The Palmyra multi-purpose stadium in Berbice is beginning to take shape (Office of the President photo)
‘Achieving in a decade what took others 50 years’
–– ExxonMobil official on Guyana’s oil surge
–– says new discoveries, advanced seismic tech, aggressive tiebacks fuelling production growth
By Clestine Juan
GUYANA’S oil journey has rapidly transformed into one of the fastest production ramp-ups in modern energy history.
Within just a few years, the country has gone from producing no oil to positioning itself to achieve one million barrels per day (bpd) by the early 2030s, a feat that took decades for oil-producing giants like Brazil and Angola.
This unprecedented journey was spotlighted during ExxonMobil’s Corporate Plan Update and Upstream Spotlight, where ExxonMobil Guyana’s Development Manager Drew Bishops offered an interesting analogy: Guyana’s oil success is like a five-star restaurant.
“I’m often asked,
‘What is the secret sauce in Guyana? Is the discovery just that good?’ What I tell them is they have the wrong paradigm entirely. Guyana’s success is more like a Michelin-star restaurant,” Bishops said. In December 2019, Guyana made its histor-
ic entry into oil production with the Liza Destiny floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel. In just five years, ExxonMobil and its partners, Hess Corporation and CNOOC, have turned the Stabroek Block into one of the world’s most
promising oil provinces.
The Stabroek Block, located approximately 120 miles offshore Guyana, covers an area of 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres).
Bishops highlighted the scale of this achievement, noting, “Five years ago, there was no production in the country; we plan to achieve one million barrels per day production in just over a decade from first discovery. For comparison, achieving this milestone in Brazil or Angola took 50-plus years.”
COMPLEX INGREDIENTS, FLAWLESS EXECUTION
The secret to this success, according to Bishops, lies in ExxonMobil’s ability to manage a mix of complex ingredients: The geological and technical challenges presented by the Stabroek Block’s vast and varied reservoirs.
“It covers the same area as the State of Massachusetts; in addition to the sheer size of the block, you
have to consider this map in cross-section. There is a complex, three-dimensional challenge with unique reservoirs being developed at different depths,” Bishops related.
So far, ExxonMobil has developed 10 reservoirs, and by the time its eighth project is online, that number is expected to grow to 40.
Each development re-
quires a unique approach. For example, Hammerhead, the company’s seventh project, contains rock formations that allow fluids to move 100,000 times more easily than shale formations in the US Permian Basin.
However, its heavy crude oil presents unique processing challenges.
ExxonMobil Guyana’s Development Manager Drew Bishops
The Stabroek Block
Guyana among Caribbean nations leading in transparency, citizen engagement
–– meets eligible criteria to join international Open Government Partnership, IDB report highlight
AS Caribbean nations continue to make positive strides towards more transparent governance, Guyana has emerged as a leading force in advancing open government practices in the region.
With the implementation of fiscal transparency, improved access to information, and enhanced citizen engagement, Guyana is setting a commendable example for other nations in the Caribbean.
Building on recent developments, Guyana’s commitment to transparency and public accountability has positioned it as an eligible candidate for membership in the Open Government Partnership (OGP), an initiative that brings together countries committed to making their governments more transparent, inclusive, and accountable to their citizens.
According to the
OPG’s official website:
“In order to participate in OGP, governments must exhibit a demonstrated commitment to open government by meeting a set of (minimum) performance criteria across key dimensions that are particularly consequential for increasing government responsiveness, strengthening citizen engagement and combatting corruption, and an adherence to the democratic governance norms and values set in the Open Government Declaration.”
Alongside its regional neighbours, including Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, Guyana’s proactive efforts align with global standards for open governance. These efforts include the rigorous disclosure of public officials’ assets, enhanced citizen participation in policy discussions, and access to information through various
digital platforms.
The Caribbean Development Dynamics 2025 by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) report highlights Guyana’s significant progress in these areas, noting that the country’s commitment to strengthening democratic processes through transparency is a powerful tool for building public trust.
Public officials have
acknowledged that the fight for transparent governance goes hand-in-hand with respect for human rights, which has been a critical area of focus for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration.
By strengthening human rights, the government is not only ensuring equitable growth, but also paving the way for greater social stability.
“Our democratic governance has become better, more inclusive, more participatory; we have much to celebrate, and we shouldn’t be shy or apologetic about it,” Guyana’s Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira said at a recent Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Expo.
Guyana has set out on an ambitious venture, and though the ministry is
small, it has successfully been able to host several training programmes and workshops, all aimed at building recognition of human rights and combatting corruption.
Pointing out the links between human rights and corruption, Teixeira explained: “We felt we needed to show the interconnection between corruption and human rights, and the way in which corruption can diminish a country’s democratic institutions; programmes and work and resources that are meant for the taxpayers and the poor and the vulnerable.”
Looking at Guyana’s progress through a wider lens, Teixeira noted that the country has come a long way from once being one of the poorest countries in the hemisphere to now boasting of massive transformation.
Teixeira condemns APNU+AFC’s Hastings for politicising tragedy
PEOPLE’S Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Geographic Member of Parliament for Region Seven and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira has strongly criticised opposition
MP Dawn Hastings for what she described as the politicisation of a tragic event.
Teixeira’s remarks on Monday come in response to a video released by Hastings in the wake of the murder of Toshao Ridley Joseph, the recently elected leader of Tassarene village in the Middle Mazaruni.
Teixeira expressed deep sorrow over Joseph’s tragic death, describing
him as a dedicated leader committed to working with the government to address issues affecting his community.
“The loss of anyone should be mourned with respect,” Teixeira stated, adding: “Moreso, someone whose life was so brutally and senselessly taken. Such circumstances require some level of dignity from all of us.”
She added: “Since his election, I am happy that we were able to have several conversations that were constructive, and led to resolving a number of issues for the communities in the Middle Mazaruni. I was impressed by his
straightforwardness and willingness to work with the government to find solutions to issues in his community and in the Middle Mazaruni sub-district. I wish to extend to Toshao Ridley Joseph’s family, the community of Tassarene, and the National Toshaos’ Council my deepest sympathy on his passing. He will be missed.”
Teixeira did not mince words in calling out Hastings, the opposition Geographic MP for Region Seven.
She accused Hastings of exploiting Joseph’s death for political gain, citing her attempts to link
Opposition MP Dawn Hastings
the tragedy to unrelated events, such as the Mahdia dormitory fire, despite a public inquiry report being released earlier this year.
“I am embarrassed and appalled by the video aired by the opposition’s Geographic Member of Parliament for Region Seven, Mrs. Dawn Hastings, hours after Toshao Joseph’s murder; to use the tragic end of Toshao Ridley Joseph’s life as a political weapon is unconscionable,” Teixeira said. She added: “With such haste, Mrs. Hastings attempted to remind people of her relevance, as most have forgotten her role as the other Geographic Member of Parliament for Region Seven.”
Teixeira also criticised
‘Achieving in a decade what took ...
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Conversely, Longtail, another major development, offers a completely different dynamic.
“Longtail can’t decide if it wants to be gas or liquid. Lots of gas helps with recovery, and we’re going to use that gas to recycle it like a sponge. Repeatedly pulling the liquids out of the reservoir. Dry gas in, oil rich gas out. Very light, high quality liquid produce that looks more like gasoline than what you put in your car,” he said.
ExxonMobil’s success in Guyana isn’t just about geology; it’s about execution and technology-driven innovation. The company’s use of 4D seismic technology is a prime example.
This advanced imaging technique allows ExxonMobil to track fluid movement in real time, enabling them to identify untapped reserves, and optimise well placement.
“In this real-life example, you can see water, which is blue, and gas, which is red, displacing the oil, which is yellow, in the reservoir. And you can also see where the oil is not moving, making a perfect target for a new well to capture the oil that would have otherwise been left behind,” Bishops explained while pointing to a 4D seismic map.
Looking ahead, ExxonMobil has an aggressive expansion strategy focused on maximising value through tiebacks, new discoveries, and further exploration. Bishops pointed out that about one-third of the Stabroek Block still lacks 3D seismic data, leaving vast potential yet to be tapped.
“This map shows where we see this potential coming from… discovered undeveloped resources near our existing facilities… new resources brought back to those existing assets, increasing and extending our oil production,” he stated.
Additionally, ExxonMobil is enhancing its high-powered computing capabilities, accelerating its ability to process seismic data, and make critical production decisions faster.
“We’re expanding our capability by significantly enhancing our high-powered computing capabilities; providing us with even faster cycle times,” Bishops said.
He added: “This is complexity made to look easy, executing to deliver maximum value from potential without sacrificing capital discipline. And technology is our secret sauces.”
Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett calls for protection of vulnerable groups amid Ukraine crisis
IN a recent address, Guyana’s Permanent Representative of The Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett expressed profound concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis resulting from the war in Ukraine.
Acknowledging the update provided by Director Doughten, Rodrigues-Birkett emphasised the dire statistics that highlight how civilians are disproportionately affected by the conflict.
Despite persistent calls from the international community for adherence to international humanitarian law, including principles of distinction, precaution, and proportionality, civilians continue to suffer from indiscriminate attacks, and the destruction of critical infrastructure, she said.
“The situation is exacerbated by continuous assaults on energy infrastructure, raising alarms about potential power outages during the harsh winter months,” Rodrigues-Birkett said.
She added: “These attacks have severely disrupted access to essential services, particularly impacting vulnerable groups such as the elderly, low-income households, individuals with disabilities, and those who have been internally displaced.”
Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett firmly stated that this untenable situation must not persist, and called on all parties involved to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, specifically regarding the prohibition of deliberate attacks on civilians and protected objects.
Guyana also expressed grave concern over the precarious situation surrounding the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP). Recent attacks not only targetted the plant, but also endangered International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) personnel and vehicles.
Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett condemned these acts, and demanded that all parties take necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of IAEA staff, while safeguarding the integrity of the nuclear facility.
“The urgency for a peaceful resolution to this conflict was reiterated, with a clear message that prolonging hostilities will only lead to more severe consequences for all involved. Guyana called for the immediate withdrawal of Russian military forces from internationally recognised Ukrainian territory, and urged all parties to commit to a genuine political and diplomatic process aimed at
Guyana, Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett reaffirmed, is committed to supporting efforts by the United Nations Secretary-General and other partners working towards peace.
