Guyana Chrobicle E-Paper 18-06-2024

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips conducted a walk-through visit of the construction site of the Enmore Regional Hospital in Enmore, on the East Coast of Demerara. This hospital is one of six being built under the Regional Hospitals Project across five Regions of Guyana. Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, was also part of the site visit.

‘Gov’t paving the way for stable, prosperous future’

–– De Armas slams Opposition for ‘short-sighted’ approach to nation building

Councillor commends gov’t for investing in expanding Guyana’s future economic base

THE Georgetown Councillor for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Alfonso De Armas, argues that the present government is not pursuing short-sighted economic policies, but rather ones that aim to expand the nation’s future economic base.

During an episode of “Viewpoint,” De Armas provided an extensive explanation regarding the significance of strategic planning and the necessity to dismiss the rhetoric propagated by critics of progress who endorse unregulated expenditures.

The PPP/C Councillor said: “Back in 1969, Norway discovered its first oil field and started production two years later, in 1971. However, it took them 19 years to set up their famous sovereign wealth fund. During that time, the Norwegian government faced immense political pressure to use its oil revenues on recurring expenditure.”

Due to the lack of oversight on spending, De Armas stated that Norway faced rapid inflation, currency devaluation, and stagnant productivity.

Nevertheless, he stated that Guyana’s management of its oil revenues is governed by stringent regulations outlined in the NRF Act, drawing lessons from Norway’s early experience.

“Withdrawals from the NRF are only allowed to finance national development priorities and essential projects, helping to prevent misuse and ensuring funds are directed towards sustainable development,” De Armas noted.

It is worth noting that the NRF Act 2021 was approved by the National Assembly on December 29, 2021. This legislation is regarded as a crucial measure towards enhancing accountability and transparency in the administration of Guyana’s

oil resources. Furthermore, it replaces the illegitimate NRF Act 2019 implemented during the APNU+AFC administration.

Furthermore, the PPP/C Councillor emphasised the intricacy of petroleum revenues, which arise from a finite resource and exhibit high volatility as a result of fluctuating prices and production volumes.

While discussing the consequences of unrestricted spending, he emphasised that Venezuela, a neighboring country of Guyana, is currently experiencing “economic collapse, hyperinflation, and widespread poverty” due to unregulated social welfare expenditures.

Despite this being a “nightmare,” the PPP/C councillor said that spending the nation’s oil revenues on immediate social benefits is what the Opposition, notably the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has been advocating for.

“This short sighted approach mirrors the disastrous policies seen in Norway during the 1970s and 1990s, in Trinidad and in Venezuela. We simply cannot afford to repeat their mistakes,” De Armas said.

However, the current government has chosen a sustainable path with its investments in critical infrastructure, which is aimed at expanding Guyana’s future economic base.

He cited the gas-to-energy project as an exemplification of this. By substantially decreasing electricity costs, transforming the manufacturing sector, and generating well-paid employment opportunities, this initiative eliminates the reliance on volatile oil prices.

“This balanced approach is essential. Sure, funding welfare programmes with petroleum revenues can provide immediate social and political benefits, but the long-

term management of these funds is crucial,” he said.

The project, which involves laying a 200km, 12-inch diameter pipeline, will channel natural gas from the Liza Phase One and Phase Two FPSO vessels to a state-of-the-art power plant and Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility in Wales.

Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), along with its co-venturers in the Stabroek Block, are behind the pipeline’s construction, which has an estimated cost of US$1 billion and is cost recoverable.

The Government of Guyana has earmarked $80 billion in the 2024 budget for the project, highlighting its significance to national development.

The conversion of natural gas from ExxonMobil’s offshore operations to electricity is a key component of the PPP/C government’s objective to lower energy costs by at least 50

PPP/C Georgetown Councillor, Alfonso De Armas

per cent through an energy mix which incorporates gas, solar, wind, and “hydro” power. Additionally, De Armas said Guyana is in the right direction to avoid the pitfalls that have trapped others, by making tough yet wise decisions. The PPP/C Councillor stated: “The government is paving the way for a stable and prosperous future.”

Kwakwani Hostel cooks to receive certification in commercial food preparation

STUDENTS at the Kwakwani Student Hostel will soon benefit from nutrient-balanced, high-quality meals as five employees are set to receive certification in Commercial Food Preparation from the Board of Industrial Training (BIT).

The trainees, currently employed as cooks and assistant cooks at the hostel, are among 10 women undergoing skills development training under the guidance of Ms. Janine Wong.

The trainees expressed their enthusiasm and gratitude to BIT officials, highlighting the value of the knowledge and skills gained from the program. “We are excited about this opportunity as it will enable us to prepare better meals for the

students,” said one of the trainees.

In addition to the Commercial Food Preparation program, another group of ten trainees in Kwakwani is participating in an Interior Design course taught by Ms. Michell Simeon. Both training programs are hosted at the Kwakwani Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC).

The certification initiative is part of BIT’s broader efforts to enhance vocational skills and improve community services in the region. By equipping hostel staff with professional cooking skills, the program aims to ensure that students receive nutritious and well-prepared meals, contributing to their overall well-being and academic success.

The trainees, currently employed as cooks and assistant cooks at the hostel, are among 10 women undergoing skills development training

Taking the lead

OVER the past few years, Guyana has established itself as a noteworthy participant in the international oil sector, primarily driven by significant discoveries and subsequent advancements in the Stabroek Block led by ExxonMobil and its collaborators.

This surge in the oil sector has brought forth the crucial question of how much the local populace will benefit from these advancements. Thankfully, Guyana’s local content legislation is answering this question with a resounding commitment to ensuring that the nation’s citizens are not only participants but leaders in this transformative journey.

The local content legislation is a testament to Guyana’s strategic foresight in safeguarding its economic future. By mandating that Guyanese companies are given first preference in providing key services such as catering, ground transportation, and more sophisticated technical aspects, the law ensures that the wealth generated from the oil industry circulates within the local

economy. This is not merely about capturing the low-hanging fruit; it is about positioning Guyanese companies and professionals at the forefront of the industry’s technical advancements.

For instance, the law’s requirement for Guyanese involvement in structural fabrication has paved the way for significant local participation in projects like the floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessels for the Uaru and Whiptail oil fields. Companies such as Guyana Oil and Gas Support Services Inc., Asequith Guyana, and ZECO Group of Services are already contributing to these sophisticated undertakings, showcasing the growing capabilities of local enterprises.

Furthermore, the Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for these projects emphasise opportunities for Guyanese support during crucial phases such as drilling and installation. ExxonMobil, alongside its contractors like MODEC and SBM Offshore, is actively identifying and nurturing these opportunities, reflecting a genuine commitment

to workforce development. This includes integrating local engineers into operational teams and sourcing fabrication scopes locally, setting a robust foundation for a skilled and sustainable Guyanese workforce.

ExxonMobil’s recent request for information (RFI) to identify local engineering and construction suppliers capable of providing pipe fabrication and assembly services is another commendable step. This initiative indicates a long-term strategy to embed local expertise into the heart of Guyana’s oil industry infrastructure.

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat’s comments underscore the government’s dedication to this cause. His emphasis on not merely capturing low-hanging fruits but engaging in technical aspects of the industry highlights a vision where Guyanese are integral to all facets of the oil sector. Initiatives like the state-of-the-art FPSO facility simulator at Guyana’s Technical Training College Institute Inc. and the ambitious program to train 3,000 welders are practical embodiments of this vision. Such

measures ensure that the local workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to excel in a competitive global market.

The broader implications of these efforts cannot be overstated. Guyana is on a trajectory to maintain one of the world’s highest GDP growth rates, and the government is determined to ensure that this prosperity benefits every citizen. The local content legislation is not just a policy; it is a foundational pillar for building a sustainable future where Guyanese lead in innovation and industry.

Guyana’s local content legislation is a bold and strategic move that ensures the nation’s oil wealth translates into broad-based, sustainable development. By fostering local participation in both basic and sophisticated sectors of the oil industry, Guyana is crafting a model of economic growth that is inclusive and forward-looking.

This legislation is not just about today’s economic gains but about building a legacy of local expertise, sustainable growth, and national pride.

AFC nomination process in chaos; fraud allegations rock party’s leadership contest

Dear Editor,

I AM writing to bring to light a concerning incident within the Alliance For Change (AFC) that demands urgent attention and scrutiny from the public and party members alike.

