The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, October 12 –23:30h-01:00h and Saturday
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Saturday, October 12 –10:30h-12:00h and Saturday, October 12 – 12:00h-13:30h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Sunshine is expected during the day, interrupted by light to thundery showers in the morning and afternoon hours. Clear to partly cloudy skies, interrupted by showers, are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.23 metres and 3.58 metres.
High Tide: 10:45h and 23:13h reaching maximum heights of 2.03 metres and 2.13 metres.
Low Tide: 16:38h reaching a minimum height of 1.23 metres.
Protecting Guyana’s sovereignty requires loyalty that transcends political divides – Pres Ali
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Irfaan Ali, has called on the newest batch of officers, who have completed the Guyana Defence Force’s Standard Officers Course 55 (SOC 55), to ensure that their loyalty towards protecting Guyana’s territorial sovereignty is placed above any political interests.
The Head of State made this charge on Friday during the Presentation of Instruments of Commission to officers of the SOC #55 held at State House. The class of 28 newly minted officers includes one member of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, two members of the Belize Defence Force, six members of the Guyana Police Force, and 18 members of the Guyana Defence Force.
During his brief remarks, the Commander-in-Chief told the 18 commissioned officers and 12 warrant officers that their new positions not only carry great expectations, but also requires loyalty, courage, and exemplary conduct.
Steadfast commitment
Speaking specifically to the GDF and GPF officers, President Ali noted that loyalty is a steadfast commitment to the Constitution of Guyana, their respective Forces, and, more importantly, the Republic of Guyana.
“Your charge [is] to protect our nation's sovereignty, ensuring its territorial integrity; and standing ready to counter any threat, whether external aggression or internal disorder. This loyalty, above all, transcends political divides, reminding you that the Defence Force is always subordinate to the Constitution and civilian authority,” he stated.
The Head of State went on to tell the officers that in the face of threats by incursions, invasions or insurrections, their courage must invoke bravery and also inspire the men and women they lead, guiding them through example. Similarly, he added that good conduct is the bed-
formance and a benchmark for assessing those you command. This conduct must extend beyond discipline, the care and responsibility for the well-being and morale of your subordinates. It extends to your activities outside of the uniform duties,” he noted.
As officers, President Ali told the 28 men and women, their responsibilities also include adapting to a rapidly changing world. He added that military studies today demand a deep understanding of strategy, technological proficiency, cyber security, and problem-solving. In the same breath, he encouraged the officers to continue training throughout their military careers in order to be prepared for any challenge.
“The Guyana Defence Force is committed to supporting your development as
lenges will require your attention. Transnational trips ranging from cyber security risk to narco-trafficking demand greater readiness, vigilance and integrity.
for our country, pride in our heritage, and a deep sense of responsibility for its future,” the Commander-in-Chief asserted. He further indicated to this SOC 55 batch that their commissions and warrants are not just a title, but a certification of their readiness and competence to lead, make critical decisions, and guide those under their charge. President Ali urged the officers not to betray or disappoint those who repose their confidence and trust in them.
“I commend you, the newest officers of the Guyana Defence Force (SOC 55). You are now part of a distinguished lineage of leaders entrusted with the defence
Your ability to embrace these changes will be essential to ensuring the security and sovereignty of our nation. As
part of a modernising military ready to defend deterrent threats and respond to national emergencies. Our country is changing, and you must change with it. We are
rock of discipline and leadership.
“It should characterise every interaction by you as officers. Your integrity will be a measure of their own per-
building not just a more agile and technologically savvy military, but a modern nation,” he advised.
“As Guyana undergoes this transformation, chal-
you embark on this path, remember that your service to Guyana represents the higher calling. It requires selfless dedication to the nation and a willingness to make sacrifices; even the ultimate one if necessary. The commitment to our homeland must be driven by unwavering love
of our nation. Support your Chief-of-Defense Staff, embody the values of integrity and duty, and guide the men and women under your command with honour…I charge you to embrace the responsibilities that will come with your commission. Lead with vision, serve with courage, and strive to protect our republic. A promising and rewarding future awaits you,” the Head of State stressed. Friday’s presentation of the Instruments of Commission followed a Commissioning Parade on Wednesday at the Drill Square at Base Camp Ayanganna, where these newly minted officers officially took their place among the ranks of the nation’s men and women in uniform. The 28 officers were pinned with pairs of Officers’ Stars by the Commander-in-Chief and the GDF’s Chief-of-Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, during that ceremony. (G8)
President Dr Irfaan Ali investing some of the newly minted officers with Instruments of Commission on Friday at State House
The announcement that Schengen visa applications for travel to France would now be processed in Georgetown marks a significant milestone in easing the mobility of Guyanese residents wishing to travel to Europe. Starting on October 21, this new service would not only reduce the burden on local travellers, but also represents a broader movement toward strengthening diplomatic ties between Guyana and European Union (EU) countries.
For years, Guyanese seeking to enter Schengen countries, including France, had to endure the added expense and inconvenience of travelling to Suriname to process their visa applications. This hurdle presented a barrier not only to tourism, but also to business, study, and cultural exchanges between Guyana and EU nations. President Dr. Irfaan Ali has been among the first to point out that this situation was untenable for a country positioning itself as an emerging player on the global stage. In several forums, he had emphasised the need for visa services to be available locally, particularly as Guyana seeks to expand its economic and diplomatic partnerships with Europe.
The lobbying efforts of President Ali in this regard cannot go unnoticed. His persistent calls for a more streamlined visa application process, as well as his administration's broader push for visa-free travel to Schengen countries, have borne fruit with this development. Guyana’s bid for visa-free access to the EU has already garnered the support of at least five member states, signalling optimism for future progress in travel mobility.
The ability to apply for a Schengen visa in Georgetown is not only a diplomatic success, but a practical victory for all Guyanese. The convenience of local processing allows residents to avoid the time-consuming and costly trip to neighbouring Suriname, simplifying travel arrangements and facilitating greater international engagement. This shift would undoubtedly make it easier for local businesses to connect with their European counterparts, and for students to pursue opportunities across the continent.
Moreover, this change sets the stage for further advancements in Guyana’s diplomatic relations with Europe. The announcement that France would open an embassy in Georgetown next year reinforces the country’s commitment to building a stronger relationship with Guyana, French Guiana, and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The embassy would provide greater diplomatic representation, opening doors for cooperation in key sectors such as the economy, education, and culture, where French expertise is renowned.
However, as President Ali rightly pointed out, the journey toward visa-free travel to Schengen countries requires a modernisation of Guyana’s passport and other travel credentials. While the opening of this local visa service is a step in the right direction, the Head of State’s vision for seamless travel between Guyana and the EU would be fully realized only when visa requirements are abolished altogether.
The current development is a commendation to President Ali’s commitment to enhancing Guyana's global connectivity, and his proactive diplomacy is already yielding tangible benefits. With the support of EU nations, there is hope that the day is not too far off when Guyanese would be able to travel freely throughout Europe. Until then, the introduction of Schengen visa processing in Georgetown marks an exciting new chapter in Guyana’s relationship with the world, one that promises to unlock further opportunities for growth, exchange, and collaboration.
This new service is not only a diplomatic achievement, but also a reflection of Guyana’s growing importance on the global stage. As the country continues to evolve as a regional leader in trade, tourism, and business, improved access to international destinations is critical. The ability to apply locally for a Schengen visa simplifies travel, fosters business expansion, and enhances educational and cultural exchanges between Guyana and Europe.
May no one of us become like the steward who had received only one talent
Dear Editor, I have a sense of great reward in my letter of last week, on “not depriving ourselves of joy in Exxon’s discovery of oil off our shore.” It generated strong reactions and a necessary, significant amount of national discussion.
True, many of the public responses sought to ridicule, dismiss, and reject any thought of being joyful about oil.
Is there no joy about the direct cash flows adding to our national income, or the job opportunities and oil’s contribution to our overall growth and development?
The commentaries by my younger friend Mr GHK Lall display his unmatched mastery of satire and sarcasm; but we have a people and nation to build: creation, not derision, should be our game.
I appreciated and commend the column of Freddie Kissoon, “That Samuel Hinds letter”, in the Sunday Chronicle of 6th October.
Peeping Tom, in “What an astonishing display of defeatism” (Kaieteur News of October 7th), presents a fair summary of my arguments in his first three paragraphs; then, in his six following paragraphs, displays a number of the contradictions which abound in us as we grapple with our recent history of enslavement, indentureship, and ongoing exploitation while we struggle to live in the world of today, in which a number of us and our children have earned places, of which we are rightfully proud, among the descendants of our “exploiters.”
Contradictions were revealed which bedevil us, which we need to resolve and reconcile. Aware of these contradictions, I want to flag the danger that is indicated in the parable of the stewards who were
given five, two and one talent.
The steward who received only one talent found no joy in that “small” blessing. He seemed to have felt discriminated against in being given “scraps”. He recognized that his lord was an exploiter; and so, disconsolate, he buried his one talent. Many of us at Sunday school would have learnt that, in the end, even that one talent was taken away from him. May no one of us be like him.
I want to flag the danger which all the talk that we should be receiving so many times more - whether true or not - might induce in too many of us, causing us to similarly “bury” what we have. All that talk understandably has much righteous indignation behind it, but its substance is questionable.
Concerning the US$10 billion which those persons say we should have received by now, you should be sure that if there were no real counter-arguments, we would have received the US$10 billion, just as we received the US$4.4 billion. Let me recall here the saying that a bird in the hand is worth two (or more) in the bush. From my experience and readings of our newspapers, I am guessing that much of the additional money claimed is related to two things: (i) taxes waived, and (ii) the lack of ring-fencing.
Firstly, when it is said that our Government has to pay Exxon’s (Consortium’s) taxes, our Government does not have to take money from elsewhere to pay the taxes waived. There is usually a paragraph in such Agreements that says that royalties and other payments to the Government would be received in the place of taxes. To keep the GRA Commissioner happy,
there is a book transaction. A good question would then be whether we are getting more from our royalty and profit share than we would have gotten from regular taxes.
It depends on the prices in the market at the time – and you should expect periods of boom (high prices) and bust (low prices). Over about 2010 to 2014, I have seen spot prices for crude oil range over US$140/barrel to US$35/barrel. When prices are high, the royalty and profit share easily give us more than regular taxes; when prices are low, taxes would have given more, but the operation might soon not be able to cover its costs and stay sustainable.
