Guyana, US reaffirm commitment to regional security, democracy, stability
- US official, President Ali discuss ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties
President Ali acknowledges work of Indigenous men, women in uniform
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Tuesday, hosted a luncheon to honour Indigenous representatives from the Joint Services, at State House. In his address, the President spoke of the drive of his Government to give all Guyanese opportunities to enhance their development and lauded the “human transformation” taking place in the country, especially in indigenous communities. He challenged the almost 300 attendees to be “trendsetters” and to continue to push to advance their careers, especially through the educational opportunities available. He said: “Each one of you will have a role in this beautiful future that we are crafting, in this future in which you will enjoy a higher quality of life…We want you to blossom; we want all of you to blossom in a way in which your community and your families can be very proud of you.” A number of Government officials, including Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips and Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo were also at the event (Office of the President photos) Further delays in election fraud trial as magistrate remains
- Attorney-General Nandlall
Further delays in election fraud trial as magistrate remains on medical leave
THE long-awaited trial on election fraud, which involves prominent political figures and former senior election officials, has once again been delayed as a result of Senior Magistrate Leron Daly’s ongoing medical leave.
The trial, which has already faced multiple delays since the charges were first brought forward in late 2020, continues to spark concerns over when it will finally reach a conclusion.
Originally set to resume on August 7, 2024, the proceedings were delayed as Magistrate Daly was granted a 30-day medical leave, pushing the next scheduled hearing to September 17, 2024.
However, with Daly’s health issues persisting, on Tuesday, acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty
updated the court that the trial would now be further adjourned to October 31, 2024, at 10:00 hours. Magistrate Mc Gusty emphasised that if Daly is still unwell by the newly scheduled date, the court will need to assess whether she is fit to continue presiding over the case.
In such a situation, submissions will be accepted regarding her competency to remain on the case. Should her condition not improve, Magistrate Mc Gusty said there is also
a possibility that the trial could be reassigned to another magistrate for continuation.
This latest adjournment adds to the mounting delays in the trial, which have been repeatedly interrupted by legal maneuvering and procedural issues. These include requests for adjournments from the defence and prosecution, as well as the filing of a constitutional motion.
The trial, which began on July 29, 2024, has garnered national attention due to the gravity of the
charges, which stem from allegations of vote manipulation during the 2020 general and regional elections.
Charged are People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) activist, Carol Smith-Joseph; former Health Minister under the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government, Volda Lawrence; former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Keith Lowenfield; former Deputy CEO at GECOM, Roxanne Myers; former District Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo; and GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller.
They are collectively facing 19 conspiracy charges related to alleged electoral fraud.
They have all denied the charges and are out on cash bail.
It is alleged that between March 2, 2020 and August 2, 2020, Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo, while in Georgetown, conspired with the other six defendants and others to defraud the electorate of Guyana by declaring a false account of the votes cast at the highly contentious elections.
The case centres on accusations that the de -
fendants inflated or facilitated the inflation of the vote count for Region Four, Guyana’s largest voting district, allegedly handing the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition an illegitimate victory.
While the initial results declared by former CEO Lowenfield, showed the APNU+AFC with 171,825 votes and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) with 166,343 votes, a recount and investigation revealed a different outcome.
The recount, which was supervised by GECOM and a high-level Caribbean Community (CARICOM) team, found that the APNU+AFC had actually received 217,920 votes, while the PPP/C received 233,336 votes. The recount process confirmed that the PPP/C had won the elections by a margin of over 15,000 votes.
The state’s case, led by King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani, is supported by a significant amount of evidence, including flash drives containing certified copies of Statements of Poll (SoPs) and Statements of Recount (SoRs), as well as witness statements from 80 individuals.
Video interviews and bundles of key documents have also been disclosed to the defence.
Several high-profile witnesses have already testified, including Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag, and Head of the Diaspora Unit, Rosalinda Rasul.
During her testimony, Parag highlighted that Mingo persisted in using spreadsheets for vote tabulation, despite clear directives from Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire, SC, to rely solely on the official Statements of Poll (SoPs).
The other prosecution witnesses include Forensic Investigator, Rawle Nedd, and former Region Four Police Commander, Edgar Thomas. According to the prosecution, Mingo and other officials deliberately manipulated the results in Region Four to keep the APNU+AFC caretaker administration in power, thus undermining the democratic process.
The defence attorneys include Nigel Hughes, Ronald Daniels, Eusi Anderson, Kiswanna Jefford and Darren Wade. The other prosecutors are attorney Latchmie Rahamat and several State Counsel from the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
GECOM made the decision to dismiss Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo in August 2021, after the allegations of fraud came to light.
Senior Magistrate Leron Daly
Top row, from left: Volda Lawrence, Keith Lowenfield, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller. Bottom row, from left: Enrique Livan, Sheffern February, Clairmont Mingo, and Carol Smith-Joseph
Roxanne Myers
Acting Chief Magistrate, Faith Mc Gusty
Guyana, US reaffirm commitment to regional security, democracy, stability
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US official, President Ali discuss ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties
PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan
Ali and US Principal Deputy National Security Adviser, Jon Finer, during a phone call on Tuesday, discussed ongoing efforts to strengthen the bilateral relationship, and reaffirm the commitment of Guyana and the United States to advance regional security, democracy and stability.
According to the readout of the phone call: “They discussed the outcomes of the inaugural Guyana-U.S. Strategic Dialogue that was held in July, and additional con-
crete steps to contribute to Guyana’s economy, development and territorial integrity.”
Discussions also surrounded concerns regarding the situation in Venezuela following the July 28 presidential election.
“Mr. Finer and President Ali agreed to continue collaboration with regional partners to restore security for the Haitian people, and ensure the success and sustainability of the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support mission in Haiti,” the US White House said.
Guyana makes crucial advancements in improving access to potable water
- Minister Croal shares country’s achievements at eight India Water Week
CEO of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Mr. Shaik Baksh.
ter, and upgrade Georgetown’s aging infrastructure.
The event, attended by India's Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri Chan -
MINISTER of Housing and Water, Hon. Collin D Croal, is currently representing Guyana at the eight India Water Week-2024, where he delivered remarks during the Ministerial Plenary Session.
drakant Raghunath Patil, and other sector ministers, focuses on inclusive water development and management. Also representing Guyana is the
Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Collin D Croal, is currently representing Guyana at the eight India Water Week-2024, where he delivered remarks during the Ministerial Plenary Session
In his address, Minister Croal highlighted Guyana’s rapid expansion of its potable water sector, driven by the country’s macroeconomic growth from the emerging petroleum industry.
He emphasised strategic initiatives such as the Water and Sanitation Sector Strategic Plan, which aim to increase access to treated water in both coastal and hinterland communities, reduce non-revenue wa-
Currently, 98.8 per cent of the coastland and 82 per cent of hinterland communities have access to potable water, with the government targeting 100 per cent coverage by 2025. Plans are also in place to boost treated water coverage from 52 per cent to 90 per cent, benefitting 260,000 citizens.
Minister Croal also noted GWI's efforts to enhance water quality management, including the construction of a
state-of-the-art central water testing laboratory equipped with an ISO17025 management system, capable of conducting chemical, microbiological, and wastewater analysis.
It was further stated that the government remains committed to climate-resilient infrastructure. India Water Week 2024 is being held from September 17-20, under the theme "Partnerships and Cooperation for Inclusive Water Development and Management." (Ministry of Housing and Water)
US Principal Deputy National Security Adviser, Jon Finer
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali
Gov’t to finalise petroleum data repository agreement this year
PLANS to establish an oil and gas data repository in Guyana are progressing, with the government set to finalise arrangements for its implementation in the second half of 2024.
According to the 2024 Mid-Year Report, the repository will enable Guyana to consolidate all historical and current petroleum data in a centralised local facility.
At present, Guyana’s data is stored in Houston, Texas. Companies seeking additional information related to Guyana’s oil prospects must make a special request to access this
overseas facility.
During a recent press conference, Minister of Natural Resources
Vickram Bharrat described the initiative as an ambitious project aimed at fostering job creation and revenue generation by keeping data within the country.
“Many countries producing oil don’t have a data repository in their own country after four or five years. After four years [of producing oil] we are already moving towards establishing our own data repository in the country,” he said.
Minister Bharrat further asserted, “It’s a very lucrative invest -
ment or assignment that we’re taking on because it’s not only spending money to set up the data repository. It is about getting our people to work there and to sell that data to companies that will come and seek to do exploration in Guyana. It’s worth a lot of money.”
He noted that in the previous bid round, companies were re -
quired to pay a US$2 million fee for data access. While acknowledging that Guyana received a portion of this revenue, he argued that holding the repository in-house would be significantly more profitable.
“If we can have it in-country, it means that we will make that kind of money when we sell our data be -
various types of petroleum-related information, including seismic data, drilling records and reservoir engineering data.
The Mid-Year report also disclosed that eight expressions of interest have been reviewed to conduct seismic surveys offshore Guyana. Seven companies were invited to submit proposals to the government for consideration.
cause our data is in demand. Everybody wants the data from the Guyana Basin,” the natural resources minister further explained.
A petroleum data repository is a centralised storage and management system for data related to the exploration, production, and distribution of petroleum and natural gas. It serves as a hub for
“An evaluation will be completed in the second half of this year, as well as the subsequent award of the contract,” the report stated.
A 3D seismic study is a key tool used in oil and gas exploration to create a three-dimensional image of what lies beneath the Earth’s surface. This makes it easier to pinpoint potential locations of oil and gas reserves. (DPI)
GPF to investigate circulation of unauthorised ‘pension, permanent disability books’
THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has issued a statement regarding the discovery of unauthorised copies of Old Age Pension and Permanent Disability books being submitted for encashment at post offices and other venues of payment.
