- makes no apologies for ensuring public infrastructural projects are accelerated
Sugar industry still economically viable – President Ali
and
‘One Guyana’ initiative being embraced, is driving economic and social prosperity
- national guide for progress, unity set for 2025 launch, President Ali says
- Finance Minister urges persons to apply as soon as possible
- makes no apologies for ensuring public infrastructural projects are accelerated
PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has recently highlighted that there is a critical link between robust investments being made in the country and wealth creation.
The Head of State touched on this late last week while addressing the opening ceremony of GuyExpo 2024, where he noted that by focusing on human-resource development, people are enabled to achieve and contribute to the economy.
Outlining his government’s vision for empowering citizens, President Ali stated that wealth creation begins with, “investing in people; equipping them with the knowledge, skills and opportunities to thrive in a growing, modern economy.”
He added that the holistic development of citizens through affordable housing, accessible healthcare and quality education not only uplifts individuals, but transforms them into empowered citizens who can seize new opportunities and drive the spirit of enterprise.
“Wealth creation requires a forward-looking perspective, one that values and welcomes both local and foreign investment as a catalyst to economic transformation,” President Ali said.
In this regard, he added that it is not about being myopic or fearful of outside influence, but about understanding that investors take on significant risks to help build various industries' infrastructure and workforce.
He said: “These investments lay the groundwork for a more dynamic
economy, one that creates jobs, enhances our skills base and modernises key sectors.”
Dr Ali also noted that when the role of investors is appreciated and one recognises that they are bringing capital expertise and opportunities that often wouldn’t be possible otherwise, discouraging investments through misinformation or malicious criticism only sets us back.
Meanwhile, he indicated that central to the government’s vision for economic growth is the expansion and modernisation of public infrastructure.
Dr Ali underscored the necessity of robust investments in areas such as roads, schools, healthcare facilities, drainage systems and bridges and added, “Facilitating wealth creation requires robust investment in infrastructure.
“These are the pillars of an environment that enables enterprises to thrive, connecting people to markets, knowledge, and opportunities,” he expressed.
Defending his administration’s aggressive push for public infrastructural projects, the President disclosed, “That is why I make no apologies for ensuring that our public infrastructure projects are accelerated, embraced, and delivered on time every single day.”
According to him, this requires consistent efforts and strong, bold leadership which the People’s Progressive Party/Civic administration is ready and willing to provide every day.
By Naomi Parris
RECOGNISING both the challenges and efforts to rebuild the country's sugar industry, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has underscored the government’s commitment to long-term success despite facing significant hurdles.
The Head of State during his inaugural ‘In the Seat’ media engagement last week, stated that the continued investments in the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) is aimed at making the industry economically viable, but Guyanese must be reminded of the deplorable state of the sugar industry prior to the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) administration.
the canals, all the punts were rotted. There was no dam. It was like a forest. So, we had to build back from the field, then we had to build back from all the factories,” he explained.
He highlighted that rebuilding the sugar industry is a step-by-step process, requiring not only physical infrastructure but a transformation in the industry's culture and workforce.
“So now is the process of rebuilding,” he said. He urged that the sugar industry should not just be viewed as a financial product, but also from an economic perspective, citing the industry’s spinoff benefits to communities.
“We cannot look at sugar only for our fi -
there's something called financial viability and economic viability.”
He added: “In the spin-off effect, there is a measurement, an economic measurement that must be taken into consideration. So, you invest in sugar not only for the sugar workers, it is for the economy that sugar supports.”
However, President Ali acknowledged that a major challenge lies in the aging equipment and lack of spare parts for the sugar factories, which have caused significant downtime.
To address these challenges, the government has enlisted international support.
“We have to bring in technical capability to support what is there.
build back the system, improve the system, bring efficiency into the system at the field and the factories. So, they're working on that.”
In addition to restoring the physical infrastructure, the President pointed out the need to create a new culture in the sugar industry—a culture focused on efficiency, productivity, and a sense of ownership among workers. “We have to develop a new culture, a winning culture, within the industry,” Ali said.
“This period of rebuilding will have its challenges, but we have to embrace it if we are going to make the industry successful.”
“One must remember what we inherited when we came into office,” he said.
"The fields were left abandoned, even the canals—big trees were in all
nancial product. That's not going to be the measurement, because there is a tremendous other impact for sugar that is not book financial, but more economical. So,
And we have a team from India, for example, working now; we have a team from Cuba that is working on the field and in the factory, doing studies, working to help us to
Turning to the issue of costs, President Ali acknowledged the high cost of production in the short term due to the necessary capital investments in machinery and infrastruc-
President, Dr Irfaan Ali
ture. However, he emphasised that improving efficiency and increasing yields would eventually lower costs. “We cannot consider the cost of production as the primary objective right now,” the President said.
“That is the first thing, the cost of production has to do with current capital expenditure, right? We have to fix that. So, we have to invest in improving efficiency, creating high yield[s] and also reducing the cost of production.”
Ali also highlighted the broader economic importance of sugar production, beyond its direct financial returns.
He noted the multiplier effect the industry has on local economies, particularly in rural areas. “When you look at what sugar meant, think Wales for example. When the factory was closed down in Wales …a market that had hundreds of vendors closed immediately, and the shops closed,” he said.
President Ali also addressed the broader issue of agricultural sustainability, pointing out that in many developed countries, agriculture cannot survive without significant subsidies.
He argued that Guyana must work towards making its agricultural sector more competitive through strategic investments. “As the country grows, we have to realise that we have to make these things viable, we have to invest in improving our competitiveness. Naturally, that cost will come down and the cost of energy will come down also because as the cost of energy comes down by 50 per cent, production costs will also come down.”
Despite the challenges, President Ali remained optimistic, noting that there are “bright spots ahead” that will help reduce the cost of production and boost the industry’s long-term viability.
JOE BIDEN became the first sitting U.S. president to visit the Amazon rainforest, on Sunday, flagging the dangers of global warming.
Biden flew from Lima, Peru, to Manaus, Brazil, the largest city in the Amazon, to meet with local leaders working to preserve the rainforest.
He was to head afterward to Rio de Janeiro for a summit of the Group of 20 major economies that will address issues including poverty, global governance and climate change.
While in the Amazon, Biden toured aboard his Marine One presidential helicopter, viewing the confluence of the Amazon and Rio Negro rivers at Manaus, spots where water levels have dropped sharply due to the worst drought in decades and the rainforest.
Biden was accompanied by Brazilian scientist and Nobel Prize winner, Carlos Nobre, who has warned that the Amazon may be beyond saving as deforestation has changed the weather patterns that sustain its jungle climate.
Biden also went to the Museum of the Amazon in Manaus where he met with indigenous leaders.
People stood along his motorcade route and congregated at the museum entrance, snapping pictures and waving.
Scientists say conservation of the Amazon is vital to curbing climate change because of the vast amount of climate-warming carbon dioxide its trees absorb.
Brazilian President, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, has vowed to end deforestation in his country's
U.S. President Joe Biden signs a proclamation designating November 17 as “International Conservation Day”, next to Henrique Pereira, Director of the National Institute for Research in the Amazon, Filippo Stampanoni, General Director of MUSA – Museu da Amazonia, Carlos Nobre, Earth System Scientist and Nobel Prize Winner, Kelliane Wapichana, General Secretariat of the Women’s Movement of the Indigenous Council of Roraima, Chief Kokama, Chief of the Kokama people, Simone Xerente, Leader and Member of Xerente, Camila Ribas, Curator of the Biological Collections of Genetic Resources and Birds at National Institute for Amazonian Research, and Peter Fernandez, CoFounder and CEO at Mombak during his tour at the Museu da Amazonia in Manaus, Brazil (REUTERS/ Leah Millis photo)
rainforest by 2030 and has urged wealthy nations to contribute to the cause via the Amazon Fund run by Brazil's state development bank.
In his four-hour stop in
Manaus, Biden was to announce an additional $50 million contribution to the Amazon Fund, bringing the U.S. commitment to $100 million.
