Guyana Times - Sunday, August 11, 2024.pdf

Sunday August 11, 2024 at 21:00hrs for a period of one and a half hours.

Sunday August 11, 2024 at 7:55 hrs for one and a half hours.

REOs, engineers will be held accountable for not enforcing penalties for contract breaches – Pres Ali –

liquidated damages ordered on Kwebanna Sec School contractor

Contractors, Regional Engineers and Regional Executive Officers (REOs) have been put on notice by President Dr. Irfaan Ali that Government has a zero-tolerance approach towards contractors who fail to execute their contracts and regional officials who let them do so.

During a meeting held at the Arthur Chung Conference Center (ACCC) with scores of contractors, consultants, and Ministry officials, President Ali, with Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh and Education Minister Priya Manickchand beside him, received project updates on the various schools that are currently under construction.

For instance, contractors had given project completion dates of November 15 for Christ Church Secondary School (CCCS) and August 25 for St. George’s High. The St. Mary’s High School has had to have a design change, and as such, an extension was granted.

Nevertheless, the contractor for Lots 1 and 2 assured that work would be done during the day and night in order to have the school completed by November.

The contractor working on the $1.7 billion Karasabai Secondary School in Region Nine informed the President that the school would be completed on July 18, 2025, ahead of the October 2025 project deadline.

When it comes to the $2 billion Kwebanna Secondary, however, project consultant CB & Associates reported that despite the project being originally slated to have been completed by August 31, 2024, most of the contractors working on the foundation for the school are significantly behind schedule.

According to the consulting engineer, only a 15-day extension had been granted for lot 2, while no extension had been given for any of the other lots. This prompted President Ali to direct the Finance Minister to engage the Attorney General’s Chambers with a view to enforcing contract penalties once no justification could be given for the delays.

The Kwebanna contract had been divided into six lots among three companies in order to allow for simultaneous work, and as such, is expected to be completed within seven to eight months.

Supreme Contracting & Supplies was awarded both the $187,735,280 contract to complete site development works as well as the $205,242,780 contract for substructure works of the school building.

Bree’s Enterprise received the $189,413,616 contract to complete the substructure works of the dormitory, while AS Construction was given the $157,196,650 contract to complete the substructure works of the teachers’ quarters.

Meanwhile, Singh & Son Construction was awarded both the $1,08,915,650 contract for external works as well as the $196,916,430 contract for finishing works. CB & Associates was also earlier selected as a consultant on the project.

At the meeting, President Ali ordered the contractors responsible for the delays to stand and identify themselves. Once they had done so, they blamed logistical challenges and delays at the ports for the delay in completing the foundation. At this point, however, the President interrupted them and instructed the Finance Minister to begin applying liquidated damages.

Penalties

At the meeting, President Ali also made it clear that action would be taken not just against contractors, but against regional officials who do not enforce contract penalties for unjustified delays.

“The REOs are here and the Regional Engineers are here, I want to make it very clear, (since) we have the Minister of Finance and the

Minister of Education: These projects must be managed independently of the project file, and we’re going to hold the REOs and Engineers accountable for all of these projects. And I want the contractors to understand,” he said.

“From day one, once there are breaches and the contractors are not fulfilling their responsibilities, I need letters to be written and placed in the file. At the end of the contractual period, or before, if there is cause for termination, a copy of the file must be sent to NPTAB so that they will know that these contractors are not performing,” the President has said.

President Ali noted that, in many cases, contractors bid in regions in which they do not even maintain a presence in order to be able to consistently check on the progress of their work sites. However, since the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) evaluated them based on whether they were the lowest responsive bid, this is not factored in.

Education Minister Priya Manickchand, Education Ministry Permanent Secretary Alfred King, Special Projects Officer Ron Eastman, project consultant representatives and contractors during the Kwebanna contract signing last year TURN

Editor: Tusika Martin

News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544

223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761

Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

For “One Guyana”

There is no dearth of explanations or reasons proffered for our anaemic post-independence development: underdevelopment of our economy and our society by the departed colonials; squabbling politicians; lack of capital; ethnic/racial divisions; brain drain, etc. But for each of the identified constraints and then some (for instance, lack of physical resources), other countries, such as South Korea, Singapore, and others in the Far East, have yet to jump from Third World to First World status. We should study them, now that we have the wherewithal to permanently change our fortunes.

As such, we would like to place on the agenda one factor that somehow has not received the attention we believe it should: the need for us to have a strong desire to work for the common good – for “One Guyana”. Now, it might be said that this is a consequence of the divisions in our society, but Malaysia, for instance, also has these divisions and was able to leapfrog divisions to approach First World status. If the successful ‘developed’ and developing countries are analysed, more often than not, one would discern a strong sentiment of ‘doing it for my country.’

This emphasis can be measured by the degree to which, emotionally or consciously, people agree that a common good justifies restrictions on the individual, including oneself. It could also be described as the degree to which the members of a society are willing to forego individual advantages if by so doing a larger advantage is secured for the community. Can we say we have this sentiment widespread in Guyana?

A decade ago, noted CUNY Political Scientist Richard Wolin visited China and asked one worker, “What do people here do on weekends?” The reply, to his surprise, was, “We have no weekends. We have to work hard to pass America!” On his tours across many campuses and cities, he found the same sentiment very widespread. The people were willing to work for what they saw as the good of their country. Because of such an orientation, China has been able to maintain a double-digit growth rate for three decades, and is now the second-largest economy in the world – just behind the US.

Japan, which led the thrust for ‘miracle growth’ in the post-WWII era, has also been helped by a strong patriotic fervour among its people. Many people conveniently forget that the Industrial Revolution in Britain and Europe followed their consolidation as nation-states, where the people were willing to sacrifice for “King and country”. While the US overthrew the king, its citizens also rallied for the “American Way”.

In Guyana, we are still at a point where the feeling of ‘we the people’ has not been inculcated into the psyche of our citizens. In the absence of such a sentiment, individuals will act only in the interest of their sub-group or themselves on an individual basis. Looking out for “No 1” becomes the rallying cry. It is up to the leaders in our society to mobilise these individuals for the ‘common good’. The PPP government is attempting to change this with the “One Guyana” strategy.

Unfortunately, the shenanigans of the Opposition in and out of Parliament demonstrate that they are far from harking to this ideal. Whatever one’s political orientation, one has to concede that President Ali’s aggressive moves across “the divide” are more in consonance with the common good than divisive calls to the Disciplined Forces. Guyanese should compare the differential rates of development in the Far East, where exertion for the common good is commonplace, and that of let’s say Africa, where most countries are riven along ethnic lines. We must do better.

In societies lacking an ethos of the common good, people do what is advantageous for themselves, and have no qualms about abandoning principles or changing sides when it is beneficial to them. This expedient behaviour also encourages corruption. Corruption is not just a problem of political systems; it is an attitudinal problem. Persons little inclined to accept personal disadvantages for the common good are easily corrupted. Let us build “One Guyana”.

This is straight from the PNC's arsenal of deception

Dear Editor, They did it in 1997 and are now making another desperate effort for the 2025 Election. The PNC are making another bold attempt at undermining the course of a well-established electoral system by illegally inserting another.

I say illegal insertion of another for the simple fact that establishing another non-legal system (it's not enshrined in law) - the institution of biometric ballotingjust before an election means that we are heading straight into trouble. You cannot abruptly put into place a new system and expect the voting public to cast their ballots in

an ambience of comfort. This is what a common overview of the situation dictates. What is sure to happen is a bungling of the process and many voters being disenfranchised, just like what had obtained in 1997.

This situation would develop if biometrics is adopted as the voting system at this stage; it just would not work. This was vividly brought to light in the 1997 Election, when voting by the sole use of an Identification (ID) Card was put in place.

At the conclusion of that election, it was the PNC who made an aggressive call that the election was fraudulent because Government had

used an illegal system of voting. Mark you, voting with the sole use of an ID Card was a PNC idea which was piloted by them in Parliament, but the end result was not what they had anticipated, hence the bloody street protests that followed.

My point is that the PNC had deceived themselves into believing they could win an election here in Guyana, and in that self-deception, they are in the habit of formulating schemes that might enhance their rigging. The truth is that the PNC winning will not happen! The PNC is good at bringing into law proposals that they would turn against and violate.

So, it would be foolish to substitute another system of balloting when the present paper system fulfills the requirements of a free and fair outcome. The present system has proven its worth many times over, and we shall proceed with it.

My advice to Beverly Alert is to stop her nonsense about a biometric free and fair system; we do have a free, fair, and transparent system of paper balloting that has stood the test of time. Stop your political posturing, you are only making a fellow Berbician look stupid before the world.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

Financial support for GuySuCo

Dear Editor,

The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and its 8000+ workers have received another round of financial support from the Government ($4 billion) as it works towards reviving the sugar industry and, hopefully, viability and economic stability in the future.

This subsidy caused members of the Opposition parties (AFC, PNC) to object and make arguments against the policy of the Irfaan Ali administration: to revive the industry that was shuttered by the APNU+AFC in 2017.

The argument against reviving GuySuCo is as simplistic as the people who make it: sugar costs more to produce than it earns, and therefore it is a 'waste' of money to contin-

ue with the industry. It is better to fire the workers and let them seek other avenues to earn a living.

This argument fails to consider GuySuCo’s numerous benefits to the nation, so it is pertinent to enlighten and/or remind all Guyanese of those benefits from time to time.

GuySuCo employs more than 8000 people. As mentioned before, that employment supports their families much as the continued employment of over 11,000 civil servants and 14,000 teachers who are surplus to requirements. There are no complaints about these persons and the strain they place on the national treasury.

GuySuCo is the training ground for most who work or will continue to work in our

most vital sector, agriculture, be it in sugar or other crops.

GuySuCo has provided, and for decades will continue to provide, training for machinists, mechanics, plumbers, soil technicians, engineers, etc. These persons are invaluable to Guyana as we grow.

GuySuCo provides technical and manual labour for drainage of our coastland, and this work is not billed to the Government. If it were, the 'subsidy' may well be swallowed whole.

Ironically, those loudest against GuySuCo are also the loudest complainers about the prices of agricultural produce. They think we can all swing in office chairs and the plantains will grow themselves!

In closing, I would ask my fellow Guyanese, regard-

less of political affiliation, to think carefully before making callous calls to again close GuySuCo and 'fire' the workers. Instead, I urge patience as the work continues on the revival and, just as importantly, appreciation of the benefits this much-maligned corporation has provided in the past, and can provide in the future to our nation and especially its youth. In attempting to raise the standard of living of all the Guyanese people, President Irfaan Ali is adopting a holistic approach: the rising tide raises all boats. The alternative is an unthinkable inequality in our society, and a crushing case of 'Dutch disease'.

