President Dr Irfaan Ali, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, and Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai, along with regional
“More promotion needed for local tours” – THAG President
…as GTA launches 7 new tourism experiences
President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) Dee George called for more promotion to showcase the country’s tourism products.
This was her plea as the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with stakeholders launched seven new tourism experiences. These include the Rupununi Hiking and Cultural Expedition, Jaguar Tour, Jungle Survival Tour Rockstone,
Kato Hiking and ATV adventure, Essequibo River Jungle Trip and Jonestown Memorial Tour.
George highlighted that, while there is a wide range of recreational activities for persons to engage in during their free time, many persons are unaware of these activities.
“Very often you hear, what can I do in Guyana? And you know it's quiet, the time is appropriate for us to give those answers. We always knew that there are products to experience. Today it's an unveiling
of even more. So now the challenge is, how do we ensure that persons who very often say that line, we get these products out to them? We make it very seamlessly available, and for them to be able to experience, and enjoy, and all the finer details for them to say, yes, I want to go.”
She added that, with increased promotional campaigns, persons could benefit significantly from the tourist influx predicted for 2025.
“We can start our promotions knowing fully well what's happening in 2025. And on that note, I am saying, we, within the private sector as well, are open to seeing how we can actually take full advantage of what we've just heard.”
Also present at the launch event was Director of the GTA Kamrul Baksh, who revealed that several of these new experiences were funded through the GTA product development grant.
“Two years ago, we de -
cided to launch the product development grant, and I believe about four products that were launched today are beneficiaries of that grant and the intention of that grant is really to, one, stimulate creativity and also to assist operators who have great ideas, but simply require the added assistance to offset available expenses.”
Through the grant, up to $1 million can be accessed. The grant caters to persons who want to develop their tourism products and improve the services they offer. According to Baksh, the seven new experiences will boost the local tourism sector.
“This coming Sunday we will be welcoming Inter Caribbean with the inaugural flight from Grenada. So much more connections at home regionally and even abroad. Next year summer we'll have KLM connected from the Netherlands. So with connectivity improvement, we of course require a lot
more experience. The expectations from the already discerning visitors are going to be higher. And one of the things I want to call and urge operators to do is to continue to raise that bar of service.”
With the aim of annually rolling out new tourism experiences, the GTA Director urged stakeholders to get creative by tapping into untouched areas of the country.
“That's one of the areas we're looking at. Region Eight and its beauty. We need to untap all of those
places. It can't be undiscovered anymore. We need to discover them. We need to package them right and we need to get them to the marketplace as soon as we can. So, you know, operators, if you have any other ideas in any part of, in any region, let us know.”
This year the GTA managed to launch some 15 new tourism experiences. Notably since 2020, the organisation has significantly expanded its catalogue with a total of 64 tours being launched over the last 4 years.
Millions in damages incurred as West Canje home goes up in flames
Amid-afternoon fire on Friday at Budhan Housing Scheme, West Canje, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) has resulted in millions in damages to the lower section of a two-storey building.
The fire reportedly started at about 13:30h in the lower flat of the home which was occupied by Tamika Roach, her husband and two children.
Roach claimed that she went home at about 13:00h to collect an item and went back out but whilst running some errands, she received a telephone call from her brother indicating that the house was on fire.
“And I didn’t think much of it because I was at home just now and I thought we always get grass fire around
the area but then I still acted and I said let me come home and see what it is. By the time I reached home, my whole downstairs and upstairs was in smoke but I couldn’t see anything the fire service was here they had already broken down the door and they started to out the fire. Everything from in my room all my clothes, everything for my son, my vanity, my TV, fan, most of my documents...Everything, the whole ceiling the walls everything, it’s just my daughter's room just wet but in my room, nothing was saved,” she stated.
The upper flat housed Roach’s mother, nephew, and sister. Both apartments consist of two bedrooms each.
Divisional Fire Officer,
Clive McDonald stated that the fire department received the distress call at about 13:20h. He referred to the call as being a running call and said two water tenders and a team of fire fighters were deployed to the area.
“I want to extend thanks to the neighbours who were very alert to inform the fire service. One person had to eventually drive from this scheme to the New Amsterdam Fire Station to make that call because the call was running and would be deemed somebody come in and reported it. So, again I want to extend thanks to the neighbours for being alert, to be able to alert the fire service and also my ranks that went into action immediately because if you look you will notice there that this
building is still standing you have to go inside of this building to know if there is a fire and on the ground floor.”
However, a visibly shaken Roach expressed appreciation for the work done by the fire department.
"I am thankful for life. It could have been worse we could have lost the house, and repairs could have been done. I am grateful for the swift action of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS); they really acted fast. They tried to calm the situation. GPL (Guyana Power and Light), the police - everybody was here, the ambulance EMT everybody was here. I am grateful that everybody came, my staff, neighbours... I am grateful for the neighbour who called, because we
have good neighbours in this area. Everybody that came out, friends my husband’s friends they’re putting their hands to start cleaning up because I’m shaken but I’m I am thankful,” she said.
Meanwhile, the fire officer is advising members of the public to exercise care and caution when leaving their homes. “Make sure that you turn off electrical appliances and equipment
which are not in use.
“Those persons who have been lighting fires to get garbage and other unwanted material, do so in a safe environment and do it in small quantities and avoid doing it in open fields and open lands,” MacDonald said while noting that at the time the department was also attending to a bush fire in East Canje. (Andrew Carmichael)
Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Kamrul Baksh
Tourists on the Kanuku Mountain Range
President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), Dee George
The extensive damage on the lower flat of the home
The home belonging to the Roach family
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, November 30 –03:30h-05:00h and Saturday, November 30 – 03:45h-05:15h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, November 30 –15:45-17:15h and Sunday, December 1 – 16:20-17:50h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Sod turned for new $5.4B hospital at Kato, Region 8
– residents urged to get trained to take up employment at facility
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
are expected
range between 23 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.79 metres and 4.92 metres.
High Tide: 15:14h reaching a maximum height of 2.57 metres.
Low Tide: 08:51h and 21:14h reaching minimum heights of 0.71 metre and 0.62 metre.
Healthcare delivery and access to healthcare services in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) is expected to be significantly enhanced with the construction of a whopping $5.4 billion new modern hospital at Kato.
President Dr Irfaan Ali joined Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline
rectly to work permanently on that project and that the sub-contractors also will come from this region,” the Head of State said.
In addition, the Government is also encouraging residents of Kato and satellite communities to undergo training so that they can also work in the medical facility upon its completion.
According to Minister Anthony, only a few residents from Kato and surrounding villages have joined the Government’s Registered Nursing Programme.
“We want more people from this community to join our registered nursing programme… [because] when that hospital is completed,
Sukhai, Regional Officials and residents on Friday for a sod-turning ceremony at the project site for the new medical facility.
The 57,000 square feet hospital is being funded from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and will have 75 beds, a modern medical laboratory, operation theatres, and a 24-hour operated Accident and Emergency Units. It will also offer medical services, some for the first time in the regions, such as X-rays, CT scans, cataract surgeries, a dialysis centre and a pharmacy, among others.
In addition to the health facility, another $200 million will be injected into modern living quarters for doctors and nurses who will be serving at the new hospital.
With a completion deadline of 24 months, works are expected to commence soon and President Ali has instructed residents within the region to be involved in the building of the hospital.
“We decided [Thursday night after] talking to the young people and this morning, that the contractor who will be building the hospital, we’ll engage 60 of them di-
we’ll have jobs for many many persons and we don’t want to import those persons and bring them in here. What we want to do is to utilise persons and bring them here and in the surrounding areas,” the Minister noted.
The current Kato hospital has a telemedicine system, which allows for the use of technology to exchange medical information, however, the Health Minister noted that it is under-utilised. He said this system can be used to train nurses to service the new hospital.
The design of the new $5.4B Kato Hospital in Region Eight
President Dr Irfaan Ali and Government Ministers joined regional officials and children of Kato to turn the sod for the new $5.4B hospital in the Region Eight community
Residents of Kato and surrounding communities were at Friday’s sod-turning ceremony
Editor: Tusika Martin
News Hotline: 231-8063Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761
Marketing: 231-8064Accounts: 225-6707
Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown
Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com
Adoption
Adoption offers a profound opportunity to change a child's life for the better, but it also demands a societal shift in perception, particularly when it comes to older children. Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud's recent plea to consider adopting older children is a timely reminder of the challenges these children face in finding a permanent loving home. Her message underscores an often-overlooked reality in the adoption process: the persistent preference for younger children, leaving older ones at a disadvantage.
The commissioning of the Central Authority, an agency aimed at streamlining inter-country adoptions, marks a significant step in ensuring that adoption processes in Guyana are thorough and equitable. It is not just a bureaucratic improvement, but is a framework designed to prioritize the welfare and safety of children, no matter their age. Within this context, Dr. Persaud's call for inclusivity in adoption — especially for older children — carries even greater weight.
Children, irrespective of their age, thrive in environments that provide stability, love, and encouragement. As Dr. Persaud aptly stated, the goal is to provide children with a safe and nurturing family that can motivate them to reach their full potential. This foundation is critical for every child, but is particularly significant for older children, who have often experienced disruptions, instability, or prolonged periods in institutional care.
Adopting an older child may not come with the same initial milestones as adopting an infant, but it offers equally rewarding and transformative moments. Older children bring their own unique personalities, dreams, and potential, all of which can flourish when given the right environment. As the minister highlighted, it is not about when someone steps into a child's life, but about the love and connection that can be established once they do.
Despite these compelling truths, older children continue to face systemic and cultural barriers in the adoption process. Families often prefer infants or toddlers, mistakenly believing that younger children are easier to bond with, or have fewer emotional challenges. These stereotypes not only limit opportunities for older children to find homes, but also perpetuate the misconception that love and stability are age-dependent.
In reality, many older children are eager for the chance to belong to a family. They yearn for the same love, guidance, and support as their younger counterparts. Their ability to adapt and bond with adoptive families, while sometimes requiring patience and understanding, should not be underestimated. By addressing these biases, society can create a more inclusive and compassionate adoption culture.
Adoption is a life-altering decision, and the process must ensure the safety and well-being of children. The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s emphasis on extensive family evaluation is a crucial component of this effort. Stringent assessment is necessary to ensure that a potential adoptive family can provide the security and nurturing environment every child deserves.
Establishment of the Central Authority reflects Guyana's commitment to aligning its adoption practices with international standards. Not only would this agency facilitate inter-country adoptions, but it would also work to safeguard children from exploitation and neglect. Such measures are particularly important for older children, who may be more vulnerable to systemic gaps and biases.
Dr Persaud's plea for inclusivity in adoption should resonate beyond the confines of her speech. It is a call for families, policymakers, and society at large to challenge preconceived notions about adoption and to embrace the full spectrum of possibilities it offers.
Families considering adoption must broaden their perspectives to include older children, recognizing that age does not diminish a child's capacity for love, or their right to a stable home. Policymakers must continue to prioritize programmes and initiatives that promote awareness and support for older-child adoptions. Meanwhile, society must work collectively to dismantle the stigmas and stereotypes that hinder these children from finding their forever families.
Adopting an older child is not just an act of compassion; it is an investment in a brighter future for a child who has waited too long for the chance to thrive. As the minister so eloquently put it, the potential within these children is enormous; all they need is a family willing to unlock it.
In the words of author Regina Brett, "Sometimes it is the people who no one imagines anything of who do the things no one can imagine." Let us imagine the extraordinary futures older children can achieve with the love and stability of a home. Let us answer Dr Persaud's call and give every child, regardless of age, the chance to blossom and thrive.
The Modi-Irfaan-Guyanese connection
Dear Editor,
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said the warm welcome he received in Guyana at multiple locations is an unforgettable experience, and he is returning to his native India with fond memories.
Guyanese with whom this writer conversed feel the same! Modi ji left with immense joy and satisfaction, and President Ali would have felt the same.
It was an overwhelming experience on both sides. A special relationship was developed between the two leaders. The common touch between leaders of the two countries and the personal family-friendly engagements made the visit special and memorable, and the experience will endure for a lifetime.
The TV and social media coverage; pix of the various site visits on social media and in the newspapers; the hugs and the formal ceremonies; addresses to CARICOM, parliament, and the Indian diaspora; the toasts; the consumption of seven curries in a leaf; playing jaal in chowtaal and biraha singing; interacting with locals; posing for photos, among other experiences, would remain etched in memory for a long time. It brought back, for many from older generations, memories of the visits of members of the Royal Family of the UK to Guyana in 1966 and in later dates.
As many told this writer, Modi’s visit outshone those of the Royal Family. It was like Royalty was visiting. He was treated like a rock star in Guyana as he is treated wherever he goes, including in India. He is a charming, charismatic leader, and a brilliant orator when speaking in Hindi or Gujarati.
Everywhere he went, crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of him amidst heavy security. He was cheered by ordinary people of all ethnicities, and by Indian nationals residing in Guyana. They waved at him, and he did so in return. School children lined up and waved flags. Lamp posts had alternating flags of India and Guyana, and Modi posters were at several locations.
The visit brought back fond memories of British Princess Margaret’s visit decades ago, when the public lined the road to welcome her. Modi, however, received greater adulation and affection for being one of our own, and for the way he has treated Guyanese.
Modi himself must have been surprised by the level of admiration he received. Accolades were showered on him by Guyanese, including politicians from both sides, and that was demonstrated both at the governmental level and among the public.
He was enthusiastically welcomed, and the chemistry between the leaders of these two countries was great and came across as natural, as though they were brothers, or father and son. No leader has ever previously received the kind of grand welcome and honour that was accorded to Modi. President Ali went all out to provide a grand welcome to the Indian PM, who himself had graciously welcomed him to India in a state visit he had made in January 2023, which resulted from intense lobbying of IndoGuyanese activists.