Last year, Biden said he would request $500 million from the U.S. Congress to support the Amazon Fund. However, the United States had delivered on just a tenth of that pledge by July.
The new contribution was part of the Biden administration's effort to ex-
pand U.S. climate finance six-fold over the last four years to $11 billion annually, the White House said. However, that initiative may be on thin ice when President-elect Donald Trump returns to office in January. (Reuters)
‘there is
HAITI’S newly-appointed Prime Minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, says the French-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member state is experiencing a “critical” situation and “there is no time to lose”.
Speaking on Saturday, just hours after he was sworn into office, the new prime minister said his administration is taking office with a sense of urgency and gravity.
“We have no state of grace or time for observation. Every hour counts, every day lost is a blow to the hopes of our people,” he said while speaking at the ceremony here.
Fils-Aimé, whose government was appointed on Friday, reiterated that the primary objective is to prepare the ground for inclusive and transparent elections in a nation that, he admitted, is going through a critical period and that Haitians live in anguish and insecurity.
The new head of Government invited the ministers “to fully appreciate the magnitude of the re-
sponsibilities incumbent on them” and consider that “only the participation and contribution of all can provide effective and lasting responses to the problems that beset our country”.
“Our mission is clear: we must restore hope to our people by facing with determination the great challenges facing Haiti,” he said, adding that “insecurity in all its forms must be vigorously combated, in particular physical, economic and food insecurity”.
Fils-Aimé also stressed that “roads and main thoroughfares must once again become routes for life and prosperity, and those who have had to leave their homes must be able to return to them safely”.
“The means are limited. Expectations are immense. Public money must be spent in a rational and austere way, with maximum transparency,” he added.
The prime minister declared that the government’s road map “consists of restoring secu -
rity, responding to the humanitarian emergency, relaunching the economy, and preparing for the elections”.
For his part, the Chairman of the Presidential Transitional Council, Leslie Voltaire, reminded the new ministers of their immense tasks and responsibilities.
“We do not have much time left. Now is the time
to change what needs to be changed to save the transition,” he declared in his speech.
Voltaire said he was aware of the gravity and consequences of the actions of the bloodthirsty gangs, which are becoming increasingly aggressive and continue to attack and kill more people and burn houses.
The country lives “in
a situation of almost total paralysis of economic and
social life, while important deadlines await us in the democratic and political life of the nation,” he said, referring to the holding of the constitutional referendum and next year’s elections.
The new government assumes the country’s reins in a context of violence.
Last Sunday, the leader of the coalition of armed gangs, Vivre Ensemble (Living Together), Jimmy Cherizier, alias Barbecue, announced new days of terror in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince. This materialised the next day, and even commercial planes were attacked near the capital’s international airport.
(CMC)
LAST Friday, President Dr Irfaan Ali rolled up his sleeves and left Georgetown for Karasabai, Region Nine, to help residents rebuild houses that were destroyed in a November 3 storm.
Later photographs surfaced of him actively participating in the rebuilding of one of the destroyed houses. Outfitted in safety gear and work gloves, President Ali was laying blocks.
If one did not know who he was, they would say he was a skilled mason completing a task on
his work site.
That day, President Ali could have been at State House or his office tending to the affairs of the country, but he chose to travel to the South Pakaraima community to help those who were affected by an unfortunate tragedy.
This is not only commendable but it demonstrates the President’s love for the people of this country. It also confirms that no task is beneath him or too small for him to trade in his polished shoes and suit for work boots or his comfortable
airconditioned office for sun and hard manual labour.
He did not stop there. There are heartwarming images with President Ali seated cross-legged on the grass with the children of Karasabai around him. They talked stories, sang songs and had dinner together.
The behaviour displayed in this village shows all of Guyana that President Ali is a different kind of leader.
Imbedded in his leadership style is a kind, generous disposition that commands respect and
reflects humility, a strong character, wisdom and a vision-driven mindset.
Since taking office, he and his administration have held firm to a plan of bridging the divide between the hinterland and the coastland.
The coastland has everything: easier access to amenities, critical services and transportation. Those living in remote parts of the country such as Karasabai are not so fortunate. This administration aims to ensure that those in hinterland communities are not deprived of a good, modern life
and do not feel forgotten.
While residents of Karasabai praised the government for the help given, it was Regional Executive Officer Karl Singh who pointed out that President Ali was making history.
“This is basically history, because the President is here. It means a lot to our Amerindian people and this will definitely go a very, very far way,” he said.
No President has gone the extra mile like President Ali has. He continues to give his all as he strives to give every
FROM the time the President announced the $200,000 cash disbursement to every household in the country, Georgetown was abuzz.
And the comments have been many and varied. Some market vendors on Water Street were complaining that it is not enough.
"De government can do better dan dat", one vendor shouted, while others nodded in agreement. Another jokingly said: "Some people gun get put out, cause nuff ah dem living in one house!"
And a passerby called out. "Y'all ain been complainin so loud before yuh hear bout it. So yuh betta collect de money an DEN complain!" Everyone laughed.
Many said that it was about time government made such a move, because our population is less than 1 million people and oil is earning millions every day.
"Dey could do dis every year", one man said, while another suggested that every ID holder should be a recipient.
On the whole there was joy at the announcement, with one woman standing at 'Mocha road head' waiting for a bus saying, "I gun buy mih groceries in bulk... bag rice, bad sugar an suh".
Another 'chipped in', "Some ah dem gun just party wid duh money, dey ain tinkin constructively".
Another woman said simply, "I glad cause is money I doan have dat I gun get". But everyone still felt the government could
do better.
So when the President announced the revised plan to distribute $100,000 to every household, folks were generally happier.
Lively chat in a mini bus later that day saw many announcing their approval of the new plan.
"It gun be much easier for dem to share out de cheques now", one man remarked. "But I kyaan understand why dey cut de money", another lamented, "...dey could still afford to give every ID card holder de $200,000"!
Everyone seemed to be in agreement that the money should remain at $200,000.
The other point on which all agreed was that the money should be disbursed every year and not
as a one-off payment.
"We mekkin millions off we oil", said one man. "I doan see why dey kyaan share dis amount every year"."Dat would mek a real difference...especially fuh people wid families", chimed in a woman with a child on her lap.
Later in the day, while in another mini-bus, this time headed to Crown and Irving Streets, I was amused by the comments offered by the driver on a different subject.
He told a clearly frustrated and impatient driver, headed in the opposite direction, "If ya can't handle de pressure of driving on Regent Street, then drive anodda street", to which all the passengers laughed.
Then, noting the agitation of the conductor with
Guyanese a better life. He spontaneously visits project sites and listens to the concerns of citizens from all walks of life, taking immediate action or making commitments to bring relief within the shortest possible time. He is a man of his word, a man of action and a man of passion whose hallmark is serving the public to the best of his ability. He is resolute in realising the visons and dreams of this nation and continuously displays warmth, patience and persistence as he does so.
a passenger who called out at the last minute for her stop, he said: "You ain gun deh in dis wuk long...I can tell you doan have de patience", more laughter.
We three proceeded to discuss how some passengers may be distracted during their journey and forget to call the stop when they should.
Once again the driver jovially said. " Like sometimes a man might get a call from he partner asking
fuh money...all like me I doan answer mih wife sometimes cause if she start talkin bout money she would definitely distract me"!
When I called my stop early, there was more laughter as the conductor commented, " Well one ting...you learnin". I stepped off the bus with a smile on my face, thinking how awkward situations can be offset with a little Guyanese humour.
IF you are a teenager, muchless a 30-year-old or a forty-year-old, you have to know and perhaps you know that an apology makes people look positively upon you. Once an apology is offered, people perceive three things about you. 1- You have the capacity to admit wrong. 2- There is no persistence of arrogance. 3- You recognise that you have a moral obligation to your fellow humans.
