Further, Dr. Ali, at the invitation of the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford in London, on F riday, held an interactive session with
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Friday met with the newly appointed United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Lammy at his official residence at Carlton Gardens in London. Discussions focused on stronger collaboration in commerce, biodiversity, and Haiti, among other matters.
students on a case study of Guyana’s leadership strategy to manage its oil wealth.
The event’s theme was, ‘Guyana in Transformation: The Theory of Change and Priorities’.
Professor Karthik Ramana, Professor of Business and Public Policy at Oxford University, and the former President of Colombia, Ivan Duque, moderated the interactive discussion. (Office of the President photos)
‘We are not changing our development plan’
–– President Ali says, reiterates Guyana’s commitment to protect forest, biodiversity
EVEN as Guyana pushes for the advancement of its petroleum industry, the country’s commitment to conserving its forests and biodiversity will remain paramount, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said.
The Guyanese Head of State made those comments while participating in the Clinton Global Initiative held in New York on Friday.
Dr. Ali, while responding to questions on Guyana’s Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), said that the country intends to accelerate its commitment to the forest and biodiversity.
“We are not changing our development path. We’re not changing our commitment on the forest; we’re not changing our commitment on biodiversity. [As] a matter of fact, we have accelerated that commitment by saying, in 18 months, we [will] double the preservation area for biodiversity,” the President said.
President Ali highlighted the significant carbon storage capacity of Guyana’s forest, which sequesters 153 million tons of carbon annually. He pointed out, too, that even with 10 Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels operating offshore, the forest would not be utilising a significant portion of its carbon seques-
tration capacity.
Dr. Ali said: “You have a country that is keeping its forest [at] the lowest deforestation rate in the world, committed to keeping this for the planet, safeguarding our biodiversity, expanding the mechanism.”
On Wednesday, while addressing the 79th Session of the General Assembly of the United Na-
tions in New York, the Head of State announced the launch of a Global Biodiversity Alliance.
Guyana, in 2025, will convene the first global biodiversity alliance summit.
This platform will focus on creating a market for biodiversity credits, scaling biodiversity conservation debt swaps, accelerating biodiversi -
ty bonds, establishing a blueprint for biodiversity taxonomies, and promoting nature positive action.
This, he said, is not just a commitment of mere words: “Guyana is also committing to doubling its protected areas by December 2025 and achieving the global biodiversity target of 30% by 2030… These are real solutions that Guyana is putting forward to address the global problem of biodiversity loss. We do not lecture; we lead by example without arrogance.”
Dr. Ali had said that the initiative will be driven by the successes of the country’s LCDS.
President Ali had engaged regional stakeholders at the 2024 Concordia Amazonas Summit held in Guyana back in July.
Dr. Ali then conducted comprehensive discussions, emphasising the necessity of a collaborative approach to preserve the flora and fauna of the region.
In 2009, Guyana became the first developing nation to introduce the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). The strategy delineated a vision for the promotion of fair and sustainable development, while simultaneously safeguarding the nation’s forests, which constitute approximately 85 per cent of its total land area.
By means of its LCDS, Guyana has established a framework to achieve a harmonious integration of economic development and the preservation of the nation’s forests and biodiversity, while also receiving compensation for these efforts.
“We have committed, with Concordia, to work on bringing together the stakeholders, the leaders of these 17 countries, members of the academic community so that we can work together on building this model, to develop a pricing mechanism,” Dr. Ali said in July.
Integration of youth into oil, gas industry paramount for further advancement
–– Vice-President Jagdeo highlights investments being made to enhance human capital during GOGEC’S Youth Forum
THE Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) proudly hosted a highly impactful Youth Forum on Oil and Gas on Friday, September 27, 2024, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre under the theme, “Integrating Youths in National Life.”
The forum brought together over 350 young professionals and students from Queen’s College, President’s College, St. Stanislaus Col-
lege, St. Roses High School, St. Joseph High School, The Bishop’s High School, the University of Guyana, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Government Technical Institute and School of the Nations to explore the critical role of youth in shaping the future of the oil and gas industry and contributing to national development.
The President of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC), Man -
niram Prashad focused on empowering young people to take active roles in the energy sector, highlighting the importance of integrating their ideas and talents into the broader framework of national growth and sustainability.
The keynote Speaker was the Vice-President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who emphasised the importance of youth involvement in strategic sectors such as
oil and gas.
He highlighted that the future of national development depends on how we integrate young talents into key sectors such as energy by investing in youth today, “we are securing a prosperous future for our nation.”
The Vice-President explored how youth engagement in the oil and gas sector could contribute to broader national goals, including economic development, innovation, and
sustainable energy solutions.
Discussions centred on how academic institutions, the government, and the oil and gas sector can collaborate to equip young people with the skills needed to drive national growth.
Participants participated in the question-and-answer segment, which focused on infrastructural developments in Guyana, the healthcare sector, project management in the energy sector, and in-
novation-driven solutions to industry challenges.
These young attendees played a central role in the forum, presenting ideas on how they could contribute to the oil and gas industry and, by extension, national development.
Dr Jagdeo delivered a powerful closing message, emphasising the importance of sustained efforts to integrate youth into national strategic sectors.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali during his participation in the Clinton Global Initiative
Gov’t has done a commendable job to ensure Guyanese access adequate, healthy food
“FIRSTLY, I wish to draw the writer’s attention to the Ministry of Finance’s 2024 Mid-Year report which stated that Guyana’s non-oil growth was estimated at 11.8 per cent for the first half of the year.
The report also further stated that the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector is estimated to have grown by 8.7 per cent.
Over the last four years, the government has been resolute in its commitment to alleviating financial burdens and improving the standard of living for Guyanese. As such, the government has implemented a suite of deliberate initiatives and policies to address the impact of higher commodity prices globally.
The rise in food prices and the costs of transportation, goods, and services resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russian invasion of Ukraine war, and other disruptions. At home, we were challenged by unprecedented floods in 2021, and El Niño conditions that began in the second half of 2023 and continued through to April 2024.
Since the government assumed office in August 2020, National Budgets have been designed to target several critical areas including the cost of food locally and access to affordable and healthy food.
This year’s Budget committed over $70 billion to sustain the government’s efforts to increase the disposable income available to citizens while ensuring their improved standard of living.
Significant investments have been made in agriculture, infrastructure, health, education, social services, and housing.
While for the first half of 2024, food prices were impacted by a combination of domestic and global factors, the government proactively implemented measures to reduce the cost of production and cushion the cost of living and will continue to do so throughout the year. In fact, the government has already engaged farmers to explore ways of directly reaching consumers in an effort to continue to contain food prices.
Only recently, while addressing a ministerial panel at the high-level dialogue, Minister Zulfikar
Mustapha announced that according to the SOFI 2024 report, undernourishment in Guyana has fallen below 2.5 per cent, a figure well below the regional average of 6.6 per cent and the global average of 9.1 per cent.
This achievement resulted from deliberate policy interventions aimed at enhancing food production and improving access to nutritious food in Guyana.
Saying that Guyanese are ‘crying for help to buy basic food items’ and ‘living in a half-starved condition’ is grossly inaccurate. What remains a fact is that the government through the Ministry of Agriculture is now looking to improve its agro-processing capabilities. This is the vision of H.E. President Irfaan Ali and Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha.
If we are to refer to a time when Guyanese were crying for help to buy basic food items and living in a half-starved condition, then we must reference the 1982 New York Times article titled ‘GUYANA’S ECONOMY IN A SEVERE CRISIS’ https://www.nytimes. com/1982/10/03/world/
guyana-s-economy-in-asevere-crisis.html.
The article stated that the abruptness with which the economic crisis has overtaken day-to-day life in Guyana had left many people frustrated and fuming.
The government banned the importation of dozens of items that had long been a part of Guyanese life. These include preserved foods, fruit, and split peas. Other staples, such as wheat used for flour, had disappeared.
