–– US official says, lauds country for leadership on food security and climate change
Intended farmsteads project to provide stable incomes for single parents Over 300 bridges, structures being constructed –– as gov’t looks to improve major highways, Dr Jagdeo says
Infant discharged from Suddie Hospital NICU after a 23-day stay
–– underscores importance of ‘unifying’ events that focus on our holistic well-being
President, Dr Irfaan Ali recently toured the hydroponics farm at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, where several high-value crops are currently under cultivation. Some of the crops being cultivated are cauliflower, pak choy, and lettuce. The hydroponic farming technique is the process used to grow plants in water. This technology allows the roots to absorb nutrients dissolved in water that satisfy the development requirements of plants. Hydroponics has become one of the most cost-effective means of cultivating cash crops (Office of the President photo)
Over 300 bridges, structures being constructed
SINCE assuming office in 2020, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government has awarded several contracts for the building and rehabilitation of roads, bridges and other major throughway structures.
This was disclosed by PPP’s General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo at a recent news conference, where he told reporters that the government has been making this strategic investment to better the lives of commuters across the country.
Works spanning across Regions Three, Four and Six are already underway.
“On the Mahaica to Georgetown highway its about 39 kilometres of [road] and 118 structures that would have to be built and widened, [in] Berbice, 60 kilometres have been awarded and you have 99 structures,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
Meanwhile at Ogle where a contract has been awarded to construct 11.2 kilometres
of road, there are 40 structures.
Other major projects include the Mandela to Buzz Bee Dam where some 22 kilomtetre of road is under construction. The works include a connecting road that leads out to the main highway in that area and some 50 structures.
In Region Three, works are underway on some eight kilometres of road from Crane to the Demerara Harbour Bridge. There some six structure are being constructed, Dr. Jagdeo stated.
“On those alone we are going to be doing 312 bridges and structures that are already under implementation and 140 kilometres of four lane roads.”
“This is all in about four years, nearly two years of intense work in the postCOVID period,” Dr. Jagdeo added.
Recently, President Dr. Irfaan Ali emphasised that Guyana is heading in the di-
rection of ensuring that safety on the roadways is being met through state-of-the-art technologies.
The President also revealed that by 2027, most of the nation’s infrastructural works will be done by Guyanese, owing to the local contracting pool being developed.
The PPP included a fourlane highway from Georgetown to Timehri in its 20202025 manifesto under the heading, “Infrastructure Boom: Building for the Future.”
The party gave its commitment that it will revolutionise the outdated infrastructure in Guyana and initiate work on several transformative infrastructural projects, all in order to provide a flourishing economy.
The PPP Government built and maintained more than 180 bridges, and some 1,651 kilometres of roads along the coast and across the hinterland in 2022.
–– as gov’t looks to improve major highways, Dr. Jagdeo says
The Mandela to Eccles Highway
President Ali pledges $2M to SDA health movement
–– underscores importance of ‘unifying’ events that focus on our holistic well-being
By Naomi Parris
PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali on Sunday pledged a $2 million donation to the Guyana Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists (SDA) health fair and business expo.
The Head of State made the announcement at the opening ceremony of the health fair held at the Sophia Exhibition Centre and while addressing the mammoth gathering of religious leaders and patrons, he highlighted the importance of hosting unifying events with a focus on prioritising the body’s well-being, including physical, mental, and spiritual health.
“I want to extend our services to the church because I believe that your work is evidence of the type of environment we want to create in service to people,” President Ali said.
The church, he noted, creates a link to the community as religious bodies hold the responsibility of fostering and promoting a connection between health and wellness.
“What I can say without a shadow of a doubt, [is] this is a movement of compassion, love and humanity,” he said.
The President further highlighted the church’s responsibility to address mental health issues through counselling, pastoral care, and community support.
The SDA church he said, has consistently fulfilled the mandate of service to people and communities.
“This facility is open to everyone. Make use
of the facility; feel welcome. The Seventh-Day Adventists is an extraordinary group of people who make you feel welcome. I feel welcome every time I come here…”
In addition to the $2 million donation, President Ali announced that the government through the ministry of health will coordinate with the organisers to facilitate surgeries for cataracts, eyewear distribution and to ensure that young girls and women are scanned for cervical cancer.
The Seventh-Day Adventists church community is a large and growing organisation consisting of thirteen (13) Divisions, which are composed of churches grouped into unions, conferences, fields, missions or regions. Additionally, the Adventist denomination promotes education at all levels, from elementary and high schools.
While the history of Adventism in Guyana dates back to as early as 1883, by 1973 the SDA church had been operating in 11 elementary schools, four of them state-aided, and one secondary school under a mission status.
In 1974, a committee appointed by the Caribbean Union Conference recommended that the then SDA Guyana Mission should be reverted to a conference on merit.
The church community throughout the decades have held many evangelistic outreaches offering health, education, and mental health services to communities across the country and region.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali addresses a mammoth gathering at the opening of the Guyana Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists (SDA) health fair
From left to right: Pastor Andrew Chichester, Community Services Director; Pastor Exton Clarke, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists; President Ali and Sister Rovena Harrinauth, treasurer of the Guyana Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists
Intended farmsteads project to provide stable incomes for single parents
By Shamar Meusa
WITH some 100 acres of land expected to be turned into modern farmsteads, this project is expected to provide stable incomes for single parents and those with an agricultural background.
Late last week, President, Dr Irfaan Ali announced that in an effort to expand its agricultural entrepreneurship programme, they will embark on a multi-agency programme to convert 100 acres of land along the Soesdyke-Linden highway into modern farmsteads.
This multi-agency project will be between the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Housing and Water and the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission.
To this end, the Head of
State said that low-income houses will be constructed along with shade houses in the backyards. The intention is to have some 500 farmsteads on these 100 acres.
President Ali was at the time addressing graduates from various agricultural programmes.
He said: “When we look at the numbers in one of those farmsteads, that shade house in the immediate term will give them the resources to repay a loan and give them additional money in their household income[s].”
Further to this, he highlighted that the design of the farmsteads will be different with the shade houses at the back of the homes and some amount of farmland at the front of the properties.
President Ali expressed, “If it is a medium size house lot with the shade house at
the back with the home in front and the front yard, we are putting farmland with permanent crops like [sic] breadfruit [and] like [sic] coconut.”
With that, he iterated that they will be engaged in
the production of long-term crops which carry a high value. Additionally, single parents will be able to get an economic boost to satisfy their housing demand and give them an opportunity for a higher quality of life.
