Global Super League positions Guyana as ‘exciting destination’
(Photo: President Irfaan Ali/Facebook) ‘We
President Ali announces slew of infrastructural works for Vergenoegen during impromptu visit
President Ali announces slew of infrastructural works for Vergenoegen during impromptu visit
By Cindy ParkinsonChowbay
IN his continuous dedication to improving the lives of Guyanese at the community level, President Ali, on Tuesday, interacted with residents of Vergenoegen and revealed plans for the rehabilitation of multiple streets, bridges, and drainage in the Region Three community.
Following a walkabout in the community and after listening to the residents' concerns, President Ali made significant commitments for the development of the area.
According to him, the list of projects will include work on Thompson Street, the construction of Stelling Road, construction of Old Road, construction of the Markenday Street network sections one and two, rehabilitation/construction of Buzz Street, construction of Western Sideline Dam,
construction of Quan Street, and the construction of First Cross Street (George Phillips Street).
Additionally, President Ali reiterated that the mandir, health centre, post office, and one of the community bridges will also be rehabilitated.
In addition to ensuring that the residents are satisfied with their living conditions, President Ali directed some
government officials to look into the housing, drainage, and lighting issues within the community.
While urging residents to manage their waste more responsibly to prevent drainage blockages within the community, he also clarified that the blockage of the Vergenoegen koker was due to the accumulation of silt, which is beyond the authori-
ties’ control.
“Notice that the mangroves are coming all the way through Georgetown, coming along the coast. There is something called the movement of silt, the movement of materials from the Amazon. It is a natural phenomenon that is happening now; it’s a cycle that happens every 30 years. That cycle is coming right through the coast, and that is why you have the regrowth of the mangrove, and it is coming and silt up all the kokers in these areas,” the head of state explained to the residents.
President Ali further added that they are unable to prevent the situation as it involves the sediment flowing from the Amazon.
Consequently, they have significant work ahead to desilt all of the kokers and he assured those present that the team of engineers will continue to address that.
Meanwhile, some residents expressed their concerns regarding the duration of the contractor's work on Archer Street.
In response, the overseer of the community clarified that the project had to be paused to facilitate
the removal of utility poles, which is necessary for the completion of the work. The overseer also stated that the contractor will install 40 streetlights within the next 24 to 48 hours.
In relation to the restricted water hours in the community, a representative from Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) explained that the new water treatment plant, which is nearing completion, will provide a more dependable and cleaner water supply for the residents of Vergenoegen and the surrounding communities.
President Ali during his visit to Vergenogen, in Region Three, on Tuesday (Office of the President photos)
Global Super League positions Guyana as ‘exciting destination’ for sports tourism - President Ali
- shares plans for building sustainable sports ecosystem here
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
WHILE outlining some of government’s plans to establish a sustainable sports ecosystem, President, Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday said that the inaugural Global Super League T20 can position Guyana to be one of the premier sports and sports tourism destinations, globally.
President Ali was at the time delivering remarks before declaring the cricket tournament open. The match was played at the Providence Stadium.
President Ali explained that the new venture (GSLT20) transcends cricket for Guyana; it serves as a celebration of the nation's culture and its people while also establishing Guyana as an “exciting destination” for sports tourism.
According to him, “This tournament is part of a wider picture of building the sports economy of our country in which cricket will be one of those global products that we will use to showcase our country, to showcase our culture and to have the best cricketing talent available globally.
Highlighting that the GSLT20 marks the start of an extraordinary and prosperous journey, President Ali further stated that the league will position Guyana prominently in the global sports arena.
President Ali encouraged the five participating teams -- the Guyana Amazon Warriors; the Rangpur Riders from Bangladesh; the Lahore Qalandars from Pakistan; the Victorians from Australia and the Hampshire Hawks from the United Kingdom -- to be competitive and to
embody the sportsmanship inherent in the game. Additionally, he emphasised his hope that every player would appreciate and honour Guyana's culture, values, respect, and passion for cricket.
“The love of cricket is bringing the world to Guyana, and we intend to showcase Guyana to the world through the eyes of cricket. You can be guaranteed of
our government’s support,” President Ali said.
President Ali expressed his gratitude to ExxonMobil for its significant support and belief in a product that will contribute to the substantial development of the sports economy, as well as the transformative approach Guyana is taking to build various pillars of the economy for its citizens.
Meanwhile, President Ali during a cocktail mixer on the eve of the commencement of the tournament, said that while he is enthusiastic about the GSLT20 games, his optimism about the potential impact of sports in Guyana does not stop there.
Further, he said that his vision extends beyond this event, as he aims to organise similar initiatives for other sports.
According to the President, his objective in engaging in a conversation regarding the sporting ecosystem is to broaden the scope to include basketball and football, as well as to examine the possibility of incorporating international events such as mixed martial arts (MMA) combat and boxing.
Additionally, he stated that this is a critical component of the sports infrastructure and framework that "we" aspire to establish.
“In recognition of the commencement of this extensive sporting ecosystem that we aspire to establish in Guyana, I am optimistic about the possibility of bringing four of the world's most renowned football organisations to play here in the near future,” he said,
The President also disclosed some of the plans for the years beyond 2027, with the objective being to establish a sustainable sports economy in Guyana.
Optimistic about the future for sports here, President Ali said: “From 2027 going forward, we have to get 12 main events in this country every year, mind-blowing events that will bring the world to Guyana. What I’m working on with the Cabinet is to bring the world to Guyana.”
Hogg Island residents declare upgraded primary school a game-changer
- say it will serve to inspire children to excel academically
MINISTER of Education Priya Manickchand on Wednesday commissioned the newly-reconstructed Western Hogg Island Primary School on the Essequibo River.
The Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) facility, which cost the tidy sum of $54M, is regarded as a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to enhance education in rural communities.
According to a release from the Ministry of Education (MOE), the million-dollar project has transformed the facility into a modern and welcoming environment, specifically designed to accommodate 50 pupils from Liberty, Hogg Island, and neighbouring villages on the island.
This development, the ministry says, ensures that learners from the communities at reference now have access to education closer to home, thereby fos-
tering inclusivity and reducing the need for lengthy and often challenging commutes.
It stated that over the years, the previous structure had fallen into a state of disrepair, making it unsuitable for effective teaching and learning.
Recognising the critical need for improvement, the Ministry of Education prioritised the reconstruction of the school, demonstrating its commitment to providing equitable access to quality education across Guyana.
“The newly-upgraded facility not only offers an enhanced physical space for learning, but also represents a broader vision of bridging the gap between urban and rural education,” the ministry says.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the education minister highlighted the importance of investing in educational infrastructure to uplift commu-
nities and provide opportunities for every child, regardless of location.
She emphasised that this project is part of a larger initiative by the government to create learning environments that inspire and empower students to achieve their full potential.
The reopening of the Western Hogg Island Primary School marks a transformative moment for the region, signaling a renewed focus on the future of its children. The upgraded facility is expected to significantly improve educational outcomes by providing a comfortable and conducive learning environment.
The school is staffed by a dedicated team of five teachers, four of whom are recent graduates of the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), with the fifth currently undergoing training.
Both parents and teachers expressed optimistically that the new school will inspire students to excel academically, while also fostering a sense of
pride and belonging within the community.
Further, this milestone reflects the government’s unwavering dedication to
ensuring that every child, regardless of their geographical location, has access to quality education and the tools needed to succeed.
President Ali delivers remarks at the inaugural Global Super League T20 at the Providence Stadium on Tuesday (Office of the President photo)
Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand (left) with other officials and students of the Western Hogg Island Primary School (MOE Photo)
‘We
are focused on ensuring that every Guyanese gets that money’
By Feona Morrison
PRIME Minister, Mark Phillips has assured the public that the government is focused on ensuring that every eligible Guyanese receive the $100,000 cash grant.
He was at the time giving his input as the Committee of Supply considered the $30.5 billion supplementary provision for the distribution of the cash grant to every Guyanese citizen 18 years and above.
This sum which is part of $84,074,229,401 that is needed by government to fund key development initiatives, was later approved.
The request for the sum was first presented by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance
and Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, on Monday, at the 88th sitting of the 12th Parliament.
Financial Paper No. 4 of 2024, specified the allocation of $84,074,229,401 for both capital and current expenditures for the period ending December 31, 2024. This includes $42,571,939,170 designated for capital estimates and $41,503,290,231 for current estimates.
The National Assembly on Wednesday scrutinised the Financial Paper before it was approved. The supplementary funding will support the advancement of programmes under several agencies, including the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministries of Public Works, Agriculture, Health, Education, Home Affairs, Housing
- PM Phillips says, as National Assembly approves $30.5B allocation for $100k cash grant - sum part of $84B supplementary funding
and Water, Natural Resources, Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation Legal Affairs, and several regional administrations. Notably, of the $84 billion, the Office of the Prime Minister will receive $30,500,000,000 to facilitate the distribution of the $100,000 cash grants to citizens. President Dr Irfaan Ali announced the grant on October 16, 2024. When asked if the $30 billion was intended for administrative costs, the Prime Minister clarified that the various ministries, including the finance minister were handling the
administrative tasks.
