won the US Open in 2021
Jamaican sprint icon Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce
England captain, Jos Buttler
New SOP guidelines non-negotiable, BCCI tells Champions Trophy-bound players
LAST month, when questioned about the much-debated new disciplinary and travel guidelines for the Indian team, Rohit Sharma had shot back in a press conference stating, "Who told you about this? Has it come from the official end? Has it come officially?"
The India skipper was also heard telling chief selector Ajit Agarkar that he would need to sit with the BCCI officials about it.
Next time if Rohit is asked the query, it is unlikely there will be a who-told-you response.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially and formally handed over the SOPs - on travel, nets, luggage allowances, and accompanying family members - to all the players. During the recent third ODI in Ahmedabad, the players have been told that the guidelines, largely disciplinary in nature, are non-negotiable.
It can now be confirmed
that the rules will kick in with immediate effect - to be precise from the 2025 Champions Trophy itself - and the tour manager has been authorised to ensure compliance.
The BCCI said the objective of the 10-point SOPs was "to establish guidelines that promote discipline, unity, and a positive team environment while ensuring professional standards and operational efficiency during tours and series."
Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) secretary R Devraj will be the manager of the team during the February 19-March 9 ICC event in Dubai and he has been clearly told to strictly enforce the rules. "There is no going back on this and the players have made aware that the BCCI is very serious about the SOPs," a team source, in the know of the development, told Cricbuzz.
Most prominent among the SOPs is the restrictions on individual staff during
tours. The guidelines state, "Personal staff (e.g., personal managers, chefs, assistants and security) are to be restricted on tours or series unless explicitly approved by the BCCI. This ensures that the focus remains on team operations and minimises logistical challenges. - this has to be done away with."
The players were known to have more than half a dozen staff in their personal
McClung wins third straight NBA Slam Dunk contest
MAC McClung jumped over a car on his way to winning his third straight NBA Slam Dunk contest at the All Star weekend in San Francisco.
The 26-year-old, who has played five minutes in one game of NBA action this season for the Orlando Magic, received perfect 50-point scores for his four dunks. In the first round, he
jumped over a car that had been parked under the basket with a person holding the ball up through an open sun roof, finishing with a reverse dunk. His second dunk saw him jump over a standing man and turn in the air.
McClung's third perfect score involved him dunking a ball from a man spinning on a hoverboard, while at the same time dunking a second
ball held by a man standing on a ladder.
And the 6ft 2in McClung clinched the title by dunking over 6ft 11in Cleveland Cavaliers player Evan Mobley, who stood on a small platform.
"Truly, stuff like this doesn't happen without standing on the shoulders of a lot of people," McClung told
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entourages, including cooks, nannies and hairdressers, besides the immediate family members. "The BCCI is very strict about this rule," the source said.
There was an advisory on players being accompanied by family members, mainly spouses. The new rules state that players absent from India for more than 45 days during overseas series can be joined by their partners and children
(under 18) for one visit per series (format-wise) of up to a two-week period. With the Champions Trophy lasting just over three weeks, the family members/spouses will not be seen.
Another important instruction is that the players will have to travel by the team bus, rather than by their individual vehicles, after completion of the net sessions. "All players are expected to travel with the team to and from matches and practice sessions.
Separate travel arrangements with families are discouraged to maintain discipline and team cohesion. Exceptions, if any, must be pre-approved by the head coach and Chairman of the Selection Committee," the advisory states.
Another similar clause says, "All players are required to stay for the entire duration of scheduled practice sessions and travel together to and from the ven-
ue. This rule ensures commitment and fosters a strong work ethic within the team." Violation of this rule could be seriously viewed.
There is also a rule pertaining to players participating in commercial shoots in the middle of a tour or a series. It reads, "Players are not permitted to engage in personal shoots or endorsements during an ongoing series or tour. This avoids distractions and ensures that the players' focus remains on cricket and team responsibilities."
The Indian team will leave for Dubai in two batches on February 15. India's first match, against Bangladesh, is on February 20. The big game, against Pakistan, will be on February 23 with the last league fixture, against New Zealand, slated for March 2. Should India reach the semifinal, it will be played on March 4 and the final is scheduled for March 9. (Cricbuzz)
Stirling & Campher help Ireland to win over Zimbabwe
A 144-run partnership between captain Paul Stirling and Curtis Campher steered Ireland to a six-wicket victory over Zimbabwe as they levelled the ODI series in Harare.
The hosts were dimissed for 245 with Wesley Madhevere (61) and Sikandar Raza (58) putting on 74 for the fourth wicket.
