- President Ali says at sod-turning ceremony
President Ali calls contractor’s bluff
— sets him April 2025 deadline to complete Zeelugt regional hospital
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Tuesday led a team of government officials, including ministers, on an impromptu visit to the new state-of-the-art Regional Hospital currently under construction at Zeelugt, West Coast Demerara.
After listening to the contractor boast, during a leisurely tour of the massive building, that he has employees working roundthe-clock in two shifts to ensure the project finishes in good time, President Ali quietly asked him how soon that would likely be.
And even before the man could come up with a response, the president asked him to have it all done before April 2025.
During the course of the tour, it was learnt that the Zeelugt facility would boast, inter alia, close to 150-beds for patients, and provide world-class healthcare services.
It was also disclosed
that yet another hospital is currently being constructed at De Kinderen, about a mile or so away from Zeelugt, and that when completed, will bolster the delivery of quality and efficient healthcare services to the people of Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).
The new modern stateof-the-art facility at Zeelugt is being constructed to replace the current West Demerara Regional Hospital, located at Best Road, Vreed-en-Hoop, as the Guyana Government continues to transform healthcare services and delivery for citizens across the country.
According to President Ali during an earlier announcement this year, Region Three is rapidly growing economically, financially and in the housing sector, as well as its population, as enormous amounts of investments
are being made there.
However, he stated that with this exponential growth, existing services and facilities such as the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH) have outgrown their usefulness.
“The West Demerara Regional Hospital has now outgrown its time; it has outgrown what it was built for. It does not meet the modern efficient reliable needs of the citizens of Region Three. That is why, next week, we will be launching a new tender for a new state-of-the-art hospital at West Demerara,” President Ali had disclosed. This new West Dem hospital, the Guyana Leader noted, coupled with existing projects, such as another regional hospital at Zeelugt that is slated to be completed by March 2025, will bolster the region’s healthcare services.
(Michel Outridge)
President Ali on Tuesday made an impromptu visit to the regional hospital which is under construction at Zeelugt (Office of the President photos)
More than $52B invested in Region One
By Shaniya Harding
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali kicked off a busy day on Tuesday with the sod turning for the Moruca Hospital, signalling a transformative moment for the region's healthcare infrastructure.
The $4.4 billion facility is expected to be completed within 24 months and represents a significant investment in the community's medical capabilities.
The hospital will feature 45 in-patient beds and a comprehensive range of medical services, including a fully functional operational theatre to support cataract surgeries and dialysis services as well as paediatric care, laboratory services, outpatient clinics, a maternity and paediatric unit, and newly introduced digital imaging technologies such as X-ray, CT, and ultrasound.
The project forms part of the US$97 million Inter-Development Bank (IDB) loan, aimed at strengthening Guyana's healthcare system.
Speaking to the crowd gathered at the event, the head of state shared that projects like the Moru -
ca Hospital are ongoing parts of a much larger goal of transforming Guyana across all sectors.
"I want to thank all of you for coming out in your numbers at this very significant and important function through which we continue to invest in the transformation of your region and, importantly, in the transformation of your healthcare system," President Ali emphasised.
The President provided a detailed breakdown of the government's investments in Region One over the past four years, highlighting the comprehensive approach to regional development.
He noted investments of $7 billion in education, almost $800 million in natural resources, more than $1.7 billion in the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, over $2 billion in
- President Ali says at sod-turning ceremony for $4.4B Moruca Hospital - emphasises government’s comprehensive approach to regional development
the Ministry of Human Services, and more than $25 billion in local government.
Beyond healthcare, the President stressed the facility's potential to create employment opportunities, particularly for local communities. "Today, the largest segment of the population in the nursing programme are our young Amerindians. More than 60 per cent of the total intake of all the nurses are from the hinterland and riverine communities," he proudly stated.
President Ali also linked this progress to improved educational access, noting, "For the first time, your children now have access to secondary education, and they can meet the minimum requirement to have an equitable access to all the opportunities, and you have not disappointed us."
Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony added his perspective to the event, remarking, "Over the last couple of years, you can see the transformation that is happening in our country. And in my own sector, we have been supported with the resources to make sure
that things happen in health for your region."
The state-of-the-art facility is designed to handle a variety of health issues and will serve as a crucial medical hub for the region.
President Ali positioned the hospital as part of a broader vision of national development, stating in his closing remarks, "That is building prosperity. That is investing in the future. Because my friends, whatever we do, we must be able to invest in the future of our country. And you know, when one looks at this region and the population of this region, nowhere else in the world will you see a
government investing this sum of resources that we are investing for capital in this region."
President Ali also made a number of visits to communities throughout the region.
Furthermore, the Head of State shared that the Moruca Hospital project is an example of the government's commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure, creating job opportunities, and investing in the future of Guyana's hinterland communities as it is yet another manifesto promise they have turned into a reality.
President Ali speaking at the sod-turning ceremony
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony
President Ali poses with Region One healthcare workers. In the background is a picture of the much anticipated $$4.4B Moruca Hospital (Office of the President photos)
100k cash grant distribution to be a two-step process
— having photograph taken is integral for registration,
By Shaniya Harding
GUYANESE every -
where are aware that Guyana is the world’s fastest-growing economy, and while this fact is evident on an international scale, Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, states that the government is focused on ensuring that this economic prosperity reaches all Guyanese citizens.
The rollout of the cash grant distribution will follow a two-step process, with the taking of photographs required for registration.
Minister Singh stated that although people will not be forced to have their picture taken, it is necessary for the process. “We are not compelling anybody to have their picture taken. You do have the option to not have you picture taken. But if you exercise that option, you will not be registered,” he said.
Dr. Singh made these statements during his ad-
dress at the World Trade Centre Conference on ‘Banking Made Easier,’ an event designed to address key domestic and international banking issues. It was held at the Pegasus Suites on Tuesday and was graced by a number of speakers from both public and private sectors.
Speaking with mem -
bers of the media, Dr. Singh provided an update on the progress of the highly anticipated cash grant distribution. He assured that the registration process, already underway in Region Nine, is designed to be simple and accessible. The process is said to cost an estimated $30 billion, a sum,
Minister Singh has asked the National Assembly to approve.
The Ministry of Finance is adopting a regional approach, first registering all eligible citizens and then distributing the funds in the form of cheques.
Dr. Singh explained that Guyanese will be informed about registration
Minister Singh says
locations in their regions through a published schedule.
“Step 1 is registration. Step 2 is the verification of the registration,” he said emphasising that “there is no duplication.”
He further added, “In every community, we will publish a registration sheet, which will include a list of dates, times, and locations. Our technical team, equipped with devices, will capture this data.”
Additionally, communities across Guyana will receive a distribution schedule as the next phase of the process. Minister Singh emphasised that the government is working tirelessly to complete this phase as soon as possible.
"Step 2 will involve retargeting. We will publish a second schedule—the distribution schedule— and we will revisit those same approved registrations sites to distribute the cheques accordingly." he explained.
In his address at the
event, Dr. Singh also briefly discussed the impressive growth in the country’s private sector banking industry. From 2021 to mid2024, private sector credit in Guyana surged by 58 per cent, rising from $260 billion to $410 billion.
As Guyana looks forward to the completion of the World Trade Centre building by mid-2025, Dr. Singh noted that the development will be a significant addition to the country’s banking and financial landscape.
"The establishment of the World Trade Centre in Georgetown is another important indicator of the transformation and modernization happening in our country at meteoric speed," he stated.
Moving forward, Minister Singh says that the government will continue to pioneer projects geared towards enhancing and developing the economy of Guyana for all Guyanese.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh (Photo: Ashni Singh/Facebook)
Haiti: Child recruitment by armed groups surges 70 per cent
THE number of children being recruited into armed groups in Haiti has increased by 70 per cent over the past year, the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said on Monday. The unprecedented spike also reveals the alarming deterioration of child protection amid escalating violence in the Caribbean nation.
According to the latest estimates, children now comprise up to half of all armed group members, with recruitment driven by widespread poverty, lack of education and collapse of essential services.
“Children in Haiti are trapped in a vicious cycle – recruited into the very armed groups that are fueling their desperation, and the numbers are growing,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell, noting that “chaos and horror have become part of daily life”.
UNDER CONSTANT THREAT
The situation in the country’s capital, Portau-Prince, is significantly alarming, with 1.2 mil -
lion children living under constant threat of armed violence. An estimated 25 per cent of all 703,000 internally displaced persons are children, living under dire conditions and exposed to multiple threats.
The deteriorating security situation has led to a sharp rise in violence against Haiti’s most vulnerable populations.