She underscored that it is imperative for all parties
to engage in good-faith negotiations to alleviate the suffering of millions affected by this war.
The emphasis was placed on prioritising the rule of law and civilian welfare as essential steps toward achieving lasting peace.
Guyana’s Permanent Representative of The Co-operative Republic of Guyana Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett ending the conflict,” she said.
Police arrest four men after finding illegal firearm, ammunition at Caria Caria
POLICE on Sunday found an illegal firearm and ammunition after acting on information received and proceeding to Caria Caria, located along the Essequibo River, using a wooden balahoo powered by a 200HP Yamaha outboard engine.
Upon arrival, they approached a residence owned by a 59-year-old farmer. Inside, they encountered Brian Johnson, a 24-year-old miner from Half Mile, Linden, who
was found sleeping in a hammock with a black shoulder bag beside him.
The police awoke Johnson and conducted a search of both his person and the shoulder bag, uncovering a 9MM pistol, along with 10 rounds of matching ammunition.
Additionally, two radio sets were discovered in the bag. When asked whether he had a licence for the firearm, Johnson said he did not. Following this revelation, he was informed of the allegations
against him and cautioned; however, he chose to remain silent, and was consequently arrested.
As the police escorted Johnson towards their boat, he requested that they wait for his friends. This led to the identification of several individuals: Rondel Rodney, a 27-year-old from One Mile, Wismar, riding an unregistered black XR motorcycle; Martin Fraser, a 25-year-old from South Amelia’s Ward, Linden; and Lionel Gilkes, a
33-year-old welder from Half Mile, Wismar on a black-and-red scooter. Upon questioning, they claimed to be in the area for land prospecting.
All four men were subsequently arrested and transported to the Parika Police Station. The motorcycles were lodged as evidence alongside the firearm, which was secured in an evidence bag.
The suspects are currently in custody as part of an ongoing investigation into the incident.
T&T: MP Lisa Morris-Julian, two children die in fire
MEMBER of Parliament for D’Abadie/O’Meara, Lisa Morris-Julian, has died in a house fire along with her two children.
The fire happened before dawn on Monday at Farfan Drive, Arima. Morris-Julian, son and a daughter were in a section of the house from which they could not escape, according to reports.
They died there. Her husband and other children were able to make it out.
Morris-Julian was a Minister in the Ministry of Education and the Member of Parliament for D’Abadie/O’Meara.
She was also a former English teacher at the Barataria South Secondary School and a former Mayor at the Arima Borough Corporation.
In a statement, the Peoples National Movement wrote to its members “Our initial reports from Min. Beckles Robinson who is on the scene now is that, unfortunately, our beloved sister Lisa perished in a home fire along with her six-year-old son and her daughter.
The actual facts are still being confirmed and in the meanwhile we all lift her beautiful soul and those of her son and sister and wider family in prayer.
She was an absolutely beautiful, kind, strong, compassionate and amazing person. We are all heartbroken.” (Trinidad and Tobago Express)
MP Lisa Morris-Julian and 2 children die in fire (Jermaine Cruickshank)
Brian Johnson Martin Fraser Rondel Rodney
Lionel Gilkes
Local Content and Standards
IN a pivotal moment for Guyana’s development, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has underscored the indispensable role of local content legislation and standardisation in shaping the nation’s economic landscape.
His recent remarks following the commissioning of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) Laboratory highlight a strategic vision that intertwines policy-making with the broader goals of national growth and international competitiveness.
The establishment of the GNBS Laboratory represents more than just a physical infrastructure; it symbolises a commitment to elevating local products to meet international standards. As President Ali stated, “International marketplace requires this foundational investment.”
This assertion is not merely rhetorical, it reflects a critical understanding that for Guyana to thrive in an increasingly competitive global economy; it must equip itself with the necessary tools to ensure its products are not only viable,
but also desirable on the world stage.
The local content legislation is designed to ensure that Guyanese businesses can participate meaningfully in the burgeoning oil and gas sector, which has the potential to transform the economy. However, as President Ali pointed out, local content cannot exist in isolation. It must be complemented by robust standards that enhance productivity and foster an environment where local enterprises can flourish. The integration of these elements is crucial for creating a sustainable economic ecosystem that benefits all citizens.
By investing in facilities like the GNBS Laboratory, the government is addressing a fundamental gap that many local businesses face: The ability to meet international standards and certifications. This capability not only enhances their negotiating power, but also positions them favourably in partnership opportunities both locally and abroad.
The laboratory will facilitate testing and accreditation for various products, ranging from construction materials to
medical devices, thereby ensuring that they meet stringent quality benchmarks.
Standardisation is a key driver of economic diversification. As Guyana transitions from a primarily resource-based economy to one that embraces manufacturing and agro-processing, having in-house capacity for testing and certification becomes essential.
The GNBS’ Laboratory will play a critical role in this transformation by providing services that support industries across the board. Moreover, as Dr. Ali emphasised, achieving internationally recognised ISO standards not only enhances product branding, but also instills confidence among consumers and investors alike.
When Guyanese products carry these certifications, they signal reliability and quality, which are vital attributes in attracting both domestic and foreign investment. Equally important is the government’s commitment to investing in human-resource capacity within the GNBS. A well-trained workforce is essential for maintaining high standards
of testing and certification. This investment will ensure that local experts are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to uphold these standards, fostering a culture of excellence within the country.
As Guyana stands on the brink of significant economic transformation, it is imperative that all stakeholders—government, businesses, and citizens—recognise the importance of local content legislation and standardisation.
These initiatives are not merely bureaucratic necessities; they are foundational elements that will determine the success of Guyana’s integration into the global economy.
By prioritising local content and establishing rigorous standards through facilities like the GNBS Laboratory, Guyana can position itself as a competitive player on the international stage. This approach not only promises economic growth, but also ensures that such growth is inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial for all Guyanese citizens.
Stabroek News, cartoonist ought to apologise for distasteful, racially insensitive cartoon
Dear Editor,
I WAS horrified to open the December 16 edition of the Stabroek News to find a cartoon depicting the First Lady of Guyana standing in a champagne glass next to a bottle of champagne labelled ‘oil money’, and next to her a tilted over and spilling rum bottle labelled ‘rum shop’.
It was an obvious reference to Mrs. Arya Ali’s recently held Charity Fundraising Ball. Mrs. Ali, under her office as First
Lady of the State of Guyana, held a year-end charity event without any political branding, and moreover without any State funding.
The event was held at a location that is regularly the venue of choice for State, private sector, family, and international community events, none of which invite comment or condemnation from Stabroek News.
Yet, somehow, that charity event is singled out by Stabroek News’ cartoonist, and is sanctioned by its editor, for a caricature that is unapologetically racist and classist in its depiction.
In the editorial view of the Stabroek News, the People’s Progressive Party, as embodied by the First Lady, has left behind the rum shop and is now contained within a champagne glass lifestyle as supported by ‘oil money’.
As if the racist and classist implications of the imagery itself were not clear, the intention is made clear with the caption, “It’s about time the PPP learned about class and style…”
This simplistic, stereotypical trope of the rum shop as symbolic of the poor, drunken, classless PPP-supporting Indo-Guyanese, foreign to the
finer things in life, is not only indecent in itself, but especially abhorrent when applied to a First Lady whose initiatives have been executed without a whiff of ethnic or political bias.
Mr. Harris and the Stabroek News ought to issue an apology to First Lady Arya Ali and the Indo-Guyanese community for this distasteful and racially insensitive excuse for sociopolitical commentary.
Yours respectfully, Ravin Singh
Teixeira condemns APNU+AFC’s ...
Hastings’ nostalgic reference to the Forbes Burnham era, when Toshaos were allegedly “secured” during their visits to town.
“So ‘secured’ they were under Burnham, that when they came to town, they were escorted, monitored, and manipulated to prevent them from interacting among themselves or with others, particularly the PPP,” Teixeira said, recalling the authoritarian policies of that time.
She added, “If I were Mrs. Hastings, I would have kept quiet, because the track record of her party between 1966-1992 was so abysmally bad with
regards to the Amerindian people, poverty, isolation and neglect, coupled with the rigging of Toshaos elections to keep them under the control of the ruling party; her party.
“At one time, Aishalton had two village councils, one with the Burnham-appointed Toshao and council, and the other elected by the community. The former was recognised and received their stipends etc. while the other was not… 2015-2020, no different; please don’t cry caiman tears and posture that you cared.
“You were in government, and you know very well what was not done
for or in some cases taken away from Amerindian people and their communities. And from your statements in Parliament, you defended all of these assaults on our Amerindian Peoples.”
Highlighting the ongoing efforts by the PPP/C government to uplift Amerindian communities, Teixeira pointed to significant progress in Region Seven under the PPP/C administration.
These include the construction of four new secondary schools with dormitories, expanded communication networks through Starlink, improved healthcare facili-
ties, and the revitalisation of solar electrification programmes.
Teixeira also noted the $9 billion in carbon credits revenue allocated to over 240 Amerindian communities, alongside increased stipends for Toshaos and job creation initiatives.
“Yes, Mrs. Hastings, all Guyanese are seeing the transformation in their country,” Minister Texeira said, countering Hastings’ call for Indigenous Peoples to “see what is happening”.
Teixeira further questioned Hastings’ credibil-
ity, citing the opposition party’s track record on Amerindian issues during their time in government. She recalled incidents of neglect and mistreatment of Amerindian communities between 2015 and 2020, including the termination of 1,972 Community Support Officers, the closure of the Amerindian Land Titling Unit, and severe shortages of essential drugs in villages.
“Where was Mrs. Hastings then, as a Geographic MP for Region Seven and Minister of Government?” Teixeira asked pointedly.
Describing Hastings’ actions as “the height of hypocrisy and vulgarity,” Minister Texeira urged her to refrain from using Joseph’s death to score political points.
“Toshao Ridley Joseph’s young legacy deserves more. His family deserves better, and the people of Region Seven deserve leaders who serve, not exploit,” she stressed.
The tragic murder of Toshao Ridley Joseph has deeply affected the Tassarene community and the wider Middle Mazaruni region.
Jonestown: How to avoid its repetition
THE debate on whether to make Jonestown a tourist attraction is taking place in Guyana amidst one of world history’s most painful tragedies –Israeli committal of genocide against the Palestinian people.