Speaking directly to those present at the engagement, President Ali said that they have a great opportunity to put to use the knowledge they gained while completing their various programmes.
He further added that it is an opportunity for them to create and build productivity, and prosperity and apply their knowledge in advancing farming and the systems here in Guyana, using technology.
President, Dr Irfaan Ali addressing the gathering at NAREI on Friday
Biden ends failing reelection campaign, backs Harris as nominee
U.S.
PRESIDENT Joe Biden abandoned his reelection bid on Sunday under growing pressure from his fellow Democrats and endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris as the party's candidate to face Republican Donald Trump in the November election.
Biden, who at 81 is the oldest person ever to have occupied the Oval Office, said he would remain in the presidency until his term ended on January 20, 2025, and would address the nation this week.
Biden, who has not been seen in public since testing positive for COVID-19 last week, was isolating at his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.
"While it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term," Biden wrote on X.
The move dramatically reshapes a White House contest that has been shaken repeatedly in the last month. Biden's disastrous June 27 debate performance drove his fellow Democrats to urge him to drop out. Then on July 13, a gunman attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump, 78. And last week Trump named hardline Republican U.S. Senator J.D. Vance, 39, to serve as his vice-presidential running mate.
In opinion polls, Amer-
icans had expressed widespread dissatisfaction with a potential Biden-Trump rematch. Shortly after Biden's announcement, Trump told CNN: "Harris will be easier to beat than Joe Biden would have been."
Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison said the American people would soon hear from the party on next steps and the path forward for the nomination process. It was the first time in more than a half-century that an incumbent U.S. president gave up his party's nomination.
If Harris, 59, emerges as the nominee, she would become the first Black woman to lead a major-party ticket in U.S. history. A former attorney general of California and former U.S. senator, she ran unsuccessfully for president against Biden in 2020.
"My intention is to earn and win this nomination," Harris said in a statement.
"I will do everything in my power to unite the Democratic Party — and unite our nation — to defeat Donald
Harris campaign officials, allies and supporters have started making calls to secure the support of delegates for her nomination ahead of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago from Aug. 19-22, multiple sources said.
Democratic state party chairs held a Sunday afternoon call to discuss backing Harris as the party's nominee. Several participants said Harris has the full support of the chairs.
Opposition to Biden's campaign from within his party gained steam over the past week with 36 congressional Democrats - more than one in eight - publicly calling on him to drop out, driven by concerns over his mental acuity.
Lawmakers said they feared he could cost them not only the White House but also the chance to control either chamber of Congress next year, which would leave Democrats with no meaningful grasp on power in Washington.
That stood in sharp contrast to what played out in Milwaukee last week, when Republican convention delegates united around Trump, whose refusal to acknowledge his 2020 loss to Biden sparked a Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol.
It was unclear whether other senior Democrats would challenge Harris for the nomination - she was widely seen as the pick of many party officialsor whether the party itself would choose to open the field for nominations.
Governor Gavin Newsom of California, who had been mentioned as a possible replacement for Biden at the top of the ticket, threw his support behind Harris.
"With our democracy at stake and our future on the line, no one is better to prosecute the case against Donald Trump's dark vision and guide our country in a healthier direction than America’s Vice President, @KamalaHarris," Newsom wrote on X.
Two other potential challengers, Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan and Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky, issued statements praising Biden but did not mention the vice president.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg o n Sunday issued statements backing Harris' bid. Both are among a handful of Democrats seen as potential vice-presidential material.
Earlier this year, facing little opposition,
Biden easily won the Democratic primary race to pick its presidential candidate, despite voter concerns about his age and health.
His staunch support for Israel's military campaign in Gaza eroded support among some in his own party, particularly young, more liberal Democrats and voters of color.
Many Black voters say Biden has not done enough for them, and enthusiasm among Democrats overall for a second Biden term had been low. Even before the debate with Trump, Biden was trailing the Republican in some national polls and in the battleground states he would need to win to prevail on November 5. (Reuters)
Trump."
Promoting Hydroponics
GUYANA is on an ambitious journey to strengthen its agricultural sector and reduce its high food-import bill.
The government’s commitment to promoting high-value crops, in addition to the establishment of model hydroponics farms, marks a pivotal step towards enhancing food security, not only for Guyana, but for the entire Region.
For decades, Guyana has faced the challenge of a significant food-import bill. The country has relied heavily on the importation of food items to meet the dietary needs of its population.
This over-reliance on foreign markets not only threatened the country’s food security, but also drains valuable foreign-exchange reserves.
In a move to address this issue, the Guyana government has prioritised the cultivation of high-value crops as a means of increasing domestic food production.
High-value crops such as exotic
fruits, spices, and specialty vegetables, have the potential to generate substantial revenues in both domestic and international markets.
This approach not only helps to reduce the food-import bill, but also boosts the incomes of local farmers and contributes to the diversification of the agricultural sector.
One of the key initiatives in this endeavour is the establishment of the model hydroponics farm at the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).
Hydroponics, a soil-less farming technique, offers a sustainable and efficient way to grow crops in controlled environments. The NAREI model farm serves as a blueprint for Guyana’s agricultural transformation. It showcases the possibilities of producing high-value crops with significantly higher yields and quality, while using fewer resources and less land.
The advantages of hydroponics are numerous, especially in a country such as Guyana, where arable land is limited, and traditional farming methods are subject to unpredictable weather patterns and climate change.
By adopting hydroponics on a larger scale, Guyana can secure a consistent supply of high-value crops, regardless of external factors. Moreover, hydroponics allows for year-round cultivation, reducing the nation’s vulnerability to seasonal fluctuations in food production.
To further extend the benefits of this innovative approach, the Government of Guyana is planning to replicate hydroponics farms across the country, as announced by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali.
By encouraging farmers to adopt this technology, Guyana aims to bolster its food security and encourage economic growth in rural areas. This expansion is not only about improving Guyana’s self-sufficiency, but it is also about
contributing to regional food-security efforts.
The initiative to promote high-value crops and hydroponics is not just a national endeavour; it is a regional solution to a common challenge. Many Caribbean countries face similar issues of high food-import bills and vulnerability to external factors that affect food supplies. Guyana’s success in diversifying its agricultural sector and promoting efficient farming methods can serve as a model for the entire Caribbean. Over further $90 billion is expected to be expended this year to advance Guyana’s agricultural pursuits. As Guyana leads the way in promoting high-value crops and hydroponics, it is crucial that the nation shares its experiences, knowledge, and technology with its Caribbean neighbours. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing can strengthen regional food security and reduce dependence on expensive food imports.