He emphasised, “This payment [$30B] is going to the people. We are going to pay out that money as fast as possible. We are focused on ensuring that every Guyanese get that money. In the shortest possible time, we will pay everybody.”
He explained that simple data sets, including those of public servants and pensioners, will be prioritised for receiving the promised funds.
PM Phillips further clarified that the $30 billion allocation covers 50 per cent of those eligible.
In total, Phillips revealed that $60 billion is required to complete the full distribution process.
Responding to Opposition Parliamentarian Amanza Walton-Desir's inquiry about the registration process and the necessity for public servants to register despite their information already being on file, Minister Singh explained that the measure is intended to enhance accountability.
“Indeed, we do already have them [public servants] on the payroll. The reason why registration is required for everybody is because, in addition to processing public servants’ payment by virtue of their public employment, we are also registering in the communities. And the people who work in public offices also live in those communities.
In order to ensure that we avoid duplication, it is imperative that everybody has to be registered,” he explained.
Meanwhile, for the De-
cember to January rainy season, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) received funding to enhance its operations, particularly through the distribution of sanitation hampers.
“The rainy season is upon us. What we are doing it procuring and storing so every community affected will receive a hamper,” the prime minister said.
Additionally, funds have been approved to support the accelerated implementation of the gas-to-energy project.
Of the $84 billion, portions have also been designated to address the humanitarian crisis in Haiti and provide assistance to Caribbean islands that were affected by Hurricane Beryl.
Monies have also been set aside for additional resources for the University of Guyana Berbice and Turkeyen campuses and for the operations of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.
Mark Phillips
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh
State-of-the-art Harris
Paints manufacturing facility, flagship store opens at BV
enhancing availability and scheduling batch production tailored specific for different projects,” she said.
ONE of the Caribbean’s leading manufacturers, Harris Paints officially opened its new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and flagship retail store at Beterverwagting (BV) on the East Coast Demerara, on Wednesday.
This company’s presence in Guyana reflects not only an expansion of their business, but a renewed commitment to the future of Guyana.
The product has been tested and certified by Masters Paint Institute, and meets the same stringent standards as leading international brands.
Senior Director of Investment at the Guyana Office for Investment, John Edghill in his congratulatory remarks related that Harris Paints’ bold
decision to reinvest in the Guyanese market tells a story of the investor’s confidence in the Guyana.
He related, “We, as a government agency and as a government, want to diversify our economy, and one of the main ways that we will diversify our local economy is through manufacturing. The investments that are being made, by and large in our country is so that we can build out a manufacturing hub, Guyana as a manufacturing hub.”
He pointed out that leaving the airport and entering Georgetown, one can describe Guyana as an infrastructure hot box. Edghill noted that Guyana is going somewhere that would be beautiful and colourful, and
would attract visitors, not only for the construction opportunities that exist but for tourism potentiality as well.
Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Harris Paints International Limited, Marguerite Desir stated that this new plant is a corner stone of their ambition.
In this new facility, she said they have revolutionised the manufacturing approach with the introduction of their Quantum i12 colour technology platform. It is an advance, efficient and precise system.
“This cutting-edge technology will allow us to respond swiftly and effectively to the growing needs of our customers in Guyana, ensure a consistent supply of products,
The facility brings with it opportunities for employment both directly and indirectly.
The COO added that Harris Paints is proud to be part of Guyana’s development journey.
“We are very proud to bring a wide range of products including our renowned Troweltex Textured Finish, which has become a favourite among Guyanese customers,” she said.
The new Harris Paints facility represents the start of
an exciting new era for both Harris Paints and the Guyanese market. The 10,000-squarefoot, two-story building, set on a 25,000-square-foot plot, in addition to enhancing local manufacturing capabilities, creating new jobs, is set to serve as a regional hub for the premium paint suppliers.
Additionally, this is a testament to the company’s belief in Guyana’s potential, and its commitment to supporting our nation’s incredible transformation.
Since 1992 when Harris Paints Guyana opened its doors, the company has become a highly regarded brand, serving both commercial projects as well as home improvers.
The Caribbean paint company currently serves a total of 15 countries throughout the region through 2,000 distributors/ dealers. The company intends to enter the Latin American market.
The company aims to enhance capacity to meet the growing needs of our customers, continue to deliver high-quality products, and contribute to the Guyana’s economic development.
The newly opened Harris Paints manufacturing facility and flagship store at BV
Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Harris Paints International Limited, Marguerite Desir
Senior Director of Investment at the Guyana Office for Investment, John Edghill (Japheth Savory photos)
Resuming International Adoptions
GUYANA has taken a significant step forward in child welfare by establishing the Guyana Central Authority for Hague Matters, paving the way for the resumption of international adoptions.
This move, while commendable, raises important questions about the balance between providing opportunities for children to find loving homes abroad and prioritising domestic adoption and family reunification.
The establishment of the central authority is un-
doubtedly a positive development for Guyana.
By aligning with the 1993 Hague Convention, the country demonstrates its commitment to protecting children from potential abuses such as child trafficking and ensuring that adoptions are conducted with the child's best interests at heart.
Minister of Human Services and Social Security
Dr Vindhya Persaud's emphasis on exhausting local adoption opportunities before considering international options is a prudent
approach.
This strategy prioritises keeping children within their cultural context and potentially closer to biological family members, which can be beneficial for a child's sense of identity and belonging.
However, the resumption of international adoptions is not without its challenges. While the new system promises oversight and adherence to international standards, it's crucial that the government remains vigilant in its implementation. The complex nature of
inter-country adoptions demands rigorous screening processes for both adoptive parents and children, as well as comprehensive post-adoption follow-up procedures.
Moreover, there's a delicate balance to strike between providing opportunities for children to find homes abroad and investing in domestic child-welfare systems. The government must ensure that the allure of international adoption doesn't overshadow efforts to support and strengthen Guyanese families who
might be struggling to care for their children.
Minister Persaud's call for local families to consider adoption is particularly noteworthy. Encouraging domestic adoption can help preserve cultural ties and potentially streamline the adoption process.
However, this call must be accompanied by robust support systems for adoptive families, including financial assistance, counselling services, and ongoing education.
The success of this initiative will depend not
only on the efficiency of the central authority but also on the broader societal commitment to child welfare. While the resumption of international adoptions marks a significant milestone for Guyana, it should be viewed as just one component of a comprehensive child-welfare strategy.
The true measure of success will be in how effectively Guyana can balance international opportunities with domestic solutions, always keeping the best interests of its children at the forefront.
President Ali’s book offers new and credible insights on the Caribbean food security crisis
Dear Editor,
ON September 28, His Excellency, Honourable President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. Dr. Irfaan Ali launched his book titled “Achieving Global Food Security: The Caribbean Experience and Beyond" at the Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford in England.
The book thoroughly examines the existing food security challenges in the Global South (Third World) countries with a special focus on the food security crisis in the Caribbean.
In the book, Dr. Ali highlighted the urgent need to address and solve the pressing food crisis
issue in the Caribbean.
Brilliantly and cleverly written, the book not only provides a universal and comprehensive overview of the problems, causes and challenges besieging food security globally, especially in the Caribbean, but it also explores a number of strategic policy options, proposals and recommendations to alleviate the problem in the Caribbean and elsewhere.
To say that President Dr. Ali understands the problems and has become a global advocate and leader on the issue of food insecurity and world poverty is an understatement. He wisely and thoughtfully penned the book at a time when the Global South countries including the Caribbean and Latin
America, not to mention Africa are faced with the steepest increase in food and other commodity prices which have raised cost of living to its highest level in the region in recent times. The high cost of living coupled with a huge labour shortage in the Caribbean have negatively impacted development in the region
Several scholars have contended that the book is written at a time when agricultural output is on the decline in the Caribbean and elsewhere due in part to inclement weather and in some cases severe manmade disasters. If nothing else,
President Dr. Ali has presented us with a scholarly and practical piece of work that bestowed on the
Caribbean and the world a novel and ingenious pathway to increase agricultural production and solve the food security crisis by exploiting the region’s potential for agricultural investment and development.
President Dr. Ali’s heroic work has been applauded and praised by scholars in and out of the Caribbean as a significantly necessary and timely scholarly contribution to food security--one of the most pressing global issues today.
The book provides an in-depth and authentic analysis of the present food scarcity situation faced by the Caribbean as well as an insight into the future if there is not a serious effort to tackle
the problem immediately.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali issued a clarion call to the leaders of the global community of nations to find a lasting if not a permanent solution to global food security. He told them that it would be a colossal mistake by today’s leaders to leave the problem for future generations to solve.