Stirling (89) and Campher (63), who also took 3-13, set the Irish on course for victory and they reached 249-4 with eight balls to spare.
Zimbabwe secured a 49run win in Friday's opener and the sides will meet again at the Harare Sports Club on Tuesday for the decider.
Ireland won the toss on Sunday and elected to field with the Chevrons moving to 73-3 before Madhevere and Sikandar Raza put them in a good position.
Campher trapped Mad -
Curtis Campher and Paul Stirling shone for Ireland in the second ODI on Sunday
hevere and followed it up with two wickets in two balls to swing the momentum in Ireland's favour.
Sikandar Raza steadied Zimbabwe's innings and from 157-6 they were bowled out for 245 with an over remaining with Mark Adair claiming 4-54.
Andrew Balbirnie fell for 11 before fellow opener
Stirling and Campher took Ireland to 171-1.
Lorcan Tucker (30*) and George Dockrell (20*) were
at the crease as victory was sealed.
"I think we were better [than the first ODI] - there's no lull in that middle period, Sikandar and Wesley battled really well and that's when we were under the most pressure," said Stirling.
"I chucked the ball to Curtis and he really turned the game on its head. I think 250 was about right for us to chase and we got there. (BBC Sport)
The touring manager, R Devraj, has been asked to ensure compliance with the new SOPs
Mac McClung has played only five NBA games in his career
Julien Alfred sets St. Lucian 400m indoor record with 52.97 at Tiger Paw Invitational
OLYMPIC 100m gold medallist, Julien Alfred, stepped outside her usual sprinting range on Friday, delivering a national indoor record in the 400m at the Tiger Paw Invitational in Clemson, South Carolina.
Alfred, primarily a 100m specialist, clocked 52.97 seconds to win Heat 4 of the event, setting a St. Lucian indoor record in the process. The time placed her 20th overall among a deep field of collegiate and professional athletes, but the performance stands out considering her focus on shorter sprints and limited experience in the quarter-mile.
Alfred, who won silver in the 200m at the Paris 2024 Olympics, is not known for racing the 400m, making her performance even more impressive. She split 25.01 seconds at the halfway mark before closing in 27.97 seconds, showing solid endurance despite not specialising in the event.
Interestingly, her time was matched by Michelle
Smith of the US Virgin Islands, a freshman at the University of Georgia and a 400m hurdler/800m runner.
Smith, who won Heat 10, edged Alfred in the final standings by thousandths of a second (52.961 to 52.970), emphasising just how competitive the event was.
The fastest time of the meet was posted by Georgia’s Aaliyah Butler, who stormed to victory in 50.85 seconds, a personal best. The top three overall finishers all broke 52 seconds, with Bailey Lear of the United States (51.81) and Jermaisha Arnold of Texas A&M (51.86) rounding out the podium.
Alfred’s performance, though outside her usual range, is a strong indicator of her fitness and strength heading into the outdoor season. Having already established herself as one of the world’s top sprinters, her ability to handle the demands of the 400m suggests she could bring even more endurance to her 100m and 200m races this year.
While she may not be switching to the quarter-mile anytime soon, this national record performance underscores Alfred’s versatility and world-class ability as she continues to dominate Caribbean sprinting. (Sportsmax)
Government looking to broaden eligibility of overseas players
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC )– A larger pool of senior international players will soon be eligible to represent Trinidad and Tobago’s national football team once proposed changes to the law are undertaken.
President of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA), Kieron Edwards, recently revealed that the amended law would see players over the age of 18, who share relations with Trinidadian grandparents, be allowed to play for the Soca Warriors.
According to sources, a policy has already been sent by the Ministry of Sport and Community Development to the Ministry of National Security and the Attorney General’s Office.
Speaking during a recent interview on WESN TV, Edwards said he hoped the policy would be in place in the next few weeks, ahead of T&T’s World Cup Qualifiers in June.
“I would say that we are about two to three weeks away from having this document be furnished to take to Parliament.
“They are just reviewing it at this point, so I would hope that within a couple weeks we can have this document, right after Carnival plays, and look to have this law amended in time for the World Cup games in June,” Edwards said.
He said currently, junior players were allowed to represent Trinidad & Tobago through that method.
However, he said once it is extended to players over the age of 18, it would increase the number of international players eligible to play for the national team.
“So, it’s just around having grand-parentage, being able to represent and to get a passport at any age.
“We utilised it just recently with this Under-17 team here, but at the senior level we have players, because of some the levels of our players
Concacaf unveils match-ups for 2025 Gold Cup prelims
MIAMI, Florida, (CMC), – CONCACAF has officially revealed the 2025 Gold Cup prelims schedule, which will occur during the FIFA Match Window in March 2025.