According to the ministry, the books submitted to these various payment facilities do not bear the security features and colours of the official books.
“We have provided all the information and evidence in our possession to the Guyana Police Force,” the ministry said. An investigation will be carried out by the Force, and anyone involved in this act will face the full force of the law. The ministry noted
that any person who presents the unauthorised books will also be held accountable.
In addition, the MHSSS has also requested its staff and the Guyana Post Office Corporation, as well as the alternate payment venues to enhance their vigilance as it relates to these books and this issue.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has designated offices throughout Guyana for the distribution of these booklets.
These locations are: General Office1, Water and Cornhill Streets, Stabroek; Across the Regions:
Region One- The Regional Administration Office in Port Kaituma & Mabaruma; Region Two- The Regional Administration Office/ Probation & Social Security Officer in Anna Regina; Region Three- The Regional Administration Office/ Probation & Social Security Officer in the
Pouderoyen Education Building; In Regions Five and Six, The Mahaicony Regional Office/Fort Wellington Magistrate’s Building and Ministry of Social Protection Office in New Amsterdam, Corentyne and Corentyne Berbice; In Region Seven, the Probation & Social Services Officer in Bartica Regional Building; Region Nine, Probation & Social Services Officer in Lethem Regional Building; and in Region Ten, the Probation & Social Services Officer in the Linden Regional Building.
Saipem launches comprehensive programme to support single mothers, empower women
SAIPEM has announced the launch of its 2024 Local Community Initiatives (LCIs) Plan in Guyana, by which Saipem is stepping up its commitment to strengthening relationships with local residents and community stakeholders.
According to a press release, Saipem has always been engaged in creating lasting value for the communities where the company operates.
“In alignment with this vision, Saipem in 2024 will focus on empowering individuals and fostering community growth through targeted investments and social programmes,” the company said.
This year, Saipem is partnering with the NGO, Women Across Differences, to launch two impactful initiatives aimed at supporting women and single mothers in Guyana.
One the initiatives, Computer Literacy for Sin-
gle Young Women, forms part of an effort to bridge the digital divide.
“Saipem will provide computer literacy training for five single, unemployed women aged 18 to 30 years. Selected through a collaboration with Women Across Differences, these young women will receive full scholarship to attend the Global Technology Institute, gaining essential skills to enhance their career prospects and overall life quality,” the company said.
The second initiative, Educational Opportunities for Single Mothers, will see Saipem support-
ing eight Guyanese single mothers to return to school
“These mothers will have the opportunity to enroll in courses at esteemed institutions including the Government Technical Institute (GTI), Guyana Industrial Technical Centre, Institute of Distance and Continuing Education, and Carnegie School of Economics. This initiative aims to empower them with the skills needed to support their families and advance their personal development,” the company said.
The computer literacy programme will span eight weeks, while the educational courses for single mothers will last seven weeks with possibility for advanced and prolonged attendance. Both initiatives kick off this month.
“Similarly to what has been done in 2023, this year Saipem will additionally focus on an internship programme, providing
valuable work experience to six students coming from technical vocational schools like GTI (Guyana Technical Institute) and GITC (Guyana Industrial Training Centre) and to three final-year engineering students from the University of Guyana,” the company said.
Saipem's 2024 initiatives represent a significant evolution of the company's community engagement efforts, dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of Guyanese society.
The company said its commitment to ongoing community development and support reflects its belief in the power of education and opportunity to drive positive change.
Saipem is a global leader in the engineering and construction of major projects for the energy and infrastructure sectors, both offshore and onshore.
MHSSS Old Age and Permanent Disability booklets for 2024
Facts do not lie
VICE-President and PPP General Secretary
Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has accused the PNCR-led APNU of seeking to downplay the massive transformation the country is currently experiencing and the positive impact such developments are having on the quality of life of the Guyanese people.
According to Dr. Jagdeo, since returning to office in 2020, the PPP/C government has embarked on a transformational development agenda. One immediate consequence of these developments is a reduction in the cost of living and enhanced disposable income which when taken together has resulted in a bigger basket of goods and
services for the nation's consumers.
Only recently the government has announced a financial subsidy for electricity consumption for pensioners. Pensioners already are the beneficiaries of water subsidies which speaks to the caring nature of the PPP/C administration especially as it relates to the elderly and the less fortunate in our society.
It will be recalled that the previous PPP/C administration had removed Value Added Tax (VAT) on water and electricity consumption but such taxes were promptly reinstated following the assumption to office of the Granger-led APNU+AFC administration in May 2015. In addition, a slew of
new taxes were imposed on a wide range of basic consumer items which took a severe toll on the standard of living on the Guyanese people in particular the poor and the elderly.
Yet the political opposition is trying to convey the impression of a party that care for the Guyanese people, by making all manner of 'promises' of what it will do were it to become victorious at the next general and regional elections. Experience, it is said, is the best teacher and if the actions taken by the previous APNU+AFC administration are anything to go by, Guyanese certainly can expect more of the same failed anti-people policies in the unlikely event of an
opposition victory at the 2025 polls.
The truth is that the progress made by the PPP/C administration since it took office in August 2020 is nothing short of spectacular. The Guyana economy is growing at phenomenally high rates, second to none in the region.
The social and physical infrastructure of the country is changing rapidly for all to see. This is true for all facets of national life such as access to housing, water and the delivery of quality services in health and education.
Massive public sector spending especially in infrastructural works have resulted in the creation of thousands of new job op-
portunities and an overall boost to the economy.
These investments are having what economists refer to as an 'accelerator effect' on the national economy and in the process lifting, as it were, all boats.
As the economy picks up momentum, Guyanese can look forward to a brighter future under the guiding hands of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali; Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo; Prime Minister Mark Phillips and indeed the entire PPP/C administration which have over the past years demonstrated that they have what it takes to propel this nation of ours to higher levels of prosperity.
of leadership that the country needs at this exciting stage of its development. Leadership that is visionary and with the best interest of the Guyanese people in mind.
The political opposition is working hard on a campaign of misinformation, disinformation and lies in an attempt to minimise the solid record of achievements the PPP/C is making.
This is indeed the kind
The difficulty the political opposition is confronting is that facts do not lie. With development and progress in full evidence for all to see, it is a task akin to shoveling smoke by the political opposition in its vain attempt to convince Guyanese otherwise.
A Petroleum Commission would not magically prevent corruption
Dear Editor, REFERENCE is made to a Kaieteur News (KN) article published in its September 15, 2024, edition, with the caption “For Guyana to prosper with its oil politicians must be replaced with a competent Petroleum Commission― TT specialist”.
I don’t know where KN finds these “specialists” from, but this latest specialist dug up by KN, is a known Trinidadian “talker”, Mr. Kuarla Rampersad. That aside, his reasoning
is quite illogical because he thinks that experts are incorruptible. Politicians are not the only ones who are corrupt, experts are perhaps more corrupt than politicians.
What is interesting though is that this so-called specialist has the audacity to lecture Guyana on what is good for its prosperity, but the same thing he wants for Guyana, is absent in his own country.
I confirmed that Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) has no such petroleum commis-
sion, a country that has been in the oil and gas business for more than a century. Is he suggesting, therefore, that the Trinidadian politicians are corrupt and therefore there is/was no prosperity in T&T?
I would argue that a petroleum commission is not necessary. Those same experts should be recruited within the ministry and other regulatory agencies.
The disadvantage with a petroleum commission of sorts is that it could move in the opposite direction that
the country intends to go as a matter of its public policy. In our case, the policy is to ramp up production as fast as possible and to extract maximum resources as fast as possible, considering that there is a relatively short window to do so.
We are in an era where we cannot afford to move at snail's pace in an industry that is increasingly evolving.
On the issue of corruption, this is why it is important to have a robust legal framework, parliamentary
oversight, and strong institutions. As such, strengthening of the overarching governance and legislative framework for the sector is paramount. Are we doing this as a country? The answer is yes.
It is foolish to think that experts are not corrupt, and that a petroleum commission will magically prevent corruption. There is no such guarantee.
Furthermore, it is worthwhile to note that the existing institutions, such as the Guyana Revenue Authority
(GRA) and the auditors have been doing a commendable job in terms of uncovering financial and other irregularities through the cost recovery audits. There are at least three cases in the sector that are the subject of arbitration, of which one landed in the local court (the inflated invoice by a Trinidadian firm). These examples are good indicators that the existing institutions are working effectively. Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin
Reducing Guyana’s, CARICOM’s value of food imports by 25 per cent by 2025
Dear Editor, ENDOWED with several natural resources (bauxite, gold, diamond, manganese, pristine forest, arable land, and an abundance of fresh water) and now oil, Guyana moves to extract these in a sustainable way, and not only for the benefit of Guyana but also for CARICOM.
It is within this context that Guyana has taken the regional lead on three strategic pillars of the economy: energy, food security, and climate change.
In terms of energy, Guyana whose manufacturing possibilities were hampered by high energy costs and whose population have had to endure not only high electricity costs but also periodic load shedding and blackouts, would soon get important relief from the integrated gas processing facility at Wales.
When the electricity and gas plants become operational, the energy cost to consumers is expected to decline by 50 per
cent: from $(US)22 cents per kwh to $(US)11 cents per kwh. Though the estimated cost of the project is $(US)1.9 billion, that works out to just $(US)4 cents per kwh (covering all capital and operational costs), and the country would save $(US)100 million annually.