Sexual violence and rape have become rampant, with reports from the Office of the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Con-
flict indicating a tenfold increase in children exposed to sexual violence this year alone.
This year, UNICEF provided support services, including psychosocial support and community sensitization to over 25,000 people affected by sexual and gender-based violence in 2024.
PROTECTION AND RECOVERY EFFORTS
In response to the protection crisis facing chil dren recruited by armed groups or at risk of recruitment, UNICEF has implemented several initiatives including training security forces and civil society organisations on child protection measures. They also provide care for former child soldiers, along with psychosocial support and family reunification services.
UNICEF is calling on all parties in Haiti to prioritise child protection, support the immediate release of recruited children and ensure their rights are central to any agreements.
“Children in many parts of Haiti are subjected to atrocities no child should ever have to experience,” Ms. Russell emphasised, adding that it “leaves them with psychological and emotional scars that might haunt them for a lifetime.”
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS
Monday marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, reiterated that the crisis is having a
disproportionate impact on women and girls.
According to humanitarian partners, 5,400 incidents of gender-based violence were reported in Haiti between January and October, although the true figure is likely to be much higher.
OCHA noted that critical services for survivors of gender-based violence, as well as for sexual and reproductive health, remain severely underfunded in Haiti.
The UN sexual and reproductive health agency, UNFPA, requires $28 million for those services this year, but has received $5.4 million so far, or just 19 per cent of the funding. (UN)
A family displaced by violence lives in a partially constructed school in Port-au-Prince, Haiti (UNOCHA/Giles Clarke photo)
A friend of Guyana and CARICOM
THE recent visit to Guyana by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has further solidified Guyana's position as a regional leader. Several commitments were made at the CARICOM-India Summit, attended by Prime Minister Modi and Caribbean leaders. Among the commitments made were greater assistance in the areas of human-resource development under the ITEC programme, training and capacity building for the region's parliamentarians and a host of other strategic assistance both
at the cultural, diplomatic and economic levels.
India is undoubtedly a strategic partner in terms of Caribbean development. The region is home to a significant number of Caribbean people whose foreparents had migrated to the Caribbean to provide cheap labour to the sugar plantocracy. Over the decades, a strong and enduring cultural bond evolved which continues to grow and deepen. This is particularly true of countries such as Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and to a smaller extent Suriname and Jamaica.
Beyond the cultural bonds, there are also the benefits associated with a rising global power. India is now a key player on the international stage and is a founding member of the BRICS grouping of nations which is now the leading trading bloc in the world in terms of population size. Indeed, the establishment of BRICS has now shifted the economic and financial hegemony away from unipolar dominance to one of greater multilateralism.
India is today the largest country in terms of population size, having only
recently overtaken China as the most populous country. But it also has the distinction as the world's largest democracy, which is of particular relevance to countries in the Caribbean region with fragile democracies. Guyana and Suriname were the most vulnerable in this regard, both of whom in the past suffered at the hands of military and quasi-military forms of governance with devastating consequences.
Both countries are now enjoying their best moments both from a governance and from a developmental perspective, with oil play-
ing a transformative role in the economic and social well-being of the two countries. India with its expanding economy and increasing appetite for energy will no doubt have an interest in the energy resources of these two countries.
In the case of Guyana, a memorandum of understanding was already signed focusing on key and critical areas such as energy, trade, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, technology transfers, health, education, defence and infrastructure.
The visit to Guyana by Prime Minister Modi
to Guyana is both historic and strategic and holds out great promise of a new and changing dynamic with huge economic and cultural gains for both the Caribbean and India. In this regard, credit must be given to Guyana for successfully hosting both the CARICOM-India Summit and the Indian Prime Ministerial visit to Guyana. It is indeed a winwin situation for the region and India. As noted by President Ali, India is indeed a friend of Guyana and the Caribbean region.
PPP/C Govt provides hope, not despair for the welfare of the people
Dear Editor,
VERGENOEGEN, a village on the famous “West Side,” now fondly referred to as the “Best Side,” was the scene of hundreds of enthusiastic residents on Monday, who came out to witness the ever popular, proud and prominent Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd), the Honourable Mark Phillips participating in the honour of cutting the ribbon to mark the opening of the Hope and Justice Centre.
Sharing the same platform were parliamentarians, government officers, members of the Diplomatic Corps, the IDB, Regional Officers, the media, students, residents and a rhythmic Tassa Group.
There was nothing perfunctory about this opening but rather, after careful planning, foresight and execution by a visionary PPP/C government, the event was meticulously executed to coincide with the United Nations launching of “UNiTE” campaign, a 16-day “No Excuse”
for violence against women and girls, which started on November 25th with the observance of “International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.”
This campaign will conclude on December 10 to commemorate “International Human Rights Day.”
Delivering the feature address in the absence of the President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Mark Phillips expressed his fondness and closeness for the people of Region Three. He declared that the government will be establishing a Hope and Justice Centre in each region because of the critical services the centre provides in response to the high level of domestic violence currently being experienced in Guyana. With his self-styled acronym of H-elp, O-pportunity, P-rotection and E-mpowerment, the Honourable Mark Phillips underlined that “Hope is not a word but a promise” to heal and help when the heart is hurt. He stated, “policies
and programmes are rooted in principles” to protect people and provide justice.
The ever-charming, conscientious and charismatic Minister of Human Services and Social Security, the Honourable Vindhya Persaud graciously thanked the IDB and her hard-working teams from MoHSSS to make the centre a reality so that Region Three will be better policed for domestic violence, especially since this region tops the list in the country for the wrong reason. Confirming that the centre is a pilot programme due to the institution being the first Forensic Unit for the state, it will “add a voice to the voiceless” and “stand up for the vulnerable.” Minister Persaud urged the residents if they see something to say something and utilise the services.
With the shrewd, sharp and sound mind of an alert, astute and admirable attorney, the Honourable Minister of Legal Affairs alluded to all the transformational exigencies
taking place in Region Three, which are synonymous with Guyana’s dollar development, economically and structurally, deliberate drive, geopolitically and strategically, and, diversified depth, socially and culturally.
The brilliant Attorney General was attending Monday’s commissioning of the second Hope and Justice Centre in Guyana, located at Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo. As he passed the birth place of the President of Guyana, Dr Ali, he couldn’t help reflecting on all the trappings encapsulated to make Leonora the next town, not overlooking Parika as an endorsement also.
In his remarks, Mr Anil Nandlall elucidated the PPP/C government’s commitment not to stand stagnant and static when responding to multiple provocations to confront the various social ills in society. Working assiduously, his ministry along with other stakeholders, are constantly reviewing and amending all
the statutory requirements to reform the law in order to accommodate the necessary legal changes and challenges which will provide the foundation to align to current needs.
The AG reported that the government will not mince words anymore when he philosophised that while “every action has a reaction,” when Guyanese are “hard ears, they must feel.” This unacceptable behaviour has to stop if not eliminated. Domestic violence has been broadened to include all aspects of the consequences from its repercussion, namely: morally, physically, financially and emotionally.
From a South African visit, Minister Persaud birthed the idea of establishing the concept of a Hope and Justice Centre. It is a project borrowed from “Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF),” which was founded by Dr Bernard Kouchner in 1971 in France and by a group of doctors and journalists in the wake of war
and famine in Biafra, Nigeria. It currently has an international network with 68,000 people working in sections in 77 countries.
The Honourable Prime Minister proclaimed that the centre was not built with bricks but with love and understanding and must be filled not with patients, but with compassion and care. While it is designed that the centre will be the reason to help those affected by domestic violence, inclusive of both women and men, it is hoped that the numbers will be minimum and not maximum.
As was echoed by all the speakers, the PPP/C government is willing, able and culpable to reach out to the primary needs of society and will not hesitate to take all precautions which are necessary to promote, protect and provide better health and welfare for the people, equally and equitably.
Yours respectfully, Jai Lall.
Melly Mel and the helpless era of our age
THE lady that goes under the Facebook name of Melly Mel (Melissa Atwell) has posted some grotesque comments about the Attorney-General (AG).
I am not a social media activist. I do not have a smart phone or a Facebook page.
I am a trained academic that does social analysis.
I have been doing such since I entered UG as a freshman. I concentrate on political/sociological analyses of social phenomena. I do not read Melly Mel (MM) or Rickforde Burke. I do so because I believe the offering from these people are not of value to be taken seriously. I swear on my parent’s grave, I have never asked someone to show me what this lady writes. People have showed me things from MM that they think might arouse my curiosity.