Sincerely, Robin Singh

A group of Indigenous dancers performed at the opening of the International Building Expo on Thursday evening at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD)

A global perspective on what the cost-ofliving crisis looks like around the world

Dear Editor,

The Global average inflation rate slowed to 6.8% in 2023, down from 8.7% in 2022, and is estimated to slow to 5.8% in 2024. In 2022, many other countries were still experiencing double- and triple-digit inflation rates, as shown above. The World Economic Forum reported that inflation rates have doubled in 35 out of 44 advanced countries over the past two years.

In the case of Guyana, the inflation rate remained in the low single digits. In 2023, for instance, the inflation rate slowed to 2%, below the estimated 5% (earlier in the fiscal year) for the year 2023, with an estimated 2.5% in 2024; thus, remaining below the global average (5.8%).

As demonstrated herein, the cost-of-living interventions pursued by the Government of Guyana with the aim of combatting rising prices amount to an estimated $332.2 billion annually, representing 8.5% of GDP.

More importantly to note is that, in contrast to other countries around the world, Guyana has confronted rising prices in a far more comprehensive manner than other larger advanced economies, such as the United States (1.7% of GDP), Japan (2.4% of GDP), Chile (0.7% of GDP), Indonesia (0.12% of GDP), Malaysia (4.2% of GDP), and Saudi Arabia (0.5% of GDP).

Sections of society and the media continue to be critical of the handling by the Government of Guyana (GoG) of the cost-of-living situation, and are calling on

the Government to do more in this regard. However, a relatively in-depth global perspective on how other countries in the world are coping with the rising cost of living has to date been absent, save and except for “high level” perspectives. This is an important perspective to have in order to appreciate the gravity of the interventions by the GoG in response to the rising costs domestically, and other measures that the GoG is pursuing to address this situation in the short, medium, and long terms.

According to the International Rescue Committee (IRC), one of the severest inflation crises has led to economic collapse in Lebanon, with an increasing number of people being unable to afford their cost of living. Since 2019, Lebanon’s GDP has shrunk by 40%, while consumer prices continue to soar, reaching inflation rates of 170% for the year 2022. Prices for goods have risen, while the value of wages has fallen.

Countries with the highest inflation rates since the pandemic are as follows:

* Zimbabwe – 314.5% (2023 est 193%)

* Venezuela – 360% (2023 est 187%)

* Lebanon – 171% (2023 est?)

* Sudan – 257% (2023 est 139%)

* Argentina – 122% (2023 est 72%)

* Turkey – 51% (2023 est 72%)

* Suriname – 53% (2023 est 52%)

* Islamic Republic of Iran – 47% (2023 est 46%)

* Sri Lanka – 45% (2023 est 29%)

* Ethiopia – 29% (2023 est 34%)

* Ghana – 43% (2023 est 32%)

* Yemen – 15% (2023 est 30%)

* Moldova – 13% (2023 est 29%)

* Angola – 13% (2023 est 21%)

* Estonia – 10% (2023 est 19%)

The Global average inflation rate has slowed to 6.8% in 2023, down from 8.7% in 2022, and is estimated to slow to 5.8% in 2024. In 2022, many other countries were still experiencing double- and triple-digit inflation rates, as shown above. The World Economic Forum reported that inflation rates have doubled in 35 out of 44 advanced countries over the past two years.

What governments are doing around the world to confront the rising cost of living (selected countries)

* Cost-of-living measures in the United States amounted to the US$430 billion Inflation Reduction Act announced in August 2022, representing 1.7% of GDP.

* Chile announced a US$1.2 billion aid plan, including labour subsidies and one-time payments of US$120 for 7.5 million (US$900 million) of its 19 million residents. Thus, the total intervention amounted to US$2.1 billion, or 0.7% of GDP (2022).

* In Japan, the costof-living response measures implemented by the

Source: Author’s Calculation Based on Budget Estimates

Government amounted to US$103 billion in 2022, representing 2.4% of GDP.

* Indonesia reallocated US$1.6 billion of its fuel subsidy budget to welfare spending, an amount that represented 0.12% of GDP.

* Malaysia expended US$17.25 billion, representing 4.2% of GDP, in subsidies and cash aid to temper the effects of rising prices.

* Saudi Arabia raised welfare spending to US$5.33 billion, representing 0.5% of GDP.

In the case of Guyana, the inflation rate remained in the low single digit. In 2023, for instance, the inflation rate slowed to 2%, below the estimated 5% (earlier in the fiscal year) for the year 2023, with an es-

timated 2.5% in 2024; thus, remaining below the global average (5.8%) as well.

Further, altogether, the cost-of-living measures implemented in Guyana amount to an estimated $332.2 billion annually, or US$1.6 billion, or 8.5% of GDP.

As evidently demonstrated herein, the cost-ofliving interventions pursued by the Government of Guyana with the aim of combatting rising prices amounts to an estimated $332.2 billion annually,

representing 8.5% of GDP. More importantly to note is that, in contrast with other countries around the world, Guyana has confronted rising prices in a far more comprehensive manner than other larger advanced economies such as the United States (1.7% of GDP), Japan (2.4% of GDP), Chile (0.7% of GDP), Indonesia (0.12% of GDP), Malaysia (4.2% of GDP), and Saudi Arabia (0.5% of GDP).

Sincerely, Joel Bhagwandin

PET EMERGENCIES (continued)

Let us continue today with the type of care that you can offer your pet in an eventuality that demands urgent and immediate attention – even as you contact your veterinarian.

There are several situations that necessitate quick action on your part in order to prevent your pet from dying. The ones that are foremost in the list of emergencies, and those which confront veterinarians, are: electric shocks, heat strokes, obstructed air passages, physical traumas to the head (sometimes resulting in unconsciousness), a prolonged epileptic attack, poisoning, burns, suffocations (by drowning or inhalation of smoke/toxic gases), and snake/insect bites. We will deal with all these problems over the course of the next few weeks.

cy, obviously, is the one that causes the heartbeat and breathing to be severely compromised, or to stop altogether. Your action at home, therefore, is directed towards reinstating breathing and the cardiac function. This will be done by artificial respiration and/or heart

ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION

The dog or cat that is showing severe signs of breathing distress is usually semi-conscious, and even unconscious. Often, in these circumstances, the heart also would not be functioning well. In fact, there might even be a total ces

sation of heartbeats. This means that you may have to tackle both problems simultaneously.

There are two procedures that you can undertake within the context of Artificial Respiration. Firstly, you can use the method of Chest Compression. This means that you will be exerting a

manual force to the chest. In so doing, you will be pushing the air out of the lungs. On release, the chest would then expand again, thus sucking air back into the lungs. The technique is simple:

i) Check for any block-

technique:

i) Clear away any secretions that may be present around the nostrils and mouth with a clean tissue. If you are very fastidious, you may wish to use a gentle disinfectant (e.g. Dettol, Savlon)

ii) Pull the dog’s/cat’s tongue forward, and hold the animal’s mouth closed with your hand.

iii) Form a cup with your other hand and place it around the nose of the animal, and blow into the nostrils of the animal steadily for about 3 seconds. Your cupped hand is actually forming a connecting tube between your mouth and the dog’s/cat’s nostrils. Of course, you may wish to place your mouth over the animal’s nose directly.

iv) The air that you

age in the nostrils/mouth.

ii) Wipe away any accumulated discharge from the nostrils and mouth.

iii) Place the dog/cat on its side (on an even surface), preferably with the left side

blow into the lungs would cause the chest to expand. When you stop, the elasticity of the chest would cause it to go back to its original position and force the air out.

v) This action should

up (right side down on the flat surface).

iv) Place the palm of your hand (if it is a big dog, you may have to use both palms) on the animal’s chest and press down quickly, then release. Carry out this manoeuvre every 3-5 seconds, and continue until the dog begins to breathe rhythmically on its own.

You may also wish to carry out the mouth-to-nose

be continued until the dog/ cat begins to breathe on its own.

I hope this necessity never arises; but if it does, please don’t be squeamish. It is your companion animal’s life that is at stake. Of course, even while you are carrying out this exercise, and before the animal has been revived, someone should be trying to contact your veterinarian.

UNGA President lauds Guyana’s representation of C’bean at UN as “outstanding”

– says Guyana commands attention of world at UN

Guyana’s representation of the Caribbean at various forums of the United Nations, including the Security Council, has been lauded as outstanding by the President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Dennis Francis; who, fresh off his arrival in Guyana for a three-day visit, hosted a press conference on Saturday.

Guyana is currently halfway through its first year as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), but, according to Francis, whose term as UNGA President is drawing to a close, Guyana has represented the Caribbean well at the security council.

Francis has even lauded Guyana’s Presidency of the council. Guyana, through its Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, held the Presidency in February 2024.

“There’s only one word

to characterize it: outstanding! Guyana made us all very proud, as Caribbean states in the United Nations, in the way in which Permanent Representative Caroline Rodrigues-Birkett conducted herself as a member and in the Presidency of the General Assembly, because the Presidency rotates every month. So, there was a month in which she was actually in the chair,” Francis expressed.

According to Francis, the strength of small island developing states is not in their military might, but rather in their ability to put forward cogent arguments. He made it clear that Guyana did just that at the levels of the UNSC and the UNGA.

“During the Presidency, and for the entire period she’s been there, when Guyana opened its mouth, everyone listened; because what was being put forward was of such substance and depth that it could not be ignored,” he added. “So,

we were all lifted and proud of the work that the Guyanese mission, Ambassador Birkett and her team, have done that has made it clear to everyone that small countries have big contributions to make to international peace and security and the debates around these issues. We do not have arsenals in our part of the world; our arsenals are our words,” he expressed.

During his time in Guyana, Francis met and had talks with President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, among other officials. He also visited the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), whose work he praised.

In January of this year, Guyana took its seat as an elected member of the United Nations Security Council for a two-year term, 2024-2025. In June 2023, Guyana was elected to the UNSC – becoming one of five new non-perma-

nent members for the term. This will be Guyana’s third time serving on the Council, following terms in 1975-1976 and 1982-1983.

Guyana’s candidacy was uncontested, being the sole candidate for a single seat available to Latin America and the Caribbean Region, where it garnered the highest vote count at 191 out of 192.

The United Nations Charter has established six main organs of that entity, including the Security Council, which is given primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. Its functions and powers are mainly to maintain international peace and security in accordance with the principles and purposes of the United Nations. It is also tasked with investigating any dispute or situation that might lead to international friction; recom-

mend methods of adjusting such disputes or the terms of settlement thereof; formulating plans for the establishment of a system to regulate armaments; determining the existence of a threat to the peace or act of aggression, and to recommend what action should be taken among others.