The home-and-away series will feature 14 men’s national teams battling for the final seven spots in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup Group Stage. The matchups were determined based on the Concacaf Rankings following the FIFA Match Window in November 2024.
The prelims will see the highest-ranked team face
the lowest-ranked team, with the winners of each series securing their place in the prestigious Gold Cup.
The matchups are as follows. Costa Rica (1) vs Belize (14), Jamaica (2) vs Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (13), Honduras (3) vs Bermuda (12), Guatemala (4) vs Guyana (11), Trinidad and Tobago (5) vs Cuba (10), Martinique (6) vs Suriname (9), Nicaragua (7) vs Guadeloupe (8).
The first legs of the prelims will be played on Friday, March 21, 2025, with the return legs scheduled
for Tuesday, March 25, 2025. The winners of each series will join the nine teams that have already qualified for the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, including powerhouses like the United States, Mexico, and Canada, as well as guest team Saudi Arabia.
The 18th edition of the Concacaf Gold Cup will kick off on June 14, 2025, and conclude on July 6, 2025, with matches hosted across 14 stadiums in 11 metropolitan areas in the United States and Canada.
Da Silva’s century highlights dull day of draws
ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Trinidad and Tobago captain, Joshua Da Silva, scored his second successive century on an otherwise uneventful final day of the West Indies Championship third round, which saw all two matches end in predictable draws.
TTFA president, Kieron Edwards
at such a young age, they don’t take it up,” Edwards explained.
“We have two players right now who are on the England team that we were close to getting. We want to protect what’s going on, but we have a young man from Arsenal who is in the England youth set up that we were close to getting.”
Despite his performance, the Red Force drew with the Leeward Islands Hurricanes. The Windward Islands Volcanoes and Combined Campuses and Colleges also played to a stalemate, while the rain held up just long enough for the Guyana Harpy Eagles to gain first innings points over the West Indies Academy.
At Warner Park: Joshua Da Silva followed up his first innings knock of 152, scoring an even, unbeaten century as the match between the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force and Leeward Islands Hurricanes petered out into a draw.
The Hurricanes made a valiant effort, but eventually fell short of T&T’s first innings total of 529-5 declared, being eventually dismissed for 433.
Resuming the day in a strong position of 317 for three, the Hurricanes were undermined by the spinning duo of Khary Pierre and Yannic Cariah, who took five wickets apiece.
Once overnight batsmen Jewel Andrew, who made 40 and Karima Gore, who made 68 were dismissed, the Hurricanes lost their
last six wickets for 55 runs.
Pierre finished with 5-93 while Cariah took 5-103.
Da Silva then raced to 100 off 108 balls, with 11 fours and one six, before the match was called off with the Red Force on 191 for three.
At Windsor Park: Only 11 overs were possible on the fourth and final day between the Windward Islands Volcanoes and the Combined Campuses and Colleges.
Resuming the day on 29 without loss after conceding a first innings lead of 32, the CCC added a further 31 runs before showers ended the day’s proceedings.
Openers Damel Evelyn ended unbeaten on 37 while Kieran Powell was not out on 20.
At the Guyana National Stadium: Veteran left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul claimed six wick -
ets to help the defending champions Guyana Harpy Eagles earn first innings points over the West Indies Academy.
Permaul took 6-75, including two of the last three wickets, to dismiss the Academy for 249 runs, four runs short of the Harpy Eagles’ total of 253.
The Academy looked set to take first innings points when they were poised at 249 for seven at one point.
But without the addition of another run Permaul bowled Johann Layne for 12 and dismissed McKenny Clarke for a duck, before Gudakesh Motie wrapped up the innings by bowling Zishan Motara for 22.
Permaul ended with 6-75, while Motie and Nial Smith took two wickets apiece.
The rains then came, preventing the Harpy Eagles from batting in their second innings.
Olympic 100 metres gold medallist, Julien Alfred
T&T captain Joshua Da Silva scored his second successive century
Rosignol Secondary win Region 5 edition of CNOOC National Nationwide Schools TT championships
ROSIGNOL Secondary emerged as the champion school when the Region Five edition of the CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited GTTA Ministry of Education Nationwide National Schools Table Tennis Championships commenced last Wednesday in the auditorium of Bygeval Hall Secondary School at Mahaica.
The stage was set for an exciting day of table tennis competition, which truly stimulated and showcased the talent and potential for growth of the sport in the region and created a thirst and appetite for more table tennis activities across the region.
