DV suspect shot after allegedly pulling gun on cops
300,000 persons should receive $100K cash grant before year end – VP …as registration,
Guyana sets aside $123M in humanitarian aid for Haiti, CARICOM nations
UG facility, miscellaneous fees also abolished – Manickchand Govt invests $20M to boost South Rupununi’s tourism potential
50 Guyanese businesses, 38 laboratories now certified by GNBS
The late Brigadier Gary Beaton
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Friday, November 29 –03:30h-05:00h and Saturday, November 30 – 03:45h-05:15h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Friday, November 29 –15:15h-16:45h and Saturday, November 30 – 15:45h-17:15h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
US EXIM Bank greenlights
US$509M loan for GtE Project – VP
…final approval to come after 30-day Congressional notification
In a long-awaited move,
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Sunny conditions are expected throughout the day, with light rain showers in the late-morning hours. Clear to partly cloudy skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.79 metres and 4.92 metres.
High Tide: 15:14h reaching a maximum height of 2.57 metres.
Low Tide: 08:51h and 21:14h reaching minimum heights of 0.71 metre and 0.62 metre.
the United States ExportImport (EXIM) Bank has approved the Guyana Government’s request for a multi-billion-dollar loan to finance its model Gas-toEnergy (GtE) project.
This was revealed by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo during a press conference on Thursday.
This announcement follows criticism from many and naysayers, who had argued that the US Exim Bank would not approve financing for this particular project.
Back in April 2023, it was announced that Guyana had applied for the loan from the US EXIM Bank to finance the US$761 million GtE Project, which includes construction of an Integrated Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant and a 300-megawatt (MW) combined cycle power plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara utilising natural gas from the country’s offshore operations in the Stabroek Block.
According to VP Jagdeo, the Guyana Government was waiting on the US finance institution to make the announcement first.
“The loan has been approved by the Board of EXIM Bank, and it has been sent to the Congress for 30 days’ notification, after which it will be returned to the Board of EXIM Bank for final approval. So, that is where we stand at this point in time,” he indicated.
The US EXIM Bank’s approval comes on the heels of high-level due diligence done by the financial institution. The Guyana Government had stated that no fatal flaws were found during the technical and environmental assessments done by the bank.
Initially, the Government was aiming to borrow approximately US$645 million from the US Bank to fund the GtE initiative. Guyana was expected to put up the other US$100 million as advance payment to support the US$760 million initiative.
However, the Vice President explained on Thursday that the loan approved was not the full amount that Guyana had requested.
“The amount will not be (US$645) million. It would be less than that, and it will only cover exports out of the United States of America; so it would be upwards of US$500 [$509] million…not the full sum [requested],” Jagdeo told reporters at the press conference.
Guyana Times was informed that the full amount was not approved because not all components of the project will be procured from the US. As a result, financing will only cover the components purchased from that country.
While Guyana was awaiting the approval of this loan, Government had gone ahead and injected some US$400 million to commence work on the highly anticipated GtE project. It was noted, too, that Guyana could potentially fund the entire initiative had the loan request not been approved by the US financial institution.
In fact, Jagdeo had previously explained that the loan can fund retroactive expenditure, hence Government could use bridge financing to get the works going. Bridge financ-
ing is a short-term financing option in order to fund a project before the financing is expected.
“The loan will also provide retroactive financing. So, if the loan is made available, it will cover financing that Government of Guyana had to make during the period since the project started,” the Vice President added on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Government has set aside a whopping $80
the Wales site.
During consideration of Financial Paper No. 4 of 2024 on Wednesday, Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips informed the Committee of Supply that G$99 billion has already been expended on the Wales project, with construction progressing smoothly. He was at the time being questioned by Opposition Member of Parliament David
billion in Budget 2024 to advance the GtE initiative and its associated infrastructure, including transmission and distribution upgrades to offtake the power. Only earlier this week was another $25.3 billion approved by the National Assembly to support the ongoing construction works which were started in December 2022 by the contractor – US-based consortium of Lindsayca CH4 Guyana Inc. (LNDCH4), at
Patterson regarding the financial and operational status of the project, which would not only see reliable power in the country, but also cut the high electricity costs by half.
According to the Prime Minister, 58 per cent of the works on the GtE initiative has been completed. He noted that of the G$159 billion contract sum, the project’s expenditure prior to 2024 was $$55.7 billion, while spending to date is pegged at some
$44,678,828,886.
PM Phillips added that while the sum being sought by Government would further accelerate progress on the project, it doesn’t cover the cost for the arbitration case with the GtE contractor, which has so far racked up a bill of more than G$13 million.
“The sum… [of] $13.6 million to date has been paid for the consultants and the lawyers with regard to this activity,” Phillips stated.
LNDCH4 is engaged in a disagreement with the Government over the timelines of the project and associated costs.
LNDCH4, which was awarded a US$759 million contract in November 2022 to build the power plant and NGL facility, is making financial claims to the tune of US$50 million over delays from other components of the project, saying that the late handover would affect its delivery, according to contractual timelines.
In light of the delays, the Government has extended the deadline to March 2025 for the delivery of the power plant, but the contractor is not satisfied, and wants more time. Moreover, Government also rejected the financial claim, resulting in the contractor moving to a dispute resolution mechanism that has seen a three-member board being set up to mediate between the two parties. (G8)
(File photo) Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo meeting with representatives of the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of the United States of America on December 18, 2023 in Guyana
In a pivotal moment for Guyana’s energy future, the United States Export-Import (EXIM) Bank has granted approval for a multi-billion-dollar loan to support the Government’s Gas-to-Energy (GtE) project. This green light not only marks a major milestone in the development of the country’s energy infrastructure, but also underscores the Government's determination to pursue sustainable and affordable energy solutions despite opposition and doubts from critics.
The GtE project, which includes the construction of an Integrated Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) plant and a 300-megawatt combined cycle power plant in Wales, West Bank Demerara, is a monumental undertaking that would significantly transform the country's energy landscape. With funding approved for the project, Guyana is poised to make strides towards more affordable and reliable electricity, which would bring longterm benefits to households, businesses, and the national economy.
Critics have been quick to express skepticism over the project, with some arguing that the US EXIM Bank would never approve such a large-scale financing agreement. Those voices claimed the project was fraught with risks, and questioned whether the financing was feasible. However, the successful approval of the loan stands as a testament to the due diligence performed by the US financial institution. The technical and environmental assessments have found no fatal flaws, and the project is moving forward despite the doubts and opposition.
The approved loan, while not covering the full amount requested, is still a significant endorsement of the project’s potential. With upwards of US$500 million secured, the project would be enabled to move forward, focusing on components procured from the United States. Furthermore, the Government has already invested US$400 million in the early stages, ensuring that the project would not be delayed, even before receiving the loan.
What is often overlooked by the naysayers is the broader economic and environmental benefits that this initiative would bring to Guyana. The power generated by the GtE project would reduce the country’s dependence on costly and polluting energy sources, providing a cleaner, more sustainable alternative. This, in turn, would help lower the high cost of electricity, which has long been a financial burden for many Guyanese. In fact, the anticipated reduction in electricity costs could result in significant savings for both consumers and businesses, fostering economic growth and improving the standard of living of all citizens.
Moreover, the GtE project aligns with Guyana’s longterm development goals, ensuring energy security and sustainability as the country continues to expand its oil and gas sector. It is an investment in the future of the country, one that promises to create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and position Guyana as a regional leader in energy production. The project is already making tangible progress. Construction is well underway, with 58 percent of the work having been completed, and an additional G$80 billion having been allocated in the 2024 national budget to advance the initiative.
The US-based consortium responsible for the construction, Lindsayca CH4 Guyana Inc., is continuing its work at the Wales site, ensuring that the project remains on track despite some challenges. While there have been disputes over the project’s timeline with the contractor, Government’s decision to extend the deadline to March 2025 reflects a commitment to ensuring that the project is delivered with the utmost quality and efficiency.
While challenges remain, such as the ongoing arbitration with the contractor over cost claims, the overall trajectory of the GtE project is positive. It is clear that the Government is committed to seeing this transformative project through to completion, and the approval from the US EXIM Bank is a significant step in that direction.
The approval of the financing for the Gas-to-Energy project is not just a victory for the Government; it is a victory for all Guyanese. Despite the opposition and doubts, the project is set to deliver a more affordable, sustainable, and reliable energy future for the country. Guyana’s energy sector is on the brink of a major transformation, and the Gas-to-Energy project will play a key role in driving that change, benefiting the nation.
Expression and unity through sports in Guyana are what is needed
Dear Editor,
The diverse beauty of our country, built on the foundation of six ethnic groups, necessitates deliberate efforts to foster unity, mutual respect, understanding, and shared prosperity. It is disheartening to observe a pattern of divisive rhetoric in the public sphere, particularly from some frequent contributors to the letter columns. These individuals, while exercising their right to freedom of expression, often push narratives that deepen divisions and sow seeds of discord in a country that has already endured the scars of a colonial past marked by slavery, indentureship, and engineered racial divisions.
While the right to freedom of speech is a cornerstone of democracy, it must be wielded responsibly. Words have power, and those who have platforms or frequent access to public discourse must use them constructively. Mr. Vishnu Bisram, in particular, has the skill and reach through his pen to inspire change. I call on him and others to use their voices to foster unity and uphold the aspirations of our national motto: One People, One Nation, One Destiny.
At this juncture in our history, the responsibility of each citizen is to contribute to forging a united Guyana, where all races and ethnicities feel a sense of belonging and togetherness.
Having mentioned
the above, I am a firm believer that sports are among the most powerful tools to achieve this unity. Throughout history, sports have been a force for good, breaking down barriers, creating equal opportunities, and promoting understanding among people of different races, religions, and political affiliations.
The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport must, after four years, recognize the critical role it can play in building racial harmony and fostering a sense of community. When I say "community," I am not speaking about community ground enhancement, which seems to be the ministry's flagship project. I mean the ministry should think bigger and wider in its mandate to the people of Guyana.
For example, by implementing programmes and initiatives that bring together individuals of all backgrounds, the ministry can transform sports into a vehicle for reconciliation and understanding.
Sports provide a level playing field. On the cricket pitch, football field, or athletics track, an athlete’s success is determined by skill, effort, and dedication; not race, ethnicity, or background. This meritocracy challenges preconceived notions and prejudices. Witnessing athletes from diverse backgrounds excel together can inspire respect, admiration, understanding, and empathy. Sports become
a reminder that we are all more alike than different, united by shared goals and the pursuit of excellence.
Historically, sports have been an avenue for addressing racial injustice. From the triumphs of West Indies cricket in uniting Caribbean nations, to global icons like Muhammad Ali and Jackie Robinson using their platforms to confront racism, sports have long been intertwined with social justice.
Our Guyanese athletes, too, can play a pivotal role in this journey, but they need structured opportunities to come together, compete, and learn from one another.
At the grassroots level, sports leagues and programmes should be designed to bring together young people from all races and communities. This deliberate mixing can create lasting relationships and teach values such as teamwork, trust, and mutual respect. After all, it is the youths who hold the greatest potential to break the chains of division that have plagued our society.
Sports programmes can provide them with not only physical fitness, but also the tools to become ambassadors of unity.
However, the responsibility for unity does not lie solely with sports or athletes. Each of us must play our role. This includes addressing racism and inequality through education, dialogue, and even legislation when necessary. Athletes and their platforms can spark
conversations about these issues, but the public must engage in these dialogues with open minds and hearts. It is also crucial for those who shape public opinion, such as Mr. Bisram and others, to consider how their narratives influence our society. Constructive dialogue, aimed at finding common ground and celebrating our shared identity as Guyanese, should be the goal. Imagine how impactful it would be if Mr. Bisram, known for his frequent letters, were to articulate a vision for unity, one that recognizes our differences but emphasizes our shared humanity and aspirations as one people, one nation, and a shared destiny. His words could inspire the very change we so desperately need for the good and prosperity of all our people.
Let us all commit and recommit to using our platforms, be it a pen, a microphone, or a cricket bat, a football, or on the athletics track, to advance the cause of national unity. Our country's history is indeed marked by pain and division, but it is also a history of resilience, strength, and hope. Through responsible expression and the unifying power of sports, we can take meaningful steps toward the ideal of One People, One Nation, One Destiny.
Sincerely, Jermaine Figueira, MP
United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, and President of the American Chamber of Commerce of Guyana (AmchamGuyana), Devindra Kissoon, carved a turkey during a Thanksgiving meal hosted at her residence for 75 Guyanese senior citizens and their caregivers in celebration of Thanksgiving 2024 (US Embassy, Georgetown photo)
Remedial education programme impacting lives of persons with disabilities
Dear Editor,
We know that education is both transformative and necessary for the development of any society. However, the impact of education on the lives of people with disabilities is even more profound, because it enables them to be financially independent as adults.
