Country’s digital transformation in key areas takes centre stage
–– during discussion between President Ali, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair
24th J uly, 2024
President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Tuesday met with former British Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair at the Office of the President. Areas of discussion included digital transformation in health, agriculture and climate change. President
by Minister of Foreign Affairs Hugh Todd, and Director of Presidential Affairs
Ali was joined
Mrs. Marcia Nadir-Sharma (Office of the President Photo)
Tuesday marked a significant milestone for the community of Micobie in Region Eight, as ground was ceremonially broken for the construction of a Secondary School in the community
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Tuesday met with contractors and residents at the JC Chandisingh Secondary School, at Port Mourant, Region Six (Office of the Vice-President photo)
$253M secondary school for Micobie Village
TUESDAY marked a significant milestone for the community of Micobie in Region Eight, as ground was ceremonially broken for the construction of a Secondary School there.
This eagerly anticipated project, which has been awarded to NK Engineering Services through a competitive bidding process as outlined in the Public Procurement Act, represents a substantial investment in the Potaro-Siparuni region’s educational infrastructure, valued at $253,561,500, with an initial mobilisation amount of $76,068,450.
Scheduled for completion within six months, the Micobie Secondary School holds promise as a cornerstone of educational advancement and community development. The school is strategically positioned to benefit approximately 150 students and community members, thereby fostering academic growth, and enhancing
access to quality education in the village. The project’s impact extends beyond physical construction, in that it symbolises a commitment to nurturing future generations, and empowering local communities. By providing modern facilities and resources, NK Engineering Services aims to create an environment conducive to learning and personal development.
Additionally, Micobie Secondary School will feature a staff room for teachers, and 10 classrooms, including five specialised ‘labs’ for science, IT, home economics, visual arts, and library services. This comprehensive infrastructure underscores the school’s commitment to providing a well-rounded educational experience, fostering both academic excellence and community development in the village.
During an engagement with local residents, Minister of Education Priya
Manickchand challenged the parents to be more involved in their children’s lives, noting that regardless of their academic background, their presence alone can aid in the development of their children’s education.
“You don’t have to have a PhD; you don’t have to have a big house,” Minister Manickchand said. “You have to have interest. I know of a parent who watches her child do his work from beginning to end. She doesn’t know or understand what he’s doing, but she watches him work. And so, we need your partnership, also. Many times, it’s not parents alone; it’s grandparents also, who I know are taking up that role as well.”
The minister also said that while the residents are to hold the contractors accountable to deliver on their promise, they, too, must be reliable, as they will also be benefitting by means of employment through the school’s con-
struction.
“We want him (the contractor) to give the work to you; we want you to benefit as far as you can, but we want the school,” the minister said, adding: “And he had to sign a contract that said how long he has to build the school, and the quality he has to give us. So, you, also, have to be reliable and show up when you have to, because this is employment for you.”
Furthermore, the construction of the Micobie
Secondary School aligns with broader socio-economic objectives, aiming to uplift the region through improved educational opportunities.
Local stakeholders have expressed enthusiastic support for the project, viewing it as a catalyst for positive change, and a testament to collective aspirations for educational excellence in Region Eight.
The sod-turning ceremony marked the beginning of a transforma-
tive journey, laying the foundation for a brighter future characterised by accessible, high-quality education and enhanced community prosperity.
As construction progresses, anticipation builds for the inauguration of Micobie Secondary School, a moment that promises to celebrate achievement, and embody the shared vision of educational advancement and socioeconomic growth for generations to come.
Tuesday marked a significant milestone for the Region Eight community of Micobie, as ground was ceremonially broken for construction of the Micobie Secondary School
Bethany Guest House welcomes tourists: A serene escape in the Supenaam Creek
By Indrawattie Natram
NESTLED in the picturesque village of Bethany, along the Supenaam Creek, in Region Two, the newly opened Bethany Guest House offers a new experience to both local and foreign visitors.
Toshao Sonia Latchman confirmed that this initiative, originally conceptualised by the previous Village Council under her leadership, is now open to the public.
During an interview, Latchman shared that visitors often fall in love with the village’s enchanting scenery, soothing black water, and the melodic sounds of local birds. The guest house offers three standard-sized fan rooms, starting at just $8,000.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, hammock rentals and a dedicated park for hammock setup are available. Additionally, residents provide catering services, allowing guests to enjoy local cuisine, though meals are not included in the package.
For convenience, ATV
bikes and private boat services are available to transport visitors to the guest house. Latchman said that the guest house project was born out of necessity.
“Many visitors expressed a desire to stay, but we lacked proper accommodations,” she said.
Following a unanimous decision at a village meeting, the community embarked on this project as a means of generating income and promoting tourism in Bethany.
“The guest house is a sustainable project that will boost tourism and generate revenue for our village,” Latchman said.
Since its opening recently, the guest house has already welcomed its first guest, who stayed free of charge. The facility, constructed using grants from 2021 and 2022, boasts a breezy ambiance and an exclusive tourism package.
Plans are underway to install a kitchen, further enhancing the guest experience. In addition to comfortable accommodations, residents will venture into the craft business, offering visitors a glimpse into their rich culture and traditions.
The revenue generated will fund other community projects, reducing dependence on government support.
“We aim to use our resources wisely and invest in projects that promote self-sufficiency,” Latchman said.
Guests at the Bethany Guest House can enjoy swimming and canoeing, and immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Latchman emphasised that Bethany offers a unique tourism experience, distinct from Georgetown, with its numerous trails, vibrant birdlife, and serene black water. As a Seventh-Day Adventist village, Bethany observes the Sabbath on Saturdays, and visitors are expected to respect this tradition. However, they are welcome to visit over the weekend.
Efforts are also being made to install free WiFi for guests. Latchman expressed gratitude to the government for the grants that made this project possible, highlighting the positive impact it will have on the community.
Her message to persons was: “Come and discover the hidden gem of Bethany, where nature, culture, and tranquility await.”
Nestled in the picturesque village of Bethany, along the Supenaam Creek, in Region Two, the newly opened Bethany Guest House offers a new experience to both local and foreign visitors
The guest house at Bethany
Toshao Sonia Latchman
‘My heart is in pieces’ ––
parents of teen killed in Corentyne accident speak out
THE grieving parents of Bibi Zareya Allie, better known as “Allyah”, of Clifton Settlement, Corentyne, Berbice, are devastated by the tragic death of their eldest child, who was killed in a car accident in the wee hours of the morning on Monday.
Allyah, a respected, loving, and kind individual, was known for her willingness to help others, and her untimely death has left an indelible void in the lives of her parents, Mohammed and Khaneeza Allie, and her two younger siblings.
In an emotional interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday, Mrs. Allie shared that her youngest daughter, now seven, was especially attached to Allyah, as she saw her as a mother figure.
This bond was evident even before Allyah’s sudden demise, as the younger sister often cried to see and talk to her.
“My small daughter is very attached to Allyah, because, from a baby, she tended to her. She regarded her as a mother figure;
they had that close bond as sisters. She [Allyah] was in deep grief when she left the home to go live with her common-law husband eight months ago,” Mrs. Allie said.
“I had to go to her school to get her one day. She was always sad, and longing to see and talk to her sister she called ‘Didi’, but when I took her to see Allyah, she didn’t get to see her, and she cried. Even now she is still crying,” she added.
Allyah, only 17 years old, left home to live with her boyfriend, Nirav Sukdeo, in Lancaster Village.
The Sukdeo family operates a medical laboratory, where Allyah worked for a year and met Nirav, a medical technologist.
Despite leaving her job, Allyah continued to communicate with Nirav, who encouraged her to live with him.
The last time Mrs. Allie saw her daughter alive was in June, when Allyah returned home for a week, after an alleged fallout with Nirav.
“My daughter called me in June this year and said, ‘Mommy, come for
me.’ I went to get her from Sukdeo’s house, and she told me what she was going through. It hurts me a lot to this day, because she was so young, and had her whole life ahead of her,” the grieving mother said. Despite their best efforts to provide counselling and guidance, Allyah’s dreams of becoming a nurse and attending the University of Guyana, Tain Campus, were cut short.
Mrs. Allie expressed her profound sorrow, say-
ing, “I feel so confused, sad; my heart is in pieces, knowing that my eldest child is no more. The way she died; in the most horrific way, like it’s not real that this is happening to us.”
On the morning of the fatal accident, Mrs. Allie was in Trinidad and Tobago on a 10-day trip. She rushed back to Guyana after receiving the dreadful news to support her family.
Mr. Allie, a mechanic, recalled receiving a call at 02:50 hrs on Monday, informing him of the accident.
He rushed to the scene, and later to the Skeldon Hospital, where he finally saw his daughter’s man-
gled body.
Overwhelmed by the extent of her injuries, he said, “When I saw my daughter’s body, it was like her entire body was broken; even her head was missing parts. She looked so broken, and in pieces; it was hard to witness.”
Mr. Allie mentioned that they are awaiting the results of a post-mortem scheduled for later this week to ascertain the cause of death. They are preparing to give Allyah her final rites.
The police are currently investigating the fatal incident, which occurred at approximately 02:10 hrs on Monday, July 22, 2024, on Kiltern Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice.
The accident involved a motorcar (#PAF 6330) driven by Nirav, with Allyah as the lone passenger. According to the police, the car was travelling north, at a high speed, when Sukdeo lost control, colliding with a crane parked on the roadside.