In this country, in the 2020 March elections, so many ugly behavioural patterns emerged and all were centred on the need to remove the legal results of the elections. I have written dozens of columns on these conspiracies so they need not detain us here. The focus of this article is not only the refusal to apologise by the PNC, AFC, Guyana Human Rights Association, Transparency Institute- Guyana Chapter, other civil society groups and prominent individuals but the absolute
refusal to even discuss any aspect of the APNU+AFC in government and the five months of election derailment.
Any discussion has to add to history and has to generate knowledge. Even if there are positions taken for which no apology is forthcoming and the actor insist that their position is right and can be justified, then at least let us have that discussion so Guyanese can learn something from the debate.
The only person who allegedly supported the corrupted election results as enunciated by the then Chief Election Officer and is prepared to defend his position in front of others, even if those others are PPP intellectuals is exactly Alexander. He did just that on the Freddie Kissoon Show in debate with PPP parliamentarian and prominent lawyer, Sanjeev Datadin.
Mr. Alexander and Mr. Datadin slugged it out but Alexander did not shy away
from enunciating what he believed in, and what he believed in met with rebuttal by the GECOM chairperson, Justice Singh who accused Alexander of trying to mislead the nation. The GECOM letter rejecting Alexander’s distorted presentation was only carried in the Guyana Chronicle. Can you imagine the GECOM chairperson accuses a GECOM commissioner of deceiving the nation and the two private newspapers refused to carry her letter?
Mr. Alexander asked me, the moderator, to tell him what wrong things Roxanne Myers did during the fivemonth election disaster. I quoted from the report of the Commission of Inquiry into the 2020 election. The point that is being made here is that there should be others, like Alexander, that need to tell the nation what they think of their time in government between 2015 to 2020.
If they feel they did nothing that was improper,
unpleasant, unbecoming, unacceptable, illegal and dictatorial then let the Guyanese know how you feel. David Hinds has a podcast titled Politics 101, three times a week, but he never touches the 2015 regime. He has a constant guest in Clive Thomas but the two never discuss the WPA in government between 2015 and 2020 when they were both in government and Thomas held a high-profile position.
Thomas writes a weekly column in the Stabroek News but avoids any mention of his role in government; not even an ephemeral glance at the subject. David Granger has a social media programme titled, The Public Interest. You listen to Granger on The Public Interest and you would never believe that he was just recently, the President of Guyana.
Mr. Granger avoids the
THIS past week, most of Guyana and further afield would have witnessed live (or on replay) the President’s early morning ‘dress down’ of the chief agents responsible for contract execution at various levels in the ministries. He expressed indignant dissatisfaction with the pace of execution of some of the civil works at the community level, especially those that were more than four months late.
Many people, including those in the opposition made scathing remarks and references to the way events unfolded. On the surface of it and to a casual observer nescient to the MO of the president, this exercise appears to be crude and coarse-grained. It was jarring to many who presented views that there were other ways to handle the matters. I can also think of a dozen other ways to handle that matter but the president chose an unprecedented and unconventional approach. That said, it is a matter of perspective and I wish to provide mine.
First off, President Dr. Irfaan Ali is still a very young
man who can aptly be described as a millennial. He is from a dual group affectionately described as Generation Y and Z. A group that is increasingly reliant on, and interactive with, digital bits and bytes to give effect and expression to their existence. In fact, they are referred to as digital natives. Despite the existence of protocols and precedencies, from previous generations, to exercise restraint on what is placed on the open digital space, millennials are not known for their hypervigilance.
President Ali, a millennial, is bound to conduct some of his affairs in the glare of live digital media. I believe that this decision is heavily influenced by the strong diktats of his generational cohort. President Ali, is indubitably the most accessible sitting president, to the media and the public than all other presidents before him combined. Having a digital media proclivity is not outside the realm of expectations. There is an ever-present phenom in the digital media that are called trolls. They perform what is called
“rage farming.” They find selective outrage in just about anything someone does. You can’t smile, walk, talk, be animated or even sit still, no matter the circumstances. There is rage associated with your appearance, your outfit, your height, your width and just about anything; they are digital provocateurs.
Unlike every president before him, this president is a political maverick. He takes many unconventional approaches; he is certainly the most community interactive president this nation has seen. He mingles with random communities across Guyana and while visiting these communities there are occasions where he would encounter community projects that were stalled or going at a snail’s pace.
Observing firsthand the inconvenience to residents, the president is obviously unsettled and upset. He indicated that community discomfort keeps him up at nights. It is well known that the president has tried some of the conventional methods available to him. Therefore, his inclination to try
something avantgarde should not be dismissed. It may be unsettling, but designed to induce results-oriented, purpose-driven community level project management.
Vice-President Jagdeo referred to it as “tough love.”
Some of these community projects are handled and supervised by the various Regional Administrations and Municipalities and may be obscured in overall or generalised reports that make it to the president’s desk. Therefore, when he visits a community, especially with short notice, and receives complaints from residents, he is obviously embarrassed, sharing the received dosages with the appropriate project managers and supervisors (in the open) should not be unexpected.
Opposition agents provocateurs have come to the feeding troth; they see this as political fodder, and boy are they feeding without coming up for air. However, they need to be careful in trying to score political points while missing the real issues that people in these very communities care about.
contents of his governmental policies like COVID-19. He will not tell us why he refused to raise the retirement age in the public service after his own commission into the public service recommended such an elevation.
Mr. Granger refuses to talk about any role of his in the decision to scuttle the marijuana amendment Bill which was drafted by Nigel Hughes and put on the Order Paper to be read in the name of AFC parliamentarian, Michael Carrington.
The leading figures in the PNC and AFC need to do what Alexander did. Now Nigel Hughes has taken a similar attitude like Alexander. Dr. Randy Persaud asked Nigel to answer 15 questions from the time of the no-confidence motion at the end of 2018 right through to the fifth year of APNU+AFC rule through to the five-
month election disaster in 2020.
And you know what? Mr. Hughes answered all 15 questions and in doing so, he has opened up a debate. Now you may not like Mr. Hughes’ politics but he did the sensible thing. He has responded to Dr. Persaud. I did not agree with his 15 answers but a polemic will ensue because, like me, others will confront Nigel on his position just as Datadin did with Alexander. In a forthcoming column I will look at three answers of Nigel that I believe are fatally flawed.
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.
These communities may care more about a visit from the president, and in many cases may have never received a visit from any president in the past.
Many may wish they could publicly confront the supervisors of projects in the communities. They witnessed the president express, on their behalf, the same pain, frustration and indignation they feel. This resonates with the people in the communities who are the real voters, not the keyboard and webcam influencers perched overseas. So, when the opposition use the opportunity to label the president, the communities are out there saying, “the president provided the budget, and all that is needed for us to get XY and Z but is dem slow coach engineers and REOs got we waiting so long. He sack it in them, yuh gon see how fass deh gon
run and done dis project. Issa good thing the man came in dis village or them wudda tek forever for done dis road.”
The people would have seen their president walking in their village, taking complaints and when he leaves, they see tangible action to address their concerns.
To many voters, the unconventional, maverick, avantgarde is not a voting issue for them; project delivery is. What this means is that the opposition would’ve missed the mark again, not only are they slow and reactive, they are sprinting in the disqualification lane.
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.
MINISTER of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, has said
that Guyana’s significant economic growth is a testament to the strategic and comprehensive plans and programmes that have been implemented so far.
Walrond made this remark while address a sizeable gathering at the GuyExpo 2024 opening ceremony where she stated that the theme, “Guyana on show, the Fastest Growing Economy,” was meant to showcase the remarkable economic progress made as a nation, especially in critical sectors.
The minister noted that patrons would have seen the creativity and resilience of the people across sectors and products that have grown through generations along with those that have evolved into internationally known brands.
The minister emphasised that the aim was to put on display examples of the businesses that showcase
the healthy double-digit growth rates in the non-oil sectors that have been seen in the four years that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has been in office.
Walrond told the gathering that the economic report for 2024 confirmed a real GDP growth of 49.7 per cent in the first half of the year. She added that this growth included robust growth of 12.6 per cent in the non-oil economy, which includes sectors such as agriculture, fishing, mining farming and construction among others.
