Guyana to harness India’s expertise to advance urban development - President Ali
- outlines plans for further discussions to enhance connectivity, promote sustainable development
DDL’s US$20M dairy farm to be fully operational by the end of 2025
- company anticipates 5M litres of fresh milk per year, eyes regional market
Gov’t aiming to build robust, diverse financial sector
- engaging both local, international players
- Dr. Jagdeo says
Expanded focus for technology and innovation in agriculture
- as Guyana and India expand co-operation in agriculture
- Minister Teixeira shares plans for bilateral initiatives spanning
Construction of DDL’s dairy farm at Moblissa on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway is on track for completion next
Expanded focus for technology and innovation in agriculture
- as Guyana and India expand co-operation in agriculture
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali recently disclosed that Guyana and India will significantly expand their collaboration in critical areas of agriculture and food security, with a particular focus on rice, sugar, and the potential for corn and soya production. This revelation was among the highlights of Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s historic three-day state visit last week.
Dr. Ali at a press briefing following a closed-door meeting and the signing of sev-
eral Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) said strengthening of ties between the two nations, particularly in the fields of technology, innovation, and research aimed at bolstering the country's agricultural production.
“These are areas that India is already collaborating with us on, and we have decided that, given the key nature and importance of these areas for Guyana and regional development, we will further expand our co-operation,” President Ali stated during a recent
press briefing.
India has long been a partner in Guyana’s agricultural sector, offering technical support and expertise.
India has also committed to supporting Guyana's sugar and rice industries. This will include not only infrastructure development but also an enhanced focus on human resources and technical assistance to ensure the industry's sustainability and growth.
The President highlighted the importance of research and development as a cornerstone of all these efforts.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali
"And important to all of this is research and development, the use of technology and innovation in agriculture," President Ali noted.
India’s achievements in agricultural technology and innovation have set a global benchmark, and the country has established itself as a leader in this field.
"India has distinguished itself among all
our global competitors in this area," President Ali remarked, underscoring the significance of the partnership.
Meanwhile, at a later press briefing, Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs explained that these areas of collaboration would see the Indian government providing expertise in capacity building and technology.
“We have offered to
them areas like using drones, digital farming, farm mechanisation, soil testing,” he told reporters.
The Indian official also highlighted the existing collaboration in millet production.
“Guyana has really been a star in using millets to address food security needs, so that is one area [in which] we will continue our collaboration,” he added.
Guyana to harness India’s expertise to advance urban development - President Ali
- outlines plans for further discussions to enhance connectivity, promote sustainable development
OUTLINING the significant opportunities for collaboration between India and Guyana, particularly in urban development, President Dr. Irfaan Ali last week disclosed that the nations have agreed to promote collaboration on urban infrastructure projects.
The President made the revelation during India’s Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, historical three-day state visit to Guyana.
“India is a giant in this field, and that presents tremendous opportunity for us here in Guyana, and this will be part of the collaboration,”
President Ali told a media briefing, following a closed-door meeting and the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
Recognising the critical role of infrastructure in economic growth both leaders agreed to enhance collaboration.
“As our development continue to advance and expand, urban development is important. India, again, has tremendous expertise in urban planning and development, and they will be lending that expertise to Guyana as we seek to advance our own development here.”
According to President Ali, there will be a key focus on technology transfer, smart city initiatives and affordable housing.
“Innovation, digitisa-
tion technology…those are key elements of what we are going to work on; the transform technology, the rolling out of our own 2030 digitisation plan to improve governance, efficiency, reliability.”
Already, Guyana has embarked on ambitious urban development project—Silica City, the country's first smart city.
It is a significant step forward in Guyana's developmental strategy for a sustainable and climate-smart future. It is set to emerge as the most desirable area for ecologically conscious living.
Recreational parks, community centres, buildings, an electrical system, and multispecialty healthcare will all be part of the city, creating an atmosphere that improves enjoyment, productivity, and well-being.
The ambitious un -
dertaking will address the impacts of climate change and sea level rise, as well as the issues associated with the growth of non-coastal urban settlements.
“We are well on the
journey of delivering on the dream of Silica City, making Silica City a reality and the most desirable city that one may want to live in. Over the last year, we have sharpened the framework for
Silica City,” President Ali had said during a previous engagement.
Already, the first 110 young professionals’ houses being constructed at Silica City are nearing completion.
Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, has since expressed satisfaction with the progress of the work, following an inspection earlier this month.
She also disclosed that all the infrastructural works have been completed, including road and drainage networks, and the installation of utility services.
“We are looking to wrap up [construction of] these houses within the next few months… The next stage is to ensure that we have potable water to ensure peo-
ple can move in immediately by the time the houses are completed,” she said.
There are 75 flat housing units, and 35 elevated ones. The flat houses are priced between $25,200,603 and $25,290,178, while the elevated ones cost approximately $33,980,153 to $34,450,145.
“We incorporated a more modern design that is very beautiful. The recipients of these houses at Silica City will be very pleased with the design, and the quality of work,” Minister Rodrigues said.
Once completed, Silica City will be outfitted with the newest energy-saving technologies for wastewater management, energy management, and water conservation.
A significant step forward in Guyana’s developmental strategy for a sustainable and climate-smart future is Silica City, which is set to emerge as the most desirable area for ecologically conscious living
India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and President Irfaan Ali exchange greetings at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (Delano Williams photo)
Understanding context, economic history pivotal to conscious decisions – VP Jagdeo tells ‘Nations’ graduates
CONTEXTUAL
understand-
ing of Guyana and its economic history is pivotal to making conscious decisions, particularly as young professionals, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has underscored.
The foregoing statement was made in his feature address to over 300 graduates who graduated on Saturday with their Diplomas, Bachelor Degrees and Master’s Degrees from Nations Incorporated, formerly School of the Nations.
According to the VP, context is key in understanding any situation, whether personal, communal or national. This allows for a thorough understanding of Guyana’s situation, and how it shapes future opportunities.
“Many of you have already started your careers, or are going to build careers into the future, and you would want to know where our country is evolving, what is it evolving to, and how you fit into that context,” he told the gathering at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) audi -
torium, where the graduating ceremony was held.
Elaborating on Guyana’s economic history, Dr. Jagdeo recalled back when there was no democracy, freedom, and a stable economy; a time when there was high inflation and
– says young people ‘fortunate’ to start careers in a flourishing economy – urges empathy and patriotism among youths
unsustainable fiscal and balance of payment deficits. These were not the sole challenges, as infrastructures were destroyed and there were no central bank reserves.
Today, Guyana is swiftly rising as an economic powerhouse, thanks to focused, long-term thinking of the PPP/C Administration. Guyana now has the enviable reputation of being one of the world’s fastest-growing economies that is presenting attractive opportunities for young professionals.
Therefore, he urged them to
be appreciative of this, because while other Caribbean nations are challenged, Guyana is on an upward trajectory.
Meanwhile, Dr. Jagdeo urged the cohort to instill in themselves a sense of empathy and patriotism in carrying out their functions, key to building a better and brighter future.
They were also urged to find a purpose and passion in life; one that will drive change on pressing issues affecting society.
“I ask you, as students, to seek out facts. It’s only through a knowledge of facts, not an-
if they are not immediately understood by the public.
Meanwhile, the Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues, in delivering the charge, encouraged women to take up seats at the table of change and policy.
“Your seat has always been there. You just have to take it. Take up that position [and] contribute to the development of your country, contribute to the developments of yourself and your families,” she said.
Also addressing the graduation ceremony was Nations School of Law Director Ashme Singh; Director of ABE CARICOM & Africa Keressa Carrington; and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Dexter Phillips.
ecdotes, not what you hear on social media, not what you hear at the street corner – that we will find lasting solutions to the problems that confront us as a country or you as individuals,” he added.
The vice-president also underscored the importance of long-term vision over short-term decisions, to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity in the future.
This principle, he noted, is applicable to the professional realm and important to policy decisions and leaderships, even
Vice-President Jagdeo also presented special awards to students who performed exceptionally.
Graduates completed programmes in business administration, human resource management, project management, public health, logistics and supply chain management and oil and gas management, and other fields. They are now certified by the University of London, Bedfordshire and The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, among other prominent institutions.
(DPI)
VP Jagdeo handing over special awards at the graduation ceremony
Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues delivers the charge
DDL’s US$20M dairy farm to be fully operational by the end of 2025
- company anticipates 5M litres of fresh milk per year, eyes regional market
By Michel Outridge
DEMERARA Distillers
Limited (DDL) on Sunday invited the media to tour its dairy farm facility at Moblissa, on
use fresh cows’ milk for its Savannah Milk brand instead of reconstituted imported powered milk.
Financial Director of Demerara Dairy Investment (DDI) and Deputy
Thus far, the company has expended US$9 million on the project. The total cost is US$20 million which is a massive investment being made by DDL. Singh added that it is a
transformative project for Guyana and the entire Caribbean, as the milk will be exported to the region following its introduction to the Guyanese market.
Meanwhile, Project
the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, where a massive US$20 million investment project is being executed.
The project offers job opportunities to 200 persons, among them residents of the community, some foreigners, Cubans and Venezuelans, and will
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Yasudeo Singh told the media that the farm is technically advanced with equipment and the necessary infrastructure.
He was at the time speaking at a press conference following the media tour.
Executive Loris Nathoo told reporters that they are aiming to have firstmilk sometime in the third quarter of 2025.