I did not know of the accusations against the AG until I was showed them on Friday evening in the studio when I went to do the live Freddie Kissoon call-in show. I do not think anyone with a rational mind will
take those rambling things seriously. I was approached with the exclamation: “Freddie, look wuh Melly Mel saying about the AG.” There is nothing I found that is particular, specific or revealing. It is just general, scandalous things that I have been told by friends that have been on the Facebook platform for months now. The list includes which minister is having an affair with which woman, etc. MM takes general things and put a spin on them. For example, the AG was not in the first five recipients of votes at the recent PPP congress.
So here is what MM did. She wrote that the AG told her people were out to get him. You keep reading and there is nothing specific. There is not one line that would cause you to think there is an occurrence within the political leadership of the government that is shocking. Here is what I think happened. MM was informed that the Government of Guyana’s leading legal advisor, the AG may
be looking at possibilities of seeking an arrest warrant for her so she decides that she will post the most scandalous things about the AG. No sane person would believe the AG over the months was in discussion with a zealous anti-government hater.
But that is the banal side to MM. The dangerous thing about MM and Rickford Burke is the helpless age we live in and there has to be a concerted effort by the Government of Guyana to bring an end to the antics of MM and Rickforde Burk because no civilized age should tolerate what these two persons do. So, she gets up in the
morning and decides she will scandalise a minister of the Government of Guyana and she does that with impunity. Why impunity. Because she does not live in Guyana and a writ cannot be served on her because the writ is not from a registered office in the US. Not surely, the owner of Facebook, the Government of Guyana and the US Department of Justice should not allow this assault on civilised society. There has to be some law somewhere to stop MM and Burke. It is just not possible for MM and Burke to do what they want. If there is a social media influencer in Guyana that
threatens US legislators and US government officials, I am dead certain the US will ask local officials her for their cooperation.
The Government of Guyana has to seek an urgent dialogue with the Justice Department to stop MM and Burke. I have not quoted from a purported Facebook post from Burke on the accusations by MM against the AG because I am not certain of the authenticity of the Burke posting.
Burke is a one of the world’s luckiest persons.
He gets a Guyanese-based lawyer to get court marshals to serve libel writs on people living in Guyana. But you cannot sue Burke because the writ cannot be served on him in the US.
So, Burke sues Guyanese living here all the time but
he can say all kinds about Guyanese living here and he remains untouchable. This situation has to change and the government has to dialogue with the UN or Facebook ownership or the Justice Department to bring an end to this brutal adventurism.
Is Burke the owner of that Facebook page on the AG? If yes, he should say so. If no, then the government should seek assistance from Facebook in the US to trace that post. I think the recent outburst from MM has now thrown the shortcomings of Facebook’s operations wide open. This age of being helpless to MM and Burke should come to an end ASAP.
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.
NOTE: Regrettably, this column was not published in the November 26 edition as was expected. We apologise to Mr. Frederick Kissoon for any inconvenience the non-publication of this column may have caused.
Yupukari to soon boast its very own secondary school
— thanks to the timely investment in a $22.5M facility there
FOR the 60-odd secondary school students living in and around the Indigenous community of Yupukari in Central Rupununi, the thought of having their very own school is more than they could have ever asked for.
According to a release from the Ministry of Education, when completed, the $22.5 Million facility will not just make accessing secondary education easier, but will also make it more affordable as well as enjoyable.
“This initiative will address a long-standing challenge faced by students who currently travel extensive distances, or reside in dormitories at the St. Ignatius Secondary School to access secondary education,” the ministry said, adding:
“By bringing the school closer to their home, the project promises to ease the burden on families, and ensure that students can focus on their academic journey without the strain of long commutes.”
Minister Manickchand, who was in community just recently, underscored the government's holistic approach to addressing educational needs, emphasising that the initiative extends beyond the physical construction of the school.
She outlined critical supporting measures, such as teacher training, provision of necessary
furniture, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation of teaching standards, ensuring a sustainable and high-quality educational experience for students.
“In addition to building the school, we need to train the teachers who will serve here. We must also ensure that the classrooms are equipped with the necessary furniture. Once the school is operational, it’s vital that we continue to monitor and evaluate how effectively students are being taught. It’s about creating a complete and sustainable system that delivers real results,” Minister Manickchand is quoted in the release as saying.
And, highlighting the wider benefits to be derived from the project, she said: “This school is not just a building; it’s a symbol of progress and opportunity. The challenges of overcrowding at St. Ignatius Secondary, the long distances students travel, and the strain on families will all be eased by this development. The positive ripple effects will be felt throughout the community, ensuring that every child has a fair chance at success.”
Toshao of Yupukari Russian Dorrick also had something to say of what he thought of this latest development in his community, and couldn’t help but convey his heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the
geographic location.”
village council and residents. “This is a timely initiative, because we currently have over 170 primary school children in our village,” Toshao Dorrick said. “With the government focusing on education in Yupukari, I always say that we are moving forward. This project will pave the way for significant progress in our community. We are very grateful to the Ministry of Education and the government for their continued support.”
The project has been awarded to contractor Clyve King following a competitive bidding process, the ministry said, adding: “The process adhered to the guidelines of the Public Procurement Act, and was overseen by the National Tender Board Administration (NTBA) to ensure transparency and fairness. The construction is expected to be completed within a year, with work commencing promptly.”
This new school block is part of the Ministry of Education’s broader mission to reduce educational disparities between coastal and hinterland regions.
By investing in infrastructure and access to quality education, the ministry said in its release, “the government seeks to create equitable opportunities for all Guyanese children, ensuring that no child is left behind regardless of
“The Ministry of Education remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing educational access and quality nationwide. “The Yupukari
In closing, the release said: “Parents, teachers, and community members alike have expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming facility, viewing it as a critical step in the advancement of Yupukari’s education system.
Secondary School Block is yet another testament to the government’s dedication to investing in the future of Guyana’s youth, laying the foundation for a stronger, more educated society.”
Ongoing works at Yupukari (Ministry of Education photo)
What to expect from upcoming supply chain expo in Beijing
THE second China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) will run from Tuesday to Saturday in Beijing.
As the world's first national-level exhibition focusing on supply chains, the expo will gather industry leaders and experts from around the world and help promote global co-operation in industrial and supply chains. The following is an overview of what to expect from this year's event.
WIDER PARTICIPATION
Themed "Connecting the World for a Shared Future," the expo, hosted by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), will see the participation of more than 600 companies, up about 20 per cent from the first expo in 2023, according to the CCPIT.
Foreign exhibitors will account for 32 per cent of the total, compared with 26 per cent a year earlier.
U.S. companies will contribute the largest share of overseas participation, while the number of businesses from Europe and Japan will also increase significantly this year. Companies from countries participating in the Belt and Road co-operation will constitute 40 per cent of foreign exhibitors at the 2024 edition.
Notably, to promote co-operation with less developed countries, China has invited many African enterprises to the expo and will provide free booths to help them showcase their products.
The expo's opening ceremony on Tuesday is expected to see the attendance of more than 1,000 global representatives, including political figures and business elites. It is estimated that the fiveday event will attract a professional audience of about 200,000 in total.
BETTER
SHOWCASE
Global industry leaders will exhibit their cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions in supply chains at this expo in China's capital.
Maersk and Sumitomo Electric are expected to debut new products, while Siemens will bring world-leading industrial automation technology to the event. China Resources and Honeywell will present technologies in the environmental protection and carbon reduction fields, while Rio Tinto, Bosch, Baowu Steel and XPENG will jointly exhibit in the expo's smart vehicle zone.
The 2024 expo will
What to expect from upcoming supply...
introduce a new exhibition area dedicated to advanced manufacturing, adding to last year's clean energy, smart vehicle, digital technology, healthy life, green agriculture and supply chain service areas.
A complete global advanced manufacturing industrial chain will be showcased in the new area, focused on four categories -R&D and design, application of new materials, key components and processing, and intelligent manufacturing and high-end equipment.
This year's expo will have Hungary as its guest country of honour. The Hungary Pavilion will showcase Hungary's leading industries, unique resources, cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes and national brand image.
CLOSER CO-OPERATION
The expo is expected to further strengthen global consensus on industrial and supply chain co-operation, helping businesses from across the world to integrate more effectively into the global supply chain.
"Given the coexistence of opportunities and challenges in industrial transformation and international
expansion, the CISCE holds significant importance," said David Xu, president of Bosch China.
CISCE acts as a crucial bridge in fostering communication and collaboration across the entire supply chain, noted Li Zheng, chief strategy officer of WOLQE, a German company focused on incubating startups in the new energy sector.
In the course of the exhibition, seven thematic events will be held, featuring domestic and international guests engaging in indepth discussions. Additionally, over 300 activities, ranging from breakfast meetings to business negotiations, will take place during the expo.
