Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 05-05-2024

‘Solid as ever, strong forever’

- Dr Ali says PPP is on its strongest footing ever; highlights steps taken to advance party - APNU+AFC unleashed one of the harshest ever campaigns against ‘poor people’

‘We will fight for racial unity because we believe in it’

- Dr Jagdeo says; reminds nation that party stood like a ‘bulwark’ fighting again to restore freedom, dignity to this land

‘Solid as ever, strong forever’

- Dr Ali says PPP is on its strongest footing ever; highlights steps taken to advance party - APNU+AFC unleashed one of the harshest ever campaigns against ‘poor people’

By Trina Williams

AS the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) continues to unite Guyanese from all walks of life on the journey to a prosperous Guyana, President Dr Irfaan Ali has said that the party is on the most solid footing ever in its history.

Despite efforts by PPP critics to feed Guyanese the untruth that the party is practicing discrimination, President Ali rejected these claims and pointed to the audience which demonstrated the true essence of Guyana, as there were scores of people from all six different races.

“Solid as ever, strong forever [is] the People’s Progressive Party,” President Ali told the mammoth crowd during his address at the opening ceremony of the

PPP’s 32nd Congress at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), on Saturday.

The Head of State passionately said that in comparison to its 2016 congress, this year’s was historic as they are gathered under much better circumstances.

President Ali then supported his bold statement that the PPP is standing on a more solid foundation by highlighting the party’s journey, and how introspection and realignment shaped a better future for the party.

According to him, the PPP General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, has been leading the charge and has converted every one of their weaknesses into a strength, which in the long-term benefitted the people of Guyana.

However, despite the progressive steps that the PPP

has made, the President told the mammoth crowd not to take this period in the party’s history and its life, lightly.

PARTY WAS TESTED

Never must one forget, according to the President, how the political leadership of the party was tested.

The memories of the instances where the PPP’s political leadership was paraded in front of the courts and their rights were “trampled” upon have not faded but instead the party chose maturity, Dr Ali said.

“They sought to strip the dignity of the leadership of the PPP but because of the strength of the membership of the PPP, that dignity stands outstandingly in our country today,” the Head of State said.

Further, the party’s General Secretary was further applauded for his sacrifice

to the people of Guyana, as even with offers that would enrich and position him globally, according to President Ali, Dr Jagdeo spent every hour of his time to ensure that the PPP remained strong and resilient.

He then said: “In that sacrifice was to ensure the PPP remains the champion of the people of this country.”

“....The mandate of the leadership of the PPP was to walk every single street, walk every single corner, touch every community, touch every heart, reach out to every Guyanese and bring back hope, aspiration, ideas, vision to the people of Guyana, and it is this mandate that allowed us to reposition the PPP and to get the message back out there that the only national party is the PPP,” Dr Ali firmly said.

Contrary to the days when the PPP allowed untrue narratives about the party to be peddled by detractors of development, the President said the party has since countered this narrative and taken control by naturally showing to the people of Guyana what the PPP stands for.

“The mission is to rebuild, to modernise, to carry our message to every home, to disallow those with racist and divisive agenda to build our narrative,” he said.

try, are embracing us- and they are embracing us because they see in us the hope, they see in us a party that can fulfil their aspirations.”

Dr Ali then called out those who are portraying to be the voices of society but only do so conveniently.

“And we must never fail to call out the minority who masquerade as the voice of society but does not have the dignity or integrity to stand up for this country when it matters,” he stressed.

Also, while noting that the “One Guyana” concept was not accidental, the President said it was birthed after their previous congress and it was designed to foster one Guyana, one people and one future.

This concept has been spotlighted by the President consistently, as he has reiterated that the “One Guyana” vision is about creating a more equal society and guaranteeing that everyone is afforded the opportunity to lead productive and happy lives.

NO TO RACISM, DIVISION!

“This party that we are part of has never been on such solid footing in the history of our party. I repeat, this is the strongest that the People’s Progressive Party has ever been,” the President told the mammoth crowd who applauded him.

To the young Guyanese, President Ali told them that the future is in front of them and the PPP has stood the test of time and has not moved from its values and philosophy, which is to always be on the side of the people.

He said: “Young Guyanese-the future of this coun-

Additionally, the President touched on the journey to the no-confidence motion, the fight for democracy and the previous APNU+AFC “caretaker” government.

“The APNU and AFC unleashed one of the harshest ever campaign against poor people of this country when they were in office,” Dr Ali said.

He also said that more than 95 per cent of the 2020 PPP manifesto promises has been fulfilled and efforts have been pursued to better the lives of every Guyanese.

The mammoth crowd gathered at the PPP’s 32nd congress’ opening ceremony

President, Dr Irfaan Ali

‘Power ship’ arrives at Everton for connection to national grid

The 36-megawatt power ship has arrived at Everton, Berbice, and will soon be connected to the national grid

‘We

will fight for racial unity because we believe in it’

- Dr Jagdeo says; reminds nation that party stood like a ‘bulwark’ fighting again to restore freedom, dignity to this land

By Trina Williams

IT is the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) that has stood like a bulwark to restore dignity and freedom to Guyana, according to the party’s General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, who said that they will continue to fight for racial unity.

For the past few weeks, the PPP General Secretary has intensified his efforts to reject the misinformation campaign of the Opposition, geared at painting the PPP in unflattering light even when history shows otherwise.

At the opening of the party’s 32nd Congress’s at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on Saturday, this call for racial unity carried the same volume; one might even say it was louder, as Dr Jagdeo highlighted that the People’s National Congress-Reform’s (PNC-R) has used certain tactics to “mislead” the people of this country.

“Throughout the party’s history, we fought for racial unity... we will fight for racial unity because we believe in it. The reason they don’t want us to fight this, the reason they don’t want us to keep this way, is because they don’t want us to grow this party,” the PPP General Secretary said.

Even with the heavy rains and somber weather, the sea of red withstood the turbu -

lence and the PPP General Secretary used the opportunity to let critics of the party know that it is well-equipped to lead the nation to transformation.

During his address, the PPP General Secretary reflected on two promises, one was to win the 2020 General and Regional Elections and the second one was to emerge in government as a more diverse political party.

The PPP did just that, according to him, with evidence of diversity being on full display with one glance at the mammoth crowd.

With that said, he underscored that the Party’s founder Leader, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, would be proud to see racial unity being attained.

He related: “Cheddi Jagan, if he was standing here, he would’ve been the proudest person here as I am.”

Dr Jagdeo then went on to say: “Cheddi Jagan always wanted this because he knew this party would be invincible if this part reflected the whole gamut of this country… and it is happening today.”

However, he made it clear that these were not easy tasks and Guyana would not be where it is today had it not been for the PPP’s success in the 2020 polls.

“Emerging as a diverse political party is not easy too, particularly in a country where there is a systematic, ongoing campaign of racism,” Dr Jagdeo

said.

He went on to say that if persons trace the passage of time, they would see that the party has always stood on the right side of history.

Speaking more on the objective of the party, he said that when Dr Jagan founded the PPP in 1950, it was aimed at fighting for independence for all Guyanese, regardless of their working class or their race.

He went on to say: “It was the PPP that stood like a bulwark fighting again to restore freedom and dignity to this land.”

What the PPP inherited from the PNC-R, according to him, must be repeated to the people of Guyana so they can be reminded about how the country has changed for the better.

According to him, the PNC-R’s legacy was filled with poverty, hopelessness, nonexistent democratic institutions, a politically aligned army, weakened infrastructure and economic recession cou -

pled with no investment.

“We took a bankrupt economy and returned it to solvency and one of the most dynamic economies in the world even before oil and gas,” Dr Jagdeo boldly said.

He also told the mammoth crowd that they must not allow persons who try to redefine the PPP to succeed but instead constantly remind the others about what the PPP fights for and what it means to Guyana.

Dr Jagdeo added: “We are now witnessing a new era of transformation and this transformation has to be led by the PPP. We're equipped to do it based on our history, our experience and our achievements and I'm proud to say that we are led by our young leader, Irfaan Ali who came out of this party.”

He then gave justification as to why the PPP has to lead Guyana to its transformation and said: “Patriotism, democracy, freedom,

inclusivity; these are key words in the People's Progressive Party that we don't toy with. We don't just say them and they mean nothing to us.”

Dr Jagdeo further highlighted how the PPP has a record of prioritising its youths and this can even be shown

with him and President, Dr Irfaan Ali entering the cabinet in their 20s.

“… We’ve always given young people not just lip service, we’ve trained them, we’ve included them, and when necessary, elevated them to the highest office,” he said.

PPP General Secretary, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo

The Bigger Picture

THE 32nd Congress of the People's Progressive Party (PPP) is currently in progress at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Liliendaal.

The Congress will last for three days from May 2-3, 2024. The theme of the Congress is: “Strengthen the Party, Defend Guyana, and Unite Our People for Progress and Prosperity.”

This Congress is significant not only for the Party but for the country as a whole. For one thing, as the governing party, decisions

taken at the Congress can have far-reaching consequences for country. It can have an impact on decision-making both at the party and at the executive level.

This is by no means an attempt to have what was referred to as “party paramountcy” under the days of PNC dictatorial rule. Those were the days when party and government was almost indistinguishable with the PNC Flag flying high over the High Court building.

PPP Congresses provide an opportunity

for members all across the country to meet and deliberate on the way forward for the party. Such deliberations are influenced by the Central Committee Report read by the Party's General Secretary.

There will also be several workshops on several aspects of party and national life where party delegates and observers will be provided with an opportunity to have their say on matters of concern to them.

There will also be several motions and resolutions by Party

groups on matters of national and international importance.

One highlight of the Congress is the election of a new Central Committee of the Party. The democratic essence of the Party is in full display as delegates cast their ballots for candidates of their choice in secret ballots.

