Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 06-03-2024

Guyana aims to become transshipment hub for the region

THE first batch of persons who were allocated lands at Block 13, Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara were able to identify their house lots earlier today.

The excited landowners, comprising of middle-income allottees, expressed their happiness at being able to move forward with the construction of their homes.

Block 13, Golden Grove is already outfitted with first-phase infrastructure works such as access roads, culverts, drainage and pipe networks.

Lot identification exercises for the scheme are being done in batches by the Surveyors attached to the Central Housing and Planning Authority (Ministry of Housing and Water photos)

CARICOM ‘deeply engaged’ as

Haiti crisis worsens

By Naomi Parris

THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders are “singularly focused” on the events unfolding in a sister Caribbean state, Haiti, Guyana’s President and current Chairman of

CARICOM, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has said.

International news reports, over the weekend, highlighted that violence triggered by gang leaders, has resulted in havoc through Haiti’s capital, Port-Au-Prince.

“CARICOM has been

singularly focused on the events unfolding in Haiti over the last few days, the expanded bureau has been meeting separate with Prime Minister Henry, the stakeholders in Haiti and our international partners to bring resolution to this highly complex matter where persons lives and lively hoods are at stake,” the CARICOM Chair said in a live broadcast statement on Tuesday afternoon.

President Ali said CARICOM remains “deeply engaged” and will provide an update on deliberations at a later date.

He said: “The complexity requires us in these consultations to ensure that a Haitian led and Haitian owned solution may

–– Haitian Government declares ‘state of emergency’ in capital

be achieved as soon as possible.”

ELECTIONS

Just last week, CARICOM leaders, in a collective decision, determined that the regional

bloc will take the lead in conducting a needs assessment to support the significant advancement in hosting elections in Haiti.

Leaders recently converged in Guyana for the

46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government.

Confidential meetings were conducted

S ee page 4

(From left to right) The Bahamas Prime Minster, Phillip Davis; Barbados Prime Minister, Mia Mottley and CARICOM Chairman and Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali during the CARICOM summit closing press conference last week (Delano Williams Photo)

Guyana aims to become transshipment hub for the region

- President Ali says, urges popular logistics company to explore opportunities, extend services

GUYANA is positioned to emerge as a pivotal transshipment hub, fostering vital connections between South America and the global arena.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Monday met with DHL Caribbean executives, urging them to explore opportunities and extend services to northern Brazil from Guyana.

Given Guyana's strategic geographical location on South America's edge, it stands as the shortest and most cost-effective route for Brazilian exports through the Panama Canal.

zil's imports and exports.

In collaboration with CARICOM counterparts Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana is actively pursuing a ferry service to facilitate cargo and passenger transport.

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is supporting this initiative, emphasising its commitment to improving food security, and fostering regional cooperation.

President Ali had previously revealed ongoing discussions for a specialised ferry service with Aruba, catering specifically to the transportation of agricultural produce.

President Ali envisions Guyana evolving into a key transshipment hub, highlighting the importance of DHL's commitment to enhancing its services.

DHL, led by CEO Richard Saavedra, aims to not only strengthen its operations, but also contribute to Guyana's role as a transport-centric route to the Atlantic Ocean for northern Bra-

Highlighting Guyana's potential as a major transport hub, he envisions the country becoming the gateway between South America and the world, unlocking vast opportunities for investments and trade.

among the Caribbean, South America, and Africa.

The Head of State

The President stressed the need for structured mechanisms to harness the potential of inter-regional trade

had underscored the importance of building transportation links via sea and air to achieve greater integration.

Guyana's strategic significance was reaffirmed during a trilateral meeting among Presi -

The leaders issued a joint declaration, setting the stage for a comprehensive strategic roadmap with working groups in infrastructure, energy, and security.

Notable projects, such as the full paving of the Linden-Lethem Road, are intended to enhance connectivity and facilitate the movement of agricultural and mineral products between Brazil and Guyana.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Office for Investment (GoInvest) Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, during a previous interview with this newspaper, had highlighted the transformative potential of Guyana's strategic position, foreseeing a substantial increase in investments across various sectors.

This is so because, in his view, a journey that would take days using the Ama-

zon River would be reduced to a matter of hours via road transportation.

Here is a popular quote from Dr. Cheddi Jagan

“I am aware of the changes that are still necessary for the people of Guyana, because I look at them with the eyes of the people, and not with the privileged eyes of the privileged few who have always had things easy, and so did not want a change.”

dent Ali, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio ‘Lula’ da Silva and Surinamese President Chandrikapersad Santokhi.

Guyana is positioned to emerge as a pivotal transshipment hub, fostering vital connections between South America and the global arena

President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Monday met with DHL Caribbean executives

CARICOM ‘deeply engaged’...

with Haiti’s Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, who participated in the extended four-day summit.

“The issue of Haiti was a very difficult task…this is of such importance to the region and the region has

to provide the leadership on this issue that we cannot avoid at this time,” the CARICOM Chair had said while addressing journalists at a press conference for the summit.

Haiti is expected to

host elections in August 2025.

NEEDS ASSESSMENT

While addressing last Wednesday’s closing press conference, the Bahamas

States of America, and the Organisation of American States (OAS).

In 2018, protests began in communities throughout Haiti in response to increased fuel prices. Over time, those protests evolved into demands for the resignation of Jovenel Moïse, the then-president of Haiti.

An interim government was installed after the assassination of Moïse; however, surges of violence continued.

“Haiti is hemorrhaging

…if you look at the number of deaths in the month of January, it has been noted that they are more deaths in Haiti than occurred in the war in Ukraine and Russia, that tells us the of the depth of the suffering that is occurring amongst the people in Haiti,” the Bahamian Prime Minister said, noting that most of the summit sessions were spent dealing with the Haitian crisis and finding some resolution.

According to international news reports, Haiti’s

de facto government on Sunday, issued a 72-hour state of emergency and imposed nightly curfews after inmates escaped in two major prison breaks and heavy gunfire sounded across the capital.

The situation escalated over the weekend as Prime Minister Henry went to Kenya to tie up a deal for the deployment of foreign troops to restore order. According to Reuters, more 15,000 people have fled their homes.

Prime Minister, Phillip Davis said the hosting of free and democratic elections in Haiti is “A significant step forward.”

The establishment of a needs gap assessment team, led by CARICOM and the United Nations, has been agreed upon by the leaders.

This will receive support from international partners such as Canada, the United

Haiti’s Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, recently travelled to Guyana for the 46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of CARICOM Heads of Government (DPI photo)

A demonstrator holds up a Haitian flag during fiery protests (Source: AP / Odelyn Joseph)

Gov’t to determine the way forward on Conversation Tree Road project

REAFFIRMING the government’s firm stance against delays and incomplete infrastructural projects, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, addressed the troubling progress of the $1.8 billion Conversation Tree Road project.

Minister Edghill emphasised that action will be taken by the end of the day.

The minister made this declaration on Tuesday during a site visit of the

project, where he was informed by Kalco Guyana Inc., workers that they were instructed to halt work by their supervisors.

Despite, the minister’s attempts to reach the principles of Kalco based in Trinidad, no response has been received.

“We have to make a decision but, likely, Kalco will not be able to complete that project. So, we will have to make some decisions and that will happen by the end of today,” he declared.

The $1.8 billion Conversation Tree Project which is divided into sections saw Lot One being awarded to Guyanese company, S Jagmohan Construction and General Supplies Inc. to the tune of $1,066,358,738, while, Lot Two was awarded to Kalco Guyana Inc to the tune of $830,293,458.

S Jagmohan Construction and General Supplies Inc. has since completed its portion. However, the project’s progress has been stalled, with only 55

per cent of work completed thus far.

Outstanding works on the project include paving, and concrete drainage with 60 per cent of culverts remaining incomplete. Some 75 per cent of the retaining wall is left to be completed.

The road’s development is a crucial component of the government’s initiative to provide alternative routes for Guyanese to enter and exit Georgetown. (DPI)

Reaffirming the government’s firm stance against delays and incomplete infrastructural projects, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill addressed the troubling progress of the $1.8 billion Conversation Tree Road project (DPI photos)

Union must be held accountable

AFTER nearly a month of industrial action by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), the strike is finally over, and teachers are back in the classrooms.

After a court-mediated engagement, the parties agreed to go back to the negotiating table to re-commence discussions on salaries and other related matters of concern.

Make no mistake about it, the right to strike is enshrined in our Constitution. In fact, the current PPP/C administration has always respected such rights. The Labour Relations Bill, which was enacted by the PPP/C administration, protects the right of workers to form trade unions, and to have unions with majority support recognised.

Strikes, however, are not automatic, nor can they be called at the whims and fancies of trade union leaders, especially when there are seemingly hidden

motives which have little or nothing to do with the welfare of its constituent members.

There are a number of steps that must be taken, which are embodied in the Collective Labour Agreement (CLA) governing the relationship between employers and employees.

It is clear, in the case of the teachers’ strike, that these procedures were not followed. There is no indication of any violation of the grievance procedure by the Ministry of Education at any stage of the discussions. In fact, President Dr. Mohamed Ali himself has been actively engaged on matters pertaining to the welfare of teachers and educators, such as salary increases and other related benefits.

It is, therefore, hypocritical for the political opposition to say that the current administration has been less than responsive to the welfare and well-being of the nation’s teachers.

The records will show that one of the first acts of the new PPP/C administration of October 1992 was to increase teachers’ salaries by a whooping 50 per cent, which was further augmented by subsequent annual increases.

Indeed, the increases to teachers’ salaries had created an anomalous situation vis a vis those in the traditional public service where teachers were earning more than their supervisors on the public service salary scale!

It should be noted also that it was under the PPP/C administration that several other benefits were given to eligible teachers, such as paid Whitley Council vacation leave, duty-free concessions for motor vehicles, and access to educational opportunities.