After their election to the respective presidencies of Suriname and Guyana, Ravi Dev and I, using very close Hindu contacts in India
and America, had lobbied the Indian Government to honour Chandrikapersaud Santokhi and Irfaan Ali as Chief Guests at the PBD, which comes with the coveted Samman Award. Ravi and I were invited, during the 2017 edition of the PBD in Bangalore, as special guests of the government.
Santokhi was indeed selected as Chief Guest in 2021, but could not attend in person, because of COVID-19. The Indian Government chose Irfaan Ali as the Chief Guest in 2023, and invited both Chan Santokhi and Irfaan as co-Chief Guests. Both received the prestigious Samman Award, the highest honour given to someone from the Indian diaspora for achievements, distinguished service, and/or promoting India abroad.
Irfaan and Modi met on several occasions, the first being at PBD in Gujarat in 2015, when President Ramotar was Chief Guest and Irfaan was Housing Minister. It was Ravi and I who had lobbied Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj to choose Ramotar as Chief Guest. We have had a long association with Sushma ji in the USA and in India, engaging her at Hindu conferences.
Ali and Modi met again in January 2018 in Delhi at a summit for PIO. MPs Modi and Irfaan also met on the sidelines of the UN at several summits of the Commonwealth and at the Climate Summit in Scotland. They must have had fond memories of each other, and reminisced when they met in Guyana.
As an aside, Modi had made a private visit to Guyana in August 2000, when he was hosted by Ravi Dev and Swami
Aksharananda, among others; and they had met again at SVN on the West Coast of Demerara. Irfaan was not in the picture at the time, only becoming public in 2006.
Having been honoured in 2023 by Modi, who has been very generous towards Guyana in doling out developmental aid, the Guyanese President must have wanted to return the honour.
Irfaan and Modi have had a good stronger relationship and bonding since then. Modi shook hands with others, but embraced Irfaan, an act also reserved for Ravi Dev and Swami Ji, with whom there has been a long association long before Irfaan. But with Irfaan, there appeared a tremendous father-son type relationship, although Modi called Irfaan “my special friend and brother”.
Irfaan, being a member of the Indian diaspora and product of an Indian university, is proud of his ancestry and of his association with Modi. He was never shy to praise Modi’s leadership and kindness, and did so at several engagements. Irfaan is very fond of India; he did his Master’s degree in Delhi, and declined scholarships to study elsewhere. He once told people that he was sad when leaving India after his study. He has had a liking for India, his ancestral homeland, and developed a liking for Modi since 2015, when they first met.
When they met in Guyana, the chemistry was there, as exemplified by the warm embrace, a gesture reserved for Irfaan and towering leaders like Trump, Biden and Putin, among others.
A farmer displaying his produce at the Agriculture Ministry-organized Rupununi Expo 2024, which is being held at the Tabatinga Ground in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). On display are fruits, vegetables, ground provisions, locally- made foods, and many other items
High marks for Guyana on its diabetic readiness
Dear Editor, I followed the recent ‘diabetic walk’ in Guyana, and am very surprised - and even frightened - to read that some 60,000 Guyanese are affected by diabetes. No wonder it is estimated that, worldwide, 240 million individuals live with undiagnosed diabetes, and nearly half of all adults with diabetes are unaware of their illness.
Let it be known that the supposedly developed world is not exempted from this chronic disease; as it affects millions of people in the US, where the total percentage of people with diabetes aged 18 or older has increased from 10.3% in 20012004 to 13.2% in 2017-2020.
And let it be known that this rise continues. In Canada, 30% of the population live with diabetes or prediabetes; 10% live with diagnosed diabetes; and the figure climbs to 15% when cases of undiagnosed type 2 diabetes are included. As we know, diabetes imposes a heavy financial strain on healthcare systems worldwide, but the Guyana Government knows this, and has been responding favourably. For example, on World Diabetes Day, commemorated on November 14 (under the theme “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps”), the Ministry of Health (MOH) announced its grand plan to improve pre-
vention, diagnosis and treatment of diabetes in the country. The idea is to include “implementing new clinical guidelines, expanding screening services, improving access to specialised care, and enhancing the provision of essential medications for diabetic patients.”
Currently ongoing in the fight against diabetes is the HbA1C testing, which is the standard tool for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes, especially for patients needing precise blood sugar management. HbA1C (HbA1c is what’s known as glycated haemoglobin) tests provide a three-month average of blood glucose levels, offering a more
comprehensive view of blood sugar control over time than traditional glucose tests. This advanced screening tool is now accessible in 82 health facilities nationwide, helping healthcare providers monitor patients’ progress, and adjust treatment as needed. Editor, people must capitalise on this offer from the Ministry of Health. It can make a world of difference. Medical students know that this ‘glycated haemoglobin’ is something that’s made when the glucose (sugar) in the body sticks to the red blood cells. The result is that the body then can’t use the sugar properly, so more of it sticks to the blood cells and builds up in
Would biometrics deliver Guyana from election irregularities?
Dear Editor,
Amid incessant calls from Opposition forces for the introduction of biometrics in the 2025 election voting process, Guyana’s Attorney General (AG), Hon Anil Nandlall, has said that while he is not opposed to technology, “the manual system being used for voting is working perfectly fine.”
The AG has expressed his support for, and defends the integrity of, the existing voting requirements. To illustrate his reservation on biometrics, Mr Nandlall poses a rhetorical question: “If I turn up at a polling station and have my ID; my name is on the List, the folio that the GECOM staff has, and all the polling agents have confirmed my ID, I am that person; the photograph is me; if I go and put my finger on the machine …and it malfunctions, are you telling me that I would be denied my right to vote?”
The Opposition campaign for biometrics is bolstered by their “claim” that dead people voted, plus immigrants (not present in the country on Election Day) voted. However, the PPPC produced evidence (living persons in Guyana) on videotape that show a sample of the people whose names were on the APNU+AFC list, who did vote and were physically present
in Guyana on Election Day.
The central issue, though, is not about electoral irregularities, but rather what type of role biometrics would play in preventing any attempt to steal an election!
Even if one assumes there were few electoral irregularities in 2020, those would not have been significant enough to alter the results of the elections.
If those irregularities were committed under the watchful eyes of APNU+AFC agents and the pro-aligned GECOM top administrative officials, then that would be a shocking indictment of the state of APNU+AFC’s operation and management credentials. Were their staff members guilty of dereliction of duty during Election Day?
To focus on biometrics and related house-to-house registration is also to deflect attention from other pressing issues, such as (i) the need to make it mandatory for political parties to publicly post their copies of SoPs immediately after the election results are declared; (ii) what level of sanction should be imposed on GECOM staff who deliberately disenfranchise voters?
(At the 2020 elections, Mr Lowenfield attempted to disenfranchise 115,787 voters); (iii) an urgency to re-examine the efficacy of the Carter-
Price Formula for appointing a GECOM Chair; (iv) and how people should be treated who disingenuously distort data interpretation to allow their party to remain in power (33 is not a majority of 65).
In response to the probability of electricity blackouts, critics argue that there are portable battery-operated machines that could accomplish the biometrics task. They have not mentioned the possibility of these machines malfunctioning, and what might be the impact on the process. To ease the fear that thousands of voters might be disenfranchised through the hurried application of biometrics, Mr Sherwood Lowe states: “The law must be clear that those persons who were not reached during BCE (Biometric Collection Exercise) must still be allowed to vote through the manual verification of their facial features (SN: 11/18/24).”
One could therefore ask: “Why do we need a dual system of voting?” Wouldn’t this complicate the voting system? In addition, if the manual verification system is not considered robust enough or open to irregularities, why would anyone still allow that method (manual) to exist alongside BCE?
A biometrics system can be introduced in the vot-
ing system only if there is a constitutional amendment. The 1997 post-election drama comes to mind, when both parties agreed to the use of Voter ID, but when the PNCR lost the elections, they filed a motion to nullify the results on the ground that the use of voter ID was unconstitutional. They prevailed. The trial judge in that case was Madame Justice Claudette Singh, who was appointed GECOM Chair by the APNU+AFC in July 2019, and now they vilify and label her as biased, and agitate for her removal.
While consideration of the efficacy of biometrics is being discussed (including the possibility of a biometrics feasibility study), a decision on its deployment in time for the 2025 elections would not happen. In the meantime, GECOM continues to clean and update the voters’ list through its regular cycle of continuous registration and objections. (GECOM’s first cycle in 2024 was from January to May, and the second one was from July to November).
When a better method becomes available (whether biometrics or otherwise), and is agreeable to all parties, then forward movement is likely.
Sincerely,
Dr Tara Singh
The Modi-Irfaan-Guyanese...
Modi was wholeheartedly welcomed, not only by State House, but by the Ali family, with whom he meshed closely. Modi held the hand of Irfaan’s son, and walked him down like a grandfather. Modi and the Ali family ‘sanay’ food, eating directly with fingers rather than with cutlery in purine leaves. The common touch and personal things made further engagements and discussions that followed meaningful. The duo also met with famous cricketers, and joked a lot. It was mentioned that famous cricketers came from Port Mourant. Reference was
made to the match between India and the West Indies at Albion. It was pointed out that Albion and Port Mourant are Indian territories that historically support India and Pakistan against other teams. The crowd cheered India, rather than the domestic side. West Indies were jeered. India beat the West Indies badly. Alvin Kallicharan cracked jokes about the defeat. Clive Lloyd said the West Indies would never play India again at Albion.
It was a historic visit, only the second by an Indian PM, with the last being that of Indira Gandhi in 1968. It
may have been the first time a visiting head of government of a large nation addressed the national Parliament, where he praised Guyana’s democratic credentials. Many things happened with agreements signed. On behalf of the nation, President Ali bestowed Prime Minister Modi with the highest honour of Guyana, the Order of Excellence. Modi thanked the Government and people of Guyana for this honour, and dedicated it to Indo-Guyanese people who have played a key role over the last 186 years in the special and enduring bond between the two countries.
the blood. And since red blood cells are active for around 2-3 months, the reading is therefore taken quarterly.
Another thing that must be appreciated is that Guyanese are aware of, and make the most of the recently updated national guidelines for preventing and treating diabetes. I speak here of the evidence-based guideline that outlines best practices in diabetic management, which focuses on lifestyle modification, early diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment plans. It also emphasises the importance of regular monitoring and patient education, thus enabling supporting healthcare providers to better deliver the most effective and individualised care possible.
A few remarks now on the ‘2k/5k walk/run’ that was held to raise awareness of the diabetic situation in Guyana. I am indeed impressed that stigmatization and inclement weather did not deter the participants from giving visible support. The initiative, organised in collaboration with Stride 592 and the Guyana Diabetic Association, was aimed at focusing what was described as “one of Guyana’s most pressing health challenges.”
In the words of Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, who himself participated in the walk, “Diabetes is one of the chronic diseases that we’re looking at in the ministry…(and) the approximately 60,000 affected is quite a big number.”
What is quite worrying is that, as the minister pinpointed, “many Guyanese remain unaware of their diabetic status.” He detailed that “A number of these persons are not even aware that they have diabetes. So, if you’re not aware, you will continue doing whatever you’re doing, and you’ll get sicker and you’ll get complications. And then you’ll
come into the hospital with complications.”
His wise and medically attested advice is that “We want to encourage people to get tested. And if you’re tested and you are pre-diabetic, then you can take precautions that will prevent you from getting diabetes, or delay the onset of diabetes.”
He further counselled, “If you’re diabetic, there are certain things that you can do. For example, if you eat appropriately, if you exercise, get good sleep, and you’re not stressed, then these things can help you to, well, not prevent, but at least manage it.” Amen!
However, I reiterate that even when there are complications, the Ministry has prepped itself to respond to the high risk of kidney disease associated with diabetes. The Health Ministry has expanded nephrology services across regional hospitals, allowing diabetic patients to receive regular kidney function tests and specialised nephrology care. The same applies in regard to eye care. Overall… there is availability of medications for patients living with diabetes, as the ministry has secured a steady supply of diabetes medications, ensuring that patients throughout Guyana can access essential treatments for managing their condition. Insulin and other drugs are now more accessible at public health facilities. I caution that diabetes, the silent epidemic, keeps claiming an estimated 6.7 million lives around the world each year. This number is close to the total recorded death toll from the COVID-19 pandemic. One in ten adults is affected by the condition, and it is one of the top 10 causes of death globally. Let’s beat diabetes.
Yours truly, Hargesh B Singh
Guyanese were and are very impressed with Modi’s humility, and have praised the several visits to Indian diaspora communities and sites. The PM also met with Afro and other Guyanese, who waved at him at several visits, and he responded in kind.
The Modi visit would long be remembered for how President Ali and Guyanese people treated the visiting PM, and the magnificent experience he had, which he described in glowing terms.
Yours sincerely, Vishnu
Bisram
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2024
06:00 (Sign on) Inspiration Time 06:30 Cartoons 07:00 Evening News (RB) 08:00 Stop Suffering
Movie - Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Once & Always (2023) 10:00 GSL 2024 Game 4 14:00 Movie - Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005) 16:30 Wheel of Fortune
Payless Power Hour
Evangelistic Hour 18:30 Pastor Alvin Teaching
The Evening News 20:00 Movie - Girlfriendship (2022) 21:30 Stand-up Comedy 22:00 Movie - Stream (2024) 00:00 Sign off
Solving equations by multiplication and division
Before you begin to solve equations by multiplication and subtraction, you should review some interesting things about numbers. Division is the “opposite” of multiplication. Multiplication is the “opposite” of division. If you multiply an original number by a second number, and then divide the product by a second number, you are left with the original number. For example: 4 x 6 ÷ 6 = 4. If you divide an original number by a second number, and then multiply the quotient by a second number, you are left with the original number. For example: 4 ÷ 2 x 2 = 4. That works because division is the same as multiplying by a reciprocal.