The vehicle ended up in a canal, and Allyah was ejected from it into the water. Public-spirited citizens transported both Sukdeo and Allyah to the hospital.
Allyah was pronounced dead on arrival, while Sukdeo, critically injured, remains in the Intensive Care Unit at the Anamayah Memorial Hospital. Investigations into the accident are ongoing.
DEAD: Bibi Zareya Allie
A Business-Friendly Environment
GUYANA is becoming increasingly business friendly. The ease of doing business in Guyana has never been easier, thanks to a number of policy initiatives by the PPP/C administration.
This observation was made in a recent US State Department Investment Climate Report in which the PPP/C administration was commended for the launch of the single-window system.
The single-window system is a one-stop portal which will help investors secure various clearances without going to government departments or agencies physically. The portal is a rapid mechanism of information for investors on government policies, incentive schemes and the availability of infrastructure.
These are not isolated developments but form part of an integrated and holistic development model to give impetus
to the modernization processes currently underway.
According to the IDB, the country deserves credit for its sustainable development models. This view was posited by IDB Country Representative, Lorena Salazar, who described Guyana as the place to be as it continues to build a sustainable model.
‘In a way, Guyana is the place to be in this region. So I would say it has a growth and an appetite to expand. There are new businesses that are being developed. But also, in our case, we acknowledge that we have experience in other jurisdictions.’
Guyana’s pioneering role in the area of climate change has also been recognized. According to the IDB official, Guyana is doing a commendable job in terms of the preservation of its forests and the development of ecosystems which are having a global impact.
These include the sale of carbon credits which allows the country to extract value from the forests without the harmful effects of deforestation while at the same time providing a valuable service to the world.
Guyana is ahead of the curve when it comes to sustainable development. As the US State Department report pointed out, the country aims to provide a welcoming business environment for international investors and has already shown some success.
Business registration times have been reduced from three weeks to less than one week. And the Government of Guyana is developing a single-window programme for permits.
This is indeed an encouraging assessment especially coming from the US State Department which evaluates the investment climate of over 160 countries around the world and the extent to which they are
adopting Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) norms.
Make no mistake about it, Guyana is rapidly evolving from a low income developing country to a regional powerhouse, thanks in part to revenues from our petroleum resources, but also as a result of prudent management of our resources.
There is no silver bullet when it comes to development, especially in the context of decades of underdevelopment and mismanagement under the previous PNC regime.
Thankfully, a new dispensation is now emerging based on democratic rule, prudent economic management and good governance.
In this regard, credit must be given to the PPP/C administration under the visionary leadership of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and our Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.
Conflicts of interest and unethical conduct: A response to the accountability watch columnist
Dear Editor,
I HAD no intentions of revisiting this issue, but I am now compelled to do so in response to Dr. Anand Goolsarran’s (the columnist) column dated July 22, 2024, in the Stabroek News (SN), under his “Accountability Watch” Column.
The columnist made certain assertions that were riddled with inaccuracies and his opinion therein suggested that he conveniently ignored several key disclosures and explanations by the undersigned. Clearly, his intent was to discredit the undersigned, but evidently failed.
I must say that Dr. Goolsarran’s standard of ethical and professional conduct versus my standard of ethical and professional conduct are two vastly different standards altogether.
First, let me address Dr. Goolsarran’s standard of ethical and professional conduct.
In that regard, I wish to draw to the public’s attention that Dr. Anand Goolsarran was contracted by the APNU+AFC Government in 2015 to conduct a number of forensic audits for selective public sector agencies.
The circumstances and procedures surrounding that audit were questionable to the extent that his professional conduct and integrity came into question.
According to the former Finance Minister, Mr. Winston Jordan’s report to the National Assembly, in response to questions posed by the Opposition at the time, he reported that the “forensic audits” cost the national treasury over $133 million and counting at the time that report was made.
In terms of the procurement procedure, the former minister reported that the procurement procedure followed in the award of the contracts was in keeping with section 28 (b) of the Procurement Act, and that the audit was carried out in accordance with the Audit Act of 2004. Notably, section 28 (b) of the Procurement Act 2003 states that: “the procuring entity may engage in single-source procurement when –b) The services, because of their highly complex or specialised nature, are available from only one source.
When the award of the contract was made to Dr. Goolsarran, he was heavily criticised by other accountants as reported in the local media. These criticisms were in relation to his expertise and experience as well as conflicts of interest given that he was a staunch critic of the former government at that time, coupled with the flouting of the Procurement Act, whereby there was no public tendering process.
The Audit Act of 2004 does not explicitly provide for “forensic audits”. Notwithstanding, Part IV of the Audit Act, Section 18 provides that “the Auditor General may engage the services of technical experts and Chartered Accountants in public practice to serve on a contract basis for limited audit engagements including those required as part of agreements with international organisations.”
Sections 19-22 set out the guidelines for such contracting, limit of tenure, limit on scope of work, and the authority. Therefore, it is only the Auditor General that has the authority to engage external experts to carry out such an audit, provided that it was triggered by a legitimate event.
Evidently herein, in so far as the forensic audit conducted by Dr. Goolsarran under the APNU+AFC Government was concerned, there were a number of issues surrounding ethical considerations that he ought to have been honest and transparent to the general public about, to the extent that (i) he ought not to have involved himself in the audit if he was conflicted in any way, if he was/is affiliated with the political parties at that time, (ii) he ought not to have involved himself if he did not possess the requisite specialised training and experience, and (iii), he ought not to have involved himself if the Procurement
and Audit Acts were violated in that process. Notably, both Acts were breached, and it was the same Audit Act that he operated under when he served as the former Auditor General for the country.
I, on the other hand, had recused myself on two occasions, as I have previously disclosed, when matters for complainants came to the attention of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC), where I currently sit as a Commissioner, and those complainants were either past or current clients of my private firm.
The PPC’s record would confirm this fact. The PPC’s record would also confirm that I disclosed and recused myself from the recruitment process for two candidates who were personally known to me. Furthermore, the PPC was duly informed of my private consulting practice and is therefore well aware of same.
With respect to conflict of interest concerning ExxonMobil Guyana (EMGL) and the PPC, I emphasised that EMGL has nothing to do with the Public Procurement Commission, per se. Rather, EMGL’s operation is governed by the Petroleum Agreement (2016), the Local Content Act,
Invoking the dead
Dear Editor,
DOES changing or rather exchanging the leadership of the AFC obliterate all the wrong doings of that Party? Despite the numerous ‘wrong turns’ they have made?
The new AFC leader and his team are on the road smiling, laughing, handshaking, invoking and sometimes gyrating to Bollywood songs trying instill into the minds of its lost supporters and Guyanese at large that there is indeed ‘change,’ but this a vain effort to hoodwink them yet again.
Since 2005, the AFC was ‘Unlocking the potential of Guyana’ and the mantra now is ‘Better must come.’ How could this be possible when the AFC squandered each and every opportunity to be independent and work for the good of the people of Guyana? The goal was and
Conflicts of interest and unethical conduct ...
From page 6
the Petroleum Activities Act, and the Environmental Protection Act.
Thus, there is absolutely no conflict of interest, considering that the PPC’s mandate concerns oversight responsibility, monitoring and compliance, among others, in relation to public procurement, pursuant to the Procurement Act (2003).
Question: Would Dr. Goolsarran consider a Commissioner of the PPC holding an executive office within a political party a conflict of interest and/or a breach of Article 212W of the Constitution of Guyana? If so, why was there no inquiry on his part and/or SN’s, with the same degree of alacrity on which he has relied in his article about me?
I wish to also re-emphasise that I am not a government employee or official. The PPC is a constitutional body, which means that the commissioners of that body are constitutional officers of the State, not the government.
Accordingly, I do not have an employment contract with the government; what I have is an instrument of appointment by the President, having been duly nominated and approved by way of a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly.
Contrary to the columnist’s assertion, there is no provision within the constitution or my instrument of appointment which defines my appointment as full time and/or restricts other employment. This is so for other constitutional bodies as well.
Finally, contrary to the views of Dr. Goolsarran et.al, I have never defended the Production Sharing Agreement (2016). I defend Government policies, and I have produced a series of analytical work in respect of the oil and gas sector, where the terms of the PSA were applied to perform the analyses, and as in some cases, the interpretation of certain clauses were warranted.
To reinforce this point, it would be an exercise in futility if anyone were to embark on an intense online search within the public domain to locate a single written piece by this author or any of my verbal presentations at any other public forum, where I have said that the 2016 PSA was a good deal. In fact, I am the first to have registered criticisms on public record, viz-à-viz, a critical review of the 2016 PSA back in 2016/2017 when it was released to the public.
Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin
still is to ‘kick’ out the PPP/C from Government and to share the ‘spoils’.
In order to achieve this, they joined forces with the PNC in Parliament prior to 2015 to destabilise by rejecting everything which the PPP/C Government presented, resulting in the prorogation of Parliament which consequently led to an early General Election in 2015.
However, this alliance did not end there, casting all pretensions and founding principles into the garbage bin and they joined with the PNC on Valentine’s Day 2015 in a “marriage of convenience” which destroyed their public image forever, ‘rebranding’ to regain its identity (Cathy Hughes at AFC’s 7th Conference) to market the AFC will not work. The dead cannot be invoked and the soul is already locked away in eternal damnation.
The PNC has a history of betrayals of smaller parties, like the UF in 1964 but in the case of the AFC they clung on to dear life despite being kicked around by the PNC. But it was not a case of only being subservient to the PNC, the AFC became the PNC-there was no distinction and the AFC sang merrily along.