The PPP/C government’s record on climate change is second to none. Its detailed plan is captured in the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), 2030. Guyana is Net Zero; thanks to its forest that stores 20 billion tons of CO2, and it also removes 154 million tons of CO2 from the atmosphere each year.
Guyana joined 139 countries and signed onto the Net Zero emission by 2050. The funds earned through LCDS are being used for climate mitigation and adaptation, as well as for Amerindian land titles and community development (carbon credits). I would expand on energy and climate change in future articles.
The biggest challenge to the three pillars, however, is the country’s ambitious 25/25 food security programme along with CARICOM, to reduce the value of food imports by 25 per cent by the year 2025.
Between 2018 and 2020 CARICOM, for example, imported in value, 60 per cent of its food requirements (in a few countries it was 80 per cent).
Recognising that this level of imports cannot continue, CARICOM was able to reduce the value of imports by 12 per cent in 2023 compared with 2022. And with respect to fish and sea foods, CARICOM has set a goal to reduce imports by 20 per cent (from US$387 to US$309).
To illustrate the progress towards 25/25, the Agriculture Minister of Guyana Zulfikar Mustapha provides figures for Guyana. These are self-explanatory. The rate of increase is substantial.
The production of brakish water shrimps is projected to increase by 25 per cent from 958,000 kg in 2023 to 1,200,000 kg in 2024. A multi-million-dollar project to cultivate prawns is ongoing at Onverwagt, West Berbice.
Much work needs to be done in egg production. The expanding corn production would lead to increased egg production. Guyana imports 53 million eggs annually. In 2023 Guyana produced just
27,000 eggs. By August 24, 2024, it produced 97,000 eggs (3.5 times). Minister Zulfikar expects that within a few years Guyana would become self-sufficient in egg production.
Minister Zulfikar is mindful of ‘el Nino’ weather patterns and has taken measures to mitigate the impact of this on production. The Ministry of Agriculture is building a Hopelike Canal each at No. 51/52 and at Lancaster, which will offer flood protection for over 360,966 acres of farmland and residential areas. The government provides incentives and removes obstacles to growth.
The government grants duty free concessions for machinery and agriculture inputs; upgraded market to farm roads as well as constructing several highways to benefit all Guyanese including farmers; has restored the drainage-irrigation charges and land rentals which the APNU+AFC government increased by more than four
times (from $(G) 3, 500 to $(G) 15,000) to the original level of $3,500. New methods of agriculture husbandry like hydroponic and shade houses are being implemented. President, Dr. Irfaan Ali takes more than a personal interest in agriculture expansion and diversification.
To achieve the target of 25 by 2025, a special Ministerial Task Force on Food Production and Food Security (MTF) was established to guide the implementation of Vision 25 by 2025. Ministers of Agriculture in CARICOM meet monthly to evaluate the situation. For 2023, the value of food imports was reduced by 12 per cent in CARICOM compared with 2022. Minister Zulfikar expresses optimism that that Guyana and CARICOM would attain the objectives of 25 by 2025. And Guyana would never catch the Dutch Disease.
Yours sincerely, Tara Singh
More dry cries from Lincoln Lewis
Dear Editor,
DESPITE the daily dry-cry about press freedom issues here, Kaieteur News has yet again allowed the predictable nonsense from Lincoln Lewis to be published.
But no one is fooled, because even a political novice can see that Lewis is trying to insert something about election irregularities, a quality, ironically for which the
PNCR-led APNU-AFC is well known.
Lewis knows very well that the PNC is the darling of rigged elections and other forms of political skullduggery. Their only match might be the WPA which went so far as urging the perfectly legal elections of 2020 be thrown out.
Lewis made references to
the 1997 and 2006 elections, both of which the PPP/C won hands down. The man is confused about who won, so below is a review of those results for him.
In 1997, despite violent intimidation by the PNC, the PPP won 34 seats, and the PNC 26. The PPP picked up two seats; the PNC lost five. The PPP received 55.26 per
cent of the popular votes; the PNC 40.55 per cent. If Lincoln Lewis still does not understand, he should know that the PPP won 220,667 votes, versus 161,901 votes by the PNC.
In 2006, the PPP/C won 36 seats, the PNCR-1-G won 24, and the new AFC won five. Despite the entry of the AFC, the PPP/C won
two more seats, while the PNCR fell again. There was an upswing of 1.7 percentage points (pp) for the PPP/C, but a ‘down-swing’ of 7.6 percentage points for the hapless PNCR.
Lincoln Lewis needs to digest these results and get off the stale but still potent lies about who killed whom during the brutal years
after the jail-break. I urge him to read the Stabroek News report on the same subject.
You can find the here at https://www.stabroeknews. com/2019/11/18/news/ guyana/prison-break-carnage-february-2002-september-2006/
Yours Truly, Anson Paul
Mayor Mentore deliberately concealed important information to deceive citizens about government interventions in Georgetown
Dear Editor,
IN response to Mayor Mentore’s letter dated September 15th, titled, “Paltry Central Government Subvention to City is Insult to Citizens,” I seek to clarify and highlight the facts omitted from the Mayor’s narrative regarding the government’s interventions in Georgetown.
For decades, the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has been plagued by chronic misappropriation of funds, a glaring lack of accountability and transparency, and gross mismanagement, among other persistent issues.
Mayor Mentore’s criticism of the amount of money allocated to the M&CC via
government subvention is particularly disingenuous, given that the Fiscal Transfer Act clearly outlines the criteria for such allocations, including the requirement for a comprehensive audit of the council’s finances.
Notably, it is only now— after six years—that this audit is being conducted, primarily due to concerns raised by the increased number of PPP councillors. Furthermore, Mr. Mentore, as a former deputy mayor, had numerous opportunities to advocate for an audit but failed to do so.
Instead of addressing the ongoing mismanagement within the M&CC, Mayor Mentore often frames truthful discussions about the council’s shortcomings
as political grandstanding rather than seizing them as opportunities to pursue meaningful solutions.
It is critical to acknowledge that the government subvention is far from the only support provided to the city. The current PPP/C government has consistently stepped in to support the citizens of Georgetown.
Firstly, despite inter-city streets being under M&CC jurisdiction, they are financed, maintained, and where previously non-existent, constructed by the Ministry of Public Works. Secondly, the desilting of major canals is undertaken by the Ministry of Agriculture through the National Drainage and Irrigation Au-
thority (NDIA), which is also building a new pump station at Liliendaal to improve drainage in South Georgetown.
Additionally, the NDIA supplies fuel to all M&CC-controlled pump stations. The Ministry of Health provides crucial assistance to council-run health centers with medications and staffing. The government has also taken on the desilting of internal drains and the construction of footpaths to improve accessibility, following consultations with local residents.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport is upgrading and rehabilitating 34 grounds throughout Georgetown. Are
all these efforts included in the $30 million subvention?
These interventions, representing billions of dollars, underscore the extensive investment the government has made in responsibilities that should ideally be handled by the M&CC.
As recently articulated by Minister Anand Persaud, the subvention aims to bring direct relief to citizens, reflecting the PPP/C’s commitment to Georgetown’s development. It is essential that the public recognises the importance of visionary and strategic resource management to ensure sustainable short, medium, and longterm benefits for the city.
This approach is manifesting before our eyes, which explains the ongoing public support for the current administration. His Excellency President Irfan Ali recently unveiled massive plans, in partnership with the Kings County Foundation, to further transform Georgetown through an innovative urban plan, demonstrating a continued willingness to collaborate with the M&CC on this venture.
As a PPP/C councillor, I remain committed to working with my fellow councillors and advocating for ongoing development through all available government channels for the betterment of Georgetown and its residents.
Steven Jacobs PPP/C Councillor
These 42 signatories need to read the Maurice Odle autobiography
ON December 13, 2022, a letter was published in the Stabroek News imploring the Guyana Government to put an immediate halt to oil production. It was a long correspondence that advocated Guyana’s exit from the oil industry because Guyana needs to be part of a global effort to save the planet.
Here are the words of the 42 persons which beg the question; where are we going to get an income so Guyana can continue to exist: “We are deeply concerned that the Government’s policy to pursue economic development based on oil and gas is bad for Guyana. Oil and gas production are an existential threat to Guyana. We cannot support government’s policy to produce oil and gas when every ton of greenhouse gas pollution cause (sic) loss of life in African countries. In light of the above we call for a national moratorium on all petroleum operations in Guyana – offshore and onshore.”
Here is the list and important to note below where a majority of them live:
Vanda Radzik
Alissa Trotz
Vidyaratha Kissoon
Karen de Souza
Pauline Melville
Christine Samwaroo
Danuta Radzik
Maya Trotz
Susan Collymore
Joy Marcus
Halima Khan
Vanessa Ross
Wintress White
Gary Girdhari
Nicole Cole
Abbyssinian Carto
Nigel Westmaas
Joan McDonald
Duane de Freitas
Akola Thompson
Joan Cambridge
Immaculata Casimero
Terry Roopnaraine
Colin Klautky
Earl John
Janette Bulkan
Sandy de Freitas
Sherlina Nageer
Jocelyn Dow
Elizabeth Deane-Hughes
Mosa Telford
Suraiya Ismail
Leila Jagdeo
Gerald Perreira
Romario Hastings
Paulette Allicock
Daniel Allicock
Isabelle de Caires
Luke Daniels
Red Thread
Amerindian Peoples Association
South Rupununi District Council
The Breadfruit Collective Makushi Research Unit
Of those names listed above, here is their foreign status:
1 – Dr. Janet Bulkan serves the University of British Columbia.