When racist cruelties occur on such a colossal scale, humanity must never let it be forgotten.
We must preserve the memory of Gaza so future generations will learn
from it and fight against if it should raise its bestial head in the future. We must preserve the memory of other genocidal bestialities like slavery and the Jewish Holocaust so humans could understand why they occurred and internalise the lessons.
No philosophy student will reject a monument to the victims of Jonestown because philosophy is about how the soul craves for human happiness and
in search of that happiness the mind becomes a hapless and helpless victim of brainwashing.
The peoples of the world should be shown the lessons of Jonestown. I am not sure how this can be achieved, but it must be done because if not the mind can fall into the same trap of the victims of Jim Jones. I am not going to get into the debate of how Jonestown could be marketed as a tourist thing. What I am willing to do is to argue vociferously that Jonestown must not be forgotten. It is an American tragedy that occurred in Guyana so Guyana has a deep, moving obligation to preserve the memory.
The reason why we build monuments is because we want people to know and remember the events behind the tragedies. When the genocide is over in Gaza there should be a large monument with the names of the 40,000 babies, women, journalists, doctors, nurses and aid workers who were murdered simply because they were of different genes to those who set out to kill them.
I believe whatever form and shape the preservation of memory of Jonestown takes there must be something out there about Jonestown that can guide the human mind to avoid the pitfalls of brainwashing. I definitely think there should be something physical on the site where the People’s Temple stood.
I believe the saddest and most tragic vulnerability of the mind is its susceptibility to brainwashing. There are forms of brainwashing that is subliminal but equally dangerous. Almost 99 per cent of sane, normal people live perfect lives without knowing the extent to which they have been brainwashed.
One of the most painful but successful episode of brainwashing that has saturated the history books and the media and by extension our minds is the factor that led to the end of the Second World War. As an academic, this pains me. The peoples of the world have been fed on the narrative that the Allied forces brought about the end of Hitler’s war. The decisive factor in defeating the Germans was the Russian armed forces. Germany would not have
been defeated if it weren’t for Russian forces that struck at decisive moments.
Sorry about this diversion from Jonestown to World War II, but the point is brainwashing is a recurring factor in the entire history of the world, and people looking for mental tranquility and peace of mind could end up losing their entire mind to subliminal enticement.
I would definitely support some form of physical structure surrounding Jonestown to remind not only Guyanese, but also the peoples of the world of how mentally fragile humans are. One form I think this can take is for the people who go to Jonestown as a part of a visiting tour to be given a talk by someone trained in psychology or philosophy.
Visitors should be exposed to how Jonestown met its tragic end and the lessons that should be learned. Jonestown occurred in 1978, but people searching for meaning in their lives have ended in similar cults like Jonestown. Ironically and most incredibly so, the daughter of the Congressman, Leo Ryan, who was killed at Jonestown, ended up in a similar cult.
Cults are impossible for modern society to eradicate because messianic figures will always lure lonely people who long to have pieces of their dreams that disappeared come back to them. The mind is about the perpetual search for happiness. If we don’t find it we end up in the company of god-like figures who brainwash us into accepting that they alone can bring the dreams alive once more.
When you read the works of Kafka, Koestler and the evolutionary biologist, E.O. Wilson, then you see how flawed is the human mind and that mind needs civilization to harness it.
It is best that society does that rather than someone who thinks he is god.
The US and Guyana must keep reminding the world about Jonesto wn.
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.
Deceased Toshao was set to graduate top of RNA programme, receive several awards
INVESTIGATIONS
are currently ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the murder of Ridley Joseph, a 37-year-old Toshao of Tasserene Village in Region Seven.
According to Guyana Police Force, the murder occurred at the Signature Inn Hotel on Laluni Street, Queenstown between 00:50 hrs and 07:30 hrs on Monday.
Initial investigations revealed that on Sunday evening around 18:23 hrs, Joseph checked into the hotel for one night, and was given room Number 135 in the middle flat of the three-storey building.
Shortly after checking
in, he was reportedly seen leaving the hotel, and later returning around 00:50 hrs on Monday morning in the company of a male Amerindian.
“They entered the southern door of the hotel, where Joseph purchased one bottle of water from the receptionist. The other male was seen with a Rude Boy bottle in his hand. The men then proceeded to Room 135, which they entered. At 02:19 hrs, the male that went into the room with Joseph exited the room and left the hotel, walking in a western direction on Laluni Street, and then turning south onto Albert Street,” the Police Force said in its media release.
The investigations have also revealed that several reddish stains, suspected to be blood, were seen on the floor
of the walkway leading to the room, and on the room door; a hole was seen that appeared to be made by a sharp object.
Through the hole in the door, Joseph was seen lying on his abdomen, police said.
The body was lying in a pool of blood, and there were several partial footwear impressions among the blood stains on the floor.
Detectives also observed what appeared to be blood splatter impressions on the walls, as well as on the ceiling of the room. Bloodstains were also found behind the door.
The body was examined, and a total of 19 stab wounds were observed.
Joseph was described as a stalwart in healthcare, and an exemplary student that demonstrated good leadership qualities.
Additionally, he was set to receive four other awards, these being, the RNA deemed the most compassionate, RNA who demonstrated a high level of integrity, Most Outstanding RNA in clinical Nursing, and RNA who performed excellently in academics.
Meanwhile, in a message of condolence from the Ministry of Health, it was noted that Joseph was expected to graduate on Monday as the Best Graduating Student of the Health Ministry’s Registered Nursing Assistant (RNA) programme in Region Ten.
‘Wanton carelessness, mindless pursuit of cheap politics’
THE Alliance For Change (AFC) was hammered by officials on Monday evening for attempting to politicise the issue of Venezuelan migrants here in Guyana.
This followed AFC Leader, Nigel Hughes’ claims that persons were encouraged by government officials to travel to Georgetown for government assistance and were left stranded.
In a post to President
Dr Irfaan Ali’s social media, his Aide de camp, Lieutenant Colonel, Earl Edghill clarified the issue and noted that just last Thursday President Ali was in Essequibo and persons surrounded the President taking photos and was asking for assistance. However, Edghill noted that at no time at all did President Ali or anyone associated with him invite persons to Georgetown to seek assistance.
He said: “However, on Friday, a group of persons claiming to be from Essequibo turned up at State House claiming that His Excellency instructed that they come down to Georgetown.”
Lieutenant Colonel Edghill made contact with President Ali who instructed him to provide humanitarian assistance to those persons although he never invited or encouraged them to come to Georgetown.
In keeping with the President’s instructions, Edghill said the team ensured that those persons were fed, provided with hampers and even transported to Parika, where they were taken care of and even provided with financial assistance while also being transported back to Essequibo by boat.
“It is appalling to now hear and see that the same set of individuals are in town making outlandish
–– Minister McCoy says of AFC’s attempt to exploit plight of Venezuelan migrants
claims. I feel as though our assistance has been wasted and we are being targeted without cause,” he said.
Meanwhile, in a post to his social media, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame Mc Coy in response to the posts made by Hughes, said, “In an attempt to politicise the issue of Venezuelan migrants in Georgetown tonight, Nigel Hughes and the Alliance For Change
have demonstrated what can only be described as wanton carelessness and a mindless pursuit of cheap political points.”
McCoy pointed out that the AFC claimed it would assume responsibility for providing essential support to the Venezuelan men, women and children identified while simultaneously accusing the government of abandoning its responsibility.
MURDERED: Toshao Ridley Joseph
Three employees charged with stealing
$15.7M from Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital
THREE employees of Dr. Balwant Singh’s Hospital Incorporated faced arraignment on Monday for the alleged misappropriation of significant funds.
The accused, Shivannie Guyadeen, Kimberly Meenawattie Prasad, and Randy Persaud, all appeared before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
They were each charged with the offence of larceny by clerk or servant, contrary to Section 184 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01.
Guyadeen, a 23-yearold from Lot 716 Belle West, Canal #2 Polder, West Bank Demerara (WBD), was charged with
stealing $14,307,000 from the hospital between February 19 and December 19, 2024. She pleaded not guilty to the charge and was granted bail of $500,000.
Twenty-one-year-old Prasad, of Foulis Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara (EBD), faced a charge of stealing $1,070,000 from the hospital between February 12 and December 2024.
Like Guyadeen, Prasad pleaded not guilty to the charge. She was placed on $250,000 bail.
La Grange, WBD resident, Randy Persaud, 23, was charged with stealing $180,000 from the hospital on May 19, 2024. He also pleaded not guilty and was
granted bail of $75,000.
In a separate charge, Guyadeen and Persaud were jointly charged for stealing $234,000 from Dr. Balwant Singh’s Hospital Incorporated on March 28, 2024. The pair, who were not required to plead to the charge, were each placed on $75,000 bail. The charges against the trio stem from an investigation into the alleged theft of significant amounts of money from the hospital’s finances. All three individuals have denied the allegations, and the matter is still under investigation.
The defendants are scheduled to return to court on January 27, 2025, for further proceedings.
ILO: International migrants a vital force in the global labour
(ILO News) International migrants continue to play a vital role in the global labour market, accounting for 4.7 per cent of the labour force in 2022, according to the latest report by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
The ILO Global Estimates on International Migrant Workers, indicates that 167.7 million migrants were part of the labour force of their destination countries in 2022. Of these, 102.7 million were men and 64.9 million were women (rounded figures). This represents an increase of more 30 million since 2013, an increase that was mainly observed between 2013 and 2019.
The majority of migrants in the labour force were concentrated in high-income countries, which accounted for 68.4 per cent of the total (114.7 million people), followed by 17.4 per cent (29.2 million) in upper-middle-income countries.
The majority of migrants in the labour force were concentrated in Northern, Southern, and Western Europe; Northern America; and the Arab States. The share of migrants in the labour force living in Northern, Southern, and Western Europe increased from 22.5 per cent in 2013 to 23.3 per cent in 2022.
In contrast, the share of migrants in the labour force of Northern America and the Arab States experienced slight declines.
LABOUR MARKET INCLUSION
Of the 167.7 million migrants in the labour force in 2022, 155.6 million were employed, while 12.1 million were unemployed.
Significant gender disparities persisted, as migrant women had an employment-to-population ratio of only 48.1 per cent, compared to 72.8 per cent for migrant men.