An operation facing greater fixed costs of regular taxes and higher fixed royalty would more quickly fall into the red and be paused, with workers being sent home. When things turn out really bad, the operation may be abandoned, as is seemingly the case with Troy Resources gold operations at 14 Miles, Kaburi. When there is not an operation, there are no taxes.
In some circumstances, taking account of the direct jobs and other indirect benefits, countries may even find it better to take money from elsewhere to pay some operations to keep going. In the earlier days of tourism in the Caribbean, some countries judged at some times that it was better for them to pay certain airlines to fly certain routes at certain prices, in order to encourage profitable flows of tourists. They judged that the subsidies provided would be recovered many times over from the increased level of economic tourism activity.
Secondly, to ring fencing – starting with a likely counter argument – the Agreement
on the Stabroek Block is one lease, a lease entire – one lease: no partitioning, nor ring fencing, no subletting either –no change can be unilaterally imposed.
Indeed, back in the late 1990s, we were looking to, and cultivating, two other prospective explorers; but, in the end, they declined to proceed for any number of reasons. One should also note that the lack of ring fencing (if ring fencing was unilaterally enforceable) facilitates further rapid exploration and development of the field. Yes, it may be argued that it is like us financing further and faster exploration and development of the Stabroek block. That benefits Exxon and benefits us too. As long as there is a certain level of continuing discovery and development, today’s foregone payments would in time be received by us. True, there is the issue of “delayed” payments and the time value of money. Certainly, these considerations quickly become complex and complicated – where lawyers and accountants make their money; but after all of that, a judgement has to be made on what would turn out better for us.
I am hoping that the overwhelming majority of my fellow citizens within and outside Guyana would not long linger as captives under the calculated spell of ridicule and disaffection intended in the emotional interpretation of my words, such as “Sam Hinds displaying astonishing defeatism, calling for us to rejoice over scraps, a paltry sum, a pittance”. US$4.4 billion is not scraps, not a paltry sum, not a pittance; and there is no defeatism, only a greater readiness to come to terms with realties.
Malaysian Chinese devotees walk barefooted over burning coals during the Nine Emperor Gods Festival at a temple in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (VOA)
Persons can now apply for Schengen visas in Guyana
With effect from October 21, residents of Guyana would be able to apply for Schengen visas in Georgetown, specifically for travel to France.
This was announced on Friday evening by the Delegation of the European Union in Guyana via its social media pages.
This new service would be available twice a month, with the first sessions being scheduled for October 21 and 22. Previously, Guyanese had to travel to Suriname in order to process visas for entry into a number of European countries.
Applicants are required to complete their applications online via the France Visas portal under the Suriname section, and must book an appointment online before visiting the Consulate of France in Georgetown, lo-
cated at 46 First Avenue, Subryanville, to submit their applications. The necessary documents include a completed and signed visa application form, a receipt of the online submission, a valid passport, a photo, the supporting documents outlined on the France Visas website, the visa fee, and a prestamped FeDex envelope for the passport’s return from
Suriname.
This new option simplifies the process for Guyanese travellers by allowing them to apply locally without needing to travel abroad, offering easier access to visas for France and other Schengen countries.
The processing of Schengen visas in Guyana was first announced by Head of the European Delegation
to Guyana, Ambassador Rene Van Nes, back in March of this year. He had initially told Guyana Times that this service would become available following the opening of a French Embassy here.
A Schengen visa entitles non-Europeans to travel to Slovenia and any of the other 26 Schengen countries, including Austria, Belgium, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland, for a stay of up to 90 days.
President Dr Irfaan Ali had previously lamented that one of the biggest hindrances to doing business between Guyana and the EU is the visa processing proce-
dure that requires Guyanese to travel to Suriname. This, he had argued at several forums, could be remedied if the same service provided in the neighbouring Dutch nation could be provided in Georgetown.
In fact, Guyana is also pushing for visa-free travel to Schengen countries, and according to the Head of State, at least five EU countries have agreed to sponsor this bid.
“In terms of the removal of the visa, you have to have sponsoring countries, and I’m very pleased to tell you that we have at least five countries that have agreed to sponsor us to begin the process within the EU itself,” President Ali had told reporters in July 2023.
However, President Ali had explained that for Guyana to be fully equipped to gain Schengen visa-free
Conflict in the Middle East
travel, the country’s passport must be improved and upgraded. With the impending opening of an Embassy in Georgetown next year, France will be the first EU country with this level of diplomatic representation in Guyana.
The opening of the Embassy, a joint communiqué by Guyana and France had outlined, would boost the development of cooperation in various sectors, including on the economy, and priority areas for Guyana where French companies hold renowned expertise. The Embassy would also contribute to strengthening ties between Guyana and French Guiana, as well as French relations with the Caribbean Community (Caricom), which is headquartered in Georgetown, the communiqué added. (G8)
Dear Editor,
Every day on television, whether it is on the BBC, CNN, or one of the American networks: NBC, CBS, ABC or Fox, if we have any interest at all as Guyanese in the world in which we live, we see and hear about the horror of the violence and loss of life precipitated by the country of Israel’s violent confrontation with the Palestinian population which surrounds it.
So, why is this happening? Why should we care, as Guyanese, whether or not the Jewish people of Israel are at war with the Muslim Arab states surrounding Israel? We should care because this conflict, embraced on one side or the other by the USA, the United Kingdom and Russia, and to a lesser extent China, could precipitate a Third World War, consuming us all with the use of weapons of mass destruction.
Israel was proclaimed an independent Jewish Republic on 14th May, 1948, when the British terminated their “mandate” over Palestine. It is bordered by Egypt on the south, Syria and the Hashemite Kingdom
of the Jordan on the east, Lebanon on the north, and the Mediterranean Sea on the west.
It is the policy of Israel to “welcome home every Jew who seeks entry”, and in its first four years as a new nation recognized by the United Nations, Israel accepted 700,000 Jewish immigrants, most coming from Eastern and Central Europe, as well as Asia and North Africa. The great majority of those immigrants were victims of the Nazi Germany “holocaust”.
In the course of the Second World War, the Nazis murdered nearly six million European Jews. This genocide is called the Holocaust.
The Arab states surrounding Israel have consistently refused to accept Israel as a permanent independent country and sovereign state. Israel, as a country, is in fact an aberration, seen by the Palestinian people as imposed and originally financed and militarily supported on their land by the British and American governments.
Israel continues to exist as a sovereign country recognized by the United Nations
General Assembly, maintained largely by the force of arms provided by the United States of America and the United Kingdom. Israel is governed as a democracy, with free and fair elections governed by the rule of law, but is without a full written Constitution.
The Gaza Strip is where the horror of the Israeli invasion continues in retaliation to the invasion of Israel by militants of the Arab military Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas, which has controlled the Israelioccupied Gaza Strip since 2007. It is the apparent determination of the Israeli Government to destroy every building and murder every Gazan in the name of defending Israel. The US, and to a lesser extent the British, are caught between a rock and a hard place, claiming that Israel has a right to defend itself while condemning the mass destruction and murder of the people of Gaza by the Israeli army.
Other radical militant Arab Islamic Resistance Movements, including Hezbollah, opposed to the existence of Israel as a sovereign state, are now in sup-
port of Hamas, rocket bombing Israel in the north.
The 1985 manifesto of Hezbollah reportedly states, "Our struggle will end only when this entity Israel is obliterated. We recognize no treaty with it, no ceasefire, and no peace agreements."
Israel is now invading Lebanon, where Hezbollah is headquartered, with the apparent intention of eliminating Hezbollah, regardless of the destruction and loss of life involved, similarly to its programme in the Gaza.
Both Hamas and Hezbollah are financed, armed and directed by the militant Muslim leadership of Iran, who do not recognize the right of Israel to exist. But Iran is on the verge of developing a nuclear capability which Israel would like to destroy. Again, the USA and Britain are caught between a rock and a hard place. They side with Israel in the destruction of Hamas and Hezbollah and all other militant Arab groups fostered by Iran, but know that a war between Israel and Iran would result in an international confrontation, probably leading to a Third
May no one of us become like the...
In 1992, our total GDP, allowing for inflation since then, was probably less than US$2 billion, even in today’s monetary value. And pray for patience, these flows from oil are steadily growing much larger.
The last six paragraphs of Peeping Tom merit thorough, explicit, national debate, as they express the righteous indignation of us whose ancestors were the enslaved, indentured and exploited as
we engage with those whose ancestors were the enslavers, indenturers and exploiters. The legacy still keeps them generally in a stronger position compared to us. Oh, how we wish that that history could be changed, but it cannot be. What are we to do?
As I was writing this missive with one ear on our President’s speech to Parliament yesterday, I was struck by some words which seem to align with my inclina-
tion. No one is enslaver or enslaved, indenturer or indentured today.
In today’s world, let us work at making good partners good friends, and influencing them. And if, as our late Foreign Minister Mr. Rudy Insinally urges, we could let them have our way, doing what benefits us and them, we may be doing a little exploitation of our own.
I can think of arguments that we (Mr. Newell Dennison
and I, on our own and on your behalf) were exploiting Exxon a little as we welcomed them and worked at keeping them interested when they came towards the end of the 1990s, talking about taking a long shot in the very deep and very far off our shores.
Sincerely,
Samuel A.A. Hinds Former Prime Minister/Former President/Ambassador
World War.
Guyana, from the very inception of the manifestation of Israel as a Jewish sovereign state in the midst of Muslim Palestine, sided with the Palestinian cause, and has outrightly, correctly and courageously condemned the murder and destruction being ruthlessly pursued in the Gaza and now Lebanon, by Israel.
Courageously because of the fact that the US and the UK are inextricably and politically tied to Israel.
So, while this war ap-
pears so far away from us, it is very close and very relevant to the implications it has for Guyana in the defence of our own sovereignty against the threat of Maduro’s Venezuela, and the importance of maintaining our friendship and partnership with the USA, UK, and all the other democratic countries in our region who may not necessarily agree with Guyana’s position on the Israeli-Arab conflicts.