“We are hoping to have the diary cows here in the first week in June next year. After that, two to three months [later], we will have first-milk in the third quarter of 2025. We will have all preparations in terms of the diary cows. As you can see, we are constructing the first large pen of 80,000 square feet, with two pens in that same size and in total we will have seven buildings,” Nathoo said.
He revealed that they are hoping that by the time the animals are here in Guyana, the arrangements
for the feed stock would be in place.
Nathoo pointed out that some of the feed will come from their own growth of experimental grass, which is a mixture of hay and silage.
He added that they are also exploring the possibility of having contractors supply feed for the first 18 months, so that they can have adequate feed for the 500 milking cows that will be on the farm.
Nathoo said that by the time the cows are here, they will have three to six months of feed stocked in the hay storage area, once they are fully completed.
“Once we are comfort-
TURN TO PAGE 9
DDL Chairman and CEO Komal Samaroo (Japheth Savory photos)
Experimental grass, which is a mixture of hay and silage, that is being grown on the farm
The media on Sunday toured DDL’s dairy farm that is under construction at Moblissa
BY next year-end, thousands of children in Amerindian communities in far-flung parts of the country will be able to access a secondary education.
As the Irfaan Ali-led government pushes forward with plans to have universal secondary education by 2027, more than a dozen schools in remote areas are either being constructed or construction is slated to start soon.
The latest beneficiary is Maruranau, an Amerindian community in Region Nine,
where the sod was turned on Friday to mark the commencement of the construction of a $175 million education facility. When complete, the school will be able to accommodate 400 children from that village and surrounding communities.
This school is one of seven that the government plans to construct in Region Nine alone. Presently, secondary schools are under construction at Yupukari, Nappi, Tabatinga and Karasabai, and are set to accommodate hundreds of children.
Region Nine, the largest of Guyana’s 10 administrative regions, has four secondary schools: St. Ignatius, Annai, Aishalton and Sand Creek, and so, the construction of more is a welcomed development, particularly given the topography of the region.
In Region Eight, construction works are ongoing at Kopinang, Monkey Mountain, and Micobie, while the Jawalla Secondary School and the Phillipai Secondary School in Region Seven are also under construction.
Waramuri Secondary School is one of five schools being constructed in Region One.
The list above showcases how the government is honouring its word to transform education delivery with a view to bridging the divide. It must be emphasised that ensuring every child has access to an education is a constitutional right, and everything must be done to ensure that right is upheld.
Unfortunately, many hinterland communities are located far from each other. It is with this in mind that
included in the construction plans is the building of dorms to house students coming from neighbouring villages.
Residents of those communities are being given the opportunity to lay the foundation for a bright future for their children, giving them access to opportunities they never had. A strong foundation is necessary for personal growth, and for them to make a positive contribution and partake in the country’s development.
A sound secondary ed-
ucation can open a world of possibilities, particularly given Guyana’s current trajectory. It can allow one to embark on tertiary education, thereby laying the foundation for a successful life.
As the government continues to work feverishly towards universal education, it has shown that it is committed to spending billions of dollars to ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place to make this a reality.
Ensuring access to secondary education Georgetown residents deserve better
Dear Editor,
I WRITE in response to Councillor Lelon Saul's recent letter, which provides a fascinating case study in creative writing. While I provided facts and figures in my previous correspondence, Councillor Saul has done no such thing. His letter is riddled with “straw-man” and red-herring arguments. For clarity, a “straw-man” argument misrepresents an opponent's position to make it easier to attack, while a red- herring distracts from the actual issue by introducing irrelevant information. Councillor Saul's reliance on these tactics does a disservice to the discussion.
His letter revolves around two overarching themes.
He portrays the council as a powerless victim, forever thwarted by bureaucratic villains and central government meddling.
He seeks to discredit my
arguments by framing them as politically biased and uninformed.
Perhaps the most egregious red herring in Councillor Saul's letter is his theatrical invocation of "parate executions.":-
“...I hope, for the sake of those in the working class, that Mr DeArmas is not suggesting that we resort to 'parate execution,' as this would lead to homelessness for thousands of residents."
This statement is as absurd as it is dishonest. I have never suggested "parate executions." In fact, it was Councillor Saul himself who raised this spectre during his budget presentation on June 4. Were it not for the strong objections of my colleague, PPP/C Councillor Steven Jacobs, this draconian policy might have been adopted. For Councillor Saul to invoke the "working class" now is hypocritical in the extreme. Where was his concern for the working class when the PNC-led council decided to slash
rates payable by political parties—benefiting his political masters at the expense of the people of Georgetown?
As Finance Committee Chair, Councillor Saul refuses to take responsibility for the city's dire financial state, instead pointing fingers at others. Yet, no citizen of Georgetown, regardless of political affiliation, would absolve the council of blame for its ongoing failures.
In his letter, Councillor Saul notes that "...crucial decisions are arrived at following a voting process..." but omits that the PNC holds 19 seats on the council, compared to the PPP's 11. This majority ensures that decisions such as slashing rates for political parties, are driven by PNC councillors. It is unsurprising that Councillor Saul conveniently fails to mention this fact. He further asserts that I feign astonishment over the council's persistent challenges in producing a timely budget. Yet, year after
year, budget estimates are submitted months past the deadline. As Chair of the Finance Committee, one would expect Councillor Saul to have at least a few ideas—or perhaps a calendar—to ensure the budgeting process is completed on time. If the administration is as inefficient as he claims, surely it doesn't take a financial mastermind to suggest starting the process earlier in the year. His inaction only serves as a smokescreen to mask his own incompetence.
Councillor Saul also touts that the council has hired an auditor to review its finances and help prepare a budget. This statement deserves closer scrutiny. The auditor was indeed hired, but not to help draft a budget as Councillor Saul dishonestly implies.
Rather, the auditor was engaged because the city has not had its accounts audited for decades, in blatant and consistent breach of both the Municipal and District
Councils Act and the Fiscal Transfers Act.
This lack of financial oversight has contributed to the council's inability to maintain even basic financial records, such as an asset register, much less a balance sheet. The auditor's role, therefore, is to address these long-standing failures and restore a semblance of financial accountability— not to assist with budget preparation, for which Councillor Saul already has access to the treasurer's financial reports detailing revenues and expenditures from previous years, which can serve as a solid foundation for initiating the 2025 budgeting process.
Similarly, he notes that the Engineer's Department has been tasked with identifying billboard locations and numbers. What he neglects to mention is that this directive was issued only recently, despite his bold pronouncements in June about monetising the
council's assets. Months were wasted, and the process has barely begun.
Finally, Councillor Saul completely sidesteps the facts I raised in my previous letter. I asked him to address the following as Finance Committee Chair:
Budget Consultations: last year's budget was approved without consulting the city's residents. Why were no consultations held? How can the council create an effective budget without input from Georgetown's citizens?
Payroll Expenditures: 70% of all revenues collected go toward the city's payroll. Why has the council not conducted an HR audit to optimise human resources and reduce inefficiencies?
Waste Collection Delays: As of my last letter, the city was 79 days behind in payments to solid-waste contractors. What impact has this had on waste
Intellectual imperialism in Guyana
THE other day I had given Mr. Christopher Ram a friendly caution about how we in the Global South should be careful about the subliminal effects of the Western media. This was in relation to Mr. Ram referring to the Hungarian Prime Minister as a strongman. I do not disagree that the Hungarian gentleman has disturbing instincts. My point was there are others like the Hungarian leader in the so-called democratic sea of the West that deserve the use of the terminology of strongman.
Mr. Ram is at it again. Yesterday (Sunday), he referred to Freedom House’s description of India as party free. In the same article, Mr. Ram made reference to a Swedish institution that judges the existence of democracy in all the countries of the world.
Here is the list of institutions that many intellectuals in Guyana (but not only in Guyana) use as their
standard bearer for judging democracy in Guyana. They are Varieties of Democracy (Sweden), Reporters Without Borders (France), Transparency International; and Freedom House (New York).
Some intellectuals in each country arrogated to themselves the right to judge the world and they employ their cultural and ideological conceptualisations in arriving at judgement. That is how these organisations were born. What is important to note is that they make analysis of countries in the Global South that they know nothing about and we don’t know the people in the nations of the Global South that feed them their information.
If you examine the output of all these organisations, the Western countries are always way on top of their ranking. It doesn’t matter if they are formidable democratic slides in the famous democracies in the
Georgetown...
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collection in Georgetown?
Capital Projects: despite budgeting a substantial sum for capital projects, the city has spent zero dollars yearto-date. Could Councillor Saul explain which projects were budgeted for and how the council's failure to execute them has affected residents?
Revenue Collection
Software: the software managing the city's revenue collection is riddled with data errors. What has been the impact of this on rate collection, and why has this issue persisted for years?
Asset Monetisation: what concrete steps (not empty rhetoric) has the council taken? How much additional revenue has the city earned from this much-touted endeavour?
The time for excuses is over. Councillor Saul
can no longer hide behind rhetoric, distractions and omissions. The people of Georgetown are tired of paying the price for the council's ineptitude and self-serving decisions. Leadership requires accountability, transparency, and action—not vague promises and hollow posturing.
History will judge those who, when given the chance to serve, chose instead to pass blame and protect their political allies. Councillor Saul, the residents of Georgetown deserve better than this. The question is not whether you will respond to my letter, but whether you will finally respond to the needs of the people you claim to serve.
Sincerely,
Alfonso De Armas PPP/C City Councillor
West. By what logic is India party free and not Germany? The past year, there have been more violations of rights in Germany than in India.