The country’s net international reserves were said to be $250 million in the red. In addition to banning those basic items, citizens had to line up for many hours at government stores to purchase what were already scarce goods such as cooking oil and powdered milk and the housewives were complaining that the prices of available items had soared.
Mr. Editor, these are different times, and while countries all over the world are faced with food insecurity challenges, the Government of Guyana has done a commendable job of ensuring Guyanese have access to adequate and healthy food.”
200 families move closer to home ownership
––
after identifying house
lots at Stewartsville Housing Scheme
THE first 200 landowners at Stewartsville Housing Scheme (East) in Region Three will begin constructing their homes following a lot identification exercise led by Collin Croal, Minister of Housing and Water, on Friday.
The exercise marks a significant milestone for the landowners, many of whom have waited for years to own their land.
One of the landowners, Indarjeet Mangal, expressed his joy at finally owning land after years of renting.
“It will impact our lives because for many years we get our own land,” Mangal said.
Arjon, who applied for her land in 2020, noted that her family is excited to move out of their rented home and begin building their own house.
Meanwhile, Minister Croal said that infrastructural works are ongoing in the housing scheme’s first phase and that this will ensure allottees have access to their lands, roadways, and drainage systems.
“We have fully allocated [lots] in Stewartsville. The combination between
Another landowner, Vena Arjon, was overwhelmed with emotions when she received the call to identify her house lot. “I don’t have words to explain it. I’m feeling different emotions. It was really nice,” she said.
Stewartsville East and West is over 2,100 allocations that were done,” he emphasised.
Residents can access the housing area via the concrete strip road in Leonora or the newly completed concrete bridge in Stewartsville.
Minister Croal said that the ministry’s Survey Unit will continue the lot identification process as lands become available. He explained that two more lots in Stewartsville East are expected to become available within the next three weeks.
The remaining lot in Stewartsville West is scheduled for completion by the end of October.
The development
Gov’t distributes over 23,000 eye tests, 60,000 Cervical Cancer vouchers
–– Guyanese urged to take advantage of health initiatives
WITH the cost of screening eliminated through vouchers, Guyanese are urged to take advantage of the cervical cancer and eye testing programmes, and prioritise their health.
General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Bharrat Jagdeo delivered the call during his weekly press conference at Freedom House on Thursday.
For the eye testing and spectacles programme, about 23,000 tests have been conducted, and 18,753 spectacles have been issued.
The programme targetting individuals aged 18 and under and those 65 and older offers a $2,000 voucher for eye screening, and $15,000 to cover the cost of spectacles, if required.
“I understand that not everyone may need this, since some people may have already had their eyes tested, but there is nothing wrong with coming back and getting your eyes tested again, and getting a pair of spectacles. So, I hope that more people use these facilities,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
The programme also enables the Ministry of Health to better identify persons who need optical operations, so they can be provided with much-needed assistance.
Some $840 million has been earmarked in the national budget for the eye tests, while $995 million was set aside to subsidise spectacles cost.
Meanwhile, the cervical cancer screening is reducing the financial burden associated with gynaecological care for women between the ages of 21 to 65.
According to Dr. Jagdeo, approximately 60,000 vouchers have been distributed thus far, and he urged Guyanese women to obtain their vouchers and complete the tests, as it is a critical step in combatting cervical cancer.
“Just about 3,300 tests have been done so far. We are talking about potentially 300,000 beneficiaries,” he added.
With a budget of $2.8 billion, the programme provides $8,000 vouchers for cervical cancer screenings, which can be redeemed at participating institutions, including New Vision Medical Centre, Woodlands Limited, HUIAQI Health Service, Eureka Medical Laboratory, and Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital.
These programmes make essential healthcare services more accessible to the people, especially in rural areas, marking another crucial step in improving the health and well-being of Guyanese. (DPI)
forms part of the $7.7 billion infrastructure project currently underway at the new Stewartville Housing Scheme.
In April, Minister Croal met with the fourteen contractors who are carrying
out works in the nineteen lots on East and West Stewartville.
The contractors were urged to expedite their respective contracts, as hundreds of Guyanese are eagerly waiting to start building their homes. The ongoing works include the installation of a network of pipes, drainage infrastructure, and the construction of culverts, access roads, and bridges.
The first 200 landowners at Stewartsville Housing Scheme (East) in Region Three will begin constructing their homes following a lot identification exercise led by Collin Croal, Minister of Housing and Water on Friday
A Critical Assessment
THE political landscape in Guyana is marked by the ongoing dialogue surrounding the oil and gas industry, a sector that has rapidly transformed the nation’s economic prospects.
Recently, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) unveiled a 20-point plan, aiming to outline its vision for the oil and gas industry should it regain power. However, this plan has been met with significant skepticism, particularly from the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo, who described it as “a useless document that lacks substance”.
Jagdeo’s critique highlights a critical issue: The PNCR’s plan is perceived as lacking originality and actionable commitments. He pointed out that twelve of the twenty points merely advocate for feasibility studies and reviews, which does little to instill confidence in a concrete policy framework. This raises an important question about
the PNCR’s ability to provide substantive governance in an industry that is vital for Guyana’s future. Jagdeo’s assertion that “running government is very different” underscores the necessity for plans that translate into meaningful action rather than vague promises.
The PNCR’s record while in power is also under scrutiny. As the main party in the former APNU+AFC coalition, the PNCR was responsible for the controversial deal with ExxonMobil, which many critics argue was more advantageous for the corporation than for Guyana. Jagdeo’s remarks serve as a reminder that past governance failures cannot be overlooked. A credible plan must address the lessons learned from previous missteps, and demonstrate a commitment to ensuring that the country’s vast oil reserves benefit all Guyanese.
In contrast, the PPP’s approach emphasises a clear and robust policy framework. Jagdeo pointed to the party’s past achieve-
ments, such as implementing the Local Content Act, which has opened doors for thousands of Guyanese businesses in the oil sector. The PPP has taken steps to ensure transparency and accountability, with measures like requiring parliamentary approval for withdrawals from the Natural Resource Fund (NRF). These actions reflect a commitment to responsible management of the country’s resources.
As Guyana stands on the brink of becoming one of the world’s leading oil producers, with projections to exceed one million barrels per day by the end of the decade, the stakes are higher than ever. The PNCR must recognise that a superficial plan will not suffice in a sector that requires thoughtful and actionable policies. Instead of resorting to vague statements and empty promises, the PNCR needs to engage in meaningful dialogue, and present a clear vision that addresses the complexities of the oil and gas industry.
Jagdeo’s assertion that the PNCR’s plan is an “elaborate con” resonates with many who seek genuine leadership and a commitment to improving the lives of all Guyanese through responsible governance. If the PNCR aims to regain public trust and support, it must offer a plan that reflects a deep understanding of the sector, coupled with a commitment to fostering sustainable development and local empowerment.
The discussion around the PNCR’s 20-point plan serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of substance in political proposals. Guyanese citizens deserve leaders who can provide clarity, transparency, and actionable commitments, particularly in a sector that promises to shape the nation’s future.
The upcoming elections will demand rigorous scrutiny of all parties’ plans, ensuring that those who seek to lead are prepared to navigate the complexities of governance in the oil and gas industry.
The PNCR is clutching at straws
Dear Editor,
THE recent statements on GuySuCo by MP Vinceroy Jordan can only be described as totally baseless, unfounded, reckless, impetuous, mischievous, malicious and wickedly vengeful.
The list of similar adjectives can be extremely long.
It has long been the modus operandi of the APNU+AFC to ceaselessly chant the ‘corruption’ mantra without providing an iota of evidence. The Guyana Sugar Corporation has a robust Internal Audit Department which ensures compliance with laws and regulations, and helps to maintain accurate and timely financial reporting and data collection.
This department has never been the subject of any malpractice and its findings have always been accurate, impartial and without prejudice. As a responsible Member of Parliament, Mr. Jordan must know this fact, and that the findings of the internal audit as it relates to the overstatement of 243 tonnes of sugar at Rose Hall Estate is subjected to such high standards.