Migrants faced a higher unemployment rate (7.2 per cent) compared to
market
non-migrants (5.2 per cent), with migrant women (8.7 per cent) experiencing higher unemployment levels than men (6.2 per cent). This disparity may be driven by factors such as language barriers, unrecognized qualifications, discrimination, limited childcare options, and gender-based expectations that restrict employment opportunities, particularly for women.
THE IMPORTANCE OF CARE AND SERVICES
A significant proportion of migrants – 68.4 per cent – were employed in the services sector, compared to 51.5 per cent of non-migrants.
This trend was largely driven by the global demand for care and domestic work, particularly among women. 28.8 per cent of migrant women and 12.4 per cent of migrant men were employed in care economy, compared to 19.2 per cent of non-migrant women and 6.2 per cent of non-migrant men.
ADDRESSING THE NEEDS OF MIGRANT WORKERS
The report underscores the complexities of labour migration and the key need for targeted policies to support international migrants.
These include improving access to decent work opportunities and enhancing the protection of migrant workers. With the majority of migrants employed in high-demand sectors, ensuring equitable access to employment opportunities for fostering sustainable development and inclusive labour markets is a policy priority, it says.
“Migrant workers are indispensable in addressing global labour shortages and contributing to economic growth,” said ILO Director-General, Gilbert F. Houngbo. “Ensuring their rights and access to decent work is not only a moral imperative but also an economic necessity.”
Shivannie Guyadeen Randy Persaud
Kimberly Meenawattie Prasad
Gov’t rolls out $100,000 cash grant in Region Eight communities
THE Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, on Monday, launched the highly anticipated $100,000 cash grant distribution in Mahdia, Princeville, and Campbelltown, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).
This initiative, supported by the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Guyana, is part of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s broader efforts to promote economic empowerment and alleviate financial challenges for
Guyanese families, particularly in remote and hinterland communities.
The $100,000 cash grant reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging the nation’s burgeoning oil revenues to provide direct econom-
ic benefits to its citizens. This initiative will inject over $60 billion into the economy, boosting household income, fostering local business growth, and enabling investments in education and entrepreneurship. The initiative is one of several measures introduced to improve the standard of living, including the removal of taxes on essential services and the abolition of tuition fees at
tertiary institutions starting January 2025.
The distribution process was praised for its efficiency, with local communities expressing gratitude for the timely support. Beneficiaries highlighted the grant’s potential to cover pressing needs, from household expenses to small business investments, underscoring its transformative potential for vulnerable populations in these areas.
The initiative aligns with President Ali’s vision of equitable economic development, ensuring that every Guyanese benefits from the nation’s growing wealth.
This launch marks a step forward in the government’s strategy to create a more inclusive economy, bridging gaps between urban and rural regions while addressing income inequality.
The $100,000 grant distribution commenced in Region Eight
Hinterland Regions: Gov’t accelerates progress toward universal access to clean water
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
MINISTER within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to clean,
potable water for all Guyanese, with a focus on achieving full coverage in the hinterland by 2025.
Speaking during a recent outreach in Block 42, Linden-Region 10, Minister Rodrigues highlighted significant ad -
vancements under the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government.
Currently, 94 percent of the hinterland regions have access to clean and safe water, a remarkable increase from just 45 percent in 2020 when the
PPP/C took office. Minister Rodrigues noted that the government’s efforts are aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which aims to provide universal access to clean water and sanitation by 2030.
“In Guyana, the
government has stipulated that by 2025, we should have 100 percent access to water in the hinterland regions,” Rodrigues stated. “By next year, we will achieve 100 percent access, ensuring that no one is left behind.”
TRANSFORMING HINTERLAND WATER ACCESS
Since August 2020, the government has invested $700 million to provide clean and safe water for over 27,700 residents of Linden and its surrounding areas.
Recent projects include the construction of a $40 million well at Bamia, bringing potable water to 200 homes for the first time, and the installation of a new well in Amelia’s Ward to support the region’s expanding housing developments.
In Rockstone, residents now enjoy consistent access to drinkable water following the installation of a new well. Additionally, water treatment plants have been rehabilitated and expanded to enhance distribution networks and improve the delivery of clean water.
Highlighting the government’s innovative approaches, Minister Rodrigues announced a $100 million project underway in West Watooka to provide access to water for
over 5,000 residents. Due to unique geographical challenges, the project will filter surface water from a local creek, transforming it into a reliable water source for the community.
“We had to get creative at West Watooka,” Rodrigues explained.
“We are using the same creek that residents rely on, filtering the water to ensure it is safe and accessible for everyone.”
NATIONWIDE COMMITMENT
Minister Rodrigues emphasised that every region in Guyana will benefit from these initiatives as part of the government’s broader agenda to uplift hinterland communities and ensure equal access to resources.
“The PPP/C government has always prioritised the needs of Guyana’s indigenous and hinterland communities,” she said. “These investments reflect our dedication to improving the quality of life for all Guyanese.”
With these advancements, the government remains confident in its ability to deliver on its promises, setting an example for sustainable development and equitable access to vital resources.
Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues
China’s aim: To promote common development with global solidarity
ON December 10, Chinese President Xi Jinping had a collective meeting in Beijing with heads of major international economic organisations, who were here to attend the “1+10” dialogue. During the meeting, he stressed that it would be impossible to promote global growth without effective and proactive global economic governance.
He said that China is ready to work with the major international economic organisations to practice multilateralism, promote international cooperation, and support the development of Global South countries, so as to advance an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation, and build a just world of common development.
The world economy is facing many difficulties and challenges, and unilateralism and protectionism are clearly on the rise. How to bring the world economy onto a path of strong and sustainable growth is a major question for the international community.
In a world of deepening economic globalisation, humanity is a community with a shared future where all people rise and fall together. Countries are not riding separately in some 190 small boats, but are rather all in a giant ship on which their shared future hinges. As such, they should see each other’s development as opportunities rather than challenges, and treat each other as partners rather than rivals.
Making global solidarity, cooperation, mutual benefit and win-win the defining theme of the times is a shared responsibility of all countries and the only right choice for global economic development.
To bring the world economy onto a path of strong and sustainable growth, it is important to build an open world economy.
The world today is gripped by anemic growth, and each economy faces its own set of challenges. The greater the difficulties and challenges are, the more important it is to strengthen solidarity and cooperation, and take responsible actions.
Against this backdrop, it is imperative for all countries in the world to build an open world economy through cooperation, drive development through innovation, seize the important opportunities of the digital economy, artificial intelligence and low-carbon technology, foster new sources of economic growth, and support the cross-border flow of knowledge, technology and talent.
For countries, economic interdependence should be seen as a good thing that enables all to draw on each other’s strengths for mutual benefit and win-win results. It should not be taken as a risk.
China has been expanding high-level opening up, joining hands with all countries to advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, implementing the Global Development Initiative, and advocating for a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation, so as to ensure that more development gains will be shared more fairly by people across the world. It is a doer and go-getter in building an open world economy.
To bring the world economy onto a path of strong and sustainable growth, it is important to make the global economic governance system more just and equitable.
The world today has seen the collec-
tive rise of Global South countries, which account for over 40 percent of the world economy.
International economic organisations need to keep abreast with the changing circumstances, and respond to the call of the times and the aspirations of the world’s people. They need to actively engage in and push for reforms of the global economic governance system to make it more just and equitable and reflective of the changing world economic landscape, with greater representation and voice of Global South countries.
To advance effective and proactive global economic governance, countries around the world must adhere to the principle of extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit, uphold true multilateralism, and ensure equal rights, equal opportunities and equal rules for all countries.
From being the first to explicitly support the African Union’s accession to the G20, to striving to bridge the North-South “digital divide” and promoting the reform of the international financial architecture, China has always contributed to improving the global governance system and increasing the representation and voice of the Global South countries.
To bring the world economy onto a path of strong and sustainable growth, major economies should play an active and constructive role.
China and the United States are the world’s top two economies. Their common interests are expanding rather than shrinking. The two sides should expand the list of cooperation and make a bigger pie of cooperation to achieve win-win
cooperation.
China is ready to engage in dialogue, expand cooperation and manage differences with the U.S. to work for a stable, healthy and sustainable China-U.S. relationship. It is hoped that the U.S. will work in the same direction with China, conform to the trend of history, work to meet the expectations of both Chinese and American peoples and the international community, and fulfill their responsibilities in promoting world economic growth and improving people’s wellbeing.
Tariff war, trade war and tech war are against the trend of history and laws of economics, and they produce no winners. Building “small yard with high fences,” decoupling and disrupting industrial and supply chains bring harm to others without benefiting oneself. China will stay focused on managing its own affairs well, and resolutely safeguard its sovereignty, security and development interests.
World multipolarity represents the general trend of history and a direction of progress, while economic globalisation is the unstoppable historical trend that keeps evolving.
Moving forward, all countries in the world should follow the general trend of world multipolarity and economic globalisation, and strengthen solidarity and cooperation.
They should jointly enhance global economic governance, build an open world economy, and bring the world economy onto a path of strong and sustainable growth, so as to usher in a better future of common development and prosperity.
GTA empowers tourism communities with social media, customer service training
THE Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) recently conducted a Social Media Marketing training session for tour representatives from Paruima Village, as part of its initiative to enhance tourism-focused communities across Guyana.
The training, led by GTA Senior Marketing Officer, Nickoli Primo, guided 14 participants through essential topics such as creating social media business pages, influencer marketing for tourism, social media etiquette, goal setting, content strategy, storytelling, video marketing, and utilising analytical tools to measure success.
This session in Paruima follows two other Social Media Marketing training programmes hosted in Shulinab Village and Aishalton Village during October and November 2024. In Shulinab, GTA Senior Manager of Marketing, Annarie Seecharan, trained eight
participants, while Primo conducted similar training for another eight participants in Aishalton.
These initiatives were supported by Compete Caribbean, the United Kingdom,
Canada, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), as part of the South Rupununi Circuit Development Project, aimed at boosting tourism in Indig-
enous communities.
In addition to social media training, the GTA also conducted two Delivering Quality Service training sessions in October. These sessions focused on improving
customer service, etiquette, and hospitality techniques to ensure local and international guests receive high-quality experiences.
One session trained 13 participants from Essequ -
ibo, while another trained 34 Immigration officers in Georgetown. Further, the GTA’s Product Development team executed a Delivering Quality Service session for 20 participants in Aishalton Village. These participants included representatives from tourism committees, village councils, caterers, accommodation providers, and community service officers.