In some cases, the

Security Council can resort to imposing sanctions, or even authorising the use of force to maintain or restore international peace and security. Temporary members hold their seats on a rotating basis by geographic region. Guyana will serve a two-year term on the Council from January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2025. (G-8)

REOs, engineers will be held...

“We’re not going to take those excuses. We’re not going to tolerate those excuses. Most of these projects are slated to be completed within 15 and 18 months. Most of them. So, I wanted to address today the Ministry staff, the Engineering section from the Ministry, because the Ministry also has a responsibility to ensure the work is completed within time, within budget, and also to the quality we expect.

“Most of these facilities are very modern facilities, built to give the education sector all the infrastructure required to disseminate education to the population. Those of you working in hinterland regions, for example, you have to make use of the weather condi-

tions,” the Head of State said. President Ali also warned the contractors that if they won multiple lots, the Government expects that they would work on those lots simultaneously in order to ensure the timely completion of projects within deadlines.

“I’ve heard contractors saying to engineers that when we finish on this site, we’ll mobilize on the other site. That can’t work here! All the projects will be managed simultaneously! Are we together? The contractors understand clearly?” the President questioned, and received confirmation from the contractors.

“So there will be penalties for contractors, and it can cost you your company too. Because if you don’t per-

form, you can get backlisted and you will not get new projects. This sector is very important for us,” the President has said.

Following concerns raised over the award of contracts to selected contractors and the inability to meet project deadlines or build according to specifications, the Government has, in the past few months, embarked on a plan to pursue greater accountability within the procurement processes across all sectors.

Among the initiatives announced was the establishment of a Contract Compliance Unit within the Ministry of Legal Affairs, and other units within the various ministries, to assess the performance of contractors. (G-3)

From left are: President Dr Irfaan Ali, UNGA President Dennis Francis, and Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh

Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, installing the Guyana flag alongside those of other Security Council members outside the Council Chambers

Wanted fugitive recaptured in Reg 8

30-year-old Jose Awad of Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast, a convicted prisoner who escaped from the Lusignan Prison on May 14, 2024, has been recaptured on Friday at El Paso Village in the Tumatumari community of Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni).

Awad had been serving a two-year sentence for the offence of break-and-enter and larceny when he reportedly escaped from the penal institution on May 14, while labouring at the snackette in the compound of the Cecil Kilkenny Training School at Lusignan. The Guyana Prison Service had later said

Recaptured: Jose Awad

that Awad had been left unsupervised for a short period when he made good his escape.

However, after being on the run for over two months, ranks attached to the Mahdia Police Station, acting on intelligence received, went to El Paso village in the Tumatumari community and apprehended the fugitive.

He is to be charged with the offences of 'escaping from lawful custody' and 'simple larceny' of an unregistered motorcycle, the property of Roger Hinds. He remains in custody pending the institution of these charges.

Acknowledging…

O…our African culture

ne thing we gotta get out of the way when we speak in Guyana - or the Caribbean - about “African” culture is that we have a greater legitimacy to do so, because our African citizens were brought here from all parts of West Africa – from Angola in the south to Senegal in the north. This includes the Congo, Ghana and Nigeria, just to mention some of the more popular names. So, we can immediately appreciate that, while in Africa - even within what we call Ghana today - there are dozens of ethnic groups or tribes, during the hundreds of years of enslavement, those cultural differences were homogenised as the Whites tried to grind their culture out of them in totality.

But what was surprisingly not given credit for the retentions of our African cultural is that, AFTER the Abolition of Slavery in 1838, there were over 13,000 Africans brought DIRECTLY from Africa and transported to Guyana to work as Indentured Immigrants!! That’s right – not as slaves, but as indentured servants - to drive down the wage aspirations of the freedmen and women just like the other indentureds had been used to do!! So, how were they brought?? Well, after the Brits abolished the slave trade in 1807, and then emancipation was given in 1838, other countries - such as Brazil and Cuba, which continued with slavery - kept on shipping their African “cargo”. The British Navy was assigned to patrol the coast of West Africa, and intercept these slave ships and liberate their cargo.

The “liberated” Africans were sent generally to Liberia or Sierra Leone, from where they were persuaded to emigrate to the West Indies. One unintended consequence of this latter arrival when African cultural practices weren’t seen as a threat was that, after the Indentured Africans were distributed to plantations in all three countries, they became the nucleus and catalyst for the flowering of African culture. Among the new arrivals were Igbo, Kalabari, Mende, Temne, Mandinka, Yoruba; and, above all, West Central Africans such as Kru and Congolese.

If we were to map the areas where there are more significant expressions of African Culture, you can bet that some of the new arrivals were settled there in greater numbers – like in Bagotville on the West Bank of Demerara. After their Indentureship, some returned to Sierra Leone, but, like other Indentureds, most remained. They gravitated to African Villages, and bought lands whereon their immigrant drive for economic improvement soon made them exemplars.

Some African cultural retentions have spread in the wider Guyanese populace in the kind of food we eat. While we may think of foo-foo and conkie, let’s not forget that the entire repertoire of “ground provision” dishes, from soups (including metemjee) to “boiled and fried” are of African provenance!!

Leh we nyam them!!

…a favour

Mad Maduro is a real ingrate!! Here it is that Panamanian President José Raúl Molino has offered to assist him to leave his country and relocate to a third nation following the elections which he stole. This was to facilitate a political transition, and he didn’t have to go through the hardship of crossing the Darien Gap as millions of those whom he drove out of Venezuela!! According to Molino, the essence of his initiative is Panama's willingness to act as a bridge for Maduro, allowing for a safe transition from Venezuela to another country. "If that's the contribution, the sacrifice that Panama has to make, by offering our soil so that this man and his family can leave Venezuela, Panama would do it without a doubt,” Molino has said.

But rather than thanking Molino, Mad Maduro snarkily replied that he would have to learn Molino’s name, as he rejected the proposal and accused the Panamanian president of being overly influenced by the “gringos”!! The latter, of course, is the derogatory term to describe American Whites!!

What a jerk!!

…Indigenous Peoples

Even though your Eyewitness wrote ahead that last Friday was gonna be Indigenous Peoples Day, he still didn’t see the mass participation he had expected by us coastlanders - for them allowing us to squat on their lands!!

Govt increases offer to teachers from 9% to 10% for 2024

One day after Government had proposed a 9 per cent across-the-board increase to teachers for 2024, it has now proposed a 10 per cent increase after the Guyana Teachers’ Union rejected the offer.

Guyana Times understands that the GTU was informed on Friday that the Government is now offering 10 per cent for 2024 and respectively eight and nine per cent for 2025 and 2026. This has prompted the GTU General Council to meet on

The initial offer was a seven per cent increase for 2024 and a 6 per cent increase for 2025 and 2026, but that was rejected. Then, a few days ago, as talks continued between the parties, Government proposed nine per cent increase for 2024 and eight per cent for 2025 and 2026, but this also was rejected.

Friday to discuss the latest offer.

It has been stated that while some GTU members have agreed to take the 10 per cent increase being offered, some have been against it and have suggested that the GTU negotiate for a higher percentage.

In addition, GTU President Mark Lyte has re-

portedly asked the various branch representatives to discuss Government’s offer with their membership over the weekend.

If the GTU accepts this offer, the signing ceremony could be done as early as Monday.

“We are aware that what was agreed was not what was requested. However, our teachers deserve to be compensated in every avenue possible during these difficult times. I have also pushed for dues to be remitted to GTU on or before September, in keeping with (the) court ruling”, Lyte has said.

The GTU had proposed a 39.6 per cent increase for 2024 and 30 per cent increase for 2025 and 2026.

Bilateral talks between the Education Ministry and the GTU on the new 20242026 multi-year agreement commenced on July 11 after months of prolonged industrial action by teachers. Earlier in the month, the GTU conceded to the Government’s proposal that salary increases for teachers be determined under a new

agreement from the current year onward.

The GTU has been pushing for a backdated collective bargaining agreement, but the Government, through the Education Ministry, has maintained that it is fully prepared to work on a multi-year agreement from 2024, and not 2019, as was being initially demanded by the GTU. The GTU subsequently recanted and agreed to negotiate from

2022 onwards, but that proposal was also rejected by the Government.

The GTU has also proposed a performance-based incentive of two per cent per annum, to be paid to eligible teachers during the period of the multi-year agreement, with effect from January 1, 2024.

This is in addition to an annual health/risk allowance of $25,000 and a monthly internet/mobile

data allowance of $10,000 to be paid to all teachers. Moreover, the GTU is seeking a termly school transportation grant of $150,000 in the case of those operating on the coastland and $300,000 for hinterland/ riverine schools; or alternatively, a mode of transport (boat, ATV etc.) to offset the cost of teachers travelling to attend meetings, workshops, orientation sessions, or emergencies at school.

GTU President Mark Lyte and Shannielle Hoosein-Outar, PS of the Ministry of Education

Indigenous lands are not reparations

During one of the Emancipation Day commemoration activities, Eric Phillips, head of the local Reparations Committee, again repeated the slander he has been making over the past decade: that the Amerindian Act of 2006 was an act to give them reparations. And, once again, I am forced to repeat that the Indigenous Peoples were not given lands on any “reparatory” basis. Land for the Indigenous Peoples was part and parcel of the Articles of our Independence from Britain, which acknowledged, even by the one-sided positivistic international law they created, the rights of our Indigenous Peoples.

In 1965, the first Amerindian MP, Stephen Campbell, accompanied the PNC delegation, headed by Forbes Burnham, to London to negotiate the terms of Guyana’s imminent independence. In the official Agreement for the Independence of Guyana (Annex C), it was stipulated that the independent government was to provide legal ownership or rights of occupancy for Amerindians over “areas and reservations or parts thereof, where any tribe or community of Amerindians is now ordinarily resident or settled and other legal rights, such as the rights of passage, in respect of any other lands they now by tradition or custom de facto enjoy freedoms and permissions corresponding to rights of that nature. In this context, it is intended that legal ownership shall comprise all rights normally attaching to such ownership.”

We cannot fail to point out that Amerindian land titling was subjected to extremely gratuitous attacks from members of the APNU/AFC administration, of which Eric Phillips was an official of the State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA). Unlike the descendants of Columbus and most of those they colonised and hegemonised, the Indigenous Peoples view the land they occupy as sacred, since they are sustained in every way through the crops they can grow, the animals they can hunt or fish, the shelters they can build, the cotton fabric they can cover their nakedness with, and the herbs from the forest that provide medicines to cure their ailments.