Further to this, she remarked that equipping the world’s fastest-growing economy requires investing in human capital, especially young people.
She added, “In this regard, you will be aware that our government continues to invest heavily in our educational sector by providing learning resources and improved facilities that foster their academic advancement and entrepreneurial development.”
Minister Walrond said that closely related to this is the agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship programme that is designed to encourage young people to establish agribusinesses.
“This progress is a testament to the strategic and comprehensive plans and programmes implemented to stimulate private sector growth,” she expressed.
RECOGNISING the unifying power of the "One Guyana" concept, President, Dr Irfaan Ali shared his vision for a future where all Guyanese, regardless of backgrounds, have access to opportunities for economic prosperity, quality healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
The Head of State during a recent media engagement emphasised that the "One Guyana" initiative is more than just a political platform; it has become a cultural and psychological force binding the nation together.
“All over this country, the brand has become so important that people are embracing it culturally,” President Ali said, noting the widespread support for the concept across all sectors of society. "They are embracing it through sports, through religious sentiments. So, it has become, now, psychologically a con-
cept that has brought a level of awareness to every Guyanese."
President Ali also stressed that the core of "One Guyana" is not just about bridging differences, but is also about ensuring that every citizen can achieve prosperity.
" One Guyana is not only about bridging the divide based on our differences. It is about one platform through which every Guyanese can have a prosperous life," he said.
“How we get every Guyanese to own their own home? How do we get every child to have equitable and safe access to quality health care? How you get quality access to education, access to quality infrastructure?
All of that is embodied in what ‘One Guyana’ constitutes.”
Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, President Ali reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the needs of the most vulnerable in society, stating that
this approach is key to ensuring that every citizen benefits from the nation’s growth.
In an effort to further promote the "One Guyana" vision and its significance to the nation’s history and future, the President announced plans to launch a comprehensive national guide next year.
"I’m going to launch something next year, a full Guyana manual that traces the historical evolution of our society and looks at what the 'One Guyana' concept entails. You will have a full reading on it," he shared.
“But when you want to look at it in a very superficial way, you will see how important the brand is… the One Guyana concept must be part of what they want to do. And that alone tells you something—that tells you that this is something that we as a people are embracing.”
With the "One Guyana" initiative now
firmly entrenched in the national consciousness, President Ali’s vision is one of a united, thriving nation where every citizen enjoys the
benefits of Guyana’s development, with a focus on fairness, equality, and progress for all.
“[It is] the success of how our people lives is improving and how [the] comfort of our people is enhanced through the investments we are making.”
Mark Phillips underscored the holistic and strategic vision of the government during the commissioning ceremony for two additions to the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) Air Corps Fleet.
The two Dornier HAL-228-201 aircraft, which were purchased from India earlier this year, were officially commissioned on Sunday at Air Station London, Timehri, a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister said.
During his remarks, Prime Minister Phillips described the commissioning as part of
a broader vision of development.
"This commissioning isn't happening in isolation. It's part of a larger vision by the Government of Guyana to transform our Defence Force into a modern, versatile institution capable of addressing an evolving range of challenges.”
He noted that over
the past years, this vision has taken shape through several key initiatives, including the acquisition of advanced rotary-wing aircraft, the Enhanced Domain Awareness Exercise with Southcom, and the upcoming construction of a new GDF headquarters.
According to the
Prime Minister, the two Dornier HAL228 aircraft bring advanced capabilities to the GDF, enhancing Guyana's ability to address pressing challenges such as border security, disaster response, and medical evacuations in remote regions.
"The modernisation of our GDF is a stra-
tegic necessity and a national imperative. With an expanded air fleet, the GDF is better positioned to address these challenges. This investment in our military infrastructure ensures that we are prepared to safeguard our sovereignty and the safety and well-being of every citizen. Moreover, a strong defence force is a vital partner in national development," the PM was quoted as saying.
The commissioning also underscores the growing strategic partnership between Guyana and India.
Reflecting on this collaboration, Prime Minister Phillips stated: "This moment is significant as it coincides with a major strategic milestone in the partnership between Guyana and India. These aircraft, and the broader frame-
work of cooperation they represent, stand as a tangible outcome of the dialogue and shared vision…"
The Prime Minister also thanked the Government of India for its continued support to Guyana. He said, “Your support has been instrumental in strengthening our GDF and, by extension, our nation. We look forward to building on this partnership and exploring new avenues for collaboration in the future."
Addressing citizens directly, Prime Minister Phillips reiterated that the aircrafts acquisition lends to the Government’s commitment to national security and development.
"To the people of Guyana, let today be a reminder that your government is working tirelessly to build a
stronger, more secure country. Every step we take is aimed at creating a nation that is safe and full of opportunities," he said
The ceremony was attended by the Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh; Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill; National Security Advisor, Captain Gerry Gouveia; High Commissioner of India to Guyana, HE Dr Amit Telang; Chief of Defence Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Omar Khan; Heads of the Joint Services; senior GDF officers; representatives of the civil aviation authority; and representatives of the aircraft manufacturers, the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).
AS the government continues to aggressively implement its Student Loan Write Off Programme, additional measures to improve ease of access to the initiative by prospective beneficiaries were announced today by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Re -
online submission of applications is now possible through the Ministry of Finance website at https:// studentloanwriteoff.gov. gy/apply/new.
According to the release, he said that drop boxes for hard-copy submission of application forms will be placed at all 10 Regional Dem -
countrywide
“Eligible applicants are reminded that they can still download the application form via the Ministry of Finance’s website on this link: https:// finance.gov.gy/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ Student-Loan-Application-Form-2024-Final.pdf.
“The hard copy of this
sponsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh.
This is according to a press release issued on Sunday in which Minister Singh urged persons to submit their applications as soon as possible, so as to facilitate timely processing of the applications in the interest of ensuring that all eligible persons benefit from the write off of their outstanding student loans.
In his announcement regarding the additional accessibility measures for the Student Loan Write Off Programme, the minister outlined that fully
ocratic Council offices countrywide with immediate effect, as well as the Ministry of Education at 26 Brickdam, and at the University of Guyana Tain Campus, Berbice.
Further, applicants may also mail in their applications via any post office to the Student Loan Agency. Persons are advised to address their envelopes to: Student Loan Agency, PO Box 101544, Georgetown, and state their names and addresses aback of the envelope, the release said.
Application forms will also be available at all RDC and NDC offices
form can also be submitted to the Student Loan Agency at the University of Guyana, Turkeyen,” the release.
It added that it would be recalled that in May of this year, the government announced its Student Loan Write Off Programme. In keeping with its manifesto commitment to deliver free education by 2025, in October President Irfaan Ali also announced that by January 2025, tuition fees at the University of Guyana will be abolished.
Further, tuition fees at all government technical and vocational training in-
stitutes will be abolished, including the Guyana Industrial Training Centre, the Guyana School of Agriculture and the Carnegie School of Home Economics.
This expanded measure is slated to benefit over 3,000 additional persons and also forms part of government’s broader
initiative to enhance human capital development to reduce inequality and improve access to education to every Guyanese citizen.
The minister further encouraged persons to utilise all the training opportunities the government has made available to upgrade and
uplift their skills so as to enable them to fully take up the wide range of available job opportunities across the country, and further contribute and benefit from the unprecedented growth and transformation of the economy, the release added.
By Michel Outridge
THE Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil) is recognised as a market leader in high quality petroleum products including Super 95 motor gasoline, ultra-low sulfur diesel and Castrol lubricants.
It is Guyana’s largest petroleum distribution company that imports, stores and distributes petroleum
products in wholesale and retail quantities throughout Guyana.
Guyoil has a retail network of 56 service stations and three industrial storage facilities in all three counties and is conveniently positioned to meet the fuel needs of organisations nationwide. The company supplies Super 95 gasoline, low sulfur diesel, ultra-low sulfur diesel, kerosene and Castrol lubri-
cants.
