Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 01-07-2023

Guyana’s regional, international roles signal confidence in nation

US Ambassador says; acknowledges ‘free and fair’ conduct of recent LGE

affirms the United States’ continued support for Guyana as country progresses

By Clestine Juan

THE international community ’ s confidence in Guyana is evidenced by its important regional and international roles, outgoing US Ambassador , Sarah - Ann Lynch said during her address at the 247th US Independence Anniversary reception held at the Marriott Hotel on Thursday evening.

She was referring to Guyana ’ s recent election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, Dr Arif Bulkan ’ s election to the Inter - American Commission on Human Rights, and the country’s lead role in advancing food security in the region

Ambassador Lynch said : “ These are strong signs of confidence by the international community that Guyana wants to contribute to regional and global efforts to strengthen international partnership, the rule of law and to promote peace and stability around the globe.”

The Guyana Chronicle reported just Friday that with the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government having restored Guyana’s position as a leader on the world stage, President, Dr Irfaan Ali is currently facing invitations for state visits from over 50 countries, and will be making a trip to China next month to strengthen bilateral relations with the Asian nation

This was shared by the President on Thursday in a video message released on his official social media page, where he justified how his many international engagements have been bearing fruits of development for Guyana over the last three years

“For the month of July, I received more than 50 direct requests from Heads of Governments around the world We’re going on our official state visit to China These are the things we do to bring results for the country,” the President had said

He added: “We have proposals coming from France, French Guiana These are all proposals that come directly from our international engagements, directly from pushing and promoting Guyana and what we have to offer We are on the right trajectory.”

According to the Head of State, since assuming office, he has had the honour of engaging with more than 60 leaders from across the world, more than 50 Chief Executive Officers from major multinationals, engaged with international organisations, and asked to give the keynote addresses at more than 150 events

“I could not have done all of those [as it was not] humanly possible But I’m giving you these figures so you understand what esteem our country is held with today,” Dr Ali had said

Ambassador Lynch commended Guyana for its progress, noting: “Guyana has not only become a strong leader within CARICOM, but has also increased its leadership across the broader hemisphere and on the world stage.”

“Strong democracies do not just focus internally, however; they project their values and their democratic principles externally to help strengthen other nations in their region and across the globe,” the ambassador said On the topic of democracy, Lynch highlighted the successful conduct of the Local Government Elections (LGE), which reflects Guyana’s commitment to democratic processes

The ambassador described the process as “free and fair,” noting: “A Local Government Election which we observed… was widely viewed as free and fair.”

DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLES

She also recognised the credibility and integrity of the electoral process, acknowledging Guyana’s efforts in upholding democratic principles

The June 12 LGE marked a significant milestone in Guyana ’ s democratic journey The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) came out of elections as the big winner, since the party won 67 of the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs), including seven of 10 municipalities, and 906 of the 1,206 local government seats

The PPP/C won over 83 per cent of the LAAs, 75 per cent of all seats available and more than 70 per cent of all votes cast

The PPP / C not only strengthened its hold on its traditional strongholds , but it has massively made inroads in areas where the People’s National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) usually celebrated almost 100 per cent votes in the past

With the conclusion of those elections, officials have said that the aggressive development agenda will continue to be pursued; this agenda has been supported by countries like the US

As Ambassador Lynch reflected on her tenure in Guyana, she expressed pride in the enduring partnership between the United States and Guyana.

UNIQUE AND AMAZING JOURNEY

“Guyana is clearly on a unique and amazing journey.

The United States has been and will continue to be on this journey with you. I could not be prouder of the enduring partnership between our two nations which I know will continue long past my tenure in Guyana,” she said

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips , in his address at the ceremony , thanked the US for its contributions as a longstanding development partner

“Our shared values and common interests have allowed for the deepening of our bilateral relations and have provided an opportunity for our two states to collaborate in projects and programmes related to economic growth, development, security, enhancement of education, health, youth development and restoration of our governance and democratic institutions, which was of critical importance

when almost two years ago, the democracy of our nation and the will of the people were under threat,” the Prime Minister said

He added that this friendship has resulted in a strong, reliable, and strategic partnership which improved the socioeconomic conditions in Guyana, impacting human resource development, capacity building, knowledge and skills transfer, as well as fostering innovation and entrepreneurship

The Prime Minister also lauded the United States on its principles of global leadership “ The United States has become the standard bearer for democracy and good governance within the region , in this hemisphere As we reflect on the stellar contribution of your country to promoting peace and security across the world, there is much to be celebrated on the occasion of this significant milestone,” he said

The international community’s confidence in Guyana is evidenced by its important regional and international roles, outgoing US Ambassador, Sarah-Ann Lynch has said. (Adrian Narine photo)

Guyana, US to advance talks on priority bilateral issues

–– as US Secretary of State set to visit Guyana on July 6

THE United States Department of State has announced that Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, will visit Guyana on July 6 after travelling to Trinidad and Tobago on July 5 to participate in the CARICOM Heads of Government meeting and the 50th anniversary celebration.

Building on US Vice President , Kamala Harris’ historic June 8 visit to The Bahamas , where she co-hosted the US-Caribbean Leaders Meeting , Secretary Blinken will engage on pressing issues in the region with the represented Heads of Governments, including Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, and incoming CARICOM Chair and Dominica Prime

Minister Roosevelt Skerrit

Subsequent to those engagements, the US Secretary of State will travel to Guyana, where he will meet with President, Dr Irfaan Ali ; Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Hugh Todd, and key members of the Cabinet

While here, Blinken and the Guyanese officials will discuss priority bilateral issues including food and energy security and decarbonisation , climate resilience , regional migration , and building local capacity

Guyana’s Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud said the visit is part of the Government of Guyana’s ongoing efforts to further strengthen Guyana ’ s position on the global stage

“As President Ali pointed out yesterday [Friday], Guyana ’ s foreign policy thrust is not only bearing fruits for the people of Guyana but greater recognition of the brand Guyana This is the second Secretary of State of the USA to visit Guyana since President Ali assumed office,” Persaud said President Ali, in a video message on Thursday , emphasised how his many international engagements have been bearing fruits of development for Guyana over the last three years

“For the month of July, I received more than 50 direct requests from Heads of Governments around the world We’re going on our official state visit to China These are the things we do to bring

results for the country,” the President said He added : “ We have proposals coming from France , French Guiana These are all proposals that come directly from our international engagements , directly from pushing and promoting Guyana and what we have to offer We are on the right trajectory.”

According to the Head of State , since assuming office, he has had the honour of engaging with more than 60 leaders from across the world , more than 50 Chief Executive Officers from major multinationals, engaged with international organisations, and asked to give the keynote addresses at more than 150 events

FLASHBACK: High-level Guyanese officials, led by President, Dr Irfaan Ali, had met with US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken during an official state visit to the US in July 2022

Poultry industry continues to be on the front burner

–– President Ali engages stakeholders, commits to long-term support to address critical needs

SEVERAL poultry stakeholders will again meet with Guyana ’ s Head - ofstate, Dr Irfaan Ali, next week to discuss a number of issues affecting this critical industry

Earlier in the week, Dr Ali met with farmers who indicated that they are facing challenges

At that meeting , the President committed to facilitating broader discussions with farmers from across the country.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, during an invited comment on Friday, said that several farmers have outlined difficulties created by a disease in some poultry animals

“ We met with them , some of them claimed that they had a problem with the hepatitis, so we will work with them , we will bring them together,” Mustapha said

He further reminded that Guyana is self-sufficient in producing its own poultry products and the government will remain committed to seeing the industry grow

“We are self -sufficient in poultry products and we don’t want that to decline, we want that to improve and that is why all the small farmers, the President would have met with them and we will have a national conference on July 7.”

At the upcoming meeting, farmers will be given

a chance to raise their concerns and lead discussions on the current state of the poultry industry, as well as deliberate on short, medium and long - term solutions , including how to make the sector more competitive and the type of support government could provide

Recently , the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) banned the importation of poultry or poultry products into the country

In a previous interview with this publication, Mustapha said that there is no reason for Guyana to import poultry or poultry products

“ Normally , we don ’ t import poultry and poultry products We are self-sufficient; we have enough in the country There are a number of areas and farmers, so we don ’ t have a ban but the GLDA is not giving permits because we have enough in the country,” the Agriculture Minister said , noting that efforts have to be made to also protect farmers

He reiterated: “We have to protect our farmers because we have sufficient [ poultry ] in the country . And I think that there is no need to import poultry products and poultry meats presently.”

It was also previously reported that Guyana spent about US$4.7 million importing poultry products in 2020 , with a notable de -

mand for sausages.

A detailed analysis of the agricultural sector and imports of several countries within the Caribbean Community ( CARICOM ) revealed that nearly all of the poultry meat consumed in the region in 2020 was

imported at the cost of millions

At the recently held meeting with CARICOM leaders , Dr Ali disclosed that extra-regional markets supplied an estimated 98.8 per cent of the poultry imported by CARICOM mem-

ber states in 2020.

Those poultry imports ranged from the meat of ducks , geese , turkeys and guinea fowls that are fresh, chilled or frozen and was worth US$242.288 million

Only 1.2 per cent of poultry demanded was

imported from within the region And in that same year, only six CARICOM countries – Barbados, Belize , Guyana , Jamaica , Suriname , and Trinidad and Tobago – produced 83 per cent of the poultry in the region.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali met with several small, medium and large-scale poultry farmers from across the country at State House (Office of the President photo)

Empowerment leads to profits

IN a significant move towards fostering economic growth and supporting small businesses, the current administration has revamped the Sustainable Livelihood Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) programme.

With an enhanced accountability system and the provision of smaller grants, approximately 5,000 individuals are set to benefit from this initiative throughout the year.