The Production Manager and the Head Lab Technician did not deny that there was an overstatement, but the ‘well-informed’
Member of Parliament denied this fact and attributed this to “merely a top-of-the-surface rush to the defense of the Minister of Agriculture and the Agency…”
This is a gross insult and a direct attack on the Internal Audit department of GuySuCo. In simple words, the MP is saying that the internal audit finding is a cover-up. As a professional accountant I take umbrage to such reckless and willful attempts to besmirch the character and professional integrity of my peers. Who is Jordan to make such determination?
This MP would do well to subject his party, the PNC, to close scrutiny when it comes to corruption, mismanagement and related cover-ups. The Auditor-General reports for all the years the coalition was in government are replete with taxpayers’ dollars unaccounted for.
For instance, Jordan should read the 2019 Report where the Auditor-General submitted a ‘Disclaimer of Opinion’ which stated that, “I do not express an opinion on financial report of the deposit fund, receipts and payments of the contingencies fund and statement of assets and liabilities of the government which form part of the consolidated financial statements. Because of the significance of the comments
as contained in the relevant sections of my Report.
“I have not been able to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to provide a basis for an audit opinion on these statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019.”
The Coalition constantly raided and raped the Treasury. The details are in the reports, Mr. Jordan. This was what the Coalition did in their term in Office from 2015 to 2020, and Jordan has the temerity and audacity to question the findings of GuySuCo’s Internal Audit Department. This MP and his colleagues should spend some time dissecting and digesting the Auditor General’s Report for all those years in government.
It is anyone’s guess what they would have done with the oil monies. They gave a good illustration with the signing bonus. The PNC/ APNU+AFC has no moral or legal basis to speak about corruption, they should stick to conducting ‘pit latrines’ audit.
Mr. Jordan and his ilk should have done an audit on the total cost of the closure of the four estates which this government has to bear.
This is estimated at more than $100 billion. His colleague, Winston Jordan had said that the estates will be kept in pristine operational conditions until sold but instead
billions in sugar canes, machineries and equipment were left to rot and decay. Even the grinding estates were not spared since capital investment and rehabilitation work was minimal and thousands of hectares of sugar canes cultivation were abandoned.
It must be recalled that $17.6 billion from the $30 billion bond was expended with nothing to show. This government is now rectifying the havoc unleashed by the Coalition. Jordan and his colleagues should visit the Rose Hall Estate and its environs and behold the progress and prosperity which this government has brought back. This has been the trend countrywide.
In conclusion, I wish to reiterate a statement from GuySuCo’s response to Jordan’s vexatious and spurious allegations, ‘The people of Guyana deserve better than these cheap political stunts. MP Jordan should focus on contributing positively to the nation instead of spreading lies and stirring up unnecessary controversy’.
The PNCR/APNU+AFC should know that they cannot win an election on lies and deceptive statements.
Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf
Fire rips through DDL power station complex at Diamond
A FIRE of unknown origin has destroyed the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL)’s Diamond Complex Power Station.
According to information from DDL and the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), a fire was observed near one of the generating sets around 16:40 hrs on Friday.
The DDL Fire Response Team responded and worked to control the fire until the arrival of
units of the Guyana Fire Service. Up to press time, the Guyana Fire Service was able to contain the fire to the power station, and no other facilities or installations were under threat.
PNC-R maintains presidential candidate must come from its party
–– if coalition is pursued
IN a declaration reflective of the self-interest which the party’s leadership is being accused of prioritising, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC-R) has maintained that if it is to pursue a coalition with the Alliance For Change (AFC), the presidential candidate must come from Congress Place.
Party General Secretary
Sherwin Benjamin, in an invited comment to the Guyana Chronicle on Friday, cited a motion that was moved at its biennial congress to allow whomever emerges as the party’s leader to be the presidential candidate for the upcoming Regional and General Elections.
Aubrey Norton was elected as the party’s leader in July, despite battling a
Three persons charged for assault
–– following unfortunate incident caught on camera at CPL cricket match –– stringent security measures, beefed-up police presence guaranteed for remainder of season
THREE persons were on Friday charged for assault relative to their brawling and uncouth behaviour (as seen in a viral video) from the September 25 CPL match between Guyana Amazon Warriors and Barbados Royals at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence.
According to information from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), a spectator, who was reportedly under the influence of alcohol, was seen being stomped on by several men as he lay on the ground. The individual was taken to the hospital, where he was treated and sent away. The incident was unfortunate.
The Guyana Police Force would like to assure all cricket lovers, sup-
porters and fans that there will be stringent security measures and beefed-up police presence (uniform and plain clothes) at the Guyana National Stadium for the remainder of the CPL matches in Guyana. While the required security posture are in place at the stadium (both inside and around the perimeter), additional measures will be in place to mitigate against any recurrence.
Subsequent to the assault and arrest, medicals were obtained, and charges were preferred on Friday, September 27, 2024. The three persons charged and who appeared in court today are: Sereste Brittlebank, a 28-year-old resident of Coldingen, East Coast Demerara (charged with the
offence ‘Assault Peace Officer’); Keron Williams, age 29, and Trevon Williams, age 31, both from Annadale, ECD, (charged with the offence ‘Assault Causing Actual Bodily Harm’).
The charges were laid under Section 30 (a) and Section 21 of the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act chapter 8:02.
The defendants appeared at the Diamond Magistrate Court #3 before Magistrate Dylon Bess and pleaded ‘Not Guilty’ to the charges.
Keron Williams and Sereste Brittlebank were released on $20,000 and 80,000 bail, respectively, while Trevon Williams was released on $60,000 bail.
The matters were adjourned to 2024-10-03 for trial.
mountain of allegations regarding numerous infractions before the party’s internal elections were held.
Benjamin, while skirting around questions on whether the party is capable of contesting the general polls on its own, stated that the PNC-R believes there is room for coalition politics, and in due time will approach its former coalition partner, the AFC.
“We are working with our coalition partners be -
tween the APNU, and we will reach out to the AFC when that time arrives to chart the way forward,” Benjamin told this publication.
Both the PNC-R and the AFC have publicly expressed optimism that they could gain solid footing if they are to contest the polls independently.
The “Cummingsburg Accord” signed by the APNU and AFC on February 14, 2015, saw the parties uniting in a coalition that saw them winning the 2015 elections,
but that seven-year partnership officially ended on December 31, 2022, as was announced by then AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan. In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle last year, Ramjattan said that the party made the decision in 2022 to leave the coalition.
PNC-R’s Norton, in 2023, had maintained, however, that there were no regrets about any of the decisions that led to the AFC abandoning the coalition with APNU.
A fire of unknown origin has destroyed DDL’s Diamond Complex Power Station
PNC-R General Secretary Sherwin Benjamin
Sereste Brittlebank Trevon Williams Keron Williams
The reality about the Israeli armed forces
GAZA is 25 miles long and seven miles wide. Total size is 141 square miles.
On Tuesday, it will be one year since Israel started bombing Gaza to kill Hamas freedom fighters. After one year, Israel is still bombing. Where is the defeat of Hamas?
Why in such a small enclave, the supposed brilliant army has not vanquished Hamas and rescued the hostages? Before we answer that question, one has to understand how the world gets its news whenever Israel is in a military conflict in the Middle East.
I am suggesting you do not take my word for it. Go to world news in the past and at the present and read about Israeli action. The reporting from all the major Western media organisations is not only biased in favour of Israel, but is disdainful in its reporting about the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) and Hezbollah in the two Israeli invasions in Lebanon (1978 and 1982) and Hamas in 2023-24.
All the news that is published from Israeli action is based on what Israel tells these media houses. This is one of the most depressing and pathological descent into gutter journalism in the history of the world. Two combatants are engaged in a conflict, and a media house visits the conflict and asks one of the combatants, what is your casualty figure and that of the enemy’s. You are given exaggerated statistics, and you run with it.