At GuyOil’s booth at GuyExpo 2024 was Lynne Layne, Retail Sales Executive who told the Guyana Chronicle that the response to their booth has been overwhelming with the main attraction being the ‘spin the wheel’ feature to win prizes. She stated that scores of people have been gathering at their booth to secure a spot to win something after
having a chance to spin the wheel.
Layne said that the prizes up for grabs included umbrellas, key chains, openers, tumblers, pouches, free fuel, lubricants, free car wash, notepads and pens among other things.
She reported that it is their first-time having a booth and participating in the GuyExpo event. She said she feels encouraged by the
fact that many people wanted to know more about their services and products.
Layne pointed out that the experience has been rewarding, as seeing the smiles and reactions on the faces of people who had won prizes was priceless. Additionally, the hunger for information was indeed refreshing, she added.
The GuyOil executive noted that they sell gasoline along with branded Super 95, their best-seller, as well as, two types of diesels (ULSD and LSD) which are both environmentally friendly. She informed this publication that they are the only company in Guyana that sells these products.
Ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) refers to diesel fuel containing less than 15ppm sulfur and there are multiple benefits to the engines that uses this type of fuel, she said.
Layne reported that GuyOil is a local company and all the sales goes back into our economy to foster the development of human resource and the country.
Layne related that GuyExpo 2024 is the place to be to showcase products and services. She said it is also a way to give back to the people and a very good experience for the company and its staff.
This publication was also told that the GuyOil Aviation Services Inc. (GASI) was established in 2015 and is a subsidiary of the Guyana Oil Company Limited. Its operations involve the importation, marketing and distribution of Jet-A fuel. GASI operates from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and the Providence terminal, East Bank Demerara.
GASI holds the International Air Transport Association (IATA) certification, underscoring its commitment to meeting international standards and best practices in the aviation industry, ensuring the highest quality and safety in importation, marketing and distribution of Jet-A fuel.
“GuyOil is here to stay. It is a household name noted for its high-quality products and services across the country, a local branded company which is the sole distributor of Castrol lubricants,” she said.
By Indrawattie Natram
NESTLED in Canal
Number One, West Bank Demerara, Singh’s Farm Agro Tours gives persons who love the outdoors an opportunity to be a part of something extraordinary.
with a traditional backdam bush cook, during which they can experience the authentic flavours of the countryside.
The guided farm tours also offer an opportunity for persons to explore lush orchards and pick their
The tour operators, husband and wife duo Dianne Singh and Jai Singh, offer the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and cultural enrichment to those who visit.
A visit to Singh’s Farm is a unique way to spend a weekend away particularly if you want some peace and quiet or just some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a hidden gem located just 12 miles from Georgetown.
The services provided by Singh’s Farm Agro Tours were among those highlighted at GuyExpo 2024.
This publication visited their booth on Saturday and they provided details on what they had to offer.
It was explained that at Singh’s Farm, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities designed to reconnect them with nature and Guyana’s agricultural heritage.
Visitors start their day
of chirping birds, they will hear about Guyana’s rich farming history.
The tour experience combines education with relaxation, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
After a day of exploration, visitors can unwind in the farm’s spacious guest house. It is equipped with modern amenities that provide a cozy and peaceful retreat, ensuring they are well-rested and ready for another day of discovery.
One of the highlights of Singh’s Farm is its commitment to providing fresh, locally grown produce.
The farm is known for its pure cane juice, extracted on-site, and a variety of tropical fruits which are harvested daily.
“Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an educational adventure, Singh’s Farm Agro Tours offers something for everyone. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of
primary source of food for the family. The farm was known to be a supplier of raw sugarcane to the Wales Sugar Estate which was closed in the early 2000s.
Visitors can select either a four-hour tour or a full day tour. All tours are conducted by a licensed tour guide.
For inquiries and bookings contact the Singhs on telephone number 694-5349.
straight from the trees.
As visitors wander through the farm and are serenaded by the sounds
Guyana’s natural beauty and hospitality,” Dianne told this publication.
It was Jai’s grandparents who started the farm in the 1920s with the vision of being the
SUPPORTED by the government, residents from across several hinterland and riverine communities have been reducing fuel use as more households are now turning to solar power.
Through the Hinterland Solar Home Installation Programme, solar panels have been distributed to several communities providing many with sustainable sources of electricity.
“We have received solar panels six months back and its beneficial to all the residents in Rukumuta Village. It is very useful to the children of our households. They can study at nights, do their assignments and even wake up in the morning and do their assignments and homework,” a resident from Rukumuta Village, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) recently shared during an engagement with officials.
The woman shared that residents have not been purchasing generators or fuel and most households rely on solar panels.
“The resident are not fo-
cusing on buying any fuel or buying generator for homes since the government has helped us a lot.”
Meanwhile, a massive project aimed at upgrading the water systems in Region Nine is underway. Works have already commenced on
The resident explained that prior to this project, several residents were accessing gravitational water, which was not often safe for residents to use for household purposes.
Another resident shared that most recently there has
this project and once completed several communities will have access to safe potable water.
“The project has started, and it is almost completed, and we are very thankful to the Government of Guyana and also the collaboration of GWI from Lethem.”
been a lot of concentration placed on the development of hinterland communities.
According to the man, in the community of Karasabai where he resides, several projects are underway to develop the health, education and recreational sectors. Currently construction
is underway to build the village’s first secondary school and health facilities are also being upgraded.
“So far a lot of concertation has been placed into indigenous communities and more so especially Karasabai in health, education and sports,” the man shared.
Just like Rukumuta, several households in Karasabai have also benefitted from the government’s solar panel programme.
Aside from the many education, health and sports initiative, the distribution of solar panels has been a
significant benefit.
He noted that many are now able to have access to lights and electricity.
“If this can be an ongoing programme that would be really nice for persons that now building their house, for those who don’t have.”
He however lobbied for more sporting initiatives, highlighting the potential for many indigenous youths to participate in sporting activities.
“I would like to advocate that more effort, more focus being made in sports in the hinterland areas. We would have seen focus being made a lot in the coastal areas in term of sports and we can get a little bit more,” he added.
Sharing similar sentiments, another resident pointed out that several indigenous communities are presently undergoing tremendous development.
According to the Karasabai resident, he is particularly excited about the construction of the village’s first secondary school.
“In the earlier days, our children had to travel far and then you had to spend money and get people to take care of them.”
While welcoming all the projects and new initiatives being implemented, the man noted that many young indigenous youths will be among the beneficiaries.
A SERIES of five earthquakes, including one measuring 5.0 magnitude, struck northeast of Antigua in less than 24 hours, the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC) reported.
The seismic activity began Friday evening at 17:11 hrs with the strongest tremor - a magnitude 5.0 earthquake
events occurred within a relatively concentrated area, at depths between 14 and 18 kilometres below the surface. The epicenters were located between 55 and 73 kilometres northeast of St. John's, Antigua.
While the earthquakes were also detected in neighbouring islands, including Montserrat and St. Kitts-Nevis, they were locat-
The sequence of events was as follows:
17:11hrs Friday: Magnitude 5.0
18:32hrs Friday: Magnitude 4.0
19:11hrs Friday: Magnitude 3.7
00:26hrs Saturday: Magnitude 3.8
05:48hrs Saturday: Magnitude 4.4
- recorded approximately 60 kilometres northeast of St John's. This was followed by four additional quakes ranging from magnitude 3.7 to 4.4, with the most recent occurring at 05:48hrs on Saturday.
According to the UWISRC's automatic earthquake detection system, all five
ed significantly further from these territories - approximately 110-136 kilometres away.
The UWI-SRC noted that the preliminary locations were automatically calculated and may be subject to revision pending evaluation by their analysts. (Loop)
WHILE global measles cases surged to an estimated 10.3 million in 2023, a 20 per cent increase from the previous year, the Americas region has successfully regained its status as free of endemic measles, with Brazil recently re-verified as having eliminated the disease.
Globally, inadequate immunisation coverage remains a major driver of the increase in measles cases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO)
and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 22 million children missed their first dose of the measles vaccine in 2023.
Despite this global surge, countries in the Americas have kept measles at bay, with no reported cases of endemic transmission.