For the third time, let’s quote the Guyanese daughter of a famous Guyanese entrepreneur, Ashma John. She lives in Germany. About her adopted land, she wrote: “Over the past year, as democratic as Germany pledges itself to be, we have seen excessive police brutality involving protesters, censorship, raids and outright harassment. We have heard of discussions surrounding Nazi-style deportation policies.”
Emphasis should be on the words, “Nazi-style deportation policies.” Imagine 91 years after the Nazis came to power, in today’s Germany, it is using Nazi-style harassment methodologies. Transparency International based on Germany has not written one single line about the autocratic face of governance in
Germany.
The Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) outfit operates out of the University of Gottenburg in Sweden. 90 per cent of the peoples of the world do not know where this university is. But a group of academics from this university arrogated to itself the right to tell the peoples of the world which country is democratic, party democratic and not democratic at all.
Presidential adviser, Dr. Randy Persaud wrote that he inquired from V-Dem who the intellectuals are from Guyana that transmit analyses to them. They told him they cannot give out that information. Yet V-Dem works closely with Transparency International. V-Dem cannot divulge that information because if they do it would devastate their credibility because some of their Guyanese contacts are openly racist and anti-government activists.
We come now to Reporters Without Borders.
Read their 2024 index on press freedom. It is simply an exercise in moral repugnancy. All the Western countries are at the top of list. Ukraine and Israel, which should be last on the list, are way above dozens and dozens of Third World countries.
You would think that after the descent into the most unprofessional manifestations of journalism by all the Western media houses the past year because of shamelessly atrocious and misleading reporting on Gaza, all Western countries would be last on the index of Reporters Without Borders. But no! Not at all; all the Western nations top the list.
Gaza has revealed the most sickening functionalism of Western journalism. It was the New York Times (NYT) that first reported that when Hamas freedom-fighters went into Israel, they cut off babies’ heads and rape women. The Western media throughout
the Western world ran with the story given to the NYT by a former intelligence officer in the Israeli air force. We are taught from day one when we start working at a newspaper that fact-checking is a priceless gem we must wear on our shirtsleeve.
I conclude three things to know. NYT’s editor-in-chief is Jewish who owns a stationery store in Israel and who sits on the board of a media organisation to monitor ant-Jewish bias in the American media. Secondly, the Guardian (UK) dismissed its cartoonist after 40 years for drawing Netanyahu. Finally, all Western reporters are instructed not to refer to genocide in Gaza.
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.
Republic Bank, big businesses and working-class people
BY now, readers of this column should know that I am peeved at the way big banks in Guyana align their services in a way that negatively affects poorer class of people, to the extent that it would not be an exaggeration if the term oppression was used.
I verily believe that Republic Bank Limited (RBL) is the chief culprit.
During the course of the past week, a woman from Berbice, near Rosignol, called me to ask that I highlight her plight. She claimed she was providing a certain service informally; in order to take advantage of better opportunities, she registered her business and secured a contract. To access cheque
payment received, she needed a business account. At the DeEdward branch of RBL, she was required to register and return on January 10th to open an account. When I heard this, it was a moment of disbelief and dumbfounded astonishment, I had to verify for myself. I called the DeEdward Branch, and this information was accurate. I opted to do a small survey; I called every single branch of RBL, and the waiting time was similar or longer. When I got my first job as a teacher at Central High School in 1993, my first bank account was at the National Bank of Industry and Commerce, which later became RBL.
Back in 1993, it took just
about two hours to open a new account. It is more than thirty years later, there has been exponential growth in technology, the availability of instant cross-border transactions and instant payment apps. It takes about five minutes to sign up and start major e-commerce transactions, and more than a thousand new ways to sign up to payment systems. But at RBL, it takes two months just to establish an account. Instead of advancing, we have regressed. Things are worse at RBL than I’d previously thought. The Dark Ages are too much of an enlightened period to locate RBL. How on earth did we get here? I have a simple theory. The managers at RBL just do not care enough,
because the worst parts of their services disproportionately affect the poorer class of people in this society, and it is possible they do not believe poor people are entitled to their dignity.
Above I mentioned a little survey; that wasn’t the end. I spoke to the staff at RBL and begged, on behalf of the lady, for them to accommodate the establishment of an account, so she can access her payment. She had three weeks to complete the contract, and she needed access to the advance money to execute the contract.
The staff said the rules of the bank prevented her from making such a decision. She offered a compromise; the customer should go to the bank every single day, and if, by chance, someone did not show up for their appointment, the bank “can squeeze her in”.
The second part of my survey involved a friend, who is a reasonably well-known middle-class man. He agreed to work on an experiment with me. He called a certain branch of RBL that had appointment dates till the end of January 2025. He spoke to a senior manager, who made an offer for him to visit her office, and she will establish the account for him, on the spot. This is a fact of life in Guyana; poor people suck salt.
Similarly, some big businesses in Guyana need to do better by their frontline employees, who, more often than not come from the poorer class of people. This past Thursday, around 08:30hrs, I visited the Alexander Street branch of Continental Group (CG) to purchase Torginol Paints. On arrival, the store was closed. I saw a small crowd milling around. I thought they were customers waiting to make purchases. I soon came to find out that they were employees, waiting
on the supervisor to arrive with the keys, so that they can go into the building to commence work. These poor people were standing in the street. This has to be wrong. CG is a major Caribbean corporation; they must be able to afford to build a small holding area with minimum washroom and seating facilities for employees who arrive early to work. The dignity of poor and working-class people seems to have little meaning in Guyana. It’s mind-bending to think that all these years, workers who arrive to work before the store opens must stand in the streets.
As a disclaimer, let me hasten to make it clear that I do not know the owners or managers of CG, and I have nothing personal against the company. In fact, because it’s listed as a Guyanese-owned company, I only support competitors when CG absolutely does not have the specific product available. I am also not advocating the withholding of patronage from CG. I have a voice and a forum, and I care about the plight of poor people. I am, therefore, using the voice of my keystrokes to simply request of CG to take better care to treat their employees, who are mostly working-class people, with dignity.
I went to work for the Ministry of Home Affairs (then Public Security) in November 2015. On my first day, as I walked through the gate, I saw security officers in deplorable conditions. The area they occupied was dark and dirty, the chairs had no cushion, the desk was dilapidated, and some of them had to sit in the scorching sun to receive visitors. I was extremely disturbed by this, and from my first day of work I remonstrated with the PS and Minister that better facilities must be constructed, and new furniture be bought. Poor people deserve to be treated with dignity.
Shortly after the AFC took office, I began to grow increasingly disheartened when I realised that the party leaders did not prioritise the needs of their poor supporters and, by extension, the poorer people in Guyana. When poor people who worked hard on the campaign visited the AFC office to enquire about basic services, opportunities and job placements, they were rebuffed, shunned, and outrightly ignored.
One prominent female minister even blurted out, “If we didn’t win, what would you have done?” I took major exception to that statement, and to their callous demeanor towards the poor.
I bombarded the AFC ministers of government at every forum; in meetings, in chat groups, and via email, about abandoning so many ardent campaigners not numbered in the middle-class. They did not budge; they remained steadfast, and stoutly resisted sensible proposals to take care of their working-class supporters. That was a pain in the chest that I carried with me the entire time the AFC occupied the seat of government.
I am deeply disturbed by the lack of conscientious embrace of the things needed to make poor people live with dignity. If party principals couldn’t, at the very least, care to put systems in place to improve the lives of their own confirmed and wellknown poor activists and campaigners. They do not deserve to be in the seat of administration.
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.
DDL’s US$20M dairy farm to be...
FROM PAGE 5
able; we have the feed to sustain the animals, we will import the cows from Brazil,” he said.
Further, he said that they are well on track with the project, making arrangements for the medium-voltage transmission line for electricity on the farm. This should be in place by the end of January, or early February 2025. Once installed, the transmission lines will be connected to the farm.
Nathoo reported that an additional three to four wells will be built to ensure an adequate supply of water for the cows. At the moment, one well has been dug.
Also addressing the media was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of DDL, Komal Samaroo, who said it is important for them to give context to the project, since it is within the framework of the DDL group.
“As you know, we have packaging operations at Diamond, and we have been building the Savannah brand of milk, which is made
from imported re-constituted powered milk.
That was the first stage of a market-led growth strategy to build a brand, create a market, and then work on the backward integration as we seek to build a domestic supply chain that flows into our man ufacturing unit,” he said.
Samaroo reported that the project is a very strategic part of that overall plan, and they hope by the end of next year, they will be able to produce fresh cow’s milk from the farm and transport it to the plant at Diamond where they will be putting in the
necessary infrastructure. At the Diamond branch, the fresh milk from the farm will be stored under the requisite condition and subsequently packaged.
“I believe that the model we are using has been proven to be a successful model for profitable and sustainable growth, and I also believe that with all the work that has gone into the farm; technical input from our partners with planning, I think we are on the way to creating a very viable dairy farm, which will be integrated into our overall brand strategy,” Samaroo said.
The DDL dairy farm has all the basic amenities for staff comfort, including washroom facilities, air-conditioned rooms, modern kitchen and dining area, and in-house accommodation for workers. Additionally, security cameras will be installed, and no visitors will be allowed on the farm. Transportation will be provided for all employees to and from the farm daily.
The DDL dairy farm, once fully operational, is expected to produce five million litres of milk per year. It is expected that each cow will produce 20 to 35 litres of milk per day.
DDL plans to export the milk to St. Kitts, Barbados, and Antigua and Barbuda.