Guyana leading on critical issues
GUYANA has been lauded for its leadership role on critical issues facing the Caribbean and Latin American region.
“Guyana continues to lead on critical issues in the Americas such as energy, food security, climate solutions, and restoring stability to Haiti...” - Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Brian A Nichols is quoted as saying by the United States of America Embassy in Guyana, following a strategic dialogue between the two nations recently.
The United States and Guyana held a virtual Strategic Dialogue on July 16 to discuss issues of mutual interest, includ-
ing climate resilience, food security, and energy transition. Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Daniel P Erikson; State Department Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs Brian A. Nichols, and Special Advisor to the Vice President for the Western Hemisphere Scott Winton led the US interagency delegation, which was composed of representatives from the Department of State, USAID, the Department of Defense, and the Export-Import Bank of the United States. Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud led the Guyanese delegation, which included a wide range of local ministries
and the Guyana Defence Force. According to a brief statement from the US, during this first-ever Guyana-United States Strategic Dialogue, the two sides discussed ideas for advancing the bilateral economic agenda, underscored the need for good governance and institutional strengthening, and pledged continued defence and security cooperation. Both delegations recognised the prospect of an active 2024 hurricane season in the Caribbean and expressed support for those already affected by Hurricane Beryl. They also reiterated their commitment to the success of the Multinational Security Support mission in Haiti.
–– US official says, lauds country for leadership on food security and climate change
Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Brian A Nichols
Darkness at noon: Death of a priest
ONE of the most psychologically piercing novels I ever read is Arthur Koestler’s “Darkness at noon.”
I was first introduced to the book because it was on the reading list for a compulsory course for my Master degree at MacMaster University. The course was entitled: “Culture and civilization in the 20th century.”
Darkness at Noon is now regarded as one of history’s greatest novels. I became enthralled with Koestler after reading his fantastic novel and I can say most definitely, he was one of the philosophers who influenced me (he did not formally study for a philosophy degree). He was an existentialist. When I returned home and began to teach philosophy to first year UG students majoring in politics, I put him on my reading list. He was on my reading list for the 26 years I taught at UG.
There are two philosophers who had a profound effect on the way I see life and death - Koestler and Martin Heidegger. But both did terrible things and I wonder if within the womb of philosophy there are compulsory destructive instincts. Koestler raped the wife of UK’s opposition leader, Michael Foot, in 1951. Heidegger was a supporter of the Nazi party and wrote in favour of the Nazi government.
Darkness at Noon captures the inherent instability of unelected power and for those who never experienced the sadism of unelected power under President Forbes Burnham and shamelessly stood silent between March and July in 2020 in this country, then, they ought to be compelled to read Darkness at Noon.
I saw how darkness enveloped a sunny bright day in July, just around this time in 1979. The sun on July 14 in 1979 turned to complete darkness for me inside a moldy, smelling, empty room in what is now an abandoned high-rise building at the junction of Manget Place and Croal Street which still carries the name First Federation Insurance Company. First Federation is Guyana’s first commercial high-rise and it is inside that building that I came face to face with darkness noon (by the way, who owns First Federation?).
It was on July 14, 1979, that a large crowd gathered outside the Magistrates’ Court to demonstrate against the trial of Dr. Walter Rodney and other WPA leaders charged with arson on the Ministry of National Development. The accused were granted bail but the police took them away in a van and the demonstrators ran behind the van. I was among
the runners.
When we reached Brickdam by Saint Stanislaus School, a large school of state-sponsored goons attacked the demonstrators. Everyone ran because these men had some frightening pieces of wood with them and other dangerous weapons in their hands. A small group of thugs recognised me and began to chase me. I was with WPA member, Dennis Canterbury. We ran into Manget Place and into First Federation. We ran upstairs and dashed into an open room and locked the door.
We heard voices of the thugs as they searched for us room by room. Denis Canterbury kept whispering in my eyes not to breathe so loudly because they will hear and identify which room we were in. At noon that day (July 14, 1979), I came close to losing my life. I did not know that Father Darke was stabbed and killed outside Saint Stanislaus until late that night because I went home straight away to my wife because it was only a few months ago I got married.
The front cover of Father Morrison’s magnum opus, “Justice: The Struggle for Democracy in Guyana, 1952-1992, has a photograph of the thugs attacking Father Darke. In that photo, you can see the main attacker with a bayonet in his hand. For an account of how Father Darke met his death at noon on Brickdam on July 14, 1979, right outside the school he taught at, please consult the Father Morrison’s book – pages 139-146.
I became close to Dennis years after when we both turned up as lecturers at the University of Guyana. But I have lost contact with him for decades now because he has migrated. I will look at one more political murder during the reign of Forbes Burnham – Vincent Teekah, who died in October of the same year as Father Darke and the attempted assassination of Dr. Josh Ramsammy in October 1971.
When you look at the date of Ramsammy’s attack to the date of Walter Rodney’s assassination in June 1980, then one can classify the decade of 1970 to 1980 as one of the most frightening moments of unelected power.
Yet in 2020, there were Guyanese willing to usher in another era of permanent power by the same party that was in power - 1970-1980.
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.
Cutting ties
THERE is a trend which began a year ago and is apparently now on the popular Tik Tok social media platform, advising users to ‘cut ties’ with toxic people in their lives.
This has led to many announcing ‘no contact’ with family members, as well as those once considered friends.
The advice, originally issued by a breakup support group, was intended to help persons after a painful separation from a partner, by establishing some distance.
However, ‘no contact’ seems to have acquired a ‘life’ of its own to the point where children are breaking
all interaction with parents. At the same time there is rising controversy about whether this ‘rule’ should even be called a trend, with some arguing that a trend is ‘something fun. Something that brings people together’. Others say that a trend can be either good or bad and ‘simply means things are developing or changing in one direction or another’.
Whether trend or not, the real question is whether cutting off all forms of communication with someone actually benefits the person who initiates this act.
Psychiatrist, Dr Erica Richards, recently said, on the NBC news mental health
segment, that there is no proof that ‘no contact’ is working.
Nonetheless, others like Psychologist, Mark Travers, declared that in the aftermath of a breakup, “...the no contact rule serves as a vital tool for post-breakup healing by allowing individuals to step back and process their emotions without the interference of ongoing communication”.
He does however point out that not every breakup would necessitate implementing the rule, which becomes “crucial” in toxic relationships. And he also makes the salient point that the effectiveness of the rule lies in “intentional and mind-
ful implementation”.
So far it would seem that some are misinterpreting the rule and using it as a tool for manipulation or a game and not as a means of regaining mental stability.