When most Indigenous Peoples refer to land, as one writer notes, “they do not mean a measurable or quantifiable extension of land, an object of geography and even less a commodity. (Land for them) exceeds the modern limit of reality in presence, it implies the past, heritage, and memory. (It) has to be defended, not for the sake of property, but for the sake of protecting the ancestors, of preserving an origin that is both “past” and always already “present”. Like most modern men, our coastlanders can learn the true meaning of “environmental consciousness” from our Indigenous Peoples, who have not been completely brainwashed, as most of us are, into believing the earth is to be raped and ravished.

The APNU/AFC government attempted to underminethrough stratagems such as attempting to subsume Amerindian Land Rights under a Commission of Inquiry into “African Ancestral Land Rights”, and wild claims that some Indigenous peoples are not actually “indigenous” to Guyana - the authoritative legal acknowledgment of Amerindian Land Rights. Unlike what is being asserted by some individuals like Phillips, claiming to speak on behalf of African Guyanese, the lands to which Indigenous Peoples are being given title are not “reparations” for any past actions of the departed European powers, but an acknowledgment of their unbroken rights over land to which they were spiritually and culturally connected. The Dutch, whose rights and responsibilities the British assumed, never conquered but made treaties with the Indigenous Peoples and offered them annual tributes.

The land demarcated is not based on Guyana assuming the debts of Britain as a successor state, but directly by the latter in Annex C.

By 1976, the Amerindian Act passed by the then PNC government to give effect to Annex C resulted in some Amerindian villages obtaining title to their lands. However, it was not until a new Amerindian Act was passed by the PPP government in 2006 that the full stipulation of Annex C was given meaning. Unlike the allusions as to when any particular Amerindian Tribe arrived in Guyana, Art 60 (1) of the Act declares simply, “An Amerindian Community may apply in writing to the Minister for a grant of State lands provided - (a) it has been in existence for at least twenty-five years; (b) at the time of the application and for the immediately preceding five years, it comprised at least one hundred and fifty persons.”

GPL supplying 1.1 million gals of fuel monthly to power ship – PM Phillips

The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc. is currently supplying more than one million imperial gallons of fuel every month to the 36-megawatt power ship docked at Everton on the East Bank of Berbice in Region Six.

This has been revealed in the National Assembly during consideration of a $32.1 billion Financial Paper that includes $12 billion in subsidies for GPL.

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who has responsibility for the country’s energy sector, was on Friday fielding questions from Opposition Member of Parliament David Patterson, who enquired about the use of the supplementary funds being sought for the state-owned power company, when he explained to the Committee of Supply that the money being asked for is to cover the procurement of some 1.641 million barrels of fuel for GPL – with more than a million gallons going to the 36-megawatt power ship in Berbice.

The PM said, for “the power ship, 1,125,223 imperial gallons” of fuel is supplied per month.

As part of the multimillion-dollar deal GPL signed back in April with Qatarbased Urbacon Concessions Investments, W.L.L (UCI) for the rental of the 36-MW power ship, Guyana has to provide the Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) to operate the generators on board the vessel.

GPL has since retained two companies – Horizon Maritime and Ocean Trader – to transport and store the fuel from Kingston/Vreeden-Hoop to the location of the floating power plant in the Berbice River.

“Each company is being paid Gy$30 per gallon to transport the fuel,” the Prime Minister disclosed.

The power ship arrived in Guyana on May 1 this year, and after several days of technical work and testing to connect it to the national grid, the floating power plant became operational in just over a week. On May 18, GPL said the power ship incrementally increased its generational output to 35MW to the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS).

A capacity test done the following day confirmed the vessel was operating at its maximum capacity of 36MW.

According to PM Phillips, this still applies today.

“I would like to report to

the house that we are paying for 36 megawatts and we are getting 36 megawatts,” the Prime Minister has said. However, acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GPL, Kesh Nandlall, last month told <<Guyana Times>> that GPL has had to reduce the power ship’s generating capacity to ensure reliability, but it is planned to restore the generation to the full 36MW.

Nandlall, in explaining that the ship’s generating capacity has been contributing significantly to the decrease in frequent power outages, has said,

Ravi Dev

Prime Minister Brig. (Ret’d) Mark Phillips

Transmission lines from the power ship are connected to GPL’s DBIS network at Everton, Berbice

Gun used in McDoom robbery found in abandoned house at Middle Road, La Penitence

– passports, Ids and other items of victims also found

One day after a duo of armed bandits had committed a brazen robbery on the ‘Thousand Dollar Store’ at McDoom, Greater Georgetown, the police have recovered a .32 pistol that is suspected to be one of the weapons used in committing the robbery.

In addition, several passports and ID and commercial bank cards belonging to one of the victims of the robbery have been found.

Based on reports received, CID ranks of the Ruimveldt Police Station, acting on intelligence received, travelled to Middle Road, La Penitence Georgetown on Saturday and conducted a comprehensive search of an unoccupied, incomplete, two-storey dilapidated concrete building that sits among thick vegetation. They found nothing of eviden-

female

tial value in the yard, but in a room on the lower flat of the building, they found

In addition, they found one Republic of Guyana passport, one Republic of Trinidad and Tobago passport, and one Republic Bank Visa card, along with two identification cards belonging to one of the robbery victims. These items were processed and taken to the East La Penitence Police Station, where they have been photographed and lodged. Several persons were questioned, but no arrest has been made. However, investigations are ongoing.

GPL supplying 1.1 million gals of fuel ...

“Well, what it means is that we can deliver the power at 96% capacity onto the grid, and that is powering the grid right now through our transmission network and distribution network… So, we were having a significant amount of load shedding as a result of generation shortfall. Right now, that is not the case. We may have some intermittent outages, which are related to the transmission and distribution network from trips and so on.”

According to Nandlall, there has been no major issue experienced since the ship commenced operating.

“It’s really bringing reliability to an additional demand that has been created by the growth to the grid, and so that we can also take some of our current engines down and do regular maintenance that we had. We have to do, and we are able now; we have some capacity in place, so that we can carefully plan out our maintenance programme and execute those programmes so that we bring reliability to the system in delivering power to consumers.”

Earlier this year, GPL signed a multimillion-dollar deal with UCI for the rental of the floating power plant for two years, in a move to add much-needed capacity to the national grid. While the rental deal was signed with UCI, the power ship is owned by Turkey-based Karpowership International.

As part of this agreement, GPL has had to pay a US$1 million mobilisation fee. In addition to supplying the fuel, GPL also has to pay a monthly charter fee of 6.62 US cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) for the power ship, and a monthly operation and maintenance fee of 0.98 US cents per kWh based on electricity generated. Before the arrival of this vessel, the state-owned power company had been experiencing generational shortfalls due to an unprecedented rise in electricity demand, coupled with challenges from its aged equipment.

GPL was generating about 165MW of power at the time, whereas the peak demand was about 180MW. (G-8)

one brown

Michael Kors handbag containing a .32 pistol with one mag-

azine and no ammunition wrapped in a black plastic bag.

The gun that was found in the bag

The abandoned house in which the items were recovered

The passports and other items found in the building

nder the towering eucalyptus trees of the Theatre Guild’s amphitheater garden, 16

Now that the 16 young women have officially been conferred their candidacy for the scholarship pageant, they will compete in talent and dance preliminaries on August 17, followed by interview skills on September 1, and social enterprise presentations and elocution on September

07. The grand coronation is set for September 14 at the National Cultural Centre.

Candidate #6

Chinese-based real estate company

G-Homes is seeking to bring a new style of living to Guyana with a luxury housing development planned for Goed Fortuin on

98 acres of land which sit on 98.92 acres of prime land promises to be a green and smart community, with houses, apartments, office spaces, a mall, and even a kindergarten.

Building Expo, currently being held at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD); and according to its representative Jason Wang, the reception has so far been good. “It’s quite good…. (people) say it’s a great project,” he disclosed.

While noting that the design concept currently unveiled is just a plan, Wang explained that the community can be fully tailored to suit the needs of the

the West Bank of Demerara (WBD).

The company made its presence known at this year’s International

residents.

“Maybe in the future we can have more schools,

or even hospitals; it depends on what the residents want,” he noted.

The company plans to break ground on completion of the new Demerara Bridge. For now, the firm is garnering feedback from

the public.

At the expo, curious persons took the opportunity to fill out forms that indicate their level of interest in the project. The form lists intended house sizes, ranging from 3500 square feet to

as large as 6500 square feet; or even more, if required. House prices are touted from as low as US$350,000 and can get as high as over US$1.5 million.

One of the houses designed for 98 Acres

Jason Wang

Recognising the growing development on the west side of the Demerara River, the company explained, it has been realised that Region Three needs a dedicated space for a modern and more comfortable way of life.

“Through building independent commercial streets, upscale hotels and apartments, top-level commercial office buildings and other public facilities, the project aims to create a central living and consumption centre in the West Coast (Demerara) area, driving the rapid development and population influx of the entire West Coast area, increasing urban employment, and supporting economic development,” the company has out-

lined in its vision outlook.

Further, the company has said the project is more than just housing; it’s also about creating better lifestyles and fostering a more cohesive family life.

“The project will renovate and upgrade the waterfront sports themes, basketball courts, cricket courts, international standard football fields, and other ecological health and leisure function areas. It is the place that satisfies all kinds of family members, to enhance the regional image, attracting more people to live in,” the firm has further outlined.

Even more unique is the company’s plan to integrate technology into the development, so homeowners can

truly experience and appreciate what it means to live in a smart home and smart city.

By utilising new generations of information technology, such as the internet, big data, and cloud computing, the developers aim to provide residents with a safe, comfortable and convenient living environment. Through this use of technology, it is also envisioned that this new gated community would improve safety, living convenience, and property management.

G-Homes’ 98-acre community is just one of several modern and luxurious housing developments envisioned for Guyana in the coming years.

Other developers have at the building expo booths from where they are sharing their vision for a modern way of living.

Even more impressive is the company’s plan to have the water and electricity network buried underground; and there are various fixed home designs to choose from, all of which are customizable to suit any potential homeowner’s needs.

President Dr Irfaan Ali has already assured that come 2025, the economic landscape of Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) would be transformed as Government forges ahead with plans to inject major investments in the region. FROM PAGE 18

An aerial view of what the community is poised to look like

Exhibitors grab opportunities presented at Int’l Building Expo 2024

No booth was left empty at the International Building Expo 2024, as both local and foreign companies took advantage of the opportunities presented to showcase their products and services during the fourday exhibition.

Guyana Times caught up with some of these exhib-

itors, who spoke more about what they have to offer.

Total Wall, which specializes in a vast array of household building products, was represented by its Vice President Vincent Fede, who explained how his business stands out in the Guyanese market.

“We’ve been selling our

products here in Guyana for quite some time now, and basically, this event that is being held over here is tremendous. We’ve had so many people coming in that this is a wonderful event for us,” he explained.

He also compared his business with other competitive businesses by stating that the products his company offers are significantly dif-

ferent from those offered by the competition.

“You can actually take a coin and scratch it on our walls, and you can wear away the coin before you wear away our wall. So, our products are extremely durable. Not only that, but they also have a lot of elongation and flexibility. If you do the same to someone else’s product, it’s going to shrink and

crack. Not only that, but our competition’s products…,” he detailed.

Not too far away was the Trinidadian business RDK Welding and Fabricating Ltd, which is looking to capitalize on the annual Expo to showcase its products to potential Guyanese clients.

Avinash Seedath, a representative of this company, detailed what that business entailed.

“Well, in our business, we are displaying doors and burglar proofing, and Guyanese persons can expect that we were here this year. It has turned out to be alright so far; a good number of people have been coming in and checking out our doors. Production has been going well so far,” he explained.

Vincent Fede – Vice President of Total Wall

The Total Wall booth

Avinash Seedath – Representative of RDK Welding and Fabricating Ltd

Exhibitors grab opportunities...

Amid the grand-size businesses, there was the small business section, where this newscast spoke with young businesswoman Affeefah London, 20-year-old owner of Adorn Atelier, which specializes in making crotchet-style clothing.

Excited to be participating in her first major exhibition, she detailed, “It feels re-

ally good! It’s a lot of exposure right before the expo, and it’s been a really good thing for the business; and so I have been getting a lot of customers for the business. I am still in school as a UG student, but it’s still an experience, because everyone is more experienced than I am. So, just watching everyone: the way they advertise, the way they bring in cus-

tomers, it’s definitely a learning experience.”

Meanwhile, Qingjian Group Co. Ltd (CNQC), another exhibitor at this year’s expo, is presenting Guyanese with the opportunity to join its workforce. The Manager, Shawn, a Chinese national, has said that as the company showcases its work, it is also inviting Guyanese to get

skilled training and work with them.

“Our Chinese company has been operating in Guyana for several years, working on major projects, and has hired and trained some 200 Guyanese persons,” Shawn has said. “We have many workers full of experience, and they are very professional. Also, we employ many Guyanese, and I think we can work together and cooperate. They are skilled, and now they are familiar with the project. I think this can make Guyana have a great future. Until now, more than 200 persons we worked with together have many skills.

“We arrived in Guyana

in 2017, and we have many projects now, especially in Georgetown — building hotels, warehouses, and much more.”

The RDK Welding and Fabricating Ltd booth

The items offered by Adorn Atelier

20-year-old Affeefah London, owner of Adorn Atelier

Time is ripe to invest in Guyana - GoInvest CEO tells local, int’l investors

The Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest)

is playing a pivotal role at this year’s International Building Expo 2024, being held at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

During the event, Guyana’s Chief Investment Officer, Co-Invest Head Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, led an exclusive investment talk with a group of local and international investors, wherein he highlighted the main goal of evaluating the opportunity of local products entering into inter-

national markets, and spoke about exploring opportunities for foreign companies to establish production facilities and engage in partnerships with local companies in Guyana.

This initiative aligns with the nation’s broader economic goals of boosting local industries and attracting international investments.

Dr. Ramsaroop, in emphasising the strategic advantages of investing in Guyana, focused on the country’s ongoing infrastructural developments, favourable investment climate, and sectors ripe for investment, such as energy, agriculture and tourism.

His presentation followed a comprehensive address

made by President Dr. Irfaan Ali on the opening night of the expo, wherein he provided a detailed vision of where Guyana would be positioned by 2030.

President Ali outlined the strategic plans being executed in real-time; including major infrastructural projects, advancements in technology, and initiatives aimed at achieving economic diversification and sustainable development. The President’s address set the tone for the expo, reinforcing Government’s commitment to transforming Guyana into a regional powerhouse.

The first day of the investment event featured presenta-

tions from key players in the business sector, including the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), MACORP, and Sherwin Williams. These companies showcased their products and services, highlighted their readiness to contribute to Guyana’s economic growth, and publicised their interest in exploring export opportunities and local production partnerships. Through these engagements, the Guyana Office for Investment aims to foster collaboration between local and international businesses, driving economic diversification and solidifying Guyana’s role as a dynamic player in the global market.

CEO of the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest), Dr Peter Ramsaroop

A section of the meeting

GPF Immigration Dept boosted with 20 new ranks

The Immigration Department of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has been boosted with new ranks who have completed an intense sixweek course at the Force's Academy.

These new immigration officers received their certificates during a simple graduation ceremony held on Friday at the Officers' Training Centre on Camp Street, Georgetown.

The course (2/2024) was coordinated by Sergeant Hoosein. During the course, the newly enlisted ranks underwent a structured, comprehensive curriculum, interactive classroom ses-

sions, and practical and theoretical exercises.

Director of the Guyana Police Force's Academy, Woman Superintendent Sonia Herbert, expressed confidence that these ranks are now fully equipped to excel in their roles and perform their functions and tasks professionally. Urging the graduates to remember the values that were instilled in them during the course, she admonished, "Be the embodiment of professionalism, the champions of justice, and the guardians of our nation's sovereignty." She also lauded the graduates for the dedication and commitment shown throughout the

course.

18-year-old Woman

Constable Jasmine Wiggins has been named the valedictorian of the course, while Constable Narine has been adjudged the first runner-up and Woman Constable Amsterdam has been adjudged the second runner-up. The prize for the most improved student has been awarded to Woman Constable Harris.

Valedictorian Jasmine Wiggins joined the Immigration course, Batch 2/2024, on June 24, 2024 as an apprentice completing a comprehensive sixweek intensive programme. Following her award,

Wiggins stated, “I would like to advise youths of today to focus on their studies and finish school. Although it may be challenging, it is all worth it, and you will feel proud of your success. Young people join youth groups because they will mould them into better people and always help them to make wise decisions. Please do not do things that will harm their future in any way. Always trust in God, and continue praying because it works. Youths, stay true to who you are, and choose your friends wisely because not everyone will want to see you succeed. Aim for the sky and go up from there.”

Valedictorian Jasmine Wiggins

The 20 new Immigration Officers

Court discontinues case against Berbice trio busted with stolen meat

– after owner agrees to accept $260,000 as compensation

The larceny of cattle charge brought against Oudwin Binda, 47, Clent Gray, 27, and Shermon Thompson, 44, has been dismissed after the owner of the two bulls they were accused of stealing and butchering agreed to accept $260,000 as compensation.

Arrested on August 27, 2024, the three men were arraigned before Whim Magistrate Tuanna Hardy on Friday, but the virtual complainant Ganisey Parsram, 63, of No. 64 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, offered no evidence against the men, opting instead to accept the sum of $260,000 as compensation.

Accordingly, the matter has been discontinued.

RECAP

It has been reported that Chavand Parsram, son of the victim Ganisey Parsram, told investigators that his father has been the registered owner of Brand #OG98 for about 20 years, and had used it to brand all of his cattle, including the two stolen bulls.

He further said that, at about 16:00h on August 1,

2024, he had secured the two bulls mentioned in a ‘mesh pen’ at their No. 64 Village pasture, and left for his residence. When he returned to the pasture on the following day at about 07:00h, he checked the pen and discovered the two bulls missing. He said that on Wednesday, August 7, at about 20:00h, he had reportedly received a telephone call informing that someone was stealing cattle and loading them in a motor car. He

immediately contacted the Springlands Police Station and reported the matter, and ranks responded by going to the location, where they intercepted Toyota Raum PPP 2810, which was at the time being driven by Gray, with Thompson and Binda being the other occupants.

During a search of the vehicle, four quarters of a cow were unearthed, the carcass of each bearing the brand number mentioned above.

The men did not have any transit, veterinary pass, or notice of intention to slaughter at the time they were stopped and searched. However, they related that two men – Jerry and Brooks – had given them the two bulls, and they were taking the meat to Cromarty Village. They were subsequently arrested and charged.

Shermon Thompson

Oudwin Binda Clent Gray

duo busted with ganja, illegal firearm

Two male residents of New Amsterdam, Berbice have been taken into custody following the discovery of an illegal firearm and a quantity of ganja.

The police have said

that, acting on information received, ranks went to Savannah Park in New Amsterdam on Friday and searched the home of 20-yearold Tiequan Hartman, also called ‘Tooke’, for stolen articles.

During that operation, a transparent plastic bag containing a quantity of cannabis was unearthed, and

Hartman related that it belonged to his father. Further search led to the discovery of seven transparent Ziplock

bags with ganja. The police also searched the home of Hartman’s neighbour, Akeem Bovell, 24, during which a rope tied to a zinc fence in the back-

yard led to the discovery of a multicoloured handbag containing cannabis and a .22 pistol.

These two men have been arrested pending charges.

The gun that the two men had

The ganja

Arrested: Akeem Bovell Arrested: Tiequan Hartman

Parliament approves $2.3 billion to pay Trinidadian companies for 1995 road project

– as APNU defied court judgement in 2017 by not paying debt

The National Assembly on Friday evening approved the sum of $2.3 billion to settle outstanding payments due to two Trinidadian companies - NH International Limited and Emile Elias and Company Limited - for works done on parts of the Georgetownto-Timehri Main Road Rehabilitation Project, which was undertaken nearly 30 years ago.

This matter dates back to 1995, when a $673 million contract was inked for works to commence on the project.

The Guyana Government is now seeking to put this issue to rest by paying these companies the sums owed to

them, along with interest.

According to reports, during the execution of the road works, disputes arose between the contractors and the Government on several issues of payment, extensions of time, and additional works carried out by the contractor.

On April 16, 1998, the two contracting companies demanded $517 million from the Government - an amount certified by the engineer - but this was not paid by Government at the time. Consequently, the companies jointly approached the local judiciary to obtain redress following the Government of Guyana’s failure to pay over US$8 million along with $1.4

billion for works done.

In 2017, the court ruled in favour of the contractors, but the then APNU+AFC Coalition Government failed to make the payments; which, now with interest, has accrued to US$20 million.

Responding to questions from Opposition Member of Parliament David Patterson, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill revealed that the current administration intends to finally clear the debt.

“This NH Elias matter is a matter that has been around for more than 20 years. It was litigated and completed during the tenure of the APNU/AFC… The then Attorney General lost

the case, and they refuse to honour the judgement; that is why the matter is being addressed here this afternoon… As the Minister of Public Works in 2024, I am asked to ensure that the judgement of the court is upheld, and the sums paid and interest accrued (on) a matter that was finally litigated and determined in 2019,” Edghill disclosed.