Together they violated the Constitution, they raided the Treasury, they enriched themselves and family, they co-operated on spurious and costly and wasteful litigations, they bankrupted the country, destroyed all the socio-economic gains made by the PPP/C Government, and then to crown it off, together they attempted to rig the 2020 General Elections together. Guyanese began to reminisce the dark days of the PNC from 1964 to 1992.
It must be recalled that the late Ramon Gaskin had said in 2015 that, “I noticed that in the coalition talks,
they were only talking about who gets what and what goes to whom.
I am very disappointed with that, because in the entire discussions, all they could have said was that this goes to that person, he gets that, she gets this and nothing is said about the needs of the Guyanese people.” He added that, “they should have first worked out a program for what is to be good for Guyana…you are preaching that you want the good of Guyana then show that…in my opinion they did it the wrong way around.”
Despite vowing not to coalesce with the PNC, the AFC and its leaders know that they need to piggyback on the PNC to be relevant.
Despite Hughes’ rhetoric about ‘reimaging’ and Cathy’s ‘rebranding’ and once again ‘of what is in the best interest of the country,’ the AFC is cognisant of the fact that the AFC no longer commands the respect of the people who walked away. These will never return.
Those few who remained in the AFC were and are diehard PNC so they are comfortably ensconced at home. The local Government Elections in 2018 provided the proof. And once again it was about distributing the ‘spoils’- ‘who gets what’. This time around, it will be chaos unparalleled. Who will be the Presidential candidate? Who will be the Prime Ministerial candidate? How will the seats be shared?
The AFC will again coalesce with the PNC in the end before the 2025 Elections.
Yours sincerely, Haseef
Yusuf
Success boils down to individual mindsets
Dear Editor,
STABROEK News has done 85 editions in its “cost of living” series to date and is yet to interview someone willing to say they are doing better than they were before.
Juxtaposed to this sad series is the daily dose of envy from all quarters on social media platforms where Guyanese point out who is doing well, who is driving a new vehicle and who is wearing what.
A typical example of this is PNC Attorney Darren Wade’s post on FB: “Spare a thought for me, after seven years of studies and nine years of practice, I still have to wake up and grind whilst a man can wash government vehicles and receive 17 million dollars in six month.”
What is absent in all of this is an honest analysis of where Guyana is economically and where we are headed now. Stabroek News can be forgiven for people never want to say they are doing well publicly, however, it serves no good purpose when an unrealistic picture of poverty and misery is portrayed by the same people who would be the first to claim they lost X amount of millions
in sales/crops if there should be a slight flood etc. then there is the other side of the local coin, the envious, the self-righteous and the ignorant.
Let’s take Darren Wade’s comment for example; the claim is that a business ‘washing government cars’ is earning about three million a month and, that for Wade is more than he earns as a lawyer. Had Darren taken a few moments to do research and think before making his post, these factors may have changed his rush to judge 1. How many people are employed by the business? 2. What is the cost of detailing a vehicle inclusive of employee salaries, rental of premises, electricity, machinery, cleaning supplies, insurance, and, taxes?
Then there are the intangibles such as the knot in the business owner’s stomach when employees do not come to work and when the government check is three months overdue. Still, the employees expect to be paid and, of course, the dreaded call from the bank… it is a case where the grass looks greener on the other side of the fence.
Suppose the business owner were to reply to Darren Wade and say “If you were a better attorney you would be roll-
ing in the dough instead of standing with a man who can’t do math; Bruh, even if you made proper paper, that man can’t help you count it!” The point is, we can all criticise each other but we seemingly lack the empathy to take a walk in another’s shoes.
There are also daily gripes about “corruption” with government contracts and indeed there are some strange awards from time to time, and some contracts are poorly executed to the point where the government is applying liquidated damages; however, think of what the government is trying to achieve by spreading work among the thousands of new contracting companies, they are giving the job to locals who are learning and Guyana is building capacity, most are delivering as expected and a small percentage are failing; the alternative is to give all the work to large foreign entities and forget about capacity building.
In every conversation about roads for example, the Cemetery Road comes up.
It is however, one of nearly 4,000 road contracts given out since 2020; it is an important road and extensions have been granted.
If the contractor fails to deliver, at some point liquidated damages will apply, but until then we have to give local companies some leeway to learn and deliver. What do we benefit if we give the Chinese all the contracts? Some patience and less envy would do us all good.
As to the cost of living, there have been numerous interventions by the government to mitigate the effects on the most vulnerable in our society, the rest of us have to hustle harder or smarter to gain a piece of the Guyana economic pie; it is down to individual mindsets, negative or positive is a choice; I choose positive and go with what 50 Cent sings “no other option get rich or die trying.”
Yours sincerely, Robin Singh
David Patterson fires the first salvo
NIGEL Hughes announced, on becoming leader of the AFC, that before the AFC could talk about coalition prospects, the AFC has to address the topic of what happened for it to have lost power in 2020. When Nigel made that expression, it became an instant curiosity in people’s mind. What will the analysis consist of?
Michael Carrington, newly-elected AFC vice-chairman, intoned on the Freddie Kissoon Show last week, that he believes the AFC should apologise to the nation for wrongs and mistakes made during its tenure in office. He offered an apology on his behalf, and said more such apologies are forthcoming.
The problem the “new” AFC has is that it is not new at all. It has post-2005 faces in its hierarchy that will not gel with the thinking of Hughes and Carrington. In fact, most people in and out of Guyana were surprised when the news broke that David Patterson was contesting the leadership. Patterson, with unambiguous words, said on the Freddie Kissoon Show that he was bowing out of politics, and he wants to give way to the younger generation.
Then Raphael Trotman surfaced and contested the post of General-Secretary. Cathy Hughes and Khemraj Ramjattan are in the executive; so are some older faces like Sherod Duncan. It did not take long for people to wait to see how the “new” AFC would perform, when David Patterson, the chairman, who, by the constitution of the AFC, is deputy leader, gave a disturbing answer to a reporter’s
question.
When asked why so many cadres left the AFC, Patterson said they did so for economic reasons. This is a deliberate denial of facts that have now gone into Guyana’s history. Nigel Hughes and Michael Carrington will have their work cut out for them, because the old heads in the AFC will not emulate Dominic Gaskin and offer an objective analysis as to why the AFC failed when it had power.
Patterson was deceptive, and why?
For the five years that the AFC was in power, I did a daily column. Count up those columns, and you are talking 1,500 columns.
Spread over the five years of those 1,500 pieces are dozens and dozens of assessments of where the AFC was going wrong, and where it went wrong. I began my critical reviews of the AFC in power even before it took power.
Where did I get my research material from? I got it from the second-tier leaders, some of whom sat in both the management committee and the executive committee. There is no need to pen this column here, because, perhaps more than a hundred reflections on the betrayal of Guyana by the AFC between 2015 and 2020 are there for people to read, and all those analyses are in direct contradiction with what Patterson told the reporter.
I began my criticism of the AFC before it got into power after its “bigwigs” met at the AFC head office to select its ministers. A moment of political insanity descended on that room that has few parallels in Guyanese politics, from colonial
times to the present. This weird incident in the life of the AFC I have written about more times than I can count since May 2015. I have raised it with several former AFC stalwarts on the Freddie Kissoon Show.
Once more, I am highlighting this Mephistophelean dance that the AFC did just one day before it entered government. This is a ghoulish departure in politics that you would never ever find in the PNC and PPP. Here we go once more. As the “bigwigs” sat down to give themselves ministerial portfolios, a few of them called a lady, who is a member of the Mulatto/Creole class, and offered her the post of Minister of the Environment. This lady was not a member of the AFC, and did not campaign for them since the birth of the AFC. How did I come by this information? I was told this by more than eight second-tier leaders, three of whom were in the room, and
watched as they were bypassed. I was having lunch at Le Excellence Restaurant on Charlotte Street with four of those second-tier leaders, whose emotional revulsion was uncontrollable.
When I arranged the interview on the Freddie Kissoon Show with David Patterson, he told me he will not attend, if I bring up that issue.
I respected his wish and did not. All Guyanese in and out of the land awaits the AFC’s analysis of what went wrong while in power.
But will the analysis be honest? No one should envy Nigel Hughes and Michael Carrington. Salvaging the AFC is simply impossible.
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.
R3PSInc voices strong support for GPF, SOCU amidst corruption probe
HALIM Khan, Head of the Region
Three Private Sector Inc. (R3PSInc), has issued a statement expressing strong support for the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) as they undertake critical investigations into allegations of corruption and financial impropriety within their ranks.
SOCU is investigating allegations of financial impropriety levelled against Deputy Police Commissioner (ag), Calvin Brutus. Brutus last week opted to take annual leave to allow for the probe.
Khan emphasised the vital role that the integrity and efficiency of law enforcement agencies play in maintaining law and order in Guyana.
He commended the current internal efforts by the GPF and SOCU to address these serious concerns, highlighting their commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice.
“We believe that the GPF and SOCU
R3PSInc Head, Halim Khan
have the capacity and the mandate to conduct thorough and unbiased investigations, holding any and all individuals accountable for their actions,” Khan stated. “It is through these rigorous internal
mechanisms that we can ensure that any misconduct is identified and rectified, thereby strengthening the public’s trust in our law enforcement institutions.”
The statement comes in response to the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) call for an independent investigation into the corruption allegations. While acknowledging the GCCI’s concerns, Khan argued that the GPF and SOCU should be allowed to carry out their duties without undue interference.