2- Dr. Alissa Trotz serves the University of Toronto
3- Dr. Nigel Westmass serves Hamilton College in New York
4- Dr. Maya Trotz serves the University of South Florida
5 - Isabelle DeCaires lives in her homeland of the UK where her son plays cricket in the country championship for Middlesex.
6 – Abyssinian Carto is of Rastafari orientation that lives in New York.
7- Dr.Cary Gildarie lives in New York.
8 – Terry Roopnaraine lives in his homeland of the UK.
9 – Pauline Melville moved to the UK since the early 1950s.
10 – Alma O’Connell lives in Canada
11 – Christina Samaroo moved to New York in 2008
12 – Luke Daniels lives in the UK
I did not state the time these people left Guyana. In many cases, the time is between 15 and 45 years. Imagine you have gone for 45 years and you want to decide for us who live here? Also, it must be noted that many of the locally based among the 42 signatories are middle class and petty bourgeois persons who live a comfortable life and do not have to visit local hospitals because they travel outside.
These 42 signatories penned their letter under the psychological influence of a colonial, Western narrative that the West is a generous partner that will finance the Third World in the Global South’s participation of saving the planet. The West will fund alternative source of energy for developing countries. In fact, the West has promised to finance the energy alternative. But such funds have not arrived and will
not come. This is the realism in international relations since the end of colonialism.
After 60 years of independence, we have people in the Third World that believe the West has a genuine interest in a partnership with the Global South and the West will finance development in the Third World when the record on this is abysmal.
Now one of the Caribbean’s leading experts (a Guyanese) on the global economy who spent almost two decades working in the UN has written his autobiography. These 42 signatories, none of whom can match even by any percentage point the experience of Dr. Maurice Odle on international economics, need to read what Dr. Odle has written on the relationship between the West and the Third World in the area of international economics.
He refers to the hegemony of the West as the New Imperialism and list a number
of characteristics of the New Imperialism. I will quote one of these features that the 42 signatories should read because what Odle writes makes them look like agents of the New Imperialism: “Undue pressure with respect to reducing carbon emissions, despite the miniscule of such countries and lack of financial assistance for mitigation and adaptation and to erect renewable energy infrastructure.”
Odle has repeated what we all know - the developing world has not contributed even 0.9 percent of destruction to the environment. This section of Odle’s memoir is fantastic and should be read by all Third World people.
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.
Managing citizens’ expectations around oil income is a major challenge for gov’t
NO matter where people live on the planet, no matter their lifestyle, income group or identity, people want to see the systems that affect their daily lives function efficiently and with minimum stress.
Acquisition of passports, birth certificates, various licences, permits, public utilities, public transportation, police services, health ser-
vices, education and whatever else makes the list of basic government services, must be efficiently provided. In this decade, I lived in China for about three years. Even though those of us who were cultured in Western style democracy tend to heap scorn on Chinese political system, the way of life of the majority of Chinese people suggests a kind of jolly carefree satisfac-
tion with life, generally.
I believe this is so because, in China, the services required for daily life function at a high level of efficiency and in a way that meets the general expectation of citizens.
Little over a decade ago, I studied in Germany for two years. During that time, I became very close friends with a German young lady
in my class. In discussion one day, she lamented how many of the other classmates are forecasting that their line of career will take them to distant developing countries and their earnings would be sky high.
She was adamant that she has no interest in that sort of lifestyle. She loved the simplicity of daily German life. Her point of view was that, everything works in Germany, the health system is efficient, police do their work the right way, crime is low, housing and food are affordable and the government serves the people. No amount of money can compensate for this kind of peace of mind.
This brings me to Guyana. Most citizens, perhaps in the ninety-percentile range, would prefer to live in a country where basic public services work. I will not pretend that all systems in Guyana are in tip-top shape but things are improving measurably.
Guyana is in a peculiar political and economic synapse. Many government services that were tolerated at varying levels of underperformance are now being heavily flagged because citizens genuinely believe that in “oil rich Guyana” if not one thing it’s the other that is supposed to be better.
This is an expectation that, if it is not purposefully, carefully and watchfully managed and explained by the government, it can serve to create hurdles for its 2025 electoral ambitions. The opposition knows that this is a major vulnerability of the government, as a result, even though the opposition has not presented a single sound alternative plan for running the country and managing our income from oil, they are successfully exciting the emotions of some sections of the electorate by repeating the question, “why is this happening (or not happening) in oil
rich Guyana?”
So, they walk around with a camera and look for a solitary dilapidated latrine in the interior and make that the centre point of their activism and some media outlets in tow. Never do they show the one thousand that are being improved, nor will they show the government’s defined plan for improvement.
The opposition is enjoying some measure of success in feeding the false expectation that oil money is so plentiful that everything that is underserved in Guyana could be fixed in an instant.
Opposition elements are preaching ‘miraclenomics’ because it is finding some amount of resonance among the electorate. I do not think the government is doing enough to address this particular mental apprehension that exist.
The Vice President at his weekly press conferences do try to plug some of the issues but this is not enough. For example, this past Thursday he spent some time addressing the ills of raising of salaries too fast while outlining measures to ensure its implementation is managed over time. However, many media houses did not carry this in any of their articles and most ordinary citizens will not sit through the entire press conference to flesh out the gist of it.
Therefore, more than anything else, the government needs to design a firm strategy around managing the expectations of citizens. Otherwise, all the massive levels of development, improvements to services and growth in the economic fundamentals of the country will not have the necessary impact if it is not reinforced with an effective strategy to mitigate against buzzing false notions of how far the current income from oil can reach and when.
I urge citizens to look at the developmental trajectory of the other “oil rich” economies of the world. Nothing happened overnight, our own expectations have to be tempered in line with reality. We are and would be better off offering constructive policy suggestions than to fuel runaway unrealistic expectations.
Guyana’s Constitution remains most advanced, democratic in the region
- Attorney-General Nandlall says
Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, S.C.
ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C. has said that Guyana’s Constitution is and remains one of the most advanced and democratic constitutions in the region.
He made those remarks during a previous broadcast of his live show, ‘Issues in the News,’ where he addressed contentions made about Guyana’s governance system.
Vehemently rejecting a categorisation that Guyana’s governance structure is akin to an autocracy, he said that Guyana’s Constitution is not only democratic but stands as one of the most advanced
and liberal in the Caribbean.
Guyana, like many other democracies, operates under a well-established constitution that has been scrutinised and even praised for its democratic framework.
This Constitution, he said, establishes a contract between the state and its citizens, outlining how the government will function, how its leaders are elected, how public funds are managed, and how the government is held accountable.
“The constitution of a country is that principal document, that basic document of the state that establishes a contract between the state and the citizens. It outlines
how the state will be managed, how the state will be governed, and by whom,” Nandlall said.
Further, Nandlall related that Guyana’s Constitution meets all international requirements as it relates to constitutions that govern other countries like the United States, India, Canada and South Africa, among others.
“All these countries have constitutions that are similar to ours. In fact, I will advance the proposition that Guyana’s Constitution is more liberal, is more democratic, and is more advanced than any other in the Caribbean and I can debate that at any forum,” he posited.
Nandlall reasoned that no one could look at Guyana’s constitutional and legal architecture and advance the contention that the architecture is somewhat undemocratic or autocratic.
Against this backdrop, it can be said that the government has also forged ahead with the modernisation of the country’s constitution with several new pieces of legislation passed since the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government entered office in 2020.
He said: “…this govern-
ment from 2020 to now, we have passed more laws than any other country in the Caribbean.”
While the Attorney-General reiterated this point, he said that this fact while it refers to the English-speaking Caribbean can possibly be extended to the entire Commonwealth.
At the end of 2023, it was noted that Guyana’s legislative framework is and has been experiencing significant changes since the PPP/C assumed office in 2020, all of which is
aimed at promoting modernisation.
At that time, it was reported that approximately 78 bills had been passed in the National Assembly.
The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira at the end of 2023 told members of the press that what the government has been bringing crucial pieces of legislation that are transformational, thus modernising the legal framework of the country.
Local medical facility expands service to oil and gas sector
RMI Guyana's new medical clinic in Georgetown is poised to play a vital role in supporting the nation's burgeoning oil and gas sector.
According to a press release, located at the GYSBI Industrial Estate, the clinic is led by a dedicated
team of local medical professionals, whose intent is to deliver world-class medical services.
Driven by a shared vision, Dr Leah NilesGeorge and Dr Vanita Ally, the clinic's owners and shareholders, have tirelessly worked to establish this
crucial healthcare resource for the community.
The opening of RMI Guyana clinics marks an exciting opportunity to deliver world-class medical care for both the local Guyanese community and the country’s growing offshore industries.
- establishes operation at GYSBI industrial estate
Dr Vanita Ally said: “The recent oil discovery is a huge opportunity for Guyana’s economy, and we need to ensure that we are providing excellent healthcare to the work -
will reach some of the more remote workers and families in the regional mining communities.”
Dr Vanita continued:
“I think that RMI Guyana will have a great impact
to supporting the growing industries and community in Georgetown and are optimistic that our success can continue in the long term.”
RMI’s Guyana new
ers who will be operating offshore. Their wellbeing will be paramount to the successful growth of the industry, and we are confident that this new clinic will provide an essential service to businesses and individuals. We have made sure that the clinic is fully stocked and equipped with all the capabilities needed to do this.”
RMI Guyana provides a central in-country medical solution to the rapidly expanding petroleum, construction, mining and manufacturing industries entering the market, with the clinic staffed by internationally trained local doctors and nurses who are determined to ensure that the clinic is seen as a gold standard of medical care in the country.