Examples:
Remember
Exercises: Solve
What can you discover with a heart frame?
We often think about special surprises for holidays, birthdays and celebrations. But it can be fun to look for surprises all year long! In this activity, look at things in a new way and see what unexpected things you can find. Because remember, “You can find surprises wherever you are!”
Materials
Paper
Marker or crayon
Scissors Directions
1. Fold the paper in half. Draw one half of a heart on one side of the paper.
2. Cut along the line using child safe scissors. Remove what you cut out. Open up the paper to reveal a heartshaped hole.
3. Using crayons or markers, decorate your frame however you would like.
4. Hold up the paper and “frame” things in and around your home. Point out something that’s red, soft, sparkly, or yummy. Each time you find something unusual, frame it for them in the heart. Ask yourself, “What surprises do you see when you look at the world through a heart?”
5. Continue the fun and take your heart-shaped paper frame outside! Walk around your neighbourhood and see what else you can find. Take
turns with a friend giving suggestions for what to look at and holding the heartshaped frame. See how you can surprise each other! Something that may feel ordinary or simple to a grown-up, like mailing a letter or going to the grocery store, can be new and exciting for younger ones. You might be amazed by what you learn and how much you can find when you start to intentionally look for it! (pbs.org)
By PaBlo Neruda
Maru Mori brought me a pair of socks which she knitted herself with her sheepherder’s hands, two socks as softas rabbits. I slipped my feet into them as though into two cases knitted with threads of twilight and goatskin. Violent socks, my feet were two fish made of wool, two long sharks sea-blue, shot through by one golden thread, two immense blackbirds, two cannons: my feet were honored in this way by these heavenly socks. They were so handsome for the first time my feet seemed to me unacceptable like two decrepit firemen, firemen unworthy of that woven fire, of those glowing socks.
TO BE CONTINUED
Deteriorating Aubrey Barker Road to be fixed after fiery protests
Frustrated residents of South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, on Thursday evening, staged a roadblock in protest of the deplorable state at the eastern end of the Aubrey Barker Road, prompting a high-level ministerial team to visit the area and committed to having maintenance works done.
According to the Public Works Ministry, the damage has been attributed to ongoing works linked to the Cummings Lodge housing development. Since the Aubrey Barker Road leads to that housing area, trucks and other vehicles are constantly traversing the access road.
However, after weeks of complaints about the state of the road and no action taken, the residents used pieces of wood and other items to block the Aubrey Barker access road and then lit them
on fire. The blaze was eventually put out and authorities cleared the roadway later that evening.
Early Friday morning, senior Government officials along with City Councillors met with the residents who highlighted that the deplorable road not only damaged their vehicles but also caused inconveniences to those walking.
In fact, the councillor for the constituency, Kibwe Copeland, explained that while residents are aware of the housing developments at Cummings Lodge, they want regular maintenance of Aubrey Barker Road.
“The main concern is what when these works are happening, let [there be continued] maintenance of the road; make it drivable… If you come out walking, you have to take long boots [with you] or you’ll get mud on your feet. So, that’s the basic
concern – nothing too technical just maintenance of the road,” he noted.
The City Councillor also related residents’ concerns about the trucks speeding along the road, causing vibrations and even some damage to nearby homes.
Currently, Aubrey Barker Road is being widened into four lanes. The $1.45 billion expansion project is being completed in phases with one section already completed and the works ongoing on the second section.
In addition, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill told the residents that the contract has already been awarded for the third section of the road and that the contractor is set to begin mobilising next week. In the meantime, he assured that maintenance works will be carried out to ensure the road remains accessible.
“There is going to be an
engagement between the contractor that has been awarded this stretch [of the road]… and the contractors that are working in the housing areas, and we will work out a maintenance plan,” the Minister declared.
According to Edghill, “Every time we do projects, there is always a maintenance plan so it’s not that there is no maintenance plan… The reality is we haven’t been able to kick that into function because the two parties have not yet connected.”
This final section of the Aubrey Barker Road will be widened into a four-lane will run all the way to Ogle, connecting onto the East CoastEast Bank Demerara (EBD) Bypass Road Project that is also currently under construction.
Housing Minister, Collin Croal, explained that, residents as well as those doing construction works in the Cummings Lodge scheme have been using the Aubrey Barker Road to get into Georgetown instead of going around through the East Coast Demerara (ECD) Highways thus lending to the increased traffic flow through and consequent damages to the Aubrey Barker Road.
“So, this is one of the main entry points to the Cummings Lodge housing scheme… But [residents] are quite right, some bit of maintenance is expected while those works are going on. And if [Aubrey Barker Road] is graded a little then it will reduce the vibrations from the trucks driving there,” Minister Croal stated. (G-8)
Sod turned for new...
“We can use this telemedicine site and we can teach you over the internet, how to be a nurse. So, you can come here at this [existing] hospital and it can be converted part-time into a school where you can get training over the internet… All the modules for that Registered Nursing Programme are online. All you have to do is register,” Dr Anthony stated. Persons who register for this nursing programme are given a stipend from the government during the training and upon completion, they are guaranteed a job with the state along with a minimum starting salary of $169,000.
This $5.4 billion hospital will further increase the massive investments that the Guyana Government has been making to improve healthcare delivery in Region Eight. In fact, over the last four years alone, the current People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration has injected over $10 billion into enhancing the region’s access to proper healthcare services.
This, according to President Ali, is much more than the more $1.7 billion that was invested under the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) regime during their five years in office.
He added that this magnitude of investments by his government is further reflected in the entire regional budget for the various sectors, which has increased by some 72 per cent alone in the last four years. Moreover, the Amerindian Affairs Ministry has spent some $2.7 billion in Region Eight over the last four years.
It was highlighted too that while the Coalition spent less than $5.3 billion on all the hinterland regions in Guyana during its entire term in office, the PPP/C has increased that amount by some 500 per cent with $27 billion spent in the last four years alone in those regions.
“We care and I want to tell you that we’re not going to stop until every single citizen, every single community have equal access and same
standard of service for all of you. You deserve the same level and the same standard as anyone else across the country,” the Guyanese Leader told Region Eight residents.
Meanwhile, during his overnight visit to Kato, President Ali also engaged the Toshoa and residents including the youths during which he committed to building a multi-purpose tarmac. This facility will be built by the young people in the area. Additionally, the government will also be providing 140 water tanks to each family in the community. He also addressed several concerns raised on various matters.
Kato was the last stop on the Head of State’s hinterland visit. On Thursday, the President travelled to Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) to commission the newly rehabilitated Eteringbang Airstrip before flying over to the Potaro-Siparuni region later that day to meet residents of Itabac and satellite villages. (G-8)
Ministers Juan Edghill and Collin Croal along with City Councillors engaging residents on the deplorable state of the Aubrey Barker Road
‘Operation Safe Road’ nets 130 traffic violations in Berbice
Atargeted traffic enforcement initiative, ‘Operation Safe Road’, conducted by Regional Police Division #6 (East Berbice Corentyne) on Thursday, resulted in 130 traffic violations being recorded in a single day. The exercise, which ran from 7:00h to 18:00h., sought to address a wide range of traffic violations as part of efforts to improve road safety across Berbice.
The operation, which combined heightened patrols and rigorous checks, led to 64 tickets being issued and 66 arrests for violations ranging from speeding to operating unlicensed vehicles.
Speeding was the most common violation, with 40 drivers booked for exceeding the speed limit. Other significant infractions included 11 instances of unlicensed motor vehicles, seven cases of uninsured vehicles, and 4 cases of failing to obtain road service licences.
Police also encountered drivers failing to wear seat belts (4 cases), using handheld mobile devices while driving (2 cases), and carrying more passengers than permitted (1 case). Unlicensed drivers were also among those apprehended, with one such case reported during the operation.
Several violations relat-
ed to vehicle maintenance and fitness were flagged, including seven uncertified vehicles, four maintenance issues, and three breaches of prescribed fitness. Officers also dealt with breaches related to obscured identification marks, with nine instances of obscured front plates and four rear plates recorded.
Additional infractions included 8 cases of improper driver conduct, five cases of provisional licence breaches, and two instances of faulty load packing. Minor violations, such as vehicles with no effective windscreen wipers or warning appliances, also made the list, underscoring a range of road-
worthiness issues.
The exercise also brought attention to two instances of tinted glass violations and several other miscellaneous offences, including breaches of insurance requirements (1 case) and amendments of entries (1 case).
According to law enforcement officials, these numbers reveal the importance of regular enforcement to address a persistent culture of non-compliance among some road users.
With 130 offences addressed in just one day, authorities have signalled their commitment to tackling road safety challenges head-on, to prevent accidents and protect lives.
Finding…
…energy
As we struggle to lift ourselves out of our centuriesold underdeveloped state by our own (newly-found oil) bootstraps, your Eyewitness wants to bring to the fore the matter of securing the energy to (literally) fuel the activities that would deliver the good life. Everything that moves in the universe needs energy; and the more energy we have, the more we can do. So, in the beginning, we started taming animals like oxen and horses and using them to do work we didn’t have the energy to do on our lonesome; hence the word “horsepower” augmenting “manpower”!!
Not that they forgot about “manpower”!! What do you think slaves and indentureds provided??
Then, after thousands of years, some wise guy thought about using the energy from wind and running water to turn wheels that grind our grains and such like. Then came the big breakthrough of the steam engine, where they burnt coal to turn the water into steam in order to turn all those gears that moved whatever contraption we could think about -- like ships and trains etc!!
Anyhow, two things happened. We started to burn all sorts of fossil fuels in addition to coal. In our sugar plantations, they burnt the cane husk (bagasse) to produce steam. But the big discovery was that petroleum of various grades and natural gases could provide energy much more efficiently!! They could move the machinery now placed in “factories” to make all sorts of things to “improve our quality of life.
But, in the last few decades, we realized that all actions have reactions. Burning all those fossil fuels produced an increasing level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and this led to global warming; which now threatens our survival – even though we desperately want to catch up with the “developed countries”, which became so by burning fossil fuels.
So, what to do?? Well, to your Eyewitness, there’s only one solution - the developed countries can now start preaching and practising to their people a Gandhian “small and less is beautiful” philosophy, and quit burning all those fossil fuels. In the meantime, those of us in the sh*thole countries can catch up with them by getting as much energy as we can from running water, wind and solar – but use fossil fuels to fill any gaps.
This is especially true for our country, which just struck an ocean of oil and gas sloshing around off our Atlantic Coast!! It is beyond ridiculous for some to demand that we leave our oil in the ground while we’re still in the relative stone age!!
…gas
After decades of promises, we’re about to get electricity cheap enough so we won’t have to choose between keeping our lights on or eating bread!! Remember when Burnham hocked the sugar levy money and promised us hydro-power up the Mazaruni?? We got HYDRO all right!! Anyhow, during an earlier PPP incarnation, they’d put together all the pieces – plans, financing, contractors, etc – to deliver cheap power from the Amaila Falls. But guess who torpedoed that plan?? The PNC, of course!!
But you gotta hand it to the PPP; they never give up on a noble goal, and securing cheap energy is as noble as you can get. At a minimum, we’ll match global manufacturing costs!!!
So, approval for the Government’s request for a loan from the US ExIm credit facility - for a US company to build a 300MW power plantusing our natural gas – was awaited anxiously!! This is especially since some of the gas would be used as feeder stock to start a petrochemical industry!!
The sloth of the American bureaucracy in approving the loan had kept us on tenterhooks, but we just learnt that we’ll get US$509M out of US$650 needed.
The Chinese would’ve provided all the money and had the project running a year ago!!
…political energy
As mentioned, energy keeps us going. So, could it be that the leaders of the Opposition parties just don’t have the energy to match the President’s, as they keep bleeding supporters to the PPP? Red Bull??
Traffic enforcement in Berbice
Rotary Club of Georgetown Central unveils $30M refurbished Uncle Eddie’s Home
The Rotary Club of Georgetown Central on Thursday handed over newly refurbished accommodations to the residents, trustees, and Board of Directors of Uncle Eddie’s Home at its Tucville, Georgetown location. In honour of its 40th Anniversary, the Rotary Club initiated a signature project aimed at improving the living conditions at Uncle Eddie’s Senior Citizens Residence. The
project intended to create a dignified and comfortable environment for the residents that is both safe and environmentally friendly, while also promoting their physical and mental well-being. The Club aimed to restore Uncle Eddie's Home to a sustainable state, allowing it to generate enough revenue for ongoing maintenance and care.
Uncle Eddie’s Home was officially opened on February 26, 1975, by its visionary founder, overseas-based Guyanese Edward Holford, also known as ‘Uncle Eddie,’ who sadly passed away shortly after the opening. Ms Ivy Edghill was the first resident to enter the Home on June 20, 1975.
The handover was conducted by the President of the Rotary Club of Georgetown Central, Jagdesh
Haripershad, along with Immediate Past President and Project Lead Peter Pompey, Past President Judy Semple-Bobb, and Sabita Liddell, who represented the Minister of Human Services and Social Security (MoHSSS).
Kory and Mrs Diane Sellers, retired humanitarian missionaries with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), were also present.
The President of Uncle Eddie’s Home, Yolanda James officially accepted the upgraded facility.
“The Rotary theme for this year is ‘The Magic of Rotary,’ and I believe we can witness this magic today,” Haripershad stated as he opened the ceremony. He emphasised that the project reflects their commitment to serving humanity and
strengthening communities.
“This journey began under the leadership of then-President Peter Pompey, whose vision and dedication brought the idea of transforming this home from a dilapidated and unsafe environment into a space of safety and comfort for its residents.”
He recognised Pompey’s essential role in the project, which was completed not only on schedule but also encompassed a broader scope of work than initially planned.