The combatant you spoke with said
it lost 10 men and killed 100 enemy soldiers. You print that, and the world reads it and believes it. The Israelis were beaten in South Lebanon in 1978, and this explains why it willingly gave up its occupation of South Lebanon. This is an army that won in Syria and annexed Syrian territory (Golan Heights).
This is an army that won in Jordan and occupies Gaza and the West Bank. So, this occupying army didn’t want territory in South Lebanon? Of course it did. But the PLO defeated it, so it hid its shame and said it was withdrawing.
Had Israel conquered South Lebanon without a fight, it would have still been in control up to this day. The Lebanese army did not fight. The battle was between the PLO and the IDF (Israeli Defense Force) and the IDF could not win in 1970 and 1980.
Why the Gaza conflict is going beyond a year? The IDF has been elevated to world military status by the Western press. So, for 60 years, the world has read about the might of the IDF. But it is a fiction. The IDF hasn’t fought a serious war with a serious enemy since 1967.
What the IDF has done since the 1970s is to bomb territories that do not have naval, air and ground forces. The Western media tells us about a war in Gaza; there is no war in Gaza. Israel has flattened this enclave of 141 square miles while Hamas engages them in guerilla warfare.
The Gaza conflict has dragged on for
one year because Israel keeps bombing the place without fighting on the ground; they cannot engage in ground warfare and rescue the hostages because they are losing the ground battle as they did in South Lebanon in 1978. Is there anyone out there who believes this mighty world military power can defeat a guerrilla band in an area of 141, a small part of Linden here in Guyana?
If yes, why has it not happened as yet?
Because the IDF has suffered tremendous casualties in Gaza, and it is not going to engage in open ground warfare. We know the IDF only suffered 300 dead soldiers because the Western press reported that number as told by the Israeli government.
The IDF is not going to enter South Lebanon; it will do what it is doing in Gaza: Bomb the enemies that do not have jet fighters and warships. The Israelis are going to keep bombing Lebanon, as
they are doing as we write. They will not go in, because Lebanon is not Gaza. Lebanon has a formidable fighting force: Hezbollah that makes Hamas look like children at play.
The IDF is no huge, formidable force; it has no experience in actual war since 1967. It is for this reason Israel lives in mortal fear of Iran. Iran knows about modern ground warfare, because it fought a war with Iraq a few decades ago. Israel is hoping to get rid of its nemesis by seeking an American attack on Iran. Israel, for its part, will never attack Iran, because it knows that will be the end of Israel.
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.
Let us enjoy the festivities and rally behind our ‘Warriors’
THE 2024 Republic Bank, Caribbean Premier League is now climaxing in Guyana. The defending champions, Guyana Amazon Warriors are certainly on a high.
Playing in a match on Wednesday night at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, the home team humiliated the Barbados Royals when they completely out-played them with the ball and the bat.
The “Royals” won the toss and asked the “Warriors” to take first strike.
The Amazon Warriors hammered the Royals’ bowling to all parts of the ground as they accumulated a winning 219 runs off their allotted 20 overs. The international opening batsmen gave the home team a brisk start.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz opened the batting with, (crowd attraction) Azam Khan as they ensured that
the score board recorded runs. However, it was the team’s most respected and exciting batsmen Shimron Hetmyer and Shai Hope who put on a dashing but solid century partnership.
The batting of the two “Warriors” was indeed exciting and their ability to rotate the strike and hit the ball out of the boundary were most entertaining.
Also, Romario Shepherd continues to be the ‘hitman’ in the tournament.
The Royals, in reply to the Warriors’ score, visibly suffered heavily from scoreboard pressure as they struggled and perished in their attempt to attain the Warriors’ imposing score.
The spinners Gudakesh Motie, Moeen Ali and the skipper Imran Tahir were always threatening and too good for the opposition batsmen. Only the hard-hitting David Miller proved to be a force to be
reckoned with as he hit out desperately at the end all by himself.
All roads are leading to the Guyana National Stadium this weekend. On Saturday the Warriors will take on the St. Lucia Kings and on Sunday the defending champions will play the Trinbago Knight Riders. These two matches will be exciting as all four teams are already in the ‘Fourteams playoff’.
The mammoth and vociferous crowd will rally behind their home team as the CPL fever grips the nation. Expectations are sky high, that the tremendous batting form of the likes of Hetmyer, Hope and Shepherd will be better than that of Pooran and De Cock.
The planning and execution of the 2024 CPL has surpassed that of previous years. This has resulted in the generation of greater interest among the crick-
eting family around the world.
Our players in this year’s tournament are certainly setting records and marketing themselves for “Franchises” around the world. Guyana is glowing as the carnival atmosphere, the “people participation” and the efficient running of the tournament have produced a thrilling tournament of the highest quality.
Outside of the actual cricket, the 2024 Cricket Carnival season has something for everyone.
The packed schedule includes watch parties, a Wet Soca Block Party on Main Street, the much-anticipated Cricket Parade, concerts, Regional Food
Festivals, a fashion showcase, among other activities.
Things got underway on September 19, with ‘Welcome Vibes’ at the Cheddie Jagan International Airport (CJIA), a collaboration that involved the Guyana Tour-
ism Authority. Scores of passengers were welcomed into Guyana with sweet sounds of the steelpan, carnival models, and tokens.
As we enjoy the festivities, let’s continue to rally behind the Amazon Warriors!
Oil and Gas Sector: GCCI hosts inaugural energy luncheon to boost local business participation
AS opportunities in Guyana’s burgeoning oil and gas industry continue to grow, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) brought together industry leaders and local entrepreneurs on Thursday for its inaugural Energy Luncheon.
The event, organised by the Chamber’s Petroleum Committee, focused on unlocking prospects for local businesses within the lucrative sector.
Kathy Smith, Senior Vice President of the GCCI and Chairperson of the Petroleum Committee, highlighted the Chamber’s role in facilitating
these vital conversations. She noted that the discovery of significant oil reserves has created new pathways for economic growth, jobs, and development in Guyana. However, she cautioned that the industry’s growth must be balanced with environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
“The discovery and development of significant oil reserves have opened up new avenues for economic growth and prosperity for our nation,” Smith stated. “This industry has the potential to uplift the lives of our citizens, create new jobs, and enhance our overall development. But
we must balance this growth with environmental sustainability and the well-being of our communities.”
During the luncheon, GCCI President, Kester Hutson, unveiled the 2024 edition of the Business Guyana Magazine, themed ‘Transforming Guyana’. Hutson outlined key topics within the publication, including E-Commerce, digitalisation, financing, improving standards, compliance, and marketing, all of which are crucial for local businesses aiming to thrive in the evolving economy.
“The information we provide is vital for local busi-
nesses. The GCCI is committed to fostering a resilient business ecosystem that can withstand the test of time,” Hutson said.
The event received support from sponsors including Newrest Guyana, Machinery Corporation of Guyana Limited (MACORP), Unique Electrical and General Store Inc., Freightlink Logistics
Inc., and Panthera Solutions.
Industry experts from major companies—ExxonMobil Guyana, MODEC, Guyana Shore Base Inc., Saipem Guyana Inc., and SBM Offshore Guyana— participated in the event.
They provided insights on their companies’ operations, local content initiatives, and expansion plans, while en-
gaging with participants on how local businesses can tap into the sector’s supply chain.
The GCCI’s Energy Luncheon marks a significant step in empowering local businesses to seize opportunities within Guyana’s thriving oil and gas industry, while ensuring sustainable development.
PAC, Schlumberger Guyana, launch animal rehabilitation project at Guyana Zoological Park
THE Protected Areas Commission (PAC), in collaboration with Schlumberger Guyana (SLB), has launched a new initiative called the Animal Rehabilitation Project, aimed at enhancing the facilities of the Guyana Zoological Park and enriching the experience for wildlife enthusiasts, children, and visitors.