The $2.3 billion granted by the National Assembly on Friday to clear the debt is part of the $1.6 billion approved for the Public Works Ministry under the $32.1 billion Financial Paper 2. Request for the subvention was made on July 31 by

Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh.

Along with this subvention, the sum of $1.6 billion has been approved for Sea and River Defence works to be conducted by the Public Works Ministry; $297.4 million to support the operations of the Transport and Harbours Department; $159.2 million for completion of the Bartica Stelling, and $680.5 million to facilitate critical upgrades to ferry vessels.

Further, as the Government continues to improve connectivity across the country, especially in the infrastructure sector, an additional $904 million has been

approved for construction and rehabilitation of hinterland roads, and $600 million has been approved for completion of infrastructure for the critical supply of water to farflung communities.

China’s Shandong Province eyes deepening collaboration with Guyana

touts opportunities in agriculture, infrastructure & manufacturing sectors

With a spot in China’s top three economic provinces, Shandong is leading in areas such as agriculture and manufacturing, and now the Chinese provincial powerhouse has noticed the unprecedented growth Guyana is undergoing and wants to be a part of this journey.

“Guyana and Shandong, we have a very strong desire to develop our economies. I think in the future we can become trade partners… As Guyana and Shandong develop, I think we will have more and more opportunities for each other,” Director of the American & Oceanian Affairs Division at the Foreign Affairs Office of the People’s Government of Shandong Province, Zhang Peng, told <<Guyana Times>> last month.

In 2023, Shandong recorded the third highest GDP growth, which exceeded five per cent, with revenue reaching RMB $11.35 trillion (approximately US$1.57 trillion), and this year, the province is aiming to maintain its GDP growth at above five per cent.

Shandong enjoys huge market potential. It is implementing the major programmes to foster new drivers of growth, building itself into a model of rural vitalization and stepping up the building of a strong maritime province.

The Chinese province has established 666 sister relations and friendly cooperative relationships with provinces (states) and cities of 102 countries on six conti-

Director of American & Oceanian Affairs in Shandong’s Foreign Affairs Office, Zhang Peng

nents, including 77 pairs of provincial-level relations.

Last year, Shandong registered a total foreign trade volume of 3,26 trillion RMB yuan, up by 1.7 per cent from the previous year. With established sister relations and friendly cooperative relations with provinces and cities in 102 countries around the world, Shandong’s reach has extended to neighbouring Brazil, Cuba, Peru, and more recently Guyana.

While Shandong has already penetrated the Guyanese market with its heavy-duty machinery and major role in the country’s infrastructure development, Zhang believes there is room to deepen this collaboration and expand the areas of cooperation.

“[In] agriculture, you will choose a good partner, because Shandong is strong in agriculture because it’s number one in China…I think besides agriculture, we could have more cooperation in fishery, or infrastructure cooperation, or

Some of the agricultural equipment

China’s Shandong Province

the manufacturing sector,” the Chinese official indicated.

Currently, Shandong’s China National Heavy Duty Truck Group, producers of Sinotruk and Weichai Lovol, manufacturer of heavy-duty agricultural equipment, have their products in the Guyanese market.

Meanwhile, in infrastructure, Shandong’s Qingjian Group Co. Ltd (CNQC) has been involved in several major infrastructural projects, especially in the hospitality sector, working on the New Pegasus Suites, the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, and the Blue Ridge Hotel project. CNQC is also undertaking the US$10 million transformation of the Joe Vieira Park facility.

According to the Shandong Director of the American & Oceanian Affairs Division, “As the development of Guyana [takes place], I think more and more businesses from Shandong would like to go

to Guyana to seek the opportunity of business in

[that] overseas market.

“I think in the near future you can see more businesses from Shandong or from other provinces to have a field trip there… We encourage our businesses from Shandong to explore the market in Guyana, and even in other Caribbean countries.”

Back in April 2023, a delegation from Shandong visited Guyana to explore business opportunities here.

During a meeting with the Chinese group, Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud urged for greater collaboration in the areas of agriculture and industry.

While noting that ex-

ports to China have been increasing due to rising shipments of oil, he challenged the delegation to increase imports from Guyana, especially relative to trade in non-oil products.

These sentiments were shared by Zhang, who believes there is scope for Guyanese businesses to tap into the Shandong market.

“In Shandong, we have a very good environment for business. We have friendly people here; that is quite important. So, if you invest in Shandong, you choose a good partner for the future,” the Chinese official encouraged. (Vahnu Manickchand)

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill

produced by Weichai Lovol in

Gov’t in talks with int’l partners to acquire dengue vaccines from Japan

The Government of Guyana is looking at the possibility of procuring dengue vaccines manufactured by Takeda Pharmaceuticals’ –a Japanese firm.

During an interview with <<Guyana Times,>> Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony disclosed that talks have commenced with international partners such as the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to gain access to the dengue vaccines, given that it is scarce and expensive.

“There is a vaccine that is manufactured in Japan, but right now global supply is very scarce. For example, a lot of this vaccine has been bought by Brazil, and they have an immunization programme that they are giving to their five-to-10 years of age, which they have been giving to the children of Brazil. But the vaccine is quite expensive, and right now it is very scarce, so the price probably has gone up too. We were looking into it, and if we get an organisation like PAHO to access the vaccine through their strategic fund and make it available at a cheaper cost, then it would become more affordable to countries like (those) in the Americas,” he explained.

In addition to cost and availability, Minister Anthony explained that the efficacy of the dengue vaccines is currently being examined in order to deter-

mine their effectiveness to all the strains of the mosquito-borne virus, which include DENV-1, -2, -3, and -4.

“In the Americas right now, we have all four variants that are circulating. And the challenge that you have with dengue is that if you were infected with one subtype, you would have mild symptoms; nothing will go wrong with you. But if you get infected a second time with a different subtype, you can have a more severe form of the infection. So that’s a challenge that we’re trying to work through. So, that’s the challenge with the vaccine. One the efficacy, two the availability, and three the cost,”

Dr. Anthony detailed.

The minister further stated that, in the interim, the Health Ministry is focusing on prevention and early detection of dengue cases.

On this point, he disclosed that work has intensified and the public health sector is testing more persons for the virus.

“Last year we probably did -- overall for the whole year -- about 26,000 tests. This year, already we have completed about 29,000 tests. So, we’re doing more testing, and we’re trying to find people as early as possible. And I think with the testing that we have done, and I have to check the numbers, I think we have

Dr David Hinds to lead WPA in 2025 national elections

The Working Peoples’ Alliance (WPA) on Saturday declared that it has selected Dr. David Hinds as its presidential candidate and the leader of its list of candidates for the 2025 general and regional elections.

Hinds, a longstanding member of the WPA, has also been appointed a co-leader of the party.

“WPA feels that Dr. Hinds brings to the new roles a wealth of political experience and knowledge of Guyanese politics and society. He has also emerged as one of the major social and political influencers in our country. Through his daily program, Politics 101, he has developed a political following which WPA feels could help increase electoral support for our party in the coming elections,” a release from the party on Saturday stated.

Moreover, the WPA has said it has appointed a new executive to lead the party in the coming period.

Members of that executive include Dr David Hinds, Tacuma Ogunseye and Rohit Kanhai as co-leaders; Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, Dr. Clive Thomas and Dr. Maurice Odle as elders; Deon Abrams as Chairman; Kidackie Amsterdam as Organizing Secretary; Desmond Trotman as Administrative Secretary; Keith Branch as Overseas/ Diaspora Secretary, and Dr. Dennis Canterbury as

Economic Policy Secretary.

The WPA has said that, in the coming months, it intends to launch its campaign with initial outreaches to communities across the country. Those outreaches are aimed at reintroducing the party to society, and “putting our platform to the broad masses of people”. The party also intends to use that opportunity to increase its membership and support base.

found about 6,000 positive persons; and of those, a smaller fraction would have gone into a hospital,” he said.

Dengue in the Americas Dengue is an acute febrile disease that is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted by the Aedes Egypti mosquito. There are four se-

rotypes of the dengue virus, known as DENV 1-4, each of which can cause an infection. Reinfection with a different serotype from that of a previous infection can result in a more severe form of the disease.

In March of this year, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) warned about the surge in dengue cases in the Americas. Guyana recorded 7,859 cases of dengue in 2023, while hospitalizations related to dengue reached 1,182 individuals.

In 2024, over 3000 cases have been detected from January to August, while there have been approximately four dengue-related deaths.

Guyana’s public healthcare model to be adopted in C’bean,

Africa – CEO HeDPAC

In a bid to bolster the self-sufficiency and individual capacity of countries in the Caribbean and Africa, the Guyana Government has agreed to engage in information exchange with nations interested in adopting the country’s public healthcare model.

This initiative, which is being pursued in collaboration with the Health Development Partnership for Africa and the Caribbean (HeDPAC), coincides with the administration’s commitment to fostering development with its partners.

HeDPAC is a health development platform operating between the African and Caribbean Regions with the aim to strengthen SouthSouth partnerships to build institutional capacity within and between the regions, in order to collectively address pressing health challenges.

In an exclusive interview with this publication, HeDPAC’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Halie Getahun revealed that works are underway for the models of Guyana’s Community Health Worker and Telemedicine programmes to be transferred to other nations.

Dr. Getahun, who recently concluded his visit here, highlighted that implementing the models in other Caribbean and African nations would allow these countries to boost access to healthcare by bridging the divide between cities and far-flung areas.

“The overall purpose, our vision, is actually to have universal health coverage to be the ultimate goal for every citizen in the two regions, Africa and Caribbean; which I had the privilege actually to witness

in my last two days of visit in this country, where you actually provide health coverage free of charge to every citizen. And also, to see this ambitious vision of advancing your health sector and health service, which actually was impressive that a lot of countries can take a lesson,” Dr Getahun has said.

“So HEDPAC, the organization I’m heading, will harvest those excellent experiences that we were able to witness in Guyana, so that other countries in the region as well as in Africa will also benefit. (4:17) So we create that platform for exchange of best practices, so that countries learn between themselves and also from each other,” he added.

Guyana’s Community Health Workers programme equips participants with the competencies required to deliver quality healthcare services in their respective communities. As a result, these workers are mandated to undergo rigorous training over a specific period before they are certified to serve.

Meanwhile, the telemedicine programme allows Community Health Workers (CHWs) and Medexes across the country to interact in real-time with patients and

healthcare providers at different sites.