Dr Leah added: “This clinic will provide high-quality care to workers from across the world operating in the remote and challenging conditions offshore. Our medical facility is offering a range of provisions including urgent, primary and secondary care, and occupational health, with all of our solutions tailored to the organisations that require it. We are also working to provide outreach campaigns that
on the community. I believe that the clinic can be a positive force in shifting mindsets, delivering education and breaking down stigmas that permeate around certain conditions culturally. Our ambition is for the community to recognise the value of high-quality medical care, while also opening the door to collaborate with other local area providers to share knowledge and raise standards.”
Reception of the clinic in the country has been positive and as the medical staff begin their operational duties, the success of the clinic in establishing itself as a prime service to the community is evident.
Dr Leah concluded: “The feedback that we have had so far has been really positive. People are impressed with the service and the equipment we have here to serve them. We have also been working within some of the indigenous communities here in Guyana, using satellite clinics and volunteers to offer medical treatments and health awareness initiatives which I think will become an important and well received offering as we establish ourselves in Guyana. We look forward
Country Manager, Chris Fernandes, brings extensive operational experience from the military, security, intelligence and investigation, and tech sectors both locally and internationally Chris said: “At the forefront of Guyana's dynamic growth, RMI Guyana is a dedicated partner providing top-tier medical, security, and HSE solutions customised to the unique requirements of businesses across the nation. Our unwavering pursuit of excellence and adherence to global standards is complemented by our deep commitment to empowering Guyanese professionals and nurturing local development.”
RMI Global Solutions saves lives and protects the health and wellbeing of workers in diverse job sites from remote pipeline installations to offshore wind and maritime operations. The company has offices in USA, UK, and Africa, and has been recognised six times by Inc. 5000 as one of the fastest-growing companies in the United States. RMI works with Fortune 100 corporations and government services prime contractors.
Hainan opening up global opportunities, leading reform
- efforts to turn the Chinese province into a free trade port ongoing - education, agriculture, health being bolstered with digitisation
By Trina Williams in Beijing, China
AMIDST the worldwide economic challenges, which are causing a global turbulence, Hainan is opening up new and promising prospects and is forging ahead in a strategic direction in agriculture, trade, education, climate security and science and technology.
The province, which stands as a tropical aisle with lush greenery along with hospitable people, is serving as a pivotal component in fostering development and is being built to be one of the most open and dynamic areas in China.
In China’s pursuit of modernisation with Chinese characteristics, reform and opening up have both taken the centre stage in accelerating the vision and this is where Hainan comes into play. Both the central and local administrations are assiduously working to transform the province into a trade free zone.
The Guyana Chronicle recently had the privilege of witnessing the breakthroughs that Hainan had been able to make in various sectors and its role in China’s modernisation plan.
The global economy
faced setbacks owing to the shocking effects of COVID-19 on almost all of the sectors. Even in 2024, the economies of many countries remain stagnant as a result of the complex changes within the international arenas and the instability of the global industrial and supply chains.
However, as China beefed up its efforts to drive global modernisation, the economic powerhouse, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping is constantly opening up its markets and fostering partnerships with developing countries.
China’s vision of deepening reform while driving modernisation was placed into focus at the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), where the third plenary session convened in Beijing from July 15 to 18, 2024. It was during that session that the “Resolution of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernisation,” was adopted.
It has been emphasised that opening up is a defining feature of Chinese modernisation and a modernised China can foster
development opportunities for other countries.
Adding to this, after 46 years of reform and opening up, China now contributes over 30 per cent to global economic growth.
STRATEGIC MEASURES
Hainan’s development targets are further pushing the reform and opening up as by 2025, the province will put in place a Free Trade Port (FTP) policy framework which will place emphasis on the liberalisation and facilitation of trade and investment.
Also, by 2035, the FTP institutional systems and operational model will have matured, and the Hainan FTP will stand at the forefront of China's open economy.
With economic security underpinned in its blueprint, China has also been advancing its “dual circulation” strategy.
Further, by fully leveraging its policy advantages as a FTP and its geographical advantages, Hainan is currently building the "Two Headquarters Bases","Two Hubs", and "Two Networks".
Additionally, the Hainan FTP will progressively create a tax structure that is in line with a high-level
FTP by adhering to the guidelines of zero tariffs, low tax rates, a streamlined tax structure, and phased implementation.
Before 2025, enterprises of encouraged industries registered and engaged in substantial operations in the Hainan FTP are entitled to a lower corporate tax rate of 15 per cent.
High-caliber and urgently-needed professionals employed in the Hainan FTP are entitled to a 15 per cent cap on the personal income
tax rate.
And, before 2035, enterprises (except those in sectors subject to negative list limits) registered and engaged in substantial operations in the Hainan FTP, are entitled to a reduced corporate tax rate of 15 per cent. Personal income tax will be levied progressively against three brackets of 3 per cent, 10 per cent and 15 per cent respectively.
Additionally, market access requirements for the Hainan FTP will be
greatly relaxed and fair competition guaranteed to create an open, transparent, and predictable investment environment and further unleash the vitality of all market players.
Interestingly, over the previous five years, paidin foreign investment in Hainan has grown at an average annual pace of 63.5 per cent.
GENERATING BREAKTHROUGHS
As Hainan continues to
TURN TO PAGE 14
A section of the Lingshui Li’an International Education Innovation Pilot Zone
Hainan opening up global opportunities...
FROM PAGE 13
zero in on sustainable development, the province is simultaneously advancing within the sectors of agriculture, tourism, health and education.
As China’s largest “tropical treasury,” Hainan has
the ideal elements to grow crops and the province has made full use of this.
In fact, rice can be harvested three times a year and vegetables grown all year round in Hainan.
Among the more than 4,000 kinds of plants found
there, about 2,000 can be used as medicine, accounting for 40 per cent of the whole country’s variety of medicinal herbs and earning Hainan the crown as China’s “natural medicine storehouse”.
For Hainan, the pros -
Experiment on soil improvement for the continuous cropping of vanilla orchid at the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences
pects for agriculture are nothing short of promising even in the face of the global battle against food insecurity, which has been profoundly impacted by COVID-19 and other global events.
Even before the pandemic and its far-reaching impacts, China outlined the importance of agriculture and its connection to poverty elimination.
Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, solving problems related to agriculture, rural areas and rural people has been a top priority in the work of the whole party.
With uncertainty encompassing various corners of the globe, stability in the agriculture sector stands as a support mechanism to cope with the changes while striving for future development.
It is against this backdrop that China has been establishing a new agriculture dynamic, which possesses scientific and technological
advancements.
China has demonstrated its commitment to finding long-term solutions to hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. This was made apparent during a recent visit to the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences (CATAS), the sole Chinese research institute devoted to tropical agricultural technological advancements.
Rubber tree, tropical fruits, tropical vegetables, tropical biofuel crops, tropical spice and tropical medicinal crops, agricultural machinery, environment and plant protection, biotechnology, and development for tropical agriculture, as well as the development, monitoring, and testing of agro-product quality and safety standards are all areas of research that CATAS is actively involved in.
MODERNISING EDUCATION
China has recognised that a country’s human re-
sources are vital when it comes to advancing development and, in the Hainan Province, the Lingshui Li'an I nternational Education Innovation Pilot Zone is elevating education.
This publication also visited this Pilot Zone to see first-hand, how the central and local administrations are bolstering and transforming education.
The Pilot Zone has inked co-operation agreements with several domestic universities and international higher education institutions since its founding in 2020.
The Pilot Zone is also dedicated to bringing top-notch educational resources both domestically and internationally. It anticipates serving as a national showcase for innovation and developing educational practices and a major hub for international students travelling along the Belt and Road.
Gov’t to close National Psychiatric Hospital, shift to decentralised mental health services
THE Ministry of Health has announced plans to downsize and eventually close the National Psychiatric Hospital (NPH) in Berbice, Region Six, as part of a broader effort to reform mental health care delivery in Guyana.
According to the recently published ‘Guyana National Mental Health and Suicide Plan,’ the focus is on decentralising services and integrating individuals with severe mental illnesses into communities.
This approach aims to reduce stigma and human rights violations while bringing care closer to where people live.
The previous National Mental Health Plan sought to reduce the hospital’s capacity by 50 per cent. Still, progress was slow due to many longterm patients lacking family support or having families unwilling to take them back.
The NPH accommodates 195 patients, 160 of whom are long-term residents. The hospital employs approximately 190 staff members, providing a one-to-one staffto-patient ratio.
Inpatient and outpatient facilities will also be established to ensure that mental health services are accessible throughout the country.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security will also collaborate with the health ministry to reintegrate long-term patients with their families. Families will be supported through disability and caregiver pensions, while those without family care will be housed in community rehabilitation facilities.
Community treatment teams will provide ongoing medical and mental health support for individuals in residential facilities, ensuring a more holistic and community-based approach to mental health care.
Meanwhile, the government is laying the groundwork for a more supportive environment for those struggling with mental health challenges and suicide through the implementation of the National Mental Health and Suicide Plan 2024-2030. (DPI)
The new plan aims to implement a needsbased assessment to guide the redistribution of resources across regions.
The Ministry of Health has announced plans to downsize and eventually close the National Psychiatric Hospital (NPH) in Berbice, Region Six, as part of a broader effort to reform mental health care delivery in Guyana
Guyana represented at INTERPOL's 26th Americas Regional Conference
COMMISSIONER of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken, and Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum, led Guyana's delegation at the recently concluded 26th INTER -
POL Americas Regional Conference in Nassau, Bahamas. The high-level event brought together senior law enforcement officials from 35 countries across the
Americas and beyond to address pressing crime issues.