This project is part of a broader effort to conserve Guyana’s rich biodiversity and marks a significant step in the rehabilitation of the zoo’s animals and enclosures.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on Friday at the Guyana Zoological Park in honour of World Tourism Day 2024, celebrated this important public-private partnership, with SLB being the first corporate partner to support the initiative. The event underscored the importance of investing in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation, showcasing the remarkable wildlife of Guyana.
Jason Fraser, Commissioner of the PAC, praised SLB for its leadership and
involvement, noting that the company had been instrumental in making the project possible from the outset.
“This enclosure is the first of many to be created through this partnership,” Fraser said. He also shared plans for further enhancements, including the introduction of open-concept spaces for animals and additional walking paths within the zoo. Fraser called on other organisations to join the effort, highlighting the importance of safe, secure, and educational green spaces in urban areas.
Dee George, President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), echoed Fraser’s call for greater stakeholder involvement, stressing the need for continued preservation of both urban and natural green spaces.
SLB Guyana’s Vice President, Sharlene Seegoolam, expressed pride in her company’s role in the project, noting that it reflects SLB’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship. Seegoolam highlighted that SLB had
committed to preserving green spaces through its annual Adopt a Park initiative two years ago, with volunteers planting trees and engaging in beautification efforts. She described the Animal Rehabilitation Project as a modest but meaningful first step towards a more impactful contribution to Guyana’s environment.
The newly enhanced space will provide a home for some of the zoo’s most vulnerable species, including the red-footed and yellow-footed tortoises. Seegoolam emphasised that these animals are symbols of the biodiversity that SLB and PAC are striving to protect for both current and future generations.
This initiative not only aims to give a second chance to vulnerable wildlife but also demonstrates the potential of public-private collaborations in driving conservation efforts.
As the project progresses, more enclosures will be rehabilitated, further supporting Guyana’s wildlife conservation goals.
PAC Commissioner, Jason Fraser, Vice President of SLB, Sharlene Seegoolam and THAG’s President Dee George, flanked by students of Mae’s School holding the turtles (Delano Williams photo)
Front right: GCCI President, Kester Hutson and Senior Vice President and Chairperson of the Petroleum Committee, Kathy Smith with stakeholders on Thursday
PPP/C Councillor condemns vendor displacement
–– calls for organised vending solutions
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
IN response to recent protests by city vendors removed from the area in front of Popeyes on Water Street, PPP/C councilor, Steven Jacobs, has firmly reiterated his party’s stance against the displacement of vendors.
Speaking exclusively with the Guyana Chronicle, Jacobs emphasised that while they support organised vending, the PPP/C councillors do not agree with any form of vendor removal.
Jacobs highlighted that the government’s goal is to support vendors in earning a livelihood. “Our position as PPP/C councillors is that
we understand the situation of vendors; we are compassionate towards them and their need to provide for their families. We support organised vending where everyone can benefit, but we do not support displacement,” he stated.
Jacobs addressed misconceptions circulating in public, clarifying that the removal of vendors was not orchestrated by the PPP/C government. He reaffirmed that their position on the matter has remained consistent, and they are actively seeking ways to accommodate vendors in a cleaner and more organised environment.
The councillor also shed light on the internal workings of the Mayor and City
Council, particularly the role of the Deputy Mayor, who oversees the Markets Committee and has made recommendations regarding the removal of vendors. Jacobs distanced the PPP/C from these decisions, asserting, “We have continued to state our position; we do not support this.”
Jacobs also revealed that several businesses have taken legal action against the city council, which is now facing potential court charges if they fail to act. He recommended that before evicting vendors, the council must designate sanitary and secure areas for them to operate.
He pointed to the successful establishment of the
vendor’s arcade in 2007 under the PPP/C government, which provided a safe and secure space for vendors. Jacobs further advocated for legal reforms to offer vendors better protection, including the need for identification systems that would assign responsibilities to vendors and
formalise their operations.
In efforts to find interim solutions, Jacobs disclosed that the PPP/C is engaging with business owners near vending locations to explore possible compromises on vending hours and maintaining a clean environment. He also expressed concern about the lack of accountability within the Mayor and City Council, contrasting this with the government’s consistent interventions aimed at improving the city.
Jacobs referenced the recent partnership formed between President Ali and the King Charles Foundation on urban development, expressing confidence that vendors would be included in future plans. He also noted that the PPP/C government has been proactive in maintaining infrastructure such as
roads and drainage through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), ensuring better access for citizens during the rainy season.
Finally, Jacobs pointed to the government’s ongoing efforts to provide employment and training opportunities for public servants, including staff within the city council, through initiatives like the GOAL scholarship programme. He underscored that the government’s commitment extends to all Guyanese, including vendors, and criticised claims that the PPP/C seeks to displace vendors as disingenuous.
“Anyone who says that the PPP/C government wants to displace the vendors or isn’t supportive of Guyanese bettering their lives is being disingenuous,” Jacobs concluded.
PPP/C councillor, Steven Jacobs
–– during upcoming address to National Assembly
President Ali to unveil more cost of living measures
DRIVEN by a vested interest in ensuring that Guyanese enjoy a better standard of life, the government, through the Head of State Dr. Irfaan Ali, will soon unveil more measures geared at addressing the rising cost of living, which is being induced primarily by global economic factors.
Georgetown headquarters on Robb Street.
Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo revealed this on Thursday during his weekly news conference at the party’s
Jagdeo, while responding to the questions from the local media, noted that the government has many ideas in the works to cushion the rising cost of living.
“I know we have a ton of ideas, and the President will speak at the opening of the Parliament,” he said.
The National Assembly is currently in a recess, which runs from August 10 to October 10.
“The President will speak at the opening of the new session of the parliament, so look out for more policy measures from the President,” Jagdeo said.
The effects of global economic conditions have significantly impacted different regions, yet the people of Guyana have been shielded from the worst consequences, due to the
deliberate policies and programmes implemented by the PPP/C Government.
Just last month, President Ali said that despite being challenged by the shocks brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the pressures from rising transportation costs, and rising costs in the movement of goods and services, the Government of Guyana has remained resilient in its response.
The shocks, he reminded, are not limited to Guyana. Citing a recent article by a global financial expert, Dr. Ali noted that global inflation spiked in
179 countries, with countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom recording inflation rates that reached a 40-year high in 2022.
Unlike those countries, Guyana, the President noted, had been “importing” those rising costs.
The Head of State said: “We are importing that inflation. What we have done as the government, very successfully, is [establish] measures that we put in place to cushion that inflationary costs and rising costs, so that the effect was not transported to the consumer.”
NPTAB affirms commitment to transparency in major infrastructure projects
–– clarifies procurement process for Schoonord to Crane Road Project
THE following is the full text of a statement from the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board:
“WITH reference to the letters published on September 26, 2024, by the Kaieteur News and Stabroek News on the Schoonord to Crane Road Project, the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) wishes to clarify as follows. It is important to emphasise that the open tendering method, the most competitive and transparent procurement method, was used. Thirty-two bidders submitted tenders which were evaluated strictly in accordance with the evaluation criteria.
Eight of the bidders were
compliant with the administrative and technical criteria set out in the bidding documents. As such, these bidders were deemed responsive and were considered for further evaluation, while those who were non-responsive were not further evaluated.
Each bidder was limited to one lot and evaluated based on the combination of the contractor’s resources, experience and capacity to execute the works within the stipulated timeline and scope of works.
Based on the foregoing, the evaluators recommended that the lots be awarded to the following bidders:
Lot 1: VR Construction Inc.
Lot 2: Avinash Construction and Scrap Metal Inc.
Lot 8: J S Guyana Inc.
The NPTAB accepted the recommendations made by the evaluators based on their representations regarding the respective contractors’ capacity to execute the individual lots in a timely manner, given the urgency within which the project was required to be completed.
The NPTAB remains committed to ensuring an open, fair, competitive, and transparent public procurement process.”
Lot 3: L-Heureuse and Services Inc.
Lot 4: Guyamerica Construction Inc.