Under the SLED programme, over $1.8 billion in grants will be injected into small businesses nationwide.

The Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) will oversee

the distribution of these grants over the coming months. This reformed approach ensures wider reach and opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs in regions such as Berbice, Region Three, and Region 10.

The SLED programme had previously faced scrutiny and controversy during the tenure of the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) administration. Mismanagement, lack of accountability, and instances of fraud and criminality were prevalent, resulting in the enrichment of parliamentarians and government officials without any substantial

business ventures being established.

To prevent such dubious practices, the new dispensation has implemented crucial reforms. The maximum grant limit has been set at $200,000, significantly curbing the chances of mismanagement. By distributing smaller sums, more individuals can benefit from the programme, providing a level playing field for aspiring entrepreneurs. The application process has also been streamlined, ensuring efficiency and transparency. Applicants can now apply through their respective regions, where their applications will be reviewed

and screened. This revamped process is a departure from the past, where a selected few would receive millions of dollars while the majority of citizens remained underserved.

The primary focus of the SLED programme is to empower single parents and vulnerable citizens by creating employment opportunities and supporting their business ventures. Initially launched in 2015, the programme aimed to provide funding for entrepreneurial activities, specifically in the agriculture, livestock, and apiculture sectors.

Under the previous administration, a total of $760 million was dis-

bursed under the SLED programme between 2015 and 2020. However, it became evident that many projects funded by the programme were left incomplete, and citizens did not reap the intended benefits. Consequently, a special audit was conducted in 2021 to investigate the management of the programme during that period.

The responsibility for overseeing the programme has shifted over time. Originally under the Ministry of Communities, it was later transferred to the Ministry of Social Protection before finally being administered by the Ministry of Local Government and

Regional Development

in 2020.

The redesigned SLED programme signifies a renewed commitment to empowering small businesses and ensuring accountability in the allocation of funds. By providing smaller grants and implementing stricter oversight, the government aims to create a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial landscape across the country. As the roll-out of grants commences, we hope to witness the positive impact of the SLED programme in driving economic growth and prosperity for all.

All societies face developmental pains as they seek to modernise, improve quality of life

THIS cost is not only financial, but also by way of temporary disruptions to people in terms of their accustomed lifestyles and in some cases livelihoods. These are developmental pains which all societies are

faced with as they seek to modernise and upgrade the quality of life of their citizens.

The construction of a four-lane road along the old railway line is undoubtedly a major development that will bring

huge benefits not only to commuters, but to all those who live along the once railway embankment. For one, it will significantly raise the real estate value of properties, not to mention the aesthetical changes that such major

developments bring with them.

The Vice-President must be commended for meeting with the vendors and listening to their concerns.

The construction of the four-lane road currently

underway at Ogle, when completed, will link the East Coast of Demerara with that of the East Bank of Demerara.

This road, along with the upgrading of the existing railway road will considerably enhance the

road landscape, bringing much relief to commuters and the society as a whole.

Yours sincerely, Hydar Ally

The failed Harvard negotiator

Dear Editor, IT’S quite hilarious to read excerpts from Raphael Trotman’s book, ‘From Destiny to Prosperity.’ He tried to absolve himself from any blame with regard to the ‘lopsided’ ExxonMobil contract.

After seven long years, he has realised that he must “correct someone else’s version of the truth.” As the chief expert Harvard negotiator, as the Minister of Natural Resources, as an experienced lawyer, he certainly took his time to “give my side, my context, and even my defence to the lies, half-truths, misunderstandings, misinformation and vile accusations that have been uttered.”

Mr Trotman provided two “lame-duck” excuses for his long overdue defence; he was advised not to get into “a gutter fight” and he finally realised that no contract is “inviolable.” This is quite funny when it is recalled that everyone at home and abroad lambasted him and he remained mum.

On February 4, 2020, an article in the Stabroek News captioned, “Trotman’s

role in poor Exxon deal should be probed -- Global Witness,” in which the UK-headquartered body stated that, “Trotman was treated to first-class travel, chauffeur-driven limousine rides, stayed at a pricey hotel and dined at the company’s exclusive Wolfgang Puck Restaurant at Exxon’s expense, at a time when negotiations for the deal were ongoing and ignored advice by experts.”

The question is: why did he ignore “expert advice that more financial information was needed before he signed the licence”? Moreover, Global Witness had stated that he “presented Exxon with feeble negotiation terms.”

Mr Trotman must have realised as an experienced lawyer that he lacked the capacity, competence and more, all the relevant information to negotiate with the oil giant before signing that Exxon deal which deprived Guyana of up to US$55 billion.

Furthermore, the report stated that Trotman “failed to capitalise on Guyana’s

strong bargaining position,” and he should have awaited the assessment of the Stabroek Block’s true value which was one of [the] largest finds in recent times.

He signed the deal on June 27, 2016 and the find was announced on June 28. Trotman, as the subject minister, must be aware that this announcement was imminent and that would have strengthened his negotiating capacity.

It is basic that if you are entering into a negotiation for the sale of an asset, then you must know its value and what is the likely rate of return it is capable of generating.

However, it would seem that Trotman went to the Exxon negotiation with an already made-up mindset, since he reportedly told the media that: “I was authorised by Cabinet to travel, to sign etcetera.”

This would seem to suggest that the then Minister of Natural Resources and the Cabinet had agreed to accept Exxon’s terms even before the negotiation commenced, and this would suggest fur-

ther that the coalition government was already aware of Exxon’s offer.

The negotiation was already done and the deal was agreed upon. Therefore, Trotman went to sign the deal, not negotiate it. This was confirmed by Global Witness, which stated that it has evidence that negotiations began on April 4 or 5, 2016, at the Exxon Headquarters, outside Houston, Texas, and 12 weeks later it was completed and signed by Trotman, on behalf of Guyana.

Is Trotman the sole architect and negotiator of the lopsided Exxon contract? It is clear that not only Trotman but the entire coalition’s Cabinet should be held accountable. It was not a one-man decision. Why the “banshee” cry now for renegotiation? Why lambaste the PPP/C government for a crime it did not commit?

Dr Jagdeo went at length to explain why the signed contract cannot be renegotiated, but it would seem that those words fell on deaf ears.

However, Mr Ramjattan provided the insight into the mindset of the coalition when they signed the Exxon contract. It was no mistake and it was no accident. This can be discerned by the statements he made.

He declared that the Exxon deal was the best deal for Guyana. He claimed that the World Bank and the IMF agreed that two per cent royalty and 50 per cent share of the profit is on par with the majority of countries where oil was found.

He further claimed that it is also nearly 60 per cent “government take” when all the other benefits are added.

Mr Ramjattan sees no reason for a renegotiation of that contract, since Guyana needs the money for its socio-economic development and listed some of these: infrastructural works, the Demerara Harbour Bridge, broad, asphaltic roads connecting every community, expansion of lands for agriculture and so on.

The PPP/C government has not disappointed Mr Ramjattan, since they are doing far more developmen-

tal work than what he had envisaged.

On the other hand, his AFC colleague, the mastermind behind the signing of the contract, now wants the contract to be renegotiated since it is “not inviolable” and is not the best deal for Guyana.

This is just another ploy to attack the PPP/C government. I used to hear about taking one’s mess and daubing it on another, but now I am witnessing this in action. Now Mr Trotman wants to sell himself as an expert negotiator who can renegotiate a better deal. He has had his opportunity and he failed. What is he now bringing to the negotiating table?

There is a band of miscreants who are bent on finding relevance by attacking this government as they had done in the past, but they are being exposed on a daily basis; some are open but some are more subtle. The coalition has had their opportunity and they squandered it.

Yours sincerely,

Haseef Yusuf

New Amsterdam residents to get flood relief with installation of new pump

AS New Amsterdam, Region Six continues, to benefit from central government’s input, residents will soon experience relief from seasonal flooding, as another drainage pump is being installed in the town.

Central New Amsterdam is prone to flooding due to heavy rainfall.

In this regard, Regional Chairman, David Armogan, during an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), on Tuesday, said:

“We are making sure the drainage systems are in order to make sure that we can alleviate flooding…we are trying to make sure that our drainage systems are in order, we have to make sure too that our irrigation systems are in order.”

In addition to drainage works, the chairman assured that residents in New Amsterdam will continue to see developments.

The government’s developmental plans for the town include the opening

of a business centre for persons living with disabilities, a call centre, and a multi-billion-dollar multipurpose stadium.

Earlier this year a drainage pump was commissioned by President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, in Tucberg, New Amsterdam to relieve flooding in the area.

These developments are part of government’s proactive approach to foster community enhancement countrywide. (DPI)

Aubrey Norton heads towards the ‘cul-de-sac’ of no return

AUBREY Norton knows that he will not be taken seriously. He knows that no human with knowledge of politics will believe him. He knows the hierarchy of his party will not buy into his methodology.

Norton is cruising for a PNC bruising. Norton’s electric bicycle is heading into a cul-de-sac where sucksand is unavoidable. His willingness, as alleged, to assign mayors and councilors in the areas that the PNC won without the decisions made by the central executive (CE) may turn out to be Norton’s untergang (German word I like, meaning “downfall.”)

The leader of a party has tremendous avenue for swaying and cajoling. He has certain latitude by being party leader. But his hegemony is never complete

unless he becomes a Castro or Putin where no one is prepared to stand up to him.

In the 21st century in the Caribbean, political parties after the Second World War produced some charismatic names whose parties accepted their wisdom and saw them as indispensable.