Indeed, simply cutting someone out of your life does not automatically heal you. This should mark the beginning of a process of self-awareness and emotional independence. It is intended to create a space where you can reflect on your own actions and choices and achieve clarity and personal growth.
More complex issues are at play when the ‘no contact’ rule is applied to friends and family, in particular, parents.
Here, the debate gets even more heated with many citing the biblical tenet, ‘Honour Thy father and Thy mother’ and insisting that the rule, applied to parents, is a sign of disrespect.
Others have no such compunction, in the face of what they perceive as a toxic
relationship, which is causing them distress.
Those who have ‘cut off’ parents often describe trying to preserve the relationship time and again with no success. They contend that at some point they must decide to put their own mental health first.
Hillary Carmona is one psychologist who supports this view, claiming that ‘no contact’ is “...an effective approach to physically distancing yourself from the (toxic) person to give yourself space to heal”.
She however advises it as a last resort, when all other attempts to rectify the
Teenager dies in
Fairfield accident
SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLD
Julio Joseph of Pomona Housing Scheme in Region Two, lost his life after the driver of the vehicle he was in lost control and crashed into the concrete fence of a private residence.
The accident which occurred early Sunday morning has left Gavinash Narine, 20, of Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast, with life-threatening injuries. He is currently a patient of the Intensive Care Unit at Suddie Public Hospital where he is receiving treatment for head injuries and broken limbs.
This publication under-
stands that Joseph was a student of the Aurora Secondary School.
According to his mother, Onika Persaud, he had earlier left home for the barbershop. Upon returning, he told her that he was going to accompany a friend to Supenaam.
Persaud said she later messaged her son and he told her that he was at a supermarket in Supenaam with his friend.
It was while returning home that tragedy struck.
Persaud recounted that she received a telephone call concerning the accident. The caller told her to go to
relationship have failed and cautions that, “Going no contact can be incredibly tough” and may not always provide the closure needed.
Whatever the decision, clearly ‘no contact’ can only work if the person initiating it carefully considers this option, follows the rules and uses the break to restore their mental well-being.
Autumn Kohler, a disability advocate said: “ A bad relationship is like standing on broken glass, if you stay, you will keep hurting. If you walk away, you will hurt, but eventually, you will heal”.
Julio Joseph the Suddie Public Hospital. However, when she arrived, she was told that her son had already died.
“My son was my everything. He was so kind and loving. I don’t know why this is happening,” the grief-stricken woman said.
Joseph’s body is at the Suddie Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.
Gov’t to begin spraying rice fields in Region Six today to combat paddy bugs – Minister Mustapha
THE Ministry of Agriculture will begin spraying rice fields in Region Six today to address the paddy bug issue.
The paddy-bug infestation is severely affecting farmers’ rice productivity throughout the region.
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, during a community meeting at the Albion Community Ground on Sunday, noted that the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) will work collaboratively with the farmers to address the issue.
“Region Six is a very important rice-producing area for us. As a result of that, there were several proposals that the farmers made, but we have looked at the most realistic proposal. That proposal is to help them with the chemicals to spray the
areas where the bugs are present,” Minister Mustapha told the Department of Public Information (DPI).
To date, 68,000 acres of rice land are currently under cultivation in the region.
“I am hoping that we can control the bugs so that we can have a full harvest at the end of this crop,” the agriculture minister asserted.
A paddy bug committee has been set up to effectively monitor the situation in Region Six and a comprehensive report will be provided daily to the minister.
The report will indicate if further interventions need to be made relating to the insect situation.
Meanwhile, farmers have acknowledged that the substantial investments and interventions made by
the government over the years have resuscitated the rice industry, as well as enhanced rice production and their livelihoods.
Due to these direct investments and policies, rice farmers are optimistic that they will surpass this year’s rice production target of 710,000 tonnes, as compared to 653,000 tonnes last year.
Additionally, farmers will also have improved access to drainage and irrigation, as several outfalls will be cleared in the region, which will provide significant relief.
Also present at the meeting were Regional Chairman, David Armogan; Regional Vice Chairman, Zamal Hussain and Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Madanlall Ramraj. (DPI)
Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha addressing rice farmers at a meeting in Region Six
Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha and Regional Chairman David Armogan interact with farmers at the meeting
Infant discharged from Suddie Hospital NICU after a 23-day stay
By Indrawattie Natram
WHEN nineteen-year-old Lanita Jacobs tragically passed away due to complications from dengue fever, the staff at the Suddie Public Hospital knew that they had to do everything in their power to save her baby’s life.
Baby Liam made his entry into the world at 35 weeks, weighing 2,050 grams. He was delivered via emergency C-section.
After spending 23 days in the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where he received round-the-clock care from dedicated staff and benefitted from the modern pieces of equipment that were installed at the Region Two facility earlier this year, he was, on Saturday, discharged and is now being cared for by his father, Kevin Brummel.
During his stay, Liam received multiple transfusions, including five platelet transfusions, five fresh frozen plasma (FFP) trans-
fusions, and one pack cell (PC) transfusion, due to complications from the dengue fever he had also contracted and sepsis.
When he was discharged, Liam was free of infection. Doctors were satisfied with the results of his blood work and were confident that he was ready to go home with his father.
Dr. Kalesh Latchminarine, head of the neonatal department and a pediatrician, commended the team’s tireless efforts to ensure Liam’s survival.
The dedicated team who cared for the ‘preemie’ included Dr. Latchminarine, Dr. Yelina Acosta, Dr. Azalia Luke, nurses from the Cuban brigade and Guyanese nurse Alicia Belle.
While speaking to this publication, Dr. Latchminarine highlighted the numerous challenges Liam faced. Among those were respiratory distress that required non-invasive respiratory support. Despite the obstacles, the team was deeply moved by Liam’s resilience and unique ways of communicating his needs.
His mother was eight months pregnant when she was admitted to the hospital on June 26, 2024. She was suffering from severe bleeding and suspected dengue fever. A test later confirmed that she was positive for the mosquito-borne disease.
Her condition worsened, leading to her being transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where she later succumbed.
An elated Kevin Brummel expressed his gratitude and relief at having his son home despite the loss of his wife.
He thanked the hospital’s staff, especially Dr. Latchminarine and team for their dedicat-
ed efforts.
Meanwhile, Regional Health Officer, Dr. Ranjeev Singh, stated that the NICU will continue to support mothers and their babies. He underscored the government’s investment of millions of dollars to equip the neonatal department with sufficient resources to save babies’ lives.
Dr. Singh expressed his satisfaction with the team’s ability to care for Liam despite the many complications he faced.