“Achieving Global Food Security: The Caribbean Experience and Beyond,” reveals President Dr. Ali’s sincere and heartfelt concern for food security and for the poor in the Global South countries who are facing the brunt of the problem.
His groundbreaking work has not only highlighted the food security problems in the CARICOM countries, but it also outlined a series of policy measures to strengthen the region's food security position.
The book is a bold and ambitious undertaking by the Guyanese leader and will serve as a useful resource for scholars, intellectuals, students and the general public in the Caribbean and elsewhere who are seeking to understand the region and its food security problems.
Beautifully crafted, persuasive and objective, it was a pleasure to read.
The book provides a macro-framework of the massive investment in agriculture in the region with the intent to increase agriculture output and thus lower the cost of living.
Sincerely, Dr. Asquith Rose.
Dr. Vincent Adams pretends to be a rottweiler, but barks like a rice eater
Dear Editor,
IN a letter to the editor carried in sections of the media authored by Dr. Vincent Adams, chief oil and gas advisor to the Alliance For Change (AFC), he spewed a series of bold assertions, describing the incumbent PPP/C government as spineless in relation the lopsided 2016 Petroleum Agreement that his party had negotiated in 2016.
Dr. Adams went on to question why the PPP/C government hasn’t taken the first step, which is to write ExxonMobil requesting renegotiations.
While I have great respect for Dr. Vincent Adams, I must point out that he usually has these momentary outbursts only when he is instructed by his political superiors to address certain controversial issues that he is otherwise uncomfortable with. In so doing, he often pretends to be a rottweiler when it comes to oil and gas matters and ExxonMobil, but barks like a “rice eater”.
Truth be told, the real spineless political party that was in government in respect of dealing with ExxonMobil, is the very political party he belongs to―that is, the AFC. Perhaps not just spineless; more so opportunistic.
In these respects, I would like to pose the following questions to Dr. Adams and, by extension, the political party he is associated with, namely the AFC.
It was the AFC faction of the APNU+AFC Government that held the ministerial portfolio for the oil and gas sector. According to the Global Witness Report, ExxonMobil sponsored a glamourous visit for the former AFC minister of Natural Resources, Rafael Trotman, to their headquarters in Houston Texas. Why did the AFC allow such a brazen display of ethical misconduct by one of its most senior public officials in government?
Was it appropriate for a sitting minister to visit the headquarters of an oil giant touching and concerning the negotiations of a contract between that company and the people of Guyana through
the Government of Guyana?
Was it not more appropriate for the company’s official (s) to have visited the Government of Guyana, in Guyana, as opposed to an unethically lavish, corporate-sponsored trip to their headquarters?
After the successful passage of the December 2018 No-Confidence Motion (NCM), Nigel Hughes, who is now the presidential candidate of the AFC, on behalf of ExxonMobil Guyana, and who also served twice as the former Chairman of the AFC, did he effectively buy more time for ExxonMobil that enabled them to move in record time into production (December 2019) before the holding of the general and regional elections?
This move by ExxonMobil Guyana was clever, which sought to lock in the 2016 Agreement having moved into production before the election was held. Thus, making it difficult for any new government to renegotiate those terms, because by then, the stability clause kicks in.
Nigel Hughes was unarguably the architect of the delay in the holding of the general and regional elections, vis-à-vis, his legal ploy that he manufactured, wherein he contended that 33 was not the majority of 65, therefore, the NCM was not carried. Following the sequence of the events that ensued therefrom, particularly the ruling handed down by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in that regard, the responsibility for the outcome thereto naturally ought to be borne by him. Is he prepared to do so? Absolutely not. He has already confirmed in no uncertain terms, that he is not.
Why did former President Granger subsequently remove the oil and gas portfolio from the AFC, to the Office of the President? Did he lose confidence in the AFC’s management of that portfolio or were there too much corruption and/or conflicts of interest in that sector by the AFC faction at that time?
Why the AFC sided with Exxon when it came to the local content legislation
and the gas-to-energy project, which were effectively against the country’s national interest? If the APNU+AFC was still in government, the local content legislation and the GtE would never have been implemented, because initially, ExxonMobil was against both. To date, the AFC is still campaigning against the GtE, while its agent (s) and/or affiliates, chiefly the sister of the AFC/Exxon’s presidential candidate, Elizabeth-Dean Hughes, is actively seeking to legally challenge/block the GtE.
Dr. Vincent Adams is someone who prides himself as a rottweiler-like personality when it comes to dealing with ExxonMobil. As such, he is subject to a greater degree of scrutiny when he speaks publicly on these matters. With this in mind, how come he has never stated whether he endorsed or objected to the incestuous conflict of interest relationship that exist between his party’s leader, Nigel Hughes and ExxonMobil? How come he has nothing to say about the fact that Nigel Hughes was on public record stating that he will place Exxon’s interest above that of the national interest?
Unfortunately, Dr. Adams has found himself in a moral dilemma herein and luckily for him, the media has given him a free pass. No one has ever questioned him on his position or views on these matters to date, yet he is allowed to run his mouth freely without being held accountable for his irrational utterances.
In a subsequent missive, I will deal separately with the questionable credibility issues surrounding the AFC leader, the AFC’s role in the 2020 election debacle, and I will explore the reasons why Nigel Hughes stated that he will never apologize for the wrongs committed by his political party upon the people of Guyana. He has in fact endorsed them and was certainly the architect of some of it, if not most of it, or all of it.
Yours sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin
Who is Guyana’s biggest sycophant?
I MAKE it my duty to return missed calls and to answer emails. The replies to the emails are burdensome but it is part of the job of being an opinion-maker and public intellectual. I try to read as much as possible of them so I can use my pen to attempt to bring out other dimensions of occurrences that writers hide and in doing create gaps in history.
It is laborious opening all those emails but I have no regrets because I have learnt valuable things about Guyana and its people. I remember a few months ago, a person sent me a correspondence with the title, “Vishnu Bisram is the world’s most educated person.”
You get these weird emails all the time so you have to discard many of them because of the bizarre titles they have. I don’t know why I opened that mail on Bisram but I did. I did not know Mr. Bisram had six doctorates and six Master ‘s Degrees.
The person sent me an article Bisram wrote in The Indo-Caribbean of August 12, 2024 titled, “Understanding Diplomatic Immunity as regards Guyanese Diplomats.”
Under the column were his qualification which included six Masters and six Doctorates.
Since I have no evidence to reject the mammoth qualifications of Mr. Bisram, I will not go further. But I think it is fair to say that Mr. Bisram is the most educated person in the world in the past 200 years. Scholars do not pursue more than two masters and hardly two doctorates but to have twelve higher qualifications is simply incredible. It is because of interesting emails like the one on Bisram, I hardly ignore the tons of emails I get. So, I got another interesting one two days ago, informing me that Mr. Glenn Lall’s partner that writes under the penname, Peeping Tom wrote a nasty piece criticising people who
write and support the government and ridiculing them as the world’s worst sycophants.
The item was published on September 24, 2024. I have a favourite satire that I have used in my pieces the past 36 years. It tells of the drama of reading the newspapers while having my hot coffee, and as I come across something barefacedly hypocritical, my hands would become unsteady, the coffee falls on my leg and I am severely burned.
Well that happened to me two days ago after I was sent the Peeping Tom column. He was very nasty with people who support the PPP. I quote: “The fawning, groveling, and rhetorical contortions performed by these political footstools defy the standards of human dignity. They smile, nod, and parrot every line dictated by their political overlords.” That hot coffee almost left me paralyzed. Look who is talking?
Those words apply in
Fire Service issues warning against malicious setting of fires
THE Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has issued a strong warning against the malicious setting of fires, following recent incidents that have caused significant destruction and risked the safety of lives and property. Such actions are not only unlawful but pose grave threats to communities, emergency responders and national resources.
The Dangers of Malicious Fires
Maliciously set fires often spread uncontrollably, leading to:
Loss of Property: Homes, businesses, and community structures are destroyed, resulting in devastating financial and emotional impacts.
Risk to Lives: Residents, firefighters, and bystanders are placed in immediate danger, with potential for injuries or fatalities.
Strain on Emergency Services: Fire crews are diverted from responding to other critical emergencies, leaving communities vulnerable.
the most pulsating way to the man who writes under Peeing Tom the past 30 years. This gentleman is virtually a slave to Lall. I simply cannot believe anyone in life can be so sycophantic. And this man has the temerity to call decent people who work for the government as sycophantic.
Peeping Tom is given directions to write the ugliest condemnations of Jagdeo because it has to do with something that Lall feels about Jagdeo. Whatever it is, it seems to be obsession. And the sycophantic Peeping Tom is the conveyor belt.
Now interestingly, this email came two days ago and in last Sunday edition of Kaieteur News, Peeping Tom was summoned by his slave master to go after Jagdeo again. The comical aspect
about this vicarious relation between Tommy, the sycophant and Glenn Lall is that Lall is incapable of stringing words together.