In Guyana – Dr. Cheddi Jagan, Janet Jagan, Forbes Burnham and Peter D’Aguiar; in Barbados, Errol Barrow; in Jamaica, Normal Manley; in Grenada, Eric Gairy; in Trinidad, Eric Williams and Rudranath Capildeo; in Antigua, Vere Bird; in Belize, George Price; in the Bahamas, Lynden Pindling, and in St. Lucia, John Compton.

In five instances, the leaders were so towering that there was no thought of anyone challenging them. Those were Jagan and Burn-

ham in Guyana; Williams and Capildeo in Trinidad and Gairy in Grenada.

These were the pre-eminent anti-colonial leaders of the CARICOM region whose respective party members would never have dared to question. But as the post-colonial period ushered in economic survivalist pursuits and as these gentlemen grew older and faded off the scene, the days of party charisma were over.

Since the great anti-colonial leaders left the scene, CARICOM political parties have not produced charismatic leaders who dominated their parties. Maurice Bishop is the classic example of that new period. Tall, handsome, oozing charisma, Bishop had no equal in Grenada but that was not replicated in his party, the New Jewel

Movement, where he was constantly challenged and eventually toppled. P. J. Patterson of Jamaica came close to the revered leader but was far from obtaining the loyalty that the pre-war leaders enjoyed.

In the 21st century in CARICOM territories, the situation is very fluid. Party leaders in government and in opposition do not have that manipulative control over their executives. Perhaps the best example of this in the 21st century in CARICOM is the Alliance For Change in Guyana. Highly dissatisfied with their leadership, the AFC rank and file planned at their January 2017 congress to topple their General-Secretary, one of the founders of the party.

Despite interventions by all the top founding names to save their colleague, he lost out to a rank and file candidate. For more on this aspect of party politics in the AFC, see the interview last week

on the Gildarie-Freddie Kissoon Show with former AFC bigwigs – Leonard Craig and Audwin Rutherford.

Aubrey Norton is living in the past. He cannot command the PNC’s CE as Burnham and Desmond Hoyte did. Robert Corbin tried to do it but was met with stiff resistance from Norton himself and Vincent Alexander to the point where the quarrel between Corbin and Norton ended up in the High Court.

To mask Norton’s attempted totalitarian tentacles, the PNC’s chairman gave one of the most mediocre excuses. Shurwayne Holder said that there is no compulsion (my word) for the CE to choose the mayors and councillors.

He went on to state that the CE makes policies and the leader carries out the decisions. The crucial curiosity here is what Holder means by policy.

The mayor and city council of Georgetown and the town council

of New Amsterdam are powerful local authorities. If the hierarchy of the PNC has no say in approving those names, then what provision in the PNC’s constitution allows for such a large jurisdiction to be left to the leader himself? Isn’t choosing the governors of Georgetown and New Amsterdam, part of policy-making? If not then what is policy-making?

Holder went on to contradict himself by saying those for consideration were met by a panel who interviewed them. Well, why a panel and not the CE itself. The panel is smaller than the CE, therefore, basic democratic principles should instruct Norton that the more people that choose you, the more democratic is the process.

The ongoing contretemps in the PNC do not auger well for the future of the party. It appears that sooner than later, Norton may become a historical footnote in the PNC.

$125M to be ‘pumped’ into water treatment plant, well

––

to improve access at Cummings Lodge New Housing Scheme

By Cindy Parkinson

WHILE promoting water conservation , the government is also working towards delivering purified water to 90 per cent of the population by 2025, and residents in the Cummings Lodge New Housing Scheme can also expect a new water treatment plant and well that will cost $125M

In an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, explained that while the President Dr Irfaan Ali and the People’s Progressive Party / Civic ( PPP / C ) are actively working towards the development of the country’s infrastructure, ensuring that all citizens are in possession of their own homes and creating

job opportunities amongst several other initiatives; his ministry is also working on ensuring that all Guyanese have potable water

Minister Croal said that, because of the magnitude of some communities on the coastland, they are installing treatment plants and wells at the cost of $125 million so that the people can have easier access to water supply in their homes

According to him, “we have started to drill a new well at Cummings Lodge New Housing Scheme, and that will supply the new treatment plant that we are also installing there The area will obviously be supplied through the treatment plant, but even though it is for the Cummings Lodge community, we would normally interlink the system so that the neighbouring

communities will also benefit from it”.

He continued: “It is very much needed in that area because of the capacity of the community, and while we are considering the population of these communities, I must mention that we are also drilling another well at Turkeyen , which is at the back of the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE).”

While Minister Croal said that the well at Turkeyen will commence shortly, he also shared that several other coastal wells are being drilled , along with many other developments that will happen in the area The housing minister also stated that, in order to eliminate the problem of residents not receiving adequate treated water in their homes, such projects are very necessary

Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal, samples water from one of the wells he commissioned

According to him, the Sophia water system alone cannot provide the different communities with the required amount of water However, considering that most of the areas are fairly new or are now developing, the minister said that it is one of the main reasons the government has seen the need for the water plant and well initiatives

The Guyana Chronicle spoke with several members of the Cummings Lodge / Turkeyen communities, and they all expressed similar sentiments According to them , they are happy for the initiative, and they also expressed their gratitude to

the government

According to one individual, “water is always an issue in Cummings Lodge We cannot depend on the pressure ; we had to buy black tanks and depend on the rain Now that we are getting our own well, we are happy and thankful, and I think it’s about time We have a lot of children who are renting , and the area is very populated, so this makes sense.”

With the $17.7 billion financial allocation this year, Guyana Water Incorporated ( GWI ) plans to spend roughly $ 108,850,000 of that amount to help with the digging of potable wa-

ter wells in five villages in Region One The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) recently opened tenders, and the GWI proposes to drill water wells in the Region One villages of Haimacabra, Kamwatta, Waramuri, Mabaruma Settlement, and Black Water Savannah, according to the tender documents

Recently , it was also reported that the drilling of a $15 million well has begun in the community of Arakaka in Region One (Barima Waini) and it is expected to benefit over 100 households with potable water

Local spare parts company secures dealership rights for Kobelco Excavator

––

receives first shipment of equipment

IN 2022 , Agri Parts Machinery and Services ( APMS ) launched a new company, Agri Heavy Machinery Inc ( AHMI ) to better serve its extensive customer base.

According to a press release, the company, AHMI, was able to hold fruitful negotiations with Kobelco Construction Machinery Co Ltd in Japan, and in October 2022 , became the official local agent and distributor for Kobelco Products in Guyana

The company will carry Kobelco excavators fitted specifically for the Latin America region It recently received its first shipment of excavators consisting of the SK 55 model Additional shipments

with the SK 140 and SK 210 models are expected soon The machinery company will also receive weekly shipments of genuine spare parts from Kobelco Construction Machinery Inc in Texas , USA , to cover any issues which may arise for customers

Kobelco excavators are built at Kobelco’s state-ofthe-art factory in Hiroshima, Japan. The company’s advanced technology and features include superior fuel efficiency , an innovative noise and dust reduction system ( iNDr ), and advanced hydraulics for powerful, high performance

“Being the official agent and distributor of Kobelco,

AHMI will offer a one-year warranty to all customers on manufacturer defects

The company will also have in house trained Kobelco technicians to provide after-sale and service support,” AHMI said, adding that “attractive ” credit terms will also be offered to customers

APMS was founded 30 years ago by Deonarine Sugrim and is a leader in the market for all brands of heavy machinery spare parts

With a logistics hub in Miami, Florida and a prime sales location on Mandela Avenue in Georgetown , Guyana, APMS serves the needs of customers in the construction, mining, forestry and oil and gas industries.

Work is being done on the site at Cummings Lodge Housing Scheme

The first shipment of the SK 55 model excavators from Kobelco

US donates $5M bus to Palms Geriatric Home

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS) on Friday received a US $ 25,000 ( G $ 5.2 million) 17-seater bus from the United States (US) Embassy, through the US Department of Defence’s Humanitarian Assistance Programme.

At the handing over ceremony held at the Palms Geriatric Home on Brickdam , Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud wel -

comed the donation to the facility, which houses over 200 Guyanese senior citizens

She related that the bus will be used to transport them to various destinations , including the hospital for medical treatment or therapy

Furthermore , with the upcoming introduction of an MHSSS programme scheduled for later this year , which aims to provide recreational activities for senior citizens , the bus will serve as a valuable

asset.

“ With the new programme set to unfold a little later in the year , where we are looking at recreation, taking our senior citizens out for a bit of exercise , some meet-and-greets, this kind of transportation is very welcome,” she explained.

She thanked the Department of Defence , saying that the ministry was happy to have the partnership

She noted the US ’ efforts to send the bus to Guyana, even though right - hand - drive vehicles are not used here.

“ I know the righthand-drive is not used, so all the right - handdrives could be sent here, especially if they are 17 seats and more,

so that more and more, those persons that we want to assist , we can have them enjoy a quality of life beyond the environment they are in,”

Minister Persaud said

She added: “It will be very useful I thank you for always supporting in meaningful and purposeful ways so that beyond just the simple things, the really special things can be done for vulnerable populations I have no doubt within the week this [the bus] might be used.”

Meanwhile, US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah - Ann Lynch , in her remarks said that they were excited to make the donation to the ministry

“The Department of Defence frequently partners with the MHSSS

and we partner in areas of economic and social development and medical development,” she noted

Ambassador Lynch related that the bus will help persons with limited mobility to move around “ You will note that it is a right drive bus which is not what we have in the US we have left drive It ’ s right drive it came direct to Guyana from Japan where it was being used at a US military base in Japan,” she explained

Both Minister Persaud and Ambassador Lynch expect that the 17-seater bus will be of great assistance to the seniors at the Palms Geriatric Home.

