Taxi driver busted with ganja jailed, fined $104M Drive-by
Suspected shooter, 2 others arrested for murder of sex worker PNC attempting to undermine public confidence in Suddie Hospital – RHO …rejects
9 women among 45 Kitty residents certified as heavy duty equipment operators MMG rolls out API integration for faster online transactions
US sanctions on Guyanese trio Govt awaits evidence from US to determine way forward – Home Affairs Minister
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, July 13 –22:30h-00:00h and Sunday, July 14 – 23:30h-01:00h
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, July 13 –08:30h-10:00h and Sunday, July 14 – 09:30h-11:00h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery showers are expected to prevail during the day and at night, with earlymorning sunshine. Temperatures should range between 23 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North North-Easterly to East NorthEasterly between 0.89 metre and 3.12 metres.
High Tide: 09:25h and 21:50h reaching maximum heights of 2.30 metres and 2.27 metres.
Low Tide: 15:21h reaching a minimum height of 0.94 metre.
Destruction by Hurricane Beryl “Take with you” love, pride, rich tradition of “what makes us Guyanese” – Pres Ali …as Guyana deploys 50 more GDF ranks to aid in rebuilding efforts in Grenada
ommander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Irfaan Ali, has lauded a group of 50 Guyanese soldiers who will soon leave local shores to aid in rebuilding efforts in the Caribbean Island of Grenada which was battered by Hurricane Beryl last week.
Under a special exercise dubbed ‘Operation Beret’, the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) 50-member contingent is slated to depart Guyana on Sunday.
Last week, as a category five hurricane, Beryl ploughed through the Caribbean with record-breaking wind speeds,
fort that would restore life and livelihoods. And lives are restored because they’re destabilised now; they are scattered and for those lives to be restored, these infrastructures are critical. For those livelihoods to be restored, these investments are critical.”
“You take with you the love, pride and rich tradition of what makes us Guyanese; strength of character, and a sense of purpose as you help assist this nation within Caricom to rebuild,” the Commander-in-Chief told the ranks.
To aid with these rebuild-
causing massive destruction in several islands including loss of lives. Among the affected countries are: Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines – all Member States of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Addressing the ranks at the army’s Camp Ayanganna Headquarters in Georgetown on Friday afternoon, President Ali said their sacrifice is a representation of core values of the GDF, that is, service to nation and people. He told the soldiers that they will be making a difference in the lives of their Caricom neighbours by helping to recover and rebuild.
“You’re not only going to be contributing to the rebuilding of infrastructure, homes and offices but you’ll be contributing to the rebuilding of lives and livelihood, and to the returning of normalcy to a sister State.”
“Your mission would involve primarily, the rebuilding of key installation of infrastructure so that government and government services can return in a quick and efficient manner, and to assist in the rebuilding of key services such as health and education,” he stated.
The Head of State further reassured that Guyana’s assets including its human resources and prosperity would always be used to bring about positive changes and create a long-standing impact especially in the region.
“Today, you have this opportunity, like your peers had two decades ago [with Hurricane Ivan], to make a mark and to be part of an ef-
ing efforts, Guyana has already dispatched building materials and equipment to the Caribbean nation.
These efforts are part of
tion of the Princess Royal Smart Hospital, which was damaged by the natural disaster.
Meanwhile, during Friday’s engagement, GDF’s Chief-of-Defence-Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, told this second batch of soldiers that they are going to these affected countries as Ambassadors of Guyana.
“You are our ambassadors – to Guyana and to the GDF. We expect that you will play a very critical and important role as you execute the rebuilding process. The mission is just that. Your time away will be determined based on the scope of work but certainly, we do not believe that it would be forever. I give you and wish you best wishes on this important mission,” Brigadier Khan stated.
ing the islands of Carriacou and Petit Martinique, where 70 per cent and 97 per cent of buildings were damaged or destroyed, respectively. It was reported too that disaster also destroyed the country’s livestock, permanent crops and cash crops.
Hurricane Beryl came as Grenada was preparing to host the 47th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government from July 3 to 5 at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort Hotel, Grand Anse – just outside the St George’s capital. The meeting, which comes as Grenada takes over the CARICOM Chairmanship, has since been rescheduled to July 28 to 30 in St George’s. Since Hurricane Beryl’s impact across the region, the Guyana Government, as
a larger regional mobilisation where Caricom Member States were assigned to assist a specific country impacted by Hurricane Beryl. Guyana was allocated Grenada based on request.
Consequently, earlier this week, a GDF assessment team travelled to Grenada to conduct a damage assessment and needs analysis ahead of the contingent’s main body arrival this weekend.
Ambassadors
Additionally, a smaller group of eight ranks was deployed shortly after Hurricane Beryl to Grenada. The three-member Advance team from the GDF’s Engineer Battalion was the first outside help to arrive in Grenada and immediately assisted the Ministry of Local Government on Carriacou Island with repairs to a sec-
On July 1, categorised as the earliest Category 5 hurricane before decreasing to Category 4, Beryl caused widespread devastation in Grenada, severely impact-
well as the local private sector and other NGOs, have been mobilising support to make much-needed and critical donations to the affected countries. (G8)
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Irfaan Ali
GDF’s Chief-of-Defence-Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan
Some of the GDF ranks who will be departing Guyana to aid in rebuilding efforts in Grenada
Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, on Friday reported substantial reductions in crime and traffic accidents so far for 2024. On the surface, this seems like positive news, a testament to effective law enforcement strategies and improved security measures. However, many Guyanese citizens may not agree with this, as the reality on the ground tells a different story.
In his address to ranks at the GPF’s 185th Anniversary Awards Ceremony, the top cop said there has been an 18.9% reduction in serious crime for this year, while he emphasised the success of 361 community policing groups across regional divisions. Additionally, he announced that the force has confiscated 75 firearms, the same number as in 2023.
We are not saying that we do not believe the Police statistics. However, while statistics provide a quantitative measure of crime trends, they often fail to capture the nuanced experiences and perceptions of safety among the citizenry. In many neighbourhoods, residents continue to face persistent issues of theft, violence, and other crimes. The reported decrease in crime may not align with their daily encounters and fears.
The disconnect between official statistics and lived experiences highlights broader issues that merit attention. There is need for more comprehensive data collection and analysis that reflect the diverse realities of crime in Guyana. This includes understanding trends, factors contributing to crime, and the impact of law enforcement strategies at the community level.
Effective communication between law enforcement agencies and the public is crucial. Transparency about crime statistics, along with efforts to address community concerns and perceptions, can build trust and foster collaboration in tackling crime. Citizens need to feel heard and assured that their safety concerns are being taken seriously, irrespective of statistical trends.
Likewise, addressing the root causes of crime requires a multi-faceted approach. We must, however, note the commendable work and inroads the GPF has been making with its community outreaches.
In April, Hicken, speaking on the partnership pillar, wherein members of the police force reach out to various communities, said it is proving to be an advantageous strategy for the police, and that significant growth has been seen in various communities due to the efforts that the police force has been undertaking throughout various communities.
He had said: “These days, you can see police within communities casually, and that is where they are supposed to be. The communities happen to be your greatest stakeholders, and we are going to make sure that we maintain that. By doing so, we will develop trust… We are focusing heavily on training, because this transition will require a new different attitude, a whole new breed of police officers.”
We acknowledge the efforts of the police force in combating crime, and recognize any progress made in this approach. And indeed, in his presentation, Commissioner Hicken acknowledged the “daily challenges” faced by ranks “in maintaining law and order”. However, we must also remain vigilant in questioning the narratives presented by statistics alone.
A strive for holistic approach to public safety is ideal, where this statistical analysis presented with community engagement would offer a balanced approach wherein the gap between perception and reality are bridged.
Trans-fat: The invisible killer we must eliminate from
By Dr TeDros ADhAnom GheBreyesus & Tom FrieDen
Cookies, pizza, cake are all delicious but potentially deadly. In addition to their often being high in sugar, salt, or fat content, these foods can contain a toxic ingredient that kills almost 300,000 people from coronary heart disease each year: industrially-produced trans- fat.
Invented in the early 20th century as a substitute for butter, and later used to increase the shelf life of food products, industriallyproduced trans-fat is highly hazardous to human health; and there is no safe level of consumption.
Fortunately, this toxic food additive can easily be replaced with healthier alternatives. There is no difference to taste or manufacturing costs, and hundreds of thousands of lives a year can be saved.
Six years ago, WHO called on countries and the food sector to eliminate industrially-produced transfat from the global food supply. At that time, only a small proportion of the world’s population – less than one in 10 people – was protected from this toxic chemical.
A new WHO report on the state of global trans-fat elimination details the tremendous progress we’ve made in just the past few years. Today, 53 countries, with nearly four billion people, are implementing WHO-recommended best practice policies that include bans or limits on trans-fat, removing this major health
the
risk for almost half of the world’s population.
WHO has recognised five countries – Denmark, Lithuania, Poland, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand –for their world-leading efforts to become trans-fatfree, having gone beyond the adoption of best practice trans-fat policies to include monitoring and enforcement frameworks that would maximise and sustain the health benefits of these policies. However, we still have a lot of work to do, as more than four billion people remain unprotected from this toxic chemical.
Globally, most of the remaining deaths caused by trans-fat are concentrated in just eight countries, mostly in Africa and the Asia Pacific. Implementing best practice policies in these additional countries could prevent 90 percent of the global deaths associated with this harmful ingredient, thus this is an important milestone in the fight against noncommunicable diseases.
And as restrictions on trans-fat increase worldwide, food manufacturers would likely, without regulations, dump products containing this toxic chemical - which has been banned elsewhere - into a dwindling number of markets.
All countries, regardless of income level, can protect their people by implementing regulations, even if trans-fat levels in food are low. Trans-fat elimination is a cost-effective means of tackling noncommunicable diseases and saving lives, as shown by studies in Argentina, Kenya, Nigeria,
world’s food supply
the United Kingdom, the United States and the European Union, which have demonstrated that industrially-produced transfats can be eliminated and replaced with healthier fats or oils without changing the cost, taste, or availability of food.
Countries that have implemented best practice trans-fat policies can support others to do the same by sharing their experience and know-how. Food manufacturers, especially national and global conglomerates that have long profited from products containing deadly trans-fat, have a responsibility to consumers to invest in healthier replacements. Advocates in the global community should continue to push for the total elimination of trans-fat through the introduction of WHOrecommended best practice policies.
First, we call on all governments to limit or ban trans-fat in all foods in line with WHO-recommended policy. This includes a national limit of 2 grams of industrially-produced transfat per 100 grams of total fat in all foods, and a mandatory national ban on the production or use of partially hydrogenated oils – a major source of artificial transfat – as an ingredient in all foods.
Second, we call on governments to ensure limits and bans are monitored and enforced. To encourage and strengthen enforcement, WHO has created the Trans-Fat-Free Validation Programme to formally recognise countries’ efforts to
eliminate trans- fat similar to how WHO validates countries for eliminating malaria or neglected tropical diseases.
Third, we call on the food industry to implement WHO recommendations, making sure that when trans-fat is removed, it is replaced with healthier fats and oils; and to minimise fats linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, such as saturated fat. Companies should also agree to not sell products containing trans-fat in markets where no policies yet exist. Large food manufacturers and a large ingredient producer have taken steps in this direction, and other companies should follow their lead.
The push for the global elimination of industrially-produced artificial transfat marks the first time the world has been mobilised to completely remove a dietary risk factor for heart disease. We know what to do, we know how to do it, and we know it works. The world is making good progress. It’s time for country leaders to finish the job of protecting their people from this toxic food additive. (Al Jazeera) (Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is DirectorGeneral of the World Health Organization, and Tom Frieden is the CEO and President of Reform to Save Lives. Dr Tom Frieden, who, as director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2009 to 2017, oversaw responses to the H1N1 influenza, Ebola, and Zika epidemics, is President and CEO of Resolve to Save Lives.)
Mrs Lillian Hanif (left) was felicitated by PPP group members on her remarkable journey at her Tuschen New Scheme, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) home as she celebrated her 102nd birthday on Friday. And John Rudder of Islington, East Bank Berbice, who spent 43 years working as a cane cutter, was honoured by the Regional Democratic Council as he celebrated his 102nd birthday, and was visited by Regional Chairman David Armogan and Bhupaul Jhagroo
Let us be united and inspired by the Ballot Box Martyrs' supreme struggle
Dear Editor, July 16, we will be commemorating the brutal murder of our two exemplary Comrades, Bholanauth Parmanand and Jagan Ramessar. These two young men were ruthlessly and brutally gunned down as they were among their villagers who were struggling for free and fair elections in Guyana.