I will never forget after the fallout with me and Lall over Lall’s fervent belief that there is apartheid in Guyana that Lall could not pronounce the word, “apartheid.” You learn every day when you live in this country. Imagine the world’s biggest sycophant wrote a column using deplorable sentences to describe government supporters as sycophants.
Here is something about Peeping Tom that I bet the world has never zeroed in on. Peeping Tom avoids my name like COVID-19. I am attacked by all kinds of commentators but Peeping Tom avoids even one word (just
one word) of castigation against me. Check the past 20 years right up to today’s date and there is never any mention of me in the columns of this anonymous writer.
How do you explain that I confront many of the atrocities and immoralities this faceless and nameless person puts in his column, but he avoids even an ephemeral glance at me. He never ever takes even a fleeting dig at me. Do you know why? I think you do.
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.
Maliciously set fire severely damages
Environmental Impact: Fires contribute to air pollution and environmental degradation, impacting health and ecosystems.
Legal Consequences
Setting fires deliberately is a criminal offence in Guyana, punishable under the law. Those found guilty face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The GFS, in collaboration with law enforcement, is committed to identifying and prosecuting offenders to the fullest extent of the law.
A Call for Community Vigilance
The GFS urges all citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could lead
to fires. If you witness someone engaging in or preparing to engage in arson, contact the authorities immediately. The safety and well-being of our communities depend on the proactive efforts of every individual.
Preventative Measures
To reduce the risk of fires and protect lives and property, the GFS recommends the following: secure properties against unauthorised access, educate family members, employees, and neighbours on fire-safety practices; ensure fire detection systems such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are functional; report suspicious behaviour promptly to the nearest fire station or police.
The Guyana Fire Service remains dedicated to safeguarding lives and property while preventing fire-related tragedies. Through education, awareness, and enforcement, we aim to build safer communities across the nation. (GFS)
Wismar house
A FIRE caused extensive damage to a wooden and concrete two-storey building at Lot 9, Second Alley, Wismar, Linden, on Wednesday.
According to a statement posted on the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Facebook page, the call reporting the fire was received at 14:43hrs, and fire crews arrived at the scene within six minutes at 14:49hrs.
It said that the affected structure, measuring approximately 11.6 metres by 6.6 metres, was occupied by 39-yearold Terence Waddle. The property is jointly owned by Ann Fraser, 66, Elizabeth McBean, 62, and Patricia McBean, 67, who all reside in the United States.
The firefighting operation involved appliances Water Tender #119 and Water Carrier #12, supported by a team of seven firefighters led by Leading Fireman Lovell. To extinguish the flames, crews employed two jets from Water Carrier #12, working in conjunction with IP A9, utilising tank supplies.
The statement said that despite the diligent efforts of the fire crew, the building and its contents were severely
A house at Wismar, Linden, suffered extensive damage through a maliciously set fire
damaged. Fortunately, no individuals were displaced and there were no injuries reported as a result of the incident.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire was maliciously set by unknown individual(s). The Guyana Fire Service’s Fire Prevention Department is conducting further inquiries [sic] to determine the exact cause and hold respon-
sible parties accountable,” the statement said, adding that the fire service commends the timely and coordinated actions of its personnel in containing the fire and preventing further destruction.
The GFS is urging members of the public to provide any information that they may have that will assist with the ongoing investigation.
Guyana moves to streamline document authentication with Apostille Bill
IN a move to modernise and simplify the authentication of public documents for international use, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, tabled the Apostille Bill in the National Assembly on Wednesday.
The bill, formally titled, ‘APOSTILLE BILL 2024 - Bill No. 19/2024,’ was introduced by Minister Todd during its first reading, marking a critical step in aligning Guyana with global standards.
Minister Todd explained the bill is an “act to implement the Convention Abolishing the requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents done at the
Hague on the 5th day of October, 1961 and for connected matters.”
The Apostille Bill proposes the adoption of a standardised system for authenticating documents issued in Guyana, eliminating the need for lengthy and costly legalisation processes when presenting these documents abroad.
When passed, the law will pave the way for smoother transactions in trade, education, and other sectors by ensuring mutual recognition of public documents among the 127 member states of the Hague Apostille Convention.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Hugh Todd
The bill will now proceed to its second reading, where it will be debated by members of the National Assembly. If deemed necessary, it could be referred to a Select Committee for detailed review before the final reading and vote.
Once approved, the bill requires presidential assent to become law.
The introduction of the Apostille Bill is in keeping with the People’s Progressive
Party/Civic (PPP/C) government’s commitment to reducing red tape and fostering an environment conducive to international collaboration and investment by simplifying the legalisation process for foreign public documents, as outlined in the Hague Convention.
This means that documents issued in Guyana can now be recognised in other member countries without additional legalisation, streamlining international transactions and travel. By doing so, it enhances legal certainty and efficiency for individuals and businesses needing to use their documents abroad, therebyfostering greater international
co-operation and mobility.
As of October 2024, there are 127 countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention, also known as the Apostille Treaty. Some of the member countries include: Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, The Bahamas, and Barbados.
The Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCPIL) drafted the Apostille Convention to simplify the legalisation process.
The convention replaces the legalisation process with a certification called an apostille, which is issued by a state-designated authority.
Magistrates being trained in restorative justice techniques
By Feona Morrison
MAGISTRATES from across Guyana are currently participating in a comprehensive training programmes on how to integrate restorative justice techniques into the judicial system.
The training, which began on Wednesday at the Cara Lodge Hotel in Georgetown, concludes today.
The initiative, supported by the Canadian-CARICOM Expert Deployment Mechanism (CCEDM), represents a collaborative effort to modernise the legal framework and improve the administration of justice.
According to the Government of Canada, restorative justice refers to “an approach to justice that seeks to repair harm by providing an opportunity for those harmed and those who take responsibility for the harm to communicate about and address their needs in the aftermath of a crime.”
Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, delivered the keynote address during which he emphasised the pivotal role magistrates play in shaping public perception of the justice system.
“You are perhaps the most important platform because it is with you that the public interacts the most,” he said to the magistrates.
He explained that restorative justice has been around for over half of a century, focuses on repairing harm caused by criminal behaviour by fostering dialogue between victims, offenders, and affected parties.
“It’s value to the criminal justice system is already established…”
He noted that it seeks to address the root causes of criminal actions, emphasising accountability and rehabilitation over retribution.
Highlighting the benefits
of this approach, he said: “Restorative justice concentrates on bringing the victim and the offender together, trying to repair the relationship between the two persons. A conversation, an apology, just letting out the bad blood can be sufficient sometimes to address these problems that have existed for generations.”
He added that restorative justice applies to non-violent offences, such as minor interpersonal conflicts, which constitute a significant portion of cases in the magistrates’ courts.
By resolving such matters outside traditional court settings, Nandlall said that the judiciary can allocate resources more efficiently to complex cases requiring judicial intervention.
To support the integration of restorative justice, the government is in the process of establishing offices for restorative justice officers in all regions. These officers work alongside probation officers to address cases referred by magistrates.
“We added a restorative justice officer to the probation office,” Nandlall said, adding that this collaboration ensures that cases can be addressed holistically.
“The conventional methods of punishment, which we have tried in the world over the past 100 years, have simply not worked. We have tried the death penalty, the cat-o'-
nine-tails, hard labour, solitary confinement, and other very punitive sanctions.
But have they resulted in a reduction in our crime statistics? No. In fact, our crime statistics show, horrifyingly, that they are increasing to such an extent that it is now accepted at the level of the Heads of State of CARICOM that crime is a public health issue,” the AG explained.
According to him, the restorative justice programme also addresses one of the judiciary’s pressing challenges: case backlogs. “Restorative justice kicks in at the police station, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and the court. So, it is a multi-layered system,” Nandlall said.
The AG noted that restorative justice has gained traction globally, with the United Nations (UN) advocating for its adoption in member states over two decades ago.
Regionally, he pointed out that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has been a strong proponent of restorative practices. The 2023 “Needham’s Point Declaration” from the CCJ Academy of Law highlighted restorative justice as a cornerstone of modern legal systems in the Caribbean.
Guyana is at the forefront of implementing this paradigm, with legislative frameworks already in place in the form of the Restorative Justice Act of 2022.
Nandlall pointed out that restorative justice forms part of broader reforms, including the recently enacted Plea-Bargaining Act, Family Violence Act, and pending legislation on alternative sentencing. He therefore urged the judiciary to view restorative justice as a permanent fixture in Guyana’s legal landscape.
COMMENDABLE INITIATIVE
Meanwhile, the Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, lauded the initiative, noting its alignment with global trends toward alternative dispute resolution.
She stated that society often operates on the belief that individuals must be charged, locked away, and left to rot and suffer, with no chance of redemption.
As such, she noted that, “The Restorative Justice Act allows us to offer a better system in combatting crime in Guyana.”
She highlighted the importance of the restorative justice approach, which empowers victims, offenders, and the community to actively participate in the justice system, potentially reducing reoffending rates and fostering public trust.