Yours
(Sign on) Inspiration Time
Cartoons
Evening News (RB)
Stop Suffering
Movie - 200% Wolf (2024)
Indian Movie - Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank (2024)
Movie - Hounded (2001)
Movie - Head Over Heels (2024)
Forged in Fire
Payless Power Hour
Is Listening (2024)
Movie - Salem's Lot (2024)
Sign off
sincerely, Kit Nascimento
Maths as art Page Foundation
Drawing your own labyrinths
According to one definition, labyrinths are unicursal (or singlepathed).
Some of the earliest mazes and labyrinths we know of were found in Egypt and in Crete, dating back over 4000 years.
One of the most famous of these is the seven-circuit Cretan labyrinth, which we shall be learning how to draw.
In Greek mythology the Cretan king Minos owned a labyrinth in which lurked the Minotaur – a half man, half bull creature who ate anyone lost in the labyrinth...
The Romans built many mosaic labyrinths, which were typically found in the entrance halls of their villas.
Please use pages 23 to 35 of the PowerPoint Presentation as instructions.
(www.artfulmaths.com)
By Sanjeev ManSotra
In fields of green, the farmers toil, With sweat on brow, and hands in soil. They sow the seeds, and nurture the land, A labor of love, a harvest planned. With patience and care, they tend each day, Watching crops grow, in the sun's warm ray. They battle pests, and fight off blight, In nature's dance, they take the right. From dawn till dusk, they work so hard, Their livelihood, the crops regard. For in their hands, the power lies, To feed the world, beneath vast skies. Agriculture, a timeless art, That feeds the belly, and warms the heart. With gratitude, we thank the earth, And the farmers' hands, that bring our worth.
WORD SEARCH:
GPL will be held accountable for service delivery – Pres Ali
…power company to get smart grid by 2030
With the Guyana Government having already invested billions of dollars into expanding the Guyana Power and Light’s (GPL) generating capacity to meet the country’s growing electricity demand. Efforts are underway to overhaul the entity’s aged equipment which will see a modern smart power grid being installed by 2030.
In light of these massive investments, President Dr Irfaan Ali has warned that the state-owned power company will be held accountable if it fails to deliver stable and reliable electricity to the country, which is expected to see a steep surge in peak demand.
“GPL plans to achieve a full-fledged smart grid by 2030, which will comprise the distribution management system, smart distribution equipment, and complete advanced metering infrastructure. With the smart grid, GPL will achieve a significant reduction in the spread and number of outages, and we shall hold them accountable. These investments we are making, the management of GPL will and must be held accountable to deliver the results from these investments,” the Head of State declared on Thursday.
Ali-led Government has invested a whopping $28.1 billion into expanding the power company’s generation transmission and distribution system, adding 127.7 megawatts of generating capacity to the GPL grid to keep pace with the 64 per cent increase in peak demand and a 19 per cent increase in customer base since 2019.
These investments in the electricity sector by current People’s Progressive Party/Civic Administration included the expansion and upgrade of the distribution network and substations, installation and replacement of more than 100,000 meters, as well as close to 4,000 transformers, and laying almost 2,800 kilometres of distribution network, and expanding and upgraded three substations.
Over the past four years, 27 communities were also powered for the first time and there has been no increase in electricity tariff despite substantial hikes in fuel prices.
In addition to modernising the electricity sector, the Guyana Government has also been working on advancing its renewable energy sources. A key initiative of the PPP/C’s energy transition programme is its flagship Gas-to-Energy
triple and the Government plans to meet this surge primarily through natural gas and the Amaila Falls Hydro Project, alongside expansions in wind, solar and other hydro power plants.
Moreover, Government is also preparing additional tenders to deliver more substations, transmission lines and feeders to further improve the power system reliability and resilience. These tenders will deliver 230 kV transmission lines and substations to transfer bulk power to West and East Berbice as well as Linden.
Additionally, each new substation that GPL will construct will be completed with new distribution feeders, fully equipped with all relevant equipment in preparation for the smart grid.
President Ali went onto add that five solar PV farms, at 18 megawatts, is currently underway with plans for three more such facilities that will add another 15 megawatts to the national grid. “These investments aim to enhance the reliability of the power grid and improve access to electricity for new customers,” he stated.
On the renewable energy side, ramped up investments have resulted in a
He was at the time addressing the 12th Parliament, where he reminded that GPL was starved of adequate resources that was direly needed for investment to effectively deliver service to a growing customer base and peak demand.
“During the period 2015 and 2019, GPL struggled with insufficient inventory to effectively execute its planned network expansion and maintenance programme. With respect to the operation of the grid, this challenge was further exacerbated by the insufficient investment in generating capacity and the maintenance of existing generator units. This resulted in significant system disturbances and frustrations to customers,” he stated.
Since 2020, however, the
(GtE) Project, which will see a 300-megawatt power plant and Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility at Wales, West Bank Demerara, utilising natural gas that will be piped from offshore Guyana.
The power plant is slated to come on stream in 2025 and when that happens, Guyanese consumers will see the cost of electricity slashed by half. This, according to President Ali, will save citizens more than US$250 million or $50 billion. And Government has already moved onto Phase Two of the GtE Project to bring an additional 75 million cubic feet of gas from offshore for a second power plant at Wales.
Power demand
Looking forward, the Head of State pointed out that by 2030, Guyana’s power demand is expected to
224 per cent increase in electricity generation from solar, hydro power and other renewable sources since 2020. Key projects include solar farms in Mahdia, Wakenaam and Leguan along with the distribution of 30,000 solar PV systems
a greater role in delivering power across the country. “By 2030, more than 50 per cent of the country’s electricity needs will also be met by renewable sources and natural gas. Looking ahead to 2040, with a peak load forecasted at 1326 megawatts in the next decade, we intend also to collaborate with Suriname, Brazil and French Guyana on a 3000-megawatt power interconnection system, underscoring the country’s commitment to energy security and a shift towards renewable energy,” he stated.
to the hinterland and riverain communities. According to the Guyanese Leader, over the coming years, renewable energy is expected to play
(G8)
President Dr Irfaan Ali
Guyana Power and Light Inc.
Giving...
…a
boost
Over in Venezuela, the communist Mad Maduro –who’d declared he didn’t believe in God, much less in Jesus Christ – moved the celebration of Christmas from its ecclesiastically determined date of Dec 25 to Oct 1st!! Not that long-suffering Venezuelans, experiencing mass starvation for years, received any gifts from him, but the streets were festively decorated!!
In Guyana, however, to Guyanese citizens, the announcements by President Ali in his address to Parliament meant that Christmas came early in a bounty of initiatives!!
What were these bounties?? Let your Eyewitness count the ways!! The most mind-blowing to the average Joe or Jailall is a cash grant of $200,000 to every household in our 83,000 square miles!! Evidently, our 780,000-person population live in 300,000 households, since $60 BILLION was set aside for this exercise!! This gives us an average of less than three persons per household, which seems pretty low to your Eyewitness. He suspects that, with Government facilitating all those house lots and housing schemes, birds fly the coops earlier, and so households aren’t as large as they used to be!!
Now, your Eyewitness knows it would take some time for this money to be distributed, but hopes that Government has learnt some lessons from the last time it attempted such an exercise, two years ago. Right off the bat, we know the Opposition would come out swinging and claiming their supporters would be discriminated against. From what your Eyewitness understands, a representative of the Auditor General’s Office would accompany representatives from the Regional Offices when these sums of money are handed out, and it is hoped that allegations of favouritism or discrimination could be addressed by the former body. Then, of course, what constitutes a “household” must be widely publicized in order to deal with the “pink slip” phenomenon from the last time.
All in all, this is a great initiative, and your Eyewitness hopes there’s also gonna be some kinda feedback surveys afterwards to find out how Guyanese spent their windfall. If it’s spent on basic needs, like food and shelter, this might buttress those reports of widespread strained circumstances among Guyanese.
Another good initiative is the offer of a $10,000 health voucher to facilitate diagnostic tests to discover health issues that can be dealt with by the “for free” health facilities. A whole lotta Guyanese wait till they’re at death’s doorstep before seeking medical intervention – ignoring the caution: “prevention is better than cure”!!
Another significant measure is the increase of the Public Service minimum wage from around $80,000 to $100,000 – nothing to sneeze at, since this works out to $240,000 annually!
Incentives for poultry farmers might help alleviate the annual Christmas season chicken shortage.
However, increasing the tax incentive for parents with children might strategically help to increase family size!! Christmas nights!!
…Opposition thumbs down
While Pressie was sharing out goodies like Christmas Father inside the Parliament – when the President’s in the National Assembly, it becomes “Parliament!” – Leader of the Opposition (LOO), Aubrey Norton, was leading most of the PNC’s top leadership in a protest outside. Ironically, they were kvetching about the impact of the increased cost of living on the Guyanese people while Pressie was dealing with that issue inside!! Talk about stealing the Opposition’s thunder!!
Does the PPP have a mole in the PNC shadow cabinet, where the decision to protest was determined??
But your Eyewitness is still encouraged by LOO Norton’s protest on the East Coast Demerara Public Highway – far away from the madding, tumultuous, and volatile crowds of Georgetown, especially near the Stabroek Market environs around Parliament Buildings. Had the protests been held there, matter could’ve easily gotten out of hand and doomed the PNC to another decade of “bad name”. As it is, with elections scheduled a year away and the PPP having access to a stuffed treasury, the PNC don’t need additional handicaps.
…due respect to history
Maafa (Swahili for “Great disaster”), the African Holocaust of Enslavement, has been popularized since 1988 to commemorate that crime against Humanity. It is being commemorated in Guyana today at the Kitty foreshore.
Couple busted with over 1kg ganja
Amale and a female have been taken into custody after an intelligence-led operation unearthed more than one kilogram of ganja in their home at Grove Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara on Thursday.
Acting on information received, Police went to the Lot 202 Grove Squatting Area home of Erron Rigby, a 28-year-old welder, and Leisha Braam, a 24-yearold security officer, and successfully requested per-
mission to search the premises.
During the search, several transparent parcels and Ziplock bags containing quantities of cannabis were discovered in the bathroom, kitchen, living room, bedroom, and a section of the ceiling. Rigby and Braam were
reportedly shown what the police had found, and were told of the offence they had committed, but they remained silent. They were escorted to the Grove Police Station, where the cannabis was weighed and amounted to 1.05 kilograms. They remain in custody, pending charges.