On that fatal day July 16, 1973, fifty-one years ago, Bholanauth Permanand and Jagan Ramessar were shot and killed by a Guyana Defence Force Officer. Guyanese were fully aware of the People’s National Congress’ wicked approach to National Elections, specifically, their heinous intentions to rig the elections. Investigations by the Justice Dhanessar Jhappan, Commission of Inquiry, revealed the high likelihood of a PPP victory if the Elections were run in a free and fair manner. The Commission cited the massive public meetings held by the People’s Progressive Party and the overwhelming public display of support for Dr. Cheddi Jagan as evidence of this. The PNC, in order to ensure their victory by any means necessary, deployed the security forces, both army and police, to all parts of the country.
In addition to the regular strength at the Police
Stations in Berbice, a battalion was deployed from the Guyana Defence Force under Captain Johnson. The PNC was fully prepared to rig the 1973 National Elections.
Captain Johnson had his headquarters in the Compound of the Central Police Station in New Amsterdam. Captain Johnson’s men were further broken up into smaller groups and a platoon under the command of Lieutenant Henry was sent to the Upper Corentyne on the 7th June, 1973. The section consisted of two Sergeants, three Corporals, five Lance Corporals and nine Privates, that is twenty men, including Lieutenant Henry. The platoon pitched camp at No. 51 Backdam and remained there until the 19th June, 1973. From there they went to Plantation Skeldon, remaining there until the 27th June, 1973 when they moved on to No. 63 and bivouacked on the beach. On the 14th June, 1973, they left No. 63 Beach and set up camp in the compound of the No. 51 Police Station. They had with them self-loading rifles, submachine guns, tear smoke grenades and steel helmets.
‘Bholanauth Parmanand and 17-yearold Jagan Ramessar were shot by armed agents of the PNC dictatorship at No. 63
Village, Corentyne during the 1973 Elections while peacefully protesting the illegal removal of the ballot boxes from the place of poll at the end of voting.’ Berbicians were protesting the PNC/Army hijacking the Ballot Boxes.
Yours truly worked on that polling day at West Demerara Secondary School in Pouderoyen, and as we were coming out at 5:30 a.m. I recalled seeing GDF soldiers crawling along the roadside with their guns.
A physical manifestation of the PNC’s heinous intention to terrorize the population was unleashed in the form of thugs, police and the Army.
It is not by chance that Private London of the Guyana Defence Force was later known to Guyanese as “Blackie”! He was one of the masterminds among the criminal gangs that terrorized the Guyanese people. “Blackie” was killed in a shootout with the police and the PNC draped his coffin with the National Flag and gave him a PNC farewell funeral.
The 16th of July 1973, with Corporal Collins, Privates Mc Kenzie, Layne and London (Blackie) of the Guyana Defence Force, Sergeant Ross and Police Constable Seecharran of the Police Force, Lieutenant Henry took along with him
tear smoke grenades, respirators, steel helmets, two submachine guns, rifles and bayonets. He himself was armed with one of the submachine guns. Corporal Collins had the other.
The PNC thugs with all their armed might descended on the Corentyne with the clear intention to take full control of the ballot boxes and remove the representatives of the other three political parties from around the ballot boxes.
Bholanauth Parmanand was killed and his dear wife and four children had to endure the death of the breadwinner of their home as their loving husband and father was ripped from them in the most brutal manner possible.
Young Jagan Ramessar was shot and killed and the Army threw him in their vehicle and drove him around as he was kicked and stamped upon. He was paraded to send a message of fear and threats to the people in Berbice. Approximately five hours later, after his corpse was unspeakably desecrated, he was taken to New Amsterdam Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Jagan Ramessar, only eighteenyears-old, was brutally murdered and his parents and other relatives are today still crying.
Parmanand’s immedi-
Attempt to damage relations between Guyana and the US
Dear Editor,
There is, in journalism, a line between honest mistakes and blatant lies. The post by senior journalist Enrico Woolford -- alleging that "Guyana's Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, was escorted off and questioned by Federal agents at JFK airport" -- not only falls squarely within the ambit of fake news and public mischief (a crime), but borders on treason!
Let me be pellucid: Woolford has made a fake news post ostensibly to cast aspersions on Minister Bharrat, which is political mischief; but the more
serious offence is the attempt to damage relations between Guyana and the United States of America. Woolford must know that Minister Bharrat travels on a diplomatic passport, and is therefore an Official Representative of the Government of Guyana, which precludes him from being questioned by anyone! Diplomats from North Korea and at-war Russia travel to America and throughout the world without being questioned, and any such 'detention/questioning' is unprecedented and would be a declaration of hostilities between the nations on a preposterous
level. This is an example of Goebbels’ “Big Lie” on steroids!
The question for the Guyana Government is: how much rope should be allowed under the aegis of 'free speech'?
I am of the firm belief that Mr Woolford has crossed the line most egregiously, and must be held to account within the Laws of Guyana.
I do not need to remind the Guyanese people that America is our friend, and an ally who is standing strong with us against the threat of Venezuela on our western border.
I strongly urge the
Government of Guyana to take every possible action to protect our relations with the United States of America, and to investigate thoroughly Enrico Woolford's motives; for attempting to drive a wedge between our nation and an agency of a foreign country should not be ruled out summarily.
Mr Woolford must be interrogated thoroughly; for, unlike others, he is a seasoned journalist and must be fully aware of all the consequences of his words and actions.
Sincerely,
Robin Singh
ate family and his comrades, fifty-one years later, still vividly recall the unbelievably brutal and monstrous debacle that was the 1973 elections.
My Dear Comrade Rishi Ram Motie and his friends tearfully recounted for me what they witnessed on that fatal day. Motie suffered a broken nose. His body was black and blue as he was cuffed and kicked. Scores of persons were badly beaten and threatened. Families were humiliated and separated. Rishi Ram Mote was a genuine activist with the PPP.
During the campaign before July 16th it was clear that the People’s Progressive Party meetings attracted massive support while the PNC had a sprinkling of people. Motie, as he sobbed, told me that when the election results were announced and the PNC was the winning Party, nobody accepted the results. The PNC terrorists continued to terrorize the Berbicians as hundreds of people fled their homes and went across to Suriname, while others went into hiding for weeks and months. As a result, thousands of Berbicians and other Guyanese were forced to leave Guyana.
Guyanese must never forget that many eminent persons such as Dr. Walter Rodney were assassinat-
ed and murdered during the dark days of the PNC rule. Today, we must draw strength, unite and work together for the maintenance and further development of the democracy we now enjoy.
We must ensure that the memories of Bholanauth Parmanand and Jagan Ramessar live on in us and let their sacrifice inspire us to rally with Comrade Cheddi Jagan’s People’s Progressive Party.
We must never forget that the Guyana Elections Commission was fully under Burnham PNC control. It was the then Chairman of GECOM who allowed the staff to Rig the Elections. However, in 2020, it was the astute leadership of Dr. Bharat Jagdeo and his powerful guidance that were able to unite this country and, with the help of the International Observers, Democracy triumphed.
As we are preparing for National and Regional Elections next year let us work resolutely to ensure free and fair Elections.
All those who are before the Court for the events that unfolded after the 2020 Elections must face immediate trials.
Guyanese must be united against rigged elections.
Sincerely, Neil Kumar
SATURDAY,
Page Foundation
Distributive Property and Identity
Property of Multiplication: When you multiply numbers, you may multiply by each separately, and then add their products.
Example:
6 x (3 + 1) = (6 x 3 ) + (6 x 1) 24 = 18 + 6
Multiplication and division are closely related. When you learnt how to divide fractions, you were shown that division was the same as multiplication by a reciprocal. You can use the Distributive Property of Multiplication when you are dividing. But you may only use the Distributive Property when the addends are in the dividend.
Identity elements are numbers in a problem that do not affect the answer.
When adding, the identity element is 0. Any addend or addend + 0 will not change the total. In multiplication, the identity element is 1. Any factor or factors x 1 will not change the product. Subtraction and division do not have identity elements.
Remember: You cannot use the Distributive Property when addends are in the divisor:
70 ÷ (5 + 4) does not = (70 ÷ 5 ) + (70 ÷ 4) because…..
(70 x ) does not = (70 x ) + (70 x )
Exercises: Identify the property
3.5 does not = 14 + 17.5 Find the answers to the following problems and tell which property they represent.
Make a marshmallow popper
In this fun and easy candy science experiment, we’re going to explore and investigate elasticity and energy by making a marshmallow popper.
Materials:
Tape
Disposable plastic cups
Mini marshmallows
Balloons
Scissors
Instructions:
With adult supervision and assistance,
cut the bottom off of one of the plastic cups. Cut the top of the balloon off, stretch it out across the bottom part of the cup, and tie a knot in the opposite end of the balloon.
Wrap tape around the cut edges of the balloon, holding it securely to the side of the cup. This makes the marshmallow shooter more durable, and helps to prevent the balloon from snapping off while being utilised. Now get hold of some mini marshmallows, put one in the cup, aim,
BY ERIKA L SÁNCHEZ
The girl with the letter F tattooed on her cheek.
A pack of feral dogs gossiping on the beach.
My mother’s scent after a shift at the factory.
Annie’s rotten teeth in the second grade.
The smell of my clothes after we fumigate.
and start shooting by pulling back on the knotted end of the balloon and releasing it.
How it works:
The elasticity or stretchiness of the balloon converts potential energy (stored) into kinetic energy (motion). The kinetic energy is transferred to the marshmallow by launching it.
Make this a science project:
Use larger balloons. Test other elastic materials like medical gloves. Use different sized and lengths of tubes. (sciencefun.org)
The injured vulture in Managua and the sounds it made.
Sister Act Two dubbed in Spanish one Sunday afternoon.
The witch who spit water on my back then struck me with twigs.
The spirits gathered in threes.
“Do you like the way she porks?” I asked. Little Orphan Annie flapping in the hot wind.
The blanket that looked like a lion skin.
A señora’s perpetual sigh that has no beginning or end.
The family of roaches trapped in a clock. The way she said, “It burns a little, don’t it?”
My grandpa explaining, in great detail, a panocha.
The neighbor’s perfectly oiled mullet.
The forgotten asparagus and the smell it left us.
The wolf-faced boy buying a paleta.
Source: Poetry (June 2024)
WORD SEARCH:
The Distributive
USAID announces US$1.45M in new funding for C’bean
In demonstration of its commitment to the Caribbean, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced some US$1.45 million in new funding to advance inclusive economic growth and climate adaptation efforts across the region.
This was revealed by Deputy Administrator for Policy and Programming at USAID, Isobel Coleman, during a two-day visit in Georgetown to attend the Caribbean Investment Forum 2024, held from July 10 to 12 in Georgetown.
Speaking at the Forum on Thursday, Coleman highlighted that the USAID has injected nearly US$28 million in funding, including US$1.45 million in new funding, to support inclusive economic growth and climate adaptation in the Caribbean.
The Deputy Administrator reaffirmed USAID’s commitment to partnering with Guyana and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to convene the private sector and catalyse sustainable investment in the Caribbean region.
Already, USAID’s Economic Development Accelerator supports Guyana’s agro-processing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to grow their businesses and reach new markets. The Accelerator provides mar-
keting and finance training, access to seed funding, and investment readiness support.
With this US$1.45 million in new funding, USAID will be expanding this successful model to SMEs in Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.
As part of USAID’s US$20 million Caribbean Climate Investment Programme announced by Vice President Kamala Harris in June 2023, Deputy Administrator Coleman also revealed a new project to help with Barbados' energy grid stabilisation efforts by introducing 16 battery energy storage systems at existing distributed energy generation projects in Barbados.
The Caribbean Climate Investment Program helps mobilise private finance to support companies deploying technologies in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate adaptation.
In addition to the previous US$5.3 million announced by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in July 2023, Deputy Administrator Coleman also disclosed that another US$1 million will go to support the use of data in agricultural decision making. It will provide analysis of historical climate and weather trends and their impact on agriculture, and strengthen information systems to minimise negative impacts from changes in weather patterns.
During her two-day visit to Georgetown, Coleman met with senior Guyanese governmental opposition, civil society, and business leaders to discuss ways USAID can continue to support inclusive economic growth, shared prosperity, and good governance in one of the world’s fastest growing economies.
In a meeting with President Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday, the USAID official expressed appreciation for Guyana’s leadership within CARICOM and at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), and discussed a broad range of issues including methods of promoting inclusive growth and skills development. The two leaders also discussed regional migration, rule of law, and Venezuela’s upcoming election, as well as ways to further deepen the US-Guyana relationship.
President Ali had said in a Facebook post following the meeting with Coleman that they also discussed how USAID can help Guyana grow and expand its capacity to deal with its current development trajectory's rapid and expansive growth.
Meanwhile, during her address at day-two of the 2024 Caribbean Investment Forum titled ‘Building Resilience Through Derisking: Unleashing Catalytic Capital and PublicPrivate Collaborations in the Caribbean,’ Coleman also
Former national footballer, grandson die in Soesdyke-Linden highway accident
Atragic accident on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway has claimed the life of a well-known former national footballer and his young grandson.
Dead are Carl Hunte, a resident of Rainbow City, Linden, and his nine-yearold grandson, Malique Roberts.