Lot 5: AJM Enterprise
Lot 6: Vals construction
Lot 7: Puran Bros Disposal Inc.
GRA intensifies crackdown on illicit trade, encourages private sector collaboration
By Feona Morrison
THE Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is ramping up efforts to curb illicit trading activities, particularly involving alcohol, tobacco, cigarettes, and poultry products.
Rohan Beekhoo, Comptroller of Customs, Excise and Trade Operations at GRA emphasised the need for increased collaboration between customs, law enforcement agencies, and the private sector to manage risks and penalties associated with these illegal activities.
At the recently held Illicit Trade Seminar hosted by the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Beekhoo highlighted the growing concern over the smuggling of high-risk items. He noted that GRA officers have been seizing a range of contraband items, with alcohol, cigarettes, and chicken being the most common.
“Over the past few years, our activities have increased. Almost every month, seizures are being made and these are in the form of the high-risk goods… alcohol, beers, tobacco, cigarettes, chicken, among other items,” Beekhoo explained.
The Comptroller revealed that the penalties for these offences are severe, often with fines reaching up to three times the street value of the seized goods. According to him, this is a measure intended to deter individuals from engaging in such illegal activities.
Beekhoo noted that the fight against illicit trade is about enforcement and that the GRA has been getting a lot of help in that regard from local and international partners. “We partner with local and international law enforcement agencies. We have been getting a lot of co-operation from the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit, the Guyana Police Force, the army and other agencies.”
The fight against illicit trade is not just about enforcement; it also involves strengthening the internal capabilities of the GRA.
Beekhoo outlined ongoing efforts to recruit and train staff, particularly in the area of risk management and customs brokerage.
He emphasised that training for custom brokers is crucial because they will be better able to advise their clients on the classification and management of goods.
One significant development has been the reduction of bureaucratic hurdles in the clearance process. “We have removed the red tape from the clearance of goods. At one time, I think it used to be one month. We have improved that significantly to within one to three weeks.”
New smuggling trends have been emerging, posing additional challenges for the GRA.
Beekhoo pointed to the discovery of gold being disguised as jewellery as one of the innovative methods being used to evade cus -
Comptroller of Customs, Excise and Trade Operations, Rohan Beekhoo
toms checks. “There are new trends in the form of gold being disguised as jewellery. So, smuggling from the regular, traditional consumables, goods, vehicles, narcotics, gold and currency…. all combined together.” He said that these complex smuggling methods require equally sophisticated countermeasures. To that end, he pointed out that the GRA is investing in advanced detection technologies and expanding its intelligence capabilities.
The GRA is also calling on the private sector to play a more active role in combating illicit trade. Beekhoo stressed the importance of intelligence sharing and the need for businesses to come forward with information on potential illegal activities. “So, we would like to urge
the private sector members to share the intel that you may have so that we can take action.”
To facilitate this collaboration, Beekhoo urged businesses to apply for the
Trusted Trader status. This programme, designed to streamline the customs process for compliant businesses, reduces the number of checks and documentation required for these companies.
The GRA official is optimistic that with continued collaboration and the support of the business community, Guyana can significantly reduce the incidence of illicit trade.
PNC-R dodges questions on its deliberate misrepresentation of local conditions
–– in 2023 report to New York Senate Delegation
FOLLOWING New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud’s revelation that the narratives being pushed by the Opposition and its affiliated activists are false, the People’s National Congress-Reform (PNC-R) is now dodging questions about the veracity of its claims.
During a recent engagement with the diaspora at the Hills Restaurant in Brooklyn,
New York, the New York Senator said that the narratives being advanced by detractors have led many to assume the “worst” of Guyana.
But they had the chance to see Guyana’s impressive development, up close, when she, a US-based Guyanese, led a visiting team, which consisted of Senator Kevin Parker and Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman, here last
year October.
The delegation comprised members of both the New York State Senate and the New York State Assembly.
At a press conference on Friday, the Guyana Chronicle questioned PNC-R General Secretary Sherwin Benjamin on whether the party’s report submitted to the New York Senate Delegation last year failed to portray a balanced
representation of Guyana’s progress.
However, the party’s General Secretary declined to answer, and the party’s press conference restricted questioning unless it was on its prepared and rehearsed press statement.
On October 28, 2023, PNC- R Leader Aubrey Norton and team had met with the delegation and made presentations on varying claims such as: Racial and political discrimination, and the general lack of good
governance in the country, among other things.
The Opposition has constantly alleged claims of discrimination and poor governance; however, this has never been supported by solid evidence.
But even with all of the “noise”, as the New York Senator puts it, Guyana’s development and the prudent management of the economy by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government could not be clouded by detractors’ rhetoric.
Senator Persaud, during the recent engagement, said:
“Last October, we went to Guyana as a delegation for four days, to see Guyana, to take people who were not Guyanese to see what Guyana is about, to hear what the buzz is about, and to find out for themselves; to make their own decision as to what they see in Guyana.
“And so, we came back to the United States, and everyone who participated on that trip was impressed by what they saw.”
Responding to the farfetched claims being made by critics about Guyana, she said: “…When they [delegation] got there and experienced it for themselves, they came back with a different impression, so that they are asking us to back to Guyana again…”
Persaud also extended gratitude to President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and the Cabinet ministers for putting Guyana’s high-quality development on exhibition.
The Opposition has continuously been called out for using “race-baiting” tactics to divide Guyana and not being concerned with fostering unity among the people.
In fact, Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo has constantly highlighted the tactic utilised by the PNC-R-led APNU/ AFC opposition to use racism to cause division among Guyanese.
He has also pointed out that there are mechanisms in place to address any instances of discrimination in Guyana.
One such mechanism is the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), which was sworn in with a mandate to promote ethnic harmony and security in Guyana.
Dr Jagdeo, during a previous press conference, said that despite the multitude of accusations of racial discrimination hurled by the opposition, there is no such report before the ERC, even though the body is constitutionally empowered to investigate complaints of racial discrimination in Guyana and make recommendations.
2.1 megawatts of power to come on stream in Mahdia
–– with solar farm set to be commissioned soon, Jagdeo says
WITHIN a span of three weeks, 2.1 megawatts of power will come on stream in Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), providing the community with sustainable and efficient power.
This was according to Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo, during a news conference on Thursday.
He said a generator was installed early this week to respond to disruptions to the power supply in the region.
It was reported that a generator there had failed, resulting in frequent blackouts in some areas of the town.
A team of officials through the support of the Office of the Prime Minister was quickly mobilised to address the situation.
“The PM’s office, the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Finance managed to secure a gener-
ator locally, pass it through the Tender Board, had it delivered to Mahdia and had it installed [Wednesday],” Jagdeo said.
He noted that the government was in the process of procuring a brand-new generator for the region to replace the existing ones; however, this would have taken months to arrive, hence, the decision was made to secure one locally
to respond to the immediate disruptions.
“In a matter of four days, they managed to get a generator procured and installed in Mahdia so that the residents there could continue to enjoy full power in that area … Sometimes they do good work that goes on noticed,” the PPP General Secretary said.
The government, he further reminded, is working
on a long-term solution to ensure that residents have access to sustainable power.
“In about another three weeks, we anticipate that the solar farm that is being built there will come online, so when that comes online in about four to three weeks’ time, Mahdia will then have about 2.1 megawatts of power when the demand now is less than a megawatts of power,” Jagdeo said.
A $362 million solar farm is being developed in Mahdia. The Standby Power Engineering Company (SPECOM) and the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) signed a contract for the
project in October 2022.
The solar farm will help about 3,000 people by contributing 0.69 megawatts (MW) of electricity to Mahdia’s current micro grid.
According to Jagdeo, the solar farm, along with the existing generators, will supply all the region’s needs beyond its demands.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali recently disclosed that solar energy installation in Guyana has grown to 173 per cent since 2020, setting the stage for the country to achieve its ambitious energy-transition goal.
The Head of State had said that by 2030, the coun-
try’s energy consumption is projected to increase five-fold, but the country’s greenhouse gas emissions will remain flat or even decrease.