David Rice, Project Supervisor, reported that the experimental grass is being cultivated on the farm to feed the cows, and they will also look at the possibly of growing corn for animal feed as well.
Staff quarters on the farm
Gov’t aiming to build robust, diverse financial sector
- engaging both local, international players - Dr. Jagdeo says
AIMING to strengthen Guyana’s financial sector and bring more sophistication, the government has been engaging local and international players to create avenues for new opportunities.
This is according to People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo. Dr. Jagdeo, during his weekly news conference
last Thursday, told reporters the government was keen on engaging new entrants to the market. However, it remained cognisant of global financial trends.
There have been ongoing challenges facing the banking sector in the Caribbean, particularly in light of the global de-risking trend that has seen many international banks exiting the region.
“A lot of the banks, through the de-risking programme, exited the region. You know, the region has lost many of their correspondent banks. Many of them are just selling out and moving out of the region,” Dr. Jagdeo explained. He went on to emphasise that the exit of these institutions is a global concern, particularly for smaller nations like Guyana.
Guyana, however has managed to maintain important relationships with U.S.-based correspondent banks, which has helped stabilise its financial system. But Jagdeo also acknowledged that the country is not immune to the broader trends affecting global banking operations.
“We’ve been lucky that we’ve been able to still maintain good correspondent relations with U.S. institutions,” he said,
with Citi about the possibility of having a commercial bank here, and they told us they've exited the entire retail banking in the entire Latin America. The only place they had a presence in was in Mexico, and I think they may exit that too. So that's retail banking, but they're still open to a representative office here in Guyana,”
Dr. Jagdeo said.
Those discussions are ongoing, and the Vice
while underscoring the critical role these partnerships play in facilitating international transactions and investments.
Dr. Jagdeo revealed that the government has been in discussions with Citibank and the financial giant has shown interest in establishing a representative office in the country.
This office Jagdeo explained, would allow Citibank to offer loans to Guyanese businesses thereby contributing to the country’s economic growth.
“We had discussions
President is optimistic about the potential for new entrants into the market.
Meanwhile, he noted that the government was taking proactive steps to ensure a more robust and diverse financial sector.
Jagdeo revealed that upcoming legislative changes aim to ease credit access for businesses, particularly through reforms to the country’s collateral laws.
“Soon there's going to be a piece of legislation going to Parliament that would allow them to use more movable collateral
to securitise loans, and it's going to Parliament soon, “he explained.
The new legislation is expected to open doors for local businesses that may otherwise struggle to secure financing. By expanding the range of collateral that can be used to back loans, Guyana’s financial system will be able to support a broader array of businesses and entrepreneurs, particularly in sectors like agriculture, mining, and services.
Dr. Jagdeo also touched on the importance of deepening financial sector development through technology. “To deepen the financial sector and bring more sophistication, we’ll work with the local players, create opportunities, and try to get new entrants into the market,” he stated.
As part of these efforts, the government was looking to leverage digital tools like biometrics and other digital innovations to improve access to credit and streamline financial services.
“We expect that by digitisation, biometrics, and moving to a digital society, we may be able to better intermediate credit in the future and have a faster way of doing so through digital means,” Jagdeo said, suggesting that the country’s financial landscape could become more efficient and accessible in the years to come.
PPP General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo
Man sentenced to 14 years for fatal stabbing in Sophia
RANDY Willings, a 33-yearold father of three and resident of Sophia, Greater Georgetown, was sentenced to 14 years in prison last Thursday, after being found guilty of unlawfully killing 37-year-old handyman, Kevin Smith.
The sentencing was handed down by Justice Jo Ann Barlow at the Demerara High Court. The incident occurred on February 8, 2021, at Smith’s home on the ‘C’ Field Reserve Dam, Sophia, following a heated argument between the two men.
According to reports, the altercation escalated when Willings, armed with a knife, stabbed Smith three times— once in the chest, once in the abdomen, and once above the left knee—before fleeing the scene.
Smith, gravely injured, was found by neighbours who called emergency responders. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.
Following an investigation, Willings was arrested and initially charged with murder. He later faced trial for the crime and was found guilty on the lesser count of manslaughter by a jury.
During the sentencing hearing, State Prosecutor, attorney
Mikel Puran, relied on the statement of aggravating factors he had earlier submitted to the court.
Defence attorney, Kiswana Jefford, highlighted that Willings had no prior convictions, expressed genuine remorse, and, given his age, was a good
candidate for rehabilitation. She consequently urged the court to show leniency and temper justice with mercy.
A probation report presented in court described Willings as a generally quiet individual with no history of violent behaviour and highlighted his good conduct while in prison.
Although convicted by a jury of his peers, the probation report noted that Willings continues to maintain his innocence while expressing remorse for the incident.
A probation officer concluded that the death of Willings' parents contributed to his delinquency during his teenage years. In a victim impact statement read aloud by the prosecutor, Smith’s family called for justice. Willings, when given the opportunity to speak, apologised to Smith’s family and the court. “I am very sorry and I am asking you for forgiveness,” he told the judge.
Justice Barlow, in her sentencing remarks, acknowledged the mitigating factors, including Willings’ lack of prior convictions. However, she underscored the gravity of the offence, the use of a weapon, and the lasting trauma inflicted on Smith’s family.
She emphasised that Smith was killed in the sanctity of his own home and noted the trend of resorting to violence
to settle disputes. With their guilty verdict, she stated, the jurors were convinced "beyond a reasonable doubt" that Willings was responsible for inflicting the fatal injuries on the victim
Starting with a base sentence of 18 years, which she deemed “just and appropriate”, the judge deducted four years for mitigating factors, resulting in a final sentence of 14 years.
The time Willings spent in pre-trial detention since February 2021 will be subtracted from his sentence. Justice Barlow also ordered that Willings participate in behaviour modification, academic and vocational training programmes while incarcerated, with the aim of
preparing him for reintegration into society.
Although Willings' upbringing was challenging, the
judge emphasised that, at the time of the crime, he was old enough to make an informed decision.
Randy Willings
Justice Jo Ann Barlow
COP29 climate talks end with $300B annual pledge
- Guterres calls deal a ‘base to build on’
RICH nations pledged to contribute at least $300 billion annually to the global fight against climate change as UN climate talks came to a contentious end early Sunday morning in Baku.
Developing nations who had sought over $1 trillion in assistance called the agreement “insulting” and argued it did not give them the vital resources they required to truly address the complexities of the climate crisis.
After two weeks of intense negotiations, delegates at COP29, formally
the 29th Conference of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), agreed to provide this funding annually, with an overall climate financing target to reach “at least $1.3 trillion by 2035”. Countries also agreed on the rules for a UNbacked global carbon market. This market will facilitate the trading of carbon credits, incentivising countries to reduce emissions and invest in climate-friendly projects. These were among the big-ticket issues decided upon as the summit, un-
derway since 11 November in the enormous Baku Stadium in the Azerbaijan capital, ran into double overtime.
Other steps forward at COP29 included: extension of a programme centred on gender and climate change; and agreement on support for the least developed countries to carry out national adaptation plans.
This summit had been dubbed the ‘climate finance COP’, and representatives from all countries were seeking to establish a new, higher climate finance goal.
The target, or new
collective quantified goal (NCQG), will replace the existing $100 billion goal that is due to expire in 2025.
In the closing days at COP29, negotiating teams from the developed and developing worlds were deadlocked over a final deal, with reports that representatives for least developed countries and the Alliance of Small Island States (AOIS) had walked out of the talks.
‘A MORE AMBITIOUS OUTCOME’
Reacting to the outcome, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that while an agreement at COP29 was absolutely essential to keep the 1.5-degree limit alive, “I had hoped for a more ambitious outcome – on both finance and mitigation – to meet the great challenge we face.”
But he continued, “this agreement provides a base on which to build and added: It must be honoured in full and on time. Commitments must quickly become cash. All countries must come together to ensure the top-end of this new goal is met."
For many vulnerable nations, it represents a glimmer of hope—but only if commitments translate into swift action. “Commitments must quickly become cash,” the Secretary-General stressed, urging all countries to work together to meet the upper end of the new financial goal.
Beyond finance, COP29 built on previous gains in emissions reduction targets, the acceleration of the energy transition, and a long-sought
agreement on carbon markets. These achievements come despite an “uncertain and divided geopolitical landscape,” which threatened to derail negotiations.
The UN chief commended negotiators for finding common ground, noting, “You have shown that multilateralism – centred on the Paris Agreement – can find a path through the most difficult issues.”
‘AN
INSURANCE POLICY FOR HUMANITY’
UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell, described the new finance goal agreed at COP29 as “an insurance policy for humanity.”
“This deal will keep the clean energy boom growing and protect billions of lives. It will help all countries to share in the huge benefits of bold climate action: more jobs, stronger growth, cheaper and cleaner energy for all. But like any insurance policy – it only works – if the premiums are paid in full, and on time.”
He acknowledged that no country got everything they wanted, and that the world leaves Baku with a mountain of work to do.
“So, this is no time for victory laps. We need to set our sights and redouble our efforts on the road to Belém,” in the eastern Amazonian region of Brazil, which is set to host COP30 next year.
‘WEAK,
INSULTING DEAL’
While some delegations applauded the deal, many from the developing world, including Bolivia and Nigeria, expressed their deep disappointment
at what they argued was an “insultingly low” financing target and that the agreed text failed to significantly build on an agreement last year at COP28 in Dubai calling for nations to “transition away from fossil fuels”.