Since its commissioning in January, 41 babies have been cared for in the NICU.
Earlier this month Dr. Singh had cause to strongly refute Opposition claims of dysfunctional Gynaecology and Neonatal
Departments at Suddie Hospital.
Without producing any concrete evidence, Opposition Parliamentarian, Dr. Karen Cummings, claimed, at a news conference, that some of the services being offered at the facility were so inadequate that there was a high incidence of newborn deaths. Unfounded claims about the staffing situation in the aforementioned departments were also made.
However, the RHO had asserted that the information related to the media by Dr. Cummings was not only erroneous but was a boldfaced attempt to tarnish the staff and the hospital’s good reputation.
He went as far as to share statistics, insisting that the NICU in particular was functioning well and had the staff and equipment that were required to deal with critical cases.
The story of Baby Liam’s survival is evidence of the unit’s ability to effectively care for all newborns in distress.
A nurse hands over Baby Liam to his father
A team of expert medical personnel cared for Baby Liam during his 23-day stay at the Suddie Hospital. The infant who had to be delivered prematurely was subsequently tested positive for dengue fever. His mother was also infected with the disease and died from severe bleeding and other complications
Baby Liam’s mother, Lanita Jacobs
GNBS verifies 126 tanker wagons in first half of 2024
–– calls on owners, operators to comply
THE Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) is calling on owners and operators of tanker wagons to ensure their vehicles are verified in accordance with the 1981 Weights and Measures Act.
defines a tanker wagon as a composite unit consisting of a propelling motor and cab with one or more tanks fixed to a chassis for bulk transportation of petroleum.
tions, as well as pressure, leakage, and thickness tests.
with law
This push for compliance comes as part of the GNBS’ role as the National Measurement Institute (NMI), responsible for maintaining and enforcing measurement standards that protect public safety, the environment, and fair-trade practices. The Guyana National Bureau Standards made the statement in a recent release.
In the first half of 2024, the GNBS successfully verified 126 tanker wagons and has begun verification for the second half of the year. The verification process is conducted initially when tanker wagons are imported into Guyana and subsequently on an annual basis to facilitate licence renewals from the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA).
During the verification process, GNBS Inspectors
Beyond volume and structural integrity, the standard also addresses general safety and accident-reduction design. It specifies requirements for safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, warning signs, placards, and illumination. Given the flammable nature of the materials being transported, tanker wagon operators are required to undergo first aid and firefighting training specific to loading and offloading procedures. Additionally, a contingency plan is mandatory.
The GNBS emphasises
and Weights and Measures
Tanker wagons play a critical role in Guyana’s fuel distribution network, transporting bulk petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, and kerosene from terminals to gas stations and other customers across the country. These vehicles are owned by both major fuel distributors and private dealers, including gas station proprietors.
The GNBS is urging tanker wagon owners to obtain a copy of the National Standard GYS 512-2016, which outlines the “Requirements for the transport of petroleum and petroleum products by road tanker wagons.” This standard
Officers determine the carrying volume of each compartment in the tanker wagon. The standard requires that compartments should not retain more than two liters of fuel when drained. Inspectors also check the integrity of internal and external valves.
The National Standard mandates additional inspections and retests in specific circumstances, such as when a tanker wagon has been in an accident, shows signs of dents, corrosion, or leakages, has been out of service for over a year, or has not been used safely. These inspections include internal and lining examina-
the importance of regular inspection and maintenance by owners and operators to ensure safety, environmental preservation, regulatory compliance, and public trust. Adhering to these standards not only helps limit the risk of verification and inspection failure but also contributes to the overall safety of Guyana’s fuel transportation system.
As Guyana continues to develop its oil and gas sector, the importance of maintaining high standards in fuel transportation becomes increasingly crucial.
The GNBS’s call for thorough verification and compliance with national standards underscores the
country’s commitment to safety and responsible practices in its growing energy industry.
Tanker wagon owners
and operators are encouraged to take proactive steps in meeting these requirements, recognising that compliance is not just
a legal obligation but a vital component in ensuring the safety and reliability of Guyana’s fuel distribution network.
One of many tanker wagons in Guyana
Construction of new Diamond Regional Hospital advancing
THE construction of the new Diamond Regional and Smart Hospital is steadily advancing, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony announced fol-
lowing an inspection on Saturday.
Approximately 40,000
residents are set to benefit from improved access to healthcare services, when the state-of-the-art medical institution is completed.
“We are making steady progress from the last time I was here. We are now putting up the walls and you can clearly see all of
the rooms, and we are still on target to finish all the work, to start having this operational by December, latest by the first quarter of next year,” Minister Anthony told the Department of Public Information (DPI).
The hospital will feature 75 patient beds along
with high-tech equipment to optimise service delivery.
Key amenities will include a modern 24-hour emergency and accident department, advanced laboratories, two operating theatres, along with a
See page 14
Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony (second from left) inspects construction work at the new Diamond Smart Hospital
There will be outpatient clinics to serve residents on the East Bank of Demerara, saving them from having to travel long distances
MoM hands over new home to elderly woman
SEVENTY-YEAR-OLD
Sandra Hendricks received a brand-new house on Sunday through the government’s Men on a Mission (MoM) initiative.
The elderly woman acquired a plot land at Farm, East Bank Demerara, some seven years ago, but had doubts that a building would ever be erected there, especially since she has gotten older.
“I called the Office of the President and as
soon as I called a young woman answered. Then I was at home one day and these men came and said that they were from MoM. From that process, they came back again, and we are here at this house today,” an elated Hendricks told the media.
She lives with her family members in Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara. And, according to her, the living condition there is not good for her age.
The woman said she has already started packing her belongings, as she is excited to move into the new house.
“I feel wonderful, I am blessed. And I thank President, Dr Irfaan Ali for the MoM initiative, because I could never see this happening on my own. This is a wonderful initiative that the president is doing,” the elderly woman expressed.
Meanwhile, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility
for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, spearheaded the handing-over exercise.
He emphasised the government’s responsibility to better the livelihoods of all citizens, especially those that are vulnerable.
“We have been delivering and we have been meeting the needs of people, fulfilling aspirations, and bringing joy to faces, and families and that is how it ought to be,” the minister stressed.
The MoM initiative is a brainchild of President, Dr
Mohamed Irfaan Ali. Since its launch, it has brought tremendous benefits to scores of residents.
The undertaking also serves as a mentorship programme for youths across the
country.