As pointed out by President Ali, the call by the authorities for an end to the strike and a return to talks have been vindicated by the Court, which, by way

of a mediation process, mandated the return of teachers to the classroom, and for a return to the negotiating table.

“Exactly what I have been saying all along; No different! Return to work and allow the process that was ongoing to continue. Why was this so difficult?

The same request the Ministry of Education and Government have been making continuously. As a responsible government, we will continue to work in the interest of all workers, President Ali observed.

It is unfortunate that the industrial action by teachers had been allowed to drag on for such an inordinate period, with significant disruption to the education delivery system, only to go back to where it rightly belonged-the negotiating table.

Someone has to be held responsible, and it is certainly not the Government nor the Ministry of Education.

GTU owes our children and this nation an apology

Dear Editor,

I’M writing to express how deeply disgusted I am with the recent teachers’ strike that the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) organised.

The obvious facts of this strike went against the GTU’s claims to be an advocate for our teacher’s welfare. It is evident that the teachers themselves, the very people the GTU claims to defend and serve were the ones who suffered the most from this action, not the union or the government.

If the GTU had continued negotiating with the government it could have easily avoided this entire situation. The GTU having ended the negotiations at an important point was not only reckless, but it also showed a lack of commitment to a meaningful resolution.

The behaviour of the GTU raises serious concerns about their intentions and also served to damage the trust that is necessary for any meaningful conversation regarding the wellbeing of the nation’s teachers.

In addition, given the GTU’s initial

bad faith decision to end negotiations, it appears funny that the government is now expected to respond in good faith. This expectation seems unjust and out of balance, especially in light of the union’s first approach to the issue.

Lastly, there are indications that the strike has political motivations and that have added a degree of complication to an already difficult issue. This would suggest a blatant disrespect to our teacher’s welfare and achievement in school, using them as just pawns in a larger political strategy.

In conclusion, I ask of the GTU, in keeping with the court outcome, to return to the discussion table with sincerity and above all the welfare of the nation’s children.

They deserve nothing less than our combined efforts to make sure their education continues uninterrupted and that any choices made by the GTU before will not harm their future.

Sincerely,

Alvin Hamilton

Guyana’s gift to the world - Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan

Dear Editor,

MARCH 6, 2024, commemorates the 27th anniversary since Guyana’s “Father of the Nation,” bid farewell to the world after serving as President for five years being duly elected from Guyana’s first free election since 1964.

What wagered for 28 harrowing years was a reign of PNC dictatorship, as they rigged elections in order to seize power.

Despite winning the 1964 election, the famous dentist was ousted after being in office but not power, due to the coalition of Burnham’s anti-communism PNC Party and D’aguiar’s pro-capitalist UF party, in collaboration with the agreement and support of the British and the Americans who feared the birth of another Cuba in the Caribbean.

Ironically, it was the intervention of the very Americans through the instrumentality of the Carter Center who helped to restore democracy in 1992 and made it possible to avoid another rigged election.

The author of four books, including the popular “The West on Trial,” the name Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan would remain a name to reckon with, a name which is remarkably renowned for his reformed politics in Guyana, the Caribbean and the World, his humane ethics for simplicity and humility as a way of life and his revolutionary matrix assumed ideologies for Marxism, Leninism, Communism and Socialism.

His lineage bore a rich heritage from India and he was born on the March 22, 1918, in the Dutch county of Berbice to a sugar worker’s family in the admired village of Port Mourant which gave the

world the Luckhoo legal luminaries and cricket gifts in the form of Rohan Kanhai, Basil Butcher, Joe Solomon, Randolph Ramnarace and Alvin Kallicharan.

Dr. Cheddi Jagan rose from poverty to president in a land of many waters and races, enriched by its natural resources, abused by colonialism, afflicted by slavery, affected by indentureship, inflicted by poverty, accrued with economic disadvantages, divided by racism, infused by class discrimination, permeated by cultural suppression, oppressed by multiple complexes, destroyed by dictatorship, dominated by political interferences, imprisoned by power control, raped by corruption, mismanaged by election riggers, harvested by social discomforts, envied by greedy and ambitious enthusiasts and not devoid of British and American bureaucracies.

Under Jagan’s leadership from 1992, what ensued was a period of damage control and laying the foundation for the path of economic and social recovery-ship.

Orchestrated by the PNC rulers, Guyana had metamorphosed into a country of doom and gloom, polluted with misdemeanors, devastated by emigration, robbed by a brain-drain and chagrined with economic bankruptcy and high national debts. He slowly but surely restored faith in the people to have fate in Guyana’s motto, i.e., one people, one nation, one destiny.

The cruel hands of imperialism were stumbling blocks which hurdled a great challenge for Dr. Jagan to promote his “universal suffrage” idealism, although he did deliver his “New Global Human Order” speech at the United Nations in 1995.

His close relationship with the Sovi-

et Union and Cuba in his early political career was a distinct disadvantage and seen as a threat. This impeded his growth, prevented him from functioning with authority and curtailed his autonomy in a suffocating colony denied of freedom and bondage by the scars of slavery and indentureship.

Jagan’s political demise was further punctuated when his trust was betrayed by the deceiving and cunning disloyalty of LFSB who joined the brutal hands of others to become Guyana’s Brutus.

Jagan’s successor then ensured that he remain an outcast as an Opposition Leader, subject to witnessing the making of a dictator and skullduggery in prevalence, while there was little if anything he, Jagan, could do to change the dastardly situation.

A disillusioned “Emperor” surfaced and Burnham and his cohorts began the production of a fractured people and nation with military control, while Jagan survived to plan and pray for a miracle.

Jagan witnessed an impoverished nation emptying itself as people from all races ran from a poisoned and prejudiced society to improvise their life and improve their self-esteem.

Dr. Jagan must be credited for many accolades and applaud for many plausible positives. He was responsible for: Introducing tertiary education in Guyana; commencing independence negotiation; challenging the British Monarchy; legally usurping legitimate positions; championing the cause for sugar, rice and bauxite; crowning the fight for agriculture, health and education and revolutionising the identity of Guyana and Guyanese, among

other successful distinctions.

As an exceptional personality, Dr. Cheddi Jagan personified the dignity of an unblemished character, full of compassion and understanding, free from any baggage, unburdened with corruption, purified with honesty, bridled with truth, unharnessed from bribery, uncontaminated with negative influences and fertilised the seed for peace, progress and prosperity.

To fill his shoes will be a difficult and uphill task, one that may circumvent the choice of materialism and selfishness.

His existential effect can mold the guidance essential for the demands of Guyana’s profound development and the fair distribution of equality, justice and liberty in a complex community, construed with lies and deceits by dissonant, complicated with evil distortions by naysayers, compounded by racial insinuations by deceivers and contaminated with incited violence by strife makers.

Over 200,000 people thronged at Babu Jaan to view the man who was the founder of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic and was cremated under Hindu rites on March 6, 1997.

Dr. Cheddi Jagan’s legacy is unfolded in this insight, “I am not only fighting for the people of Guyana. I am fighting for the people of the world. I am contributing to that struggle. That struggle is winning.

That is why the United States is so hysterical at the moment, because of that very fact, that what I stand for is winning”.

Yours respectfully,

Jai Lall

Police destroy approximately 25,000kg of cannabis plants at Ebini

POLICE on Tuesday conducted an “eradication exercise” at Ebini Backdam, Berbice River, during which two cannabis farms were found and destroyed.

The first farm was ap-

proximately two acres in size, with plants ranging from two feet to six feet. There were 130 beds, and each bed had 68 plants.

A total of 8,840 plants, with an average weight of

19,448 kg and a street value of $2,994,992, were found. Approximately 200 metres from the first farm, Police found another farm, measuring approximately two acres.

The farm had approximately 5,000 plants, ranging from one to four feet in height, with an average weight of 5,500 kg and street value of $847,000.

There was a make-shift

camp, made of wooden posts and black-and-white plastic. That camp was equipped with two hammocks and a mattress, kitchen utensils, and a quantity of groceries.

The cannabis plants were extracted from the soil and set on fire.

The camp was also set on fire. Both farms were photographed, but no one was arrested.

Police on Tuesday conducted an “eradication exercise” at Ebini Backdam, Berbice River, during which two cannabis farms were found and destroyed

Teixeira calls for special audit of drug procurement in Region Five under APNU+AFC

–– to ascertain whether breach in procurement process occurred repeatedly –– officers must be held accountable, Edghill says

MINISTER of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira, following revelations of discrepancies in the procurement process in Region Five under the APNU+AFC government in 2019, has called for a special audit to be conducted concerning the procurement of drugs and medical supplies for the region.

The minister made the request during a sitting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Monday, after examining the 2019 AuditorGeneral’s report for Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), which revealed that some 31 payment vouchers amounting to $3.8 million, had bill dates before the requisition to purchase date.

She indicated: “I asked for

a special audit of the procurement of all drugs and medical supplies in the region to find out if the 31 instances are an anomaly, or whether this was a practice in the region.”

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Ms. Gail

As further details came out, she noted that it appeared as though there were no proper systems in the region with regards to procurement, and as such noted that the high-

Minister of Public Works

Bishop

lighted issue is clear violation of the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMAA).

Minister of Public Works and member of the PAC, Bishop Juan Edghill said that the committee is examining systems and possible breaches.

“The issue here and when we examine a case like this, it’s not just about making a big fuss about something that happened, but at the same

time the REO (Regional Executive Officer), who is sitting here, and all other public officers who listen to the PAC must know that these are things they must pay attention to, and it must not recur,” Edghill said.

Further, Chairman of the Committee Jermaine Figueira guided the Auditor- General’s office in asking that the special audit be carried out.