This Congress is taking place at a time when the country is experiencing its best moment both from a developmental and people-oriented perspective. Economically, the economy is

doing extraordinarily well and the living and working conditions of the Guyanese people have seen marked improvements under successive PPP/C administrations.

The Congress will end with a political declaration which will encapsulate the main elements of the Congress deliberations.

The opening ceremony was punctuated by messages from PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, messages from fraternal organi-

sations along with cultural items.

The opening ceremony saw thousands in attendance from a wide cross-section of the national and international community including representatives of the Guyanese diaspora from around the world.

Expectations are high for a successful and productive PPP Congress which will chart the way forward for the country as it seeks to navigate the challenges of the national and international environment.

Without a doubt, Dr. Ali is best for Guyana

Dear Editor, HIS Excellency, Dr. Irfaan Ali has delivered to every citizen of our great country, Guyana. Guyanese throughout the land and diaspora are thrilled with his purposefulness, his urgency in tackling persistent issues and his unbreakable bond with the common people. The insightful lead -

ership of Dr. Ali has not only augmented the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic, but it has ushered new life into our economy. His unflinching pursuits to unify every community are noteworthy and it points to his selfless service to humanity.

It is not unexpected that our President is receiving acclamations from

regional and international organisations. His drive and excellent management of Guyana will only bring about prosperity and goodwill to the entire region.

The People’s Progressive Party stands at the cusp of an enormous victory at the upcoming General and Regional Elections. This is largely due

to the delivery of manifesto promises, the extraordinary developments in all sectors and the upholding of democratic principles and institutions.

Not surprisingly, the shameless opposition would jump on some social media platforms spewing hate and pretending to be human rights activists. How disgraceful!

The country has an opposition with a seditious history, a party known for dictatorial regimes and one which only recently sought to steal elections once more.

Guyanese are more informed and will reject the many attempts by the opposition to polarise our populace. Guyana is united!

Dr. Ali means unceasing possibilities to every boy and girl, to every man and woman and Guyanese will agree that it’s a period of unrivalled prowess. My community stands with you, without a doubt.

Yours sincerely, Rajiv Kadarnauth Regional CouncillorRegion Three

Can Irfaan Ali achieve history today?

I HAVE not done the research because source material was not easily available. I wanted to see the percentage gained by Cheddi Jagan at each congress of the PPP over the past decades for a position on the Central Committee. I called a few people from the PPP and they said they doubt whether there is actual publication of percentage points and even if there is, such material is not easily available.

What is easily known throughout the world is that Cheddi’s percentage of total votes at each congress had to be near to 100. Knowing Cheddi’s percentage points at each congress would help to contribute to history when we know today what percentage Irfaan collects.

This is the first time Dr. Ali will face congressional

voting since he became president, so I believe all eyes will be on those numbers this afternoon. Can the percentage of the votes Irfaan receive today be the highest in the PPP’s history? In other words, can the amount of ballots he collects as a percentage of total votes cast be the highest for any PPP contestant?

In yesterday’s column (Saturday), I did indicate that I may do a column comparing Maurice Bishop of Grenada with Irfaan Ali of Guyana. The comparison becomes vivid if you knew both men. I think Maurice stood out in pyrotechnical ways as a leader that had a unique personality. I was in Grenada when about 10,000 people took to the street to free Bishop from house arrest after the ruling New Jewel Movement suffered

a destructive schism pitting Bishop against Coard.

When Bishop was put under house arrest, those close to the government, as I was as an adviser, knew that it was over for the revolution. Bishop was too charismatic, too unique, too loved to have done that to him. There comes a time when a leader’s aura is so penetrating in a country and he/she becomes the country.

One can think of Castro, Obama, Indira Gandhi, Mandela, Nasser in Egypt, Khrushchev in the USSR, Tito in Yugoslavia, Peron in Argentina, Gaddafi in Libya (at the time), de Gaulle in France among others. Bishop fits into that personality.

It was almost impossible to sit down with Bishop and after a session with him not like him. Some leaders have that unique gift. Irfaan

reminds me of Maurice. I don’t think Guyanese ever imagined that they would have seen a leader like Irfaan Ali. What Dr. Ali has done, is that he has taken the phenomenal capacity of British West Indian politicians to lose themselves among the masses, to emerge as someone who can be trusted, who can be accessible, and who will listen and try to deliver to a higher level.

There is an inviting lightness in the character of British West Indian politicians that set them apart from all others in the entire world. I think if there is anything the British West Indies has produced (I am not sure VS. Naipaul would see that as an accomplishment) is a species of politicians that is endowed with an ordinariness that is mysteriously attractive.

In this context, Forbes Burnham should be mentioned. He was definitely a man who could emerge from the halls of power and descend into the dancehall and entertain you, and when the song is over, he has won you over. More than Seaga in Jamaica, Gairy in Grenada, Burnham in Guyana and Ralph Gonzalves in St. Vincent, Bishop in Grenada, Irfaan Ali in Guyana has taken the ordinariness of power to the people. It is said that politicians love the trappings of power but we can redefine power or deconstruct it in the context of the personality of Ali in Guyana. Irfaan Ali enjoys the trappings of power but only when that power is outside his office and in the streets where he can mingle with people and listen to their requests.

I have never seen a ruling politician that has moved his office from the imposing structure that such offices are normally housed in and has taken it into the hallways and fields of a country. He reminds me of Maurice Bishop. But there is one huge difference between the two Caribbean giants. Maurice was a marauding escapist who loved la dolce vita. It never detracted him though from serving the people of Grenada. Ali is a practicing Muslim that avoids those mundane enjoyments because I think he feels he has no time for such moments. I met him at the CIOG during Ramadan and he told me for the day before and on the same day, he hardly slept. Who needs sleep when you have the people to comfort you?

Investing in youths through sport

FOR its 2024 budget, Guyana has allocated $4.6 billion towards sports development to elevate athletes' performance and enhance sports infrastructure countrywide. Key initiatives include constructing multi-purpose facilities in Regions One, Three, Seven, Eight, and Nine and nationwide rehabilitation of existing sports venues.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport launched the National Sports Academy in 2021,

founded on three critical pillars: nurturing emerging talent through a dedicated nursery programme, stimulating competitive spirit via organised tournaments, and offering advanced training through the Elite Academy. The Academy is poised to become fully operational, with its Elite Training component set to roll out in 2024 and 2025. It will initially focus on 12 core sports, including Badminton, Basketball, Cricket, Squash, Table Tennis, Rugby, Volleyball, Swim-

ming, Football, Hockey, Lawn Tennis, and Track and Field, providing a comprehensive platform for nurturing athletic excellence.

Supporting these government initiatives, ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd. has emerged as a key player in fostering sports development within the country, making significant contributions to youth and community development through its sponsorship of various sporting events. Noteworthy initiatives include the Guyana

Inter-Schools Football Tournament, the National Schools Basketball Festival, the Future Warriors Tapeball Tournament, and the Caribbean Premier League.

A highlight of ExxonMobil's sponsorship was the first-ever Future Warriors Tapeball Tournament in September 2023, organised by the Georgetown Cricket Association. The tournament, which featured a $4 million sponsorship, involved twelve primary schools from Georgetown, with the

winning team gaining the unique opportunity to be 'adopted' by the Guyana Amazon Warriors during their home leg games. Following its success, the tournament expanded to include the Berbice and Essequibo regions. Additionally, ExxonMobil Guyana partnered with New Era Entertainment for the Under-18 Secondary Schools' Linden Championship Football Tournament in April 2023. This event saw eight schools from Region 10 compete over five days,

with the top-performing schools receiving cash prizes to support their development projects.

ExxonMobil Guyana's role in developing local athletes cannot be overstated, as evidenced by its continuous support as the primary sponsor of the Guyana Amazon Warriors for seven consecutive years. As the sole local operator of oil production, ExxonMobil Guyana is leading by example by investing in the nation's youth and their future.

The Muckraking Tabloid strikes again

ON the eve of World Press Freedom Day 2024, the Kaieteur News under an editorial titled, “No media Conferences,” launched a wild, careless, unfounded and vexatious attack on the Department of Public Information (DPI), ministers of the ruling PPP Government, and our collective intelligence as a progressive nation.

Through the editorial, it sought to protest the alleged government’s policy of not engaging the media regularly or at all. It sought too to state that the ministers were not handling their respective portfolios, and were being protected by the DPI. According to this editorial, the DPI was helping the ministers to tell their “half stories, and clever cover stories… adding farce to spectacle resulting in usual government circuses”.

The newspaper editorial did not stop there, it went further to suggest the ministers of government lack integrity in the execution of their jobs. It named some of the portfolios such as the Vice President and the Minister of Natural Resources. It then lectured to the nation about truth, balance, fairness and accuracy of information, stating that they do not need to hide behind the DPI.

The final part of the 804word diatribe seeks to suggest government ministers were hiding and acting suspiciously because they were not facing the mainstream media, and instead sheepishly protected

by the DPI.

This is a poorly written editorial. It is rubbish and filled with misplaced metaphors, hanging sentences and lumpy generalisations. It presents not one iota of truth or fact about government and how it operates when it comes to access to information and the media.

The newspaper instead, sheepishly, presented a twisted perspective which it sought to back by circumstantial evidence from events that never happened or occurred. At least, the events did not occur the way the newspaper said they did.

This editorial, unfortunately, sought to lecture the government ministers about how they should do their jobs and face tough media questions, when it is doing a horrendous job telling the truth and facts, upholding basic journalistic standards and acting as a responsible national news entity. Surely, the editorial must address its own internal problems with the truth and facts before it tells the government and its ministers about doing their jobs.

Like a teacher in a school or classroom, let us address some of the lies and deliberate confusion in the KN editorial.

Firstly, the government does not depend on just hosting a post cabinet media briefing to get information out to the public and media.