A Beijing initiative, which aims to promote stable and smooth global supply chains, will be released at the event, and a flagship report will be published, providing analysis of new supply chain trends and drawing a global map for 11 key industries, including humanoid robots, smart cars and integrated circuits.
As the first of their kind in the world, two new indices will also be launched to provide governments and businesses with clearer insights into global supply chain development trends and risks.
Demerara Bank introduces new digital banking processes
- Guyanese can now apply for a loan and open an account online
By Shaniya Harding DEMERARA Bank Limited
(DBL) is making significant strides in enhancing banking services in Guyana for the 2024-2025 financial year.
The bank is focusing on building new branches and technological centres to make banking more accessible to all residents, regardless of location.
Among the host of new and groundbreaking initiatives, is the bank’s online platform, which is slated to be the next step in banking as the company wishes to develop a new kind of digital banking which eliminates the need for standing in long lines.
These announcements were made during the ‘Banking Made Easier’ conference held at the Pegasus Suites on Tuesday. The event which
focused on tackling major problems facing the banking sector, was hosted by Demerara Bank in collaboration with the World Trade Centre.
The bank has seen great milestones in the last few years as they have been cited as the second-largest lender in Guyana, achieving phenomenal growth by expanding credit by 34 per cent over the past 12 months. With the launch of a whole host of new
processes, the bank has also taken into consideration the Guyanese public, with the next step being the development of technological centres.
The CEO of Demerara Bank, Dowlat Parbhu, explained that these technological centres, will be found in new banks in the new year and will be geared towards educating customers on the safety and benefits of digital banking.
Sharing that DBL is aware of the concerns of Guyanese, Mr Parbhu stated that, "We’re going to hold your hand and we’re going to teach you how to use it," he said, emphasizing the importance of guiding customers through the process to ensure they feel confident using these new services.
The bank’s push for ac-
cessibility includes implementing cutting-edge technologies to better serve the public. “What we have is definitely, without a doubt, will change banking in a positive way,” the CEO added.
Parbhu also noted that Demerara Bank has contributed $24 billion in lending over the past year, accounting for almost 40 per cent of Guyana’s lending.
Furthermore, the bank impressively holds the lowest average lending rate in the country at a whopping 53.1 per cent when compared to the banking sector’s average of 2.1 per cent.
Additionally, the new digitised loan application process has streamlined operations, reducing what once took two weeks to complete into a one-day process. “With
our new system, loan applications are processed in 20 minutes, providing quicker decisions and faster service for our clients,” the CEO explained.
Demerara Bank is also taking inspiration from international best practices, having incorporated AI technology into its operations. “I can say that Demerara Bank is the first bank in India to incorporate AI technology, leading a digital transformation in the way banking is done.” the CEO stated.
All of these efforts, according to him, are part of DBL’s broader goal: "All that we’re doing, all that we’re building, is to serve the public," ensuring that their services are accessible and efficient for every Guyanese.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Demerara Bank, Dowlat Parbhu (Photo: Ashni Singh/Facebook)
Demerara Bank Limited is working towards revolutionising Guyana’s banking sector with the introduction of new digital processes
Harris Paints Guyana to launch new plant, flagship store today in BV
HARRIS Paints Guyana has announced the official opening of its new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and flagship retail store today at Beterverwagting on the East Coast Demerara.
This marks a major milestone in the company’s 30-odd year history in Guyana. According to the company, this significant investment and expansion demonstrates Harris Paints’ continued commitment to delivering top-quality products and
supporting the economic growth of one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
Noting that the new facility represents the dawn of an exciting new era for both Harris Paints and the Guyanese market, the company said:
“This 10,000-squarefoot, two-story building, set on a 25,000-squarefoot plot, is set to enhance local manufacturing capabilities, create new jobs, and serve as a regional hub for the premium paint supplier.”
Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Harris Paints International, Marguerite Desir was quoted as saying: “We are thrilled to open this new Manufacturing Plant and flagship store, which will have a key focus on continuous improvement to Developers and Contractors here in Beterverwagting.
“This investment is a testament to our belief in Guyana’s potential, and our commitment to supporting the country’s remarkable transformation. With this new plant, we
aim to enhance our capacity to meet the growing needs of our customers, continue to deliver high-quality products, and contribute to the nation’s economic development.”
Since opening its doors in 1992, Harris Paints Guyana has become a highly regarded brand, serving both commercial projects as well as home improvers.
Harris Paints (Photo sourced from Champions of Color)
DDL-funded Moblissa Community Centre now open to the public — replete
By Michel Outridge
A SPANKING new building
housing a Community Centre was handed over to the community of Moblissa, on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway on Sunday during the opening ceremony hosted by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), the same company that also funded the project.
Giving an overview of the project, Wesley Kirton, DDL Government Affairs Consultant told the large gathering of villagers that two years ago, he, along with others from DDL were there to establish a dairy farm.
with playground chockful of amusement toys
He recalled that the residents of Moblissa not only welcomed them with open arms, but also showed their appreciation for the major transformational US$20M project the company had established there.
Kirton stated that a new bridge was constructed following their second outreach to the village, and pretty soon, they began moving limestone to the farm via trucks. But due to the deplorable condition of the road leading from the main highway into the village, they were stuck. This setback, he said, forced them to offload the limestones, all 26 truckloads of them, and
ask the residents to keep an eye on them.
Kirton said that true to their word, for a week there was no depletion of the limestones and everything was incident-free.
“It was the locals’ first demonstration of understanding and commitment to the company, and last year, a Christmas party was held in an incomplete building, and the Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Komal Samaroo was invited, and they enjoyed the event thoroughly,” he said.
However, Samaroo, feeling that the people of Moblissa deserved better, asked his col-
leagues to get the building ready for Mashramani, but when they consulted with a qualified contractor, they learnt that edifice had no foundation.
As such, the building was demolished, a new foundation was constructed, and a brandnew flat concrete building took shape. The project was undertaken by DDL as a gift to the community.
Kirton told the gathering that with the help of residents, the building was completed, and on Sunday last, the opening took place. Samaroo was on hand with others to cut the ribbon, signalling the opening of the
facility. He revealed that Gail Seeram of GAIL Foundation Inc. out of Florida, USA, donated a playground comprising of a swing, a slide and a see-saw and gifted all children present with a stuff-animal toy and a snack pack of goodies, while the adults benefitted from a care package each, following an opening ceremony as well.
CULINARY TRAINING
Kirton disclosed that a stove was also donated to the Moblissa Community Centre to enhance the cooking skills of the locals via a culinary training programme and can even be utilised for community-based events.
In addition, he was pleased to see the building was outfitted with curtains, but a donor will be identified to have the floor of the building tiled.
Kirton reported that 25 farmers are onboard from the community to provide fresh fruits for DDL’s subsidiary Topco for the production/supply of fresh fruit juices.
He told the gathering on Sunday that DDL will also fund an electrification project, in which distribution lines will be installed in the village and to the farm, but villagers will have to pay for their electricity via the Linden Electricity Company for domestic use.
Meanwhile, Ingrid Lowe, an overseas-based Guyanese, who is here on a visit, donated some shelves/books for a library to be established at the Moblissa Community Centre.
Gail Seeram told the crowd on Sunday last that she is a Guyanese who departed these shores at age five years old, and is an Immigration attorney in the US for the past 25 years who established a non-governmental organisation.
Seeram returned to Guyana in 2010, and, seeing a need for playgrounds, donated her first
to an orphanage, after which she donated a total of 15 playgrounds across the country for children.
She explained that playgrounds are an important part of development for children to have a safe space to play, for recreation and exercise to relieve mental fatigue.
Among the attendees was Robin van Puyenbroeck, CoChair of US Exim Bank who brought his son, Gabriel along for the trip to Guyana, pledged his commitment to contributing to the development of the community.
He told the locals that he is eager to see the completion of the project of the DDL dairy farm and he will ensure the village benefit from an all-weather road.
In remarks, DDL Chairman/ CEO, Komal Samaroo reported that DDL is a local company and they will continuously do their part in the development of the community.
He said advance development comes from investment of economic activities creating world class products finding markets for it.
Samaroo added that DDL’s subsidiary, Topco, has been in business for the past 30 years, producing local fruit juices and their Savannah brand of milk is made form imported re-constituted powered milk but they wanted to produce their own fresh cow’s milk and has choose Mobilssa of its dairy farm. He revealed that once the dairy farm is operational by the end of 2025, they will be producing their own freshly-packaged cow’s milk from Moblissa Village.
Samaroo stated that as a value chain they continue to create jobs for locals, who will be trained to operate the diary equipment to uplift society and the stakeholders will ultimately benefit from the project.