Like several other regions, the Public Accounts Committee has uncovered in Region Five several breaches in processes, which include the region going beyond its budget to hire over 70 persons in 2019 under the previous administration, and even the purchasing of fuel for over 20 vehicles that were not on the region’s inventory.

Teixeira

Juan Edghill (Delano Williams photos)

Book review: Sillery versus Seecharran on Cheddi Jagan

Today is the death anniversary of an anti-colonial politician regarded as Guyana’s greatest and most morally endowed politician, Dr Cheddi Jagan. A voluminous book has just been released on Jagan’s anti-colonial career.

Clem Seecharran’s “Cheddi Jagan and the Cold War, 1946-1992” documents Jagan’s activism during the colonial period and takes it up 1992.

The book is 743 pages so the four hours one spent on the biography of Burnham, released two weeks ago, will run into 48 hours for the Seecharran project.

One of the negatives I have read about the book is

that it is too long. It depends on what you mean by “too long.” A substantial part of the book does not add to one’s understanding of Jagan’s politics in that period which the book adequately covers.

But those substantial parts are priceless historical notes that because of Seecharran’s work have now enriched Guyana’s historiography. So the historians should be grateful for Seecharran’s compendious text.

Despite its largeness, the book has a one-dimensional theme that is a continuous thread running its fabric –Jagan’s untergang (downfall – I inexplicably like that

German word after seeing a movie by that name about Hitler’s untergang) came about because he was too inflexible in his communist orthodoxy.

The reviewer can literally cite dozens and dozens of instances where Seecharran

makes that point. Seecharran runs into trouble when he blames only Jagan for the American unpleasantness in British Guiana.

It is silly for anyone to condemn Seecharran for painting Jagan as a communist. The amount of material

Thirdly, although Jagan had directly communicated to Washington about his intention not to rock the boat…Kennedy’s Cold War mentality prevented him from seeing the distinction between anti-colonial aspirations and communist embrace.

where Jagan had espoused communist philosophy, communist epistemology and communist interpretation of history and capitalism is literally voluminous.

The question is whether Jagan’s embrace of communism was the cause of his untergang or whether Jagan’s communism was embellished by the Americans for reasons that had nothing to do with Jagan and British Guiana but President Kennedy’s ugly conceptualisation of wanting the US to rule the world.

Irish historian from Oxford University, Jane Sillery has a book that is far more generous to Jagan than Seecharran’s.

I cannot do an intensive review of Seecharran’s text in a newspaper column but reading his book in the uncivilised hours on my verandah overlooking the mighty Atlantic, the compelling feeling strikes you that Seecharran is anti-Jagan and you see Freud coming out in him based on the cynical words he consistently used.

Sillery’s book is titled, “Salvaging Democracy?

The US and Britain in British Guiana.” Sillery had access to four libraries that Seecharran did not have –Dwight Eisenhower, George Meany, John F. Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson. She had access to important American officials of that era that Seecharran did not have

Sillery’s conclusions about Jagan’s untergang put her in direct confrontation with Seecharran. She argues that Jagan’s communism played no role in how the Americans felt about Guyana. She asserts herself on three points. Jagan was more of a nationalist than communist and the British told Kennedy this over and over. Secondly, Jagan was prepared to tone down his leftist/Marxist/socialist rhetoric to please the Americans.

Sillery said Kennedy had made up his mind about British Guiana based not on who Jagan was but what was happening around the world. Sillery did not mince her words about Kennedy’s disingenuousness in his dealing with Jagan.

Seecharran is a very competent historian, and the adjective, “competent” fails to do justice to his skills. He is good. But the runner stumbles and Seecharran stumbles badly in his latest publication.

In discussing post 1970 Jagan, Seecharran borders on propaganda. He goes after Jagan with relentless insults that are not only unnecessary but cannot be proven by evidence.

Space has prevented more elaboration in the differences between Sillery and Seecharran, and I would like to conclude with two observations. Firstly, I think this book and Seecharran’s other masterpiece on the Booker magnate, Jock Campbell did not employ class analysis. This was Seecharran’s choice but it exposed serious flaws in both works.

Secondly, I was annoyed at how Seecharran dismissed the class analysis of the PPP on Guyanese sociology. Seecharran on page 705 poured scorn on the PPP’s interpretation of Stabroek News as having the rightwing ideology of Christian democracy. Why is this not a fair intellectual assessment? What is Seecharran’s interpretation of the Stabroek News?

Finally, I was elated that Seecharran has joined me in seeing the irony of the ultra-communist Martin Carter joining the huge plantocratic, capitalist enterprise named Booker’s and became the editor of their propaganda organ, “Booker News.” Nevertheless, this book is a fine work of scholarship that adds to Guyana’s historiography.

Guyana’s emerging role in the global energy landscape

WITH oil production poised to reach over 1.3 million barrels per day by 2030, Guyana will be positioned among the top 15 oil producers in the world, accounting for about one per cent of global production.

By 2035, exploration and development costs should be fully recovered, which means that the Government’s take will increase from 14.5% currently, to, conservatively, 25%, resulting in a projected increase to peak at approximately US$8 Billion annually thereafter from the Stabroek Block, all other things being equal.

The global demand for fossil fuel remains buoyant amidst an increasingly focused global agenda on the energy transition goals by 2050. Global demand is expected to remain strong,

especially since the U.S needs to rebuild its strategic reserves, which currently only represents less than one month’s daily consumption.

The U.S strategic reserves is down to its lowest level in decades at 347 million/bbls (2023) down from a peak level of 727 million/bbls in July 2011. Other countries such as India and China are also building up strategic reserves as part of their energy security strategy.

Therefore, owing to ExxonMobil Guyana’s unprecedented success rate in the Guyana’s Stabroek Block, Guyana’s increasing global importance in the energy landscape is cemented.

In the first year of production, the Government’s annual earnings averaged US$300 Million, which moved to about

US$1 Billion based in 2022 and 2023. With the addition of a third FPSO, annual projected earnings is estimated to reach US$2.1 Billion at an average price of US$70 per barrel in FY 2024, all other things being equal.

ExxonMobil Guyana and their co-ventures (CoVs) are aiming to have 10 FPSOs online by 2030, producing an estimated 1.3 million/bpd, given the proven reserves to date of over 11 billion barrels oil equivalent.

DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

At this level of scaled production of 1.3 million/bbls by 2030, the Government’s annual earnings is an estimated US$4.7 Billion. By 2035, exploration and development costs should be fully recovered, which means

that the Government’s take will increase from 14.5% currently, to, conservatively, 25%, resulting in a projected increase to peak at approximately US$8

Billion annually thereafter from the Stabroek Block.

Thus, with oil production poised to reach over 1.3 million barrels per day by 2030, Guyana

will be positioned among the top 15 oil producers in the world, accounting for about 1% of global production.

Continued on page 12

Guyana’s emerging role in the global...

From page 11

It is worth noting that considering the size of the Stabroek Block, which is an estimated 26,806 km2,, to date, less than 2% was fully explored. This includes the 46 discoveries to date.

This means that by 2027 when the 2016 Prospecting License expires, not more than 3% of the Stabroek Block will have been fully explored, effectively placing the Government of Guyana in a position to repossess 97% of the Stabroek Block.

Consequently, the new fiscal terms, inter alia, the new model Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs) shall be applied to any new exploration and production licenses thereafter.

THE GLOBAL OIL INDUSTRY CONTEXT

The top 10 countries that hold the largest proven oil reserves in the world account for 86.4% of the global proven reserves, while the rest of the world’s proven reserves account for 13.6. In 2022, the top 20 oil exporters accounted for 44% of global oil production, while the rest of the world accounted for 56%.

Saudi Arabia remained the largest oil producer in the world, accounting for 8% of global production. The second, third, fourth, and fifth largest producers are Russia, Iraq, the UAE, and Kuwait accounting for 5%,

4%, 3% and 2% of global production respectively.

The top 10 largest consumers of oil accounted for 62% of global consumption of which the United States is the largest, accounting for 20% of global consumption, followed by China and India accounting for 16% and 5% of global consumption respectively.

Global oil production has increased from 78.5 million bbls/ day in 1998 to 93.9 million bbls/ day in 2022, reflecting an increase of 20% cumulatively over the last 24 years (1998-2022), or an average of 0.83% annually for that period.

The United States strategic oil reserves fell to record low levels in July 2023 since July 1983, an almost forty (40) years’ record low level to 347.5 million bbls, down from a high of 718.2 million bbls in July 2011. This level of decline is a direct result of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, which saw oil prices soaring

to historical peak levels since 2008-2014.

This prompted the U.S Government to dip into its reserves to stabilise oil prices in order to bring about some ease for the U.S consumers.

DRIVERS OF GLOBAL DEMAND, AND OUTLOOK

The global demand for fossil fuel remains strong amidst an increasingly focused global agenda on the energy transition goals by 2050. Global demand will continue to be strong, especially since the U.S needs to build up its strategic reserves, which currently only represents less than one month’s daily consumption.

Other countries such as India and China are also building up strategic reserves as part of their energy security strategy. With respect to the energy transition agenda, the world continues to lag behind on multiple fronts, such that it may ultimately ren-

der the 2050 goals unachievable. In this regard, there are a number of gaps to be bridged in order to reach net zero by 2050, as outlined hereunder.

The Generation Gap. In recent years, backed by subsidy schemes, tax credits, and a falling levelized cost of energy, the installation of renewable energy capacity has expanded tremendously. Globally, 1,282 gigawatts (GW) of renewable power capacity was added to the energy system between 2016 and 2021, and the International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that an additional 2,400 GW of renewable capacity will be installed in 2022 and 2027. However, if the world is to reach net zero by 2050, capacity will have to grow to more than 27,000 GW―an eightfold increase from 2021 levels.