Justice Cummings-Edwards explained that statistics
indicate restorative practices significantly reduce reoffending rates.
She noted that these practices provide offenders with a better opportunity to reintegrate into society as productive citizens.
Additionally, she emphasised that restorative approaches help offenders comprehend the impact of their actions, making them less likely to harm others in the future.
According to her, the training is essential for judicial officers, including new magistrates, to understand and apply restorative justice principles effectively.
Tariq Williams, Senior International Assistance Officer at the Canadian High Commission to Guyana commended Guyana’s efforts, emphasising Canada’s commitment to supporting justice reforms across the Caribbean.
CCEDM has been instrumental in providing expertise and resources for the training and he pointed out that Canada has been a supporter of restorative justice and has contributed to its international recognition, including at the UN through resolutions like the 2002 UN Basic Principles on
the Use of Restorative Justice Programs in Criminal Justice Systems.
“Our support for these initiatives is rooted in our belief that a fair and effective justice system is fundamental to the health of any society. We recognise that restorative justice can play a crucial role in reducing recidivism, alleviating the burden on our courts and fostering a culture of empathy and understanding.”
By supporting restorative justice efforts, he said Canada aims to contribute to the development of a justice system that is not only more humane but also more effective in achieving true justice. In Canada, restorative justice measures have been part of the country’s criminal justice system for over 40 years.
A Restorative Justice Centre has been established, led by a qualified director, Orrin Boston who will oversee the application of restorative justice as per the Restorative Justice Act, which was enacted in 2022.
The centre is located at Lot 341 East Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown.
Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC
Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Cummings-Edwards
Magistrates actively engaging in restorative justice training
Accelerated funding, marketing to boost South Rupununi’s growing tourism circuit
GUYANA’S South Rupununi District is emerging as one of the country’s most sought-after tourism products, appealing to the adventurous and thrill-seeker masses who are looking for authentic and unique experiences.
Director of Guyana’s Tourism Authority (GTA), Kamrul Baksh, during a recent media familiarisation tour to several tourism products within the South Rupununi tourism circuit disclosed that a special programme is in the works to offer more funding, marketing, training and other support to several proprietors.
According to Baksh, the GTA, along with the Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce for the past three years, has been formally working with the circuit.
Already some $20 million has been invested in the tourism circuit, providing various training courses in hospitality.
“So far, we have invested over $20 million in this circuit, and we will continue to support the South Rupununi because we believe that the value proposition that the south offers to Guyana is quite immense,” Baksh told reporters at Wichabai Ranch.
Wichabai Ranch, located
in the midst of South Rupununi mountains is among the several tourism products, the GTA and the ministry are collaborating on to accelerate both local and foreign tourism traffic.
While the already established North Rupununi circuit offers tourists a rainforest experience, the south circuit gravitates more to a ranch-like lifestyle, offering a unique experience of the savannahs and its wildlife, a product which the GTA is hoping to promote on a much larger scale.
“The north took several decades to get to where it is and what we are doing here now with our partners in a very tight-knitted eco-system is to ensure that we can bring the South Rupununi on par with the north within the next few years.”
Baksh noted that the GTA was working with its regional partners to secure funding, training and marketing opportunities to continue work with the hope of boosting the circuit over the next few years.
“We have recognised that the south has incredible products and, through the product development division, we have been working on creating more experiential products where persons who
wish to venture deeper into Guyana would be able to have hands-on experience.”
One of these experiential products, is the Morai Morai Ranch in Katoonarib, which offers an authentic eco-tourism experience and Saddle Mountain Ranch which offers the ultimate savannah experience.
Meanwhile, Amarissa Barker, Programme Manager at Visit Rupununni—a group of Rupununi tourism enterprises, during an interview with this publication, shared that looking ahead, there is a focus on marketing these new tourism products both locally and internationally.
These plans include participating in both local and international exhibitions to showcase these offerings and attract both local and foreign tourists.
“Now that some of these products have been developed, we need to work on marketing. We need to sell these products, not only to locals but also to foreigners as well.”
Already the implementation of several projects which included culinary, first aid, and tour guide training have been successful and, according to Barker, these only pave the way for greater advancement.
At Morai Rupununi Ranch in Katoonarib, Region Nine, a traditional experiential experience is being offered. Tourists can participate in bow and arrow making, cassava bread making and other activities. Photographed is Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, learning the art of making cassava bread (Delano Williams photo)
NDMA awarded for its ‘Girls in ICT’ programme
THE National Data Management Authority (NDMA) has received a Recognition Award for its Girls in ICT programme.
The programme gained the awards at the Eighth Digital Government Ministerial Meeting of the Americas held in Brazil from November 2627, 2024.
The award was presented in recognition of NDMA's continued efforts in advancing gender equality, and empowering young women and girls in the field of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
At the Eighth Digital Government Ministerial Meeting of the Americas, a gathering of senior digital government officials from across the region, the NDMA was commended for its role in advancing gender inclusivity within the technology sector.
The meeting, a biannual event which seeks to share regional actions for digital transformation with equity, and to discuss global best practices in this area, served as the ideal platform for acknowledging the NDMA's leadership in gender equity.
Girls in ICT Day is observed annually on the fourth Thursday in April, and is a key feature on the NDMA’s calendar of events.
This year, the programme, which was part of a broader digital inclusion initiative, sought to inspire and mentor young girls and women to pursue careers in technology.
The programme provided hands-on training, mentorship, and exposure to various aspects of ICT.
This year’s initiative took a dual approach, and focused on
both urban and rural areas. A team of female engineers from the NDMA travelled to the remote villages of Wakapao, in the Pomeroon River (Region 2) and Baracara, on the Corentyne River (Region 6). While there, they provided basic ICT training, coding training, and career guidance to the girls and young women of the villages.
On the coast, Grade 9 and 10 students from various schools in Georgetown were treated to hands-on training in coding, robotics and cybersecurity.
They were also offered career guidance by NDMA’s team of female engineers. These activities were designed to equip young girls with the necessary skills and confidence to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Christopher Deen, NDMA’s General Manager expressed his gratitude while receiving the award, stating: “This recognition highlights the importance of fostering an inclusive digital future, where both men and women have equal opportunities to contribute to the advancement of technology.
“I am proud to lead a team of innovative and committed ICT professionals who continue to excel while making way for the next generation of ICT leaders, breaking barriers and embracing the limitless possibilities of the digital age," he said.
As Guyana continues to advance its digital agenda, the NDMA remains committed to its vision of using technology as a tool to foster inclusive development, bridge the digital divide, and create opportunities for all, regardless of gender or geographical location.
Girls in ICT 2024 was
celebrated under the theme, “Leadership”, and aimed to address challenges faced by women in the ‘tech’ sector by encouraging empowerment and leadership development for a more equitable future in ICT and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
The NDMA intends to continue its Girls in ICT programme, with upcoming initiatives promising to be even more expansive.
NDMA General Manager Christopher Deen receiving the Recognition Award for the ‘Girls in ICT’ programme at the Eighth Ministerial Meeting on Digital Government of the Americas, in Brazil
‘Adopt realistic, practical decisions’
– CARICOM SecretaryGeneral urges trade ministers
CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett has called on the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) to adopt realistic and practical decisions that everyone in the Community can rely on.
Dr. Barnett made the call at the opening of the Fifty-Ninth Regular Meeting of the COTED, on Wednesday at the CARICOM Secretariat, Georgetown, Guyana, where she also urged Ministers of Trade to make full use of the Treaty’s rules and flexibilities on agenda items, particularly those that are sensitive. She commended the prog-
ress being made in several areas, such as implementing the approved categories of workers under the Free Movement of Skills Regime of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).
“As this COTED deliberates, we are reminded that the framers of the Revised Treaty sought to be careful to strike the right balance between the common interests of the Community and the interests of Member States within our Community of sovereign states. They did not intend to promote winners and losers; rather, the objective is a community that supports enhanced
trade, investment, integration of production, and development for all,” Dr. Barnett said.
Chair of the Meeting,
Senator the Hon. Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry of Trinidad and Tobago, highlighted the extensive agenda on which the ministers will deliberate during
the two-day meeting. Discussions will centre on matters including the free movement of Community nationals, the Revised Draft Policy on the Regulation of Mergers and Acquisitions, trade in goods, and the status of the Community Intellectual Property Framework.
On the external trade front, the Ministers will focus on multilateral developments from the 13th World Trade Organisation (WTO) Ministerial Conference, CARICOM-Colombia negotiations and partial scope agreements.
“I want to emphasise this morning the important role
that has been assigned to us in COTED as the Council that addresses the Single Market and trade and economic development issues that are at the forefront of our community’s agenda,” Minister Gopee-Scoon said. The meeting concludes today. (CARICOM)
WGEC resolves to involve men in its activism efforts
THE notion came from Chairperson of the Women and Gender Equality Commission (WGEC) Indranie Chandarpal on Monday as Guyana joined like-minded organisations worldwide in celebrating the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
“We have to bring the men on board as a partner in what we are doing. We cannot only talk about the perpetrators being men, when we as women understand fully the role of us as women; as mothers, and the way we nurture, and the way we get our boys; socialise our boys, and the way we talk to them,” Chandarpal, a former Minister of Human Services and Social Security said.
She began her presentation, at a function at the Kingston Seawall Esplanade, by observing that despite activism efforts over the years, there has been no reduction in violence against victims, but instead an increase in violence in a
- as Guyana celebrates yet another year of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
number of ways. “If you look at all those stories about women, you would have seen the ways in which they were murdered; the brutality of it, and the forms in which it
“We have to bring the men on board as a partner in what we are doing; we cannot only talk about the perpetrators being men, when we as women understand fully the role of us as women, as mothers, and the way we nurture, and the way we socialise our boys…”
She revealed that by 2025, the Commission is hoping to reach out to at least 100 men in each region, and get them to partner with and work with them to bring the rising numbers down.
The 16 Days of Activism initiative offers a unique opportunity to individuals and organisations to boost momentum to end all forms of gender-based violence in private, public, work, and Online spaces.
It runs from November 25, 2024 to December 10, 2024 around the world. (Faith Greene)
work to do,” she said, adding: “We in the Commission have recognised that we cannot speak to women only, and we have embarked now on getting our menfolk involved.
The Red Shoe Project on the Kingston Seawall on Monday (Photo courtesy ChildLink)
From left, Ambassador Wayne McCook, Assistant Secretary-General, CARICOM Single Market and Trade; Dr. Carla Barnett, CARICOM Secretary-General; Chair of the Meeting, Senator the Hon Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry of Trinidad and Tobago, and Michele Lowe, Director External Trade (ag)
Caribbean nations tackle climate challenges to protect agriculture
- Project designed by the Global Environment Facility to improve sugarcane resilience in northern Belize
SMALL island states in the Caribbean are among the most vulnerable in the world, and are working to build resilience in their agrifood systems, which are feeling the impact of increasingly frequent natural disasters.
This is according to the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), which said that the situation faced by farmers in Caribbean countries, whose livelihoods are under threat, was explained in detail to the hundreds of thousands of participants at COP29.
In a statement, the IICA said that this particular event was held at the pavilion operated by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) in the city of Baku in Azerbaijan on November 25, 2024.
Taking part in the activity were the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security of Belize, José Abelardo Mai; the Executive Director of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre Colin Young; and the Coordinator of Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Crispin D’Auvergne.
The statement added that Mai was one of two Caribbean agriculture ministers who attended the United Nations Climate Change Conference, along with Roland Royer of Dominica.
In his address to the other ministers and agriculture personnel, Mai talked about how his country is dealing with the impact climate continues to have on agriculture, saying: “In Belize, we usually have two maize crops: One in June and one in November. Recently, farmers have learned that if they plant in June, the risks are greater, because the season coincides with the peak of hurricane season. So, they already know that it is better to plant in November, although the problem then is that the growing season becomes longer.”
Mai said that the partnership with IICA and other international agencies is key to securing financing, technical expertise, and support. He further said that small-scale farmers are facing the brunt of the climate challages.
“Farmers are the key
At COP29, the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) highlighted the vulnerability of small island states in the Caribbean, and their efforts to build resilience in their agrifood systems in the face of increasingly frequent natural disasters (IICA photo)
players in making changes happen and achieving results. Belize’s agriculture sector faces many challenges; this is especially true of small farmers who are the majority in the country. Funding is often not forthcoming, but the needs are urgent,” he was quoted as saying.
Colin Young, who has extensive experience in the relationship between agriculture and climate in the Caribbean, gave details of a project designed to improve the resilience of sugarcane producers in northern Belize, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
“We need to communicate and show evidence of the success of these projects, in order to expand good practices. It is essential to extend the use of good practices, and examples are essential for that. If you are building resilience in the agriculture sector, you are improving the living conditions of rural communities, and that fact must be communicated.” he said.
CARICOM’S POSITIVE IMPACT
Meanwhile, Young also emphasised the positive impact that that CARICOM has on smaller caribbean states, and made the call
for greater, more rubust collaboration among the organisations, stating: “It is absolutely clear that we need partnerships and coalitions, because we cannot tackle this situation alone.
“IICA operates in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries, building capacities and providing new tools; it plays an essential role, and we also have other entities that play an important role. But this assistance must function in an integrated manner to have greater impact.”
In his remarks, D’Auvergne explained that the OECS is made up of eleven countries, which are working to become resilient, even though climate change is evolving more quickly than previously anticipated.
He stated, “Until recently, many people thought that this would be a problem for future generations, but that has not happened. Today, a hurricane is capable of completely destroying a country’s economy. This happened in Dominica in 2017, for example, and the island took several years to recover.”
D’Auvergne said countries are doing all they can, but the lack of international funding is an obstacle in the
fight against climate change.
“We mu st bear in mind that in many Caribbean countries, climate change is not the only problem, but that there are other problems as well. Tourism
brings in money, but it requires food, which often has to be imported. There is also a problem of productivity, and an insufficient labour supply in rural areas, due to the migration of young people. If the objective is to build resilience, it is essential to attract young people to agriculture in the Caribbean,” he said according to the statement.
75 per cent of Region Eight communities now have internet access through NDMA initiative
SCORES of Region Eight residents are presently benefitting from the expansion of highspeed internet access across that region thanks to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), through the National Data Management Authority (NDMA).
Specifically, 75 per cent of the communities in that region are now connected. This initiative according to the Prime Minister’s office is reshaping the digital landscape for residents in one of Guyana’s most remote regions.
Additionally, OPM stated that the recent efforts by the
NDMA have brought reliable high-speed internet to several communities, including Kurukabaru, Kopinang, Arasawa, Sand Hill, Waipa, Kamana, Itabac, Kato, Bashvale (Yawong), Maikwak, Kaibarupai, and Kanapang.
The OPM notes that this transformative initiative is critical in bridging the digital divide in Guyana. By providing these communities with reliable internet access, the government is unlocking opportunities for education, healthcare, communication, and economic growth.
Furthermore, the government’s commitment to ensuring
equitable access to digital services underscores its vision for a connected Guyana.
The office noted that as connectivity improves, these communities are poised to thrive in the digital age, marking a significant step forward in Guyana’s inclusive development strategy. This expansion builds upon previous installations and reflects a comprehensive approach to enhancing digital infrastructure across the region.
The NDMA, since its establishment in 1983 is responsible for the development of computerised solutions in the public sector to satisfy its infor-
mation needs, develop training and manpower programmes to ensure adequately trained personnel are available for the efficient operation of computer systems, to authorise all hardware and software purchases for the Public Sector, to establish and maintain reliable communication linkages in the Public Sector in order to achieve optimal utilisation and deployment of computer resources, and to establish guidelines for the recruitment and work conditions for ICT professionals.
Generally, the NDMA aims to improve delivery of govern-
An ICT hub in Kato Region Eight (Office of the Prime Minister photo)
ment services to the citizenry through the efficient use of information and communications technologies (ICTs); reduce digital inequality by providing access to ICTs in poor and remote communities across Guyana; improve interoperability among ministries, government agencies and commissions; harmonise government ICT operations, maintenance, training, procurement, and human resources to improve capabilities and capacities. This will result in higher efficiency and cost savings.
GULFSTREAM PARK Race 1 British Empress Race 2 Come Dream With Me Race 3 Ours For Sure Race 4 Xenon Race 5 Miyako Race 6 Marty's Gal Race 7 CadamostoVAAL 08:45 hrs. Buffalo Storm Cody 09:30 hrs. Obe Party 09:55 hrs. Nettleton 10:40 hrs. Bregardt
RACING
ENGLISH RACING TIPS LINGFIELD 08:35 hrs. Just Chasing May 09:10 hrs. Plantaroma 09:45 hrs. Vision De Maine 10:20 hrs. The Cox Express 10:55 hrs. Miller Spirit 11:30 hrs Barest Of Margins
MUSSELBURGH 08:25 hrs. Impero 09:00 hrs. Johnny Ringo 09:35 hrs Divas Doyen 10:10 hrs. She's On Line 10:45 hrs. Kandor 11:20 hrs. Twoplacesatonetime
Britain's Anunoby stars as Knicks beat Nuggets
BRITAIN’S OG Anunoby scored a career-high 40 points as the New York Knicks beat the Denver Nuggets 145-118.
Anunoby, who was born in London to Nigerian parents and moved to the United States aged four, also recorded five rebounds and four assists.
The 27-year-old's previous best tally was 36 points while playing for the Toronto Raptors against the Knicks in November 2021. He also made five three-pointers and all of his three free throws during
the game in Denver.
Anunoby joined the Knicks in a trade from Toronto in December 2023 then re-signed with the team on a five-year contract this summer.
He won the 2018-19 NBA Championship with the Raptors in his second NBA season - the only British player to claim the title.
Karl-Anthony Towns also had 30 points and 15 rebounds against the Nuggets while team-mate Jalen Brunson scored 23 points and produced a career-high
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Thursday, November 28, 2024)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1) Kraigg Braithwaite-994 runs (13 Tests)
(2) Tamin Iqbal-954 runs (14 Tests)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Which WI bowler has claimed most Test wickets against BANG to date?
(2) Which BANG bowler has bagged most Test wickets versus the WI to date?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Dates announced for the 2027 Pan American Games
THE 2027 Pan American Games, the continent's premier multi-sport event, will take place in Lima, Peru, from July 16 to August 1, 2027, according to an announcement from the Executive Board of Panam Sports. The dates were confirmed in a letter to Federico Tong, President of the Peruvian Sports Institute, following a meeting held last week in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
The Peruvian government presented three possible date options—May, July, and September—for hosting the Games. After thorough deliberation, the Panam Sports
Executive Board selected the July timeframe, citing its alignment with the availability of the continent’s top athletes.
“There were several factors to consider before determining the best date for the Games," said Neven Ilic, President of Panam Sports.
"The proposals were analysed, and, finally, the entire Executive Board decided that it would be best to hold them in the month of July for several reasons. Perhaps the most important is that on that date we will be able to have the best athletes of the continent participating in Lima.”
This will mark the sec-
Brathwaite pleased with...
superb and we had some aggression, and I think that is important in Test cricket.
17 assists.
The Knicks scored 76 points in a dominant first-half display to help them to their fifth win in six games while the Nuggets have now lost two successive matches at home. (BBC Sport)
“Everyone has different skill sets in the fast bowling unit and I think they have a very, very bright future,” he added.
With the second Test scheduled to begin on Saturday in Jamaica, Brathwaite
said the guys were relieved to have a Test win under their belts following tough series losses to England and South Africa earlier in the year.
ond time Lima hosts the Pan American Games, following its successful debut as host city in 2019. The Peruvian capital joins an elite group of cities to host the event twice, alongside Mexico City (1955, 1975) and Winnipeg (1967, 1999).
The Pan American Games is one of the world’s largest multi-sport events, featuring athletes from across the Americas competing in a diverse range of disciplines. The announcement of the 2027 dates sets the stage for another memorable celebration of sport and culture in Lima. (Sportsmax)
(From page 23)
“A lot of learning would have taken place coming from the England tour where we didn’t win a Test match and that was tough, but I always tell the guys to keep learning.
“Test cricket is all about learning and coming from the last Test against South Africa to here, we’ve seen some improvements…” Brathwaite maintained.
“It was good to see, good to get a Test win and we have to continue working hard.”
OG Anunoby (left) arrived at the New York Knicks in December 2023 in a trade with the Toronto Raptors
Stokes skipped IPL auction to 'look after body' and 'prolong' England career
'I want to wear this England shirt for as long as I can,' he says
BEN Stokes has revealed he did not enter the IPL mega auction to strip back his playing commitments as he attempts to prolong the twilight of his career.
Stokes was a notable omission from the list of 52 Englishmen signed up for the mega auction in Jeddah for the 2025 competition. It means England's Test captain would not be allowed to play in the IPL until 2026, by which time he would be 35.
Under the new regulations introduced by franchise owners - and ratified by the BCCI - players who have previously appeared in the league but did not register for the mega auction would be unable to register for the subsequent mini-auction.
History suggests the allrounder would have fetched a hefty deal. Stokes has previously earned lucrative million-pound deals with Rising Pune Supergiant, Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
"[There is] just so much cricket," Stokes told BBC Sport in Christchurch
Liverpool overpower Real Madrid in Champions League thriller
Liverpool finally ended their Real Madrid curse as they maintained their flawless Champions League record with a fully deserved victory in a thrilling encounter at Anfield.
home to India before the Ashes at the end of the year.
And with Brendon McCullum assuming control of the limited-overs teams, Stokes could well return to the ODI set-up for the Champions Trophy in February. All of this on top of a stint with MI Cape Town in the SA20 at the start of the year.
Having spent most of the last 12 months rehabbing his left knee after surgery and recovering from a torn right hamstring, Stokes, centrally contracted to the ECB until October 2026, admitted it was time to start listening to his body for the good of what remains of his international career.
ahead of England's first Test against New Zealand. "There's no hiding behind the fact that I'm at the backend of my career. I obviously want to play as long as I possibly can. Looking after my body and looking after myself as much as I can are key to that."
England's Test side face a legacy-defining 2025 with a five-match Test series at
"[It is about] prioritising games and when I do play - obviously I'm in South Africa this year - so it's about looking at what I've got ahead and making the decision that I think is right for me to be able to prolong my career as long as possible. I want to wear this England shirt for as long as I can."
Stokes had opted out of the 2024 edition of the IPL to manage his workloads after a gruelling Test series in India. Under the new regulations, if he had put his name in the 2025 auction and then pulled out of the tournament (after being bought by a team), that would also earn him a two-year ban, unless he could provide an injury sheet from the ECB which proved he had withdrawn for legitimate medical reasons rather than simply wanting a rest.
By not entering the auction altogether, Stokes has also helped the ECB, who found themselves in an awkward situation last week when they had to budge late to allow Jofra Archer to enter the auction despite initially blocking the move. Archer, whose central contract runs until October 2025, was bought by RR for £1.2m (US$1.49 million approx.).ESPN cricinfo)
They had failed to beat the holders in eight previous meetings in the tournament – including two Champions League finals – but there was no denying Liverpool as head coach Arne Slot’s remarkable start in succession to Jurgen Klopp continues.
Liverpool dominated Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who have now lost three of their five games and must fight for a play-off place in the tournament's new format.
In a game where the two superstars, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Real's Kylian Mbappe, failed from the penalty spot, Alexis Mac Allister put the hosts ahead after 52 minutes with a low shot across Thibaut Courtois in front of an elated Kop.
Real then squandered the chance to draw level as Caoimhin Kelleher saved Mbappe’s penalty following Andy Robertson’s foul on Lucas Vazquez.
Slot's side then missed a spot-kick of their own when Salah blasted wide after he had been upended by Ferland Mendy.
Liverpool did not have to wait long to increase their lead, substitute Cody Ga -
kpo heading past Courtois from Robertson’s cross 14 minutes from time, putting them top of the Champions League table with five wins from five.
Liverpool's relentless march goes on Liverpool’s victory over Real Madrid will taste especially sweet, given their recent disappointments against the tournament’s most successful club – and this almost flawless display added to the growing sense that something special may be happening under the under-stated Dutchman Slot.
He has made it a seamless transition from his iconic predecessor Klopp, Liverpool’s more measured but still potent approach rattling off a string of impressive victories that has left them eight points clear at the top of the Premier League as well as heading the Champions League standings.
CWI launches major...
hort.
CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, expressed the organisation’s enthusiasm for the programme.
“CWI is committed to providing opportunities for our emerging players in overseas conditions. In this case, the Chennai Academy will host these seven batsmen and aims to equip them with skills and experience in navigating spinning conditions. Our coaches will be on hand to ensure that the learnings in the period can be consolidated and extend-
Liverpool heroes everywhere on a night when Real Madrid were overrun, big names such as Mbappe and Jude Bellingham simply unable to exert any influence.
Keeper Kelleher demonstrated what an outstanding deputy he is to first-choice Alisson, not only saving Mbappe’s penalty but making other key contributions in another supremely assured performance.
And in 21-year-old right-back Conor Bradley, Liverpool showed they may just have the perfect replacement should Trent Alexander-Arnold take the road to Madrid in the summer.
This was, above all, an outstanding team performance and the perfect appetiser for Sunday’s vital meeting with struggling Premier League champions Manchester City at Anfield. (BBC Sport)
(From page 23)
ed to other players in the region through the academy.”
The programme includes a mix of match play and training, with participants set to compete in a two-day match and three white-ball fixtures. These activities are designed to enhance the players’ ability to tackle spin bowling, a critical skill for success in subcontinental conditions.
At the CSK Academy, the players will work under the guidance of esteemed coaches, including Academy Director, Sriram Krish-
namurthy.
This initiative draws inspiration from similar successful programmes, such as training camps organised for the New Zealand Test team. Beyond honing technical skills, the programme emphasises building mental resilience and cultural adaptability.
Upon their return, the players will act as ambassadors, sharing their experiences and learnings with territorial coaches and peers across the Caribbean.
Ben Stokes was a notable omission from the list of 52 England players signed up for the IPL mega auction (Getty Images)
Alexis Mac Allister celebrates putting Liverpool ahead against Real Madrid in the Champions League at Anfield
Athanaze, Greaves, Louis lead Windies’ rise in Test rankings
WEST INDIES’
emphatic 201-run triumph over Bangladesh in the first Test in Antigua has not only bolstered team morale but also catapulted several players up the ICC Test rankings.