Fire Chief (ag), Gregory Wickham, and MoM’s Executive Committee members were also present during the handing-over ceremony. (DPI)
Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Public Affairs, Minister McCoy (centre), Fire Chief (ag) Gregory Wickham, and members of the Executive Committee for Men on a Mission (MoM)
Sandra Hendricks, the proud owner of a new house
Construction of new Diamond ...
minor surgery theatre. Additionally, it will have a comprehensive imaging area providing digital X-rays and CT scans. These advancements aim to enhance diagnostic capabilities beyond traditional X-rays and ultrasound.
There will be outpatient clinics to serve residents on the East Bank of Demerara, saving them long-distance travel.
Construction works are being executed by the China National Pharmaceutical Group Corporation, also known as Sinopharm, as part of a broader initiative to build six new regional hospitals this year.
The initiative reflects a concerted effort to meet the healthcare needs of Guyana’s population through strategic development and modernisation of healthcare services across the region.
Since resuming office in August 2020, the government has made substantial investments in the health sector directed towards enhancing human-resource capacity, upgrading healthcare facilities, and providing cutting-edge medical equipment. This was highlighted when some $129.8 billion was allocated for the continued transformation of the health sector in budget 2024. (DPI)
CARICOM, Japan agree on areas for closer collaboration
THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and Japan reconfirmed their commitment to deepen collaboration on climate change, natural disaster preparedness, and agricultural technology during the recently held Twentieth CARICOM-Japan Consultation at the CARICOM Secretariat Headquarters in Georgetown, Guyana.
They also explored the possibility of technical co-operation in women, peace, and security; governance; citizen security; renewable energy; agriculture; food security; agribusiness, and food value chains; as well as sustainable marine resources
and water resource management, in alignment with the current areas of collaboration.
The meeting, which was one of several high-level engagements commemorating CARICOM-Japan Friendship Year 2024, was co-chaired by Suriname’s Ambassador to Guyana, Her Excellency Liselle Remelda Blankendal, and His Excellency Yasushi Noguchi, Director-General, Assistant Minister (Ambassador), Latin American and Caribbean Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan.
In her opening remarks, Ambassador Blankendal stated that the meeting served to reaffirm CAR-
ICOM and Japan’s shared commitment to sustainable development while also solidifying their mutual respect.
Ambassador Blankendal recalled the historic CARICOM-Japan Summit in 2014, when the late Shinzo Abe became the first Japanese Prime Minister to visit the region, ushering in a new strategic approach to CARICOM-Japan cooperation and the first CARICOM-Japan Friendship Year.
The Surinamese Ambassador stated that CARICOM has benefitted considerably from technical cooperation
See page 19
CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr Carla Barnett and H.E. Yasushi Noguchi, Director-General, Assistant Minister (Ambassador), Latin American and Caribbean Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan, following the courtesy call
CANU ranks find ‘Sour diesel,’ firearm during G/Town raids
OFFICERS of the CUSTOMS Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) arrested two men following the discovery of marijuana in two separate searches over the weekend.
The officers conducted an operation in the Greater Georgetown area on Friday, when they intercepted a motor car.
A subsequent search of the motor car revealed a large Ziploc bag containing a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis. Two
persons were arrested and escorted to CANU’s Headquarters along with the suspected narcotic, which tested positive for cannabis and weighed one
(1) kilogramme.
Meanwhile, on Saturday, officers whilst conducting a follow-up operation in the Greater Georgetown area, searched an abandoned house which led to the discovery of a black plastic bag containing a quantity of cannabis that weighed
916 grammes and a .38 revolver.
The cannabis that was seized is known as “Sour Diesel,” which is a foreign cannabis that has a current street value of GY$700,000 per kilogramme. Investigations are ongoing.
CARICOM, Japan agree on areas
with Japan in disaster management, capacity building, food security, and climate change, underpinned by Japan’s policy of recognising the vulnerability and unique conditions of Small Island and Low-Lying Coastal Developing States.
“We have long called for such approaches to become a global standard. We hope that Japan will continue to be an ally and advocate for the advancement of this position and policy solutions such as the implementation of a Multidimensional Vulnerability Index and recommendations highlighted in the Bridgetown Initiative, especially in fora where we as small states have no access and no voice,” the Ambassador stated.
She expressed the Community’s gratitude for Japan’s assistance to Member States following Hurricane Beryl and noted that the country remains one of the Region’s leading partners in disaster management and risk reduction.
Assistant Secretary-General for Foreign and Community Relations, Elizabeth Solomon, thanked Japan for being one of the first development partners to provide emergency aid following Hurricane Beryl’s devastation in the region.
“We are constantly reminded that the continued existence of our Caribbean societies is dependent not only on our ability to build climate resilience but also on the international community’s will to respond to the dangers posed to Small Island and Low-lying Developing Coastal States (SIDS) due to climate change,” Ms. Solomon stated.
She added, “It will take a concerted effort to bring about the solutions needed for the preservation of our Region, and I am assured that as a friend to the Community, Japan will surely echo the call to provide the necessary resources for adaptation and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs).”
In his remarks, Ambassador Noguchi expressed solidarity with CARICOM in the wake of the hurricane’s destructive impact and loss of life. He said that the Government of Japan had provided emergency aid to CARICOM Member States, including St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Jamaica, and was also preparing emergency assistance for Grenada.
Ambassador Noguchi emphasised the importance of CARICOM-Japan relations, stating that their co-operation in the international arena is critical in the face of global instability caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the war in the Middle East, challenges in East Asia, and a deteriorating international and regional security environment.
“We consider this a historical turning point. Japan is ready to co-operate with CARICOM to work together and to lead the international community from a divided and conflicted situation to a harmonised situation. We are aiming to ensure peace, stability, and prosperity. For this, we believe it is very important to maintain and uphold a free and open international order, based on the rule of law, and human dignity,” Ambassador Noguchi stated.
Following the Consultation, the Director-General paid a courtesy call on CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett. The Japanese delegation included the Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and Plenipotentiary Representative to CARICOM, His Excellency Yutaka Matsubara.
CARICOM-Japan Friendship Year 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of the first Japan-CARICOM Consultation in 1993, as well as the 60th anniversaries of Japan’s diplomatic relations with Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. The 8th CARICOM-Japan Foreign Ministers meeting is scheduled for December to conclude the year-long celebrations. (CARICOM Secretariat)
West Indies collapse to surrender Richards-Botham trophy
CMC – A STUNNING collapse in a nightmare final hour saw West Indies surrender the Richards-Botham Trophy with a demoralising 241-run defeat in the second Test at Trent Bridge here Sunday.