The President also acknowledged Past President Judy Semple-Bobb for her crucial efforts in securing funding for the project. “Judy prepared and submitted a detailed proposal to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, resulting
in their generous approval of US$100,000 (equivalent to 20 million Guyana Dollars). Her commitment and dedication have been vital to our success, and we thank her.”
In addition to the $20 million in cash contributions from the LDS Church, an extra $10 million was invested in materials and workmanship by various donors, including Food for the Poor, Chung Global Inc, and the Ministry of Public Works, bringing the total project cost to $30 million.
The Technical Project Lead, Peter Pompey provided a brief overview of the project, detailing the journey from conceptualisation to the realisation of what is now a revitalised environment for the residents of Uncle Eddie’s Home.
TURN TO PAGE 14
Officials at the ribbon-cutting ceremony
The exterior of the refurbished building
Executives of Rotary Club of Georgetown Central posing with officials of Uncle Eddie’s Home
2 Guyanese NGOs get CAN$100,000 to tackle gender-based violence, promote youth empowerment
Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling critical social issues in Guyana through the signing of two significant agreements under the Local Engagement and Action Fund (LEAF) 2024-25 programme.
The announcement, made at a ceremony on Friday, marks a collaborative effort to empower local communities in addressing gender-based violence and fostering youth development.
The two projects, awarded to Blossom Inc and the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), were selected out of 19 proposals submitted for this year’s funding. Each organisation received CAD$50,000 to implement its initiatives, which will begin immediately.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Cooperation at the Canadian High Commission
of Guyana’s diverse communities.”
The first agreement will see Canada partnering with Blossom Inc to tackle gender-based violence and child sexual abuse in Region 10 (Upper Demerara- Upper Berbice). This initiative will focus on education, advocacy, and strengthening support systems.
It aims to reduce the incidence of abuse, improve reporting mechanisms, and provide justice and support services for survivors. Additionally, it seeks to empower local leaders to sustain these efforts beyond the project’s conclusion.
Founder of Blossom Inc., Ayodele Dean, expressed gratitude for the funding and collaboration.
“The need for prevention, education, and intervention has never been more urgent. This project is a call to action. It embodies the belief that by
tiative will provide education, capacity building, and entrepreneurial training for community leaders, healthcare workers, and Indigenous women. By promoting culturally relevant media engagement, the project aims to raise awareness and prevent gender-based violence within these vulnerable populations.
Executive Director of GRPA, Kobe Smith, also
to Guyana, Adam Loyer highlighted the importance of local partnerships in sustainable development.
“Localisation is at the heart of our strategy,” Loyer stated. “By empowering local communities and organisations, we ensure solutions are tailored to the unique needs
engaging communities, men, women, youth, and leaders alike, we can foster meaningful change,” Dean said.
The second agreement involves collaboration with GRPA, targeting Indigenous communities in Regions One (Barima- Waini) and Nine (Potaro- Siparuni). This ini-
shared his appreciation.
“We will like to extend our greatest thanks to the Government of Canada … and also the local LEAF team of Guyana… there have been significant rollbacks on women’s rights… globally and we are very glad that the Government of Canada is con-
tinuing to be a dependable, reliable ally in these tumultuous times in our world…,” Smith said.
These partnerships are part of Canada’s broader strategy to advance gender equality, climate adaptation,
and community resilience in Guyana and the wider Caribbean. Since its inception two years ago, LEAF has strengthened local organisations by improving access to resources, fostering financial
sustainability, and enhancing their capacity to address critical issues.
Loyer commended the efforts of the two partner organisations, emphasising Canada’s dedication to supporting Guyana in addressing its development challenges.
“Together, through these efforts, we can make significant strides in creating a more just, sustainable, and prosperous society,” he remarked.
Gender-based violence remains a key area of focus for Canada, both domestically and internationally. By funding programmes that provide safe spaces, legal assistance, and psychological support, Canada is striving to empower women and ensure they can live free from fear and discrimination.
GRPA Executive Director, Kobe Smith
Representatives of LEAF, the Government of Canada, GRPA and Blossom Inc
Founder of Blossom Inc, Ayodele Dean
Canadian High Commission’s Head of Cooperation, Adam Loyer
Harris Paints promises more customised solutions with new manufacturing plant at BV
Harris Paints Guyana marked a significant milestone in its 30year history with the grand opening of its new stateof-the-art manufacturing plant and flagship Pro Paint Centre at Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Wednesday.
The new 10,000-squarefoot manufacturing facility is strategically designed to enhance Harris Paints' ability to meet growing demand both locally and regionally.
With a production area that includes raw material selection, mixing, filling, and packaging, the plant will allow Harris Paints to better serve the needs of customers in Guyana and beyond.
"We are thrilled to open this new manufacturing plant, which will significantly increase our ability to provide high-quality
products and improve delivery times for both local and export markets," Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Harris Paints International Marguerite Desir stated.
"This investment highlights our strong belief in Guyana’s potential and our commitment to supporting its continued growth,” she added.
The plant is certified under the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO 9001), ensuring that it meets the highest global standards for quality management. The facility will also enable Harris Paints to provide more customised solutions for specific projects, reinforcing its reputation for innovation and superior performance.
Harris Paints is equally committed to sustainability. The new plant incorporates eco-friendly practices, including rainwater harvesting to support the paint production process.
The facility aims to collect up to 48,000 gallons of rainwater annually, minimising its reliance on public water sources. Additionally, the plant will treat wastewater for reuse, reflecting the company’s dedication to reducing its environmental footprint.
With the expansion, Harris Paints is set to create more than 20 new jobs in manufacturing, retail,
and support functions. The company is also investing in staff training and development, offering competitive packages and career growth opportunities. The move underscores Harris Paints'
ing solutions. The Pro Paint Centre also serves as a key distribution point for the marine, oil, and gas sectors, providing internationally certified protective coatings.
"The Pro Paint Centre is more than just a retail store; it is a destination for anyone looking for expert advice, premium products, and tailored solutions," Desir noted.
"This new centre represents Harris Paints' dedication to meeting the growing demand for high-performance paint solutions in Guyana and the wider Caribbean."
Harris Paints continues to build on its legacy of excellence and innovation, having expanded its operations to 15 countries across the Caribbean, with plans for further expansion into
long-term commitment to Guyana's economic development and its goal of becoming a leading regional hub for the paint industry. In addition to its manufacturing capabilities, the new facility also houses the Harris Pro Paint Centre, a modern flagship store offering a wide range of high-quality paints and supplies.
The store provides expert advice, project guidance, and specialised solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial needs, including waterproofing and roof-
Latin America. The new facility in Guyana positions the company for exponential growth in both production capacity and market reach.
"We are excited to play a part in Guyana’s remarkable transformation, offering products that meet the highest international standards," Desir added.
"Our new manufacturing plant and flagship store reflect Harris Paints’ dedication to Guyana’s growth, as well as our commitment to delivering top-tier paint products and services."
Officials at the launch
New state-of-the-art manufacturing plant and flagship Pro Paint Centre of Harris Paints Guyana at Beterverwagting, ECD
Sales Manager Garfield Manasseh and Str8edge Superior Painting’s Vinroy Johnson cuttinh the ceremonial ribbon
ERC engages residents of Paramakatoi, surrounding villages
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) engaged residents of Paramakatoi, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) on the commission’s mandate of promoting harmony and good relations. Residents from surrounding areas, including Bamboo Creek, Bashville, and Taruka, gathered at the Paramakatoi All-Purpose Hall for the one-day event.
The session was led by ERC Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack, alongside Commissioners Norris Witter, Deon Dick (Ras Khafra), Chandrowtie Sarran, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/Secretary, Gomin Camacho and other ERC staff.
As outlined in Article 212 of the Constitution, one
of the primary functions of the ERC is to conduct public education and awareness initiatives, ensuring that all communities are informed about the Commission’s roles and responsibilities.
The stakeholder engagement in Paramakatoi provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, with ERC representatives listening to the concerns of the residents while providing clarity on the Commission's work.
During the session, its chairman emphasised the importance of dispelling misconceptions about people of Amerindian descent and urged attendees to reject the use of derogatory or incorrect terms. Although some issues raised fell outside the ERC’s mandate,
the Commission assured the residents that these would be forwarded to the relevant authorities for further action.
The engagement also served as an opportunity to educate stakeholders about the current composition of the ERC and its broader mandate to foster national harmony and promote good relations among all ethnic groups in Guyana.
As part of the outreach, ERC representatives also engaged with students at Paramakatoi Primary and Secondary Schools, delivering valuable lessons on respect, peace, and tolerance. These sessions reinforced the Commission’s commitment to fostering positive values and understanding among the youth.
Thanks to the generous donation of President Dr Irfaan Ali, the ERC was able to distribute toys to over 300 children, adding a festive touch to the visit.
Additionally, more than 200 youths received school supplies, courtesy of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG). Considering the remoteness of the location, the residents expressed deep appreciation for the tokens of joy and cheer that the team brought to their community.
To date, the ERC has successfully engaged with stakeholders in all ten of Guyana’s administrative regions, with some regions visited multiple times to ensure broad participation.
The Commission remains steadfast in its mission to promote tolerance, combat discrimination, and advance peaceful coexistence throughout Guyana.
Rotary Club of...
“To the LDS and Kory and Diane Sellers, we express our profound gratitude for making this project possible. We are forever grateful; we may have had the will, but you provided the essential resources. To our other partners—Chung Global for landscaping, Food for the Poor, and the Ministry of Public Works— we also thank you for your support,” Pompey stated.
He encouraged the Trustees and the Board of Directors of Uncle Eddie’s Home to continue improving the facilities while enhancing the quality of service for the residents.
Kory and Diane Sellers also shared brief remarks about the project, named the “Guyana Georgetown Mission,” and their commitment to improving the living
conditions of senior citizens after observing the previous conditions at the facility.
President Yolanda James expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the newly renovated building, promising to continue enhancing the premises. Ms James invites members of the public or organisations to support their ongoing efforts.
A Probation and Social Services Officer within the Ministry of Health and Social Services, Liddle delivered brief remarks on behalf of the Minister. She acknowledged the outstanding work that Rotary Georgetown Central has accomplished over its 40 years of existence and highlighted their significant project for 2024, which embodies their motto, "Service Above Self."
ERC Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack handing over school supplies to several schools in the presence of Commissioners and teachers
Some of the residents at the meeting
South Rupununi leaders worried that wildlife will become extinct
– cite excessive hunting as main contributor
Wildlife in the South Rupununi is at risk of becoming extinct due to unregulated and excessive hunting and fishing—something which village leaders are calling for assistance in tackling.
Various leaders from the South Rupununi have voiced concerns about overhunting and overfishing in their villages, leading to a shortage of wildlife. As of now, this news publication knows that some of the animals facing challenges include deer and various types of fish.
Nicholas Bakes of Katoonarib Village in the South Rupununi told the Guyana Times about some of the challenges he personally faces.
According to him, these challenges span various issues, including overhunting and divers overfishing in the rivers, not giving the fish enough time to replenish.
“Well, honestly speaking, wildlife in general is declining, right. So, before, we had like endless wildlife, but then then there weren’t plenty of people yet. But now you’re getting the population growing, and the wildlife is under heavy pressure. Even the fish are under heavy pressure. So, it’s not as before— it’s declining because of population growth and people bringing their family to come and go fishing.”
Currently, private rearing of animals is being done to ensure enough food supply for residents. Nevertheless, Bakes said something needs to be done about the dwindling wildlife in South Rupununi communities.
“So, yeah, that’s the thing. Wildlife and fish, in general, are under really intense pressure right now. Alternatively, there are some cows, sheep, pigs, and chickens being reared to offset the pressure. So, that’s what we’re doing because this is the river here—right over here is the river. the Wapishana people and the Macushi people depend on
the same river daily. Every night people would be fishing—even in the day.”
He also expressed sadness about the number of people who are sailing for hours just to catch fish.
“Now it is low. Long ago, this wasn’t the case now they’re doing diving, and so, you know, there’s so much happening right now—diving.”
Taking the opportunity to fight against overhunting, he has relayed that he has barred people from entering his village to fish in an area he oversees.
“I don’t really allow people to do fishing by the riv-
er that is close by my house. This is one of the lakes that I mean, don’t ever come out and, like, shoot to them when they’re so desperate, and then that’s it. But I don’t really allow people to start fishing.”
Notwithstanding, the South Rupununi Conservation Society (SRCS) has been working over the years to preserve wildlife in various communities in the region.
Not only is wildlife under threat but also the red siskin bird, for which great efforts are being made to ensure its protection.
“We want to keep it this way. I feel sad because I mean, from nursery, primary, and secondary to jobs, people actually don’t want to know how to make cassa-
va bread. We have this, and we’re part of the Red Siskin Project.
He mentioned, “Because they’re here, they’re actually on the red list, and they’re actually getting extinct. So, they’re here, and that’s our stronghold.”
As of now, there is a high focus on natural foods from the ground.
“Our life is really like cassava, Farine, cassava bread, this and that. But you get sugar, rice, and flour as substitutes. So, that’s just our way of life in general, but as time goes by, you have to adapt to it.”
Nicholas Bakes of Katoonarib Village
Nicholas Bakes' Village in Katoonarib
Security infrastructure to be bolstered as $1.1B in contracts inked
As part of continued efforts to bolster security infrastructure, the Home Affairs Ministry on Thursday signed 11 contracts totalling $1.1 billion for projects aimed at enhancing operational capacity and improving the living and working conditions for staff and the general public.
The initiatives will benefit the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), the Guyana Police Force (GPF), and the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), the Department of Public Information (DPI) stated in a Friday report.
which has a six-month deadline, will be executed by K&D Contracting Services.