The performance, though not the most polished, was a statement of intent that showcased a balanced team effort spearheaded by emerging stars and seasoned campaigners alike.
Alick Athanaze, one of the shining lights of the victory, has climbed 18 places to 62nd in the batting rankings after his crucial knocks of 90 and 42. The 25-yearold’s maturity under pressure has been a revelation, solidifying his status as one of the brightest prospects in West Indies cricket.
Justin Greaves (up 43 places to 81st) and Mikyle Louis (up 25 places to joint86th) also made significant
gains, highlighting the depth and promise in the West Indies’ batting ranks. The Caribbean fast-bowling trio of Jayden Seales, Kemar Roach, and Alzarri Joseph has reaped the rewards for a disciplined and hostile display in Antigua. Seales, who led the attack with precision, has moved up three places to a career-best 11th in the ICC Test Bowling Rankings. Roach’s masterclass of swing and seam bowling, coupled with his ability to dismantle top-order batters, has pushed him four spots to 17th. Meanwhile, the fiery Alzarri Joseph has climbed three places to 29th, reflecting his growing reputation as a strike bowler capable of rattling opposition line-ups. Bangladesh’s Taskin Ahmed stood out with a six-wicket haul, 6-64, in the second innings, lifting him from 67th to 51st in the
bowling rankings, while Litton Das and Mominul Haque have inched up a slot each to 32nd and 47th positions in the batting rankings.
Meanwhile, India’s fast bowler, Jasprit Bumrah, has regained the top spot in the men’s Test bowling rankings after leading his team to a resounding 295-run victory over Australia in the first match of their ICC World Test Championship series in Perth.
Bumrah’s hauls of five for 30 and three for 42 have helped him overtake Josh Hazlewood and Kagiso Rabada and reach a career-best 883 rating points, the highest rating points tally ever by an Indian seam bowler. Spinners Ravichandran Ashwin (904) and Ravindra Jadeja (899) are the only bowlers from India to record higher points tallies.
This is the third time that Bumrah has been top
of the rankings this year. He was top ranked for two onemonth stretches each starting in February and October.
India’s huge victory in the first of five Tests is reflected in gains for several other players including centurions Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli.
Opener Jaiswal has overtaken Harry Brook and Kane Williamson to reach a career-best second position after top-scoring in Perth with 161 in the second innings, while Kohli’s unbeaten 100 has lifted him nine spots to 13th position after being outside the top 20 batters for the first time in 10 years.
KL Rahul has advanced from 60th to 49th position and Nitish Kumar Reddy has entered the batting rankings in 74th position, while Mohammad Siraj has moved up three spots to 25th position in the bowling rankings.
Australian Travis Head
CWI launches major training initiative in India for emerging talent
ST. JOHN’s, Antigua, (CMC) — CRICKET West Indies (CWI) has unveiled a ground-breaking development programme, set to provide specialised training for seven of the region’s most promising young cricketers. This initiative will take place at the prestigious Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Academy in India this December.
The selected players will be accompanied by West Indies Academy head coach, Ramesh Subasinghe and assistant coach, Rohan Nurse. The contingent is scheduled to leave for India on November29, with the two-week intensive training camp running from December 1 to December 14.
This initiative represents a significant investment in the future of West Indies cricket, focusing on developing the elite Under-25 talent pool. Among the chosen participants are three contracted franchise
Matthew Nandu, who scored 260 runs at an average of 43.3 and a top score of 116 in the recently concluded CG United Super 50 Cup 2024 for Guyana Harpy Eagles will be making the trip to India
players, Kirk McKenzie, Matthew Nandu, and Kevin Wickham.
Also making the trip are current and former West
Indies Academy players
Teddy Bishop and Jewel Andrew. Additionally, former West Indies Under-19 standouts Jordan Johnson
is back in the top 10 after notching a fighting 89 in the second innings while Alex Carey (up one place to 39th among batters) and Mitchell Marsh (up 10 places to 68th among bowlers) are among others to progress after their performances in Perth. Steve Smith, who could only manage zero and 17, has slid down to seventh place, his lowest position since December 2014. (Sportsmax)
Brathwaite pleased with Windies’ performance in opening Test
ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – WEST INDIES captain, Kraigg Brathwaite, has praised his charges following their commanding 201-run win over Bangladesh in the opening Test at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on Tuesday.
The home side needed just seven overs to wrap up Bangladesh’s tail on the fifth and final day to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
The win was set up by the Windies’ batters in the first innings, with Player-of-theMatch Justin Greaves scoring his maiden Test century, while both Mikyle Louis and Alick Athanaze were dismissed in their 90s in a total of 450 for nine declared.
and Ackeem Auguste, who have demonstrated exceptional potential in regional cricket, are part of this co-
(Turn to page 22)
Their fast bowling quartet of Kemar Roach, Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales and Shamar Joseph then restricted the visitors in both innings to help set up the comfortable victory.
Speaking in a post-match interview, Brathwaite said the batsmen and the bowlers both played crucial roles in the win.
“I think the way we batted in the first innings, to put up 450 runs, I think that was great.
“Normally here in Antigua, day one especially, is usually favourable to the bowlers. The first two sessions the pitch was extremely slow and had a fair bit of moisture, and the way we went about it and got up to 450 with guys getting some big 50s and Justin Greaves getting a hundred, I think that really put us in a good position to press for the win,” Brathwaite said.
“I also think the fast bowlers worked fantastic together. I think Kemar Roach was the leader of this bowling unit on or off the field. To see how they went about it, I think the discipline was
(Turn to page 21)
Alick Athanaze jumped 18 spots to 62nd
ICC meets on Friday to tackle Champions Trophy deadlock
THE board of the International Cricket Council (ICC) will meet on Friday to discuss the Champions Trophy schedule after India indicated it will not travel to host nation Pakistan.
Political tensions mean the two countries have not played each other outside of major tournaments since 2008 and India has not travelled to Pakistan for 16 years. Pakistan did travel to India for the 50-over World Cup in 2023.
Although Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has previously rejected the idea of a 'hybrid' staging of the tournament, with India playing their matches in a different country, it now looks increasingly unlikely the tournament will take place solely in Pakistan.
The situation is complicated by protests in the Pakistan capital Islamabad involving supporters of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, a former captain of the Pakistan team.
On Tuesday, the Sri Lanka A team's tour of Pakistan was cut short because of the protests.
Options for the ICC board could include a hybrid staging in more than one country, complete relocation or a postponement. A decision may not come right away, as the PCB takes time to consult the government.
The Champions Trophy is set to be the first global cricket event Pakistan has hosted since 1996.
Any alteration to the staging of the Champions Trophy as a result of the current dispute could have
Global Super League...
Hampshire Hawksforce super over win
The second match of the Global Super League (GSL) saw a thrilling encounter between Hampshire Hawks and Rangpur Riders in Providence, Guyana. Both sides finished their 20 overs on 132 runs apiece and had to be split by the tournament’s first Super Over. The Hawks eventually prospered with one ball to spare, a Liam Dawson smear for six seeing them snatch the points at the last. Details in tomorrow's edition.
knock-on effects for future tournaments that India is scheduled to host - as Pakistan could demand they are held as hybrids too.
India is set to stage two 50-over World Cups - the women's tournament in 2025 and the men's in 2031 - as well as the 2029 men's Champions Trophy. It is also scheduled to co-host with Sri Lanka the 2026 men's T20 World Cup.
Earlier this month, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said it had been informed by the ICC of India's decision not to travel.
That has left the tournament, scheduled to begin on February 19, in limbo. The ICC is yet to officially publish fixtures for the eight-team event, although a schedule has been shared with broadcasters without venues allocated
to matches.
The tournament comprises two groups of four – England, Australia, South Africa, Afghanistan, New Zealand and Bangladesh are also competing. The top two from each group advance to the semi-finals.
If a hybrid is employed, it raises the prospect of two separate venues, possibly more than 1,000 miles apart, being on stand-by for a semi and the final depending on India's progress.
The idea of India being thrown out of the tournament appears to be a non-starter, given the game's financial dependence on the country.
Speaking last month, England and Wales Cricket Board chief executive, Richard Gould, said: "If you play the Champions Tro-
phy without India or Pakistan, the broadcast rights aren't there, and we need to protect them."
And this week, New Zealand Cricket chief executive, Scott Weenink, told BBC Sport: "Our working assumption is it will still be played in Pakistan. If it happens to be split because India can't go to Pakistan, then we'll just adapt to that.
"There's a whole lot that goes into it. India do a lot for the world game and we're all really grateful for that. We'd all love to see India and Pakistan play more cricket against each other. Clearly that's a challenge.
"The rest of us play what is in front of us. World cricket is complicated. We do what we can to support the ICC. (BBC SPORT)
Pakistan played in India during the 50-over World Cup in 2023