Recently, during the nominations process for the upcoming 2024 National Conference of the AFC, a serious breach of trust and potential fraud came to light. As per the AFC’s protocols, the General Secretary (GS) is entrusted with handling delegate and nomination forms. However, it has been revealed that delegate forms were improperly disseminated to regions where the party chapters were non-functioning, such as the UK, Canadian, and Caribbean chapters. The situation took a disturbing turn

when Cathy Hughes, the outgoing Chair of the AFC and wife of Attorney at Law Nigel Hughes, shared purported nomination forms from the Caribbean chapter via various communication channels. These forms were allegedly signed by individuals claiming association with the non-functioning Caribbean chapter and nominated Nigel Hughes for the party’s leadership position. This revelation, coupled with the subsequent media announcement by Cathy Hughes, raised serious questions about the integrity of the nomination process.

Upon questioning by the General Secretary regarding the legitimacy of these forms, it was uncovered that the forms had not been officially issued or authorised by the General Secretary, leading to allegations of fraudulent

activity, which subsequently lead to the GS’s safety being threatened by AFC member Leon Hunte. Despite these serious allegations, senior members of the AFC appeared to dismiss the gravity of the situation, effectively sweeping the matter under the rug in a bid to maintain a semblance of party unity. What is particularly concerning is the apparent resurgence of factionalism within the AFC, pitting what has been termed as the “upper middle class entitled members” against the party’s grassroots and ordinary members. This divide has become glaringly apparent following the decision of Khemraj Ramjattan to withdraw from the leadership race, sparking a renewed power struggle within the party’s ranks.

It is crucial for the AFC to address these issues transparently and decisive-

ly. The allegations of fraud and the mishandling of nomination forms not only undermine the democratic processes within the party, but also erode trust among its members and supporters. The party’s reputation as an inclusive political entity that values all members equally is at stake.

In conclusion, the AFC must take immediate steps to investigate this matter thoroughly, hold accountable those responsible for any wrongdoing and reaffirm its commitment to fair and transparent internal processes.

The integrity of the upcoming National Conference and the credibility of the party’s leadership hinge on swift and decisive action.

Yours sincerely, David Fitzgerald

Replying to Bisram’s suspected colonial mind

EACH time I reply to Vishnu Bisram’s extremely misleading statements in the newspapers of Guyana, I immediately think of the vast qualifications he has said he has. I am not disputing his multiple Masters and doctorates, but such a vast accumulation of knowledge should endow one with enlightened opinions.

Mr. Bisram must be the only academic in the world that argues that Pax-Americana is still strong and ubiquitous. Even scholars who support American hegemony in the world concede that international relations now rest on a multi-polar world. For my rejection of Bisram’s theory of America as the centre of a unipolar world, please see my column of Saturday, August 5, 2023 titled, “Mr. Bisram needs to read Sir Ron Sanders.”

I asked in that column which world Bisram is living in. Then, in a recent column, I asked if Bisram has even a modicum of understanding of what takes place in Guyana. This was in response to Bisram, saying that Kaieteur News (KN) is the ultimate free press in Guyana. Every harsh word should be used to condemn that opinion because it is the opposite of reality.

The KN behaves more poisonously in its anti-government frenzy than any opposition party in Guyana. There is only one word used to describe the anti-government propaganda of KN – degenerate. Does Mr. Bisram know what is going on in Guyana? Even the civil society groups that hate the government no longer send their missives to KN. The daily circulation of the Chronicle and Stabroek

News are way above KN. For my response to Bisram’s description of KN, see my piece of Wednesday, June 5, 2024 captioned, “Vishnu Bisram on Kaieteur News.”

Mr. Bisram is at it again. In a letter to the press of Friday, June 14, 2024, he advises political parties to have intra-party democracy like those of the UK and US. I now ask Mr. Bisram, as a man with multiple doctorates and Master degrees, if he monitors the politics of the world. Why cite the UK and US only and not Third World and Caribbean political parties?

Here is the methodology the UK Conservative Party used to replace Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Each contender had to get 100 nominations from the Conservative Party parliamentarians. Mr. Rishi Sunak was the only one that met that criterion and he became Prime Minister. There was no vote by the party’s parliamentarians or the party itself. Does Mr. Bisram read what is taking place with the confrontation between Diane Abbot, one of the most respected black leaders in the Labour Party in the UK?

In the Democracy Party in the US, congressional representatives who condemn Israel for what it is doing in Gaza are facing efforts to unseat them within their own party, targeting them at primaries. Mrs. Hilary Clinton is targeting one of the most progressive Black congressmen in the US, Jamaal Bowman. Mrs. Clinton is endorsing Bowman’s opponent who has been accused of Islamophobia.

The danger in the Eurocentric writings

of people like Bisram is that people might believe him. But there is a sadness to such writings. The approach still juxtaposes the Western world with the Third World in terms of the existence and practice of democracy. After all that the world has seen from the West since the committal of genocide in Gaza, are there people in the Third World that are still prepared to engage in that juxtaposition?

Sadly, the answer is yes and we see that answer written boldly on the face of CARICOM. Jamaica and Trinidad are refusing to have the Caribbean Court of Justice replace the Privy Council (PC) of the UK as their final appellate court. It violates commonsense to continue with the Privy Council.

Here are two arguments against the retention of the PC. Justice must never be dispensed based on possession of money. But

poor people have to have enormous sums to take a case to the PC. First, there is travel fare, then visa approval, then hotel accommodation. Where a poor mother is going to find such large sums to finance her son’s case at the Privy Council?

The second argument is that 60 years after Independence many Third World countries still cling to the belief that British judges are of superior quality (quality in both senses of character and intellect) and thus the Privy Council is a better forum. There is absolutely nothing in the history of the Privy Council to draw the conclusion that the judges there are of a deeper quality than judges in the post-colonial world.

The different Julian Assange trials in the UK where he is constantly denied bail should be instructive for the colonial mind in Jamaica and Trinidad

Short-sightedness and counter productiveness

Dear Editor,

I AM writing in response to a recent Facebook post authored by Denis Scott Chabrol regarding the commissioning ceremony of the Guyana Defence Force’s new Coast Guard vessel.

While I appreciate his dedication to highlighting important issues, I feel compelled to address a broader perspective that seems to have been overshadowed.

In his post, the focus was placed on the presence of individuals with controversial pasts at the event, including a Guyanese businessman sanctioned by the United States and another individual previously convicted of selling visas. While these issues are undeniably significant, concentrating solely on them detracts from the larger and more

critical narrative: the strategic enhancement of Guyana’s maritime security.

The commissioning of the new Coast Guard vessel marks a significant milestone in Guyana’s ongoing efforts to protect its waters and enhance national security. This asset represents a substantial investment in safeguarding our nation’s maritime borders, countering illegal activities and ensuring the safety of our coastal communities. The presence of President Irfaan Ali, Cabinet members, top law-enforcement officers, and the US Ambassador underscores the importance of this achievement and the collaborative efforts between Guyana and international partners.

It is crucial to acknowledge that the event was not just about individuals attending, but about the broader implications for national security and regional stability. By focusing

primarily on controversial figures, we risk undermining the significance of acquiring and commissioning such vital assets for our nation’s defence. This approach can inadvertently lead to a counterproductive narrative that overshadows the positive strides being made in strengthening our maritime capabilities.

We must strive to look at the bigger picture and recognise the advancements and investments being made to protect our country. The acquisition of this Coast Guard vessel is a testament to Guyana’s commitment to securing its maritime domain and fostering a safer environment for all its citizens. It also reflects the strengthening of international partnerships, particularly with the United States, in addressing mutual security concerns.

While it is essential to hold individuals accountable and ensure transparency, it is equally important to celebrate and support initiatives that contribute to our nation’s growth and security. Let us not lose sight of the progress being made by focusing disproportionately on the negatives.

I hope this perspective resonates with you and encourages a more balanced view of the recent commissioning ceremony. By emphasising the strategic importance of such assets, we can foster a more constructive dialogue that supports our nation’s long-term goals and aspirations.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Police Force enhances transparency with body cameras

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) is taking a major step towards modernising its operations and building trust with the public.

The force is deploying 1,200 body cameras to be distributed across all police regions in the coming weeks.