US Ambassador to Guyana Sarah Ann Lynch hands over the bus key to Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud

The US$25,000 17-seater bus that was donated to the Palms Geriatric Home

‘Speeding’ motorcyclist killed in Mandela Avenue accident

AN accident last Thursday night on Nelson Mandela Avenue, in the vicinity of Space Gym, has claimed the life of 20-year-old motorcyclist Joshua Blackin of Toucan Drive, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown

According to a police report, the driver of motorcar # PNN 9458, 40-year-old Marvin Williams of Grove Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara, alleged that at about 22:0 hours, he was proceeding north along the western drive lane of Nelson Mandela Avenue, when he observed motorcycle # CL 9706, driven by Blackin proceeding south along the eastern drive lane of the said road at a fast rate.

While in the vicinity of Space Gym, Blackin’s motorcycle started to skid on its side from the eastern drive lane of the said road into his path and a collision occurred As a result of the collision, Blackin and his pillion rider, 18-year-old Natasha Mc Kenzie of South Ruimveldt fell onto the road surface, the police said

The Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) were summoned and Blackin was later pronounced dead by Dr Ricket His body was transported to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home for storage and a post-mortem examination (PME).

The pillion rider was picked up by EMT in a conscious condition and transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where she was seen and examined by a doctor on duty, treated and sent away

A Notice of Intended Prosecution was served on the driver of motorcar # PNN 9458 after a breathalyzer test was conducted on him The test found no trace of alcohol in his system.

Further investigations are ongoing

CEO: No complaint or concern over conduct of LGE

–– GECOM Chair maintains biometrics cannot be introduced without constitutional reform

CHIEF Elections Officer ( CEO ), Vishnu Persaud has said that the June 12 Local Government Elections (LGE) met the expectations insofar as credibility is concerned

“ We have not received today , any single expression of complaint or concern that would pass doubt on the manner in which the elections were conducted,” Persaud said during a Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) press conference on Friday

Noting that the elections were not hectic and ran its due course, Persaud related: “These elections would have met the expectations, especially insofar as the conduct of credible elections is concerned.”

Boasting about the timeliness of the opening and closing of the polling stations along with the declarations, he said: “To this end, I can give the assurance that with specific reference to elections day that all the logistical arrangements flowed smoothly….”

The CEO also commented on the fact that there were 11 accredited observer groups, with a total of 227 observers dispersed across the districts

Persaud remarked : “ It is important that I mention that local observers were accredited and more involved

in monitoring the elections.”

While clearing up any misconception that GECOM is supposed to make a single declaration for the local government polls, the CEO said that this is only for General and Regional Elections and it is the duty of the returning officers from each Local Authority Area (LAA) to make their respective declaration

Therefore , it would be 80 single declarations for local government elections as compared to a single declaration for the General and Regional Elections

GECOM ’ s CEO then went on to say: “I want to make it clear where these elections were concerned , most of the declarations were made statutorily and publicly before midnight on June 12, and in a total way, the declaration of the results for all of the local government elections were made within 36 hours after the [closure] of polls.”

On the other hand , the

subject matter of recounts was addressed by Persaud, to which he related that the Elections Commission did receive requests for recounts in the entire township of Mahdia, but this was withdrawn. There were also requests for recounts in Constituencies

Four and Six in the municipality of Georgetown.

He remarked that the request for a recount in Constituency Six was facilitated but the one in Four was denied

Persaud said: “It is important to point out that there were requests for recounts which obviously means that the [Returning Officer] could not have proceeded or conclude those declarations because the declaration would now have been subject to any new numbers,” highlighting the tie between the two main political parties , People ’ s Progressive Party (PPP) and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in Mahdia and Bartica

With the electoral process practically over, Chairperson of GECOM , retired Judge, Justice Claudette Singh, responded to regular protests by the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) for the commission to produce a “clean” voters list and introduce biometrics

“GECOM does not have legal parameters to do this,” Singh said, adding that the constitution is the supreme law

She related that if the introduction of biometrics were to be considered, there would need to be constitutional reform

The GECOM officials alluded to the fact that there are mechanisms in place to ensure that elections in Guyana are free and fair

“At our polling station, there are mechanisms in place to verify one’s entitlement to be there and to cast their ballot,” Deputy Chief Elections Officer , Aneal Giddings said.

500 acres of soya bean to be harvested by September

SOME 500 acres of soya bean being cultivated at Santa Fe, Region Nine, will be harvested in September, according to President, Dr. Irfaan Ali in a post on his Facebook page on Wednesday.

The Head of State went on to say that production has been progressing satisfactorily. Local cultivation of corn and soya commenced in 2021 after Dr. Ali chal-

million annually on proteins for the poultry sector, the government, since being elected to office in 2020, has taken steps to promote domestic cultivation of grains such as corn and soya beans.

The country will not only become a supplier to the regional market, but it also expects to become self-sufficient in producing its own feed for livestock.

year and we will continuously increase, so the next three years we can expand to 25,000,” Mustapha said.

This is being supplemented and supported by the construction of three 3,000-tonne silos and one 80-tonne-perhour drying tower at the Tacama Landing along the Berbice River, where corn and soya bean are also being cultivated by September.

lenged local investors to get involved in the cultivation of two of the main inputs for feed for the livestock sector.

The owners of Guyana Stock Feed Ltd., Royal Chicken, Edun Farms, SBM Wood, Dubulay Ranch, and Bounty Farm Ltd., along with the Brazilian-owned N F Agriculture, partnered to produce soya bean and corn for both the local and regional markets.

With Guyana expending close to US$25

In a previous interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, had said that the aim is to extend the farms over a five-year period.

“In 2021, we would have started the trial of 125 acres and it was very successful and we harvested three tonnes per hectare, and that is aligned in getting the kind of production we want. Because of that, we said we will expand to 3,000-4,000 acres this

Once completed, the facilities will decrease the amount of the coarse grain that is lost during the current drying process which is done using a mobile dryer.

Meanwhile, some $150 million was set aside in this year’s budget for the construction of a wharf in the area. This will provide easy river access to the land under cultivation, making it more accessible for farmers to transport their produce.

Soya bean being cultivated at Santa Fe, Region Nine (NAREI photo)

Gov’t signs $100M loan agreement to boost small-business financing

By Cindy Parkinson

THE government aims to boost access to financing and promote the growth of small businesses with a $100 million loan agreement signed by Senior Minister in Charge of Finance

Dr Ashni Singh, with the Small Business Development Finance Trust Incorporated (SBDF).

Dr Singh explained that he was honoured to be a part of and participate in the “simple but extremely important” signing ceremony on Friday at the Ministry of Finance office.

The SBDF was established in 2002 and its mission is to strengthen the economic base of micro and small-scale sector entrepreneurs in Guyana through increased access to lending, technical support and non-traditional financial facilities.

The Finance Minister emphasised that the SBDF Board, which includes two of Guyana’s prominent entrepreneurs Mr. Sattaur Gafoor and Mr. Hemraj Kissoon, who are now business moguls, started off as modest family-owned business.

As such, he noted that each small business of today has the potential to become the medium and large-sized businesses of tomorrow.

Government, he said, will provide the loan at a concessional rate to SBDF for lending to small and micro-business enterprises in Guyana.

According to Dr Singh, “the $100 million financing facility will be utilised by the SBDF through the provision of loans at no more than eight percent interest rate to individuals or companies wishing to develop and expand their small or medium enterprises.

“I want to emphasize the significance and importance of this occasion; it is not by accident or coincidental circumstance that the government of Guyana has chosen

to enter this strategic partnership with SBDF. Mr Gafoor is well known for his humility and his modesty, and so he will be the last to speak of his achievements and the achievements of SBDF...but it is important that we recognise, and I speak on, this extremely important national institution.”

The Senior Minister of Finance further stated that SBDF started its mission of assisting Guyana’s smallest business owners with a total capital investment of $21 million, and according to him, Mr Gafoor provided $11 million and the then President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, later contributed $10 million on behalf of the Government of Guyana. He also added that since its founding, SBDF has disbursed 6,835 loans with a total value of $4.5 billion.

According to him, “Given the modest base with which it began, how many entrepreneurs would have received assistance, and how well that portfolio would have had to have performed for the capital base to remain intact, in order to facilitate the lending, repayment, re-lending, and repayment and repeated turnover of this very modest capital. That is the environment that President Irfaan Ali is endeavouring to create—step by step, block by block—an environment where every Guyanese person who wishes to set up a small business is able to do so and is operating in conditions where the business can grow, prosper, and expand.”

While describing the several ways in which the government has helped small businesses, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, stated that through the loan that SBDF has received, more Guyanese will receive more support.

Minister Walrond said, “Today we are adding one more arrow in the quiver or tool in the tool-kit of our mechanisms that we are im-

plementing as government to support small businesses.’

As you know, under the Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, we have the Small Business Bureau established under the Small Business Act to help carve out a space of support for small businesses. We have had under the SBB several one-stop shops for training and support for small businesses, as well as a help desk. There is the Small Business Development Fund that’s also been established under the Small Business Act, dispensing loans and grants to small businesses.”

The Tourism Minister further stated that, under the Small Business Bureau, there is a scheme where the government guarantees loans for small enterprises, making it easier for them to obtain credit from commercial institutions.

She also made reference to the Local Content Act, which she noted is intended to create room for Guyanese small enterprises to start up and develop in the oil and gas industry.

While adding that “This loan facility will complement and not compete with the efforts of the Small Business Bureau, which offers a maximum of $500,000.”

Finally, the Chairman of SBDF, Mr Sattaur Gafoor, expressed his gratitude for the government’s efforts to support the entity in providing much-needed assistance to small businesses.

According to the business mogul, it was an honour that the government had partnered with the entity to lend SBDF $100 million in order to support small businesses, which he noted will help the fund greatly.