“The expertise and dedication of the professionals within these bodies are paramount to achieving a fair and just outcome. Supporting the GPF and SOCU in their endeavours is essential for reinforcing the rule of law and ensuring that justice prevails,” Khan said.
Khan also stressed that if instances of corruption are found within the GPF, it should not taint the entire organisation.
He pointed out that the GPF has robust
systems and protocols in place to address any issues of misconduct. These systems are designed to identify, investigate, and correct any irregularities, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable without casting undue suspicion on the many hardworking and honest officers who serve the country with dedication and honour.
“The existence of these mechanisms within the GPF underscores the institution’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism,” Khan added.
The R3PSInc calls on all stakeholders to have confidence in the investigative process and to support law enforcement agencies as they work diligently to maintain the highest standards of integrity and accountability. Khan concluded by emphasising the importance of fostering a culture of transparency and lawfulness for the benefit of all citizens of Guyana.
‘The silence is deafening’
–– Guyana continues call for immediate ceasefire
in Gaza
––
Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett highlights the urgent need for humanitarian aid ––
says women, children bearing the brunt of the violence
THE ongoing violence in Gaza, with a death toll nearing 40,000, primarily women and children, demands urgent action and political will from the international community to end the catastrophic suffering and secure a stable future for Palestinians.
This was the impassioned plea made by Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, during a recent Security Council debate.
Rodrigues-Birkett’s address to the UN was a clarion call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza.
She underscored the urgent need for the Security Council to uphold its responsibilities and take definitive action to end the violence that has left countless Palestinians dead, injured, and displaced.
“The silence has been deafening on a possible solution to end the war in Gaza,” she remarked, reflecting on the frustration of many who have watched the conflict escalate with horror.
The ambassador highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing it as a “multilayered catastrophe” that affects every aspect of Palestinian life.
“Its principal characteristics are oppression and repression, indignity and impunity, destruction, deprivation, and death,” she stated, painting a vivid picture of the daily suffering endured by Palestinians.
The resolution adopted five weeks ago, supporting efforts by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, had raised hopes for peace, but the continuing violence has dashed aside those hopes, she noted.
Rodrigues-Birkett condemned the actions of Israel, calling the conflict a “barbaric war” that has resulted in a “severely mutilated population, driven from corner to corner of the Strip while bombs incessantly rain down on their severely weakened bodies.”
She stressed that life in Gaza has become synonymous with bombs, starvation, inadequate healthcare, and essential goods and services being stripped away from civilians, robbing them of everything necessary for survival.
The ambassador pointed to the severe restrictions on humanitarian aid, despite nominal openings at crossing points like Kerem Shalom/ Karam Abu Salem.
These restrictions, in contravention of Security Council decisions, represent a blatant disregard for international law obligations, particularly international humanitarian law.
Rodrigues-Birkett said that the broader security situation in Gaza remains perilous due to indiscriminate bombardment and a breakdown of law and order, driven by the desperation of the circumstances.
Her call to action extended to the international community, urging member states to remember and uphold their obligations under international law.
“It is an extremely dismal reality, and we must extinguish this inferno,” she declared, demanding not only an immediate ceasefire but also the prioritisation of civilian protection.
Rodrigues-Birkett also called for the release of all hostages and Palestinians detained without trial in Israeli prisons and urged adherence to the various resolutions of the Security Council.
She highlighted the need for increased humanitarian assistance to Gaza, with a particular focus on high nutritional value food aid given the dire state of food insecurity.
The Guyanese official reminded the council of Israel’s obligation, as the occupying power, to ensure access to humanitarian relief, echoing the demands of the International Court of Justice.
The ambassador condemned the attacks on UN facilities and personnel, noting that 70 per cent of
UNRWA schools have been bombed, and nearly 200 UNRWA staffers have been killed.
She called for the protection of UN and humanitarian workers, and demanded the implementation of functioning deconfliction and notification mechanisms.
Additionally, Rodrigues-Birkett stressed the need to reduce tensions in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and to address the heightened violence between Palestinians and Israelis.
She reiterated that the two-state solution remains the only viable option for a stable future for both Palestinians and Israelis.
“Guyana is committed to doing its part to end what is perhaps the longest ongoing injustice against a people,” she affirmed, underscoring the nation’s dedication to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Rodrigues-Birkett’s powerful address at the United Nations serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for international solidarity and action to bring an end to the suffering in Gaza.
Her words resonate beyond the halls of the UN, calling on the world to stand together in the pursuit of peace and justice for the Palestinian people.
Guyana has been an active voice in the ongoing issues in Palestine, and continues to stand on the principles of justice and equity, evening managing to raise over $110 million to support relief efforts in the country.
In May, President Dr. Irfaan Ali during an engagement with representatives of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian people, reaffirmed the South American nation’s commitment.
Recently, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, acknowledging the sufferings and violence in Gaza, said that Palestinians are starving because of the “failure” of the international community to come together and recognise
what is going on.
Dr. Jagdeo called out Israel for its continuous crimes against Palestine, and noted that prevarication around this issue has allowed Israel to defy the entire international community.
He said: “Israel cannot bring security to itself through wiping out the Palestinian people. And that is why we sup-
Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett
port a two-State solution to this issue; the entire world supports a two-State solution to bring peace to that
region to allow Israel to live in peace and security, but also the Palestinian people to live in dignity.
Guyana manages heaviest cargo ever
–– with
historic
LAST week, the BBC Echo Vessel successfully berthed at the Muneshwers Shipping, John Fernandes and Guyana Shore Base Inc. Terminals, bringing with it crucial transformers for Guyana’s highly anticipated Gas-to-Energy and the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Enhancement Projects.
According to a press release, among the 16 transformers delivered were two
arrival of 16 transformers, 244 accessories for gas, GPL projects
record-breaking units, each weighing an unprecedented 241 tonnes—the heaviest cargo ever managed in Guyana.
Cranes Guyana Inc. (CGI), a subsidiary of Muneshwers Limited and John Fernandes Limited, was awarded the contract by Boltcargo India to manage the discharge, side-wharfage, transportation, and storage of nine transformers.
Of this amount, Munesh-
wers Limited facilitated the side-wharfage for the offloading of six transformers and miscellaneous cargo, while JFL was responsible for the discharge of three including the two massive 241 metric ton transformers, which were then transported by Daco Heavy Lift to JFL’s Inland Terminal for storage.
Paragon Transport and Lifting Services alongside Sammy Multilift Services
Guyana Inc. and RSD Cargo Transit Inc. handled the transportation of seven transformers and 244 accessories.
The complexity of this historic arrival was underscored by the 12 hours it took to safely transport one 241 metric ton transformer from Water Street to the JFL Inland Terminal on Mandela Avenue.
The entire operation spanned five days and required over 3,300 man-hours, not including additional support from GPL, GTT, and the Guy-
Houston facility for LINDSAYCA CH4, a company which has been commissioned by the Government of Guyana to construct an integrated Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) extraction plant and a 300MW Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant.
The seven transformers offloaded there for LINDSAYCA CH4 were transported by Biddle Inc. and are currently being stored at the GYSBI Industrial Estate at McDoom, where the heavier three of the
CA CH4 with Earth, Soil Remediation, and Surcharge works at the project site. Before engaging with LINDSAYCA CH4, GYSBI was contracted by ExxonMobil Guyana to execute Early Works and Heavy Haul Road projects at the location, including constructing five bridges, 4,800 meters of road, and initial site preparation for the Integrated Plant Site.
The project is managed by a dedicated team of 260
rolls out free self-testing kits and PrEP
Last week, the BBC Echo Vessel successfully berthed at the Muneshwers Shipping, John Fernandes and Guyana Shore Base Inc. Terminals, bringing with it crucial transformers for Guyana’s highly anticipated Gas-to-Energy and the
ana Police Force.
The nine mentioned transformers were sourced by Kalpataru Power Transmission Ltd and transported to Guyana with the assistance of Boltcargo India.
These transformers will facilitate the creation of new substations, directly supporting the Guyana Integrated Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) plant and ensuring a reliable and robust energy distribution network.
Guyana Shore Base Inc. (GYSBI) discharged the remaining seven transformers aboard BBC Echo at their
seven transformers, with a weight of 129 metric ton each, were offloaded in a tandem lift between Sammy Multilift Services Guyana Inc. and GYSBI.
They now await transit to the project site at Wales, West Bank Demerara. Besides offloading and storing these transformers, GYSBI has played a pivotal role in managing the necessary pipes for the gas pipeline from offshore to onshore. The pipe distribution campaign, which began in mid to late 2023, concluded in the late first quarter of 2024.
Additionally, GYSBI has been supporting LINDSAY-
staff members, 96 per cent of whom are Guyanese. With the inclusion of third-party contractors and service providers, the site sees more than 400 personnel daily.
Cranes Guyana Inc., GYSBI along with Muneshwers Limited, John Fernandes Limited and Paragon Transport and Lifting Services, take immense pride in contributing to this transformative project and helping to shape Guyana’s future.
These transformers represent a significant advancement in the nation’s energy infrastructure.
Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Enhancement Projects
Forum calls for progressive laws to combat HIV stigma, discrimination
–– key populations bear burden of HIV despite medical advances, says Health Minister
By Feona Morrison
IN light of the growing efforts to address the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV and AIDS, a judges’ forum convened legal professionals, healthcare experts, and activists to deliberate on approaches to promote inclusivity and support for individuals impacted by the illness.