The conference, officially opened by the Prime Minister of the Bahamas, Philip Davis, focused on the grow-
Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken (second from left), and Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum (fourth from left) led Guyana’s delegation at the recently concluded 26th INTERPOL Americas Regional Conference in Nassau, Bahamas ing threat posed by transnational organised crime, the accompanying surge in violence, and the evolving nature of criminal activity. Special emphasis was placed on the impact of generative artificial intelligence and the increasingly fragmented nature of crime syndicates, which are diversifying their operations to maximise profits in areas such as human trafficking, drug and firearms smuggling, and cybercrime.
With representatives from across the region, the forum underscored the
importance of international co-operation in tackling these complex challenges. Guyana's active participation in such discussions highlights the country’s commitment to regional security and the global fight against organised crime.
Families achieving new heights, embracing new opportunities through BIT
THE Board of Industrial Training (BIT) extends its impact beyond individual achievements, significantly enhancing the livelihoods of families by strengthening bonds and fostering co-operation.
A batch of 59 residents from Region Three graduated from various courses that are being offered through BIT. Among them on Tuesday were two parents and their children, whose lives are on the brink of transformation.
Jermaine Lewis graced the stage with his son and daughter who also graduated with him from the welding course. The senior Lewis noted that the course is a stepping stone to spur the family business.
He spoke with the Department of Public Information (DPI) at the graduation ceremony held at the Riverside Hall, Bagotville, West Bank Demerara.
“While going to the course we gained a lot of new experiences and although we faced different challenges every day, we still managed to get through them,” the father expressed.
Lewis is extremely proud to have his children close to him and is happy that they are willing to learn a trade that he has been doing almost his whole life.
“I feel very proud about getting them into the same job with me because they would eventually be taking over the business at any time. I must say that my wife has also played a crucial part in this success,” Lewis told DPI.
Additionally, his son, Daniel Lewis pointed out that he has been involved in welding at a very young age.
The junior Lewis said that he is happy to be completing the course with his father and sister at his side.
“I feel nice that I end up graduating with my parent because everything that my
dad teaches me, I have to take it in because it is for the benefit of my future. I remember when I used to come home from school and go straight into the workshop,” the young man reflected.
Another parent, Shaunel Scotland, and her son Michael Bacchus also shared the stage but received certificates.
However, the duo is positive that the advanced skills that they have since learned will create a successful path for their family.
S cotland is a beneficiary of the Information Technology Course which will greatly apply to her life since she is currently undergoing online classes
“I am doing a programme through GOAL and most of the classes are online. We have things to do through Microsoft Word and PowerPoint and so on, so this will have a great impact on my work,” the mother said.
Meanwhile, her son is a beneficiary of the Electrical Installation course. He is currently employed within the oil and gas sector.
“Currently, I am employed in the oil and gas sector as an electrician so this course gives me better accreditation in that field and it opens my knowledge more to better serve in that area as well,” young Bacchus told DPI.
The mother and son noted that they will continue to strive to better their lives.
While speaking at the graduation, Chief Executive Officer of BIT, Richard Maughn charged the beneficiaries to continue climbing the ladder of success and encouraged them to take part in other skillsets as BIT is free.
“So far for the year and with the investment of the government into the BIT we have impacted the lives of 1,128 individuals. That
would be from 2020 to date in Region Three,” the CEO told the graduates.
Almost all of the persons who graduated have already sought employment in the various fields that they have been trained in. (DPI)
The Board of Industrial Training (BIT) extends its impact beyond individual achievements, significantly enhancing the livelihoods of families by strengthening bonds and fostering co-operation
WIIN Initiative Empowers Over 11,000 Women, offers opportunities for men through MPower
SINCE its launch in 2021, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s (MHSSS) Women Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) has been a transformative initiative, providing free, high-quality education to women and youth
across Guyana. Focused on promoting gender equality, decent work, and economic growth, WIIN offers a wide range of courses including food tourism, social media marketing, interior decorating, project management, event management, and lead-
ership. This programme has significantly contributed to the creation of women-owned businesses and has empowered many to become entrepreneurs.
A recent video released by the Ministry highlights WIIN’s achievements, revealing
that the programme has impacted the lives of more than 11,000 graduates. In the video, two graduates of the programme shared their personal experiences, underscoring the transformative power of WIIN.
One of the graduates shared how the pro-
gramme fulfilled her long-time dream of studying care for the elderly or nursing—an opportunity she could not afford at private institutions due to her lack of educational background. Encouraging others to take advantage of WIIN, she stated, “A lot of people are scared to come out and do the programme because they don’t have enough education or they don’t know how to read and write
the same access to training and growth as women through WIIN, encouraging more men to engage with the programme.
Additionally, the Ministry has announced a new opportunity for 500 women to receive training in construction trades such as carpentry, masonry, welding, plumbing, and electrical work. Offered under the City and Guilds Training programme, this free training will support
The WIIN programme has significantly contributed to the creation of women-owned businesses and has empowered many to become entrepreneurs
properly; I would say to them, come out, get up, dress up, and show up.”
Another graduate praised the programme for its impact on her business and personal growth, saying, “Don’t be scared, go out there and do it, because it benefits you, it benefits your business, it gives you a more open concept of the whole business industry, and it takes you from one small step to a huge, huge jump.”
Building on WIIN’s success, the Ministry launched the MPower initiative in May 2024, aiming to provide similar opportunities for men.
Approximately 1,000 men are expected to benefit from a variety of training opportunities through MPower. Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, explained that the initiative was designed to offer men
women in tapping into Guyana’s booming construction sector. The programme will be available across all regions, with 25 participants per class. To qualify, participants must be 17 years or older, able-bodied, possess a valid ID or passport, and be committed to completing the course. Those who successfully complete the programme will earn a certification from City and Guilds.
The deadline for registration is October 16, 2024, and interested participants can apply via the Ministry’s Facebook page or email businessincubator.wiin@gmail.com for more information.
WIIN and MPower continue to foster a brighter future for women and men in Guyana, promoting financial independence, business growth, and access to skills that are essential in today’s workforce.
GPF receives data quality assurance training to tackle gender-based crimes
THE Justice Education Society (JES), through the Strengthening Justice for Women, Girls, and Indigenous Peoples in Guyana Project, funded by the Government of Canada, launched a Data Quality Assurance
He emphasised how accurate and reliable data has allowed the GPF to strategically deploy patrols and human resources, ultimately contributing to more effective policing.
“Data collection is one of the methods utilised by
and international partners at the Officers’ Training Centre (OTC), Camp Road, Georgetown
workshop aimed at enhancing the skills of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in managing data related to sexual and gender-based crimes.
The training took place at the Officers' Training Centre (OTC), Camp Road, Georgetown, on Tuesday and was attended by key representa-
the Guyana Police Force, and worldwide, in making key data-driven decisions. We use data to enable us to deploy our patrols and human resources more efficiently," Deputy Commissioner Budhram said.
He also urged the participants, many of whom have prior experience in data management, to
A section of gathering at the Data Quality Assurance workshop aimed at enhancing the skills of GPF in managing data related to sexual and gender-based crimes
tives from both the GPF and international partners.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) (ag), Ravindradat Budhram, in his remarks at the opening ceremony, highlighted the pivotal role of data collection in improving decision-making processes within the force.
are a part of," he added. In attendance at the workshop were Justice Education Society Country Representative and Project Director, Lisa Thompson, and Senior International Representative Officer from the Canadian
High Commission, Tariq Williams.
Facilitating the workshop was JES Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Expert, Martine Chase, who led participants through sessions designed to strengthen their data
collection, storage, and management techniques, ensuring that data on sexual and gender-based crimes is accurate and actionable.
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to improve justice for
women, girls, and Indigenous peoples in Guyana, by building the capacity of key institutions such as the Guyana Police Force to respond more effectively to crimes related to gender-based violence.
leverage this workshop to further enhance their skills and improve service delivery in addressing gender-based crimes.
“Most of you are trained in the field already, but this training will enhance your service delivery to the respective stakeholders and moreso the organisation that you
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) (ag), Ravindradat Budhram, during remarks to key representatives from both the GPF
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Wednesday September 18 2024) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 151* for the second wicket - Shane Watson/Johnson Charles (Zouks vs GAW, St. Lucia) (2) Kumar Sangakkara - 16 dismissals (11 catches/5 stumpings – Tallawahs)
Today’s Quiz: (1) Who struck most sixes in CPL 2016? (2) Who took most catches in CPL 2016 (non-wicketkeeper)?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
SANDOWN
08:50 hrs Harb
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10:55 hrs Windcrack
11:25 hrs Carnival Day
12:00 hrs Umbria
YARMOUTH
09:00 hrs Gultari
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12:15 hrs Caffu Zafeen
KELSO
11:30 hrs Intense Approach
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12:35 hrs Half Dhot
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IRISH RACING TIPS
TRAMORE
10:35 hrs Jack Holiday
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AMERICAN RACING TIPS
CHURCHILL DOWNS
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Race 3 Iceatude
Race 4 Higginsville
Race 5 Prints Money
Race 6 Regal Rey
Race 7 Sister Kisses
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
GREYVILLE
08:25 hrs Spring Kiss
09:00 hrs Shoefella
09:35 hrs Imaginable
India restart Test championship quest
ROHIT Sharma-led India restart their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 campaign against Bangladesh tomorrow.
Two-time World Test Championship finalists India, currently at the summit of the WTC standings, are leaving no loose ends ahead of the second leg of their campaign.