Brazil was re-verified as measles-free following a review by the Measles and Rubella Elimination Regional Monitoring and Re-Verification Commis -
sion (RVC), an independent group of experts convened by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). This re-verification confirms the interruption of endemic measles transmission in Brazil, following an outbreak that began in 2018 and led to the re-establishment of endemic measles in 2019. Through strong vaccination efforts, enhanced surveillance, and rapid response measures, Brazil successfully interrupted transmission by June 2022.
In 2023, the Region confirmed the lowest number of measles cases in its history, with only 73 reported cases. For the first time since 2019, there was also an increase in vaccination coverage with the first dose of the Measles, Rubella, and Mumps (MMR1) vaccine reaching 87%. However, there is still a significant gap, as 1.4 million children in the region did not receive any dose of the MMR vaccine that year.
In 2024, up to November 8, 389 confirmed measles cases were reported in the region, all of which were imported or related to importation. The rapid response of countries prevented sustained transmission of the disease.
This achievement means that the Americas region is once again free of endemic measles, a milestone first achieved in 2016. In addition to Brazil, Venezuela was re-verified as free of endemic measles in 2023, following the resolution of an outbreak that began in 2018 and lasted for over 12 months.
REGION REMAINS PROTECTED DESPITE GLOBAL SURGE
The global rise in measles cases has primarily affected regions such as Africa, Eastern Mediterranean, Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific, with large outbreaks reported in 57 countries. Nearly half of
all significant outbreaks occurred in the African region. However, the Americas has managed to avoid such outbreaks due to robust immunisation programmes, strong surveillance and quick responses to imported cases.
An estimated 107,500 deaths from measles were recorded globally in 2023, with children under five being the most vulnerable. Although this is an 8% decrease from the previous year, far too many children are still dying from this preventable disease. Despite the rise in cases in other regions, the Americas has not reported measles-related deaths, and it is estimated that between 2000 and 2022, the measles vaccine alone prevented 6 million deaths in the region.
Ongoing efforts to strengthen immuni sation and surveillance in the Americas PAHO continues to stress the importance of strengthening immunisation programmes to prevent future outbreaks. Although measles transmission has been successfully interrupted in the region, achieving and maintaining 95 per cent vaccination coverage is crucial to ensure herd immunity and protect populations.
Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of PAHO, emphasised this week, “Regaining and maintaining measles elimination in the Americas is
an incredible achievement, but the work is far from over. We must continue to prioritise vaccination, improve surveillance systems, and strengthen our response capacities to prevent future outbreaks and protect our children.”
In addition to measles, the Americas region also successfully eliminated rubella and congenital rubella syndrome in 2015, maintaining that status to this day.
During the fourth annual meeting of the Measles and Rubella Elimination Regional Monitoring and Re-Verification Commission (RVC), held from November 4 to 6, 2024, in Lima, Peru, countries in the region were strongly recommended to:
Strengthen the supervision and follow-up of immunisation activities, surveillance, and rapid response at the subnational and local levels.
Adopt and adapt the recent PAHO guidelines on active case finding as a strategy to improve the sensitivity of the surveillance system.
Intensify efforts to close immunity gaps among migrant populations.
The full report with specific recommendations for each country will be available soon. (PAHO)
POLICE are investigating the alleged murder of Thagewante Motie, a 28-year-old female of Guyanese-Indian descent, of Supply Squatting Area, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
She was seriously wounded, chopped to the neck and arm at about 21:00hrs on Thursday at her home and was admitted as a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where she died at about 16:00hrs on Saturday while receiving treatment in the recovery room, police said in a statement.
The suspect has been identified as Uram Door-
Thagewante Motie
bassa, also known as 'Anil', a 26-year-old Labourer from Belmonte, Mahaica, ECD, who allegedly consumed a
poisonous substance after chopping the victim.
He died on Friday while receiving treatment at the GPHC.
“Police investigations indicate that at about 21:00hrs on Thursday November 14, 2024, the suspect and victim had an argument in the victim's yard. The suspect eventually used a cutlass and chopped the victim twice, once on the neck and the other on her arm.
“The suspect eventually drank a poisonous substance and they both were admitted at the GPHC where they later succumbed,” the police statement said.
(Espncricinfo) - England leave West Indies with a 3-1 T20I series victory after the final match of their Caribbean tour was washed out.
Play was abandoned after just five overs in the fifth and final T20I with Evin Lewis and Shai Hope steering the hosts to 44 without loss before a heavy storm set in at Darren Sammy Stadium in St Lucia.
It wasn't quite the start West Indies' opening pair had staged less than 24 hours earlier, when they raced to 56 for nought in
the first five overs and 136 for 0 in nine, on their way to chasing down a record 219 in Saturday's dead rubber.
But it wasn't far off, with Lewis striking two sixes and three fours on his way to 29 not out before the rain arrived.
Lewis had just pulled a John Turner delivery for a thunderous six over deep midwicket and sent the next ball in the air wide of midon for four before he was rapped on the helmet by a steepling bouncer attempting another pull on the last ball of the over - and ulti-
mately the match.
The rain arrived just as he was about to undergo onfield concussion checks, but he walked off smiling with the rest of the players.
With Hope unbeaten on 14 off 10 balls, it was an abrupt end to what had loomed as another entertaining encounter to end the series after the same pitch had yielded 32 sixes on Saturday.
On that occasion, West Indies had won the toss for the only time in this series, but they made a strong start in the face of Jos Buttler's
decision to bowl first on Sunday.
Turner, who was playing just his second T20I after making his debut in the fourth game of this series, conceded 22 runs from his two overs while Jofra Archer, replacing Saqib Mahmood for this match, went for 16 off 2. Jamie Overton, who didn't bowl despite taking the field on Saturday, conceded five runs off his solitary over on Sunday.
Player of the Series Mahmood was comfortably the leading wicket-taker for the series with nine at
an average of 10.55 and an economy rate of 6.33 with a best of 4 for 43 in the 1st T20I, eight of his wickets coming in the powerplay.
Next best was West Indies' left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein with five.
"The one thing I noticed being here previously is the crosswinds at most grounds," Mahmood told the post-match presentation. "I felt that if I wanted to take the new ball, I'd have to work on my away-swinger a little bit just because Reece Topley and Jofra [Archer] would want the
new ball from the other end to swing the ball back in. That's something I worked on. To perform and show that in a game was nice."
Phil Salt was the leading run-scorer with 162 including 103 not out in the first game and 55 in the fourth. Jacob Bethell, his 21-year-old team-mate, also impressed with 127 runs for once out, and at a superior strike rate of 173.97. The England duo were split by West Indies captain Rovman Powell on 153 runs.
(CMC) - A man-of-thematch performance with both ball and bat from Rahkeem Cornwall, helped the Leeward Islands Hurricanes to a six-wicket victory over the Combined Campuses and Colleges at the Queens Park Oval, as the round-robin phase of the CG United Super 50 Cup came to an end on
Sunday. Rahkeem Cornwall took six wickets with the ball and then hit an unbeaten 84 to lead the Leeward Islands Hurricanes over the CCC on Sunday. Photo: CWI Media Cornwall first did the demolition job with the ball, bagging six wickets for 20 runs to help restrict the CCC to 151 all out in 36 overs.
Jonathan Drakes led the resistance for the College men, scoring 48 and Shaqkere Parris getting 38. Cornwall, batting at number six, then hit a blistering, unbeaten 84 from just 39 balls to guide the Hurricanes over the line at 154 for six in just 19.4 overs. Seamer Akeem Jordan put in a decent effort with the ball,
bagging five wickets for 33 runs.
The win was the Hurricanes’ fourth of the campaign, pushing them to 51 points and third place in the standings, two points behind the Jamaica Scorpions whom they will face in semi-final two on Thursday at the Brian Lara Academy.
The first semi-final will
see leaders Trinidad & Tobago Red Force (63 pts) squaring off with fourth-placed Barbados Pride (46 pts) on Wednesday, also at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.