The Grid Gap. Over the past decade, the world has invested an average of $300 billion per

year. According to the IEA, annual investments will need to rise to the range of US$560 billion to US$780 billion in the 2030s.

The Storage Gap. Renewable energy tends to be intermittent (the sun doesn’t always shine, and the wind doesn’t always blow, while the demand for electricity is relatively constant and predictable). Hence, to have an orderly transition to a decarbonised grid, a significant amount of electricity storage capacity will be required, in the form of batteries or pumped hydropower schemes. Significant investments in grid-scale battery storage have been made. In 2022, globally, 16 GW of gridskill battery storage was added. According to the IEA, to get on track with the net-zero targets, which would require a 143-fold increase by 2050, annual additions must pick up significantly to an average of more than 80 GW per year over the 2022 to 2030 period.

The total funding gap needs to almost triple. To keep on track with net-zero emissions by 2050 goals, the IEA estimates that annual investment in clean energy will have to rise substantially from the projected 2023 level of US$1.8 trillion to US$4.6 trillion in 2030. With this in mind, bridging the energy transition gap is likely to remain a challenging task in meeting those targets to narrow the gap.

Therefore, the global demand for fossil-fuel will continue to be strong for at least for the next 3 decades or another century.

The global demand for fossil fuel remains buoyant amidst an increasingly focused global agenda on the energy transition goals by 2050. Global demand is expected to remain strong, especially since the U.S needs to rebuild its strategic reserves, which currently only represents less than one month’s daily consumption.

The U.S strategic reserves is down to its lowest level in decades at 347 million/bbls (2023) down from a peak level of 727 million/bbls in July 2011. Other countries such as India and China are also building up strategic reserves as part of their energy security strategy.

Therefore, owing to ExxonMobil Guyana’s unprecedented success rate in the Guyana’s Stabroek Block, Guyana’s increasing global importance in the energy landscape is cemented.

Over the medium-term, Guyana is projected to experience sustained double-digit growth over the next decade with continued oil production and exploration, averaging about 28% annual GDP growth. Concurrently, the Government is pursuing an ambitious economic diversification, and transformative development agenda that was developed three decades ago.

Leveraging technology to tackle gender-based violence

–– UNDP gifts Human Services Ministry equipment to improve data collection

IN today’s digital age, technology has the potential to play a crucial role in addressing and combatting gender-based violence (GBV).

With this in mind, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Tuesday donated GBV case-management equipment to the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MoHS&SS), under the Spotlight Initiative.

And, while last December, Spotlight Initiative signalled the end of three years of powerful work here, the government has promised that efforts would continue under the MoHS&SS.

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in Guyana, the Spotlight Initiative aimed to address the root causes of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) with an emphasis on prevention of family violence which includes sexual and gender-based violence, intimate partner violence and school-based violence.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, stated during a handover ceremony at the Hope and Justice Centre at Lusignan, East Coast Demerara (ECD), that gathering data is essential to ending GBV and that the UNDP has been one of Guyana’s most reliable partners in this regard.

A variety of Information Technology (IT) equipment, such as computers, tablets, headsets, speakers and printers, were also given to the centre.

The minister said that these items will increase the centre’s ability to offer services such as counselling, medical intervention, legal aid, psychosocial support, filing a police

report, and restorative justice. She stated that the UNDP is helping the ministry, among other things, with creating the software required to digitise records.

She emphasised that the Hope and Justice Centre is a “one stop” where anybody experiencing violence may come and receive a variety of free services under one roof. She noted that the centre is the first of its type in Guyana and the Caribbean which “offers hope”.

Dr. Persaud stated: “So, it’s quite a comprehensive model that I believe will change the landscape of what we know to be the response to gender-based violence,” noting that other Caribbean countries have indicated that they will replicate portions of this model Hope and Justice Centre in their respective countries.

“I believe this will change the landscape of what we know to be the response to gender-based violence. Because we have removed the intimidation, we have removed the frustration of knowing where to go, when to go and whom to go to…So, we [the Caribbean] can in a few years have [a] standardised response… have response that is peculiar to our region and have the kind of robust response that can change those [GBV] numbers.”

She noted that the institution truly provides constant, approachable, and inclusive help to anyone facing violence of any kind.

Dr. Persaud added that in order for future generations to comprehend that violence is never the solution, the dynamics of gender-based violence must shift.

“We must open lines of communication,” she

Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud (centre) is flanked by UNDP’s Resident Representative for Guyana and Suriname, Gerardo Noto (left) and Deputy Director of UNDP in Latin America and the Caribbean, Linda Maguire. Some of the IT equipment that was given to the government is behind them

CANU finds $44M in ‘Creepy’ at Fisher Village

THE Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) said it seized 300 kilogrammes of foreign marijuana on Sunday during an operation at Fisher Village, Essequibo Coast.

It said that on the day in question, CANU ranks conducted an operation in the area, where they observed a multi-coloured speedboat operated by two individuals.

As ranks pursued the

boat, the agency said the boat ran aground and the occupants subsequently made good their escape on foot. A subsequent search of the boat revealed several bulky whitish colour salt bags containing 600 brick-like parcels suspected to be cannabis.

According to CANU, the narcotic was escorted to its headquarters and was determined to be a foreign marijuana commonly known as

“creepy”, with a street value of $44,000,000.

The drug would have been further transshipped to other countries, where its street value would have been far higher, said CANU.

Thus far, for the year 2024, CANU revealed it has intercepted 859 kilogrammes of foreign marijuana entering Guyana for the purpose of transshipment.

The large quantity of foreign cannabis that was found in a boat by CANU

Rice harvesting commences in Region Two

RICE harvesting has commenced in Region Two and this crop seems to be a better one as farmers are being offered good prices by millers.

Harvesting has commenced in the extreme south of the Essequibo Coast in villages such as Columbia, Aberdeen, Perservance and a few sections of Abram Zuil.

In the next few days, farmers in the northern side of the region are expected to begin harvesting.

Millers have started to display prices and based on what was observed by this publication, the prices are similar to those offered last year. Then, the farmers were offered $4,100 for A grand and $4,000 for AB and C, while the price for sample grand was negotiable.

Rice farmers are reaping over 36 bags of paddy per acre. Previously rice farmers were getting less, this publication was told.

Meanwhile, PPP/C councillor Toolsie Narine in presenting the region’s agriculture report said that the regional administration will continue to improve farm-to-market access dams for rice farmers.

The region recently acquired a front-end loader and a grader. Another

grader will be purchased to help boost crop production in the region.

This publication spoke to some of the rice farmers who said they are enjoying the hot weather conditions which are perfect for harvesting.

Jaisingh Persaud, a rice farmer from Columbia said that he has been planting rice since he was a small boy and when he got married, he made it his profession.

He said that by cultivating rice, he is able to provide for his family.

Many rice farmers are indebted and depend on good prices to offset their expenses.

The farmers who spoke to this publication said that better prices for them means they can live a more comfortable life.

“We are happy when we get better prices. It helps us to pay our loans and provide for our families. This is what we depend on,” one of the farmer said.

Staff of the Guyana Rice Development Board are currently meeting with farmers and conducting field visits.

Grading training was conducted with staff members of the various rice mills.

Region Two rice farmers are currently harvesting their crop and are being offered good paddy prices this year

Linden man pleads guilty to drug trafficking

LEONARD Caleb, of Amelia’s Ward, Linden, Region 10, who was apprehended in November 2023 at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) with a large amount of marijuana, has pleaded guilty to drug trafficking.

The 37-year-old man changed his plea from not guilty to guilty when he appeared in the Diamond/ Golden Grove Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Caleb’s sentencing hearing was postponed to March 19 by Senior Magistrate Sunil Scarce. The convict is being kept under remand until that hearing.

A press release from the Customs Anti-Nar -

cotic Unit (CANU) stated that on November 30, 2023, its officers were carrying out an operation in Providence, close to a well-known mall, when they stopped a car driven by Caleb that had the licence plate PAE 6311.

After the car was searched, a salt bag with large packages inside that included a lot of leaves,

seeds, and stems that subsequently tested positive for cannabis was found.

As a result, Caleb was taken into custody and escorted to the CANU headquarters with drugs.

The drug, according to CANU, weighed over 12.54 kilogrammes (or nearly 27.6 pounds) and had a street value of about $4 million.

Leveraging technology to tackle gender-based ...

pointed out. She disclosed that her ministry offers programmes on anger management and conflict resolution and is actively involved in the field of conflict resolution. She made reference to the Hope and Justice Centre when she added, “This will be a refuge, a sanctuary.”

Minister Persaud pointed out that Sustainable Development Goal 5: General equality “hinges on us having a safe and secure world for women and girls.”

In order to strengthen the programmes and policies that the government is putting into place, the UNDP is working with the ministry to develop a GBV database.

According to Gerardo Noto, UNDP’s Res-

ident Representative for Guyana and Suriname, they are currently in the final stages of improving and expanding the capacity to generate, analyse, and produce data on GBV.

He said that the Hope and Justice Centre is a very important part of preventing and supporting survivours.

Meanwhile, Deputy Director of UNDP in Latin America and the Caribbean, Linda Maguire, emphasised that GBV is a problem that many people face on a personal level and made reference to a United Nations (UN) Women Study that revealed 46 per cent of Caribbean women have experienced some sort of abuse.

She reasoned that the

From page 13

Spotlight Initiative is intended to really get at the causes of the GBV.

According to her, data is essential because if you do not know what is happening, and where it is happening, then you will not be able to target effective responses.

According to Maguire, the Hope and Justice Centre is a location where people’s lives will be positively impacted and things are changed for the better.

The government intends to support the hinterland areas by opening a second Hope and Justice Centre in Region One. A third one will be launched in Region Three.

They are expected to be up and running by the first half of this year.