The GTA emphasised that the training programmes are part of a broader effort to develop tourism-focused communities across Guyana, equipping them with tools to thrive in the competitive tourism industry.
As Guyana continues to grow as a global tourist destination, initiatives like those reflect the GTA’s commitment to building capacity, improving service standards, and creating sustainable opportunities for local communities to benefit from the country’s burgeoning tourism sector.
Training in one of the Indigenous tourism communities
Infrastructure, hospitality training key drivers for Guyana’s tourism growth
–– Says British High Commissioner
THE British High Commissioner, Jane Miller, underscored the vital role of infrastructure development and hospitality training in advancing Guyana’s tourism sector to global prominence.
During this week’s episode of the Energy Perspectives Podcast, Miller emphasised these two key areas in enhancing tourism development in Guyana.
She noted that significant strides are already being made in improving infrastructure, which is crucial given the high costs and challenges associated with accessing interior areas.
“Firstly, it would be about infrastructure. We are already seeing that be-
ing developed, so I think that it is really important. It is very expensive to get into the interior, and I think the way in which infrastructure is being improved it will become more accessible.”
The diplomat also stressed the importance of training, particularly in hospitality. She explained that it is essential to create opportunities for people to understand and deliver world-class hospitality, ensuring that services in these areas meet international standards.
“I think the other thing is training. It’s about really improving opportunities for people to understand hospitality and what world-class hospitality
looks like,” she remarked. “Training is really going to be important. It will really nail Guyana as a real global eco-destination.
Miller noted the rapid growth of Guyana’s tourism sector. In Georgetown, the capital city, she said there is a significant rise in the construction of new hotels, reflecting the growing demand from busi -
ness and leisure travelers. Meanwhile, in the interior regions, she said there is a notable increase in the establishment of lodges and eco-tourism destinations.
The Guyana government is making significant investments in the tourism sector, recognising its potential as a driver of economic growth. Major initiatives include the development of eco-tourism destinations in the hinterland and enhancing infrastructure to support sustainable travel.
In Georgetown, the surge in new hotels reflects a focus on accommodating increasing numbers of international visitors, spurred by the country’s oil boom. Additionally, partnerships with indigenous communities aim to promote authentic cultural experiences while empowering local
livelihoods. Through strategic marketing campaigns, policy support, and capacity building, the government is positioning Guyana as a top-tier tourism destination in the region.
The year 2024 has seen a significant expansion in tourism infrastructure.
A total of 26 bed-andbreakfast properties have been approved, and 15 new tourism experiences have been introduced, expanding the offerings beyond Georgetown and into communities across the country. This growth is not only benefitting Georgetown but also various regions of Guyana, where new tourism ventures are creating jobs and driving economic development.
Currently, Guyana has 3,300 hotel rooms; an additional 1,000 rooms are scheduled to become avail-
able in 2025, with a further 800 rooms to be added by 2026.
This expansion is part of the government’s broader strategy to boost tourism, and support the country’s growing appeal as an international destination. The new hotel rooms will help accommodate the influx of tourists drawn by Guyana’s expanding tourism offerings, including international conferences, sporting events, and entertainment shows.
Moreover, the establishment of a Tourism and Hospitality Training Institute has been on the cards for several years now.
In January 2024, the sod was turned for the construction of the US$7 million institute, through a loan from the Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).
British High Commissioner to Guyana Jane Miller
Minister Ashni Singh joins Salvation Army in spreading Christmas cheer
IN the true spirit of the holiday season, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, joined hands with the Salvation Army (Guyana Division) on Monday to bring smiles to the faces of the vulnerable and elderly during their annual Christmas Hamper Distribution.
Held at the Salvation Army headquarters on Alexander Street, Georgetown, the event brought together senior citizens and individuals in need, highlighting the organization’s enduring commitment to serving Guyanese communities.
Speaking at the event, Minister Singh emphasized
the government’s strong partnership with the Salvation Army, which has spanned several years and contributed to critical social and civic initiatives.
He noted that the administration, led by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, fully supports such programmes as part of its broader mission to ensure that every citizen feels included in Guyana’s ongoing transformation.
“In this era of Guyana’s development, it is essential that every Guyanese person not only witnesses but also benefits from the transformational changes taking place,” Singh remarked. The distribution drive also saw the participation of key dignitaries, including Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in
The annual Christmas Hamper Distribution is a hallmark of the Salvation Army’s mission in Guyana, providing relief to those in need while fostering a sense of togetherness and goodwill during the festive season. For many attendees, the event offered not only essential supplies but also hope and reassurance that they are not forgotten in the face of life’s challenges.
As Guyana continues to experience rapid development, partnerships like this between the government and civil society organizations play a vital role in
ensuring that the benefits of growth reach every corner of the nation.
The Salvation Army’s unwavering commitment to community service, bolstered by support from leaders like Dr. Ashni Singh, exemplifies the true meaning of the holiday season – compassion, inclusion, and generosity.
orative spirit behind the initiative, bringing together government, private sector, and international partners in service to the community.
Guyana, Rui Huang, National Security Advisor Captain Gerald Gouveia, and former Chairman of the Guyana Private Sector Commission, Ramesh Dookhoo. Their presence underscored the collab -
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, and the Public Service, Ashni Singh distributing Christmas Hampers at the Salvation Army’s distribution
97 to graduate from medical training programmes in Region Two – RHO Dr. Singh
AS government continues to work on strengthening the healthcare sector, 97 persons have completed various medical training programmes rolled out in Region Two and will soon graduate.
The announcement of this historic milestone for the region was made by Regional Health Officer (RHO), Dr. Ranjeev Singh, during the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) statutory meeting held on December 11 at the RDC boardroom in Anna Regina.
Dr. Singh highlighted the successful execution of several training programmes in various health fields within Region Two. Among those who will be receiving their certificates on December 20 are Nursing Assistants, Nurse Technicians, Post-Ba-
sic Midwives, and Patient Care Assistants.
“This is the first time in history that the region is graduating students trained locally. These students did not have to leave the comfort of their homes to pursue studies in other regions,” Dr. Singh emphasised.
He further explained that continuous training initiatives were being implemented to strengthen the region’s healthcare system. The aim is to train 300 individuals in various medical fields to staff the state-of-the-art Lima Regional Hospital, which is projected to employ over 500 residents upon completion.
Dr. Singh also announced the construction of a dedicated training facility in Region Two which is expected to be completed in 2025. This fa-
‘The Banker Magazine’ recognises Scotiabank as Guyana’s Bank of the Year
SCOTIABANK has been recognised as Guyana’s Bank of the Year 2024 by The Banker Magazine, a Financial Times publication, which is regarded as the industry standard for banking excellence.
According to a press release from Scotiabank, The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards aim to recognise institutions that have grown while retaining a solid balance sheet, improved the quality of their service, invested in technology and considered their role within their local communities.
Country Manager of Scotiabank Guyana, Nafeeza Gaffoor, said: “This has certainly been an exciting year for us and our clients. We introduced new products, services and tools, delivering an improved banking experience for clients and supporting them with getting their banking done faster and more conveniently. I thank our clients for their dedication, confidence and trust and our employees for continuing to innovate while maintaining a client centric mind set.”
Notable highlights from this recognition include the launch of the new Scotia Caribbean app, which has biometric sign-in and a redesigned user experience, making secure mobile banking more accessible to clients 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
It also encompasses the upgraded Scotia OnLine Banking platform, which now includes one-time password protection and expanded bill payment options to include local utilities and mobile money providers such as Mobile Money Guyana, GPL, GWI and Digicel.
Also included in the notable highlights was, the introduction of the bank’s proprietary application technology, which enables clients to accept and process payments through self-check and kiosk services, providing them with seamless, self-sufficient technology.
“Scotiabank is the only bank locally to have invested in its proprietary digital application,” the bank said.
The Banker Magazine is the world’s longest running international banking magazine, recognised as a leading source of information on finance and investment around the globe.
This year, Scotiabank was also named the Bank of the Year 2024 in Bahamas, Barbados Canada, Trinidad & Tobago and Turks & Caicos.
cility will provide additional opportunities for healthcare training, enhancing the region’s human resource capacity.
“Some of our training programmes, such as the Region Two Pharmacy Assistant Programme, are being used as models by other regions, like Region Nine. We are proud of these achievements,” Dr. Singh noted.
The RHO assured that training efforts will continue,
Regional Health Officer, Dr. Ranjeev Singh, addresses the RDC meeting
with a focus on guaranteed employment for participants, ensuring the region’s healthcare services become increas-
ingly self-sufficient. This milestone underscores Region Two’s commitment to building a skilled local workforce and improving healthcare delivery for its residents. (Indrawattie Natram)
Nafeeza Gaffoor, Country Manager
Scotiabank Guyana
Impactful Strides
Guyana hosts second annual toy drive
– expands outreach
Non-governmental organization (NGO) Impactful Strides Guyana is set to bring holiday cheer to vulnerable families with its second annual toy drive, scheduled for December 21, 2024, from 9:30 AM.
This year’s initiative, led in collaboration with member Latifa Garnett, will see a significant expansion in outreach compared to 2023.
Last year, the group distributed five hampers to underprivileged families. In 2024, Impactful Strides aims to double its impact, delivering ten hampers filled with food, clothing, and other essential items to single-parent families and those in need. Founder Janella Adolphus highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “The aim is to place a smile on the faces of those vulnerable during the holiday season.”
The toy drive will target families in Nabacalis, East Coast Demerara, and several communities in Georgetown, including Werk-en-Rust, Sophia, and potentially South Ruimveldt. Adolphus noted that the outpouring of support from donors has been overwhelming, with individuals and organizations contributing generously to the cause.
“Persons are always willing to help, especially during Christmas time,” she said. “It’s all part of the same mission – making somebody smile during the season.”
The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport has also provided support to help Impactful Strides fulfill its mission.
Since its establishment on January 3, 2019, and registration under the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and
Sport, Impactful Strides has focused on social, educational, and mental wellness. In addition to holiday outreach, the NGO conducts year-round programs addressing homelessness, drug abuse, sexual health, and mental health awareness.
In 2024, the organization successfully launched its first youth development program, which included three workshops on drug abuse and sexually transmitted diseases. These events were held in Werken-Rust and received widespread participation.