Over at the Sir Frank Worrell Ground in St. Augustine, the match between the West Indies Academy and the Windward Islands Volcanoes ended in a no-re-
sult due to rain. The Volcanoes, batting first, posted 278 for five with Sunil Ambris scoring an unbeaten 70. He got good support from Jeremy Solozano who made 55 and Shadrack Descarte 52.
The Academy team reached 69 without loss when heavy, persistent rain ended play.
[Espncricinfo] - Kusal
Mendis' unbeaten 73
trumped Mark Chapman's 76, as Sri Lanka secured a narrow three-wicket win in the second ODI in Pallekele, and with it seal the series with an unassailable 2-0 lead. It was their first ODI series win against New Zealand since 2012.
Having been set a subpar target of 210 in a rain-truncated 47-over game, Sri Lanka were made to work hard on a sluggish surface as New Zealand's array of spin options kept chipping away. But a string of mini-partnerships was enough to see the hosts through, culminating
in an unbeaten eighth wicket stand of 47 off 59 - the best of the innings - between Kusal and Maheesh Theekshana.
Michael Bracewell was the pick of the bowlers for the visitors, picking up figures of 4 for 36 in 10 overs. He was one of two bowlers allocated for 10 overs in the innings, alongside Mitchell Santner who ended with miserly figures of 1 for 33, but Sri Lanka smartly recognised their threat and targeted the rest of the attack to sneak home.
Earlier a brilliant exhibition of catching had seen New Zealand bowled out for 209, a total that was heavily
supplemented by Chapman's 76 off 81 and Mitchell Hay's 49 off 62 - they were two of just four New Zealand batters to make it to double digits.
Before his heroics with the bat, Theekshana had done his part with the ball grabbing 3 for 31. Jeffrey Vandersay also picked up three, while the tireless Asitha Fernando finished with two scalps.
But on a surface where nearly every spinner proved threatening to some degree, it was always going to take a special batting effort to separate the two sides. And Kusal provided that in spades.
Having come into bat at the fall of the first wicket inside the fifth over, it wasn't long before Kusal decided on a more conservative approach. The first ball he faced spun sharply past his forward defence, and then an attempt at his escape shot - the slog sweep - saw a top edge that looped safely over the keeper.
A couple of overs later Kusal was under the microscope once more, after a tight lbw shout went in his favour - a decision that was only upheld on review courtesy of an umpire's call on impact. These nervy moments meant that Kusal wouldn't get his first bound-
ary until the 26th delivery he faced. In fact, in total across his innings he would score just the six boundaries; instead, this was an innings marked more by his grit, with 46 singles and two doubles - 67% of his runs - an abnormally high percentage of non-boundary runs for a Kusal Mendis innings.
That he did so while struggling with cramps, or quite possibly a groin strain, for most of his innings speaks volumes towards his effort on the night.
But this was not a match Mendis could have won on his own. Aside from five-run stand with Kamindu Mendis, Kusal put together meaning-
ful contributions with each of his other partners - 18, 19, 28, 39, 31 and 47 - with each pushing Sri Lanka a little further towards the finish line.
One of the most important came with Janith Liyanage, as the pair came together in the 22nd over with Sri Lanka precariously poised on 93 for 5, and Kusal already being impacted by cramps. With New Zealand seeking further breakthroughs, and the pair of Glenn Phillips and Ish Sodhi bowling well in tandem, Liyanage proved the ideal partner to keep rotating the strike and the spin threat at bay.
GCB’s Inaugural National T20 League… Chanderpaul; Looknauth spur Jaguars to title and $1.7 Million
By Sean Devers
Watched by a small crowd, the Essequibo Anacondas beat the Essequibo Jaguars by 48 runs in the inaugural Guyana Cricket Board’s National T20 League powered by Bet CAGE Sports at Providence on Saturday night.
Opting to bat first on a good track and fast outfield, the Anacondas reached 159-5 in their 20 overs before restricting the Jaguars to 111-9 to take the Trophy and first prize of $1.7 Million.
It is said that when night falls, the stars come out to shine and on Saturday night under
lights, 28-year-old Guyana and West Indies opener, Tagenarine Chanderpaul and 26-year-old National off-spinner Richie Looknauth shined brightly.
Chanderpaul struggled to score freely in the ongoing CG United Regional Super50 in Trinidad but on Saturday night the left-handed batter demonstrated his ability to bat pugnaciously.
Chanderpaul hammered an entertaining 43 from just 20 balls with four fours and two sixes to set a firm foundation for the Anacondas.
Looknauth, who played two Regional Super50 games last
season, befuddled the Jaguars batters to finish with 4-21 from four frugal overs to take the Man-of-the-Match award.
In the first semi-final on Friday the Jaguars beat Berbice Piranhas by four wickets before the Anacondas registered an upset 49-run victory over the Demerara Pitbulls to set up Saturday night's all Essequibo final. Kevon Boodie contributed
MVP Sports Girls Pee Wee U-11 Schools Football Competition… Champs Marian Academy, West Ruimveldt storm opening round
Defending MVP Sports Girls Pee Wee Champions
Marian Academy made a statement on the opening day of the under 11 competitions as they blanketed Georgetown International Academy 7—nil to open their defense of the title.
It was Chrissyanne Persaud that opening the scoring in the 6th minute with a superb strike before her teammate Haley Haberkorn doubled the lead.
Persaud then went into second gear as she went on a rampage to register three more goals to finish with a four-goal haul after hitting the back of the net again in the 12th, 16th and 23rd.
Sariah Samaroo came into the party in the 25th minute and Ella Fernandes on the 40-minute completed the clinical performance for the champions.
Meanwhile, Genesis academy had baptism by fire when they clashed with West Ruimveldt, as they were thrashed 5-nil
West Ruimveldt Primary’s Ariel Farley accounted for four of their goals with Jada McRae scoring the other strike with no reply from
Genesis.
In other results F.E Pollard Primary gained a walk over against Batavia Primary while Potaro Primary defeated Smith Memorial Primary 2-1 after a brace by Reniese Joseph in the 8th and 25th minutes. Elianna Lawrence scored Smith Memorial consolation goal.
One Mile Primary and North Georgetown Primary also played out a stalemate that ended 1 apiece for a draw.
Waramuri Primary got a needle victory over St. John the Baptist Primary with the solitary strike coming from Keshanna Thomas. In round 2 action on the same day West Ruimveldt Primary also gained a walk over victory over Batavia who were no shows on the day.
Genesis Academy picked up their first win in round two, a 3-nil victory over F.E. Pollard Primary.
Genesis Academy’s Tyra Clement got onto the score sheet in the 7th and 9th minutes to put her school team on course for victory.
Arias Lewis gave F E Pollard effort some respect-
ability with a late goal to pull it back as they narrowly loss 2-1.
Linden’s One Mile Primary tough day continued as they loss to Smith Memorial Primary 1-nil with Akeila Pile scoring the game’s lone goal.
Waramuri Primary took a walk over after Tucville Primary failed to turn up for their match-up.
The champions continued where they left off in the first round with a 4-nil stoppage Stella Marris Primary.
Marian Academy capped off a splendid day with a sublime showing, Ella Haley got them off the mark before a double from Haley Haberkorn in the 18th and 23rd minutes made it 3-nil.
Averi Simon scored in the dying minutes to ensure the 4-nil victory as the defending champions got a flawless start to their campaign in the first two rounds.
The competition sponsored by MVP sports and Guyana Beverage Inc continues next Saturday at the Ministry of Education ground on CARFESTA Avenue.
24 off 30 balls, while Keemo Paul, coming in at number six, accelerated the innings with a quick-fire 38 off 24 balls.
Aggressive all-rounder Quentin Sampson also played an important role with an unbeaten 27 from 18 balls to ensure the Anacondas passed 150.
The Jaguars struggled against a well-balanced Anaconda bowling attack as Looknauth
ripped through the middle order. Captain and left-arm spinner Antony Adams, the tournament’s MVP, supported Looknauth with two wickets while National pacer Nial Smith and Garfield Phillips each claimed a wicket.