The Guyana National Judges’ Forum on HIV, Human Rights, and the Law was launched on Tuesday at the prestigious Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown. The forum highlighted the essential responsibility of the judiciary in protecting human rights and fostering public health.
The Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, delivered the opening remarks. He highlighted the disparity between HIV awareness and access to antiretroviral (ARV) treatment in Guyana. Additionally, he emphasised the obstacles of stigma and discrimination that impede individuals from seeking proper care.
Importantly, he emphasised the need to address HIV and AIDS through both medical advances and social reforms, including progressive laws and policies, education, and awareness, to reduce stigma and discrimination and improve access
to care and treatment.
According to Minister Anthony, HIV is no longer a death sentence thanks to modern treatment, which suppresses viral levels so that the infection cannot spread.
According to him, the infection is now recognised as a chronic illness. He did, however, point out that despite these developments, men who have sex with men, transgender people, and the prison population “continue to bear the disproportionate burden of the HIV infection.”
Dr Anthony revealed that, at the end of 2023, HIV prevalence was 1.2 per cent among the general Caribbean population, but was much higher among key populations, such as transgender individuals.
“And for transgender individuals, the prevalence was 29.4 per cent. For men who have sex with men, it was 11.8 per cent. For people in the prison, it was at 3.6 per cent and among sex workers it was 2.6 per cent,” the health minister stated.
He explained that the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) has set up a way of measuring how countries have progressed with the battle against HIV/AIDS and have come up with the 95–95–95 HIV testing, treatment and
viral suppression targets.
The health minister added: “When we look at the Caribbean, 85 per cent of persons living with HIV know their status. Of those, 83 per cent are on antiretrovirals. Of those who are on antiretrovirals, 87 per cent are virally suppressed. In Guyana, we have 94 per cent of the persons living with HIV [knowing their] status. But of those who know their status, 72 per cent are on treatment. Of those who are on treatment, 87 per cent are virally suppressed.”
Although treatment is available for free at all health facilities in Guyana, Dr. Anthony highlighted that there is a “big discrepancy” between people who know their status and those on ARV.
“What is the reason why there is this 20 per cent gap between those who know their status and those in treatment? And part of the challenge that we have is stigma and discrimination.
Because in a lot of the places [health facilities] where we offer here, over time, these places have become known and persons are afraid to come to these places for care,” he said. “If they don’t come, they can get complications and eventually die of HIV,” the minister pointed out.
While alluding to the
challenges in accessing affordable treatment in the private sector, he said that primary healthcare workers have been trained to provide HIV treatment at all health centres, to address stigma and discrimination and to use HIV testing opportunities to screen for other Sexually Transmitted Diseases
(STDs) such as Hepatitis B and C. Dr. Anthony said there are new types of prevention methods including pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP) and injectables.
The health minister reasoned that repealing obsolete laws could help decrease stigma and discrimination.
“This is something we need to really focus on and review.” He expressed optimism that this revision will help to achieve the goal of eliminating AIDS by 2030. All in all, he said significant progress has been made in HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention over the last 40 years.
1,194 cheques discovered in Region One’s sub-treasury ‘chest’ under the Coalition
–– Auditor-General’s report discloses
–– says funds should have been returned to the Consolidated Fund
THE Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Monday heard that in 2019, during the tenure of the APNU+AFC government, some 1,194 cheques worth a staggering $791.1 million were discovered in a safe in Region One. While the sum at reference should have rightfully been returned to the Consolidated Fund, the safe in which it was found belonged to the Barima-Waini region’s sub-treasury.
The discovery was made by the PAC during its examination of the Auditor-General’s 2019 Report for Region One, where questions were raised about a number of cheques, and inconsistencies and possible non-compliance
Representatives of the regional administration before the PAC on Monday with Guyana’s Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMAA).
According to the report, Section 34 of the FMAA requires that at the end of each fiscal year, unexpended public funds issued out of the Consolidated Fund be returned to same.
“Audit checks revealed that 1,216 cheques totalling $802.813 million were printed on behalf of the Regional Administration for December 31, 2019. An inspection of the Sub-treasury’s safe on January 22, 2020 revealed that there were 1,194 cheques on hand totalling $791.109 million. These cheques should have been refunded to the Consolidated Fund,” the Audit report revealed.
Further to this, it indicated that no evidence of payment vouchers and related documents were seen in relation to 333 cheques which totalled $133.989 million.
The report went on to add that it could not be determined whether the regional administration complied with the FMAA.
As this revelation raised eyebrows at the PAC meeting, Minister of Public Works and government member of the committee, Bishop Juan Edghill enquired as to why there were no vouchers, documentation or background paperwork in relation to this.
However, the current Regional Executive Officer (REO), who was only appointed to that post earlier this year, said that he is unaware of what exactly transpired there, but assured the
PAC that there is currently an improved system.
He said, “I can’t say what exactly transpired, but I can say with an improved system that no cheques will be printed or processed without a voucher, and the necessary supporting documentation meaning it’s the procurement of goods and the necessary invoices, quotations.”
Edghill said: “This is not three cheques, this is 333 cheques without any background paperwork that led to the writing of the cheques, the auditors may be correct to say the FMAA was not followed there was a breach, but this is a system failure because if you have 333 cheques as of December 2019 that is cut, these cheques are cut in people’s names because you can’t have a cheque if you don’t have an identified payee.”
As such, he enquired what became of the cheques and if they had been paid to people or returned to the treasury.
The REO indicated that based on documents, 11 cheques were refunded to the Consolidated Fund totalling around $4 million. When asked what happened to the others, he said that he was advised these transactions were in their finality and those payments went through.
“I don’t know what model has been used, but I’m in contact with the sub-treasury officer and they indicated that some persons were paid for services rendered and works completed,” Sewchand said.
Public encouraged to engage at Building Expo 2024 for insights, benefits
By Cindy Parkinson
WITH 24 international companies participating, the Guyana International Building Exposition 2024 is poised to be a significant event, showcasing global expertise and innovation in the construction industry. Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, conducted a site visit to the National Stadium in Providence, on Tuesday morning, to ensure that the final preparations for the booths and venue were on track.
Speaking with the media at Providence, Minister Rodrigues revealed that the theme for Building Expo 2024, “Building on the Foundation of Sustainability and Unity,” was crafted by the Ministry of Housing and Water, following a proposal from the President of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. This theme underscores the importance
of sustainable technologies and planning in the construction sector.
Minister Rodrigues expressed her satisfaction with the high level of international participation this year. “We have 24 international companies that have already registered for the expo. We have companies from Barbados, Trinidad, Brazil, the US, Canada, the Dominican Republic, India, Europe, Indonesia, Italy, Puerto Rico, China, Suriname, and Zambia,” she stated.
The expo is expected to feature 500 exhibitors and corporate sponsors, with approximately 353 exhibitors already registered to showcase their innovative building services and technologies. To accommodate the influx of participants, a third auditorium, the “One Guyana Development Auditorium,” has been added to the venue. This new space will host major companies involved in transforma -
tional projects across the country.
“There are two main auditoriums that are filled to capacity, and this year we have added a third auditorium, which is the One Guyana Development Auditorium. This auditorium will have some major companies, such as engineering and construction companies, that are participating in transformational projects in the country,” Minister Rodrigues explained.
Minister Rodrigues is optimistic that the 2024 expo will surpass the attendance figures of previous years, which saw over 100,000 visitors. She noted that Executive Avenue, small business avenue, and outdoor booths are fully booked, and the food court is well-prepared to keep attendees hydrated and satisfied throughout the event.
Additionally, the Ministry’s “Dream Realised” programme aims to provide house lots to 2,000
additional Guyanese by the end of the exhibition, along with 1,000 certificates of titles. A key highlight of the expo will be the unveiling of the Silica City master plan.
Minister Rodrigues emphasised the importance of public involvement, encouraging families to visit the expo, ask questions, and gain insights into how the initiatives can benefit them and the country.
Meanwhile, Minister Croal, in his recent visit to the expo, revealed that 95 percent of the booths have already been allocated. He also shared that various housing models, including the young professional home, prefabricated house, and core home, will be showcased at the event.
Minister Croal highlighted the overarching goal of the Building Expo and similar initiatives. “Everything that is done by President Ali and this government is done with the people in mind, and Building Expo 2024 is nothing different. It is our hope that the people of Guyana make use of these opportunities and use them to enhance their lives,” he stated.
With an impressive lineup of exhibitors and a focus on sustainability and unity, the Guyana International Building Exposition 2024 promises to be a landmark event for the nation’s construction and housing sectors.
Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, during her site inspection at Building Expo 2024 on Tuesday (Delano Williams photos)
Forests face increasing climate-related stress amid growing demand for wood products
–– State of the World’s Forests 2024 report emphasises innovation as key to new management approaches
CLIMATE change is increasing the susceptibility of the world’s forests to stressors such as wildfires and pests, according to a new flagship publication by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) that emphasises the role of innovation in achieving a sustainable future for the forestry sector.
The report, titled “The State of the World’s Forests 2024: Forest-sector innovations towards a more sustainable future,” was released on Monday at the 27th session of the Committee on Forestry (COFO), which is being held at FAO’s headquarters in Rome until Friday. COFO is FAO’s top forestry governing body, tasked with identifying emerging policy and technical issues, seeking solutions, and advising FAO on appropriate action. This year’s meeting is themed “Accelerating forest solutions through innovation.”