Additionally, contracts amounting to around $371.7 million were inked for the construction of female and male living quarters at the Mazaruni Prison in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni). These works will be done by Sheriff Construction Inc and Advance Engineering respectively with a timeline of 12 months each.
the works in one year. The prison will further see a $27.3 million upgrade to its Fire Suppression System to be executed by Energy Empire.
Permanent Secretary, Andre Ally, spearheaded the signing ceremony, where he underscored the importance of completing projects within the contractual deadline, ensuring they align with the Government’s vision of high-quality infrastructure.
stressed the need to prioritise workers’ safety.
He also emphasised the need for workers to adhere to safety protocols and
“This significant investment underscores our focus on enhancing infrastructure to better serve
Govt remains committed to human rights – Min Teixeira tells stakeholders ahead of 4th Cycle of UN's UPR
The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance hosted a Civil Society Consultation on Tuesday as part of its preparations for Guyana’s 4th Cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR).
The event served as a vital platform for engagement between the Government and civil society organisations (CSOs), aimed at shaping Guyana’s national report, which is due in January 2025.
The UPR is a key mechanism of the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council, which enables a periodic review of the human rights records of all UN Member States. Guyana’s review in the 4th Cycle, scheduled for May 2025, offers an opportunity to report on progress made in strengthening human rights protections since the last review as well as address challenges.
Approximately 50 civil society organisations were invited and 13 participated. These included organisations working on children’s rights, women's rights, the rights of indigenous peoples, LGBTQ+ rights, poverty reduction, and representatives of Guyana’s three main religious groups.
Additionally, representatives of the constitutional rights commissions, the University of Guyana (UG) and members of the National Mechanism for Reporting and Follow-up were also present at the session to provide on-the-spot feedback and support to the CSOs.
During the consultation, the UN Resident Coordinator, Jean Kamau underscored the critical role of civil society in the UPR process and reiterated that the journey towards human rights realisation cannot be achieved by only one actor, reinforcing the need for collaborative efforts.
In her feature address, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to human rights and the importance of collaboration with CSOs in advancing this agenda.
Teixeira noted that the national report which is made on behalf of the State is not only intended to cover the work done by the Government but will take on an “all of society” perspective in which the achievements and progress made by all actors will take the forefront.
Participants were introduced to the timeline and expectations of the 4th UPR
Cycle during a special session during which the thematic areas under review, including legal and institutional reform, child rights, gender equality, the right to development, and equality and non-discrimination were also explored. Particular attention was paid to cross-cutting issues such as corporal punishment, the death penalty, and the decriminalisation of consensual same-sex relations.
The consultation featured breakout group discussions, where participants deliberated on specific themes from Guyana’s 3rd Cycle UPR recommendations. These discussions provided a space for CSOs to identify priority issues, share insights, and propose actionable recommendations.
This consultation reinforced the Government’s dedication to fostering meaningful collaboration with civil society to promote and protect fundamental human rights in Guyana, especially for the most vulnerable.
our communities and workforce. Contractors must maintain timelines and adhere to safety standards to ensure the success of these projects,” Ally noted.
Some of the projects include a $40.8 million contract that was signed for the completion of the Paramakatoi Police Station in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni). This project,
Also at the Region Seven prison, deals were signed for the construction of a Caged Walkway to the tune of $79.6 million by Shop Modern Guyana, and for the rehabilitation of the Rockcastle Building at $119.3 million by SBC Construction Supplies & Transportation. Meanwhile, a living quarter will also be constructed at Lusignan Prison on the East Coast of Demerara with NP Contracting & Transporting Services getting the $161.3 million contract to finish
Another living quarter will be built by NP Contracting & Transporting Services, this time, at the New Amsterdam Prison in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) for $39.9 million. In addition, a $132.4 million contract for the expansion of New Amsterdam Prison Power Network was inked with Professional Engineering and Construction Service. The $37.6 million contract for the construction of an Officer living quarters at Wisroc in Region No. 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) was also awarded to NP Contracting & Transporting Services.
Other works include the construction of an $87.5 million Trade Shop – again to be done by NP Contracting & Transporting Services for a period of 10 months.
Husband gets 10 years for killing wife
Nicholas Shawn Williams, commonly called "Dhall Back," was sentenced to 10 years in prison for killing his estranged wife, 28-yearold Clarabel Johnson.
The ruling was delivered on Wednesday by Justice Jo Ann Barlow at the Demerara High Court, following Williams’ acceptance of a plea deal on a lesser count of manslaughter charge.
Williams, initially charged with capital murder, saw his sentence reduced from an 18-year starting point.
Mitigating factors led to a three-year reduction, while his early guilty plea further reduced the sentence by one-third, bringing it to 10 years. The court also ruled that his time in custody since October 2020 would count toward his sentence.
The case, which saw the judge considering reports on probation, prison conduct, and victim impact statements, reached sentencing after Williams pleaded guilty earlier this month. Justice Barlow weighed aggravating factors presented by the prosecution and mitigating arguments from the defence before finalising the sentence.
Represented by at-
torney Kiswana Jefford, Williams faced a prosecution team that included attorneys Praneta Seeraj, Mikel Puran, and Rabina Christmas.
The fatal incident took place on October 6, 2020, in Albouystown, Georgetown. It was reported that Williams confronted Johnson near her Cooper Street home and inflicted a severe wound to the back of her right knee with a sharp object, severing an artery.
The injury caused significant blood loss, and despite efforts to save her, Johnson succumbed to her injuries
at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Williams fled the scene but was later apprehended by law enforcement on James Street, Albouystown. At the time of the attack, Johnson, a mother of three, had been living with her parents following a separation from Williams due to reports of abuse.
Williams, who ran a bicycle repair shop in the same community, had allegedly continued to harass her even after their separation.
Dead: Clarabel Johnson
Some $1.1B in contracts have been signed to enhance security infrastructure across Guyana
Section of the gathering at the consultations
GBTI making financing easier for SMEs
…with launch of ‘Grow’ initiative
The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) on Friday launched its ‘GROW’ initiative aimed at making financing easier and more accessible to Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs).
The ‘GROW’ initiative will offer tailored financial solutions designed to address the needs of small and medium-sized businesses to maximise their full potential.
Speaking at the launch of the initiative was GBTI’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shawn Gurcharran highlighted that Small and medium-sized enterprises are a vital pillar in economic growth but are often met with the challenge of easily accessing financial loans.
“In a booming oil and gas economy, it bemoans us to remain committed to food security and the enhancement of vulnerable groups in our society. Small and medium-sized enterprises are a vital pillar of economic growth and development, accounting for a significant share of job creation, innovation and importantly, wealth generation. Yet we know that SMEs often face unique challenges such as ac-
cessing finance, navigating regulatory frameworks and scaling up operations.”
In this regard, the CEO revealed that to tackle this issue, the banking institution has developed its ‘GROW’ initiative
“This is why the establishment of GBTI GROW is not just an addition to our portfolio, but it is a strategic initiative aimed at addressing these challenges head-on.
Through GBTI GROW, we will provide tailored financial products and tools designed to help small businesses to succeed in a competitive and dynamic environment.”
Gurcharran added that the location of the new centre at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD) was strategically planned while noting that it aligns with the organisation’s dedication towards providing equal opportunities for all
“GBTI GROW is our way of ensuring that no entrepreneur is left behind and the growth of our country is inclusive and sustainable. Our choice of location was very intentional. Being a stone's throw away from the largest market on the East Coast pro-
vides many opportunities for us to forge partnerships with people involved in agriculture, small services and growing businesses.”
Also present at the ceremony was the bank’s Director Suresh Beharry, who stated that the initiative will bolster the long-term strength and sustainability of the country’s economy.
“Our country stands at a pivotal moment in its history. With the rapid economic growth and transformation brought about by the oil and gas sector. However, while the oil and gas sector serves as a catalyst, the long-term strength and sustainability of our economy depend on our diversification. This is where SMEs come in. Small and medium enterprises are uniquely poised to drive diversification in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, technology and services. They ensure that economic progress reaches every region and community, creating opportunities for a broader cross-section of Guyanese.”
Delivering special remarks at the event was Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh who highlighted that
regardless of size, most businesses encounter problems when applying for loans. On this note, he applauded GBTI for the new initiative specifically tailored to benefit SMBs.
“I think the fact that you've decided to introduce a special branch is absolutely fantastic, I don't believe that any other bank has a dedicated branch focusing on the SME sector. Of course, there are some smaller SME specialist SME credit agencies. Well, this is an absolutely fantastic initiative because it's a branch and a facility and a window specifically targets the SME centre. and I really salute from the bottom of my heart.”
Moreover, he urged stakeholders at GBTI to make the loan accessing process more appealing by educating persons on areas such as collateral alternatives outside of real estate.
“I think there is a lot of room for public education, an outreach to explain to people that getting a loan is not that difficult. You don't need a fixed salary; you don't necessarily need real estate collateral. These are alternative ways in which you can do this. I want to appeal to GBTI, given that you have taken this remarkably bold step of establishing this new
branch and of establishing this special facility on these new products that target the SME sector, I want to appeal to you, maybe in collaboration with the chamber of commerce, reaching on to SMEs to see how can we partner to meet make the appetite for credit greater.”
The new banking division will serve as a one-stop destination for businesses seeking loans, advisory services and innovative financial products that facilitate expansion and sustainability.
GBTI GROW will offer specialised programmes, and affordable and flexible financing options tailored to meet the unique needs of micro and SMEs. Guidance on financial management, business planning and access to markets through strategic partnerships Notably, GBTI has formed alliances with key agencies such as the Guyana School of Agriculture, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Agriculture Ministry to explore ways in which they can work together to improve the viability of opportunities available.
Govt exploring options to regularise Tuschen/ Vergenoegen Sideline Dam squatting area
The Government, through the Housing and Water Ministry, is exploring various solutions to regularise the informal settlement at Vergenoegen Sideline Dam in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) where over 40 individuals are occupying the squatting area.
This assurance was given by Subject Minister Collin Croal on Friday, during a site visit to the area where he was joined by the Director of the Community Development Department at The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) Gladwin Charles, Guyana Water Incorporated’s (GWI), Regional Manager, Aggrey Anderson and other technical officers from the Ministry.
Minister Croal underlined that the official boundary is approximately in the middle of the area where the residents are occupying, emphasising that the Ministry has already examined the possibility of
regularisation for the area.
“We will proceed with regularisation once I can clarify the legal process [for the area],” Minister Croal promised. Based on the survey, Croal pointed out that the last eight houses at the end will not be regularised due to their sizes.
However, he explained that the Ministry may potentially consider processing two titles, one from the Vergenoegen end and the other from the Tuschen end, which would indicate the boundary’s location.
Further, he added that another option includes annexing the portion of land and assured several residents that a follow-up engagement with them will be undertaken next week by a team from the CHPA.
The Minister also examined the informal settlement at Vergenoegen Sea Dam where five households are residing. These families have been residing in this area between 27 to 32 years.
He reiterated that the Ministry has a policy that prohibits the regularisation of individuals who reside within a specific distance within the “no-zone” area for sea defences.
“We have to discuss this with sea defence and conduct some measurements and plan as to where they fall. And then, we will explore if they can be further regularised or if we will have to relocate them.”
The information will be used to compile a report and based on that; Minister Croal will further engage the relevant sub-agencies to expedite this matter. President Ali had set a deadline of mid-December for the resolution of this issue.
Meanwhile, Minister Croal also spearheaded a site visit to Parika Façade Informal Settlement, where nearly 50 lots are being occupied. The reserve area has been inhabited by some of the residents for nearly 20 years.
He explained that an up-
dated occupational survey will be done due to the recent construction works there.
“Those persons who are on the reserve are also in front of a transported land area… From the occupational survey, we have to look at the land behind which is the transported land to see how we can incorporate the possibility of regularising.”
The Minister pointed out
that the decision would be informed based on the occupational survey.
He added, “There are some persons who are on the transported land who have fenced off in front of the reserve. There is a mixture of occupancy. We will do the groundwork and make some policy decisions.”
Upon completion, the Ministry will engage the res-
idents about the next steps. About forty-three structures on the reserve were identified during an occupational study that was conducted three years ago. These visits by Minister Croal fulfil part of several commitments made to the residents by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali during a walkabout in the region on Tuesday.
Man arrested for allegedly killing wife blames ‘kanaima’
A72-year-old woman was allegedly beaten to death by her reputed husband, who told investigators that it was ‘kanaima’ (evil spirit in Amerindian culture) that killed his wife.
The dead woman was identified as Angelina Mora, a pensioner of Yakarinta Village, North Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo). Her husband, Jeffrey Edwards – a 53-year-old farmer, has since been arrested.
The incident reportedly occurred between 15:00h and 22:00h on Thursday at Yakarinta Village.
Based on police investigations, the couple had been living together for over four years.
The suspect’s niece, Almalita Marshall who lives a short distance from the couple’s home, told investigators that at around 15:00h on Thursday, she was in her yard and she saw her uncle physically assaulting the woman under a cashew tree in their yard.
According to Marshall, the commotion lasted for about two to three minutes during which she saw the elderly woman fall to the ground. She further related that her uncle continued the assault, after which he pulled the woman into their home.
Meanwhile, another resident, Nekita Benjamin who a Community Health Worker for Yakarinta Village, claimed that at about 22:00h Thursday evening, she received a telephone call from an unknown number informing her that Mora had died at her home.
Benjamin told the police that she immediately left to visit Mora's home, where she met Edwards and questioned him regarding the information she had received. Jeffrey then told her that his reputed wife had been drinking somewhere in the village and upon her return home, she went to bed and later stopped breathing. The health worker then checked the pensioner’s body, which was lying on a bed, for
a pulse but found no signs of life. She then proceeded to examine the exposed part of Angelina's body and saw what appeared to be marks of violence on the woman’s face, both breast and chest area which prompted her to ask the husband if they fought.