Officers recently completed training on how to use these fourth-generation body cameras effectively. The GPF plans to hold continuous training sessions to ensure officers are proficient with the new technology. This initiative aims to achieve several key goals:

Increased Transparency and Accountability: Body camera footage will provide valuable audio-visual evidence for criminal, civil, and traffic cases. This can improve the accuracy of police reports and support fair investigations.

Enhanced Public Trust: The use of body cameras fosters trust between the

The force is deploying 1,200 body cameras to be distributed across all police regions in the coming weeks

police and the communities they serve. Citizens can feel more confident that police interactions are being documented accurately.

Improved Police Performance: Body cameras can help officers accurately record events and interactions, leading to more de-

tailed reports. They can also be used to review procedures and interpersonal skills during police encounters.

Officer Protection: Senior Superintendent, Jermaine Johnson, who oversaw the training, highlighted that body cameras can also protect the well-being of police

officers by providing a clear record of their actions.

The implementation of body cameras signifies

a significant step forward for the Guyana Police Force. This technology has the

potential to improve transparency, accountability, public trust, and overall police performance.

Barbados PM urges Caribbean, African countries to look within, across for investments

–– Opportunities exist for developing tourism products

By Shamar Meusa in Nassau, The Bahamas

IN the pursuit of collaboration and mutual interest, Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados emphasised the importance for countries in the Caribbean and Africa to seek investments internally and from one another.

Mottley made these remarks on Friday last during the third day of the African Export-Import Bank’s (Afreximbank) 31st Annual meeting which was held alongside the third AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF) in Nassau, The Bahamas.

During her presentation, the Prime Minister stated that the Afreximbank has become the bridge across the Atlantic and has made itself very well known to the Caribbean due to the presence it has chosen to have.

In light of this, she further mentioned that Caribbean and African nations persist in seeking investments from the North, yet expressed the need for a shift in this approach.

“We keep looking north for investments but we need to look within and across and I believe that if we find the appropriate instruments to mobilise capital and the savings of our people and if we can find a way, that makes it easy to understand what the possibility for those investments can be,” she

expressed.

Mottley believes these countries can do far more to help themselves and each other before they ask others for help.

She added, “I say so against the background that the reform of the global financial architecture is still critical but we do believe that when you have excess liquidity in our banking system as many of us have and when we are exposed to the extreme conditions that the climate crisis presents, then

we need to ensure that we do not put all of our eggs in one basket.”

The Prime Minister remarked that, in those investments, there will be tremendous opportunity for green transformation as she added that in there is only so much time to adapt and build the resilience that is needed.

UNTAPPED INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Meanwhile, Mottley said that there are amazing

untapped tourism opportunities that exist and noted that while the two regions seek to develop transport links for consistent landbased tourism, opportunities exist for cruise tourism.

“There’s an amazing opportunity in cruise tourism

that remains untapped not to be shaped and directed by others but to be shaped and directed by ourselves,” she said. She stated that while Africa and the gulf states have the lowest penetration in global cruise tourism, the

Caribbean region has cruise ships visiting daily.

In light of this situation, Mottley stated that the moment has arrived for Caribbean and African investors to collaborate in order to pursue this tourism opportunity.

She said, “The time has come for investors here in the Caribbean and Africa to work together to be able to pursue initially the leasing of a cruise ship, the chartering of it and focusing directly on the things that our people like to do because I really believe that it will become tremendously successful and it must be done first and foremost by us for us.”

The suggestion she made is to potentially start with leasing the vessels until there is sufficient capacity to acquire ownership, which should be seriously considered.

Recently, representatives from the Caribbean and Africa convened at the ACTIF to explore investment opportunities and foster collaboration between the two regions.

Additionally, they deliberated on the establishment of a trade route connecting Africa and the Caribbean.

Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Amor Mottley

‘Claim your place; chart your course in Guyana’s transformation’

U.S Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission encourages women’s involvement in Guyana’s energy sector

By Trina Williams

WHILE women have traditionally had limited involvement in the energy sector, Guyana is defying this notion by placing women-owned businesses at the forefront of the nation’s energy transition.

Highlighting the significance of women claiming their rightful position, especially in male-dominated sectors, Adrienne Galanek, Deputy Chief of Mission of the United States Embassy in Guyana, encouraged women

to step forward without hesitation.

During the recently held inaugural Women in Energy (WiE) Forum, Guyana’s energy sector was brought into focus since it is the cornerstone for the nation’s unprecedented development.

WiE had held its inaugural forum at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) under the theme “Championing Women in the Energy Sector: Creating Pathways.”

Women who have been on the forefront of advocating and supporting fel-

low females and bringing attention to the grip that gender inequality has on society were present at the WiE forum. Among some of the key speakers were: British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller and the Managing Director of SLB for Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean, Sharlene Seegoolam.

During Galanek’s remarks, she said: “It’s no secret that the energy sector is driving transformational change in Guyana and we need to ensure that everyone fully, meaningfully and equally contributes to and benefit from Guyana’s economic growth. To all the women in the room continue to claim your place and chart your course as part of Guyana’s incredible transformation.”

Achieving the goal of increasing the number of women within the workforce and empowering them has been a priority of this current government and according to the Galanek; this statistic is improving within Guyana.

However, more still needs to be done.

“Every country including my own needs to do a better job of improving opportunities for women in the workplace,” she said, adding: “The good news is that change [is] happening very quickly and I can already see it happening here in Guyana.”

She proceeded to elucidate various strategies that can help to strengthen the inclusion of women in both the energy sector and the overall workforce. One example she provided was the need for investment in skills training.

In this regard, Galanek related: “We know a strong educational background is key to joining the industry and the ministries of labour and education have multiple programmes to prepare young people for oil and gas. But women also need to know that industry is opened.”

She then acknowledged that gender inequality is stagnating progress and proposed another solution to increasing

the percentage of women within the energy workforce.

In this light, she said more opportunities need to be created for women along with a better work environment.

“It’s often said that people need their manager rather than their job. So don’t forget to train managers and ensure they reflect the diversity of your workforce,” she stated.

After explaining the pathways to creating gender equality and empowering women, she expressed happiness with the increase of women entrepreneurs in the energy industry.

She also commended the Local Content Secretariat for forging rules which require companies to specify how many women they will hire, which will, according to her, hopefully increase women’s participation further within the industry.

“As Guyana levels up, women-owned companies will drive the energy transition,” Galanek said.

Deputy Chief of Mission of the United States Embassy in Guyana, Adrienne Galanek

Gov’t prioritises decentralised training for nurses, other medical professionals

–– $881M modern nursing school to transform healthcare in Region Two

By Cindy Parkinson

IN a significant stride towards enhancing healthcare services in Guyana, President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s administration has embarked on establishing a cutting-edge training facility for nurses in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

Dr. Ranjeev Singh, the Regional Health Officer (RHO) of Region Two, expressed staunch support for this initiative, hailing it as pivotal in bolstering the local healthcare infrastructure.

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Dr. Singh underscored the transformative impact of the new facility, particularly for aspiring nurses from the region and nearby islands.

According to the Region Two RHO, “Even though we are faced with some challenges at the hos-

pitals, the development in the region, specifically the health sector, has been rapidly moving apace. This new, modern training school is a game-changer for this region for many reasons, but one of the main ones is because our young people who want to join the profession would be able to get trained in the comfort of their own region.”

He continued: “This was one of the major problems that we were faced with, especially with our young women, but with the completion of this facility, I have no doubt that it will be a big boost to healthcare in the region as well as in the country. Our aim with this training school is to ensure that our current and upcoming hospitals, health centres, and health posts are fully equipped with adequately trained medical professionals.”

While foreign specialists are welcomed and appreciated by the government of Guyana, Dr. Singh emphasised the government’s dedication to ensuring that their own citizens possess a high level of expertise across all domains within the medical field. As with other sectors, the RHO has acknowledged the efforts of the Guyanese government, specifically the Ministry of Health, in striving to close the human resources gap, particularly in the healthcare industry.

“In terms of services, one of the great things that has happened is that we have decentralised our training. Just last year, we graduated a batch of 22 pharmacy assistants, and throughout the country on July 6, we will have the first batch of 46 nursing assistants who will be writing their exams. We are anticipating a 100 percent

pass rate, and those persons can be incorporated into our system.”

“By the end of this year, we will also have another batch of students, one of which is a post-basic midwifery programme that will be concluded and the medical laboratory technician programme that is currently ongoing here at Suddie, and it will be completed at the end of this year as well,” the RHO explained.