India's representative strongly denounced the new goal, calling it a “paltry sum” and emphasising, “We seek a much higher ambition from the developed countries [and the amount agreed] does not inspire trust that we will come out of this grave problem of climate change.”
A representative from a group of small island nations said: “After this COP29 ends, we cannot just sail off into the sunset. We are literally sinking,” and the conference outcome highlighted “what a very different boat our vulnerable countries are in, compared to the developed countries”.
Sierra Leone’s representative said African nations were disappointed in the outcome, which “signals a lack of goodwill by developed countries.” Indeed, the $300 billion deal was “less than a quarter of what science shows is needed and barely enough to forestall a climate catastrophe”.
Striking a different tone, a representative from the delegation of the European Union said the new climate finance goal “simply will bring much, much more private money on the table, and that is what we need. And with these funds, we are confident we will reach the 1.3 trillion [dollars] objective.” (UN)
Wide shot of the plenary hall at the UN climate conference, COP29, in Baku, Azerbaijan (UNFCCC/Kiara Worth photo)
Preparing for climate chaos in Timor-Leste, one of the world’s most vulnerable nations
TIMOR-LESTE, a young island nation in Southeast Asia, is particularly vulnerable to the ravages of the climate crisis. A combination of technology, community knowledge and UN support could help to ensure that casualties and damage are kept to a minimum, the next time extreme weather hits.
In April 2021, catastrophic flash floods ravaged Timor-Leste, claiming the lives of more than 30 people and destroying over 4,000 homes. Among the worst-hit areas was Orlalan, a remote, mountainous village with a population of nearly 6,000. Residents there had little idea of how to protect themselves when floodwaters surged and landslides struck.
In Orlalan, community leaders like Armandina Valentina, whose family was affected in the 2021 floods, have taken on the responsibility of educating their neighbours. Valentina is relentless in her efforts, knocking on doors to make sure every resident knows where to go when disaster strikes. She emphasises that the most vulnerable— pregnant women, children, and the elderly—must be given special attention to avoid panic.
Her activities are part of a national initiative, supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), aimed at safeguarding the lives of the Timorese population.
DISASTER ROLE PLAY
Another element of the programme is disaster simulations. UN News recently joined one of these drills in Orlalan, where children play a crucial role. During the exercise, they practise staying in visible areas, protecting their heads, and shouting for help if they’re trapped. Some children simulate injuries and receive first aid, while others follow rescue teams to safe locations.
For young volunteer Fretiliana Alves, these simulations are not just a form of training—they are a calling. “My main motivation is to save lives,” she explains. Alves encourages her peers to join the effort, finding fulfilment in rescuing and caring for those in need.
The success of these efforts relies heavily on local volunteers who know the risks and terrain of their communities. As Emidia Belo, Disaster Risk Reduction coordinator for the Red Cross of Timor-Leste (CVTL), notes, during a disaster, these volunteers are often the first responders. Their intimate knowledge of local conditions is indispensable, especially when access to affected areas is blocked.
SAVING THE MOST VULNERABLE
What sets UNEP’s preparedness programme apart is its inclusivity. Training sessions are tailored to ensure that people with disabilities, children, the elderly, and pregnant women are all adequately equipped for the challenges posed by a disaster.
Antonio Ornai, who is visually impaired, participated in a landslide simulation for the first time in September 2024. “I am grateful to be included,” he says. “I will use everything I’ve learned to protect myself in the future.”
This approach, says Emidia Belo, is vital. "Disasters affect everyone, but they hit the most vulnerable the hardest," she adds. "Changing the community’s mindset to be prepared is a long-term process. It’s not something that happens in just one or two years."
With UNEP’s five-year support, Timor-Leste is making significant strides, but there is still much work to be done.
SOUND THE ALARM, LOUD AND CLEAR
In Orlalan, the evacuation process during a disaster follows a meticulous five-step plan. First, national authorities issue an early warning of the
impending danger. Community leaders then meet to assess escape routes and identify safe shelters. This information is broadcast through solar-powered sound systems, reaching even the most remote villages, while volunteers use megaphones to ensure everyone is informed.
As the evacuation begins, civil defense teams and first responders trained in first aid are deployed to help those in need. The most vulnerable are prioritized, and once everyone is safely relocated, essential supplies are distributed by the government to the shelters.
But the process is not without its challenges.
“The hardest part is ensuring enough food during an evacuation,” says Adriano Soares, chief of Torilalan, a small village. “The floods damage crops, depleting our resources and making it difficult to survive.”
GAME-CHANGING, LIFE-SAVING TECH
In a powerful address during COP29, the UN Climate Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, UN Secretary-General António Guterres pointed out a dire reality: that the world’s least developed countries and island nations have less than 10 per cent of the data they need for effective alert systems. The message was clear—without the right data, lives are at risk.
Efforts are now underway in Timor-Leste to close this gap.
As part of the UNEP initiative, nine Automatic Weather Stations, two Automated Meteorological Observation systems, three radars and a marine buoy are being installed across the country.
According to Terêncio
more advanced one, with the potential to reach level five—a benchmark for comprehensive, real-time climate data.
The new AWS stations, which are low-cost and can transmit data without the need for internet, are a game-changer for remote villages like Orlalan. These stations collect critical data on rainfall, wind speed, temperature, and other meteorological factors, transmitting it every minute to a central system for analysis.
A LEGACY OF GLOBAL ACTION
Fernandes, Director of the National Department of Meteorology and Geophysics, these technologies will help the country progress from a basic level of climate observation to a
The system that is being built in Timor-Leste is not just a national achievement; it is a testament to the power of global co-operation. Much of this progress is the result of
decisions made at the 2010 UN Climate Conference, COP16, where the Green Climate Fund was established to help countries like Timor-Leste adapt to the climate crisis.
As climate negotiations continue at COP29 and beyond, the lessons learned in Timor-Leste could serve as a blueprint for other nations facing similar threats.
For now, the people of Orlalan, and other communities across the country, are learning to live with the reality of a changing climate, but they are also preparing for it—together. With technology, knowledge, and community spirit, they are proving that resilience, even in the face of catastrophe, is within reach. (UN)
Residents of Orlalan Village, Timor-Leste, simulate a landslide rescue operation (ONU News/ Felipe de Carvalho)
80 acres currently being cleared at Mainstay/Whyaka for farming
By Indrawattie Natram
RESIDENTS living in the Amerindian community of Mainstay/Whyaka in Region Two were, on Saturday, encouraged to continue to plant.
This call was made by Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva who said that the regional administration was currently assisting to clear 80 acres of land in the community.
The recent efforts in Mainstay/Whyaka to clear land for farming marks a significant step towards boosting agriculture and self-sufficiency within the community.
De Silva emphasised the importance of residents utilising the cleared lands to sustain their families and contribute to the community’s growth.
The chairperson said the cassava processing facility in the community is
a key aspect of the development, offering farmers a guaranteed market for their produce.
The facility will produce items like garlic-flavoured biscuits, quinches, and cassareep, adding value to local cassava and enhancing the community’s economy.
Visitors will also be
able to witness traditional cassava production, enriching the community’s appeal as a tourist destination.
De Silva said Infrastructure upgrades, including improved roads and water facilities, further strengthen Mainstay/ Whyaka’s position as a thriving agricultural hub
and a growing tourist hotspot.
“These developments highlight the government’s commitment to empowering indigenous communities in Region Two, promoting both self-sufficiency and regional tourism,” De Silva said.
De Silva added that Mainstay/Whyaka is transforming and is one of the hot spots for tourism in the region.
She said that once
farmers continue to farm and put more lands under cultivation, they will be able to become self-sufficient.
Further, she said that once a farmer plan well, he will be able to support his family and also provide for the community.
“We are proud of Mainstay/Whyaka’s achievement. Many persons want to come to this community to relax; they can now see how cassava
is made traditionally and, in addition, the water facility will be able to provide water,” she said.
She also said that the road leading to the community is upgraded and the drive is now a smooth one.
According to De Silva, the Government of Guyana is supporting indigenous communities to ensure they are self-sufficient, and can aide in tourism development. She also pledged that the regional administration will continue to support the upgrading of all Amerindian communities in Region Two.
Meanwhile, Toshao Masha Williams said that she was happy for the interventions of the regional administration and the agencies which are partnering with the Mainstay Village Council (MVC). Williams said the focus was on agri-tourism and ensuring that tourists who visit feel at home.
Toshao of Mainstay/Whyaka, Marsha Williams Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, addresses residents
Xi calls for building just world of common development, outlines China’s actions for global development
CHINESE President Xi Jinping last Monday said that China is ready to work with all parties to build a just world of common development, and outlined China's eight actions for global development.
Xi made the remarks at Session I of the 19th G20 Summit on Fight Against Hunger and Poverty.
said, it is important to channel more resources to such fields as trade, investment and development co-operation, and strengthen development institutions, and there should be more bridges of co-operation, and less "small yard, high fences," so that more and more developing countries will be better off and achieve
modernisation.
In his speech entitled "Building a Just World of Common Development," Xi pointed out that transformation of a scale not seen in a century is accelerating across the world today, and humanity faces unprecedented opportunities and challenges.
As leaders of major countries, G20 leaders should not let their vision be blocked by fleeting clouds. Rather, they must see the world as one community with a shared future, and shoulder their responsibility for history, take historical initiatives and move history forward, Xi said.
Xi noted that at the Hangzhou Summit, China placed development at the centre of the G20's macroeconomic policy coordination for the first time, and the Rio Summit this year has chosen the theme "Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet," and decides to establish a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty.