This was the approach in pre-2015 era. From looking at it, the government has

adopted a more modern and progressive approach to the media and information landscape since 2020. It has adopted a different style. Major contracts are released to the media on the DPI website and via the ministry.

These contracts are even available at the NDCs, Regional and National Tender Boards. The government tries to make all contracts available, especially the ones for oil and gas. The editorial cannot have a problem with employing competent journalists who will know where to look and who to ask, and how to ask questions.

The government cannot be expected to do their jobs for the KN. No. This would be supporting lazy journalism and ain’t nobody got time for that!

Then, there is the accusation that ministers who are holding very important portfolios have never faced the press. This is a bald-faced lie or real “balderdash” as the editorial sought to suggest. The public knows that Ministers Bishop Juan Edghill, Robeson Benn, Sonia Parag, Dr Frank Anthony, Collin Croal, Dr Vindhya Persaud, to name a few, have all faced the press and media limelight for protracted questioning several times since August 2020. Go back to October, November and December last year, you will see clear evidence of this. They do not hide behind the DPI but use the forum as tool for effective and efficient communication to all the social media platforms that the government PR cannot seem to reach.

Secondly, is obsessed with Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo and President Dr Irfaan Ali. The latter use of the social media platforms and press conferences to get his message uninterrupted and directly to the public is seemingly bothering the KN badly. So much so, that they are not getting to scandalise, push their own narratives and perspectives as to the work of the President.

Unfortunately, this is not the case for the VP. He has to battle the errors, misinformation and concocted headlines in the media, particularly KN, daily. Just Friday, the KN admitted to lying on another Chinese Businessman and seeking to suggest Jagdeo lied.

Whether he keeps his weekly press conference at the Office of the President or Freedom House, the wholesome information Dr Jagdeo releases to the public is always misquoted and taken out of context by the KN. So, this KN editorial is balderdash and far from the truth!

Thirdly, PPP ministers aren’t like APNU+AFC ministers who are arm-chair ministers, chained to their desk in cozy offices. They do the work at the office but they do a great deal more. They get out and talk to people, engaging them about issues about projects and services.

They get to the bottom of their concern. They cut out the dependency on the middle man – KN and the use of unfair and biased media. They cut the misinformation and disinformation caused by misquotation, taking statements out of context, sensationalism and other types of distortion. Surely, KN could appreciate this or does the newspaper need empirical examples?

It is sad and unfortunate that this editorial is adopting such a bad view of the DPI. Maybe, it’s because it is confused and kerfuffle by its roles and responsibilities as regards the public information. It is achieving its goals of providing the public and media with government information that is wholesome.

From the looks of it, DPI only has powers to tell the story of government unfettered. It does not protect or shelter any minister but acts as a vehicle for them to get their messages across. Clearly, DPI is functioning as it should because government is gaining ground and its message is resonating with the people. This is not because of DPI but the hard work of the government in achieving its manifesto commitments.

Fourthly, there is nothing to conceal and no one is overwhelmed or lost in the area for which they are responsible as this editorial suggests. It is quite the opposite.

The DPI and government can defend itself, if it wants, against the rest of this editorial which underwent bouts of fantasies about what the ministers ought to do in a civilised environment.

Looking at the bigger picture here, no one deserves to be a reader of this type of editorial or information posted as news in a real objective newspaper or media.

No one, much less the government, deserves this level of rancor, bitterness, and hate from the media and KN in particular. A newspaper and it’s publisher would be respected if they allow the

journalists to follow a story with truth and facts to the end about a politician or company.

However, if the newspaper, like the KN, constantly manufactures controversies and headlines out of thin air, telling easily proven lies and stories, and constantly misleads the public, then they are part of the problem and not the solution for the media and free press. This is very dangerous in a modern country that is developing rapidly like Guyana.

Yet, the Guyana Press Association, Civil Society, NGOs and media people themselves are okay with these reputations of ordinary people, businesses, politicians and others being sacrificed and shattered by irresponsible media but cry out when they are criticised in the same way using the facts. This is duplicitous and hypercritical. Make it make sense?

Finally, at some time, they will have to stop tarnishing the reputations of these innocent people and breaking their lives apart in pursuit of their agenda against Bharrat Jagdeo. These lies, misrepresentations and distortions in the newspaper must stop. They lie and retract every time! They are not sorry at all.

This is irresponsible and greenhouse journalism at the least. KN is a mudslinging tabloid that needs to be fact checked. It is turning into the political arm of the publisher. The Information packaged under the guise of “news” cannot be trusted. This is not people’s newspaper. This is an enemy of people and clearly an enemy of the PPP and State.

This new spaper has no ethical or journalistic standards. It is appalling that KN is allowed to apologise every time without any consequences from the state.

Self-regulation is not working in this case. The real circus is over at KN and society normalises its buffoonery. KN is a mudslinging and muckraking newsprint dedicated to advancing the political aspirations of one or many persons who would not be named.

Do the residents, elected officials of Georgetown have the requisite vision, will to embrace change?

THE city of Georgetown has been running on empty for decades and yet this is not the time for anyone, especially its residents who are keeping it alive, to fall into a state of despair. There is still loads of time to turn things around, but it requires decisive leadership and immediate action.

The eminent urban planner, Jane Jacobs and author of her landmark treatise, “The Death and Life of Great American Cities,” said: “Whenever societies have flourished and prospered rather than stagnated and decayed, creative and workable cities have been at the core of the phenomenon.”

Declining cities and social unrest always seem to go hand in glove with declining economies. However, Guyana’s economy is on the rise and that’s perhaps just one reason why we should remain hopeful.

The second reason is that for the first time in our history we have a President who is not a lawyer, doctor or an economist. President Mohamed Irfaan Ali

holds a doctorate in urban planning and I reckon he knows a thing or two about what it will take to harness the seeds that could lead to a city badly in need of regeneration.

This President is acutely aware that Georgetown is still alive despite its many challenges. He is not interested in turning Georgetown into a dream city. He knows that it will take the collective imagination of key stakeholders and the cooperation of its citizens to repair the image of Georgetown. It is a herculean task, not a one-man or a one-political- party job.

The question is whether the residents of this city and its elected officials have the requisite vision and will to embrace change and take advantage of the opportunities staring them in the face.

Pay attention to the President’s demeanour, particularly his words on the day a partial roof at Stabroek Market collapsed. He was evidently pained, embarrassed, angry perhaps, and yet he made a bold offer to the Mayor and City Council - let’s re-

pair this city of ours together.

As I hopped into a taxi in front of Demico House earlier this week I realised the area seemed empty of people. While I was happy to see the iconic business like it was intended to be, I was sad that the vendors who had for years stifled it into a lifeless shell were forced to relocate. I hope they didn’t suffer any financial loss as a result.

Vendors in front of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation too have been warned to relocate their stalls or risk forceful removal. The vendors at the Georgetown seawall have likewise been instructed by authorities to abide by the terms of their agreement and not erect permanent structures on public land. Thankfully, they all complied and not a single vendor had their entrepreneurial spirit crushed.

The City Council should find special

The Inquisitive Observer

By Nazim Baksh

enclaves in the city’s core to accommodate vendors whether they are selling vegetables, fruits, food, clothes or household items. The city needs them. Street food when done right is a blessing, not a curse.

But at the same time, everyone should recognise that streets and sidewalks are the vital organs of a city and are meant for people to use, not abuse. When they are occupied, intensely and frequently, they are a symbol of a city’s wealth. It is important that they be made safe for pedestrians to walk, talk, meet, greet, shop and gawk if they wish.

A city does not have to be a work of art to be great. The aim is not to make Georgetown into a Venice, Amsterdam or Chefchaouen in Morocco. An important feature of great cities is that its multiplicity of bits and pieces have to supplement and support each other, as Jacobs observed.

Congestion is a major cause of stress to

anyone who lives in or visits Georgetown. Drivers treat the city like it is a wildlife sanctuary and as such their vehicles become a refuge to transport them from point A to the nearest lodge, whether it’s their place of work or their homes.

While the government is repairing and upgrading the city’s roads, Councillors can designate specific roads for public transportation only and create adequate parking for visitors to move easily on foot in the downtown core.

Georgetown is littered with derelict buildings. During the limited term of APNU-AFC, city engineers have identified over a 100 for demolition. In 2016, it was 52,

and in 2019 the number doubled. City Councillors have bemoaned the fact that these buildings are unsafe and dangerous for anyone who lives or squats in them.

As a matter of fact, families with schoolaged children were believed to have been squatting with impunity under the area of the collapsed Stabroek roof. Mercifully, no one died when the roof collapsed. In tearing down these dilapidated buildings and making room for the new, the Mayor and City Councillors would be wise to seek the counsel of the President. Perhaps he might tell them how to envision new ideas by relying on the secrets of old buildings.

New Japanese/Peruvian fusion restaurant set for opening this month

By Faith Greene

THE expansion of Guyana’s tourism and hospitality sector has exposed not only foreigners but also locals to new concepts in the form of entertainment, cuisine, and other alluring attractions.

Cognisant of the existing plethora of varieties, especially in the area of cuisine, and the need to introduce more tantalizing options to the wide local menu, Victor Padron and his business partners will soon introduce Nikkei (pronounced Nee-Kay), a new Japanese/ Peruvian fusion restaurant.

travel to a number of countries, where he gathered “little pieces of experience” which allowed him to be where he is today.

“When I lived in Copenhagen, (Denmark), I got to experience what it is to work at the level of a three Michelin star restaurant. I learnt techniques that are really valuable and are going to be part of what we do here at Nikkei,” he said.

Additionally, while living in Peru, Padron attained a Master’s Degree in Culinary Arts, and specialised as a sommelier (a wine specialist).

Initially, he recalled that he went to Peru to do his masters, and stayed to do his career as a sommelier, and then to teach.