The telemedicine centres are supported by audio and video equipment, and have integrated medical devices that allow healthcare workers to diagnose, evaluate, and treat patients remotely.

To complement this, these sites are outfitted with computers, satellite technology, digital stethoscopes, pulse oximeters, infrared thermometers, blood pressure monitors, mobile ultrasonography, exam cameras, and other equipment.

As a result, citizens can access a wide range of specialised medical services, such as ultrasound, cardiology, and oncology, among other services.

According to Dr. Getahun, the organization HeDPAC plans to merge these programs with the country’s Smart Hospitals initiative in order to optimize its effectiveness.

“As I said, the immense political leadership to advance and revolutionize the health sector and the number of hospitals that are going to be built, what they call smart hospitals -- I have (had) the privilege also to visit actually two hospitals that are under construction -- the vision is incredibly impressive, and can actually give lessons for several countries. And then the universal, free-of-charge service starting from a trivial common infection into sophisticated organ transplantation, that vision is incredibly impressive! That could be helpful for other countries to follow through. So, as HEDPAC, we are really trying to take that lesson and facilitate that exchange of best practice with other countries,” Dr Getahun has said.

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony

Dr David Hinds

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HeDPAC, Dr Halie Getahun

Kares T10 Blast…

ENet, Guyana’s only locally-owned and leading telecommunications company will broadcast the quarter-final matches of the second Kares

One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast set for the Enmore Community Centre Ground today from 09:30h.

The quarter-final matches are Team Corruption vs. Montra Jaguars at 09:30h, Tarmac Titans vs. Mahdia at 11:30h, Titans All-Stars vs. The Guards at 13:30h, and Brooklyn Youth Strikers vs. Diamond Gunners at 15:30h.

Matches will be on E1, and those on the go can access it from the efficient Dream TV app on their mobile devices.

Additionally, FL Sport will have the matches live on YouTube, its mobile app, and its website.

“We are extremely thankful for the support of ENet, a transformative force in the local telecommunications sector. Last year, they broadcast matches from the National Stadium, and many people got to see the matches from the comfort of their homes and see many budding stars in action. We have gone further, and the quarter-final matches will be on show. ENet is certainly helping to take this sport to higher heights”, John Ramsingh

ENet to broadcast Super 8 matches at Enmore

of FL Sport noted. The organiser also reminded those who wish to experience the live thrills at the venue that “the only thing you need to do is come early and secure a parking spot, as admission is free.”

According to Ramsingh, each of the four winners will pocket $100,000 while each loser will get $30,000, for a total payout of $520,000, sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

He elaborated that, at minimum, each of these eight teams will regain its entrance fee of $25,000, while the winner receives an early bonus.

Each of the losing semi-finalists on August 24 will take home $250,000, compliments of Premier Insurance.

Second-place – $500,000 from SuperBet Guyana, and the winner pockets $1.5M from Star Rentals.

More so, players will vie for the titles of Most Runs, Most Wickets, and Player of the Final. Each winner will receive a Smart TV and a $75,000 cash prize compliments of Regal Stationery and Computer Centre.

Assuria Insurance will present a motorbike, and $85,000 will go to the Most Valuable Player.

Additionally, $100,000 will be split equally between the Kawasaki Super Striker of the tournament (player with the highest strike rate— minimum of 12 balls) and the Most Economical bowler (lowest economy rate—mini-

GFF launches new logo

Founded in 1902, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has a rich and proud history. It is a forward-thinking football federation and is an emerging federation in CONCACAF now competing in League A of the CONCACAF Nations League.

The “Golden Jaguars” and the “Lady Jaguars” embody the spirit, culture and strength of Guyana and its people. It is with the future of the GFF in mind that the Council and its members have looked at re-branding the GFF, with a new logo and new look that will take the Federation into a successful future.

The colours of the new logo are inspired by the colours of the flag. The country’s flag, the GFF’s history and national symbols have been the inspiration behind the new logo. It is a modern, clean and clear design which is rooted in the identity of the nation.

The flag of Guyana, known as "The Golden Arrowhead," features a design with significant sym -

bolic meaning attributed to its colours:

1. Green: Represents the vast forests and agricultural resources of Guyana, symbolizing the country's rich vegetation and the importance of its agricultural sector.

2. White: Symbolizes the rivers and waterways of the country, highlighting the significance of Guyana's water resources and their contribution to the nation's economy and environment.

3. Gold: Stands for the country's mineral wealth, particularly its gold reserves. It also represents the bright future and prosperity of the nation.

4. Black: Represents

the endurance and perseverance of the people of Guyana, reflecting their strength and determination in overcoming challenges, which perfectly embodies the spirit of the Golden Jaguars and the Lady Jaguars.

5. Red: Symbolizes the zeal and dynamic nature of the nation, indicating the energy and vitality of the Guyanese people.

The national flower of Guyana is the Victoria Regia Lily commonly known as the Giant Water Lily. This impressive aquatic plant is native to the waterways of Guyana and is renowned for its large, round leaves that can reach up to 3 meters (10 feet) in diameter. The flowers of the Victoria Regia lily are equally remarkable, with blooms that are initially white and later turn pink after pollination. This plant is a symbol of the natural beauty and ecological diversity of Guyana. It is a part of the Coat of Arms of Guyana and is incorporated in the logo as a symbol of our nationhood and beauty.

has opted to increase the prizes for each Player-ofthe-Match from the quarter-finals. From now on, the longstanding jewellers will donate a silver chain to each Player-of-the-Match.

Additionally, the organisers indicated that due to unforeseen circumstances and based on discussions with sponsors, the finals and Cricket For Charity match involving President Dr. Irfaan Ali has been brought forward to Saturday, August 24.

Matches at the National Stadium will commence from

port of Kares Engineering, Banks DIH Limited, Montra Restaurant and Lounge, Demerara Mutual, ETS, Metro Office and Computer Supplies, Jacobs’ Jewellery, Digital Technology, First Change Builders Inc, KFC Guyana, Hoosein’s Security Services, NEW GPC Inc., Building Expo 2024, Giftland OfficeMax, Sankar’s Auto Works, ENet, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc., Trophy Stall, ANSA McAL Distribution, Camille’s Academy, R. Kisson Contracting Service, Ministry of Human Services

mum of 24 balls).

It will bring over G$3.4M being distributed in cash prizes.

More so, Manoj Goldsmith

15:00h and run into the evening.

The Kares One Guyana T10 Blast also enjoys the sup-

and Social Security, RS53 RestoBar and Lounge, Samaroo Investments, and Coel’s Boutique.

DCC youth cricket camp to commence on August 20

The ‘Home of Legends’ at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) will host their annual Summer Youth Cricket Camp for prospective players between the ages of 7 and 19 years old.

The Camp is slated to run from August 20th to 30th at the Club’s New Garden and Lance Gibbs Streets, Queenstown location, from 09:00hrs to 15:30hrs on Mondays to Fridays.

The Club’s Summer Cricket Program of 2024 will be targeting one hundred (100) youths aims to provide (10) days of Fun, Fundamentals and Skill Development. The program will be structured to provide step by step instruction and the participants would be placed in groups according to age and skill level.

The program will include a variety of fun and exciting activities, which apart from enhancing skills will also develop co-ordination, agility, sharpen up reflexes, increase knowledge of the game and the expectation is that it will

provide immense enjoyment and satisfaction for the participants. Participants will be involved in a number of natural movements daily, such as running, jumping, catching, throwing, bowling and hitting. There will be classroom sessions involving life skills and cricket education.

Refreshments including snacks, lunch, water will also be provided daily.

The club has put togeth-

er a team of quality and experienced coaches in Mark

The youths will be given a certificate at the end of the camp and the outstanding participants in various categories will receive prizes.

DCC’s Summer Youth Camp will cost $10,000 GYD with registration forms being available at the Club.

Some pulsating action is on the cards this Sunday at the Enmore Community Centre Ground

All eyes will be centred on the action on Sunday at the Enmore Community Centre Ground

The recently unveiled GFF Logo

Children attending DCC’s summer youth camp will benefit from the expertise of renowned former cricketer Roger Harper

Harper, Roger Harper, Kevin Ross, Rawle Merell, Abena Parker, Ronele Bourne and Darien Best.

Maharaj, Rabada's perfect mini-day puts South Africa in position for win

ATest that seemed destined for a draw is set for a thrilling final day, weather-permitting, after South Africa grabbed the game by the scruff of the neck on the fourth evening. Despite having only two hours of play on Saturday, South Africa took a 124-run first-innings lead after they bowled West Indies out for 233 and then scored 30 runs in five overs to put themselves in a position to push for a win.

Rain has affected every day of this Test so far. It seemed as if play wouldn't get underway today as more than 50mm of rain in some areas of the island had raised a yellow-level alert. But, after a sixhour delay, play did start at Queen's Park Oval and South Africa took control. They forced a West Indian collapse of 6 for 60 in 16.1 overs to ensure they were batting again by the end of the day. Given the amount of time lost overall, and par -

ticularly on the first and fourth days, that this much has happened is impressive enough. Only 15 overs were possible on day one and 30 were scheduled for day four and though the action was

SCOREBOARD

75.4 ov), 6-174 (Joshua Da Silva, 76.1 ov), 7-188 (Kavem Hodge, 83.4 ov), 8-192 (Gudakesh Motie, 85.1 ov), 9-215 (Kemar Roach, 87.4 ov), 10233 (Jayden Seales, 91.5 ov) •

BOWLING O-M-R-W Kagiso Rabada 18-3-56-3 Lungi Ngidi 11.5-5-26-1 Wiaan Mulder 9-2-25-0

Keshav Maharaj 40-15-76-4 Aiden Markram 13-1-42-1

South Africa 2nd Innings

Tony de Zorzi not out 14 Aiden Markram not out 9 Extras (b 4, lb 2, nb 1 ) 7

TOTAL 5 Ov (RR: 6.00) 30/0 Yet to bat: Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Ryan Rickelton, Kyle Verreynne †, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

BOWLING O-M-R-W Kemar Roach 2-0-15-0

Jomel Warrican 2-0-4-0 Jayden Seales 1-0-5-0

truncated, it was absorbing. Matters resumed with South Africa 13 overs away from the second new ball, and they restarted with spin from both ends, which meant Aiden Markram had

to begin the day's proceedings. Jason Holder immediately took the opportunity to put pressure on South Africa's white-ball captain by creaming the first ball through the covers for four. He went on to

hit Markram over mid-off and toward deep midwicket, but Markram won the mini-battle when he flattened Holder's off stump in his tenth over. Three balls later, Keshav Maharaj had Joshua da Silva caught at mid-on to claim his fourth wicket of the innings.