Guyana ready to resume international adoptions
- with the recent establishment of a regulatory body to oversee the process
GUYANA is set to resume international adoptions, officially referred to as inter-country adoptions, now that it has established a central regulatory body to oversee the adoption process and ensure it complies with international standards.
As the term suggests, an inter-country adoption is when a person or couple from one country becomes the legal and permanent parent of a child from another country.
ing ceremony: “In less than three years, we can finally open the Central Authority of Guyana, and resume inter-country adoption in alignment with the Hague Convention.
“This is a serious step for our country; it ensures the paramount safety of children across the length and breadth of Guyana, underscoring that as a country, as an agency, and as a ministry, we would exhaust every opportunity for local adoption.”
The opening of the new facility on Tuesday on Fifth Street, Alberttown, officials say, marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in Guyana’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights, promoting family reunification and providing a path for safe and loving adoptions.
Essentially, the Guyana Central Authority for Hague Matters, as is the agency’s official name, was strategically established, under the aegis of the Ministry Human Services and Social Security, to facilitate, whether directly or indirectly, the implementation of the 1993 Hague Convention, to which Guyana is a contracting party since 2019. Its fundamental principles were formulated with the aim of protecting children, safeguarding the measures established to protect them against child abduction, sale, and trafficking.
As Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud observed during the open-
minister seized the opportunity to urge local families to give some thought to adopting a child.
“I say families,” she said, “because once a biological family member or families express a desire to adopt children, of course those will be the ones we will look to first, because there will be some level of familiarity; and then there are the biological ties. However, once that is not there, of course the gates will be open in a very con-
She was at pains to explain, however, that although a Central Authority has been established and will now allow inter-country adoptions to resume, the procedure still involves the local process where cases will be assessed by the Child Care Protection Agency (CCPA), moved to the local Adoption Board, and then to the court.
“That has not changed with regard to the legislation,” she said, adding: “However, within that construct, there is the Central Authority to assure that there is oversight, and that all the parameters that are within the Hague Convention are followed, as are the amendments to our 2009 legislation that speaks to adoption.”
Stressing the importance of ensuring that children have safety, security and stability in their lives, and stability when it comes to their future, Minister Persaud reminded her audience that the CCPA has a foster care programme that will provide this kind of temporary solution. At this juncture, the
significant step for Guyana as we seek to safeguard the rights of children by upholding the principles of the Convention, and the respective legislations. She expressed that it is only
with adequate safeguards that children can reach their full potential.
For more information on the Central Authority and the adoption process, persons can visit the above address or email the Central Authority at centralauthority. gy@gmail.com or visit the Ministry’s website: mhsss.gov.gy (Faith Greene)
trolled way, in alignment with the legislation to those who are non-biological persons to adopt children.”
In terms of how to go about it, Minister Persaud said: “The process is a simple yet detailed one that follows the 1993 Hague Adoption Convention process, which starts with the application, followed by a child study report, approval of the applicant and child’s suitability and eligibility, High Court application, Adoption Board case consideration, the final order, the Hague Adoption Certificate, Immigration, and finally post-adoption follow-up procedures.”
Minister Persaud noted, too, that the Central Authority is an important step in any country. The Central Authority of Guyana has five members, one of them being the Minister as the Chair of the Authority, and representatives from the Ministry of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, and the Ministry of Health.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Central Authority Kaycina Jardine stated briefly that this is a
Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud
CEO of the Central Authority of Guyana Kaycina Jardine (MHSSS Photos)
Over 6,000 calls made to 914 hotline this year
OVER 6,000 calls have been made to the 914 tollfree hotline between January and now, reflecting an increase in reported cases and interventions.
The statistics were dis-
closed by Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, during the commissioning of the Hope and Justice Centre in Region Three on Monday.
Minister Persaud noted that the volume of calls demonstrates growing public awareness and willingness to report incidents requiring attention.
“One hundred and
eighty-two of them (914 calls) were related to domestic violence, while 292 were child-abuse cases. And that tells you what is happening very clearly in our country,” the human service minister highlighted.
While the increased use of the hotline reflects progress in reporting, the minister expressed concern over the rising incidents of violence, particularly those leading to femicide.
Between January and September, there were 28 reported femicide-related cases, 11 of which were domestic violence incidents.
Dr Persaud highlighted that disaggregated data showed Region Three recorded the highest number of cases. This prompted her call for collaborative efforts to address and reduce
incidents of gender-based violence in the region.
“We must be proactive in this fight to eliminate gender-based violence. In fact, the theme of the United Nations speaks of unity to eliminate gender-based violence and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to eradicate such violence from the world,” the minister stated.
The minister encouraged residents to report gender-based violence, pointing to the availability of the iMatter app, which connects users to the 914-hotline with a single click.
The app will soon include a chat feature, enabling users to interact directly with resource personnel such as legal counsel or dispatchers, for immediate assistance.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security continues to work alongside the Ministries of Legal Affairs and Home Affairs to strengthen and amend legislation aimed at tackling violence. This is part of an ongoing effort to create a safer environment and support victims more effectively.
With the commissioning of the Hope and Justice Centre and the continuous implementation of innovative strategies, the ministry remains committed to fostering a society free from violence. (DPI)
Minister Persaud also stressed the need to address the stigma surrounding male victims of gender-based violence, underscoring the ministry’s inclusive approach to eradicating all forms of violence.
Bethany farmers receive planting materials, agricultural inputs
FARMERS in the Indigenous community of Bethany, located along the Supenaam Creek, recently received planting materials and other agricultural supplies from the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI). This initiative follows a commitment made by Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha.
Regional Vice-Chairman Humace Oodit, who facilitated the distribution, emphasised that the delivery fulfilled a promise made to the residents.
He recalled that during Minister Mustapha’s visit to Bethany in September, a brand-new extra-long boom excavator was handed over on behalf of H.E. President Dr. Irfaan Ali. At that time, Minister Mustapha also pledged to provide seeds, seedlings, and other inputs to support and enhance agricultural production in the community.
Approximately 2,500 seedlings were handed over to NAREI officers for dis-
tribution. These included passion fruit, lemon, orange, lime, tangerine, coconut, soursop, rambutan, cherry, sorrel, carambola, papaya, turmeric, and peanut.
Toshao Sonia Latchman expressed gratitude on behalf of the community , noting that the seedlings would enable local farmers to expand cultivation.
She highlighted that Bethany has ample agricultural land and that the recently acquired excavator has already been instrumental in improving farming conditions.
She added that increased planting will lead to self-sufficiency, reaffirming her community’s appreciation for the Ministry of Agriculture’s support and timely delivery of the requested seedlings.
Farmers holding some of the seedlings they received from NAREI
Region Two’s Regional Vice-Chairman Humace Oodit and NAREI officials during the distribution exercise
Guyana signs ‘open-skies’ agreement with Bahamas to enhance air connectivity - Minister Edghill says
GUYANA and The Bahamas on Monday signed an ‘open-skies’ Air Services Agreement to promote and facilitate the operation of air services be -
tween the two countries, as well as other countries.
The signing which took place in Nassau, Bahamas, was done by Isaac Chester Cooper, The Bahamas’
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation and Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister of Public Works.
A release stated that in
addition to the standard articles of Grant of Rights, Designation and Authorisation, User Charges, Recognition of Certificates and Licences, Pricing, Com -
Isaac Chester Cooper, The Bahamas’ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation and Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister of Public Works, sign the ‘open-skies’ agreement ( MoPW photo)
mercial Activities, Fair Competition, inter alia, Minister Edghill said: “this agreement is promoting open-market access for airlines to operate unimpeded in terms of capacity and frequency of flights between our two countries and third countries.”
Minister Edghill further noted that the agreement is in keeping with the government’s commitment to connecting Guyana with the rest of the world and it is anticipated that Bahamas Air will soon add destination Guyana to its regional network.
Consistent with the government’s model of ‘open-skies’ agreements, the agreement facilitates acceptance of the Principal Place of Business as a means of designating an airline in contrast to the traditional restrictive requirement of substantial ownership and effective control by nationals of either country.
This means that the airlines could benefit from foreign share capital and investment, once they es-
tablish their main economic and operating base in either The Bahamas or Guyana.
The Principal Place of Business condition for airline designation is now a common inclusion in Air Services Agreements and creates a very advantageous position for small states with limited capital or financial resources.
The statement added that presently, there are no direct flights between Guyana and The Bahamas. However, this agreement puts in place the legal framework that opens market access for airlines to operate and enhance competitive air- transport services, trade, and economic growth between the two countries.