Mr Gafoor said, “The SBDF has grown over the years to meet a cross-section of demands, more particularly those involved in agriculture, and this will most certainly help in meeting those demands.”

Senior Minister in Charge of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh (from right), Minister of Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, handing over the cheque to the Chairman of SBDF Mr Sattaur Gafoor and other senior board members of SBDF

Signing of the loan agreement with Minister of Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, Senior Minister in Charge of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh (centre), and Chairman of SBDF, Mr Sattaur Gafoor

GUYOIL introduces ‘technology at the pump’

- company’s services now accessible with MMG

By Faith Greene

CUSTOMERS of the Guyana Oil Company (GUYOIL) will now be able to make payments for various services through Mobile Money Guyana (MMG), following the launch of this innovative initiative between the two companies, on Friday.

The MMG services would be available at the eight GUYOIL-owned service stations across Guyana, officials said at the launch of the initiative.

General Manager of MMG, Bobita Ram, during her remarks at the launch of the service, said that it was another step towards advancing Guyana’s digital transformation.

Mobile Money Guyana, which is a subsidiary of the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT), is Guyana’s leading mobile wallet that

allows users to add funds to their secured account, which is used to pay their bills, buy and sell credit, and shop, all from the comfort of their home or on their mobile devices.

“The team at GUYOIL has clearly put convenience at the top of their agenda, and, with their customers in mind, have taken this step to introduce technology at the pump. As you know, we at MMG have enabled mobile cashless payments across several sectors, and today we welcome the addition of GUYOIL to the long list of places, where mobile payments are accepted,” she said.

According to Ram, GUYOIL is the second gas station where payments could be made through MMG. The first such operation to adopt this service was SOL, which introduced MMG services at its Shell-branded gas stations.

“Now, when you drive up to a pump at GUYOIL, no need to fumble for cash, wait for the attendant to make change; those days are in the past,” she proudly said.

Ram went on to say: “With a simple scan of the QR code, conveniently placed on the pumps, you can effortlessly pay for fuel, lubricants and a range of other services.”

This, she related, does not only save valuable time but transforms the experience of purchasing gas to one of ease and convenience.

Ram further said that MMG will remain committed to offering its service throughout the length and breadth of Guyana.

According to MMG’s Public Relations and Corporate Communications Officer, Jasmine Harris, MMG is set up in such a way that you can access payments from anywhere.

General Manager of

GUYOIL, Molly Hassan, in her remarks, said that consumers today have a number of choices available to them, adding as well that MMG promises to add value, and improve customer satisfaction.

She said: “We’re living in an information age, which means products are thrown at you, different products, different colours, shapes, sizes, everything.”

With less of a hassle and all of those options available at GUYOIL,

where else would someone purchase from? Hassan questioned.

She said: “There is this choice which makes it easy to transition and bring that kind of value, costumer value, to our valued customers. Which means that today, as markets evolve, it becomes necessary for companies to adopt to the changing technologies of consumers.”

Hassan clarified that while MMG is a new payment option, it is just

an alternative method and does not eliminate traditional payment methods. The new services are available at the eight branches of GUYOIL service stations, which are located at Providence, Sheriff Street and Regent Street, which offer 24-hour service; Diamond, East Bank Demerara; Kitty; Victoria on the East Coast of Demerara; Palmyra and Heathburn in Berbice, and Adventure in Essequibo.

General Manager of MMG, Bobita Ram (left) and General Manager of GUYOIL, Molly Hassan (Japheth Savory photo)

Approximately 6,000 farmers to benefit from US$3M worth of ‘agri’ inputs

is having on the sector, inputs like shade house materials, which will be handed over under this project, are critical for combatting the harmful effects climate change has on farming,” the minister said.

The IDB Country Representative to Guyana, Solórzano Salazar said that the IDB was pleased to support the government in its efforts to boost the incomes of small and medium-scale agricultural producers.

“The project will assist with providing you with support to improve your production. This project not only caters for the provision of machinery. The ministry has also catered

for extension services so farmers will also benefit from technical assistance, which is an ingredient to promote production and minimize poverty in the rural areas. As it relates to the adoption of new technologies, we are in an era where technology is around. This is why we need to add the available technology to our farming activities,” she said.

SOME 6,000 farmers from across the coast of Guyana are set to benefit from US$3 million worth of inputs and technical assistance as part of the government’s efforts to boost Guyana’s agricultural sector.

This will be made possible through the provision of specialised extension services, critical machinery, and planting materials that were procured through funding from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) under the Ministry of Agriculture’s Agriculture Sector Development Unit’s (ASDU) Sustainable Agriculture Development Programme (SADP) project.

Component two of the programme targets farmers from regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, and 10, who will receive inputs such as land tilers, water

pumps, drip systems, shade house materials, threshing machines, plucking machines, gestation crates, breeding animals (Cattle, swine, small ruminants, black giants), planting materials, among other things to improve their operations and enhance productivity.

The programme will also see farmers benefitting from technical support in areas such as best practices for both plant and animal husbandry, as well as technological integration in agriculture.

During a simple handing-over exercise at the ministry’s head office on Friday, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said the inputs will assist with the government’s efforts to assist small and medium-scale farmers with advancing their agricultural practices. He also said that

the government was also working to ensure farmers are exposed to improved technology, given the impacts of climate change on the agricultural sector.

The minister said that the government will continue to support the nation’s farmers and also encouraged the use of inputs such as shade houses to complement climate-smart agricultural practices.

“Guyana is leading the charge for agriculture in CARICOM, so our farmers will have to continue to put in that effort to produce. Budgetary allocations for the sector have increased which serves as a testament to the government’s unwavering support to you, the farmers, as you continue in those efforts.

“We will continue to support you in every way possible. With the effects climate change

Some 6,000 farmers from across the coast of Guyana are set to benefit from US$3 million worth of inputs and technical assistance

Follow-up meeting held with Plaisance residents, vendors on Railway Embankment expansion project

- several roads assessed for rehabilitation

MINISTER of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, on Thursday afternoon, met with residents and vendors of Plaisance “Line Top,” East Coast Demerara (ECD), where he assured them that they will not be displaced when the expansion project for the Railway Embankment commences within the next few months.

The visit follows a meeting hosted by Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and other Cabinet members, including Minister Edghill, on Tuesday.

During the meeting

Thursday afternoon, the Public Works Minister said that a comprehensive approach will be taken to ensure persons are minimally affected when the project commences.

He assured them that a consultative meeting will be held with persons living along the East Coast, where they will be detailed about the plans for the extension of the embankment.

Although the project will be ready for action several months from now, Minister Edghill noted that it is paramount that residents and vendors are given adequate

notice.

“The government has no interest in dispossessing anyone. This is a government that is giving title and land to citizens, so there is no intent to dispossess. The government’s modus operandi is to make sure people get ownership,” Minister Edghill stated.

Meanwhile, as it relates to vendors, the minister noted that although they may have to be removed, they will not be put out of business.

Edghill said: “The people who are selling, the intent is to find a place where you could

continue to operate in a safe way, because if we’re building a road and expanding it, there are demarcation where you have to adhere to.”

During the visit, po-

tential spots were shown to the minister by the vendors. Further, discussions on the rehabilitation of several roads in the community were also held.

A detailed assessment was done on the Victoria access road and its bridge. The bidding process for this street will commence as soon as next Tuesday.

Father, two daughters perish in fire at Charlestown

A FIRE, on Friday morning, claimed the lives of a 40-year-old father and his two daughters, ages six and four years, at their Charlestown home.

According to a press release, the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is investigating the circumstances which led to the early morning

blaze.

At approximately 06:45 hrs, the GFS received a report of a fire at Lot 8 Drysdale Street, Charlestown, Georgetown.

Three water tenders, one water carrier, two ambulances and a hydraulic platform from Central, Alberttown, Campbellville,

West Ruimveldt, and Fire Service Headquarters, respectively, were immediately dispatched to the location.

The first appliance arrived on scene at 06:48 hrs and firefighting operations began at approximately 06:50 hrs.

The structure involved

was a two-storey wooden and concrete building, which was severely damaged by the time the fire was extinguished.

The GFS reminded citizens to exercise caution and follow safety measures to avoid home fires.

“Homes should be equipped with fire preven-

tion and firefighting devices such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, or buckets of sand, which will aid in alerting people to a fire and putting it out quickly,” the Fire Service said.

Citizens were urged to desist from using illegal electrical connections, which create hazards in

the home and are a leading cause of electrical fires.

Additionally, while grill work provides homes and businesses with security, the GFS advised that there be an evacuation plan in place or a clear form of exit to be used in the event of a fire or emergency.

A fire at Charlestown claimed the lives of a father and his two daughters, and completely destroyed the house they were occupying

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, interacting with residents and vendors of Plaisance

GECOM announces resumption of continuous registration

- commences from Tuesday to November 30, 2023

BEGINNING July 4, 2023, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) will resume the continuous registration exercise for eligible persons at all permanent Registration Offices in the ten Administrative Regions.

This registration exercise will conclude on November 30, 2023. During this registration exercise, any person who will be 14 years and older by the 31st December, 2023, and is a Guyanese citizen by birth, descent, naturalization or registra-

tion, or is a citizen from a Commonwealth country and living in Guyana for one year or more, can apply for registration, providing he/she was never registered.

According to GECOM, existing registrants who are desirous of updating their records such as a request to correct or change their names, date of birth, occupation and update their addresses are advised that those transactions would also be facilitated during this exercise.