Under the guidance of the President and his administration, the RHO has established a comprehensive plan to enhance their capabilities in the healthcare sector. They are procuring the essential tools and equipment required to effectively serve the nation’s population.

In January, Dr. Frank Anthony, the Minister of Health, emphasised the significance of the training facility for nurses in Region Two during

the SOD turning ceremony, which cost $881 million. According to him, “We are building a modern nursing school... The government of Guyana [and] the President are extremely pleased to situate this nursing school here because we know that it is going to be a game changer…We’re spending here $881 million to build this school so that

See page 12

$489M allocated for vital infrastructure rehab in Kwakwani

THOUSANDS of residents and commuters of Kwakwani, Region 10, are slated to benefit from critical infrastructural upgrades valued at a sum of $489 million. These infrastructural works aim to bolster connectivity and accessibility

in the mining and logging community.

The announcement was made by Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, during inspection of the Kwakwani barge last Thursday.

“We came and we sat with the NDC and allotted

$200 million and we walked with them, found out what are their priorities and we delivered on every one of those roads we committed to. Now in 2024, we are doing another $489 million in road works.”

This will see works being undertaken on the

Kwakwani Waterfront Road by Jemcrop Engineering and Imports in rigid pavement concrete to the tune of $225.6 million.

Spanning some 1000 metres in length and 6.1 metres in width, the six-month project commenced on June 14 and is expected to be completed by December 14.

Continuation works are also being executed on the Orealla to Kwakwani road project. Orin’s Supreme Enterprise is executing this massive project to the tune of $181.8 million, spanning 20 kilometres in length and 7.62 metres in width.

The project has a similar timeline of six months and

is expected to be completed by December 14.

Additionally, Minister Edghill noted that the road-linking project is in its fourth phase and once completed, will reduce the travel time for persons transporting goods and services, as well as those in forestry who have concessions in these far-flung areas.

Persons blasting quarries at Orealla will also be able to utilise the thoroughfare to transport and sell their aggregates at the market.

Internal thoroughfares and drainage works are also set to be rehabilitated by VG Group Guyana Incor-

porated. This will see the road between Kwakwani and Hururu being upgraded for easier accessibility for commuters, particularly schoolchildren.

The works are valued at $82.2 million and are being executed in asphalt, spanning 600 metres in length and 6.1 metres in width. The project duration is four months with works set to be completed by October 14.

According to the minister, the magnitude of infrastructural works being done in the sub-region is for the benefit of the people as well as for the economic development of the region. (DPI)

Gov’t prioritises ...

you can have a modern training facility in Essequibo.”

Urging nurses to make use of the opportunity of being trained within their region and from the comfort of their homes, Minister Anthony said, “So, we know that we’ll be working very closely with the contractor, and he’s going to work to make sure that this is finished in time so that we can do the kinds of training that are necessary... so that we can have more and more qualified people in our healthcare system.”

Alongside the significant renovations taking place in the existing medical facilities within the region, the minister also announced the need for more nurses and medical

experts to be trained in the country to support the construction of six new, state-ofthe-art regional hospitals, as well as a specialised hospital for maternity and paediatrics, and other upcoming developments.

Speaking about the challenges of centrally teaching people, highlighting the need for a decentralised nursing curriculum, and explaining that not everyone can be taught in Georgetown; the minister also revealed that it can be difficult to get those with training to return to the regions to serve.

Minister Anthony said, “So, what the training division is now doing is decentralising the programmes so that training can happen in

every region of the country, and that is quite important in your region. We have seen the training of pharmacy assistants. We have trained community health workers. We have trained nursing assistants, and we are going to continue doing a number of trainings.”

“When you build a school, it’s not being built for something today alone. It is the people who would come through that school and graduate and who would carry on the legacy that is what we’re building, we’re nurturing minds, and those minds are the ones who are going to provide the care that people need not just in this region but even for the field.”

Minister of Public Work, Bishop Juan Edghill engaging engineers and contractors in Kwakwani, Region 10, sub-district two

Healthcare heroes honoured for dedication during Mahdia dormitory fire tragedy

IN a poignant ceremony at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex, the Ministry of Health honoured healthcare workers who demonstrated extraordinary service and dedication in response to the Mahdia Secondary School dormitory fire tragedy.

The fire, which tragically claimed the lives of 20 youths in May last year, marked one of the most devastating events in recent history.

The Appreciation Ceremony for healthcare workers, held recently, highlighted the tireless efforts and unwavering commitment of those who responded to the crisis.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, praised the bravery and selflessness of the healthcare workers, acknowledging their pivotal role during and after the tragedy.

“Everybody gave selflessly, so tonight we want to acknowledge that,” Minister Anthony stated during his address. “We want to acknowledge by giving you a little token. It’s not much, but it’s a token to say that we value what you did, and we value all that you put in. It is a token that the ministry and the Government of Guyana really value your work,” he added.

Minister Anthony reflected on the multifaceted response to the tragedy, which included immediate medical attention, psychological and psychiatric care, and grievance counselling for affected communities. The comprehensive approach also involved a thorough report on the cause of the fire and the effectiveness of the emergency response, which was compiled for the Commission of Inquiry (COI).

“I think we came up with a written report of more than 50 pages on how we responded, and that in itself is a testimony to how we responded,” Minister Anthony explained.

One significant advancement highlighted during the ceremony was the implementation of telemedicine at four sites in Mahdia, ensuring prompt and effective communication and support for those in need.

“While all of this was happening, if you are going to provide support to these communities, we have to think of different ways of providing support. So, during all of that, we placed telemedicine in four of the sites so we could communicate with people and ensure that whatever issues they were having, we were able to address them,” Minister

Some of the healthcare workers who were honoured received a token of appreciation from officials for their extraordinary service and dedication

Anthony noted. Robbie Rambarran, Chief Executive Officer of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), also lauded the compassion and empathy of the healthcare workers, who were at the forefront of one of the country’s most tragic events. He emphasised the importance of continuous improvement and encouraged the participants to

In his closing remarks, Minister Anthony reiterated the government’s support to the affected families and friends of the young lives lost, underscoring the invaluable contributions of the healthcare staff.

The appreciation ceremony not only recognised their extraordinary efforts but also highlighted the critical role of healthcare workers in times of crisis.

be proud of their achievements.

The ceremony was also attended by other notable figures, including Dr. Ravindra Dudnauth, Deputy Director of Regional Health Services; Dr. Ertenisa Hamilton, Director of Primary Health Care Services; Michael Gouviea, Coordinator of the Indigenous People Communities; and various healthcare officials.

Guyana poised to become South America’s leading oil, gas hub

–– says CEO of Nigeria-based Nestoil Group

By Feona Morrison

GUYANA is rapidly emerging as the leading oil and gas hub in South America, according to Dr. Ern est Azudialu-Obiejesi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Nestoil Group.

Nestoil was incorporated in 1991 and is Nigeria’s largest indigenous engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning (EPCC) company in the oil and gas sector.

Speaking on this week’s episode of the Energy Perspectives Podcast, Dr. Azudialu-Obiejesi, visited Guyana for a four-day fact-finding mission from June 9 to 12, 2024, highlighted Guyana’s remarkable progress and vast potential in the oil and gas industry.

“The level of opportunities [in Guyana] have been wonderful. I see a country that is heading towards a boom in the oil and gas industry. I see a country that will emerge in the short run as one of the biggest oil and gas hubs in South America,” he said.

The Nigerian businessman has urged Guyana to prioritise local content in the ongoing development of its growing oil and gas industry and to draw lessons from his country’s experiences.

Dr Azudialu-Obiejesi underscored the paramount importance of incorporating local businesses and workforce in the sector to guarantee sustainable economic growth and development, highlighting Nestoil’s significant contribution to local content in Nigeria. Ac-

cording to him, Nigeria has achieved a lot thanks to its local content laws.

He pointed out that Guyana could benefit from Nigeria’s experience, notably in terms of local content legislation, funding for local participation, and thorough training programmes to empower the local workforce.

He urged the Guyana government to ensure that the local content law is reviewed and enforced.

“The government has to ensure that the local content law is not only written but that it is enforced. If you write it like Nigeria and you don’t enforce it, at the end of the day, the billions [of dollars] that will pass through Guyana will not improve or touch the lives of the people. The local content law in Nigeria came a bit late…after

many years of production.”