Reports are that Hunte was driving the vehicle when he allegedly lost control and collided with a wood-carrying truck. The force of the impact caused the vehicle to flip multiple times before coming to a halt.
The accident also re-
sulted in serious injuries to two other grandchildren, who are currently receiving treatment at Mackenzie Hospital in Linden.
The car, which Hunte had recently purchased, was
emphasised the USAID’s commitment to innovation and maximising development impact through the strategic investment of private resources. She highlighted the positive effects of these efforts not only in the Caribbean but also around the world.
The USAID official mentioned that while governments may not always have the resources for large-scale climate investments, they can allocate public funds to reduce investment risk, creating a more favourable environment for investors. Collaboration between the public and private sectors can yield excellent results, but it requires commitment and a willingness to take on more risk from all parties involved.
On the other hand, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Country Representative in Guyana, Lorena SolórzanoSalazar, addressed the numerous challenges the Caribbean faces across different sectors and emphasized the necessity for increased direct investment.
While underscoring the Bank’s supportive stance in the region, SolórzanoSalazar recognised that “the gaps in the region are significant.” She stressed that “one institution cannot address these issues alone” and pointed out the potential for bilateral and multilateral partners to collaborate in addressing the development gaps.
During the forum, the IDB representative shared information about the bank’s regional flagship program,
“One Caribbean,” launched last year to promote sustainable development in the Caribbean. The program addresses climate adaptation, disaster risk management, private-sector engagement, and food security issues. These efforts aim to support regional integration and resilience through project and partnership support.
The IDB representative also stressed the importance of this program in supporting long-term investment in the face of climate change and contributing to the development of Latin America and the Caribbean. She also mentioned that the IDB will continue to support the region.
The three-day forum saw several panel discussions, featuring industry experts who discussed and shared insights on critical issues across the region.
On Friday – the final day of the forum, Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-INVEST),
Dr Peter Ramsaroop, cut the ribbon to officially open the investment village – an exhibition platform for showcasing various products and services and is ideal for connecting investors and businesses.
Dr Ramsaroop believes that the region’s objective should be to ensure that “better products reach the right markets,” even if it means slightly adjusting the products or services offered in this part of the world. He also stated that “real opportunities exist, so investment-driven growth is achievable.”
To conclude the day’s activities, businesses from Guyana, Suriname, St Lucia, the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines participated in the investment project presentation and connected with four potential investors. This is a conversation that will continue beyond the 2024 Caribbean Investment Forum. (G8)
accident
still equipped with trader plates at the time of the accident.
Following the accident, several people took to social media to express their shock and sadness over the tragic deaths. Friends, family, and fellow football enthusiasts remembered Hunte not only for his athletic expertise but also for his dedication to the sport. (G9)
USAID’s Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman addressing the Caribbean Investment Forum in Georgetown on Thursday
Dead: Carl Hunte
The
that occurred on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway
Dead: Malique Roberts
Gotta change...
...police culture
Once again – and it’s been happening with increasing frequency – the GPF has come under heavy fire for alleged corruption; this time, it’s in the upper ranks. This isn’t just a question of bumming beleaguered civilians for a fried rice no mo!! No Siree Bob!! Your Eyewitness has been hearing about “millions and millions” of dollars being laundered!! So, what’s the administration doing about it?? After all, they knew they’d inherited a Police Force that was rotten to the core back in 1992 – on account of Burnham’s ministrations!!
Well, the legendary management guru Peter Drucker once famously declared: “culture eats strategy for breakfast”. He, of course, was talking about business culture and its impact on management strategies for achieving companies’ goals and objectives. But the observation holds true for all institutions, innit?? Unless you change the culture of the institution you want to be successful - even if you concoct the best strategy in the world - it’s gonna fail. And so, your Eyewitness turns his (troubled) eyes to our challenged Police Force - one of our oldest institutions, having been formed way back in 1839.
And that in itself tells the whole story about the gap between whatever strategy we’ve been coming up with –seemingly annually!! – to make the GPF become professional in performing its mission to “serve and protect” us, the people of Mudland. At the time of its launching, they were to serve and protect the Europeans and their allies – not AGAINST the newly-freed slaves and those who arrived later.
Unlike their British Bobbies - who smiled cherubically at errant kids, and wielded batons only against lawbreakers –our police were armed to the teeth with REAL GUNS. And were zealously trained to use them against those who broke the laws THEY had made!! The culture inculcated in the Police FORCE was therefore that citizens were basically savages who’d “riot” – not “protest” - at the least opportunity. As such, the RIOT ACT could be read whenever the whites so decided, and the ranks had to open fire at will!! That’s a whole lotta power – and you know what they say about power and corruption!!
This culture of violence and corruption has remained ingrained in the police - who’d become the most ubiquitous arm of the state to the ordinary citizen!! When we hear “Government” we see police!! Now, while there’ve been periodic reforms after egregious abuse, the militarized orientation stubbornly persists.
There’s been talk for decades of renaming the institution as the “Police Service”, rather than “Police Force”, to remind them daily of their mission. There’s been talk also of changing their Standard Operating Procedures (SOPS) to operationalize the “kinder, gentler” approach. But the latest outrage doesn’t suggest success, does it?
The Police SERVICE’s top brass should spend a hell of a lot more of their time changing their culture, rather than laundering money!!
…Chinese xenophobia
Your Eyewitness notes the increased robberies, murders and other attacks on Chinese restaurants, supermarkets etc and their owners. With the rise of China as a global power, there’s been an increase in Chinese businessmen and other personnel. But whether spontaneously or as official policy, Chinese migrants have taken root and gravitated to retailing and restaurants.
They’re everywhere in Guyana.
With their immigrant drive for economic advancement -and it’s said backdoor help from the Chinese Embassy -- their success has spurred envy and attacks. The Chinese business owners are considered soft targets by the criminals, and there isn’t a week that goes by without another “incident” being reported.
Your Eyewitness hopes that, in order to protect themselves, Chinese businesses don’t start forming those violent “Triads” we saw in Bruce Lee movies - to both protect and hustle the businesses. Do Guyanese really want to go down this road?? Our GPF better get their act together!!
…the colonial relations
Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso in Sahara’s Sahel area of Africa were ruled – and exploited – by France, whom they’ve just thrown out by military coups. They’ve now exited the West African grouping and formed their own union! Liberty… fraternity…!!!
US sanctions on Guyanese trio Govt awaits evidence from US to determine way forward – Home Affairs Minister
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn on Friday stated that the Guyana Government is awaiting the evidence from United States authorities concerning allegations against the businessmen Nazar Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed, along with former Permanent Secretary Mae Thomas, to determine the way forward. He stated that no plans are afoot to revoke the firearms license of Mohamed’s
Enterprise and its sister companies at this time.
This follows the United States Treasury Department sanctions, which have caused the Bank of Guyana to revoke the company's Cambio license and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission to revoke the gold dealing operations. When asked by the media on Friday if the company’s firearms will be next in line to be revoked, Benn related that the government
will be cautious about doing such.
Benn emphasised the importance of making informed and practical decisions.
“We will make decisions based on information that we have…we have to be careful to make practical responses to issues. It couldn’t be, in any event, while reviews are ongoing, we don’t precipitate actions that will put people at risk,” Benn told reporters.
The Bank of Guyana revoked Mohameds Enterprises' foreign exchange (Cambio) license on June 13, and the Guyana Gold Board stopped accepting gold from the company due to the US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions.
OFAC has accused Mohameds Enterprises and Guyanese Government official, Mae Thomas of defrauding Guyana of over US$50 million in taxes on more than 10,000 kilograms of exported gold.
Following, the sanctions, Thomas was sent on leave and she has since resigned from the leadership of the governing People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C).
In this light, Benn stated that Guyana has requested mutual legal assistance from the US and is awaiting
further information.
“…so we’ll await for further information on whatever the issue is. I have signed a document that has gone to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the instance of the Attorney General, Minister Anil Nandlall… the documents will go to Washington. We will make decisions based on the information we have…”, the minister explained.
In a related move, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo assured that the government is committed to investigating the allegations thoroughly.
The Guyana Government said it continues to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that all actions taken are in the country's best interest and in compliance with international legal standards.
Only on Tuesday, Attorney General, Anil Nandlall said that the Government has sent the correspondence to the US requesting the evidence that led to the imposition of sanctions.
“I dispatched under my hand, as advised by the US Department of Justice, the requisite requests for information, statements, evidence, depositions, documents or other exhibits relating to the publication by the US Treasury in respect of the sanctions imposed on Nazar Mohamed, Azruddin Mohamed, Mohamed’s Enterprise and Mae Thomas as well the designated en-
tities of Hadi’s world and Team Mohamed’s team,” he noted during his Tuesday evening programme ‘Issues in the News.’
In a statement on June 11, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced that it sanctioned the Mohameds, their company, Mohamed’s Enterprise, and a Guyanese Government official, Mae Thomas, for their roles in alleged public corruption in Guyana. The statement referred to the evasion of taxes on gold exports noting that between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilograms of gold from import and export declarations and avoided paying more than $50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.
Subsequently, Nazar Mohamed resigned as a Councillor for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) while Thomas left from her post of Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Local Government and also as a member of the party.
Even as the government awaits feedback from the US, all government agencies have stopped conducting business with the Mohameds and their related companies.
The investigation into the Mohamed family and their businesses has been ongoing for several years.
(G9)
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn
Businessmen Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed, and former Government official Mae Thomas
Suspected shooter, 2 others arrested for murder of transgender sex worker
As the investigation intensifies into the execution-style killing of transgender sex worker Simon Shawn Anthony, also called “Coil Bottle”, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum has confirmed that three persons were arrested on Thursday evening following a highspeed chase with police.
One of them, he noted, is suspected to be the shooter, and he is presently cooperating with detectives. The Guyana Times understands that the car suspected to have been used in the gunning down of the sex worker has been impounded as police continue their investigations.
The 27-year-old victim was gunned down at about 2:00h on Thursday at the corner of South Road and King Street, Georgetown by an occupant of a heavily tinted dark grey motor car. At the time of the fatal shooting, the victim was in the company of other sex workers.
The police have since recovered nine 9MM spent
shells at the scene, but according to detectives, the victim was shot only once, under the right arm.
On Thursday, Orin Fraser who was an eyewitness to the shooting and a close friend of the deceased, recalled that on the day in question, he saw Simon talking to someone in a silver fielder wagon after which they both went into a yard “doing a business.”
Fraser stated that about
30 minutes later, Simon returned and it was then, that he observed the tinted car.
“Me and meh next sister Pretty was talking and making laugh and the same car had come around back and pull over… I was the first one to go to this car. I make three attempts to go to this car. Then Coil Bottle said y’all don’t go, that man came to me. And the man drove up with a speed.”
Despite them warning
Berbice taxi driver busted with 257lbs ganja jailed, fined $104M
Naasik Alli, the 32-year-old taxi driver who was busted with 257.15lbs of cannabis sativa on Wednesday, has been sentenced to three years and eight months’ imprisonment and fined approximately $104 million.
Alli, a resident of No. 75 Village Corriverton, East Berbice, having appeared before Albion Magistrate Tuanna Hardy yesterday and pleading guilty as charged, was sentenced to 3 years and eight months’ imprisonment, and fined $104,977,620.
RECAP
Alli was reportedly intercepted with more than $34 million worth of ganja in his vehicle during
Jailed:
an operation conducted at #45 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.
The police have said that ranks intercepted
Toyota Spacio HD 732, which was at the time driven by Alli, and a search of the vehicle unearthed seven salt bags containing 53 parcels wrapped in transparent plastic and suspected to contain cannabis sativa (ganja).
Alli was told of the offence committed, and was taken into custody. The parcels were subsequently weighed and amounted to 116,641 grams (257lbs) of the narcotic, which has an estimated street value of $34,992,383.
him not to approach the vehicle, Simon did not pay heed.
“This was my last words, I said girl don’t go, I told Coil Bottle don’t go and she went in front of the car. By time this woman put up her foot to go in the car, Coil Bottle was in front of me and if you hear gunshots start to shoot out.”
Fraser disclosed that because of the darkness inside the car, they could not identify the shooter. Another of his colleagues, however, identified the shooter as “Shaggy.”
“Everything in the car was dark, the only thing I see is something like sparks coming up from the front right by the driving side no other window had went down from the car and I held my ears and start run over the road… soon after that I see Coil Bottle lying in a pool
of blood” Fraser added.
The police on Thursday stated that they were reviewing the CCTV footage from cameras in the area.
In October 2023, Simon had visited a friend, who works at a hotel in New Amsterdam, Berbice and while there, three men and two women – all of whom he knew– had threatened him. He had later accused the men of assaulting and
threatening him. At the time he had claimed that he had gone to the Central Police Station in New Amsterdam, and an officer took a statement from him and asked that he return the following day. He had said that even though his face was partly swollen and he was bleeding, the officer did not give him a form to obtain a Police medical report from a doctor.
