Guyana Chronicle Pepperpot E-Paper 24-03-2024

‘Guyana has possibility to become model for the world’

DR Ambassador highlights; commends President Ali for preparing country for massive economic transformation

By Trina Williams

By Trina Williams

WITH President Dr Irfaan Ali preparing Guyana to embrace a massive economic transformation, Dominican Republic (DR) Ambassador to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra, has said that the country has the possibility to serve as a model for the entire world.

WITH President Dr Irfaan Ali preparing Guyana to embrace a massive economic transformation, Dominican Republic (DR) Ambassador to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra, has said that the country has the possibility to serve as a model for the entire world.

He made those remarks during an interview at the DR Embassy, located at Pegasus Hotel, Seawall Road, Kingston, on Saturday.

He made those remarks during an interview at the DR Embassy, located at Pegasus Hotel, Seawall Road, Kingston, on Saturday.

Noting that Guyana has all the conditions to become a global leader, Torres-Pereyra said: “You have the possibility here in Guyana of serving as a paradigm for the entire world.”

the promotion of transparency, Guyana is already checking the boxes in these areas.

then went on to say: “...As I mentioned before, that type of leadership that you have now serves as inspiration. President Ali has been preparing this country to embrace this economic transition while setting the foundations to face the imminent challenges that come together with this process.”

itate the exchange of people but also provide business opportunities.

The Ambassador then went on to say: “...As I mentioned before, that type of leadership that you have now serves as inspiration. President Ali has been preparing this country to embrace this economic transition while setting the foundations to face the imminent challenges that come together with this process.”

in Georgetown at Lot 58 David Street, Kitty, Georgetown, just weeks after its inaugural flight at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

Just a few days ago, Sky High Dominicana Airlines officially opened its new office in Georgetown at Lot 58 David Street, Kitty, Georgetown, just weeks after its inaugural flight at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

ply some of the growing needs during this incredible massive process of transformation of the country.”

NO LIMIT

He added: “...There's basically no limit to what we can do together.”

wanting to see immediate results regardless of the magnitude of the project.

ploration Block were signed by the countries’ respective representatives.

Torres-Pereyra elaborated on how Guyana and the DR relations have deepened, highlighting important landmarks that have been attained so far.

Torres-Pereyra elaborated on how Guyana and the DR relations have deepened, highlighting important landmarks that have been attained so far.

Continuing to list the ways in which the relationship between the two nations has become stronger, the Ambassador said that trade balance has increased significantly since the Embassy opened its doors.

Continuing to list the ways in which the relationship between the two nations has become stronger, the Ambassador said that trade balance has increased significantly since the Embassy opened its doors.

Shifting his attention to the six memoranda of understanding (MoU) signed last year between the two nations, the Ambassador said that many of them have undergone advances.

Shifting his attention to the six memoranda of understanding (MoU) signed last year between the two nations, the Ambassador said that many of them have undergone advances.

Agreements were also signed to enhance the two nations’ agriculture, tourism and trade industries.

He also pointed out that in terms of building a society with sound values, institutions, respect for the environment and

Noting that Guyana has all the conditions to become a global leader, Torres-Pereyra said: “You have the possibility here in Guyana of serving as a paradigm for the entire world.”

He also pointed out that in terms of building a society with sound values, institutions, respect for the environment and the promotion of transparency, Guyana is already checking the boxes in these areas.

The Ambassador

Putting things into perspective, he referenced how Sky High Dominicana is playing a key role in bridging the gap and aiding in building a direct connection between the two nations.

He said that this airline will not only facil-

Putting things into perspective, he referenced how Sky High Dominicana is playing a key role in bridging the gap and aiding in building a direct connection between the two nations.

He said that this airline will not only facilitate the exchange of people but also provide business opportunities.

Just a few days ago, Sky High Dominicana Airlines officially opened its new office

Torres-Pereyra further told reporters: “Our trade balance has increased significantly after the opening of the embassy. People are getting to know more about what you offer here in Guyana and what the Dominican Republic has to offer as a solid partner to sup -

Torres-Pereyra further told reporters: “Our trade balance has increased significantly after the opening of the embassy. People are getting to know more about what you offer here in Guyana and what the Dominican Republic has to offer as a solid partner to supply some of the growing needs during this incredible massive process of transformation of the country.”

NO LIMIT

He added: “...There's basically no limit to what we can do together.”

“And in both of our countries because of the type of leadership that we have, the advances have been unbelievable,” he said, noting that both President Ali and the DR’s President, Luis Abinader have done “unbelievable things in a very short period of time.”

“And in both of our countries because of the type of leadership that we have, the advances have been unbelievable,” he said, noting that both President Ali and the DR’s President, Luis Abinader have done “unbelievable things in a very short period of time.”

For context, at the DR’s National Palace, in August of last year, the agreements for the oil and gas industry, the establishment of an oil refinery, a petrochemical plant, and a study for participation in Guyana’s Oil Exploration Block were signed by the countries’ respective representatives.

Agreements were also signed to enhance the two nations’ agriculture, tourism and trade industries.

also in terms of planning, you need planning that goes beyond architecture, engineering, you have to go through environmental impact and also everybody who invest has an expectation. So the negotiation process is ongoing. The discussions are ongoing,” he said.

body who invest has an expectation. So the negotiation process is ongoing. The discussions are ongoing,” he said.

The Ambassador added: “Your government has been very diligent and both private sectors...Guyanese and Dominican have been very diligent... It's just that because of the magnitude of the projects, it will take time to reach an agreement to say ‘okay, let's go.’”

However, he emphasised that patience is key, as Caribbean people often adopt the mentality of wanting to see immediate results regardless of the magnitude of the project.

However, he emphasised that patience is key, as Caribbean people often adopt the mentality of

For context, at the DR’s National Palace, in August of last year, the agreements for the oil and gas industry, the establishment of an oil refinery, a petrochemical plant, and a study for participation in Guyana’s Oil Ex -

“The agreements were signed in August and these type of projects, they not only [are] massive in terms of the amount of investment that they [require], but

“The agreements were signed in August and these type of projects, they not only [are] massive in terms of the amount of investment that they [require], but also in terms of planning, you need planning that goes beyond architecture, engineering, you have to go through environmental impact and also every-

The Ambassador added: “Your government has been very diligent and both private sectors... Guyanese and Dominican have been very diligent... It's just that because of the magnitude of the projects, it will take time to reach an agreement to say ‘okay, let's go.’”

He also said that both of the nations’ private sectors are actively collaborating.

He also said that both of the nations’ private sectors are actively collaborating.

-

President Dr Irfaan Ali (second, left) with Dominican Republic Ambassador to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra (third, left); Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd (extreme left) and Ambassador Elizabeth Harper (extreme right)

Dominican Republic Ambassador to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra

Learning to be made easier as gov’t working to make it fully online with AI

AS the world continues to evolve digitally, President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that the government is working to transition the entire education platform to an online one, within a year or less, using Artificial Intelligence (AI).

at the official launch of the Guyanese Coursera Platform where he pointed out that the aim is to ease the rigidity of learning and ensure that all have an ample opportunity to pursue an education.

to the ease of learning because the nature of the workforce is changing.”

But what is the government doing to make this a reality?

aids. With the aid of AI we're looking to move it to a fully electronic online platform.”

The President made this announcement on Friday

“The world is moving away from the concept of rigidity of learning... the rigidity of learning is giving way

Furthermore, Dr Ali rebalancing in the workplace will be needed in the future, meaning, instead of deploying persons to university first then to the working world, university should be brought to the labour force.

To further advance the ease of learning, the Head of State said, “We have agreed in cabinet that we are now working on a programme to make our entire education infrastructure modules, learning curriculum, teaching

education [and] that is being delivered by this government to the citizens of this country,” the CEO said.

He added: “So, there will be continuous learning anytime in the day that comprise of 24 hours and we were looking for your help because you have developed a platform globally within one year... We want to move our learning in nursery, primary and secondary school on a fully electronic online system that is accessible to parents and children 24 hours every day.”

With the integration of technology, he said that this will improve accessibility and make learning easier.

Already, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has rolled out measures that will ensure that Guyana is on this path.

For instance, under the Ali-led administration, teachers regardless of where they reside, are given the opportunity to become trained teachers using an online platform.

He stated that through their partnership with the Commonwealth of Learning and Guyana’s Ministry of Education, Guyana has set a record among all of the countries on Coursera.

4 SUNDAY CHRONICLE, March 24, 2024

“We saw 15,000 enrollments from Guyanese learners, almost two per cent of the entire population of the country in the first 10 days.

Learning to be made easier as gov’t working to make it fully online with AI

Over 46,000, Guyanese citizens have learned new skills through the programme, earning over 50,000 certificates in job-related fields including business, technology, and data science,” he stated.

The CEO added that the relationship between Guyana and Coursera, which sprung in 2020, served as “an early testament to the country's innovative leadership and profound appetite of the citizens of Guyana to learn new skills despite challenges.”