As of April 2024, over 800 companies have been approved to be included in the Local Content Register. An estimated 6,000 jobs have been created as a result of the country’s robust local content legislation. Since its enactment in 2021, the law has earned approximately US$1 billion in revenue, with an additional US$550 million expected in 2024.

The Local Content Secretariat, a unit within the Natural Resources Ministry, will commence a review of the legislation with the aim of improving it.

This amendment will target increasing the areas in which companies are mandated to utilise Guyanese goods and services, adding 20 services. The oil and gas sector is also projected to

Chairman and CEO of Nestoil Group, Dr Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi

hire over 1,600 more Guyanese over the next three years. In addition, Dr. Azudialu-Obiejesi also stressed the necessity of ensuring that oil investments help the overall economy, citing areas such as tourism and technology. He believes that the gov-

ernment has positioned Guyana advantageously to become a big player in the oil and gas business by utilising lessons learnt from other countries.

The CEO noted that Guyana’s business-friendly environment will attract investors.

Gov’t invites bids for new, modern hospital at Kato

AS part of the government’s efforts to create a healthcare system of international standard throughout the nation, requests for proposals were issued for the establishment of a contemporary hospital in Kato, Region Eight.

The Government of Guyana recently received financing from the Inter-American Development Bank for the purpose of enhancing the Health Care Network within the country, as mentioned in the Invitation for Bids (IFBs) published in the Guyana Chronicle over the weekend.

As such, it was noted that the government intends to apply part of the proceeds of this financing towards the payment under the contract for the design and building of Kato Hospital in Region Eight.

During a recent visit to Region Eight, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony said that a lot of improvements are to come in relation to health care in the region.

The government, he said, is making a substantial investment in building this new hospital at Kato. He said this facility will have various diagnostic capabilities, laboratories, 75 beds, and an accident and emergency unit and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, or the first half of 2026.

“So, your region medically is going to improve significantly, so lots of things that we weren’t able to do here in the past, we will now be able to do it [sic],” he expressed.

Dr Anthony noted that when President Ali spoke about having a world-class healthcare system, many wondered how this would happen, but he noted that Guyana would get there because the government is making the investments to achieve this.

Meanwhile, according to the IFBs, a site visit will be conducted on July 8, 2024, and bids must be delivered on or before August 20 at 09:00hrs.

Young driver dies in Diamond Public Road accident

POLICE are investigating a tragic accident that occurred early Monday morning on the public road at Diamond, East Bank Demerara, resulting in the death of a young driver.

The incident took place at approximately 05:30 hours and involved motor car with registration PZZ 4447.

The vehicle, owned by a female resident of Hope Lowlands, East Coast Demerara, was driven at the time by 20-year-old Mark Andrew Ramachand from Herstelling, East Bank Demerara.

According to initial enquiries, the car was travelling north along the eastern driving lane of the western carriageway at a high speed when the driver lost control. The vehicle skidded, overturned, and ultimately submerged in a nearby trench.

Dead: Mark Andrew Ramachand

Emergency services were promptly summoned to the scene. Police officers, along with passersby, worked together to extract the vehicle from the trench. They found Ramachand motionless, pinned in the driver’s seat. An ambulance, arriving shortly after the police, brought a team of emergency medical technicians who pronounced the driver dead at the scene.

The body of the deceased has been transported to Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, where it awaits a post-mortem examination. The vehicle was towed to the Diamond Police Station and lodged for examination by a Licensing and Certifying Officer.

The investigation into the exact circumstances of the accident is ongoing as police seek to determine all contributing factors to this unfortunate event.

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony and a team from the Ministry of Health during a recent visit, standing at the site where the new hospital is expected to be constructed at Kato, Region Eight (Ministry of Health photo)

President Ali calls for compassion, unity in observing Eid-ul-Adha

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has extended his heartfelt wishes to Muslims in Guyana and around the world as they observe Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of the Sacrifice.

In his message, President Ali emphasised the significance of Eid-ul-Adha, which commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son, Ismail, in obedience to Allah's command. He highlighted the key elements of the festival, including special prayers, the act of Qurbani (the sacrifice of an animal), and the distribution of meat to the needy, family and friends.

“Eid Mubarak! May the Peace and Blessings of the Creator of the Universe be with us all on this sacred day!” President Ali stated in his Facebook message on Monday, expressing his joy in joining the Islamic community in Guyana and Muslims worldwide in the celebration.

President Ali underscored the universal lessons of compassion, gen -

erosity and solidarity that Eid-ul-Adha embodies. He called on all Guyanese to reflect on the importance of helping neighbours and supporting the less fortunate, emphasising that acts of charity and kindness are fundamental aspects of the faith.

“We should always give with a generous heart because, in doing so, we honour Allah. When we support those in need and uplift our Brothers and Sisters, we are fulfilling a fundamental aspect of our faith,” he noted. He further elaborated that such acts are not just obligations but expressions of devotion to Allah, mirroring His compassion and mercy.

The President also highlighted the intrinsic value of a kind heart, stating, “A kind heart is a priceless possession. It enriches not only the bearer but also everyone fortunate enough to encounter its warmth. It has the power to heal wounds, mend relationships, and inspire others to acts of goodness.”

Quoting the Holy Quran, President Ali reminded

the nation of the divine blessings that come from generosity: "The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed of grain that sprouts seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains. Allah multiplies for whom He wills, and Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing."

On this auspicious occasion, President Ali called for embracing the spirit of Eidul-Adha by reaching out to those in need, extending friendship across cultural and religious divides, and working together to build a more compassionate and cohesive society.

“On this joyous occasion, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all celebrating. May your homes be filled with happiness, your hearts with peace, and your lives with blessings. Eid Mubarak to all!” he concluded.

As Guyanese join in the celebrations, the President's message resonates with the festival's core themes of faith, sacrifice, and kindness, encouraging a unified and empathetic community spirit.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali observe Eid-ul-Adha Salaat at the Leonora Sunnatul Jamaat Monday morning

Muslims embrace spirit of Eid-ul-Adha with Obedience, Sacrifice, and Piety

MUSLIMS across Guyana came together on Monday to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha, a significant religious festival that underscores the values of obedience, sacrifice, and piety.

The event, marked by community prayers and the ritualistic sacrifice of animals, highlighted the enduring legacy of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God.

According to President of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), Al-Haj Shahabudeen Ahmad, Eid-ul-Adha commemorates the trials and steadfast faith of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him).

He explained that Eid-ul-Adha is a tribute to our patriarch Ibrahim's unwavering faith in Allah and his readiness to sacrifice his beloved son, Ishmael. This festival is a powerful reminder of pure devotion and submission to the will of God.

The ritual sacrifice, known as Qurbani, is central to the observance. Imam Halim Khan of the MetenMeer-Zorg (East) Masjid emphasised

that Qurbani must be performed after the Eid prayer. “The sacrifice symbolises following in Prophet Ibrahim's footsteps, and it's obligatory for every financially capable Muslim. The meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for friends and neighbours and one for the needy,” Khan elaborated.

The three-day celebration sees Muslims engaging in various acts of worship, including fasting and performing Hajj.

A member of the Kitty Masjid highlighted the communal aspect of the festival, where special prayers and meals bring families and friends together. Traditional dishes like kebabs, stews, curry, and Biryani, often accompanied by sweet desserts such as vermicelli, form an integral part of the celebrations. "Sharing these meals reinforces our bond with each other and reflects the importance of supporting one another," he added.

The observance of Eid-ul-Adha extends beyond personal and

communal joy, as emphasied by Ahmad of the CIOG. He called for a reflection on the festival’s deeper significance. "Eid-ul-Adha urges us to reform our condition from servitude to men to servitude to the Creator. It is a time to remain humble, seek peaceful coexistence and strive for positive change within ourselves and our communities," Ahmad urged.

In the midst of the festive activities, the distribution of Qurbani meat to the less fortunate remained a poignant act of charity. Many expressed their gratitude for this gesture of generosity.

"The Muslim community's dedication to caring for both the fortunate and the less fortunate is truly commendable," a recipient at the Kitty Masjid remarked.

As Muslims in Guyana and around the world marked Eid-ul-Adha, the festival served as a powerful reminder of the virtues of faith, sacrifice, and community spirit, echoing the timeless legacy of Prophet Ibrahim.