Budding with enthusiastic players from the registered schools from Rosignol Secondary Bygeval Secondary Bush Lot Secondary, Belladrum Sec Mahaicony Secondary and coordinated through support from the Regional Department of Education through Regional Education Officer Mrs Celeste La Rose REDO, Sir Mahendra Salik, Sir Kevon of Rosignol Sec, the head teacher of Bygeval Sec Regional Chair Sadiek Ishmael and the enthusiastic students from the various schools made for an exciting and talent-unearthing event.
The competition was played in the boys’ singles 18 and 15 years and under Girls' singles 18 years and under and Open Team Event. This saw over forty (40) entries in singles and
team competitions. ITTF
Level coach and Umpire Coach Candacy Mc Kenzie performed the role as tournament director. In the end, Rosignol Sec proved champions when they won most of the categories.
Results and Winners-row Results in Boys 18 Years and Under Round of 16
The CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited GTTA Ministry of Education Nationwide National Schools Table Tennis Championships is the first ever national nationwide Schools Table Tennis championships with a concept which provides Independent Regional Competitions held in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven and 10 and Georgetown geared towards crowning the individual school’s team and singles champions, because of creating regional identity, independence, prestige, incentive and motivation, which will showcase all the champion teams of Guyana.
The project and sponsorship also procured and provided tennis tables for the hinterland Regions One,Seven,Eight and Nine to provide
training to help accelerate their development and in instances where possible have the regions host/participate in the novices’ categories only. These championships are critical to continuing the rich table tennis tradition and legacy of our country, in ensuring that our respective age-group champions are crowned annually and that there is a system that continues to produce and engage players at the school level as a basis for providing a feeder system for talent development and national representation
The competition sets the following as its key objectives and aims
• Serve as an incubator and provide the opportunity for new talents to have an active platform to showcase and expose their talents and represent their schools.
• Re-establishing school championships as a basis for the GTTA’s development
thrust by having more players actively participate in table tennis activities, both recreational and competitive.
• Re-establishing an active framework for school competitions through school leagues, team linkages of players to clubs regional hubs.
• Serve as a catalyst for creating a talent-identification development and incubation systems for the recruitment, training orientation development and teaching of life-long learned skills which will positively enhance the profile and marketability of the sport and impact higher performances and sustainability of the sport at the national and international levels.
• Identify recruit and train the best student- athletes/students from participating schools who exhibit the potential for growth because of selecting the best talents for training and high-pe formance programmes of the GTTA and for selection as possible prospects for national team representation.
• Formation of school team clubs that will compete for inter-house inter-school regional and national championships in different age-group categories and levels
• Partnering with Regional Education Department sponsors and other stakeholders to establish relations and structures for the continued support, development and support of the sport.
JFF President Ricketts commends U-17 Reggae Boyz despite heart-breaking World Cup miss
JAMAICA Football Federation (JFF) President, Michael Ricketts, has praised the U-17 Reggae Boyz for their performances in the Concacaf U-17 Championship, despite their agonising 2-1 loss to El Salvador on Saturday night, which saw them narrowly miss out on a place at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.
Needing only a draw to qualify, Jamaica put up a spirited fight but conceded a late goal in their final
group-stage match, finishing second in Group H behind El Salvador. The young Reggae Boyz scored 14 goals over their three matches, registering victories over St. Lucia and the Cayman Islands before falling short against the Salvadorans. Despite the disappointment, JFF President, Michael Ricketts, expressed pride and optimism about the team’s performances and its future in international football.
“I am proud of the U17s and their performances over the last five days,” Ricketts said. “They have shown promise, great ability, and have represented our island well. Let us not forget that the U-17 World Cup will be held every year from now on, so we will get ourselves ready again for the next U-17 cycle.”
He also pointed out that several players on this squad will still be eligible for the next U-17 cycle, meaning
that the experience gained in Guatemala will prove invaluable for their development.
“In addition to that, some of these players have another U-17 cycle in them, so the experience garnered in Guatemala will bode well for the future,” he added.
The U-17 Reggae Boyz are set to return to the island tonight (Sunday) at 10:24 PM at the Norman Manley International Airport, where they will be welcomed home
after their hard-fought campaign.
While their journey to the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar has come to an end, their performances have given Jamaica football fans reason to be hopeful for the future. With another cycle ahead and crucial experience under their belts, the next generation of Reggae Boyz will be looking to make their mark in the coming years. (Sportsmax)
Nathan Karachand def Vuai Kalpu (11-6,11-7)
Fuvainte (11-8,11-7)
The winners and officials at the Bygeval Hall Secondary School at Mahaica
JFF President, Michael Ricketts
By Frederick Halley
REGAL Legends shrugged off a first-round defeat at the hands of Parika Legends by inflicting a four-wicket victory over the same opponents when the final of the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc Republic Softball Tournament, held to commemorate Guyana’s 55th republic anniversary celebrations, climaxed at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, yesterday.