AS the world continues to evolve digitally, President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that the government is working to transition the entire education platform to an online one, within a year or less, using Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Coursera Inc, Jeff Maggioncalda, said that with the rise of generative AI jobs, this has resulted in the reshaping of jobs and skill requirements, etc.

“This change is bringing opportunities and threats and the difference between change being an opportunity and threat is the level of access to

The President made this announcement on Friday at the official launch of the Guyanese Coursera Platform where he pointed out that the aim is to ease the rigidity of learning and ensure that all have an ample opportunity to pursue an education.

“The world is moving away from the concept of rigidity of learning... the rigidity of learning is giving way to the ease of learning because the nature of the workforce is changing.”

Furthermore, Dr Ali rebalancing in the workplace will be needed in the future, meaning, instead of deploying persons to university first then to the working world, university should be brought to the labour force.

But what is the government doing to make this a reality?

Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has rolled out measures that will ensure that Guyana is on this path.

With every Guyanese now being given the opportunity to gain access to first-class education, Maggioncalda, said that he has no doubt that the nation’s palate for education will result in economic growth that only a few countries have ever experienced.

For instance, under the Ali-led administration, teachers regardless of where they reside, are given the opportunity to become trained teachers using an online platform.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Coursera Inc, Jeff Maggioncalda, said that with the rise of generative AI jobs, this has resulted in the reshaping of jobs and skill requirements, etc.

“This change is bringing opportunities and threats and the difference between change being an opportunity and threat is the level of access to education [and] that is being delivered by this government to the citizens of this country,” the CEO said.

He stated that through their partnership with the Commonwealth of Learning and Guyana’s Ministry of Education, Guyana has set a record among all of the countries on Coursera.

To further advance the ease of learning, the Head of State said, “We have agreed in cabinet that we are now working on a programme to make our entire education infrastructure modules, learning curriculum, teaching aids. With the aid of AI we're looking to move it to a fully electronic online platform.” He added: “So, there

“We saw 15,000 enrollments from Guyanese learners, almost two per cent of the entire population of the country in the first 10 days. Over 46,000, Guyanese citizens have learned new skills through the programme, earning over 50,000 certificates in job-related fields including business, technology, and data science,” he stated.

The CEO added that the

President Dr Irfaan Ali received a courtesy visit from former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Tony Blair at State House on Friday. President Ali and Mr Blair, who is also head of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, discussed the progress of collaborative works in the areas of health care, digitalisation and food security. (Photo: Office of the President)

Guyana wants to lead the world in energy, climate security

— Prime Minister says as GEA hosts first Electric Vehicle Show and Tell exhibition

By Feona Morrison

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips, has boldly declared that Guyana wants to lead the world in energy and climate security.

As he addressed the Guyana Energy Agency's (GEA) maiden EV [Electric Vehicle] Show and Tell exhibition on Saturday at Amazonia Mall, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) he emphasised the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable development in the face of global issues. He asserted that although fossil fuels will be available for another 30 years or so, Guyana needs to keep up with the global shift towards a greater usage of renewable energy sources.

Guyana now has 200 electric vehicles (EVs) with six charging stations, and the Prime Minister anticipates that number would rise to over 1,000 by 2025.

Furthermore, there are currently 50 persons trained to service these vehicles.

In an attempt to support national green energy initiatives, the Government of Guyana has made all imports of electric vehicles tax-free and duty free. There is also a 50 per cent annual writedown allowance for businesses investing in environmentally friendly vehicles.

These measures are con-

sistent with the government's pledge to advance growth along a low-carbon route, the Prime Minister noted.

“Government is here to continue facilitating the move towards greater use of renewable energy with the use of electric vehicles in Guyana.

It is my hope that by the end of 2025, we will pass 1,000 vehicles and I would like to contribute by purchasing an electric vehicle,” said Phillips, who has oversight over the country’s energy sector.

The increased use of electric vehicles will, in the opinion of Phillips, also help Guyana to gain more recognition as a global leader in climate and energy security.

“We want to be seen as the leader in energy security. And embracing renewable energy will not only see us

as a leader in energy security, but [we] will also be seen as a leader in climate security…”

PM Phillips used the fact that there are more than 5,000 electric automobiles in the Dominican Republic to support his argument that these vehicles are getting more and more popular.

He added that Uganda has a comparable situation with regard to the adoption of electric vehicles for both private and public transportation.

Electric mobility is present in Guyana, according to Dr Mahender Sharma, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GEA.

Sharma, who has been driving an electric vehicle since 2020, mentioned that owning one has numerous advantages and is a wise investment.

Excited attendees eager to learn about and experience the future of automotive innovation filled the Amazonia Mall. Massay Motors showcased sleek electric vehicles that illustrated the advantages of moving away from conventional fossil fuel-powered modes of mobility.

During the event, a diverse range of electric vehicles, including those manufactured by MG Motor UK Limited, was showcased by

Massy Motors.

Meletia Hossanah, the company's Marketing and Customer Service Manager, stated that these vehicles offer substantial financial and environmental benefits in addition to requiring less upkeep and operation than petrol-powered vehicles.

She said the vehicles come with home charging kits, enabling persons to conveniently charge their vehicles overnight at a fraction of the cost of traditional fueling. According to her, the company offers after sales support for all models.

Individuals from diverse backgrounds are embracing electric transportation and advocating for its benefits. Chrystal Persaud is one such individual who said, "Electric vehicles are good for the environment as well as your pocket."

According to Persaud, she contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions by driving an electric vehicle. She shared that her car is comfortable and has decent speed.

Even though battery depletion has limited her ability to travel long distances, Shanette Dey revealed that she still adores her car. "I would marry my car if it were a man," she declared.

According to Samuel Chandool, he is pleased with his car. He explained that many people's misconceptions regarding electric vehicles stem from their worries about the battery.

Public charging stations for electric vehicles are available outside of the GEA office on Quamina Street, Georgetown; Giftland Mall, Pattensen, Greater Georgetown; Little Rock Suites in New Amsterdam, Berbice; Big Kiss Parking Lot in Parika, East Bank Essequibo (EBE); Amazonia Mall, Providence, EBD; and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) at Timehri, EBD.

These public charging stations are currently under a three-months trial and testing phase supervised by GEA’s engineers. Owners of electric vehicles can download the “Flash Charge” app, register, and charge their vehicles at these stations during this period for free.

After the three months is up, owners will have to pay $80 per kilowatt-hour, which according to the Prime Minister, is very affordable, compared to the rates in other Caribbean countries.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (retired) Mark Phillips inspecting an electric vehicle (Office of the Prime Minister photos)

Flagrant Violation

VENEZUELA'S recent action to declare the Essequibo Region a “constituent part of Venezuela” is a clear violation of international law and a breach of the Argyle Declaration hammered out between President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and his Venezuelan counterpart Nicholas Maduro in St. Vincent and the Grenadines just last December.

According to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs release, Guyana considers this action a flagrant violation of the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a breach of the fundamental

principles of international law enshrined in the United Nations Charter.

Guyana has accordingly, and in the interest of a peaceful resolution, issued a renewed call to the international community to pressure Venezuela to use the World Court to settle the territorial controversy regarding Essequibo region.

Guyana calls on the international community to uphold the rule of law by rejecting Venezuela's illegal expansionism and by insisting that Venezuela revert to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which has before it the case for a full

and final resolution of the controversy over the land border between the two countries.

Venezuela's actions notwithstanding, Guyana remains committed to peace on its borders and in the region. However, as repeatedly stated by President Ali, it will not allow its sovereignty and territorial integrity to be usurped.

Guyana will exert all of its efforts under international law to ensure that its sovereignty and territorial integrity remains intact.

Moreover, such unilateral actions on the part of the Venezuelan govern -

ment calls into question that element of trust and the extent to which agreements entered into in good faith with the Venezuelan government can be honoured and respected.

As pointed out in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs release, this most recent action is an egregious violation of the Order on provisional measures issued by the ICJ on December 1, 2023 and a violation of the Argyle Declaration of December 14, 2023 agreed to by the leaders of CARICOM and Brazil, the representatives of the United Nations and by the Presidents

of Guyana and Venezuela.

At the recent opening session of a CARICOM Regional Security System conference, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn deplored what he describes as “a violation of the principles of good faith discussions which were undertaken at Argyle and more latterly in Brazil.”

He also alluded to the risks and challenges that could lead to instability especially due to the presence of non-state actors such as remnants of Colombian rebel groups such as FARC and ELN in eastern Venezuela near the borders with

Guyana. President Ali and his administration must be commended for the efforts made to bring about a peaceful and legally binding resolution to the border controversy in the face of continuing provocation and hostility on the part of the Maduro administration.

Indeed, the actions taken by Guyana are demonstrative of full confidence in the rule of international law and the power of diplomacy to ensure that international law prevails and that peace in the region is not threatened.

Nicolas Maduro cannot be relied upon to honour his word

Dear Editor,

The very essence of democracy is that there should be a duly elected government representing a majority vote of eligible voters and a functioning Opposition representing a minority vote of the eligible voters sitting across the table in the National Assembly (Parliament or Congress) debating the rights and wrongs of the governing of

the nation in the full view and hearing of the entire country, covered by a free media.