The agreement complements the more than 50 Air Services Agreements Guyana has established with other ICAO states to develop air connectivity among states.
Guyana and The Bahamas established diplomatic relations on July 10, 1973.
Gov’t constructing more magistrates’ courts for Region Three
THE government is constructing two additional magistrates’ courts in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) to address case backlogs and improve residents’ access to justice.
Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, made the announcement on Monday during the commissioning of the Hope and Justice Centre in the region.
“Construction is ongoing at Parfaite Harmonie for the building of a new magistrate court. That will take off the workload from the Wales and Vreed-en-
Hoop courts,” the minister highlighted. He said: “Right here at Tuschen we will soon launch the construction of another magistrate court, and this will be in close proximity with the station.”
The construction of these facilities will complement the recently-rebuilt Leonora, Vreed-en-Hoop, and Wales Magistrates’ Courts, ensuring modern and accessible facilities for the public The government has also prioritised juvenile justice reforms. Earlier this year, the second Juvenile Justice Court was inaugurated in Wales,
West Bank Demerara, complementing other efforts to address legal matters involving minors under 18.
These initiatives aim to align the justice system with recent legislative advancements and ensure the enforcement of laws across the region.
“We are passing legislation one after the other because it is our view that it is important that we first create the regulatory framework for the developmental agenda of our country,” the attorney general stated.
Recent legislative updates include replacing the outdated Domes -
Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C, alongside Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, at the commissioning of the Hope and Justice Centre
tic Violence Act with a modern Family Violence Act and reclassifying domestic violence as a criminal offence.
Significant amendments have also been made to juvenile justice
laws, ensuring minors above nine years are subject to the law, albeit under a tailored regime of treatment.
Additionally, amendments to the Sexual Offences Act are underway to address deficiencies and strengthen justice for victims. Legislation is also being developed to curb speeding and reckless driving by lorry operators. (DPI)
PPP/C NA councillor returns to meetings after High Court overturns suspension
- continues to press for answers on financial matters
CAROL Trim-Bagot, one of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic councillors on the New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council, on Monday, attended her first statutory meeting following the New Amsterdam High Court’s decision to overturn her suspension.
The APNU+AFC-led Mayor and Town Council of New Amsterdam suspended Trim over claims of disorderly conduct; however, Trim had maintained that the suspension was an orchestrated attack on her after she spoke out about financial irregularities at the level of the council.
Not backing down, Trim-Bagot filed a court ac-
tion which led to her suspension being thrown out as unconstitutional.
“The court hereby grants an order of certiorari quashing the decision of the Respondent to suspend the Applicant, (Trim – Bagot) from service of the Council for three (3) months on the ground that it was an improper exercise of power, in excess of jurisdiction, unreasonable, and in bad faith”, the court order read.
Furthermore, the council was ordered to pay Trim-Bagot the sum of $50,000 within three (3) months of the date of this decision.
After arriving at the council’s statutory meeting on
Monday, Trim-Bagot was welcomed by the mayor who acknowledged her presence.
Nevertheless, Trim-Bagot during the meeting called on the council to be forthcoming as to where the “money is from the Town Day.” She said: “it’s not here yet. I’ve gotten phone calls from a couple of people within this institution that they have not gotten pay so I am going to be asking the Town Clerk or the Treasurer. I want to know where is the money held from the town and also from the BBQ that was held here.”
The New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council recently celebrated its anni-
versary with several events. Trim-Bagot stressed to the council that “these are the discrepancies that I stand up time and time again on this floor to address and I think that was part of what amounted to my suspension.”
She further added that there is a pattern at the level of the council where a certain councillor who has to give the account number for the money is not present.
“I am happy that I am back and I am going to continue to speak up until we get it right at this council,” she added.
Another PPP/C councillor, Nicole Luther, also pointed out that they are seeking clarity as it relates to the proceeds from the Town Day which was recently held.
“How much money was made for the Town Day event? Who are the promoters? So that the public can
know who are the promoters.”
Furthermore, Luther pointed out that for one of the events, one company made an application to host it at Stellings Road, New Amsterdam but it was later ascertained that another company known to a certain APNU+AFC councillor did all of the promotion and was seemingly in charge of the event.
Producing a poster, Luther said, “I want to know what is going on because I am a little confused because one person applied for this event to be held and another
person who is a sitting councillor, he is the person that has been promoting and collecting money …my thing is, who is the real promoter for the Town Day event at the Mathew Allen Road, and where is the money? Was it deposited in the account?”
Meanwhile, Mayor of New Amsterdam, Wainwright McIntosh, informed the council that given that the events for the Town Day recently concluded, he is still awaiting a report after which he will brief the council and the media.
PPP/C councilor, Nicole Luther, presenting a poster to the council showcasing who was promoting the Town Day activity. Pictured to the left is Carol Trim-Bagot
Soldier remanded on attempted murder charge
A WEST Coast Berbice solider was on Tuesday remanded to prison after he was charged with the attempted murder of his fiancé who remains hospitalised with stab wounds and chop injuries.
Philon Edwards, 26, a soldier attached to the Guyana Defence Force, and of Number 30 Village, West Coast Berbice, appeared at the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Rabindranauth Mohabir.
He was charged with attempt to commit murder on Litisha Reynolds, 23, a cleaner also of Number 30 Village, West Coast Berbice.
Bail was refused after the police prosecutor noted that Reynolds remains hospitalised in a serious condition. Edwards was subsequently remanded to prison.
He will return to the Fort Wellington Magistrate’s Court on December, 12.
Reynolds was attacked, stabbed and chopped on Friday, November 22, 2024, around 19:30 hrs at her home by Edwards, a 26-year-old corporal based at Camp Ayanganna, who resides at the same address where the incident allegedly occurred.
According to the police, Reynolds, Edwards and her five-year-old son resided at the location. On the evening in questioned, Edwards returned home around 17:50 hours and accused Reynolds of allowing her son’s father
Edwards being escorted to the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday where he faced an attempted murder charge
to visit during his absence.
Reynolds reportedly acknowledged that the visit did happen but clarified that there was no interaction between she and her child’s father. However, this made Edwards furious resulting in him allegedly bringing a knife from the kitchen which he held to the victim's neck as he instructed her son to leave the premises, which he did.
It was reported by the police that Edwards then proceeded to stab Reynolds multiple times on the left side of her face, below her left eye, on her finger, and in her right abdomen. Fearing for her life, the victim attempted to evade him by running around the house.
However, Edwards then retrieved a cutlass from the kitchen and inflicted a chop wound to the victim's left neck resulting in significant bleeding after which he fled the scene.
The police had said, that he subsequently walked into
Police investigating death of Sophia labourer
THE police are investigating the death of Devon Nigel Williams, a 28-year-old labourer of Lot 806 'C' Field Sophia, which occurred at about 10:00hrs on Tuesday at the above-mentioned address.
In a statement, the police said that enquiries disclosed that Williams was living at the above address with his 52-year-old mother Dorette Anne LaRose, a clothes vendor.
The woman related to ranks that on November 22, she received information that her son was lying under the steps of the Special Constabulary Outpost in the Stabroek Market with what appeared to be wounds on his body.
“As a result, she left home and went to Stabroek Market where she saw her son lying under the Constabulary stairs with an injury to the back of his head. The woman said she questioned her son as to how he received his injury and he told her that someone by the name 'Stitchie' chopped him because he stole from him,”
the statement said, adding that the wounded man was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was treated and later discharged.
At about 07:00hrs on Tuesday, LaRose said she was at home when she checked on her son and discovered him lying motionless on his bed.
The EMT was summoned to the scene and the victim was pronounced dead by Dr Jadgoo of the GPHC.
The scene was processed by detectives from the CID HQ Crime Lab. The body was examined and injuries were seen to his left thigh below the knee, right hand, right shin bone, left elbow, forehead, left jaw and head. Old bruises were also observed on his back, ankles and heel.
The body was escorted to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home where it is awaiting a post-mortem. Several persons were questioned and efforts are being made to locate 'Stichie.' Investigations continue.
the Weldaad Police Station and admitted that he had wounded the victim after which he was promptly arrested and placed in custody. Reynolds sought help from a relative who took her to Fort Wellington Public Hospital for treatment. She was later transferred to New Amsterdam Public Hospital for further care where she remains hospitalised in a serious condition.
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West Indies beat Bangladesh by 201 runs
[ESPNCRICINFO]
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West Indies won their first Test at home in two-and-ahalf years when they beat Bangladesh in the first Test in Antigua by 201 runs. The visitors' chase of 334 was brought to a close at 132 for 9 on the fifth morning, just an over after Alzarri Joseph struck No. 11 Shoriful Islam on the back of his shoulder. The Bangladesh physio didn't clear Shoriful to continue his innings, thus bringing the curtains down on the game as Shoriful retired hurt.