Naasik Alli
The ganja that was found in the convict’s car
Murdered: Simon Shawn Anthony, also called “Coil Bottle”
PNC attempting to undermine public confidence in Suddie Hospital – RHO
…rejects PNC claims of 5 neonatal deaths at facility in June
Regional Health Officer for Region Two, (PomeroonSupenaam), Dr Ranjeev Singh, has firmly rejected the allegations made by the Parliamentary Opposition Peoples’ National Congress regarding neonatal care at the Suddie Public Hospital.
The Regional Health Officer, in refuting allegations that five neonates had died in the NICU in June, is contending that the allegations are inaccurate and appear to be an intentional effort to damage the hospital’s
reputation and undermine public confidence therein.
According to Dr Singh, only two infants had unfortunately passed away in June, and this is due to severe complications associated with their premature births, contrary to the Opposition’s as-
Accusations of financial irregularity
Probe launched into allegations levelled against Brutus –Benn
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn on Friday expressed concerns regarding the allegations levelled against Deputy Commissioner of Police (ag) Calvin Brutus, confirming that an investigation has commenced.
The Home Affairs Minister did not specify which authority would be conducting the investigation but assured that a thorough review would be undertaken to address the specifics of the allegations.
“You will be advised when we do a release… I’m not speaking to that now,” he said.
When asked if he believed it was attempted money laundering, the Minister said he was not sure of such.
“I’m not sure about laundering of money. I’m concerned about the allegations. A review and investigation would be underway, have to determine what are the specifics of these issues, and the public and the press will be informed as we go along the way,” Benn said.
Minister Benn in a statement on Friday evening on the matter said, “Mr. Brutus has proceeded on leave to facilitate a full and complete investigation by SOCU. There will be no action in relation to any promotion of Mr. Brutus under these circumstances. Any promotion will be subject to the outcome of the investigation. SOCU has already
commenced its investigation and the Government will be guided by the outcome of such investigation.”
This comes after allegations of financial impropriety against Brutus on social media. Reports said that Brutus allegedly deposited $15 million into his account at the Police Credit Union on December 15, 2023. The money was allegedly returned to him the following day and the source of funds was given as contributions from before, during, and after his wedding. Commissioner of Police (ag) Clifton Hicken had told media personnel on Wednesday that no investigation was launched into the allegations.
However, on Thursday, in a summersault, Police Headquarters issued a statement indicating that Brutus had requested to go
on leave to facilitate the investigation for the benefit of the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
The Commissioner of Police, however, granted permission through the prescribed procedure.
Only recently, the GPF announced a rotation within the top brass of the Force in accordance with its modernisation plan. Brutus, who was previously in charge of ‘Administration,’ was among the three ranks involved in the rotation.
The rotation, certain sections of the media had reported was prompted due to the financial irregularities at the Administrative Office once headed by Brutus.
Further, it was reported that members of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) have confiscated several documents to facilitate an investigation. (G9)
sertions of five deaths.
Those babies, born between 35 and 38 weeks of gestation, had faced critical health issues such as haemorrhagic syndrome and multi-organ failure caused by congenital heart disease, the Regional Health Officer has said.
The opposition’s dissemination of false information, he said, is both harmful and misleading.
According to him, in reality, the hospital has made substantial advancements in its neonatal services, as highlighted by the opening of a new state-of-the-art wing in January. This new facility, which can now accommodate up to ten neonates, significantly enhances the hospital’s ability to provide critical care, and underscores its commitment to decentralizing healthcare services and making high-quality care accessible to families throughout the region.
According to the RHO, to maintain the highest standards of care, pediatricians and NICU staff nationwide have undergone specialised training.
Contrary to the Opposition’s claims, he noted, the NICU has consistently been staffed with trained medical professionals, including an obstetrician or gynecologist on duty at all times.
Meanwhile, head of the department, Dr. Kalesh Latchminarine, confirmed to this publication that, in June, nine babies were admitted to the NICU, with seven surviving and only two passing away due to complications.
From January to June 2024, 392 babies were delivered at the hospital, with 41 admitted to the NICU. Of these, six deaths were recorded, mainly due to congenital malformations and complications from preterm births.
Dr. Yelina Acosta, an experienced neonatologist from Cuba with over a decade of expertise, has further strengthened the hospital’s dedication to providing top-tier care. Suddie Public Hospital continues to offer free, comprehensive medical services to the entire coast and islands, including 24hour pharmacy and laboratory services.
Dr. Singh firmly dismissed the opposition’s allegations regarding the NICU’s safety, stressing that the hospital’s staff members are fully committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of mothers and their babies.
The management of Suddie Public Hospital stands by its exemplary record and the outstanding care it provides to its patients, the RHO has said. (G14)
Suddie Public Hospital in Region Two
RHO Dr Ranjeeve Singh
Deputy Commissioner of Police (ag) Calvin Brutus
“C’bean set to seize opportunities” –Oneidge Walrond
As the Caribbean shines through its multifaceted sectors to gain income, it is poised for significant economic growth.
This goal was highlighted by Tourism and Commerce Minister, Oniedge Walrond, during the closing ceremony of the Caribbean Investment Forum at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Friday afternoon.
Walrond emphasised that the Caribbean, as a peaceful, safe, and politically stable zone, offers numerous opportunities for attracting investment in non-traditional sectors.
“The framework for a new economic brand for the Caribbean is set, and we are well-poised to seize the opportunities ahead. There is no doubt about our capacity. What we require is the will to succeed and the wisdom to work collectively," she added.
She noted that while Caribbean economies have historically relied on regional and international trade relationships in traditional sectors such as tourism and agriculture, the dynamics of global trade are shifting. Investors are now exploring opportunities in non-traditional markets.
On the first day of the Investment Forum, European Ambassador Rene Van Nes echoed Walrond's sentiments. He highlighted the close working relationship between Guyana and Barbados as an example of the Caribbean's collaboration with the European Union.
“In the Caribbean region, with this very close working relationship between Guyana and Barbados, it’s also an illustration of that global gateway that I mentioned earlier, as it is using (European Union) EU grant money to pave the way for private investments,” he said.
He added that the energy seen at the Caribbean
Investment Forum positions the region well to capitalise on the benefits of the economic partnership agreements between the Caribbean Investment Forum and the EU. “The EPA offers duty-free and quota-free access for Caribbean goods and services into the European single market. That is a market of more than 450 million consumers with a huge appetite for healthy ecological products,” Van Nes stated.
Van Nes praised the vibrant business community, young and energetic population, strategic geographical location, and wide range of opportunities in the Caribbean. “The Caribbean has a vibrant business community, a young and energetic population, a strategic geographical location, and a wide range of opportunities and bankable projects. I could write a whole alphabet about the Caribbean,” he happily told the gathering.
“The Caribbean Investment Forum is less talk and more business,” he concluded. The Caribbean Investment Forum serves as a strategic platform not only to showcase investment opportunities but also to facilitate networking and partnerships, and foster much-needed dialogue among stakeholders. (G2)
Tourism Minster Oneidge Walrond
EU Ambassador to Guyana, Rene van Nes
9 women among 45 Kitty residents certified as heavy duty equipment operators
Atotal of 45 residents from kitty Georgetown, Region four (Demerara-Mahaica) on Wednesday was awarded certificates in Heavy Duty Equipment Operation (HDEO) as the Labour Ministry in collaboration with the Board of Industrial Training conducts graduation ceremony for the first batch of heavy-duty equipment operators at the Guyana Industrial Training Centre.
Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton said that the ministry’s training programmes are not only geared towards equipping persons with various skills but also aims to provide employment. On this point he noted that for this particular programme with which the ministry
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will ensure persons who have completed the programme get employed in the local workforce.
“We have a MoU with the police force so that in all of our HDEO programmes we want to ensure that outside of the certificate all the people who graduate they have a license to operate this equipment, we don’t want you to be left out and you can’t get a job that you really should have gotten,” the minster asserted.
The recent batch of graduates comprised of 38 males and nine females and in this regard the minister applauded the females that participated in the programme as he further encouraged more females to step into male dominated fields since they now have the freedom to ac-
cess various programmes.
“I am talking to you women, there is no man work and woman work, whatever work and man can do you can do it and sometime far better than the man can do it” the minister posited.
Meanwhile, also delivering remarks at the ceremony was the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) Chief Executive Office Richard Maughn who encouraged participants to continue accruing the necessary knowledge needed to upskill themselves.
“The training that you have received I am quite sure would have inspired you to learn more, to develop further don’t let that desire die after you receive your certificate today but keep pressing keep looking for opportunities to develop yourselves more and more,”
stated. To date the programme which was developed to ad-
dress the lack of heavy-duty operators in the country and has yet trained nearly 100 persons in heavy-duty equipment operation in Georgetown this year that had a duration of four to
six months. The programme covers various topics, including equipment operation techniques, safety procedures, maintenance practices, and industry regulations.
January-May visitor arrivals increased by 12.8% in 2024
Guyana has seen an increase in the number of persons entering the country for the first half of the year, this increase was highlighted by the Tourism, Industry & Commerce Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) in its half year sector updates.
According to the report From January to May 2024, visitor arrivals increased significantly by 12.8 per cent compared to the same period in 2023 with a total of 141,078 visitors entering the country during this period. Moreover, this year’s May month arrivals have also recorded an increase in visitors when compared to last year. According to the report visitor arrivals increased by 14.6 per cent in May 2024 compared to May 2023, with 28,327 visitors making this year’s May month arrivals the second highest overall.
Additionally, the United States (US) dominated the market share of the month of May accounting for 47 per cent of visitors this was followed by the Caribbean 27 per cent, Canada eight
per cent, Europe six pers cent, Latin America six per cent and other markets six per cent.
It was noted that the increase of visitors during this period is a result of multiple initiatives implemented by the Tourism Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority who worked assiduously on several extensive, collaborative projects, programmes and initiatives to achieve significant strides in promoting and developing Guyana’s tourism product.
As of June, the GTA recorded 82 licensed businesses and tourist guides. This includes 16 tourism accommodation establishments, 11 interior lodges and resorts, 18 tourist guides, and 37 tour operators. At the end of June 2024, the GTA had trained 1267 persons in priority areas. Training has theoretical and practical components to ensure that the participants can exercise any of the content administered. Training areas include: Birding Guide training, First Aid and CPR training, Intro to Tourism & Ecolodge
Development Training, Delivering Quality Service, Successful Taxi Driver training, Booking and Online Payment Seminar, Business & Financial Management training, Tour Guiding Training and Digital Marketing among others. Notably a total of 36 properties have been officially entered into the GTA’s ICC T20 Bed & Breakfast Property database. These businesses have been officially inspected by the GTA in order to receive their conditional approval.
Additionally, as Guyana’s room stock continues to grow, a total of four new hotel establishments will be added this year, totaling 595 rooms, with this increase in accommodation Guyana is expected to record 208,922 visitors between July - December 2024, which is a 23 per cent increase compared to the same period of the previous year. In total, 350,000 visitors are expected to enter the country in 2024. Meanwhile, in 2023, Guyana experienced an 11 per cent increase in visitors entering the country
when compared to the previous year. Last year the country welcomed a total of 319,147 tourists through various ports. However, it has been noted that the majority of those visitors were not from Guyana’s diaspora group. Notably, only 45% (144,307) of those arrivals were diaspora visitors, while 55% (174,840) were from its non-diaspora group. The statistical report highlighted that most
of the non-Guyanese visitors had travelled from the United States and the Caribbean, with 44,704 and 71,305 visitors respectfully. Meanwhile, the largest contingents of Guyanese diaspora travellers hailed from the United States (105,158) and Canada (19,851). The total number of visitors entering the country this year is expected to grow by nine per cent, with an estimated total of 350,000 persons en-
tering the country. Arrivals are expected to increase due to the following events/ activities: Guyana/Cricket Carnival, Caribbean Premiere League 2024 (CPL), and other sporting events.
Further, the country can expect additional visitors due to the continued oil production, increased marketing and expanded product development, and major conferences.
Maughn
Board of Industrial Training CEO, Richard Maughn
Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton
“I
was not detained nor interrogated” – Min Bharrat
…Enrico Woolford slapped with lawyer's letter demanding retraction, apology for libellous post
atural Resources
NMinister Vickram Bharrat has denied mischievous reports that he was detained and interrogated at the John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.
In a Facebook post on Friday morning, journalist Enrico Woolford alleged that the minister was escorted and questioned by Federal agents at the JFK Airport upon his arrival there on Thursday evening.
However, when contacted via WhatsApp on Friday, Bharrat told Guyana Times from the United States that, “I was not detained nor interrogated.” In fact, he explained that he was at the time travelling to the US to see his father, who has been hospitalised and is not doing well.
“[The trip] came on as an emergency,” the minister explained, adding that the US authorities had extended courtesies to expedite the immigration clearance process so that he can rush to be with his family.