“Guyana’s energy transition is one of the most ambitious in the world,” he said, citing the current construction of the country’s flagship Gas-to-Energy project that will reduce electricity costs by 50 per cent and generate 300MW of power by 2025.
He noted, too, that the country will soon bring on stream the largest solar farms by 2025, totalling over 30MW in Berbice, Essequibo, and Linden.
PPP General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo
Courts Optical Pee Wee continues today
THE hugely popular Courts Optical U-11 Boys Schools Football Championship continues today with 14 clashes at the Ministry of Education ground on CARFESTA Avenue.
After the opening round last weekend, 28 teams will take to the field in the second round of the round-robin segment of the competition.
Tapakuma Lake Primary will aim to add to their winning start when they meet Ann’s Grove, who also have a win under their belt.
Next, Batavia Primary will come up against the prolific West Ruimveldt Primary, who had a poor start to their campaign with a 5-0 thrashing by Den Amstel.
St Gabriel will then clash with St John the Baptist; the St John had a robust start with a 10-0 defeat of Genesis Primary and will be looking to add to their tally.
Potaro Primary will also lock horns with Stella Maris Primary with Belladrum set to take on last year’s finalist Redeemer Primary.
Enterprise Primary, another big winner on the opening day with a 10-0 battering of FE Pollard Primary, will then clash with Berbice’s Rosignol Primary, who announced their arrival on the opening day with a 7-0 whipping of Smith’s Memorial.
Another former champion, Tucville Primary, will play St Mary’s, thereafter followed by Genesis playing Timehri Primary.
The next contest pits Den Amstel against Golden Grove, with Colaaco Primary set to play Marian Academy.
Georgetown International Academy, playing in their debut season, will look to rebound against School of the Nations after they lost their opener.
The last three contests will feature Smith Memorial versus FE Pollard, Santa Rosa will take on North Georgetown and defending champions St Pius will meet Winfer Gardens Primary.
St Pius showed great intent in their opener with a 12-1 defeat of St Mary’s and will be seeking to continue in similar vein in their title defence.
England produce all-round display to set up decider against Australia
(ESPNCRICINFO) - ENGLAND produced an electric all-round display to set up a series decider at Bristol on Sunday, as they thrashed Australia by 186 runs at Lord’s.
Harry Brook’s sublime 87 formed the backbone of the innings which was capped off by the thunderous hitting of Liam Livingstone in a ground-record 25-ball half-century.
Jofra Archer then briefly rekindled memories of 2019 with the best spell of his latest comeback, while Matthew Potts bagged a career-best 4 for 38 in an overwhelming performance.
Harking back to last year’s dramatic Ashes Test, there was also, briefly, a moment with an Australian wicketkeeper in the spotlight. On 17, Brook glanced Mitchell Starc down the leg side and was given out but queried whether the catch had carried to Josh Inglis, who had been recalled to the side after injury. The replays showed the ball pitching just before his gloves. The crowd booed as the pictures came on the big screen, accompanied by a few chants of ‘same old Aussies, always cheating’, but it was a tame interlude compared to 2023.
Following his maiden ODI hundred in Durham, Brook cruised to a 37-ball 50, adding 79 in 53 balls for the third wicket with Ben Duckett and 75 in 47 with Jamie Smith for the fourth, as England went through the gears in a game
Images
cut to 39 overs by heavy morning rain. Livingstone produced a grandstand finish to the innings with a mighty display of striking, including four sixes off the last over bowled by Starc, whose 28 runs conceded amounted to the most expensive over by an Australian bowler in men’s ODIs. England amassed 156 off their last 15 overs. Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh
Alfred gets national holiday, special award upon return to St Lucia
CMC – AS part of celebrations to mark the national holiday named in her honour, St Lucia’s sprint queen Julien Alfred was gifted $75,000 and a special award here Friday.
Alfred, St Lucia’s first-ever Olympic medalist and first gold medalist, who has been feted since returning to the island on Tuesday following her spectacular performance at the Paris Olympics, received the money from the St. Lucia Olympic Committee (SLOC) during a presentation.
gave the daunting chase a promising start - Head launching a gigantic pull out of the ground over the Tavern Standand after the eight-over powerplay Australia were 66 without loss compared to England’s 34 without loss. Overall, the 16 sixes hit in the match was a record for a Lord’s ODI. However, sustaining the tempo was a tall order. Head swung across the line at Brydon Carse and Steven Smith edged an ugly charge at Potts.
Then Archer produced something special. An off-cutter at 88.2mph initially shaped in at Marsh before straightening to beat the edge and clatter off stump. It was a gem of a delivery to give Archer his first Lord’s wicket since 2019 and he rightly wheeled away in celebration. When his next ball clattered into the forearm of Marnus Labuschagne, the 2019 flashbacks were in full flow, albeit in coloured clothes, and Archer also added Glenn Maxwell during Australia’s collapse
Before long, however, his ball to Marsh had a contender for delivery of the game (or series) when Carse found an unplayable offering to flatten Labuschagne’s off stump.
It was a collective effort from England’s quicks who shared nine wickets - Potts taking three wickets in four balls to rush through the lower order - before Adil Rashid finished things off.
Alfred wrote her name into her country’s history books last month at the Paris Olympics when she won gold in the women’s 100 metres and silver in the 200 metres.
Along with the cash, the 23-year-old also received a special award from George Pagoulatos, the Greek Ambassador to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
Julien Alfred Day will culminate with a celebratory concert at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground on Friday evening, where her accomplishments will be formally honoured.
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Justin Greaves-225 runs (2) Andre Fletcher-318 runs
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Who top-scored for the Falcons in this season’s CPL? (2) Who top-scored for the Patriots?
Julien Alfred has been celebrated since her arrival in St Lucia on Tuesday
Harry Brook reached a 37-ball 50 to lead England’s innings • Getty
One Communications’ Brava partners with LGC for Guyana Open golf competition
–– 40 players expected from USA, Canada and Caribbean
ONE Communications through its business development brand ‘Brava’ has partnered with the iconic Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) to put on the 2024 edition of the Brava Guyana Open Golf Tournament, set for November 1st and 2nd
The company is plugging 4.5 million dollars towards the hosting of the number one event on the local golfing calendar.
LGC President Anasha Ally expressed her club’s elation at One Communications long support for golf in Guyana, saying, “I would like to say on behalf of the Lusignan Golf Club its members, non- members and all players that we are so happy for the Brava Guyana Open Golf Tournament 2024….. I know they have had a long association with our Guyana open and so we are happy that Brava has come on board for this occasion.”
She noted that the competition is expected to create a buzz in the golfing community among top players, adding, “We anxiously and excitedly look forward to all of them being a part of our competition this year, so in a nutshell, I’m really grateful, our club is extremely grateful for this sponsorship.”
Brava’s General Manager Hilton Wong, said the company has seen the benefits of their sustained investments over the past years, telling those gathered that, “Golf is obviously a key pillar for us in terms of the corporate end. At Brava, we believe three years investment is one of those worthwhile types of investments in terms of the corporate space, as we venture into another year with the Lusignan Golf Club; it’s important for us to really sit and strengthen our partnership…….with clients facing the struggles of communication and collaboration all together, golf is an ideal way to really gel partners together.”
LGC club captain Ayube Subhan commented that this year’s medal play tournament will feature a men and women’s category featuring several handicaps played over two days and 36 holes.
‘We have three flights that we are going to be playing in -- the premier flight is going to be the 0-9 handicap they will participate; then we have the 10-18 handicap and the final grouping is going to be from 19-28……on the day itself because of sheer numbers, we will have to start early, so we get a full day’s golf and that also stand for the Sunday,’ the club captain said.
This tournament is set to feature 40 players from the USA, Canada Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, Barbados, Fiji and other regional countries, along with a host of local players
The cut-off date for entries is October 19 with trophy, prizes and bragging rights up for grabs.