To a very large extent, we have that in Guyana, albeit the level of debate, sadly, sometimes, descends into the gutter.

The essence of national patriotism is that when a country’s very existence and sovereignty is threatened by external forces, regardless of their political differences, the Go-

verning and Opposition political parties come together, set aside their domestic differences and speak and act with one voice and with one intention, that is, the protection and survival of their country. To an overwhelming extent, that has been the case regarding Venezuela’s claim and threat to take possession, by force of arms, the Essequibo region of Guyana.

Venezuelans, we know, almost from the

cradle to the grave, have been indoctrinated to believe that the territory of Essequibo belongs to Venezuela, even though there is not a scintilla of historical evidence to support this claim. As Sir Shridath Ramphal puts it in the book, “The New Conquistadors, the Venezuelan Challenge to Guyana’s Sovereignty”, “there are classes and forces in Venezuela that have made the acquisition of most of Guyana

their life’s cause, and sought to turn it into a national crusade”.

Over the years, since Independence, we have not, as a people, generally paid much attention to this claim by Venezuela, mistakenly taking for granted that the borders of Guyana, as shown on the map, define our country. We have rarely paid little attention to this in our schools, for instance, because we take it for granted and because

it has been so for well over 100 years.

Let us, again, however, remind ourselves that, in 1897, the Treaty of Washington agreed to a Treaty of Arbitration to settle for all times the boundaries between Venezuela and British Guiana and to consider the results of the Tribunal of Arbitration as a Full, Perfect and Final Settlement of all the questions referred to the Arbitration and,

Nicolas Maduro cannot be relied upon to honour his...

From page 6

on October 3, 1899, the International Tribunal of Arbitration presented its Award which defined the boundaries of Guyana as they remain today.

A Commission appointed by Britain and Venezuela demarcated an official boundary map signed on January 7, 1905, by representatives of Venezuela and the United Kingdom.

For 6o years, successive Venezuelan governments have honoured and respected the boundaries between Guyana and Venezuela, but then, in 1962, when our country’s Independence was on the horizon, Venezuela suddenly demanded that the Arbitration Award be revisited before Britain granted Independence to Guyana. Venezuela’s President, at the time, Romulo Betancourt, expressed his concern to the US Ambassador to Venezuela about British Guiana becoming independent under what he described as “a Communist government led by Dr. Cheddi Jagan”.

All of this, including a spurious Memorandum written in 1944 by a junior American Lawyer who had participated in the Arbitral Tribunal hearing claiming that the 1899 Award was a conspiracy between Great Britain and Russia, obliged the British government, on the eve of Independence, in 1966, to enter into the Geneva Agree-

ment, later joined by a then independent Guyana, led by Prime Minister, Linden Forbes Burnham, identifying the “controversy” setting out the means to have it settled.

Fast forward to January 30, 2018, when the Secretary-General of the United Nations, under the Geneva Agreement, chose “the International Court of Justice as the means now to be used for its solution” and, on March 29, 2018, Guyana filed its application to the Court to determine the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award. Venezuela, however, has refused to recognise the ICJ’s jurisdiction.

Instead, Venezuela’s President, Nicolas Maduro, has chosen a path of hostility, he and his government declaring on September 21, 2023, a Referendum seeking to annex Essequibo.

We know, that with few exceptions, the international community, most importantly, including the governments of the USA, the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth Countries, France, Germany, the Organisation of American States and Brazil, have rejected Venezuela’s claim and warned against any attempt of Venezuela to invade our territory.

This all brings us to the Joint Declaration of Argyle signed on December 14 last year.

The Declaration has temporarily put to rest

Articles, 1,3 and 6, in particular, the use or threat, of course, which was implied by the Maduro Referendum to enforce the annexation of the Essequibo. The actual title of the Declaration “For Dialogue and Peace” underlines the primary purpose and defines the immediate result of the Declaration.

Importantly, even though Article 4 notes Venezuela’s lack of recognition of the ICJ and its jurisdiction, in fact, Article 2, which reads “that any controversies between the two States will be resolved in accordance with international law, including the Geneva Agreement”, ultimately commits both Venezuela and Guyana to accept the judgement of the Court.

But why do I bring all of this up now? Because Maduro is scheduled to face a General Election on 28 July,

2024, and registration begins next month.

But, knowing that he cannot win a free and fair election, as every poll shows less than fifteen (15) percent support for Maduro, Maduro has already violated the deal he struck with the US in Barbados to conduct a free and fair election. His main candidate, Maria Corina Machado, has been banned by the Court from contesting and a recent Reuters report from Caracas says that Maduro’s Attorney General, Tarek Saab, has arrested two (2) of her team and seven (7) other members of her team, including her right hand, Magalli Medda, have warrants out for their detention.

The US Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Brian Nichols, has called for their immediate release. There is little doubt, therefore, that the US government

will reimpose its sanctions on the export of Maduro’s oil and gas which expire in April.

Today, we learn from Reuters, that the Venezuelan Parliament has approved the creation of a new State, Guayana Esequiba, embracing the Essequibo region, in utter and complete violation of the commitments made by Maduro at Argyle.

Our government, in response, today (22 March), has called on the international community to reject Venezuela’s unlawful declaration and to uphold the rule of law, demanding that Venezuela honour the Argyle Declaration and

respect the judgement of the International Court of Justice to rule on the matter. We look forward to hearing the collective voices of the CARICOM leaders, all of whom participated in Argyle, in condemnation of Venezuela’s latest betrayal of trust.

Nicolas Maduro has obviously become a desperate man, cannot be relied upon to honour his word nor his signature on any agreement and Guyana must now be prepared to address the consequences of any action which Maduro may decide to take.

Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza

Dear Editor,

More than a hundred years after the Polish-British author Joseph Conrad wrote “Heart of Darkness,” a haunting description of the genocidal horror of colonialism and imperialism in Africa, the world continues to witness a similar erasure of the thin line that divides humanity from savagery.

Civilisation, Conrad noted, is a fragile veneer that masks a propensity for violence that percolates in the human psyche. And when that veneer is ripped off in countries like Sudan, Haiti, Ukraine and in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, we are most certainly going to catch a glimpse of what Conrad described in “Heart of Darkness.”

Make no doubt, what we are seeing on our television screens is a sanitized version of terror compounded by human misery. The staggering statistics tell only a small

part of the cruelty that is now leading to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.

Over 31,000 Palestinians have been murdered in five months and somehow, in some sick twisted way, they might be the lucky ones. Thousands of children have been left orphaned, on the brink of starvation, shivering in Gaza’s winter, with no shelter and no parents or grandparents to comfort them.

A three-story whitewashed apartment complex built to host visitors at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Doha, Qatar is now home to 1,500 children who have had one or more of their limbs amputated due to Israel’s massive bombing campaign in Gaza. Countless more children are trapped in Gaza and the West Bank without medical assistance. The long-term health and mental impact will sting them for the rest of their short lives.

The United Nations says

1.9 million Palestinians, more than double the entire population of Guyana, have been uprooted and are internally displaced in Gaza. Many have been forced to flee from one area to another repeatedly over the last five months. A million are now jammed into Rafah, a tiny sliver of land on the border with Egypt, and Israel’s deadly firepower threatens to rain even more hell down on them.

Finding something, anything, to eat is an ordeal of immense magnitude. Famine looms large and international relief agencies are in a panic. In the first 17 days of this month an average of 159 aid trucks per day crossed into Gaza, well below the target of 500.

If Palestinians don’t die from starvation, observers say, they will most certainly die from one of many diseases oozing out from the rubble. The World Bank estimates that 45% of all residential buildings in Gaza

have been leveled by Israeli bombs since October 2023. Nutrition screenings conducted by UNICEF show that rates of acute malnutrition among children in northern Gaza and Rafah have nearly doubled in just over a month.

With more than 155 thousand vulnerable and at-risk pregnant and breastfeeding women in Gaza, add another 73 thousand in the West Bank, and factor in 690 thousand menstruating women and girls in Gaza with no access to clean water and hygiene supplies, you begin to see why the international community believes this is a watershed moment.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) who has seen their staff targeted and killed by Israel’s occupation forces - 168 and counting - says only 8 of its 24 health-care facilities are currently operational. Access to clean water could alleviate the rising malnutrition rates

and fend off starvation, but UNRWA says it is only able to salvage water from seven pre-existing wells.

Before Israel’s campaign of destruction in Gaza it supplied the Palestinian population with 18 billion liters of potable water a year - nine percent of the occupied territory’s annual use. Gaza itself produced about 200 million cubic meters - 79 percent - of its water per year. That water was pumped from an aquifer underneath Gaza, but due to years of occupation it has been contaminated with seawater. In other words, high levels of salinity in the water means it has to be purified at one of six water treatment facilities in Gaza. And because Israel cut off the electricity and fuel needed to operate backup generators; water was no longer available.

As this humanitarian crisis deepens with each passing day, grassroot organisations in every country of the world continue to raise their voic-

es in protest to demand a permanent ceasefire and the immediate recognition of an independent Palestinian state. These organisations, once disconnected, are now rapidly coalescing into a global mass movement.