Leonard Caleb

Works progressing rapidly on $39.5M Eccles enhancement project

By Cindy Parkinson

Acknowledging the rapid transformation taking place in every community in Guyana, it is reported that the Eccles $39.5 million developmental project is making satisfactory progress. The Minister

December.

In accordance with Minister Indar, the primary goal of the President is to enhance the lives of all Guyanese and ensure the inclusion of every region in Guyana's substantial development endeavors.

— says Minister Indar

massive amount of garbage and old vehicles that were lying on the roadways and in the drains. However, today I am pleased to say that the work is progress-

within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, conducted an inspection on Cowpen Street on Monday.

The minister provided an explanation regarding the initiative to construct a 90-metr rigid pavement concrete road and drains in the East Bank of Demerara community. This project is a direct result of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali's commitment made during one of his outreaches in

He shared, “President Ali continues his mission to better the lives of all Guyanese, through community development and his other initiatives, and we at the Ministry of Public Works are working to ensure that these initiatives are realised.”

“I remembered when the President visited this community (Eccles), he was dissatisfied with the state of the drains and the

ception, President Ali has made it clear that these projects are not only for building the infrastructure, but through these initiatives, we are ensuring that jobs are created for the people within their respective communities. It is our

belief that the locals should be given the first opportunity to be employed, and as a government, we have stayed true to that commitment.”

Furthermore, Minister Indar also stated that he conducted a visit and inspection of the $166 million road construction project currently underway

in La Penitence along the Sideline Dam on Monday. As per his account, he needed to engage in conversations with several local residents regarding the dismantling of their structures, which were built directly on the reserve and obstructed the project's path.

Continued on page 21

ing nicely, and as we can all see, there is a vast difference with the ongoing development,” he related.

Similar to other communities undergoing improvements, both ongoing and completed, Minister Indar emphasised the priority given to Eccles residents in terms of meaningful employment opportunities offered by the contractors within the village.

He noted, “From in -

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar during his inspection of the Eccles community project on the East Bank of Demerara

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, meeting with one of the residents of Eccles on the EBD

Three-day Youth Climate Forum launched in Lethem

ADVANCING efforts to provide young people with the opportunity to learn about climate change, build their skills to take climate action and par -

— youths encouraged to utilise platform, share concerns and priorities for action

ticipate in decision-making processes, the South Rupununi Conservation Society (SRCS) in partnership with the Regional Democratic Council of Re-

gion Nine and with support from UNICEF Guyana and the Inter-American Development Bank, on Tuesday, launched a three-day Youth Climate Forum for young

people from across the region.

More than 60 young people are participating in the three-day event at the Industrial site, Lethem, Region Nine. The event will see

have a huge role to play in combatting climate change, Jewell Crosse, Adolescent and Youth Development Officer, said she is pleased to see the huge turnout of young people at the forum.

The forum comes at a time when the region is feeling the effects of climate change with prolonged dry periods, likely intensified due to climate change, resulting in huge wildfires in the Ru-

learning sessions, roundtable discussions led by youth and engagements with local stakeholders and decision makers.

Information booths will also highlight opportunities for young people in the region. The forum also expects to see the creation of an action plan by the young people that advocates for their involvement in policy processes, highlight climate changes issues affecting their communities and identify resources needed to take climate action and build resilience.

President of the SRCS, Leroy Ignacio said that the community organisation decided to host the forum due to the many impacts of climate change in the region.

“We thought that engaging with the youths was one of the more effective ways to make behaviour change within our society,” he said.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag attended the opening and emphasised the importance of forums like these with youth at the forefront in tackling climate change.

“Sixteen per cent of the world’s population are youths and what you are doing here is a small fraction of what the world needs. But the more you do it is the more you can assist your country,” she said.

UNICEF Guyana is providing financial and technical support for the event and emphasising that young people

She said: “At UNICEF, we are committed to helping young people take action to protect their future and we do this by raising youth voices on the climate crisis and by increasing youth participation to address climate change, especially in vulnerable communities.”

Crosse encouraged the youths to utilise the forum and engage with the government agencies and share their concerns and priorities for action.

“Guyana has shown great leadership on climate change as the government has signed the Declaration on Children, Youth and Climate Action at our World Children’s Day observance last year. UNICEF is extremely pleased that as we continue to work with young people to tackle the climate crisis, that we have the Government of Guyana’s commitment to not only ensuring a bright future for children in Guyana, but for also ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are addressed,” Crosse said.

The opening of the forum saw an outpouring of support from several government agencies with booths from the ministries of Education, Health, Agriculture, Amerindian Affairs, Youth, Culture and Sports, Natural Resources, the National Insurance Scheme, The Guyana Revenue Authority and National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), among others.

pununi region.

UNICEF’s Climate Landscape Analysis for Children (CLAC) in Guyana has identified regions one and nine as being the most severely affected by climate change.

The population of these regions comprise mainly indigenous people, who, to a great extent, depend on natural resources and other ecosystem services of their environment for their sustenance.

This makes them very vulnerable to climate change, due to several factors that increase sensitivity and exposure, including dependence on ecosystem services and agriculture, and isolation from main infrastructure and transportation networks.

Recognising that children and young people are the single most affected group by the climate threat, and the need to support youth in vulnerable communities that are at the forefront of the climate crisis to take climate action, SRCS, with support from UNICEF Guyana, initiated the Young Climate Change Leaders Programme in Region nine.

In 2022, over 200 Indigenous youths benefitted from education and awareness on climate change, and a smaller group were trained in proposal writing to support them to secure resources to implement locally developed climate solutions.

Advancing efforts to provide young people with the opportunity to learn about climate change, build their skills to take climate action and participate in decision-making processes, the South Rupununi Conservation Society (SRCS) in partnership with the Regional Democratic Council of Region Nine and with support from UNICEF Guyana and the Inter-American Development Bank, on Tuesday, launched a three-day Youth Climate Forum for young people from across the region

China Focus: China's national legislature opens annual session

(Xinhua) The 14th National People's Congress (NPC), China's national legislature, opened its second session Tuesday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng were present at the opening meeting, which was attended by nearly 3,000 NPC deputies.

Zhao Leji, executive chairman of the session's presidium, presided over the meeting.

Premier Li Qiang delivered a government work report at the meeting.

In the face of an unusually complex international environment and the challenging tasks of advancing reform and development and ensuring stability at home, China accomplished main goals and tasks for economic and social development in 2023 and made solid advances in building a modern socialist country in all respects, Li said when delivering the government work report to the session.

Reviewing the work that was carried out last year, he said the government strengthened macro regulation and promoted steady economic recovery and growth. Other work he listed includes promoting industrial upgrading

through innovation, deepening reform, expanding opening up, and improving the business environment.

While recognizing the achievements, Li acknowledged problems and challenges, vowing that the government will face them head-on, make every effort to deliver, and do its utmost to live up to the expectations and trust of the people.

Li said the year 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, and it is a crucial year for fulfilling the objectives and tasks set out in the 14th Five-Year Plan. He disclosed major targets for this year's development, including a GDP growth of around 5 percent, the creation of over 12 million jobs in urban areas, and a CPI increase of around 3 percent.

To achieve the targets, the premier called for more efforts to advance high-quality development, promote better interplay between an efficient market and a well-functioning government, and further stimulate and boost the vitality of the society.

Li outlined major tasks for 2024, including striving to modernize the industrial system and developing new quality productive forces at a faster pace, invigorating China through science and education, expanding do -

mestic demand, continuing to deepen reform and pursuing higher-standard opening up.

He also elaborated on work related to improving government performance, ethnic and religious affairs, national defense and military development, the development of Hong Kong and Macao, cross-Strait relations, and foreign policy.

Lawmakers reviewed a report from the State Council on the implementation of the 2023 plan for national economic and social development and on the 2024 draft plan, as well as the draft plan for national economic and social development in 2024.

They also reviewed a report from the State Council on the execution of the central and local budgets for 2023 and on the draft central and local budgets for 2024, as well as the draft central and local budgets for 2024.

Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, explained a draft revision to the Organic Law of the State Council at the opening meeting. The draft revision consists of 20 articles.

The law is of crucial significance to ensuring that the State Council performs its duties in accordance with the Constitution and other laws, the explanation stated.

China unveils 2024 growth targets with focus on high-quality development

(Xinhua) China seeks to achieve a GDP growth rate of around 5 percent for 2024, the latest signal that the world's second-largest economy is committed to high-quality development despite uncertainties at home and abroad.

The projected goal, which remains unchanged from the previous year's growth target, is one of the key development objectives unveiled in the government work report delivered by Premier Li Qiang to the national legislature, which began its annual session Tuesday.

In 2024, China aims to create over 12 million jobs in urban areas, and keep the surveyed urban unemployment rate at about 5.5 percent, said the report. The country also plans to spend 1.66554 trillion yuan (around 234.5 billion U.S. dollars) on defense, up 7.2 percent, and sets an inflation target of about 3 percent.

A REASONABLE GOAL

The GDP growth target of around 5 percent for this year was set after the Chinese economy showed solidity and resilience in 2023 by recording year-onyear growth of 5.2 percent.

"In setting the growth rate at around 5 percent, we have taken into account the need to boost employment and incomes and prevent and defuse risks," Li said.

This growth rate is well aligned with the objectives of the 14th Five-Year Plan and the goal of basically realizing modernization. It also takes account of the potential for growth and the conditions supporting growth and reflects the requirement to pursue progress and strive to deliver, according to Li.

Han Baojiang, a professor with the Party School of the Communist Party of China Central Committee (National Academy of Governance) and a nation-

al political advisor, said the GDP growth objective is both "down-to-earth and uplifting" and shows that the government continues to emphasize the quality of growth.