Padron, who is also the Executive Chef, gave the Sunday Chronicle some insight into the “new restaurant on the block.”

According to Padron, Nikkei is the collective result of life experiences when it comes to cooking. He related that he had the opportunity to

of our restaurant but it’s not only that, it’s the name of the culinary tendency that we are going to be executing here,” Padron shared.

Giving a brief history, Padron said a number of Japanese people migrated to Peru in the early 90s, and because of that migration a fusion was created.

The Japanese had their techniques and their cultural roots when it came to cooking; however, they couldn’t find all the ingredients that they would have found in Japan.

“And then I had the opportunity to work for one of the best restaurants in the world, which is specialised in Nikkei food,

“Nikkei for us, is the name

As a result, they used the many ingredients they found in the South American country: The richness from chili peppers, and the many varieties of potatoes, corn and limes.

“So they started cooking the food that they were used to eating in Japan, but with the ingredients that were available in Peru. And that fusion, that first generation of Japanese descendants that grew in Peru, were called Nikkei, hence the fusion between Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, is called Nikkei,” Padron related.

He said that, at the restaurant, they aim to cater to patrons who are willing to experience different flavours and experiences. Padron said they want to bring the level of experience found in international countries to Guyana.

He said that they intend to take pride in this, as they try to make those living in and visiting Guyana stay here because they have a place like Nikkei

to find an amazing experience.

The restaurant will have affordable prices, all depending on what the meal is. Some of their menu items will include a number of cocktails, curated wine lists/wine parings, signature dishes created by the Executive Chef.

Additionally, he shared that some of the dishes being prepared will require the chef to go to the table and finish the dish in front of the customers, offering a different level of exposure for the chefs working behind the scenes.

Padron said that they are looking forward to the support of the Guyanese public and remarked that this is the result of an amazing team and people, with the same ideals and goals.

“We definitely want to share with you the love we have for this place and make you feel it through our service, through our food and throughout the whole experience with Nikkei,” he related.

What is also worth mentioning is that Nikkei brings chefs from multiple nationalities (including Nigeria, Venezuela, Jamaica, Trinidad and of course, Guyana) to prepare the many dishes customers will indulge in.

For more information and updates, persons could visit Nikkei on Instagram @ nikkeiguyana. The restaurant is located at Lot 3 Sandy Babb Street Georgetown, the second floor (under Altitude Bar), and seats approximately 50 people.

Owners of Nikkei (from left) Javid Rahaman, Victor Padron and Yonnick David

Causa al Panko (a sweet potato puree, Peruvian Chili Pepper and lime) tuna tartar, salsa and avocado emulsion

People’s Progressive Party: Sacrifices, achievements of our fore parents will remain a source of inspiration

“ARRIVAL Day, designated a national holiday on May 1, 2004, is of tremendous significance to our country and all of its people. It is a day that brings into focus the rich history of strength, determination, and innovative spirit brought by our ancestors who came to the shores of our dear land from various parts of the world.

It also reminds us of the sacrifices and immeasurable contributions made by them to develop our communities and our country and emphasises for us the duty we have to build a better country for our children.

Once again, as we observe this occasion, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to extend greetings to all Guyanese, home and abroad.

As we commemorate this day, all Guyanese are urged to reflect on the many sacrifices our fore parents made to advance our country and better our lives. We are urged to recognise that the sacrifices of all our ancestors will be in vain if those who wish

to divide us are allowed to succeed.

After their grueling journeys at various points in our history to arrive here and despite the hardships they faced, they were selfless in their efforts to not just build for our betterment but remained steadfast in ensuring the preservation of the various cultural traditions, which continue to instill values, enrich and shape our lives.

Those deliberate efforts have led to the creation of this multi-cultural and multi-religious society of ours where there is immense pride in diversity imbuing us all with strength as we share and participate in the various festivals that have come to identify us as a people. Over time, those events have served to strengthen bonds of togetherness among our people.

The sacrifices and achievements of our fore parents will remain a source of inspiration for our efforts to build a prosperous and unified nation that is home to all of us.

GAWU: Reflect

Happy Arrival Day to All!”

on how far we have come as a people

further afield, on the occasion of Arrival Day. This important observance is another reminder of what makes Guyana special and what plays a role in our renowned hospitality and welcoming spirit.

“Our rich cultural tapestry is one of the features that sets Guyana apart from many of its contemporaries. As a people, we take great pride in our diversity and the coexistence of our several cultural groupings. It is against this background that the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) extends best wishes to all Guyanese, both at home and

While Arrival Day – May 05 – though largely associated with the arrival of East Indians, the day reminds us of all indentured immigrants brought to our land. Our

research advises us that outside of the East Indians, the Madeiran Portuguese came in May 1835, the Chinese in 1853, as well as a few other ethnicities during that phase of colonialism. We are aware that the colonialists also brought labourers from Malta, Ireland, Germany and England.

Arrival Day also reminds us of the reasons for the indentureship system. The then immigrants who replaced the emancipated slaves were made to toil in the fields of the sugar plantations to enrich the foreign owners of the plantations. Indentured labourers and their families were forced to exist in inhumane and atrocious conditions. And, like their compatriots, they were forced to engage in several struggles, which gave us several martyrs, in order to bring about small improvements and meagre benefits in their lives and work conditions.

As we observe Arrival Day, the GAWU is constrained to remind us that our unique culture has a common thread in the sugar industry. It is that historical industry which bounds a great lot of our people. We are reminded that it is the very industry on which modern Guyana is built through the labour of many of our people.

As Arrival Day is once again commemorated, we remain saddened over the affairs of this important industry. At this time, a legacy of mismanagement has invoked severe setbacks and undue pains.

We recognise and appreciate efforts to breathe new life into the industry, as we consider significant interventions to move further along the road of turnaround. Critically, given the linkages between Arrival Day and sugar, we urge the need to strengthen the current management with skilled and capable personnel. We believe this would be an appropriate tribute to those who toiled in the fields and factories and on whose contributions today we proudly stand.

As we celebrate Arrival Day, the GAWU urges all Guyanese to spare a moment to reflect on how far we have come as a people, the challenges we overcame, and the successes we have recorded.

At this time, when we ought to be looking to reach new and higher plateaus, we see concerted efforts that will very likely reverse much of the progress we have made and rightly can take pride in. Let us resist such efforts and get back on the development track.”

Gov’t allocates $543.6M for rehabilitation of major bridges in Region Four

DEVELOPMENT

continues to be seen in a sweeping array of initiatives aimed at transforming Guyana’s infrastructural landscape.

The Ministry of Public Works recently earmarked $543.6 million for the enhancement of critical bridges across Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

According to information from the Depart-

ment of Public Information (DPI), this allocation is part of a broader government commitment to fortify the country’s infrastructure.

This is pivotal for boosting economic activities and improving daily commutes for thousands of Guyanese citizens.

Central to these upgrades is the rehabilitation of several key bridges, ensuring improved connectivity and safety

within the region and around the capital city.

The Haslington Grove Bridge Link on the East Coast Demerara, a vital artery for local traffic, will see an overhaul costing approximately $26.8 million. This project is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of a bridge that supports heavy daily traffic.

Further enhancing the region’s infrastructure, the New Diamond First

Avenue Connector Road Bridge is set to receive a significant revamp with an investment of $157.3 million.

Additionally, the Ice House Road Bridge in West Ruimveldt and the Enmore School Street Access Bridge, each receiving $28.8 million and $26.8 million respectively, are scheduled for comprehensive rehabilitations.

Similar efforts will

rejuvenate the Beehive North Access Bridge, with works also valued at $26.8 million.

Also with these bridge enhancements, substantial efforts are underway to improve other infrastructural elements such as culverts and drainage systems. The HDPE Culvert in Lamaha Gardens, for instance, is set for upgrades worth $10.4 million, with adjacent projects in Lamaha

Springs receiving $31.7 million.

These concerted efforts by the Ministry of Public Works not only aim to address immediate transport and safety needs but also pave the way for sustained economic growth and development, reflecting Guyana’s commitment to a future where robust infrastructure fosters connectivity.

Haslington/Grove Bridge (Department of Public Information photo)

Rehabilitated Houston Industrial Zone Public Road (Ministry of Public Works Photo)

27 Mashabo, Mainstay women empowered through food safety training

IN a recent capacity-building initiative, 27 women from the communities of Mashabo and Mainstay successfully completed a training programme focused on food safety and management.

The training was organised by the Basic Needs Trust Fund Guyana (BNTF) in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, and the Guyana National Bureau of Standards, on Tuesday.

The BNTF, in a press release, said the session provided comprehensive insights into Food Safety Standards and Good Hygiene Practices (GHPs), preparing the participants to effectively manage and sustain eco-restaurants and bakeries.

The programme covered crucial topics such as food hazards, spoilage,

contamination, borne illnesses, and personal hygiene. Additionally, it emphasised the importance of safe food handling practices, including the Five Keys to Food Safety. This initiative is part of a broader capacity-building strategy under the Education Livelihood Enhancement and Human Resource Development subproject implemented by the Basic Needs Trust Fund Guyana. It aligns with the government’s dedication to enhancing the vocational skills and economic opportunities for women in the region.

In April, a similar training initiative targeted an additional 31 women in the area, focusing on Tourism for Indigenous Communities and Delivering Quality Service. Participants were engaged on various aspects

of the tourism industry, including tour operations, reasons for travel, types of tourism, and community-led and owned tourism initiatives.

The training also delved into understanding global and Caribbean tourism performance and the essential qualities and attributes of customer service providers in the tourism sector.

These educational endeavours are designed to enhance the professional capabilities of women in the region, fostering economic empowerment and community development.

The success of these programmes is expected to have a lasting impact, promoting sustainable business practices and enhancing the tourism and hospitality sectors in Guyana, the BNTF said.