In response, Edwards said, "Yes we drink and had a lil fight." At this time, the police were summoned and arrested the suspect but he denied inflicting any injuries to his reputed wife's body. In fact, he claimed it was 'Kanaima' (evil spirits) that killed her.
The suspect was escorted to the hospital, where he was examined and a medical certificate was obtained. He is presently in custody at Lethem Police Station.
While at the station, detectives questioned Edwards about his wife’s death and he maintained he did not inflict those injuries on the woman's body, saying it was 'Kanaima' (evil spirits). He remains in custody assisting with the investigation.
Minister Croal and other officials visited the area on Friday
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh
GBTI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shawn Gurcharran
Regional
Brazil's Finance Minister, Congress leaders seek to calm markets on tax change concerns
Brazil's currency rebounded on Friday from record lows after congressional leaders said they would put the brakes on Government income tax reform, and the Finance Minister stressed that fiscal commitment goes beyond a new spending cuts package.
"We won’t be able to do everything that needs to be done with a silver bullet. This set of measures is not the grand finale of what we need to do," said Minister Fernando Haddad at an event hosted by banking lobby group Febraban.
Investors have been doubtful about the scope and effectiveness of the measures presented by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's Administration this week to slow down expenses to sustain a fiscal framework passed last year.
Brazil's gross public sector debt rose to 78.6 per cent of gross domestic product in October from 78.2 per cent in September and economists say it is on a path to hit 91 per cent by 2030, fuelling market scepticism about the framework's ability to stabilise it.
Haddad said on Friday that no one in the govern-
ment was trying to sell fantasies or magic, emphasising a firm commitment to slashing the primary budget deficit.
Before his remarks, Lower House Speaker Arthur Lira and Senate head Rodrigo Pacheco said that broader income tax exemptions proposed by the Lula Administration were a topic for the future, and the nearterm focus would be on passing spending cuts.
The Brazilian real, which in early morning weakened to a record low of 6.11 per dollar following a two-session sell-off, pared losses by ear-
ly afternoon to trade slightly down at 6 per greenback.
Lira said on social media that fiscal responsibility was a "non-negotiable" for the lower house, while Pacheco in a statement said a potential income tax reform would only go through if there was fiscal room.
"The remarks by the heads of both houses of Congress are extremely relevant and indicate that there is an effort to regain some of the trust that was lost in the process," analysts at brokerage XP said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Mexico leader responds to Trump's claim she agreed to stop migration
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has sought to clarify details of a conversation she had with US President-elect Donald Trump, after the two leaders offered differing accounts of the call.
Following Wednesday's call, Trump said Sheinbaum had "agreed to stop Migration through Mexico, and into the United States, effectively closing our Southern Border".
This prompted Sheinbaum to say she had merely reiterated Mexico's position, which she said was "not to close borders but to build bridges between governments and people".
The call followed Trump's announcement on Monday that, upon taking office in January, he would slap an across-the-board tariff of 25% on Mexico and Canada, and a 10% tariff on China.
He said the import duties on Mexico and Canada would only be removed once illegal immigration and drug trafficking to the US had stopped.
The announcement was initially met with combative language from President
Mexico’s President Sheinbaum has threatened tit-for-tat tariffs
Sheinbaum, who vowed earlier on Wednesday to retaliate if the US triggered a trade war.
"If there are US tariffs, Mexico would also raise tariffs," she said of the proposed duties, which appear to breach the USMCA trade deal that Trump himself struck in 2018 during his first presidency between the US, Mexico and Canada.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, the Mexican president said she did not specifically discuss tariffs in the phone call with Trump but that they had addressed im-
migration and fentanyl trafficking - the reasons Trump had named for imposing the tariffs in the first place.
She said she had reassured him that a migrant caravan he had expressed concern about was "not going to reach the [northern] Mexican frontier" with the US but she stressed that "it has never been our plan to close the border with the US".
Sheinbaum insisted that the conversation had been "very amiable" and that they had agreed they would "continue with our talks".
(Excerpt from BBC News)
Bolivia’s former top antidrug official to be extradited to US for drug trafficking
Bolivia’s highest court on Wednesday approved the extradition of the country’s former top anti-narcotics official to the US to face charges of trafficking narcotics.
Maximiliano Dávila Pérez briefly served as Bolivia’s top counter-narcotics official in 2019, before then president Evo Morales resigned. He later served as a police commander in Bolivia under the government of the current president, Luis Arce.
In January 2022, Dávila was arrested in Bolivia, and a month later the US justice department unsealed charges in a Manhattan federal court accusing him of conspiring to import cocaine from Bolivia and Peru into the US, and of using weapons related to the alleged drug trafficking.
The US state department offered a reward of up to $5m for his capture, accusing him of using his position to protect planes that transported cocaine. He was arrested by Bolivian officials that year.
In 2019, Dávila was the head of the Bolivian spe-
cial forces for the fight against drug trafficking, the country’s equivalent of the US Drug Enforcement Administration, under then president Morales. After Morales resigned, a rightwing president took power and ousted Dávila.
When Arce – who had been aligned with Morales – then took the presidency in 2020, Dávila came back to work in the government, serving as a police commander overseeing a region where coca – the pre-
cursor to cocaine – is grown.
That year, press reports said Dávila was at an airport in northern Bolivia at the same time as the departure of a plane carrying cocaine, which was later intercepted by Mexican authorities.
Dávila faces additional “illicit enrichment” charges in Bolivia and for allegedly having “certain links” to drug trafficking, Bolivia’s interior minister said. He was arrested in 2022 as he attempted to flee to Argentina. (Excerpt from the Guardian)
Venezuela lawmakers vote for tougher measures on supporters of sanctions
Venezuela's National Assembly on Thursday unanimously voted to approve a law which could lead to bans on holding public office of up to 60 years for those who express support for the imposition of sanctions on the South American country. The so-called Simon Bolivar Liberator law also includes measures to prosecute people in absentia, and represents the latest move by President Nicolas
Maduro's government to tighten regulations on everything from non-governmental organizations to social media, following July's contested presidential election.
The vote by the ruling party-dominated legislature follows the approval earlier this month by the U.S. House of Representatives of the so-called Bolivar law, which would prohibit U.S. government bodies from hiring people who have business dealings with
Maduro's government.
The Bolivar law, which needs final approval from the U.S. Senate, has been labeled "trash" by Maduro. Temporary bans on holding office, levied on opposition politicians over their support for sanctions on Maduro's government and other accusations, are regular occurrences in Venezuela. Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado had her 15-year ban on holding public office upheld in January. (Reuters)
Police escorting Maximiliano Dávila Pérez at a Bolivian police command office in La Paz, Bolivia, in 2022 (Photograph: Juan Karita/AP)
Brazil's Finance Minister Fernando Haddad attended a press conference along with Planning Minister Simone Tebet at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, November 28, 2024 (Reuters/ Adriano Machado photo)
Around the World
IOIL NEWS
Canada’s oil patch rattled by Trump's tariff threat
n Canada’s oil-rich province of Alberta, there is a deep sense of unease over President-elect Donald Trump's threat to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods.
Canadian politicians and energy experts are warning the hefty tariff would have dire consequences for the economy of America's northern neighbour - and hike prices on US consumers.
"Canada has no choice in this," Dennis McConaghy, an Alberta-based former energy executive, told the BBC. "It has to find an accommodation with Trump."
Trump announced on Monday that, upon taking office in January, he would slap an across-the-board tariff on Mexico and Canada - with no suggestion that would exclude oil and gas.
It remains unclear whether the tariffs will ultimately materialise, analysts have noted, as Trump has been known to use such threats in the past as a negotiating tactic to achieve his goals.
In this case, Trump has signalled that the levies would remain in place until both Canada and Mexico work on securing their shared borders with the US, limiting the number of unlawful migrants and drugs flowing into the country.
As the threat lingers, Canadian officials and industry leaders are working to meet Trump's demands, while communicating to the public the importance of the Canada-US energy partnership.
Lisa Baiton, president and CEO of the Calgary-based Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, said the levy would likely mean Canada producing less oil.
McConaghy said that would lead to job losses in Alberta, with potential repercussions for Canada as a whole, as poorer provinces rely on cash transfers from revenues generated by wealthier provinces - like Alberta - to help offset costs and provide social services.
It could also lead to a devaluation of the Canadian dollar at a time when the currency is already struggling due to domestic economic factors, he said.
“Keep in mind, roughly 80% of Canada’s trade is with the United States, and a majority of that trade is in hydrocarbons. Canadians can’t escape how integrated they are with the US.”
US fuel makers have also urged Trump to rule out oil and gas from any proposed levies given that Americans rely heavily on imported Canadian crude.
“Crude oil is to refineries what flour is to bakeries,” said the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) industry group in a statement this week.
“It’s our number one feedstock and input cost. If those feedstocks were to become significantly more expensive, so too would the overall cost of making fuel here in the United States.”
The US is the world’s largest producer of crude oil and natural gas, but some regions - California, the northeast and parts of the Midwest - do not have the infrastructure or pipeline capacity to rely solely on US oil and need imports to supply fuel to consumers.
Around 40% of the crude that runs through US oil refineries is imported, and the vast majority of it comes from Canada.
Canadian oil is especially relied on in the landlocked Midwest, where refineries have been outfitted to process the heavier Canadian blends.
The AFPM said there is no easy replacement for that crude without relying on overseas sources that could erode US energy security.
The industry group warned that a tariff on Canadian oil would drive up operating costs in the Midwest - costs some experts say will be downloaded onto consumers.
Patrick De Haan, a Chicago-based gas prices analyst, estimated that states like Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan could see gas prices rising by up to 75 cents a gallon.
De Haan noted in a post on X that these higher prices would not only be felt at the pump, but could potentially increase costs for airlines and freight haulers as well.
An increase in oil prices for US consumers would run counter to Trump's promise to slash energy costs.
On the campaign trail, Trump frequently said he planned to cut the price of gasoline to under $2 (£1.57) a gallon. As of late November, the price of regular gasoline in the US sat around $3 a gallon.
But Trump has also vowed to increase American energy independence by boosting domestic drilling and being less reliant on foreign oil and gas, particularly from countries not allied with the US. (BBC)
China sentences journalist to jail on spy charges
Aformer Chinese state media journalist has been sentenced on Friday to seven years in prison for espionage, his family has confirmed to the BBC.
Dong Yuyu, 62, who has been detained since 2022, was active in academic and journalism circles in the US and Japan and met regularly with foreign diplomats.
He was having lunch with a Japanese diplomat in Beijing when he was arrested by police.
At the time of his detention, Dong had been a senior staff member of the Guangming Daily, one of the five major newspapers linked to the Chinese Communist Party.
In February 2022, Dong was arrested while having lunch with a Japanese diplomat the day after the Winter Olympics ended in Beijing, at a restaurant where he had often met foreign friends.
The diplomat was also detained - then released several hours later amid protests from the Japanese government.
Dong met regularly with other journalists and foreign diplomats as part of his job.
His family said in a statement that according to a court judgement, two other Japanese diplomats Dong met with were named as "agents of an espionage organisation", which is the Japanese embassy.
"We are shocked that the Chinese authorities would blatantly deem a foreign embassy an 'espionage organization'", said his family's statement.
“Today’s verdict is a grave injustice not only to Yuyu and his family but also to every freethinking Chinese journalist and every ordinary Chinese committed to friendly engagement with the world,” they added.
The Beijing court where Dong was sentenced on Friday had a strong security presence, Reuters reported, as journalists were asked to leave and a diplomat said they were not allowed to attend the hearing.
“In the past, the Chinese court system has selected Western holidays to release news as it is a time when the public is focused on other matters,” the US National Press Club said in a statement on Tuesday, ahead of Dong's sentencing on Thanksgiving night in the US.
While Dong’s trial had been completed in July 2023, he was held with no verdict and barred from seeing his family, the press club said. Rights groups and advocates have criticised his conviction and called for him to be released.
"Chinese authorities must reverse this unjust verdict,
Thousands return to streets of Georgia after Government suspends EU bid
Thousands of protesters returned to the streets of Tbilisi on Friday evening to protest against the government's decision to suspend accession talks with the European Union "until the end of 2028".
Demonstrators were seen shouting "traitors" and holding photographs of journalists who they say were beaten by police overnight.
The previous night's protests saw police use pepper spray and water cannon against demonstrators, with the government saying 43 people were arrested.
Earlier, more than 100 diplomats and civil servants in Georgia signed an open letter saying the government's decision does not align with Georgia's strategic interests.
Defending his decision, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze accused the EU of "blackmail" after EU legislators called for last month's parliamentary elections in Georgia to be re-run. They cited "significant irregularities".
Since 2012, Georgia has
been governed by Georgian Dream, a party which critics say has tried to move the country away from the EU and closer to Russia.
The party claimed victory in last month's election but opposition MPs are boycotting the new parliament, alleging fraud, while the country's President Salome Zurabishvili, has called the one-party parliament "unconstitutional".
On Thursday, the European Parliament backed a resolution describing the election as the latest stage in Georgia's "worsening democratic crisis" and saying that the ruling party was "fully responsible".
It expressed particular concern about reports of voter intimidation, vote buying and manipulation, and harassment of observers.
The European Parliament also urged sanctions against Georgia's Prime Minister and other high-level officials including the billionaire founder of the governing party Bidzina Ivanishvili.
and protect the right of journalists to work freely and safely in China," Beh Lih Yi, Asia programme manager at the Committe to Protect Journalists told Reuters.
"Dong Yuyu should be reunited with his family immediately."
Dong joined the Guangming Daily after graduating from Peking University's law school in 1987.
In 1989, he was one of tens of thousands of students who participated in the Tiananmen Square protests.