Tian Xuan, vice dean with Tsinghua University's PBC School of Finance and a national lawmaker, said the projected growth rate is in line with the availability of policy tools and the sustainability of economic development, leaving ample room for promoting the shift of growth drivers and coping with external uncertainties.

AMPLE POLICY TOOLS

The report also noted multiple difficulties and challenges that the country is facing, such as an insufficiently solid foundation for sustained economic recovery and growth and a lack of effective demand.

"Achieving this year's targets will not be easy, so we need to maintain policy focus, work harder, and mobilize the concerted efforts of all sides," Li said.

A proactive fiscal policy and a prudent monetary policy will be continued in 2024, according to the report. An array of measures to boost growth this year have also been disclosed, including 3.9 trillion yuan of special-purpose bonds for local governments and the issuing of ultra-long special treasury bonds.

Meanwhile, the country will address both the symptoms and root causes to defuse risks in real estate, local government debt, and small and medium-sized financial institutions to safeguard overall economic and financial stability, the report said.

"China has a rather plentiful and flexible set of policy tools to maintain stable economic growth and cope with external headwinds," said Zhuang Yumin, dean of the School of Finance with Renmin University of China and a national lawmaker, citing

the country's introduction of structural monetary and fiscal tools to offer targeted support for specific fields as an example.

The consistency of the macro policy orientation should be enhanced, the report stressed.

GROWTH DRIVERS IN PLACE

To underpin the country's high-quality development, the report has outlined major pro-growth steps to drive the economy.

China will launch a year-long program to stimulate consumption, and launch policies to promote digital, environmentally-friendly, and health-related consumption, the report said.

The report also revealed that China will increase effective investment. This year, 700 billion yuan will be earmarked in the central government budget for investment.

A series of tasks to modernize the industrial system and develop new quality productive forces at a faster pace are outlined in the report, including industrial and supply chain improvement and upgrade, and the cultivation of emerging industries and future-oriented industries such as hydrogen power, new materials, bio-manufacturing, commercial spaceflight, quantum technology and life sciences.

China also plans to implement measures to ensure the national treatment for foreign-funded enterprises, vowing more efforts to attract foreign investment.

Jiang Ying, Deloitte China chair and a national political advisor, said China has a huge market and the country remains open-minded in seeking to continuously improve its business environment. "The Chinese economy offers plentiful opportunities, creating development space for all kinds of market players."

Highlights of Chinese government work report

(Xinhua) The following are the highlights of the Chinese government work report submitted Tuesday to the national legislature for deliberation.

-- 2024 GDP growth target: Around five per cent

-- Creating over 12 mil-

lion jobs in urban areas

-- Ratio of deficit to GDP: Three per cent

-- Special-purpose bonds for local governments: 3.9 trillion yuan

-- Issuing ultra-long special treasury bonds

-- Launching AI Plus ini-

tiative

-- Enhancing disruptive and frontier technology research

-- Launching year-long programme to stimulate consumption

-- Investment from central government budget: 700

Works progressing ...

From page 17

“The 1520-metre, rigid pavement concrete road project is a commitment of Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo to the residents of the community,” Indar added.

Finally, Minister Indar reiterated that “the goal is to visit all communities throughout the country and hear from the residents to determine their specific requirements. Yes, we are doing the general work, but we are also listening to the people who live in

these communities. We are taking the government to the people, and they are telling us what is bothering them or what they need to benefit their lives as a village, and we take pride in that.”

During his visit to Eccles last December, President Ali elucidated in his discourse to the locals that while a community may receive progressive development projects, it is incumbent upon the residents to uphold these initiatives.

According to him, “I’m concerned with

billion yuan

-- Expanding domestic demand

-- Ensuring national treatment for foreign-funded enterprises

-- Working toward joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for

Trans-Pacific Partnership

-- Pursuing higher-standard opening up

-- Defusing risks in property, local debt, small and medium-sized financial institutions

-- Ensuring both development and security

-- Advancing energy revolution

-- Opposing "Taiwan independence" and external interference

-- Upholding international fairness and justice

the whole of Eccles. The drainage situation, I think, is ridiculous; we have to deal with it. You have a lot of irresponsibility from residents themselves. You know, development has to involve everyone; everyone has to take responsibility. You can’t be dumping old cars in the drains; you can’t be destroying reserves,” he said, while emphasising that everyone bears some degree of accountability.

Before and after photo of the enhancement work done at La Penitence

Guyana moves towards formalising transplant centres with oversight agency

— transplant agency aims to bridge gap in organ donation

THE Guyana Organ and Tissue Transplant Agency is currently undertaking the process of formalizing and accrediting institutions as transplant centres in Guyana.

Dr. Navindranauth Rambaran, the Director of Medical and Professional Services at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), commented on the recently formed agency during an interview on the Ministry of Health's "Health Matters" programme.

The establishment of the agency occurred subsequent to the successful enactment of the Human Organ and Tissue Transplant Bill, which provides the necessary legal framework for the retrieval of human organs, tissues, cells, and biofluids for the purposes of transplantation and blood transfusion.

In the course of the airing, Dr. Rambaran expressed that the GPHC has, and intends to maintain, its transplantation services. Nevertheless, as a result of the introduction of the oversight agency, the hospital underwent a certification procedure to obtain official recognition.

He said, “After having undergone a self-study and reporting and have an inspectorate do a thorough inspection of the SOPs the protocols, the infrastructure, the human and material resources that are available, we have been certified to be competent to offer transplant services.”

However, according to him, the arrival of the agency has triggered a paradigm shift, expanding the scope to include both live donor transplants and cadaveric transplants.

Cadaveric transplants involve the utilization of organs from a donor who has been pronounced brain dead and has given consent for his/ her organs to be donated to those in need.

“We use the organ for those persons who would have wanted their organs to be used at their families’ consent where these persons were deemed to be brain dead on a ventilator,” he said.

In accordance with this

objective, Dr. Rambaran stated that a systematic procedure will be followed to determine the eligibility of individuals as potential donors. Subsequently, an additional evaluation would be conducted to assess their suitability, followed by approaching their families.

He clarified that, with the family's consent, the donation process is initiated, followed by the subsequent transplant, with the ultimate purpose of granting hope and a chance at life to a deserving individual.

In January 2022, the bill that had been introduced in the assembly the previous year was approved by the National Assembly.

According to the passage, the bill incorporated measures to establish an agency responsible for overseeing the removal, donation, and transfer of human organs to patients requiring them.

The agency is expected to collaborate with authorized hospitals to co-ordinate surgeries and develop operating protocols. Additionally, the agency will be responsible for conducting public awareness campaigns regarding consent for organ donation and utilization.

The bill also notes that transplantations are to be used in regenerative medicine including cell therapy, gene therapy, stem cell therapy, and other therapeutic purposes; for medical education and scientific research purposes, including stem cell research, cell explant research, and cell line research; and for connected matters.

Director of Medical and Professional Services, Dr Navindranauth Rambaran

Commonwealth Law Ministers embrace digitalisation for accessing justice

— as meeting kicks off in Tanzania

THE Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting commenced on Monday in Zanzibar, Tanzania, drawing together legal representatives from across the Commonwealth, including Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Nandlall.

The event drew attention to the urgent need for stronger action to ensure access to justice for all 2.5 billion Commonwealth citizens.

During her opening remarks, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, highlighted the obligation to enforce the Commonwealth Access to Justice Declaration. She called for a fundamental change in perspective to ensure that justice becomes a concrete reality for every citizen.

“It is our responsibility to drive forward the paradigm shift agreed at our last meeting in Mauritius to deliver on the Commonwealth Access to Justice Declaration and ensure that people of the Commonwealth know they have access to justice because they can taste it, see it and feel it,” she stated.

In light of the increasing global challenges, Secretary-General Scotland expressed her appreciation for the efforts of Commonwealth law ministers and emphasised the need for justice to be given even greater importance as a crucial factor in addressing the current crises.

She urged ministers to ensure that their commitments are not merely words on paper but the lived experience of all citizens.

H.E. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, inaugurated the meeting, highlighting the critical role of law in addressing unprecedented global challenges.

President Hassan expressed optimism that the forum would open doors for further collaboration, innovation, and collective action. She said, “Together, we can build a better future

where justice prevails, and the rights of every individual are protected to sustain sustainable development across Commonwealth nations.”

The meeting’s theme, ‘How digitalization paves the way for the development of people-centred access to justice,’ was reflected in President Hassan’s remarks.

She outlined Tanzania’s use of technology, including the rollout of timesaving e-courts and the ‘Mama Samia Legal Aid Campaign’ providing legal aid on issues like gender-based violence and dispute resolution.

The biennial meeting, organized by the United Republic of Tanzania, convenes law ministers from the 56 Commonwealth countries.

Until March 8, ministers will be engaged in deliberations concerning policies and strategic actions to effectively address the challenges surrounding access to justice, with a particular emphasis on marginalised groups.

The meeting’s Chair, Hon Ambassador Dr Pindi H. Chana, expressed optimism that the conference would facilitate meaningful dialogue to overcome legal hurdles facing countries.

“From promoting access to justice to strengthening legal frameworks, our discussions will contribute to shaping the future of law and governance within the Commonwealth countries.,” she said.

A moment of silence honoured the late President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Ali Hassan Mwinyi, who passed away on February 29, 2024.

In addition to the main sessions, a series of side events on diverse topics, including disability inclusion and digital trade law, have been organised to contribute to ministerial discussions.

A statement summarising the meeting outcomes is expected on March 8, 2024, supporting countries in realising the mandates set out in the Commonwealth Access to Justice Declaration.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall attended the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Law Ministers Meeting in Zanzibar, Tanzania on March 4, 2024

Prison Service mulls raising entry requirements for recruits

THE Guyana Prison Service (GPF) is currently discussing the possibility of increasing the entry requirements for recruits in order to enhance their ability to provide high-quality services.