Women of Mashabo and Mainstay who underwent vital training (Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce photos)

Prison Service gets 16 recruits

THE Guyana Prison Service (GPS) could now add 16 new recruits to its roster, after they completed a three-month Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC) at the Prison Training Centre at Mazaruni.

According to a press release from the GPS, the recruits, 11 males and five females, obtained training in both the theoretical and practical aspects of the job such as basic prison lectures, impromptu speech delivery, armed and unarmed combat, human rights education, family life training, and English Language.

At the graduation ceremony held on Wednesday, April 01, 2024, Officer-in-Charge of the Mazaruni Prison, Carlton Cameron, welcomed the new recruits to the GPS.

He told them that the prison environment is very complex and multi-dimensional, and ranks are expected to execute their tasks in a very effective manner.

Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, indicated that staffing plays a critical role in the daily management of prisoners.

“It is important that new staff become aware of rules and regulations and basic prison management practices before they are posted to the various prisons; this will assist them in the way they operate”, he advised.

Additionally, acting Deputy Director of Prisons and Head of the Staff Training Department, Kevin Pilgrim, indicated that the work of a prison officer was demanding and involved working with men and women who have been deprived of their liberty, many of whom are likely to be mentally disturbed, suffering from addictions, have poor social and educational skills and come from marginalised groups in society.

Hence, the training of the new officers was important in order for them to understand their roles and

functions. Pilgrim said in dealing with different groups of inmates who have been deprived of their liberty and

face confinement, there was a need for the prison officers to be patient and treat the inmates in accordance with international

protocols and standards.

Nikita Abrams was adjudged the best recruit.

El Niño and La Niña: Four crucial steps to build climate resilience

- FAO Deputy Director-General emphasises key role of anticipatory action in protecting, equipping communities ahead of shocks

IN the face of intensifying El Niño and La Niña weather events, effective anticipatory action is crucial to shield and better equip communities ahead of shocks as it helps to save lives and protect livelihoods by preventing damage and losses to crops, livestock, productive lands, water and infrastructure, said Beth Bechdol, Deputy Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

recent event in 2023-2024 is one of the five strongest on record, creating overwhelming needs among the most vulnerable.

“Unless we dramatically improve our ability to anticipate, act swiftly, and build long-term climate resilience, we will fail to tackle El Niño and other escalating climate extremes. We know that we can get ahead of disasters, avert and minimise impacts, and ultimately reduce humani-

• International collaboration including among climate scientists and development and humanitarian actors to address the transboundary nature of climate change;

• Targeted investments in agriculture, particularly in early warning systems to be able to translate forecasts into actionable measures;

• Scaled up action including emergency agriculture aid ahead of and during crises

She gave insights into FAO’s experience in dealing with the latest El Niño and its impacts at a high-level thematic event entitled “El Niño 2023-2024: Actions for the safety, sustainability and resilience of people and the planet” organised jointly by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

The El Niño event in 2015-2016 – one of the strongest on record – affected over 60 million people worldwide, resulting in 23 countries appealing for international humanitarian assistance worth over $5 billion. And, the most

tarian needs – but this requires investing in agriculture and farmers,” Bechdol said.

Such actions may range from cash transfers that help fisherfolk store their boats and gear ahead of a storm to backyard gardening kits that help families produce food at home. In pastoral communities, FAO provides animal feed and vaccines to keep essential livestock alive and healthy ahead of drought, while crop farmers may get drip irrigation and drought-resistant seeds.

The Deputy Director-General outlined four key game-changing actions to efficiently tackle extreme weather events:

tarian, development and peace efforts to deliver the best solutions for the challenges of today and the future.

This one-day dedicated thematic even t brought together Member States and Observers, the United Nations, non-governmental organisations, and other relevant stakeholders. The participants discussed the range of actions required to turn enhanced scientific predictability into global, regional, national and local level plans and actions that address the impacts of the 2023-2024 El Niño phenomenon on affected countries.

FAO’S RESPONSE TO EL NIÑO

Using modelling based on previous El Niño-driven weather patterns, FAO acted swiftly to avert the worst

of its effects in 2023-2024, launching together with governments and partners anticipatory actions in 23 countries at risk.

Examples of action on the ground included: repairing or constructing irrigation systems and animal health interventions to address potential drought-induced disease outbreaks; repairing riverbanks, rehabilitating canals, and providing cash transfers ahead of floods so families can make their own choices about meeting their needs.

In Central America, for example, the timely distribution of drought-tolerant and short-cycle crop seeds has helped each family receiving assistance to produce about 60 kg of vegetables every two months, to mitigate the impact of El Niño-induced

drought on local food production. Likewise, in Somalia, repairing around 4,600 metres of riverbank breakage points along the Shabelle River has protected almost 40,000 hectares of cropland from expected floods.

According to FAO assessments, for every $1 invested in anticipatory action, it creates a return for farming families of more than $7 in avoided losses and added benefits.

The timeliness and success of FAO's anticipatory actions during this El Niño event are largely due to the extensive groundwork conducted by FAO over several years to enhance anticipation and preparedness capacities within its country offices and among key partners. (FAO)

to boost local food production; and

• Increased funding to enhance anticipatory action and build climate resilience.

To this end, she noted that flexible financing mechanisms for anticipatory action such as through the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) and FAO Special Fund for Emergency and Rehabilitation Activities (SFERA) have been instrumental to allow for timely interventions.

Bechdol concluded by urging the international community to broaden the focus beyond immediate response efforts to include longer-term solutions to weather extremes while better linking humani-

Deputy Director-General, Beth Bechdol, delivers her opening remarks at the joint UNAG-ECOSOC event in New York

Healthcare workers equipped with necessary tools to deliver enhanced services

- Dr Anthony says

GUYANA’S healthcare sector has undergone substantial improvements due to strategic investments made by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government in primary healthcare.

While the administration continues to invest billions of dollars in upgrading healthcare infrastructure nationwide, Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, outlined a series of forthcoming interventions aimed at fostering a conducive work environment for healthcare professionals and enhancing the overall patient care experience.

“In primary healthcare, we have identified 117 different interventions that we aim to implement, empowering healthcare workers with the necessary tools and conducive environments to deliver enhanced services to patients,” he highlighted during a PANCAP award ceremony on Friday.

Already, the government has implemented significant salary increases for various categories of healthcare workers. These increases ben-

efitted over 5,000 individuals, leading to disposable income by over $1.5 billion into the hands of healthcare providers. Additionally, this complements the annual salary increases for public servants.

As it relates to infrastructure development, Minister Anthony disclosed that, over the past two years, the government has allocated approximately $300 million per region for the improvement of healthcare facilities.

This year, the investment is set to increase to $500 million per region, totalling $5 billion, to address infrastructural needs at health centres, posts, and district hospitals to optimise working conditions.

Additionally, Minister Anthony announced a budget of $5 billion has been earmarked for the procurement of medical equipment tailored to the specific needs identified at various healthcare levels.

To further amplify the healthcare services being provided to patients, the health minister reiterated the importance of stan -

dardising care noting that the ministry is assiduously working on developing comprehensive guidelines to streamline healthcare practices. Reference was made to the partnership with Mount Sinai to develop guidelines for diabetes care, a prevalent health concern in Guyana.

This year, the minister disclosed that the ministry has embarked on developing guidelines for cardiovascular diseases, with plans to publish them for widespread accessibility. In addition, initiatives addressing kidney diseases and other health areas are underway, for a more holistic approach to healthcare improvement.

Stressing the importance of adherence to these guidelines to ensure the delivery of appropriate treatment to patients, the minister said: “I hope people take these things seriously because we want our standard of care to be very high.”

The minister further noted that the standardisation of care also facilitates equitable access to essential medicines for all patients.

1,000 men to benefit from Human Services Ministry’s new ‘MPOWER’ initiative

APPROXIMATELY

1,000 men are set to benefit from a series of training opportunities through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s ‘MPOWER’ training programme.

Public Information (DPI), Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.

the Women Innovation Investment Network (WIIN) training programme which specifically targets women.

Participants in the ‘MPOWER’ initiative will gain access to a diverse array

Launched last Sunday, amidst a sexual assault awareness campaign, this initiative marks a significant stride toward fostering gender equality and providing avenues for male empowerment through skills enhancement and financial independence.

In a recent interview with the Department of

She stated, “The intention is to offer the same opportunities that we have been giving to women through WIIN and we hope that the men will gravitate to it.”

The name ‘MPOWER’ was carefully chosen to symbolise the government’s commitment to ensuring empowerment opportunities are accessible to all segments of society. It complements

of training courses meticulously designed to enhance their skills and competencies.

These courses include topics such as Data Literacy, Digital Presence-Big Data, Digital Transformation, Workplace Productivity, and Real Estate Management.

Offered online, these courses provide flexibility and convenience, with self-

paced options, catering to diverse learning preferences.

Upon completion of the training programme, participants will receive comprehensive support to pursue entrepreneurial ventures or

employment opportunities.

Interested individuals can register for the programme via the QR code available on the ministry’s Facebook page, online through the provided link, https://docs.google. com/…/1FAIpQLSdBU2RxUVM…/viewform… or in person at the Guyana Women’s Learning Institute (GWLI).

75 public health, clinical practitioners successfully complete global health E-learning programme

SOME 75 local public health and clinical practitioners have been recognised for their dedication and commitment to advancing their skills in global health.

They were awarded certificates by the Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) for successfully completing the University of Washington Global Health E-learning Programme on Monday.

The comprehensive programme covered a series of crucial areas, including policy development, leadership and management, economic evaluation, monitoring and evaluation, and policy management and advocacy in global health.

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the graduates, emphasising the vital role continuous learning plays in enhancing patient care and outcomes.