Beginning with the two-Test series against Bangladesh, the Men in Blue feature in 10 Tests in the ongoing season, with three more home Tests against New Zealand, and a five-game away series against Australia.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the Bangladesh encounter, India captain Rohit Sharma stated that there were no easy games under the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle and no series was more important than the other.
“Every game we play is important. No dress rehearsal here [in the context of the Bangladesh series]. Every game becomes important because of what is at stake. WTC. The [standings] table is still quite open. And every game is important.”
Rohit added that India’s focus would be to do well against all opponents irrespective of their strength or conditions.
“We have to focus on how we can win this series, and this Test. Rather than looking too far ahead.”
With three scores of over 50 and an average of 75, KL Rahul enjoyed a prosperous World Cup.
The series also marks the comeback of batter KL Rahul to the India Test setup. There’s never been a doubt as to Rahul’s class or talent, but an average of 34 in Tests doesn’t do justice to his potential in the format.
Rohit opened up on Rahul’s scenario, hinting that the setup was completely behind the talented batter but it was upon the player to understand his game better at the age of 32 and decide on the direction of his Test career.
“Everyone has an up-anddown career,” Rohit said. “The kind of quality KL Rahul has, everybody knows. The message to him from our side was we want him to play all the games and bring the best out of him.
“He has done well of late, [he] scored hundred against South Africa. Scored a good knock in Hyderabad, but unfortunately got injured.
“I hope he continues from where he left in Hyderabad. I don’t see any reason why he can’t flourish in Test cricket. Opportunities are there. Important for him to understand how he wants to take his career forward.”
India’s upcoming Test schedule is demanding and might push them to dig deep into their pace resources. For Rohit though, this is a part-and-parcel of the game, and with the up-and-coming talent in the pace ranks, the India skipper is confident that the workload will be manageable.
“You want the best players to play all the games, but that’s not
Jordan recruited by Knight Riders, Sowter to join Amazon Warriors
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC )– Barbados-born England international, Chris Jordan, has been signed by the Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) for the remainder of the 2024 Caribbean Premier League.
The 35-year-old Jordan, who was snubbed by England’s selectors for the just concluded T20 series against Australia, has been named as a replacement for USA’s Ali Khan, who has been ruled out due to injury.
Jordan also turned out for the Knight Riders in 2019, taking seven wickets in five matches.
Chris Jordan has been signed by the Trinbago Knight Riders for the remainder of the 2024 CPL.
He could be in action as soon as tonight when the Knight Riders take on the Guyana Amazon Warriors at the Queen’s Park Oval.
been
The Amazon Warriors could also have the services of Australian leg spinner, Nathan Sowter, for that contest. Sowter has been added to their squad to temporarily replace captain Imran Tahir, who is currently recovering from injury and is expected to be unavailable for around 10 days.
possible. You’ve to see what’s best for the team and manage your bowlers accordingly.
“We’ll monitor that for our bowlers. We’ve managed to do that in the England series. We got rest for Bumrah and Siraj.
Rohit also opened up on India’s rising stars: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sarfaraz Khan, and Dhruv Jurel, stating that they had the
makings of becoming all-format greats for India.
“They’ve everything that’s required to be a top player for India in all three forms. With time, we’ve to nurture and groom them well. They’re very hungry for success and to play for India."
The trio stamped their authority in India's previous WTC series against England, where
...With World Test Championship at stake, no easy games for Rohit’s India
the hosts fell 1-0 behind after the first Test in Hyderabad, before fighting back to claim a 4-1 win.
Jaiswal was the highest run-getter in the series with 712 runs, while Sarfaraz and Jurel contributed with crucial knocks at key stages, with the latter also impressive with his glovework.
“Jaiswal had a great home series when we played last time.
Jurel showed what he’s capable of as well, with the bat. Getting the tough runs. Sarfaraz as well, being fearless, not being too worried about what happens outside.
“You need all sorts of players who are fearless, cautious and responsible as well. We have that mix of everything and it’s a good sign.” (ICC Media)
Chris Jordan has
signed by the Trinbago Knight Riders for the remainder of the 2024 CPL
India batter KL Rahul
Buoyed Sri Lanka aim to topple undercooked New Zealand
NOT many expected Sri Lanka to win the final Test in England despite it being a dead rubber. In fact, not many expected Sri Lanka to put up a brave fight in the entire series at different junctures.
Had they managed to seize their moments in the opening two Tests, the result could have definitely been different. Confidence wise, Sri Lanka are definitely on a high having reached their shores for the next challenge.
Pathum Nissanka's player of the match performance at the Oval has solved one headache up top whereas Kamindu Mendis has continued his meteoric rise. In familiar conditions, these players should only go from strength to strength.
They will also be up against an undercooked opponent in New Zealand. With the one-off Test against Afghanistan washed out without a single ball being bowled, New Zealand enter this series with little to no preparation. It is not a good sign for the visitors on a sub-continental tour, especially if the ball starts turning square right from the outset.
There will be a lot of reliance on Kane Williamson in spin-friendly conditions, but the rest of the batters will have to adapt quickly and step up as well. Sterner tests await New Zealand in India after the conclusion of this series so a positive result here would help massively and imbibe confidence into the squad. They can also
take confidence from the fact that they have avoided series defeats in their last two Test tours to the island nation.
Spin is again expected to play a role in the game, as was witnessed the last time Galle hosted a Test match. However, rain is expected to disrupt proceedings almost every day. There will be a rest day on Saturday due to the elections in Sri Lanka.
The hosts have made a few changes from their previous XI owing to conditions predominantly. Milan Rathnayake has been left out despite putting up decent performances in his debut series in England. But Sri Lanka had to make that tough call to bring in their spinners. Dinesh Chandimal has been relieved of his keeping duties
and has been promoted to number three. Kusal Mendis, their wicket-keeper for this Test, will now move to number seven.
New Zealand: Probable XI: Tom Latham, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell (WK), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee (C), Matt Henry/ Ben Sears, Ajaz Patel (Cricbuzz)
Juventus cruise to Champions League win over PSV
JUVENTUS started their Champions League campaign with a comfortable victory over PSV Eindhoven at Allianz Stadium.
Kenan Yildiz gave Thiago Motta's side the lead in brilliant fashion in the 21st minute with a powerful, curling effort that flew in off the post.
The 19-year-old's strike means he has replaced Juventus legend Alessandro del Piero as the club's youngest goal scorer in Europe's elite competition.
Buoyed by Yildiz's goal, Juve pushed forward and added a second goal six minutes later through former Leeds midfielder Weston McKennie.
The United States international slotted beyond PSV goalkeeper Joel Drommel with a first-time finish from seven yards out.
Six minutes into the second half, Dusan Vlahovic guided a beautiful pass across the box to find Nicolas Gonzalez.
The Argentine took one touch to set himself before firing beyond Drommel to score his first for Motta's side to make it 3-0.
With the last kick of the game, Ismael Saibari netted a consolation for the Dutch Eredivisie champions after being found by a fine pass from Johan Bakayoko.
Juventus travel to Germany next to take on RB Leipzig, while PSV welcome Sporting Lisbon to Philips Stadion. (BBC Sport)
Surrey start well after bowling Durham out for 262
DURHAM battled hard to reach 262 at The Oval but Surrey had the better of day one as they seek a third successive County Championship title.
Colin Ackermann was left stranded on an impressive unbeaten 78 as Dan Worrall snatched two quick wickets to finish with 4-39.
Surrey raced to 52 without loss in reply with Rory Burns completing 1,000 Championship runs for the season as he tucked into some loose new-ball bowling with a six and seven fours to reach 40 not out.
Surrey began the penultimate round of Division One matches eight points clear of second-placed Somerset, who beat them at Taunton last week, and reduced Durham to 134-5 after opting to bowl first before Ackermann and Bas de Leede added 70 in a punchy fifth-wicket stand.
Alex Lees and Ben McKinney gave Durham a solid start, although Lees was bowled shouldering arms to a Sam Curran no-ball on 23.
Both openers fell in Worrall’s second spell, McKinney for 23 when he pushed away from his body and edged to
of a permanent move from Northamptonshire, lbw for a duck but David Bedingham, dropped on 14 despite a brilliant effort from Dom Sibley, put on 51 with Ollie Robinson.
Jordan Clark pinned Robinson leg-before for 17 and Lawes had Bedingham caught behind for 37 off a perfect away-swinger.
De Leede struck six fours in his 36 before splicing a pull at a short ball from Tom Curran and offering a simple catch to wide mid-on.
Sam
removal
one
left Durham 216-7 but Ackermann, driving the younger Curran brother for one glorious four, marshalled the lower order to good effect as 19-year-old paceman Daniel Hogg, making his fourth first-class appearance, helped him add 30 for the eighth wicket.
Hogg pulled Tom Lawes straight to Tom Curran at deep square leg and 16-year-old debutant, James Minto, hit two fours before Worrall bowled him and
Ben Foakes to end a stand of 60 and Lees bowled for 36 by an absolute beauty that
ducked back into him late. Tom Curran had debutant Emilio Gay, on loan ahead
Curran’s
of Callum Parkinson for
pinned Chemar Holder lbw. (BBC Sport).
Surrey captain, Rory Burns, passed 1,000 County Championship runs for the season
Weston McKennie played 19 times for Leeds on loan from Juventus in 2023
Pathum Nissanka was named player-of-the in Sri Lanka’ last Test against England at the Oval
Ivan spurs Blairmont to win over GCC despite Wade’s brutal 73
By Sean Devers
JOSHUA Wade’s destructive 30-ball 73 and 2-25 was not enough to prevent Blairmont Blazers, led by a useful all- round performance from Rajiv Ivan, from beating GCC by 70 runs on Monday at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) Ground, Bourda in a feature 40-contest between the two first-division teams.