1 dead, 1 injured in 2-vehicle collision
Venezuelan national Luis Natera of Second Street, Alberttown, Georgetown lost his life on Thursday evening following a two-vehicle collision that occurred at the intersection of Camp and Lamaha Streets in Georgetown.
According to the police, the accident involved motor vehicle PAG 2470, at that time being driven by a 19-year-old, and motorcycle CM 8134, which the 21-yearold Natera was driving.
Initial investigations revealed that the motor car was proceeding along Lamaha Street at a fast rate while the motorcycle was proceeding along Camp Street. Traffic lights were
Dead: Luis Natera
flashing, and the car had a flashing red light while the motorcycle had a flashing amber light, but despite the signals, the motor car reportedly drove through the intersection and collided
with the motorcycle.
The resultant collision flung the motorcyclist Natera and his 25-year-old pillion rider Yohennis Moya into the air. Severely injured, the two Venezuelans landed in an empty lot, and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) who were later summoned to the scene pronounced Natera dead. Moya was picked up in a conscious condition and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where she was treated and admitted.
The car driver has been taken into custody, pending charges. A breathalyzer test which was administered on him found no trace of alcohol in his system.
The ganja that was unearthed during the search
Arrested: Erron Rigby
Fire at Puruni Landing may have been caused by malfunctioning fuel pump – GFS
Days after a fire had decimated several buildings at Puruni Landing in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has said that that fire might have been started by a malfunctioning fuel pump.
This fire reportedly erupted in the Miners Choice area of Puruni Landing at about 10:30h on Wednesday, and several structures were destroyed, including a fuel station, guest houses and storage facilities, before it was extinguished.
The GFS has said this fire originated at a fuel station owned by Glaston Fiffee and his wife Alanna Fiffee, and early reports suggest that a faulty fuel pump may have caused the fire.
The Fire Service has said reports revealed that workers at the station were selling gasoline when the pump malfunctioned and burst into flames. Nearby combustible materials were ignited, and thus the building was ultimately destroyed.
“In addition to the fuel station, several other properties were affected, including three guest houses, three storage bonds,
GFS has said.
Several pieces of equipment, vehicles and boats were also damaged, including three outboard engines,
three living quarters, two restaurants, one ice house, one boutique, one dwelling house, one generator room, and one variety store,” the
to help battle the fire using mining equipment such as water pumps. Their quick response, along with that of the Bartica Fire Station,
three dredge pumps, four generators, one all-terrain vehicle (ATV), three XR motorcycles, five boats equipped with outboard engines, four motor lorries, and one pickup truck. At time of the fire, 28 persons were occupying the living quarters and guest houses.
Residents of the community had bravely stepped in
was instrumental in bringing the blaze under control, thus preventing further destruction. A comprehensive investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
“No casualties or injuries have been reported, and the police are conducting interviews with the involved parties and witnesses,” the GFS has detailed.
Elderly pedestrian killed by speeding motor car
Stephen Correia, an 85year -old resident of Lot 1 Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara, lost his life on Friday after he was struck down by a motor car while attempting to cross the public road in that community.
Police reports are that while Correia was attempting to cross the road, he ended up in the path of motor car PAG 7093, at the time being driven by a carpenter who resides at La Bonne
Intention (LBI), ECD. The car allegedly was travelling at a fast rate, and Correia sustained injuries to his left hand, left ankle, and other parts of his body.
Picked up in semi-conscious condition, Correia was rushed by ambulance to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The driver of the motor car has been arrested, and is assisting police with the investigations.
The aftermath of the fire
Residents witnessing the destruction being caused by the fire
GECOM to request UN Needs Assessment Team ahead of 2025 elections
Following engagements with the US, British, Canadian, and European Union (ABCEU) missions, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has been advised to request a Needs Assessment Team from the United Nations (UN) to evaluate its requirements ahead of Guyana’s upcoming 2025 General and Regional elections.
This was disclosed by GECOM Commissioner Sase Gunraj during an interview with media outlets on Friday. Updating on matters discussed at the Commission’s meetings this week, Gunraj noted that ahead of the request for the UN team, the Commission will be looking to conduct its internal analysis to identify necessary resources and support.
He underscored the importance of starting these preparations early, given the extensive work that lies ahead for the electoral body.
Although the elections are approximately a year away, Gunraj emphasised the need for early action. “One may say that we are still in the early stages, but regardless of how much time we have, because of the magnitude of work that has to be done, an early start is always better to get ahead,” he remarked.
“The British High Commission indicated that they will have support and assistance from the United Nations system and as a consequence they requested that we request a Needs Assessment Team from the UN to investigate and interrogate what needs we may have. The Commission has also decided to set aside a time in the not-so-distant future for our own internal discussions on what we may need in terms of resources, personnel and other support for those elections and if necessary what support we need to seek externally,” Gunraj explained.
Govt to clamp down on ‘contract selling’, unnecessary subcontracting
As the Government continues to tighten loopholes in the public procurement system, Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill has warned that the administration will be clamping down on the practice of entities acquiring a Government contract and then subcontracting it for another company to execute the works.
“Nobody ain’t selling contract hay you know,” Edghill remarked during the recent award ceremony for $6.9 billion in contracts to 389 small contractors in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
“I is a nice boy, me fingernails clean and suh, and I just collect the contract and I sign and then I ketch Uncle Freddie who like work hard and I say ‘hear wah gonna happen, I giving you it, I get $4 million for me and you tek the rest and finish the people road’,” Edghill explained a scenario that often takes place.
According to the Minister, this practice cannot continue to occur.
“You know why we can’t allow that? When you take
out how much you think you should get and then you give Uncle Freddie subcontract, two things wrong: you cheat the system because you know you weren’t doing the work, and number two, with the money you give Uncle Freddie he gotto chip, chip, compromise and give a poor-quality road,” he explained.
He added that “when the engineers come pon the site and they ask for Jainarine Seepaul who is the contractor, here wah the man pon [the site] gonna say ‘meen know who is he, we does wuk for Boodnaraine’… and when we start checking, Jainarine Seepaul never come pon the site yet…he just get paperwork and sign at the Ministry and he done sell and gone.”
“If you are caught subcontracting, kibosh,” the Minister expressed.
The Government has already issued warnings to the heads and accounting officers of public sector agencies in reaffirming Government’s commitment to enforcing strict compliance with procurement rules.
2025 General and Regional Elections with the aim to explore various forms of electoral assistance, including the potential deployment of observer delegations.
“One of the purposes for the early meeting is because they wanted to have that discussion now and needs assessed now so that preparations can be made adequately in advance so that as best as possible what support is necessary can be provided,” Gunraj said.
With elections due next year, GECOM has been taking steps, increasing its meeting frequency to twice a week to address critical issues identified by the Commission, including recruitment for key positions
such as civic and voter education manager. This initiative aims to ensure a smooth electoral process.
“We have decided to meet more frequently so that critical matters can be addressed,” he said.
While GECOM meetings were previously scheduled for Tuesdays, the Commission now convene on Thursdays as well.
Among the vacancies being prioritised is the role of civic and voter education manager. Gunraj indicated that the commission has already begun conducting interviews for the civic and voter education manager position and plans to continue the recruitment process in the coming weeks.
GECOM began engagements with the ABCEU countries last week regarding support for the upcoming
Crematorium commissioned at Leguan island
Residents from Leguan Island and neighboring communities in the Essequibo River will now have easier access to crematory services following the commissioning of the new Kaashi Dhaam (Heavenly Abode) Crematorium.
The crematorium, which was funded by the Ramroop Foundation, was on Friday commissioned by President Dr Irfaan Ali. During the commissioning ceremony the Head of State revealed that the new piece of infrastructure will
help connect the islands of Leguan and Wakenaam.
“We are going to build a landing pod outside of this facility on the water and one in Wakenaam. So, in this very short journey, this facility must also be available to our brothers and sisters in Wakenaam, so they can bring the dead from Wakenaam to this facility also. So, it will serve Leguaan and Wakenaam. We are talking about bridging these two islands. And every day I get text messages from residents
of the two islands. Well, we are bridging this island in death and life,” the president revealed.
Ali also lauded the Ramroop Foundation for making a significant investment to the island, noting that the new facility will unite families.
“So, the Ramroop family has invested in much more than a facility for the departed loved ones. They’ve invested in a facility of hope. They’ve invested in a facility of healing. And they have invested
importantly in a facility where families are united in the hope of healing and that is what we celebrate today,” Ali stated.
The local Neighborhood Democratic Council (NDC) and residents have been
pletely halted. Because the thinking of the Government then was the island and the population was not worth investing in so the sea could eventually take the island. That is not a fairy tale story,
you electricity. So, you will be in a position where your electricity will come from a renewable source, and one can look at this in a simplistic way, but this allows us now to develop some high value crops, be-
highly supportive of the project with the NDC constructing the access road to the facility. The crematorium was on Friday handed over to the NDC and residents.
Meanwhile the Head of State, also took the opportunity to highlight how Government’s investments over the years have transformed the island. He added that through the Government, a total of $4 million was invested into residents over the years.
Referring to the approach by the previous Government - PNC and APNU/AFC - towards the island and its development Ali said, “This island was left in a wondrous place where investment was com-
that is a reality. The sea defences were left abandoned. No investment because there was no thinking of what the soil means to us, what agriculture means to us. The island was left on its own for self-existence. Today, over the last four years alone, we’ve invested more than seven billion dollars in this island for each one of the residents in this island in the last four years, we’ve invested almost four million dollars.”
On the point of investment, Ali revealed that next year, residents will have access to cleaner energy which could lead to significant economical benefits in the future.
“By March next year, you will have a solar farm giving
cause the world is going in a direction in which they’ll pay a premium price for produce that are produced in areas with the lowest carbon footprint.”
Over 15 years ago the Ramroop Foundation built the Kaashi Dhaam crematorium on the Ruimzeight foreshore. Over the years, members of the Hindus for Selfless Service (HSS – Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh), members of the community with guidance from the Foundation, have maintained the facility in an immaculate condition with a full-time staff to ensure that the last rites for those who desire to be cremated are conducted in a dignified atmosphere. In 2019, a completely new bridge was constructed to replace the former structure which had become worn under the elements.
Kaashi Dhaam (heavenly abode) alludes to the famous Ghats in Kashi (Benares or Varanasi) along the sacred River Ganga, where Hindus are cremated in the city dedicated to Lord Shiva, and where they believe they will attain liberation (Moksha) after having died there.