In fact, Bharrat subsequently took to social media, on his personal Facebook page, expressing wishes for his father's speedy recovery at the Montefiore Medical Center – the University
Hospital for Albert Einstein College of Medicine – in Bronx, NY. He also used the oppor-
tunity to thank the US authorities for expediting his clearance at the JFK airport. “Special thanks to the US Authorities for the kind courtesies and professionalism,” the senior Guyanese Government official stated in the post.
In addition to Woolford’s post, Treasurer and Economic Advisor of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Elson Low, also raised the issue of the minister’s alleged arrest during a weekly press conference hosted by Office of the Opposition Leader on Friday.
Minister Bharrat expressed his disgust at the allegations levied against him especially at a time when he and his family are going through this ordeal at a personal level. Consequently, Bharrat, through his lawyer, has since written Woolford demanding a full and public apology.
The letter, which was sent by Attorney Sanjeev Datadin and seen by the Guyana Times, informed Woolford that his “…account of what transpired is totally false. Your allegation and insinuation [are] utterly
Guyana’s “Jaguar” economy growth has positive regional impact – GO-INVEST head
Hailing brand Guyana as the Jaguar economy, Guyana’s Chief Investment Officer and Agency Head of the Guyana Office for Investment (GoInvest), Dr Peter Ramsaroop said Guyana’s success is the region’s success.
“I want you to be part of it,” he told investors and business leaders in his keynote address titled “Guyana Unlocked Vision 2030” on day three of the Caribbean Investment Forum.
Local sectors, Ramsaroop said have been positioned to the level of global competitiveness with Guyana in recent years investing heavily in social development, food, climate and energy securities.
Seven new hospitals are being built, more than 20,000 scholarships have been awarded to local students, modern housing schemes have been and are being developed across the country and when the Gasto-Energy (GtE) project comes on stream, Guyana will be a provider of cheap and reliable electricity.
According to him, this is just part of Guyana’s story, he told to a gathering at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) during his captivating and informative presentation.
Guyana, he pointed out also boasts a tropical climate, vast expanse of water and arable lands and is at the forefront leading efforts to increase agricultural production and reduce food importation in the regions while utilising its forest to serve as the lungs of the world.
In addition, Guyana is an internationally recognised eco-tourism destination and has embarked on building several world class hotels and a new city, Silica City that will be a wonder to behold.
“You know the Asian economies of the past often referred to as the Tiger Economies, you know of Singapore, you know of
Qatar, the UAE stories. I want you to know of the Jaguar Economy. I want you to be part of it,” he said.
Investor-friendly destination
Turning his attention directly to the audience of investors and business leaders, Ramsaroop said Guyana is an investor-friendly destination, believes in democracy, transparency and accountability, is the fastest growing economy in the world, is resource-rich, offers generous incentives, honours trade agreements and has a stable financial system.
These coupled with strategic connections to neighbouring Brazil and Suriname, new markets and
boundless opportunities for trade and business will open up for Guyana and the region.
“We are here to help you to make your investment worthwhile. Our job is if you develop a product, is to ensure that it gets to the wider world,” he told the gathering during his well-received presentation.
The local investment chief also assured investors and business leaders that investment in Guyana is safe as it is protected by law and encouraged them to form partnership with local companies to improve brand visibility and to expand their businesses.
He also emphasised the importance of partnerships and collaborations, underscoring that it will provide the region a platform for greater competitiveness in the global business arena.
“We in the Caribbean like to call ourselves small states but if we look at putting ourselves together, we are not a small state, we have quite a bit of investment opportunities,” Dr Ramsaroop pointed out while noting that twining of eco-tourism opportunities such as beach and jungle tours and producing internationally branded pepper sauces are worthwhile to pursue.
false and without merit.”
“Your libelous publication was maliciously posted to deliberately cause damage to my client’s reputation and character. I am instructed to inform you that your statement is defamatory and has caused injury to my client’s reputation and good character.”
The lawyer indicated to Woolford that he has to is-
sue a “clear, unqualified and unconditional apology and retraction in a form, manner and terms to be agreed on or before the 14th July, 2024 at 2 pm.”
In addition to the apology, Datadin is also seeking “substantial compensation and reasonable legal costs” given the gravity of the false allegations that were made. (G8)
MMG rolls out API integration for faster online transactions
Businesses which rely heavily on online transactions will now benefit from faster transactions as Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) rolls out API integration for digital payments.
The new system according to the release from the company, offers a secure, fast, and convenient solution for merchants and web developers.
CEO of MMG, Mark Singh highlighted the numerous benefits the new system will offer to businesses and customers. "By integrating with MMG, businesses can ensure immediate transaction processing, which improves cash flow and operational efficiency. Additionally, the integration enables a smoother, quicker checkout process, reducing cart abandonment and increasing conversion rates."
Singh said customers will benefit from broader payment options as they can pay using their mobile wallets, enhancing their convenience and satisfaction.
"MMG's robust security protocols ensure safe and
secure transactions, reducing fraud and building trust between businesses and their customers. By tapping into MMG’s extensive network of users, businesses can open their services to a wider audience, increasing their customer base," Singh said.
MMG’s API is designed for straightforward implementation, allowing businesses to get up and running with minimal development time. With access to comprehensive documentation, SDKs, and developer resources, the integration process is smooth and efficient. The API also offers customisable payment solutions, enabling businesses to tailor the payment experience to match their needs and customer preferences. Monitoring and support are available around the clock, ensuring optimal performance and prompt resolution of any issues. Businesses can also leverage MMG’s analytics and reporting tools to gain insights into payment trends, customer behavior, and transaction history, which can inform strategic business decisions.
Mobile Money Guyana CEO, Mark Singh
GO-INVEST CEO, Dr Peter Ramsaroop
Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat with his mother outside the New York hospital where his father is hospitalised
GPF’s 185th Anniversary
Over 5,000 cops receive $112M in prizes at Annual Awards Ceremony
…as GPF records reduction in crime, traffic accidents
At the Guyana Police Force’s 185th Anniversary Awards Ceremony held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex, Eve Leary, Georgetown, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken reported substantial reductions in crime and traffic accidents so far for 2024.
The event, which celebrated the achievements of the Force, saw over 5,000 ranks awarded with monetary compensations amounting to $112 million.
During the ceremony, Police Commissioner, Clifton Hicken highlighted an 18.9% reduction in serious crime for this year while emphasising the success of 361 community policing groups across regional divisions.
Additionally, he noted that the force has confiscated 75 firearms, the same number
26% reduction.
Deaths resulting from these accidents decreased from 78 in 2023 to 60 in 2024, a reduction of 23%. Serious accidents fell from 176 in 2023 to 158 in 2024, a 10% de-
as in 2023.
In the realm of traffic safety, the Commissioner reported notable decreases in various types of accidents. Fatal accidents dropped from 68 in 2023 to 50 in 2024, marking a
crease, while minor accidents declined from 223 in 2023 to 211 in 2024, showing a 5% reduction. The number of damage accidents also saw a decrease from 420 in 2023 to 398 in 2024.
Commissioner Hicken acknowledged the “daily challenges” faced by ranks “in maintaining law and order” and commended the officers for “exceeding standards” and “expectations.”
“Ranks, we understand the daily challenges you face in maintaining law and order. Being a police officer is among the most demanding roles… the responsibilities and professionalism of a police officer, sets the profession apart”, he said.
“Your efforts have not gone unnoticed as we remain steadfast in fulfilling the mandate of the Guyana Police Force”.
He also highlighted the Force’s heavy investment in its ranks, mentioning that more than 1,000 scholarships and various sponsorships had been provided, with several hundred ranks participating in local and overseas courses and programs.
The government is pouring billions of dollars into
bolstering the police force’s capabilities, integrating cutting-edge technology, and enhancing training programs. This year alone, approximately $1 billion has been allocated for expanding the force’s land and water fleets, which will significantly improve mobility and response times.
A further $2 billion is dedicated to advancing technology and crime-fighting initiatives, while $5.4 billion is earmarked for infrastructural development.
Moreover, $250 million has been set aside to increase training across various sectors, and $152 million is allocated for community policing initiatives.
In his closing remarks, the Commissioner urged the public to foster a supportive environment where officers can thrive.
The event also featured the presentation of over 100 special awards and tokens of appreciation to various departments, including the Police Regional Divisions (one through ten), Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters,
GPF Command Centre, Guyana Police Association, Communications Branch/ Information Technology Department, and the Strategic Implementation Unit for Police Reform.
Special recognition was given to the Special Constabulary Office of the Director of Music and Culture, Quartermaster Store, Guyana Police Consumers, and Cooperative Society Lt. General Officer, among others.
Addressing the audience, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn stressed the importance of delivering outstanding service and maintaining integrity. He also encouraged officers to focus on personal growth.
“I want to entreat you all today to keep focus on integrity, to keep focus on the questions of improvement. This is what we need now more than ever… We must not take our eyes off of that ball,” Minister Benn said.
He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting the Guyana Police Force in reducing crime and violence across the nation. (G9)
Alec Baldwin’s Rust trial dismissed over hidden evidence
Alec Baldwin broke into tears as a New Mexico judge dismissed the involuntary manslaughter case against him for a fatal shooting on the set of the film Rust.
The trial collapsed three days into Baldwin’s trial in Santa Fe, at a court just miles from where Halyna Hutchins, a cinematographer, was shot with a revolver that Mr Baldwin was using in rehearsals.
It is the second time the case against the actor has been dismissed since the October 2021 shooting. He will not be tried again.
His lawyers alleged police and prosecutors hid evidence - a batch of bullets - that could have been connected to the shooting on set.
A key aspect of the case has been how live ammunition ended up on the set and Mr Baldwin’s lawyers have questioned the investigation and mistakes made by authorities who processed the scene.
Their motion to dismiss set off a remarkable set of events, with one of the two special prosecutors leading the case resigning, and Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer dismissing the jury to hear from multiple witnesses.
The bullets, Mr Baldwin’s lawyer said, could be related to Ms Hutchins’ death, but were filed in a different case with a different number.
Prosecutors argued the ammunition was not connected to the case and did not match bullets found on the Rust set.
The judge ruled, however, that they should have been shared with Mr Baldwin’s defence team regardless.
“The state’s wilful withholding of this information was intentional and deliberate,” she said from the bench. “There is no way for the court to right this wrong.”
Prosecutors will not be able to lodge the charge
against Baldwin again, as the judge did not rule the case a mistrial, but instead outright dismissed it with prejudice.
“It was the nuclear option. The case is over,” Los Angeles criminal defence lawyer Joshua Ritter told the BBC.
Baldwin, best known for his role on the NBC sitcom 30 Rock and for portraying Donald Trump on sketch show Saturday Night Live, broke down in tears as the judge read from a lengthy statement detailing her rea-
sons for the dismissal. His wife, Hilaria, covered her mouth. Other members of his family cried and smiled.
The actor hugged his lawyers then embraced his wife, who was seated behind him. They walked out handin-hand through a tunnel of press into a black vehicle without answering any questions or making any comments.
The evidence came to light on Thursday, when a crime-scene technician told the court that a man named Troy Teske, a retired police
officer, had turned over live ammunition that could be related to the case.
Mr Teske is friends with the step-father of Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the film’s armourer who was convicted of involuntary manslaughter earlier this year.
He was working with Seth Kenney, who helped with props and ammunition on the film set.
After the judge sent the jury home on Friday, the court heard from a series of witnesses about the bullets, including authorities who led the case and Mr Kenney.
Towards the end of the hearing, one of the prosecutors leading the case - Kari Morrissey - took the stand to testify about the bullets and why they weren’t shared with the defence. It’s remarkably rare for a prosecutor to testify in a case they bring about their role in the investigation.
Ms Morrissey, while on the stand, said that her co-prosecutor, Erlinda
Ocampo Johnson, resigned on Friday as the judge weighed to dismiss the case. She explained Ms Johnson “didn’t agree with the decision to have a public hearing” over the evidence claims.
In 2023, prosecutors in the case dismissed an involuntary manslaughter charge against Mr Baldwin, saying they had new evidence and needed more time to investigate. They refiled that charge in January, arguing he had a flagrant disregard for gun safety on a film set that had a small budget and an inexperienced cast.
Mr Baldwin pleaded not guilty and has maintained he never pulled the trigger when the gun went off, killing Ms Hutchins.
His defence team has said he was simply an actor doing his job on the film set and placed his trust in the film crew that were tasked with ensuring weapon safety on set. (BBC)
Actor Alec Baldwin
Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken
The Awards Ceremony was held at Police Officers’ Mess Annex, Eve Leary, Georgetown
USAID gives $4.5 million in humanitarian assistance for countries impacted by Hurricane Beryl
In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, which caused widespread devastation across Grenada, Jamaica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines, the United States, through USAID, plans to provide [US$] $4.5 million in immediate humanitarian assistance to aid response efforts.