From Hangzhou to Rio, G20 leaders have been working for one and the same goal, that is, to build a just world of common development, he added.
To build such a world, Xi
He said that it is important to support developing countries in adopting sustainable production and lifestyle, properly responding to challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution, enhancing ecological conservation, and achieving harmony between man and nature.
It is important to foster an open, inclusive and nondiscriminatory environment for international economic co-operation, promote a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation, energise sustainable development with new technologies, new industries and new business forms, and support developing countries in better integrating in digital, smart and green development to bridge the North-South gap, he said.
It is also important to stay committed to multilateralism, and uphold the UN-centred international system, the international order underpinned by international law and the basic norms of international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, Xi added.
Xi underscored that China's development is an important
part of the common development of the world.
China has lifted 800 million people out of poverty, and met the poverty- reduction target of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development ahead
of schedule, he said, adding that these achievements are the fruit of the strenuous, unified efforts of the Chinese government and people.
Noting that China always places the people front and
centre, and solemnly declares that "not a single poor region or person should be left behind,"
Xi said China tackles poverty by making targeted policies, facilitating growth, fostering industries with distinctive fea-
tures in various localities, and promoting common prosperity.
China's story is proof that developing countries can eliminate poverty, that a weaker bird can start early and fly high,
TURN TO PAGE 18
Chinese President Xi Jinping
Suriname celebrates 49 years of independence,
- Minister Teixeira shares plans for bilateral initiatives spanning infrastructure, energy, food security
By Shaniya Harding
DIPLOMATS, dignitaries and special guests, on Saturday, got a taste of Suriname as the country celebrated its 49th Independence anniversary with a cultural showcase.
The event which was held at the Pegasus Hotel,
featured vibrant displays from some of Suriname's finest poets, musicians, artistes, and a fashion show showcasing the work of the country's top designers.
Hosted by the Suriname Embassy in Guyana, the event also served as a reminder of the 48-year-long collaboration between the
two nations.
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, delivered a powerful message of partnership on behalf of President Dr Irfan Ali, highlighting plans for bilateral initiatives in infrastructure, energy, and food security.
In her address, Minister
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, delivers a powerful message of partnership on behalf of President Dr. Irfan Ali
Ambassador of Suriname to Guyana, Ms. Liselle Blankendal
Chair of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SCCC), Dr. Vishnu Doerga
Minister Teixeira, Ambassador Blankendal, and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Mr. Hugh Todd, share a toast
independence, partnership with Guyana
Teixeira praised the relationship between the two nations and the positive impact it has had on both.
Furthermore, the sizeable gathering was told that the two countries aim to deepen ties through infrastructure development, particularly with regards to the construction of the Corentyne Bridge, which is expected to significantly impact trade between Guyana and its Dutch counterpart.
“The construction of the Corentyne River Bridge represents a transformative step in physically integrating our infrastructure. This landmark project will facilitate the greater movement of people, goods, and services between our countries, serving as a catalyst for economic growth and fostering deeper cultural exchanges,” said Minister Teixeira.
The two nations also plan to collaborate in the emerging oil and gas sector.
Minister Teixeira shared that beyond petroleum, both countries are exploring re -
newable energy solutions.
“As emerging oil producers, Guyana and Suriname have a historic opportunity to collaborate on joint ventures and forge private sector partnerships in the oil and gas industry. Beyond petroleum, there is immense potential to work together on renewable energy projects and energy trading to
ensure cleaner, more affordable energy solutions for both nations,” she stated.
With both nations prioritising food security, they are working on developing shared agricultural networks to reduce food imports.
“With our combined wealth of arable lands and abundant freshwater, we are well-po-
sitioned to meet not only the food demands of our own populations but also to significantly contribute to the food security of our Caribbean neighbours. By optimising agricultural production and investing in agro-processing and distribution networks, our countries can become the breadbasket of the Carib-
bean, reducing dependence on imports and ensuring sustainable food systems in the region,” she said.
The connection between the two countries runs deep, with both sharing a rainforest. As two of the most environmentally focused countries in the region, Guyana and Suriname have discussed ways to monetise and develop this shared natural resource.
Speaking on sustainability, the Ambassador of Suriname to Guyana, Ms. Liselle Blankendal, shared insights on the possibilities of collaboration, stating, “Beyond economics, Suriname and Guyana are united in our commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. We proudly stand as two of the world's few carbon-negative nations, absorbing more carbon than we emit."
Meanwhile, Chair of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SCCC), Dr. Vishnu Doerga, echoed
similar sentiments, saying, “The partnership between Guyana and Suriname holds immense benefits, and together we can create economies that enable the free movement of goods, services, and people. This collaboration sets an example for the entire region and can inspire even greater integration within CARICOM."
Minister Teixeira also outlined several other areas where the two nations plan to collaborate, including the eradication of crime inclusive of human trafficking, and the adoption of more sustainable practices, with Guyana seeking to implement some of Suriname's sustainability initiatives. Looking ahead, both nations are eagerly anticipating Suriname’s hosting of the International Business Conference (IBC) 2025 which is expected to see some 100 Guyanese businesses in attendance.
A model displays traditional Surinamese clothing (Japheth Savory photos)
Xi calls for building just world of common...
FROM PAGE 15
when there is the endurance, perseverance, and striving spirit that enables water drops to penetrate rocks over time and turns blueprints into reality, he said.
If China can make it, other developing countries can make it too, and this is what China's battle against poverty says to the world, he added.
Xi stressed that China will always be a member of the Global South, a reliable longterm partner of fellow developing countries, and a doer and go-getter working for the cause of global development. China will go hand in hand with fellow
developing countries toward modernisation, he said. Xi presented eight actions by China to support global development.
First, pursuing high-quality Belt and Road co-operation. China is moving ahead with development of the multidimensional Belt and Road connectivity network, one that is led by the building of a green Silk Road and will empower a digital Silk Road.
Second, implementing the Global Development Initiative. China will make sure the Global South research centre that is being built is fit for purpose, continue to support developing
countries, and deepen practical co-operation in areas such as poverty reduction, food security and the digital economy.
Third, supporting development in Africa. At the Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Co-operation in Beijing, China unveiled 10 partnership actions on joining hands with Africa to advance modernisation over the next three years and committed financial support in this connection.
Fourth, supporting international co-operation on poverty reduction and food security. China has decided to join the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. China supports the
G20 in continuing to convene the Development Ministerial Meeting, and will stay a committed host of the International Conference on Food Loss and Waste.
Fifth, China, alongside Brazil, South Africa and the African Union, is proposing an Initiative on International Co-operation in Open Science to help the Global South gain better access to global advances in science, technology and innovation.
Sixth, supporting the G20 in carrying out practical co-operation for the benefit of the Global South. China supports the work of the Entrepreneurship Research Center on G20
Economies based in Beijing, and supports co-operation on digital education and the digitisation of museums and ancient archives.
Seventh, implementing the G20 Anti-Corruption Action Plan. China is strengthening co-operation with fellow developing countries in fugitive repatriation and asset recovery, denial of safe haven, and anti-corruption capacity building.
Eighth, China is pursuing high-standard opening up, and unilaterally opening its doors wider to the least developed countries (LDCs). China has announced the decision to give all LDCs having diplomatic relations with China zero-tariff
treatment for 100 percent tariff lines.
In conclusion, Xi stated that a journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. China is ready to take steps together with all parties to build a just world of common development, leave poverty in the past, and turn vision into reality.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio ‘Lula’ da Silva chaired the meeting.
Before the start of the summit, Xi, together with other participating leaders, attended the launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty initiated by Brazil
At COP29, PAHO warns that failure to focus on people in vulnerable situations will exacerbate health inequities
AT the recently concluded COP29, the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) underscored the importance of focusing on the needs of populations in situations of vulnerability when implementing policies to address the health impact of climate change.
Speaking at the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), which took place from 11-22 November in Baku, Azerbaijan, Gerry Eijkemans, Director of the Department of Social and Environmental Determinants for Health Equity, highlighted that “we have learnt a lot of lessons from COVID-19, and we saw that if we do not put a special focus on those populations, inequities will be exacerbated when it comes to health and climate change.”
For Eijkemans, while these issues are gaining more attention, much remains to be done. “It is crucial we focus on the conditions in which people live and how these conditions make them
vulnerable to climate change. If we fail to do this from the very beginning, we will leave a lot of people behind,” he warned.
To address this situation, Member States adopted a new Policy to strengthen Equity-Oriented Health Sector Action on Climate Change and Health, at PAHO’s 61st Directing Council back in
October 2024.
The policy, which calls for a strong focus on equity in actions relating to climate change and health, aims to strengthen the health sector and improve climate change adaptation and mitigation. The policy also focuses on ensuring the participation of communities in situations of vulnerability, optimizing
surveillance systems, and increasing climate and health financing.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND HEALTH IN THE AMERICAS
The Americas is one of the most vulnerable regions to climate change, due to its susceptibility to extreme weather events, economies
that depend on climate-sensitive sectors, and high levels of social inequality.
Extreme whether events can damage health care infrastructure, hindering service delivery during and after disasters, particularly in the region’s small island developing states (SIDS) which are particularly susceptible to hurricanes and floods.
Over the past two decades, heatwaves have led to a 160 per cent increase in heat-related deaths in the Americas. The Region has also experienced a hike in vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. This is likely due to an increase in temperature that has led to the expansion of disease vectors into new areas. As a result, 2023, was a record year for dengue in the Americas, with cases reaching over 4.6 million. This number was already surpassed during the first half of 2024.