Pan American Hockey Federation Challenge Series …
Guyana go down to leaders Mexico …
THE country’s national women’s hockey team on Friday suffered their only loss of the Pan American Hockey Federation (PAHF) challenge series to table toppers Mexico in Bermuda.
Guyana, playing a mustwin game against the topranked power- house could not adjust to the speed and experience of the Mexicans as they lost 4-nil.
The loss pushed Guyana down the leader board to third with Paraguay going ahead of them on goal difference.
Guyana had to beat Mexico or draw to reach the final where they would meet Mexico again for the gold medal.
However, because Paraguay went down 3-0 to Mexico and secured a 2-0 win against Bermuda, they moved ahead due to a superior goal difference to Guyana, with both teams taking only one win in the competition.
Guyana’s lone win was against Brazil, 1-0, with draws against Paraguay and Bermuda, while Paraguay beat Bermuda 2-0 , lost to Mexico 3-0 and drew with Brazil.
Guyana will now battle for third place against Bermuda or Brazil.
Head coach of the women’s team, Phillip Fernandes, told the Guyana Chronicle that Mexico lived up to their billing as the favourites
‘They have beaten everyone so far in the competition and finished the pool round
forced to play for bronze medal
The national hockey team and coach
unbeaten; it showed that Mexico was definitely the superior team, but our team performed well. We particularly defended well and we held the score even for quite a while and even while the first goal [was] scored, it was a bit of an unfortunate goal and then we held for a long gap towards the end. As our team tired, Mexico was able to find some inroads through penalties, corners and so on.’
He said despite the loss, he is heartened with the fight and grit of the players giving [sic] the circumstances of their preparation, they adjusted nicely to be high [sic] competitive in Bermuda.
cial surface was a differentiating factor and unfortunately, that has knocked us out of the final.”
“Games like this is where it shows that Guyana will always struggle to compete internationalyl without a proper artificial surface; the skills that Mexico were superior in were, all the artificial surface skills. Other than that, Guyana matched them for athleticism, understanding, we matched them for a lot of things but the basic skills of handling the ball on the artifi-
He said they will now regroup and be ready for their bronze-medal match-up.
The top two teams Mexico and Paraguay will qualify for the PAHF Cup scheduled for Uruguay in 2025 and the Hockey World Cup next year.
The Guyana team is sponsored by One Communication and the challenge concludes today with the final.
Bravo leaves CSK for mentorship position at KKR
(ESPNCRICINFO) - FORMER West Indies allrounder Dwayne Bravo has ended his long and celebrated career at Chennai Super Kings, with whom he won four IPL titles in different roles.
He has joined defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as mentor from the 2025 season.
ESPNcricinfo learned that Bravo recently met with KKR CEO Venky Mysore during the CPL before agreeing to a longterm contract. Apart from KKR, he will be in charge of all franchises under the Knight Riders label in T20 leagues: Trinbago Knight Riders (CPL), Los Angeles Knight Riders (MLC) and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ILT20).
“DJ Bravo joining us is an exciting development.” Mysore said in a statement. “His relentless drive to win, along with his vast experience and deep knowledge, will greatly benefit our franchise and players.”
Bravo, who turns 41 in October, replaces Gautam Gambhir, who took over as India’s head coach soon after helping
KKR win their third IPL title in 2024. A day prior to the announcement, Bravo had retired from all cricket. Apart from Gambhir, KKR also lost two of their assistant coaches, Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, both of whom were also given roles in India’s support staff. At KKR, Bravo will have Chandrakant Pandit as head coach and Bharat Arun as bowling coach.
“I’ve been part of the Trinbago Knight Riders for the last 10 years in the CPL. Having played for and against the Knight Riders in various leagues, I have a lot of respect for how they operate,” Bravo said in a statement. “The owners’ passion, the professionalism of the management, and the family-like environment make it a special place. This is the perfect platform for me as I transition from playing to mentoring and coaching the next generation of players.”
The mentor role with KKR is Bravo’s second team-management position in the IPL. Having joined CSK in 2011, he retired from the IPL after the 2022 season and joined the franchise as bowling coach from the 2023 season. Bravo had immediate success in his first coaching role as CSK won the title in 2023, to go with his three titles with them as a player. Among the best death bowlers in T20 cricket, Bravo is the third-highest wicket-taker in IPL history and the first player to win two purple caps in the tournament. With more than 500 T20s worth of experience, Bravo is considered by players and peers as among the best tacticians and motivators, qualities that had elevated him to the West Indies captaincy. He had retired from international cricket after the 2021 T20 World Cup, and while he continued to play in T20 leagues (at Mumbai Emirates in ILT20, Texas Super Kings in MLC and TKR in CPL), he gradually moved towards coaching.
During the 2024 T20 World Cup, Bravo played a key role as a consultant coach for Afghanistan, helping the team making the semi-finals for the first time in their history.
GOA launches Pre-participation Screening Programme for athletes
THE Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), in collaboration with the National Sports Clinic and the Ministry of Health, recently commenced implementation of a comprehensive Pre-Participation Screening Programme for athletes with prospects for international representation.
This initiative is part of the GOA’s strategic focus on athletes’ welfare, performance optimisation and injury prevention, aimed at revolutionising the approach to athletes’ development and care in the nation.
This strategic undertaking marks a new and significant milestone in the GOA’s commitment to advancing the sporting landscape of Guyana.
By implementing a scientifically driven approach to athlete assessment and management, the programme seeks to assist with enhancing training effectiveness, monitoring progression, and mitigating injuries, ultimately fostering a culture of knowledge
and excellence within the sporting community.
The Pre-Participation Screening Programme is a mandatory requirement for all athletes being considered for international representation, including those receiving grant support from the GOA and athletes with prospects for
representation of Guyana in international competitions and Olympic cycle events.
Over the last few months a structured schedule devised to facilitate the screening of athletes across various sporting disciplines was successfully undertaken, under
the expert guidance of Ms Vanessa Wickham at the National Sports Clinic, Aquatic Centre, Liliendaal.
The screening sessions provide athletes with the opportunity to undergo comprehensive assessments tailored to their specific disciplines. The objective of programme is to
adopt a scientific approach to athletes’ development, ensuring a systematic evaluation of training regimens, progress, improving athletes and coaches’ knowledge on injury-management care and prevention as a key basis for improving performance.
The screening process involves comprehensive history-taking and physical examinations, with a focus on ensuring both the medical and musculoskeletal health of each athlete, while also optimising their performance and mitigating injury risks.
The screening will encompass three main components. Medical Screening – Ensuring the overall health of the athlete, Performance Testing – Evaluating key performance metrics to optimise training, Musculoskeletal Screening –Identifying any potential areas of concern in terms of injury risk and physical readiness and Nutritional Education.
“The Pre-Participation Screening is crucial in developing a robust,
data-driven approach to athletes’ performance and injury- prevention strategy. By collecting baseline data, we can track each athlete’s progress, enhance their training, and develop effective rehabilitation strategies when needed,” the GOA release stated.
The screening teams from the National Sports Clinic, Ministry of Health, includes a combination of medical professionals, including physiotherapists, a psychiatrist, and a medical doctor, to ensure a holistic approach to athletes’ health and performance The pre participation screening comes as an extension of a successfully held sport medicine workshop realised through collaboration between the Guyana Olympic Association, the National Sports Clinic and the Ministry of Health, as the executive continues to explore new partnerships and pathways aimed at developing systems which can lead to enhancing athletes’ performances in Guyana.
Some of the participants of the GOA’s, National Sports Clinic and the Ministry of Health Pre-Participation Screening Programme for athletes with prospects for international representation
One Communications’ Brava partners with
(Right to left)- Brava’s Candacy Toney, LGC club captain Ayube Subhan, Brava’s General Manager Hilton Wong, LGC President Anasha Ally & Brava’s Vishwanath Ishwardin
Round two of the Courts Optical Pee Wee tournament is on today at the Ministry of Education Ground (Japheth Savory photo)