President Dr Irfaan Ali, along with members of the Ramroop Foundation, NDC representatives and other members of the community, breaking a symbolic coconut during the commissioning ceremony
President Dr Irfaan Ali along with members of the Ramroop Foundation on Friday
A certificate handed over to the NDC and residents states that the facility belongs to the people of Leguan island
A section of the gathering at the commissioning ceremony
Kidnapping of ‘Bricks’
7 men slapped with joint abduction charge
…released on $500,000 bail each
Seven men accused of kidnapping 24-yearold Joshua David, who remains missing, were jointly charged and granted bail of $500,000 each in the Georgetown Magistrates' Court on Friday. The men appeared before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty.
The accused are Aaron Alleyne, known as ‘Cats,’; Wayne Barker, 34, from Laing Avenue, Georgetown; Damion Barlow, 32, from Sophia; Dwayne Griffith, 27, also called ‘Sheep’; and Daventai Mars, 21, from Middle Road, La Penitence, Georgetown. Also, Alpha Poole from D’Aguiar Park, Greater Georgetown; Osafo Peters also known as “Saddest” of William Street, Kitty, who appeared in court virtually.
Joshua David, known as ‘Bricks’, was abducted on September 26, on Main
Street, Georgetown, after leaving a local restaurant where he had gone to purchase food. His disappearance has gripped many, sparking concerns and leading investigators to comb the backlands of Buxton and Annandale on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) in search of clues. Despite their efforts, David’s whereabouts remain unknown.
In court on Friday, the seven men were not required to plead to the charge, which accuses them of unlawfully confining David. Meanwhile, initial charges filed against Poole, and Peters, were dropped and reinstituted as a joint charge with the other accused.
During the hearing, the defence team - Glenn Hanoman, Everton LammySingh, Damion DaSilva, and Siand Dhurjon - argued in favor of bail. The attorneys emphasised that their clients had cooperated fully with the police from the start and that the crime is bailable, carrying only a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.
The prosecution, however, objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the offence and noting that the investigation is ongoing, with the possibility of more serious charges.
The prosecutor also told
the magistrate that the police had received information that the victim was murdered and that the Police are in search of the body. The prosecutor also told the magistrate that the police have Closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera footage that captured the accused when they committed the crime, and also eye-
witnesses to the crime.
However, the defence attorneys highlighted that neither Poole nor Peters appeared in the footage and that the prosecution was not in a state of readiness to provide video evidence that the men helped in the abduction.
Magistrate McGusty requested that the video be
played in court, but technical difficulties prevented it from being shown.
After deliberation, Magistrate McGusty granted bail on the condition that the men surrender their
passports and report to the Brickdam Police Station every Friday between 08:00h to 16:00 h until the determination of the matter. The case has been adjourned to November 15. (G9)
Aaron Alleyne, known as ‘Cats,’ Wayne Barker, Damion Barlow, Dwayne Griffith, 27, also called ‘Sheep’; and Daventai Mars
Alpha Poole and Osafo Peters
Missing: Joshua David
Registration opens for Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo 2025
The Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE) has announced that registration is now open for this flagship event, scheduled to be held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel from February 18th to 21st, 2025.
This event, which enjoys the exclusive support of the Guyana Government is being held under the
theme: Connecting the dots: Integrating the Future. It is expected to attract over 7,000 attendees and feature over 180 booths.
To ensure a seamless registration process, the Secretariat has modernised its conference website which holds pertinent information on the registration process for international and local delegates, as well as, participants
from regional territories.
For persons and/or companies keen on virtual participation, the website caters for this option too. Further details on the cost of each product offering and their respective benefits can be accessed via this link: https://guyanaenergy.gy/attend/register#products.
Persons can also register by downloading our
Conference App. ‘Guyana Energy’ in the Google PlayStore and IOS Appstore.
With a mere four months to go before hosting the region’s largest gathering of industry leaders, GECSEC Chairman, Anthony J Whyte said he is thrilled at the prospect of unveiling the new and exciting initiatives that will take this marquee event to the next level.
“Indeed, we will continue our leadership in bringing together the best minds from around the world to discuss solutions to the pressing issues of our time. But equally important to this, are the new initiatives that will enhance the experience of our delegates 10 times over,” Whyte said.
The chairman added, “Our suite of new initiatives includes a Taste of Guyana event, a Conference Village that will be the gateway to experiencing our agri-tourism potential, technical breakout sessions for unparalleled knowledge sharing interactions, and so much more. There will also be golden opportunities to engage with industry giants across multiple sectors in Guyana, all in one central location to discuss
procurement and investment opportunities in the world’s fastest growing economy.”
The Chairman categorically stated that for 2025, the flagship event will continue to be a launchpad for innovation, collaboration, and actionable solutions that will shape the future of energy, sustainability, and economic growth.
To date, over 100 companies have signed up for the conference which is set to continue its leadership as a meaningful platform for connecting industry profession-
als, Government officials, investors, and experts in the energy sector.
While ExxonMobil Guyana Limited is already on board for a fourth consecutive year as Title Sponsor, this industry giant is joined by other notable sponsors including HESS, CNOOC, TechnipFMC, Noble, Stena Drilling, Expro Guyana Inc, BK Group of Companies, and MECP Sales & Services.
A diverse range of exhibitors has also confirmed participation at the event.
Zoological Park rehabilitation Local marine biologist proposes AI, tech upgrades for zoo
Following the recent announcement by President Dr Irfaan Ali, which stated that the Zoological Park will be rebuilt to international standards, suggestion of artificial intelligence, apps, and enhancement of qualities to be integrated into the overall plan.
These suggestions were revealed by local marine biologist, Maria Fraser during an interview with Guyana Times.
According to Fraser, this would serve as an opportunity for the zoo to bolster its way of bridging education and Guyanese persons through a technological way.
“The zoo could have AI or advanced technology so that when patrons traverse through the zoo and see the animals, they learn about it. Also, what can be implemented as well, is a 3D way of, giving an explanation about the animals.
Let’s say, the harpy eagle, was shot and came into the zoo, and there are facts being displayed about the eagle in a 3D way, that would be great for patrons, if it was digitalised rather than just 2D printed. It would be more engaging for patrons.”
On this note of digital technology, she also proposed the implementation
of apps, where persons can purchase their zoo tickets online – fostering easier purchasing.
“So, we’re all technology savvy now, and everybody has access to a smartphone. so imagine if the zoo has an app that you can buy your ticket online, you go there, and you just scan one of these little digital things, and you go, you get your pass, you know, and you go into the zoo. Right. Pass in advance or on the day.”
Meanwhile, she highlighted a significant issue –the old cages at the zoo that are some 20-30 years old.
“The zoo was open to public in 1952 and since then the cages have not been modernised, so we definitely need to enhance and modernise the zoo’s cages. Also, we need proper walkways, aerial aviaries for the
birds as well, too. You know, steps to go up, like two or three steps. You could walk around, have an extended view of the zoo.”
Not only did the young visionary suggest cage enhancements, but she also stated that a serious revamp must be done to the nature school.
“We need to also revamp the nature school that they had there. There was a building that’s been around for years now, where we had kids across the country take part in those activities, learn about biodiversity, ecosystems, how to preserve and conserve, treat, well, help, assist with injured animals and stuff.”
She added, “That is
something that needs to be enhanced and looked into at the zoo, so we can, you know, have our younger generation be taught and learn about, you know, protection, conservation of biodiversity, and how to handle endangered and also animals that are, you know, injured as well.”
The young biologist also touched on the availability of tours in the zoo, where she proposed the idea that the zoo can have vehicles and boats to transport persons around the zoo.
“It would be nice, too, if we had small controlled tours where you have, like, cars where people can sit, and they can get a nice tour around the zoo, they learn
about the animals, some fun facts, then you stop into the nature school, which the nature school would be a mixture of a school and a museum. After that, you could go to the end, which would be where the jaguars are, and then you could have that little boat ride out and exit the zoo into the botanical garden.”
President’s announcement
On Thursday, President Ali announced the 12th Parliament of Guyana, where he revealed that the zoo will be developed with international standards in mind and that the Botanical Gardens where the zoo is housed, will be enhanced overall.
The capital city, Ali said too, will be enhanced as the Government hopes to promote its cultural history.
Also on Thursday, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo spoke more about the plans for the zoo, revealing that the zoo has been languishing for a while.
However, it is believed that the zoo can be expanded to include a learning centre and a dining area so children can see more animals while also enjoying a family-friendly environment.
This expansion is likely to unfold at the eastern end of the Botanical Gardens where persons usually engage in birdwatching activities.
A private sector-led safari-type zoo elsewhere is also being considered. Jagdeo believes this can be a major income earner, adding to Guyana’s ecotourism product.
Fraser is a biology graduate from the University of Guyana (UG) and holds a Master’s Degree in Marine Science (Marine Biology) from Zhejiang University, China. In her capacity as a conservationist, Fraser has worked for Guyana’s oldest and only marine-focused conservation NonGovernmental Organisation (NGO) —the GMCS. (G2)
Guyana’s Zoological Park
Local Marine Biologist Maria Fraser
FITUG welcomes Govt’s interventions to address cost of living, workers’ welfare
…calls for Private Sector to adapt …as PSC applauds commitment to digitalisation, modernisation
The Federation of Independent Trade
Unions of Guyana (FITUG), the country’s largest body representing organised labour, warmly welcomed recent announcements by President Dr Irfaan Ali in his address to the National Assembly on Thursday.
FITUG on Friday recognised the wide-ranging nature of the president's speech, which covered critical aspects of national development and the welfare of the people, especially workers.
In his address, President Ali emphasised the efforts of his Government to reverse policies from the previous administration that placed un-
due hardships on Guyanese people. He outlined the measures his administration has taken to move the country forward, focusing on a future of prosperity and development for all citizens. FITUG appreciates these efforts and believes the President’s remarks reflect a strong commitment to improving the lives of working people across Guyana.
One of the key measures announced was a one-time cash grant of $200,000 for every household, which FITUG welcomes as a timely intervention to support families grappling with the rising cost of living. The Federation is optimistic that the distribution of this grant will be efficient, ensuring that all de-
serving households benefit during these challenging economic times.