Nicklon Elliot, the Acting Director of Prisons, revealed this information in a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle.

He clarified that having a solid secondary education was the basic prerequisite for getting hired by the GPS, an organisation that continuously hires throughout the year.

Candidates must also complete a written examination. But in order to attract competent candidates and make sure those candidates stay on the job, he said, “We are looking to revise it.”

Elliot did not provide details regarding the potential new admission requirements for the GPS. However, it is anticipated that qualifications from the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) will be included.

Owing to a multitude of external opportunities, the Director of Prisons has acknowledged the challenges faced by the GPS in recruiting and retaining skilled personnel.

He stated that efforts were being made to improve the conditions of service for staff and added that increasing of allowances and salaries were being addressed at the level of the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Government.

The ongoing discussions at the GPS Annual Senior Officers’ Conference revolve around service conditions and job satisfaction, with the intention of identifying best practices that can effectively tackle staff satisfaction and employment issues within the organisation.

Earlier this year, there was a report indicating that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) implemented stricter criteria for prospective applicants, stipulating that they must possess CXC qualifications or higher education credentials.

This decision was based on the Police Academy's recent five-year accreditation from the National Accreditation Council which grants regional and global recognition to its programmes. Historically, a sound foundation in primary education was considered satisfactory for joining the Police Force.

Director of Prisons (ag) Nicklon Elliot

‘GBA hosted successful programme...

FROM PAGE 38

progress made.

“In 2023 during the National Junior Tournament sponsored by the National Sports Commis-

“We hope to do a similar programme like the one we are doing in Berbice, in Region Two. The PE teachers there were very happy that we were

a healthy and active life, both in and out of school.

BWF’s goal is to make badminton one of the world’s most popular and accessible school sports.

BWF’s Continental Confederations and Member Associations.

Special thanks to Mr Saeed Zameen, Mr Nicholas Fraser of the Allied

sion in his remarks the Director of Sports, Steve Ninvalle challenged the GBA Executives to take the sport of Badminton to Region Two.

“The GBA is happy to report that the challenge was accepted and the Shuttle Time Programme was implemented in Cinderella County. We will now follow up with the PE teachers, visit to the schools and assist with equipment whenever we can,” informed Ramdhani, the mom of Guyana’s top players, Priyanna and Narayan.

there for the kids to be exposed to another sport.

“Cricket is the number one sport in Essequibo and we want to give the kids more options and try something different. We have shared some of the Shuttle Time Videos and manuals that they can use. Hopefully it can take in the Essequibo Coast schools like it did in Berbice.”

In 2012 BWF launched Shuttle Time to the world. A school’s badminton programme supports the principle that children should lead

Shuttle Time offers school teachers access to resources, training and equipment, which support the teaching of enjoyable, safe and inclusive badminton activities to children aged 5-15 years old.

Shuttle Time lessons are designed to provide children with a positive image of badminton through many opportunities to have fun, engage with others and experience success.

Shuttle Time is currently being implemented in more than 140 countries in partnership with

Arts Department of the Ministry of Education, and the Principals and PE Teachers of the Schools, for making this activity a success.

The equipment was handed over to the PE Teachers by the members of the GBA.

Senior National Badminton players Priyanna Ramdhani, Akili Haynes and Nkosi Beaton taught the students a few drills to improve their technique on the court. (Sean Devers)

Teachers at the Abram Zuil Secondary School with the ‘Shuttle Time’ materials

GCB secures funding from Vibrant Capital Partners Inc. for youth cricket

VIBRANT Capital Partners Inc., a USA based company has contributed a significant sum of US$10,000 towards the development of young cricketers in Guyana.

partners and employees and is specialised in structured credit and syndicated credit including CLO management.

Kallicharran, the wife of Derek Kallicharran, former Berbice, Guyana and West Indies “B” all-rounder said

The company provides investment services and is located at 350 Madison Avenue, Floor 17, New York, NY 10027, USA.

It is owned by active

At a simple but significant ceremony held last Friday evening at the Princess Ramada Hotel, Anita Kallicharran, employee of Vibrant Capital Partners Inc. made the presentation to Dr Brian Sukhai, treasurer of the GCB.

that she is really impressed with the work of the GCB and its focus on the development of young cricketers, hence the support of her company.

Dr Sukhai in reply was very grateful for the contribution towards the devel -

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CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday March 06, 2024)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Clem Hill (AUST vs ENG, The Oval, 1902-03)

(2) Robert Christiani (WI vs ENG, Barbados, 1948)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who is the last WI to be dismissed for 99 in a Test innings?

(2) Who is the first player to make 199 in a Test innings?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

opment of young cricketers in Guyana and encouraged other companies and private individuals to come on

board. He made a commitment to place the company’s logo on the uniforms of the na-

tional under 19 team which will participate in the regional youth tournament to be held later in the year.

Anita Kallicharran (left) hands over the cheque to Treasurer of the GCB Dr Brian Sukhai

GFF, affiliates and members attend Finance Governance Workshop

Football Federation (GFF) Member Associations, Affiliates and Elite Clubs representatives on Sunday attended a Finance Governance Workshop which made clear the necessary compliance process for obtaining funding through the Members Financial Assistance Programme (M-FAP) in 2024.

The March 3 one-day session, which was held at the Guyana Olympic House in Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, also provided participants with an understanding of the FIFA Forward Programme.

It was facilitated by FIFA Consultant Lance Cummings and GFF Accountant Marco Meredith.

Discussions focused on the criteria for securing funding, including the completion of the club licensing process and the maintenance of current financial records, along with the GFF budgetary plans for 2024.

GFF President Wayne Forde in his brief remarks stressed that both member associations and clubs must adhere to compliance standards to access funding.

“The introduction of M-FAP is to aid clubs and associations in achieving their developmental

goals, with the ultimate aim of nurturing widespread growth. Therefore it is imperative that all levels adhere to compliance standards for the genuine professionalisation of football in Guyana."

It was President Forde who introduced the groundbreaking M-FAP programme in 2020 with the full endorsement from Congress. The initiative extends support to GFF members in four essential areas: Administration & Operations, Equipment & Material, Competition and Technical Development and Infrastructure Development.

The primary goal of FIFA Forward is to cultivate and enhance football on a global scale, ensuring that the sport can achieve its maximum potential in every country. This is accomplished through the provision of comprehensive, tailored funding, and technical assistance to member associations and confederations.

FIFA Consultant Cummings noted that it was important for participants to share their ideas and opinions in “the football federation’s budgeting process. It’s not like the Federation is preparing a document to submit for approval to Con-

gress, but it’s really getting Congress involved more at this level.”

GFF Accountant Meredith noted that “in the past three years, the GFF has distributed millions of dollars in equipment to associations and clubs, along with preparatory grants for the initiation of regional senior leagues throughout Guyana.”

Ten elite clubs are presently competing in the KFC Elite League which commenced on February 25 at the GFF National Training Centre in Providence, East Bank Demerara. The nine Member Associations are gearing up for the launch of their Senior Men's League.

Among those present at the workshop were members of Bartica Football Association, Berbice Football Association, East Coast Football Association, Essequibo/Pomeroon Football Association, Georgetown Football Association, Upper Demerara Football Association, and the Women’s Football Association.

Elite football club representatives were defending champions Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Police Force, Fruta Conquerors, Den Amstel, Buxton United and Santos.

CM Taffin Khan unbeaten...

FROM PAGE 38

In the opening round, the senior team and junior side played each other; it was a clean sweep for the older heads 4-0.

CM Khan, FM Drayton, Callender and Rahim beat off the challenge from their juniors Sandiford, Coachman, Shariff and Joshi.

In round two against Trinidad and Tobago, the junior’s lost 3-1.

Sandiford playing with the black pieces drew his contest with Joshua Johnson with white pieces; Couchman also had drawn against Quinn Cabralis.

Sasha Shariff and Aditi Joshi then lost to Ysvett Hermoso and Zara Lafleur.

The seniors also played Jamaica in round two and drew the match 2-2.

National Champion Khan started well with an outright win against Nathan Hinds before Drayton drew with Justice McDonald and Rahim drew with Krishna Gray.

The local’s only loss against the Jamaican came when Jessica Callendar went down to Adani Clarke.

The competition sees teams battling over nine rounds, winning side pocket

USD $1,500 dollars with $1,000 for second place and $500 for third.

The tournament is sponsored by the CARICOM secretariat, ExxonMobil, E-net Guyana and Texila American University, Republic Bank Guyana Limited and DDL’s Topco.

The competition is organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Caribbean Chess Association and world body FIDE and the CARICOM secretariat.

The tournament concludes on Saturday.

GUYANA

DCB/GFSCA Inter Association U-19 championships…

Petama Enterprise/Motor Trend/Steve’s Jewellery fulfill promises

MEMBERS of the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) continue to fulfil their support for the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) for the Inter Association Under-19 Cricket Tournament which will commence on the last weekend.

Petama Enterprise, Motor Trend and Steve’s Jewellery were the latest to fulfill their promises.

Petama Enterprise is located at 16 Delph Street,

Georgetown, Motor Trend at 25 Logwood Road, Enmore, ECD and Steve’s Jewelry at 301 Church Street, Georgetown.

The owners of the three companies expressed pleasure to be part of this tournament and will continue to support the development of young people especially, through cricket.

They have all expressed confidence in the DCB and are impressed with the work of the

board.

The three are members of the GFSCA which is known for pioneering softball cricket in Guyana and overseas.

The tournament will involve the five associations, Upper Demerara, East Bank, East Coast, West Demerara and Georgetown and played on a round robin format with the team with the highest points to be declared winner.

Thereafter, the wining

‘Easter Vacation Swimming Programme’ returns

IN what has become a successful initiative for the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport in collaboration with the National Sports Commission, the annual Easter Vacation National Swimming Programme will officially commence on Tuesday, March 26.