When the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) approached the Ministry of Education to foster collaboration and support for its remedial education programme for adults with disabilities, as a transition to our Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate
(CSEC) programme, we were met with shared enthusiasm and a willing partner.
Under the guidance of Mr. Ganesh Singh, and with support from Mr. Keon Cheong, the remedial education programme commenced with a total of ten adults with physical, hearing, vision, and mild intellectual disabilities. Of the first cohort of students, seven persons were promoted to the aforementioned Ministryfunded CSEC programme, and are scheduled to sit the regional examination in May-June 2025.
This initiative marks a second chance given to these persons with disabilities,
who never had the opportunity to complete their formal education. With this remedial education programme, these persons are given the knowledge and skills to gain meaningful employment, pursue higher education, and access the many opportunities provided by the Government of Guyana.
We are certain of these long-term outcomes because our tracer report outlines the successes of the 80 persons who have graduated from the CSEC programme over the past ten years, with over 50% of them attaining tertiary level qualifications and gaining either full-time or part-time employment.
A vision shaped by strategic investments
Dear Editor, Guyana is rapidly positioning itself to become a critical player in global agriculture, thanks to the transformative investments championed by President Irfaan Ali and his administration.
Government, in so doing, has recognized the nation’s vast agricultural potential, and these initiatives are geared towards addressing food security challenges, bolstering regional trade, and modernizing the agricultural sector to meet global standards, as we are seeing today.
One of Guyana’s primary assets is its fertile land, particularly the expansive plains of the coastal region, which are ideal for producing rice, sugar, and a variety of other crops. Government has made significant strides in improving the productivity of this arable land. For instance, efforts are being made to rehabilitate neglected infrastructure such as drainage and irrigation systems. As we know, billions have already been invested, and the systems are crucial for mitigating the risks posed by climate change.
President Ali’s Administration has also placed significant emphasis on diversification, moving beyond traditional staples
like rice and sugar to exploring high-value crops and aquaculture. Through partnerships with international organizations and regional allies like CARICOM, the Government aims to reduce the region’s annual food import bill by 25% by 2025, a huge step for the agricultural sector. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of making Guyana a regional breadbasket. Moreover, the Government is prioritizing the integration of technology into farming practices. Investments in precision agriculture, data-driven farming techniques, and research institutions are aimed at boosting yield efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. A notable example is the collaboration with India to introduce innovative rice varieties that are more resilient to adverse weather conditions. With the recent visit of Prime Minister Modi, we can only expect further collaboration between the two countries. This is forward thinking by the Government.
President Ali, along with Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, has also been vocal about the importance of agri-processing, a sector critical for adding value to raw products and creating jobs. New processing
facilities for products like cassava, fruits and spices are being developed, opening avenues for exports and fostering economic growth.
With oil revenues providing the financial backing, these ambitious agricultural projects are well-funded and sustainable. This foresight ensures that Guyana is not only food secure, but becomes a key supplier in a world grappling with increasing demand for sustainable agricultural products.
By leveraging its natural resources and strategic investments, Guyana under President Irfaan Ali is poised to redefine its agricultural legacy, making it an indispensable player in the global food supply chain.
Sincerely, Andrew
Harrinarine
When there is a shared vision for the empowerment of people with disabilities, and a government recognizes the importance of collab-
oration and support, a country can only benefit from having educated and empowered citizens.
Sincerely, Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD)
Only High Court has exclusive jurisdiction to determine whether an election has been lawfully conducted
Dear Editor,
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is again faced with the challenge of frequently-repeated disinformation being peddled in the public domain by prominent political stakeholders and activists using various platforms.
The most recent case of disinformation involves Dr David Hinds of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) using his Politics 101 talk show on Monday 25th November, 2024 to accuse the GECOM Chairman of ‘cover up of fraud.’
During the programme, while referencing allegations of voter impersonation that surfaced during the National Recount exercise in 2020, Dr. Hinds specifically accused GECOM Chairman Justice Claudette Singh of “declaring an election with knowledge of the potential breach of the law”, and voting against an internal review of the 2020 General and Regional Elections.
In this regard, while GECOM has continually and categorically clarified that, in accordance with the Constitution, the Commission does not have
the authority to validate any election, there is a relentless effort by a few individuals with malicious intention, who continue to repeat such a false narrative.
As the agency responsible for conducting elections in Guyana, it is mandatory for GECOM to ensure that the public is always accurately guided insofar as statutory provisions are concerned. It is therefore against this backdrop that the Commission takes opportunity to again dispel the disinformation being spewed in the public.
Article 163 (1) (b) (i) of the Constitution, the supreme law of the land, provides that the High Court shall have exclusive jurisdiction to determine any question, either generally or in any particular place, in regard to whether an election has been lawfully conducted; or whether the results thereof have been, or may have been, affected by any unlawful act or omission.
It is of crucial importance to note that, notwith-
standing GECOM having received copies of documents associated with the alleged voter impersonation, the Commission could not have investigated this issue, since, according to Article 163 (1) (b) of the Constitution, the only method by which such a matter could be ventilated is specifically by way of an election petition.
In view of the foregoing Article of the Constitution, there is absolutely no way that GECOM should be accused of ‘cover up of fraud’, as is the case in point. Accordingly, GECOM encourages all stakeholders to ensure that they conduct thorough legal research before publishing false information, since this type of misinformation and disinformation has potential to cause mistrust and lack of confidence in the Commission, and harm its officials.
Public Relations Officer Guyana Elections Commission
Page Foundation
Solving equations by addition and subtraction
You have learnt about the Equality Properties of Addition and Subtraction, which say that if you add or subtract a number to one side of an equation, you must add or subtract the same number to the other side of the equation. This rule is important when you are trying to solve equations that use addition and subtraction.
Examples:
Problem: x – 17 = 51. Find x Can you add 17 to the left side of the equation to leave x by itself? You can do that, but you also have to add 17 to the right side of the equation.
Step 1: Add the same number to both sides of the equation. x = 51 + 17
Step 2: Add 51 + 17 = 68. So x = 68
Problem: y + 10 = 22. Find y This time, you can subtract 10 from the left side of the equation to leave y by itself? But you also have to subtract 10 from the right side of the equation, too.
Step 1: Subtract the same number to both sides of the equation. y = 22 – 10
Step 2: Subtract 22 – 10 = 12. So y = 12
Exercises: Solve
1) x + 4 = 11 2) y – 4 = 10 3) 28 = x + 24 4) 2b + 20 = 26
ry this way, way, way festive DIY decoration idea. Creating a tissue paper pom pom garland is a perfect way to add some colour, texture, and fun to your celebration. It’s also a great craft to try.
You can choose your favourite colours, or use the favourite colours of the person you’re celebrating. Customize your garland so it’s just how you like it!
Materials
Tissue paper in a few different colours
Scissors
Twine or embroidery thread
Tape for hanging
Directions
1. Start by stacking eight sheets of tissue paper (you can also stack four and fold them over once so that it creates eight layers). Cut these stacked sheets so that they are 8” wide and 12”
long.
2. Next, fold one of the 8” ends over so that it creates a one-inch fold. This will be the start of an accordion fold. Now flip the stack over and fold that end backwards. Flip again and fold again, so that an accordion fold starts to occur.
3. Continue folding until you reach the end of the tissue paper and crease the edges so that they’re nice and flat.
4. Tie a 10” piece of twine or string around the centre
of the folded tissue papers. Leave the ends of the twine long for now.
5. Use scissors to cut both ends of the folded tissue paper into points.
6. Now, begin to unfold the paper on one side of the string. You’ll open up the accordion and separate the eight layers of tissue so that the paper begins to form a pom pom.
7. Repeat the process from Step 6 on the other side of the tissue paper, unfolding and separating the
layers to create a full, fluffy pom pom. Repeat Steps 1-7 until you have your desired number of pom poms.
8. Decide how long you’d like your garland to be and cut a piece of twine to that length. Then, use the remaining ends of twine that you used to tie each pom pom to secure the pom poms to the garland. Just tie the pom poms onto the garland with a double knot. Repeat until all of your pom poms are attached.
9. Once your garland is created, use tape to hang on your wall!
After your celebration, your tissue paper pom pom garland can be tucked away in storage and used again and again! Just put it in a cardboard box or plastic tub and bring it out when you need some extra party decor. You may need to fluff up the pom poms a bit each time. Have fun!
(Chelsea Foy, pbs.org)
By Henry Cuyler Bunner
What does he plant who plants a tree?
He plants a friend of sun and sky; He plants the flag of breezes free; The shaft of beauty, towering high; He plants a home to heaven anigh; For song and mother-croon of bird In hushed and happy twilight heard—
Holds all the growth of all our land— A nation’s growth from sea to sea Stirs in his heart who plants a tree.
$688.8M Brigadier Gary Beaton Aerodrome commissioned
…tribute to a man who lived, served in unyielding commitment to excellence – Edghill
In recognition of his unwavering commitment and service to the project, the Guyana Government on Thursday dedicated the newly-rehabilitated Eteringbang Airstrip in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) to the late Brigadier Gary Beaton.
Officially renamed the “Brigadier Gary Beaton Aerodrome”, this critical piece of infrastructure – located near the Guyana-Venezuela border – was upgraded to the tune of $688.8 million.
Brigadier Beaton was one of five soldiers who lost their lives in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) helicopter crash that occurred in December 2023. It was under his guidance as Commander of the Engineering Corps that works commenced in July 2022 to rehabilitate the airstrip, which was in a deplorable state and had restricted travel, economic progress, and other opportunities within the region.
According to Project Engineer, Lieutenant Colonel
late Brigadier Beaton is more than a symbolic gesture.
“It is tribute to a man who lived and served in unyielding commitment to excellence. It is also a celebration of a collaborative effort to transform this vital piece of infrastructure into a modern, resilient one that will serve generations to come,” he noted.
Collaboration was key to the realisation of this project, and the role of members of the community was acknowledged. According to Edghill, the project was made possible through efforts of the staff of the ministry, ranks of the GDF, private contractors, as well as community members who provided logistical support.
“The remoteness of Eteringbang required innovative solutions, such as using portable equipment transported by skyvans,” he explained, noting that some equipment had to be disassembled and flown-in in sections, and then reassembled.
“It is tribute to a man who lived and served in unyielding commitment to excellence. It is also a celebration of a collaborative effort to transform this vital piece of infrastructure into a modern, resilient one that will serve generations to come” – Juan Edghill
Bhageshwar Murli, “This airstrip was a dry-weather surface in a tropical forest where it rains almost every day.” As it deteriorated over the years, he explained, it became a disaster to utilise.
Now upgraded to an all-weather and 24-hour-access aerodrome, this airstrip – which features 610 metres of concrete runway with a design life of over 20 years – is expected to revitalise the lives of members of the Eteringbang community.
Delivering remarks at the dedication ceremony, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill explained that the renaming of this airstrip in honour of the
Edghill also explained that there were challenges with material shortages. Nevertheless, he outlined that many of these obstacles were mitigated by the strategic planning of the late Brigadier Beaton.
Tribute to excellence
“Gary Beaton was a master at making difficult things easy,” Edghill expressed.
In this regard, he emphasised that the newly-rehabilitated airstrip is more than just an infrastructure upgrade, but is rather a reflection of the late Brigadier Beaton’s values.
“[It] serves as a beacon of progress, a tribute to excel-
lence, and an enduring symbol of what we can achieve together,” he noted.
Recognising the challenges that were overcome by all those involved in the project, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Irfaan Ali, announced that honours should be given to those who saw it come to reality.
“I believe that too often we do not recognise properly the service that is given, and I would say that the appropriate border medal should be given to all those who served on this project in this important border location,” the Head of State announced.
At the dedication ceremony, the President also announced the commencement of a new project to be executed under the Public Works Ministry for the construction of a 450ft by 250ft all-purpose tarmac that would primarily be used for the safe parking of aircraft.
He also announced that the Government would be restoring the community contractors for the maintenance of the airstrip.
President Ali further announced the rollout of a number of agricultural projects that would benefit the community.
He also announced that Men on Mission (MOM) would start construction of a
much-needed fence for a school in the village. Moreover, the President said he would instruct a team from the Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) to visit the area before the end of next week with the aim of establishing a well.
Additionally, he assured that a health centre in the community would become operational soon.