The hosts took seven overs to wrap things up on Tuesday. Alzarri removed Hasan Mahmud for a duck,
as he was caught behind to an away-going delivery, before Jaker Ali fell lbw for 31.
Jaker struck four boundaries in his 58-ball stay. Alzarri, however, continued to pepper Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam with bouncers, while the West Indies fielders also took turns in sledging the Bangladesh tailenders. It is possible that like in the first innings, when Bangladesh had declared 181 runs behind West Indies, they decided to not continue in their second dig, fearing about their lower-order batters getting injured due to the short-ball barrage. While the Bangladesh tail predictably folded quickly on
Communications and Media Manager Pierre leaves position
CMC – JUST two months into her role as Cricket West Indies’ (CWI) Communications and Media Manager, Nyssa Pierre has left the position.
The Trinidadian announced her departure in a post on Facebook on Tuesday, but did not give a reason behind her decision.
“Dear friends, family and colleagues. It was a short innings but today I announce my departure from Cricket West Indies,” she said in the post.
“I am thankful for the opportunity to continue my contributions to the region-
al and international cricket landscape in my brief time at the organisation.
“I remain in service to the region through my ongoing work in international development and government advisory. I sincerely wish all the West Indies teams I had the pleasure to work with all the best ahead.
“A years-long cricket and West Indies fan, I will always rally hard!” the statement added.
Pierre began her new position in September and was based at the CWI’s headquarters at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG) in Antigua.
the fifth morning, their specialist batters offered very little fight when they had started their chase on the fourth afternoon. Zakir Hasan and Mahmudul Hasan Joy fell in the first four overs, as Kemar Roach got Zakir bowled off the inside edge, similar to how Zakir had got out in the first innings. Mahmudul, too, did a similar thing, getting out like he did in the first innings, as he edged to the slips after chasing a slightly wide delivery.
Roach had then removed Shahadat Hossain with a delivery that cut through the batter, kissing his gloves as he tried to get out of the
way of the big inswinger. Mominul Haque, who had survived two dropped catches off Shamar Joseph, gave Roach his third wicket via a return catch. Shamar suffered two more dropped catches off his bowling, before he had Litton Das caught at fine leg.
Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz kept fighting despite his troubles against the short ball by making 45. Jayden Seales got him caught behind, with Joshua Da Silva taking an excellent catch. Seales then cleaned Taijul Islam up, before bad light stopped play on the fourth evening.
But it was West Indies' batters who set the Test up, as
the hosts declared at 450 for 9 in the first innings. Justin Greaves reached his maiden hundred during a patient 140-run eighth-wicket stand with Roach, who made his highest Test score of 47. They rescued the West Indies from 261 for 7 on the second morning. Bangladesh had somewhat recovered after Mikyle Louis and Alick Athanaze, who got out in the nineties on the first day, had also added 140 runs for the fourth wicket.
Bangladesh replied with similar watchfulness, though they neither had a big partnership nor a big individual knock. Jaker and Mominul
made half-centuries, while Litton scored 40. Jaker and Taijul added 68 for the seventh wicket, and that helped the visitors avoid the follow-on.
They surprised West Indies on the fourth morning by declaring on 269 for 9, despite being behind by 181 runs. Taskin then ran through the West Indies line-up, taking career-best figures of 6 for 64, also his first five-for in Tests. Bangladesh's bowlers provided hope by bowling West Indies out for 152, but their batters continued their year-long struggle with this Test.
MCYS unveils lights on several grounds around the city
Minister Charles Ramson Jr spearheaded the unveiling of flood light for several community grounds around the city over the weekend.
The government community ground enhancement program continued into full swing as Minister Ramson led initiatives to illuminate two grounds around the city.
The St Stephen’s ground in Charlestown and Farnum Community Ground in Subryanville were outfitted with lights, the playing area rehabilitated, fence erected and field goals provided for football.
Minister Ramson said they met both facility in poor condition and was elated to invest in making it a safe space for the communities.
“One of thing we were doing for the grounds all around the country is to start
to light them up, this is a commitment that President Ali had made and also something the Vice-President had spoken about too, so you will see over the next few weeks as a lot of these projects get concluded. You will see us start to light up a number of these ground,” he said. He said they are also set to start renovation and up -
grading grounds in Sophia as they look to create places and spaces for the nation’s young people.
“All This investment that we are making is for you, we want you to take your talent to the best possible place that it could go, we want you to be involved in organized sport and that is the investment that we are making in
you, we also want you to stay off the street, because when you don’t have options for what you are going to do with your spare time that is when you get involved in a bunch of activities that you know leads you nowhere.”
He said the ministry is working with a number of former players as well as former national football coach
Jamaal Shabazz to build a program where coaches would work with youngsters at different grounds to develop their skills and abilities.
Charlestown resident Malachi Gobin said he was happy for the attention for the ground by the ministry, adding, “I’m a youngster from Charlestown and I like the development of the lights and
East Bank Football Association Boys U14 League…
the ground that is going on and you can see everybody is enjoying themselves and come out every day to enjoy themselves and it’s beautiful to have these lights and I enjoy playing on this ground, every day.”
Darwin Damon a footballer from Charlestown said,
“As a man that is play out here, it’s a great honor to get the lights out here because plenty night coming out from work, we can’t come out and play, so if you come out from work late you have the lights to come out and play and everybody grateful for the lights.”
The Government of Guyana has allocated hundreds of millions of dollars toward developing ground around the country with hundreds of ground either under development or has developed.
Timehri, Friendship All Stars register wins
THE East Bank Football Association Boys U14 League delivered another thrilling day of youth football on Sunday with two captivating matches that showcased the incredible talent and determination of the young players.
In the opening game, Timehri United’s Nyron Barrow, the league’s leading goal scorer, demonstrated his exceptional free-kick prowess by netting two stunning goals against Soesdyke FC. Barrow’s first strike came in the 35th minute, followed by another masterful kick in the 58th minute, sealing a 2-0 victory for Timehri United.
Despite the defeat, Soesdyke FC put up a strong fight, creating several goal-scoring opportunities and display -
ing commendable resilience throughout the match.
The second game saw a major upset as Friendship All Stars FC edged out the tournament favorites, Swan FC, with a narrow 1-0 victory.
In a fiercely contested match filled with pace and skill, both goalkeepers delivered outstanding performances. However, it was Friendship’s Brandon Bruce who made the difference, capitalising on a loose ball just outside the box in the 57th minute and unleashing a precise right-footed shot into the bottom-left corner of Swan
GFF owes stakeholders a proper explanation…
FC’s goal. Swan FC launched a desperate final attack in the closing moments, but Friendship’s defence held firm to secure the win.
Upcoming Matches
The league action resumes on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at the Herstelling Ground in Mocha Arcadia. Fans can look forward to another day of exciting youth football: 10:00 hours: Herstelling FC vs. Timehri United FC 12:00 hours noon: Soesdyke FC vs. Friendship All Stars FC
THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF), in response to an article published in another section of the media, concerning the delayed payment of prizes for the Elite League, disclosed that it intends to do the honours before the end of the current month.
However, the august body somehow didn’t see the need to explain to the teams, fans and more importantly to the sponsors the reason for the de-
lay following the completion of the tournament in August, three months ago.
The announcement prompted sponsors, KFC, and rightly so, to disclose that it’s deeply concerned over the issue.
Instead of explaining the reason for the delay in the payments, since the entity obviously received the monies from the sponsors, the GFF, in a release, if it could be described as one, went on to speak about the
strong partnerships “we maintain with our sponsors, whose support remains invaluable to the growth and development of football in Guyana.”
If, as the GFF explains, that this support remains invaluable, it’s pellucidly clear that it has shown scant regard for the sponsors who may very well rethink if they should still be in partnership with the governing body for football in Guyana.
Admitting that the Elite
League “is a key element of FIFA’s compliance criteria for member associations, with specific funding provisions assigned for it’s execution,” one is left to wonder if the GFF is really serious about its role in the development of the game in Guyana.
The GFF also boasted that it is among “the few FIFA Member Associations that provides substantial funding to support its Elite Clubs. This
includes participation, grants, equipment, game day transportation and uniforms. These contributions underscore our unwavering commitment to enabling the sustained participation and growth of our Elite Clubs.”
The GFF also stressed that it “remains dedicated to working closely with our clubs to ensure their continued development and success. We thank all clubs for their patience and
ongoing support as we finalized the arrangements for the prize presentation.”