The State of the World’s Forests 2024 (SOFO 2024) report says there’s evidence to suggest that climate change is making forests more vulnerable to stressors such as wildfires and pests.
Wildfire intensity and frequency are increasing, including in areas not previously affected, with fires in 2023 releasing an estimated 6,687 megatonnes of carbon dioxide globally. Boreal fire was previously responsible for about 10 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions. In 2021, such fires reached a new high, mainly driven by extended drought causing an increase in fire severity and fuel consumption, and accounted for nearly one-quarter of total wildfire emissions.
Climate change also makes forests more vulnerable to invasive species, with insects, pests and disease pathogens threatening tree growth and survival. Pine wood nematode has already caused significant damage to native pine forests in some countries in Asia, and areas of North America are projected to experience devastating damage due to insects and disease by 2027.
Global wood production, meanwhile, remains at record levels. After a brief dip during the COVID-19 pandemic, production is back at about 4 billion cubic meters yearly.
Nearly 6 billion people use non-timber forest products, and 70 percent of the world’s poor rely on wild species for food, medicine, energy, income, and other purposes. Projections indicate that global roundwood demand could increase by as much as 49 percent between 2020 and 2050.
Faced with such challenges, the report argues that forest-sector innovation is a crucial enabler of progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
“FAO recognizes that science and innovation are crucial ingredients for achieving forest-based solutions,” FAO Director-General QU Dongyu wrote in the
report’s Forward. “This edition of SOFO will inform FAO’s work to scale up evidence-based innovation in forestry.
I believe it will also support FAO Members and other stakeholders in enabling responsible, inclusive, and essential innovation in the forest sector to strengthen sustainability and the resilience of agri-food systems for a better world and a better future for all.”
INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS
The report identifies five innovation types that enhance forests’ potential to address global challenges: technological, social, policy, institutional, and financial.
Examples include the potential for AI to facilitate the automated analysis of a vast volume of existing and future optical, radar, and lidar data collected daily by drones, satellites and space stations; the adoption of mass timber and other woodbased innovations that can replace fossil-based products in the building sector; policies aimed at engaging women, youth and Indigenous Peoples in developing locally led solutions; and innovations in public - and private - sector finance to enhance the value of standing forests.
Since innovation can create winners and losers, the report argues for inclusive and gender-responsive approaches to ensure the fair distribution of benefits among men, women and youth in all socioeconomic and ethnic groups. Promoting innovation must consider and integrate all stakeholders’ local circumstances, perspectives, knowledge, needs and rights.
The report lists five enabling actions that will help scale up innovation in the forest sector: raising awareness, boosting innovation skills, capabilities, and knowledge, encouraging transformational partnerships, ensuring more and universally accessible finance for innovation, and providing an incentivising policy and regulatory environment.
It also presents 18 case studies from around the world, which provide a glimpse at the wide range of technological, social, policy, institutional, and financial forest-sector innovations – and combinations of these – that are being tested and implemented in real-world conditions.
FAO’s COFO meeting is taking place alongside the 9th World Forest Week, which FAO is also marking with the announcement of the winner of the 2024 Collaborative Partnership on Forests Wangari Maathai Forest Champions Award, as well as its Green Cities Initiative Awards, which highlight inspiring achievements of cities that combine actions in the areas of forestry, agriculture or bio-economy with one of the two themes selected for the awards this year: Youth Engagement and Innovation. (FAO)
Crew asleep as coastal vessel damages Harbour Bridge
Minister of Public Works Deodat Indar
By Cindy Parkinson
IN the early hours of Tuesday morning, a coastal vessel owned by a businessman in Region Three broke free from its moorings and collided with the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB), according to Minister of Public Works Deodat Indar.
Minister Indar, speaking exclusively to the Guyana Chronicle, detailed the incident which occurred around 0400hrs. The vessel, carrying a cargo of rice and anchored near the sugar terminal area, drifted towards the Harbour Bridge after becoming unmoored. The crew, asleep at the time, were unable to prevent the collision.
“It was brought to my attention that a vessel loaded with rice cargo hit the Harbour Bridge around four this morning,” Minister Indar stated. “Based on the information received,” he said, “I learned that the crewmen were asleep as the vessel became loose and started to drift towards the bridge. It seemed that when they realised what was going on, it was too late to prevent the collision, and it hit the anchors that we would have put there some time ago.”
The collision resulted in damage to two anchors, and some auxiliary ones to the Harbour Bridge. The Coast Guard was promptly notified, and guided the vessel to a dock to discharge its cargo. Minister Indar confirmed that procedures are underway to ensure the vessel’s owner reimburses the DHB for the damage incurred.
“Divers were already called in, and the relevant personnel have gone ahead to repair the anchors. However, I want to emphasise that while this is being completed as quickly as possible so that people’s lives are not affected by this occurrence, the charges for the repair will be borne by the owner of the vessel,” Minister Indar said. Despite the collision causing a traffic build-up on Tuesday morning, Minister Indar praised the
Guyana a pioneer in monetising forest resources
––
IDB
resident representative says
THE Inter-American Development Bank’s (IDB) Country Representative in Guyana, Lorena Solorzano Salazar recently lauded the announcement by Guyanese authorities to mobilise a global alliance on biodiversity and craft a financing model for ecosystem services.
This bold move was disclosed by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali during the opening ceremony of the Caribbean
The IDB official said she believes this successful carbon credits model demonstrates that Guyana “is very aware of climate change and the impact it has on the world…”
She added, “Having this mechanism (global alliance on biodiversity) allows the country to offer a market to support the decarbonisation of the more developed countries that do not have forests or wetlands. So I
Investment Forum that was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre from July 10 to 12.
The Energy Perspectives podcast, a programme powered by the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, engaged the IDB representative at the forum regarding the president’s disclosure.
The official described Guyana as “a pioneer” in monetising its natural resources, as is the case with its forests. Driven by the Low Carbon Development Strategy LCDS), Hess Corporation and the Government of Guyana had signed a historic agreement in December 2022 where the American oil producer agreed to purchase high-quality carbon credits. Hess said it would pay a minimum of US$750 million between 2022 and 2032.
This multi-year agreement is for the purchase of 37.5 million high-quality REDD+ carbon credits (current and future issuance) that are independently verified to represent permanent and additional emissions reductions. REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation) is a global conservation mechanism created by the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention in support of the Paris Agreement. The agreement is one of the largest private-sector forest preservation agreements in the world.
ated in two of the world’s most biodiversity rich zones: The Amazon region and the Guiana Shield.
The country is home to more than 900 species of birds, 625 strictly freshwater fishes, 250 mammals, 250 amphibians, and 210 reptiles, for a grand total of
at least 2,285 vertebrates.
In maps of global species diversity, Guyana occupies global hotspots for birds, mammals, and amphibians, as well as for freshwater organisms (mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fishes, crabs, and crayfish.
Nearly 100 of the verte-
brate species known from Guyana occur nowhere else on Earth. These include:
• 75 endemic fish species, such as the armored catfish – Ancistrus Kellerae – known only from the Kuribrong River below Kaieteur Falls;
• 19 endemic amphibian
species, such as the globally endangered Kaei Rock Frog, known only from the Maringma Tepui; and
• Four endemic reptile species, such as the lizard Pantepuisaurus Rodriguesi, likewise known only from the Maringma Tepui.
would say it is very positive.”
The IDB official reminded that Guyana was one of the first countries in the world to monetise the natural resources of the country, initially with Norway, and now it is part of the volunteer market in selling carbon credits. By using the success of carbon credits as a blueprint for biodiversity, the official said it is clearly a good opportunity and “Guyana is taking advantage of that…so that is good.”
The first phase of Guyana’s low carbon vision, where payments for forest climate services were to come from a bilateral partner, saw Guyana entering the Guyana-Norway Partnership in 2009. During the period 2009 to 2015, Guyana earned US$212.6 million dollars in payments for forest climate services from Norway, which reached US$220.8 million when investment income was included. These revenues were invested in renewable energy, protection against climate change, land titling, job creation and other priorities in the initial LCDS.
The 2009 model also paved the way for the expansion and modernisation of the document, now titled LCDS 2030.
STATUS OF GUYANA’S
BIODIVERSITY
According to the LCDS 2030, Guyana holds extraordinary levels of biodiversity as it is situ-
$475M Cemetery Road project to be completed in two weeks
MINISTER of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill has assured that the $475 million Cemetery Road project will be com-
pleted within two weeks.
Speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Tuesday, the minister said no further
delays will be tolerated.
“We have to get this project completed as I would have committed to the people. I am taking personal re-
sponsibility for it and within two weeks, we should have the project completed,” the Public Works Minister said.
Due to excessive delays, the ministry executed a series of reviews from Friday to Monday, to determine the way forward and accelerate the project.
As a result, two sub-contractors, nominated and approved by the ministry were added to support the contractor, Avinash Construction and Metal Works Company.
The minister highlighted that one sub-contractor will complete the bridge at Cemetery Road and Princess Street while the other will widen the
culvert at Sussex Street.
Avinash Construction will pave the carriageway between Middle Road and Sussex Street and begin site clean-up.
The company has agreed to a ‘Programme of Execution’ and will pay the sub-contractors for their work.
The government has pursued liquidated damages from the lead contractor after he failed twice to complete the road.
Initially, the project was expected to be completed in July 2023, but the deadline was extended to January 2024. It was later extended to
the end of March. Currently, only 70 per cent of the project is finished.
When completed, the four-lane carriageway will significantly alleviate traffic congestion and serve as a connecting route to Mandela, and even the East Bank of Demerara.
In addition, the project includes enhancing Independence Boulevard, which has been extended into three lanes with a new recreational promenade.
This initiative aligns with the government’s vision for community development and the modernisation of the capital city.
Guyana to import 50,000 more high-yielding coconuts from Costa Rica
GUYANA will import another 50,000 high-yielding coconuts from Costa Rica to further advance its coconut industry.
This was revealed by Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha Thursday last, during an outreach to residents of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo, and Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara.
“We have another 50,000 high-yielding coconuts coming from Costa Rica. We are helping farmers to get these varieties so that they can increase and improve their coconut variety,” the minister said.
He noted that every farmer will receive coconuts to resuscitate the country’s coconut industry.
Additionally, the government has since brought another variety of high-yielding coconut known as the Brazilian Green Dwarf. Close to 60,000 have been brought into the country to date.
According to the minister, the coconut from Brazil produces between 500 to 700 milliliters of water. This is almost double Guyana’s coconut which holds 300 milliliters of water.
“We want to introduce new types of coconut into our country because it is a very lucrative crop and we want to be a main producer of coconut,” Minister Mustapha stressed.
The agriculture minister encouraged farmers to take advantage of the opportunities available in the agriculture sector.
He also urged farmers to establish farmers’ groups within the various villages so that the resources, when distributed, could meet more persons.
“When we talk about agriculture, it means that every citizen must have equal access to the opportunities that the government is making available to the farmers,” he said. (DPI)
Crew asleep as coastal vessel damages Harbour ...
staff’s dedication in restoring the traffic flow to its regular pace.
In light of recent collisions involving vessels and the Demerara Harbour Bridge, Minister Indar mentioned that he, along with Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill and the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), met with barge and the operators of ocean-going vessels just over a month ago to discuss preventive measures.
“We are in talks to put some measures in place, so that we can stop these collisions from happening in the
future,” the minister said, adding: “We are looking at driving down some piles, and using them as safety panels for these boat operators. This is to make sure that if a vessel is coming against the tide and finds it difficult to stay in one direction or to avoid a collision, they can be able to throw the ropes on the piles.”
The proposed safety measures would be implemented between the old Harbour Bridge and the new one under construction.
The minister highlighted the challenges vessels face when navigating against the
tide, which often leads to uncontrollable situations.
Minister Indar also noted that while a request was made for a tug to be stationed near the ‘Harbour Bridge’ 24/7, this option has proven too costly. Instead, they plan to use mooring piles on the northern side of the bridge to provide a safer and more secure location for vessels.
In closing, Minister Indar urged all boat operators and owners to exercise greater vigilance in securing their vessels, stressing that no one benefits from such incidents.
The vessel that collided with the anchors of the Demerara Harbour Bridge on Tuesday morning (Peter Salick photo)
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Wednesday July 24, 2024)
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83
Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Malcolm Marshall-94 wickets (18 Tests)
(2) Angus Fraser-54 wickets (12 Tests)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Which WI has bagged most Test wickets versus ENG in the West Indies?
(2) Which ENG bowler has snared most Test wickets against the WI in England?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
RHT NAMILCO Thunderbolt flour cricket team hosts annual Basil Butcher memorial trust program
The Rose Hall Town NAMILCO Thunderbolt flour first division and U21 teams on Friday last hosted the 2024 Basil Butcher memorial trust program.
The team, under the guidance of the management of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, has been hosting the memorial program in memory of the late Basil Butcher the former West Indies middle order batsman who died in December 2019 after long and profound illness.
RHTYSC secretary Hilbert Foster stated that the 1st edition was held in 2020 with the full blessing of Mr. Butcher’s wife Pamela and family.
Over the last four years the trust program has assisted dozens of youths across the ancient county with a wide variety of items including bicycles, electronic tablets, educational material, uniforms, household items, kitchen utensil, footwear, cricket gears and sports equipment.
Foster stated that the former West Indies batting maestro was very close to the club as its president Keith Foster was his eldest child.
Butcher personally sponsored the Basil Butcher cricket development program for many years and assisted many youth cricketers in Berbice with personal cricket gear including West Indies middle order batsman Shimron Hetmyer, Sean Perriera, Shemaine Campbell, Assad Fudadin and Clinton Pestano among others.
Butcher also assisted by offering his service as a mentor to members of the club and also supported other programs of the RHTYSC including annual award ceremony, Say yes/Say no campaign, Christmas Charity Program and the annual Cricket Academy.
Foster who is also the former president of the Berbice Cricket Board stated that the NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour teams in 2024 would
be shearing out 25 bicycles to youths and some institution like the mayor and town council of Rose Hall.
The teams would also be handing over cricket gear to promising club members,12 electronic tablets to outstanding students, food hampers
to the less fortunate while hundreds of school bags with educational materials would be handed out to students preparing for secondary school.
The NAMILCO Thunderbolt flour first division team in September would also undertake a series of activities to
mark the 54th anniversary of Rose Hall becoming a Township on the 20th of September 1990.
The activities would be held under the theme simply the best and would include a cross-country race, 10/10 cricket match, fitness
walk, say no to drugs March, food hampers for 54 families, medical outreach, evening of music and educational competitions for school children such as essay and poster competition.
RHTYSC cricket manager Robby Kissoonlall hailed the hard work of the cricketers in obtaining necessary items and urge the youths who receive bicycles, cricket gears, school bags and electronic tablet to take proper care of them.
Basil Butcher a product of Port Mourant Cricket Club played 44 test matches for the West Indies scoring 3104 runs at an average of 43.11 with seven centuries and 16 half centuries.
He was named Wisden cricketer of the year in 1970 and later served as a selector.
Basil Butcher was inducted as a honourary member of the RHTYSC in 1996 and also received the club highest award, the Dolphin Award of Excellence.
ARC hosts successful relay festival
The ExxonMobil Guyana Youth Relay Festival, hosted by A Record Chance Inc. (ARC), concluded with outstanding performances and high-energy competition on July 21 at the National Track & Field Stadium, Leonora, West Coast Demerara. Over 200 athletes representing 32 schools from across the country, along with five senior clubs, participated in this inaugural event.
the competition. We encourage coaches and teachers to begin preparations now for the next edition of the event. The enthusiasm and talent displayed today are a testament to the potential of Guyanese athletes."
The festival underscored ExxonMobil's commitment to youth development and community engagement in Guyana. Their sponsorship was instrumental in providing resources and opportunities for young athletes to excel.
The festival's highlight was the introduction of the relay coin-shaped trophy, symbolising the mineral wealth of Guyana. A total of 252 medals and one championship trophy were awarded. Points were
In addition to the athletes, the festival drew an enthusiastic crowd who witnessed some of Guyana’s best junior and senior athletes in action. Notable competitors included several members of the 2024 CARIFTA Team like Tianna Springer (2023 & 2024 CARIFTA Games Gold Medalist), Kaidon Persaud (2024 CARIFTA Games Silver Medalist), Javon Roberts (2023 CARIFTA Gold Medalist), Marissa Thomas, Keneta Fraser, Akilla Butcher, Dhneilson Gill just to name a few. Seasoned Senior athletes like Keliza Smith (Ranked #2 in NJCAA in 2024), Juvonna Cornette, Noelex Holder, and Simeon Adams also featured in the invitational events.
CEO/Founder
tabulated by area, with Linden emerging victorious with 172 points. Georgetown placed second with 170 points, Berbice secured third place with 138 points, and Essequibo/West Demerara took the fourth spot with 99 points. "This was the first-ever
track and field event hosted by ARC, and our goal is to provide platforms for athletes and fans to compete at a high level and grow in the sport," said Arinze Chance, CEO of ARC. "The rivalries we saw today, especially between Georgetown and Linden, were
reminiscent of the intensity seen in basketball and cricket.
The long-standing rivalry between Georgetown and Linden was what the fans came to see, and both teams delivered."
Arinze continued, "We are eager to get Berbice and Essequibo more involved in
The success of the event was also made possible by the generous contributions of our other sponsors. Banks DIH provided essential refreshments, GTT’s Brava provided seamless internet for the livestream, and Darinz Delites Catering Service offered delicious meals to keep everyone energized throughout the day. Their support was invaluable and greatly appreciated.
ARC encourages all followers and fans to stay updated by following our pages on Facebook and Instagram, where most information about upcoming events will be posted.
Youths poses after receiving school bags from the Basil Butcher Trust
Champion Team and
of ARC Mr. Chance
Jockeys bringing ‘A’ game for Guyana Cup
Local, regional and international jockeys are gearing up for the 16th running of the Guyana Cup on August 11 at the Rising Sun Turf Club, West Coast Berbice. This year’s Guyana Cup will be the biggest event ever, with more than 40 million dollars in cash and prizes. The feature race will pay a whopping sum of G$ 11,625,000. This lucrative event has attracted jockeys from near and far, and they are eager to bring their ‘A’ game.
Colin Ross, who is arguably Guyana’s number one jockey, and was the champion jockey for 2023, said his primary goal is to win. He said he will put his best foot forward to return to winning ways.
“With the Guyana Cup coming up, I will push harder. There will be a lot of people coming out to see the races and the prize money is bigger. I am pushing my body to
come out on top. Since 2024 started I have been doing good, but not so good (as I did last year), but from now to the end of the year, I will try to push myself to do better for the last half of the year,” Ross explained.