In Jamaica, USAID intends to provide $2.5 million to repair homes, address water and sanitation needs, support logistical operations; and provide essential relief items, such as clean-up kits, hygiene kits, and tarps. USAID will also provide market-based assistance to help affected residents purchase basic household commodities and other needed items.
20,000 left homeless in St Vincent, Grenada
Approximately 20,000 people have been left homeless or in severely damaged buildings in Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) by the passage of Hurricane Beryl.
the region, deployed 8 staff, and activated 25 disaster experts in 7 countries to support response efforts.
Prior to Hurricane Beryl making landfall in the Caribbean, USAID pre-positioned relief supplies in
In Grenada and St Vincent and the Grenadines, USAID intends to provide a total of $2 million, $1 million for each country, to bolster relief efforts. This funding will provide shelter and emergency relief items for several thousand people displaced due to storm damage. USAID also plans to provide market-based assistance to affected households to provide critical flexibility in their recovery efforts.
USAID humanitarian teams remain on the ground across the Caribbean to work with partners and local governments to assess storm damage and humanitarian needs, and to support the disaster response. In addition, USAID partners in the region are rapidly evaluating existing programs and pivoting where appropriate to support response efforts. (NowGrenada.com)
BHP, Vale agree deal over 2015 Brazil dam collapse proceedings in UK
Mining giant BHP (BHP.AX), opens new tab said on Friday it had reached a deal with Brazilian peer Vale (VALE3.SA), opens new tab to split equally the cost of any damages related to proceedings in Britain over a 2015 dam collapse in Brazil that killed 19 people, while denying liability for related claims.
BHP Group (UK) Ltd and its Anglo-Australian parent BHP are defendants in a group action claim in the English High Court, brought by more than 600,000 claimants seeking damages for the Fundao Dam failure.
The collapse of the tailings dam, which stored mining waste and is owned by the Samarco joint venture between BHP and Brazilian
iron ore mining giant Vale, killed 19 and spilled about 40 million cubic meters of toxic sludge into communities, the Rio Doce river, and Atlantic Ocean 650 km away.
BHP and Vale will each pay 50% of any amount potentially payable to the claimants in the UK proceedings, the Netherlands proceedings, and others in Brazil covered in the agreement, the company said on Friday.
It reinforces the framework agreement signed in 2016 for BHP Brasil and Vale to each contribute 50% to the funding of the Renova Foundation, which was set up to ensure full and fair remediation for the damages caused by the dam collapse.
"BHP believes the English Proceedings are
unnecessary because they duplicate matters already covered by the existing and ongoing work of the Renova Foundation and legal proceedings in Brazil," the company said. BHP will continue to defend the UK proceedings and does not consider that it is liable to the related claimants, it added.
In March, a new claim was filed against Vale and the Dutch subsidiary of Samarco in the Netherlands in which BHP is not a defendant, BHP said.
Since the UK proceedings were not brought against Vale, BHP had filed a contribution claim against Vale in December 2022, which has now been withdrawn due to the new agreement. (Excerpted from Reuters)
Speaking during a media conference to launch the regional response for Grenada and SVG hosted by the Grenada Information Service on July 11, Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell said 4,000 people had been left homeless after their homes were destroyed, while another 4,000 were living in severely damaged buildings.
“The people of Carriacou and Petite Martinique need to be fed and provided with basic amenities for the next six months. We have to demolish unsafe buildings before we can rebuild.
"Those islands are fishing and agricultural communities. Fishing boats and equipment were all destroyed. There’s no vegetation; the animals are dying because we have no animal feed. There’s no fuel; that has to be brought onto the island.
“The agricultural sector, the fishing sector, the marine industry, tourism, businesses, all badly devastated. The forest and fo-
liage are gone. Our mangrove ecosystems were not spared.”
Mitchell said a complete assessment of biodiversity was needed, as well as beach cleanup, assessment and cleaning of the coral reef to encourage fish to come back.
SVG PM Ralph Gonsalves said over 3,500 households had been left homeless, with an average of three people per household. He said 2,500 houses had been destroyed in the southern Grenadines.
He said there were 450 primary and secondary school students on Union Island, who would have to be housed in St Vincent for the upcoming school year,
along with their teachers and parents, who would also need income support.
Gonsalves said the international and regional organisations which provide aid are not fit for purpose for the relief that is now required, not including what would be needed for recovery and reconstruction.
Mitchell said significant capital investment would be needed and called on firstworld countries to provide grant resources which were not loans.
“This funding should have been put in place before these events. The grants need to have quick disbursement post-hurricane. (Excerpted from T&T Newsday)
Son of J’can cop killed in Toronto shooting
A23-year-old man, believed to be the son of a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, has died of his injuries after multiple shots were fired at a housing complex in North York’s Shawnee Park area in Toronto, Canada.
The murder occurred on Cherokee Boulevard, in the area of Victoria Park and Finch Avenues, shortly before 3:00 am on Thursday. Toronto police said multiple
residents in the area called to report the sound of gunshots.
Toronto Paramedic Services said they were called to the area and subsequently rushed one adult to the hospital with critical injuries.
Police later confirmed that the victim, 23-yearold Marsell Bryan, was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Toronto police investigators said that multiple shots were fired and that the shooting was targeted as there were two suspects shooting at another male victim.
There is no information so far about the suspects. Police are asking anyone with information to contact investigators. (Jamaica Observer)
The homicide unit has now taken over the investigation.
French rugby players charged with raping woman in Argentina
Two French international rugby players have been charged with the aggravated rape of a woman following a match in Argentina, prosecutors in the South American country say.
Hugo Auradou, 20, and Oscar Jegou, 21, are accused of raping a 39-yearold woman after France beat Argentina on Saturday.
She alleges that they raped her multiple times and beat her in a hotel room in the city of Mendoza.
The pair, who chose "not to testify" at a hearing in the city, say they had consensual sex with the woman and deny
rape. They will remain in custody while authorities investigate further.
The woman alleged the attack took place at the Diplomatic Hotel, where France's players and staff were staying as part of a tour of South America.
Her lawyer says she left a nightclub with one of the men and accompanied him to the hotel room, where she alleges that she was raped "at least six times" by one of the men and once by the other.
Ms Romano told AFP that her client suffered "fierce" violence, with injuries to her face, back, breasts, legs and
ribs as well as various bite and scratch marks.
The woman was held against her will for several hours and tried to escape several times, Ms Romano said. Her client went to hospital on Thursday after feeling ill emotionally and physically because of the incident and is receiving treatment at a health facility, she added.
On Friday a lawyer for the players said his clients were confident in their version of events.
On Wednesday another lawyer said the "sexual relations" had been consensual.
(Excerpted from BBC)
A man stands next to a business destroyed by Hurricane Beryl in Clifton, Union Island, St Vincent and the Grenadines, on July 4
The debris of the municipal school of Bento Rodrigues district, which was covered with mud after a dam owned by Vale SA and BHP burst, is pictured in Mariana, Brazil, November 10, 2015 (REUTERS/ Ricardo Moraes/File Photo)
Around the World
OOIL NEWS
Oil prices settle down after data shows weaker US consumer sentiment
il futures prices settled slightly lower on Friday as investors weighed weaker US consumer sentiment against mounting hopes for a Federal Reserve rate cut in September.
Brent crude futures settled 37 cents lower to US$85.03 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures fell 41 cents, or 0.5 per cent, to close at US$82.21 a barrel.
For the week, Brent futures fell more than 1.7 per cent after four weeks of gains. WTI futures posted 1.1 per cent weekly decline.
A monthly survey by the University of Michigan showed US consumer sentiment fell to an eight-month low in July, although inflation expectations improved for the next year and beyond.
The US Labour Department said the Producer Price Index (PPI) rose 0.2 per cent in June, slightly more than expected, as the cost of services climbed. Still, investors expect the Fed could start cutting rates in September.
"The market isn't afraid of the Fed at this point," said Phil Flynn, an analyst at Price Futures Group.
Lower rates are expected to boost economic growth, which could boost fuel consumption.
"Cooling US inflation numbers may support the case for the Fed to kick-start its policy easing process earlier rather than later," said Yeap Jun Rong, market strategist at IG.
"It also adds to the series of downside surprises in US economic data, which points to a clear weakening of the US economy," he added.
Oil prices have drawn some support from US gasoline demand, which government data showed on Wednesday was at 9.4 million barrels per day (bpd) in the week ended July 5, the highest since 2019 for the week that includes the Independence Day holiday. Jet fuel demand on a four-week average basis was at its strongest since January 2020.
The strong fuel demand encouraged US refiners to ramp up activity and draw from crude oil stockpiles. US Gulf Coast refiners' net input of crude rose last week to more than 9.4 million bpd for the first time since January 2019, Government data showed.
Signs of weaker demand from China, the world's biggest oil importer, could counter the outlook from the United States and weigh on prices.
"The recent downside correction is evidently over, although the speed of further ascent might be hindered by falling Chinese crude oil imports, which plummeted 11 per cent in June from the previous year," said Tamas Varga of oil broker PVM.
US active oil rig count, an early indicator of future output, fell by one to 478 this week, the lowest since December 2021, energy services firm Baker Hughes reported on Friday.
Money managers raised their net long US crude futures and options positions in the week to July 9, the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) said on Friday. (Reuters)
Bodies of about 60 Palestinians reportedly found after Israeli attack on Gaza City
Emergency workers claim to have recovered the bodies of approximately 60 Palestinians from two districts of Gaza City after Israeli forces pulled back from days of battles with Hamas militants in the territory’s biggest urban area.
The civil defence agency in Hamas-run Gaza on Friday said the bodies were found in the Tal al-Hawa and Al-Sinaa districts after the week-long offensive.
“There are still missing people under the rubble of destroyed homes, which is difficult for our crews to reach,” the agency’s spokesperson Mahmud Bassal said. “There are reports that many people are missing since the first day of the incursion.”
“There are many calls for help but we just cannot reach them. We just do not have enough crews,” Bassal added. He said the
Sabha medical centre, near the Gaza City district of Shujaiya, which provides care for 60,000 residents, had been destroyed in the new fighting. This was not immediately confirmed by Israel.
The Israeli military and Shin Bet intelligence agency announced on Friday that they killed Ayman Shweidah, the deputy commander of Hamas’s Shujaiya battalion. The joint statement said he was involved in planning the 7 October attacks and took part in the fighting that followed.
On Wednesday the Israeli army had dropped leaflets warning “everyone in Gaza City” – the focus of a heavy Israeli assault this week – that it would “remain a dangerous combat zone”. The leaflets urged residents to flee and set out designated escape routes from the area where the UN humanitarian office said up
UK prisoners to serve shorter sentences until 2026, to ease overcrowding
Labour confirms it will release many prisoners 40 per cent of the way into their sentences instead of halfway through to ease overcrowding crisis
Emergency plans to cut prisoner sentence lengths to ease the overcrowding crisis and avert “a total breakdown in law and order” will last until 2026 at least, the justice secretary has announced.
In a furious speech at HMP Five Wells, Shabana Mahmood lambasted the decision by Rishi Sunak’s government to delay the new measures announced by Labour on Friday to release thousands of prisoners 40 per cent of the way into their sentences – as opposed to half-
12 reported dead after school in Nigeria collapses during classes
Atwo-storey school in north-central Nigeria collapsed during morning classes on Friday, trapping about 120 students and teachers and setting off a frantic search for those in the rubble. A local television station reported 12 deaths.
Authorities are yet to confirm the number of students and teachers killed in Saints Academy college in Plateau state’s Busa Buji community. But Channels Television said 26 people were being treated along with the deaths, citing a witness account at a nearby hospital.
Nigeria’s National Emergency Management
Agency said rescue and health workers as well as security forces have been deployed at the scene. It said that “several students” had been killed.
“Approximately 120 people were trapped, with many evacuated,” Plateau Commissioner for Information Musa Ashoms said in a statement. “To ensure prompt medical attention, the government has instructed hospitals to prioritise treatment without documentation or payment.”
The state government blamed the tragedy on the school’s “weak structure and location near a riverbank.” It urged schools fac-
ing similar issues to close down.
Dozens of villagers gathered near the school, some weeping and others offering to help, as excavators combed through the debris. One woman was seen wailing and attempting to go closer to the rubble as others held her back.
Building collapses are becoming common in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country with more than a dozen such incidents recorded in the last two years.
Authorities often blame such disasters on failure to enforce building safety regulations and poor maintenance. (The Guardian)
way through – until after the election.
And it was also revealed that the emergency early release scheme brought in by the previous government in October had seen 10,000 inmates freed early, but had barely put a dent in the soaring prison population.
Announcing a review into how the crisis was allowed to unfold, Ms Mahmood accused Tory ministers of putting “their political careers ahead of the safety and security of our country” in the “most disgraceful dereliction of duty I have ever known”.
The new justice secretary painted a bleak picture as she warned that the current situation threatened “the collapse of the criminal justice system and a total breakdown of law and order” – with “looters running amok, smashing in windows, robbing shops and setting neighbourhoods alight”.