The above statements are all “flowery” as we say in Guyanese parlance.
The GFF needs to explain to the paying public, players and sponsors the reason for the delay in making the payments and also why it waited until the publication of the article condemning its reluctance to do so.
Minister Charles Ramson Jr speaking to a gathering at St Stephen’s ground
Lights at St Stephen’s ground in Charlestown
Inagural Rockstone Street-ball Classic launched
The inaugural Rockstone Street-ball Classic was launched yesterday at the Guyana Brewery office in Providence, East Bank Demerara, with the opening night pencilled for Friday at the Pouderoyen Tarmac.
The event, which will utilise an elimination format, will feature eight teams batting for over $400,000 in cash and prizes.
The competing teams are: Agricola, Ballers Empire, Bagotstown Warriors, Pouderoyen Brothers, Family, Jetty Gunners, Showstoppers, and West Side Ballers.
The winner of the event will pocket $200,000 and the championship trophy, while the second, third, and fourth-place finishers will receive $100,000, $75,000, and $50,000, respectively.
Seweon McGarrell, Marketing Manager of Guyana Brewery, said, “This event marks a significant milestone not only for our brand, Rockstone Tonic Wine, but also for the talented players that love street football in Guyana. Rockstone Tonic Wine is a brand rooted in boldness, resilience, and authenticity. Just
as football brings people together through its energy and passion, Rockstone connects us with moments of competitiveness and celebration.”
According to McGarrell, the company is proud to be the driving force behind this
novel initiative, noting that the success of the product, despite its recent introduction to the market, has afforded the company the platform to stage such an event.
He affirmed, “The Rockstone Street Classics is more
than just a competition. It is a platform to shine a spotlight on the immense talent, skill, and determination within our communities. This championship is set to bring out the very best in our local teams and create unforgettable moments for fans.”
McGarrell noted that the intention is to expand the tournament to other jurisdictions in the New Year so that the event can develop into a national championship, as it will provide the opportunity for more players to showcase their talents.
Meanwhile, Mikhail DaSilva, Guyana Brewery Trade and Marketing Executive, said that the company has played an integral role in the development of young people, noting that their recent contribution to league football is evidence of such a commitment.
He noted that the compa-
ny is proud to be associated with the tournament, which has the potential to develop into a marquee championship.
Complete Tournament Fixtures
Quarterfinal round: Friday, November 29th (1): Team Family vs. Bagotstown Warriors (2): Agricola vs. Ballerz Empire (3): Pouderoyen Brothers vs. Westside Ballers (4): Jetty Ballers vs. Showstoppers
Semifinal Round: Friday, December 6th (5): Winner of 1 vs. Winner of 2 (6): Winner of 3 vs. Winner of 4 3rd Place (7): Loser of 5 vs. Loser of 6 Final (8): Winner of 5 vs. Winner of 6
Chase takes lead in Republic Bank Limited Secondary Schools League
CHASE Academic Foundation confirmed their place at the top of the league table with a 3-1 victory over Waramuri Secondary in the penultimate round of the Republic Bank Limited Schools U-18 Football League at the Ministry of Education Ground.
Chase went behind early as Waramuri Secondary’s Rondell Peters scored almost immediately after the opening whistle.
Neeiaz Baksh would bring scores level in the
37th before giving his team the lead in the 48th minute as they parked the bus to secure their lead.
Bryan Wharton’s 64th minute goal all but confirmed the victory for the Georgetown based side 3-1.
Meanwhile Round six saw South Ruimveldt Secondary taking a 4-nil win over East Coast outfit President`s College.
South’s Seon Grant opened the scoring for his side in the 11th minute but it was Jeremiah Glasgow that
proved the most successful with a double coming on either side of the half in the 22nd and 33rd minutes.
A President College’s own goal in the 35 would complete the 4-nil score line for South as they won it comfortably.
East Ruimveldt Secondary then had a stern challenge against West Ruimveldt Secondary who dominated them from the opening whistle.
East Ruimveldt Secondary’s Jahiem Herbert gave
them the early lead in the 10th minute and that advantage would hold until a pair of goals from West Ruimveldt Jeremiah Griffith in the 23rd and 26th equalised then put them in front.
An own goal would further sink East Ruimveldt before Donovon Welcome and Elijah Sattuar went onto record hat-tricks to put West in a commanding position.
Ozim Lewis was the other goal scorer as west finished 10-1 winners.
Warriors beat Lahore Qalandars by...
engineered a dramatic collapse which saw the Pakistan franchise crashing from 105-4 to 122-9. The pacer had four wickets for two runs in the penultimate over after removing Abell at 121-6.
Pretorius then got rid of Captain Carlos Brathwaite (9), Faheem Ashraf (1) and Asif Afridi for a duck.
Salman Mirza (2)
then fell to Sakib as Lahore Qalandars lost their last five batters for four runs.
The Warriors started inauspiciously when Trinidadian Mark Dyal, one of the new faces in the South American franchise, departed for one at 3-1 in the first over from left-arm speedster Salman Mirza who soon Moin Ali (17) to leave the home team on 35-2 in five over.
Ali’s demise brought the talented Guyanese Shimron Hetmyer to join Hope and after the six-over power-play, the Warriors were 38-2.
Before he had scored and the score on 392, Hetymer missed a wild swipe off Wells but survived the appeal for stumping.
Hetmyer hit the next ball into the crowd who were dancing to the pulsating rhythms from the
DJ and the 50 was soon posted off 54 balls.
The West Indies pair took the score to 57-2 after 10 overs leaving them to get 69 from 60 balls to win.
Hope deposited Wells for consecutive sixes and the Warriors’ cheerleaders were gyrating with delight.
While the 34-yearold left-arm spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, with 319 wickets from 282 T20s,
befuddled the batters from the southern end, it was Afridi, who made the breakthrough.
Attempting an almighty swing, Hetmyer missed the first ball from Afridi and was bowled for 14 at 76-3.
The left-arm spinner also bowled Roston Chase, who hit a four and six in a cameo 15 from eight balls to the hosts 96-4 in the 15th over.
Paul survived an LBW shout on ‘Umpires’ Call’ off Shamsi but in the end, Hope and Paul saw the Warriors home with their unbroken fifth wicket stand. The first standalone tournament was launched after speeches from Sir Clive and Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali while a fantastic fireworks display preceded the opening game.
Action in the Republic Bank Limited Secondary School League
Representatives from several of the competing teams pose with officials following the launch of the inaugural Rockstone Street-ball Classic yesterday
Warriors beat Lahore Qalandars by six wickets
By Sean Devers
IT is said that when night falls, the stars come out to shine and last night at the Providence Stadium it was South African pacer, Dwaine Pretorius, who shone the brightest in the inaugural match of the five-team Guyana Global T20 league.
Pretorius bagged 4-21 after taking 4-1 in the penultimate over to reduce Lahore Qalandars from 122-6 to 125 in 19.2 overs.
He got support from Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Hassan Khan who had two wickets each.
Tom Abell hit two fours and six in 48 from 45 balls but only Adam Rossington’s 25 with three fours
and two sixes reached double figures.
Shai Hope, unbeaten on 45 with two fours and two sixes from 43 balls shared in an unbroken 32-run fifth wicket stand from 22 balls with Keemo Paul who ended on 27 from 13 balls, saw the Warriors to 129-4 from 17.5 overs
Asif Afridi had 2-13 for the visitors who lost by six wickets.
A good size crowd watched as the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) invited Lahore Qalandars to bat on a track that favoured the bowlers.
Mirza Baig (5) got going with a boundary but was lbw to Tanzim Hasan Shakibi in the same over to leave the score on 13-1 in
the fifth over.
Rossington hit the 35-year-old Pretorius for six before being floored by one that cut back from Hassan Khan that struck him in his stomach.
Rossington responded by pulling Khan over
mid-wicket for six while stroking three well-hit boundaries before the Englishman was dismissed by Khan for a 19-ball 25 at 35-2 in the fifth over.
Mohammad Faizan (9) run out was the next wicket to fall just after the 50
was posted from 40 balls.
Abell and Luke Wells carried the 69-3 at the halfway stage as the Warriors pulled things back on a fast outfield.
When 45-year-old Skipper Imran Tahir removed Wells (11) at 84-4
and spread his wings to fly, the raucous fans in the stands were on their feet.
The 100 came up off 82 balls before Muhammad Akhlaq (8) fell to Khan before Pretorius
TURN TO PAGE 35
West Indies beat Bangladesh
In the first innings, Justin Greaves scored 115*, and added 140 with Kemar Roach • Cricket West Indies
The Guyana Amazon Warriors won their opening game against the Lahore Qalandars