Persons desirous of

conducting any registration transaction whether new registration or changes/corrections to their particulars are required to visit the GECOM Registration Office responsible for their area of residence with the relevant source documents which are: Original birth certificate, valid passport, adoption certificate, naturalization certificate or certificate of registration, and deed poll along with original birth certificate (if applicable) in the case of making applications for

new registration. Further, in the case of application for change/ correction of name and

other particulars persons must walk with their original marriage certificate, marriage certificate

with Decree Absolute for divorced women, deed poll with Birth Certificate, or a new original birth certificate reflecting the new name in the case of application for change/correction of name and other particulars.

Registration transactions can be done during the official working hours outlined below: Mondays to Thursdays 08:00hrs – 12:00hrs, 13:00hrs – 16:30hrs Fridays 08:00hrs – 12:00hrs, 13:00hrs – 15:30hrs.

National Small Business Week ‘kicks off’ on July 21

By Shamar Meusa

THE second annual National Small Business Week, organised by the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), was launched on Friday, focusing primarily on promoting collaboration among small businesses.

During the launch at GTT’s office at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, President of the GCCI, Kester Hutson, stated that the event this year will begin on July 21 and end on July 29 with several activities planned for the duration.

According to Hutson, the GCCI’s focus this year is on collaboration and it is partnering with the Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, along with GTT, to host the Small Business Week.

“We thought it best to have this collaboration, a public-private partnership

to enhance the delivery…” he said.

While he noted that through the overwhelming request, the week of events was held last year, he stated that this year was no different as some 60 small businesses will again

participate in the week of activities.

Hutson told members of the media that the theme for this year’s event is “Strategic Collaboration for Success” and that it is recognised that there is a need for the close to 800

members within the GCCI to look at areas in which they can collaborate to grow businesses in various sectors.

Meanwhile, the Chair of the GCCI’s entrepreneurship and small business committee Evie

Gurcharan, stated that this year’s Small Business week will leverage the chamber’s resources to ensure that activities are carried out not just in Georgetown but also in outlying areas.

“What we’re doing is leveraging the resources of the various chambers in outlying areas, in the counties rather, we’re going to Berbice, we’re going to Linden, we’re going to Essequibo and we’re going to be in Georgetown,” she said.

As part of the events planned, Gurcharan stated that there will be Small Business Saturday and Sunday along with training and seminars and even a video series which she said will highlight the work of rising entrepreneurs.

There will also be a five-day immersive workshop where topics like leadership, management, and organisational structure are expected to take place and participants will work with a manager or Chief Executive Officer over the five days to un-

derstand how businesses run at a medium scale.

The National Small Business Week will subsequently culminate on July 29 with the Small Business Seminar and Expo at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

Added to this, Chief Operations Officer (Business Solutions) at GTT, Orson Ferguson, told members of the media on Friday that the company was happy to come on board again as the title sponsor for the event.

He said, “We also believe that small and medium-sized businesses absolutely need more platforms to showcase their products and services.

We think that the expo is an excellent platform for small businesses; we think that the seminars and the training and the exposure that those activities bring to small businesses are extremely extremely important and we want to encourage small businesses across the country to participate.”

From Left: GCCI President, Kester Hutson, Chair of the GCCI’s entrepreneurship and small business committee, Evie Gurcharan and GTT Chief Operations Officer (Business Solutions), Orson Ferguson (Delano Williams photo)

Expanded Ophthalmology programme reaches over 5,000 beneficiaries

MINISTER of Health, Dr Frank Anthony has said that over 5,000 persons have benefitted from the Ministry of Health’s Pilot Community Ophthalmology Programme.

Dr Anthony made this revelation in a recent interview with members of the media on the sidelines of an event where he noted that the ministry will continue to expand its current Ophthalmology programme across the country.

According to the health minister, they have been doing quite a lot of screening in interior regions and have been sending out mobile

teams to do screenings. In this regard, he noted that those persons who would need surgery are then brought out for same and returned to their villages.

“So that programme has been working really well and I think a lot of people in the interior are very appreciative of the programme,” he said.

Further, he noted that in relation to the pilot programme in the interior communities, persons who have been trained would go into the areas with something like a backpack that contains the necessary lenses and equipment and they would be able to receive

- says Health Minister

the lenses they require.

He explained, “In the backpack, they have lots of lenses and they have a very simple instrument that they can put on your eyes; it has two things like a ruler and it’s colour-coded so you close one eye and you pull it down to where you can see properly and then you do the same, close the other eye…”

With this instrument, the Minister said that within three to five minutes, people can receive spectacles that are appropriate for their eyes.

This project, he said, has been ongoing since last year with many people benefitting thus far.

“I think right now, more than 5,000 persons have benefitted and this proj-

ect is going to continue this year,” the Minister affirmed.

The Ministry of Health rolled out this programme early last year as one of several interventions to improve eye-care services across the country.

In March 2022, the Minister indicated they had been working with a group from Johns Hopkins University that piloted a “Snap-on” lens technology which he said at that time would have a great impact.

At that time, he indicated that the Ministry had ordered at least 3,500 spectacles and the programme would begin in very remote areas across the country.

Commonwealth SG to attend CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in T&T

COMMONWEALTH Secretary-General (SG), the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, will attend the Conference of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Port-of-Spain from July 3 to 5, 2023 as a special guest.

This year marks 50 years since the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas in Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) in 1973, which led to the establishment of the Caribbean Community. The next week’s meeting will officially launch CARICOM’s 50th-anniversary celebrations.

Speaking ahead of her visit, the Commonwealth Secretary-General commended the achievements of the organisation, stating:

“CARICOM came together 50 years ago to enhance the connections, well-being, prosperity and security of Caribbean countries and their citizens. Those objectives were prescient then, and now, half a century

later, they are more important than ever.”

She added: “The Commonwealth’s partnership with CARICOM spans over the past 50 years, and today, our co-operation on a wide array of initiatives is more comprehensive than ever before.”

In Trinidad and Tobago, the Secretary-General will engage with Caribbean leaders, seeking their perspectives and collaborating

on strategies to provide more tailored and practical assistance to the region.

She will also update leaders on preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled to take place in Samoa from October 21, 2024.

With 12 of the 15 CARICOM members also being part of the Commonwealth, the Secretary-General emphasised the importance of

strengthening the collaboration between the two organisations.

She will highlight the targetted assistance being provided by the Secretariat to the region, particularly through the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub.

As of June 2023, the hub has helped secure over US $52 million in climate finance for Commonwealth member countries in the Caribbean.

During the conference, Secretary-General Scotland will reaffirm the Commonwealth’s unwavering commitment to championing the concerns and interests of small states on the global stage, with a focus on urgent climate action and advocating for a new global financing system that addresses the needs of the small and vulnerable.

In particular, she will draw attention to the significant gap between the ambitious climate finance pledges and the limited funding actually being dis-

bursed to help developing countries to tackle climate change.

Secretary-General Scotland said: “We cannot stand by as small and vulnerable states drown in rising seas and suffocate under crushing debt. Small states, least responsible for climate change, suffer a double injustice – enduring the devastating aftermath of disasters and grappling with exorbitant borrowing costs for recovery.”

She further highlighted the resilience of the Caribbean region, stating: “For decades, when it has been faced with the worst, Caribbean leaders have shown their best. They have led the world on the issues of the day, and they have shown their true power as a united voice for those who are in need.”

Acknowledging the recent announcements made at the Paris Climate Finance Summit as “important steps in a much longer journey”,

the Secretary-General added that after advocacy from the Commonwealth and the Caribbean, spearheaded by the Prime Minister of Barbados, the Hon Mia Mottley, with the support of other regional leaders, the reforms to multilateral lending practices are now being seriously considered.

There is hope, she added, that these will be amended to reflect the realities of the climate crisis and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable states.

This CARICOM conference is convened under the chairmanship of the Hon Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister of Dominica –the Commonwealth Secretary-General’s country of birth.

Following the CARICOM conference, the Secretary-General will embark on an official visit to The Bahamas to take part in the country’s celebrations for the 50th anniversary of independence.

Commonwealth SG, The Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony (Delano Williams photo)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Saturday July 01, 2023)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Stuart Broad-6 wickets

(2) Nathan Lyon-8 wickets

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who batted on all five days in the first Test of the ongoing ENG/AUST series?

(2) Who is currently playing his one hundredth consecutive Test match?

Answers in yesterday’s issue ..........................................................................................

American

Race 1 Tunnel Vision

Race 2 Gal In A Rush

Race 3 Victory Way

Race 4 Dripping Gold

Race 5 Northern Invader Race 6 Fort Bragg

Race 7 Bad To The Bones

Canadian Racing Tips

Woodbine

Race 1 This One Can Run

Race 2 Coherence

Race 3 Bee Bee The King

Race 4 Lady Urus

Race 5 Kaukokaipuu

Race 6 Ready To Jam

Race 7 Honor D Lady

South Africa Racing Tips Greyville

08:20 hrs Mrs Geriatrix

09:00

Bascombe appointed new CWI Director of Cricket

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has appointed Miles Bascombe as the new Director of Cricket, on a three-year contract.

The appointment happened at a Board of Directors meeting yesterday at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

Bascombe will take over from Jimmy Adams, who had been in the role for the past six years.

Bascombe, 37, played one

T20 International for the West Indies in 2011 and played first-class cricket between 2007 and 2017, for both the Windward Islands and the Combined Campuses and Colleges.

He is a graduate of the University of the West Indies with both Bachelor's and Master’s degrees and is a certified coach.

Bascombe, who was a CWI Men’s Selector between 2019 and 2021, has been

the Technical Director at the Windward Islands Cricket Board over the last two years. Under his technical leadership, there have been a remarkable turnaround of fortunes for both male and female cricket across different levels, including an unbeaten first-class season in 2023.