“Let me extend congratulations to all of you for taking this course. I think for us in the health sector it is quite important for us to be constantly learning…If we don’t keep ourselves updated constantly then we can have problems.

“I want to encourage persons to keep doing it because it is going to help you to widen your horizon and to be able to better perform at whatever job you are doing in the ministry,”

the minister stated.

Continuing on that note, the minister highlighted the government’s commitment to advancing clinical practices by entrenching laws to ensure ongoing professional development for doctors and nurses.

The Global Health E-learning Programme, facilitated by PANCAP, has been instrumental in training over 499 individuals from 2021 to 2023.

Chargé d’affaires of the United States Embassy, Adrienne Galanek, commended the initiative, highlighting USAID’s substantial investment of $189 million in Guyana since 2004 to support HIV prevention, testing, care, and treatment services.

Galanek also underscored PANCAP’s role in providing technical guidance and promoting best practices to achieve epidemic control across the Caribbean region.

PANCAP, serving as the regional mechanism coordinating the response to HIV in the Caribbean, operates under the guidance of the Caribbean Regional Strategic Framework on HIV/AIDS 2019–2025.

Meanwhile, the Director of PANCAP Coordinating Unit, Dr. Wendy Emanuelson, and CARICOM’s Director of Human and Social Development, Helen Royer, also presented at the simple ceremony.

Some 75 local public health and clinical practitioners have been recognised for their dedication and commitment to advancing their skills in global health

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Sunday May 05, 2024)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) 52-Andre Russell (KKR)

(2) 12-Faf du Plessis (CSK)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who effected most wicketkeeping dismissals in IPL 2019?

(2) What was the highest partnership for any wicket in IPL 2019?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

RACING TIPS SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS KENILWORTH

08:40 hrs Sansa Stark

09:15 hrs Rascallion 09:50 hrs Princess Izzy 10:30 hrs Katsu 11:05 hrs Gimmelightning

IRISH RACING TIPS SLIGO

08:40 hrs Katie Bairdie

09:15 hrs Goldrush Kid

09:50 hrs Redshore City

10:25 hrs Grann’s Boy 11:00 hrs God Knows 11:35 hrs Not Just Any Eagle 12:10 hrs Sylkie ENGLISH RACING HAMILTON 09:05 hrs Capital Theory 09:35 hrs Airman 10:10 hrs Honour Your Dream

10:50 hrs Where’s Jeff 11:23 hrs Natzor 11:58 hrs Good Morning Alex 12:30 hrs Burj Malinka

NEWMARKET

08:50 hrs Kaipana 09:25 hrs Silver Lady 10:00 hrs Intinso

10:40 hrs Fallen Angel 11:15 hrs Mountain Breeze 11:50 hrs The Actor 11:25 hrs Black Run SALISBURY

09:10 hrs Amaysmont 09:40 hrs Convo 10:20 hrs Lihou

10:55 hrs Fast Society 11:30 hrs Mildyjama 12:05 hrs Marhaba Million

12:35 hrs Corsican Caper

Arsenal cruise past Bournemouth to go four points clear

ARSENAL

cruised past Bournemouth to go four points clear at the top of the Premier League before Saturday's later games.

The Gunners dominated the opening 45 minutes and took the lead just before half-time from the penalty spot.

Kai Havertz was brought down by Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers and Bukayo Saka coolly rolled the ball into the net from the resulting spot-kick.

Arsenal doubled their lead in the 70th minute when Declan Rice won the ball on the edge of the box and teed up Leandro Trossard, who curled the ball home from inside the area, before Rice scored in added time to boost the Gunners' goal difference.

Bournemouth threatened a lot more in the second period and Dominic Solanke forced David Raya into a save in the second half before Justin Kluivert flashed a shot wide.

The Cherries thought they had pulled a goal back through Antoine Semenyo but his strike was ruled out for a foul on David Raya by Solanke in the build- up.

Arsenal centre-back, Gabriel, also had a goal ruled out late on for offside after he smashed a volley into the top corner.

The victory means Arsenal are clear at the top but their four-point lead may only last a few hours as title rivals Manchester City play later

this afternoon.

During the match, Arsenal and their fans paid tribute to 14-yearold supporter Daniel Anjorin, who was killed in a sword attack on Tuesday.

Arsenal keep pressure on City in title race

The Gunners started the game extremely quickly and had Bournemouth under pressure for the majority of the first half.

Mikel Arteta's side had 11 shots in the open-

ing 20 minutes of the match - the joint-most by a Premier League side this season - but for a while it looked as though it might not be their day.

William Saliba had a shot well saved by Travers after he exchanged passes with Saka, before the England winger himself had an effort saved by the Bournemouth keeper.

Rice had a good chance to open the scoring in the first half but he shot just wide from a

Havertz knock down.

Trossard, Thomas Partey, Martin Odegaard and Takehiro Tomiyasu all had further opportunities before Saka finally made the breakthrough from the spot.

The tension eased when Trossard finished well to double the lead, and Rice's strike in added time added further gloss to the scoreline.

The victory is Arsenal's fourth win on the bounce as they keep the pressure on Manchester City and hope the champions drop points in the title race.

Bournemouth second half shows why they are improving

The Cherries are having their best ever season in the top flight and their points tally of 48 is a club record.

Eighteen-goal striker, Solanke, was well marshalled by the Arsenal defence and will be disappointed he did not take full advantage when Gabriel stepped on the ball in the 17th minute, but Saliba prevented him from getting a shot off.

But manager Andoni Iraola will be pleased with how his side improved in the second half and they gave Arsenal a scare before the second and third goals went in.

The visitors will feel they should have had a goal through Semenyo, but VAR Peter Bankes agreed with on-field referee, David Coote, that Raya was pushed in the build-up to the goal.

Bournemouth can still finish in the top half of the table but they did not come too close to picking up any more points in this match.

However, they were pinned back for most of the first half as they struggled to deal with Arsenal's quality and had only one shot before the break, which came in the opening minute of the match from Dango Ouattara.

Ex-NZ all-rounder Anderson in USA World Cup squad

FORMER

New Zealand

all-rounder, Corey Anderson, has been named in the United States squad for the T20 World Cup in June.

The 33-year-old made his debut for the USA last month, having qualified for the World Cup cohosts after emigrating to the country.

Anderson played 93 times for New Zealand between 2012 and 2018, including at three World Cups.

He is one of 19 players to have represented two

countries in men's T20 cricket.

Team-mate Nitish Kuma r, who has also been named in the World Cup squad, also played 18 T20s for Canada before his USA debut this year.

USA are in a group with India, Pakistan, Ireland and Canada at the World Cup - a tournament which begins with a meeting with their North American neighbours on 1 June

New York, Dallas and Lauderhill are all hosting matches in the tournament

with the other venues in the Caribbean.

USA squad

Monank Patel (captain), Aaron Jones (vice-captain), Steven Taylor, Corey Anderson, Saurabh Netravalkar, Jessy Singh, Harmeet Singh, Noshthush Kenjige, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Nitish Kumar, Andries Gous, Shayan Jahangir, Ali Khan, Nisarg Patel, Milind Kumar. Reserves: Gajanand Singh, Juanoy Drysdale, Yasir Mohammad.

Bukayo Saka has scored six penalties in the Premier League this season

Corey Anderson played 13 Tests, 49 one-day internationals and 31 T20s for New Zealand

Australia replaces India as No. 1 Test team in ICC rankings after annual update

..India is still on top in ODIs and T20Is, even as Scotland has overtaken Zimbabwe to be 12th in T20Is

Australia has replaced India as the No. 1 Test team in the ICC men's rankings, after the annual update. India, though, has retained the top spot in the ODI and T20I rankings.

In this cycle, the matches played only after May 2021 are taken into consideration for the ranking, which means India's

2-1 series win in Australia in December 2020-January 2021 has dropped out. All results between May 2021 and May 2023 are weighted at 50%, while the ones in the following 12 months are weighted at 100%.

As a result, Australia, which also won the World Test Championship last year, now has 124 rating

points, four clear of second-placed India (118), and 19 ahead of thirdplaced England (105). Both India and Australia are next in action in the format only in November, when they face each other in Perth.

The positions of all other Test teams remain unchanged.

In the ODI rankings,

Bowlers, openers help RCB climb to seventh

ROYAL Challengers Bengaluru notched up their third win on the trot in IPL 2024 in fine style and moved up to seventh on the points table while Gujarat Titans, with an identical eight points now went down to ninth thanks to a poorer net run-rate.

Gujarat continued to struggle giving away 92 in the powerplay period but getting only 23 for three. The conditions were different at both times, with RCB benefitting initially from the assistance for the pacers. Gujarat scored the lowest

seven innings) going in Siraj's favour once again. Both Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan tried to resurrect the phase but were in need of some quick runs. Both perished attempting big hits leaving Gujarat delicately poised.

The introduction of spin provided some respite as Karn Sharma was picked for 12 in his first over, and the following over saw Cameron Green going for 11 even as he banged the ball short. But just as the partnership went past 50 and was threatening to blossom, Miller

powerplay total of the season while RCB registered their highest-ever powerplay total getting a mind-boggling 92 for one.

Mohammad Siraj had a bowling turnaround in the powerplay and RCB were better off for it. On a pitch that had a distinct green patch, the pacers began to find some assistance and managed to keep Gujarat's openers quiet after opting to bowl. It resulted in Wriddhiman Saha slashing across and edging Siraj to the 'keeper with the match-up (four dismissals in

perished trying to sweep Karn and top-edging.

Tewatia had begun the charge on a great note, picking 19 runs off Karn in the 16th over while Rashid Khan then picked up a couple of boundaries off Siraj in the next over. But yet again, Gujarat's batters were not able to continue with Yash Dayal being RCB's hero in this phase. He first yorked Rashid as he walked across too quickly while Tewatia was caught superbly by Vijaykumar Vyshak at third man. Vyshak then picked

India (122) has extended its lead over Australia (116) to six rating points. South Africa is at third spot, and is only four points behind Australia. Pakistan (106) and New Zealand (101) round out the top five.

up two wickets in three balls as Gujarat were bundled out for a paltry 147.