Imam of Meten-Meer-Zorg (East) Masjid, Halim Khan (in the background) overseeing the cutting up and distribution of beef

Meat being prepared for distribution at the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (Japhet Yohan Savory photos)

Over 500 Pomeroon farmers benefitting from bed, drainage project

OVER 500 farmers from villages along the Pomeroon River, Region Two are benefitting from the bed and drainage project that was crafted by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.

The project was established in 2023 when President Ali visited the Pomeroon-Supenaam district.

It entails the elevation of farm beds and the dredging of the lands to enhance drainage and irrigation.

Two mini excavators were brought into the river to advance dredging activities there.

Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit, Friday last, noted that there have been signs of increased production along the Pomeroon River due to this intervention.

of the project last year, farmers were at the time suffering from severe flooding in the Pomeroon River.

As such, the elevation of farm beds and the dredging of the area was deemed as a timely intervention.

Some of the canals that lead to the savannahs were opened to drain the excess water off of the farmlands.

Additionally, the farmers are also benefitting from other agricultural inputs, including the distribution of Brazilian coconut plants, which commenced a few weeks ago.

Yoga for self and society: India promotes unity through International Day of Yoga

During the establishment

“There are over 500 farmers in both lower and upper Pomeroon that have actually started to benefit from the five acres bed and drain project. And so, while this is happening, I want to encourage the farmers to take advantage of this initiative. Already, there have been signs of increased production,” the vice chair stated.

Farmers also received a coconut shredder. The shredding machine is used to finely mince the husks which can be used for organic purposes such as coir/coconut fibre. The coir can then be used to make products like mats and other upholstery materials. (DPI)

THE High Commission of India and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC) in Georgetown, Guyana, partnered with the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha to host a yoga session in honor of International Day of Yoga.

The event, held at the Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud Sanskritik Kendra on Monday, attracted yoga enthusiasts from the Indian community, Guyanese citizens,

diplomats, government officials, and representatives of social, cultural, and educational organisations.

The session included a Common Yoga Protocol led by SVCC Yoga teacher, Shri Mohit Mann, followed by a meditation session guided by Sister Kinnari from the Brahma Kumaris. Pandit Ganesh, a participant who attended a yoga course in India, spoke about the practice's benefits.

High Commissioner, Dr. Amit Telang, delivered a message from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the 10th International Day of Yoga, emphasising the theme “Yoga for Self and Society.”

The Prime Minister's message highlighted yoga's ability to bridge the gap between individuals and society, promoting a sense of unity and well-being.

Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit

High Commissioner, Dr. Amit Telang, delivered a message from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for the 10th International Day of Yoga

'India has leadership role to play' for Test cricket to thrive, says...

From page 28

England in the post-COVID era. The T20 World Cup, which is the first ICC men’s event held in the Caribbean since 2010, will also add to the coffers of CWI, which generates an annual revenue of US$50 million.

The six chosen venues needed urgent renovation to be World Cup ready and that has cost $50 million approximately, with half of the amount spent on the Kensington Oval in Barbados, where the final will be staged.

“It’s been 14 years since we hosted our last men’s event,” he said. “And it’s hugely important [that we get to host world events].

“[Building infrastructure] is a huge part of hosting a World Cup because the legacy of that means that the six grounds that are playing hosts for this World Cup will have facilities that we, Cricket West Indies and our home boards, can benefit from for hopefully, the next decade.”

The West Indies are co-hosting the T20 showpiece with the USA, and

going forward, more world events will be jointly hosted and not just by India, England and Australia, as it has been the case in the last 10 years.

“We made the point that we think there should be more equal revenue sharing of ICC distributions [BCCI currently gets nearly 40% of the share]. And part of that equality was the spreading around [the hosting rights for] the men’s events.

“Some of the bigger host countries could be making $100 million from hosting a men’s event based on the revenues that they would keep.

“And therefore, it’s another way in which if you’re not spreading around those events, that the few nations that do host are benefiting more than others, as well as getting on-the-field home advantage and playing in home conditions that they should know better and be able to adapt [to] better.

“It’s an important part of the change of the next cycle, there’s going to be multiple teams hosting.” (ESPNcricinfo)

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CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Tuesday June 18, 2024)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD -83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Kamran Akmal (PAK) – 9 (3 catches & 6 stumpings) (2) 166 for the second wicket (M.Jayawardene & K. Sangakkara – SL vs WI, Bridgetown)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What was the result of the WI second game in the current ICC T20 World Cup? (2) Who was voted Man of the Match?

Late drama as Slovakia shock Belgium at Euro 2024

Slovakia caused an upset in their Euro 2024 opener as they stunned Group E favourites Belgium in a chaotic encounter in Frankfurt.

There was drama in the final minutes as Romelu Lukaku thought he had equalised, only for the video assistant referee (VAR) to rule it out for handball in the build-up.

It was the second goal he had scored that had been ruled out by VAR after earlier poking in a header across goal from Amadou Onana.

Ivan Schranz put Slovakia ahead when he capitalised on a mistake at the back by Manchester City's Jeremy Doku, stunning Belgium, ranked third in the world -

Slovakia are 45 places below in 48th.

After missing countless chances throughout, several falling to all-time top scorer Lukaku, Belgium eventually left empty-handed. In a topsy-turvy 90 minutes, substitute Johan Bakayoko was denied by a superb goalline clearance from Slovakia's David Hancko.

Lukaku's frustrations grew as chances kept passing by - the best coming within three minutes after Doku had gone on a spectacular run down the right.

Belgium's inability to grasp control meant they trailed at the break, with Doku's costly mistake helping

Slovakia get the upper hand. Manchester City's Kevin de Bruyne remained a threat, while Arsenal's Leandro Trossard curled an effort over the bar following a poor clearance from goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.

Lukas Haraslin also came close on occasions for Slovakia, fizzing a superbly executed volley towards goal which needed saving by Koen Casteels, before placing another strike wide in the second half.

Belgium, who exited the 2022 World Cup at the group stage, must respond when they take on Romania nextwho recorded a stunning 3-0 win over Ukraine in the other match on Monday afternoon.

As Belgium travel to Cologne on Saturday looking to regain ground, Slovakia face Ukraine, no doubt buoyed by their perfect start to Euro 2024.

Slovakia celebrate as Belgium pay price

Dubbed by many as the 'new Belgium', this is undoubtedly a nation in transition, with several members of their 'golden generation' phasing out of the squad.

The likes of Eden Hazard and Toby Alderweireld are no longer around for Belgium, while this was a first major tournament match without Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois since 2002.

Expectations are not as high as their world ranking

perhaps suggests - but Belgium fans did not expect to leave Frankfurt having suffered defeat by Slovakia.

Lukaku’s missed chances will have left sour reminders of their premature World Cup group-stage exit when he failed to find the net in a goalless draw with Croatia, but he will feel hard done by here in Germany.

He was a nuisance with his movement in the box but his lack of clinical edge proved costly for Belgium, who had plenty of attacking talent on the pitch around him.

Trossard was too often on the periphery, while Doku shined offensively but played the loose pass which led to

Schranz’s well-taken goal.

As Belgium were left licking their wounds in Frankfurt, their supporters jeering in frustration throughout the second half, Slovakia celebrated passionately at full-time.

Supporters in the stands waved scarves, chanted and bounced in unison and when the whistle finally ended an agonising stoppage-time period, substitutes raced on to the pitch from the dugout to celebrate with their teammates.

Afterwards, Slovakia's players and staff lined up, shoulder-to-shoulder, and celebrated in front of their supporters. (BBC Sport)

Bangladesh seals second round qualification with clutch second innings against Nepal

D STANDS for Drama, because that's exactly what Group D delivered in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. It was anything but smooth sailing for tournament progressors, Bangladesh.

With South Africa already through to the next round, there was one more ticket to the Super Eight up for grabs and destiny was in the Tigers' own hands – a win and in scenario against Nepal.

Their effort in the field ultimately set up the win, creating history in the process. It was the lowest total ever successfully defended in the T20I World Cup.

Nepal was eager to finish their tournament on a high and things could not have started any better. Sompal Kami took the scalp of Tanzid Hasan caught and bowled with the first deliv-

ery of the match.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was castled in the second over, causing even more despair for Bangladesh.

The Nepalese then picked up wickets in the fifth and sixth overs to cap off a dominant Powerplay, having the Tigers 31/4 at the six over mark.

Bangladesh attempted an innings rehabilitation with the fielders more spread and ground their way past 50. But the crucial dismissal of Mahmudullah (13 off 13) had Bangladesh on the ropes, after a miscommunication caused a frustrating run out.

The Tigers were 57/5 at drinks, needing a huge few overs to work back into the contest.

Right arm off-spinner Rohit Paudel could smell blood, though, and produced a sharp-turning ball to trap the

other danger man, Shakib Al Hasan (17 off 22), out LBW.

And things went from bad to worse for Bangladesh, as Sandeep Lamichhane stepped into prominence with two huge wickets that also gave the 23-year-old legbreak bowler a memorable slice of history. Lamichhane’s second dismissal, removing Jaker Ali, was his 100th T20 International wicket, in his 54th cap.

The final blow came in the 20th over, with Paudel executing a run out to have Bangladesh all out for 106. It could’ve been worse for the Tigers, though, who added a very handy 18 runs in the final stand - a contribution that would prove vital.

Nepal’s run chase was bumpy in the early stages. A double-wicket maiden in the third over caused a spicy exchange involving bowler Tanzim

Hasan Sakib, as the pressure gauge went up in St. Vincent. Nepal stumbled to 24/4 through the Powerplay, leaving themselves a mountain of work to do at the six over mark.

Sundeep Jora was out next over, as Nepal fell to five-for and in a world of trouble. But up stepped Kushal Malla and Dipendra Singh Airee, helping

steady the ship and keep the run chase within the realms of achievability.

They scrapped their way to 42/5 at drinks and toiled towards a run-a-ball assignment, with a big 16th over placing the match firmly in the balance. Two Malla boundaries took the partnership to up over 50 and with four overs to go, the required run rate was

down to 7.5.

Malla (27 off 40) was the wicket Nepal could ill-afford to lose, though, gone in the 17th over. But a perfectly-timed maximum from Airee kept Nepal still feeling optimistic with a couple of overs to go, needing 22 off the final 12 balls.

And then up stepped match-winner Mustafizur Rahman to the plate in the 19th over, doing the seemingly impossible. He produced a clutch, perfectly-timed wicket-maiden. It proved to be a match-sealing and stage-qualifying sequence for Bangladesh, which edged out Nepal by 21 runs - the lowest total ever successfully defended in a T20 World Cup match.

The Tigers charge into the second round of the tournament. (ICC Media)

Paudel thanks Nepal’s fans for their unwavering support

CAPTAIN Rohit Paudel believes that playing against better-ranked teams is the key to Nepal’s growth as they conclude their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign.

Nepal finished their Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 journey with a 21-run loss against Bangladesh on June 17. Despite not reaching the Super Eight stage, the young team had plenty to look forward to.

In the fixture before it, when pitted against eventual group-toppers South Africa, Paudel’s side almost crossed the finishing line but a stellar performance from South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi turned the game around.

Following that game in particular, one could see emotional reactions from the Rhino’s fans.

Despite the ups and downs, the Nepal fans turned out in great numbers to support their side.

The young captain shared

his gratitude towards the passionate Nepal fans who have shown their faith in the team and stuck by them till the end.

“Talking about our fans, we all are very grateful towards them,” Paudel said in the press conference after the Bangladesh

game. “Especially I saw the video where they were crying [after] the match against South Africa where we lost. So, I think they are very passionate and loving. So, I think in the coming future we'll do our best and give them the gift which I think we missed in this tournament.”

“Especially as a captain I feel a little disappointed and I believe that they are also disappointed with these losses, especially against South Africa. So, I just want to say thank you for your support.”

With the team showing glimpses of brilliance, Paudel felt that Nepal belonged on the global stage along with the best

sides in the world, with clarity on their strategies and personnel roles.

“There are a lot of positives to take, especially the way we played in Asia Cup and now in World Cup against good teams,” Paudel said. “So I think the sense of belonging here is there in the team. And as a player, everyone knows their role.

“And just, I think everything is planned and you need to execute the plans. We believe we'll do better in the future.”

Though Nepal finished without a win to their name at the group stage, they stood out for their performances against better-ranked sides. Paudel took

time to appreciate his bowlers especially.

“There are a lot of positives to take away, especially the way we bowled throughout the tournament.”

He added that Nepal would only improve if given regular opportunities against full member nations.

“As a team, I think there's a lot of potential in this team. And if you back this team and play good cricket with good teams, especially like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and everyone. So regularly, if you play with them, I think there will be improvement in us.”

(ICC Media)

LINDEN Technical Institute on Sunday stormed to an impressive victory to reach the summit in the Youth Basketball Guyana-organised Tertiary Basketball League indoor tournament at the National Gymnasium.

A fast start from the Linden team saw them overwhelming the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) early in the match-up to lead 24-3. It was a herculean task for the GSA side who were without their top scorer Shannon Wilson.

GSA were down by a sizeable margin at the half -- 42-15- in what was quickly shaping up to be a one-sided affair from which they seem unlikely to recover.

with 41 points, 12 rebounds and six steals for an awesome outing for his team.

UG narrowly led after the first half 28-24, despite GTI missing key player Martin Edwards.

UG ‘s top player Bailey proved unstoppable with Malachi Grimmond also supporting WITH 17 points and five rebounds.

GTI best plays came from Jamal Mercier with 10 points and 10 rebounds, Peter Langevine also aided his team in the loss with eight points and 16 rebounds.

well with Grimmond as they looked unplayable in the encounter to

LTI’s Kimol Grimmond continued to shine for his side, this time dropping 32 points and five rebounds with his team-mate Neil Narks also showing his chops with 15 points. LTI’s Colin Philips stepped up in the second half as he registered 20 points,

keep their unbeaten streak with their sixth straight victory.

GSA’s Cadasie Fraser was the only player in his team that managed to get into double figures, finishing with 16 points

and seven rebounds as LTI won 89- 38.

In the other match-up for the day, the University of Guyana mowed down the Government Technical Institute, 60-44.

It was a bruising clash for GTI as UG’s Jushawn Bailey put on a show for his 100team almost outscoring GTI by himself. Bailey, who is a favourite for the tournament MVP, ended

The final is set to be played on Sunday, June 23rd, at 8pm at the National Gymnasium. The Tertiary League is sponsored by G-boats Guyana and Edward B Beharry Company Limited.

pairing

UG Trojans and MVP candidate Jushawn Bailey at the Rim (green)

MVP Candidate Kimol Grimmond going for a lay-up (yellow) Nepalese fans were in their numbers at all their fixtures

Man-of-the-match, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, celebrates one of his four scalps

LOCKIE Ferguson bowled four overs without conceding a run as New Zealand swept aside Papua New Guinea in a T20 World Cup dead rubber in Trinidad.

Pace bowler Ferguson became the first man to bowl four maidens in a T20 World Cup match and only the second bowler to do so in all men’s T20 internationals.

In claiming three wickets, he helped the Black Caps dismiss Papua New Guinea for 78 on a difficult, uneven surface.

New Zealand lost Finn Allen to the second ball of their

4-4-0-3 helps Kiwis exit World T20 on a high

reply, but Devon Conway’s 35 put them on the way to a seven-wicket win with almost eight overs to spare.

They finish third in Group C, behind Afghanistan and cohosts West Indies, who have already qualified for the Super 8s before their meeting in the final game of the opening round on Monday night.

With both New Zealand and Papua New Guinea eliminated, there was little to whet the appetite for this contest, especially when it was delayed for an hour by rain.

But Ferguson made it mem-

orable, his speed in excess of 90mph too fiery for the inexperienced PNG batting line-up.

He had captain Assad Vala slash to Daryl Mitchell at wide slip from his first delivery, pinned Charles Amini lbw on review and bowled Chad Soper.

PNG did take two runs from the third ball of Ferguson’s final over, but they were leg byes off the pad of Kiplin Doriga.

Ferguson ended with figures of 4-4-0-3, matching the four maidens bowled by Canada’s Saad Bin Zafar against Panama in 2021.

Left-armer Trent Boult, in

Fixtures, dates and venues confirmed for Super Eight stage

AS the initial group stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 comes to a close, we move to the next chapter in the event, which will see eight remaining teams battle it out for four semi-final spots.