The programme, which had its rebirth in 2022 and is free of cost, has evolved into a national policy and is tailored especially to children.

The programme will also cater to individuals with disabilities, further extending its scope of importance and impact.

It will be implemented at four facilities underscoring its national nature, which are the Aquatic Centre, Liliendaal, the site of its intended launch; the Colgrain Swimming Pool, Georgetown; the Watooka Swimming Pool, Linden; and the Albion Estate Pool, East Berbice.

Experienced national coach Paul Mahaica will once again reprise his role as

programme coordinator and lead trainer.

In excess of 7,000 individuals participated in 2023, which also encompassed the novel Adult Learning Programme.

Similarly, more than 12,000 participants have utilised the programme since its reimagining in 2022.

Director of Sports Steve Ninvalle says, “Since it’s rebirth in 2022, overwhelming, to put it mildly, might be an understatement in terms of the response that has been garnered for this programme. The initiative, which is essentially the process of teaching a life skill, has developed into a cultural phenomenon, and that is evident by the immense support that has been afforded.”

According to Ninvalle, “While the groundwork would have been done in the previous editions in sensitising the populace about the programme via several different avenues, inclusive of social media, it’s resulting success during that period

association will be playing against a “Best of the rest” team selected from the other four associations in a specially arranged game to be live streamed across the globe.

This tournament is the

main yardstick used by the selection panel to select the Demerara team for the GCB Inter County Under-19 tournament.

The tournament has also seen sponsorship from Trophy Stall, Ram-

chand’s Auto Spares, Ariel Enterprise, Rohan Auto Spares, Cricket Equipment Guyana, General Marines, Terry Mathura, Raj Mathura and Pandit Anand Persaud.

and it’s expected and continued eminence going forward are primary reasons for its continued historic turnout.”

Ninvalle further said,

“With the mammoth turnout that is once again a reality, safety is the guiding star and the building block of this programme, which has never had an unfortunate consequence or episode. We intend to maintain that unblemished record in every regard as we strive to create the ideal environment for learning, social interactions, and discourse so that this initiative can continue its upward trajectory.”

“With success, the natural tendency or progression is for expansion. That is a reality that is being explored as queries have emanated from other environs about that possibility, as the programme is currently being staged in three regions. A gradual but structured expansion is being explored for both programmes,” he further said.

Petamber Maharaj Jailall Deodass

Steve Naraine

‘GBA hosted successful programme in Region Two’ - GBA President

THE Guyana Badminton Association (GBA) recently visited Region Two (Essequibo Coast) to introduce and demon-

strate Badminton to three secondary schools in the area.

Aurora Secondary, Abram Zuil Secondary,

and Anna Regina Multilateral were the three schools visited; donating equipment through the Shuttle Time Programme

to promote and develop Badminton in Guyana.

The Shuttle Time Programme, introduced to some schools in the Berbice Region in 2019 had a follow-up done in 2023 producing athletes who compete in the GBA tournaments.

The GBA President Emily Ramdhani expressed pleasure with the

TURN TO PAGE 34

CARICOM classic chess tournament… CM Taffin Khan unbeaten after three rounds - as seniors pick up 2nd win

THE country’s senior chess team competing on Tuesday in the third round of the inaugural CARICOM Classic Chess Tournament edged St Lucia 3-1 at the Ramada Princess Hotel.

It was a tactical master class from Candidate Master Taffin Khan to push the local over the top with his win, khan, Guyana’s National Champion showing his form to overwhelm Arvin Nicholas.

The locals were in a strong position after FIDE Master Anthony Drayton disposed of Justin James.

Shazeeda Rahim had earlier made light of Chelsea Wahid; their only loss to St Lucia was at the hands of Tris-Ann Richards who beat Jessica Callender.

However, the juniors went down to Jamaica 3-1 with Keron Sandiford and Aditi Joshi settling for draws while Kyle Coachman and Sasha Shariff suffered outright losses.

Guyana’s junior and senior team served of their competition on Monday.

TURN

Students at the Aurora Secondary School going through their passes

The senior chess team playing Jamaica (from far right) Shazeeda Rahim, Jessica Callender, FIDE Master Anthony Drayton and Candidate Master Taffin Khan

The junior chess team playing Trinidad (from far right) Fide Deputy President Grandmaster Viswanathan ‘Vishy’ Anand, players Aditi Joshi, Sasha Shariff, Kyle Coachman and Keron Sandiford

GBA President Emily Ramdhani representing Guyana at the Badminton Conference

Archery Guyana affiliates new school club: ISA Archers

ARCHERY Guyana on Tuesday granted affiliate status to ISA Archers.

This is a part of Archery Guyana’s mandate as a national member association from World Archery to administer the sport at a local level.

Archery Guyana has been working to introduce the sport of archery into schools for some time now and have since facil-

itated the creation of and development of school clubs.

President of Archery Guyana, Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon noted that Archery Guyana from its inception envisioned developing the sport within the school environment with the aim of discovering and encouraging athletes from the primary levels all the way to the university levels thereby

ensuring the widest possible participation in its effort to find the best Archer to represent Guyana internationally and specifically in the Olympic games.

Archery Guyana commits to providing the necessary training for instructors and certified coaches, both junior and senior.

With this in mind, Archery Guyana sees archery as an additional event at school sports;

Inter-house, Inter-schools and Nationals, thereby fostering a competitive spirit among students and the camaraderie that archery is internationally known for.

AG is the governing body of Archery in Guyana and the sole entity affiliated to World Archery, the international governing body for the Olympic sport of archery.

Ming makes history at Games of The Future 2024 in Russia

GUYANESE racing

prodigy Calvin Ming

blazed a trail at the Games of the Future 2024 in Russia in a groundbreaking fusion of virtual and real-world motorsport.

Ming, alongside his Mexican teammate Cristian Cantú, competed in this innovative hybrid motor-racing event, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of motorsport.

The Games of the Future 2024 introduced a revolutionary

format where drivers must navigate 25 laps on a simulator and a track simultaneously, swapping positions with

their teammates midway through the race. Ming and Cantú, representing the Quetzales America team, embraced the

challenge with determination.

Of 28 drivers hailing from 12 countries, Ming and Cantú piloted the Italian-made ‘Tatus’ Formula 4 cars with precision and finesse. Despite the fierce competition, the duo displayed exceptional skill and teamwork, qualifying for the 8th position.

Race day at the famed Sochi Autodrom, a circuit steeped in Formula 1 history, witnessed Ming and Cantú elevate their performance. Negotiating the demanding 100-

lap challenge, the pair showcased their prowess behind the wheel, ultimately clinching a commendable 6th place overall.

Reflecting on this extraordinary experience, Ming expressed enthusiasm for the innovative blend of sim and real-world racing. He emphasised the potential for drivers to seamlessly transition between the virtual and physical realms of motorsport, hinting at future endeavors in this groundbreaking arena.

Ming’s illustrious racing career spans various prestigious series across the globe, including the F1600 Championship Series, NACAM Formula 4 Championship, U.S. F2000 National Championship, and the Radical SR3 Caribbean Cup. Notably, he secured the NACAM F4 Championship title in 2016/17, etching his name in Guyanese motorsport history as the highest-achieving driver in an FIA-sanctioned event.

THE Lusignan Golf Club proudly hosted the highly anticipated Survival Annual Golf Tournament, showcasing the exceptional talent and sportsmanship of golfers from across the region. With a day filled with excitement and camaraderie, participants put their skills to the test in a thrilling display of precision and technique.

The overall winner of the Survival Annual Golf Tour-

nament was Hardeo Ganpat, who achieved an impressive best net score of 63. Ganpat's remarkable achievement underscores his mastery of the game and serves as a testament to his dedication and perseverance on the course.

In the fiercely contested

0-13 flight, Mohanlall Dinnauth emerged victorious, demonstrating outstanding prowess and strategic play throughout the tournament. Dinnauth's exceptional per-

formance earned him the coveted first-place title in his division, showcasing his dedication and commitment to the sport.

Meanwhile, in the 1436 flight category, Hardeo Ganpat showcased remarkable skill and determination, securing the first-place position. Ganpat's stellar performance highlighted his talent and ability to rise to the occasion under pressure.

LGC President Patanjilee Persaud said, "We are thrilled to have hosted another successful edition of the Surviv-

al Annual Golf Tournament and we would like to thank Survival for their unwavering support. Congratulations to Mohanlall Dinnauth and Hardeo Ganpat for their outstanding performances in their respective flights. Their skill and sportsmanship are truly commendable."

The success of the Survival Annual Golf Tournament would not have been possible without the dedication and support of the participants, sponsors, and organisers. As the golfing community looks forward

to future events, the spirit of camaraderie and competition continues to thrive on the greens of the Lusignan Golf Club.

The results for the tournament are as follows:

0-13 Flight

1st Mohanlall Dindnauth –Gross 74, HC 7, Net 67

2nd Patanjilee Persaud –Gross 83, HC 13, Net 70

3rd Feroze Barkat – Gross 83, HC 11, Net 72

4th Daso Ramsundar –Gross 85, HC 11, Net 74

14-36 Flight

1st Hardeo Ghanpat –Gross 89, HC 26, Net 63

2nd Eureka Giddings –Gross 87, HC 23, Net 64

3rd Anasha Ally – Gross 93, HC 25, Net 68

4th Jason Clarke – Gross 89, HC 21, Net 68

Overall best net – Hardeo Ganpat (63)

Longest Drive – Feroze barkat

Nearest to pin – Maurice solomon

Principal of ISA Academy Mr. Akram Hussain expressed his delight in having archery in his school and welcomed the introduction of this club

Calvin Ming on track

Some of the members who attended the Finance Governance Workshop