Against this backdrop, he emphasised that the enhanced connectivity that would come from this airstrip would open up more opportunities for the communities in Region Seven.
“This facility would now lead to many other developments in the community,” the Head of State expressed, noting that the previous airstrip was in such a deplorable condition that it caused significant restrictions.
His legacy Member of Parliament Jennifer Westford, the widow of the late Brigadier Beaton, also delivered an address at the ceremony, recalling that her husband had spent “hours upon hours of his waking time thinking and working out the challenges of this particular project. This project really was
on his mind.”
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, also reflected on Brigadier Beaton’s dedication to service, noting, “He was my senior throughout my military career, and I’m honoured to call him not only my senior, but my brother.
“His legacy will live on at one of our most important border locations,” Brigadier Khan further remarked.
The airstrip has long been a cornerstone to Region Seven, serving a community of over 850 residents and supporting a number of activities, including mining operations. It attracted about 15-25 flights daily during its peak.
Currently, the airstrip can accommodate all aircraft operating on the local aviation market except the Beechcraft.
The rehabilitation of this airstrip is one of some 30 projects undertaken by the GDF Engineering Corps, in keeping with the President’s vision for the army to be more integrally involved in national development.
Moreover, rehabilitation of the airstrip is part of the Government’s plan to improve and expand hinterland travel. The Kaieteur, Paruima,
Orinduik, and Kaikan airstrips are all part of that expansion programme.
Meanwhile, Brigadier Beaton held various significant posts in the GDF, including Commanding Officer of the Four Engineers Battalion, Commander of the Engineer Corps, Adjunct General, and Commandant of the Guyana National Reserve.
He served in capacities at the First Infantry Battalion, Intelligence Corps, and Defence Headquarters. Throughout his years of service, Brigadier Beaton received numerous accolades, including the Border Defence, Military Efficiency, and anniversary medals (25th, 40th, and 50th), along with the Military Service Medal.
On December 6 last year, the Bell 412 helicopter with registration 8R-AYA left GDF Headquarters at Camp Ayanganna at 09:24h, and travelled 144 miles to Olive Creek, where it arrived at 10:27h.
After refuelling, the helicopter departed at 10:58h for a 58-mile journey to Arau, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) near Guyana’s border with Venezuela. However, contact was lost with the aircraft shortly after.
Based on reports, the helicopter suffered significant damage. Those who also lost their lives in the crash are Warrant Officer Class II Jason Khan, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Shahoud, Lieutenant Colonel Mike Charles, and Lieutenant Colonel Sean Welcome.
Two soldiers survived the crash: Corporal Dwayne Jackson and Lieutenant Andio Crawford.
The GDF had said the chopper was on a command trip to Arau, Macapa, and Eteringbang as part of Guyana’s response to an “imminent threat to our territory”. (G11)
The newly-rehabilitated Eteringbang Airstrip renamed the “Brigadier Gary Beaton Aerodrome” being unveiled on Thursday. In photo, Beaton’s wife Dr Jennifer Westford along with President Dr Irfaan Ali and Minister Juan Edghill look on
300,000 persons should receive $100K cash grant before year-end – VP
…as registration, distribution to roll over into 2025
As registration of citizens continues for the $100,000 cash grant initiative, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has revealed that only about 300,000 persons will receive their grants before the end of the year.
“The technical team has said that they can get about 300,000 persons registered before the end of the year… They told me they can cut about maybe 20,000 cheques per day,” Jagdeo told a news conference on Thursday.
He reminded that he already explained that the entire registration and distribution process should be completed in about five months.
“Not everyone will get it before Christmas,” Jagdeo said, but explained that the extra cash “might come in good after the Christmas.”
The Government is currently registering public servants and pensioners, after which the wider population would be targeted. Jagdeo explained that once this database has been established, the distribution of any future grants from the Government would become easier.
On Wednesday, the National Assembly approved a $30.5 billion supplementary provision for the distribution of the cash grant to every citizen 18 years and above.
An efficient four-step process governs this initiative. The first step is the registration exercise. Each community will have a registration schedule, essentially a list of dates, times, and locations that will serve as hubs for registration.
Technical teams with pre-programmed tablets would be dispatched to gather persons’ data. The second stage is the verification of the registrants, followed by the cutting of cheques. A distribution schedule would then be published, and these cheques would be disbursed in the same locations where registration occurred.
To register, individuals must present their valid National Identification Cards (ID) or valid passports. Photocopies will not be accepted. These official documents are the only acceptable forms of identification used to confirm that the appli-
cant is a Guyanese citizen aged 18 or older, making them eligible to receive the cash grant.
During registration, a photo of the applicant will be taken to verify their physical presence and ensure that the person who collects the cash grant is the same individual who registered.
Additionally, a photo of the applicant’s ID or passport would be taken to verify that the information on the document matches the person registering. These measures seek to prevent any attempts to defraud the system or ma-
nipulate the process.
Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, recently explained that Government would not force anyone to have their photos taken.
“We are not, of course, compelling anybody to have their picture taken. You do have the option not to have your picture taken, but if you do exercise your right to not have your picture taken, you will not be registered,” Dr Singh had contended. (G11)
Giving…
…thanks?
Yesterday, the Yanks celebrated “Thanksgiving”. This is peculiarly American ritual; the Canadian version, coming a bit earlier, is simply another instance of the Canuks imitating the Yanks and pretending they’re original!! As to its origins, we’re told that the early settlers from England – the “Pilgrim Fathers” who landed at Plymouth Rock – shared their autumn harvest in 1621 with a tribe of native Indians in the vicinity.
Yes…as with the story of young George Washington being unable to tell a lie (“It was me that cut down the cherry tree, Dad”!!), Americans have a knack for creating self-serving myths!! If the truth be told, those Pilgrims had to’ve been helped by those Indians to cultivate the new crops of that locale, like pumpkins - and certainly about the turkeys that have now become ineluctably tied to American Thanksgiving.
Americans would’ve wolfed down some 44 million turkeys yesterday – and kept leftovers for the rest of this week!! These American turkeys, we should remember, are like our (small) sheep in size – most are over 20 lbs!! Those were very early days for British colonization in the “New World” - and it’s good to know it was the same year the Dutch launched their first settlement up the Essequibo River!! But unlike what the Dutch had done here, the Indians of America were eventually all displaced from the lands they’d lived on for thousands of years - as a reward for their hospitality!!
The notion of giving “thanks” – which would morph into “thanks-giving” – is Biblical, and emphasizes that the Pilgrims were self-righteously declaring that it was their God who’d given them the land and its bounty!! The Indians could then be thrown out at will!!
Like with the Jews in Israel, once the land is given by God – even if it’s the Israelis saying so!! – then you can even launch genocides to keep the land and its bounties!!
The other thing to note is that while Americans insist that “Thanksgiving” is a “secular holiday”, its roots are as Biblical as believing in a Virgin Birth or “Immaculate Conception”!!
With all of us Guyanese having relatives and friends living in America – especially in New York City – we’ve probably all partaken in Thanksgiving feasts when visiting.
But your Eyewitness is still taken aback by some Guyanese starting to celebrate the occasion here in our dear old Mudland. At a minimum, almost every restaurant would feature a “Thanksgiving menu”!! Your Eyewitness wants to go on record as declaring that he considers eating baked turkey only slightly less unpleasant than eating cardboard!! But he’s pretty certain that the American Culture Festival, on this Saturday at the Promenade Gardens - which promises a REAL “immersive” American experience in celebrating the best of American culture - gotta have some of that leftover turkey!!
…warning to Mad Maduro
Following hard on the heels of the passage of the bipartisan BOLIVAR Act (Banning Operations and Leases with the Illegitimate Venezuelan Authoritarian Regime) by the US House of Representatives, which awaits Senate approval, the “lame duck” Biden Administration is quacking and waddling strenuously to pre-empt Trump’s expected hard-line stance towards Mad Maduro in Venezuela. That administration has already announced officially that the self-exiled Gonzalez – a stand-in for the banned Maria Machado - was the “presidentelect”, following Mad Maduro’s elections rigging – proven by his refusal to show his voting tallies!!
The administration’s just announced new sanctions that target twenty-one cronies who are propping up the illegal regime. These include FIFTEEN leaders of the Bolivarian National Guard, Bolivarian National Police, the Bolivarian National Intelligence Service, Bolivarian Militia, and the General Directorate of Military Counterintelligence!Whoa!! Who’s left from the regime?
The only thing left for Biden to do in order to pre-empt Trump is maybe cancel the licences they’d given to Chevron and a few European companies to work with PDVSA to lift and ship oil.
Whaks!!
…Opposition
Late on Wednesday, the Opposition grilled the Government in the National Assembly over Government’s proposed $84BILLION supplementary spending – including the $100,000 payout. This is salutary, even though the Govt got the votes to have their way!!
Voters are listening!!
Water tanks, zinc sheets for Itabac to combat dry weather – Pres Ali
…community to get aquaculture cages to grow fish
President Dr Irfaan Ali on Thursday outlined a series of interventions to assist the village of Itabac and other satellite communities in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) in a number of areas, including agriculture.
Addressing a community meeting in that Region Eight village, the Head of State took note of the current dry weather conditions in Itabac and offered relief assistance.
“You have 69 households,[and] I want to send 69 black tanks, (one) for each household. But I not only want to send 69 black tanks, I want to ensure that each of you can convert a piece of your roof into zinc sheets, so that you can harvest the rainwater. So, I’m going to send 15 zinc sheets for each family. Each household will get the black tank and zinc sheets…,” he explained.
The President went on to announce another important intervention, this time in relation to agricultural activities in the community. He informed the residents that
Government, through the Agriculture Ministry, would introduce aquaculture cages to expand fishing in the community.
“We have the aquaculture cages that you can use to grow the fish in the cage. We have it in Mainstay, in Kapoey, and (in) many other hinterland communities. We’re gonna send two of those cages for you here, so you can use it to grow your fish and aquaculture here,” he related in response to a request made by a resident.
In fact, during the engagement with those gathered at the meeting, President Ali addressed a number of issues raised, including a request for the upgrading of community roads. He said that, within two weeks, a bulldozer and grader would be in the villages to grade and maintain the roads.
The Head of State also indicated that he has asked the Regional Engineer to come up with an estimate to extend the Itabac health post, which the community has outgrown. He added that the
battery system would also be extended to store more solar power for the health facility, and further, he committed to providing a solar fridge to store vaccines before the end of this year.
The President also announced that a sanitary block, as requested, would be constructed for the community.
Instructions were also given for the Region Eight Administration to immediately commence repairing the community’s school, which was built in 2019 under the previous Coalition Government and now has cracked walls and damaged gutters.
In addition to promising musical and sporting equipment to Itabac youths, the Guyanese Leader committed to procuring a vehicle to
transport children in one of the satellite villages to school. This will be done in the 2025 national budget.
Similarly, the President asked that an estimate
be done for construction of a heavy-duty bridge at Kanapang next year. Another issue raised by a representative of the Kanapang Village Council was the need for
Government’s intervention to engage Brazilian authorities on the free movement of citizens along the borders between the two countries.
President Dr Irfaan Ali at Itabac, Region Eight
A section of the gathering at the meeting at Itabac, Region Eight
UG facility, miscellaneous fees also abolished – Manickchand
Education Minister Priya Manickchand has revealed that in addition to Government’s Student Loan WriteOff Programme, starting January 2025, all facilities and miscellaneous fees for students of the University of Guyana (UG) would be abolished.
Speaking during the 89th Sitting of the National Assembly, Minister Manickchand affirmed that this decision complements the previously announced abolition of tuition fees, and coincides with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) manifesto promise of free tertiary education for all eligible Guyanese.
“I am very happy to say to you that this free university education relates to both tuition as well as miscellaneous costs that ordinarily would have (been) passed on to the student learner at the university,” the minister explained.
Minister Manickchand, who was at the time defending the Education Ministry’s request for a subvention of $1.1 billion
through Financial Paper No 4, explained that the sum is necessary to ensure the continued operation of the university’s Turkeyen and Berbice campuses as they prepare to transition to a fee-free model. “This is the amount that will meet the costs of the university from now until the end of December,” she clarified.
Abolishing the payment of fees at UG would not only ease financial burdens on students, but would also position Guyana as a leader in education reform in the region. This initiative, coupled with the Student Loan Write-Off Programme, is expected to launch the country into a transformative era in education, opening doors of opportunity to thousands of citizens, and setting the stage for sustained national development.
Already Guyanese are benefitting from the loan write-off, and with additional measures being rolled out to improve the ease of access to the initiative by prospective beneficiaries, more are said to come on board.
The new measures an-
nounced recently by Finance and Public Service Minister Dr Ashni Singh include the full online submission of applications through the Ministry of Finance website at https://studentloanwriteoff.gov.gy/apply/new.
In addition, with imme-
diate effect, drop boxes will be placed at all 10 Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Offices countrywide, as well as at the Education Ministry’s office at 26 Brickdam, Georgetown and at the University of Guyana Tain Campus in Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), to facilitate the submission of hard copy application forms.
Moreover, via any post office, applicants may also mail in their applications to
the Student Loan Agency. Persons using this method are advised to address their envelopes to: Student Loan Agency, PO Box 101544, Georgetown, and state their names and addresses behind the envelopes.
Application forms will also be available at all RDC and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) offices countrywide.
In May of this year, the Government announced its Student Loan Write-Off
Programme – an initiative that would see student loans to the tune of $18 billion being written off. Further, tuition fees at all Government technical and vocational training institutes, including the Guyana Industrial Training Centre, the Guyana School of Agriculture, and the Carnegie School of Home Economics, have been abolished. This expanded measure is slated to benefit over 3000 additional persons. It also forms part of the Government’s broader initiative to enhance human capital development in order to reduce inequality and improve access to education for every Guyanese citizen.
In its 2024 Mid-Year Report, which was released in August, the Ministry of Finance had reported that some 346 students had already had their loans — amounting to $203.7 million — written off. Beneficiaries of this phase are former students who were able to prove they had completed their course of study and had graduated; and after graduation, have been employed or self-employed in Guyana for a minimum of three years, as evidenced by a minimum of 156 contributions made to the National Insurance Scheme.
Education Minister Priya Manickchand
Coast Guard recover 99.5 kg ganja dumped overboard during river pursuit
Members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guards who were on patrol duty aboard the Metal Shark vessel in the Demerara River have retrieved some 99.54 kilograms of cannabis that had been dumped from a wooden boat.
The police have said that Coast Guard ranks on Thursday observed two or three occupants on board a red-and-black wooden boat
that was propelled by a 15HP outboard engine in the Demerara River. However, upon seeing the Coast Guards, the occupants began to throw several bulky parcels overboard, even as this boat proceeded into the channel near the Vreed-enHoop Stelling area.
The Coast Guard vessel then travelled to the area where the occupants were discarding the parcels and found six bulky salt bags
floating in the river. Upon inspection, each bag contained numerous smaller packages wrapped in transparent plastic and containing cannabis.
The Coast Guards retrieved these items and returned to their headquarters. They then acquired a smaller boat and went back
Domestic violence suspect shot after allegedly pulling gun on cops
Quincy Morris of Sophia, Greater Georgetown has been shot and injured after he allegedly resisted lawful arrest and pulled a gun on police ranks who were attempting to arrest him.
Based on what the police have reported, the 25-yearold Morris was at the centre of a domestic dispute on Wednesday, and two police ranks on mobile patrol duty were called to assist the ranks at Turkeyen Police Station to respond to a report of domestic violence committed on an 18-yearold female sales representative of ‘E’ Field Sophia. At about 21:00h, the teenager accompanied the ranks to the home of the suspect Morris, whom she accused of assaulting her, but his sisters informed the ranks that he was not at home. However, as the ranks were leaving, Morris was seen approaching the house with about 20 other males.
He was told of the al-
to the channel near Vreeden-Hoop, where they located the boat and engine, now abandoned, and transported same to the Coast Guard Headquarters at Ruimveldt in Georgetown.
The cannabis was weighed and amounted to 99.54 kilograms. Nobody has as yet been arrested.
legation made against him, and the police attempted to arrest him. Morris, however, resisted arrest, and told the ranks, “I am not going anywhere! This is Sophia!” He then allegedly pulled a handgun from his pants waist and pointed it at the ranks, and one of the ranks drew his 9mm service pistol and discharged a round in Morris’s direction, causing him to fall to the ground.
The group of men who had come with Morris immediately encircled the two police ranks, and one of them retrieved the firearm which Morris had and fled the scene with it.
Morris was taken by the ranks to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he is presently under police guard while being administered treatment for a gunshot wound to his upper thigh.
Several persons have since been questioned as police continue their investigation into this incident.
The boat from which the cannabis was dumped
The ganja that was retrieved from the river
Guyana sets aside $123M in humanitarian aid for Haiti, CARICOM nations
In a move designed to show regional solidarity, the National Assembly on Wednesday approved $123 million in humanitarian aid for Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nations grappling with crises ranging from natural disasters to escalating violence. Haiti is included among the intended recipients.
In remarks he made at the 89th Sitting of the National Assembly, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd highlighted that the subvention coincides with Government’s support and efforts aimed at restoring regional stability.
Providing clarity on how this sum would be expended, Todd explained that most of this money would be dispatched to Haiti in aid, given that clashes between
armed gangs, the police, and civilians armed with machetes has intensified in recent days. The remainder of this money would address the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl, which has ravaged several small-island developing states (SIDS) in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) earlier this year.
“President Ali, who is also CARICOM’s lead on humanitarian efforts… we have undertaken, as a Government and people, to make a donation in kind to the Haitian people”, he said.
“Secondly, you’ll recall, Mr Speaker, that in June/ July, we had the Category Four Hurricane Beryl, which had a devasting effect on OECS countries. Guyana stepped up as usual, and apart from sending support in terms of rebuilding ef-
forts, we also made contributions to OECS countries; and that accounts for the sums you’re seeing there,” Todd detailed.
Just a few days ago, Heads of Government of Caribbean nations met in Guyana to discuss the issues of crime and gang violence in the region, including ongoing events in Hati.
Between 2019 and 2024, regional security budgets have increased by 154 per cent, redirecting substantial resources away from critical sectors, like healthcare and public services, ultimately depriving citizens of essential services.
According to a United
Nations (UN) report, between January and March of this year, more than 2,500 people have been killed or wounded across Haiti, while at least 220 people, including 115 gang members, were killed in more than a dozen coordinated attacks between November 11 and 19. This violence has sent citizens into different parts of the country, further compounding the challenges of a shortage of food, water and other essential items faced by the people of Haiti.
Haiti, long plagued by political instability, is now battling an alarming surge in gang violence.
Recall of humanitarian support
The escalating violence in Haiti has also reportedly prompted the UN to evacuate its staff from Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince.
A recent news article published by Al Jazeera revealed that “a UN helicopter on Monday ferried evacuees – 14 at a time – from the capital to the northern city of Cap-Haitien, with some scheduled to take flights out of the country; and this comes after the main international airport in Portau-Prince was closed due to commercial flights being hit by gunfire while landing and taking off earlier this month”.
The report further stated that Doctors Without Borders, known by its French initials MSF, also announced late last week that it was suspending critical care in Port-au-Prince, as it accused police of targeting its staff and patients, including with threats of rape and death.
Meanwhile, Food for the Poor (FFTP), which runs feeding programmes in Haiti, has said it would no longer be able to make regular deliveries of food because of gang disruptions, noting the closure of the airport and gang roadblocks that make access to the main seaports “extremely hazardous”. (G1)
Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd
People are fleeing their homes to escape gang violence in Port-au-Prince, Haiti (News Central photo)
Guyana invests $20M to boost tourism potential in South Rupununi
While the North Rupununi has been developed to a stage where it is tourism-worthy, the South Rupununi is now gradually progressing with substantial development, including $20 million invested over the last three years.
It took several decades for the South Rupununi to reach its current stage, and what is being done now with partners in a highly technical ecosystem is aimed at ensuring that the South Rupununi community would be on par with the North within the next couple of years.
This message was relayed by Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh, to some 15 media operatives during a media familiarization trip to Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) earlier this week.
Baksh has said that since the onset of the COVID-19
pandemic, investments have been in the works for the South Rupununi region.
“We have been working on a special program for the South Rupununi as a tourism circuit. We’ve been working formally with the circuit for about three years now, just after COVID-19, and part of this familiarization trip will highlight several of the products we’ve been working on.” Baksh has said.
Properties such as Wichita Bay and Saddle Mountain provide accommodation, Baksh explained, and efforts are being made to create new experiences for the South Rupununi community.
The North Rupununi has received extensive support, but the South also offers incredible products. Through the Product Development Division, efforts are underway to create more experiential offerings for those wishing to
explore this region deeper into Guyana.
The $20 million injected into the tourism project is not a one-time contribution, but would be ongoing, as other sums of money would soon be expended in it.
“So far, we have invested over $20 million into the circuit over the last two to three years. We will continue to support the South Rupununi community because we believe that the value propositions the South offers to Guyana’s overall tourism product is immense,” he said.
So far, the Moray-Moray experience at Katoonarib has been completed, among other initiatives. These areas are key to providing visitors with a firsthand experi-
ence of Indigenous activities such as the making of cassava bread making. Visitors can also engage in weaving or plaiting, and gain an indepth view of arrow-making, all of which are vital cultural practices for the South Rupununi community.
To further enhance these efforts, support from other stakeholders has also been received.
“We are also very supportive of the work that Visitor Rupununi has been doing and continues to do. There is a new executive, and we will strengthen ties to continue the good work
in South Rupununi. This would ensure that, in the coming years, with the communities and private ranches, elevation of the product can be done in an accelerated manner.”
Other sources of funding have also contributed to the ministry’s efforts. “We are supporting that venture, and I must add that we have enjoyed great partnerships with Compete Caribbean, who supported us on this project here in the South. They have committed and pledged to provide more funding for product development, training and mar-
keting in the next cycle… Over the next two years, we will work very closely with them and all the partners in South Rupununi to continue building out the strong product that the South has,” he said.
Baksh also discussed the strategies for targeting both the Guyanese market and international markets for tourism promotion. Speaking to a reporter from this publication, he revealed that one of the efforts to increase awareness was the media familiarization trip, to get the public acquainted with the region so that they can help publicize it to a larger audience.
“I think it starts with you, (the media) that’s what we do with the local media familiarisation group here. By hosting local media, we can showcase these products on their platforms and familiarise Guyanese with them; that’s one key area of recognition. For international markets, of course, this is why we attend global trade shows. We were just at the World Travel Market, and we continue to work with our market representation firms globally. Once international tour operators are here, we ensure they add these experiences to their itineraries. That’s how we do it,” he has said.
GTA Director Kamrul Baksh speaking to media operatives
Media operatives during engagements at the media familiarisation trip (Tourism Ministry photo)
VP Jagdeo slams Norton, Hughes for dodging accountability, spreading falsehoods
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has issued a scathing critique of Opposition Leaders Aubrey Norton, leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), and Nigel Hughes, leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), accusing them of deliberately avoiding scrutiny, and of spreading divisive falsehoods.
During his weekly press conference on Thursday, VP Jagdeo accused the Opposition figures of em-
ploying evasive tactics to shield themselves from tough questions that might expose inconsistencies in their narratives. He took particular aim at Hughes for claiming that AfroGuyanese men disappeared during the tenure of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) when he, Jagdeo, served as president.
“And whilst we’re talking about believability, I still hope that I’ve seen the rumours again resurface that when the media
meets Nigel Hughes and the AFC that they will ask him about the 1,200 persons that he said disappeared, AfroGuyanese men who disappeared under the PPP. A blatant lie, but he has peddled that once again in 2024. A lie that he and others of his ilk carried on for many, many years to keep people away from us, saying that we were targeting young black men. And he has repeated that lie again,” the VP said.
Condemning Hughes and the AFC for perpetuating this falsehood, and calling on the media to confront Hughes with evidence debunking these claims, the Vice President said, “I pointed out about the Stabroek News article, and so I hope that he’s confronted with the article; because he’s prone to stretch the truth, Nigel Hughes, and in a very dishonest manner; and he should be given an opportunity by the media to clarify it, and say where he got that figure from. So, I hope the next time he surfaces at the press conference…
“I notice they have now been hiding from their press conferences. Like how, you know, routinely we have a Thursday press conference, whether there is a tough issue in the media or an easy week for us, we come out
routinely. We deal with people directly, like the media is here; they give links that are fake. They sometimes live stream things after the press conference to avoid questions,” Jagdeo disclosed.
VP also criticized the AFC Leader for repeatedly
misinterpreting democratic principles, particularly the concept of a parliamentary majority, a matter that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has already clarified.
“This [Thursday] morning in court, he tried to relitigate the issue that was settled at the CCJ, claiming that 34 basically is the ma-
jority of 65, which the CCJ has ruled on already. He’s still stuck in that time warp, and doesn’t understand. Last week when I spoke, he hurriedly put out something to say, ‘Oh, what if 65 members?’ I explained that a simple majority is a majority of the members present at that sitting. So, if 50 were to show up, then 26 would be the majority, so you can pass a law. If the same 50 were to show up for a no confidence motion, you can’t pass the no confidence motion with 26 votes,” he added.
Jagdeo called on the leaders of these opposition parties to engage transparently with the press and the public, emphasizing that accountability is essential in fostering unity and progress in Guyana.
On this point, he stated emphatically, “The public deserves the truth, and it’s time for these leaders to face the reality of their lies.” (G1)
Water tanks, zinc sheets for Itabac ...
“Please President, ensure that your government assist us with the monitoring of the international boundary in terms of bilateral negotiation. Please let us know what’s going on with our neighbouring [country], because that’s where we’re being [restrained with movement],” the village council representative pleaded.
In response, President Ali indicated that Government would engage the Brazilian authorities on this matter.
“We’re also gonna send the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to talk to the Brazilian authorities and talk to you in the village to see how we can facilitate better cooperation over the border and along the bor-
der,” he stated.
The Head of State also committed to having the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) send in a technical team to train and support Kanapang in mining activities, as requested. He also indicated that a Border Police Unit would be established early next year, and Rural Constables (RCs) in those border communities would be incorporated into that unit so that they can benefit from receipt of a stipend.
President Ali also told the Itabac community that Government would work with the Regional Administration to source materials for the rehabili-
tation of the local airstrip, which he said would be done by the village.
“I want the jobs to come right here. I want you guys to work on building it, and we provide the materials and technical support. So, we’re gonna do the airstrip – concrete it, but with your support,” he stated.
Similarly, the Guyanese Leader informed Orinduik residents that the GDF would soon move to upgrade the airstrip there into a fully concrete airstrip, and efforts are also being made to get investors to build out a guest house to improve tourism in that community, which houses a magnificent waterfall.
Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), Aubrey Norton
Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), Nigel Hughes
50 Guyanese businesses, 38 laboratories now certified by GNBS
The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has awarded certification to B&R Products under its ‘Permit to Use the Made in Guyana
criteria for the certification programme, and its benefits to promoting local content and elevating authentic Guyanese products.
Owner of this agri-pro-
Exhibition Complex in Sophia, Georgetown. In accomplishing this milestone, she gave thanks to her parents, GNBS, and her family for helping her along the
Certification Mark’ programme, thus raising the total number of locally-certified manufacturers to 50.
B&R Products, of Auchlyne, Corentyne, Berbice, is one of 24 companies sponsored by the Industry, Tourism and Commerce Ministry under a special project for the certification of women-led businesses.
In a release on Thursday, the GNBS said B&R Products is now permitted to use the GNBSapproved Made in Guyana Standards Mark on its mango achar, pepper sauce, coconut oil, dried peppers, satwa and pickles under the Intrinsic Quality brand name.
B&R Products would also receive technical assistance and training on the
cessing business, Budwatty Ramnarine, received its certification from GNBS Technical Officer Rosmarie Liliah at the GNBS Meeting Room at the National
way, as it was no easy task to complete.
“When I received the call to proceed with certification, I was very happy; because it took a lot of pa-
tience and hard work to get my business to this stage. I must say working with the GNBS is very good; the staff is very amazing, they are very helpful,” Ramnarine noted.
In November, the GNBS certified two new laboratories to the National Standard ‘GYS 170:2021 - Requirements for Operations of a laboratory.’
And on November 5, the GNBS certified Executive Medical Clinic Laboratory located at 345 East Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown. Consultant Lendon Wilson, who worked
with the laboratory to get it certified, relayed that certification can only be credited to the handwork and discipline displayed by everyone on the program.
Laboratory Administrator Theon Bourne highlighted that this recognition would help the facility to expand its clientele while delivering accurate and reliable test results.
Both laboratories also received plaques from the GNBS to display to their customers as an indication of their certification status.
The certification is valid for two years, during which
there will be surveillance visits to ensure consistent compliance with the requirements of the standard.
The certificate was also handed over by GNBS Technical Officer Rosmarie Liliah to Quality Manager Naressa Abrams.
The second laboratory - New Vision Medical Center Inc. Laboratory –was certified on Wednesday, November 20.
The certificate was handed over by Head of Certification (Ag), Keon Rankin, to Chief Operation Officer Bradley Chin at the laboratory’s 176 Middle Street, Georgetown location.
Owner and CEO of B&R Products, Budwatty Ramnarine, and her daughter Adelia Ramnarine proudly displaying the GNBS-approved Made in Guyana Certificate alongside the certified products
Some products manufactured by B&R Products, certified GNBSapproved & Made in Guyana
Management and staff of New Vision Medical Centre Inc Laboratory proudly posing with GNBScertified stickers and GYS 170 Certificate and Plaque
Management and staff of Executive Medical Clinic Laboratory eagerly displaying GNBS certificate, plaque and stickers
“I don’t pay too much attention to unverified allegations” – Jagdeo …says
AG Nandlall enjoys PPP’s confidence
General Secretary of the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, on Thursday said the social media accusations made against Attorney General Anil Nandlall are unsubstantiated, and that he does not “pay too much attention” to “unverified allegations”.
US-based Guyanese Melissa Atwell, popularly known as ‘Melly Mel’, used her social media page to allege that Nandlall has been a government mole. Nandlall has since denied
the allegations and filed a $100 million defamation lawsuit against Atwell.
Asked to comment on the situation during his press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo explained that he also has been a victim of unverified allegations.
“I don’t pay too much attention to unverified allegations. I myself have been subjected to this for years,” Jagdeo outlined, adding that “for the past 20 years, I’ve had to fight off all sorts of things. It has been a long haul for me, so when I get
verified info -- and we have our means of verifying information, too -- that’s when we act on them. But so far, I’ve not dealt with any unverified information,” Jagdeo, who is also the country’s Vice President, added.
According to the PPP GS, “If there’s solid proof, that’s a different matter; but as of now, Anil Nandlall enjoys my confidence as general secretary of the party.”
Nandlall recently dismissed concerns that the allegations would have an impact on his political career by stating, “It’s absolute nonsense! It has no credibility, and I challenge her and anyone else to prove me wrong!”
Defamation
lawsuit
The attorney general had also challenged Atwell to present her case before the courts.
“She will hopefully come to the court, or be represented, and produce whatever evidence she has. You have seen days have passed, and where is this volume of evidence that she has that connects me to her?”
Nandlall has maintained that, “I don’t know the woman. I don’t speak to
the woman. I’ve never met the woman.”
In addition to $100 million in damages being sought by the suit, which was filed last Friday, Nandlall is seeking an injunction against Melly Mel to prevent future publication of defamatory posts; and is also seeking an order for Melly Mel to remove the existing posts from her Facebook page.
Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar, had only in August filed a $50 million lawsuit against Atwell and against the Alliance For Change (AFC) Parliamentarian Sherod Duncan over defamatory statements made during a
Facebook live programme, ‘Credible Sources’, on August 2, 2024.
Back in 2019, Atwell also had a $100 million lawsuit filed against her by the Dr Balwant Singh Hospital, for tarnishing the hospital’s reputation via social media posts. And reports emerged last year that several cybercrime charges have been filed against her with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) over her social media publications. The complainants had reportedly included politicians and senior police officers.
Government has announced its intention to revise the Cyber Crime Act of 2018 to clamp down on the use of social media as a weapon that causes damage to people’s reputation, people’s character, and that of their families.
In announcing the revision of the Act a few months ago, the Attorney General had explained that the amendments will be tailored according to the United Nations (UN) Convention relative to the use of cyberspace – a convention that is currently being drafted with Guyana’s input. In making the announcement, Nandlall
had said, “Something has to be done about the use of the social media as a weapon against the citizens of this country…A government cannot stand idly by in the face of such onslaught on its citizens.”
Jagdeo has already dismissed concerns that the revision will infringe on citizens’ freedom of speech, explaining that the new law is intended to target criminals. Criminals he referred to includes “people who like to extort [others] using cyber space…or people who like exploiting people [like] taking a photo and blackmailing people for all sorts of reasons. People who exploit our children like child pornography and those things.” (G11)
General Secretary of the PPP, Bharrat Jagdeo
Melissa ‘Melly Mel’ Atwell
Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall
“There
are numerous opportunities” – Reg 5 Chair -tells students to elevate educational pursuits
Chairman of Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), Vickchand Ramphal, has urged secondary school graduates to take advantage of the numerous opportunities available in Guyana to further their education.
“Don’t sit with your couple subjects and relax, there are numerous opportunities available…,” he told top CSEC [Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate] and CAPE [Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination] 2024 performers in the region.
He was at the time speaking at Region Five’s Annual Awards Ceremony for top performers at CAPE, CSEC, and the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), held on Thursday at Immanuel Multi-Purpose Hall at Hopetown, West Coast Berbice.
Ramphal pointed out that there is the GOAL scholarship programme through which students can obtain a diploma, degree, or PhD from one of several universities worldwide.
“The Government will pay for it, and once you have stable internet, you can study right from your home and become qualified,” Ramphal told the students.
He also noted that the University of Guyana is now offering all courses free, and he encouraged students to further their studies.
He told students that the new Bath Hospital which will soon come into operation will employ more than 200 persons from the region.
“And some of you who wrote the CSEC will be employed there. Currently, there is training ongoing for persons to work at that hospital. Not only will persons work directly, but there will be many other opportunities that will exist around that environment. There will be a need for persons to provide taxi services, a need for persons to prepare meals. So, you can open a catering business or a small snackette; there are opportunities for every single one of you right here in Region Five. Apart from that, we will be having two call centres; one in Mahaicony and one in this part of the region… When those two projects are completed,
there will be over 400 persons from Region Five that will be employed there,” Ramphal detailed.
“Parents, I am saying all of this to give you that assurance that, when your child leaves school, there is something meaningful for them to do; and we need your support and guidance to take them through and along the path,” the Chairman added.
The Region’s top 10 CSEC, top 10 NGSA, and top six CAPE students were awarded for their outstanding achievements. Additionally, a special award was given to the region’s top Special Education Needs Disability (SEND) student, Shivkumar
Jaggernauth.
The Department of Education also acknowledged the contributions of 16 teachers who have over 30 years of service, and 11 who recently retired.
Three schools in the region with over 50 percent pass in the core subjects at NGSA were also honoured. Those schools are Mortice
Primary, Zealand Primary, and Augsburg Primary.
Nation builders
Meanwhile, Director of School Boards of the Education Ministry, Volika Jaikishun, called on parents to support their children as she referred to them as the nation’s builders.
“Today we recognise and celebrate the efforts of our educators who have dedicated their lives to this noble profession of teaching. Their perseverance, patience, and passion for education have made a lasting impact on countless amounts of students. Your long service to the education sector is a testimony of your unwavering commitment to our nation’s future leaders,” she expressed.
In a word of advice, Jaikishun said parents should continue to be role models to their children.
“Continue to be that support until you take your last breath…Visit school regularly, check on them, check their books, check their phones, their computers, so you can know what they are doing,” she said.
Directly addressing the students, she said today is their opportunity to build the tomorrow they want. Jaikishun, a former Regional Education Officer of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), mentioned five pillars which, if implemented in their daily lives, would assist in guiding them through both challenges and triumphs. These are: to be truthful, righteous, peaceful, loving, and to avoid violence. (G4)
Some Region Five top students at the graduation ceremony
Regional Massive drug bust leads to discovery of new SA trafficking route with “narco subs”
Authorities from dozens of countries seized over 225 metric tons of cocaine in a six-week mega-operation where they unearthed a new Pacific trafficking route from South America to Australia, the Colombian Navy said Wednesday.
Officials said they had also seized “increasingly sophisticated” drug-laden semisubmersibles – better known as “narco subs” – that can travel 10,000 miles without refuelling.
The latest phase of global naval operation “Orion” resulted in the seizure of more than 1400 tons of drugs, including over 225 tons of cocaine and 128 tons
of marijuana, Navy official Orlando Enrique Grisales told reporters.
More than 400 people were arrested in the operation targeting oceans, coasts, rivers and ports around the globe in October and November.
“This is perhaps the largest seizure of cocaine in transit made by Colombia in history,” Colombian President Gustavo Petro said on social media.
The massive bust involved the security agencies of the United States, Brazil, Spain, the Netherlands and several other nations, as well as multiple international organizations.
The seizure deprived
drug cartels of more than US$8.4 billion, according to a Navy statement.
Grisales said officials also seized a semisubmersible wood-and-fibre glass vessel on its way to Australia with five tons of Colombian cocaine.
The latest “Orion” operation also uncovered previously-unknown alliances between cartels from Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru with groups from Europe and Oceania.
“It is not just a pyramid structure as the cartels once were. Today they are organised crime networks joined together,” said Grisales.
(Excerpt from CBS News)
Kamla stands firm on deportation threat
Opposition Leader Kamla PersadBissessar is not deterred by sentiments to her stated position on the deportation of migrants who commit crimes in Trinidad and Tobago.
Instead, she said in a November 28 statement, “I stand solidly by my previous comments on the deportation of migrant criminals and reaffirm them.”
Her statement was provoked by the abduction and murder of Winston Thomas, 69, who was beaten, robbed, kidnapped, stabbed in the head and murdered by perpetrators believed to be Venezuelan nationals.
“Instead of standing up for our citizens’ safety, we see lunatic ministers and commentators politically simping (sympathetic) for criminals with fake outrage about xenophobia and hatred,” she said.
Reiterating that the well-being and safety of citizens must always come first, she said it was astounding Foreign Affairs Minister Amery Browne, Finance Minister Colm Imbert and National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds would adopt such a position.
Hinds led the charge against Persad-Bissessar explaining Government had a clear Migrant Registration
Framework Policy and already deports those migrants running afoul of the Immigration Act and other laws.
Saying her statements were “unfortunate and inflammatory” and “a reckless outburst”, Hinds advanced that building a more inclusive society necessitated that individuals were viewed as part of a wider community, rather than being defined by their nationality. Especially in circumstances where Government has permitted thousands the option of being here legally.
Legal or illegal, he clarified, immigrants have al-
ways been deported once they breach the laws.
Concurring with Hinds’ statements, Browne accused Persad-Bissessar of contradicting previous positions when she beseeched Government to do more to help law-abiding Venezuelan nationals to integrate into life in T&T.
Imbert described her comments as “madness” saying she previously demanded they all be accepted “carte blanche without question.
“Now all of a sudden, she wants to deport them en masse?”
(Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)
Cuba decrees contingency plan, new restrictions as energy crisis deepens
Cuba this week asked State and private businesses to generate more of their own electricity from renewable resources and to limit their use of air conditioning, among other conservation measures, as the communist-run Government navigates its worst energy crisis in decades.
The new regulations, summarised in a 16-page decree published on Tuesday, give top energy consumers in both the public and private sector three years to install renewable energy sources capable of produc-
ing at least 50 per cent of the electricity they consume during daylight hours.
If an office building or factory can’t accommodate solar panels, businesses will instead be required to contract with the Government for a portion of its installed renewable energy capacity.
The decree also establishes an array of new conservation measures, including a rule prohibiting state and private businesses on the Caribbean island from using “climate control units in non-technological offices, at temperatures below 24C (75.2F)”.
The increasingly restrictive measures come as Cuba’s electrical grid teeters on the edge of collapse. Multiple, island-wide blackouts in October and November left millions of people in the dark for days. Rolling blackouts continue nationwide as Cuba struggles to source the fuel and spare parts it needs to generate enough electricity to meet demand.
The Government blames US sanctions and a festering economic crisis for the increasingly tense situation.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
From eyesore to asset: How a smelly seaweed could fuel cars
Biologist Shamika Spencer was delighted when a test using sargassum to fuel a car was successful
When large swathes of invasive seaweed started washing up on Caribbean beaches in 2011, local residents were perplexed.
Soon, mounds of unsightly sargassum – carried by currents from the Sargasso Sea and linked to climate change – were carpeting the region’s prized coastlines, repelling holidaymakers with the pungent stench emitted as it rots.
Precisely how to tackle it was a dilemma of unprecedented proportions for the tiny tourism-reliant islands with limited resources.
In 2018, Barbados’s Prime Minister Mia Mottley declared sargassum a national emergency.
Now, a pioneering group of Caribbean scientists and environmentalists hope to turn the tide on the problem by transforming the troublesome algae into a lucrative biofuel.
They recently launched one of the world’s first vehicles powered by bio-compressed natural gas. The innovative fuel source created at the University of the West Indies (UWI) in
Barbados also uses wastewater from local rum distilleries, and dung from the island’s indigenous blackbelly sheep which provides the vital anaerobic bacteria.
The team says any car can be converted to run on the gas via a simple and affordable four-hour installation process, using an easily available kit, at a total cost of around US$2500 (£1,940).
Researchers had initially looked into using sugarcane to reduce reliance on costly, imported fossil fuels and help steer the Caribbean towards its ultimate target of zero emissions.
However, despite Barbados being one of few islands still producing sugarcane, the quantity was deemed insufficient for the team’s ambitious goals, explains the project’s founder Dr Legena Henry.
Sargassum on the other hand, she grimaces, is something “we will never run out of”.
“Tourism has suffered a lot from the seaweed; hotels have been spending millions on tackling it. It’s caused a crisis,” Dr Henry, a renewable energy expert and UWI lecturer, continues.
The idea that it could have a valuable purpose was
suggested by one of her students, Brittney McKenzie, who had observed the volume of trucks being deployed to transport sargassum from Barbados’ beaches.
The team filed a patent on their formula and, in 2019, presented their project to potential investors during a side meeting at the UN General Assembly in New York. Upon touchdown back in Barbados, Dr Henry’s phone was “buzzing” with messages of congratulation – including one from US non-profit Blue Chip Foundation offering US$100,000 to get the work off the ground.
The algae do not just threaten tourism. They also pose a threat to human health through the hydrogen sulphide they release as they decomposes, along with native wildlife like critically endangered sea turtle hatchlings which get trapped in thick mats of beached seaweed.
Water pollution and warming seas are credited with the upsurge in sargassum, another cataclysmic result of climate change that the Caribbean has done little to contribute to but often bears the brunt of.
(Excerpt from BBC News)
Semi-submersible vessels have been used to smuggle drugs to Europe, but now they are capable of sailing to Australia, the Colombian Navy says
Biologist Shamika Spencer posing next to a blue Nissan Leaf car on which the sentence “Runs on Sargassum” is printed (BBC NEWS PHOTO)
Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar (Angelo Marcelle file photo)
Around the World
OOIL NEWS
Iran's secretive oil trader to liquidate UK operations after Govt crackdown
Israel and Hezbollah trade accusations of ceasefire violations
The Israeli military said its air force struck a facility used by Hezbollah to store midrange rockets in southern Lebanon on Thursday, after both sides accused each other of breaching a ceasefire that aims to halt over a year of fighting.
Hassan Fadlallah in turn accused Israel of violating the deal.
"The Israeli enemy is attacking those returning to the border villages," Fadlallah told reporters, adding "there are violations today by Israel, even in this form".
cean Leonid Investments Ltd, a hedge fund linked to secretive Iranian oil trader Hossein Shamkhani, has informed its London employees that it will go into liquidation, Bloomberg has reported.
The development comes just months after the United Kingdom Government cracked down on the oil-trading kingpin s empire, known for moving Iranian and Russian crude around the world. Previously, Bloomberg reported that Companies House, the UK corporate register, issued notice that Londonbased Nest Wise Trading Ltd is to be dissolved within months due to the entity s failure to provide sufficient information to regulators, with UK authorities linking it to Shamkhani.
Shamkhani, aka Hector, is the son of Ali Shamkhani, advisor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. His Dubai-based Milavous Group Ltd is alleged to have raked in billions of dollars for illegally selling Iranian and Russian crude around the world. Washington and London have been targeting entities that they suspect have been sidestepping oil-trading restrictions.
Unless cause is shown to the contrary, the company will be struck off the register and dissolved not less than two months from the date shown above, UK Companies House said in its notice about Nest Wise.
According to Companies House records, Nest Wise s business includes the sale of petroleum and petroleum products, fuels, ores, metals and industrial chemicals. The filings also show that during the London entity s incorporation, Dubai-based Nest Wise Petroleum LLC was the sole shareholder listed.
Back in August, Bloomberg published an expos revealing how Shamkani s secretive network has been operating, dubbing the Iranian tycoon The Kingpin Of Iran s Oil Empire , Companies in his network also sell oil and petrochemicals from non-sanctioned nations and sometimes mix crude from various jurisdictions, so even buyers who test barrels may not be able to identify the country of origin, the people said, Bloomberg reported.
Bloomberg also reported that Washington has already sanctioned ships believed to be controlled by the Iranian businessman. His father Ali was sanctioned by the Trump Administration in early 2020, although Shamkhani previously told Bloomberg that his father never had nor does he have anything to do with my business activities . (Oilprice.com)
Paris's Gothic jewel
Notre-Dame to reopen 5 years after fire
The world gets a first look inside a resplendent new Notre-Dame on Friday, as France's President Emmanuel Macron conducts a televised tour to mark the cathedral's imminent re-opening.
Five-and-a-half years after the devastating fire of 2019, Paris's Gothic jewel has been rescued, renovated, and refurbished offering visitors what promises to be a breathtaking visual treat.
The President accompanied by his wife Brigitte and Archbishop of Paris Laurent Ulrich are kicking off a programme of ceremonies that culminates with an official "entry" into the cathedral on December 7 and the first Catholic Mass the next day.
After being shown highlights of the building s 700 million ( 582m) renovation - including the massive roof timbers that replace the medieval frame consumed in the fire - he will give a speech of thanks to around 1300 craftsmen and women gathered in the nave.
Notre-Dame's revamped interior has been kept a closely-guarded secret - with only a few images released over the years marking the progress of the renovation work.
But people who have been inside recently say the experience is awe-inspiring, the cathedral lifted by a new clarity and brightness that mark a sharp contrast with the pervading gloom of before.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Israel said it also opened fire on Thursday towards what it called "suspects" with vehicles arriving at several areas in the southern zone, saying it was a breach of the truce with Iran-backed armed group Hezbollah, which came into effect on Wednesday.
Hezbollah lawmaker
The Lebanese army later accused Israel of violating the ceasefire several times on Wednesday and Thursday.
The exchange of accusations highlighted the fragility of the ceasefire, which was brokered by the United States and France to end the conflict, fought in paralA man walking past rubble of destroyed buildings which were previously a market area, in the southern Lebanese town of Nabatieh, on the second day of the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, Lebanon November 28, 2024 (Reuters/Adnan
Australia passes social media ban for children under 16
Australiaapproved on Thursday a social media ban for children aged under 16 after an emotive debate that has gripped the nation, setting a benchmark for jurisdictions around the world with one of the toughest regulations targeting Big Tech.
The law forces tech giants from Instagram and Facebook owner Meta to TikTok to stop minors logging in or face fines of up to A$49.5 million (US$32 million). A trial of methods to enforce it will start in January with the ban to take effect in a year.
The Social Media Minimum Age bill sets Australia up as a test case for a growing number of governments which have legislated or said they plan to legislate an age restriction on social media amid concern about its mental health impact on young people.
Countries including France and some US states have passed laws to restrict access for minors without
a parent's permission, but the Australian ban is absolute. A full under-14s ban in Florida is being challenged in court on free speech grounds.
Getting the law passed after a marathon last day of Australia's parliamentary year marks a political win for centre-left Prime Minister Anthony Albanese who goes to an election in 2025 amid sagging opinion polls. The ban faced opposition from privacy advocates and some child rights groups, but 77 per cent of the population wanted it, according to latest polls.
Against the backdrop of a parliamentary inquiry through 2024 which heard evidence from parents of children who had self-harmed due to social media bullying, domestic media backed the ban led by Rupert Murdoch's News Corp, the country's biggest newspaper publisher, with a campaign called "Let Them Be Kids". (Excerpt from Reuters)
Chinese ships gather near island disputed with Philippines, satellite images show
Satellite images obtained by Reuters on Thursday show a build-up of Chinese civilian vessels near contested Thitu Island, Manila's key outpost in the South China Sea, but a senior Philippine navy officer said they are "not a cause for concern".
One of the images taken by Maxar Technologies on Monday and reviewed by Reuters shows about 60 vessels, some within 2 nautical miles of Thitu, a strategically important island from which Manila monitors Chinese vessels and aircraft in the busy waterway.
Vice Admiral Alfonso Torres, chief of the
Philippines' Western Command, said it was common for "maritime militia" ships to gather in the area. Manila, the Pentagon and foreign diplomats say such vessels work with the Chinese coast guard and navy to strengthen Beijing's presence in disputed waters.
Rear Admiral Roy Trinidad, Philippines Navy spokesman for the South China Sea, also said maritime militia ships were regularly in the area, adding that Manila was aware of the vessels, which he called an "illegal presence", but there was no need for alarm.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
photo)
lel with the Gaza war. The truce lasts for 60 days in the hope of reaching a permanent cessation of hostilities.
Israel's airstrike on Thursday was the first since the truce took effect on Wednesday morning.
Lebanese security sources and the Al Jadeed broad-
caster said it took place near Baysariyah, north of the Litani River.
The ceasefire deal stipulates that unauthorised military facilities south of the Litani River should be dismantled, but does not mention military facilities north of the river.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Putin threatens Kyiv decision-makers after striking energy grid
Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened to attack decision-making centres in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv with the country's new ballistic missile, Oreshnik.
Putin was speaking hours after Russia launched a comprehensive strike on Ukraine s energy grid overnight, in what he called a response to "continued attacks" using USsupplied Atacms missiles on Russian soil.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that any "Russian blackmail" would be met with a "tough response".
Ukraine used Atacms and UK-supplied Storm Shadow missiles to strike inside Russian territory last week for the first time since the full-scale invasion of February 2022, following approval by the Western suppliers, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France.
The overnight Russian strike unfolded over several hours with waves of drones and missiles flying across the length and breadth of Ukraine the second attack of its kind this month.
There were no fatalities, but it left more than one million persons in Ukraine without power.
Zelensky said cluster munitions had been used against civilian and energy infrastructure.
"Cluster warheads [are] a particularly dangerous type of Russian weaponry used against civilians," he said, adding that they "significantly complicated" the work of rescuers and repair crews.
Putin said the Russia attack involving 90 missiles and 100 drones also included the "Oreshnik" a new ballistic missile which, according to Putin, cannot be intercepted.
(Excerpt from BBC News)
Abidi
The subway in Kyiv, where many persons hid during a Russian attack on November 28, 2024 (Getty Images)
Quickly and intelligently deal with matters that concern you. Stick to the facts and honor your promises. Additional qualifications will differentiate you from your rivals.
When boredom kicks in, it’s up to you to shake things up and try something new. You’ll get some feedback that encourages you to fine-tune your schedule. Ambitions will run high.
Explore the possibilities, but refrain from letting anyone talk you into donating money or supporting their agenda. Your infectious enthusiasm will attract people who want to take advantage of you. Protect your rights.
Shine brightly, manufacture a cheerful disposition and delve into a creative process that allows you to show off. Put on a show that shows your joy and hope for a brighter future.
Adjust your routine to fine-tune your body. Fitness and a proper diet will affect how you feel. Stick to the script to avoid misinformation.
Review and reset your goals. Refuse to let anyone mislead you, tempt you to do something costly or put you in a vulnerable position. Believe and trust in yourself.
Uncertainty regarding work or how you earn your living will surface if you feel technology is jeopardizing your position. Network with your peers and colleagues.
Promising more than you can deliver will tax your energy and leave you falling short of your goal. A strategic approach regarding your plans will help those you approach see the value in what you are trying to achieve.
Refuse to let what others say or do bother you. Concentrate on what’s important to you and stick to your schedule. Deal with expenses, investments and personal paperwork.
Survey your surroundings to ensure you are heading in the best direction. Refrain from starting something you can’t finish. Put your heart and soul into what you enjoy doing most.
Sit tight and let the dust settle. Trying to change something or someone prematurely will leave you reeling from exhaustion. Focus on home improvements and seeking out job opportunities.
Set high standards and bypass anyone holding you back. Talks and offers will require some research to verify information. Keep your money secure and avoid investments that benefit others more than you.
ARCHIE
Jansen seven-for blows SL away to record low, as SA take command at Kingsmead
South Africa are in control at Kingsmead after a fast-forward second day in which 19 wickets fell, and records tumbled. Sri Lanka were dismissed for 42, their lowest Test total, which was also the lowest Test score against South Africa, and the second-shortest in terms of number of balls faced: 83.
Marco Jansen’s 7 for 13 headlined South Africa’s pace pack. He bowled 41 balls in the innings - the joint-fewest in history to take seven wickets - and gave South Africa a 149run first-innings lead. By the end of the day, that had grown to 281, and the partnership between Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs to 43, the second-highest of the match.
Under blue skies and in sunshine, there was still significant movement on offer, and batting conditions remained tough. South Africa had started day two by resuming their first innings on 80 for 4, and found themselves in trouble 15 overs
a much bigger total when South Africa got the ball in hand.
Only two Sri Lanka batters got into double figures, and their misfortunes were a combination of incisive bowling and poor shot selection. Of the top seven, Pathum Nissanka, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva all played at deliveries they could have left.
Kagiso Rabada started the slide when Dimuth Karunatratne hung his bat out to a length ball outside off. and edged to David Bedingham at first slip. Four balls later, Jansen drew Nissanka forward, as the latter reached out for a wide-ish ball. As a result, he was caught at third slip.
Two overs after that, Dinesh Chandimal displayed questionable defence when he left a gap between bat and pad, as a delivery from Jansen nipped through to bowl him. Mathews’ experience also let him down when he wafted at a ball that angled away, and edged
into the day on 117 for 7. They were in danger of being shot out for their lowest score against Sri Lanka - 128 - but three handy lower-order partnerships, and Bavuma’s knock of 70 took them to 191, their third-lowest against Sri Lanka. And it was made to look like
to Bedingham. Sri Lanka were 16 for 4 in the eighth over.
South Africa’s first, and as it turned out only, bowling change was to bring on Gerald Coetzee in place of Rabada. He started with a full toss that Kamindu drove for four. Coetzee soon
had reward when Kamindu played a big shot, attempting to whack him through
shared five wickets between them, seamed and swung the ball, and enjoyed operating on a surface with good bounce and carry. Add to that Sri Lanka’s good catching in breezy conditions, and they would have been fairly satisfied with their first session’s work.
Vishwa appealed for an lbw against Kyle Verreynne second ball, but replays showed an inside edge. Verreynne only faced three more deliveries, before Kumara fired in a 141kph ball that beat him and rapped him on the front pad.
Three balls later, Sri Lanka wasted a review as Wiaan Mulder inside-edged onto his pad, but Mulder’s troubles were only just beginning. In Kumara’s next over, he was hit on the middle finger of his right hand as he tried to defend a ball that nipped back in. He re-
the covers, but edged to first slip.
Jansen’s two wickets in his sixth over brought him his second Test five-for. The first of those two wickets was came when Dhananjaya missed an attempted drive and was bowled. The second wicket in the over was of Prabath Jayasuriya’s, as he was kept on the back foot and prodded to Stubbs in the slips.
Coetzee took the eighth off the next ball, an lbw that was confirmed on review, before Jansen did another double in his last over to end Sri Lanka’s innings 78 minutes after it began. Their bowling effort eclipsed a strong Sri Lanka performance earlier in the day, led by good pace from Lahiru Kumara, and well supported by Asitha and Vishwa Fernando. They
ceived treatment on field and tried to continue despite struggling to grip the bat. Mulder kept out the next ball he faced and immediately wrung his hand in pain, left the last ball of the over, and then retired hurt. He returned to bat for the final partnership and also in the second innings, though X-rays confirmed he had fractured the finger and would not be able to bowl or field in the match.
After Kumara’s opening spell, which had started on day one, ended with an analysis of 8-1-51-3, Sri Lanka went for a double change. Asitha replaced Kumara, while Jayasuriya’s spin came on for Vishwa. Jayasuriya had success with his tenth ball, when Jansen missed a tossed-up delivery, and was rapped on the pads.
Coetzee was also drawn in by one that was tossed up, and recklessly hit Jayasuriya to deep midwicket, where Kamindu ran forward to take a good catch. South Africa had lost 3 for
swiped across the line and top-edged to midwicket, where Kumara judged the catch well in the wind. That brought the first stanza of Mulder’s bravery, and he ended on 9 not out.
34 in 9.1 overs at that stage, with no real batting to come.
Keshav Maharaj joined Bavuma on the back of four successive Test ducks, and made his highest Test score in nine innings. He showed some fight against Jayasuriya, whose fourth over he hit for 15 runs, including a stunning six straight down the ground. When Jayasuriya was replaced by Vishwa, Maharaj did not rein his instincts in, and reached for a wide ball to drive it aerially to Dhananjaya at mid-off.
Bavuma had only just reached fifty but was running out of partners, and took matters into his own hands. He left his feet to ramp Kumara for six, and drove him through extra cover and then back past him. The fun didn’t last long, and when Kumara was replaced by Asitha, Bavuma
Sri Lanka 1st Innings
Batting R Pathum Nissanka c Stubbs b Jansen 3
Dimuth Karunaratne c Bedingham b Rabada 2
Dinesh Chandimal b Jansen 0 Angelo Mathews c Bedingham b Jansen 1
Kamindu Mendis c Bedingham b Coetzee 13
Dhananjaya de Silva (c) b Jansen 7
Kusal Mendis † lbw b Coetzee 0 Prabath Jayasuriya c Stubbs b Jansen 0
Vishwa Fernando b Jansen 0 Lahiru Kumara not out 10
Later, Mulder came in at No. 3 in South Africa’s second innings, after Tony de Zorzi and Aiden Markram’s 47-run opening stand ended when de Zorzi skied Jayasuriya to deep-backward square to become his 100th Test wicket. Jayasuriya, in his 17th Test, became the joint-fastest bowler in 74 years to the landmark.
Meanwhile, Mulder scored 16 off 31 balls and looked in increasing levels of discomfort before being given out lbw. Markram, whose last five Test innings have not yielded a single half-century, looked convincing until he inside-edged Vishwa on to his stumps. Bavuma and Stubbs bedded in for the rest of the session, and will resume on what is expected to be an easier day for batting on Friday.
Marco Jansen had Pathum Nissanka caught in the cordon
Tristan Stubbs fought his way out in the second innings
Prabath Jayasuriya trapped Wiaan Mulder in front
Aiden Markram and Tony de Zorzi started the second innings steadily
GBI partners with GFF to sponsor Maid Marian Women’s Cup
Guyana Beverages Inc (GBI) in an effort to contribute to the development of women’s football has partnered with the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) as a sponsor of the Maid Marian Wheat Up Women’s Cup, and end of year tournament slated to kick off on Saturday, November 30 at the Parade Ground.
Through this collaboration, GBI will provide its popular Fruta juice and Oasis water brands to fuel players and fans alike, ensuring they stay hydrated throughout the tournament.
velopment of women’s football in Guyana.
Guyana Beverages Inc. was keen to note that it remains committed to supporting sports, health, and wellness initiatives that positively impact communities across the country. As a long-time partner in promoting healthy hydration, the company’s sponsorship of the tournament further reinforces its commitment to supporting athleticism and the well-being of Guyanese people.
ent—it’s about addressing the historic underinvestment in women’s sports and recognizing the immense value they bring to the game and our communities.”
“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Guyana Football Federation for such an important event in the local sports calendar,” said Mr. Samuel Arjoon, GBI’s General Manager. “Football is a sport that continues to thrive in Guyana, and we’re proud to support the Maid Marian Wheat Up Women’s Cup, which promotes women’s participation in the game. At Guyana Beverages, we understand the importance of hydration, and we’re excited to provide the players, coaches, and fans with our trusted Fruta and Oasis drinks during the tournament.”
The Maid Marian Wheat Up Women’s Cup is an excit-
ing competition that showcases the talent of female footballers across Guyana. With kick-off games beginning on November 30, 2024, the event promises to be a celebration of sportsmanship, teamwork, and the growing popularity of women’s football in the country. The tournament is expected to draw
CWI launches innovative programme in Tasmania
In a groundbreaking initiative to develop the next generation of West Indies women’s cricket stars, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has launched a new player development program in Tasmania, Australia.
Four promising Under-25 players — Jannillea Glasgow, Cherry-Ann Fraser, Shawnisha
represent Clarence Cricket Club. Fraser also appeared for Clarence in the men’s thirdgrade competition, while Wilmott took a wicket for New Town in a match against North Hobart.
In New Town’s seven-run win over Clarence in a women’s T20 game, Glasgow scored
Hector, and Kate Wilmott — are currently honing their skills in the region’s premier cricket competition, marking a significant step forward in women’s cricket development.
The program, conceived by West Indies Women’s Head Coach Shane Deitz and Assistant Coach Damien Wright, has been integrating young talents into Tasmania’s premier first-grade cricket competition.
Glasgow and Wilmott represent New Town Cricket Club, while Fraser and Hector
an unbeaten 70, while Hector remained not out on 66 for Clarence.
The initiative also provides an opportunity for these emerging cricketers to train alongside professional athletes, including members of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) Hurricanes team.