Another major point of applause was the president’s announcement to raise the public sector minimum wage to $100,000 per month by the end of 2025. FITUG, on Thursday, commended this initiative but calls for its earlier implementation to ease the financial burdens on state employees.
Adapt
The Federation also urged the private sector to adopt similar measures to support workers. The halving of electricity rates by the end of next year is another welcome step that FITUG believes will benefit work-
Murder trial halted after accused found mentally unfit
The murder trial of
Shemar Harvey, a 26-year-old resident of Albouystown, Georgetown, has been halted after the court ruled him mentally unfit to stand trial.
Harvey was accused of the 2019 fatal shooting of 18-year-old Christopher Mansfield but will now undergo treatment after a forensic psychiatrist determined that he was not capable of understanding the court proceedings or assisting in his defense.
The trial was being conducted at the Demerara High Court before Justice Sandil Kissoon and a 12-member jury when the decision to abort was made based on the psychiatrist's evaluation. Harvey had ini-
tially pleaded not guilty to the capital charge related to Mansfield’s death.
Following the decision, Harvey was further remanded to prison, with future proceedings dependent on his mental state. He will receive treatment as part of the process to determine his fitness for any potential retrial.
State Counsel Delon Fraser and State Counsel Alvaro Ramotar represented the state, while defense counsel was Ronald Bostwick.
The incident that led to the charges against Harvey occurred on March 31, 2019, when Christopher
Mansfield was shot in the chest while heading to a football field in West La Penitence, Georgetown.
The young man collapsed on Non Pareil Street, Albouystown, where residents tried to assist him, but he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC).
A Preliminary Inquiry conducted in 2021 by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly had initially found sufficient evidence to send Harvey to trial at the High Court. However, the recent developments regarding his mental state have now put the trial on hold. (G9)
ing-class households significantly.
FITUG also lauded the introduction of child tax benefits and child health care benefits, measures that are expected to increase the disposable income of families while ensuring the well-being of future generations. The elimination of tuition fees at the University of Guyana (UG) and support for university graduates to find meaningful employment were also highlighted as crucial steps toward advancing Guyanese society through education and skill development.
The Federation said that supports the Government’s efforts to bolster the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), particularly in addressing the concerns of pensioners, who have faced difficulties in recent years. FITUG is encouraged by these initiatives, which it believes are indicative of a Government genuinely committed to addressing the needs of all Guyanese, especially the working class.
PSC applauds
Meanwhile, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) has commended the Government for its innovative initiatives focused on digitalisation and modernisation, as outlined by President Ali during his address to the National Assembly. The PSC in a statement on Thursday said that it views these initiatives as important to bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth through increased efficiency in business operations.
The establishment of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) hubs in hinterland and riverine areas, funded by the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund, was particularly praised. With plans to expand the number of hubs to 200 communities, this initiative will enhance educational and economic opportunities for students and residents in remote areas, contributing to more equitable development across the country.
The PSC also hailed the introduction of the Electronic Planning and Development Single Window System, which will modernise the planning and construction process, significantly reducing approval times and boosting investor confidence. The launch of Silica City, designed as a model of smart and sustainable urban development, was noted as a groundbreaking project that will drive innovation, create jobs, and attract both local and international businesses.
Additionally, the PSC said that it also welcomed the fiscal measures announced by the Government, aimed at improving the standard of living for Guyanese citizens. Investments in education, healthcare, and social services, along with initiatives to reduce electricity costs and remove bridge tolls, are seen as critical steps toward creating a more competitive business environment and fostering long-term economic stability.
Albouystown vendor found guilty of drug trafficking
Kester King, a 28-year-old vendor of Albouystown, was found guilty of drug trafficking when he appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court on Friday. King was remanded to prison and he will be returning to court on October 14 for sentencing.
King's legal troubles date back to 2018, when he was first arraigned before Principal Magistrate Leron Daly on two counts of possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking. The initial charges alleged that on September 21, 2018, King was found with 44 kilograms of marijuana at a residence in North Ruimveldt, Georgetown. He pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Three other individuals, Keith Barker, Cheryl
Barker, and their daughterin-law, were also charged in connection with the incident.
During the operation in September, narcotics officers searched the Barkers' home based on a tip-off, discovering a significant quantity of marijuana. While the Barkers were arrested on the spot, King was not present. However, after being implicated by the Barkers, King later confessed to owning the narcotics when confronted by the police.
Another charge against King stemmed from an incident on March 27, 2019, when he was allegedly found in possession of eight grams of cannabis at James Street, Albouystown. According to police reports, the substance was discovered hidden in King's underwear. He had also pleaded not guilty to this charge. King was initially denied bail and remanded to prison but was eventually released on bail pending the outcome of the trial.
As a result of various investment and innovative initiatives, the CARICOM Secretariat and the Guyana and Barbados Governments are reporting significant progress in the drive to reduce the region’s exorbitant food import bill.
In a special Caribbean Food Security Report in the 2024 edition of Caribbean Business and Travel, produced by Florida-based Carigold Signature, CARICOM SecretaryGeneral Dr Carla Barnett explained that as a result of good leadership, the region has become one of the most preferred for foreign investors.
“CARICOM has been making commendable advancements in innovation and policy reform in agriculture. These gains contribute to the Region’s appeal as a preferred option for Investments,”
Chief Executive Consultant of Carigold Signature, Sandra Ann Baptiste in an editorial lauded President Irfaan Ali and Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley for their hard work and commitment as the region moves to reduce food imports.
“The 25 per cent by 2025
Executive Consultant of Carigold Signature, Sandra Ann Baptiste
CARICOM Food Security Initiative, spearheaded by Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali, with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley as the other key advocate for slashing the U.S. 6 billion dollars of food imports into the region, has breathed fresh life into the regional integration movement,”
Programme Manager, Agriculture and AgroIndustrial Development at the CARICOM Secretariat
Shaun Baugh explained that this initiative has been a key player in fostering more unity among Caribbean governments.
“It’s a game changer. It’s a vision and strategy that
has been gaining steam and we are seeing investments on the ground and commitment from Governments at levels we have never seen before,”
Baugh added that Latin America and the Caribbean are the only regions globally which are improving their food security status.
Meanwhile Guyana’s Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, the Chairman of the Caricom Ministerial Committee commented on the 25 per cent by 2025 Project reaffirmed his confidence in the initiative.
“I am optimistic that by the end of 2025 we will have reduced the region’s food import bill by 25 per cent or surpass that goal,”
Mustapha reported that the U.S. $14-million-dollar Guyana food terminal at Yarrowkabra on the Linden-Soesdyke highway, is scheduled to be completed mid-2025. Several phases of the project have started and contracts have been awarded.
Meanwhile, The Barbados Government is expected to begin construction of its food terminal, which will store produce for exports, before the end of this
year and be operational in early 2026.
Officials of the Caribbean Private Sector Organisation (CPSO), which has been focused on boosting trade and enhancing logistics, and Republic Bank, which has allocated U.S. $20 million for food security projects in Guyana, provided updates on their role in Caribbean food security programme.
Both the Guyana and Barbados Governments are anticipating that the regional ferry service that will move produce and passengers to their respective countries and to Trinidad and Tobago and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, will be operational by the end of 2024.
The Governments and CPSO have identified several investment opportunities including for beef, mutton, pork, chicken, shrimp, corn and soya production, root vegetables and coconut production and processing, as well as for spices and sauces. Capital is also being sought for several largescale investment projects.
The 2024 business magazine also highlights the contribution of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) and Export Barbados to
the Caribbean food security project.
This year’s business publication also features the new Executive Director of the Barbadosbased Caribbean Export Development Agency, Dr Damie Sinanan and the new Secretary-General of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO), Dona Regis-Prosper, who identify priorities under their leadership. The business magazine showcases two special publications produced by Carigold Signature this year; the “Caribbean Perspectives” book by author Sandra Ann Baptiste, a collection of articles on over 30 years of CARICOM, which was launched in May by President Ali, and the 2024 Caribbean Tourism and Hospitality investment Guide, which promotes investment opportunities in 21 Caribbean countries.
The 2024 Caribbean Business & Travel publication also focuses on the annual Caribbean Hotel Investment Conference and Operations Summit (CHICOS) being held in Barbados from November 13-15, and also has travel features on Barbados and the Bahamas.
Family feud ends in fisherman being stabbed to death at wake house
ACorentyne fisherman is now dead after his brother-in-law allegedly stabbed him on Thursday night.
Dead is 22-year-old Michael Jackson, called ‘Junior’, of Number 72 Village, Corentyne.
The incident occurred at about 21:00h on Thursday at Fourth Street, Number 76 Village Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) during a wake. Jackson was stabbed in the back, and succumbed to his injuries at the Skeldon Hospital.
Jackson’s sister Selina Gobin has said she was at the bridge by the wake house when her brother informed her that his brother-in-law had stabbed him. He then ran into his mother’s house, and she followed him there.
“He go in inside and raise up his shirt and show me his back where he get
bore. When I check I didn’t see nothing, and he say is at the side. When I check at the side, there was a bore, and he say that he feeling dizzy like he get inside bleeding,” she detailed.
Gobin said she covered the wound and called a neighbour to assist with taking Jackson to the hospital. Sometime after being taken to the Skeldon Hospital, family members
received news that he had passed away.
Gobin said that even though she was sitting on the bridge, she did not see or hear anything. “The street was full with people, and there was loud music, so I didn’t hear nothing,” she explained.
Police have said the alleged suspect is Jackson’s 27-year-old brother-in-law.
Jackson’s mother, Radica Rajkumar, has said this brother-in-law and her son had had an ongoing feud that commenced in February.
Explaining that her sonin-law lived with her, she declared, “They said Terrence bore ‘Junior’ and they carrying (Junior) to the hospital. A couple days ago, they had an argument and they had a fight. The fight start at Number 77, and they end up here. I try to part them. Terrence had a cutlass and ‘Junior’ had a wood. I
take away the cutlass from Terrence, and they cuss up one another; both of them cuss one another. ‘Junior’ left and he went home. Now he come to the wake house for two days, and I didn’t see he tell Terrence nothing, but what happen last night I don’t know,” the mother said.
According to her, there had been an ongoing feud between Jackson and her son-in-law. It stemmed from an incident that occurred in February, when Jackson was taking his niece and nephew out and their father, who was coming home, was not pleased with the clothes his children were wearing on the road.