Faf du Plessis cut loose after the tone was initially set by Virat Kohli who lofted the second ball of the innings for a massive six. Du Plessis then made merry smashing an 18-ball fifty - the second-fastest by an RCB batter. He sored 64 inside the powerplay with left-arm seamer Joshua Little bearing the brunt of his assault.

Little was hit for 20 in his first over and then 14 more in his second before he had Du Plessis caught at short third man. Kohli complemented him superbly at the other end, hitting left-arm spinner for a couple of sixes, as RCB amassed 92 - their highest-ever powerplay score.

After the manic start, the course-correction happened in rather dramatic fashion after the dismissal of du Plessis. Rajat Patidar, Will Jacks, Glenn Maxwell and Cameron Green all fell for single digit scores with Little making a roaring comeback picking up four wickets in all. Patidar and Maxwell holed out pulling to the deep while Jacks and Green got out off edges. Kohli meanwhile kept RCB going with clinical boundaries until he edged Noor Ahmed, giving the spinner his second wicket and raising GT's hopes. RCB had lost six wickets for 25 runs but nevertheless the start given put them in good stead. Dinesh Karthik led the way with some confident sweeps and reverse sweeps putting Rashid Khan away as RCB roared back and went the finish line in quick fashion giving their NRR a good boost in the process. (Cricbuzz)

While India is still No. 1 in T20Is with 264 points, their lead over Australia (257) has reduced from 11 to seven points.

The biggest beneficiaries were South Africa, which rose two spots from sixth to fourth, and is only

two points behind thirdplaced England (252). Meanwhile, Pakistan has dropped two places to seventh, and Scotland has overtaken Zimbabwe to be 12th. (CricinfO)

Knicks to face Pacers in Eastern Conference semis

THE New York Knicks will face the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference semi-finals after both progressed from the first round of the NBA play-offs.

The Knicks, who are the second seed in the East, won 118-115 in Philadelphia to clinch a 4–2 series win over the 76ers.

The Milwaukee Bucks welcomed back Damian Lillard after missing the previous two games through an Achilles injury but they were unable to take their series with Indiana to a decider.

The sixth-seeded Pacers won 120-98 in Indianapolis to clinch a 4-2 upset of the third seed Milwaukee, the 2021 champions.

Although Lillard returned for the Bucks, fellow star Giannis Antetokounmpo remained out, with the two-time MVP having not played any part in the series because of a calf injury.

The Pacers will begin their best-of-seven series with the Knicks in New York on Monday.

After scoring a franchise play-off record as the Knicks went 3-1 up in the series, Jalen Brunson again shone, scoring a game-high

41 points as his team secured their second win in three visits to Philadelphia.

He added 12 assists, including one to Josh Hart for a three-pointer with 25.6 seconds left, which put the visitors ahead for good at 114-111.

"We knew it was going to be a grind, we just found

contest, with Obi Toppin scoring 21 points and TJ McConnell adding 20 as Indiana reached the Eastern Conference semi-finals for the first time in 10 years.

Bucks veteran, Patrick Beverley, showed his frustration by throwing a ball at some fans behind his team's bench, hitting a female spec-

ways to win," said Brunson, 27.

"Every situation is different and we need to approach it with the same mentality. No matter who's in front of us, we're going to attack it."

Despite a game-high 28 points from Lillard on his return from injury, Milwaukee trailed for most of the

tator, and after they tossed it back he again threw the ball into the crowd.

When interviewed by reporters in the locker room, Beverley refused to accept questions from a female reporter as she "doesn't subscribe to his podcast" and then asked her to leave the huddle.

Jalen Brunson (left) and Andrew Nembhard helped the Knicks and the Pacers progress in the NBA play-offs

Du Plessis and Kohli helped RCB smash their highest powerplay score ever – 92 for one

Australia won the World Test Championship last year • I(CC/Getty Images)

Real Madrid crowned champions after Barca’s defeat at Girona

REAL Madrid were crowned champions of La Liga for the 36th time after Barcelona suffered a 4-2 defeat by Girona.

Carlo Ancelotti's side eased to a 3-0 win over Cadiz earlier on Saturday, which meant the Catalan club had to win at the Estadi Montilivi.

Barcelona led 2-1 at half-time, but three second-half goals from Girona left Real with an unassailable lead at the summit with four matches of the season remaining.

England midfielder Jude Bellingham has been a key figure in Real's suc-

cess, having scored 18 goals in 26 La Liga games in his first season with the club.

Bellingham posted on X, external "CAMPEONES!!! HALA MADRID Y NADA MAS!!!" which translates as "Champions!!! Go Madrid and nothing more!!!".

The 20-year-old joins Laurie Cunningham (1979–80), Steve McManaman (2000–01 and 2002–03), David Beckham (2006-07) and Kieran Trippier (2020-21) as Englishmen to win La Liga.

Los Blancos have lost just one league game this season and could po-

tentially finish the campaign with 99 points, which would be their second-highest total ever.

It is Ancelotti's sec -

ond La Liga title as Real coach, having previously won it in 2021-22.

Real have now won nine more titles than the 27

Carlo Ancelotti has won league titles in Spain, Italy, Germany, France and England

held by Barcelona.

The 14-time European Cup winners face Bayern Munich at the Bernabeu on Wednes -

day in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final, having drawn 2-2 at the Allianz Arena.

Mervyn King to replace Mark Nicholas as MCC president

Ex-governor of the Bank of England will take over in October

MERVYN King, who spent a decade working as the governor of the Bank of England, will take over from Mark Nicholas as president of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). Nicholas has been recommended to the club's committee to take over as chair when his tenure ends in October, when King will replace him.

"It is an extraordinary honour to be asked by our current president to serve as the next president of MCC," King, who entered the House of Lords after his appointment as a life peer in 2014, said. "I look forward to serving the club and to promoting the interests of our members and of the game so many of us love."

King and Nicholas were co-founders

charity

around

year and aims to "reinvigorate" state-school cricket.

King also served as president of Worcestershire in 2015 and 2016, describing his election to the role as "one of the proudest moments of my life".

Nicholas said: "Together we founded Chance to Shine in 2005. Since then, more than six million children, who would most likely not have played cricket have had the chance to do so. This makes us both so very proud. I can't wait to stand alongside him again.

"There are few better people to fulfil the role of MCC president. Mervyn's love of cricket knows no boundary; indeed, his love of sport extends to an equally enthusiastic enjoyment of both football and tennis.

"His calm authority and considerable wisdom carried the country through the global financial crisis of 2008 and now I feel sure that he will bring the MCC membership with him through a time of great interest and opportunity at the club."

King's appointment comes at a time when MCC's role in English cricket is changing. The club is likely to be given a 51% equity stake in London Spirit, the Hundred team which plays at Lord's, by the ECB if current proposals to open the tournament up to private investment are approved by the firstclass counties.(cRICINFo)

of the

Chance to Shine in 2005, which works with

600,000 children and young adults every

Mervyn King has been named the president-designate of MCC • Jed Leicester/MCC

Wilson, Richardson named among 26 match officials for upcoming T20 World Cup

UMPIRE Joel Wilson and match referee Sir Richie Richardson will be the only West Indies officials involved in the upcoming ninth edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be staged jointly in the Caribbean and United States.

Wilson, 57, boasts a wealth of experience, having stood in matches across all three formats of international cricket, and was also a member of the 2015, 2019 and 2023 Cricket World Cup match officials, while Richardson, 62, a West Indies legend, has been a prominent match referee since his appointment to the Elite Panel in 2015.

The two are among 20 umpires and six match referees, selected by ICC, to officiate in June 1-29 tournament, which will, for the first time, see 20 teams in action across 55 matches over 28 days at nine venues, making

it the largest ICC T20 World Cup to date.

Also included on the elite list of umpires is last year’s winner of the David Shepherd Trophy for ICC Umpire of the Year, Richard Illingworth, along with Kumar

Dharmasena, Chris Gaffaney and Paul Reiffel, who all featured in the 2022 T20 World Cup final between England and Pakistan at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The match referees' team includes Ranjan Madugalle,

who officiated the 2022 final, along with the format's most experienced referee, Jeff Crowe of New Zealand.

Crowe holds the record for officiating in most number of T20Is, having made 175 appearances, while An-

CT impact: PSL to clash with IPL next year as PCB identifies April-May window

THE Pakistan Super League (PSL) will clash with the Indian Premier League (IPL) next season. The overlap of the schedule has become unavoidable in view of the Champions Trophy that Pakistan will host in February-March 2025.

The tentative window allocated for the PSL 2025 is April 7 to May 20, the dates during which the IPL runs. This year, the IPL started on March 22 and will conclude on May 26.

Cricbuzz reported on February 9 about the potential disruption of schedules for three domestic leagues – in the UAE (ILT20), in South Africa (SA20) as well as Pakistan.

On Saturday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) held a meeting with the six franchise owners of the PSL to look ahead for the coming season. "Due to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 being held in the traditional event window, the event window for the 2025 event will be 7 April - 20 May," the PCB said in a statement.

The meeting decided that Karachi, Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi will host matches with each side playing, at least, five matches on home ground. The PCB will continue to explore additional venues, the board said, adding, "The four playoffs proposed to be staged at a

neutral venue."

It will be for the first time that the dates of the IPL and the PSL will be clashing. The viewerships of the leagues may not exactly be affected but the clash may have an impact on the participation of foreign players.