He was later sentenced to hard labour, but kept his job at the newspaper, according to a family statement.
He eventually rose to become deputy head of the editorial department, and was among the most pro-reform voices at Guangming Daily, the statement added.
A Nieman fellow at Harvard University in 2007, Dong had also written several articles for the New York Times and was previously a visiting fellow and professor at several Japanese universities. (BBC)
Abandoning Ukraine means ‘infinitely higher’ long-term security costs – MI6 Chief
Abandoning Ukraine would jeopardise British, European and American security and lead to “infinitely higher” costs in the long term, the head of MI6 has warned in a speech that amounted to a plea to Donald Trump to continue supporting Kyiv.
Richard Moore, giving a rare speech, said he believed Vladimir Putin “would not stop” at Ukraine if he was allowed to subjugate it in any peace talks involving the incoming US Republican administration.
“If Putin is allowed to succeed in reducing Ukraine to a vassal state, he will not stop there. Our security – British, French, European and transatlantic – will be jeopardised,” Moore said during an address given in Paris alongside his French counterpart.
The spy chief was touted earlier this week as a possible surprise appointment as the UK’s ambassador to the US, though he is not thought to be pressing for the job. The former Labour minister Peter Mandelson is considered the frontrunner for a critical role at a delicate time in transatlantic relations.
Moore has served as the head of MI6 for four years in what is normally considered a five-year job. At the start of his tenure he overlapped with the Trump adviser Richard Grenell, who was the acting
director of national intelligence.
Trump has complained about the expense of supporting Kyiv and said repeatedly that he wants to end the war, claiming he could do so “within 24 hours”. JD Vance, the vice-president-elect, has suggested freezing the conflict on the current frontlines, and denying Ukraine Nato membership for an extended period.
“The cost of supporting Ukraine is well known,” said Moore. “But the cost of not doing so would be infinitely higher. If Putin succeeds, China would weigh the implications, North Korea would be emboldened and Iran would become still more dangerous.”
A key British argument to the incoming Trump administration is to try to link the war in Ukraine with US concerns about the rising military might of China, emphasising that the arrival of North Korean troops is bringing authoritarianism from Asia into what was previously a European conflict.
Moore emphasised the UK’s history of intelligence cooperation with France in a speech to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale, but he was also careful to emphasise that he expected UK-US intelligence cooperation to be unchanged regardless of any political tensions. (The Guardian)
Dong Yuyu is among a shrinking group of Chinese intellectuals who are active in international liberal circles
Pay more attention to where your money goes and to health issues. Keep your plans and decisions to yourself until you are fully prepared to move forward.
Personal improvements will turn out better than anticipated. Pay attention to detail and focus on finishing what you start. Step outside your comfort zone if necessary to solidify your position.
You’ll be torn between what you should do and what you want to do. Observation is your best choice when uncertainty prevails. Small but significant changes will eventually help you discover what’s best for you.
Participate in something that makes you feel passionate and good about yourself. How you apply your skills will determine how others treat you. Be bold and take a unique approach to whatever you pursue.
Participation will energize you emotionally and intellectually. Refuse to let anyone get in your way, tempt you with nonsense or hinder your chance to follow your dream.
Protect your home and possessions from scammers. A personal change you make will give you the confidence boost you require to take advantage of whatever opportunity comes your way.
Avoid risks. Protect your home, possessions, family and health from outside influences. Gather the facts and adjust whatever is necessary to ensure you are safe and sound.
An emotional shift will lead to a unique opportunity. Network, socialize or start a new project that offers insight into how to forge stronger ties with like-minded people.
You need to take care of pressing matters before you hire someone to help. Uncertainty will come from poor communication. A last-minute change will spur fierce resistance.
Change begins with you and at home. Look around you, and you’ll figure out how to make your domain more convenient for your current objectives and lifestyle.
Observation will give you insight into others’ thoughts and actions. Participate in functions that can introduce you to new ideas to find a valuable way to apply your skills and experience.
Be careful what you promise and know whom you are dealing with before you engage in talks and commitments. Don’t be fooled by someone’s empty promises. Proceed with caution.
ARCHIE
Sri Lanka Tour of South Africa 2024/25: Test 1 of 2…
– after centuries from Stubbs, Bavuma
Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs have each scored easy centuries in the first two sessions of this first Test, making South Africa’s lead gargantuan, before the quicks snapped up five Sri Lanka wickets.
Having utterly dominated the match since lunch on day two, South Africa finished the third day only five wickets short of going 1-0 up in a vital World Test Championship series. Sri Lanka are 413 runs adrift, on a surface on which the bounce can no longer be fully trusted.
The late Sri Lanka wickets produced some drama, but the 249-run partnership -- equalling a record for the fourth wicket at this ground -- was the centerpiece of Friday’s action. Stubbs and Bavuma laid the groundwork for their centuries in the morning by negotiating some occasionally testing early overs. It was, however, clear that by then the Kingsmead pitch had lost much of the nip it had had in the first few sessions of this match.
South Africa raised their tempo in the second session, going at 4.81 runs an over in the afternoon; and the Sri Lanka quicks, down on pace on day three, as perhaps could be expected of an attack that was closing in on 150 overs for the match, eventually managed to dismiss Stubbs and Bavuma late in the second session.
But by that stage South Africa’s lead had ballooned to more than 500, and when they declared at tea with only five wickets down, they had set Sri Lanka 516 to
win.
It was the two South Africa batters’ hundreds, however, that most enthused the crowd at Kingsmead, and the more dramatic of the trips to triple figures was Bavuma’s. He had appeared tentative in the 90s, with Sri Lanka raising lbw appeals against him, and forcing plays and misses as well.
Bavuma getting to his third century provided the most dramatic moment of the day. Batting on 98, he had gone low to lap-sweep Prabath Jayasuriya and was hit on the pad. The umpire, however, turned down the lbw appeal as the bat-
ters ran three. But having removed his helmet to celebrate, he was made to wait a little longer, when Sri Lanka reviewed the decision. Thankfully for Bavuma, real-time snicko had caught the very slight deflection off his glove into pad, and as soon as this was shown on the big screen, Bavuma swung his bat in the air, and the crowd acknowledged him even before the final “not out” decision came. This was only his third career ton, but his second as captain.
Stubbs got to his second Test hundred in
South Africa quicks leave Sri Lanka on the brink
more straightforward fashion. He spent only 14 balls in the 90s before working Asitha Fernando through midwicket for a couple to complete the milestone. Stubbs was given lbw in the next over, off Lahiru Kumara, but he reviewed and the ball was found to have struck him outside the line of off.
In the first session, he had also been dropped for 33 off Vishwa Fernando, by Angelo Mathews, who spilled a chance low to his left at slip.
Although conditions had eased, Bavuma and Stubbs
typically was stronger down the ground, while Bavuma was more adept at hitting square -- often using his feet to the spinner, and oc casionally playing the hard, flat sweep in addition to the dinky one past the keeper. Aside from that one chance off Stubbs, both batters ap peared largely in control, though there were oc casional lbw shoutsnone of which was especially close.
In the final session, South Africa’s quicks were rampant again, and Sri Lanka’s batters continued to be undisciplined, even
batting out the entire first session was nevertheless extraordinary, given 19 wickets had fallen the previous day. Both were cautious, to start with, as Kumara went short at the batters, and Jayasuriya flighted the ball in searching of early dismissals.
Stubbs
more or less plumb, before Kamindu Mendis reviewed after providing a feather edge to the wicketkeeper. His being confirmed out was Kamindu’s first twin failure in his nine Tests so far; having fallen for 13 in the first innings, and 10 in this one.
as the light waned and the opposition was still running hot. Sri Lanka also managed to burn all three of their reviews, with Pathum Nissanka and Angelo Mathews reviewing lbw decisions that were
South Africa 2nd Innings
Batting R
Tony de Zorzi c AM
Fernando b Jayasuriya 17
Aiden Markram b MVT Fernando 47
Wiaan Mulder lbw b Jayasuriya 15
Tristan Stubbs b MVT Fernando 122
Temba Bavuma (c)lbw b AM Fernando 113 David Bedingham not out 21
Extras (b 6, lb 24, w 1) 31
Total 100.4 Ov (RR: 3.63) 366/5d
Did not bat: Kyle Verreynne †, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj,Kagiso Rabada
Fall of wickets: 1-47
(Tony de Zorzi, 11.5 ov), 2-77
(Wiaan Mulder, 21.4 ov), 3-89
(Aiden Markram, 24.4 ov), 4-338
(Tristan Stubbs, 96.5 ov), 5-366
(Temba Bavuma, 100.4 ov) • DRS
Bowling O-M-R-W
Asitha Fernando 17.4-2-54-1
Vishwa Fernando 18-2-64-2
Lahiru Kumara 18-5-43-0
Prabath Jayasuriya 40-2-132-2
Dhananjaya de Silva 6-0-31-0
Kamindu Mendis 1-0-12-0
South Africa’s taller quicks got more out of the surface than Sri Lanka’s seamers had gotten earlier in the day, although Mathews’s lbw in particular was down to low bounce - the ball shooting through into his pads although he had expected it to bounce up to perhaps waist height. That was off the bowling of Marco Jansen, who now has nine wickets in the match. Kagiso Rabada made the first breakthrough when he had Dimuth Karunaratne caught at third slip as the opening batter drove on the up at a ball well outside off stump in the fifth over of the innings. Rabada also took the last wicket of the day - that of nightwatcher Jayasuriya, who fell to a spectacular reflex catch by short leg fielder Tony de Zorzi. (ESPNCricinfo)
Tristan Stubbs brought up his second Test century
Kagiso Rabada struck in his first spell
Temba Bavuma used his feet against the spinners
Finals of the Elite 16 Knockout Basketball competition…
Each team is confident of victory
The captains of the North Ruimveldt Ravens and the Victory Valley Royals are each confident that their team would dominate the proceedings in today’s Elite 16 Knockout Basketball fi-
feated the Nets by 26 points; the McDoom/Prospect Kobras by 25 points, and the Stabroek Eagles by 3 points in their seemingly unstoppable journey to the finals.
Speaking to the media after the semifinal games
in terms of fitness; but this time we’re ready” Tappin said.
North Ruimveldt
nal, which would be contested at the National Gymnasium.
The Victory Valley Royals, of Linden in Region 10, have demonstrated dogged determination in their journey to the finals. Their best showing has been against the Plaisance Guardians, whom they vanquished in a match by 35 points; but they have also recorded an 18-point victory against the University of Guyana Trojans and a 12-point victory against the Kwakwani Untouchables.
The North Ruimveldt Ravens have, however, de-
had been played, Victory Valley Royals Captain Yannick Tappin declared that the team aims to retain the #1 spot, and detailed some improvements that have to be made if the team is to establish its supremacy over opposition.
”Great! For the longest while, we were the number one team, and we are coming to give it all to remain at that standard,” he said.
“One thing we want to do is rotate the ball more. Instead of a one-on-one play, we’ll try to transition better. The last time, I would say the team catch us off-guard
Ravens Captain, Dominic Vincente, has predicted that confidence and cohesiveness among the team would cause it to come out victorious in this battle. Vincente said, “The confidence is there, but we can’t get complacent. Defensively, that’s something we were preaching together from the jump, and we sustained that so that we
could get the victory tonight. We’re a family, and because we’re a family, all we had to do was get it together, so that we could come out victorious. We knew that we had it in us to mesh the way we wanted to, and because we got it together defensively, that’s how we came up with the win.”
The last time these teams took to the court competitively was in the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) National and International
The team winning the final match is guaranteed a winner’s purse of $300,000, while the team finishing in second place would earn $100,000. the third-placed team would earn $50,000, and the tournament’s MVP would be awarded $25,000 for a standout performance.
GFF supporting EBFA U14 League
Technical Director of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Bryan Joseph, recently handed over key football materials to Orein Angoy, President of the East Bank Football Association (EBFA), as part of the GFF’s efforts to support youth football competitions and developments ongoing across Guyana.
The materials, which included essential equipment for the ongoing U14 Boys League, were presented to President Angoy for the EBFA.
Expressing gratitude for the support, Angoy highlighted the significant impact the contribution would have on the tournament’s success and the growth of young players in the EBFA.
“We are deeply grateful to the Guyana Football Federation for their invaluable support in providing these materials. This contribution will undoubtedly enhance the quality of the U14
Boys League, and support the development of football at the grassroots level in our region. We are committed to utilising these resources to create opportunities for our young players to grow and excel in the sport,” Angoy declared in remarks.
During the presentation ceremony, Joseph commended the EBFA leadership for their proactive approach to youth football development when he stated, “The Guyana Football Federation is proud to support initiatives like
the EBFA U14 Boys League, which align perfectly with our mission to develop football across all levels in Guyana. Regional Associations play a critical role in organizing competitions, especially at the youth and grassroots levels, as they have a constitutional obligation to create opportunities for their clubs and players.”
He declared that the Federation is committed to supporting these activities, but said they must be driven by the leadership of the
One Guyana/K&S National Futsal Championship… Dinar Trading and Forrester’s Concrete solidify support
As next week’s kickoff of the historic One Guyana National Futsal Championship organised by the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation (K&S) continues to gather momentum, being powered by the Government of Guyana, corporate support continues to gather momentum also.
On board in a solid way are Dinar Trading and Forrester’s Concrete, both entities having expressed pleasure at partnering with the
K&S Organisation to stage this huge 64-team championship, which has attracted teams from across Guyana.
In presenting the Forrester’s Concrete sponsorship, Ms. Akiesha Forrester, Creative Director of the entity, posited that the entity had no hesitation in supporting the championship, once approached. She said Forrester’s Concrete, which has branches spread across Guyana, anticipates a solid championship, one creating many opportu-
nities for players to showcase their talent and vie for the prizes on offer.