A few days ago, the entire Bueren stairs in Liege, Belgium - 374 steps at a 30% incline and considered to be one of the top 10 memorable stairs in the world - was repainted with the flag of Palestine.

And here at home, “Guyana for Palestine,” an independent grassroots organisation made up of a diverse group of students and young professionals, has raised more than GY$7M in just a few days in aid for Gaza. The organisation says it plans on raising more funds in the coming days and weeks.

Regards,

Nazim Baksh

Mockery made of the word ‘expert’

Dear Editor, The UN Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner just wrapped up its dialogue with Guyana. Some parts of the report of the dialogue are catastrophically inaccurate, while others could benefit a great deal from actual knowledge of this country, as well as greater professional independence of the “experts.”

One issue that truly boggles the mind is as follows – “A Committee Expert said 90 per cent of mass media were reportedly either controlled by the State party or owned by Indo-Guyanese who supported the Government, and that Afro-Guyanese

faced censorship as a result.” While I unequivocally support the Human Rights Dialogue, I must part company with the “expert” who thinks that Kaieteur News, Glen Lall, GHK Lall, one of the Peeping Toms, and scores of letter writers who are Indians, are supporters of the PPP.

It is shocking that anyone who knows even the bare minimum about this country can claim that there is censorship. The plain truth is that this writer is probably the most censored in the modern history of Guyana. More than 80% of what I have submitted to Kaieteur News and Stabroek News have been rejected. These two outlets provide the strongest evidence that

there are considerable limitations in reducing Guyana’s politics to race. Indians have leading roles in both, yet these are among the most anti-PPP platforms in the country. Stabroek News’ “In the Diaspora” column, for instance, has been a relentless and conspicuously biased avenue of professionally manicured attacks against PPP administrations.

I regret to say that some aspects of the dialogue have made a mockery of the word “expert.”

Sincerely,

Dr. Randy Persaud Office of the President

Every decent human must applaud what Guyana did at the UN

GUYANA is president of the UN’s Security Council. In a vote last Thursday, Guyana abstained from a US-sponsored resolution for a ceasefire in Gaza. Guyana’s vote was in keeping with the long, long, long tradition in Guyana’s foreign policy of being independent since the first self-government administration in 1953 right up to the present.

Here are the words of Guyana’s President of the Security Council, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett: “Contrary to media re-

ports, this resolution does not call for an immediate ceasefire. Two wrongs cannot make a right and the Palestinian people should not be collectively punished and themselves held hostage for the crimes of others. If one were to read this resolution without background knowledge, it would be difficult to ascertain which party in this conflict is committing the atrocities in Gaza – atrocities which necessitated this draft resolution being put forward. In a resolution of 41 paragraphs, 2,036

words, the occupying power is mentioned once in the penultimate paragraph.”

Russia and China vetoed the resolution. Here are the words of the Russian representative: “We are not satisfied with anything which doesn’t call for an immediate ceasefire. At the coordination stage, almost all security council members expressed the view that the demand for an immediate ceasefire should not be conditional on the release of hostages or the condemnation of Hamas.”

The ambassador went on to state that the US-sponsored resolution was a hypocritical spectacle and was intended to throw a bone to American voters and persuading a domestic audience that the US administration was being even-handed in the crisis.

I refer to my column of Wednesday, March 20, 2024, “Netanyahu: In philosophy, something can be wrong yet be logical, I wrote the following: In the US, the Democratic Party is worried that Biden’s Gaza stance will cause him to lose election because millions, because of conscience, will not vote for Biden. So Biden sent Kamala Harris to instruct Netanyahu to call a cease fire. She was rebuffed. She reported back to Biden and two things emerged from the Harris revelation – one is that US will ignore Israel’s attitude and form a plank on the Mediterranean Sea to deliver massive food aid to Gaza and other is Schumer’s speech.”

The UN-sponsored resolution was greeted by approval by the world. People saw it as the final realisation by the US that Israel has gone too far and must be reined in. But it was all bound up with the domestic, electoral situation in the US. Its

purpose was a continuation to show American voters that President Biden was being even handed.

The world did not know about the elusive and subtly deceiving aspects of the resolution until it was vetoed and Guyana’s Ambassador, Mrs. Birkett-Rodrigues spoke to the press. The world thought, and rightfully so, that the American paper called for an immediate ceasefire. But the Guyanese, Chinese and Russian representatives told the world that they voted the way they did because there was no call for an immediate ceasefire.

Mrs. Birkett-Rodrigues also said that Guyana abstained because it did not accept that the ceasefire should be tied to the release of hostages. This is a position that Hamas and the countries that support it say is unacceptable. If you have a ceasefire without it being permanent then what trump card the other side holds after the hostages are released and bombing starts again. This is basic realpolitik in international negotiations that have existed for centuries. In negotiations to end a war, each side wants something and they want that something because they feel it is their trump card for a

successful resolution. No country gives up its trump card in tough negotiations because to do so puts it at a disadvantage. Israel and the US want the release of the hostage for a sixweek ceasefire. Hamas say it wants a permanent ceasefire before it does so.

For this reason, Qatar-sponsored talks on a ceasefire have failed. The two sides are diametrically opposed on the requirement for a ceasefire. Mrs. Birkett-Rodriques’ statement on the resolution is illuminating and parts of it are worth emphasising. She said that the atrocities committed in Gaza is the raison d’être for the resolution, how then in a resolution to stop the violence, there is no demand on Israel to halt the violence and the state committing the atrocities is only mentioned once in the second-to-last line on the document.

Here are the opening lines in the resolution: “…determine the imperative for an immediate and sustained ceasefire….” In the resolution, the UN is called upon to “determine the imperative.” This is a far, far removed from calling for an immediate ceasefire. Guyana stood tall in the UN last week. Guyanese should.

Greater TVET accessibility equipping jobseekers with much-needed skills

THERE is a pressing need for technical expertise in the heart of Guyana's evolving economy, particularly in sectors such as oil and gas. While theoretical education remains fundamental, the intrinsic value of technical skills cannot be overlooked since it is deemed pivotal in addressing Guyana's workforce demands.

Enter the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) which is playing a growing role in the advancement of technical education locally.

In 2019, the GGI- Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Programme was established to enhance the quality and standard of technical education across the country, while creating an enabling environment that fosters a safety culture.

Through this programme, several technical institutes have received support to upgrade their facilities and execute their training programmes. This support has reaped the two-pronged benefit of advancing the practical skills and talents of Guyanese and ensuring that technical institutes are well-equipped to offer high-quality training. These initiatives are executed in tandem with the country’s goal to produce TVET programmes that meet national and regional occupational standards, meet the needs of business and industry, facilitate innovation and self-employment, and promote academic advancement.

Phase I of the programme commenced at the Linden and New Amsterdam Technical Institutes, and included renovations and upgrades to the

electrical and welding workshops. Under this partnership, curriculum packages were also developed in alignment with the requirements of various accreditation bodies such as the Caribbean Association of National Training Authorities and the National Centre for Construction Education and Research. Phase II of the programme was recently launched to include the Leonora and Mahaicony Technical and Vocational Training Centres, promising similar infrastructural upgrades and curriculum expansion.

Beyond infrastructure improvements, GGI initiatives are transforming the lives of countless individuals. John Anthony is the valedictorian from the Linden institute who graduated with a Diploma in Electrical Installation Level

II. Recognising the positive impact such training can have on individuals, he encouraged persons to join the programme, citing the tangible benefits to be gained. “You’ll come here and learn a lot of stuff about electrical installation. You can learn about domestic installation, troubleshooting circuits, and building circuits.”

Naomi Phang, the bestgraduating student for Welding and Fabrication Level I, exemplifies the diversity and talent fostered by GGI initiatives. Overcoming challenges in a traditionally male-dominant classroom, Naomi's success serves as a testament to the inclusivity and empowerment facilitated by technical education programmes.

“Welding is not an easy task. It takes patience, practice and a solid foundation of

knowledge and I would like to say especially to the females who are interested in doing welding to stay strong, stay curious and try to overcome your challenges,” she urged.

Carl Baird, an instructor at the Leonora centre, emphasised the importance of the training to his students. He pointed out that the programme includes safety training and the maintenance of high safety standards. “The initiative is one of tremendous value and it's just the beginning. As we would observe–and time and time again you will see–when knowledge is preserved and when those standards are maintained, the level scope will be higher,” he said.

These programmes underscore the importance and timeliness of technical training in Guyana and come at a cru-

cial juncture in the country’s development when the demand for such skills is at an all-time high. Programmes such as these are also equipping Guyanese with the means to secure economic and academic growth.

As Guyana's development continues on an upward trajectory, the investments made by GGI in technical education signal a transformative shift in the nation's workforce landscape. By nurturing the talents and capabilities of Guyanese youth, GGI paves the way for a future characterised by prosperity, innovation, and self-reliance.

GGI is funded by the Stabroek Block co-venturers; ExxonMobil Guyana, Hess Corporation Guyana, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited.