The overlap of windows has been avoided since the start of the PSL nine years ago. The PSL was held from February 17 to March 18 this year. But the February-March window of next year has been allocated to the Champions Trophy, which is scheduled to start mid-February; new dates had to be identified for the PSL, considered the second best

franchise-based league after the IPL.

"At the back of this meeting, and in relation to the most suitable window for HBL PSL 2025 and beyond, the PCB will share further data with the franchise owners so that they can discuss amongst themselves, make a more informed decision and share their ideas and thoughts at the General Council meeting. We look forward to working closely with the franchisees to make timely decisions for the future trajectory of one of Pakistan's biggest brands,"

PCB Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer said. (Cricbuzz)

drew Pycroft, also part of the elite list, is just one match away from reaching the milestone of 150 T20Is.

ICC’s General Manager Wasim Khan, reflected on the selection of the Match Officials for the historic event.

“We are pleased to announce our team of match referees and umpires for the historic ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Within the selected cohort, we have a compliment of experienced match officials and other high performing members who have been recognised for their strong and consistent performances. The throughput from the pathway programme will continue to see the development and emergence of high-quality match officials across the game,” Khan said.

“With 20 teams and 55 matches played over 28 days,

this will be the biggest T20 World Cup ever and we are proud of the team we have assembled. We are confident that our officials will perform strongly. We wish them all the best of luck for what promises to be a very exciting tournament,” he added.

The Match Officials for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024:

Umpires: Chris Brown, Kumar Dharmasena, Chris Gaffaney, Michael Gough, Adrian Holdstock, Richard Illingworth, Allahudien Paleker, Richard Kettleborough, Jayaraman Madanagopal, Nitin Menon, Sam Nogajski, Ahsan Raza, Rashid Riaz, Paul Reiffel, Langton Rusere, Shahid Saikat, Rodney Tucker, Alex Wharf, Joel Wilson and Asif Yaqoob. Match referees: David Boon, Jeff Crowe, Ranjan Madugalle, Andrew Pycroft, Richie Richardson

West Indies’ Thomas banned for match-fixing

Thomas is an all-rounder and occasional wicketkeeper

WEST INDIES international, Devon Thomas, has been banned from cricket for five years, after admitting seven anti-corruption breaches.

The 34-year-old has played 34 times for West Indies across all formats, most recently in 2022.

His most serious offence was contriving or being party to match-fixing attempts in Sri Lanka's domestic T20 competition in 2021.

The all-rounder and occasional wicketkeeper also admitted several charges of failing to report illegal approaches at the Abu Dhabi T10 and Caribbean Premier League to the authorities.

Thomas made his international debut in 2009 - the first of 21 one-day internationals.

He also played 12 T20s and one Test, against Australia in Adelaide in 2022.

Eighteen months of his ban by the International Cricket Council (ICC) have been suspended.

Richie Richardson (left) and Joel Wilson

Devon

ExxonMobil Guyana on board inter-school Kayaking set for today

EXXONMOBIL Guyana

has become the title sponsor of the third annual Inter-School Kayaking Competition, which will take place today, Sunday, May 5.

among education, sports, and tourism sectors, contributing to the growth of our tourism and sports economy and promoting the concept of "sports-tourism."

numerous lifeguards, boats, and jet skis will ensure the races are safe.

Participants will compete in 14 races across various age categories, including under 14, under 16, under 18, and open categories. These include male and female single kayaking,

A water ambulance with a medical team will stand alongside a land-based medical bay staffed with doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists.

Additionally, the organiser indicated that police presence on land and water will guarantee a secure,

The competition will be on the riverfront of the Watooka Guest House in Linden, and, this year, ExxonMobil Guyana will provide cash incentives for school projects.

Inter-school Kayaking returns to Linden today

Lead organiser, Deon Anderson of Elite Kayaking, and Nature Tours, gave an overview of the competition.

Schools from Berbice, West Demerara, Georgetown, and Linden will participate, Kwakwani Secondary being the defending champion.

According to a release from the organisers, the event aims to foster unity

mixed team double kayaking, and male and female long-distance relays, which combine road running and kayaking.

The competition will showcase the participants' stamina, skills, and speed.

Schools vie for the grand prize of $450,000 for the first place, $250,000 for the second, and $150,000 for the third, along with trophies, medals, and tokens. Safety is paramount;

family-friendly environment.

The release added, “ExxonMobil Guyana's title sponsorship reflects its commitment to community engagement, student opportunity, sports, and youth development, highlighting the invaluable support from corporate sponsors that drives the success of this annual competition.”

Amsterdam leading four-man team to 12-day training camp in Ecuador

As GBA Intensifies preparation for Olympic qualifier in Thailand

AS Guyana’s top boxers seek to add to the country’s lone Olympic medal, the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) is

onship and the South American Games.

He will be joined by Olympian Keevin Allicock, Joel Wil-

sending four pugilists to Ecuador for an intense training camp.

Desmond Amsterdam is one of the country’ most successful amateur boxers having secured bronze medals at the Americas Boxing Confederation Champi-

BRIDGETOWN,

Barba -

dos,(CMC) – West Indies lead selector, Desmond Haynes and white-ball head coach, Daren Sammy, said they were confident that the right squad was selected for the ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup next month in the Caribbean and the United States.

Haynes and Sammy officially announced, on Friday, that co-hosts West Indies rolled the dice and named the Guyanese duo of uncapped pacer Shamar Joseph and left-handed batsman Shimron Hetmyer in their provisional 15-member squad for the global showpiece.

liamson and Emanuel Pompey. President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), Steve Ninvalle, said that ‘they are expected to depart Guyana tomorrow (Monday) for a 12 -day training camp in Ecuador. We would have wanted them

to have the training camp in Thailand, but it seems a bit chaotic right now in Thailand because this is the last Olympic qualifier’.

The GBA was hoping to send the team of boxers to Italy for another Olympic qualifier earlier this year but encountered some visa issues which caused them not to participate in that competition.

After the boxers leave Ecuador they will travel to Thailand to earn qualification into the 2024 Paris Olympic Games running from July 26 to August 11.

‘We have communicated with the officials in Thailand and we received correspondence which stated that visas will be issued upon arrival in Thailand’.

‘Ecuador we have no visa requirement, we can go for 90 days without a visa and then they leave from Ecuador and go straight to Thailand’

Ninvalle said he strongly believes they will emerge winners and earn a place at the Paris games after their participation at the qualifiers.

‘We expect the best from them, Desmond Amsterdam and the team and we expect that we should have a qualifier for the Olympics’

He said they have ensured the boxers are well prepared and confident as

Haynes and Sammy confident of

Shamar Joseph was named the Player of the Match in his second Test, helping West Indies win at the Gabba•AFP/Getty Images

they go for hardware.

‘I think the readiness, it’s good, it’s about the boxer, it’s not about the physical preparation, it’s the mental preparation and it means they have to come 50 percent with us, we have also included our sports sociologist, who worked with them before and we believe, we think they will be better prepared than they would have been prepared for Italy’

Michael Parris.

The final Olympic Qualification Tournament in Bangkok, Thailand, is scheduled for May 23 – June 3.

The team will be coached by national coach, Lennox Daniels.

Windies success

This is a very exciting time for us, and I would hope that everyone in the Caribbean, and all the West Indies fans support us because this is our best chance.”

West Indies are a two-time champion of the tournament, having won in 2012 in Sri Lanka and 2016 in India under the leadership of Sammy, and guidance of coaches Ottis Gibson and Phil Simmons respectively.

“We know how to select winning teams,” Sammy said. “We’ve done it before, and I think, as a selection group, we’re really excited about it.

said finding players to fit specific roles in the side was an important part of the selection process because of the nature of the format and the length of the tournament, and this led to some of the choices that were made

“We had very long discussions, especially with the batting, and our process has always been about roles,” Haynes said.

“From the time that Sammy came in, and I also agreed with him, we’ve looked at the roles that we want players to play.”

are ready to go out and execute for us.”

All World Cup provisional squads may be changed up to May 25, after which any alterations will require approval from the technical committee of the tournament.

Haynes said he felt the squad selected had all the resources to follow in the footsteps of the title-winning squads of 2012 and 2016.

“This is a very good time in West Indies cricket,” he told

Joseph, 24, has played only three T20s in his career and is yet to make his international debut in the format, and Hetmyer, 27, a former West Indies Under-19 World Cup-winning captain, was included after being dropped during the home series against England last Christmas, overlooked in January for the Tour of Australia, and modest runs in the IPL.

reporters during a news conference in the Barbados capital of Bridgetown. “I believe that we’ve got a team that can win this World Cup, and I feel damn good about this.

“We’ve had preparations for the last year. The majority of the players, we had them involved and they were very successful.

“It’s an exciting time, and this preparation did not start now. It started from the last World Cup in Australia. What we’ve been able to do throughout the last year as a T20 group, the players we’ve exposed, has brought us to this moment, and I think we’re about to ‘knock it out of this world’.”

Both Haynes and Sammy

Sammy added: “We are ready. When you look at role definition from the group we’ve selected, I think we’ve come up with the best combination to help us win this World Cup.

“All the preparation, all the thought process identifying the key roles that we need to be effective in to help us win, has brought us to this moment. I think we have the guys that

West Indies will play in Group “C” of the tournament with Afghanistan and New Zealand, and two ICC Associate teams – Papua New Guinea and Uganda. Their first two matches in the tournament will be at the Guyana National Stadium, where they face the Papuans on June 2 and take on the Ugandans six days later.

T he Caribbean side will complete the group stage against New Zealand on June 12 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad and Afghanistan five days later at the venue named after their coach in his homeland of St Lucia.

The long time sport administrator has applauded the support from the Guyana Olympic Association(GOA) Guyana’s lone Olympic medal came in 1980 at the Olympic Games in boxing at the hands of

GBA president, Steve Ninvalle

Desmond Amsterdam Keevin Allicock