“We would like to wish all the teams the best, and we are looking forward to exciting matches throughout the tournament,” she declared.
Ms Forrester presented her company’s sponsorship to General Secretary and Co-Director of the K&S Organisation, Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major, in the presence of Ms. Althea Alli.
Similarly, CEO of Dinar
Trading, Bro. Iqbal Hussein, declared that his company is very excited to be back in partnership with the K&S Organisation for a championship that would be one to remember.
Hussein said that handing over the sponsorship cheque brought back memories of old, when it came to the year-end football competitions being put on by Kashif & Shanghai; and he noted that everyone looked forward to those end-of-year spectacles.
“We at Dinar Trading are more than happy to see the return of you guys, and even though it’s a new format you’ll be doing, we have no doubt that it would be quality as usual, and that the players and fans would be equally satisfied,” he added.
Competition begins next Tuesday, December 3, at the National Gymnasium with the official march past of the contesting teams and the first set of matches being played after the opening ceremony.
Regional Associations.
“We hope that the example being set by the EBFA will inspire other Associations to take similar proactive steps in organizing competitions that nurture and showcase the immense talent we have in Guyana,” he said. “The GFF applauds the EBFA for its unwavering dedication to youth football, and encourages fans, clubs and communities to continue supporting these competitions, which are instrumental in building the future of Guyanese football.”
Kashif Muhammad (right) of K&S receiving sponsorship from CEO of Dinar Trading, Bro. Iqbal Hussein, while Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major savours the moment
Akiesha Forrester, Creative Director of Forrester’s Concrete, handing over the cheque to Kashif Muhammad. At left is Ms. Althea Alli, and at right is Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major
GFF Technical Director Bryan Joseph making a presentation to EBFA President Orein Angoy
Captain Dominic Vincente (orange) will be on show for North Ruimveldt Ravens
Yannick Tappin, Captain of Victory Valley Royals
Athletics bags lion’s share of NSC’s 2023 Sports Awards
…Archibald, Abrams named Sportsman/Sportswoman of the Year
2023 was undeniably the year for Track and Field in Guyana, and that was evidenced by the number of major achievements Guyana’s athletes accumulated in that time, and also by the number of accolades they raked in on Thursday night during the National Sports Commission’s (NSC) National Sports Awards for the year 2023.
Emanuel Archibald became Guyana’ new Sportsman of the Year following an excellent outing on the track during the period under revision. Archibald not only grabbed Guyana’s first 100 gold at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games, but also went on to clinch bronze in the 100M event at the Pan American Games 2023, as well as making it to the 200M final at the same event.
While he was not present at the event, Archibald shared his gratitude for being recognized as the Sportsman of the Year via his social media account.
“I’m beyond grateful and humbled to be named Sportsperson of the Year (2023). This achievement isn’t just mine — it’s a testament to the unwavering support of my incredible coach, parents, and the grace of God.
“To God, I’m eternally thankful for the strength, health, and opportunities to pursue my dreams. Every race, every stride, every moment of success is a blessing. This award is for all of us. I’m just getting started.”
Meanwhile, Powerlifting’s Dominic Tyrell has been named runner-up to Archibald, while football’s Omari Glasgow was also among those nominated for the award.
On the distaff side, Jasmine
Abrams, who grabbed Guyana’s first medal [silver] in the Women’s 100M event at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile last year, has been named Sportswoman of the Year. During that period, Abrams had also rewritten Guyana’s Women’s 100M record. Jessica Callender of the sport of Chess, who became the
Golden Girl in 2023, Tianna Springer, who distinguished herself at not only the CARIFTA Games but also the South American Under-20 Championships and the Commonwealth Youth Games, where she clinched gold at every competition, has been named Junior Sportswoman of the Year.
country’s female chess champion in that year, was announced as runner-up to. Abrams. For the juniors, Guyana’s
MVP Sports Girls Pee-Wee
The Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground on Carifesta Avenue will come alive today when the semifinal round of the MVP Sports Girls’ Under- 11 PeeWee Schools Football tournament is contested.
Four teams, including defending champions Marian Academy, will compete today for two spots in next Saturday’s anticipated final showdown.
At 13:00hrs, Marian Academy will take on Potaro Primary in the first semifinal. While Marian Academy has had a number of players step up to the plate to lead their team’s unbeaten streak thus far in the competition, Crissyanne Persaud has been the leader of the pack, netting both a helmet trick and hattrick in previous games. On the other hand, Reniese Joseph is the striker to watch for Potaro Primary, after singlehandedly leading her team’s press and scoring
in each of the games they’ve played so far. What both teams will encounter today is better defenses, making for an interesting encounter. Then at 14:00hrs,
Raekwon Noel, another athlete who attracted gold medals with ease in 2023, has been named Junior Sportsman of
semis on today
knack for finding the back of the net for Waramuri Primary, sometimes even from different angles. As such, her performance will be crucial if the Region One outfit should win today.
Meanwhile, St. John the Baptist, who were last year’s runners-up, have another solid team in this competition, and have been driven by the players collectively. However, what makes semifinal 2 interesting is the fact that it would be a rematch of a group stage encounter wherein Waramuri topped the Region 7 outfit 1-0. As such, St. John the Baptist are likely to want revenge today.
Prior to the semifinal games, two placement games would be contested. First, West Ruimveldt Primary takes on Genesis Academy, from 11:00hrs; while Smith Memorial battles Stella Maris
Waramuri Primary will take on St. John the Baptist Primary for the other spot in the final. Keshanna Thomas has displayed an amazing
Primary at the same time.
the Year for his
accolade.
rewrote several national records over that period.
Athletics continued to rake in the awards, as Mark Scott, who steers both Tianna Springer and Emanuel Archibald at the Police Track Club, has clinched the coveted Male Coach of the Year award.
National Women’s Under-19 Cricket Coach Tremaine Smartt is the Women’s Coach of the Year.
For their record-breaking run at the Commonwealth Youth Games held in Trinidad and Tobago in 2023, the quartet of Tianna Springer, Narissa
Adding to athletics’ dominance at the awards, Kenisha Headley grabbed the Female Sports Official of the Year accolade, while the Athletics Association of Guyana has been awarded the Association of the Year.
Meanwhile, Guyana Times Sport Journalist Jemima Holmes received the awards for Sport Journalist of the Yearprint Media for 2023.
Full list of NSC awardees: Sportsman of the Year: Emanuel Archibald (Athletics)
Runner-up: Dominic Tyrell (Powerlifting)
Sportswoman of the Year: Jasmine Abrams (Athletics)
Runner-up: Jessica Callender (Chess)
Junior Sportswoman of the Year: Tianna Springer (Athletics)
Runner-up: Kataleya Sam (Chess)
Junior Sportsman of the Year: Raekwon Noel (Swimming)
Runner-up: Malachi Austin (Athletics)
Male Coach of the Year: Mark Scott (Athletics)
Female Coach of the Year: Tremayne Smartt (Cricket)
Sportsman of the YearPersons with Disabilities (PWD): Uttamkumar Isurdeen (Athletics)
Sportswoman of the Year (PWD): Anya Lall (Chess)
Team-of-the-Year: Youth Commonwealth Mixed 4x400M Relay Team (Athletics). Association of the Year: Athletics Association of Guyana Male Sport Official of the
One Guyana National Futsal Championship… Bakewell
is first corporate entity on board
Bakery giants Bakewell is the first corporate entity to throw its support behind the One Guyana National Futsal Championship which is set for kick-off on Tuesday, December 3, at the National Gymnasium.
Organised by the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation MS, this inaugural format signals the return of year-end football which was organized using the 11-a-side version of the game by the National Awardwinning entity for decades.
And for all of those years, Bakewell has been on board in lending valuable support, and it’s on this foundation that Assistant General Manager of Bakewell, Mr. Shannan Ganga, said his company had no hesitation whatsoever in partnering with the K&S Organisation.
“It’s well documented that Bakewell has been a consistent partner with this organisation over the many years of year-end football, and by extension supporting sports in Guyana. As a company, we are elated to see the return of this year-end spectacle, even though it’s the futsal version of the game,” he said. Further, Ganga noted that the competition would afford hundreds of players from around Guyana opportunity
to showcase their skills before what he said would unquestionably be thousands of fans over the period the tournament would be played.
Co-Directors of the K&S Organisation, Kashif Muhammad and Aubrey Major, were both elated to be back in the organisers’ seat for something for which they have built a lasting legacy in terms of top-class promotion and organization.
Muhammad has said they are very grateful to the Government of Guyana and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport for playing a huge role in the rebirth of this year-
end spectacle.
“And to Bakewell: What can we say? It’s a partnership that has never been ended, and now we are back together again to do what we both love -- seeing football played at this time of the year. We want to thank the Management and Staff of Bakewell for their support, and assure you all that this inaugural championship would be spectacular for all.”
A total of 64 teams would be battling from next Tuesday in the straight knockout competition, with every team set to walk away with cash. The championship is powered by the Government of Guyana.
The MVP Sports tournament is also supported by Guyana Beverage Inc under their Kool Kidz brand.
Bakewell Assistant General Manager Shannan Ganga handing over sponsorship cheque to Kashif Muhammad, with Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major being at right
exploits at the CARIFTA Games, where he clinched five gold medals and
McPherson, Malachi Austin and Javon Roberts received the Team of the Year
A look at the group of National Sports Awardees for the Year 2023
Guyana Times’ Jemima Holmes receiving her Print Journalist of the Year award from Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle
Tianna Springer, to no one’s surprise, received the Junior Sportswoman of the Year award
A glimpse of what to expect in the MVP Sports Girls U11 Pee-Wee tournament today
Victoria pull off nail-biting 4-wicket win over GAW
The ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 tournament continues to bring the best thrills of the shortest format with another last-ball thriller at the Guyana National Stadium on Friday night. The battle be-
The duo combined for an entertaining 74-run partnership that, on many occasions, lifted the exuberant ‘Warrior Nation’ fans to their feet in the stands. Ali smashed four maximums and three fours for a well-played 51 off 33 deliveries before Jackson Smith
another delivery and had to depart for 18.
The three wickets in quick succession caused some caution in the Amazon Warriors camp, evidenced by Romario Shepherd’s uncharacteristically low strike rate, as he tried to hold one end of the pitch up. At the other end, Hassan Khan was the polar opposite, smashing three huge sixes, including a massive one that sailed over the roof of the players’ pavilion.
tween the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) and Victoria Cricket of Australia went down to the wire with an even run-a-ball required off the last over. However, it was Victoria’s game to lose and with the dew on their side, the visitors trumped the beloved local franchise.
The Amazon Warriors were forced to take first strike after their opponents, Victoria, won the toss and opted to field first.
The new opening pair of Moeen Ali and Roston Chase were proactive from the very first over, but Chase’s attempt at first strike was short-lived, as he perished for a run-a-ball 10.
There was no love lost for the Amazon Warriors however, as Shai Hope comfortably kept up with Ali’s aggression.
claimed his second wicket of the night.
Hope unfortunately didn’t last much longer after Ali departed, missing out on his half-century with 40 off 30 balls. At 115-3 in 13.4 overs, that was the point at which the runs began to slow up for the Amazon Warriors. Keemo Paul, attempt ing a big shot very early in his innings, found himself caught near the bound ary and head ing back to the dugout for a duck in the over following Hope’s wicket. Two overs later, Shimron Hetmyer mishit
Although Shepherd perished for 10 from 17 deliveries in the last over of the Warriors’ innings, Khan remained unbeaten on 25 from just 12 balls. As such, the hosts managed 162-6 in their 20 overs.
Though taking the most wickets for the Australia-based outfit (2), Smith was on the expensive side, conceding 38 runs in his four overs. Four other bowlers had one
innings for Guyana’s pacers, Dwaine Pretorius and Tanzim Hasan Sakib, who were dispatched to the boundary on several occasions in the first three overs.
However, Gudakesh Motie’s introduction into the bowling attack brought favour almost immediately as he trapped Blake McDonald (6) lbw in his second ball. The subsequent over, Hassan Khan sent Joe Clarke back to the dugout in the same fashion for 17 off 14 balls.
to the crease, but this did not solve the Amazon Warriors’ problems as the duo kept their team teetering along.
Ali found a reprieve to dismiss Anderson after what the hosts thought was the fall of his wicket was disallowed due to a no-ball. On the free hit, Anderson sent the ball out
Misfields plagued the Amazon Warriors’ fielders, but the bowlers did just enough to contain their opponents, keeping them just behind the required eight runs per over.
scalp each. It was a rocky start to the
Then, Captain Imran Tahir was given reason to sprint to the boundary in his now renowned celebratory form, after effecting a double-wicket over. Tahir ensured that two new batters in Scott Edwards and Corey Anderson would come
to the boundary which was caught and quickly sent in to Hope, who wasted no time in finding Anderson short of his ground for the run-out.
Backed by Karima Gore, Edwards kept the visitors going in a handful of quiet overs that followed.
The first ball of the 17th over caused the Guyana National Stadium to erupt in cheers as Sakib castled Edwards for 31 off 25 balls. But the wicket brought little relief to the Warriors who had to watch Gore and Dominic Drakes explode to bring down the required rate to a run-aball by the last over. Gore sent Pretorius’s first ball of the 20th over the ropes to make his intentions clear and hit the game-winning shot two balls later, to seal the four-wicket victory for the Australian side. Tahir had returns of 2-34 from four overs while Sakib, Motie and Khan snared one wicket each.
The ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League continues today with the Hampshire Hawks and Lahore Qalandars battling from 10:00h.
Hassan Khan lit up the back end of the Warriors’ innings
Man of the Match
Karima Gore took Victoria over the line
Imran Tahir struck twice in one over
Moeen Ali hit a half-century for Amazon Warriors
Dominic Drakes pitched in with a quickfire 14 at the end