“Mental health is such an issue in today’s society, so we primarily focus on that,” Adolphus explained. “If people are not well mentally, they won’t be able to function properly. You have to be mentally checked in before you excel in any area of life.”
At 26, Adolphus, a Social Work major at the University of Guyana, continues to dedicate her life to helping others. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “When we look into communities that are distressed, there’s only so much we can expect others to do. I wanted to be part of that journey, helping people understand they are not alone and that there are others rooting for them.”
Impactful Strides is calling for volunteers to assist with this year’s toy drive. “We have a dynamic team working hard across departments – PR, events management, and our executive body – to ensure every activity is successfully executed,” Adolphus said.
This weekend’s event is another step in the NGO’s mission to uplift communities and bring hope during the holiday season.
Janella Adolphus (centre) flanked by her team
Regional T20 tournament confirmed for April-May 2025
DIRECTOR of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, has announced that Cricket West Indies Board of Directors has approved.
Bascombe stated at the quarterly press conference in St. Vincent that the T20 tournament will occur between April and May 2025.
The tournament is understood to be solely for Caribbean players and will focus on emerging talents. The organisers of the Caribbean Premier League will manage it.
The precise details have yet to be revealed.
Still, it was considered necessary to unearth grassroots talent, given that there are better platforms than the privately run Caribbean Premier League, which started in 2013.
Several players and pundits have called for reintro-
Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe
ducing a regional tournament to act as a feeder for CPL and, ultimately, the West Indies team. The last Caribbean
Twenty20 was held in January 2013, when Trinidad and Tobago defeated Guyana by nine wickets in St. Lucia.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Tuesday, December 17, 2024)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD
Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
Quiz:
Athanaze, Greaves, Louis lead Windies rise in Test rankings
WEST Indies’ emphatic 201-run triumph over Bangladesh in the first Test in Antigua has not only bolstered team morale but also catapulted several players up the ICC Test rankings.
The performance, though not the most polished, was a statement of intent that showcased a balanced team effort spearheaded by emerging stars and seasoned campaigners alike.
Alick Athanaze, one of the shining lights of the victory, has climbed 18 places to 62nd in the batting rankings after his crucial knocks of 90 and 42. The 25-year-old’s maturity under pressure has been a revelation, solidifying his status as one of the brightest prospects in West Indies cricket.
Justin Greaves (up 43 places to 81st) and Mikyle Louis (up 25 places to joint86th) also made significant gains, highlighting the depth and promise in the West In-
dies’ batting ranks. The Caribbean fast-bowling trio of Jayden Seales, Kemar Roach, and Alzarri Joseph has reaped the rewards for a disciplined and hostile display in Antigua.
Seales, who led the attack
with precision, has moved up three places to a career-best 11th in the ICC Test Bowling Rankings.
Roach’s masterclass of swing and seam bowling, coupled with his ability to dismantle top-order batters, has pushed him four spots to 17th. Meanwhile, the fiery Alzarri Joseph has climbed three places to 29th, reflecting his growing reputation as a strike bowler capable of rattling opposition line-ups.
Bangladesh’s Taskin Ahmed stood out with a six-wicket haul, 6-64, in the second innings, lifting him from 67th to 51st in the bowling rankings, while Litton Das and Mominul Haque have inched up a slot each to 32nd and 47th positions in the batting rankings.
Meanwhile, India’s fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, has regained the top spot in the men’s Test bowling rankings after leading his team to a resounding 295-run victory
Champions Trophy 2025 resolution expected soon
THE never-ending Champions Trophy saga might finally see a closure. According to highly placed sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the month-long chain of events, which saw innumerable twists and turns over the last couple of weeks, appears to be nearing its conclusion. A final decision is expected soon.
Cricbuzz has learnt that a meeting of the ICC Board has been called on Saturday with new ICC chairman, Jay Shah, joining the link virtually from Brisbane, where he has gone for an Olympic-related matter. It is being said that the world cricket administrators will be able to agree to an outcome that has been agreed upon by the three central parties - the ICC, BCCI and the PCB. There have been hectic behind the scenes parleys over the last few days and the expected settlement is
the outcome of these silent efforts. It is learnt that Pakistan will remain the official host of the championship but, as is being reported, it will be conducted in a hybrid model with five of the 15 games, including the high-octane India-Pakistan game, in a second country, most likely the UAE.
It is not clear if the BCCI has agreed to the PCB demand for a similar hybrid model for the ICC events conducted in India over the next few years - a bone of contention between the parties. But it is learnt that some middle ground has been reached on the matter. It is unlikely though that the BCCI would be giving any written assurances - the sticking point between the parties.
The BCCI is slated to host the women's ODI World Cup next year and men's T20 World Cup jointly with Sri Lanka in 2026. Besides, the men's Twenty20 Asia Cup is scheduled to take place in India next year. It is understood that
Pakistan, which had positioned the Champions Trophy hosting rights as a matter of national pride, might have been offered an honourable exit route. This would allow the PCB to present the outcome as securing adequate compensation for accepting the hybrid model. Some reports suggested that the PCB could be also allotted a global ICC women's event in 2027-31 cycle.
Throughout the negotiations, PCB chief, Mohsin Naqvi, has been opposing the model and he has said it many times publicly. However, if an agreement has indeed been reached, as appears likely, his concerns would have been addressed. Some kind of monetary compensation may also have been granted. Since these points were agreed informally in the back channel discussions, they need to be approved by the ICC and Saturday's meeting is believed to have been convened for a stamp of approval. (Cricbuzz)
over Australia in the first match of their ICC World Test Championship series in Perth.
Bumrah’s hauls of five for 30 and three for 42 have helped him overtake Josh Hazlewood and Kagiso Rabada and reach a career-best 883 rating points, the highest rating points tally ever by an India seam bowler. Spinners Ravichandran Ashwin (904) and Ravindra Jadeja (899) are the only bowlers from India to record higher points tallies. This is the third time that Bumrah has been top of the rankings this year. He was top ranked for two one-month stretches each starting in Feb-
ruary and October.
India’s huge victory in the first of five Tests is reflected in gains for several other players including centurions Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli.
Opener Jaiswal has overtaken Harry Brook and Kane Williamson to reach a career-best second position after top-scoring in Perth with 161 in the second innings, while Kohli’s unbeaten 100 has lifted him nine spots to 13th position after being outside the top 20 batters for the first time in 10 years.
KL Rahul has advanced from 60th to 49th position and Nitish Kumar Reddy has
entered the batting rankings in 74th position, while Mohammad Siraj has moved up three spots to 25th position in the bowling rankings. Australian Travis Head is back in the top 10 after notching a fighting 89 in the second innings while Alex Carey (up one place to 39th among batters) and Mitchell Marsh (up 10 places to 68th among bowlers) are among others to progress after their performances in Perth. Steve Smith, who could only manage zero and 17, has slid down to seventh place, his lowest position since December 2014. (Sportsmax)
Gillespie: I was 'completely and utterly blindsided' by the PCB
– The ‘lack of clear communication’ was the ‘straw that broke the camel's back,’ he said
JASON Gillespie, the former Australia cricketer who recently quit as Pakistan's head coach in Test cricket, said on Monday that he stepped down after being "completely and utterly blindsided" by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Gillespie, whose contract was set to expire in 2026, resigned last week and he expressed his frustration over the lack of communication, which led him to feel that the Pakistan Cricket Board no longer wanted him in the role.
"There were certainly challenges. I went into the job eyes wide open; I want to make that really clear. I knew that, you know, Pakistan had cycled through a number of coaches in a pretty short space of time," Gillespie told ABC Sport. "The straw that broke the camel's back, I suppose, was, as a head coach, you like to have clear communication with your employer. I was completely and utterly blindsided by a decision to not have a high-performance coach."
As ESPNcricinfo originally reported, the PCB first did not renew the contract of Tim Nielsen, who was brought in, on the recommendation of Gillespie, as the high performance coach of the team. This had prompted Gillespie to have doubts about his own future.
"Tim Nielsen was told that
right direction and things were going really well," he said. "All the feedback that I'd got or the feedback the PCB got was just how effective, you know, Tim had been in his role as well and the players were getting a lot out of him."
Gillespie guided Pakistan to a 2-1 win against England in October, after losing the first match by an innings and 47 runs. However, after the loss in the first Test, he was informed that a new selection panel would be introduced, and he would not be a part of it.
his services were no longer required and I had absolutely zero communication from anyone about that," Gillespie said. "And I just thought, after a number of other things that had gone on in the previous few months, that was probably the moment where I thought, 'Well, I'm not really sure if they actually want me to do this job or not.'"
Adding to Gillespie's frustration was the fact that the feedback given to him regarding Nielsen and the team's performance was positive.
"I developed a really close relationship with the Test captain, Shan Masood, and felt we were certainly going in the
He felt his role as head coach was diminished and even suggested that he often didn't know the team lineup until the day before a match. This lack of clarity and communication only deepened his frustration with the PCB's handling of his position.
"I felt I was basically hitting catches and that was about it on the morning of a game," he said. "You want to be able to have clear communication with all stakeholders, with selectors, for instance, knowing what the team is as head coach well before the game, or before at least the day before the game.
Aaqib Javed is the interim Test coach for Pakistan for the series in South Africa. He is also the interim coach of both white-ball sides after Gary Kirsten resigned in October. (ESPN cricinfo)
West Indies batter, Alick Athanaze
Jason Gillespie in conversation with the Pakistan media (AFP via Getty Images)
Australia further press advantage as rain plays spoilsport
AUSTRALIA’S quality fast bowlers ripped through India's top-order to give the hosts the upper hand at tea on rain-affected day three of the third Test in Brisbane.
Mitchell Starc (2/24), Josh Hazlewood (1/17) and skipper Pat Cummins (1/7) teamed up to leave India reeling at 48/4 in reply to Australia's total of 445 when rain forced an early tea at the Gabba.
While India did bring up their fifty as the play resumed late in the day, Australia was only able to bowl two overs before rain and bad light lead to the play being called off.
By Stumps, India was 51/4, with skipper Rohit Sharma (0*) accompanying KL Rahul (33*) in the middle.
Leading by 445 runs, Australia established further advantage with the ball on Day 3, nabbing four early wickets in India's first innings.