Rajkumar explained that during the argument between the two men, her son had been abusive towards her, and that had prompted her to ask him to leave the home. He and his girlfriend had since been
living at Number 72 Village, after he had had a brief sojourn in Suriname.
“When he come this side, he would go across the road; the same place where the wake was. Sometimes he would come over here, but I don’t speak to him because how he does go on on me. If he want something, he does get it, but I don’t talk to him,” she said.
Rajkumar has said that although she was not on speaking terms with her son, she does not take his death lightly.
“I want justice! It is two of my children gone under that one family, and I want justice! If the brother-in-law has to go to jail, I am not concerned!” she declared.
Rajkumar believes that witchcraft is responsible for her daughter’s demise.
Meanwhile, the suspect has since gone into hiding as police continue their investigations. (G4)
Senior Vice-President, International, at the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, Liane Ventura, receiving a copy of Caribbean Business & Travel from the Chief
Dead: 22-year-old Michael Jackson, called ‘‘Junior’’
Refrain from getting into deep discussions. Someone will be hunting for information that can make you look bad. Conflicts will serve no purpose, but preparation will.
Get back to your roots, learn from elders or experts, and gain insight into the changes you can make and the outcome that will result. A gentle nudge for help will help you improve your surroundings.
It’s up to you to initiate opportunities. Waiting for someone to set things up for you will result in disappointment. Trust your instincts and intelligence to get you where you want to go.
Reason, facts and intuition will affect your success. Stifle emotions and refuse to let negativity stand between you and what you want to achieve. An innovative approach to work will pay off.
Look for answers within. Question your choices and use your strengths and skills to encourage opportunity. Pay attention to where every dollar goes. Networking will offer insight into what’s trending.
Trust your instincts and adjust whatever isn’t running smoothly. Changing your surroundings will give you a different perspective, helping you deal with whatever is holding you back.
Express your views and look for opportunities. A change will boost your energy and offer a vision of what’s possible. Don’t allow negativity to seep into your thoughts or deter you from pursuing your plans.
Revise your investments and budget to accommodate changes to your cost of living. Having a plan in place will ease your mind, and a positive attitude will help you pursue your dreams.
Keep an open mind and heart; something good will manifest. Participating in something you care about will lead to conversations that motivate you to adjust your plans.
Watch your step. Not everyone will be open and honest about what they want or will give in return. Take care of business personally, and you’ll avoid being in anyone’s debt.
Put investments, contracts, health and opportunities at the top of your list. Taking care of your personal affairs will put your mind at ease and give you a reason to do something that brings you joy.
Push negativity aside, focus on what makes you happy and protect yourself and loved ones from scammers. Don’t let temptation set in and take charge. Know when to say no.
ARCHIE
Australia almost through to semis
An Australian side struck by two injuries has marched to a third massive win over a depleted Pakistan team, who slumped to the lowest total of the tournament so far. The result leaves Pakistan all but out of the knockout contention, while Australia are now almost certain to qualify into the final-four semifinal stage.
Pakistan were without their captain, Fatima Sana, whose father has passed away, and they were without senior seamer Diana Baig, who has not recovered from the leg injury that saw her leave the field after bowling one ball in their tournament opener; and they missed the enthusiasm and experience of these two players.
Only one of their batters, Aliya Riaz, scored more than 20; while there were five scores of single figures, two ducks, and no partnerships worth more than 19.
All that happened after Australia lost their quickest bowler, Tayla Vlaeminck, before she had even bowled a ball. She was playing her first T20 World Cup match since 2018, and dislocated her shoulder while tumbling at short third in the first over of the game as she tried to cut off a boundary. A cloud hangs over her participation in the remainder of the tournament.
making run-scoring difficult for Pakistan, who found the other six bowlers tough to get away, scored their first boundary of the innings only in the ninth over, and hit just four fours in all.
Australia had struck that many by the third over of their innings. Alyssa Healy was responsible for five of them, and seemed set to take Australia to victory, but retired hurt in the 10th over as she hobbled to complete a second run off Aroob Shah.
Healy gingerly headed to the dressing room with a foot injury.
Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner polished off the total in 11 overs,
Bowling O-M-R-W Megan Schutt 3-0-7-1
Ashleigh Gardner 4-0-21-4
Sophie Molineux 4-0-19-1
Annabel Sutherland 2.5-0-15-2
Georgia Wareham 4-0-16-2
Tahlia McGrath 2-0-4-0
Australia Women (T: 83 runs from 20 ovs)
Beth Mooney c Aliya Riaz b Sadia Iqbal 15
Alyssa Healy (c)† retired hurt 37
Ellyse Perry not out 22
Ashleigh Gardner not out 7
Extras (w 2) 2
Total 11 Ov (RR: 7.54) 83/1
Did not bat: Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Georgia Wareham, Annabel Sutherland, Sophie Molineux, Megan Schutt,Tayla Vlaeminck Fall of wickets: 1-36 (Beth Mooney, 4.1 ov), 1-69* (Alyssa Healy, retired not out) • DRS
which has taken Australia's net run-rate up to 2.786, leaving them almost assured of a final-four place. Their last group match is against India in Sharjah on Sunday.
lengths and eventually drew Sadaf Shamas into a drive.
Convinced Shamas had hit the ball, Healy reviewed successfully, to give Schutt her 144th T20I wicketwhich took her to the top of
Pakistan face New Zealand on Monday.
Schutt shoots to the top
Megan Schutt has had an exceptional first two matches in Sharjah, where she has established herself as the most economical bowler of the tournament so far, and has also been able to take wickets on a surface that offered very little assistance.
She'd have been delighted to get to more helpful conditions in Dubai, and started with two testing overs as she shaped the ball away from Muneeba Ali and into Sidra Amin. Schutt was given a third over in the powerplay, and she played with her
the overall T20I wicket-takers' list.
Schutt has overtaken one of the players in the opposition, Nida Dar, who had to come to the crease with Shamas's dismissal. Pakistan were 18 for 2 after five overs, and 23 for 2 at the end of six.
Ash Gardner is awesome Pakistan were starting to rebuild - but only slightly - between the 10th and 16th over, courtesy of a 19run stand between Iram Javed and Aliya Riaz, although they always looked close to being separated. Gardner should have had Javed stumped on 10, when she came down the track and
swung at a length delivery, but Healy missed the chance.
It didn't take too long for Gardner to get her own back. In her next over, she tossed one up, and Iram could not resist going for a big one. She skied it towards deep mid-wicket, where Georgia Wareham was completely unfussed by the ring of fire and took a good catch. Gardner's final over was the penultimate of the innings, and Pakistan had to go in search of runs. Off the second ball, Healy made no mistake when Tuba Hassan came down the track, swung, missed, and was stumped. Aroob Shah hit Gardner's second-last ball to Beth
Healy, Mooney race away Australia started their reply with eight runs off their first 11 balls, none of them boundaries. That was all they needed to see, and they began to cash in thereafter.
Healy drove Dar through the covers to record Australia's first boundary, and the fours kept coming. Beth Mooney hit three off Sadia Iqbal's opening over, demonstrating her strength through the offside, and Healy followed up with two more off Sadaf Shamas. Australia were 36 without loss in the fifth over when Mooney hit Iqbal to
Mooney at mid-wicket, and Nashra Sandhu was given out lbw off the last ball, which turned past her inside-edge to hit her on the pad.
Gardner finished with 4 for 21, her second-best figures in T20Is.
Aliya Riaz on the edge of the inner ring at mid-off, but the horse had bolted. They won with 54 balls remaining, and their excellent NRR means they'd have to lose by 61 or more runs against India to be displaced from the number one spot. (ESPNCricInfo)
Ashleigh Gardner picked up all of her four wickets at the death
Megan Schutt became the leading wicket-taker in T20Is
Alyssa Healy put Australia on course in the chase
Aliya Riaz ended the boundary drought of the middle overs
– after Pakistan fold for 82
McClaren relishes Reggae Boyz win against Nicaragua
but stresses job isn’t yet done
Reggae Boyz Head
Coach Steve McClaren has expressed satisfaction with his team’s crucial 2-0 victory over Nicaragua in their Concacaf Nations League Group B top-of-the-table clash on Thursday night, but has been quick to emphasize that the job is far from finished.
With a pivotal match against Honduras looming at the National Stadium on Monday, McClaren knows his team still have work to do to secure their place at the top of the group, and ensure a spot in the quarterfinals as well as a spot in the next Concacaf Gold Cup.
A 32nd-minute own goal from Nicaragua’s Josué Quijano and Romario Williams’s 69th-minute strike — his fourth on the international stage —gifted the Boyz all three points as they consolidated their lead atop the standings on seven points. They are one point ahead of Honduras (six points), with Nicaragua (four points) still within touching distance of making the top two.
Cuba (three points), Trinidad and Tobago (two points), and French Guiana (one point) complete the group, with all three in danger of being relegated from League A, depending on the results of their final group encounters on Monday.
Reflecting on the win in Nicaragua, McClaren praised his players for their resilience and determination in what was a high-stakes encounter in a hostile environment on a tough artificial surface at Nicaragua’s National Stadium.
“We knew it was going to be a tough game. It was a great atmosphere against a difficult opponent, but we defended very well on a difficult surface which we were not used to. I've got to credit the players for the mentality, because everything's against you. I'm not saying the officials also, but we had our moments. So, I'm pleased with the performance, the result, and where we are at the top of the league,” McClaren has said.
“But we need to do a job on
Monday. We want to continue the development and the identity which we have, and also to keep the spirit high heading into another tough game on Monday against Honduras,” he added.
That said, McClaren has been keen to highlight both the positives and areas that need improvement.
“We wanted to build a possession game, and we didn't quite have that. I think the surface was difficult. It took us a while to get used to that, particularly in the first half. In the second half, we were a lot more composed, and controlled the game better. The difference is that, in each penalty area, we had quality: a couple of good moves, and we scored,” he said. “Nicaragua had opportunities, but again we blocked well, and Andre [Blake] made a fantastic save at the end; because if that had gone in, then the last five minutes would have been very tense,” McClaren explained.
The Englishman acknowledged the significant contributions that came from both seasoned campaigners and newer
faces in the squad. One player he singled out was new recruit Mason Holgate, who recently committed to representing Jamaica through his grandparents’ heritage.