There was no sign of the carnage to come when West Indies, set an improbable 385 for victory, battled to 61 without loss at the end of the first hour, captain Kraigg Brathwaite (47) and opening partner Mikyle Louis (17) safely negotiating the newball barrage from England’s quicks.
However, once Louis nicked the first ball following the drinks break from seamer Chris Woakes (2-28) and was caught at the wicket, West Indies lost 10 wickets for 82 runs to tumble to 142 all out, losing the Test with a day to spare to fall 2-0 behind in the three-Test series.
Twenty-year-old off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, in only his fifth Test, punished West Indies with a career-best five for 41, becoming the youngest-ever English bowler to take a five-wicket haul at home, while first Test hero Gus Atkinson supported with two for 49.
“A win was on our minds as a team but pretty much we lost all of our wickets in
Kraigg Brathwaite and Mikyle Louis ensured both their batting innings started with a 50-run stand • Jul 21, 2024 • Getty Images
one session so we know that was not good enough,” said Brathwaite.
“To be honest, the pitch was quite good today so I felt as though it was still a good pitch. We just didn’t bat good enough.
“[I’m] disappointed because obviously I knew we can do a lot better than we showed today. But the main thing is to learn from it. It’s gone, it’s history, we can’t bring it back.”
Resuming the fourth morning in control at 248 for three in their second innings, England consolidated their advantage before being dismissed on the stroke of tea for 425, thanks to former captain Joe Root’s 122 and Harry Brook’s 109 – the pair extending their fourth wicket stand to 189 before being separated.
Root, who began the morning on 37, reached 81 not out at lunch, before go-
ing on to complete his 32nd Test hundred, facing 178 deliveries in just over five hours and counting 10 fours.
Brook, on 71 overnight, faced 132 balls in 188 minutes and struck 13 fours, before becoming the day’s first casualty, nicking behind off Seales who was West Indies’ best bowler with four for 97.
Root then took responsibility for the innings, putting on 30 for the seventh wicket with Woakes (12) and 41 for the eighth with Atkinson (21 not out) after lunch before he was eighth out, taken at short cover by Kirk McKenzie off medium pacer Jason Holder.
Seales finished off the innings quickly with the two final wickets as England lost their last three for just six runs.
Tasked with overhauling a challenging total in the last four sessions of the contest, West Indies looked set to comfortably push the game into Monday’s final day when Brathwaite and Louis carefully crafted the foundations of the chase in an intelligent half-century opening stand.
Brathwaite once again got a start, hitting eight fours in an uncharacteristically breezy 48-ball knock while Louis spent 40 balls at the crease, striking two boundaries.
Louis’s demise, however, opened the floodgates for England in the final hour.
Left-hander Kirk McKenzie’s miserable series continued when he edged a cut at Bashir and was taken low down by wicketkeeper Jamie Smith for one and Brathwaite followed via the same route off Woakes, leaving the Caribbean side on 74 for three.
With one run added, first innings century-maker Kavem Hodge played back to the fourth ball he faced and was lbw to Bashir without scoring and left-hander Alick Athanaze (1) also failed to make an impression, pushing forward to Bashir and edging low to Root at first slip.
When Kevin Sinclair fended off a snorter from speedster Mark Wood and
lobbed a straightforward catch to second slip for one, West Indies were sliding further at 91 for six, and Jason Holder’s counter-attacking 37 off 42 balls with four fours and two sixes, only served to delay the inevitable.
Wicketkeeper Joshua Da Silva (14) and Alzarri Joseph perished three balls apart in one over from Atkinson and Holder eventually played down the wrong line to Bashir and was bowled off stump.
Shamar Joseph failed to muster any of his first innings fireworks and lasted 11 balls before missing a heave at Bashir and having his stumps rattled. The final Test bowls off at Edgbaston next Friday.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Monday July 22, 2024)
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 2256158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Viv Richards-2,057 runs (24 Tests)
(2) Geoff Boycott-1,179 runs (14 Tests)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Which West Indian has aggregated the most Test runs against ENG in the West Indies?
(2) Which ENG batsman has scored the most Test runs against the WI in England?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Pottaya named Cricketer of...
Nine RHTYSC members have also played at the international level.
Head coach Winston Smith stated that he and the other coaches were very impressed with the work ethic of the youths, adding that the coaches were able to successfully complete their planned programme.
Regional sports officer Randy Mangru hailed the outstanding work of the club over the years. He noted that sports in the region would
benefit from millions of dollars of investment by the Government of Guyana into venues across the county.
Guyana junior cricketer Matthew Pottaya was named cricketer of the Academy after a close and competitive battle with several other players.
Participants were involved in a multiple-choice test for 50 marks and 10 marks for an essay, while 40 marks were given for attendance, commitment, personal discipline and per-
formance on the cricket field.
The runner up of the Academy was national U-13 player Tameshwar Deonadan, while the best female was Jada Frazer, niece of Kevlon Anderson. The other awardees were
1. Best batsman: Mario Butcher
2. Best bowler: Sohil Sirkisoon
3. Best attendance: Dev Seepersaud
4. Most disciplined: Darvish Narain
5. Most improved player: Ravindra Persaud
6. Best Under 13 player: Jaden Ganpat
7. Best Under 11 player Joshua Brijlal
8. Best fielder Leon Reddy
Special awardees: Jonathan Hicks, Nars Lachgadu, Sohil Veerapen, Nicholas Cameron, Jevon Crandon, Darwin McKenzie and Dinesh Singh.
The cricketer of the Academy received close to $300,000 worth of prizes,
including an electric bike from KC Singh, electronic tablet, a King’s Jewellery World gold medallion, design clothing and watch, headphone, kitchen utensil, household items, a lazy boy from A H and L Kissoon, cosmetic hampers and food hampers among other prizes.
The best batsman and best bowler received a complete cricket kit from Demerara Bank, Rose Hall Branch. Other awardees received
a wide range of prizes including trophies, bicycles, electronic tablet, hampers, footwear, designer watches, educational packages and sports gear. Each participant of the Academy received a medal of service, school bag and a hot and cold flask.
The RHTYSC also presented two special gifts to the coaches at the Academy.
The club would like to express special thanks to all the persons and companies who contributed to the success of the Academy
RHTYSC Bakewell/Buster 2024 cricket Academy…
Pottaya named Cricketer of Academy
conducted by a panel of
Level
came down on Friday last with an impressive closing ceremony at the Rose Hall Town Primary school.
The Academy which started on Monday, July 8, attracted the registration of close to 90 youths and was
Winston Smith. Other coaches were Gregory Crandon, Floyd Benjamin, Ryan Algu and former national player Eon Hooper.