Maharaj would have had five in his next over when Kemar Roach, on 0, popped a chance up in the direction of David Bedingham at silly point. It needed quick reactions and a bit of luck to stick, but the ball just evaded Bedingham's outstretched right hand.

The new ball was taken as soon as it became available but South Africa stuck with the spinners. Markram went on to bowl an eight-over spell before being replaced by Kagiso Rabada, who took his 292nd Test wicket with this fourth ball. Bedingham made no mistake at first-slip and took the catch to dismiss Kavem Hodge. Rabada's discipline continued to dismantle West Indies' lower order. Gudakesh Motie met

US superstars beat France to win Olympic gold

The United States maintained their grip on the Olympic men's basketball title by overwhelming hosts France to win a fifth successive gold medal in Paris.

A star-studded American team packed with NBA icons, led by LeBron James and Steph Curry, demonstrated their quality to win 98-87 amid a febrile atmosphere at Bercy Arena.

The success saw the current crop emulate the 1992 'Dream Team' which they have been regularly compared to.

In front of almost 20,000 boisterous fans, France refused to roll over and moved back within three points at 82-79 with the clock ticking down in the final quarter.

But Curry, as he so regularly does, instantly landed a three-pointer for 8579 to ease the pressure and swished three more as the

Steph Curry scored 24 points as he led the way again for the United

Americans raced away. Ultimately, Les Bleus did not have enough to put the Americans into an unwanted bracket of failure.

Pretty much every US Olympic squad since the Barcelona Games has been compared to the side led by Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson.

Six teams have won Olympic gold - but none have ever come close to being revered like this Gen Z ensemble cast.

Now, after securing victory in Paris, a group featuring four NBA regular season MVP winners - James, Curry, Kevin Durant and Joel Embiid - 11 NBA All-

Stars and seven NBA champions has to be mentioned in the same breath.

Curry was the focal point of the American celebrations when the final hooter went, hugged by his team-mates and draped in a Stars and Stripes flag by James.

How US stars claimed gold

The high-octane atmosphere in the stands continued on the court as the stars came out to play.

France began well with their talisman Wembanyama - the 7ft 2in prodigy - scoring seven points in a fast and furious start.

But the Americans quickly raised their level and responded strongly.

James illustrated their growing confidence with a behind-the-back assist which Devin Booker put away before a pair of three-pointers from Anthony Edwards se

a full delivery by closing the face of the bat too early and edged to Markram at second slip, and Roach was struck just under the kneeroll on the front pad to be given out lbw. He reviewed only to see three reds from ball-tracking on the replay. At the other end, Maharaj kept going and only ran into trouble when Jomel Warrican took him on. Warrican hit Maharaj over his head for six at the start of his 38th over - and he bowled all 38 in succession - and then over long-on for six more two balls later. Jayden Seales also showed some positive intent and ended Maharaj's 39th over by hitting him over midwicket for four. Maharaj was denied the opportunity to get his tenth Test five-for by Lungi Ngidi, who replaced Rabada and bowled Seales to take his first wicket of the match. Maharaj bowled 40 overs in total, unchanged - from the Media Centre end - across two days. With more rain expected on Sunday, South Africa were in a hurry to score as many runs as possible. So, Markram and de Zorzi went out with intent. They were busy at the crease and quick between the wickets. Markram showed his class with back-to-back cover drives off Roach's second over. In the last over of the day, de Zorzi hit Seales in the air through point for four. Two balls later, he reached for a wide ball and got a thick outside edge. Hodge, at first slip, hesitated for a millisecond and ended up getting both hands to the ball but dropped it to end a disappointing day for West Indies.

(ESPNCricinfo)

cured a 20-15 advantage at the end of the first quarter.

France rallied at the start of the second period to turn a five-point deficit into a lead, but Team USA stepped on the gas.

A six-point gap opened up at 37-31 when James trampled through French defenders in trademark fashion, with Curry and Jrue Holiday landing from behind the arc to put them eight points ahead at halftime.

The hosts had an uphill task in front of them to dethrone the kings of the Olympic court.

Continued to be backed by vociferous support, they kept plugging away to stay within reach.

The third quarter closed at 72-66 and, although they refused to give up in the final period, their wait for a maiden Olympic title goes on. (BBC

States

Players didn't leave their hotel all morning due to the constant rain

Jomel Warrican made an unbeaten 35 off 32 balls

CPL tickets, GAW merchandise go on sale from tomorrow

The Guyana Amazon Warriors box office will finally open its doors this Monday, August 12th as tickets sales for the anticipated 2024 season of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) commences.

As the local franchise attempts the Championship repeat, fans can get in on the action by purchasing tickets for any of the 7 preliminary matches being hosted at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, in September.

In addition to tickets, exclusive GAW Merchandise will also be available at the box office from Monday, August 12. Merchandise available includes Amazon Warriors replica shirts, trousers, hats, mugs, bags, keyrings, amongst others.

The Box office at 233-234 Camp Street will be opened from 08.30hrs to 16:30hrs on weekdays and 08:30hrs to 13:00hrs on Saturdays.

The ticket prices are set at $2,500 for the Grass Mound, $3,500 for the Orange Stand, $5,500 for the Red Stand, and $6,000 for the Green Stand.

The Guyana leg of the tournament kicks off at the National Stadium, Providence on September 20th with an exciting clash between the defending champions, Guyana

Amazon Warriors, and the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots. This match, along with several other thrilling fixtures, promises to deliver high-octane cricket action. Here is the lineup of matches and ticket availability:

Friday, September 20th: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots (19:00hrs)

Saturday, September 21st: Saint Lucia Kings vs Barbados Royals (10:00hrs)

Saturday, September 21st: Guyana Amazon

Warriors vs Antigua and Barbuda Falcons (19:00hrs)

Sunday, September 22nd: Barbados Royals vs Saint Lucia Kings (10:00hrs)

Wednesday, September 25th: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Barbados Royals (19:00hrs)

Saturday, September 28th: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Saint Lucia Kings (10:00hrs)

Sunday, September 29th: Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Trinbago Knight Riders (19:00hrs)

President Ali bolsters cricketers’ future with massive donation of gear

All the essentials that a young cricketer, male or female, would need to ensure their success in the sport, were on Saturday morning individually packaged and presented to hundreds of youth cricketers at the Arthur Chung Conference Center (ACCC) Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

youths will have the flex

ibility to adjust their new gears if needed.

The initiative is a brain- child of President Dr. Irfaan Ali and received support from Members of the Cabinet, which saw equipment such as Balls,

“But there is a 15 days change policy. That is if you have to get your helmet adjusted, if you have to change from left to right- handed, if you have to change the

And they’re off: 16th running of Guyana Cup set for today

The entire country is buzzing for the 16th running of the Guyana Cup which takes centre stage today, (Sunday August 11) at Rising Sun Turf Club.

This Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee-organized event will see the country’s top horses and newly imported horses from various countries, battle for over 40 million dollars in cash and prizes.

Fans from abroad have already secured tickets to the most exciting horse race event of the year. Defending champion, Easy Time who drew outside gate 12 at last week’s drawing is the favorite to win again. The feature event which will have 12 horses provides strong competition and sets up a mouthwatering contest.

Horses entered and respective gate positions for Guyana Cup feature event are: Stat, Bossalina, Loyal Company, Beckham James, John Bull, Olympic Kremlin, Nova Sol, Stolen Money, Stormy Victory, Oy Vey, Ritorna Vincetori and Easy Time.

The first of 10 races will be the L-Non-Earners, which is expected to start at 11:50am.

Race two will be the L Class event, which starts at 12:25h and is followed by the K Class at 13:00h.

Race 4 is the J Class race at 1:35h, and Race 5 is the H Class event at 14:15h. Race six will be the F Class race, which is expected to be run off at 14:50h.

The two-year-old race is set for 15:25h, followed by the Open Sprint at 16:00h. The penultimate race of the day will be the Derby at 16:35 hours, while the feature event

will be the final race of the day, which is expected to commence at 17:30h.

With this year’s Guyana Cup purse being the most significant in the Caribbean, horses from various countries will be out to battle for supremacy. Jockeys from abroad are also in the country, preparing like their local counterparts for Sunday’s race.

Scattered showers past through the ancient county of Berbice during the past week, but the track remains firm to

display high-quality horse racing.

Rising Sun Turf Club will be transformed into an electrifying atmosphere for the entire family. Close to 100 horses confirmed entry for the grand-one day races. Kids will be treated to a fun park, and fans will be thrilled to have great vibes when the DJ competition takes centre stage after the race. Additionally, a roster of local artists are confirmed to add more entertainment to the atmosphere.

bats, pads, cups, helmets and gear bags given to the young players.

Speaking on the magnitude of the distribution, Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr. emphasized how ground- breaking the initiative is, which can add to the development of the sport.

Ramson Jr. declared, “Today is a historic day, there has never been a single day that this large investment is being made for young cricketers across this entire country. There has never been a day that’s greater than today.”

“You are the tree, you are the fruit and this investment, that President Ali is making in you so that you can grow and prosper and blossom into productive citizens of the country and potentially world class, elite athletes who can represent Guyana; take our name, take our nationality, take our brand to the world stage and show the world that we are a proud nation, capable of beating the world,” Ramson went on to say of the development prospects, likening the young players to growing plants.

Going so far as to cater for whether or not a player is right or left- handed, President Ali, in his time at the mic, divulged that the

size of a pad of something, the suppliers, West Indian Sports and sheik Mohamed, those two establishments will help. The Ministers who are here will have the responsibility to help you through the process, the Guyana Cricket Board would help us to organize so we could have those exchanges done. We want to ensure that you have your equipment that is fully functional,” President Ali revealed.

In sharing reasons for such a massive investment, President Ali went on to disclose how integral sport is to his ‘One Guyana’ vision. The Head of State shared, “We see the investment in sport as an important aspect of the unification factor under the One Guyana umbrella. Sports is that interconnection that brings us together, especially team sports and that is the beauty of team sports. In team sports, if you don’t play as a team, you can’t win and you learn to work together. Most of these sports here gives us the ability to create that environment.”

Young cricketers from each of Guyana’s administrative regions, with special emphasis on the Hinterland Regions such as Regions 1, 8, 7, and 9 were all beneficiaries on Saturday.

10 exciting races are on the cards for the 16th running of the Guyana Cup at Rising Sun Turf Club

A look at some of the exclusive GAW merchandise available for purchase

President Dr Irfaan Ali engaging in a game of catch with Ministers Charles, Ramson Jr High Todd, Ani Nandlall and Robeson Benn

Hundreds of young cricketers from across the country received gear on Saturday