Warning of vanloads of dangerous suspects circling the country if no prison spaces are available for them, she said: “The police would have to use their cells as a prison overflow, keeping officers off the streets. Soon, the courts would grind to a halt, unable to hold trials. The police would have to stop carrying out arrests.”
The new emergency scheme will begin in September and will be reviewed in 18 months, with prisoners sentenced for sexual, serious violence and domestic abuse offences among those to be excluded, Ms Mahmood said. (Excerpted from The Independent)
to 350,000 people had been sheltering.
Many civilians told the Guardian they had concluded there was no refuge in war-stricken Gaza and said they lacked confidence in the safe corridors set by Israel.
Residents said they also feared that if they left they would not be able to take belongings or return.
The offensive came as Arab mediators, backed by the US, are trying to reach a ceasefire deal that would free Israelis held hostage by
Hamas in return for many Palestinians jailed by Israel. Hamas said the heavy Israeli assault on Gaza City this week could wreck efforts to finally end the war just as negotiations have entered the home stretch. In a statement, the Palestinian Islamist militant group said mediators had yet to provide it with updates on the state of the talks since it made concessions last week in response to a US-backed Israeli peace offer. (Excerpted from The Guardian)
Hackers steal call records of 'nearly all' AT&T customers
Hackers stole call and text records data from "nearly all" of 109 million AT&T Wireless customers, the telecommunications company disclosed on Friday.
The firm said one suspect had been arrested after the records - from May to October 2022 - were illegally downloaded and copied to a third-party platform this April.
The stolen data did not contain the content of calls or texts, but did record the numbers contacted, as well as the number and lengths of interactions, the company said.
The Justice Department said the delayed announcement of the hack was justified on national security grounds.
“We sincerely regret this incident occurred and remain committed to protecting the information in our care,” AT&T said in a statement.
The company said in its filing to the securities and exchange commission it had secured its systems from
further similar hacks and did not believe what was stolen was publicly available.
It said it first learned of the breach five days after hackers started stealing data on 14 April. They continued to do so until 25 April, the company said. Experts have warned that the information could be used to identify work places, approximate home locations, as well as potential colleagues and friends. The breach comes months after AT&T disclosed that data from 2019 of 73 million former and current customers had been stolen and placed on the "dark web" by fraudsters. AT&T said it would alert affected customers. Users could also log into their account to see if their data was affected, and request a report that would provide a more "user-friendly" version showing what was compromised. It warned users to be cautious about email or text requests that ask for personal information. (BBC)
A woman looking around as she salvages items at the damaged Unrwa Complex in western Gaza City’s Al-Sinaa neighbourhood.
(Photograph: Omar Al-Qattaa/AFP/Getty Images)
DAILY HOROSCOPES
(March 21-April 19)
Participate, make positive changes that highlight your attributes, and challenge yourself to be and do your best. Express your intentions with passion and sincerity.
Someone will scrutinize you closely. Think before you proceed and save yourself from being forced into a defensive position. Work quietly behind the scenes. Declutter your space.
(May 21-June 20) (April 20-May 20)
Take a walk down memory lane; it will remind you of someone or something you want to revisit. An opportunity to attend a reunion or travel will change your perspective regarding what’s possible.
(June 21-July 22)
(July 23-Aug. 22)
(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)
(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)
(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)
Stop an emotional situation from escalating. Listen to others and offer only constructive thoughts. If someone challenges you, walk away. Choose to be the best version of yourself.
Spend quality time with friends and family. Put your best foot forward and let kindness and understanding help you generate interest in the changes you want to make.
Get together with friends, travel and seek enlightenment. Pay attention to detail, and you’ll discover something you enjoy doing that can generate revenue. Don’t deny yourself what makes you happy.
Your curiosity will send you on an expedition that leads to interesting ideas. Enjoy the journey and explore the possibilities. Attend a function that allows you to make connections.
Try something you’ve never done before. Consider how you can use what you learn in your everyday routine. Network, socialize and embrace what’s trending.
Hesitate before offering anyone too much personal information. Focus on where your money goes and opt out of any joint venture that might compromise your integrity or emotional well-being.
(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
An emotional situation will catch you off guard if you give someone too much authority. Rethink any changes you are making in your domestic life. Be careful regarding financial matters.
(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)
Stick close to home and pay attention to your overhead and unexpected expenditures. Concentrate on your health and appearance and create a routine that challenges you to look and do your best.
Think about what you’ve done and consider where you are heading, and you’ll discover your best course of action. Strategic planning will lead to smooth sailing and the success you desire.
Ramdeholl pilots Berbice to 6-wicket win over Demerara
Dominant Berbice commenced their campaign with a win in the Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB) Male U17 50-Over Inter- County tournament, having produced a 6-wicket victory against Demerara before euphoric supporters at the Everest Ground in Georgetown.
The Berbice outfit won the toss and elected to field, and eventually restricted the firepower of the Demerara batting attack to 196 runs for the loss of eight wickets. Emanuel Lewis led the scoring with 49 runs, and Vickash Wilkinson contributed 15 runs.
Romario Ramdeholl, with his line and length consistency, proved to be pivotal in the Berbicians’ bowling attack, as he managed to disturb his opponents’ stumps on three occasions. Micah Amsterdam took two wickets, and Justin Doobay and Afraz Ali Budhoo each took one wicket.
Set a target of 197 runs,
Berbice employed a simple approach, with Captain Afraz Ali Budhoo striking the ball to all parts of the ground in slamming 72* runs as he carried his team across the finish line. Romario Ramdeholl
contributed 40 runs to the Berbice cause.
Arun Gainda continued his consistency with the ball in claiming two wickets, while Parmeshwar Ram and Joshua Kissundial each contributed
There are ambitions to host indoor Test cricket at a new stadium proposed in Hobart as part of a Tasmanian team joining the Australian Football League (AFL).
The Tasmania Devils are due to become the AFL’s 19th team in 2028, and part of the deal is based around there being a new stadium constructed. It is being earmarked as a multipurpose 23,000-seater venue at Macquarie Point, with a transparent roof to allow daytime cricket as well as floodlit T20.
“We want to get to redball [cricket]. That’s our focus,” Macquarie Point Development Corporation CEO Anne Beach told SEN Tassie. “The tricky thing is… we can’t be accredited until it’s built, so what we need to do is keep working through the detail and design process with Cricket [Tasmania] and Cricket Australia, and work with them to brief ICC to make sure they have all the information available.
“We are workshopping with them through detailed design, so we are making sure we are factoring in everything they need, [so] they have a clear understanding of how it’s coming together. Then, hopefully, that sign-off process is pretty smooth. But we do want to get that red-ball signoff, and that’s critical, I think, to enable that full content to be in the stadium.”
one wicket.
The competition is being used by the national junior selectors to pick the Guyana team to compete in the regional under-17 tournament later this year.
Hobart’s new stadium designed to host indoor Test cricket
Concept designs of the Macquarie Point Stadium were released earlier this week. Ball-tracking data has been used in developing the plans to ensure the roof would be high enough for cricket.
“Cricket’s biggest concern was the height of the roof… They cited concerns with Marvel Stadium [in Melbourne] where the ball could potentially hit the roof,” Cox Architecture CEO Alistair Richardson said. “What we’ve done is we’ve worked through looking at Hawk-Eye and the ball-tracking technology to actually assess the maximum height that anyone’s hit a ball, which is quite interesting.
“Then, actually, [we’ve] pushed the roof to 50 metres, which cricket was really hap-
py with, because there’s no instance of anyone hitting a ball at 50 metres.”
Experts have said that the design of the roof means there will be very little impact from shadows on the playing surface.
Marvel Stadium hosted indoor ODIs back in the early 2000s, and BBL matches can be played with the roof closed, but Test cricket has never taken place at an enclosed ground.
Cricket Tasmania chair, David Boon, reiterated the state’s aim of playing cricket at the new stadium, although it would likely lead to debate around the future of Bellerive Oval.
“There is a wonderful opportunity for Tasmania to
be a leader in innovation for the future of the game,” Boon said. “We want to play cricket in this stadium, and look forward to working collaboratively with all parties over the coming months as the design is finalised.”
Tasmania last hosted a Test in the 2021-22 seasonits first since 2016 - when the final match of the Ashes was switched to Bellerive Oval from Perth due to Covid travel restrictions into Western Australia. It is unlikely to stage another Test in the remainder of the current Future Tours Programme. Australia men will play a T20I against Pakistan in November, followed by the third ODI of the Women’s Ashes in January. (ESPNCricinfo)
Julien Alfred signals Olympic medal intent with 100m victory
St Lucia’s sprint sensation
Julien Alfred delivered a powerful performance at the Monaco Diamond League meeting on Friday, solidifying her status as a top contender for one of the 100m medals at the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris.
Alfred clinched victory in the women’s 100m event with an impressive time of 10.85 seconds, finishing ahead of Tamari Davis and Dina AsherSmith, who both clocked 10.99 seconds.
Reflecting on her race, Alfred shared, “I was specially prepared today not to make a mistake, and to just focus on myself and my own race. I felt great during the race, but now my legs hurt a bit because I did a (bit of) heavy training. Of course, I cannot complain right now, as I am taking home the Diamond League win.
“I am getting better with each race. I run more relaxed as well. I feel confident. I know that all I need to do is to trust my coach and to trust myself. The coach knows what is best for me. I really love this Monaco crowd and the introduction of the event with the lights. I will get back to practice, and just focus for my preparations for Paris.”
Alfred’s victory is a clear indication of her growing form and confidence as she heads towards the Olympic Games. Her ability to perform under pressure and continue improving with each race makes her a strong contender for the podium in Paris.
Cuba’s Leyanis Perez Hernandez emerged victorious in the women’s triple jump with a leap of 14.96m. She edged out Dominica’s Thea LaFond, who jumped 14.87m, and Ukraine’s Maryna BekhRomanchuk, who recorded 14.81m. Notably, Jamaican athletes Shanieka Ricketts and Ackelia Smith finished fourth and fifth with jumps of 14.67m and 14.30m respectively.
Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo dominated the men’s 200m, winning in 19.87 seconds. Alexander Ogando of the Dominican Republic finished second in 20.02 seconds, while Uganda’s Gracious Tarsis Orogot took third in 20.32 seconds. Matthew Hudson placed fourth with a time of 20.43 seconds.
In an epic showdown in the men’s 400m hurdles, USA’s Rai Benjamin triumphed over Olympic champion Karsten Warholm in clocking a blazing 46.67 seconds. Warholm finished a close second in 46.73 seconds, with Brazil’s Alison dos Santos taking third in 47.18 seconds.
Jamaica’s Malik JamesKing also impressed, running a fast 47.73 seconds despite hitting hurdles nine and 10, which slowed his momentum.
USA’s Quincy Hall delivered a world-leading and lifetime best performance in the men’s 400m, winning in a commanding 43.80 seconds. Fellow American Vernon Norwood finished second with a season’s best 44.34 seconds, while South Africa’s Lythe Pillay took third in 44.58 seconds. Rhasidat Adeleke of Ireland was a dominant winner in the women’s 400m, clocking 49.17 seconds. Lieke Klaver of the Netherlands finished second with a lifetime best of 49.64 seconds, and Kendall Ellis of the USA took third in 50.39 seconds. The Monaco Diamond League meeting showcased some of the world’s best athletic talents, setting the stage for an exciting build-up to the Olympic Games in Paris. With performances like Julien Alfred’s and others, the anticipation for the upcoming Olympics continues to grow. (Sportsmax)
Romario Ramdeholl’s all-round heroics piloted Berbice to a huge 6-wicket win over Demerara
St. Lucia’s Julien Alfred
Inaugural GFF Youth Academy Cup to kick off in next week
The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is set to launch its first-ever Youth Academy Cup on July 16. It will feature the nation’s top under-16 boys opposing two youth academies from Trinidad and Tobago.
Guyana will field two teams – Guyana Jaguars and Panthers – with players selected from the Academy Training Centre (ATC) programme and the under-16 national team, to compete against Point Fortin Youth Football Academy and Tinto’s Sporting Academy.
Matches will be held at the Federation’s National Training Centre at Providence, East Bank Demerara, until July 21.
GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph has said the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) endorsed the participation of the TT youth academies, and teams are expected to arrive in Guyana on July 15th.
“Over the past few years, we have struggled to have our youth players play international games within these shores. We have always travelled abroad to play the CONCACAF and CFU youth tournaments. As a consequence, we really have not afforded our local fans the opportunity to see our next generation of players. This inaugural tournament offers that opportunity.
“We want to make this a successful tournament, so we can build to accommodate
more international teams from the region. We will also look to possibly expand into other age groups.” Joseph has said.
In total, eight games are scheduled, promising fans an intense and competitive tournament spanning six days.
The competition will be played in a Round Robin format, and conclude on the final day with the top two teams playing for the championship and the others playing for third place. Each team would play four games throughout the competition. A win would be worth three points, a draw would earn one point, and a loss would earn no points.