Starc teamed up with Mitchell Marsh in the field to dismiss Yashasvi Jaiswal (4) and Shubman Gill (1),
before Hazlewood got in on the act to get the big wicket of Virat Kohli for just three as India crawled to 22/3 at lunch and in desperate need of a partnership. Cummins introduced himself to the attack with almost immediate dividends after lunch as he claimed the scalp of Rishabh Pant (9), with KL Rahul (30*) and skipper Rohit Sharma (0*) unbeaten when tea was taken.
Earlier, India’s quick, Jasprit Bumrah, finished with superb figures of 6/76 as the hosts lost their final three wickets for just 40 runs on a vital day at the Gabba.
Keeper Alex Carey was the last player out when he
Pat Cummins
fell to Akash Deep (1/95) for 70, with fast bowler Mitchell Starc (18) also finding some quick runs on a rain-affected day in Brisbane. Inclement weather washed out much of the opening day's play on Saturday and showers are once again expected in Brisbane throughout Monday as both Australia and India look to claim the advantage in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
Australia and India are locked at 1-1 in the fivematch series, with both teams still to this point in the running for a World Test Championship Final spot, to be played at Lord's in June 2025. (ICC Media)
James returns in Lakers' win against Memphis
LEBRON James scored 18 points as he returned from a two-game absence in the Los Angeles Lakers' 116-100 win against the Memphis Grizzlies.
The 39-year-old missed last Sunday's match against Portland and Friday's game against Minnesota because of "personal reasons" and a sore foot.
Lakers’ coach, JJ Redick, said, on Friday, that he was unsure when James, the NBA's all-time leading scorer, would return.
However, the Lakers announced 45 minutes before tipoff against the Grizzlies that James was available to start.
James displayed little rustiness as he finished with 18 points, eight rebounds and eight assists in 34 minutes.
The four-time NBA champion missed eight days in all and he says taking time off was the right decision.
"I had an opportunity to take more days and get my mind, body and everything where I wanted it to be for tonight. And it worked out," said James.
James' performance helped the Lakers to a comfortable victory, with Anthony Davis scoring 40 points of his own.
Asked what the side hoped to gain from James' absence, Redick said: "Just hoping that he was getting a good mind and body reset. "For guys like him and the
England take command after South Africa's dramatic collapse on Day 2
LAUREN Bell stole the spotlight for England on Day 2, dismantling the South African batting line-up with an impressive four-wicket haul.
For the Proteas, Laura Wolvaardt, Sune Luus and Marizanne Kapp all made half-centuries but were unable to build on them. After cruising at 237/3, the hosts lost their final seven wickets for just 44 runs, handing England a 114-run lead after being bowled out for 281.
By stumps, England had extended their lead by 31 runs, although they lost their first-innings centurion and debutant, Maia Bouchier, in the process.
After being unbeaten overnight at 17/0, South Africa lost Bosch in the seventh over, edging a tempting drive off Bell straight into the gloves of wicketkeeper Amy Jones.
Captain Wolvaardt and new batter, Annerie Dercksen, worked to rebuild South Africa's innings, forming an impressive 92run partnership to cross the team's 100-run mark.
Wolvaardt reached her well-deserved fifty off 99 balls, but South Africa suffered a crucial blow just before lunch when Derck -
Botafago
sen was caught at second slip off Lauren Filer’s delivery, departing for 41.
South Africa resumed the second session at 113/2, trailing England by over 280 runs. Wolvaardt and Luus began to settle, but England struck just in time as Sophie Ecclestone dismissed the skipper for 65.
Luus and new batter Kapp stood strong against a tough spell of bowling and got to their half-centuries but like Wolvaardt, failed to convert it into a big score.
Ryana MacDonald-Gay proved to be the catalyst of England's comeback, striking on either side of a break caused by lightning to remove Kapp and Nadine de Klerk.
Kapp's dismissal proved pivotal for England, causing a shift in momentum. A flurry of wickets followed
as South Africa collapsed from 237/3 to 281 all out.
Bell was the standout performer for the visitors, claiming a brilliant four-wicket haul, while Filer and MacDonald-Gay provided excellent support, each taking two wickets.
The West Indies bowlers showed great discipline in the 14 overs before stumps, restricting England to 31/1 while dismissing the in-form Bouchier.
On Day 1 after opting to bat first, England declared at the stroke of stumps after posting a mammoth 395/9.
Bouchier looked in sublime touch on her Test debut, smashing a breezy century (126 off 154 balls). She forged a brilliant 174-run stand with Nat Sciver-Brunt, who scored a century of her own, the second of her Test career. (ICC Media)
blank Shattas 7-0, defending Champions Milerock held in 2-2 draw
BOTAFAGO blanked Silver Shattas 7-0 to record the biggest win, but defending champion, Milerock, was held to a 2-2 stalemate, on the opening night, Sunday, of this year’s Upper Demerara Football Association’s year end $3M futsal tournament, which is being played at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden.
Tom Bradys of the world, the Roger Federers of the world, it's hard to comprehend having that level of sustained excellence for so long, because of the toll that it takes on all of you, not just your body."
Elsewhere, the Dallas Mavericks beat the Golden State Warriors 143-133 thanks to the 80th triple-double of Luka Doncic's career.
The Slovenian put up a season-high 45 points with 13 assists and 11 rebounds.
(BBC Sport)
Playing in the preliminary round robin format of this year’s championship, in the fifth encounter of the night, Botafago, who lost in the semifinals last year, was off to a bright start with Jamal Haynes hitting in goal number one in the first minute of play. Soon they were ahead 2-0 when Sherwin Caesar netted one minute later.
Rondel Deutron then pushed them to a three nil scoreline in the 3rd minute and Amaniki Buntin got into the thick of things in the 5th
minute of play to make it 4-0. Then Malachi Austin added to the Shattas woes with a strike in the 8th minute of the game.
However, the scores were not troubled until the 16th minute when Jermaine Maidon wrapped up the lopsided victory for Botafago with a brace recorded in the 10th minute of the game, for a 7-0 drubbing in favour of Botafago.
Champions Milerock started their defence with an unimpressive 2-2 stalemate game against Blueberry Hill United. They were pegged back early as Blueberry Hill was leading 2-0 from goals by Shaka Louis and Nickosi Julian, but would level the scores through Colwyn Drakes and Mickle Jeffers, to come away with drawn result 2-2.
The fourth game was another stalemate this time between Net Rockers and Amelia’s Ward which ended 5-5.
The fifth game of the night ended with Winners Connection blowing past Coomacka 5-2, as Jamal Reynolds and Anthony Layne each had doubles for the winners and the other came off the boot of Akeem Caesar.
Jamal Whyte and Deandre Wilson were the scorers for Coomacka.
In the night cap t Topp XX edged past last year’s semifinalists, Capital FC, behind goals from Rudolph McCalmon who got the brace, with the other goals coming from Ryan Noel and Amanykia Mayers. The goals for Capital FC were registered by Mortimer Giddings Jr., Romanan Ramsammy and Emmanuel Atkins. The tournament continues tomorrow (Wednesday) with six more matches at the Retrieve Hard Court in Mackenzie, Linden. (Joe Chapman)
Lauren Bell
LeBron James is in his 22nd season in the NBA
Mahedi Hasan’s allround brilliance carries Bangladesh past Windies in thriller
KINGSTOWN, St Vincent, (CMC )– BANGLADESH’S Mahedi Hasan starred with both bat and ball and the visitors ended their 15-year wait for a T20I win against West Indies in the Caribbean by registering an exciting seven-run victory in the opening T20I here at Arnos Vale Sunday.
Player-of-the-Match, Mahedi Hasan, hit an unbeaten 26 which helped to pilot Bangladesh to 147 for six in their 20 overs after they were sent in to bat by the West Indies.
He then returned to grab 4-13, the best bowling figures by a visiting spinner against West Indies in T20Is, as the home side fell just short, being dismissed for 140 in 19.5 overs despite a fighting half century from skipper Rovman Powell, as Bangladesh took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
West Indies got off to a good start when left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein bowled Tanzid Hasan and then had the struggling Litton Das caught and bowled off successive deliveries to leave the score 15 for two.
Afif Hossain’s reverse sweep then ended up in the hands of Hosein at short third man off the bowling of Chase to make it 30 for three.
Jaker Ali joined Soumya Sarkar and the two added 57, the highest partnership of the innings, to stem the fall of wickets and resuscitate the innings.
However, after scoring a run-a-ball 27, Ali picked
out Powell at the long-on boundary, with the West Indies captain showing good awareness to flick the ball in the air as he was going over the boundary ropes before returning to take the catch.
Sarkar hit the top score of 43 from 32 balls, but was bowled by a slower delivery from Obed McCoy to put West Indies in the ascendancy at 96 for five after 15 overs.
It took a superb effort from Mahedi Hasan and Shamim Hossain to get Bangladesh up to their eventual total, with the pair smashing 49 runs in under five overs to give their side a blazing finish to the innings.
Shamim blasted three sixes and one four in scoring 27 off just 13 balls, while Mahedi Hasan finished unbeaten on 26 from 24 balls.
Hosein ended with 2-14 from his four overs, while McCoy took 2-30.
Playing their first international match in St Vincent in 10 years, the West Indies got off to the worst possible start when Taskin Ahmed dismissed Brandon King with his first ball of the second over and offspinner Mahedi Hasan had the dangerous Nicholas Pooran stumped as the home side slumped to two for two.
Things got worse for the Windies when Mahedi Hasan accounted for the wickets of Johnson Charles for 20, Andre Fletcher for a duck and Roston Chase for seven, to have them stuttering on 38 for five in the seventh over.
And when Gudakesh Motie was caught behind off the bowling of Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Rishad Hossain dismissed Akeal Hosein for two, the match seemed all but over at 61 for seven.
But Powell found a partner in Romario Shepherd, and they combined in a 67run partnership to ensure a thrilling end to the contest.
They took 15 runs off Rishad Hossain in the 14th over and in the next over bowled by Taskin Ahmed, Powell bludgeoned him for three sixes in an over that went for 23 runs.
Powell eventually brought up his ninth T20 half century off just 28 balls by edging Sakib over the wicketkeeper and to the boundary in the ensuing over.
The West Indies would have been favoured to win the match with 20 runs required off 18 balls with Powell and Shepherd on the rampage, but the former was dismissed by Ahmed for 22, caught at deep midwicket with the first ball of the 18th over.
