‘Smelly’ arrested robbery supermarket at Kuru Kururu
…Two accomplices escape of Chinese after armed killed in ‘horrific’ Israeli bombing
83.2% want more royalty 79.4% want changes to tax - Survey reveals 61.8% support ring-fencing
Men in Toyota Spacio steal car from Bel Air
No commitment on gas monetization projects between Guyana and Suriname - Jagdeo of Guyanese want renegotiation of ExxonM oil deal 94%
Govt. used up half of US$5.4B collected to
The Government of Guyana (GoG) has withdrawn half of the country's total earnings to date from oil and gas production.
According to the 2024 third quarter report for the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), published by the Bank of Guyana (BoG), the countryhassofarreceiveda total of US$5.4B. Guyana began producing oil in
December 2019 and receiveditsfirstoilpayment onMarch11,2020.
Followingthepassageof the NRF Act in 2021, the GoG in 2022 plugged US$607 6 million in oil
money into the National Budget for first time. This was followed by another US$1Binbudgetarysupport fortheyear2023.
This year, the National Assembly has approved US$1,586,150,331 to be deducted from the Fund to support the country's national development priorities So far, four withdrawals from the NRF havebeenmadefromtheoil account for the year totaling justoverUS$1.1B.
In accordance with the provisions of the 2016 Petroleum Agreement
Guyana signed with ExxonMobil back in 2016,
the country receives a meager 2% royalty on its sweet light crude while the contractor is not required to paytaxes.
The c
a
so receives a paltry share of profits, only 12.5% after ExxonMobiltakes75%each month to recover its investments in the Stabroek Block. Guyana's total share fromitsresourceistherefore 14 5% while the oil companiesenjoy85.5%.
It should be noted that after Guyana repays the CoVenturers for their investments in the Stabroek Block, the country will be abletobenefitfromahigher shareofrevenue.
Bank of Guyana
cleared through the cost recoverymechanism.
ExxonMobil reported that a total of US$30B was invested into the Stabroek Block operations. President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge also told reporters at a media conference earlier this year that US$19B of those expenses has so far been
It should be noted that Guyana currently has three oilprojectsproducingoil.
TheLizaOne,LizaTwo, an
s collectivelycarryapricetag of about US$19B The country could have been receiving higher profits this yearfromthethreeprojects; however, in the absence of
ring-fencing,Exxonwilluse therevenuetoinvestinother developmentsandevenfund itsexplorationprogramme.
ExxonMobil affiliate ExxonMobil Guyana Limited is the operator and holds 45% interest in the Stabroek block Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30% interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limitedholds25%interest.
Arecent survey conducted by a local legal law firm, Ram and McRae has found an overwhelming number of Guyanese are in support of a renegotiated oil contract between the Government of Guyana (GoG) and American oil supermajor,ExxonMobil.
Since the terms of the 2016dealweremadepublic, citizenshavebeencallingon the government to engage the contractor for a renegotiation.
These calls have however been shut down by politicians, with some even describing citizens as “low lives” for demanding more outoftheirresources.
Prominent Attorney-atLaw and Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram in his column 'Every Man, Woman and Child Must Become Oil-Minded' published on Friday by Stabroek News said the recent survey provides compellingevidencethatthe Government's "sanctity of contract" position is at odds withpublicsentiment.
The survey, conducted by Ram and McRae, using the Google Forms platform attracted135responsesfrom a diverse group of respondents including professionals, academics, studentsandcitizens.
In revealing statistics associated with the survey, Ram explained, “An overwhelming 94% of respondents believe the Government should seek to amendthecurrentPetroleum Agreement, with only 6% eitheropposedorunsure.”
The Lawyer reasoned thatthisstarkstatisticsalone should give pause to those who continue to defend the statusquoofthelopsidedoil deal.
“The survey revealed that only 3 8% of respondents were satisfied with the existing provisions of the Agreement The remaining 96.2% identified multiple areas requiring
modification,”headded.
A whopping 83.2% of participants said they want theroyaltyraterevisedwhile 79.4% called for changes to tax payment arrangements.
Presently, Guyana receives 2% royalty from Exxon on all petroleum produced and sold, whereas Exxon and its contractors are not required topaytaxes.
To this end, the survey found that 66 4% seek modifications to tax certificates; 66.4% want the revenue guarantee revised and another 61.8% support ring-fencingprovisions.
The GoG has not implemented a ring-fencing provision to prevent Exxon fromusingrevenuefromone field to develop another In this way, Guyana's share of profits is significantly reduced until all costs have been recovered by Exxon anditsCo-Venturers.
The survey also delved into the views of the participants on what they considerasthekeyobstacles to renegotiation A resounding 80.3% of the respondentscitedthelackof political will, while 53% believe there is fear of potential economic repercussions Ram and McRae's survey also found that 44 7% of citizens believe diplomatic concerns are another humbug to renegotiation. Some 37.9% are of the view that legal
Vice
government may be faced withlegalconstraints.
In his conclusion, Ram told readers of his weekly column, “The survey results paintaclearpicture:thereis strong public support for renegotiating the 2016 Petroleum Agreement. The current"sanctityofcontract" stance by the Government which had promised to renegotiate the Agreement appears increasingly untenableinthefaceofsuch overwhelming public sentimentforchange.”
He said the challenge Guyana faces is to translate the strong and compelling
public sentiment expressed in this survey into political action. The lawyer however pointed out, “Neither of the two major political parties has given Guyanese any reason to suggest that they arepreparedtotakedecisive action to change this lopsided and penal arrangement. With general elections approaching in 2025,politicalpartieswould do well to heed these findings and recognise that the public's patience with contemplating living with the 2016Agreement beyond the middle of this decade is fastevaporating.”
Leader,
Attorney-at-Law and Chartered Accountant,
Responding to the Ministry of Agriculture's call for supervision services, eight consultancy firms have applied to oversee the construction of the Chesney and Black Bush Polder pumpstationprojectsinRegionSix.
In its tendering document, the ministry had stated that $30.5 million was estimated to provide the consultancy service for Black Bush Polder, while $25 2 million was estimated for the construction at Chesney
The same eight firms would have submittedbidsfortheChesneyproject and their financial proposals are as follow: VG Group Guyana Inc. (95)$76,300,000; Sizwe Jack
The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB)officerevealedthattheeight firms vying for the Black Bush Polder are VG Group Guyana Inc. (95)$78,325,000; Innovative Engineering Consultancy Services (88)$15,372,000;StructuralEngineering& Design Services (84) - $29,600,000; E&A Consultants Inc (84)$46,596,100 – vat price - $5,074,300; Sizwe Jackson Consultancy Service (94) - $27,390,000; CB & Associates Inc (87) - $34,311,720; Civil Engineering Lab Guyana (95)$29,645,000; and RVS Structural Engineering(95)-$27,982,960.
$23,655,000; Civil Engineering Lab Guyana (95) - $24,695,000; RVS Structural Engineering (95)$25,890,800; E&A Consultants Inc. (84) - $40,298,000 and vat price $5,056,800; Structural Engineering & Design Services (84) - $26,535,000; Innovative Engineering Consultancy Services(88)-$19,772,000;andCB& AssociatesInc.(87)-$42,624,600. KaieteurNewspreviouslyreported that after the contract for the pump station to irrigate the Black Bush PolderFrontLandswasterminatedlast year, the government tendered for another contractor to build the facility and that contract was awarded to QualityDelivererfor$754,978,560. The initial project was previously being executed by contractor Yunas Civil and Building Construction, which had its contract terminated for thefailuretocompletethepumpstation (Continuedonpage50)
Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.
Publisher: DR. GLENN LALL - TEL: 624-6456
Editor-In-Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS
Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
ExxonMobilGuyanaLtd(EMGL)VicePresident
and Business Services Manager, Phillip Rietema,captureddevelopmentsinGuyanathat delight his company no end. “We have six sanctioned projects, just (to) put it in context. I don’t think there’s anywhere in the world where we’ve been able to go so quicklyfromdiscoverytoproductiontonowsixsanctioned projects. Thisisunbelievable,whatdrivestheexecutivesof ExxonMobil into spasms of ecstasy What Mr Rietema said at the recently concluded International Business Conference held here is also unbelievable relative to the circumstances in Guyana. This is night and day, with the American oil supergiant thrilled with all the brightness coming from Guyana for its profit margins Simultaneously, it has been a nightmare for Guyanese as theyabsorbthetragediesresultingfromtheiroilownership.
Mr Rietema cannot begin to imagine how right he is. For any oil company to get one big project after the other approvedsoquicklymustbeunprecedentedinthecentury plus history of oil. The oil projects are being approved at such a rapid rate that they are almost running into each other It goes without saying that Guyana can’t keep abreast, given the scale of activities involved. Every Guyanese knows that this country labours under a terrible handicap. Therearenotenoughskilledlocalstobeonthe offshore production stations to monitor, to contribute, and todeliveratthekindoflevelthatthiscountryneeds. There are too few Guyanese with the accounting and analytical and scientific skills and track record to stay on top of the growing and expanding oil sector Notwithstanding this knownandmajordeficit,thePPPCGovernment,withVice PresidentBharratJagdeoinfullcontroloftheoilsector,has beenapprovingprojectsasquicklyasExxonMobildreams themup.
Thecompanyhasnotbeenintheoilbusinessforsolong anddidn’tlearnanything,includinghowtotakeadvantage oftheconditionsthatarebeggingforexploiting. Guyanais woefullyshortoftherequisiteskillstomanageitsoilwealth efficiently, with any degree of confidence. From the company’s perspective, it is an opportunity that cannot be allowedtopassby WhenExxonMobilloadsupaGuyana thathasitsbacktothewall(andthatisoveritsheadonwhat itneedstoknowabouttheoilbusiness),thenthenewhost producing oil country experiences more than just losing sightofitswealth. Guyanaislosingstillmorecontrolofits oilsectorandfallingfartherandfartherbehindinknowing what ExxonMobil is really doing at its offshore facilities. EMGL’s Rietema is in a position to boast because his companyhassixbigoilprojectsinhishands. Ontheother hand, it is a case of unparalleled insanity (even complete politicalstupidity)tocontinuetoapprovemoreoilprojects, six in total so far, when Guyana is barely in a position to oversee three such projects, even two of them, possibly Thecomplexityoftheoilbusinessandthebroadrangeofoil operationswouldcautiontheprudentinanygovernmentto goslowly,growinknowledge,andgetabetterfeelforthe ExxonMobil-Guyana partnership. All these would accrue to Guyana’s benefit, rushing pell-mell ahead is knowingly contributingtoone’sonexploitation,orworse. Thefactson thegroundspeaktowhereGuyanais,donotcomfort.
Guyana has a pile of sensitive oil audits to get done. Billions of US dollars in expenses are involved but the PPP/C Government is approving projects like there is no tomorrow Oldauditfindingsareunresolved,butitisasif those don’t matter ExxonMobil is continually raising the baronhowmanybarrelsofoilitispumpingdaily,butthe kind of human and technological monitoring that Guyana shouldbedoingforitselfissadlylacking. Onlythereckless and the probably unconcerned would keep on approving multibillion dollar projects in such circumstances. The PPP/C Government used to rage against the ExxonMobil contract. Now, it is the fiercest protector of that same contract, with more new oil projects approved. It is why PhilipRietemahadsuchagoodtimeatthatconference.
DEAREDITOR, It has been reported that by 2027 to 2030, the consortium of EMGL, Hess and CNNOC is considering introducing 10-FPSOs to extract oil and gas
(https://oilnowgy/featured/ guyana-worlds-wealthiestasset-managers-discussboosting-financing-optionsfor-market/); and the total cost of this investment is U S
(https://oilnow.gy/featured/s tability-crucial-for-us55billion-investment-instabroek-block/).
The main implication that can be drawn from this investment arrangement is thatthe‘ProfitSqueeze’will continue since there is no urgency by Guyana to get a moreequitablesharefromits naturalresource.
This investment of US$150.0billionisindeeda
significant increase from US$55.0billionandabetter accounting methodology is required, given that this investment cost is expected tobesourcedfromtheprofit squeeze earnings under the current PSA, where realtimeauditingisabsent.
Table 1 below has some vital information gaps for the expected 10 –F P S O
urgently acquired so that a better approach to oil extraction operation in Guyana can be established andexamined.
This table must be completed so that the Guyanese people can understand how they are being‘ProfitSqueezed’ Sincerely, Dr.C.KenrickHunte Professor and Former Ambassador
DEAREDITOR,
The United States, unliketheWesternpowersof thelasttwocenturies,hasan anti-colonial history Its founding fathers led the people of that country into many heroic battles for NationalLiberation.
Since then, it has made great strides in almost all aspectsoflife.
Whenpeoplethinkabout the US, for most, the image thatcomestomindisthatof a r i c h c o u n t r y , technologically advanced withopportunities.
The US has also done many commendable things. We must not forget that its opposition to Spanish colonialism contributed significantly to the independence struggle of many Latin American countries.
It has also done a lot in assisting countries and peoples in all parts of the worldwhowereafflictedby natural disasters and in containing the outbreaks of many dangerous diseases, such as Ebola and HIV and AIDS.
It has also led the struggle against trafficking in persons and modern-day slavery
Thedemocraticforcesin Guyana would always remember that the US stood with the masses in the defence of democracy during the 2020 elections. Thisisimportanttoussince it helped to compensate for itsnegativeroleinthe1960s. It helped to prevent our country from retrogressing intoanundemocraticstateas the1964to1992period.
The US also joined with progressive mankind during the fight against Hitlerite fascism which threatened Europeandtheworld.These things cannot ever be forgotten.
That image as a shining staronthehillwastarnished since then in Vietnam, Grenada, Iraq, Iran, Guatemala, Cuba, Syria and otherplaces. However, nothing it did
in the past has damaged the image and reputation of America as what is taking place in the Middle East at thistime.
Recall that immediately after the Palestinian people in the GAZA struck an important blow for its own freedomonOctober72023, the US sided with the Fascist, Apartheid Israeli regimetothepointofbeinga partner in the genocide that followedandiscontinuing.
The President of the US and his Secretary of State flewtoIsraelimmediatelyto show their solidarity with theleaderofthatmurderous regime, Benjamin Netanyahu.
Mr Blinkinsaidwordsto the effect that he was there notjustasSecretaryofState of the US but as a Jew thereby misrepresenting the act of the Palestinians as beinganti-Jewwheninfact, itwasnot.
It was an anti-colonial act, an act for National Liberation.
Alot of what took place on October 7, 2023 are still obscured by the excessive lies and distortions of the mainstreamcooperatemedia which is fully behind the Israeliregime.
The US, no doubt at the request of Israel, immediately dispatched a sizable contingent of its armedforcesintotheregion toprotectIsrael.
It was extremely distressingtowitnesstheUS total support for Israel as it unleashed its barbaric and murderous attacks on an almost unarmed people. No one was spared, babies,
children, women nor the elderly Thiswasmanifested in the Veto it used on five occasions when other countries took resolutions for a ceasefire to the UN’s Security Council. The US frustratedallofthose.
When the SouthAfrican government took the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which was the first country to jump in defenceofIsrael?Itwasthe United States! It used all its powers to defend Israel and the slaughter it was committing.
Itevenuseditsenormous influence to prevent the issuanceofanarrestwarrant forNetanyahuandtwoofhis m i n i
y t h e InternationalCriminalCourt (ICC). Its congress even made open threats to the ChiefProsecutorandjudges ofthatbody
Indeed, the Criminal Netanyahu was invited to address the joint sitting of Congress and was given a reception suited for heroes. He had more than fifty standingovationsduringhis address, more than any US Presid
ver had Moreover,hetravelledtothe US and addressed the Security Council of the UnitedNations.
Whilehewasaddressing the council, he had already given the order to kill the h
, Nasrallahinaterroristattack that killed hundreds of innocentcivilians.
To kill that freedom fighter Israel destroyed six
Lebanon.
Asademonstrationofits oppositiontoaceasefire,the Israeli regime murdered the Chief negotiator of Hamas, IsmailHaniyehwhilehewas in Iran. This was another terrorist attack aimed at sabotaging negotiations and at escalating the conflict by committing the crime on Iranianterritory
The US has openly stated that it assisted Israel with intelligence in the killingsoftheleadersofthe resistancemovement Ithas even carried bombing raids on poorYemen on behalf of Israel.
Since October 7, 2023, the US has ramped up its supply of deadly military hardwaretoIsrael
More bombs, tanks, planes etc tens of thousands of tons of military hardware have been delivered into the hands of the Zionist regime sinceOctober7.
The calls by the US for Israeltoallowhumanitarian aid into GAZAsounds very hollow
Israel continues to disregardthem Itispainful tolookatpressconferences by White House and State Department Spokespersons calling for Israel to allow relief trucks into GAZA. It looks so insincere. Hunger anddiseaseareweaponsthat are employed by the racist regime against the poor Palestinians.
All are crimes against humanity as well as breaking all International Laws Israel continues to ignoreworldpublicopinion because of the backing it receives from the world’s
most powerful country, the USA.
How was the US transformed from a progressive, revolutionary, anti-colonial country into one that supports racism, genocide and ethnic cleansing?
The reasons are too many to be dealt with in a small piece such as this article.
One that must be identified though is the policy of lobbying that is widelyusedintheUSA.
Over the years, a proZionist group, which supportstheregimeinIsrael and helps it to get its way internationally,hasacquired tremendous influence in all thecorridorsofpowerinthe UnitedStates.
This group is known as The American Israel Public AffairsCommittee(AIPAC) itispartofthewholeZionist scheme.
The group finances the campaigns of pro-Israel candidates to the US Congress and its Senate If any one of those law makers ever dare to criticize Israel for any of itsracistbehaviour,AIPAC workshardtogetthatperson removed by scandals and even by finding pro-Israel candidates to support at subsequentelections.
Thus, Israel has tremendous support not only in the Legislative bodiesoftheUSbutalsoin theExecutive
Top jobs in the State Department, the White House and the Pentagon are influenced by AIPAC These agencies are chuck
fullofpro-Zionists
That is why today the USadministrationisacting against the wishes of its own people, the vast majority of whom are against this genocide
Many Public Servants were dismissed from their jobs and removed from positions if they are perceived to oppose any of Israelambitions.
Many conscientious officershaveresignedrather than to be associated with the bloody crimes that are being committed daily againstPalestine.
The Lobby has great i n f l u e n c e i n t h e mainstream media in the US
Therefore,themediais used to hide (ignore), distort and demonize those who oppose the genocide taking place in the GAZA, West Bank and Lebanon Many journalists are completelymuzzled
The US administration hasdamagedtheimageofits country in the eyes of the world and in many cases, acting against its own best interest to please the Israeli regime.
Allitsactionsleadtothe conclusionthattheUSAisa capturedState!Itisactingin the interest of the Fascist I
, Apartheidregime.
As friends of the United States, we must let our voicesbeheardtoassistthat greatcountrytoreturntothe anti-colonial past that the worldadmiredthemfor!
DonaldRamotar
FormerPresident
, Someweeksago,Iheard that His Excellency, the President of Guyana, appeared in the National Assembly to deliver a message in accordance with his powers and rights. This message was significant, giving thousands hope and encouragement. Based on the information I have; His Excellency announced the distributionofashareofthe oil wealth to Guyanese citizens at large I will refrain from providing specifics due to the absence of official documentation available to me. These may be new legislative methods with which I am unfamiliar, givenmyexperience.
More recently, I listened to a speech by President Dr IrfanAli.Itseemsthat,after consulting within his party, President Ali decided to change the mode of distributing a portion of the oil wealth, shifting from a distribution by household to one directed to individuals agedeighteenandabove—a noteworthy age threshold. Therewerenumerouspublic
responses, including p u s h b a c k s a n d modifications. I was quite intrigued by the creativity andastutenessofthecitizens of Guyana as they engaged inthisongoingdiscussion.
I wonder whether it will be disloyal for government
members to admit that the cash transfer disbursement plan first came from Dr Clive Thomas of the WPA. When Dr Thomas first raised the issue of the widespread distribution of oil wealth, it was new in Guyana.TheVicePresident, Dr. Jagdeo, held a press conference soon after, and the press presented Dr Thomas’sproposaltohimin theirownwords.IheardDr
Jagdeo say, “I will implement it I will implement it.” Later, there seemedtobeashiftfromthat position to one in which it wasfeltthatimplementingit would not be a healthy move. Thencametheother things like the appointment ofthenaturalresourcesfund His Excellency, the president, made all the appointments.