Is it time for Norton to enter political exile?

IF haughty, delusional, and overconfident were a person or politician, it undoubtedly would be Aubrey Norton. He continues to miss the opportunity to sound and act like he could be Guyana’s next president.

Norton’s demeanour, at the media conferences that his party has weekly, proves that he is not cut out for the media limelight or the political spotlight. He is not president material and sometimes justifies why the PNC/R and APNU+AFC have kept him so long in the shadows.

He often appears tense and complex as though he or his party is hiding something. He projects an abrasive tone and posture towards the media that discourages reporters from wanting to engage him. This is why his press conferences appear to be an afterthought for the

media. This is reflected in the way the media covers Norton and the PNC/R or the APNU. The media appear disinterested and unbothered about Norton’s viewpoints and comments about matters of national importance.

And it is not to say that he answers the questions put to him because he never really answers anything directed at him adequately. Norton usually takes the approach of being politically correct rather than being direct and factual on a particular issue. This approach is bad for the party as it exposes its cracks and ignorance on some of the matters of public interest.

For instance, if the media asks for an oil and gas policy, they rarely get it from Norton. What Norton does is articulate a broad and very vague position before going on a completely different tangent.

He always seeks to take a swipe at Bharrat Jagdeo and Irfaan Ali or make allegations that the PPP is corrupt or governing poorly. He never gives the party’s policy or has it in written form to give to the media. Is this because there isn’t a policy and Norton is just ‘talking’ from his head? Could it be a case where he is bluffing the public because he does not know the answer to some of what he is being asked?

That aside, his energy is often wired and off with his colleagues and opposition politicians. For example, some of his high-level colleagues appeared to cringe at some of the positions he takes on behalf of the PNCR.

When Norton gave his answer last Thursday when he was asked about the party’s congress, their facial expressions said it all.

They know that Norton does not enjoy the confidence and unanimous support of all PNCR-APNU financers, party members and supporters. Could it be that Norton’s over-confidence is a turnoff for senior party members and parliamentarians alike?

Norton appears to be living in a bubble and the power that he currently possesses may be getting to his head. He is not liked at all and he is misreading the mood of the people

who voted for the coalition. This is not like the PNCR congress in 2021 when Norton was the only logical and safe choice for the party’s leadership.

Since this time, Norton has not reformed the party and structure but has plunged into deeper and lasting paralysis. He has made it stagnant and it has not moved an inch towards becoming a more democratic and free party. If anything, it could be said that the PNCR has regressed as a political unit and become a party on a fishing expedition but it is not catching anything.

Norton has made the PNCR and APNU into a party of political opportunism because the party is jumping from issue to issue but not in a coordinated style or purpose. This shows weak leadership and, frankly speaking, it is bad politics or political grasshopping.

Even the cost-of-living rallies are not even attracting opposition political support. By the time Norton goes up and addresses the gathering, people start to journey home or disperse. This is indicative that there is a problem and the PNCR or APNU needs to get to the bottom of it.

Where are the old guards of the PNCR apart from Hamilton Green? Where is David Granger and why does he still refuse to show his face at party events in public? Where are Amna Ally, Volda Lawerence, and other prominent PNC or APNU politicians?

The PNCR used to be a proud party and had a rich history of youth and women activism despite its past of rigging elections. It had a fighting spirit. It had a plan and ways of accomplishing it. Now, regrettably, it is only a shell of itself.

What happened to the PNCR and APNU under Norton? Why would party members run away from the party? The public wants answers and deserves to know because the membership is at an all-time low and funds are low.

Norton cannot be the only choice because with him as the choice, the opposition politics will remain in disarray and the agenda will be in shambles.

The PNCR cannot win the upcoming General Elections with Aubery Norton at the helm of that party or as its presidential candidate. It is clear too, APNU+AFC Coalition does not stand a chance of emerging victorious at the polls in 2025 with him as their presidential candidate. He is way too haughty, delusional, proud, and overconfident.

The truth is no one wants to debate Norton on any issue. No one takes him seriously when he speaks to the media or in public, not even some of the very members who appear with him on TV. He would do good to stop forcing himself on the party and disappear into political exile.

Coursera CEO praises President Ali’s leadership —

says PPP/C gov’t making massive investments to benefit Guyanese

JEFF Maggioncalda, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of global online course provider, Coursera Inc., has praised the Dr. Irfaan Ali led-administration for making massive investments to better the lives of all Guyanese.

During the official launch of the Guyana Coursera Platform, on Friday, at the National Stadium, the CEO said he observed Guyana’s actions during the COVID-19 pandemic and the strides made to ensure an educated population remain intact. Fast forward to 2024, he expressed much excitement to see where Guyana and Coursera are headed.

“It's exciting for me to be here in Guyana, a country undergoing an incredible economic transformation under the energetic leadership of President Irfaan Ali. His administration is making a pivotal investment to ensure that the nation's prosperity is shared by all of its citizens.

“This will be the kind of transformative effort that few countries in the world have ever experienced where education and skill development are not just priorities, but the very foundation of the nation's future.”

He stated that, through their partnership with the Commonwealth of Learning and the Ministry of Education here, Guyana has set a record among all of the countries on Coursera.

“We saw 15,000 enrolments from Guyanese learners, almost two per cent of the entire population of the country in the first 10 days. Over 46,000, Guyanese citizens have learned new skills through the programme, earning over 50,000 certificates in job-related fields including business, technology, and data science,” he stated.

The CEO emphasised that the relationship between Guyana and Coursera, which sprung in 2020, served as “an early testament to the country's innovative leadership and profound appetite of the citizens of Guyana to learn new skills despite challenges.”

With every Guyanese now being given the op-

portunity to gain access to first-class education, Maggioncalda said he has no doubt that the nation’s palate for education will result in economic growth that only a few countries have ever experienced.

“I will say I was there at the beginning when the real transformation started taking shape,” the CEO said as he underscored that this kind of transformation is going to be fuelled by the ruling People’s Progressive Par-

ty/Civic (PPP/C) government's growing investments in infrastructure, health, transportation, and especially human capital.

“We are here today because President Ali [and] Guyana [are] implementing reforms designed to diversify and transform the country's economy and boost workforce productivity,” Maggioncalda remarked.

Shifting his attention to how the world is undergoing a massive dig-

ital transformation, he said that with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), it has resulted in the reshaping of jobs and skill requirements.

“This change is bringing opportunities and threats and the difference between change being an opportunity and threat is the level of access to education [and] that is being delivered by this government to the citizens of this country,” the CEO said.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (right) and the CEO of Coursera Inc., Jeff Maggioncalda, take a selfie

CEO of Coursera Inc., Jeff Maggioncalda

Leonora Market tarmac completed, vendors to be relocated soon

LEONORA Market vendors on the West Coast of Demerara will now benefit from a more spacious and enabling business environment, as a new tarmac has been completed to accommodate them.

This includes sanitary facilities, upgraded drainage, and a dedicated parking lot for a more positive experience for both vendors and customers.

This development stems from President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s visit back in 2022, when he recognised the challenges faced by those using the market. An influx of vendors had created congestion and impacted established vendors. In response to these concerns, the President initiated a plan to construct the new tarmac and upgrade the access road.

In December 2022, a $149 million contract was signed for the 8000sq. meter tarmac.

With the tarmac complete, vendors will be relocated soon. This will allow for the planned upgrades to the access road to begin, thereby improving overall

traffic flow and market accessibility.

President Ali on Saturday morning visited the Leonora Market once again, where he highlighted his commitment to replicating such improvements across the country.

“This will be the design of all the markets we are looking at nationally. Concrete drains, washrooms, accessibility, parking, washroom facilities. We are going to do a highway coming in, and all the vendors will come here, so we won’t have any issues,” the President said.

Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Mr. Deodat Indar will return to the market in the new week to engage vendors, and begin the relocation process.

Minister Indar said that he will be working alongside the local government ministry for this phase.

“We are now doing further work; that initial market tarmac is now completed, so we have to start moving people in, because we have to do the road as well. I think on

Continued on page 15

President Dr. Irfaan Ali interacting with vendors at the Leonora Market (Office of the President photos)

Leonora Market tarmac completed, vendors to be...

From page 14

Tuesday we will meet with the vendors; we can have a transitional period, where they come in, and we will have to demarcate here as well,” he told the Department of Public Information (DPI).

A similar process will also soon begin at the Hydronie Market on the East Bank of Essequibo. The President also conducted an assessment of the prices for vegetables and other commodities, and said they were stable.

Crops such as plantains, eddoes, and potatoes are being sold at $100 per pound, while vegetables such as celery and bora are priced at $200 per parcel.

President Ali was accompanied by Minister of Education Ms. Priya Manickchand; Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Mr. Anand Persaud; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Mr. Miguel Shaun Choo-Kang; and regional officials. (DPI)

A new tarmac, with upgraded drainage and a dedicated parking lot is now available for Leonora vendors

Guyana, India can deepen collaboration on existing, new ventures – Foreign Secretary

OVER the years, Guyana and India have cultivated strategic ties both bilaterally and within the multilateral framework across various areas.