India (Group A), USA (Group A), Australia (Group B), England (Group B), Afghanistan (Group C), West Indies (Group C), South Africa (Group D) and Bangladesh (Group D) are the eight teams who have qualified for the Super Eights.

India, Australia, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh will feature in Group 1 of the next round, whereas West Indies, South Africa, England, and the USA will feature in Group 2.

Teams will be playing three matches each during the Super Eight phase, with the top two sides in each group qualifying for the semi-final stage of the event.

Super Eight details

The Super Eight stage commences in Antigua on June 19 with a clash between USA and South Africa in Antigua. The same evening West Indies will take on old rivals, England in St Lucia. The two sides have a prolific cricketing history, with the Men in Maroon ensuring a dominant display at home against England in the recent years.

The following day will see the unbeaten India and Afghanistan face-off in Barbados in what looms as a crucial fixture prior to the knockout stages of the tour-

nament. This will also be the first occasion on this tournament that India will play a contest in the Caribbean.

their close loss to Australia at last year's ICC Men's Cricket World Cup when the two sides meet on June 22 in St

can overwhelm most sides but Rashid Khan’s team have shown an indomitable fighting spirit in the tournament

The rampant Afghans will look to make amends for

Vincent. Back-to-back games against formidable opponents

19 June: USA v South Africa, North Sound, Antigua

19 June: England v West Indies, Gros Islet, St Lucia

20 June: Afghanistan v India, Bridgetown, Barbados

20 June: Australia v Bangladesh, North Sound, Antigua

21 June: England v South Africa, Gros Islet, St Lucia

21 June: USA v West Indies, Bridgetown, Barbados

22 June: India v Bangladesh, North Sound, Antigua

22 June: Afghanistan v Australia, Arnos Vale, St Vincent

23 June: USA v England, Bridgetown, Barbados

23 June: West Indies v South Africa, North Sound, Antigua

24 June: Australia v India, Gros Islet, St Lucia

24 June: Afghanistan v Bangladesh, Arnos Vale, St Vincent (ICC Media)

thus far.

More crucial fixtures follow up in coming dates: with co-hosts West Indies taking on South Africa in their final Group 2 clash on June 23 in Antigua. The Proteas have historically dominated the West Indies, but the tables were turned last month when the Men in Maroon cleansweep the three-game T20I series between the two sides at home.

Another Men’s Cricket World Cup-centric encounter takes place in St Lucia, where finalists India will clash against the eventual winners Australia on June 24.

Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, and St Vincent will host all 12 games in this round.

possibly his last game for New Zealand, weighed in with 2-14.

Possibly because of the unpredictable pitch, New Zealand were watchful in the chase. Allen was undone by some low bounce, under-edging behind, and Rachin Ravindra holed out on the leg side, both off the left-

THREE-time Olympic gold medallist, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, made a triumphant return to the track with a controlled sprint of 11.15 seconds at the French Foray Meeting held at the National Stadium on Saturday night. This performance comes less than two weeks before the start of the Jamaica national championships, which will determine the team representing Jamaica at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The 38-year-old sprinting legend, who boasts a lifetime best of 10.60 seconds, was making an extraordinarily late start to her season. Despite this, Fraser-Pryce, running with her right knee and lower-thigh strapped with kenisio tape, demonstrated her enduring talent by shaking off the rust and securing victory against a competitive field. Jodean Smith, clocking in at 11.20 seconds, finished second, while schoolgirl Sabrina Dockery took third place with a time of 11.46 seconds. In the men's sprints, Bouwahjgie Nkrumie emerged as the fastest athlete of the night with a time of 10.21 seconds. Sandray Davison was close behind, recording a time of 10.25 seconds, while De Andre Daley achieved a season-best of 10.26 seconds to finish third. Notably, Ackeem Blake, despite stumbling out of the blocks in Nkrumie's heat, managed to recover and post a respectable time of 10.30 seconds. (Sportsmax)

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (left) eases to victory

West Indies team

Lockie Ferguson produced an outstanding spell to etch his name in the record books (Photo: ICC via Getty Images)

arm medium of Kabua Morea. Conway lofted three sixes before he too was undone by the lack of bounce, lbw to Semo Kamea, leaving Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell to complete the formalities. (BBC Sport).

'India has leadership role to play' for Test cricket to thrive, says CWI CEO Johnny Grave

…Grave also backs centralising travel costs in the WTC and spreading out hosting rights for men's world events

INDIA has a “leadership role to play” in ensuring that Test cricket not just survives but thrives in regions such as the West Indies, according to Cricket West Indies CEO Johnny Grave.

Grave, who joined Cricket West Indies (CWI) back in 2017, lauded the BCCI’s commitment to Test cricket despite a gruelling calendar, but said more needs to be done at the ICC level to protect the red-ball game outside India, England and Australia.

Out of the nine competing ICC full members, only these three will play a five-match series in the 2023-2025 World Test Championship cycle. Three teams-- Ireland, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe-have never been part of the championship, which was introduced in 2019.

Grave, currently busy with co-hosting the T20 World Cup, spoke on the future of the game and the role he expects the BCCI to play.

“India have a leadership role to play,” Grave told PTI. “They’re now the No. 1 board when it comes to power, influence and resources. To date, they’ve been fantastic in how they’ve continued to play all three formats of the game, [and with] their commitment to Test cricket, I don’t think it has ever been as strong as it is now.”

Is the BCCI doing enough in the leadership role? “I think they are,” Grave said. “They’re becoming increas-

ingly influential in the key decisions that the ICC makes.

The BCCI were hugely supportive in one of the biggest things the ICC have achieved in the last 12 months, which is getting cricket back into the Olympics after a gap of 128 years.

“The fact that India came on board and supported that bid was absolutely, in my opinion, crucial for the result that the ICC got, which was the acceptance of cricket into the LA Games.

“And we’re already seeing from the Associate world, in particular, that being an Olympic sport has a very big impact on them, positively, in terms of how they can get money from government, get money from the Olympic associations to drive the game

at all levels.”

“Centralise travel costs and accommodation in WTC”

India have toured the West Indies three times in the last five years, providing a massive financial boost to the CWI, which largely depends on media-rights money from Indian and English broadcasters to keep the game afloat in the Caribbean.

As of now, series in the WTC cycle are bilaterals with the home board pocketing all broadcast revenues and the visiting teams having to pay for their own travel.

Grave wants the ICC to centralise the travel costs – West Indies have to spend quite a bit on travel in crisscrossing the globe.

“We have to have a

league mentality that we’re all in it together as the Test-playing nations,'” Grave said. “And I think the World Test Championship is a start to that. I think it’s gaining some momentum. I think it can be improved.

“Centralise flights and accommodation within the World Test Championship and take on those costs as the costs of the league, rather than placing all that burden on the participating teams as we’re so negatively disadvantaged by that.”

T20 World Cup to offer economic boost of US$300 million in the region

In Grave’s words, the CWI has not been in a better place financially after multiple tours from India and

Continued on page 24

Archer has 'exceeded expectations', says Buttler following England comeback

JOS Buttler has praised Jofra Archer upon his return to international cricket at the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Archer spent over a year on the sidelines nursing an elbow injury following a recurrence of a stress fracture that ruled him out of summer cricket 12 months ago.

The 29-year-old has taken five wickets for Matthew Molt's side, the latest coming in their 41-run triumph over Namibia as they progressed to the Super 8 stage following Australia's win over Scotland.

"We were in and out looking at the weather and Jofra was asleep on the bench - he's in a really good place," said Buttler.

"I’m just delighted to see him back in an England shirt playing on the big stage."

Archer's struggles with injury have persisted for the last three years, missing England's 2023 Ashes series against the Aussies.

The fast bowler played a pivotal role in Three Lions' ODI World Cup success in 2019, and has recaptured that form which saw him take 20 wickets during that tournament.

Archer has captured a wicket in each of England's World Cup fixtures, averaging an economy rate of 5.91, only bettered by Reece Topley (3.60).

Buttler has been impressed with the 29-year-old's form in the opening stages of the tournament, but revealed his progress has exceeded his expectations.

"He’s been fantastic and is an amazing guy to have in the team to throw the ball to," said Buttler.

"He’s exceeded certainly my expectations for where he would be at. He was probably expecting that of himself." (Sportsmax)

'The fact that India supported the LA Olympics bid was absolutely crucial' • (Randy Brooks/AFP/ Getty Images)

England pacer Jofra Archer and captain Jos Buttler