The opposition in the National Assembly chose oneperson.
Iamwonderinghowthis oil wealth, which has been assignedtosomethingcalled The National Resources Fund with its various d e p a r t m e n t s a n d personalities (even though they don’t have a place to meet). For example, how could money from that fund
be disbursed even advantageously to many without a piece of legislation? This is a new way of government. It is so
transparentthatmanypeople see through it right on to a possible snap election, as suggested. No one is taking itforgranted.
So here comes now the President with a large disbursementoffundstothe public either to be by the householdorbyagewithout a piece of legislation. To some of my generation, not brainwashed by the British but growing up in the tradition that parliament is the controller of the public purse, ultimately, this is an amazingdevelopment,nota piece of legislation! How will the auditor general pronounce this distribution when it takes place? I have my suggestion for doing it, but I am not intruding into the Guyanese conversation. People on the spot or in touch with what is happening can get information instantly, as I cannownot.
I am not trying to bring my notions into play in this issue. I am just saying that this is a new financial disbursement and should be backed by legislation and debated in parliament by all sides to contribute to the official debate, which is recordedinHansardisoften used by the office of the Auditor General in judging the legitimacy of official expenditures.
This is not an ordinary
piece of legislation. It is comprehensiveandoughtto be bound by the basic principleofhowexpenditure isundertaken.Weknowthat a few months ago, on the government initiative, the laws on quorum for the public accounts committee were amended so that the public accounts committee could not meet without the government’s consent. This body oversees by law and constitution the spending of everypennygeneratedinthe Guyana economy and lodged in the consolidated funds Things must be restricted according to the rulesorrunintochaos.
LetmesummarisewhatI have to say about this issue of disbursement of oil
wealth. I find it a most worrying issue. The law of Guyanaallowsthepresident to address the National Assemblywithamessageat any time of his choosing.
The president appears to have used his power to legislate a disbursement of oil wealth in a manner decided on by a narrow circleofpeoplewhoperhaps have some right but do not recognize a democratic voice or decision No
legislation has been mentioned, promised, or hintedatsofar
That is a serious matter
So, here we have one Guyana, one man, two messages, the second of which is expected to stand.
When it comes to auditing
and transparency, there will beproblems. Another observation, I want to mention is that the decision is made, and it is generally welcomed by people. Everybody wants those living below the povertylineandthoseabove ittobenefitfromoilwealth, and I can have no objection tothat.
There will be violations and weeping and gnashing ofteeth.Thedistributionisa positive step Everybody welcomes it but it is not being done correctly The parliamentary democracy weclaimtohaveisbasedon the “voting of supplies” by thepeople’srepresentatives.
Yourssincerely, EusiKwayana
DEAREDITOR
, October is Rett Syndrome Awareness
Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on a rare but life-altering disability that affects 1 in every 20,000 children, predominantly girls.Thismonthholdsdeep personalmeaning.Itwasmy niece’s diagnosis with Rett Syndrome that inspired the creation of the Precious Angels Charity, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funding research to one day find a cure. This journey is not just about my family it’s about every family affected by this rare condition and ensuring no childinGuyanaoranywhere elseisleftbehind.
Rett syndrome is a neurological disorder that begins to show its effects in early childhood Often, babies appear to develop normallyintheirfirst6to18 months,butthentheystartto lose skills they had gained such as speech, motorcontrol,andtheability to use their hands purposefully The condition iscausedbymutationsinthe MECP2 gene, which is c r u c i a l f o r b r a i n development Symptoms range from severe cognitive impairmenttoproblemswith walking,talking,eating,and even breathing Many childrenwithRettSyndrome experience seizures and severe gastrointestinal issues. The history of Rett Syndrome dates back to its
identification in 1966 by Austrian paediatrician Dr AndreasRett,thoughittook until the 1980s for it to be recognized as a distinct disorder Since then, research has made strides in understanding the genetic mutations behind the syndrome, but as of now, there is still no cure. The severity and complexity of Rett Syndrome demand not only medical intervention but also compassion and awareness from the broader community
It is critical that people educate themselves about rare disabilities like Rett Syndrome. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in the quality of life for both the child and their family. By learningthe signs—loss of motor skills, slowed growth, breathing difficulties, and repetitive hand movements like wringing or clapping—we can better support early interventionefforts.
In Guyana, Rett Syndromeislikelyaffecting more than just a single f a m i l y a n d o u r underdeveloped healthcare facilities are not remotely able to assess, diagnose and treat these individuals. It is essential to understand that whiletheconditionisrare,it is present here. Our charity, Precious Angels, is committed to making sure that any family suspecting theirchildmightbeshowing signs of this condition has a resourcetoturnto.Ifyousee
symptoms that concern you, I urge you to contact us at www.preciousangelscharity com or reach out on social m e d i a a t @preciousangelscharity19, or find us on Facebook at PreciousAngelsCharity Raising awareness is not just about understanding the facts—it is about building a community of empathy, one that understands that the challenges faced by these children and their families are immense. It is about rallying together to fund research for a cure and ensuringthatnoparentfeels alone when faced with the overwhelming realities of caring for a child with a disability like Rett syndrome.
At Precious Angels Charity, our mission goes beyond awareness. We are working tirelessly to raise fundsthatgodirectlytoward research aimed at finding a cure. We believe that the world can change for the better when we come together, and every small effortmatters.
October is Rett Syndrome Awareness Month,anditismyhopethat as more people learn about this disability, we can work together to create a brighter, more hopeful future for childrenlikemyniece.With increased awareness comes greater support for research and advocacy steps that willbringusclosertotheday whenRettSyndromeisno
(Continuiedonpage09)
In case you haven’t heard, please be informed that as part of our continued effort to channel positive changes in our country, our publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall, has dedicated our Page Seven to be “BLUNT” about on-going indecencies in our land that should matter, not only to us at this publication, but the entire nation.
BLUNTNESSON INDECENCY!
In case you haven’t heard, please be informed thataspartofourcontinued
effort to channel positive changes in our country, our Publisher, Mr Glenn Lall, has dedicated our Page Seventobe“BLUNT”about
ongoing indecencies in our land that should matter, not onlytousatthispublication, buttheentirenation.
MONDAY–October 21,2024
S1OOKforavote
Guyanese poor in many locations have been crying out for an ease to their distressing cost-of-living circumstances for years, with those pleas all falling on deaf ears in the PPP/C Government.
Recently, they came up with a plan as general elections near to dole out US$500 to every adult.And while many Guyanese would be grateful for the pittance, how much better it would have been for a sizable pay increase to publicservants,reductionof VAT and also bringing ExxonMobil to the table to ensure Guyana gets more from its lucrative oil resources.
Citizens have been taking note of oil money withdrawals and where those funds went, who got, who didn’t. The hungry in Guyana formed the bulk of those who didn’t get anythingandwhohavebeen lefttotheirowndevices.
The $100,000 will be spentonChristmasshopping and the suffering will continue.
TUESDAY–October22, 2024
KNwouldnotbestopped
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo’sthreattoyankState advertisementsfromasmall newspaper market like Guyana is lower than low, thelowest.
Todoitbefore,andnow bring out that poisoned tipped weapon again, is an exercise in futility KN will not be stopped; truth has a way to shine through any darkness, rise above any deed that speaks to the ugly nature of leaders bent on silencing freedom of the press.
Adswerestoppedbefore inoneofJagdeo’svindictive movesandlookwhereitgot
him. Does he really want to attract the attention and outrage of the world during anelectionperiod,withsuch a punitive measure as to be holding State ads like a weaponoverKN?
WEDNESDAY-October 23,2024
BharratJagdeo:theantifreepressguru
Last week, VP Jagdeo continued his age-old intimidationofthefreepress threatening to withdraw State advertisements from thisnewspaper
T h e f r e e a n d independent media in Guyana should never be seen as an adversary in the fight for what is fair for Guyanaforitsoilpatrimony
The independent and unfettered media, of which this publication is proud to be a part of, is a worthwhile and formidable ally to any nationally oriented government, any national leader, in the tough struggle formoreforGuyanafromits wealth.
Jagdeo knows this as well as anyone, but he is so enslavedtothecommandsof ExxonMobil that he cannot help himself He is so imprisoned by the likes of Alistair Routledge that he is helplesstodoanything,even tosavehisowndignity.
THURSDAY-October24, 2024
Pathetically shameless PPP/CandPNCR
ExxonMobil’sPresident, Alistair Routledge recently said the company is open to discussing the lopsided oil contractwiththePNCR,but has insisted that it will not renegotiatethedeal.
In other words, PNCR don’t even think of going there. This is the company and this is the overseer that ridesalloverGuyana,while from its government to its opposition skip around like children in efforts to avoid
offendingthenewestforeign masterofGuyana
Then, both groups just throw in the towel and collapse in their corners without a fight. Imagine the unbelievable exaggeration ofthisexploiter:anychange whatsoever to the contract “ u n d e r m i n e s t h a t investment.’
A change by another measly 2%, or even 1%, to the royalty level, would devastate ExxonMobil’s billionsthatitpouredintoits Guyanaoperations,
ItisbecauseGuyanahas been cursed with such pathetically shameless politicalgroupsasthePPP/C andPNCRthatsomeonelike Routledge could come here and feel comfortable speaking in these arrogant anddismissivetones.
FRIDAY–October25, 2024
TheJagdeofactor
Earlierthisweek,oneof our columnists pointed out the dangers that VP Bharrat Jagdeo poses to President IrfaanAli’sadministration.
That danger is not merely a matter of political optics; it’s an existential threattoAli’sleadershipand to the legitimacy of the One Guyana agenda that Ali has beensoeagertopromote.
TheOneGuyanavisiona platform built on inclusivity, national unity, and a break from the toxic politicalrivalriesofthepasthas been repeatedly undermined by Jagdeo’s antics.
His weekly press conferences have become little more than verbal mudslinging sessions, targetingtheOppositionand any critic who dares to challengethePPP/C.
These weekly diatribes have not only antagonised the supporters of the Opposition but has also galvanised and energised them.
In examining the grandiose plans for the enhancement of thezooandBotanicGardens in Georgetown, one would hopetofindavisionequalto the soul and dignity of the city itself. Yet, despite the Vice President’s insistence that these proposals are woven into the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), a closer look reveals that this narrative is somewhatthin.
T h e p l a n n e d enhancements are not, as some would hope, a grand step towards preserving and celebrating nature or the wooden heritage of Georgetown. Rather, they appear to be aimed at the comfort and pleasure of visitors staying in the mushrooming hotels within Georgetown These improvements, noble in theory, seem more cosmetic than transformative and one suspects are unlikely to deliver on the promisestheytout.
Georgetown’s Botanic Gardens and zoo are cherished public spaces However, years of neglect have left these places worn and weathered, a poor reflection of the vibrant naturalbeautyGuyanahasto offer Now, with a rapid
influx of visitors as internationalhotelchainsset up shop in the heart of the city, attention turns to polishing the city’s amenities Instead of creating genuine ecological sanctuaries, the plans on papergivetheimpressionof ahurriedmakeoveraimedat pleasing tourists—a fresh coat of paint where perhaps restorationandrestructuring aretrulyneeded.
In this context, the Vice President’sinvocationofthe LCDS feels strained. The strategy, heralded for its focus on protecting Guyana’s forests and reducing carbon emissions, seems a curious framework for beautifying urban landscapes. Even if green spaceswithinthecitycanbe folded into this agenda, it is hard to see how cosmetic renovations to the Botanic Gardens and zoo could substantivelycontributetoa low-carbonfuture.Surely,if thegovernmentwereserious aboutharnessingthesegreen spaces to complement the LCDS, the plans would be comprehensive, integrating conservation measures, alongside green energy developmentforthecity But thecurrentproposalsappear to miss these marks, opting insteadforminortweaksthat
may,atbest,produceamore polishedfaçade.
Worse yet, the prospects of success are shadowed by the broader realities of Georgetown itself. The city has long been plagued by inadequate management under the watch of the Opposition-controlled City Hall. Drains are clogged, streets are potholed, and garbage piles up with alarming regularity and vendorsareeverywhere.Itis here,intheadministrationof the city itself, that the real strugglelies.Foryears,City Hallhasstruggledtoaddress e v e n b a s i c u r b a n
hampered by political bickering,lackofresources, anabsenceofvisionandthe failure rein in illegal vending. In such a setting, can we truly expect that a selectiveenhancementofthe zoo and Botanic Gardens will make much difference tothecity’sappeal? Indeed, it is difficult to
achieving any lasting effect
cooperation of City Hall. Georgetown’s troubles are
efforts however well-
Frompage06
longerasourceofsufferingforanyfamily Wear purple, donate, if possible, share and engagewithourcontent.Let’stakethismonth to educate, to empathize, and to act. The
childrenfightingthisbattledeservenothing less.Yoursrespectfully, HadiyyahMohamed
Founder PreciousAngelsCharity
Yuh ever stop and wonder what gonna happen when big people leavethisworld?Allround de world, leaders does get grand tombs, mausoleums, memorials towering up high, like they trying fuh touchheaven!Egyptgotde pyramids, China got de emperor’s terracotta army, and even up de road in Cuba, Castro resting comfortable in a marble paradise. Here in Guyana, though,wesimplefolk.We got a Place of Heroes in de Botanic Gardens, a quiet corner where our nation’s greatsdoesresteasy
Now people watching
a n d w h i s p e r i n g , wondering, “When de time come — and it must come — what grand edifice dem
gon’ build fuh You-KnowWho?” After all, certain peoplelikealil’flash,don’t they? Big palaces, big parades,bigtalk!Yuhknow detype.Sowhatgon’bede final statement when de finalcurtaindraw?
Picture it: Marble shining in de midday sun, gold trimmings sparkling, maybe even a lil’statue on top pointing straight to de sky Some people seh de treasury gon’have to be on standbyfuhdisone.What’s a Guyanese legacy if yuh don’tleavealil’monument, eh?
De ancestors who resting in de Place of Heroes gon’ probably be shaking dem heads. Even Burnham who prided himself as an emperor of
sorts has a simple
putting a bandage on a festering wound. Without a holistic approach that addresses the underlying issues of municipal neglect and mismanagement, these enhancements will be little morethanagleamingveneer on a crumbling foundation. It is one thing to construct a finegarden,butitisanother toplaceitinacitycapableof supporting and celebrating suchaspace.
Georgetown after dusk becomes a city cloaked in unease, where poorly lit streets and minimal police presenceleaveresidentsand visitors vulnerable The bravest plans for the city’s beautificationandeconomic growth are doomed without a parallel commitment to safety No vibrant nightlife or bustling business district canflourishifpeoplefearfor their security the moment night falls Without investment in consistent, visible security measures,
any grand improvements riskbeingmereornamentsin a city where safety is far fromguaranteedafterdark. For a plan, as proposed by the government to succeed, there must be a collaborative vision that includes both national and municipal leaders, with an honest reckoning of Georgetown’s challenges The Opposition-led City Hall may indeed be part of theproblem,butsideliningit willnotyieldsolutions.
I f t h e c e n t r a l government is to genuinely enhance the Botanic Gardens and zoo, it must first address the underlying inf
d management issues of the city as a whole. In the absence of this coordinated effort, these beautification plans are likely to yield disappointingresults,akinto installing chandeliers in a house with a cracked foundation.
Theunfortunaterealityis that Georgetown’s Botanic Gardens and zoo, as well as the broader cityscape, will continue to suffer from sporadic and disconnected projects until there is a comprehensive approach to city planning. No hotel, no green space, and no new development can succeed in isolation. Georgetown, as it stands, demands an integrated vision—one that involvesallstakeholdersand dares to imagine a city worthy of the pride it once inspired.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
mausoleum. So maybe dis grand tomb ain’t necessary atall.
Still, we got questions. Will it be a modest resting place in de spirit of de Botanic Gardens, or a massive mausoleum that stretchin’ to de heavens?
Onlytimegon’tell,andoh, how we waiting to see de finalblueprintofglory
Indemeantime,wesay, let dem heroes in de Gardens rest easy — dey earned deir peace. As fuh You-Know-Who, well, he gon’have to make his own mark, one way or another
But yuh see, when de story done, all we does really leave behind is de memory in people heart no marble, no gold can ever topdat. Talkhalf,Leffhalf.
Thereisgoodnews for Guyanese
Some bad news managed to creep in rather stealthilyintothebusinessof today It is politics. The good news is that politics is not the big deal that it is made out to be. So, it is a fine opportunity to stop taking pols and self too seriously FromAmerica to Guyana, for the most part, thejudgementwasthatthere are good for a joke. Pols, thatis. Theyarefiguresthat providethekindofescapeto ease the stresses of the day, environment, and having to deal with ornery people Ornery, not extraordinary, it should be noted. Let’s see whatthelizard’sentrailsand bateyessay Up Stateside, there is Trump. Nobody on this planet needs any further introduction The name
alone is gut-wrenching. To thinktoolongaboutwhathe actuallyrepresentsistocalla seizureupononeself. There was Biden who wisely slipped out of the way It was the last clearheaded thing that he did, which emphasizesthatoldsaying:a mind is a terrible thing to allow to age too rapidly, to go to pot too freely Mitch McConnel decided that it was time to hang up the gloves and hang around the bluegrass of his beloved Kentucky
There is always the Kentucky Derby to get his blood going. So, what is Senator Lindsay Graham waitingfor,anothercivilwar to break out, so that he can secede from the US Constitution? Itisbesttogo out while on top than to go feet first and strapped to a gurney Is anybody in
America listening? How about the US Embassy in Georgetown? Please pass thewordalong,asafavourto a stranger trapped in a strangerland.
InGuyana,thesituationis, well, is anybody really interested in what goes on politically in Guyana? In this burg,politicsisn’tthenoblestof arts No sirree, Bob! In Guyana,politicsisthenextbest substitute for entertainment Not Entertainment Tonight, but entertainment day and night. Thereisafulltroupe of jokers. Here in Guyana, thepolswalkwiththeirown laff track, i.e., the people who laff at their jokes, no matter how old or flat Guyanesearesoconditioned tolaughattheentertainment Olympics run by their leading politicians that the professional ‘laffers’ start doing so before a word has
been uttered or a funny face made. Barbara Streisand or Audrey Hepburn, they are not Take the nation’s leading jester, His Excellency, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali Somethinginhisaristocratic head has made him fancy himself to be a master entertainer He is slapstick and wisecracker galore, a walking evening (and daytime) at the Improv Entertainer Ali growls and howls,asthespirittakeshim tounknownplaces. Hebays at the man in the moon, becausehissenseofcomedic timing whispers that it is a PNC competitor The leading national entertainer crackles and bristles with barely contained electricity M y h u m b l e recommendation is that he shouldconsidersellingsome of that excess energy to the
GPL, for that would keep Guyanese on a lit path for the rest of this year. Frankly, it is frightening someofthestatestowhich the Guyanese head of state driveshimself. Alaffiswhat he is after but comes up blank most of the time.Vice President Jagdeo prefers to holdhimselfoutasaserious man,allbusiness,notimefor funandfrolic. Thegrayness onhisfaceandthewhiteness around his mouth are the giveaways: a leader more acidic than comic, one with the weight of several oil reservoirsonhishead. Talk about touchy and grouchy andbrimmingwithhostility, and that is the Duke of Jesters,Jagdeo. Jagdeoisno common joker, though, as his fare is more on the sophisticatedside.
Atleast,hefoolshimself into thinking so. Better contract management is one of his favourite laugh lines. His management is either a secret or in tatters, the contract is untouchable, so what in tarnation is he making better? Does he even know what better means? Still,itishisideaof belly-busting entertainment.
DonaldTrumphadoneofhis own to perk up jaded Americans: Haitians are eating Frisky and Garfield outinOhio.
PeopleintheRedStates sawcannibals. Votersinthe Blueonesthoughttheyheard depraved indifference to the sanctity of Coloured people’sstanding.