With both countries’ economies growing exponentially, there is ample opportunity for them to collaborate in emerging and established areas, thereby fostering socioeconomic transformation.

This was underscored by Foreign Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Robert Persaud during a panel discussion at the India-Guyana Business Forum at Marriott Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown, Thursday evening.

He elaborated that there was a time when India and Guyana were often overlooked. However, this perception, the foreign secretary said, has evolved significantly.

Presently, both nations are regarded with seriousness and are actively engaged in substantive dialogues en -

compassing energy, climate, environment, food security, and geopolitical dynamics.

“The growth of our economy offers us that grand occasion for us to move forward in taking the relationship between Guyana and India to another level. This has to be led by the private sector,” he highlighted.

notable, and making waves on the international stage. Transactions between the two nations have already commenced, with India initially purchasing crude oil from Guyana for refining purposes, Persaud stated.

He highlighted an expanding partnership opportunity in the petrochemical sector, as Guyana progresses towards cheap energy solutions while tapping into its gas resources.

Meanwhile, India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Telang, emphasised that both nations are actively working to translate the ideas and projects discussed during the visits by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo to India into tangible outcomes.

India’s expertise in climate-smart technology can be incorporated into Guyana’s agriculture and food systems. Guyana is already strategically located globally, boasting favourable climate conditions, fertile soils, and a wealth of expertise in agriculture.

India is globally recognised for its thriving service sector, including finance, information technology, and communication.

India’s contributions to Guyana’s oil sector have been

The foreign secretary stressed the crucial role of the private sector in seizing and maximising these opportunities. Persaud noted that while governments can facilitate discussions and highlight opportunities, it is ultimately up to private enterprises to push the effort.

Additionally, the Chairman of ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc, Dr Vishnu Doerga, said another crucial area of collaboration between the two countries is agriculture, which seeks to advance food security.

India has financed significant projects in Guyana, including the Solar Home Electrification System and the MV MA Lisha. Other specialists in the panel discussion were Treasurer of the Private Sector Commission and Vice President of Region Three’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Haimwant Persaud; Chief Education Officer of the Women and Gender Equality Commission, Renata Chuck-A-Sang, and Founder and President of Texila University, Saju Bhaskar. (DPI)

Over $2B in ganja destroyed

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Saturday morning destroyed 2,253.60 kilogrammes of marijuana with a street value of approximately $2,028,240,000. The Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) also destroyed 512 kilogrammes of marijuana worth $153 million.

The narcotics destruction exercise occurred at the former Ministry of Housing tarmac, Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown.

The period of the drug seizures is from January 2023 to date, and most of the seizures mainly occurred in Police Regional Divisions #5 (Mahaica-Berbice) and #6 (East Berbice-Corentyne). There were also minor narcotics seizures in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice). Several persons were charged and placed before the court while several plantations were found and destroyed.

Present at Saturday’s event was Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn; Troy Whittaker, the Officer-In-Charge of Police Narcotics Branch; Director of CANU James Singh along with other members of the Police Force and CANU.

Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Amit Telang

Bids opened for rehabilitation of Ebini/Kimbia access road, construction of road at Canal No. 2 Conservancy Dam

AS the government continues to fulfil its commitment of ensuring that no community is left behind in Guyana’s rapid developmental agenda, the Ministry of Agriculture through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) has invited bids for two massive projects.

The NDIA recently issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB) seeking eligible bidders to undertake the rehabilitation of 30 kilometres of the access road at Ebini/Kimbia, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice). This is estimated to be $394M.

Also, bids are opened for the construction of an access road at Canal No. 2 Conservancy Dam, West Bank Demerara, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara). This is estimated to be $145.770M.

Bids for the projects are to be submitted by April 23, 2024, at the office of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).

Bidders must submit one hard copy and two electronic copies of the tenders. According to the IFB, bidding will be conducted through the National Committee Bidding (NCB) procedures, as specified in the Procurement Act 2003 and Regulations 2004.

It was also noted that interested eligible bidders may inspect the bidding documents and obtain further information from the Procurement Office at NDIA during normal working hours.

Moreover, bid documents will be available from April 2, 2024, and can be uplifted from the office of the NDIA, cashier’s cage upon payment of a non-refundable fee of $3,000.

All bids must be accompanied by valid certificates of compliance from the Manager of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and the Commissioner of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

It was said that all bids must be accompanied by a bid security amounting to the value specified in the bid document.

Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, in January, announced that $72.3 billion has been budgeted in the 2024 national budget to provide upgrades to Guyana’s national drainage and irrigation network.

Meanwhile, some $97.6 billion has been budgeted to advance and catalyse the agriculture sector.

“Today the agriculture sector is alive and well and growing, and thriving and prospering,” Dr. Singh said.

Furthermore, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, in January, highlighted the “massive transformation” that is being facilitated in the 2024 budget.

Apart from the measures that are being put in place to benefit men, women, children, and the vulnerable, he said that 2023 did not disappoint for the agricultural sector, and 2024 will continue this tremendous growth.

Former U.S. President Clinton set on learning more about Guyana

— DR Ambassador to Guyana Torres-Pereyra says Guyana attracting eyes of the international community

By Trina Williams

AS Guyana prepares for the visit of former United States (US) President, Bill Clinton, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic (DR) to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra, says the former statesman has his eyes set on learning more about the emerging powerhouse in South America.

He explained that Clinton’s visit marks the manifestation of how Guyana is becoming the focus of the international community.

The Ambassador made these statements during an interview on Saturday at the DR Embassy, Pegasus Hotel Seawall Road, Kingston.

In his opening remarks, he stated: “We're extremely

excited with the recent developments and with the possibility through the chamber of commerce and bringing in former President William Jefferson Clinton to Guyana. That shows that truly Guyana is the focus of the international community for good reasons.”

He added, “I think that the most important drivers of the whole process of development of this country besides the government... [is the] private sector. So, in the case of President Clinton, he has [a] very close relationship to key players in the private sector of the Dominican Republic and he expressed his desire to understand more the about the process that has been taking place here in Guyana.”

While underscoring that

the highly-anticipated visit from the former U.S. President shows the level of trust in Guyana, Torres-Pereyra said, “Trust is essential when it comes to investment.”

He also spoke about what it means for him and Guyana to have the highly respected former President visit these shores.

“For me as an as ambassador, of course, I mean, hosting a personality of his caliber, personally and professionally means a lot. But when it comes to Guyana, I believe it sends the message that for good reasons, Guyana is attracting attention.”

Speaking more on what is to come with President Clinton’s visit, the Ambassador said: “The discussions will centre as I believe precisely, in how to generate an atmosphere that is favourable for investment.

“I think the type of collaboration that both countries can achieve because of the experience that we have in certain areas, already the mistakes that we've made in certain areas and how we found solutions to those situations, will be very favourable for Guyana during the process that you are in.”

With the teachings from successful businessmen and the former U.S. statesman, Torres-Pereyra stated that with Guyana’s uniqueness not only in its resources but also

its society, the country has the ability to demonstrate to the world how it can live in peace and harmony.

“You can show the world how to live in peace and harmony and on top of that, now you have the good leadership and the resources to build your society upon those values.

“So, receiving people like former President Clinton and a set of high-profile businessmen that have been very successful in their own fields with examples of failure and success, it can serve also to give you more alternatives on how to conduct your own process.”

“We have felt like home here. To be honest, it felt like home,” Torres-Pereyra happily stated while underscoring the deep trust that has been established between the DR and Guyana.

Clinton will be participating in the United Caribbean Forum, which is scheduled to take place on March 26, 2024, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

The forum aims to unite business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts from across the Caribbean to discuss vital topics that will be key to help propel Guyana's development for the future.

Some of the featured topics will be regional energy security, coworking spaces & call centres, workforce housing communities, tourism, carbon credits, hospitality and real estate development.

While highlighting the importance of Clinton’s visit, the Ambassador said that officials from Punta Cana will also be at the forum.

“The fact that they [group from Punta Cana] come together with President Clinton...it will send a message to the world that we trust, we trust the institutional base and legal framework in Guyana,” he said.

Former U.S President, Bill Clinton DR Ambassador to Guyana, Ernesto Torres-Pereyra

Abram Zuil Secondary...

FROM BACK PAGE

Bartica Secondary also opened their account with a remarkable 5-1 win over L’Aventure Secondary School.

Bartica had Rizer Ried with a double to thank for the thumping display, along with goals from Dishon Stephens, Ezeikel Baldeo and Billy Smith.

Prior to the kick off, Director of Petra Organisation Troy Mendonca told the young footballers, “As we embark on this 10th tournament, I want to advise the youngsters some will score; others will not, some may lose, some may win, some may draw, but at the end of the day, you must enjoy the Opportunity”.

He went onto to thank all the stakeholders, including coaches and teachers, for making the tournament a reality once again.

Massy Distributors is sponsoring the competition through the Nestle Milo brand.

Massy representative Hadassah Lewis said, “This is an opportunity that youths look forward

to, and we are happy to bring that to them again this year.