Zeynul Ramsammy was the only Jaguars batter to offer a fight, scoring 34 off 30 balls, but he got little support from the
other batters as only Tomanni Caesar made 16 runs from eight balls towards the end in a losing cause.
The Government of Guyana supported the GCB’s National T20 League with the Prize Money and Trophies while Bet CAGE Sports provided US $ 100K for the running of the tournament.
GBF Elite 16 Knock-Out Basketball Tournament…
Top club side Bounty Colts have been eliminated by Stabroek Eagles as action in the Guyana Basketball Federation Elite 16 KnockOut Basketball Tournament continued at the National Gymnasium hard court on Saturday evening.
Colts started with the hot hands as they led 19-14 at the end of the first quarter thanks to Quacy Shortt and Charles Williams made early inroads.
Bounty Colts maintained their lead into the half as their skipper Shelroy Thomas got into the action.
Thomas would finished with 12 points but they lost ground in their third quarter as Eagles Zion Gray put in a vintage performance to hit a game high 31 points to put the clash squarely in his team’s favor.
He found able support from his skipper Travis Belgrave with 17 points.
Short hit 18 points and Williams 20 but they could not pull back the rising tide as Eagles outscored them in the third and fourth periods to win it at the end of regulation time 79-74 to send Colts
Ravens Nikkoloi Smith going for a bucket against Kobras
packing. Meanwhile North Ruimveldt Ravens defeated Kobras 67-32 in their match-up in an awesome display of shooting.
It was a blow out showing from start to finish as the eventual winners led 23-4 after the first period, then 39-13 at the half. They extended it 49-24
after the third period as they went on win it comfortably by 35 points at the end of four quarters.
Ravens had an allround showing, Shamar Huntley led the offense with 12 points with 10 points each from Nikkoloi Smith, Ryan Stepheney and Terrence Daniels.
The greatest underdog story in the history of local futsal was denied a thrilling climax as heavyweight Gold is Money bested unseeded North Ruimveldt 4-1 to capture the inaugural Chung Global ‘Champion of Champions’ Tournament on Saturday evening at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue.
North Ruimveldt was denied the crown after being put in a position to capture the title following unexpected wins against Sparta Boss, Back Circle, and North East La Penitence in the previous rounds.
However, four goals from Jamal Pedro, William Europe, Shemar Koulen, and Andrew Murray Jr. in the fifth, 29th, 35th, and 36th minutes, re-
spectively, secured the win and their first Futsal title in more than five years.
For North Ruimveldt, Antonio Allen briefly equalised in the 16th minute.
With the result, Gold is Money pocketed $1,000,000 and the championship trophy, while North Ruimveldt received $500,000 and the runner-up award.
Meanwhile, North East La Penitence overcame the Stabroek Ballers 3-2. Calvin Moore bagged a double in the fourth and 35th minutes. Adding to the score in the 19th minute was an own goal.
On the other side, Seon Taylor tallied a double in the first and second minutes. Due to the outcome, North East La Penitence walked
away with $300,000 and the respective accolade, while Stabroek Ballerz pocketed $200,000 and the fourthplace award.
On the individual side, Murray Jr. of Gold is Money pocketed the most valuable player accolade, while Nkosi Barker of North Ruimveldt walked away with the best goalkeeper award.
In the women’s final, GT Kanaimas defeated the Guyana Police Force 1-0.
Complete Results Final
Gold is Money-4 vs. North Ruimveldt-1
Gold is Money scorers
Jamal Pedro-5th
William Europe-29th
Shemar Koulen-35th
Andrew Murray Jr-36th North Ruimveldt scorer
Antonio Allen-16th 3rd Place
Stabroek Ballers-2 vs. North East La Penitence-3
Suriname International 2024 Badminton tournament…
North East scorers
Calvin Moore-4th and 35th
Own Goal-19th
Stabroek scorers
Seon Taylor-1st and 2nd Q
Women’s Final GT Kanaimas-1 vs. Police-0
Guyana’s ace female badminton player Priyanna Ramdhani made good on her prom ise to deliver hardware at the ongoing Suriname International 2024 Bad minton tournament being played in Paramaribo.
She collected bronze in the women singles and teamed up with country-mate Akili Haynes also clinch bronze in the mixed doubles class and will play in the finals of the women doubles.
The women doubles category where Ramdhani is teaming up with Trinidadian Chequeda De Boulet saw them eliminating
Surinamese pair Crystal Leefmans and Chan Yang in their semifinal contest.
They mowed the team from the host nation down in the opening set 21-8 but found a sterner challenge in the second set before clinching it 21-17 to earn the chance to play for gold.
They will contest the final against Peru’s Ines Lucia Castillo and Namie Miyahira.
The mixed doubles where Guyana stood a good chance of capturing a gold medal, saw them having to settle for a bronze after Akili Haynes who was nursing a minor
injury had to retire hurt owning to the high intensity play triggering his injury.
The local pair had to contend with Surinamese pair Rivano Bisphan and Sion Zeegelaar in the semi- final round.
They showed fight but could not overcome as they loss the encounter 21-12 and 11-0 owing to Haynes retiring hurt.
Ramdhani however did not advance to the women singles finals category when she came up against Peru Ines Lucia
Castillo in the semifinals on Saturday. She was outdone in straight sets 21-6 and 21-9 and had to settle for a bronze medal Akili Haynes, Priyanna Ramdhani, Nkosi Beaton, Frank Waddell, and Jonathan Debidin journeyed to represent this country at the Suriname International 2024, which served off on Wednesday in Paramaribo.
The tournament features singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events.
The inaugural edition of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) Harmony T10 Tapeball League commenced on Sunday, delighting the fans in the stands with some thrilling matches at the Transport Sports Club, Georgetown.
Success Strike Force, I.B.S, Kings, and The Other Guys are in the winners’ row after four matches in the straight knockout tournament.
Among the notable standout performances of the day was Brian Sookram of The Other Guys, who smashed six sixes and eight fours in his un-
beaten 83 from 28 balls, which sealed an emphatic chase, while Ryan Latiff of Kings made a cameo 26* and took two wickets.
Ryan Bagwandin of I.B.S. scored the first half-century of the tournament, making 60 (6x4s; 5x6s) from 24 balls. The tournament continues next weekend with matches on the East Coast of Demerara, Georgetown, and East Bank Essequibo.
November 30 will be the penultimate match day before finals on December 8, 2024. The event is designed to
be accessible and engaging for the entire community, with free entry for both teams and spectators.
The tournament offers enticing rewards, including $500,000 for the winning team, $250,000 for the runner-up, and $100,000 each for the two semi-finalists.
Individual accolades, including $60,000 each for the Man of the Final, Most Runs, and Most Wickets, will be awarded, and Trophy Stall has sponsored the trophies.
By facilitating this tournament, the ERC hopes to create
lasting connections among participants, promote mutual respect, and strengthen community bonds across Guyana.
Below are the summarised scores of the matches on Sunday: Success Strike Force v Ministry of Agriculture (Hydromet)
SUMMARY: 116-8 from 10 overs (Davindra Deosarran 38, Ryan Fung 15; Noel Smith 3-23, Sahid Mohammed 2-21) v MoA Hydromet 66-8 from 10 overs (Haresh Pertab 23, Daniel Harte 11; Brian Sarran 3-9, Ryan Fung 2-22)
I.B.S v KFC Guyana
S UMMARY: I.B.S 139 from 10 overs (Ryan Bagwandin 60, Troy Smith 27, Xavier Henry 19*, Quintin Crandon 18; Raphael Narine 1-19, Mario Hacket 1-24) v KFC Guyana 66 all out from 9.5 overs (Raphael Narine 27; Quinton Crandon 2-10, Ryan Bhagwandin 2-12, Xavier Henry 2-16) Kings v Queenstown
SUMMARY: Kings 136-5 from 10 overs (Jermaine Dewsbury 42, Kennard Moonsammy 38, Ryan Latiff 26*; Arshad Khan 1-9) v Queenstown 100-7
10 overs (Faadil
2-12,