A one-time American president is up in arms over sanctity of cat life; a Guyanese president is conveniently shackled hand and foot which gives him cover to shuffle around
sanctity of contract Is somebodykiddingme(tobe takenliterally)?
Opposition Leaders Norton and Hughes (one is senior, the other second) have no reason to crack a smile. Since they can’t, nobody else in Guyana should. Seriously, ever see any of the two smile? Mr Norton is more of a silent film era practitioner: he would rather say nothing, has no lines to say About anything. PPPrigging is an exception, of course. Oil, though,wellthatwouldbea violationofhissabbath. His sabbathissevendaysaweek andunlikefastingHindus,it doesn’t come to a stop. He should be that strangest of creatures in politics: an ascetic, a man committed to thehermetic. NigelHughes, on the other hand, is a 24-7 radio station all by himself. Try to stop him palavering. He is a serious humorist: no conflict of interest in his political practice and his Exxonpractices.
Cor blimey! Is this a backward country or what! Hehaspotential Theissueis to be what and with what in mind? Tocleartheair,Ilike agoodjokemorethanmost folks Just share a few convulsing ones that leads to doubling up on mirth I coulduseone,withGuyana being where it is and how it is,thankstoallfourofthese brothers
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
A family of five is pleading with the public to assisttheminrebuildingtheir Sisters Village, East Bank Berbice (EBB) home which was destroyed by fire on Monday
The fire of unknown origin destroyed two buildings and partially damaged a third at Lot 39 SistersVillage,(EBB).
In an interview with Kaieteur News, 39-year-old Sharmila Seetaram said that herfamilywasathomewhen thefirestarted.
The mother of one said she and her relatives were in the lower flat of the house when neighbours alerted them to the fire. The fire reportedlystartedinthefront bedroom in the upper flat of the two-storey wooden and concretestructure.
“Soon as they saw the fire, everybody call the fire service but the fire service whentheycame,thebuilding was already flat going to the next building (which was completelydamaged).”
Seetaram disclosed that in addition to her home that wascompletelydestroyedby the fire, the home of a neighbour was completely destroyed while a third was damaged. The houses were situatedclosetoeachother
Though the fire quickly spread from Seetaram's home to the other two buildings, firefighters were abletosavethethirdbuilding and prevent the fire from spreading to other nearby houses. “At this moment, very, very bad (the fire has affected her), we are all homeless; we were living there,”thewomansaidwhen askedhowsheandherfamily arecoping.
Notwithstanding her challenges, the 39-year-old woman thanked Queensway Securitywheresheworksfor the support provided to her family
Persons desirous of assisting Seetaram and her family can contact her on mobile number: (+592) 6323383.
Police have arrested 28-year-old Jason Howard called 'Smelly', a resident of Independence Boulevard, Albouystown, Georgetownafterheandtwootherpersons allegedly robbed a Chinese national at KuruKururu,Soesdyke-LindenHighway
Thearmedrobberyreportedlyoccurred attheAnShengSupermarket.
Howard was arrested on Friday night buthisaccomplicesareyettobefound.
The victim has been identified as Zhenfa, a businessman of Vryheid's Lust, EastCoastDemerara(ECD).
The armed robbery occurred at about 21:05hwhilethevictimwasworkinginhis (Continuedonpage49)
ByNazimaRaghubir
Vi c t i m s O f t e n
Abandon Their QuestToPutRapists BehindBars;PoliceAreSlowTo Act
Clad in all black, the tearyeyed woman could barely compose herself in the witness boxofGuyana'sHighCourt.The mother of the rape survivor was confronting her child's rapist once again, this time to read her daughter'sletter
Fewer than a dozen people, including friends and family of both the survivor and the rapist, gatheredintheGeorgetowncourt for the sentencing. Oswald Bedlow, 37, was found guilty of raping a 15-year-old girl, the daughter of a family friend, in December2022.
“Iwouldneverbeabletotrust anyone anymore after what Uncle Wally did to me,” the sobbingmotherread.
Through her mother, the survivor said she remained traumatised, unable to trust and maintain relationships The incident affected the entire family who, after she was raped, hadtorelocatetoanewhome.
Bedlow had taken her on a drive He would rape and abandon her on the side of the road, telling her to find her way home. In 2020, Kaieteur News hailed Bedlow, then an ambulance driver, as “Frontline Worker of the Week.” In July 2024, Guyana Chronicle labeled himarapist.
Sexual assaults on children are rampant in this South American nation In 2020, Justice Peter Jamadar of the
CaribbeanCourtofJustice(CCJ) described the underreporting of sexual offences involving children in Guyana as an “extremelydisturbingtrend.”
“If Guyana follows internationalnormsinthisregard for developing societies, such as those in the Caribbean, then, on the basis of presumed under-
reporting, the problem likely assumes a magnitude that is endemic, pathological, and potentially destructive of the fabric of Guyanese society,” Jamadarsaid.
At the time, the CCJ was delivering judgment in the case of a 57-year-old father of 12, Linton Pompey, who was convictedonSeptember21,2015 ofthreesexualoffencesagainsta 14-year-oldgirl.
When the courts opened in January 2024, the Demerara Assizes, which included Georgetown, had to resolve 259 total cases Sexual offences constituted the overwhelmingmajorityofthem; 114 were rape charges; 23 involved sexual activity with a child family member and 1 defendant was charged with sexualactivitywithachildunder sixteen.
Red Thread, a Georgetownbased non-profit organisation that advocates for women's rights, has expressed concern about the alarming number of sexual violence cases before the courts. The body has faulted the policing system for making it difficult for survivors to come forwardandtofindjustice.
Halima Khan is a counselor and advocate who accompanies survivors to police stations. She also provides in-person support in the courtroom. Khan spends some of her time reaching out to her“grassrootswomennetwork” seekinginformationaboutsexual assaultintheircommunities.She also combs the newspapers and other mediums to identify cases. Said Khan: “This is a difficult task, not only to track the survivorsbuttoconvincethemto take a chance on the system, a system that does not seem to alwaysworkintheirfavour.”
“For decades we have seen one trend, sexual assault cases continue to climb,” she said. It could be that more people are [more sensitized] about sexual assault This could be empoweringforthem.”
Khandescribedwhatshesaid was a “worrying” trend: police inability or reluctance to take reportsofsexualassault,orto“go after” alleged perpetrators Citing a case in Lethem, a
township in G u y a n a ' s Region9closetotheborderwith Brazil, Halima related how police were often reluctant to look for the alleged perpetrator “All we kept hearing is that we ain'tgettingtheman,weain'tsee themanandwehadtotellthem, we saw the man and gave them [his]carnumber,”Halimasaid.
TheGuyanaPoliceForcedid not respond to repeated attempts for an interview with the Caribbean Investigative JournalismNetwork.
Victims of Sexual Assault HavetoWaitand“WaitAgain”
S,22,wasallegedlyassaulted in December 2023. In August, 2024 theallegedperpetratorwas yet to be charged. S related that she reported the assault to the
Alberttown Police Station in December S would not hear fromthepoliceuntilMarchwhen she was asked for a “follow-up” statement. “I am so anxious and frustrated,”Ssaid.“It'slikeevery time I feel as if, okay we're gettingsomewherewiththecase, Ihavetowaitagain.”
Shadtoseektherapy,todeal with the trauma of the alleged assaultandthetraumaofwaiting on the police. “I am always thinking, when are they going to call,howlongdoIhavetowait.”
In July, Communications Officer Liz Rahaman with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, said S's file was returned to the Guyana Police Force, citing sufficient evidence to charge the alleged perpetrator withtwocountsofsexualassault.
Migrant Women, Mainly Venezuelans, are Targeted by Rapists
Rape of migrant women, many of whom have fled instability in neighboring (Continuedonpage48)
Introducing the sensational Kady Kish, a Guyanese singer/songwriter who entered the music scene after she started writing and performing her own calypso music in High School. This week's beauty blends soulful melodies with infectious soca and dancehall rhythms. Outside of music career, Kady enjoys working out, gardening and preparing new and interesting dishes. Her favourite quote is by music legend, Frank Sinatra, “The best revenge is massive success.”
Bolivia, landlocked country of west-central South America. Extending some 950 miles (1,500 km) north-south and 800 miles (1,300 km) east-west, Bolivia is bordered to the north and east by Brazil, to
Llamas on the Coipasa Salt Flat, southwestern Bolivia.
khena treescanstillbefound the wild guanaco, which thesoutheastbyParaguay,to on the Altiplano Near survives in the mountains. thesouthbyArgentina,tothe Mount Sajama, at an Thellama,thelargestanimal southwestandwestbyChile, elevation of 14,000 feet on the Altiplano and seldom andtothenorthwestbyPeru. administrative capital is La landscapebegantochangeas Plant life (4,300 meters), one of the seen below elevations of BoliviasharesLakeTiticaca, Paz,wheretheexecutiveand t h e e a s t e r n
Huge expanses of the highestforestsof khena trees 7,500 feet (2,300 meters), is the second largest lake in legislative branches of lowlands particularly the southernAltiplano are saline hassurvived.Eucalyptusand the traditional beast of South America (after Lake governmentfunction. department of Santa andbarren,but ichu (acoarse pine trees have been burdenandisalsoasourceof Maracaibo),withPeru. Bolivia is traditionally Cruz—developedrapidly bunchgrass) is common in introducedaroundtheshores meat, wool, leather, tallow, The country has been regarded as a highland The country has a rich the north, where it is grazed of Lake Titicaca and in and fuel (in the form of dried landlocked since it lost its country Although only one- history It was once the by llamas. Tola (a tough, sheltered valleys Large dung) in rural Andean Pacific coast territory to thirdofitsterritoryliesinthe center of the ancient wind-resistant shrub) and stretches of theAltiplano are communities. It is also used Chile in the War of the Andes Mountains, most of Tiwanaku (Tiahuanaco) mosslike cushions of yareta, plantedinfieldcrops. for ancient Aymara and Pacific (1879–84), but the nation’s largest cities are empire, and from the 15th to bothwidelyusedforfuel,are Animal life Quechua religious rites, in
a g r e e m e n t s w i t h located there, and for the early 16th century it was well distributed, along with Bolivian highland which it may be sacrificed in neighboring countries have centuries the highlands have a part of the Inca empire. cactus scrub. Totora reeds, animal life is distinguished honor of Pachamama (Pacha granted it indirect access to attracted the nation’s largest After the arrival of the which grow on the shores of by the presence of members Mama), goddess of the the Pacific and Atlantic a m o u n t o f m i n i n g , conquistadores, Bolivia was Lake Titicaca, are used for of the camel family—the Earth. oceans. The constitutional commercial, and business subsumed within the thatching, feeding livestock, llama, alpaca, guanaco, and The smaller alpaca is capital is the historic city of investment. In the late 20th Viceroyalty of Peru, and it and making the Indian boats vicuña, all native to the reared for its soft wool, Sucre, where the Supreme century, however, the provided Spain with calledbalsas. Andes.The llama and alpaca althoughthewild,legally Court is established, but the demographic and economic immensewealthinsilver Native quishuara and are domesticated varieties of (Continued on page 23)
silence Kaieteur News so the nation is now seeing the that there would be less kind of leader he is, so he is
exposure of the levels of now resorting to blackmail. corruption in the country, Toethelineorgetouttheline
ExxonM pumped US$14B particularlyintheoilandgas – that’s his message. Report in 9 months of 2024 but sector what he Jagdeo wants you to Guyana only gets US$1.9B
“So,Jagdeoshouldknow clear that if exposing
Notwithstanding the report or he will deal with Vice President’s statements, you. Follow the footsteps of Guyana and its prolific Lall made it clear that his the Chronicle, NCN and the Stabroek Block has often newspaper will not be other friendly media houses been described as the bullied He said the and you will stay in business treasure chest for the oil and governmentcanwithdrawits with state ads., stand up and gas companies, unlocking advertisements but that will give the nation the facts, get US-billions in revenue while not deter the paper from ready for the punishment,” only a meager portion of that exposing wrongdoings and Lallstressed. wealth is shared with the corruption. Thebusinessmanmadeit government.
This was glaringly better to threaten me about Jagdeo’s weakness and his evident in the first nine pulling state ads. from the fear to address ExxonMobil months of 2024, as newspaper, he should know and the lopsided oil contract, ExxonMobil, the operator of better Yes uncle, it will exposing how foreigners are theStabroekBlockproduced bring some pressure to robbing the country of its US$14B worth of oil, while the NRF would significantly and we are deliberately PNC.Sothat’swhatwewant maintaining the paper, but I n a t u r a l r e s o u r c e s , Guyana only received increase. foregoing that in this period if you have a political…the will not roll over and change highlighting corruption, and US$1.9Bofthatrevenue. In the absence of this key for that purpose and then head of your newspaper for$100M,or$100Binstate reporting on the advice of The Natural Resource principle, ExxonMobil is trying to grab this bone [KaieteurNews]isapolitical ads. a day No way uncle, in international experts on the Fund (NRF) First Quarter free to use the revenues from nowcouldcauseyoutolose candidate who has declared life if you can’t stand for oil and gas sector [that the Report for 2024 stated that these producing fields to all the bones, the bigger his candidacy then he has to something, then you gon fall government is not heeding] for the period January 1 to fund projects that are yet to bonestoointhefuture.” get the same amount of ads, for anything and you end up is upsetting the Vice March 31, 2024, total commence production or In the meantime, or else it’s unfair the beingnothing,andmymaker President,thenhecandothat deposits were US$455.4M invest in its exploration Suriname has made it clear government is funding the has not created me to be which he feels is in the best including US$391M in activitiesacrosstheBlock. thatitsfirstoilprojectwillbe lies and the political party nothing, not then, not now, interestofthecountry. profits and US$63M in This year, Guyana could ring-fenced to ensure its which is Kaieteur News,” not ever – put that in your Lall reminded of the era royalties. have been receiving 50% of people enjoy its full share of Jagdeolamented. pipe and smoke it Jagdeo,” during Jagdeo’s presidency
In the second quarter, revenues generated by the revenues. Hecontinued:“SoIgotta thebusinessmansaid. whenKaieteurNewsrefused deposits totaled US$778.6M three projects in operation, get the same thing or you During Friday’s show, to publish advertisements inclusive of US$679.8M in since Exxon recovered Jagdeo threatens to pull gotta increase the Mirror’s Lall told his listeners that he sent by Jagdeo’s business profitsandUS$98.8M.
US$19B at the end of state ads. From K/News ads. I want like all the ads. has known Vice President associatesandfriends.
Meanwhile, in the third December 2023- more than you see in Kaieteur News I Jagdeo for over 30 years and “So Jagdeo should know quarter, the NRF received the combined cost of those Kaieteur News will not gottagetittoofortheMirror “what I am seeing is a man better to threaten me about US$582 8M comprising projects. be silenced because of It’seithertheycutandgiveto who is degrading himself in pulling state ads. from the US$481 7M profits and Liza One is pegged at threats by the Vice President us…I would also urge Mr every office he has held and newspaper, he should know US$101Mroyalties.
US$3.5B while Liza Two Bharrat Jagdeo to withdraw Norton to apply for the same holds presently He just better,” the Kaieteur News
This means that the costsanotherUS$6Bandthe state advertisements from amount of ads. cause he’s can’t help himself, sliding Publisherstated. c o u n t r y r e c e i v e d third project Payara carries a the media entity, Publisher eligible just as we are as frombadtoworse.Honestly, approximately US$1 9 pricetagofUS$9B. Glenn Lall said on Friday political parties we get the Jagdeo is one of the main MONDAY billion during the first nine Guyana has been urged during his radio programme sameamountofequity.” leaders responsible for monthsof2024. byanumberofinstitutionsto airedon KaieteurRadio. Further, the Vice where this country is today Govt. distances self from
On the other hand, ring-fence the Stabroek Lall was responding to President said that the with the resources that Sam Hinds’glowing ExxonMobil and its partners Block to ensure the country repeated threats by the Vice government cannot continue Guyanahas…” comments on Exxon’s deal recovered about US$10.5B benefits early on from the President to withdraw the to fund the “lies” that are Thebusinessmantoldhis in costs from the oil revenues generated from the state advertisements from being published by a listeners that Jagdeo is The government of produced during the period. sector thenewspaper OnThursday, newspaper that is run by uncomfortable with the Guyana has distanced itself In keeping with the terms of The Government has Jagdeo told reporters that he someone seeking political number of serious questions from comments made by the Petroleum Agreement, however refused to views Kaieteur News as a office. posed by Kaieteur News former President, Prime ExxonMobil also benefitted implement this key politicalentityandasaresult Kaieteur News reporters weekly at his press Minister and Guyana’s from50%profits-US$1.5B. provision, arguing that it the newspaper should be will not be silenced conferences. current Ambassador to the This means that the oil could slow down the pace of s t r i p p e d o f s t a t e
Meanwhile, Lall is of the “Uncle, he can’t handle United States of America, companies got US$12B development in the block. In advertisements or political view that the Vice President the newspaper exposing his S a m H i n d s o n t h e while Guyana only received fact, Vice President and party papers, such as the is making every effort to schemes every day, where ExxonMobiloilcontract. US$1.9B during the first Chief Policymaker for the Mirror [The People’s In two separate letters to ninemonthsof2024. sector, Bharrat Jagdeo had Progressive Party] and New the media earlier this month, It should be noted that said at a press engagement Nation [The People’s the Ambassador encouraged Guyana continues to receive on October 12, 2023 that the National Congress Reform], Guyanese to rejoice over the a paltry share from its oil country could be left with should receive equal number paltry proceeds being resources as a result of the nothing in the future should of advertisements from the received from Exxon and fiscal terms outlined in the such a provision be stateasdoesKaieteurNews. even ventured to insinuate 2016 Exxon deal The implemented. The Vice President said that the country benefits country continues to He reasoned, “We that he intends to write from the lack of ringhemorrhage more of its admitted that we are President Irfaan Ali on the fencing. In his second letter, resources by failing to foregoing revenue now in subject since he feels Hindsalsosuggestedthatthe implement a ring-fencing exchange for massive future stronglyaboutthematter royalties being paid by provision. income because it’s going “So,Ihavenotgottenthe Exxonmakesupforthetaxes A ring-fencing provision into new projects that will time to write the president as that the oil companies do not would mandate each project increase production, and so yet but I said as General pay to pay for itself. After the even with the same share of Secretary of the party I have
Businessman and Publisher of Kaieteur News, Glenn Lall.
On Thursday, General cost of the project has been the 50/50, plus the two to write the president. They Secretary of the People’s repaid, Guyana is posed to percent royalty that the must get now the same Progressive Party (PPP) and receive 50% of the revenues future income, because of amountofadsthatthemirror Vice President Bharrat generatedattheproject.This the bigger scale will be gets from the government Jagdeomadeitclearthatthe means that revenue flow to massive in Guyana’s case and New Nation from the
(Continued on page 17)
From page 17 Virtually, no political leader
to $145.517 billion in 2022, exemptions, such as forestry Ambassador’s views do not or party worldwide would reflecting an increase of andpublictransportation. alignwiththatoftheparty’s. say that it prefers not to have $127.651billion. While theAG report lists Jagdeo argued that the morerevenue,”Lowstated.
the taxes foregone as media, in particular Kaieteur Instead, the PNC/R businesses received the exemptions, it should be News has lost focus on the insisted that the country lion’s share of these noted that the Guyana fact that Leader of the should be pushing to earn
Revenue Authority (GRA) Alliance For Change (AFC) more revenue to meet the exemptions climbing from doesnotforegotaxes. Itwas is being paid by Exxon, a urgentdevelopmentneedsof $126.240 billion in 2022 to previouslyexplainedthatthe glaring conflict of interest. thecountry
Government of Guyana He however highlighted that 2023 an increase of (GoG) sign agreements with the newspaper has jumped Guyana’s food import bill $
companies and on the basis on the former President for in three-year climb representing 86% of all of those agreements, taxes sharing his thoughts on the conditional exemptions for are incentivized. Notably, issue. With Guyana leading theyear exemptions are usually done “They just brushed off discussions on the regional Other beneficiaries of through legislation, and the thiswholequestionoflackof pushtoreducetheCaribbean conditional tax exemptions CARICOM Common integrityfromthisconflictof C o m m u n i t y ’ s include: Markettreaty,tonameafew interest. They just brushed it (CARICOM’s) food import - Ministries/Government Revenue Collection off. It’s gone. Kaieteur News bill by 25% by 2025, the
Departments: $20 544 Moreover, it was stated forget about that. The man is nation has itself struggled to billion(upby$9.744billion) in the AG’s report that working for Exxon now and reduce its own food - Re-migrants: $4 785 according to GRA’s heading a political party importationbill. billion(upby$2.415billion) Statements of Receipts and that’s in parliament He This is according to
Diplomats: $1.804 billion Disbursements, the sum of collecting money every day statistics in the Bank of locally, it is clear that the
sufficiency through the (upby$540million) $320 110 billion was from Exxon (but) they cuss Guyana (BoG) Half Year growing demand in the continuedimplementationof - P u b l i c estimated to be collected as the PPPand poor Sam Hinds Report.CentralBankfigures country, as a result of the Community Agricultural Officials/Officers: $2.556 revenue for the year 2023. because he muses and shares indicate that Guyana’s food increased foreigners, cannot Policy (CAP), fostering billion(upby$406million) However, while this figure histhoughtspubliclywhathe import bill has continuously bemetbylocalfarmers. innovationandcollaboration - Foreign Funded was revised by theAuthority thinks,”theVPsaid. climbed at the half-year On October 16, Guyana amongfarmers. Projects: $5.640 billion (up to $350.346 billion, the ExxonMobil mark over the past three joined in observing World The progress included by$4.646billion) actual collections paid into He however noted, “But years. Food Day, as the Minister of increased budgetary - Hospitals: $3.386 the Consolidated Fund it’s not an official position of Between January to June Agriculture, Zulfikar allocationstotheagricultural billion(upby$2.958billion) totalled $366 615 billion the party…Sam has earned 2022, Guyana’s food import Mustapha emphasized the sector in Member States; the Other categories saw The report states that this the right to say what he bill totaled US$101 7M vital role of food security in introduction of new crops; decreases, such as churches represents a positive wants. He has contributed This did not include internationaldevelopment. improved cross-border and charitable organisations, variance of $16.269 billion, enough to this country to beverage and tobacco which The Department of i n v e s t m e n t s a n d which experienced a decline equivalent to 5% above the allow him to have a free accounted for another Public Information (DPI) collaborations; development in exemptions by $449 r e v i s e d e s t i m a t e d intellectual thought, US$30.3M.
reported him saying, “access and implementation of new million compared to the collections. wherever he believes During the same period to nutritious food and agriculturetradepoliciesand previousyear in…but they are hounding in 2023, the country’s total sustainable food, is a guidelines; and the Also, unconditional tax EPAand other agencies SamHinds.” food importation bill rose to c o r n e r s t o n e o f t h e identification and agreement exemptionsfellsharplyfrom conduct further tests at Kaieteur News reported US$122.2M while beverage development of human on possible insurance
$17.714 billion in 2022 to Crane homes affected by that following the first letter and tobacco imports reached dignity.” products to benefit farmers
G$761 million in 2023, a suspected oil seepage fromAmbassador Hinds, the US$30.9M.
In a press release issued in the Region. “It means that decreaseof$16.953billion.
two major political This year, the Bank of back in February this year, we remain on course to meet Drivers behind By Rehanna Ramsay opposition parties raised Guyana report stated that the CARICOM said “food and our 25 by 2025 Food the increase and Davina Bagot concerns over the views food import bill climbed nutrition security is a critical Security Initiative targets, The surge in tax sharedbytheformerHeadof significantly to US$144.9M. goal of the initiative which with the most critical one exemptions is mainly driven The Environmental State. The bill for tobacco and aims to reduce the Region’s being to reduce our food by a substantial rise in Protection Agency (EPA) on Chairman of the AFC, beverages also increased to high food import bill, in the import bill and advance food exemptions for companies Mondayvisitedthehomesof DavidPattersoninaninvited US$42 3M during the vicinity of $6B, by 25 and nutrition security for the and businesses, particularly West Demerara residents to comment said that it was period. percent by the year 2025. Community,”hesaid. through Investment collect more samples of the unfortunate that a former The Bank explained, “In Specific objectives include
A
e oily substance seeping President of Guyana could the consumption goods sub- the removal of barriers to TUESDAY agreements, facilitated by throughtheirfloors. express such simplistic category, imports amounted intra-regional trade; the Guyana Office for When Kaieteur News utterances. to US$492.7 million, 28.6 improving logistics and Govt. hands out Investment (Go-Invest) and visitedthehomeofBasmatie In fact, he said, “Hinds is percent or US$109.6 million transportation;greatercross- GYD$274B in tax the Guyana Geology and Singh, in Crane, the woman n o w t h e c o u n t r y ’s more than the 2023 border investments in the exemptions in M i n e s C o m m i s s i o n was sitting in her back yard, Ambassador, so we have to corresponding level This agriculture sector; and the 2023, earned (GGMC), saw exemptions contemplatinghernextmove be very worried about the was due to increases in the provision of alternate GYD$366B – AG Report climb from $116.451 billion as officers from the EPA, the level of representation on sub-categories of other financingandinsurance.” in 2022 to $200.337 billion Guyana Geology and Mines behalf of the country, if he is durables, food for final Former Chairman of In the Auditor General’s in 2023, an increase of Commission (GGMC), the satisfied with seeing his consumption, motor cars, CARICOM, Prime Minister Report for 2023, exemptions $83.885billion. Ministry of Health and Civil countryshort-changed.” beverages & tobacco, other of Dominica, Roosevelt from duties and taxes in The most notable Defence Commiss
Meanwhile, the People’s non-durable goods, other Skerrit reported at the time Guyana reached a total of increases in tax exemptions ( C D C ) c o n d u c t e d National Congress Reform semi-durable goods and that the region remains on $273.931 billion, marking a within the business sector inspectionsinherhome. (PNCR) spokesman on oil clothing and footwear by course to achieve the goals significant increase of include: Two men, without any and gas, Elson Low said that US$38.8 million, US$22.7 identified under the 25 by $110.698billionor68%over – Manufac
ng: type of protective gear were Ambassador Hinds has once million, US$19.1 million, 2025 Initiative He was the $163.233 billion granted $14 583 billion (up by breaking the woman’s floor again proven to be a window US$11 4 million, US$9 6 addressing the opening in2022. $11.542billion) tiles in what used to be her into the PPP’s true thinking million, US$6.6 million and ceremony of the 46th This substantial rise in – Fuel: $10.551 billion living room to provide the andattitude. U S $ 1 4 m i l l i o n , Regular Meeting of the exemptions is largely (upby$8.779billion) EPA with samples of the “He previously praised respectively.” Conference of Heads of attributed to an uptick in – Construction: $1.873 substance that covered the the Stabroek block Since Guyana began Government of CARICOM, conditional tax concessions, billion(upby$1.202billion) bottom of the tile. A few
ing producing oil, the economy on February 25 at the which are provided to – Mining: $919 million minutes into the activity, the Agreementas“fair”andnow has grown consecutively National Cultural Centre in various sectors and projects. (upby$474million) mencomplainedofaburning his recent comments have over the past four years by Georgetown,Guyana. The report highlights that – Aircraft: $335 million sensation which quickly made it clear that the PPP is double digits Although Skerrit said that the conditional tax exemptions (upby$246million) prompted them to reach for i
e efforts have been made to Community took specific granted in 2023 amounted to Some sectors, however, facemasks.Outsideof challengesoftheoilindustry increase food production steps last year towards self- $273.169 billion, compared s a w r e d u c t i o n s i n (Continued on page 18)
From page 17 function.” Singh’s home, officers of Both Basmatie and her GGMC gathered samples of son reported experiencing a dirt surrounding the house burningsensationoftheeyes fortesting. and nose from the fumes
Head of the EPA’s Oil and Gas Department, Joel Gravesande watches on as construction workers rip out the tiles in Basmatie Singh’s home in Crane to be tested.
Nandanie Singh points to new spots in her home where the strange substance is seeping through her kitchen floor
Exxon. That deal waives all wouldbeready Floating Production Storage Prosperity which each target over 200
T h i s n e w s p a p e r emanating from the understandsthattheagencies substance seeping into their will be conducting tests to home. Basmatie particularly, determine whether the h a s c o m p l a i n e d o f samples have volatile experiencing symptoms organic compounds present such as nausea and including sulphur dioxide headache. Giving an update andnitrogendioxide. on her health, Singh told HeadoftheEPA’soiland Kaieteur News that a doctor gas department, Joel was also among the visiting Gravesande told Kaieteur team from the Ministry of News, “We just want to see HealthonMonday how much is present so we “The doctor that come can make our determination, from the Ministry of Health because its more than if it’s talktometodayandsaidthat present; it’s how much is they will do some tests to present so we can make any ensure that you know, determination The data everything is ok health wise. needs to be analysed as well He said they will pay for the as our visual observation test to be done private,” then we can make our Singhrelated. determination We will The Singhs’ home is have to look at the data as locatedashortdistanceaway well as our visual inspection from where American oil and then make a scientific giant, ExxonMobil has laid a determination.” 12-inch pipeline. The getting the results of the signed a Production Sharing Gravesande could not pipeline is connected to the and offloading (FPSOs) lower compared to the last sample tests from the Agreement (PSA) with say when those test results Liza One and Liza Two namely, Destiny, Unity and three projects sanctioned, agencies.
“We just want to ensure taxes and caters for it to be
“At this point, I won’t be and Offloading vessels Rietema also noted that kbd Hammerhead-1 is thatthisisnotsomethingthat paid by the government out able to say as I don’t do the (FPSO) offshore It will the company has three more located approximately 13 we should worry about of its share. Guyana receives testing, myself. It has to go transport gas to the Wales projectstocomeonlineinthe miles (21 kilometers) because we want to move a 2% royalty; it allows through the process,” he Developmentsite. coming years. “These are southwest of the Liza-1 well forward with our lives in Exxonanditsco-venturersto explained. In August, Exxon renderings of the third, the and follows previous peace,”shesaid. recover up to 75% of
This is the third on-site completed hooking up the fourth, fifth and sixth FPSOs discoveries on the Stabroek production costs before the visit that the EPA and other pipeline to the two FPSOs. for those projects that are Block at Liza, Liza Deep, WEDNESDAY remaining 25% is shared agencies made to the home The company had said it scheduled to come online in Payara, Snoek, Turbot, between Guyana and the Ms. Singh shares with her would pump an earthen gas- 2025 and then two in 2027,” Ranger,PacoraandLongtail. Before year-end ExxonM Stabroek Block partners son. A team from the EPA, like nitrogen- along with Exxon’sVPsaid. Back in April, Exxon to hit 500M barrels After accounting for the 2% GGMC and ExxonMobil water into the structure, until He also spoke about the receivedgreen-lightfromthe since production started royalty, cost recovery, and Guyana Limited (EMGL) the construction of the gas company’s seventh project. EPA as well as blessings in 2019 – Exxon VP profit sharing, Guyana’s visited Singh’s home on plantsiscompletedatWales. “If you’ve been reading the from the government to total take from the oil October8. Another resident of news here in Guyana, we’ve develop a sixth deep water ExxonMobil Guyana produced is 14.5% of the The team had conducted Crane Housing Scheme also announced that we’re project,Whiptail. Limited (EMGL) is looking totalvalueoftheoil. tests and took samples of the whose home was affected by planning for a seventh to hit 500 million barrels of With six deepwater substance for further testing the strange seepage was also
project on the Hammerhead
Exxon delighted oil before the end of 2024, projects in the Stabroek offsite. The family was later visitedbythetechnicalteam. discovery The regulatory as largest project set since oil production started Block already receiving informed by the EPA during Nandanie Singh said the r e v i e w s o n t h e to kick off next year in the Stabroek Block regulatory approval from the a second visit to their home officers collected samples environmental side are offshore Guyana in government, by mid-2025 on October 11 that the living from her home. It is the underway, and we’re hoping ExxonMobil Guyana December2019. Exxon is hoping to get room area was high in second time the EPA visited to receive regulatory Limited (EMGL), the This is according to approval for its seventh SulphurDioxide. her home which she shares approval by the middle of developer of the Stabroek information presented by project, Hammerhead The Singhs’ have withherextendedfamily next year,” the EMGL Blockisdelightedasanother EMGL’s Vice President and Rietema made the disclosure expressed concerns for their “Lastweek,aftertheEPA official said. Hammerhead deep-water development, its Business Services Manager during his address at the healthsinceSulphurDioxide visit, I start seeing more was announced as Exxon’s largest to date, is on course Phillip Rietema, at the conference. He said, “We (SO2), according to the substance coming up ninth commercial discovery forstartupin2025. r e c e n t l y c o n c l u d e d have six sanctioned projects, American LungAssociation, through the floor tiles…I in August 2018 The Presently, Exxon has International Business just (to) put it in context. I is a gaseous air pollutant started feeling sick, I had a Hammerhead-1 well was three projects producing oil. Conference (IBC), that was don’t think there’s anywhere composed of sulfur and headache, sore throat, runny drilled in a new reservoir, The Liza One, Liza Two and held at the Guyana Marriott in the world where we’ve oxygen. “SO2 forms when nose and fever but I drank a encountering approximately Payara projects are Hotel. been able to go so quickly sulfur-containing fuel such Cetamol and I get a kind of 197 feet (60 meters) of high- producing about 660,000 Exxon is the operator of fromdiscoverytoproduction as coal, petroleum oil, or relief,”shesaid. quality, oil-bearing barrels per day (bpd) on the Stabroek Block which is to now six sanctioned diesel is burned,” the The young woman said sandstone reservoir The average. estimatedtohold11.6billion projects.” Associationsaid. that this time when the EPA well was safely drilled to The fourth project, barrels of oil, according to Since making its first Inhaling this gas can be team returned, they were 13,862 feet (4,225 meters) Yellowtail, will develop the figures disclosed by the discovery in 2015, he extremely dangerous to accompanied by other depth in 3,773 feet (1,150 Tilapia and Redtail Government of Guyana underscored that Exxon has human health causing agencies. meters) of water The project reservoirs. It targets a daily (GoG). The U.S oil giant t r a n s i t i o n e d f r o m wheezing, shortness of “They collected soil and will target between 120-180 production rate of 250,000 holds 45% interest in the exploration to production in breath and chest tightness so on for testing, they also thousand barrels per day bpd, while the other block, while its partners record time Currently,
lems told us to watch to see if (kbd). Exxon is aiming to developmentsweredesigned Hess and CNOOC hold 30% Exxon is producing over
According to the American anything coming up and if it commence production to produce up to 220,000 and25%respectively 650,000barrelsofoilperday Lung Association, “Long- does, not to wipe it up like I activities by 2029, following bpd.
Oilwasdiscoveredinthe (bpd)fromLiza1,Liza2and term exposure at high levels usually do, let them come therequisiteapprovals. At a recent media Stabroek Block in 2015. The Payara developments which
y andcollectitfortesting,”she
Notably, the daily conference, President of following year, the previous are supported by three symptoms and reduces the said. The young woman production capacity being EMGL,AlistairRoutledge Coalition Government floating production storage ability of the lungs to expressed eagerness at targeted is significantly (Continued on page 36)
Source: National feathers called down. Twice Geographic a year, mallards molt, or Mallard ducks are the shed, their flight feathers, m o s t c o m m o n a n d temporarily grounding the recognizable wild ducks in birds for several weeks until theNorthernHemisphere. thefeathersgrowback.
You’ll find mallard
Mallards fly in groups ducks near ponds, marshes, called flocks Like most streams, and lakes, where migratory birds, mallards fly
they feed on plants, in the famous V formation. invertebrates, fish, and During winter migration, insects Mallards are mallards fly south in search dabbling,orsurface-feeding, of warm weather, often ducks because they eat by restingatthesamespotsyear tipping underwater for after year Migrating food—head down, feet and mallards can travel great tail in the air—rather than distances, relying on rivers, diving. Mallards also forage coasts, and valleys to find andgrazeforfoodonland. theirway her undercoat. Soon after nest for less than a month. A
The male mallard duck,
Afemale mallard lays up birth, baby ducks, called groupofducklingsiscalleda called a drake, sports a mallardlooksdownrightdull thanks to oil that’s secreted to a dozen eggs in nests on ducklings, open their eyes.A brood. Outside the nest, the glossy green head, a white next to the male’s showy from a gland near the tail. the ground near water, often little more than a day after brood sticks close by the ring around its neck and a feathers. Beneath this tightly packed in a small depression or tree hatching, ducklings can run, mother for safety, often rich, chestnut-brown breast. The mallard duck’s outer waterproof layer of feathers hole. She lines the nest with swim,andforageforfoodon following behind her in a The mottled brown female feathers are waterproof, lies a soft, warm layer of warm down plucked from their own. They stay in the neat,single-fileline.
From page 15
5,300,000) during the next protected vicuña that is 25 years as the death rate fell found in the southern and and the birth rate remained northern parts of the consistentlyhigh.Duringthe Altiplano produces an even last quarter of the 20th silkier type of wool century the rate of Highlandrodentsincludethe population growth slowed chinchilla, the viscacha (a somewhat but was still burrower), the mara (a long- among the higher rates in legged, long-eared cavy), LatinAmerica. andthe cui (aguineapigbred Tourism for its meat and often kept as Tourism is playing an apet). increasingly important role
The Andean condor, a in the economy as Bolivia New World vulture and the attracts larger numbers of largest flying bird in the foreign tourists New or Americas, roosts and breeds refurbished hotels opened in atelevationsbetween10,000 the cities of La Paz, and 16,000 feet (3,000 and Cochabamba, Santa Cruz, 4,900 meters). Many smaller and Sucre, as well as in birds and waterfowl, several sites around Lake including grebes, coots, Titicaca. Because of the cormorants, ducks, geese, country’s vast variety of and gulls, live around Lake natural and cultural Titicaca, and large flocks of resources, as well as its flamingos appear during improved economic and severalmonthsoftheyearon political stability, Bolivia Titicaca’s shallow shores has been added to an and farther south around increasingly popular grand Lake Poopó.Trout are found tour of South America—a in several of the rivers on the package tour of continental Altiplano. highlights that attracts
Demography visitors from the United
At the beginning of the States, Europe, Japan, and 20th century the population other countries Major of Bolivia was estimated at Bolivian tourist sites are 1,800,000. After 25 years of Lake Titicaca and its slow growth thereafter it had surroundings, including Inca i n c r e a s e d t o a b o u t ruinsontheIslandoftheSun 2,300,000 Between 1925 and pre-Inca ruins at and 1950 the population Tiwanaku; the latter were grewataslightlyaccelerated designated a UNESCO rate (despite the losses of the World Heritage site in 2000. Chaco War), increasing by Other tourist attractions about 750,000 The include fishermen in totorapopulation increased reed balsas (rafts), Indian dramatically by at least villagesontheAltiplano,and 2,250,000 (to some thecityofLaPazitself.
...Offersanarrayofattractionsandanother recreationalspaceforfamiliesinthecity
Anew$95millionchildren'splayparkwas commissioned at the National Park in GeorgetownonFriday,addingtothearray attractions in the park and offering another for families in the project was done collaborative effort my office, the of Public Works privatesector Public parks like this holdenormousvalue communities, and also play an important role in the velopment of hildren Apart rom physical development, the s k
s acquired in playgrounds like this one contribute immensely to a child's social and psychological development.
AndthatispreciselywhyIundertookthisproject.
The new play park features modern play amenities includingslidesandswings,gameboardsforchessand draught,ahopscotcharea,asanitaryblock,benchesand lights, free Wi-Fi and security cameras, concession shops,andmypersonalfavourite,asplashpad.
The splashpad, which is the first to be set up in a publicparkinGuyana,isanareaintheparkfittedwitha safetysurfaceandvariousnozzlesandfeaturesthatcan shower,spray,rain,mist,andshootstreamsofwaterto create an exciting place for recreational water play for children.
The playpark was developed by the Office of the FirstLady,throughtheNationalBeautificationProject, incollaborationwiththeMinistryofPublicWorks.
In her address at the opening ceremony, First Lady Mrs.AryaAliemphasisedthattheNationalParkisvital public services, acting as a vibrant ecosystem that es public participation and enhances communitywell-being.
“Parksprovideasenseofidentityandbelongingfor people.Parksareafilterpointincommunitieswhere of different ethnic groups, religious backgrounds, and even social classes converge,” she
FirstLadyAliurgedparentstobeattentivetotheir children while also ensuring the park is wellmaintained.
She emphasized that playparks play a crucial roleinachild'sdevelopment.
“Apart from physical developmental skills cquired in playgrounds like this one, playparks contribute immensely to a child's socialandpsychologicaldevelopment. These playground activities enable us childrentolearnproblem-solvingskillsand teamwork which will benefit them into adulthood,”shesaid.(DPI).
Guyana, like most Third World countries, has the ambition of achieving the social and economic standards which prevail in the First World in countries like the United States or Germany Guyana is much better situatedthanmosttoachieve those standards in a short time because it has become anOilcountryearningfairly bountiful revenues which it could invest in Social and Economic Development, at the same time taking meticulous care to avoid being caught in the trap of theDutchDisease.
The Dutch Disease, sometimes called Resource Curse,ischaracterizedwhen acountrywhichhasbecome anOilproducersuccumbsto t h e m e s m e r i z i n g gravitational pull of Oil and OilRevenuesresultinginthe neglect and contraction of formerindustries.
When oil resources
become exhausted or revenues fall owing to the vagaries of international oil prices, then such countries rapidly slide into economic hardship because their other industries would have declinedorcontracted.
Guyana is employing its oil revenues as an investment in its social and economicdevelopment.
I n e c o n o m i c
d e v e l o p m e n t , t h e infrastructure of the country is being transformed with new roads and bridges, old industries, especially Agricultural, are being revitalizedandnewoneslike soya and maize are being embarkedupon.
In Social development, the primary focus has been on Education and Health, thoughcomparativelyminor socialconcernslikepensions andsheltersforthehomeless havenotbeenforgotten.
InHealth,forexample,it is mostly the macro segments upon which the
mediareports.
It reports upon the new hospitals, the training of various categories of medical personnel, the construction of a Paediatric and Maternal Hospital and so on but far less notice is given to smaller specialized segments of Health care. Onesuchsegmentiseyecare among children and the elderly.
In colonial times, public diagnosis and treatment for eye and dental ailments among schoolchildren was extremely sporadic and most children who had dental problems or needed spectacles knew their parents would have been unable to bear the expenses oftheirtreatmentsotheyhad tosufferinsilence.
Today, both the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education are committed to ensuring the healthofallchildren
In eye care, Dr
Shailen
Ophthalmologist and Head of the Ophthalmology
Department of the Georgetown Public
(GPHC) has been lending technical expertise and guidance to the programme of testing the eyes of all schoolchildren and those who need spectacles will obtain these through a vouchersystem.
Dr Sugrim pointed out that the three main eye ailments which affect children were Myopia -
Astigmatism which causes rays of light to focus in differentdirectionsowingto theshapeofthecornea.
All three could be corrected with spectacles but if children and parents neglect using the corrective of spectacles theireyescoulddeteriorate into Amblyopia or ‘lazy’ eyes or blurred vision whichcouldnotbecorrected inadulthood.
es undertaken and is of historicimportance
The elderly will also receive free eye tests and spectacles
The programme is bound to be successfully
achieved sinc
it is adequately budgetary funded and has the involvement of dedicated and able professionals like Dr Sugrim and is moving Guyana nearer First World standards.
This programme of ensuring that the children of Guyana enjoy healthy eyes is among the most important and necessary H
Saltedfish,whether
dried, wet or in brine,isadelicacy in Guyanese creole dishes including the famous salted fish with bakes made for breakfast.
This product is also exported to other countries including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and the United StatesofAmerica.
As with other food products, the quality of salted fish could easily be compromised during its processingwhichcreatesthe need for a National Standard.
The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has developed the Standard Specification for Salted fish and dried salted fish (GYS 53:2016) which can be used by producers in the local industry to ensure that they consistently provideaqualityproduct.
The standard applies to fish and dried fish, which have been fully saturated with salt, or to salted fish which have been preserved bypartialsaturationtoasalt contentnotlessthan12%of itsweight.
Salted fish produced
a c c o r d i n g t o t h e requirements of this standard may be offered for consumption with
processing.
The standard defines saltedfishasfishthathave been treated by either brining, brine injection, dry-salting, pickling or w e t - s a l t i n g o r a combination of these processes
In addition, the standard describes salted fish as a product obtained from a range of fishes including shark, snapper, mackerelandcatfish.
The document covers the various processes of salting and drying Salting includes dry salting, wet salting (pickling) and brining
Meanwhile, drying could take the form of natural drying where the fishisdriedbyexposureto the open air, and artificial drying where the fish is dried in mechanically circulatedair.
A combination of both natural and artificial drying methodsisrecommended.
To ensure a quality product, the national standard stipulates that salted fish should be prepared from safe and wholesome fish, fit for humanconsumption.
In addition, salt used should be clean, free from
foreign matters and foreign crystals, and show no signs ofcontaminationordirt,oil, bilge or other extraneous materials.
Requirements for food
additives, packaging
materials, labelling, hygiene, handling, storage and transport of salted fish are outlined in the standard toguideproducers.
Further, food-grade materials must be used for packagingsaltedfish,which
m u s t b e l a b e l l e d appropriatelywiththename of the food, for example “saltedfish”or“driedsalted fish”. Labelling must also includethelotidentification fortraceabilitypurposesand the name and address of the manufacturer
P r o c e d u r e s f o r sampling, examination and analysisarealsoincludedin the document which are r e l e v a n t t o t h e determination of the quality of salted fish. Specifically, t h e y h e l p i n t h e determinationofnetweight, water content, salt content, toxic heavy metals and the preparationoffishsamples.
Conformance to this national standard would ensure that consumers buy salted fish which is wholesome
T h e s t a n d a r d considers salted fish to be defective if foreign matters such as wood chips and bird droppings
a r e i n c l u d e d
Additionally, if the p r o d u c t h a s a n objectionable odour, it is pink, reddening, if it is texturally broken down orhashalophilicmould
Other signs of defect include severe burning, intense bruising and the presence of heavy metals
These characteristics can adversely impact the taste, preference and healthofconsumers
Local producers of salted fish across Guyana areencouragedtoacquire a copy of this standard from the GNBS and to i m p l e m e n t t h e requirements.
M e e t i n g t h e requirements will provide a competitive advantage and ensure consistency in the quality of salted fish offered to consumers
For further information, contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: 2190064-66orWhatsAppuson +592-692-4627.Pleasevisit o u r w e b s i t e : www.gnbsgy.org and like ourFacebookpage:gnbsgy
From page 18
Uncalledfor Block has been crucial to the provided an update on the
Moreover, Brutus also s u c c e s s o f D u t c h progress being made on the questioned the use of the shipbuilder, SBM Offshore project. “That is on course
He explained that all of
integratingallofthemodules
u s e o f S W A T i s SBM’s Chief Executive
SWAT team, stating, the world’s undisputed for startup as planned by the “…SWAT is for high-profile leaderinfloatingproduction, end of 2025. In fact, the cases where the suspect or storage and offloading (FloatingproductionStorage personofinterestisexpected vessels(FPSOs). and Offloading vessel) to use violence against law In a recently aired FPSO is in the yard in enforcement officers… The interview by OilNow, Singapore.”
d
d Officer (CEO) Øivind the modules have been uncalled for.” The Assistant Tangen emphasised, “I think fabricated and installed on Commissioner expressed the pace of the development the topsides of the FPSO. concern over the heavy- in Guyana, and this is very SBM Offshore, a Dutch handed tactics used by the much also, you know, driven shipbuilder was awarded the police “I am concerned by Exxon and how projects contract to supply the FPSO. about the level of force have come to investment Presently, the company is displayed tonight. There is d
noindicationthatI’m
flight
so that they are fully risk,”hesaid. Fast4Ward programme and connected. When asked if he was us always wanting to be, you
“Fromacontrolspointof afraid, Brutus admitted, know, anticipating the next view,electricalpointofview
“Yes, because of the prospects.” and then of course fluids that statements that are being Tangen noted that the flow between the different made at press conferences…
units and modules on the
Exxon anticipates the
of
D i r e c t o r o f P u b l i c establishedoilproducers.He
I’m concerned for my safety development has been an FPSO, we anticipate that and my family.” Regarding eye-opener for many other work concluding around the the possibility of charges countries, whether they are end of this year,” Exxon’s being recommended by the newly discovering oil or are CountryManagerreported.
Prosecution (DPP) to be explained that Guyana is vessel’snamingceremonyin instituted against him, showing the world a January 2025, prior to it Brutus noted that while he different approach that can setting sail in the first saw it on social media, he significantlyshortenthetime quarter The FPSO is wasnotofficiallynotified.In between discovery and first expected to arrive in Guyana relation to charges against oil. “And even how you go in the second quarter of Brutus, Mark Ramotar, the from first oil to, let’s call it, 2025. HeadofthePoliceCorporate plateau production,” he
In the meantime, EMGL Communication Unit (CCU) added. has been busy with subsea responding to queries said, The SBM Offshore CEO installation activities locally “SOCU has not disclosed highlighted the synergy According to Routledge, anysuchinfo.” between ExxonMobil, the “The subsea installation M o r e o v e r , w h e n Government of Guyana, and activitieshavebeenongoing, questioned about the assets S B M ’ s F a s t 4 Wa r d drilling the production that were frozen, Brutus programme. He explained development wells, so all of earlier dates of those, but on the warrant he was media we saw a lot of maintained that they were thattheconvergenceofthese that is on course so that we good news that they are prepared to allow into the allegations spreading and justifiable “I have been factors has allowed for an will be able to bring goingtoschedule.Yourecall apartment, but the leader of this was leverage to the doingbusinessinaccordance effectivepartnershipthathas everything together with an those collective six projects the operation wanted current situation here… and to the laws of Guyana, had a major impact on integrated installation bring the combined everyonetoenterandsearch. this whole exercise is one of compliances, submissions of SBM’s marketing and campaign through the investment commitment in SOCU, an arm of the a fishing expedition as we taxreturnsandallofthat,”he positioning in other growing summer period of next year, Guyana to some US$55B,” Guyana Police Force (GPF), sawtonight,”Brutussaid. said Additionally, Brutus oilandgasmarkets. so very much on schedule,” theCountryManagerstated. has been investigating Recounting the events of was asked why he was being “So I think it’s been he said, adding that the Brutus for alleged financial the night, the Assistant investigated to which he fundamental to SBM, you company is “delighted to see THURSDAY crimes for several months Commissioner recounted, r e s p o n d e d t h a t t h e know, the fact that that one continue to move now Recently, it was “Teams of SOCU and two investigation had deeper Fast4Ward and Guyana forwardonschedule.” Brutus fearful for safety revealed that eight bank teams from SWAT came to motivesandhintedthatmore discovery coincided, and The commencement of …as SWAT turns up at accounts belonging to my apartment… I was out detailswillberevealedsoon, with the development pace oil production on the fourth home with search warrant Brutus, his wife Adonika withmyattorneyandassoon particularly through the driven by, you know, let’s FPSO would take Guyana …says SOCU on Aulder, their businesses, and as I got in, they pulled up. constitutional motion he call it field development closer to its target of ‘fishing expedition’ their toddler that held a They had a warrant to search filed in the high court teams, Exxon and the producing1.3millionbarrels …justifies millions combined balance of $500 and they wanted the entire allegingvictimisation. government of Guyana, has ofoilby2027. in bank accounts millionwerefrozen. team to search. I invited “I intend to vigorously allowed the kind of a perfect Infact,twootherprojects Kaieteur News was on them, but just the persons defendthesemattersbecause combination of parameters which have also received the By Renay Sambach hand around 8pm when whose names are on the there is clear evidence that coming together that has blessings of the government Embattled Assistant members of the SWAT and warrant. They weren’t too what is happening is the beenverypowerful,”Tangen of Guyana (GoG) are also Commissioner of Police SOCU arrived at Brutus’ keen or interested [in that] matter of manipulation of said. likelytostartupin2027. CalvinBrutusonWednesday residence to conduct a becausetheyleft.” evidence, fabrication of He further noted that The fifth project Uaru, as night said he was fearful for search, but the operation did As to whether the police evidence…” the senior cop Guyana could serve as a well as the Whiptail his safety even as he refused notproceedasexpectedashe had asked for any electronic said. reference point for other development- Exxon’s sixth to allow members of the did not allow them into the devices, Brutus confirmed, companies, signaling that it project- will each develop Guyana Police Force’s home. The officers spent “They did not come into the Exxon’s ship builder maybetimetoreconsiderthe 250,000bpd. SpecialWeaponsandTactics some time outside of the apartment to search.” The says pace of Guyana oil traditional approach to field Routledge revealed that (SWAT) unit and officers home before leaving. Just senior officer criticised the sector vital to company development “Be openthe projects are on schedule; from the Special Organised over an hour after, Brutus, in ranks for not properly minded,tochangethepace,” however, the teams are Crime Unit (SOCU) to the company of his lawyers handling the warrant The rapid pace at which headded. aiming for earlier startup search his living quarters emerged from the police According to him, the ranks
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Calvin Brutus in the presence of his lawyers, speaking to members of the media, Wednesday night outside of his home.
BM’s dates. although they presented a quarters and spoke to did not show him the Limited (EMGL) and the Fast4Ward program, Tangen “Both of those are slated search warrant. Brutus said reporters, describing the warrant, or follow the Government of Guyana underscored the company’s for 2027 startup. The teams he was adamant that only the situation as a “fishing procedure of explaining the (GoG) have advanced oil confidenceintheFPSO continue to work towards officers whose names were expedition ” “On social contentsofthewarrant. projects in the Stabroek (Continued on page 37)
From page 36 conference held at the PPC’s fortheseventhprojectasyet, Wednesday at the Guyana compromising information product and the certainty in headquarters, Freedom so when the application Marriott Hotel, Georgetown, against the government execution, which enables House. Jagdeo previously comes in that’s when we will Reitema said, “We have six Brutus, who has had eight SBMtomanagecapacityand when speaking about the start considering this sanctioned projects, just (to) bank accounts belonging to
execute engineering,
seventh had said that there is matter.” putitincontext.Idon’tthink himself, his wife Adonika p r o c u r e m e n t , a n d an assumption that there
Exxon hoping for there’s anywhere in the Aulder, and their businesses construction (EPC) faster would be a seventh project. approval by next year worldwherewe’vebeenable frozen—amounting to $500 than competitors. “But more However, recently the According to Vice to go so quickly from million told reporters on i m p o r t a n t l y, i t ’s a government had advertised President and Business discovery to production to Wednesday night that the philosophy that needs to be foraconsultanttoreviewthe Servic
M
g
now six sanctioned projects. investigation against him deployed at a country level, same project. On Thursday, ExxonMobil Guyana Since making its first was part of a broader and through the developing Jagdeo was asked if he has Limited (EMGL), Phillip discovery in 2015, he scheme, hinting that more oil company and the whole had a change of heart Rietema with six deep-water underscored that Exxon has revelations would surface ambition they set around a regarding the project and projects in the Stabroek
m through a constitutional pace of development that whether there would be any Block already receiving exploration to production in motion he filed in the High also would favour, you fiscal improvements if it is regulatory approval from the recordtime. Court, alleging victimisation know, the value proposition approved. In response, he Government of Guyana by the State. Brutus made of SBM. So I think it’s been said he had instructed the (G
an eye opener, and you can
Jagdeo
tells Brutus to let “cats, members of the Guyana see a lot of people look to Resources to discontinue the Limited (EMGL) is hoping dogs, pigs out the bag” Police Force’s Special Guyana’s prolific Stabroek Guyana as a reference for advertisement, “so I said to to get approval for its We
Block, to construct five of that.Soit’s,let’ssay,itshook themdiscontinueit.So,there
Vice President (VP) (SWAT) unit and officers the six FPSOs sanctioned to theindustryupabit,”Tangen willbenoconsultanthiredto Hammerhead. B
s from the Special Organised date. The Liza Destiny, Liza concluded. review the project until we A few months ago, expressed no fear and Crime Unit (SOCU) showed Unity and Prosperity FPSOs
Last month, this havetheentiresubmission.” EMGL, the operator of encouraged embattled up to search his living have been delivered and are publication reported that Jagdeo questioned the Guyana’s resource-rich Assistant Commissioner of quarters although they operating, while the fourth Guyana has been a dream logicsofhiringacompanyat Stabroek Block made its Police, Calvin Brutus, to ‘let presentedasearchwarrant. FPSO, One Guyana is scenario for SBM Offshore. this point in time, to review a p p l i c a t i o n t o t h e the cat out of the bag’ about Responding to Brutus’ scheduledtoarrivenextyear ThiswasrevealedbyTangen incomplete information, Environmental Protection whatever secrets he may s t a t e m e n t s , J a g d e o SBM also secured a contract in an exclusive interview highlighting that Exxon has Agency (EPA) seeking have about members of the encouraged Brutus to ‘say toconstructtheFPSOforthe with Upstream, an online b e e n m a k i n g t h e approval for a seventh government. whathehasto.’ sixth project, Whiptail. To source for independent news submissions in parts. “So, project, Hammerhead. At his press conference “He could let out cats, this end, the Jaguar FPSO is and analysis of the major oil the original position stands, During his address at the on Thursday, Jagdeo dogs, pigs, anything that he expected to commence andgasprojects. when I saw that ad, it was International Business appearedunfazedthatBrutus hasandhewantstoletout, production by the end of In an article, Upstream broughttomyattentionandI Conference (IBC) on m i g h t h o l d a n y (Continued on page 38) 2027. reported that the company is called the minister and said Tangen told Upstream reaping the rewards of its discontinue it because until that ExxonMobil continues forward thinking and we have a full submission to set the benchmark, with outstanding project from Exxon, we are not decisions to own the FPSOs execution, while its new gonna start the review in Guyana. The CEO said chief executive intends to process and I expect them to this provides SBM with keep the company well make a full submission significant early cash aheadofitspeers. sometime next year,” the VP followed by the revenue Tangen said, “Guyana so said. from a long-term Operations far has just been a fairytale, No guarantee Exxon and Maintenance (O&M) and it happened at about the will have 7th project contract. Exxon has stated same time as we launched On July 26, 2024, this thatitwillhavesixFPSOsin our Fast4Ward programme, publication reported that operation in Guyana by the and that positioned us well Jagdeo in response to a end of 2027. “We are in a for a series of Petrobras question posed by this very good dialogue with projectsaswell.” publication had said that “So Exxon and they know when Fast4Wardistheground- first of all, there is an it’s a good fit for SBM and breaking design that SBM assumption that there will be themselves, where we came up with in 2012 aseventhproject.So,wewill unlock value together, that’s tailored for benign ultra- get the application soon and normally where we find the deepwater settings like at that time, the government opportunities to move Brazil and Guyana, and will determine through two forward together,” Tangen which SBM was able to permits, one the licence and said. replicateinstunningfashion, then the environmental with a standardisation permit, how it will deal with FRIDAY philosophy and with repeat all of these issues.” Jagdeo subcontractors and vendors, added: “Exxon still has to Govt. pulls back invitation all supported by its two demonstrate that they will for consultant to review principal customers submit all the documents 7th project ExxonMobil in Guyana and needed for us to assess Jagdeo says cannot PetrobrasinBrazil. whethertherequirementsare review information in Next year, there will be met. Then in August, the VP piecemeal fashion 19 active SBM floaters was asked to again to shed around the world producing some light on, “What Vice President Bharrat about 2 million barrels per improvementscanGuyanese Jagdeo on Thursday dayofoilofwhichsevenwill expect from the 7th oil announced that government be Fast4Ward designs. The project should it be has discontinued an company has already approved?” Trying to decide advertisement for a ordered the eighth and ninth which word to begin with consultanttoreviewExxon’s hulls. Jagdeosaidthen:“Whenand seventh project, saying that Two Fast4Wards are if…if and or when and if we theinformationthecompany operating for ExxonMobil in approve the project then you presented this far is Guyana and two more are will be told about what the incomplete. beingbuilt. benefits will be.We have not SBM was contracted by looked at anything…there is He made the comments Exxon, the operator of currently no application in during his weekly press
From page 37
private sector must look resulted in Guyana lethimletitout,”Jagdeosaid beyond the oil and gas sector becoming one of the fastest as he downplayed any foropportunities. growing economies in the concerns about potential
“ L e t u s l o o k a t world. disclosures that could be
opportunities outside of the He noted, “That is no madebyBrutus. Hestressed oil and gas sector but it easyfeat.” that the government has no supports the oil and gas concerns about what Brutus sector…Agriculture is one, Threat to pull state ads may reveal. “I think it’s a tourism is another one that is from K/News a danger to form of blackmail, he’s not directly linked to economic viability of hoping that some maybe servicing the oil and gas independent media houses therebefearinsomequarters sector but there’s many in Guyana – GPA in the government that he opportunities now,” he …says politicians continue could say something that’s noted. to seek to normalise compromisingtousandthey
Bharrat also mentioned targeting of media houses wouldrelentonensuringthat potential opportunities in and media workers justice is served,” the Vice mining and value-added Presidentadded. activities in the forestry The G
Jagdeo affirmed that the sector Association(GPA)onFriday legal process would allow
Moreover, with a sense issued a strong statement Brutus to present his of urgency, Minister Bharrat against a series of efforts evidence and defend reiterated that now is the geared at targeting specific himself.“Hewillhavearight timetoinvest. media houses and media in court to defend and
“Another 10 years from workersinvariousforms. present all the counter now might be too late, it The body, which evidence that he has in an might be too late,” he represents just over 100 deal with that at the expressed fear for the safety On Thursday afternoon, impartial process to cautioned, encouraging the media workers, said for appropriatetime,butyousee of his family “I intend to Brutus, his wife, a former exonerate himself if he is private sector to seize the several months, media us worried about this, we are vigorously defend these driver who is also a innocent,” Jagdeo said moment as Guyana builds a professionals have raised very calm and he could say mattersbecausethereisclear p o l i c e m a n a n d a “Whatever he has to let out, newmoderneconomy concerns about harassment, anything,”Jagdeosaid. evidence that what is businessman were charged. he could let out, he could say
Meanwhile, the Natural aggression, intimidation and On Wednesday night, happening is the matter of They appeared at the whatever he wants. We have Resources Minister praised non-cooperation by B r u t u s c a l l e d t h e manipulation of evidence, Georgetown Magistrates’ no fear of whatever he wants theprivatesectorandcurrent politicians across the investigation against him a fabrication of evidence…” Court and were placed on to say, so let him say it, I’ll i n v e s t o r s f o r t h e i r politicalspectrum. “fishing expedition” and theseniorpoliceofficersaid. bail Brutus was slapped confidence in Guyana, The Association stated, with 30 charges so far and is attributing their interest to “Guyanese politicians expectedtoface200more. the favorable business continuetoseektonormalise environment fostered by the targeting media houses and SATURDAY government. media workers in many
‘Invest now: 10 years the private sector that is those actions included from now will be too late’ represented here today, the singling out journalists and …Vickram Bharrat tells investors who are here today media houses in the most potential investors you must be commended too disparaging, discriminatory for the confidence that you and vulgar ways of Minister of Natural would have placed in the aggressively responding or Resources, Vickram Bharrat economy, the country and of addressing journalists, and on Friday urged members of course the government of preferential treatment and t h e P r i v a t e S e c t o r Guyana,” Bharrat told the access by media houses for Commission of Guyana gathering at the Guyana interviews.” (PSC) to take full advantage MarriottHotel.
“I want too, to recognize forms. Over the past years,
Further, the GPA noted o f t h e i n v e s t m e n t He highlighted that the that the government is opportunitiesthatexist. government has created a accused of using State- Bharrat was at the time climate that is friendly and owned media and State speaking at a Local Content conduciveforinvestment. actors to target other media Forum organized by the PSC
“Therearesomanyother houses and journalists, and held at the Marriott countries around the world sidelining certain media H o t e l , K i n g s t o n , with so many resources houses by providing Georgetown. much more than Guyana but interviews to friendly media
“Guyanaisprobablynow you would have chosen to a n d s o c i a l m e d i a initsstagewhereIliketosay investinGuyana,andthereis commentators, and the it is in the most exciting a reason why you choose to outright refusal to engage period in the history of our invest in Guyana it is with some media houses on country where the time is because of the conducive, matters of national right now to invest, when we and favorable environment importance Additionally, are building out a new that has been created by the there are also threats to the modern economy and we are government of Guyana,” the d i s t r i b u t i o n o f expanding existing sectors ministersaid. advertisements across the now is the time to invest in Reflecting on the boardtothemedia. Guyana,”hestated. country’s progress, Minister T h e A s s o c i a t i o n
The minister reminded B h a r r a t r e m a r k e d , highlightedthatwithGuyana attendees that the time is apt “Sometimes we don’t say entering another election given Guyana’s rapidly that a lot but sometimes we cycle, these actions remain a growingeconomy have to actually highlight worrying trend as the Since oil was discovered what the government has country grapples with the in 2015 and production doneinthelast3,4years…” rapidchangesthatcomewith commenced in 2019, He outlined that the itsearningcapacity Guyana’s economy has current administration had In fact, the body said it is r a p i d l y e x p a n d e d twoyearsofCOVIDandtwo clearthatthecivicspace, Notwithstanding, the years of real work, which (Continued on page 39) minister noted that the
From page 38 to participate in training Khadidja Ba While covering Vice President Jagdeo Press President Ali has been attacks by politicians freedom of the press and opportunities,pointingtothe the special Sitting of conference while calling her aggressive in his responses Notably, in addressing the expression are all under need for more robust fact- Parliament on October 10th, derogatorynames. to Journalist, Svetlana
threat under the pseudo- checking mechanisms Ba was approached by President’s Marshall. “President Ali on professionals by the Head of cover of the government’s within media houses and Minister Todd and shouted at Press Conference more than one occasions State, the President of the righttoreply verification of information for her reporting on an issue “On June 20th, 2024, at a singled out Marshall during GPA, Nazima Raghubir was K/News and state ads before publication, as there relatedtomigrantsinLinden. P r e s i d e n t i a l p r e s s sideline interviews. One such also attacked for comments The Association said it continuestobecomplaintsin Targeting of State Media conference, members of the interview was in November madeinsupportofthemedia has received complaints of a that regard. To this end, the Thepressbodynotedthat media were berated and 2023 as the journalist asked workers. continued campaign by body highlighted its State media workers have insulted by President Ali,” him about the rising cost of “In an effort to discredit commentator/influencer commitment to train media filedtwocomplaintswiththe the press body said. Two living. Another sideline Nazima Raghubir as a Mikhail ”Guyanese Critic” workers. GPA over the past months. r e p o r t e r s , Va h n u interview was on the power journalist, Vice President Rodgrigues,whoeveryweek GECOM “This included a report on Manickchand of the Guyana ship in March 2024. Both Jagdeo continued his attack would ask Vice President Meanwhile, the Press May18ththatNCNManager Times and Shervin Belgrave times, Ali was aggressive on Raghubir on June 27th, Bharrat Jagdeo about taking Association called on the Reycia Nedd complained of Kaieteur News were towards Marshall but not August 8th andAugust 15th. questions from Kaieteur G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s about being intimidated by insulted,onebeinggrilledon with other reporters,” the These public comments are News reporters and or Commission (GECOM) to APNU Councillor Vanessa a question she asked, and Associationnoted. o
y r e d u c i n g S t a t e consider a political code of Kissoon. Nedd detailed a Belgrave being scolded by Targeting GPA cyberbullying by known advertisements for Kaieteur conduct for politicians, as it verbal attack on herself PresidentIrfaanAli. F o r i t s f e a r l e s s social media accounts and Newsinparticular doesforthemedia. which prompted her to leave News Source representation of all media letter and column writers in Twice in recent times It said, “The GPA wants the assignment, ” the
Journalist targeted workers in Guyana, the GPA the state media,” the Jagdeo acknowledged the tousethisopportunitytocall Associationsaid. The GPA noted that itself has been subjected to Associationpointedout. issue of state advertisements on several bodies including Additionally, reporters for the media- one time the Guyana Elections attached to the Guyana saying that this should be Commission to not only Chronicle lodged a reviewed and on another consider media monitoring complaint about aggression occasion, that he would raise but also elections-related from Opposition Leader the issue in writing with training for media workers. Aubrey Norton to their President Ali as he branded And as the election cycle has questions at the Party’s press Kaieteur News a political begun, GECOM should also conference. “Reporters said entity “The GPA considers consider a political code of that many of these questions this issue a threat to the conduct for politicians, as it are met with aggressive or economic viability of does for the media.” The refusal to answer On May independentmediahousesin body flagged a number of 30th, Guyana Chronicle in Guyana. Additionally, there complaints it received; see an editorial called out isacampaigntodiscreditthe belowforasynopsis. Kaieteur News for referring media and more so the Sedition threats to a journalist as “annoying” independent media. This has TheGPAsaidinOctober, in her questioning of the been ongoing for years but through a statement from the Opposition Leader,” the has been amplified over the Guyana Police Force, Head GPAdetailed. months,”thebodysaid. of the Special Organised In addition, NCN Linden F u r t h e r m o r e , i t C r i m e U n i t , F a z i l in October raised another recognized that calls for Karimbaksh threatened to issue of “threatening respect of the media by institute sedition and language”beingusedagainst politicians will not be an obstruction of justice reporter Ianna Benjamin by easytask,addingthatthereis charges against journalist an APNU councillor, “nogenuineefforttobeopen Leroy Smith for a news Abdulla Hamid. GPA said it with the media, address the reportpublishedbySmithon was informed that the concerns and simply do the investigation into incident occurred during a better.” The Guyana Press A s s i s t a n t P o l i c e Mayor and Town Council Associationsaidithopesthat Commissioner Calvin meeting and has left the these change and politicians Brutus. reportertraumatised. accepttheworkofthemedia, ForeignAffairs K/News Reporter targeted as well as working with the Minister shouts at OnWorld Press Freedom media The media body Stabroek News reporter Day, GPA flagged that a noted that there is a trend to Also in October, GPA Kaieteur News reporter, attack media, journalists and pointed out that Stabroek Anasa Williams was the the press body via social News in its reporting called focus of a Facebook live mediapages. out Minister of Foreign video where Commentator GPAurged media houses Affairs, Hugh Todd for his Mikhail Rodrigues showed to encourage media workers aggression towards reporter several videos of her at a
©TwinklLtd.2019
On the first day of Diwali, everyone was busy cleaning. Dipal and Mohan were in their bedroom. As they tidied, Dipal took out some toys they no longer used and put them in a box.
“We can give these toys to someone else to play with andwe'llhavemorespace!”
Aftercleaningthehouse, DipalandMohanwenttothe market with Mum and Dad. There were lots of things to get for Diwali! First, they went to buy new clothes Dipal helped Mohan to find theperfectoutfit.Atthenext stall, everyone chose their
wemakearangoliathome!”
hesaidtoMum.
Back at home, Mum and Dipal created their own colourful rangoli design at the entrance of their house.
Dad and Mohan came out withsomeflowerstoaddthe finishing touch “Look, Mohan,” said Dipal. “This will welcome Goddess Lakshmiintoourhome.”
Mum and Dad spent the restofthedaypreparinglots
favourite flowers Mohan lovedtheyellowmarigolds!
Soon, they were in the busiest part of the market.A crowdofpeoplewerebuying diyas Others stood and watched as more were made from clay Mum and Dad gave the vendor enough money to buy all the diyas they would need. Everyone hadtohelpcarrythem–even Mohan!
The next day, Dipal was excited to go to the rangoli competition The family walked along together, admiring the beautiful patterns.
Dipaltooklotsofphotos. “These will help us when
showedMohanhowtoplace diyas around their home, by the doors and windows. He told Mohan the story of Rama and Sita. “When we light these lamps, they will welcomehomeLordRama,” saidDipal.
As dusk fell, it was time for Lakshmi Puja Dipal's family were joined by grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins to worship Goddess Lakshmi Dipal's
offoodand sweets for the celebration.
Dipal and Mohan decorated the house, ready for the morning.
On the third day of Diwali, Mohan and Dipal woke up even earlier than usual.
Theywashedthoroughly and then got dressed in their new clothes. It was time to visit the temple. Mum and Dad carried the special food and sweets to offer to GoddessLakshmi.
Inside, they gave their offerings and prayed to the goddess.
Then, everyone from the town helped to decorate the temple.Backathome,Dipal
by Uncle Roy
ManytimesIfindthatIwanttoknow, WhenIhavetodealwithsomething ThatIfeelisimportanttome, Howtodowhatistherightthing.
ThenIknowIhavetoremember ThethingsthatIwastold, Bymyparentsandteachers, ToactinthewaythatIshould.
ButtherearesometimesthatIfind ThatIhavetoactonmyown; ThenItrytoforgetwhatisbestforonly me, Anddowhatisrightforeveryone.
Supplies:
Rocks/stones
A c r y l i c p a i n t : orange/green/black/white/re d/yellow/blue Greencardboard Purpletape
INSTRUCTIONS:
1 Tic-tac-toe is a 2playergame.Thefirststepis to make 2 types of counters. Tomaketheeyeballcounters - paint a stone white using acrylic paint. Leave to dry Add another coat. Leave to dry
2. Outline a black circle in the middle of the stone to makethepupil.Paintinblack thenleavetodry
3 Using any coloured paint, colour a circle around theoutsideoftheblackpupil. Leavetodry.
4. Using a white paint, add a small circle on the top edge of the black pupil to
grandfather used kumkum powder to apply tilak to everyone's forehead. The family prayed and chanted together. They offered Lakshmi the delicious sweetstheyhadmade.
Afterwards, the family shared a huge feast. Dipal filledhisplatewithpakoras, samosas and bhajis. Mohan smiled as he tried the sweet gulabjamun.
Whenthemealwasover, the family went outside for the fireworks Mohan giggledandclappedasDipal made different shapes with hissparkler
“Happy Diwali, little brother,” said Dipal. “I hope youhaveawonderfulyear.”
maketheshineontheeye.
5 Using red paint and finepaintbrush,makewiggly lines on the white area around the sides of the eyeball to make the spooky eyeball veins. Leave to dry. Repeat steps 1-5 on 4 more stones so that you have 5 eyeballcounters.
6. Paint and decorate another set of 5 counters.
Other counter ideas: Pumpkins, Cats or Ghosts. Youwillonlyneed2typesof counterspergame.
· Tomakethepumpkins, paint the entire stone in orange, draw on jack-olantern face once dry and
colour in the shapes with black marker or paint. Add some green leaves at the top ofstone.
· Forcats,paintthestone white.Usingamarkercrawa tinyblackcatanduseyellow paintfortheeyes.
· Ghosts can be made by painting the stone black
Then outline the shape of yourghostandpaintinwhite. Addtwoovaleyesandyou're ready.
7. To make the board, a square from a sheet of A3 green card roughly 30cm x 30cm (or any colour of your choice).
8. Using a roll of glitter
tape, tape down 2 vertical linesroughly8cmapart.
9.Tape2horizontallines roughly8cmaparttomake9 8cmsquares.
10.To play, each player takes it in turns to lay a counter on the board The first player to match 3 countersinarowwins.
Source:Glamour
SpiderGlam
For scary, sexy, and DIYfriendly, you can easily create your own spider-inspired glam lashes with 'Glamnetics Lush Lashes and black eyeliner for the“spiderlegs.”
Alternatively, invest in some creepy-crawly eye shadow stickers that create the samelook.
SugarSkull
For a sugar-skull-inspired look that's not too over-the-top or advanced, consider this bronzed look from makeup artist Sandi Jarquin; it's basicallyjustcontourwithafew extrasteps.
DIYwithMakeUpforEver HD Skin Cream Contour and Highlight Sculpting Palette for the base, and draw on the extra details with the brand's Artist Color Pencil Longwear Lip Linerinadarkbrown.
GhostWhisperer
Nothing's more terrifying than getting ghosted or, dependingon how superstitious youare,actualghosts—whichis whythissweetandfriendlytake on ghost glam is perfect for getting into the spirit (hehe) without scaring anyone away. (Don't worry; they make face decalsforthat.)
CorpseBride
A Halloween favorite, this corpsebridelookissogoodyou don't even need a corresponding costume. UK-based makeup artistCaitlinV createdthelookwith'DoColorsSpacePalette andPLouiseMakeupTouchofFrostBase,usingthepalettefor shadowandcontourandthebaseforherbluetint.
InsideOut
Speaking of sequels, Inside Out 2 hit theaters—and broke records—this year too. Honor your “feeling” of choice with a monochrome makeup look, like purple for Fear, as seen on makeupartistSerenahere,blueforSadness,greenforDisgust, redforAnger,andyellowforJoy
As the Festival of Lights approaches, communities across Guyana prepare to embrace the spirit of Diwali, a celebration that symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Thisyear,thefestiveseasonbegan withavibrantpre-event,DeepJale,
held last week at the Kitty Roundabout along Vlissengen RoadinGeorgetown.Thiscultural celebration not only opened the Diwalifestivitiesbutalsoprovided an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the rich traditions and vibrant culture of the
significantoccasion.
Diwali or Deepavali, is celebrated by millions of Hindus worldwide, marking a five-day festival filled with gift exchanges, fireworks,andfestivemeals.
In Guyana, it is a public holiday, allowing families to come together in celebration. The Deep
Jaleeventfeaturedacultural dance concert alongside the inauguration of a Diwali exhibition, where attendees could explore the rich heritage associated with the festival.
The exhibition, which will remain open until Diwali eve on October 30, 2024, showcases a variety of traditional items and activities.At the heart of the Kitty Roundabout, a breathtaking light (Continuedonpage50)
Barking dogs were not enough to stop men in a silver-grey Toyota Spacio bearing registrationnumberPPP7743fromstealinga woman'scarfrominfrontofherhomeatBel Air, Georgetown. Speaking with Kaieteur News, the woman said that she woke on Saturday morning to find her car, a Sliver Grey Toyota Premio, PVV 7728, with a brokenvisor,missing.Aftercombingthrough footage from security cameras mounted on nearby buildings, she learnt that her vehicle wasstolenaround02:00hrs.
The footage was shared with Kaieteur News. Thesurveillancefootageshowedthe silver-grey Spacio pulling-up slowly to wherethewoman'scarwasparked.
Dogs in the nearby yards began barking loudlyasamanemergedfromthebackseatof theSpacio.Thedogscontinuedtobarkashe managedtoopenthewoman'scarandenterit.
It took the car thieves at least three minutestosuccessfullygetintowoman'scar and start it. One man was seen driving off with the car while the Spacio followed closelybehind.
Areportwasmadetothepolice.
RankstrackedtheplatesoftheSpacioand it led them to an individual (a woman) who claimedthatshesoldthecarawhileback.
Shetoldthepolicethatthebuyerswerea manandawoman.Sheidentifiedthewoman as“Kavita”.Investigationsareongoing.
ByAllyiahAllicock
“I strongly believe young entrepreneurs play a massive role in society, mainly on the younger generation by being role models and showing theyoungeronesthatthereshouldbenothingstopping themfromaccomplishingthegoals that they strive for.”
makeanincomeforthemselves butcontributetotheeconomy
Fifteen-year-old Bipash Budhu is one such individual. Budhuhasbeenmakinghermark in the creative side of things through her small business which shecalls'Rhea'sPetalCreations'.
Budhu, a student of Bishops' High School in a recent interviewwith The Waterfalls she started this business venture following a fundraiser exercise at herschool.Littledidsheknowthat thefundraiserwouldbeinspiration forhernewestventure.
Seeing that she had a knack for it, the student decidedtoturnitintoabusiness.
techniques that contribute to the overall growth, so that has helped melearnanddevelopmyskills.”
Budhu recalled, “My inspirationbehindthisproject,was simple, as a proud student of The Bishops' High School, it was required of us to pull off a fundraiser to acquire funds for a project. And as it was a trending theme, we took to making ribbon rosebouquets.”
Followingtheevent,shenoted thatshereceivedgreatreviewsfor making the neatly handcrafted bouquets.
“…LivingontheEastCoastof Demerara, I noticed there was a lack of interest for ribbon rose bouquets, so I decided to change that. With my creations, I hope to create something that people wouldloveandappreciate…,”she added.
To sharpen her skills, she said she began to research ways and stylesontheinternetwhichhelped play a big part in her decisionmaking for launching her own business. “Technology is evolving and there are many
Formanywhoarenowlearning of 'Rhea's Petal Creations,' it officially commenced on June 2, 2024, and since then, it has gotten quitetheattention.
According to Budhu, the business specializes in making decorative arrangements with ribbons which includes different types of flowers and colours. It mostly caters for events like birthdays, photo shoots and anniversaries.
Withjustafewmonthsintoher start up, Budhu expressed that the the
arts, despit being good between. She noted that helping making it all possible was the encouragement and assistance from friends, family, and colleagues.
“My friends are my driving force;Iamgratefultohavethemby mysidethroughthisjourney They have shown their support through purchases and promotions,” she expressed.
She shared also that like any small young entrepreneur, she too facesdifficulties.
Given the fact that she is attending school, the young entrepreneur is often challenged with balancing school, her personal,andworklife.
“As in the
0th grade of school,withaspirationstobecome a large-scale architect, managing my personal, school and business life might be difficult, as tests, assessments and assignments may pileup,”sheexplained.
Accepting that these hurdles will arise during it all, Budhu explainedthatsheisdeterminedto find a way to manage her time wisely
Not letting the challenges overshadow the greatness that lies ahead, Budhu related that in the nearfuture,sheishopingtoexpand heroperations.
To this end, this young entrepreneur is of the firm belief small business owners are ers who are serving inspiration to others in oursociety
“I believe young entrepreneurs bring the 'new' to the society, as t h e i r i d e a s a n d experiences are more trendyandengagingwhile serving inspiration for the e w u p c o m i n g eneration , ” she remarked.
When questions what shethinkscanbedonetosee
With the Government's aim to develop and enhance the county's environmentandfostercommunity involvement, the National Zoological Park and the Botanical Gardens in Georgetown are set to undergo a significant transformation.
Preliminary plans, revealed duringapublicconsultationhosted by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo on Friday, emphasize wildlife conservation and education about the country's biodiversity
Alongside Jagdeo were Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond; Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy; andMinisterofNaturalResources, VickramBharrat.
The three-hour consultation at the Botanical Gardens attracted a large turnout of enthusiastic attendees, including children, university students, and adults eager to discuss the future of the green spaces The vibrant atmospherewasfilledwithamixof excitement and curiosity as community members shared their thoughtsandsuggestions.
model that tells the story of Guyana's diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to expansive savannahs and wetlands. This immersive experience will be complemented by nature-inspired infrastructure such as suspension bridges, canopy walkways, and an electrical tram system to facilitate greater mobility within the gardens.
Vice President Jagdeo emphasized the importance of these enhancements stating that “We have been busily engaged in rolling out the plans in great detail foreachofthesesectors.Thisisthe macrovision,”hesaid,referringto the government's broader strategy that includes the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS 2030).
TheVicePresidentarticulateda vision where the park and gardens serve not only as recreational spacesbutalsoaseducationalhubs.
flora and fauna, particularly species they may never encounter in their daily lives. “This is about providing opportunities for those who may not have first-hand experience with our biodiversity,” he noted, mentioning animals like thegiantanteater,whicharerarely seeninurbanenvironments.
In addition to these initiatives, Jagdeo proposed several enhancements aimed at enriching the visitor experience, including the addition of a petting zoo, the revival of the aquarium, and introducing non-native animals. Jagdeo emphasized that these additionswillnotonlyenhancethe experience for visitors but also set the facility apart as a unique attraction.
Attendees expressed their excitement and took the opportunitytovoicetheiropinions during the consultation Many suggested ideas, such as advanced surveillance systems for safety, inclusive design features for individuals with disabilities, and interactive experiences for children.
Advisor to the ProtectedAreas Commission, Damian Fernandes, unveiledtheambitiousplansforthe transformation, which include the creation of a wildlife conservation and education center, new vehicle entrances,greenparkingareas,and designated spaces for showcasing variousfloraandfauna.
design would ensure that animals within the zoo are not merely displayedbutprovidedasafespace particularly for those unable to surviveintheirnaturalhabitats.
He elaborated that the new
The government envisions a
“We have to ensure that our childrencanexperiencethebeauty of our country here,” he stated noting that the facilities would focus on teaching and familiarization. This emphasis on community involvement is a crucial aspect of the project. Dr Jagdeo highlighted the importance of exposing children and coastal communities to Guyana's unique
Some participants even proposed the creation of dedicated aquatic life zones and spaces for workshops on sustainability Dr Jagdeo acknowledged these contributions, stating, “We have not agreed on the final look of the projectasyet,”assuringthepublic that their input will be taken into seriousconsideration.
Kaieteur News' spoke with a few of the attendees who were all ecstatic about the government's plans.
MemberofthePublicAccounts Committee Pradeepa Bholanath said,“Ithinkit'sagoodidea.”
Astudent of the Bishops' High School stated, “it is a good idea, I think all of the plans will come to be, not immediately but with time, ofcourse.”
Just last month, President Irfaan Ali announced that the national zoo will be rebuilt to match international standards, as part of efforts to expand green spaces in the capital city This announcement was made during a special sitting of the National AssemblyheldattheArthurChung ConferenceCentre.
The Governments of Guyana and Suriname have notcommittedtoanyproject relatedtothedevelopmentof gas, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced on Thursday Jagdeo was speaking at his weekly press conference held at Freedom House, RobbStreet,Georgetown.
Notwithstanding, the Vice President said that the two countries will be exploring working on a gas projectinthefuture.
Kaieteur News asked Jagdeo to inform the nation about statements made by Annand Jagesar, CEO of Suriname's state firm Staatsolie, identifying reservoirsthatwillbepartof the development offshore betweenthetwocountriesto monetizegas.
“This is a discussion I had that I reported on with Todd, myself and Vickram Bharrat and some of the technical officers of the ministry with Minister Ramdin and some of his people.So,theysharedalot
ofinformationwithus,about all the gas fields, about all their finds right across the entirecoastofSurinameand alsoHaimaraandPluma.So, they identified all these targets,”Jagdeosaid.
Further, the Vice
President explained that S u r i n a m e s h a r e d information relative to the estimated gas believed to be in each field during a recent visittoGuyana.
“We explained to them the process in which we are nowengagedinwhichisthe tri-partied discussion between Fulcrum, the Government of Guyana and Exxon.
We indicated that there may be a possibility… to collaborate or maybe in the future should this not succeedthatwemaybeable todoaprojectinvolvingjust HaimaraandPlumawiththe Suriname fields,” the VP disclosed.
Jagdeo reiterated that though discussions were had, no commitment was made.
H e s a i d t h a t
Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo
representatives from the GovernmentsofGuyanaand Suriname will remain in contact with the aim of exchanginginformation.
Ultimately, Suriname willbeapartnerand“ifthey have gas there and we build the infrastructure on our side, and they don't, then their gas fields could be stranded, but they may be able to connect to our processing facilities, and supply their gas, which will
monetize their gas for them. So,wewanttokeepthemin the loop but at this stage, no specific project has been discussed with Suriname,” Jagdeoassured.
OnOctober24,Kaieteur News reported that Guyana andSurinamearediscussing the joint development of natural gas resources off the coasts of the neighbouring South American countries, according to the CEO of Staatsolie.
“It will not happen tomorrow,butitisimportant that we now have mutual confirmationthatwewantto work together It may take years before we find a development concept,” JagesartoldSuriname-based outletdeWareTijd.
According to a report by OilPrice.com, Jagesar said Guyana and Suriname will cooperate in drafting a development concept for some offshore reservoirs These he said could include the Makka and Kwaskwasi discoveries in Suriname, close to the border with Guyana, and the Haimara and Pluma discoveries in Guyana,whicharealsoclose totheborderwithSuriname.
Guyana and Suriname have been the focus of oil andgasexplorationinrecent years,withbillionsofbarrels ofoilfoundinthecountries' offshore sediment basin
Frompage12
Venezuela, makes up a significant number of cases beforethecourt.
*In 2019, Jamal Bumbury appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates' Court charged with raping a Venezuelan woman in Region1.
*In September 2022, a Venezuelan woman was gang rapedbyfourmen.
*In September 2023, a Venezuelan sex worker was raped and murdered while working in a mining district in Region7.
*In that same month, A pregnantVenezuelanwomanwas rapedandsodomisedduringajob
interview in Georgetown. The alleged perpetrator was never arrested despite being identified bythewoman.
*On July 31, 2024, Guyana Timesheadlineread“Venezuelan sex worker raped, strangled to death”. Miracarmen Rodrigues Serrano was killed in a mining district in Region 7. The alleged perpetratorwasarrested.
C is a migrant living in Guyanafor4years.TheSpanishspeakingwomanthroughafriend related that she relocated from Venezuelatofindajob.In2023, she was violently raped by someone she can identify. C explained that it was difficult to get the police to take her report.
“Sheisseenasasexworker,you know, because she is Spanish,” thefriendsaid.“Nowthereisno report and nothing will ever happen.”In a different matter, taxi driverThurston Semple was sentencedto11yearsforrapinga woman. Semple committed the act in February 2021 and was convictedinJuly2022.
Inherimpactstatementread to the court by her therapist, the mother of three explained that she traveled to Guyana to work and support her family in Venezuela. She explained too that the incident and beating changed her life, as she suffers nightmares, lives in fear and is depressed.
“IfeellikeI'mnevergoingto get over this totally it's something that's still hurting my mind…I cannot learn to forgive
and forget,” the victim told the court.
L i z R a h a m a n , t h e communications officer at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, said the main challenge in prosecuting sexual offence matters was “getting complainantstotestifyincourt.”
Rahaman said in some matters the complainants “go all the way,” but in 7 out of 10 of those cases, victims would say, “I do not wish to proceed with the matter.”Askedaboutaccusations of the police foot dragging on reports and prosecution, Rahaman said: “That might be so. That is why the judiciary is placingemphasisonreducingthe backlog of cases, with a priority onsexualoffences.”
In July, when he handed down the sentence of Oswald Bedlow, Justice Sandil Kissoon cited the CCJ's concern that the numberofsexualassaultcasesin Guyanawasalarming.
He said rape belonged in a classofoffencesthatareheinous and that Bedlow abused his position of trust and caused pain andsufferingtothesurvivorand herfamily SaidKissoon:“Thisis an offence of rape. This is an offenceagainstthestate.”
Editor'snote:Thisarticlewas first published by the Caribbean
information sharing but, in the meantime, it will be handled by the Suriname's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Guyana's Ministry of NaturalResources.
“Earlierthisweek,Ialso met with Minister Ramdin from Suriname the Foreign Minister, and he brought a number of people fromStaatsolieandfromthe government who deals with this sector So, we talked extensively about the coordination of our efforts, collaboration in the sector andwecommittedtosharing more information on the Oil and Gas industry among ourselves,” Jagdeo had stated.
Last week Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo told a news conference that the two countrieshavecommittedto sharing information on the oil and gas sector with each other He said that the commitment between the two countries was made during a recent visit by Suriname'sForeignMinister Albert Ramdin, other government officials and representativesofStaatsolie. Additionally, the two countries are working to set
During the recent opening of bids at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office, it was revealed that the Port Kaituma Hospital in Region One will soon get a maternity waiting home constructed.
InformationprovidedbyNPTABstatedthatthebuildingis expected to cost $50million and only two contractors submitted bids for the project. The contractors for the project are GV Construction Inc. and J.A.P Construction & General Services. It was reported that, at the 2022 commissioning ceremonyofthe$27millionupgradedmaternalwaitinghome in Lethem, Minster of Health, Dr Frank Anthony said that the government will continue to build the waiting homes with the aimofreducingmaternalandneonataldeaths,especiallyinthe hinterlandandurbancommunities.
The maternity waiting home is built in vicinity of the hospitals, where pregnant women from the far-flung villages in the hinterland regions wait until they go into labour before beingtransferredtothehospital.
Belowarethecompaniesandtheirbids:
Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo)
Supply & Delivery of 100-110HP (DIN) 4WDAgriculture Tractor.
Supply & Delivery of 10 Wheel Dump Tipper Cane Transport Trucks.
Supply & Delivery of Mechanical Planter
Supply & Delivery of ChemicalApplicator (Self Propelled).
Supply & Delivery of 110-Max 120HP 4WD Cab Cane Haulage Tractors.
Supply & Delivery of Mechanical Cane Harvester
Regional Democratic Council of Region One
Enclosure of Maternal & Child Health Building Port Kaituma District Hospital.
Construction of Maternity Waiting Home Port Kaituma District Hospital.
Rehabilitation of Pakera Hospital Matthew's Ridge.
‘Smelly’
From page 11
running in an eastern bedroomdoor,forthemento Hotel accountant, Baldeo supermarket with his staff. direction, and discharging stealthe$20millionthatwas Seegobin,andshotasecurity Theywerepreparingtoclose several rounds in the air in rumoured to be in their guard, Balmick Persaud the business when three their bid to escape,” police home. before escaping with $2.9M
persons entered the saidinitsreport. Hewasalsochargedwith onDecember14,2016. supermarket and a male, Subsequently, police attempted murder and H
armed with a handgun held found Howard and arrested robbery under arms after he accused of a series of other themhostage. him. and Curtis Vasconcellos armed robberies between
One of the suspects “He was wearing the allegedly robbed Tower 2016and2017. guarded the northern door same clothing seen in CCTV while the other two went (Closed Circuit Television) behind the cashier’s counter footage at the time of his and stole $500,000 and a
$150,000 in Digicel and One However, his accomplices Communications phone werenowheretobefound. cards and three bottles of Meanwhile, police said Hennessyvaluedat$60,000. that Howard was wanted for
After looting, the three similar offences. Further, in men left the supermarket 2016 he was charged along running and discharging the with others for the murder of firearm after observing that Mohamed Munir and his public-spirited citizens wifeBibiJamilaMunir attempted to assist the The men are accused of victims. setting fire to the couple’s
“Seeingthis,thesuspects heavily grilled home with ran out of the supermarket, them inside after they making good their escape, refused to open their
‘Rhea’s Petal Creations’
From page 46
saidthatincreasingawarenessofsmallbusinessescanplaya pivotalpartinthis.“BeingapartoftheGenerationZ,Imade effective use of the internet to flourish my business, as the internet (TikTok) has many inspiring stories and people, my truemotivationistobecomelikeLouisor(bouquetsbylouis) onTikTok,”shetoldthismagazine.
She also suggested that the distribution of more small business cash grands can be a booster as well as hosting of moresmallbusinessexpos.
Interested persons wanting to place an order for a decorative floral arrangements made out of ribbons, can contact the young woman on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok Tok at R petalcreations, or via WhatsApp on telephonenumber(+592)641-8227.
Drivers to drive Canter, and Porters to work in warehouse. Call: 673-7373. Experience is an asset.
Wanted: Experienced Puri Maker, Counter Person, Cleaner & Labourer. Apply @ Shanta's, 225 Camp and New Market Sts. 654-1361.
One Live-In Maid wanted urgently stay & daily meals included. Sandy Babb St. Georgetown. Whatsapp : 1631-408-5098.
Domestic (Live in option available), female cook and male & female workers for the interior :660-9093 / 674-9999 / 680-7803.
COINS Wanted, I buy coins best prices paid. Tele : 6430902 / 653-4287.
Canter Driver age 30 year or older, Must have at least 5 years experience. Call: 6130855 between 9:00 am - 4:30 pm.
Land dredge workers wanted. Call : 688-3844.
Experienced cooks wanted for mining operation. Call : 688-6575.
Experienced operators (ADT , Bulldozer , Excavator) wanted for mining operation. Call : 688-6575.
Wanted! Workers for packaging pasta and chowmein. $4100-$4900 per day. Workers paid weekly. Call: 6117839 (GTT)/ 637-0983 (digi).
FIRST AID/CPR/AED & HOME NURSING COURSES, Starting soon at St. John Association. Call: 225-9082.
Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 23-50, Car/ Van licence. Call : 615-9132 or 645-8443.
Live- In housekeeper needed to cook, clean and do laundry in Virgina, U.S.A, free room & Boarding offered. Call : 845-325-8241
One clerk for TSI Eccles office. English & Mathematics, grade 1 or 2. Email application: techserigy@ yahoo.com or call 615-9132.
Maid to clean for East Bank area. Call: 615-9132
Male cleaner for Eccles call 615-9132 or 645-8443
One Welder / fabricator. Tele : 623-2728.
Vacancy exist for one sale representative, customer friendly team played Georgetown based toy store. Tele: 658-4874.
Live- in male for poultry farm
with small family. Free medical. Salary $150,000 monthly. Call : 695-5310 / 617-4662.
One maid/ cook (Must know to cook Indian dishes) Contact : 680-4718.
Mason, Labourer & Carpenter wanted to work in Linden. Contact : 602-9469 , 615-
Carmicheal Street, North East La- Penitence, Friendship (85x213)
Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 6295526.
Visa Application:U.S.A, Canada & UK:Graphics design, advertisements, wedding arch rentals.Tel:6267040.
1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, spoiler, crash, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Call: 649-0956.
1 Toyota Allion, Pioneer DVD, CD & USB deck, reverse camera, alarm, low milage. Call: 649-0956.
Nissan X-Trail 2014. In good condition. Lady driven. Price $3 M. Telephone : 656-3977 / 500-9704.
Many Metal working machines for fabricating repairs & modify machinery parts. Come, make an offer. Tele : 2271813.
Shop for Sale in Bourda Market. Call:626-6990/638-3065
Queenstown, La-Penitence, Agricola Public Road (80x269)
From page 3 project. It was reported that the Agriculture Ministry back in October 2021 had inked a $978.7 million contract with Yunaz Civil and Building Construction to build a pump station at the Black Bush Polder Front Lands which was expected to be completed early 2023.
However, the project had passed its deadline and the slothfulness of the works was raised by Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Ganesh Mahipaul in October 2023.
Following the concerns raised by the
Opposition MP, the Ministry of Agriculture in a letter addressing the issue had announced that the project was terminated by NDIA in September 2023, for poor quality and performance of works being executed. Meanwhile, as it relates to a pump station for the Chesney community, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha told this publication that this would be the first of its kind in that community. The community has been benefiting from the pump station at Albion that is being operated by GuySuCo.
From page 44 display dazzled visitors, capturing the essence of the festival. Booths were set up to feature cotton dresses imported directly from India, handmade diyas, intricate Rangoli designs, henna artistry, and an array of delicious sweet meats, including fudge and other festive treats.
During a visit to the exhibition, The Waterfalls found the atmosphere buzzing with excitement. Children and adults engaged in activities such as Rangoli making and henna crafting; allowing participants to experience the traditions of Diwali firsthand. Exhibitors expressed their joy in sharing their culture with passersby and tourists, creating an inviting space for all.
Sanyukta Singh, a vendor who traveled from India to showcase traditional Indian clothing, expressed her passion for sharing her culture.
“I started this business for a purpose,” she explained. “When I visited, I find it very good because I am Indian, I hardly get to see this type of
dedication in India in which you see it in Guyana to keep the culture intact...”
She noted the clothing that many traditional Indian Guyanese wear would not be appropriate for the climate.
“They would sweat a lot because that is not the real fabric that they are using in Guyana. I brought pure cotton that is more appropriate for the climate.”
Singh emphasized the importance of providing the right exposure to the Hindu community, noting that she has been part of the exhibition since its inception.
“…People will come here so they need the right kind of exposure,” she said.
Abigail Bennett, another exhibitor, proudly displayed her handmade crochet jewellery. “I was excited to come because I do most handcrafted stuff and I did some crochet necklace and beads for the occasion. This was my first time I came out,” she shared. Abigail reminisced about her childhood experiences during Diwali, recalling how the festival brought families together. As a recent graduate of the
Burrowes School of Arts, she used this opportunity to showcase her designs, combining her passion with her cultural roots.