“We are on the cusp of something great; it’s the best time to be involved in youth football, because we at the Guyana Football Federation has gone through a process of revamping our youth football structure.”

He said the GFF is working to further build youth development programmes with the Under-17 World Cup set to be an annual feature in the coming years, as announced by FIFA. “We are making a major effort to make school football the most important and the biggest part of football development in this country,” Lewis said.

Deputy Chief Education Officer of the Ministry of Education Marti DeSouza said the tournament marks the start of the school’s football season, and encouraged the youths to seize the moment.

The tournament is sanctioned by the Ministry of Education and the Guyana Football Federation.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Sunday March 24, 2024)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83

Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Vusi Sibanda (ZIM vs WI, Port of Spain, 2010)

(2) Sulieman Benn

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who is the first bowler to claim a T20 International hattrick?

(2) Who is the only WI bowler to take a T20 International hattrick to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Women’s T20 Blaze tournament…

Jamaica eyeing double after crushing T&T

St. Kitts, (CMC) – Unbeaten Jamaica inched even closer to their capture of the Women’s T20 Blaze and a double in the tournament, when they thrashed closest rivals Trinidad and Tobago by eight wickets in the first game of a triple-header here Saturday.

Entering the game on a run of three successive wins, the recently crowned Super50 Cup champions restricted T&T to 98 for eight off their 20 overs, and then made light work of their target, winning with 17 balls to spare.

The big-hitting Natasha McLean top-scored with 41 from 34 balls to inspire the run chase, while West Indies

not out) provided support. Jamaica entered the contest on 13 points, four clear

of T&T and Leeward Islands, both on nine, and have now widened their lead.

Leewards can still remain on Jamaica’s heels, however, but will need to defeat Windward Islands in the nightcap game at 1900hrs.

Sent in at Warner Park, T&T were held together by a courageous unbeaten 44 from their captain and opener Britney Cooper, one of only two players to reach double figures.

She faced 53 balls and struck four fours, but lacked support as wickets tumbled around her, and a 23-run, fifth-wicket stand with Karishma Ramharack (15) proved the best of the innings.

Off-spinner Vanessa Watts led the Jamaica attack with three for 10, while seamer Chinelle Henry (219) and off-spinner Stafanie Taylor (2-31) finished with two wickets apiece.

In reply, Jamaica dominated through McLean, the right-hander belting eight fours in a 48-run opening partnership with Williams, who faced 41 deliveries and counted two fours.

When she holed out to Cooper at deep mid-wicket off off-spinner Shalini Samaroo in the eighth over, Williams put on a further 47 for the second over with Nation to put Jamaica on the doorsteps of victory.

Sri Lanka maintains advantage despite late Bangladesh fightback

FUELLED by their pace, trio of Vishwa Fernando (448), Lahiru Kumara (3-31) and Kasun Rajitha (3-56), Sri Lanka continued to hold the advantage at stumps on Day Two of the first Test against Bangladesh in Sylhet. Resuming the day at a shaky 32/3, Bangladesh continued to lose wickets in clusters.

While some of the wickets were due to indecision in shot-making, the other batters played loose shots that weren't in sync with the nature of the pitch. Nightwatchman Taijul Islam (47) was ironically the batter with the strongest temperament, and ended up being top-scorer in the innings.

It was Kumara who started the collapse on Day Two by getting rid of Mahmudul Hasan Joy early in the morning. Shahadat Hossain and Litton Das both got starts, but Kumara ensured that neither batter was able to convert

them into bigger scores.

Vishwa and Rajitha then returned to mop up the tail, which did show some fight to help the hosts limit the first innings deficit. That little fightback spurred into the bowling as well with debutant Nahid Rana (242) leading the pack for the home side in the final session. Dimuth Karunaratne's fifty propped Sri Lanka up; he found very little support at the other end, with Angelo Mathews failing to convert a start.

Skipper and first innings centurion Dhananjaya de Silva is still out there, with fellow first innings centurion Kamindu yet to bat. While Sri Lanka are in shaky terrain as far as this innings is concerned, the lead of 92 gained from the first innings has beefed up their position in the game on a pitch that has gotten increasingly difficult to bat on. (Cricbuzz)

BASSETERRE,

teammates Rashada Williams (29) and Chedean Nation (21

Sri Lanka extended their lead to 211 by the end of the day

Jamaica batter Natasha McLean topscored with 41 from 34 balls

Kellogg’s girls & boys U-14 indoor league…

Fayed Mohamed, Tinashe Henry steer their teams to title win

SAINTS Minions squad, led by Fayed Mohamed, continued their impressive run to the final before clinching the title against GCC Pitbulls, while Old Fort Divas, anchored by Tinashe Henry, needed a penalty shoot-out to capture the Girl’s title.

As the Guyana Hockey Board staged the finals of the Kellogg’s-sponsored Girls and Boys Under -14 indoor developmental league at the Marian Academy auditorium on Friday.

In the Boys semis, Saints Minions first had to see off the challenge from Old Fort Gladiators, with Fayed Mohamed recording a pair of goals in the 4-0 win.

GCC Pitbulls then had to overcome Hicker Hatchets, which they did by a 3-nil scoreline after goals from Kristian

United States to face Mexico in the CONCACAF Nations League Final today

ARLINGTON, Texas – CONCACAF has confirmed that the United States and Mexico will face off in the 2023/24 CONCACAF Nations League Final today (Sunday) at AT&amp T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The match will start at 9:15 pm ET (8:15 pm CT/ local).

Today’s Final will crown the tournament’s third champion after the United States won the first two editions (2021 in Denver, CO, and 2023 in Las Vegas, NV).

The losing semi-finalists Jamaica and Panama, will play the Third Place Match at 6:00 pm ET (5:00 pm CT/local).

The United States qualified

for the Final with a 3-1 win over Jamaica. The Caribbean side was on the verge of securing a place in Sunday’s Final, but an own goal deep in second-half stoppage time forced extra time, in which the reigning champions pulled through with two goals from FW Haji Wright. A 3-0 win over Panama, including two goals in the first half from Edson Alvarez and Julian Quinones, plus a second-half strike from Orbelin Pineda, propelled Mexico to their second-ever trip to the Final of the CONCACAF Nations League. These decisive matches are part of an exciting week of CONCACAF men's national team football in the Dallas Metropolitan

Area, which also included the 2023/24 CONCACAF Nations League Play-In at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, TX, Friday.

The CNL Play-In saw Canada faced off against Trinidad and Tobago, followed by a Central American matchup between Costa Rica and Honduras.

The winner in each matchup will qualify for the 2024 CONMEBOL Copa America, joining the CONCACAF Nations League Semi-finalists (Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, and the United States) for a total of six CONCACAF guest national teams in this summer’s tournament. (CONCACAF)

Greaves guides Leeward Islands Hurricanes to fourth win

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – West Indies all-rounder, Justin Greaves, narrowly missed out on triple figures as Leeward Islands Hurricanes needed just under three-quarters of an hour to complete a seven-wicket win over Jamaica Scorpions in their fifth round contest.

to the extra cover boundary.

He and Greaves extended their fourth wicket stand to 74, the pair having come together late in Friday’s third day following the demise of opener Mikyle Louis for 57.

In the ensuing Boys finals, Saints Minions ran in front with a double from Mohamed in the first half.

Kristian Viapree pulled back the lead for Pitbulls after the break, however, Allister Paul made it 3-1 in the 15th minute of play before Mohamed returned to complete his hat-trick as they took the 4-1 victory to take the U-14 league trophy.

Hiker Hatchets also took a 1-nil win over Old Fort Gladi-

ators in the third-place contest.

Over on the distaff side, Old Fort Divas earned their place in the final after a 3-1 stoppage of Saints Sensations with a brace of goals from Keitanna Percival, and Hiker Junior Jets needled Queen’s College in their semis, 1-nil. The girl’s finals saw the two teams evenly matched at the end of regulation time, with Jets’ Trinity Greaves scoring two goals for her side.

Tinashe Henry and Keitanna Percival scored one each for

Old Fort Divas.

After the penalty shoot-out, Old Fort would walk away the winners.

Saints Sensation also beat Queen’s College 3-1 for third place. In the individual awards, Trinity Greaves for the Girls and Fayed Mohamed for the Boys were the most promising players, while the Boys MVP was Tinashe Henry with Maxwell Viapree the Boys Under-14 league’s most valuable player.

Warrican and Holder bowl Pride to early win on third day

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Test leftarm spinner, Jomel Warrican and former West Indies captain, Jason Holder, carved up the batting of hosts, Trinidad & Tobago Red Force, and set up Barbados Pride for an eight-wicket win in the West Indies Championship on Friday.

boost in points after such a lopsided win against their arch-rivals.

Starting the day on 100 for three, Red Force endured a major setback in their effort to resist when Da Silva was caught behind off Warrican for 23, and Tion Webster, a century-maker this season, was lbw to the same bowler for a duck next ball.

him – and none of the other batsmen that appeared on the day reached 10.