Assistant coach Wright, who is accompanying the players in Hobart, was complimentary of their efforts so far, saying, “This is a wonderful initiative that combines high-performance training
with valuable match experience. Our players are getting extensive batting time and taking on leadership roles, which is crucial for their development. They’re training four to five times a week, using world-class facilities and gaining exposure to different playing conditions.”
He added, “It’s been a great opportunity for the girls to open the batting and play in the high to middle order. They are being called upon to score runs, face the new ball, and perform with the ball as well. There are a lot of positives, and hopefully, it can continue.”
The comprehensive program includes bi-weekly training sessions with the WBBL Hobart Hurricanes, regular gym work at premier facilities, including Ninja Stadium, formerly known as Bellerive Oval, and participation in both T20 and 50-over formats of the game.
This initiative is strategically timed, with players preparing for international commitments in India this December and a home series against Bangladesh in January.
Cricket Tasmania has played a pivotal role in facilitating the initiative, further demonstrating Cricket West Indies’ commitment to innovative player development and strengthening international cricket relationships.
This initiative could pave the way for future development and expand opportunities for more Caribbean players to gain valuable experience in Australian conditions.
crowds
Commenting on the partnership, President of the GFF, Mr. Wayne Forde, noted “We are deeply grateful to Guyana Beverages Inc. for their investment in women’s football. Supporting female athletes is not just about fostering tal-
He referred to the partnership as a testament to the transformative power of investing in underserved athletes, and noted the Federation’s excitement to work with Guyana Beverages Inc. to inspire young girls and strengthen the future of women’s football in Guyana. As the excitement builds for the tournament, fans and players alike can look forward to an action-packed series of matches, made even better by the refreshing taste and health benefits of Fruta and Oasis drinks.
Inaugural Rockstone Street Classic kicks off tonight
The inaugural edition of the Rockstone Streetball Classic will commence this evening at the Pouderoyen Tarmac in West Bank Demerara.
In the opening match at 19:00hrs, Team Family of Mocha will match skills with Bagotstown Warriors, while the second match will pit Agricola against Ballerz Empire at 19:50hrs.
In the third contest, the Pouderoyen Brothers will face off against the West Side Ballers at 20:40hrs. The final match of the night will pit Showstoppers against Jetty Gunners at 21:30hrs.
The winners of the aforementioned matches will advance to the semifinal round, which will be staged on December 6th at the same venue.
The event, which will utilize an elimination format, features eight teams batting for over $400,000 in cash and prizes.
The winner of the event will pocket $200,000 and the championship trophy, while
the second, third, and fourthplace finishers will receive $100,000, $75,000, and $50,000, respectively.
Esan Griffith, Coordinator of the Championship, said, “The excitement for this inaugural championship is palpable because the players and fans have shown their commitment and passion in making this a reality. They have implored us in the past to continue staging events of this nature, which led to the birth of this championship.
West Demerara is a major street-ball community, and we are excited about the potential that this tournament has. All systems are in place for an exciting and safe night. The players and fans are ready to represent their teams, and all that is left to do is sound the opening whistle.”
He further said, “We once again thank the sponsors, Guyana Brewery under the Rockstone brand, a product that has become ingrained in the community, for showing trust in staging this event, which has the capacity to be-
Complete Tournament Fixtures
Quarterfinal round – Friday, November 29th
(1): Team Family vs. Bagotstown Warriors
(2): Agricola vs. Ballerz Empire
(3): Pouderoyen Brothers vs. Westside Ballers
(4): Jetty Ballers vs. Showstoppers
Semifinal Round – Friday, December 6th (5): Winner of 1 vs. Winner of 2 (6): Winner of 3 vs. Winner of 4
Place (7): Loser of 5 vs Loser of 6
(8): Winner of 5 vs. Winner of 6
of bigger and better things from this product.”
The inaugural Rockstone Street Classic was launched earlier this week
West Indies Women’s Assistant Head
Coach Damien Wright with players, from left: Cherry-Ann Fraser, Jannillea Glasgow, Shawnisha Hector and Kate Wilmott
Coach Wright and Cherry-Ann Fraser in Pakistan in May
A look at the presentation ceremony to solidify sponsorship for the Maid Marian Wheat Up Women’s Cup
Chase, Dolphin to clash in virtual final
Defending champions Chase’s Academic Foundation and Dolphin Secondary will leave it all on the football pitch at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground during a tantalizing showdown come Sunday in Round 7 of the Republic Bank Under- 18 Schools’ Football league.
Levelled on 15 points from 6 perfect rounds, the two teams are only separated by goal difference, of which Chase’s Academic Foundation has the superior number.
Nevertheless, an exciting clash was promised by the students with Chase’s Captain Bryan Wharton and Dolphin’s Captain Brian Brower both sharing what will be key to their victories on Sunday.
“I just want we go out there, enjoy and get the victory most of all and win the tournament. I think working hard, we’ve been putting in the work. Obviously, it pays off at the end,” Chase’s Bryan Wharton stated.
On the other side of the coin, Dolphin’s Brian Bower shared, “We have one aim and the aim is to win. We train hard and we win easy.”
Dolphin Secondary’s Coach Ranole Bourne in revealing why his team performed so well this tournament, spoke of the sport as an outlet. On the other hand, Chase’s Manager Oronde Chase was a man of little words.
Bourne explained, “The guys are very enthusiastic about playing football. Since I went over to the school, the support I would’ve received from the fellas to play the game, I use it to have them doing well in school. And I use that also, to have them outside enjoying the game because if they don’t, then they cannot play. So, everybody wants to de well in their schoolwork, likewise, they want to do well on the field.”
“They have been putting in the work. It’s only left for them to come on Sunday now and execute all that we
would’ve done in the train ing session,” the Dolphin Secondary Coach said about the upcoming game.
Meanwhile, Chase de clared, “Come Sunday, spectators and the oppos ing team should expect nothing but a grueling and a hard match. It will be a match with excitement and goals scored.”
As the 2024 tournament comes to a close, the title sponsors Republic Bank have expressed their being able to carry out the tournament, through the voice of Supervisor Onica Austin.
“Republic Bank has always been a part of developing our communities, making it better and sports is one such way that we can do that. So, we’re looking forward to an exciting set of matches on Sunday and may the best team win,” Austin remarked.
The action on Sunday is tentatively set to begin at 13:00hrs, with two other games before the grand finale.
GBTI GCC, Hikers Old Boys, GCC THE Sequel, and Saints bag opening day wins
GBTI GCC, Hikers Old Boys, GCC THE Sequel, and Saints on the opening night of action secured contrasting wins in the 19th Diamond Mineral Water Hockey Festival at the National Gymnasium as Spectators had a glimpse of spectacular hockey action.
The inaugural game of the night saw GBTI GCC Women showing their dominance in hockey. They started on winning ways with a dominating 3-1 win over local side YMCA Old Fort. They dominated from the start. At the end of the first half, GCC had a 2-0 lead with a double from Abosaide Cadogan in the 6’ and 16’.
The dominance continued as Captain Gabriella Xavier needed a goal in the 33’ for GBTI GCC as their opposition did not go out without a fight as Carolyn Deanne put the puck at the back of the net in the 37’ scoring the consolation goal
for the team.
With a 2-1 victory Hikers old Boys powered themselves over GCC vintage in the Over 45 division as a goal from the sticks of Devin Munroe in the 10’ gave the Hikers lead by hitting the ball in the net giving their team an advantage which would then see Dwayne Scott replying with a goal in the 14’ to level the game and going into the second the half the powers of Captain Brian Asregado in the 23’ sealed the deal for the Hikers Old Boys.
GCC THE Sequel secured the largest margin of victory in the Over 35, decimating the defenses of Hickers with a 6-1. The goal fiesta started with Peter De Grout scoring in the 10’ and 22’, followed by Orland Semple scoring another double in the 30’ and 12’, and Captain Kevin Spencer not missing out on the doubles, scoring in the 19’ and 24’.
Shane Samuels scored
the consolation goal for hikers in the 25’.
Saints culminated the night’s action by bagging a 3-1 victory over Bounty GCC in the Men’s Group B. They showed their dom inance with the puck from the start, scoring the first goal in the Jabari Lovell in the 2’ and sealing his double in the 5’, giving their team an advantage going into the half. Kevin Spencer would find the back of the net in the 15’ to give GCC Vintage a glimpse of hope after which Shakeem Fauscette put the tight seal on as they bagged the victory with a goal in the 24’.
The tournament is made possible by spon sorship from Demerara Distillers Limited, Ansa McAl, ExxonMobil, Republic Bank, Bounty Supermarkets and Sterling Products Ltd; Ministry of Youth, Sport & Culture, and the National Sports Commission.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced an innovative development program that will see seven of the region’s most promising young cricketers embark on a specialized training camp at the Chennai Super Kings Academy in India this December.
Accompanied by West Indies Academy head coach Ramesh Subasinghe and assistant coach Rohan Nurse, the group departs for India on 29 November ahead of the two-week intensive program, which runs from 1 to 14 December.
This significant investment in the future of West Indies cricket focuses on nurturing the region’s elite Under-25 talent pool.
Among the selected prospects are three contracted franchise players — Kirk McKenzie, Matthew Nandu, and Kevin Wickham — along
players Teddy Bishop and Jewel Andrew, and former West Indies Under-19 players Jordan Johnson and Ackeem Auguste, who have already shown impressive potential in regional cricket.
Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, shared CWI’s approval of the initiative, saying, “CWI is committed to providing opportunities for our emerging players in overseas conditions. In this case, the Chennai Academy will host these seven batsmen and aim to equip them with skills and experience in navigating spinning conditions. Our coaches will be on hand to ensure that the learnings in the period can be consolidated and extended to other players in the region through the academy.” Participants will engage in a two-day match and three white-ball fixtures as part of their specialized training at the CSK Academy, which is geared towards helping these batsmen improve
their performance against spin bowling in overseas conditions where it may be prevalent.
The players will work alongside renowned coaches, including Academy Director Sriram Krishnamurthy and his expert support staff.
The initiative draws inspiration from similar successful programs, including recent training camps undertaken by the New Zealand Test team. Beyond technical skills, the program aims to develop players’ mental resilience and cultural awareness, essential for adapting to international cricket environments.
These players will serve as ambassadors upon their return to the region and share their experiences and insights with territorial coaches across the Caribbean.
This initiative marks the first time CWI has deployed contracted academy players for overseas training of this nature. With plans to make this an annual feature of the cricket calendar, CWI continues to demonstrate its commitment to the next generation of West Indies cricket stars.
The League’s top two teams’ representatives, Bryan Wharton and Brian Bower, are flanked by Republic Bank’s Onica Austin and Petra’s Troy Mendonca
Guyana Harpy Eagles batsman Matthew Nandu is among the crop
Jewel Andrew (batting) was recently included in West Indies’ white-ball squad on tour to Sri Lanka
Grenadian player Teddy Bishop recently captained West Indies Academy team in the CG United Super50 Cup 2024 in Trinidad
pour into the Guyana National Stadium every time the Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise is in action; cricket culture is alive and well in the Land of Many Waters.
This fact is one that was recently highlighted by Amazon Warriors all- rounder Dwaine Pretorius following the opening game of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global
League (GSL) T20, where the local franchise defeated the Lahore Qalandars by 6 wickets.
Quizzed about his thoughts on Guyana’s reintroduction of a global T20 tournament featuring teams from different jurisdictions; Pretorius labelled the tournament as unique.
“There is a lot of cricket but there is no cricket that
over the world together. So, I think that’s something really unique to the GSL. I think it’s going to be really cool,” the all rounder said.
“I know obviously, a few years back there was something like that in India. It was one of the highlights of every local player’s career. Actually, I played in two of those and I was really, really excited or my local domestic team. So, I think it’s really
cool that Guyana has started this, I think it could
“Cricket is a culture in Guyana and it’s awesome playing here. The fans really enjoy cricket and I really hope they come out and keep supporting us, keep
really, really be nice, especially because of cricket here.”
Pretorius opined about cricket culture in Guyana,
supporting the tournament because then it’ll go from strength to strength.”
Responding to more inquiries the South African did
revealed that teams in his home land would be eager to get in on the Global Super League action in Guyana.
“Unfortunately, it’s right smack bang in the middle of our domestic season back home but you never know. I know Cricket South Africa and the local teams they will be very keen to come and play, they’re always trying to challenge themselves against World Class opposition like they have here,” Pretorius explained.
The ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 will continue this evening at the Guyana National Stadium, where the Guyana Amazon Warriors will lock horns with Victoria Cricket from 19:00hrs.