Present at the closing ceremony were Rose Hall Town Mayor Dave Budhu, Town Clerk Natasha Grif-
fith, former Mayor Chattergoon and Region Six Sports Officer Randy Mangru.
Club secretary Hilbert Foster stated that despite the weather which affected day two, the 2024 Bakewell/ Busta Academy Was a huge success and exceeded the club’s expectation.
The coaches placed special emphasis on physical fitness while numerous ses-
sions were done with the main objective of improving the batting, bowling and fielding skills of the youths.
The participants of the academy were also involved in several practice matches as well as lectures on a wide range of topics such as the history of the game, the rules of cricket, the rules of a sports ambassador, personal hygiene,the importance of
education, table manners, drug abuse, peer pressure and respect for the elderly.
Members of the Academy also handed over donation to the Port Mourant therapy unit and Rose Hall Town Council security department as part of their community development outreach campaign.
RHTYSC cricket manager Robby Kissoonlall not-
ed that the success of the club on the cricket field can be traced back to the club’s cricket Academy which since 1991 has trained over 4000 youths.
A total of 123 players from the Academy have gone on to play for either Berbice and Guyana, while 16 have played for the West Indies at different levels.
Trophy Stall and General Marine
show support to Kares One Guyana T10
CORPORATE
Guyana continues to answer the call to support one of the growing cricket tournaments – Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast – as Trophy Stall and General Marine have opted to show support.
As a supporter of all sports in Guyana, Ramesh Sunich, Managing Director of Trophy Stall, has benevolently donated trophies for second place and all of the ‘Regal Stationery’ individual accolades—Player of the Final, Most Runs, Most Wickets, and the Assuria Insurance Most Valuable Player award.
Trophies will be awarded for the Cricket For Charity Match led by President, Dr Irfaan Ali and medals for that match and the tour-
nament's final. Meanwhile, General Marine has sponsored the titled rights for the ‘Kawasaki Super Striker’ through its Kawasaki brand.
The stakes for the 32 teams vying for the coveted championship title are rising.
This year’s competition boasts a bigger prize pool: G$1.5 million will go to the winners, G$500,000 to the runner-up and G$250,000 in consolation prizes for the losing semifinalists.
The action commences August 3rd with a knockout format. Opening-round
matches will be played at the Police Sports Club, Queen’s College Ground, and Lusignan Sports Club. Kares Engineering, Banks DIH Limited, Star Rentals, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Montra Restaurant and Lounge, SuperBet, Demerara Mutual, ETS, Metro Office and Computer Supplies, Building Expo 2024, Premier Insurance, ENet, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc., Trophy Stall, ANSA McAL Distribution, RS53 RestoBar and Lounge, Jacobs Jewellery, First Change Builders Inc., Samaroo Investments and Coel’s Boutique are the other sponsors on board thus far.
THE curtains for the 34th edition of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club annual cricket Academy
cricket coaches headed by
Three cricket coach
John Ramsingh of FL Sport (left) with one of the trophies to be awarded at the end of the tournament, along with Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall
FL Sport’s John Ramsingh (right) and a representative of General Marine
Graduates of the 2024 Bakewell/Busta cricket Academy
Player of the Academy Matthew Pottaya receives his award from head coach Winston Smith
Strengthened Slingerz storm to impressive win KFC Elite League
SLINGERS FC had an authoritative showing on Saturday against Ann’s Grove United as the KFC Elite League continued at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) National Training Centre.
A Kemar Beckford hat-trick was barely noticed as six players got onto the score sheet for Slingerz in a convincing display for the West Coast Side.
The side boasted extra fire power in their front line to capture an 11-nil win.
Beckford, picking up from where he left off in their last outing against Buxton United - where he plundered 6 goals - cued off the first goal 11 minutes after the opening whistle.
Daniel Ross made it 2-nil 10 minutes after in the 21st minute with Beckford returning in the 24th to triple Slingerz advantage 3-nil.
Darren Niles and Curtez Kellman came to the fore thereafter with strikes in the 34th and 37th minutes respectively to extend the lead to 5-nil.
Marcus Tudor who was
prolific for Slingerz in the first half of season 6 of the league scored on the verge of the halftime whistle and then added a second after the resumption to make it 7-nil by the 51st minute.
Ross came back to register a brace in the 54th with Beckford completing his hat trick in the 78th as they dominated Ann’s Grove uprights.
Injury time goals from new recruit Andrew Murray completed the 11-nil victory.
The win keeps Slingerz firmly in second place in the table behind Guyana Defense Force (GDF) with Police FC third.
Meanwhile Western Tigers opened the evening with a 4-1 stoppage of Monedderlust.
The Tigers were led by a pair of goals each from Samuel Garnett and Michael Oie.
Garnett hit the back of the net in the 20th and 33rd minutes to give his side the early edge.
The second half saw the emergence of Oie who hit the woodworks in the 55th and 72nd minutes to double tigers
Edghill says preparation coming along good in France
GUYANA’S top table tennis player Chelsea Edghill says that she has engaged in some solid practice sessions since her arrival in Mulhouse France in preparation for the 2024 Summer Olympics.
In her second outing to the games and the only representative from the English-speaking Caribbean at the quadrennial, Edghill told Chronicle Sport, “It was just Guyana in the camp, so we took the time to train with some of the local players and practice with the world master’s bronze medalist and the practice session was good.”
She said they were in Mulhouse for a week and left the eastern French city for Paris
lead 4-nil.
A consolation goal from Monedderlust Tyrone Delph made the scoreline a bit more palatable but tigers still walked away with a handsome 4-1 victory.
on yesterday, adding, “We go back to Paris to settle in for the games but so far we have to train and getting use to the environment.”
The athletes' time in Mulhouse, France was facilitated by Pan Am Sports to fine tune their skills and focus leading up to the multi-sport event next week.
The Paris Summer Olympic Games are set to commence on July 26 and conclude on August 11.
Edghill is joined by National Coach Idi Lewis, the country's top swimmer, Aleka Persaud and coach Sean Baksh as well as track and field star Emanuel Archibald.
Chelsea Edghill in Mulhouse, France
Slingerz scorers (from left) Daniel Ross, Darren Niles, Curtez Kellman, Kemar Beckford, Marcus Tudor and Andrew Murray
Western Tigers Samuel Garnett and Michael Oie
Part
Guyana’s Olympic team in Paris, Coaches Idi Lewis, Sean Baksh, swimmer Aleka Persaud, Edghill and Garfield Wiltshire
Shoaib Bashir bowled Jason Holder with a beauty as England closed in • Jul 21, 2024 • Getty Images