In 2017, the World Health Organisation (WHO) launched the Special Initiative on Climate Change and Health in Small Island
Developing States. As part of this global initiative, PAHO prepared the Caribbean Action Plan on Health and Climate Change in consultation with Caribbean Member States and territories.
This Action Plan has four main strategic lines:
Empowerment, to support health leadership in the Caribbean to engage nationally and internationally.
Evidence, to better understand, prepare, and respond to the impacts of climate change on health. Implementation, to build climate-resilient health systems and health-promoting mitigation actions. Resources, to increase climate change and health financing.
At COP29, PAHO co-organised two events at the WHO Pavilion with WHO: Building health sector resilience in Small Island Developing State (SIDS); and Equity Considerations in Health Sector Actions on Climate Change and Health. (PAHO)
Final batch of tickets for opening match released
THE final batch of tickets for the opening match of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) has been released for sale at the Box Office at 233-234 Camp Street, Georgetown.
These tickets will be on sale from 0900hrs today, with demand expected to be high for the first game of the GSL, which sees Guyana Amazon Warriors take on Lahore Qalandars tomorrow at 19:00hrs.
The Global Super League will also feature Hampshire Hawks, Rangpur Riders and Victoria, with the five teams competing for the inaugural GSL title and a US$1million prize fund.
The 11 matches will all
take place at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, between November 26 and December 6, 2024.
Tickets start at just G$1500, and they can be purchased at 233-234 Camp Street, at ticket outlets, at A. Ally & Sons, and Sensation Variety & Gift Shop in Berbice, and at ICAN Technologies and S&N Creole Snackette in Essequibo. They can also be purchased Online at www.gslt20.com.
Meanwhile, word is that the tournament will be available for viewing worldwide, and will feature teams from Australia and Bangladesh. The tournament will be broadcast in Australia, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, United Kingdom,
South Africa and across the Caribbean, with key broadcasting partners, and will be shown on the GSL’s Facebook and YouTube pages in all markets without a broadcast deal.
The broadcasters for the 2024 tournament are as follows:
Sony – India, Fancode –India, A Sports – Pakistan, Tapmad – Pakistan, Styx Sports – Nepal, Sky Sport
NZ – New Zealand
TNT Sports – United Kingdom, Willow TV –USA and Canada. (GSL Release)
West Indies on top as Bangladesh falter
(ESPNCRICINFO)Bangladesh looked to bat steadily on a slow surface, but despite starts, couldn't find one batter to go big like West Indies achieved in their first innings. Jaker Ali and Mominul Haque got out soon after reaching their 50s, while Litton Das fell for 40. Jaker and Taijul Islam added 68 runs for the seventh wicket to get Bangladesh closer to the follow-on mark of 251, which they crossed in the day's last hour.
The visitors started the third morning quietly, with Mominul getting a pair of boundaries off Shamar Joseph. Shortly afterwards, Kemar Roach removed Shahadat Hossain for 18, for which he played 71 balls. It was an innings going nowhere before he edged to first slip where Kavem Hodge took a low catch.
Mominul and Litton saw to the end of the first session, continuing to bat obdurately. The usually free-flowing Litton started off with an easy squarecut boundary off Alzarri Joseph, but then mostly played within himself. Only in the over before the lunch break, Litton freed his arms to get another cut four, this time off Shamar Joseph. West Indies however got the breakthrough shortly after the lunch break when
Seales trapped Mominul lbw after the left-hander had reached his 21st 50. Stand-in captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz then endured a test of bouncers from the West Indies attack, with Alzarri even hitting him on his shoulder. Seales chipped in with his share of bouncers and verbals.
Litton also got bogged down, resulting in getting bowled by a slightly short delivery from Shamar that he dragged onto his stumps.
Litton made 40 off 76 balls with three fours, but it was a disappointing exit for one of three experienced Bangladesh batters.
Mehidy struck a couple
of boundaries off Greaves and Shamar later in the second session, but the short ball kept bothering him. After surviving 66 balls, Mehidy finally popped an Alzarri bouncer to short-leg where Mikyle Louis took a comfortable catch.
Then came the unlikely revival act by Taijul and Jaker. The pair did take advantage of a tiring West Indies attack while also being disciplined with their choice of shots. They had to scavenge for scoring opportunities but were always looking for the odd boundary. They survived a dropped chance apiece too.
(1) Which WI has played most Test matches against BANG to date?
(2) Which BANG player has contested most Test matches against the WI to date?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Jaiswal, Kohli hundreds overwhelm Australia before Bumrah caps India's day
(ESPNCRICINFO) -
In the same city where Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli scored legendary centuries, India's latest batting prodigy, Yashasvi Jaiswal produced a masterclass of his own with a majestic 161 to decimate a listless Australia in the first Test at Optus Stadium.
Kohli then rammed home the advantage late on Day Three with a drought-breaking century to add to his epic ton on the same ground in 2018.
On that occasion, his heroics were in vain, but this time around will almost surely be different, after India declared their second
innings at 487 for 6.
Chasing a record 534, Australia crashed to 12 for 3 in a dramatic 4.2 overs bowled in the shadows before stumps. They had a horrible start when opener Nathan McSweeney fell in the first over for a duck, as a wicked delivery from standin captain Jasprit Bumrah crept low and smashed into his pads. It capped a tough debut for McSweeney, who made 10 in the first innings. With 20 minutes until stumps, captain Pat Cummins came in as the night-watchman, but didn't last long as he edged quick Mohammed Siraj to leave Australia at 9 for 2.
Marnus Labuschagne
belatedly came out, but could not stop the unplayable Bumrah as he unsuccessfully reviewed the lbw decision having shoulder arms. After a five-wicket haul in the first innings, Bumrah had the remarkable figures of 2 for 1 from 2.2 overs.
It completed a day of utter domination for India, after their long-time talisman and his protege completely broke Australia's spirits on an oppressive day in Perth, where temperatures reached 36 degrees celsius. Much like on Day Two, Australia went through the motions in a performance set to attract plenty of scrutiny.
Double forfeit forces no result of GC United Super 50
AN anticlimax conclusion to what has been an exciting and competitive CG United Super50 Cup 2024, with both finalists, Barbados Pride and Jamaica Scorpions forfeiting the final.
Consequently, Cricket West Indies has announced that there is no champion for this year's competition. The tournament’s organisers made the announcement following a heavily rain-affected match day.
This year’s Champions were set to receive prize money of US$100,000; while the runner-up would have received US$50,000. Both
semi-finalists will be rewarded US$ 25,000 each.
With an initial scheduled start of 13:00 hours, scattered showers began at the ground around midday, forcing the first indefinite delay to the start of proceedings. Match referee, Reon King, in conjunction with the umpiring team, informed both teams that the latest possible start time was 18:17 hours, at which point the game would be played as a 20-overs-aside contest.
According to the playing conditions applicable to the Tournament, if no play was possible at all—or in the
event of a tie, no result, or game abandonment—both teams would be declared co-winners of the tournament.
However, around 17:45 hours, the officiating team determined that the game could proceed at the latest possible start time of 18:17 hours. They informed the players of that and that the toss would be conducted at 18:00 hours.
Despite assurances from the umpires and match referee that the conditions were safe for play, both captains failed to be present for the toss, allowing time to elapse past the latest starting point.
Rutherford century in vain as UP Nawab win
(CMC) – A scintillating century from Sherfane Rutherford could not help his Northern Warriors team from going down by nine-wickets to UP Nawab, as action continued in the 2024 Abu Dhabi T10 league on Sunday here at the Zayed Cricket Stadium.
Batting first, Northern Warriors posted a competitive total of 142-4 in their 10 overs, thanks to Rutherford’s explosive innings. The West Indies batter became the first player in tournament history to score a century, finishing with a dazzling unbeaten 103 off 40 balls.
His innings included 10 sixes and 7 fours, making him the new record-holder for the highest individual score in T10 league history, surpassing Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s previous best of 96 from last season.
The Warriors were in early trouble at 21-2 when Rutherford came to the crease, but the dynamic Guyanese lefthander took control, guiding his side to a challenging total.
However, the Nawabs were undeterred and chased down the 143 with five balls to spare, thanks to West Indian player of the match Andre Fletcher and Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
Fletcher took center stage with a blistering unbeaten 75 off just 27 balls, with his
innings featuring seven sixes and four fours. Gurbaz started the onslaught with 44 off 23 balls with three fours and three sixes
Fletcher’s destructive stroke-play reached its peak in the penultimate over, when he hit three sixes and a four off Saqib Mahmood, amassing 28 runs in the over. Gurbaz hit the winning run as Nawabs got to 143 for one in 9.1 overs. In the second match of the day, Delhi Bulls proved too strong for Ajman Bolts, following a comprehensive 35-run victory. Batting first, the Bulls posted 126-5 in their
As a result, both teams failed to take the field, effectively refusing to play. This resulted in a double forfeit, with no champion being declared.
These unanticipated events came at the climax of what had been an exceptional tournament featuring outstanding performances.
Both competing teams earned their places in the final with impressive semi-final victories. Barbados Pride defeated defending champions, Trinidad & Tobago Red Force, by 153 runs, while Jamaica Scorpions overcame Leeward Islands Hurricanes by 107 runs.