Meanwhile, Trinidadi-
an jockey Rico Hernandez described the 16th running of the Guyana Cup as a special one, and he is hoping to leave his mark come August 11 at Rising Sun.
“This Guyana Cup occasion is very special. We are taking our time, building the confidence
that we need, and making sure the horses are in order and happy going into the Guyana Cup. As a jockey the goal is always to win, but we must get the horses with good abilities, and we must prove that we are capable,” jockey Hernandez explained.
Jockey Ronaldo Appadu, another top jockey in Guyana, said he is looking forward for the best. “I am working very hard to be champion jockey, so I think I will take it this year. I have a lot of haters, so I put them aside, and I worked hard on the job to get improvement, so I am thankful for that,” Appadu said.
Last year’s Guyana Cup saw a total purse of G$24 million across all races, while the top horse in the feature event was paid out G$10 million. This year’s Guyana Cup as an increase in prize money of close to G$16 million dollars.
The 2024 Guyana Cup will certainly be the biggest, and the day will be packed with side attractions. The first-ever fun park is set to ignite the Rising Sun Turf Club, where children will witness a parading bar on spot, and multiple stages will be set up across the venue.
The fun park and the horse racing combined will provide the perfect recipe for a fun-filled day for the entire family. “This is something Guyana has never witnessed,” Mohamed said.
Ten races will be on the Guyana Cup card, and entries have already been open. Entries will close on August 3 and no late entries will be accepted at this year’s Guyana Cup.
With this year’s Guyana Cup purse being the biggest in the Caribbean, horses from various countries will be compelled to travel to Guyana and battle for supremacy.
In addition to the feature event, which will run at approximately 1,800 metres, other races on the provisional card include the 1,600m Derby, 1000m Sprint Classic, 1000m Two-year-old, 1000m F1 class, 1600m H1 class, 1400m J & Lower, 1400m K Class, 1400m L Class and 1400m Non-earners.
Pope says England could make 600 in a day
(BBC) - OLLIE Pope says England's batters will be "ruthless" with their run-scoring as they eye a Test series whitewash against West Indies - and reckons they could even score 600 in a day.
England are 2-0 up after they followed up victory by an innings at Lord's with a comprehensive 241-run win at Trent Bridge last week.
The win in Nottingham was the first time England scored 400-plus in both innings of a Test match with totals of 416 and 425.
The third and final Test between England and West Indies starts on Friday at Edgbaston.
England centurions in the second Test alongside Joe Root and Harry Brook.
He acknowledged there are times England's batters will have to "manage the game a little bit more" but that their attacking approach has now become second nature.
England fell just three runs short of eclipsing that against Pakistan in Rawalpindi back in December 2022, but Pope reckons they could go much bigger.
"I got asked on day one 'do you get told to play like that?'. No, we don't. It's just our natural games and the way we go about it," Pope added.
"Sometimes we might score 280-300 in a day but that's OK and probably because we're reading situations.
Vice-captain Pope promised there will be no let up with their approach even though England have already wrapped the series and won back the Botham-Richards Trophy.
- there always is a hunger - but now there's an extra bit in that batting line-up," Pope said.
"There’s a real hunger
"We want to be as ruthless as we can as a batting unit, but still play the way we do because that's our natural game. Obviously being ruthless is being part of Test cricket as well." Pope was one of three
The 26-year-old also feels England could smash the record for the number of runs scored in a day of Test cricket with the buccaneering 'Bazball' style fostered by coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes Sri Lanka's total of 509-9 against Bangladesh in July 2002 is the highest total made by a team in a day of Test cricket.
"There might also be a day where we go and get 500 to 600 at some point in the future as well. And that's a cool thing to have."
Jockey Colin Ross and connections with the Master Z Racing Stables will be hoping to see Easy Time defend his Guyana Cup
England batter Ollie Pope made his Test debut against India in August 2018
Giftland and Sankar’s Auto Works boost Kares One Guyana T10 Blast
THE Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast, kicking off on August 3rd, has received a further boost with Giftland OfficeMax and Sankar's Auto Works joining the list of sponsors.
Giftland OfficeMax is offering a 10 per cent discount (excluding gym equipment and sale items) to any team member (player or official) who visits their store wearing or presenting their team jersey.
Additionally, fans can purchase exclusive tournament merchandise only at Giftland. This offer runs until the
tournament concludes on August 25th. Roy Beepat, Chairman of the Giftland Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the tournament's "One Guyana" theme, stating, "I am in love with the One Guyana...full praise to the President. The One Guyana concept signifies unity, and that's important. We are One Guyana, and I love the message."
He further emphasised Giftland's commitment to supporting activities that promote community development.
More so, Sankar's Auto Works, established
in 1993 and recent Valvoline Brand Ambassador Shimron Hetmyer's sponsor, adds their name to the growing list of supporters, demonstrating their commitment to the popular sport of tapeball cricket in Guyana.
The competition promises to be fierce with the stakes rising for the 32 participating teams. This year's edition boasts a bigger prize pool, with G$1.5 million awarded to the champions, G$500,000 to the runners-up, and G$250,000 consolation prizes for losing semifinalists.
Opening matches
will be held on August 3 at the Police Sports Club, Queen's College Ground, and Lusignan Sports Club.
The Round of 16 at Police Sports Club and Lusignan on August 4.
The quarterfinals will be played on August 11th at Enmore, culminating in the finals and a ‘cricket for charity’ match at the National Stadium on August 25th.
A full list of participating teams includes: Airport XI, Avinash All-Stars, Bartica Bulls, Brooklyn Youth Strikers, Cotton Tree Die Hard, Diamond Gunners, Eastsyde, EC Express, Eccles
All-Stars, Flacons XI, GPL Inc., Green Scorpions Cricket Club, Lil Rams, Mahaica Super Strikers, Mahdia (Movements Family), Ministry of Housing and Water – One Guyana, Montra Jaguars, Moruca Super Giants, MS-13 All-Stars, PREMIER Insurance, Renegades Cricket Club, Soesdyke XI, Street Ballerz, Stripling Warriors, Tarmac Titans, Team Corruption, TG Titans, The United Crew, The Guards, Titans All-Stars, Upsetters, and Village Rams.
The Kares One Guyana T10 Blast enjoys the support of 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., General Marine, Samaroo Investments, and Coel's Boutique.
GCF marks World Chess Day with Blitz Tournament
Anthony Drayton clinched another Blitz tournament as Guyana joined the world in celebrating World Chess Day over the weekend.
The event, held at the School of the Nations compound saw droves of players turning out to test their mental over black and white pieces for top honours.
The one-day competition was held by world governing body
Fide Master Anthony Drayton collecting trophy for Blitz competition GCF secretary Marcia Lee
FIDE in collaboration with the Guyana Chess Federation to mark the observe the day on July 20.
Fifty-two players battled, as chess players the world over marked the 100th anniversary of the World Chess Federation, FIDE with moves over the board.
The Players battled in rated and unrated categories for the competition.
Kevin ‘2 Feet’ Joseph / Team 13 U23 basketball…
The blitz section
was won by local FIDE master Anthony Drayton, second place went to Keron Sandiford with Rai Sharma placing third.
Blitz is a fast-paced version of the game in which players have 15 minutes in total to move all pieces to complete the game.
In the unrated category, Micaiah Enoe copped first, Prince Dunn came in second and Alek Ubaldo-Singh
brought third.
FIDE certificates of participation were also presented to the players.
The world body for its centenary anniversary (1924-2024) coordinated with member federations around the world to promote the most chess games played world-wide in 24 hours and secure an entry into the Guinness Book of World Records.
Games resume tonight with double header
AFTER one week of no play due to varying reasons, games will resume in the Kevin ‘2 Feet’ Joseph and Team 13 organised Under 23 basketball championship this evening (Wednesday) at the Amelia’s Ward Hard Court.
The rescheduled match-
es are a game between Amelia’s Ward Jets and Central Mackenzie Kings at 18.30hrs and the Retrieve Raiders and Block 22 Flames. In the last game played, Central Mackenzie Kings, after trailing in the first three quarters 8-17,29-34 and 38-44, outscored their
opponents (Retrieve Raiders) 24-9 to secure a 62-53 victory.
That come-from-behind win was orchestrated by the combined efforts of Jemol Semple’s 17 points, Jaren Watson’s 13 and Tyreese Arthur’s 11.
Shemar Savoury had a game high 27 points for the
Raiders but no other player on his team recorded more than 10 points.
In the other game played Victory Valley Royals maintained their winning ways with a comfortable 57-34 win against Block 22 Flames after leading throughout the quarters 16-6, 31-17, 48-27 and finally 57-34.
Kobe Tappin was their top scorer with 27 game high points, and Immanuel LaRose contributed 13.
Lerone Joseph was the best shoot for Flames with 19 points.
Five club teams are contesting this round robin preliminary round of matches
and the top four will advance to the semifinals to determine the finalists. Trophies and medals are on offer in this tournament. The clubs are Victory Valley Royals, Block 22 Flames, Central Mackenzie Kings, Retrieve Raiders and Amelia’s Ward Jets.
Jockeys bringing ‘A’ game for Guyana Cup
Jockeys will have their eyes on the big prize at Guyana Cup
Giftland and Sankar’s Auto Works boost Kares One Guyana T10 Blast
Romario Samaroo of FL Sport (right) and Roy Beepat, Chairman of the Giftland Group, signify the partnership
Navin Sankar of Sankar’s Auto Works (right) and John Ramsingh of FL Sport