Resuming Saturday’s final morning at Sabina Park on 145 for three requiring only a further 42 for victory, Hurricanes coasted to their target without any further loss of wickets, the right-handed Greaves converting his overnight 62 into an unbeaten 94.

The 30-year-old Greaves, who made his debut in Australia earlier this year, faced 183 deliveries and struck five fours while Hamilton notched a single four in his 55-ball knock.

Jahmar Hamilton, who finished unbeaten on 21, struck the winning runs when he punched part-time off-spinner, Kirk McKenzie,

Hurricanes’ victory was their fourth of the West Indies Championship while Scorpions tasted their third defeat.

Warrican was the most successful Pride bowler with six for 31 from 17 overs, and Holder supported with four for 23 from 12.1 overs with his medium fast bowling, and Red Force were bowled out for 124 in their second innings less than an hour after the scheduled start on the third day of the contest at Queen’s Park Oval.

Left-hander Amir Jangoo added only five to his overnight score before he fell to Holder for 35, and Red Force captain Joshua Da Silva, the West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman, added six before Warrican removed

Pride frittered away two cheap wickets to left-arm spinner Khary Pierre chasing 20 to win, but their first innings batting hero Jonathan Drakes, not out on 14, and West Indies Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite, not out on five, got them over the finish line.

Drakes formalised the result about half-hour before the scheduled lunch interval when he lofted Pierre to straight long-off for four, and Pride will earn a massive

Red Force were 107 for five, and they lost their last five wickets for 17 in the span of 41 balls in a tame surrender to the disciplined, if not threatening bowling of Warrican and Holder.

Pride face hosts Leeward Islands Hurricanes in the sixth round, starting on April 10 at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua, and Red Force will remain at home and meet hosts, Combined Campuses & Colleges Marooners, at Frank Worrell Field on the St Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies.

Viapree, Maxwell Viapree, and Jaleel Bynoe.

Justin Greaves finished unbeaten on 94

Left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican grabbed six for 31 from 17 overs

Saints Minions after collecting their medals and trophies

Old Fort Divas with their medals and trophies

Russell trumps Klaasen as KKR hold on for win

ANDRE Russell (64* off 25) produced a death-overs power-hitting masterclass only to bematched by Heinrich Klassen (63 off 29) in SRH’s 209-run chase but eventually it was Harshit Rana who defended seven off the final five balls to help Kolkata Knight Riders clinch the final-ball thriller by four runs.

Russell helped KKR plunder 85 in the last five overs to post the first 200plus score of IPL 2024.

In the see-sawing chase, Klaasen’s blinder brought SRH into the equation down from an improbable 60 off 18 to 13 off the final over before Harshit’s twin strikes eventually ended in a heartbreak for the visitors at the Eden Gardens.

KKR were 123 for five before Russell switched gears, at the start of the 16th over. And the hosts had 200 up by the close of 19th.

Mayank Markande was welcomed with three sixes in the space of five balls before Russell took Bhuvneshwar to the cleaners in his two remaining overs with

three maximums and as many boundaries. En route, he registered a 20-ball fifty to kick start the season.

Bhuvneshwar, who gave away just seven in his first two overs, eventually finished with 51/0 including a 26-run penultimate over.

Natarajan managed to limit the damage with an eight-run final over where he also accounted for Rinku Singh’s wicket on 23 (15 balls).

Hyderabad were able to keep up with the asking rate in a rather eventful PowerPlay, the highlight of which was the battle between Mayank Agarwal and Harshit. Harshit eventually bounced him out for a 21-ball 32 along with a flying kiss for

a send-off. Abhishek Sharma, who had teed off with a 4, 6, 6 off Varun Chakravarthy, also fell to a short ball from Russell, who struck on his second ball.

The Narine-led squeeze meant the ask was 76 off the final four overs but Klaasen, who had hit Chakravarthy for a couple of sixes, was just beginning to free his arms. When the spinner returned, following a 16-run over from Russell, Klaasen smacked two sixes down the ground and Shahbaz followed suit.

The South African then laid into Mitchell Starc with three sixes off the first four balls while bringing up a 25ball fifty with the last one of those. Again, Shahbaz added

one more to the tally to close the over.

With 13 required off six, it was SRH’s game to lose. Harshit began with a short ball and Klaasen duly pounced to register his eighth six of the innings. However, the pacer made a good comeback, switching to slower balls thereafter. He removed both the set batters in the space of next four deliveries, with Suyash Sharma also chipping in with a good catch running behind to see the back of Klaasen. Cummins had to hit a four to take the game to the Super Over but failed to connect, conceding the two points. (Cricbuzz)

Over 2,200 children to learn the art of swimming at NSC’s Easter Swim Camp

WELL over 2,200 children have signed up to learn how to swim, free of cost, compliments of the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport (MCY&S), in collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC), annual Easter Vacation National Swimming Programme.

The 2024 edition of the camp was officially launched on Saturday at the National Aquatic Centre, at Liliendaal.

nationwide, parents have a role to play off the proverbial field in some instances by continuous support and encourage for the athletes.

The programme will also cater to individuals with disabilities, further extending its scope of importance and impact.

Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle said the programme has received overwhelming support since its return, noting that teaching a life skill has developed into a cultural phenomenon.

The aim of the pro -

The camp commences Tuesday, and will last for two weeks, with sessions at the Aquatic Centre, the site of its intended launch; the Colgrain Swimming Pool, Georgetown; the Watooka Swimming Pool, Linden; and the Albion Estate Pool, East Berbice.

gramme is to teach children the life skills of swimming, and they can then opt to join swim clubs.

Minister Charles Ramson Jr. urged parents to look at the talents the programme has unearthed,

and indicated that while the government will continue to invest in the sport through facilities and programmes

Experienced national coach Paul Mahaica will again be the programme coordinator and lead trainer.

NBA: Jaylen Brown inspires leaders, Boston Celtics, to eighth straight win

NBA Eastern Conference leaders the Boston Celtics extended their winning streak to eight games with a 129-102 victory at the Detroit Pistons.

Jaylen Brown scored 33 points for the Celtics, the sixth time he has made at least 30 since the All-Star break in February and Payton Pritchard 20.

"He's playing well-rounded basketball, and it has been fun to watch," Celtics coach

Joe Mazzulla said of Brown. The Celtics have the best record in the NBA, with 56 wins and 14 losses.

Derrick White and Kristaps Porzingis scored 19 points at Little Caesars Arena against bottom-placed Detroit, for whom James Wiseman contributed 24.

The Oklahoma City Thunder climbed above defending champions Denver Nuggets at the top of the Western Conference, thanks

to a 123-103 win at the Toronto Raptors.

Anthony Davis scored 23 points, and LeBron James 20, including 11 in the fourth quarter, as the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Philadelphia 76ers 101-94 at home.

The Indiana Pacers overcame the Golden State Warriors 123-111 in San Francisco.

Tyrese Haliburton scored 26 points, and Pascal Siakam 25 for the Pacers, while Ste-

phen Curry led the Warriors with 25 points.

Jaren Jackson Jr. scored with one second remaining to give the Memphis Grizzlies a 99-97 win at the San Antonio Spurs.

Rookie of the Year favourite Victor Wembanyama scored 31 points, and made 16 rebounds, five assists, two steals and three blocks for the Spurs. (BBC Sport)

Andre Russell smashed seven sixes in his 25-ball innings

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Mr. Charles Ramson Jr. interacting with some of the young children who signed up for the swim camp

Abram Zuil Secondary and Bartica Secondary kick off tournament with victories

ON Saturday at the Ministry of Education ground, Abram Zuil Secondary and Bartica Secondary got their campaign off with victories, as action commenced in the 2024 edition of the Milo Schools Football Tournament organised by the Petra organisation.

Playing the opening matches, Abram Zuil Secondary defeated Bush Lot Secondary, 2-1.

Abram Zuil’s Lester Noel and Jeraldo Culpepper were the goal scorers responsible for the win.

GFF engages CONCACAF on further developmental support

GUYANA Football Federation (GFF) has announced that President Wayne Forde is on official duties in Texas, United States of America.

According to the GFF, Forde had an extremely productive meeting with FIFA Vice President and CONCACAF President, Victor Montagliani and CONCACAF Deputy General Secretary, Marco Leal.

The leaders discussed the One CONCACAF Programme’s positive impact in Guyana and a wide range of future foot-

ball development initiatives on and off the pitch.

President Montagliani took the opportunity of the meeting to express that he was delighted with the hard work and investment related to the Blue Water Shipping Stadium and a future visit to Guyana for the project’s sod turning.

The initial phase of land preparation works at the Durban Park facility is being funded by CONCACAF through the One CONCACAF Programme, launched by President Montagliani in 2016. (GFF)

From left: CONCACAF Deputy General Secretary, Marco Leal, Guyana Football Federation President, Wayne Forde and FIFA Vice President and CONCACAF President, Victor Montagliani

Bartica goal scorers (from left): Rizer Ried, Dishon Stephens, Ezeikel Baldeo, and Billy Smith

Abram Zuil Secondary’s goal scorers (from left) Lester Noel and Jeraldo Culpeper