Matches would be of 80 minutes’ duration, divided into two forty-minute halves.
Following the first round, the top two teams would advance to the final, while the third and fourth-placed
teams would compete for their respective standings.
The tournament kicks off with Point Fortin Youth Football Academy opposing Tinto’s Sporting Academy at 15:00hrs, followed by Guyana Jaguars facing Guyana Panthers at 17:00hrs.
On July 17, Point Fortin Youth Football Academy would meet Guyana Panthers at 15:00hrs, while Guyana Jaguars would take on Tinto’s Sporting Academy at 17:00hrs.
Moving to July 19, Guyana Panthers would clash with Tinto’s Sporting Academy at 15:00hrs, followed by Point Fortin Youth Football Academy coming against Guyana Jaguars at 17:00hrs.
On July 21st, the final match day, the third-place playoff would begin at 16:00 hrs and the Championship game at 18:00hrs.
GFF President Wayne Forde has added, “Our boys from the ATC Programme have already proven themselves on the national stage. This inaugural cup adds another layer, offering them a valuable opportunity to compete against their counterparts from Trinidad and Tobago, who, like our players, aspire to future international success in senior competition.
“I have every confidence that our two teams will proudly represent their nation on home soil.”
Launched in February
Easy Time ready to rumble at July 14 Port Mourant race meet
Reigning Guyana Cup
Champion Easy Time will be at the starting gate of the Port Mourant Turf Club on Sunday, July 14, this high-profile horse from the Master Z Racing Stables having been in full preparation mode this week at the Bush Lot race track in West Berbice.
Jockey Colin Ross has said that Easy Time needs some race time before the Guyana Cup meet, which is slated to be staged at the Rising Sun Turf Club on August 11.
“He is not 100 percent (fit), but we have a few more days (to prepare him), so we are working on him,” Ross has said.
Ross, the champion jockey for 2023, has said his primary goal is to win, and he will put his best foot forward to return this horse to its winning ways.
“With the Guyana Cup coming up, I will push harder. There will be a lot of people coming out to see the races, and the prize money is bigger. I am pushing my body to come out on top,” he has said.
“Since 2024 started, I have been doing good, but not so good (as I did last year). But from now to the end of the year, I will try to push myself to do better for the last half of the year,” Ross has resolved.
Sunday’s race meet at Port Mourant will be the final competitive preparation ahead of Guyana Cup, and all the top horses will be out to dominate. Guyana’s champi-
on horse Spankhurst, Guyana Cup winner for 2023 Easy Time, arch-rival Stolen Money, Jessica’s Pride, and the boss lady Bossalina are among the high-profile horses confirmed for this July 14 meet.
The provisional programme set out for the Port Mourant race meet has eight races on the cards and close to G$10M in cash and prizes up for grabs. The feature race, which would be open to all horses, would be contested over a distance of approximately 1350 metres, and the winning horse would be earning G$1.5M.
The three-year-old Guyana and West Indies-bred horses would be contesting for wins over 1350 metres, and the top horse will be rewarded G$500,000. Horses in the H & Lower would be contesting a distance of 1500 metres for
a winning purse of G$400,000. Other races on the cards include the E Class non earner last start & F and lower, the two-year-old Guyana-bred, the J & lower, the L Open, and the J/K/L maiden.
All races will be run under the guidance of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority Rules, and races are subject to being changed. Owners would have to show proof that the horses have been vaccinated before they are allowed to participate in the meet. Entries for the July 14 horse meet closed on July 8, 2024.
The Port Mourant Turf Club horse meet, originally listed on the 2024 calendar as the CARICOM meet, is sponsored by AJM, KP Jagdeo General Contractors, Old Broom Lounge, Jumbo Jet Auto Sales, and Crown Vibes.
2017, the ATC Programme provides a structured pathway for players to progress seamlessly from grassroots to national teams across various age categories. Tailored to accommodate boys and girls aged five to seventeen, the programme operates through academies within the Federation’s nine member associations. It has already contributed to the success of junior national teams and national youth tournaments such as the recently concluded Blue Water Shipping Under-15 Girls’ National Secondary School Championship and the Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff. Football enthusiasts are urged to rally behind Guyana during the inaugural Youth Academy Cup.
Kares One Guyana T10 Blast…
Assuria commits another motorbike for MVP
Assuria General and Life Insurance Companies have committed to providing the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award at the second edition of the Kares One Guyana T10 Tape ball Blast, having promised to gift a new motorbike and $85,000 to the tournament MVP at the final on August 25 at the National Stadium at Providence.
The other playing days are August 3 at the Demerara Cricket Club, Police Sports Club, and Queen’s College Ground; and August 4 at DCC and PSC grounds. The quarter-finals would be held on August 11 at the Enmore Community Centre Ground, and the highly anticipated Cricket for Charity match would be held on August 25 at that same ground.
In a release to the media on Friday, the organisers explained that while specific details in regard to the motorbike would be revealed in the coming days, they are overwhelmed and are most grateful to have Assuria unhesitatingly sponsor the MVP award.
“Last year it was bit of a late call on the motorbike, and they were quick to show support. This year, they were eager again to be part of the tournament; and as part of our commitment to give more to players, a cash prize will accompany the motorbike. It means all of our individual awards not only get a lucrative gift, but also cash”, John Ramsingh of FL Sport expressed.
The first MVP award went to Omesh Danram of Village Rams, as despite not reaching the semi-finals, he accumulated 19.932 points. It
was a result of being the tournament’s leading run-scorer: three innings, 163 runs, HS: 62*; Strike Rate: 281.67.
The organisers have indicated that they would announce the incentives for the other individual prizes — Most Runs, Most Wickets, and Player of the Final — in the coming days.
“We are committed to ensuring more is given to players after last year, and we are making gradual steps to keep this promise, as all the cash prizes were increased. While we may have a dream, the benevolence of Corporate Guyana makes it a reality, and we are most grateful for the support of companies like Assuria and others keen to give back to community activities.”
Kares Engineering, Banks DIH, Star Rentals; Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; Montra Restaurant and Longue, Ministry of Housing and Water, Premier Insurance, Regal Stationary & Computer Centre, ENet, Avinash Contracting and
board thus far.
The winners’ purse has been increased to G$1.5 million, with G$500,000 for the runners-up and G$250,000 for each losing semifinalist.
Participating teams are: Airport XI, Avinash AllStars, Bartica Bulls, Brooklyn Youth Strikers, Cotton Tree Die Hard, Diamond Gunners, Eastsyde, EC Express, Eccles All-Stars, Flacons XI, GPL Inc., Green Scorpions Cricket Club, Lil Rams, Mahaica Super Strikers, Mahdia (Movements Family); Ministry of Housing and Water – One Guyana; Montra Jaguars, Moruca Super Giants, MS-13 AllStars, PREMIER Insurance, Renegades Cricket Club, Soesdyke XI, Street Ballerz, Stripling Warriors, Tarmac Titans, Team Corruption, TG Titans, The United Crew, The Guards, Titans All-Stars, Upsetters, and Village Rams.
Scrap Metal Inc., Demerara Mutual Insurance, Massy Distribution, RS53 Restobar & Lounge, Jacobs Jewellery & Pawn Shop, and First Change Builders Inc. are the other sponsors on
The Youth Academy Cup will be staged next week at the GFF’s NTC
GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph
Flashback: Omesh Danram of Village Rams was the Most Valuable Player in 2023, and got a new motorbike compliments of Assuria Insurance
Guyana Cup winner Easy Time would be participating in the July 14 meet at Port Mourant
He said all he wanted to do was contribute to a win. And James Anderson got his wish, although the Lord's crowd was denied the fairytale five-for that seemed there for the taking at the start of day three. He finished with three in the innings, four in the match, and 704 for a Test career that has spanned more than two decades, as England completed the formalities of a crushing victory over West Indies.
As Anderson took his final bow, the centre stage was claimed by his latest successor. Gus Atkinson ripped out three more wickets to finish a brilliant first outing with match figures of 12 for 106 -- the best by an Englishman on Test debut since 1890. Atkinson's sheepish grin was perhaps partly in recognition that he had denied Anderson the chance to bookend his extraordinary Test career with twin appearances on the Lord's Honours Board, but his ruthlessness was to be applauded as he blew through the West Indies tail.
Anderson even missed the opportunity to finish the match with a catch off his own bowling, dropping a chance dollied back to him by the No. 9 Gudakesh Motie.
The moment drew gasps and groans, though Anderson could smile as he sank to his knees midpitch, the ball having rebounded out of his grasp as he went for it in a one-handed attempt. Unlike his longtime new-ball partner Stuart Broad, the Hollywood ending was not to be.
Anderson was phlegmatic when interviewed on Sky Sports at the close.
Richards-Botham Test series 2024: Test 1 of 3…
Atkinson's 12 helps England rout WI on day three
– As Anderson bows out with 704
gulf between the sides, West Indies unable to live in particular with Atkinson's pace and accuracy. The Surrey man completed his second five-for of the match with the final wicket to fall, as Jayden Seales holed out to deep midwicket.
catch, to be honest. It's been an amazing week, I've been quite overwhelmed with the reaction, proud of what I've achieved."
Motie finished as West Indies' top-scorer across either innings, throwing the
As he took the field for the final time as a Test cricketer, 7722 days on from his debut against Zimbabwe, Anderson had to endure further ceremonythis time a Guard of Honour formed by players on both sides. The skies above were grey, but there was a hint of a smile as he doffed his cap in appreciation of the crowd's applause.
bat around for 31 not out.
The fact that neither batting effort from the visitors lasted more than 47 overs underlined that
out-bomb Atkinson in their short-ball contest - whatever size the stick, he could not clear deep backward square leg, giving Atkinson his ten-wicket haul.
Motie resolved not to die poking and prodding at Anderson. He clumped him
Cradling a pint of Guinness in the changing room, he said: "I'm gutted I dropped that
for a boundary down the ground, before Atkinson shelved any notion of sentimentality by detonating Shamar Joseph's off stump with a searing yorker. Anderson had his chance to bring down the curtain himself - but then, as he has hinted this week, perhaps he just wasn't ready to go.
More than money…
Atkinson then bounced out Seales, leaving Anderson looking as pleased as he ever has during his 188 Tests for England . (ESPNCricinfo)
Lara says Windies Test struggles not just an investment issue
WHe claimed the first wicket of the morning with his seventh ball, a classic Anderson delivery nipping away on fourth stump to kiss Joshua Da Silva's outside edge. With three West Indies wickets still standing, Anderson was two away from concluding his storied career with a 33rd five-wicket haul - only for Atkinson to seize the moment, much as he had on day one when he swept up seven in his first Test bowl.
Alzarri Joseph was next to go, having twice changed his bat in an attempt to
hile having no issues with investing more money in West Indies Test cricket, iconic batsman Brian Lara believes the region’s problems goes much deeper when it comes to the game’s longest format.
In fact, Lara who has never been shy about expressing his views, pointed out that the onus is on Cricket West Indies (CWI) to take the necessary steps to resolve the slippage, as the Caribbean side –ranked eighth in the ICC Test rankings –suffered a crushing innings and 114-run defeat to England inside three days in the first of their three-match series, at Lord’s.
“If you put 100 million, 200 million dollars into the West Indies’ bank account, is it going to change the way we play the game? I’m not sure. We are not harnessing the talent that we have,” Lara told BBC World Service’s Stumped podcast.
Though the likes of Nicholas Pooran and Shai Hope possess enough ability to play crucial roles in Test, both have opted to play just white-ball cricket internationally, which enables them to play in franchise leagues across the world.
That along with the fact that other sports, such as athletics, are vying for the
sponsorship dollars across the Caribbean, Lara believes has pushed cricket on the outside.
“Obviously, cricket has been diluted by the number of different sports and different opportunities for kids, but I still believe that corporate West Indies have got to get involved,” Lara said.
“The West Indies Cricket Board hasn’t done the right job in attracting these sponsors to ensure that at least grassroots, but also the academy, all the different things, the facilities, are up to standard. I think these things are very, very important,” he added.
On that note, Lara also stressed the need for more to be done to revive public interest in the longer format.
“We don’t have anybody
coming through the gate. I walked in Lord’s about 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday and outside there were people waiting. That was something I was accustomed to as a kid, getting to the Queens Park Oval at 5:30 and waiting for the gate to be open.
“That’s not happening. You get there at 11 o’clock and there is an empty stadium. You could pick a seat wherever you want. We have to try to get the crowd back,” Lara shared.
“That will breathe the life back into the people of the Caribbean and let them understand what Test cricket is all about and you can get the world of money. You still need to sort of get the crowd more passionate about it and we haven’t been able to do that,” he noted. (Sportsmax)
Brian Lara (left) with Kyle Mayers
England won by an innings and 114 runs
James Anderson walking off for the final time
Gudakesh Motie endured shots to the body in his innings of 31*
Gus Atkinson picked up 12 wickets on his Test debut