The match was organised by GCC President Jonathon Yearwood and Blairmont Sports Club’s Head Shabeer Baksh when very little First-Division cricket is being played in Georgetown and Berbice.
Scores: Blairmont 264-9, GCC 194 all out in 38 overs.
Blairmont Blazers, located on the West Bank of Berbice won the toss in scorching heat and opted to bat on a track which offered plenty of bounce and ‘good carry’ to Keeper.
Blairmont which produced two West Indies players (Roy Fredericks and Brandon Bess) of the 50 Test
players from Guyana, had a 39-run opening stand before Chris Harry removed Shamar Angel (9).
After Nigel Deodat who made 27 with four boundaries before he was dismissed, Zeynul Ramsammy and Rajiv Ivan batted confidently
on a heavy outfield to put together 61 for the third wicket.
The right-handed Ramsammy ‘ran past’ a ball that turned away from him and was stumped off skipper and left-arm spinner Devon Lord. He hit two fours and a couple of sixes in his 34 and
his demise left the team from Region 5 on 112-3.
The 38-year-old Ivan who played two 50-over games for Guyana in 2013 soon reached his fifty but was removed by Lord for 54 with two fours and three sixes.
Seon Glasgow (37) fell
when looking set, Abdul Ramsammy scored an unbeaten 33 and Shakir Saffie blasted a cameo 22 from nine balls with a four and two sixes to power the Berbicians past the 250 mark.
Harry took 3-56, Lord had 3-31 and Wade with
2-25, did the damage for GCC, the oldest Cricket Club in the Caribbean.
GCC were off to a rollicking start as Wade hit sixes for fun and began with all guns blazing.
Navindra Persaud (9) was the silent partner and played his role well giving the big-hitting Wade most of the strike of power-hitting before off-spinner Ivan removed him for 73 from 29 balls with seven fours and six sixes to break the 86-run opening partnership.
Persaud was stumped off Ivan at 93-2 while West Indies U-19 batter Mavindra Dindyal (9) was LBW to Deodat at 96-3 and Ivan got rid of Thaddius Lovell (15) as Blairmont slipped from 86 without loss to 117-4.
Martin Pestano (18), Deonarine Seegobin (19) and Lord (13) all got into double figures but by then the required run rate had jumped to 15 per over as ‘leggie’ Shawn Perriera wrapped up the innings.
Ivan had 3-25 and Perriera 3-29.
One Communications powers National Women’s hockey team
ONE Communications, on Monday at GCC ground, Bourda, presented the team shirts sponsored by the company for the country’s national women hockey team set to compete for top honours later this week.
The national women’s hockey team is set to battle in the Pan American Hockey Federation Challenge series in Bermuda from September 20th-28th They will face up against top world hockey sides Mex-
ico, Peru, Brazil, Jamaica and hosts Bermuda. Mexico is the highest ranked at 37 in the world.
Phillip Fernandes, President of the Guyana Hockey Board and Women’s head coach, says One Communications’ support is crucial to the team representing Guyana.
One Communications Officer, Jamisha Wright, says the company was elated to continue its long- standing support for the ladies and the sport of hockey.
“We are committed to the development of Sports in Guyana overall, so this is just one of the elements of our contribution to sport and culture in Guyana”.
“The tournament runs over 10 days, all in Bermuda and it’s going to be a round robin and a final and we hope that, if we make the final and we finish in one of the top two spots that we actually make it to the next round which is the Cup”.
ICC announces record prize money for Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
THE ICC has announced the prize money for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup set to take place next month in the UAE.
The ICC has lifted the total prize pool for the 2024 edition to an impressive $7,958,080 (US$) — more than double that of the 2023 edition.
This significant boost ensures that the winner of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will walk away with a staggering $2.34 million, marking a 134% increase
from the $1 million awarded to the champions, Australia, in 2023.
The runner-up will also benefit from a 134% rise, securing $1.17 million in the upcoming edition. The semi-finalists will receive $675,000 each, more than three times their 2023 payout.
The prize money extends beyond the knockout stages, as each group stage win will now be rewarded with $31,154, reflecting a 78% increase from last year’s
$17,500.
Furthermore, teams that exit during the group stage won’t leave empty-handed. There is a base prize of $112,500 awarded to all 10 participating teams, totalling $1.125 million. This ensures that every team receives substantial support for their participation, no matter where they finish.
Teams finishing fifth to eighth will earn $270,000 each, and teams finishing ninth and 10th earn $135,000 each. These changes under-
score the ICC’s commitment to growing and recognising women’s cricket, ensuring that all teams and players are well-supported.
This historic prize rewards not only aligns with the ICC’s vision for parity between the men’s and women’s games but also further elevates the status of the Women’s T20 World Cup as one of the premier events in the calendar.
The marquee event is set to go underway on October 3. Meanwhile, the match sched-
ule for the double-header on Saturday, October 5, in Sharjah sees a minor change -- Australia will now play against Sri Lanka in the afternoon at 14:00 hours, followed by the Bangladesh versus England match in the evening at 18:00 hours local time.
The stage is set for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 to be a landmark moment, as the world’s best teams battle it out for the prestigious title and record-breaking rewards.
The highly-anticipated ninth edition of the tournament will take place across the two venues in the UAE – Dubai and Sharjah – from October 3 to 20.
All group matches will be completed prior to October 15, before all eyes shift to the semi-finals scheduled for October 17 and 18. The victors of semi-final one and two will then face off in the ultimate showdown for the Women’s T20 World Cup trophy on October 20. (ICC Media)
One Communications Guyana media team along with the Women’s National hockey team and Guyana Hockey Board Officials
Rajiv Ivan followed up his knock of 58 with 3-25 to help send GCC crashing to a 70-run defeat
Joshua Wade smashed an explosive 73 after taking 2-25 in Blairmount’s innings
Jockey Ross anticipates exciting President’s Cup
ONE of Guyana’s best jockeys, Colin Ross is expecting fireworks on Sunday September 22 at Rising Sun Turf Club when the President’s Cup horse racing takes centre stage.
More than 10 horses were imported for last month’s Guyana Cup and more was added to that list for the upcoming President’s Cup.
Ross has been working along with the top horses, with the likes of Easy Time, Stat, Spankhurst, and Mapa Do Brazil; and according to him, the horses are more ready than they were for the Guyana Cup.
“So far preparation going quite well. No complains. Everyone is going comfortable, the trainer doing a good work, grooms doing a good job, so right now everything is going well.”
“We have a lot of new horses, but now they are more accustomed to the conditions. They have acclimatised, they are more comfortable with
the track,” Ross said. When asked about his expectations, Ross said: “the
race get stiff. A lot more new horses coming in, and everybody wants to win.
The Guyana Cup champion going back, seeking to now win the President
Time will be there, Mapa Do Brazil, is there and he is a very good horse. Spankhurst is also set to return.”
Ross won jockey of the year for 2023 and he remains one of the most decorated jockeys in Guyana’s history.
“I expect to have a good race this time. I will try my best.” “A lot of work going into the track at Rising Sun. So, we expect to have a good race,” the champion jockey echoed.
Nine races are on the programme for the 2024 President’s Cup, and more than G$15 million will be up for grabs.
The feature race, running at approximately eight furlongs, will be open to all horses, three years old and over. Registration closed on September 17 and organisers have indicated that no late entries are permitted.
Expanded women’s competitions to be introduced in the region - CONCACAF
MIAMI, Florida, (CMC)
– OVER the course of the next four years, CONCACAF is set to introduce additional women’s competitions as part of its efforts to assist in the growth and development of the sport in the region.
In a press release issued Monday, CONCACAF announced an expanded calendar of women’s national team competitions for the 2025 to 2029 international cycle.
Building on the successful delivery of the inaugural Women’s Gold Cup this year
and the recently launched CONCACAF Women’s Club Competition, the revamped women’s national team ecosystem, which the CONCACAF Council recently approved, will provide a consistent calendar of competitions for all CONCACAF federations, providing their women’s national teams with regular opportunities to compete on the regional and global stage.
Tournaments will include the Women’s Qualifiers and Women’s Championship, which will serve as the qual-
ification path to the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the
Summer Olympic Games, the introduction of an inaugural CONCACAF Women’s Nations League, and a second edition of the Women’s Gold Cup.
CONCACAF developed the competition formats after consulting with key stakeholders and analyzing FIFA’s new women’s international match calendar.
CONCACAF president and FIFA vice-president, Victor Montagliani, said the additional competitions would give women’s football in the region a “tremendous boost”.
“These tournaments will provide a tremendous boost to women’s football in CONCACAF with a consistent calendar of competitions now in place for 2025 to 2029 which delivers all 41 of our federations with opportunities to grow and thrive on and off the pitch,” Montagliani said.
“We are now five years on from the launch of our CONCACAF W women’s football strategy and much progress has been made, from establishing new competitions to celebrating six of
our national teams qualifying for and competing at the last FIFA Women’s World Cup, and of course the delivery of countless coaching and development programmes that have provided women and girls across our region with opportunities to engage with the sport.
“We know there remains much more work to do and we are committed to continuing to support our member federations to develop every level of women’s football in CONCACAF,” he added.
CONCACAF president and FIFA vice-president, Victor Montagliani
Cup. Easy
Jockey Colin Ross expects a high-quality race at the President’s Cup