After their first-round win on the opening day and with subsequent victories over Prime Insurance and Asah Décor, Parika Legends
entered the over-50 final brimming with confidence but were let down by their batsmen after being asked to take first strike.
The players from East Bank Essequibo however fought tooth and nail, with Regal Legends, aided by some 31 wides and a stubborn undefeated 30 from Nandram Samlall, reached the required 112 for six in 18 overs, winning with two overs to spare.
Samlall, who stroked a solitary four in his innings, also received solid support from Rudolph Baker who slammed two sixes in a quick-fire 20 while no other batter reached double figures.
Bowling for Parika Defenders, Davenand Kanaan took two for 13, Ramo Malone two for 33 and Kabesh Persaud two for 33.
Earlier, Parika Legends were tottering on 32 for five in the seventh over after a terrible start, losing the prized scalps of their leading run-scorer Dubraj Singh among the players dismissed, for just six in the second over.
It took a herculean effort from the experienced Ramo Malone and a defiant Kabesh Persaud, who shared a 53-run sixth-wicket partnership to bring some respectability to the total. Malone struck five fours and a six in a top score of
Regal Legends cart off GSCL Republic Softball Over-50 title
47, while Persaud hit an invaluable 13.
Skipper Uniss Yusuf led from the front with four for 17, a feat that deservedly earned him the playerof-the-match award, while Stanley Mohabir supported with two for 18 and Surujdeo Ramdin two for 25.
The winning Regal Legends players took home the first prize of $200,000 and a trophy while the runners-up collected $50,000 and the runners-up trophy. All the trophies were sponsored by Trophy Stall through the generosity of its proprietor Ramesh Sunich.
Apart from Trophy Stall, the other sponsors include Regal Stationery & Computer Centre, Ofimak Office Supplies of Panama, of which Regal are the sole distributors of its office supplies, ARD YouTuber, Price Chopper, Khan’s Trading Enterprise, Elegance Jewelry & Pawn Shop, Terminex Pest Control –Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, Lucky Star Trading and Derick’s Variety Store.
Eden Gardens to host IPL 2025 final on May 25
...Qualifier 1 and Eliminator will be played in Hyderabad, and Qualifier 2 in Kolkata
EDEN Gardens, the home ground of IPL 2024 champions Kolkata Knight Riders, will host both the tournament opener of IPL 2025 on March 22 and the final on May 25. It will also host Qualifier 2 on May 23.
This will be the first final in Kolkata in a decade, with Eden Gardens having previously hosted the 2013 and 2015 title matches.
The other two playoffs - Qualifier 1 on May 20 and the Eliminator on May 21 - will be played in Hyderabad, home of 2024 runners-up Sunrisers Hyderabad.
IPL 2025 will feature 74 matches spread over 65 days with 12 double-headers. The tournament opener will pit KKR against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in an evening match. That will be followed by double-header Sunday (March 23) with SRH hosting Rajasthan Royals followed by the IPL's most celebrated rivalry, with Chennai Super Kings hosting Mumbai Indians in a clash between two five-times champions. Royals, Delhi Capitals, Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans will play three afternoon
matches each, while the other seven teams will play two day matches each. Last year's afternoon matches had started at 3.30 pm IST.
There are 13 venues listed in the schedule: the primary home bases of each of the 10 teams along with with Guwahati (Royals' second home venue), Visakhapatnam (Capitals' second home venue) and Dharamsala (Punjab's second home venue). While Guwahati and Vizag will host two matches each, three matches will be played in Dha-
While Punjab have usually played two games per season at the picturesque HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, the IPL has scheduled an extra game at the venue this season, with Capitals, Mumbai and LSG listed as Punjab's opponents. These three matches will be played from May 4 to 11, which means Punjab are the only team to have a stretch of three back-to-back home matches.
While several teams will be busy playing back-to-back matches with breaks of one or two days, no
team will be on the road for three consecutive away matches.
As has been the case in every season since the IPL expanded to ten teams in 2022, the teams have been split into two groups, with KKR, RCB, Royals, CSK and Punjab in one group and SRH, Capitals, Titans, Mumbai and LSG in the other. Teams will meet the other teams in their group and one team in the other group - determined by seeding - twice, and the other four teams in the opposite group once.
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The victorious Regal Legends players pose with their winnings
Player of the match, Uniss Yusuf receives his award from Shureen Samaroo, wife of Regal Stationery & Computer Centre, Mahendra Hardyal