Johnny Grave, CWI Chief Executive Officer, said: “Following a thorough recruitment process, Miles stood out to the panel with his skills, ex-

perience and intimate knowledge of our cricket system, especially at Territorial Board level. His passion and understanding of the game at all levels are outstanding. He is a critical thinker with a strong analytical and strategic mindset, which will be hugely beneficial to us as we embark on formulating our new 4-year strategic plan. I have no doubt he will hit the ground running and will relish the challenge before us to develop higher

standards and better structures within our cricket system.”

Miles Bascombe said: “West Indies Cricket is at a critical stage with an urgent need to improve performances. We have made significant progress with establishing a central High-Performance system that now needs to be rolled out across all of our Territories. I am looking forward to working as a member of the CWI senior leadership team and closely with the

Territorial Boards to bring about the necessary improvements that I am confident will lead to more success by implementing a robust system based on achieving worldclass standards and by driving a winning culture.”

CWI High Performance Manager, Graeme West, will act as the interim Director of Cricket until Bascombe takes up his new role on 1 August 2023.

Twenty-four million to be won at 2023 Guyana Cup Horse

THE 2023 edition of the Guyana Cup Horse Race meet will feature over 24 million dollars up for grabs when the excitement leaves the starting blocks on August 13.

Launched yesterday at the Duke Lodge in Kingston, the 15th running of the Cup promises to be bigger and better than the last installment, according to organiser Nasrudeen Mohamed.

“Every Year, the Guyana cup has gotten bigger and bigger and this year its fair to say that it will be bigger than ever,” he told the media gathered at the launch.

“We have so far over 14

horses confirmed from overseas with more expected to be confirmed as the date draws closer,” Mohamed added.

So far, horses have been confirmed from the United States of America, Trinidad and Brazil.

Meanwhile, organising committee member Irshad Mohamed added that the event will take on a new twist, with more options for fans to purchase tickets.

“What we are doing this year is that we are selling tickets from tomorrow [today] online. So, persons who want their tickets early can go online and purchase their tickets early.

But for those persons that are doing this, we urge you not to post photos of the tickets; they have an added feature of a security bar code so if you post that ticket, persons may be able to take that photo and scan it at the entry.”

The lone sore point of the 2022 edition of the cup was the traffic backlog it caused and Superintendent Harry, a senior rank in the traffic department of region five was present to underscore the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) plans.

“We have been working with the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee to get the right arrangements this time

Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League…

around. We have established a new entry to the venue and have plans for traffic both entering the venue and proceeding both towards and from Georgetown.”

With Banks Beer in Guyana being one of the longstanding sponsors of the sport, it was only fitting that they be the title sponsors of the 15th running.

“The Guyana cup holds a special place in our heart. We are honored to be title sponsor,” Banks DIH Training and Communications Executive, Sonya Forrester, told those gathered.

She added that the rich history associated with horse rac-

Teams listed for 2023 tournament

Following the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) draft, the teams for the 2023 tournaments have been confirmed.

Four teams have one more overseas player they can sign with these names to be announced before the tournament gets underway on 16 Au-

gust in Saint Lucia.

The 2023 tournament will feature matches in Saint Lucia, St Kitts & Nevis, Barbados, Trinidad & To-

bago and Guyana with the final taking place at the National Stadium, Providence, on 24 September.

race

ing has continually drawn the beverage time and time again. With a total of eight races carded on the day, the feature event will see a total of 10

million dollars being disbursed, five of which will go to the winners.

The defending Guyana Cup champion is Alado.

CWI and Mastercard announce

sponsorships

West Indies cricket fans will receive benefits on ticket purchases for upcoming international matches through the partnership between Cricket West Indies (CWI) and Mastercard.

From July to December 2023, Mastercard customers and cardholders will have the opportunity to live curated Priceless experiences around the passion for cricket, as well as an exclusive 20% off promotion on tickets to West Indies home matches in the Caribbean when ordering online and paying with Mastercard credit or debit cards, accessible through an exclusive Mastercard link to the Windies Tickets service.

This initiative is part of Mastercard’s official partnership with CWI and begins with the West Indies Women vs Ireland Women white ball series being played in Saint Lucia, which is the start of the international “Summer of Cricket”.

This will be followed by the highly anticipated West Indies Men v India Men all-format series from 12 July to 13 August. Later in the year, West Indies Men will hosts England Men in a white-ball series from 3 to 21 December. The CG United Super50 will be played from 21 October to 11 November. Jamaica Scorpions are the defending champs, having won the title in Antigua in November 2022.

CWI Director of Commercial, Marketing, and Communications, Dominic Warne, said: “We’re excited that Mastercard’s sponsorship with CWI will provide this exclusive promotion for many West Indies fans who are Mastercard credit and debit card holders. To help make it easier and more affordable to attend a game, this Mastercard benefit is great and will lead to more fans attending the games and supporting the West Indies in 2023.”

The continued partnership, now in its third year, extends Mastercard’s commitment to sports across the Latin American and Caribbean region. For more than two decades, Mastercard has partnered with prominent organisations in sport and entertainment to enable cardholders to further tap into their passions through exclusive access, unique experiences, and one-of-a-kind fan engagement opportunities. The West Indies International and CG United Super50 Cup games are the latest properties to join Mastercard's impressive roster of premier events and partners.

“Through our continued sponsorship of the CWI and Super50 Cup games, Mastercard reinforces its steadfast dedication to connecting our customers and fans with priceless possibilities, fostering unforgettable experiences deeply intertwined with the region's vibrant culture,” stated Dalton Fowles, Country Manager for Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and the Eastern Caribbean.

“Cricket is not just a sport but a cherished way of life for the English-speaking Caribbean community. We are thrilled to continue this exciting journey, elevating the game through the season and bringing fans closer to their passions,” added Fowles.

Santos coach Burnette praises purple patch of form

Santos FC head coach, Trevor Burnette, has praised his team’s purple patch of form as the KFC-sponsored Elite League gets into stride.

Coming off the back of a 10-0 victory over Ann’s Grove United on Tuesday night, Santos now sits at third place on the points table, with 12 points from 6 games with a +19 goal difference.

Speaking with this publication following Tuesday’s victory, Trevor Burnette expressed his thoughts on the team’s performance.

“I enjoyed the game. I think it was a pretty good game and we scored a lot of goals but we still got to go back to the drawing board and we have a little more work to do because when we made the changes in the second half, we could see we lose a little bit in the second half,” Burnette shared.

He added, “So, we want to maintain the same composure as we did in the first half. We have to go back to the practice session and fix those things that we did wrong tonight.”

Scoring ten unanswered goals on Tuesday, coupled with the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) 1-0 loss to Western Tigers, also on Tuesday, have propelled Santos past the Policemen on the points table, only on account of goal difference.

As such, Burnette touched on the goal difference topic, opining that the league may come down to that being the decider.

Burnette explained, “It’s very important because I think at some time it might come down to goal differ-

ences, so, scoring ten goals tonight (Tuesday) is a big thing, you know.”

The Santos FC head coach went on to say about their upcoming game tonight, “And hopefully we maintain it, our next game is a very big game. We have to go back to the drawing board and put some work in.”

With three games to play and currently sitting in third place, the Santos outfit look good to finish in one of the top positions in the league. This was another topic that Burnette shared thoughts on.

The coach said, “When we started, that was one of our main objectives, to be in the top three and I think we’re teetering right on that line right now, we just got to see about the next couple of games, how that works out,”

“We have to have more composure; I think we lost it a little bit when we start scoring a whole lot of goals and players start playing for themselves instead of for the team. So, we got to fix those teams,” Burnette added, revisiting the work that needs to be done for the team to

excel. Santos FC will take on Western Tigers tonight at the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) National Training Centre (NTC), Providence from 20:30hrs. Prior to that clash, Milerock FC and Den Amstel FC will do battle from 18:00hrs.

Chanderpaul selected as CWI names test squad for India series

(CWI) - Cricket West Indies (CWI) Men’s Selection Panel today named the squad for the preparation camp ahead of the start of the two-match Cycle Pure Agarbathi Test Series against India in the Caribbean.

Jayden Seales will return to West Indies training following his rehabilitation. The fast bowler last played for West Indies in the first Test at the Perth Stadium, last December. He had knee surgery in December and has subsequently been working on a rehabilitation programme overseen by the CWI Medical Team.

The training squad includes several players who are uncapped at the Test level – including batsmen Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, and Kirk McKenzie, as well

as fast bowlers Akeem Jordan, and Jair McAllister.

The camp will be held at the Coolidge Cricket Ground

(CCG) in Antigua with training starting on Friday 30 June. The squad for the opening Test will be named at a

later date and will travel to Dominica on Sunday 9 July.

The Cycle Pure Agarbathi Test series will be the

first fixtures for both West Indies and India in the new 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship. The first Test will be at Windsor Park, Dominica from 12-16 July, which will be followed by the historic second Test on 20-24 July at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad – marking the 100th Test match between West Indies and India.

Tickets are available online in advance from the Windies Tickets service, presented by Mastercard, at Ticket. Windiescricket. com. Fans who purchase online will benefit from a 20% discount compared to the venue box office prices, with tickets ranging from the most premium seats with the best and shaded views in each stadium through to affordable Standard seats or Mounds/Grounds entry.

The full Squad: Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Alick Athanaze, Jermaine Blackwood, Nkrumah Bonner, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva, Shannon Gabriel, Kavem Hodge, Akeem Jordan, Jair McAllister, Kirk McKenzie, Marquino Mindley, Anderson Phillip, Raymon Reifer, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Jomel Warrican

TEST MATCH

SCHEDULE:

Cycle Pure Agarbathi Test Matches (start at 10:00am local time, (9am Jamaica time))

12-16 July: 1st Cycle Pure Agarbathi Test Match, Windsor Park, Dominica 20-24 July: 2nd Cycle Pure Agarbathi Test Match, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad

GTA One-Guyana single’s tourney launched

THE Guyana Tennis Association (GTA) One-Guyana single’s tourney was launched yesterday at the National Racquet Centre, Woolford Avenue, where it was confirmed that this two-week tourney will feature a record-breaking prize purse of $2million up for grabs.