During the round-robin phase of the tournament, several matches produced nail-biting finishes that kept spectators on edge. Barbados Pride featured in multiple
last-over thrillers, including a one-wicket victory over Guyana, where debutant Demetrius Richards' unbeaten 65 proved decisive. The Pride also edged the Windward Volcanoes by eight runs in a rain-affected match, with captain Kyle Mayers taking two wickets in the final over.
Spin bowling dominated throughout the tournament, highlighted by several exceptional performances.
Leeward Islands Hurricanes' Rahkeem Cornwall’s 6/20 against CCC, Khary Pierre’s miserly 4/8 in the tournament’s opening fixture, and Yannic Cariah’s consistent performances underlined the importance of slow bowling in Caribbean conditions.
Carlos Brown’s maiden List A century (121) for
Jamaica Scorpions against CCC and Matthew Nandu’s brilliant 116 for Guyana demonstrated the depth of emerging Caribbean batting talent.
Justin Greaves of the Leeward Islands Hurricanes provided the tournament's defining individual achievement, becoming the first West Indian to score three consecutive List A centuries. His remarkable sequence of 111*, 112, and 151* showcased the high batting standards that characterised the competition.
CWI will review tournament regulations in light of the unprecedented situation of a double forfeit. Additional information will be shared following further consultation with stakeholders. (CWI)
G/Town beat West Demerara to take the title
10 overs, thanks to an explosive 58 off 22 balls from West Indies T20 skipper Rovman Powell.
Tim David also played a key role with a quick-fire 29 off 13 balls.
Ajman Bolts, with West Indies and Guyanese opener Chandrapaul Hemraj in their line-up, struggled from the outset, losing wickets at regular intervals to fall to 51-5 in their chase.
Despite a late surge, they were unable to recover, finishing their innings at 916, handing Delhi Bulls the comfortable win.
Champions Georgetown celebrate after winning the title
IN a truncated final-round encounter at the Queen’s College ground, pre-tournament favourites, Georgetown beat West Demerara by nine wickets to take Championships honours in the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) Inter-Association 50 overs U-15 tournament.
After a lengthy delay after showers halted play after seven overs, the game was reduced to a 27-over affair, and saw West Demerara bowled out for 84, as extras
top-scored with 37.
Only Patrice France (16) and Ishan Harricharran (15) got into double figures.
West Demerara were fairly well set, 66-4, before losing their last five wickets for 12 runs.
Makai Dowlin captured 5-14 and got support from Skipper and left-arm spinner Brandon Henry, who had 2-18 for the City side which remained unbeaten.
After suffering an inauspicious start when im -
pressive pacer Patrice Fraser dismissed Khush Seegobin for a duck after he produced the highest score in the tournament (195) against East Bank, Lamar Seecharran stroked a fluent unbeaten 44 from 42 balls with five fours and six.
Aided by 22 extras, Seecharran hit a six to end the game, while Yoshua Hutson finished on 16, and shared an unbroken 86-run stand for the second wicket. (Sean Devers)
2024 ABU DHABI T10 LEAGUE…
Sherfane Rutherford hit an unbeaten century in the Abu Dhabi T10 league on Sunday (Photo:ADT10)
Royals humble Untouchables; Ravens clip Eagles
THE National Gymnasium hardcourt saw splendid action on Saturday evening as the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) staged the semi-final of the Elite 16 Knock-Out Basketball Tournament.
Stabroek Eagles looked on the verge of a blow-out showing in their semi-final contest, but again choked at the line as North Ruimveldt Ravens came from behind to stop them again 84-81 for a place in the final.
Eagles led 21-10 after the first period and kept their lead intact 36-26 at the half, with the experienced Michael Turner’s 20 points and the energetic Zion Gray with a game-high 22 points showing their ball-handling and shooting skills.
However, as was the case in the One Guyana Basketball League Final, Eagles’ inexperience and tempera -
ment reared its ugly head, as the cracks showed with a myriad of mistakes in the third period to allow Ravens back into the game.
Ravens, led by Nikkoloi Smith’s 21 points, Dominic Vincente’s 19 points and Shamar Huntley’s 16 points, stepped up to take the game away as they overtook the Eagles 58-49 in the third.
Eagles would mount a mini comeback as Denzel Ross and national player Travis Belgrave, with 14 points each, came to the fore, but it was short-lived as Ravens staved off the challenge to win it 84-81.
In the other ‘semi’, veteran national player Harold Adams had a tournament-high 48 points as he led the Victory Valley Royals to a 12-point win over Kwakwani Untouchables, 102-90.
It was a ding-dong affair
as the two teams went toeto-toe until the Royals finally pulled away in the fourth for the victory.
The Royals also had big minutes from Orland Glasgow with 22 points, and Yannick Tappin with 17 points as they led 23-20 at the end of the first period, and 50-40 at the half.
Kwakwani’s Domair Gladstone put in a player-ofthe-match-worthy showing, shooting 33 points as they upped the ante in the third quarter to draw scores level, 68-68.
Gladstone had support from Kelon Phillips with 19, and Kadeem Dover’s 16 points as they outscored royals, 28-18, to pull back the contest.
In the fourth quarter, the two teams went shotfor-shot, with Adams proving the difference maker in the end for Royals, as they
earned a place in the finals.
The knock-out basketball competition is sponsored by the Ministry of Sport,
Sub-par showing for Guyana’s Green Machine
THE country’s national 7’s team, the ‘Green Machine,’ had one of their most forgettable outings despite boasting one of their fittest teams at the just concluded Rugby Americas North 7’s championship held in Arima, Trinidad and Tobago.
The Guyanese picked up a much-needed win in the group stages against Bermuda 12-7 on Sunday to earn a place in the quarter- final round, but there were not many positives after that.
In the ensuing quarter final where they came up against arch rivals Jamaica, they were hammered 38-14 in the 7’s clash.
They were then pitted to play the plate cup where they met The Cayman Islands in the semifinals, again losing 24-12.
The young national team then faced Barbados a second time for 7th position, winning the encounter 22-5 to end their campaign on a high.
Earlier in the competition, Guyana opened their campaign on Friday against top side Canada and lost 29-0 after being beaten into submission by the mighty Canadians.
On Saturday the local gave a better account
of themselves when they clashed with Barbados, but had too many fumbles and errors to see them losing again this time 21-10.
It was Lionel Holder and Godfrey Pollydore who produced two fabulous runs for Guyana to put their first tries on the board against the Barbados 7’s side, as they again made many mistakes which the opposition capitalised on to make them pay to take the victory.
The national rugby side was led by Godfrey Broomes
with Lionel Holder as vice-captain; the other players are, Rickford Cummings, Shawn David, Renaldo Niles and Yannick Williams.
The overseas-based players are Tyreese Prescod, Valon Adams, Matthew Talbot, and Godfrey Pollydore.
The team was coached by Claudius Butts with Elwin Chase as assistant coach and former national captain Ryan Gonsalves as manager
This year’s 18 teams were divided into Tiers One and Two brackets.
Champions from the Tier One men qualified for the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger 2025.
The top two teams, excluding Canada who has already been pre-qualified from Tier One qualified for the 2025 Junior Pan American Games’ Sevens competition.
Canada met Trinidad and Tobago in the men’s finals on Sunday evening and won it comfortably 380, with Mexico beating Jamaica in the women final.
MVP Sports, and Praetorian Security.
The grand finale is set for Saturday November
30 at the National Gymnasium, with the top side pocketing $300,000, and $100,000 for second place.
St. John, Potaro, Marian and Waramuri into semis
DEFENDING Girls Pee Wee
Champions Marian Academy continued their fine form against Smith Memorial Primary at the Ministry of Education Ground, as the tournament completed its quarter final stage on Saturday.
Marian Academy cruised to a 5-nil victory on the back of Chrissyanne Persaud, who was in superb touch in the first half of the game to guide her side to a 2-nil lead at the break.
She returned to complete the hat-trick as Marian imposed their will on the encounter with remarkable positional ball for their age group.
Marian’s Haley Haberkorn and Haley De Nobrega drove the final two nails in the coffin in the dying minutes to secure their semi-final place, and two wins short of a successful title defence.
West Ruimveldt, playing their quarter final match-up showed great intent after the opening whistle to go up 1-nil off an effort from Ariel Farley.
St. John the Baptist Primary also showed resilience and character to bounce back in the fifth minute to serve up the equalizer, compliments of Akeelah DaSilva.
However, second-half goals from Elliana Grant and Tanis Callender in the 30th and 35th minute would all but seal the contest, as St. John the Baptist picked up the victory, 3-1. Potaro Primary then downed Stella Maris Primary, 4-nil, in a clinical performance for the young girls.
Reniese Joseph was unsung with her footwork’s as she registered a triple with successful strikes in the 2nd, 22nd and 33rd minutes as they took an unassailable lead in the match before Aria Khan capped off the victory with her 37th-minute goal.
Waramuri Primary concluded the day’s action with a 5-nil drubbing of Genesis Primary.
Waramuri Primary had Keshanna Thomas and Alina Lewis to thank for their victory, as the pair accounted for all five goals.
Thomas got the ball rolling with a string of goals coming in the 4th, 10th and 18th minutes to put Genesis Primary out of contention.
A double from Alina Lewis then sent them straight into the semi-finals, set for Saturday at the CARIFESTA Avenue Ground.
GBF ELITE 16 KO BASKETBALL
Victory Valley Royals & Kwakwani Untouchables in battle
RUGBY AMERICAS NORTH 7’S CHAMPIONSHIP…
Guyana's winger Tyreese Prescod (with ball in hand) making a pass against the Barbados defence