Parmesh Ramgobin also shared his insight on what Diwali means to him and his family. “For us, Diwali promotes togetherness,” he said. “We decorate our home, prepare sweet meats, and share them with neighbours. Lighting the diyas and creating Rangoli is a cherished tradition. Each Rangoli tells a story and carries significance, and these activities foster unity within our community.”
With the successful launch of the Deep Jale event, communities across Guyana are eager to participate in the upcoming Diwali celebrations. The festival serves not only as a time of joy and unity but also as a reminder of the cultural heritage that binds people together. As the lights twinkle and the sweets are shared, the spirit of Diwali will continue to shine brightly, bringing together families and friends in a celebration of hope, love, and togetherness.
Long Reach Excavator, Hyundai 140 Revetment, Slushing, Canal desilting & Pipe laying. Call : 657-9237.
Executive Apts - Fully furnished in Parfaite Harmony and Herstelling USD1100 call : 608 -3575
3 Bedrooms fully furnished apartment - Back property Sandy babb St. Georgetown G$240,000 Includes wfi. Negotiable. Contact : 592-7512936.
- Israeli air strikes have hit densely populated area in northern Gaza with no warning, killing at least 35 Palestinians
Aljazeera - Dozens of hesaid.
Palestinianshavebeenkilled “Beit Lahiya and Jabalia after an Israeli strike are considered to be the two destroyed several buildings main key urban centres in in a residential area of Beit northern Gaza, and Lahiya in besieged northern displaced families from Gaza, with the Health other parts of Gaza have Ministry describing it as a come to take refuge in “horrificmassacre”. shelters there They’ve both According to witnesses been under heavy attack for and medical sources, at least more than three weeks 35 people were killed on now ” Saturday evening with Palestinian Wafa news dozens more wounded, Al agencyreportedthatmanyof Jazeera’sTareqAbuAzzoum the killed and injured are said, reporting from central children, women and the Gaza. elderly
Local media reports said Rescue efforts are being civil defence crews were not hampered due to a lack of able to reach the site because ambulances and civil ofIsraelifire. defence services, as Israeli Abu Azzoum said forces have blocked access multiple air strikes hit the tothearea,itsaid. densely populated area with The air strike targeted at nowarningsgiven. least five homes near the are forcibly displacing tens northern Gaza have killed Saturday, leaving a trail of On Friday, the UN
“People are trying to western roundabout in Beit of thousands of residents out approximately 800 people destruction. special rapporteur on health recover victims from under Lahiya,belongingtotheAbu ofthearea. over the course of a three- At least 30 medical staff usedanewterm–medicide– the rubble because civil Shdaq, Al-Masri, and
The Health Ministry weekoffensive. have been abducted and the to describe the widespread defence rescuers are unable Salmanfamilies,Wafasaid. reported that Israeli military The Israeli forces hospital building has and systematic attacks by to reach the scene after first Northern Gaza has been strikes on Jabalia, Beit withdrew from Kamal suffered widespread Israel on healthcare workers responders were targeted by under a three-week ground Hanoon, and Beit Lahiya in Adwan Hospital on damage. andfacilities. Israeli forces earlier today,” assault by Israeli forces who
APIA, Samoa, Oct 26 particularly among the Caribbean conversations on reparatory justice (Reuters) - Commonwealth CommunityandtheAfricanUnion. wedges open the door for dialogue, leaders, ending a week-long The statement also made and now the hard work really summit in Samoa, said on Saturday reference to “blackbirding”, a term begins,” said Abbott, who attended the time had come for a discussion for people from places including thesummit. on whether Britain should commit the Pacific Islands being deceived, The joint statement also to reparations for its role in the coerced or kidnapped to work on referred to concern about “the transatlanticslavetrade. plantations in Australia and severe consequences of the climate Slaveryandthethreatofclimate elsewhere Those opposed to crisis, including rising change were major themes for reparationssaycountriesshouldnot temperaturesandsealevels”. representatives of the 56 countries be held responsible for historical In a boost for Pacific Islands in the group, most with roots in wrongs, while those in support say such as Tuvalu under threat from Britain’s empire, at the the legacy of slavery has led to vast rising seas, they issued the Commonwealth Heads of andpersistentracialinequality Commonwealth’s first Oceans Government Meeting that began in The joint statement did not Declaration, affirming that a the Pacific Islands nation on mention what form reparations nation’s maritime boundaries Monday British Prime Minister should take. Starmer told a press should remain fixed even if climate Keir Starmer, whose country has conference the joint statement did change causes small island states to long rejected calls for financial two things: “It notes calls for be submerged. Fixing maritime compensation for nations affected discussion and it agrees that this is boundaries means atoll nations can byslavery,saidsummitdiscussions thetimeforaconversation. continue to reap the economic werenot“aboutmoney”.
“But I should be really clear benefit of vast fishing grounds, On slavery, the leaders said in a here, in the two days we’ve been even if populations must migrate as joint statement they had “agreed here, none of the discussions have dry land area is significantly that the time has come for a been about money Our position is reduced. The declaration bolsters meaningful, truthful and respectful very, very clear in relation to that,” momentum for international law to conversation towards forging a he said. Professor KingsleyAbbott, recognise the perpetual statehood commonfuturebasedonequity”. director of the Institute of ofsinkingislandstates.
The push for ex-colonial Commonwealth Studies at the More than half of the powers such as Britain to pay University of London, said the Commonwealth’s members are reparations or make other amends statementwasasignofapotentially small nations, many of them lowfor slavery and its legacies has historicbreakthroughontheissue. lying islands at risk from rising sea gained momentum worldwide, “ T h e c o m m i t m e n t t o levelscausedbyclimatechange.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Oct 26 almost700,000,theWFPsaid. (Reuters) - A gang attack in Port- “I can’t count the number of au-Prince forced residents to flee times I’ve left my house Every their homes on Saturday as the time I arrive in a new area, I run gangs operating in and around the away,” said one man who did not Haitian capital ramp up attacks on wish to be identified. Exasperated areastheydonotyetcontrol. Solino resident Kettelie Morose, Smoke from gunfights who said she suffers from billowedabovethecapital’sSolino hypertension and other illnesses, neighborhood, where fleeing said that “bandits” had kicked her residents strapped mattresses, out of her home. “I’m responsible furniture, cooking supplies and for several children and I don’t otherpossessionstotrucks. knowwhattodo,”shesaid.
Others fled on foot carrying Haiti’s security crisis continues whatbelongingstheycould. to fuel the Caribbean nation’s Gangs have been escalating humanitarian disaster The World their attacks on a number of towns Food Programme said on Friday in and around the capital, where that5 4millionHaitians,orroughly muchofthecityanditssuburbsare half of the population, is suffering underthecontrolofvariousviolent from acute hunger, with pockets of armed groups united under a famine-level hunger being reported common alliance known as Viv among internally displaced people Ansanm. In Solino, thousands of A U N helicopter aiding residents have been displaced in humanitarian efforts was hit by recent days, including people who gunfire on Thursday while flying had previously been displaced over Port-au-Prince, later landing from other neighborhoods, the safely, the WFP said. While the U.N.’s World Food Programme U.N. authorized an international (WFP) said in a press conference forcetohelpHaiti’spolicetakeback on Friday The total number of control from the gangs, the mission displaced people in Haiti has has been poorly resourced and has doubledinthepastthreemonthsto producedscantresults
Invest now, not tomorrow!
The tax giveaways and lofty concessions might not always be accessible.
The sale of Guyana is on!
We are giving away all we can right now!
We might not be in office in another few years so seize the opportunity today.
Before Guyanese wake up to their senses, and start demanding better, their resources will be drained.
The rich will be wealthier and the poor will be poorer.
ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge
The Global Super League (GSL), coming to Guyana from 26 November to 7 December, yesterday announced that ExxonMobil Guyana will serve as the cricket tournament’s title Guyana,” said Sir Clive around the world vying for sponsorthisyear Lloyd, Chairman of the US$1millioninprizemoney “ExxonMobil Guyana GlobalSuperLeague. Each team will play four has a long history of The Global Super matches, with the top two supporting cricket in League will feature the teams progressing to the Guyana. They are an ideal Guyana Amazon Warriors final. title sponsor – we appreciate and four other established “We are thrilled to theircontinuedinvestmentin T20 cricket teams from deepen our commitment to cricketandthecommunityin Guyana through our partnership with the Global Super League We look forward to an electrifying series of matches and celebrating the spirit of cricket with fans around the world,” said ExxonMobil Guyana President, Alistair Routledge.
ARIES(Mar 21–Apr 19)
You may get frustrated when you find that people aren't as sensitive to a situation as you want them to be,Aries. While you're looking to make a strong connection with someone, that person is trying topullback.
TAURUS(Apr 20–May20)
A small spark in a dry field is apttowhipthehillintoflames, Taurus.Araging wildfire may be underway by the end of the day Know that you're one of the biggest perpetrators, but don'tfeelbadlyaboutit.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
Put on some lively music you candancetoandreallykickup yourheels,Gemini.It'stimeto put away the sour mood and havefun.
CANCER(June21–July22)
This is a tremendously expansive time for you, and thereisverylittlethatwillstop your momentum once you get going.Youreyesarealivewith a spark that says that you're readytotakeontheworld.
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Thisisagoodtimetoputthings inwriting Yourgiftwithwords is apt to shine today as you writeaproposal,email,orlove poem You're able to communicate very well when you put your sensitive emotionsasideandconcentrate on what you think instead of whatyoufeel
VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)
The day's energy is apt to be lively, making it much easier to get the things done that you need to do, Virgo. You will find people are more than eagertohelpyou.
Shamar Yearwood scored a robust half-century to give the Demerara Hawks an easy 4-wicket win over the Essequibo Jaguars during yesterday’s first round opening gameplayedattheLBICricketGround.
Hawks took first strike and made much use of the conditions,postinganimposing174-7onthebacksofopener ShamarYearwood,whocarveda42-ball72with10foursand 4sixes.
Power-hitting all-rounder Thaddeus Lovell smacked threesixesandapairoffoursinhis30off16asCarlosLarose (18*)finishestheinningsoffwiththreeboundariesunderhis belt.
Only Hawks Captain Junior Sinclair (11) and middleorderbatsmanBrandonJaikaran(10)gotintodoublefigures, asJaguarsskipperRicardoAdamssnared4-13withmediumpacerDemeterCameronsupportingwith2-42.
Essequiborepliedincommandingfashion,racingto1776 in 19.3 overs. Openers JoemalLaFleur, who set the tone with42(5x42x6)andParmeshParshotamrun-a-ball29hada goodhalf-centurypartnershipatthetopoftheorder
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
Obstacles that you have ignored are suddenly starting to expand beyond reasonable proportions, Libra. Be careful of what you say as a result, because your words could spreadlikewildfire.
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)
This is a terrific day for you, Scorpio, and you will glow brightlyfromheadtotoeasyou radiate your true inner self to the world You will find profound joy in the simplest, mostordinarycircumstances.
SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)
Tap into the boisterous, lighthearted mood of the day insteadofgettingboggeddown with heavy emotions, Sagittarius.This is a good time to engage your mind rather thanletyourhearttakecontrol.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Your optimism will be inspiringtoday,Capricorn.You will find that your lighthearted approach is perfectly suited to taking care of any issue that arises.Tossafewjokesintothe mix and remind other people that it isn't necessary to take thingssoseriously
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)
Difficult challenges that have been lingering on the sidelines will probably become more prominent today, Aquarius There is a strong possibility thatthingswillcometoahead.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
You could be the one everyone runstoforadvicetoday,Pisces. You're the one with all the answerswhocaneasilypullthe rabbit out of a hat. Trust your judgment and intellectual know-how
All 2024 Global Super League matches will take place at the Guyana National StadiuminProvidence.
The Global Super League is set to take place annually in Guyana, with different teams from around the world being invited to take part each season. It is South America’s first standalone cricket event, sanctioned by Cricket West Indiesandfullysupportedby thegovernmentofGuyana.
ExxonMobil Guyana has sponsored the Guyana Amazon Warriors team for eight years. The company invests in youth sport programmes around the country, including an annual “Future Warriors Tapeball Tournament.”
However, a scorching knock from former Guyana T20 player Rajiv Ivan brought the chase within range with his 36 from15,clobbering3sixesand3fours.
KevonJawahirfinishedunbeatenon17withafouranda six which essentially took his team over the line. Hawks’ Daniel Ross finished with 3-23 with spinnerTotaramBishun chippinginwith2-42.
The Bush Lot UnitedTurf
Thedistanceis1200Mandwith TheHandlowerhorseswillget They will be racing over 400M. Bugle time is 12:00 hrs and an Club (BLUTC) is so much up for grabs, a top-notch their opportunity to race for the The winner will run away with exciting day of racing is expected to come alive lineuphasbeenassembled.Among winning purse of $400,000 and $150,000andatrophy anticipated.(SamuelWhyte)
today, Sunday 27, those listed to go are Novo Sol, trophyoveralsoover1200M. October Companheiro Leal, John Bull, There is a race for two-year-old
The occasion is the Js StormyEntryandRitornaVincetori maiden animals for a winner’s take Supermarket/Kabisa Stakes horse andthewinnerisanyone’sguess. of $350,000 and a trophy over race meet slated for the Sea View There is an event for horses 1200M. Park,BushLot,WestCoastBerbice classified C or F and open to E that
There is a race for I and lower racetrack. did not finish 1st or 2nd in its last animalsthatisalsoopentoH3non-
Atotal of eight races are on the two starts and E class non-earners earnersintheirlasttwostartsandH cards with over $6M in cash for2024. class horses that haven’t raced for trophies and other incentives up for The top prize is $600,000 and a the last eight months over 1200M. grabs. trophyover1200M. The pole position taking is set at
According to reports, over 55 Thiseventisalsoexpectedtobe $300,000andtrophy horses have lined up to enter the a crowd-pleaser with the likes of The event for J and K maiden startinggates. Jessica Pride, Spankhurst, animals is also open to L class and The feature event is for the Beckham James, Stormy Victory two-year-old Guyana-bred horses. Kabisa Stakes and is open to all andMorningColours. The winner is set to collect $300, horsesinGuyana. The 1200M race for three-year- 000andatrophyover1200M.
The winner is expected to race old Guyana Bred animals that is There is also an event for L away with a sumptuous $1M and also open to J Class horses has a Classhorsesthathaven’tearnedfor the Kabisa Trophy compliments of winning money of $500,000 and a the last six months and first-time JSupermarketsandKabisa. trophyupforgrabs. starters.
(SportsMax) - A fifth overs that were possible due 195 from 23 overs, the West ODI hundred from Evin torain. Indians got to their target L e w i s a n d a t h i r d O p e n e r P
m with an over to spare to consecutive half-century Nissanka made 56 off 62 avoid a series sweep and get from Sherfane Rutherford balls while wicket- their first ODI victory of propelled the West Indies to keeper/batsman Kusal 2024 aneight-wicketDLSmethod Mendis also made 56*, with Evin Lewis was the star consolation win over Sri his coming off a swift 22 of the show with 102* off 61 Lanka in the third and final balls including nine fours balls including nine fours ODI at the Pallekele andasix. and four sixes, with the last Intern
na
Cricket Avishka Fernando of those sixes securing both StadiumonSaturday contributed 34 as Roston thewinandhisthirdhundred The West Indies, after Chase and Sherfane againstSriLanka. winningthetossandelecting Rutherford took a wicket Sherfane Rutherford was tofieldfirst,restrictedtheSri apiece. with Lewis in the end, Lankans to 156-3 off the 23 Set a revised target of finishing 50* off 26 balls
after scores of 74* and 80 in Asitha Fernando shared the Fernando 34, Roston
thefirsttwomatches. twoSriLankawickets.
Captain Shai Hope and Full Scores: Sri Lanka
lost to West Indies
Brandon King contributed 156-3 off 23 overs (Kusal off 22 overs (Evin Lewis 22 and 16, respectively, as Mendis 56* , Pathum 102*, Sherfane Rutherford Dilshan Madushanka and Nissanka 56, Avishka 50*).
It was a night of unexpected results, as Similarly, Bent Street was eliminated Sparta Boss and Bent Street A were sent following a 2-3 loss to Mocha in the mustpacking, while Back Circle A also suffered winencounter DevonPadmorescoredtwice defeat when the group segment in the in the third and sixth minutes, while Teon inaugural Bent Street ‘Champion of Jones netted in the eighth minute. For the Champions’ Futsal Championship losers, Tyrese Lyle and Colin Nelson scored continued at the National Gymnasium, inthesecondandfifthminutes,respectively MandelaAvenue.
Meanwhile, Back Circle A also went
Needing a win to keep their hopes alive down in dramatic fashion 0-3 to North East of advancing, Sparta Boss crushed Team La Penitence in a battle of the unbeaten Cruel 6-1. Darron Niles netted twice in the teams. eighth and 10th minutes, while Curtez Also,GoldisMoneythrashedCalifornia Kellmanscoredinthefirstand20thminutes. Square 3-0. The trio of Stephon Jupiter, Adding goals in the 16th and 21st minutes, WilliamEurope,andAndrewMurrayscored respectively, were Jermin Junior and Eusi in the 10th, 17th, and 19th minutes, Phillips, as Jemar Harrigon scored for the respectively loserinthe22ndminute. The winner of the event will pocket Sparta Boss then needed North $1,000,000 and the championship trophy, Ruimveldt to lose in their encounter with while the second, third, and fourth-place Back Circle B. However, North Ruimveldt finishers will receive $500,000, $300,000, confirmed Sparta’s exit with a 5-0 thrashing and $200,000 and the corresponding ofBackCircleB.StephonWaltonrecordeda accolade, respectively On the individual helmettrickinthefirst,fifth,22nd,and25th side, prizes will also be given to the highest minutes, while Tyrese Louis scored in the goal scorer, most valuable player, best fifthminute. defender,andgoalkeeper,respectively
Ma r i a n La Rose opened the Academy and scoring in the 10th minute of Santa Rosa the game with powerful
Primary are strike from distance, giving set to face off in the finals of Marian an early advantage. the Petra-Courts Optical Pee Minutes later, he struck Wee Under-11 School’s again, converting a wellFootball Tournament after timed pass from Joshua emerging victorious in the Johnson at the edge of the semi-finals held yesterday at box to bring the score to 2-0. the Ministry of Education St Pius’ leading scorer, grounds. Jovaine Wright, managed to
This 11th edition of the pull one back with a late Petra Organization Pee Wee consolation goal, but Marian Footballcompetitionsawthe heldontowin2-1atthefinal finalists determined under a whistle.
St. John the Baptist captain Kriston Chandler hunts down Santa Rosa’s Deon Henry
dusty Saturday evening sky, The second semi-final with Marian Academy sawSantaRosaPrimarytake overcoming defending control against St John the champions St Pius Primary, Baptist Primary from the Rosa’s defense held strong, Stena Drilling, Sterling Theeventisorganizedby Education and the Ministry and Santa Rosa defeating St outset. and they secured their place Products Limited, and Igloo the Petra Organisation and of Culture, Youth, and JohntheBaptist. They took the lead in the final with a 2-1 IceCream. endorsed by the Ministry of Sports.
In the first semi-final, through Ethan Richards, victory. Marian Academy took on St who confidently converted a
The stage is now set for Pius, who had received a penalty after a handball in an exciting final between second chance to advance to the box, making it 1-0. Deon Marian Academy and Santa the final after East Coast Henry extended their lead Rosa Primary in what Rosignol Primary was justthreeminuteslaterwitha promises to be a thrilling disqualified last week superb free kick that sailed conclusion to this year’s Despite this opportunity, St into the top right corner, tournament. Pius couldn’t capitalize, as giving Santa Rosa a 2-0
This tournament is M a r i a n A c a d e m y ’s cushion.
proudlysponsoredbyCourts ChristianoLaRosedelivered Although St John the Optical, under Unicomer an outstanding performance, Baptist’s Kareme Welcome Guyana Inc., with additional scoring twice to secure their found the net in the second support from MVP Sports, placeinthefinal. half to make it 2-1, Santa