Present at the launch inside the facility’s conference room were President of the GTA, Cristy Campbell and Director of Sport, Steve

Ninvalle.

In her address to the media, participants and officials, Campbell explained that, “It’s always a pleasure to share a space with like-minded individuals that have the same common goal of advancing sport in Guyana.”

“Our interest today is Tennis. It is a remarkable achievement for us at the GTA to see this tournament that we have been planning for a while to manifest here

today. This is the biggest prize purse money in the history of Tennis competitions in Guyana and I am advocating for fair play and good sportsmanship.”

“I can't emphasise how important fair play is to us. In addition, conduct is not just on the court but off the court as well.”

Campbell concluded by saying that, “It would be remiss of me to not acknowledge the contributions of the Ministry of Culture, Youth

and Sport. It's because of their support that we can see this tournament with the attractive cash prizes.”

Meanwhile, Steve Ninvalle shared that, “The longest journey begins with the first step.”

“The NSC (National Sports Commission) is pleased to be supportive of this effort because of the fact that over the past year we have seen a meteoric rise in tennis programmes. This is something we want

to continue and if there is anything we can do at the NSC please reach out to us.”

“This facility here (The Racquet Centre) has just been refurbished by the Government of Guyana (GoG) and there will be another similar facility soon.”

The two-week long competition is sponsored by the NSC and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport in collaboration with the GTA. Matches will be played at the National Racquet Cen-

tre, Woolford Avenue. This tournament will feature four categories: Men’s Open Singles, Ladies’ Open Singles, Men’s 35 Singles, and the Men’s 45 singles.

Matches will be played from this Monday through Friday from 15:30hrs to 18:30hrs, and on weekends from 14:00hrs to 18:30 hrs. Best-of-three sets is the format for all categories.

Santos FC head coach Trevor Burnette

Tagenarine Chanderpaul has been selected in the West Indies squad to face India

West Indies to continue clinging to hope

CMC – Bowling coach, James Franklin, said on Friday beleaguered West Indies would continue clinging to the glimmer of hope that was their World Cup dreams, as they prepare for their critical door-die clash with Scotland on Saturday.

The Caribbean side lost the last two of their four group games of the ICC World Cup qualifiers to Zimbabwe and the Netherlands, to leave themselves having to win all three of their Super Six games in order to stand any chance of reaching the showpiece in India this year.

Due to the defeats, West Indies took no points into the Super Six stage and opening wins for Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe – who both took four points into the round – put the two-time World champions even closer to

elimination.

“There is still opportunity. We’re not out of this qualifying tournament,” the New Zealander said.

“Yes, we’ve made it pretty tricky for ourselves where we have to rely on other results to go our way, as well as controlling our own destiny in terms of winning the games that are in front of us.

“We reflected as a group after that loss to the Netherlands. We had a couple days off where we just had space and then we could come together and put our heads together on what we wanted to achieve as a collective moving forward, and that starts with tomorrow’s game.

“It’s upon every individual, it’s upon us as a group to make sure that we carry – not just ourselves – but we carry each

other, we support each other. And we’re confident we will show you that throughout the next period of time over these next games through this week.”

West Indies opened the group stage with wins over United States and Nepal, but things quickly fell apart when they failed to chase down 268 against Zimbabwe and then shockingly failed to defend 374 against the Dutch.

But while there is huge importance surrounding Saturday’s result, West Indies have won all three of their previous meetings with the Scots, a statistic which will be a boost to their flagging confidence.

Franklin said, however, they would be taking nothing for granted, in any of the games in the Super Stage.

“We absolutely respect who-

ever we’re coming up against and we know we have to play our best cricket to put ourselves in the best position to win games, so that first opportunity starts tomorrow,” Franklin explained.

“We’ve probably been a little bit off in all aspects but what you can do is only move forward and try and remedy those little discrepancies – for a want of a better term – and that’s what we do on the training ground and that’s what we do when we converse with one another.

“You can change back time and you hope that every experience you have is a learning experience. We’ve had some meetings, we’ve now been able to put that into practice on the training ground and now moving forward, we can hopefully demonstrate that on the playing

field against Scotland, Oman and Sri Lanka.”

SQUADS:

SCOTLAND – Richie

Berrington (captain), Matthew Cross, Alasdair Evans, Chris Greaves, Jack Jarvis, Michael Leask, Tom Mackintosh, Chris McBride, Brandon McMullen, George Munsey, Adrian Neill, Safyaan Sharif, Chris Sole, Hamza Tahir, Mark Watt

WEST INDIES – Shai Hope (captain), Rovman Powell, Shamarh Brooks, Yannic Cariah, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, Alzarri Joseph, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul, Nicholas Pooran, Romario Shepherd

Guyana versus Ethiopia shifted to August 2nd in the USA

THE historic international friendly between the Golden Jaguars and Ethiopia will now be held on August 2 at the Segra Field in Leesburg, Virginia, United States.

Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President, Wayne Forde, agreed to the change of date and venue request by the Ethiopian Football Federation to give the African footballing body more time to secure

relevant clearances.

The match, which will be the first between Guy-

ana and an African team since the Federation was founded 121 years ago, was

scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 8 at the Subaru Park in Philadelphia from 19:30hrs.

“We are expecting our first outing against an African Nation to be very competitive as we continue to cultivate more sporting relationships within the Confederation of African Football,” President Forde explained.

FIFA World Ranking has Guyana’s senior men’s

team at 169 and Ethiopia, the one-time Africa Cup of Nations champions, at 143 as of June 2023. Teams are ranked using a points system on international form based on their current performances.

The August clash is expected to be a memorable experience for both teams, with the Golden Jaguars using this match as a warm-up for the Concacaf Nations League which

kicks off in September. This will also be Ethiopia’s first time playing in the United States.

The GFF has once again appealed to fans and corporate Guyana to support this historic international friendly, as the GFF seeks to create more high-quality playing opportunities and exposure for the Golden Jaguars.

Big wins for Waramuri, Bartica as regional legs heat up

There were big wins throughout the country as the 2023 Edition of the Digicel schools Football tournament continued at venues throughout the country yesterday.

In region one, there was victory for Hosororo via a 1-0 margin over Wauna at Green Park with Waramuri winning 3-1 against Kamwatta at the 2 miles ground.

Bruce Vincent (15th, 25th and 43rd) had a hat-trick for the winner’s who came from behind to surpass Ravi Benjamin’s 4th minute goal.

In region Three, Leonora beat Vergenoegen 3-0 thanks to an own-goal as well as one strike each from Keon Grant (42nd) and Tromayne Hercules (47th).

Meanwhile, Westminister went down 2-3 on penalties to

Vreed-en-Hoop, after a twogoal stalemate during regulation time.

On the East Bank of Demerara (region Four), Soesdyke made light work of Camille’s Institute, beating them 4-0 thanks to strikes from Jermin Lewis (14th, 26th and 42nd) and William Davis (52nd).

Alpine Academy were disqualified from the tournament after fielding a player that was not on the school’s register in their game against Diamond Secondary.

Over on the East Coast of Demerara, hosts Buxton won via walkover from Ann`s Grove while President’s College beat Bygeval 2-0 at the same venue thanks to a brace from Shamar Barrington (48th and 59th).

In region five, Paradise played hosts to two games.

In the first, Mahaicony Technical Institute overcame Woodley Park 3-1 after Winton Hartman’s one goal in the 16th was overturned by Mahaicony Tech’s Jaheim Drakes (44th), Rolston McDonald (55th) and Duwrad Wilson (63rd).

Fort Wellington went down to Belladrum thanks to a lone

strike from Dendary McKenzie (26th).

Bartica thrashed Three Miles Secondary 8-0 in region Seven while in region 10, Kwakwani won 3-1 on penalties against New Silver City after a two-goal drawn encounter.

Kwakwani had Keron Phillips (10th and 55th) on target

while New Silver City had Clinton Fingal (14th) and Rawle Heney (65th) on target.

Meanwhile, matches continue today at various venues. See fixtures below:

Georgetown: North Ruimveldt vs Carmel Secondary (Ministry of Education Ground ) 12:00hrs

Excelsior Academy vs St. John's College (Ministry of Education Ground) 13:30hrs

Tutorial High vs Dolphin Secondary (Ministry of Education Ground) 15:00hrs

Brickdam Secondary vs Chases Academy (Ministry of Education Ground)16:30hrs

St. Roses' vs New Campbellville (NIS) 13:00hrs

Charlestown Sec vs North Georgetown Sec (NIS)14:30hrs

St Winefrides vs The Bishops' High (NIS)16:00hrs

Region Nine (9):

Aishalton vs Sand Creek (Aishalton) 13:00hrs

Anai vs St. Ignatius (Aranaputa) 10:00hrs

Region Six (6) Canje Sec. vs Corentyne Comprehensive at the Scott’s Ground 3nd July 14.30hrs

West Indies have their backs against the wall in the ICC World Cup qualifiers

Golden Jaguars

Nickille Watson and Dorwin George

Kelon Phillips from Kwakwani Secondary

GTA head, Cristy Campbell (left) and Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle (Delano Williams photo)

(From left) Superintendent Harry of the Guyana Police Force; Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee head Nasrudeen Mohamed; Banks DIH Training and Communications Executive Sonya Forrester, Banks DIH outdoor events manager