With 10 needed off the final over bowled by Mahmud, Powell could only get a thick outside edge off the third ball as he looked to smash him through the offside and was caught behind for 60 from 35 balls, inclusive of five boundaries and four sixes.
Mahmud then delivered the final rites by bowling Joseph off the penultimate ball of the match to spark wild celebrations among the Bangladesh camp.
New Zealand on the brink following Kane Williamson's 156
KANE Williamson scored 156 as New Zealand retained firm command over the third Test and ended up setting a mammoth target of 658 for England, who lost their openers by the end of the day.
Williamson, who got his 33rd Test ton, was the bedrock of the New Zealand innings and he stitched together useful partnerships worth 107 with Rachin Ravindra (44) and 92 with Daryl Mitchell (60). Through that England's toil was enhanced as the lead swelled past 500 against an unrelenting batting performance. Additionally, England was hampered with the absence of skipper Ben Stokes who left the field in the middle of his 13th over clutching his left hamstring, leaving them with a bowler short.
It paved the way for New Zealand to dig in and grind the attack out with the tone initially set by Williamson and Ravindra. The former survived a close LBW shout and saw a couple of miscues fly over the fielder's head against Shoaib Bashir's offspin but remained calculative around it. He brought up his hundred with a six straight down the ground of Jacob Bethell. It was his seventh Test ton at Seddon Park including a never-before five in a row at the ground. It continued a successful tour on the personal front with two fifties previously.
Ravindra, who was searching for runs himself, found the ideal situation to play largely risk-free cricket with no pressure to get the scoreboard moving.
Kane
WIlliamson registered his 33rd Test ton
It provided an ideal foil for Williamson through large parts of the first session. But just as Ravindra was beginning to find the runs against the spinners, he fell against the run of play trying to whip Matthew Potts but got a leading edge to midoff.
That however did not deter Williamson, now past his hundred, as he got more proactive in the company of Mitchell. He started attacking the spinners more and raced away to 150. But with the second new ball around the corner, he fell top-edging a sweep off Bashir down to fine leg. England started operating with defensive fields largely as the lead began to grow
but Mitchell found a way to keep the big shots going and helped himself to a fifty enroute. He too eventually fell trying to hit Jacob Bethell down the ground giving the left-arm spinner his maiden Test wicket.
Mitchell Santner used the long handle to good effect down the order swinging his way to 49 alongside Tom Blundell as England began to bring in their part-timers. Joe Root conceded over 20 in his first over but managed to get Santner out caught in the same over bringing in Tim Southee who was playing his last Test. England welcomed him with a guard of honour once again in front of an eager crowd but the innings was wrapped up quickly thereafter with Bethell bagging both Southee (caught at long-on) and Matt Henry off successive balls. It left England with a massive target of 658 to chase down.
In the short period left before stumps, England lost both their openers. Ben Duckett smashed Southee down the ground for a boundary but the veteran had the last laugh having him chop on in the same over. Zak Crawley, who had been dismissed five times previously in the series by Matt Henry, survived an LBW call against the same bowler on review once. But Henry got another one to nip in and trap him similarly in front, with the review staying with the umpire's call this time and driving home New Zealand's advantage by the end of the third day. (Cricbuzz)
Powell: Losing wickets in power play becoming bug bear
KINGSTOWN, St Vincent, (CMC) – WEST Indies T20 captain, Rovman Powell, has once again called on his batters to be more responsible during the power play, following their loss to Bangladesh in the opening T20I here on Sunday.
Chasing a modest total of 148 for victory, West Indies lost the wickets of Brandon King, Nicholas Pooran and Johnson Charles inside the first six
overs and eventually lost to the visitors by seven runs.
Speaking to reporters after the match at Arnos Vale, Powell said losing wickets in clusters during the power play was beginning to plague the team.
“It’s disappointing to be honest. I think the bowlers put in a credible bowling performance on a wicket like that and we always knew as a batting group we try not to lose wickets in clusters, and we did that today.
“It’s been a problem
now for us and it’s something we really have to look at as a batting group.
“The statistics say that if you lose three or more wickets in the power play, oftentimes you end up on the losing side and we have proven that time and time again,” Powell lamented.
“I think tomorrow we have to sit down as a group and have some honest conversations.
“It’s been a lot of T20 cricket for the year, so
I know the boys are fatigued, but what are we seeing happening is something that keeps on repeating itself and when it keeps repeating itself, we have to try our best to stop it,” he contended.
Powell was the only West Indian batsman to put up resistance, scoring 60 from 35 balls.
It followed a solid performance in the recently concluded T20 series against England, and he said much of the credit
had to be given to his batting coach, former West Indies player, Robert Samuels.
“I think a lot of credit has to be given to my batting coach back home, Robert Samuels. He’s always instilled in me that I’m a batter with power and not just a swiper,” Powell said.
“I’ve done a lot of work behind the scenes so it’s good to see that I’m getting a little bit of consistency.
West Indies T20 captain, Rovman Powell
senior teams as at April 1, 2025
WEST Indies white ball Head Coach, Daren Sammy, will also take over the role as Head Coach of all West Indies Men’s senior teams as at April 1, 2025, Cricket West Indies (CWI) Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, announced at a CWI quarterly press conference on Monday in St. Vincent.
Sammy, who was appointed as West Indies while ball coach in May 2023, will take over the role as head of the Test team from Andre Coley, who was also appointed full time in May last year after being appointed in an interim capacity in December 2022.
Coley’s last series in charge
of the team will be the two-Match tour of Pakistan from January 16-28.
Under Coley’s leadership, the regional side has won one series, a 1-0 win over Zimbabwe last February and have suffered losses against India, England and South Africa, twice.
The high-point of Coley’s tenure was the drawn two-Test series against Australia in January this year.
“Post our World Test Championship campaign, we are going to be expanding Mr. Sammy’s role to encompass all formats,” Bascombe said.
“When we host Australia next
Sammy to be appointed as West Indies Senior Men’s Head Coach for all formats
summer, Daren Sammy will be the head coach of all senior Men’s teams. We have been quite impressed with the way that he has charted a course for our white ball teams and he has guided them towards consistency of performance and that is exactly what we want to see in our Test team,” he added.
Bascombe also expressed gratitude to Coley whose contract will run out prior to the start of the next WTC cycle.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank Andre Coley who has served well. He still has to complete his World Test Championship campaign in Pakistan and he will have our full support,”
he said.
Sammy also expressed optimism and enthusiasm at the added responsibility.
“It’s always an honour to represent the West Indies in any format or any position. For me, this news is not something I was expecting. Coaching was never something I saw myself doing but, I must admit, the way it’s been going, I’ve developed a much stronger passion and a love for the job,” he said.
“I believe in processes and something we’ve been able to do in the white ball format and, with this new role, I’ve already mapped out some of the areas and
some of the processes that we’ll have to follow in order for us to be successful. I’m a patient man and once I trust that process and understand the requirement from the Director of cricket, then the plan gets into action. I’m really excited about the added responsibility and the new journey and it’s one that I think myself and my team will be prepared for,” Sammy added.
Sammy's focus is currently figuring out a path to victory for the T20I team in tomorrow's second game against Bangladesh after a narrow seven-run loss in the first game of the series on Sunday. (Sportsmax)
Chris Dehring appointed Chief Executive Officer of Cricket West Indies
CRICKET West Indies (CWI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Dehring as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
A visionary leader with an extraordinary track record in finance, sports management, media, and telecommunications, Dehring is uniquely positioned to steer CWI into a bold new chapter of growth and development.
Selected from a competitive pool of over fifty (50) applicants representing Europe, Australia, Afghanistan, India, and the Caribbean, Dehring’s appointment is the culmination of a meticulous, meritocratic process that included independent experts.
His selection reflects CWI’s steadfast commitment to attracting top-tier talent to lead West Indies cricket.
Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of CWI, praised the appointment, saying,
“Consistent with the priority to recruit exceptional leadership to drive our mission forward, Chris Dehring represents the best of the best—an
innovator, strategist, business magnate and passionate advocate for West Indies cricket. His return as an executive at West Indies cricket signals the dawn of an exciting new era as we work to reclaim our position as a dominant force in world cricket.”
Dehring is no stranger to pioneering achievements. As the founder of SportsMax, the Caribbean’s first sports television broadcaster, he revolutionised the region’s media landscape by showcasing global events such as the FIFA World Cup and the NBA.
He also co-founded Jamaica’s first investment bank, Dehring, Bunting & Golding, which grew into a financial powerhouse and was eventually acquired by Scotiabank. His entrepreneurial portfolio further includes ReadyTV, Jamaica’s first digital broadcast television service, and ReadyNET, the country’s first satellite internet provider.
In telecommunications, Deh -
ring’s leadership at Cable & Wireless Communications was transformative. He served as a member of the Senior Executive Global Leadership Team responsible for US$3.5 billion in annual revenues while spearheading innovative digital content delivery and expanded access to advanced telecommunications services across the Caribbean and Latin America. His ability to seamlessly integrate commercial strategy with technological advancement has earned him international respect.
Chris Dehring’s earlier tenure with CWI cemented his legacy as a game-changer for West Indies cricket. As Managing Director and CEO of ICC Cricket World Cup 2007, he delivered one of the most complex and successful multi-nation sporting events in the Caribbean’s history.
His leadership resulted in the construction of ten state-of-the-art stadiums, the introduction of groundbreaking fan experiences such as The Mound party stand at Sabina
Chris Dehring, newly appointed CEO of Cricket West Indies
Park, and the implementation of development programmes like the Shell Cricket Academy and Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket. Under his
guidance, the tournament achieved record-breaking revenues and global viewership, enhancing the Caribbean’s reputation as a world-class cricketing destination.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Dehring said, “West Indies cricket has always held a special place in my heart. As a unifying force and a symbol of pride for our region, I am honoured to return to an organisation that holds great significance to our people. Together with the CWI team and stakeholders, I am committed to driving innovation, fostering talent, and reigniting the passion for West Indies cricket, both at home and globally.”
Chris Dehring will officially begin his tenure on February 1, 2025. He will be based at Cricket West Indies’ headquarters at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua, where he will lead the organisation’s strategic vision and operational objectives. (CWI)
West Indies white ball Head Coach, Daren Sammy, will also take over the role as Head Coach of all West Indies Men’s