England-born defender Holgate, who plays his club football for West Bromwich Albion, made his debut in the match after replacing Joel Latibeaudiere in the 75th minute, and looked solid in the backline.
"Mason [Holgate] com-
ing into the team is a big boost for us," McClaren declared.
“It's something that we really pushed for as well; so, I got to thank the JFF board, the president and Roy Simpson, because I've been pestering them for the last few weeks to make sure that we bring in the likes of Mason. He brought that quality and experience which we needed tonight (Thursday). Without Kasey Palmer and Michail Antonio, who got injured last night, we
had to deal with that. So, we needed Mason tonight, and he came on and did the job.”
With the match against Honduras just days away, McClaren is ensuring his team remains grounded.
“We know what’s at stake. Beating Nicaragua was an important step, but if we don’t follow that up with a good performance against Honduras, it won’t mean much. We have to finish the job,” he ended. (Sportsmax)
CAN BANGLADESH BID MAHMUDULLAH FAREWELL WITH A WIN?
THE BIG PICTURE:
Bangladesh have a last chance to salvage pride
Having won the Test series 2-0, India will be keen to stretch their dominance over Bangladesh to the absolute by carrying their T20I form from Gwalior and Delhi into Hyderabad in the third T20I. It is the final match of a tour in which Bangladesh have batted woefully, and bowled well only in certain periods. That was not good enough as India displayed their heightened T20I skills.
In the second T20I, the home side posted their highest total against Bangladesh, even after los-
tors, who could manage only 135 for 9. India now have the option to test the rest of the squad, after going unchanged in the first two games.
The only solace for Bangladesh in the series so far has been that their seamers have performed satisfactorily. Taskin Ahmed took 2 for 16 in Delhi, while Mustafizur Rahman was wily as usual, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib showed his growing skills. The spinners, though, could not find their right lengths, and let the team down.
Bangladesh's top order, too, hasn't given them the best of starts. Litton Das and newcomer Parvez
itors to have one last chance to at least threaten the hosts on this tour.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mahmudullah Nitish Kumar Reddy has slotted right into India's template of being an attacking batting unit. In the second T20I in Delhi, he struck seven sixes in his 34-ball 74 after his side had slipped to 41 for 3 in the sixth over. Even Rinku, a big-hitter himself, played second fiddle to Reddy for most of their partnership.
Reddy has plenty of shots in his arsenal, including the ability to rotate strike. India would be equally interested in how he starting out, Mahmudullah
Saturday. (ESPNCricinfo)
ing his last T20I for Bangladesh. The veteran of
ment from the format before the Delhi game. It wasn't a huge surprise, given Mahmudullah's age and lack of form of late. Although he top-scored with 41 for Bangladesh in Delhi, it was yet another example of fire-fighting rather than taking the attack to the opposition.
Bangladesh have a long discussion ahead of them to replace Mahmudullah in the T20I side, but Hyderabad would be the occasion to bid him goodbye.
TEAM NEWS: India to test bench strength?
Ravi Bishnoi, Tilak Verma, Jitesh Sharma and Harshit Rana warmed the bench in the first two T20Is, but could get a run in Hyderabad, especially with the series already decided.
Bangladesh may bring in Mahedi Hasan in place of Jaker Ali. Bangladesh (probable): 1 Parvez Hossain Emon, 2 Litton Das (wk), 3 Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt), 4 Towhid Hridoy, 5 Mahmudullah, 6 Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 7 Mahedi Hasan, 8 Rishad Hossain, 9 Taskin Ahmed, 10 Tanzim Hasan Sakib, 11 Mustafizur Rahman
PITCH AND CONDITIONS:
Rain could interrupt play In IPL 2024, the three sides who made 200-plus batting first at the Rajiv Gandhi
International Stadium won the game. However, rain is forecasted for Hyderabad on
The Reggae Boyz starting XI against Nicaragua
Mahmudullah was the only Bangladesh batter to make a substantial score in the second T20I
Nitish Kumar Reddy showed a lot of promise during the second T20I
Sponsorship boxes to benefit sporting associations – Min Charles Ramson Jr
When its rehabilitative work has been completed, Guyana’s premier indoor sporting facility, the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, would be a modernized structure comprising sponsorship boxes that would foster corporate investment to significantly boost sports’ development.
Sponsorship boxes allow sporting associations to profit monetarily since they can be sold as booths, thereby increasing revenue for the activity and providing sponsors with comfortable spaces.
sport, you need more private sponsorship.
“Sponsors, when they are putting their money somewhere – and, in many instances, it can be big money -- they have to be treated well, too. They have to know that when they are making this investment in the sport, and that they're coming there to view the sport what they have invested in,
they have to be accommodated in a way that makes them want to do it again,” Minister Ramson explained.
“And then it also helps us if, let's say the Federation wants to run off this tournament. By having the ability to sell these booths, it also pumps more money back into the sport,” he detailed.
Explaining why there is a delay in rehabilita-
tion of the facility, Minister Ramson said there was a recall on the air conditioning units which the manufacturer provided free of cost as part of their supply, and the other contracts were contingent on the completion of the contract for the air conditioning units, because it requires the internal running of the ducting. (Omar McKenzie)
Boys’ Pee-Wee Round-of-16 on today
“So, for example, this tournament that we just launched here today with Republic Bank: so, Government is putting in money and Republic Bank is putting in money; that helps
In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times Sport, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jnr, expounded on the overall benefits of sponsorship boxes to sporting associations when he said, “… in addition to that, what's also really important is the sponsor's box. So, we can't change sport if we don't get more money into the sport, and how we can get more money into sport is by private sponsorship.
us now to make the tournament to have national reach, expanded reach: more persons participating, more opportunities for young people to play, and exposure to their talent. Also, they're motivated more because they get, they're incentivized. To do that for any
Fernandes-Anderson feeling great ahead of CAC
With just about eight days left before the showdown for top honours in the 2024 CAC Body Building & Fitness Championships begins, debutant Melitha Fernandes- Anderson has expressed optimism of doing well.
Fernandes-Anderson, who will be competing in the Women’s Wellness category, said in a recent interview that her optimism is because of the level of work she has put in as part of her preparation for the event.
“Preparations have been going great. I have been working hard in the gym as usual, and now we are just fine-tuning to be ready for the stage,” she disclosed.
Fernandes-Anderson will be appearing for the first time at the CAC level. She informed that last year was her first attempt at competing in the Bikini division.
“I feel confident that, the work that I’ve put in and with the knowledge that I (have), I will be bringing my best package to the stage. I look forward for the support the Guyanese delegation will receive on stage and beyond from the local fans,” she said.
Quizzed on whether she felt the sport is growing locally, Fernandes-Anderson answered in the affirmative, pointing to the three Pro Cards that Guyanese athletes have earned within a short space of time.
“Our athletes have earned three Pro Cards in a short space of time, and more and more persons are becoming interested in participating in Body Building, be it on the stage or the audience,” she explained. The countries listed to participate in this tournament are: Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Bonaire, Curacao, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, St. Lucia, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, Venezuela,
Colombia, Jamaica, St. Maarten (Dutch side), Haiti, Nicaragua, Mexico, Costa Rica and St. Vincent & the Grenadines along with host Guyana.
Among the sponsors already on board are Fitness Express, Twins Manufacturing; Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport (MCYS); National Sports Commission (NSC), and the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA). The venue is the National Cultural Centre.
The Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground would again come alive today as the knockout rounds of the Courts’ Optical Pee-Wee Under-11 Schools’ Football tournament commences.
After three rounds of Group Stage action, teams would now put on their game faces in the do-or-die situations that would be kicked off with the Round-of-16 today. As such, 8 exciting matchups are scheduled for this Carifesta Avenue venue.
First, West Ruimveldt Primary, who are no strangers to winning but now look a shadow of their former selves, would come up against Tapakuma Lake Primary of Region 2.
Both teams have had mixed results in their first two games, and this clash at 12:00h sets up an interesting face-off.
Then North Georgetown Primary will take on St John the Baptist Primary of Region 7. This Bartica-based school has had a stellar start to the tournament with three wins in as many games, and will pose a big challenge to North Georgetown, who just found their footing with a decisive win in their last group match.
At 13:00hrs, two ‘out-oftown’ schools in Belladrum Primary and Batavia
Primary will go head-tohead. While Belladrum Primary of West Coast Berbice has looked like a dominant force, Batavia Primary of Region 7 has had no problem holding stronger opponents to draws.
Rosignol Primary, the other Berbice-based school in the competition, would clash head-on with Georgetown International Academy from 13:00hrs. Equally as impressive as their regional counterparts, Rosignol has thus far enjoyed the biggest win of the competition (12-0) and GIA would need a little more of the magic they produced last weekend in a 7-1 win to challenge Rosignol.
School of the Nations would have their hands full from 14:00hrs as they embark on sizing up to the tournament’s defending champions, St. Pius Primary, who have been riding their momentum well. St. Pius are yet to drop any points in the competition, while the same cannot be said of their opponents. As such, School of the Nations would need to play their best football to get over today’s hurdle.
Arguably one of the most mouthwatering encounters on today’s lineup is the Winfer Gardens Primary battle against Marian Academy, which also commences at 14:00hrs.
While Marian Academy are no strangers to this stage, Winfer Gardens have made a resurgence this year, mainly owing to the skills of young Omari St. Hill. Both teams are evenly poised, and will, without a doubt, battle to the end to claim a quarterfinal spot.
Probably one of the two most fearsome teams in the competition at present, Enterprise Primary will come up against Stella Maris Primary from 15:00hrs. Enterprise are also part of that small circle of teams that have yet to lose a game in this 11th edition of the competition, and have won games very convincingly, leaving a lot of work for Stella Maris to do if they desire to progress.
The final Round-of-16 clash, which also commences at 15:00hrs, would pit Santa Rosa Primary of Region 1 against St. Gabriel’s Primary of Region 4. With talent being evident on both sides of the pitch, the final matchup of the day would be another ‘must-watch’ game. The Pee-Wee tournament is also supported by Stenna Drilling, Sterling Products Limited, and MVP Sports, with sanctions from the Ministry of Education (MoE) and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS).
Melitha Fernandes-Anderson going through her paces in preparation for the upcoming 2024 CAC Body Building & Fitness Championships
A glimpse of what to expect at the Pee-Wee Round-of-16 today
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr
