Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 06-04-2023

Additional 1,500 house lots for East Coast Demerara corridor

— Minister Rodrigues says, as government forges ahead with infrastructure transformation

By Naomi Parris

WITH plans to modernise Guyana’s infrastructural landscape, an additional 1,500 house lots will be developed and distributed along the East Coast corridor in 2023, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues said on Tuesday.

Speaking at a ‘Dream Realised’ distribution exercise at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACC), the minister said this would add to the 1,500 lots developed at Lusignan and Good Hope.

“We are looking to develop in this year around 3,000 lots on the East Coast area; today we are targeting 1,500 just because its practical to do in one day,” Rodrigues said on Tuesday.

Some 5,900 house lots were previously distributed

from 2020 to 2023.

She said this is in keeping with the government’s manifesto to distribute 50,000 house lots across the country by 2025.

Minister Rodrigues disclosed that massive road networks would be built linking the East Coast to the East Bank to complement the housing boom further.

This, she explained further, will see the ongoing works being done along the East Bank corridor, including the building of new roads, highways and massive hous-

ing schemes mirrored along the East Coast corridor.

“The development that will take place on the East Coast is no different; I know it’s very hard for you to visualise the positioning of some of these schemes. All of the schemes on the East Coast are leading in a direction towards the East Bank, and you will eventually be connecting to the Aubrey Barker road link,” she said, adding, “There is no one entry and exit to the East Coast any longer. We are developing a very complex network of highways and roads, and you will see a whole different community being developed. It will be all integrated into one big city, and so it will be marvelous to see.”

Already, some $24 billion has been invested into infrastructure works along the East Coast corridor, which

has seen communities such as Reconnaissance, Non-Pariel, Bladen Hall, Vigilance, Annandale, Mon Repos and Strathspey benefitting.

In the 2023 national budget, $54.5 billion was allocated for housing development in new and existing areas, including constructing roads, drains, bridges, and installing utilities to meet housing demands.

The government has also undertaken infrastructure projects in regularised areas, such as Charity, Tuschen, Chateau Margot, Block ‘S’ Sophia, Belvedere, and Amelia’s Ward.

Six quarries were recently licensed to promote accelerated investment in the sector and are expected to contribute to the infrastructure boom slated for this year.

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues on Tuesday assisted and interacted with persons at the ‘Dream Realized’ distribution exercise at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

Guyana’s economic prospects continue to far exceed regional counterparts —

World Bank’s latest projections show

THE World Bank has projected that this year is going to be “substantially bleaker” for the Latin American and Caribbean region than it was last year, but Guyana is yet again expected to stand out among its counterparts with economic growth projected to hover above 20 per cent over the next three years.

The international financial institution in its latest report on Latin America and the Caribbean: “The Promise of Integration Opportunities in a Changing Global Economy,” related: “The Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region has proved to be relatively resilient in the face of increased debt stress, stubborn inflation, and uncertainty arising from the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

“Income and employment have largely recovered from the pandemic, poverty has receded, and markets remain guardedly optimistic about the near future. However, headwinds have picked up, and the 2023 outlook is substantially bleaker than 2022.”

Guyana is the only country on course to recording double-digit growth this year and in the near future. The country, according to the World Bank, is set to record real gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 25.2 per cent this year, 21.2 per cent next year and 28.2 per cent

in 2025.

Guyana’s resilience is being demonstrated at a time when global uncertainty is rising. And, according to the World Bank, while the world may want to move from COVID-19, new variants and diseases will remain a threat.

“Strengthening resilience, both on the health and macroeconomic fronts, will be paramount. Progress remains pending in both vaccination coverage and health-system preparedness, while the institutionality of macroeconomic policy in some countries is being questioned.

“Although numerous global factors can explain the very modest 2023 growth rates, the forecasts going forward predict the same lacklustre pace of the past two decades, which remains insufficient to reduce poverty, promote inclusion, and defuse social tensions,” the World Bank said.

The evolution of the global economy is, however, providing two new areas of opportunity: The trend toward nearshoring—moving production closer to the US and European markets—and the imperative to combat climate change, which is giving the region a new comparative advantage in sun, wind, hydro, and natural capital.

Guyana is well-positioned to capitalise on those opportunities, and will be looking to advance even further with careful fiscal planning, increased private and public investments, and an overarching Low Carbon Development Strategy (2030), that promotes sustainable development, revenue generation and essentially creates a new frontier to development.

Based on its economic performance over the past two years, Guyana has a solid foundation upon which to continue broadening its horizons and advancing sig-

nificantly, especially in the medium term.

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, said that the achievement of real economic growth of 25 per cent over a sustainable period is a feat that is rare in historic economic context.

“Starting from 2020 onwards, we achieved extremely strong economic growth, and the outlook remains extremely favourable,” Dr.

Singh said, adding: “In 2023, we’re looking at projected economic growth of 25.1 per cent, and into the medium term for the next three to four years, sustainable economic growth of in excess of 25 per cent.”

Though most of this projected growth is expected to be on account of the country’s burgeoning oil-andgas sector, Dr. Singh said the government’s focus is on building out the non-oil economy.

ICT

SOME 93 villages across Guyana have benefitted from the installation of satellite connectivity provided by the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), thereby allowing 35,000 residents to access critical Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services.

The NDMA, in its most recent initiative, successfully installed satellite internet and IP phone services at the Katoka Village ICT Hub, Region Nine, under the WiFiGY platform.

This initiative forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide and provide internet access and communication services to underserved communities across Guyana.

With the installation of these satellite services at the

ICT hub, residents will now have access to reliable and free internet services with new speeds of up to 10Mbps, enabling them to participate in the digital economy.

In addition, the installation of IP phone services will provide a reliable communication channel for the community, allowing them to stay connected with their loved ones and

access emergency services if needed.

This will also open opportunities for online education, electronic access to government services, remote work, e-commerce, and other digital services that are essential in today’s world.

Through its efforts to transform Guyana’s digital landscape, the government

recognises that access to highspeed internet is critical for socioeconomic development.

With this in mind, the NDMA, which is overseen by Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, continues to advance the government’s agenda in hinterland and remote communities.

The installation of satellite services in Katoka village, which will benefit approximately 800 residents, is just one of many similar initiatives that NDMA has undertaken in recent years in keeping with its commitment to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Guyanese have access to reliable, reasonably priced ICT services.

In March 2023, new satellite WiFiGY locations were established at ICT hubs in Batavia in Region Seven as well as Meriwau in Region Nine.

“The NDMA will continue to work tirelessly to provide

“A lot of it is being driven by what is happening in the oil-and-gas sector, but when I describe the kind of growth we are looking for, I speak of broad-based and resilient growth. We have placed the highest level of importance on ensuring that we achieve strong non-oil economic growth, and that we do the things necessary today to continue to have strong nonoil economic growth going forward,” Dr. Singh had said.

In 2022, the non-oil sector expanded by 11.5 per cent, while growth projections for 2023 stand at 7.9 per cent. In the medium term, Dr. Singh estimates that real economic growth in the nonoil sector will be in excess of five per cent annually. He assured investors looking to do business in Guyana that the country has established a very strong track record of growth in recent years, and has an extremely strong growth outlook for the foreseeable future.

On the subject of management of the economy, Dr. Singh said that the government has been reorienting the focus of the national budget to invest heavily in the things that matter for long-term economic growth, particularly as it pertains to addressing the country’s infrastructural gap.

high-speed internet services to all underserved communities in Guyana, bridging the digital divide and fostering the socio-economic development of the country,” a release stated.

For more information, on the work of the National Data Management Authority, visit the agency’s website: ndma.gov.gy.

The World Bank has projected that this year is going to be “substantially bleaker” for the Latin American and Caribbean region than it was last year, but Guyana is yet again expected to stand out among its counterparts with economic growth projected to hover above 20 per cent over the next three years

The World Bank’s latest publication on Latin America and the Caribbean: The Promise of Integration Opportunities in a Changing Global Economy

Some 93 villages across Guyana have benefitted from the installation of satellite connectivity provided by the NDMA, thereby allowing 35,000 residents to access critical information and ICT services. (NDMA photos)

Missouri tornado kills at least five as search effort continues

At least five people died after a tornado ripped through south-east Missouri overnight, authorities said.

Search and rescue efforts are continuing after the tornado touched down just before 04:00 (10:00 GMT) in Bollinger County, officials said.

Residents who emerged early on Wednesday morning to survey

the damage found trees toppled on cars and roofs ripped from homes.

Millions of Americans are under a tornado watch throughout Wednesday.

National Weather Service (NWS) officials on the ground said that preliminary reports indicate that the tornado was an EF2 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale.

Estimated peak

winds reached 130mph (210km/h), the NWS says.

Officials told BBC News that local police and state highway patrol teams were assisting with rescue and recovery efforts.

Widespread damage was reported after a tornado ripped through Bollinger County, Missouri

One resident told local reporters he woke up just as the storm pressed down on his home and urged his family to quickly hide in the bathroom.

The destruction comes

as a powerful storm system that has so far killed at least 30 people continues to batter the region, spawning dozens of tornados and severe thunderstorms.

A large swathe of the US - stretching from Texas to the Great Lakes region - remains under a tornado watch on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

There have been more than 80 reported tornadoes since 31 March, the weather service said. (BBC)

Widespread damage reported after a tornado ripped through Bollinger County, Missouri

NAREI trains Mainstay/Whyaka residents in technology, ‘agri’ production expansion — Aims

to tap into wider food market

FOLLOWING a series of technical training from the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), residents of Mainstay/Whyaka, Region Two, are aggressively pursuing agriculture technology to increase production and eventually tap into the broader food market.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, has mandated NAREI to carry out training and awareness sessions in communities countrywide in several essential farming areas, including smart agricultural practices.

These engagements have seen significant improvement in various farming communities, with the latest being Mainstay/Whyaka, which is now expanding agriculture to foster economic growth, sustainability, and food production.

Speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Monday, Toshao Yvonne Pearson, MP, highlighted that the community will be embarking on a slew of climate-smart agriculture practices.

A 96 x 36 shade house is currently being constructed and will be completed soon. The project is intended to increase productivity and generate other opportunities.

“I must say in the field of agriculture when we talk about food and food security, apart from the shade house, we have 10 young people who are energetic. We are now in the process of clearing 50 acres of land. We want to go into commercial agriculture,” Toshao Pearson disclosed.

Various crops that are in high demand including cauliflower, carrots, cucumber, tomatoes, and pak choy will be cultivated.

“We are planning and we’re getting into a business. We are going to sell our produce. We have our school feeding programme that we will be targeting.

Presently, some of the greens are coming from the coastal area. We will be producing those now. We will be producing that in Mainstay; healthy food right here,”

Toshao Pearson emphasised.

She also lauded the partnership between the government, the Canadian High Commission, and the village council to develop the com-

munity and provide various benefits to residents through training.

Meanwhile, residents also benefitted from technical training relating to the shade houses from NAREI and said they are channelling the new skills to expand agriculture in the community.

From the project, residents will benefit from employment opportunities, which will see money being generated in the community, thereby improving the liveli-

hoods of the residents.

MP Pearson said while more shade houses will be established subsequently, a portion of the current one will be utilised by Grades Five and Six pupils, allowing them to be involved in agriculture at a young age.

She also added that Mainstay intends to tap

into the lucrative ‘Cut Rose Project’, which can help to boost the village economy. Mainstay/Whyaka remains cognisant that food production is important as the government continues to accelerate its food security efforts. (DPI)

Toshao of Mainstay/Whyaka, Yvonne Pearson

Ongoing works on the shade house in Mainstay/Whyaka

A section of the land being cleared for the construction of more shade houses

Inclusion, Exclusion, Illusions and Delusions

Guyanese citizens and voters alike have had 31 months to assess the difference between the current and the last governments, and by all measures the conclusion is always like differing between chalk and cheese, or walking and talking.

All sectors of the population have, one way or another, felt Guyana’s new wealth, not necessarily in their pockets but as citizens -- from Amerindians benefitting from carbon credits to Medium to Small and Micro Enterprises (MSMEs) getting special procurement considerations, to Agro-Guyanese businesses benefitting from Affirmative Action, to nationals protected by the Local Content Law.

Guyanese have also seen and heard the world saying positive things about our country, most glad about our new fortunes and wishing us well after decades of being recklessly driven downhill -- without brakes -- while the usual professional naysayers continue pelting pebbles and babbling aloft and on high, from their shattered glass Towers of Babel.

Public opinion, however measured, indicates, however, they can no longer mask their words or actions before an informed and mature electorate that’s long learned how to distinguish between doers and doubters, real progress and glorified backwardness.

Fortunately, Guyana today has a government that operates on the basis of ac-

tual inclusion instead of the exclusivity practiced by the current Opposition in office, twice since 1992.

News from the government’s information services these days is about hundreds of projects and thousands of beneficiaries from the millions and billions of dollars being allocated from flowing oil revenues, while the administration works to ensure no less investment and returns for Guyana from gas, starting with reduction of electricity bills through the gas-to-power route, but already being declared a failure by preachers of doom and gloom, before even one megawatt of electricity is produced.

But this administration is led by leaders who’ve long

understood the importance of delivering on promises and solving people’s problems while critics continue attempting to create impossible mountains out of ant hills and stirring-up hurricanes in teacups.

The nation is led by a President who daily solves age-old problems for communities, a widely-experienced Vice President who is General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party-Civic alliance, a civic-minded Prime Minister steeled by decades of dedicated military discipline and a Cabinet of professionals, technocrats and accountable politicians who don’t see themselves as, or behave like, they were born to rule.

The PPP/C is heading for

a Local Government Election (LGE) with all signals pointing to its victory handsdown, especially if judged by its record of achievements halfway through its first term, even if those electing to boycott were to participate.

Gone are the days when those playing champions of democracy today would cynically force Guyanese voters to choose between a “House” and a “Mouse” as election symbols, or when ballot boxes with LGE votes were hijacked by GDF troops.

Today – and in June –Guyanese can and will cast their ballots confident that each vote will be counted and included -- and not excluded on the basis of who cast them, or where.

Democracy is back and

while it’s not working for those who’ve historically subverted it for personal and partisan political gain, Guyanese voters will on Election Day be more concerned about ensuring continuity than the illusion of halting progress and backing the advancing nation into reverse gear.

However, there’s no escaping that voters don’t vote to change governments, but rather, to elect -- and re-elect. And having last elected the PPP/C and seen attempts to have their votes so brazenly stolen, Guyanese aren’t about to repose their trust into mouths that usually bite hard the hands that feed them!

The GPA president is in full campaign mode

Dear Editor, THE current Guyana Press Association (GPA) has grossly missed its mandate by seeking to lecture the President and his government on privileged treatment of media houses at press engagements or conferences.

I think that any mandate that it had expired 36 months ago because the present President and executive were elected to office in January 2018 and elections should have been held in 2020.

President of the GPA, Nazima Raghubir, is not being transparent when she says that COVID was the cause for there not being an

election along with the lack of accountability and transparency in the organisation.

Raghubir knows only too well that elections could have been called using meeting forum, Zoom, or in line with the restricted meeting guidelines, if not in 2020 then 2021 and 2022. The first quarter of 2023 is also over.

She could have held the elections in January 2022 when all the restrictions and curfews were lifted on public meetings and engagements. Raghubir continues to twiddle her thumbs while taking cover under the leadership of the executive body of the GPA that is complicit in all of this, because their mandate expired in January

2020.

Were it not for the letters appearing in the press, Raghubir would have used the silence of the press and senior executives, I believe, to grab on to her post for as long as she could have gotten away with it.

There continues to be questions surrounding which media house Raghubir’s is attached to that would qualify her for a post in the GPA. I am told that Prime News no longer operates a daily news broadcast. So, where does she work? Kaieteur News, perhaps?

Now, for the substantive issue at hand. I believe the press and media are supposed to be ready at a moment’s notice to cover

the President’s press conferences and media engagements. There is no special or desired time that a media operative can be called, but the practice has been to give enough time. Two and a half hours is enough time! It takes less than 45 minutes to get to Vreed-en-Hoop and even less time to reach Leonora.

I would admit that I am one of the persons who went to the President’s outreach at Leonora.

Raghubir is being overly dramatic, sensational, and misleading when she talks about the perceived intimidation, perceived attack and atmosphere that took place when the President hosted his press conference.

Every media representative there had the opportunity to ask questions. I disagree that the President was hostile or dismissive of questions, whether they were based on the oil and gas sector or the outreach. I got the chance to witness how the media quizzed the President and what mettle they are made of.

The President’s press conference and the atmosphere cannot be compared to the former President David Granger’s press engagements. It is insulting to the public’s mind to do so because the records and facts are there.

It baffles me to see how this matter which can be easily verified, but was not,

warrants a reply from the press association. The Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for public information is certainly correct in rebuking both the GPA and Kaieteur News.

Raghubir should spend more time on hosting the GPA elections in May and answering the questions from the media which will come in droves about her presidency. Using the President’s outreach to score campaign points ahead of the GPA elections is weak and the public sees right through this orchestrated buffoonery.

Yours truly, Brian Azore

Mistreatment of minorities in the PNC/R must be challenged

Dear Editor

WE have breaking news that General Secretary of the PNC/R, Dawn Hastings-Williams was denied entry into the party’s headquarters in Sophia.

If true, this is a troubling development because, of recent, minorities in the PNC/R have been treated with alarming disrespect. Leader Aubrey Norton should make every effort to clarify what is happening in the party, because the public has a right to know.

In December 2022, the General Secretary (GS) of

the PNC/R was apparently prevailed upon to resign.

According to media reports, Geeta Chandan-Edmond “endured” a lot in the PNC/R since Mr. Norton became leader.

The Guyana Chronicle also reported that Ms Chandan-Edmond “resigned after growing concerns that she was not allowed to fully function in her capacity as GS” (15/12/2022).

Only a month later, in January 2023, another minority-related scandal broke out. This time PNC/R Treasurer, Faaiz Mursalin, resigned -- apparently in protest

against having to sign blank cheques.

A taped telephone conversation among PNC/R Executive Member Ganesh Mahipaul, PNC/R executive member Roysdale Forde, and Faaiz Mursalin basically confirmed that the blank cheque issue was central to the latter’s resignation from the post.

Based on a media interview with Mr. Mahipaul, the public learnt that Mursalin “…informed the two party members of a number of eyebrow-raising concerns, including that he was called to Congress Place on many

A redemptive community

Dear Editor,

“The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude.” –Oprah Winfrey

I write this letter to highlight the community of Agricola.

Agricola is historically one of the earliest villages in Guyana. Having been known for its troubles and its sordid past in the early 2000s, Agricola as a community has turned a new leaf. The village is essentially redemptive and spiritual rather than political and physical.

After emancipation and indentureship, 177 plots of land were purchased by the newly freed Africans on the southern boundary of Plantation Rome, later known as Agricola. The streets of the new village Remus, Romulus, Caesar, Cato, Titus and Brutus were named after outstanding Roman Conquerors.

After its establishment, it is said that Agricola had a good community spirit which aided in its growth and sustained development. The village thrived socially, economically and culturally. The village grew and became diverse, welcoming a rainbow of ethnicities which obtains to this day.

In the 1970s the commu-

nity was incorporated into Greater Georgetown, where, due to migration and Guyana’s economic travesty, the once-thriving village started experiencing unemployment and instances of crime, which plagued the community for generations.

However, while the community is not without its social issues today, crime and its association and involvement therewith, have significantly decreased to an almost non-existent state. The village is considered to be on the rise.

Last month, Agricola received its first-ever visit from a Head of State, with President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali meeting with residents to address the concern of the villagers to better their lives. Promises were made and we await their fulfillment.

The government has vowed to work alongside the village and its residents to accelerate their development. The President has also promised to promote opportunities that will foster a future that will give the young people of the community the best possibilities, as well as transforming the community. We look forward to this and hold President Ali to his word.

We desire many opportunities, in particular, for the training of our young people in construction as well as the

occasions and ordered to sign numerous blank cheques as party Treasurer” (Guyana Times, 16/1/2023). Further, Mursalin “who is of East Indian descent, detailed in the letter that he was subjected to racial abuse by a well-known PNCR member” (Ibid).

Things got even worse in mid-March when the PNC/R tolerated the racially-charged call by the WPA’s executive member, Tacuma Ogunseye, to turn the guns in the right direction. What was implied is so diabolical, it should not be repeated here.

The sad, but also alarming thing, is that it took the

East Indians, and only them to condemn Ogunseye’s inflammatory discharge. Had Ganesh Mahipaul, Natasha Singh-Lewis, Daniel Seeram, and Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine not spoken up against Ogunseye, no one in the PNC/R would have.

The minorities in the PNC/R were “thrown under the bus.” I expected at least the Hon Annette Ferguson to say something, given her frequency in the press about discrimination.

After all of these glaring instances of mistreatment of minorities in the PNC/R, one would think that the

party’s leadership would be extra careful. But here we are again, only one month later, with yet another case of disrespecting another minority woman in the PNC/R.

The PNC/R has very low ratings in the public, and these glaring instances of disrespecting minorities will only push them further down. As for minorities in the PNC/R, they should stand up and be counted. Stand up for your rights!

Yours sincerely, Dr Randolph Persaud

development of technical skills. We have skillful athletes across all the sporting disciplines. The Agricola Red Triangle football unit remains a heavyweight in the East Bank Demerara Football Association from the under-13 to the senior levels. More assistance is needed to develop the village’s talent better.

This new generation of young people has been completing school, passing with good grades. We, the future of this community, strive to aggressively find solutions to our social problems as we strive for self-empowerment and social development through much-needed incentives. We implore everyone with a willingness, to partner with us as we strive for better. We are keeping our face to the sunshine; thus, we cannot see the shadow of the past. We look to the future, being productive and prosperous.

We believe as a community firmly in the words of Barack Obama: “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

Yours sincerely,

Nkosei Williams Resident of Agricola

Private sector proposes 35 new areas for Local Content Schedule

By Tamica Garnett

THE private sector is in discussion with the government to add 35 more areas to the First Schedule of the Local Content Act, in addition to appealing for increases to the percentage of minimum local content required for respective sub-sectors.

Though the private sector had previously noted that it recommended 25 new areas, former President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Timothy Tucker, noted on Tuesday that the business community has already begun to look beyond this and add to the recommendations.

“We have recommendations for another 25 in just one year. It shows how Guyanese are finding opportunities for 25 additional areas, and I think there are another 10 more that’s going to be recommended soon. So we’re looking at another 35 areas that we are going to suggest,

and even the targets are going to be raised. So the challenges and opportunities are there; it’s on us as a resilient private sector to overcome them and grab the reins and take it,” Tucker noted.

At the time, Tucker was making remarks during a panel discussion on “The Role of Local Content in Fostering Economic Growth,” which was part of activities at the inaugural Local Content Summit held at Pegasus Suites.

The summit provided a platform to strengthen con-

versations about local content amidst the government’s commitment to continuously extend the legislative coverage of local content.

The private sector’s conversations on expanding the list of sectors have been ongoing, and increasing ever since the issue was broached during the Private Sector Commission’s (PSC) Local Content Forum last November.

PSC Executive Director, Ian Cheong, emphasized that the process of establishing additional areas for Guya -

nese businesses to receive preference has to be done prudently.

Cheong noted that the private sector organisations and the government are working together to identify existing capacity before decisions can be made. He said the 35 areas would be kept private as assessments continue.

“Our recommendations are based on consultations with businesses around the country, indicating that they have the capacity to do some of this work. We cannot disclose the areas as yet because it’s a sensitive process at the moment. We have to verify and ensure that there is sufficient capacity before those things can be added. So that’s what the ministry is working on currently,” Cheong noted.

Currently, Guyana’s Local Content Act outlines 40 sub-sectors that would legally require oil companies to procure goods and services from Guyanese businesses, as well as employ specific percentages of Guyanese in their day-to-day operations.

However, the legislation places limited quotas on some sectors, due to limited capacity among local busi -

nesses to provide the goods and services. Only five of the 40 areas require 100 per cent procurement from Guyanese businesses, another five require at least 90 per cent, while another six require at least 50 per cent.

Also speaking on the matter, current GCCI President Kester Hutson also noted that the finalisation of adding additional areas to the Act has to come from a wellthought-out point, given the limitations of capacity among local businesses.

“There’s always room for expanding the local content, but we have to be very intentional to ensure that local companies are adequately equipped to deal with that; we do not want to say yes, we can identify more just to add it, and then we do not have the ability to properly function in that environment,” Hutson noted.

He continued: “Continual conversation with the government is critical at this point to craft the direction in which we go. It has to be a collaborative effort. We expect our members to give adequate feedback on where their capabilities lie and what

we can actually do from what we can’t do. But we operate in quite a few sectors and can certainly make representation on it. But of course, this is not going to happen overnight.”

Hutson met with the Director of the Local Content Secretariat on Wednesday, where further discussions ensued between the government and private sector sides about expanding the local content.

He lauded the supportive stance that the government has shown in its commitment to continue building provisions for local content to ensure that Guyanese benefit maximally from their national patrimony.

“They have been very supportive, but again they are very cautious on how we move forward and add to that list because we still want to ensure that capacity is being built out even within the 40 as the sector goes. It’s building capacity and then adding. So there’s no rush to add just for adding sake to make the number look big. It’s about ensuring that local companies can effectively perform,” Hutson noted.

Mainstay/Whyaka to launch

bottled water brand soon

MAINSTAY/Whyaka, Region Two, is one of the communities taking advantage of the new opportunities in the manufacturing sector and will be embarking on a water purification facility to launch its Lokono Aiyawbo brand (the Arawaks People’s Water).

The water purification facility will lead to the further enhancement of the community.

Village Toshao, Yvonne Pearson underlined the importance of the new venture on Monday, noting that Mainstay/ Whyaka will be the first Amerindian village to launch this type of product.

“We already completed the building. We have already purchased our filtration system. We are waiting now for GPL to come in and do their job so that we can install our equipment and start the necessary testing,” she told the Department of Public Information (DPI).

Toshao Pearson stated that the certifying officer had already conducted the necessary

work. She emphasised that this will create job opportunities.

“With a job comes income, which will enhance our economical standard of living. We are talking about having our own bakery shop, in which we can produce our own bread and pastry. We want to do that. In everything that we do, the local people will be involved.”

Toshao Pearson said the community would launch its bottled water, a nature trail,

and shade house initiatives next month.

As Guyana’s manufacturing sector expands, Guyanese are leveraging sustainable investments and manufacturing goods to cater to the local market demands. Given the growing interest from foreign investors, the country is attracting significant attention, which has prompted Guyanese to seize the opportunity to expand their businesses.

The building which will house the water facility in Mainstay/Whyaka

Former GCCI President, Timothy Tucker GCCI President Kester Hutson

Govt’s kite-making workshop benefits some 200 Sophia children

THE Office of the Prime Minister – Department of Public Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce in collaboration with community leaders of Sophia are hosting a free kite-making

At North Sophia, Damuka Ngqondo thanked the government for the opportunity to participate in the Easter programme.

Another participant, Sasha Primo, described the exercise as “interesting.” She

to have fun with them. This is a wonderful opportunity for our children to enjoy the Easter season,” he underscored.

The minister also noted that the community centre where the event is being held will be upgraded to a safe

workshop for children in North and South Sophia.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, and Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud visited and interacted with the children on Wednesday.

The event is being held simultaneously at the North Sophia Community Centre, Pike Street, and the South Sophia Community Centre, ‘C’ Field.

The Department of Public Information (DPI) spoke with several parents and children who expressed appreciation for the initiative.

was happy to be among her friends and having fun.

“The community has never had such an initiative,” Primo expressed.

The three-day exercise began on April 4 and caters to children ages 8-14 and will see prizes being awarded for the best-designed kites when the programme concludes on April 6.

Minister McCoy, in an invited comment, said the children will also receive instructions on the safety measures associated with kite-flying, as well as how to fly a kite in a secure location.

“It is important to teach the children to make kites and

place for children to play, and to accommodate the elderly.

Meanwhile, Minister Persaud said, “I think it’s a wonderful way to bring children together from communities. There are a few of these happening around the country and with the Ministry of Human Services, we are pairing the kite-making with classes on parenting, so we are involving parents and children in this activity as well.”

On Tuesday, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond visited the two locations and also interacted with the parents, children and facilitators. (DPI)

Minister Kwame McCoy and a few participants with their kites

Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud assisting a child in making a design for a kite

Participant Sasha Primo

NY group protests exclusion from meeting with Attorney General Letitia James

By Dr Vishnu Bisram

THE New York-based Guyana Democracy Project (GDP) issued a release on Wednesday morning vehemently protesting the exclusion of prominent Guyanese community leaders from a meeting in Queens, to engage New York State Attorney General (AG) Letitia James.

The engagement stems from a statement issued by the AG last October in Brooklyn relating to allegations of racism in Guyana.

Several members of the Indo-Guyanese community in Queens were invited to a session a few days ago with the AG in Queens.

The invitation came through the office of Richmond Hill elected District Democratic Leader, Richard David, an Indo-Guyanese American.

No representative of the Guyana government was invited for the discussion. The

private meeting was slated for Wednesday at 16:30hrs at the Guyanese-owned Starlite Pavilion, 101 Ave and 130 Street in Richmond Hill, Queens. But on Wednesday several of them received a memo that they were disinvited.

The number of invitees was restricted to 25 and included some of the most active and grounded leaders in the community.

Several individuals who have their grounding (good knowledge and track record) in the community and know well about issues in Guyana, learnt late Tuesday (April 4) that the AG has disinvited them.

They are: Pt Ram Hardowar, President of Federation of Hindu Mandirs; Fazal Yusuf, President of ICD; Dr Tara Singh, President of NYGM, and Dr Dhanpaul Narine, President of Trimurti Bhavan, among others.

This disinvite also came

through David. Those who were disinvited felt very dishonoured and disrespected, and were at a loss for words when asked why they were suddenly excluded from the meeting.

It appeared that the attendees were pre-selected and that the meeting had a pre-determined agenda.

The AG is not known as someone who fears engaging even her worst critics. She has had a long history of engaging Indian

Guyanese and Indians in the diaspora when she was Brooklyn Councillor in the City Council. Thus, it is inexplicable why she would exclude some of the most veteran Guyanese activists in the community.

In protest, the NY GDP said: “The action is extremely disrespectful to these authentic community leaders who have always had a strong abiding interest in our Queens community affairs, as well as in Guyana.”

The agenda of the meet is not known. But there is speculation that it has to do with clarifying statements about the socio-political situation in Guyana and to advise the AG accordingly.

The release states: “The Attorney General, who is close to a top Brooklyn-based opposi -

tion aligned operative in New York, does not have a favourable view of the Guyana Government. We believe that the meeting is to clarify misconceptions.

In addition, she needs to neutralise differences with Guyanese community leaders in Queens, since she recognises that her margin of victory in the November 2022 election was narrow.

It should be noted that the incumbent James was running against an unknown candidate who had no name recognition.”

The GDP statement adds: “We worry what such a meeting could accomplish when the most active and prominent Guyanese community leaders in Queens have been excluded. We do not wish to besmirch those Guyanese leaders who will attend the meeting to engage the AG, but we are not confident in how they may present the socio-economic and political conditions in Guyana.”

Dr Singh queried whether the participants would present evidence to the Attorney General debunking her claim that the PPP/C government practises racism and marginalising of Afro-Guyanese.

According to the NY GDP: “It is concerned that this meeting with the AG

that excludes legitimate stakeholders could end up giving legitimacy to previous unsubstantiated statements attributed to the Attorney General on the Guyana situation.”

The NY GDP is hopeful: “The outreach with the small number of Queensbased Guyanese is not a publicity stunt to make the Attorney General look good, in that she is reaching out to the Guyanese community in Queens. She knows of our (Queensbased) growing political strength where we can make a difference in statewide elections.”

The GDP asks rhetorically: “How a top Democrat, number three in statewide office, could embrace exclusion when she disinvited the main Guyanese community leaders in Queens”.

As a result of publicly launched pressure, it is learned that the planned meeting has been converted into a dinner, so that the organisers now reserve the right to invite whomsoever they want.

However, the GDP said: “The goal remains the same with the AG not being able to get a true description of the factual situation in Guyana.”

New York State Attorney General Letitia James

Sophia’s ‘Blacka Bridge’ 75 percent complete

By Naomi Parris

CONSTRUCTION works on the ‘Blacka Bridge’ at ‘B’ Field, Sophia, Georgetown, are 75 per cent complete, and contractors are working assiduously to complete all remaining works by the end of this month.

According to a representative of Modern Construction and Trucking Services, the contracting firm undertaking the $50 million project, contractors are erecting the railings, which will be completed by this weekend.

Meanwhile, the remaining works include building a ramp, capping the structure and painting.

In December 2022, the Ministry of Public Works signed a contract with Modern Construction and Trucking Services for the emer-

gency construction of an improved ‘B’ Field, Sophia bridge (Blacka Bridge).

The construction was expected to span three months. However, this was delayed due to inclement weather.

The contract was inked following community visits by government ministers.

Residents were promised a brand-new concrete structure to ease traffic flow and ensure their safety, a commitment being fulfilled.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, who was present at the signing, reassured residents of the government’s continued commitment to delivering quality service to all residents of Guyana.

“This is demonstrative of your government working for all the people. Whether you reside in Sophia, Enmore,

Buxton… in any community, we are for all the people, in every country across the region. And as we move forward as a government, we look forward to your partnership in making these things happen. Because the representation from the community was important in bringing us to this point where we are actualising emergency works on this bridge… So, you have to continue to work with us as a government, because we want to continue working with you,” he said.

Residents had expressed gratitude for the swift action by the government, as the previous government neglected the bridge’s rehabilitation.

The ‘B’ Field access road has also been identified as a priority road for rehabilitation.

A temporary bridge for civilians has been erected as construction is ongoing.

THREE Guyana Power and Light (GPL) contracted employees and their driver, who demanded payments from a customer at Enmore, East Coast Demerara, were arrested Tuesday night and taken to the Vigilance Police Station after a sting operation ‘busted’ the men with $60,000 in marked bills.

Sources close to the investigation disclosed that the men were demanding payment from an Enmore resident, and a sting op -

eration in collaboration with GPL resulted in their arrests.

“This specific team is in the habit of harassing and soliciting money from GPL customers,” the source said.

If any GPL Inc employee requests/demands payment from a customer for a service while conducting field work, customers are advised to reject such requests and report the matter with any supporting information to their Call Centre at 226-2600.

Ongoing works at the Blacka Bridge in Sophia (Adrian Narine photos)

GPL contracted employees arrested over bribery demand

The minibus intercepted with the GPL contractors parked at the Vigilance Police Station

$1 billion investment to improve Guyana’s primary healthcare —

By Shamar Meusa

SIGNIFICANT strides have been made to improve Guyana’s healthcare sector over the past two years, and, this year, some $1Billion is expected to be invested in the sector to continue the ongoing transformation.

This was revealed by Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, who made brief

remarks during a high-level dialogue, on Wednesday, hosted by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), under the theme, “Health for All: Strengthening primary healthcare to build resilient systems.”

According to the Health Minister, since entering office, his ministry has collaborated with PAHO to develop a comprehensive package of primary health-

Health Minister tells PAHO high-level dialogue

care services and, as a result, has moved the country to levels four and five.

To this end, Dr. Anthony stated that over the last year, health authorities have been working to ensure that the infrastructure corresponds to what is being done concerning the implementation of these health packages.

He added that while close to $1Billion was spent last year to upgrade health-

care infrastructure across the country, another $1B will be invested this year.

“This year, we’re going to spend another billion dollars in doing the same thing; so that when people come to access care, those facilities would be ready,” he said.

Meanwhile, he noted that proper diagnostic services should also be in place to implement the package of services. Authorities, he

added, have also invested in equipment for such and have decided on a package each health facility must have to deliver this level of care.

In addition to ensuring that the necessary equipment is placed in these facilities, the government has introduced rapid kits so that diagnostics for infectious diseases can be done quickly and without much training for health workers.

He noted that the government recognises the need to train more personnel to implement the services, and as a result, the ministry has dedicated resources to ensure same.

“And over the last year or so, we’ve been able to train a number of community health-worker assistants in terms of pharmacy, laboratory medical imaging. We’ve also started an ambitious programme to train nurses and that is currently ongoing in terms of trying to introduce technologies,”

Dr Anthony said.

He said the ministry had added telemedicine to its range of services and piloted telemedicine programmes for remote communities and those have worked well thus far. That, he said, will be scaled up to add at least 20 sites this year.

Additionally, he noted that this would be integrated at the national level to track further and monitor disease outbreaks around the country.

Dr Anthony added, “So I think we recognise that primary health care is the foundation of our health care system, and that’s why we’re placing so much emphasis on the development of primary health care to give people access, to ensure people have an expanded range of services they can get and also to bring it as close as possible to their communities so they can benefit from all of these services.”

Guyanese writer shortlisted for Commonwealth Short Story Prize

GUYANESE writer, Cosmata Lindie, has been shortlisted for the 2023 Commonwealth Short Story Prize.

The 2023 Commonwealth Short Story Prize, organised by the Commonwealth Foundation Creatives, is an honour for whomever the shortlisted writers are.

Of the over 6,600 submissions, the international judging panel only selected 28 writers from 19 countries to be on the list. This year, Guyanese, Cosmata Lindie, was chosen for her submission, ‘Where the Wind Blows’.

The Commonwealth Foundation Creatives is a community of storytellers and artists who believe in the transformative power of

creative expression. The Short Story Prize is awarded yearly for the best unpublished short fiction from the Commonwealth. Regional winners for 2023 will be announced on May 17, and the overall winner will be announced in an online ceremony on June 27, 2023.

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony

Shortlisted writer Cosmata Lindie

Clean-up campaign commences next week in Agricola

THE community of Agricola, East Bank Demerara is set to benefit from drainage works that are slated to commence next week.

Several drains and alleyways have already been identified for clearing to kickstart the clean-up campaign.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, consulted with residents on Tuesday, keeping them updated with the government’s plan for the community.

This was a follow-up to a visit by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on February 26.

Several residents are eagerly awaiting the commencement of the project.

Living in the community for over 30 years, Carol Bollers said, “We are really satisfied and we are grateful because he was here today…I think the government is making progress because you can see from time-to-time things [are] being done.”

Meanwhile, Minister In-

dar assured residents of the government’s commitment to providing better drainage to alleviate flooding, in keeping with the manifesto’s promises.

“I want the people in the community to get the work and do the work. So, from next week, we are going to start this process. We will do the documents this week,” he said.

Engineers have already inspected the work, and the

cost to carry out the project is currently being examined.

The minister assured that residents who have signaled their interest will get the opportunity to be employed on these projects to generate income for their families.

Minister Indar said this is a demonstration of the government’s intent for developing communities across the country, and Agricola will not be left behind.

Central government takes over rehabilitation of neglected Kitty Market, other projects

THE central government has assumed responsibility for rehabilitating the Kitty Market after the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) neglected their duties.

The enhancement of the Albouystown, East Ruimveldt, Stabroek, and Bourda markets will now be undertaken by the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development.

Minister Nigel Dharamlall made the disclosure in an invited comment on the sidelines of an event on Wednesday.

He noted that, like many other projects, the council has yet to be able to complete the enhancement works at the Kitty Market, which began in 2016.

“The projects have been left unattended for a long time… At some point in time, we expect the leadership in the city... to take account of all these investments. The unfortunate thing about all this is that every time government has to do the heavy lifting, City Hall earns over $2 billion per year. Where is it going?”

Minister Dharamlall questioned.

He explained that many locations that fall under the purview of the M&CC face

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall

similar issues, including infrastructural defects, a lack of proper management, and inadequate security.

“I think that the investment the citizens of Georgetown need to make is to invest in a new council. I think that is the only way we are going to be able to alleviate the problems in Georgetown,” he expressed.

He, therefore, called on the citizens of Georgetown to examine key areas that need to be addressed and elect a council that will represent their issues rather than hinder development. (DPI)

Minister Deodat Indar engaging residents of Agricola

‘Lead to Influence’ looking impactful leaders

CERTIFIED speaker, trainer, master coach, business, and executive coach, Dr. Shanti Persaud recently commissioned the Lead to Influence training facility, at 338 Lusignan, East Coast Demerara, focusing on creating influential and impactful leaders.

In her remarks at the opening ceremony, Dr. Persaud said, “we are influencing people on a daily basis. And leadership, as we all know, is not about the title. It’s not about the position. It’s not about money, or anything, it’s about you.”

In reflecting on her mentor, John Maxwell, she said he coined the concept of “servant leadership,” which resonated with her since that is what leadership should look like. “This is what we as leaders are supposed to do, and we are still servants.”

Noting that her philosophy is aimed at improving people’s lives, Dr. Persaud said the organisation could train its staff to improve, which would trickle

down to communities and improve the country.

“Why not utilise your intelligence and your resources in the building of others so that we can make our world a better place.

You know, during my studies, I understood that for me to give, I have to get and I can’t give what I don’t have, and so I had to learn. And one of the concepts that I’ve learned about steward-

ship is that I own nothing and everything that I have is being stored for the Lord and it doesn’t belong to me,” she underscored.

Dr. Persaud said she checks on how good a steward she is daily and challenges others to disrupt their thinking.

“I want to remove this negativity and the scarcity mindset that people have, and help them to understand how to be more positive, how to be more abun-

dant thinking, and how to be

more certain,” Dr. Persaud said.

Outlining the business model that they utilise is predicated on enriching the lives of Guyanese on a fundamental level.

The business coach also said

that, on April 20, 2023, she will be launching the “I Lead” Programme at Camile’s Academy where 500 students will be trained.

“So, we’re going to take them through groups, where

British High Commissioner to Guyana, Her Excellency Jane Caroline Miller, during her address to the gathering at the Lead to Influence training facility at 338 Lusignan, East Coast Demerara

Eight-year-old Charity Persaud, the daughter of business and executive coach officially commission the Lead to Influence training facility in the presence Rajendra Persaud, Director of Business and Entrepreneurship within the Ministry John Edghill; British High Commissioner to Guyana, Her Excellency Jane Caroline

looking to create more

with new facility

High Commissioner noted in her remarks, congratulating Dr. Persaud on her current and future endeavours.

“Every country in the world needs leadership, particularly at this exciting time in Guyana, a beautiful country, that needs all the support it can get to make sure this is a success into the future. So I hope your training will be one element to make this even greater,” Her Excellency noted.

Edghill, who also spoke at the commissioning ceremony, said there is a need for leadership in all sectors, especially in business and entrepreneurship, and the Lead to Influence training facility is now able to offer such services.

He posited that what will be offered at the facility will change the limitations of the mindset to open new perspectives and horizons of development.

With over eight years of experience in corporate training and more than five years of experience in business and executive coaching, her passion is to help organisation leaders achieve meaningful transformation and growth in their personal and professional lives.

they’re going to be facilitating their own tables…And so the students, by the end of the year and at the end of the three-year programme they would come out of their high school with some form of understanding of

leadership, because they will be actively participating. There’s no teaching, they’re going to be doing it all, pretty much how they’re going to facilitate the tables,” the certified trainer explained.

Additionally, she acknowledged that organisations and companies must think about how they engage staff and persons in their care since everyone can become more than they currently are with the proper training and knowledge instilled in all human resources.

British High Commissioner

to Guyana, Her Excellency Jane Caroline Miller, who was the main guest speaker at the commissioning said Dr. Persaud’s magnetism, passion, and values underpin the leadership she values and wants to share and teach.

“This is not a get quick-rich scheme,” the High Commissioner said, while underscoring that Dr Persaud’s qualifications and the quality of her investments make her suitable for high-quality leadership training.

“Quality is clearly within your mind and you have the passion and values,” the British

Additionally, University of Guyana (UG) Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Paloma Mohamed Martin, another esteemed guest speaker, said with a country of less than a million persons, everyone is akin to someone in one way or another, and as such, proper leadership is essential in the development of the younger generation.

Noting that everyone has a role to play in the positive development of society, the Vice Chancellor said Dr. Persaud is very strategic in the things she is associated with, and the commissioning of the Lead to Influence training facility will have a positive impact on all aspects of society.

Further, the Director of Business and Entrepreneurship within the Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, John

“I know that the effect and the positivity that will come with this venture will certainly benefit all the people of Guyana,” Edghill said.

On a mission to empower people, Dr. Persaud is a passionate servant leader, wife and mother of three girls with over 20 years of experience in business and six years of banking experience.

The Lead to Influence Master Coach envisioned being someone who would be a builder of people and embarked on her growth journey by achieving a Degree in Business Management from the University of Guyana, a Master’s in Business Administration and a Doctorate in Transformational Leadership from Bakke Graduate University, Texas, USA.

Additionally, she serves on different boards and has started the first non-profit leadership foundation in Guyana, which teaches values and soft skills to individuals with the purpose of building leaders who will transform their homes, organisations, communities, and country.

Presently, she is the chairperson of the security and governance committee at the American Chamber of Commerce (Guyana) and has served over 12 years on the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce council. She is a member of the Guyana Manufacturing and Service Association. Her passion for outstanding leadership is demonstrated through her faith. She believes that we are all made to do great work. Her favourite quote is from Mahatma Gandhi, who said, “Be the change you wish to see in the World.”

coach Dr. Shanti Persaud cuts the ribbon to of Silvies Industrial Solutions founder, Ministry of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Caroline Miller along with special invitees

Dr. Shanti Persaud presents a copy of her mentor’s (John Maxwell) book on the 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership to UG Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Paloma Mohamed Martin who was a special invitee at the event

ECD NDCs receive $80M in tractors with trailers, subvention

THE Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development handed over tractors and subvention payments totalling GY$80 million to nine Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) on Demerara’s East Coast on Wednesday.

Each NDC received a subvention payment of GY$ 2.5 million and a tractor and trailer worth GY$ 5.8 million.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, said that they hope they can get the most out of the investments that they are making and that residents within communities would be “satisfied knowing that the government is at the forefront, working towards community enhancement and community develop -

ment.”

He added: “We hope that this shows our commitment as a government and, more specifically, President Ali’s vision towards integrating our local democratic organs into our communities in a way that they become more responsive, as well as active, in ensuring that we are able to address the concerns of our communities.”

The Local Government Ministry has procured 120 tractors to assist with the maintenance of communities, and so far, 30 NDCs have benefitted.

At a Presidential Outreach in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), President Dr. Irfaan Ali noted, at a similar handing over ceremony of tractors and trailers, that they would help increase efficiency and

reliability.

He also used the opportunity to urge the NDCs and the persons responsible for the asset, while using it, to do so safely.

“Many times, we have seen NDCs and government agencies on the whole not taking the necessary care with investments the government is making in relation to the assets,” he noted.

The Head of State said that attitude must be discontinued.

“We will have to hold people accountable in the way they utilise government assets, in the way in which they care for the asset because this is the asset of the people and our government is not only investing in asset of the people, but the transformation of the country,” he continued.

Some of the tractors that were handed over to the nine Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) on East Coast Demerara on Wednesday

UNICEF supplies solar-powered fridges, freezers to support children’s immunisation

— To aid in equitable access to vaccines in hinterland areas

UNICEF Deputy Representative to Guyana and Suriname, Irfan Akhtar, handed over ten solar refrigerators, four solar freezers, eight electrical refrigerators, one ultra-low temperature freezer, and other associated equipment to the Ministry of Health, on Wednesday, to ensure the safe storage and delivery of vaccines for immunisation of children in Guyana.

“Vaccines protect and save lives. To ensure the safe distribution of vaccines where they are needed, a high-quality cold chain is essential. The equipment being delivered today will ensure that COVID-19 and other important vaccines reach communities safely, even in remote villages in Guyana’s hinterland,” said Mr. Akhtar. “These are some of the most reliable cold-chain equipment available. The solar-powered technology means that the

solar direct drive equipment will operate without the cost of additional power or fuel. This is extremely important. It means we can reach more people in some of the most remote communities across the country, including those at the last mile.”

Akhtar thanked the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, and all health workers for working relentlessly over the last three years to ensure the population is knowledgeable about and protected from COVID-19 and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Ahead of World Immunization Week later in April, he also encouraged people to “get vaccinated and get boosted.”

In welcoming the donation, Minister Anthony said the equipment supports the ministry’s priority to equip

all health centres and ensure vaccines are stored properly.

He said the areas where the equipment will be installed have already been identified. Minister Anthony said there had been a slight decrease in immunisation in Guyana, and the ministry is working on intensifying its programme. He thanked UNICEF for continuously working to mobilise resources for Guyana and supporting the health sector.

GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance and the COVAX Facility supported provision of the equipment.

The solar direct drive refrigerators and freezers will be deployed to hinterland regions to ensure that vaccines are available in areas that do not have a regular electricity supply. Solar direct drive refrigeration systems are a new generation of solar-powered refrigeration systems that do not require a battery to store

energy. All associated equipment, including solar panels, has been provided, and installation and transportation costs are covered, allowing the equipment to be fully operational immediately.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, UNICEF has supported the Ministry of Health in strengthening its cold chain capacity, providing solar direct drive refrigerators, over 450 vaccine carriers, and capacity building. The cold chain is the system for the safe storage and transport of vaccines. Cold chain equipment is essential to ensure that vaccines are stored at the right temperature in order to maintain vaccine quality. The latest donation is part of UNICEF’s ongoing support to enhance national capacities in the health sector.

Irfan Akhtar, UNICEF Deputy Representative to Guyana and Suriname, stands next to Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, at the handing over of cold chain equipment at the Ministry of Health’s bond, Georgetown on Wednesday

Robbery accused released on bail

When Inniss arrived at the scene, he was pounced upon by the two men and robbed of his belongings. Dundas received an injury to his hand, which caused him to drop the pouch with the money inside during his escape.

The perpetrators then fled on foot and jumped over a fence.

The matter was reported to the police, and both men were later arrested. The police recovered the pouch.

Pensioner dies in Rupert Craig Highway accident

KISSOONDAI SEWRATAN, a 69-year-old pensioner of La Bonne Intention (LBI) Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara, is now dead after an accident at about 18:20 hours on Tuesday on the Rupert Craig Highway (Northern Carriageway) in the vicinity of Movietowne.

According to reports, the accident involved a minibus bearing licence plate #BAD1832, owned and driven by Shivraj Persaud, a 39-year-old businessman of Seaforth Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, and pedestrian Sewratan.

TWO Tucville, Georgetown residents were, on Wednesday, released on $20,000 bail each for robbery.

Neville Dundas, a 29-year-old construction worker, and Earl Grant, a 19-year-old mason, jointly appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

The pair denied that, on

April 4, 2023, at Tucville, they robbed Joseph Inniss of a leather pouch, two cell phones and $415,000.

According to the case facts, on the day in question, the victim’s wife was involved in an accident with the two defendants, who were on a motorcycle.

Both parties decided to settle the matter, and the woman went to her husband.

The state prosecutor objected to the men being released on bail, citing the seriousness and prevalence of the offence.

The Chief Magistrate released the men on $20,000 bail on the condition that they report to the Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters every Friday.

The case was adjourned until April 26.

It is alleged that the minibus driver was proceeding east along the northern drive lane of the Rupert Craig Highway in the vicinity of Movietowne when the pedestrian ran across the road from

south to north into the path of the vehicle.

The right-side front of the vehicle came into contact with the pedestrian, causing her to fall onto the road surface, where she received injuries to her body.

An ambulance was summoned to the accident scene, where Kissoondai Sewratan was pronounced dead by Dr Rickett of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

A breathalyzer test was conducted on the minibus driver, showing no alcohol in his system.

The woman’s body was taken to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, where it awaits a post-mortem examination. The driver is in custody and is assisting with the investigation.

Taxi driver ‘nabbed’ with $5M in imported ‘ganja’

Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) release, Pradesh Hardwar of Zeelugt Housing is in custody and assisting with the investigation.

He was arrested after CANU ranks intercepted his motor vehicle HB 5990 and found 12 brick-like parcels of cannabis during a search.

Hardwar was arrested and taken to CANU Headquarters, where the drug was tested and weighed in his presence.

A 51-year-old taxi driver was busted on Tuesday with 30 kilograms of cannabis in his vehicle, while at Zeelugt New Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo.

According to a Customs

It was determined that the drug was a type of foreign marijuana commonly known as “poppy” with a total weight of 30 lbs. (13.4 kg) and a street value of approximately $5M. Investigations are ongoing.

Neville Dundas and Earl Grant

Dead: Kissoondai Sewratan

Pradesh Hardwar

The 12 brick-like parcels of ‘poppy’

Over 20 local businesses registered to join OTC delegation

OVER 20 local businesses have already signed up to be part of Guyana’s delegation to the 2023 Offshore Technology Conference (OTC), the world’s largest oil and gas summit, which is set to be held in Houston, Texas, from May 1–4.

The Guyana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is organising the delegation to the conference and is currently still registering businesses interested in being part of the contingent that will travel to the US later this month ahead of the meeting.

“As the oldest, largest, and most respected business support organisation in Guyana, we are proud to offer this exclusive opportunity to our valued members and partners. By joining our delegation, you will have the chance to network with industry leaders, showcase your products and services, and gain valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations in the oil and gas sector,” GCCI noted in a statement.

“Don’t miss out on the opportunity to network with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and stay up-todate on the latest trends and innovations in the oil and gas sector. Register now to ensure your attendance at OTC 2023,” the GCCI added.

To register, businesses can contact the secretariat

at +592 227-6441 or email: gccicommerce2009@gmail. com.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, GCCI President Kester Hutson, noted that the Chamber can cater to as many businesses as want to be part of the contingent. The GCCI has over 750 members.

“We will certainly accommodate all of them. It gives us a better footing as a private sector,” Hutson noted.

This will be Guyana’s fourth time attending the prestigious event. Guyana would’ve participated in the annual event for the first time in 2019, while subsequent delegations attended in 2021

and 2022.

Established in 1969, the OTC has served as a central hub, convening the best and brightest minds worldwide to share ideas and innovations and discuss, debate, and build consensus around the offshore energy sector’s most pressing topics.

The OTC is where energy professionals meet to exchange ideas and opinions to advance scientific and technical knowledge for offshore resources and environmental matters.

OTC’s flagship conference is held annually at NRG Park in Houston.

“It will expose members to first-world types of initia-

Man arrested at Charity stelling with cannabis

tives, there’s networking and a chance for them to experience what happens in the

oil and gas sector outside of Guyana, which is important because it is still fairly new to us. It is just about general exposure to give businesses better insight into what they need to prepare for locally because it gives insight into how things are being done globally. Having attended the various seminars and events and hearing the various speakers talk about their experiences and what is to come will help businesses to better position themselves to be marketable,” Hutson noted.

Guyana’s participation in the OTC is necessary for local content development. It provides opportunities for local businesses to network and seek partners in pursuit of emerging opportunities

here. Participation would also help attract more supply chain opportunities to Guyana’s shores. Education, connection, and networking are the primary focal points of this mission.

The Chamber has already amassed sponsorship from several organisations, including Guyana Oil Company Limited (GUYOIL), Cyril’s Transportation Service, and TLC Guyana Inc., which have joined as gold sponsors for the delegation.

Over the years, through Guyana’s attendance at the OTC, a number of local businesses have entered into partnerships with foreign companies, bolstering their capacity to participate in Guyana’s growing oil and gas sector.

A 23-year-old man is currently in custody at the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) after he was busted with cannabis at the Charity Stelling in Essequibo.

According to a CANU release, Corwayne Gomes, of Grant Oppo-

sition, Pomeroon River, was intercepted on Tuesday while carrying a plastic bag at the Stelling.

A subsequent search of the plastic bag revealed a red brick-like substance suspected to be cannabis.

Gomes was arrested and escorted to CANU’s

Essequibo location, after which the suspect and the drug were escorted to CANU’s headquarters in Georgetown.

The narcotic tested positive for cannabis and weighed approximately 438 grammes.

Flashback: The Guyana booth with members of the Guyanese delegation at the OTC 2022

Corwayne Gomes The seized cannabis

Eight Guyanese engineers complete SBM Offshore training programme

— Another batch of graduate engineers recruited for programme’s second cohort

A new batch of Graduate Engineers have been recruited as the pro -

gramme’s second cohort, in alignment with SBM Offshore Guyana’s on -

going initiatives to build local capacity and expand its Guyana workforce.

EIGHT Guyanese engineers officially completed SBM Offshore Guyana’s Graduate Engineers’ Programme.

The programme provided international training for the young Guyanese, who graduated from the University of Guyana, to support the Prosperity Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, the third vessel SBM Offshore is delivering to Guyana.

To commemorate the occasion, a recent graduation ceremony was held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel for the engineers, who formed the first cohort of the programme.

Seven Graduates – Malik Lewis, Andy Sattan, Tanisha Selby, Paula Ceres, Raymond Luckhoo, Kishaun Lall and Daniel Troyer – received training in the Netherlands and then Singapore for six months each, where they gained hands-on training on the Prosperity FPSO.

The eighth graduate, Maryam Nasir, was trained in Monaco and the Netherlands, where she participated in the creation of a Digital Twin for the Prosperity FPSO– a digital replica of the vessel designed to enable information management. After completing the training, the Graduates were awarded official placements within the company.

They now serve in the following capacities: Malik Lewis, Vendor Callout Coordinator; Andy Sattan, Reliability and Optimisation

Engineer; Tanisha Selby, Instrument and Controls Engineer; Paula Ceres, Facility Engineer; Raymond Luckhoo, Planning Engineer; Kishaun Lall, Planning Engineer; Daniel Troyer, Facility Engineer, and Maryam Nasir, Data Scientist. The company’s efforts to train and employ Guyanese is in keeping with its aim to develop local content in Guyana.

During the graduation ceremony, General Manager of SBM Offshore Guyana, Martin Cheong, noted that the activity is in keeping with the company’s Local Content Master Plan and indicated that it was just one of the capacity development programmes SBM Offshore Guyana offers.

He said, “SBM Offshore is committed to building local content and providing capacity-building opportunities for Guyanese to play vital roles in the management of our country’s oil and gas resources.”

President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, remarked, “What an exciting day to celebrate the beginning of such bright careers at the beginning of a blossoming industry here in Guyana. You all are, as you’ve heard, the first cohort; you are the leaders breaking the ground, you are the future of SBM Offshore, you are the future of the industry and you will lead the way for years and years to come.”

In her remarks, Human Resource Manager, Onecia

Johnson, noted the resilience of the graduates, who commenced training during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She said, “They are committed and resilient. From weathering unfamiliar climates and being away from their families as they underwent training, to absorbing the teachings of the industry experts that they worked alongside, this impressive team of graduates displayed zest for the training opportunities they were presented with.”

Prosperity FPSO Project Director, Boudewijn Ledderhof, commended the Graduates for their proactive approach to training, and the vigour with which they undertook their daily tasks, saying, “You have shown that with the right attitude and with the right mindset you can grow rapidly into roles that SBM Offshore needs, and the industry needs. You are all textbook ambassadors for all the cohorts to follow, and you should be very proud of that.”

During his remarks, Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, congratulated the young engineers on their achievement, and commended SBM Offshore for their capacity-building efforts.

He noted, “In saying that, we must recognise the work of SBM Offshore; we must commend SBM [Offshore] as well for taking this initiative to ensuring that they build capacity among young people in Guyana.”

The eight young engineers, Daniel Troyer, Malik Lewis, Andy Sattan, Raymond Luckhoo, Tanisha Selby, Kishaun Lall, Paula Ceres and Maryam Nasir at the graduation ceremony

Bartica Easter Regatta 2023‘We Outside’ ANSA McAL Trading/ Guyana Breweries Inc. make significant contribution

ANSA McAL Trading and one of its sister companies, Guyana Breweries Inc., have made a substantial contribution towards the event which is being held under the theme, ‘We Outside’

Easter Regatta Committee Chairman, Kenneth Williams, who also holds the Chairmanship of Region #7, Cuyuni-Mazaruni, expressed delight at the two companies coming on board to add to the expected excitement of the event that will be catering to thousands of Guyanese.

Williams, who received the sponsorship cheque from Branch Manager, Mr. Akeem Prowell, said that it is always important for the leading companies in the community to be identified with events of this magnitude.

“Ansa McAL has been a very good partner of this event over the years and has shown a real commitment to ensuring the satisfaction of its customers here when it opened a Branch here back in 2018. We here in Bartica are very appreciative of the backing from your two companies

towards Regatta which has seen multiple sporting events as well as social activities.”

Softball cricket, football, grass track (April 8), cycling, and this Sunday’s marquee powerboat racing, set for the Golden Beach Circuit, are among the sports events.

Mr. Prowell, in response, noted that ANSA McAL Trading and Guyana Breweries Inc. is just happy to be continuing their long-term support of the event and the people of Bartica.

Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championship…

Desinco Trading Ltd. to add flare with gift bags; Spectators to also cash in

Come April 16, 2023, at the National Park, the second day of the Kares CrossFit Caribbean Championships, top athletes and fans alike are expected to cash in from the generosity of Desinco Trading Limited which has come on board as one of the sponsors for this eagerly anticipated showdown.

Chief Executive Officer of Desinco Trading Limited, located at 48 Sheriff Street, Campbellville, Ms. Alicia DeAbreu, made the disclosure when she handed over a financial contribution to Organising Committee Member, Jamie McDonald.

Apart from the cash donation, Ms. DeAbreu shared that the company would be rewarding athletes with gift bags whilst fans attending the event would also benefit.

“We will be setting up a special spectator booth where we would be having some exciting mini-competitions and those who win, will be rewarded with attractive prizes. So, we are encouraging all to come out and enjoy the competition as well as take part in the fun games that we would be putting on.”

McDonald expressed thanks to Ms. DeAbreu and

her company for their support and partnership which, he stated, would add to the overall success of the event which will attract competitors from six Caribbean nations, including Guyana.

The competition will get cracking on Saturday morning, April 15, at the National Aquatic Centre from around 06:00hrs with a 150m swim, followed by a two-mile ride on a stationary (echo) bike after which, the athletes will then compete in a 3-mile run from the Aquatic Centre to the National Park.

“We have been on board for many years and will continue to lend support towards this event that is the biggest in the community and is looked forward to by thousands of Guyanese here and in the Diaspora. We would like to congratulate the Bartica Easter Regatta organising committee for ensuring that the event is maintained as it also creates great opportunities for all and sundry to earn and contribute.”

Guyana-born pacer helps Canada destroy PNG

CMC – A destructive, career-best spell from Guyana-born pacer Jeremy Gordon enabled Canada to finish the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier Playoff with a 90-run win against Papua New Guinea on Wednesday.

Gordon, 36, ripped the heart out of the PNG batting with a spell of six for 43 from his allotted 10 overs, and the southwestern Pacific side were bowled out 128 in 37 overs in their pursuit of a target of 219 at the United Cricket Club.

Tony Ura led the way for PNG with 36 and Assad Vala made 29, but several of the batsmen were guilty of getting starts, but failing

to carry on to bigger scores.

There was a gritty 33 from Norman Vanua batting at nine before he was run out to bring the match to a close.

The result, however, held no significance for the Canadians, since the United States and United Arab Emirates confirmed the top two places in the standings the previous day.

The Americans and the Emiratis will progress to the next stage of qualifying to be staged in June and July this year in Zimbabwe, where they will face West Indies, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Netherlands, and the hosts to battle for the final two places

in the World Cup to be held in October and November in India.

Earlier, Canada got vital contributions from opener Aaron Johnson with 53 from 48 balls, while Pargat Singh continued his brilliant form in the tournament with 66 off 104 balls batting at three, and the North American side posted 218 for eight from their 50 overs.

But there was little resistance from the rest of the batting, Saad bin Zafar getting 28, and being the only other batsman to pass 20.

John Kariko was the pick of the PNG bowlers, taking four for 45 from 10 overs.

They will then enjoy a two-hour rest before battling it out to see who will lift the heaviest back squat. That’ll be it for day one with more intense workouts set for Sunday at the National Park from 12:30hrs.

General admission is $1000, while VIP tickets will cost $5,000 and can be obtained from Fitness Express on Sheriff Street, Kares CrossFit, or Lotus Hardware Store on Broad Street. Children Under-12 would be admitted free.

RACING TIPS

American Racing Tips

Gulfstream Park

Race 1 Run For Cover

Race 2 Alice Harper

Race 3 Sequin Lady

Race 4 Grimes

Race 5 Redjack

Race 6 Bullock

Race 7 Rosie’s Halo

ANSA McAL Trading Bartica Branch Manager, Mr. Akeem Prowell (left) hands over the cheque to Easter Regatta Committee Chairman, Kenneth Williams.

Kares CrossFit Caribbean Rep. Jamie McDonald receives sponsorship from the CEO of Desinco Trading Limited, Ms. Alicia DeAbreu

More gear for cricketing project in Guyana

Parmanand Dhaniram aka Rudy of Florida, USA is on board with the ‘Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana’ project.

The project, which is being co-ordinated through a joint initiative of Anil Beharry of Guyana and Kishan Das of the USA, saw Dhaniram contribute one pair of batting pads and one pair of batting gloves.

The presentation was done recently during the Orlando Cup, 2023.

He said that he is happy to give back to young cricketers in Guyana, his country of birth.

Beharry, in response, thanked him for his kind gesture.

The team has received so far: Thirteen coloured cricket uniforms, two trophies, seventeen pairs of cricket boots, thirty pairs of batting pads, thirty-one cricket bats, twenty-eight pairs of batting gloves, twenty-one thigh pads, three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, four arm guards, two boxes, nine cricket bags, six bat rubbers and six helmets. $330,000 in cash was raised as well. In addition to the above, $600,000 worth in gear was donated by Sheik Mohamed,

USA Tri Guyana tour Americans beat GCC for fourth win in a row

AS has been the norm over the years, Fitness Express, Guyana’s leading sports supplement and fitness equipment retailer, has continued to support athletes across the divide.

The latest gesture came in the form of a financial contribution towards the overall expenses of Guyana’s participation at this year’s CARIFTA Games that is set to commence tomorrow and runs until next Monday (April 7-100 in the Bahamas.

President of the Athletics Guyana (AG), Aubrey

former National wicket-keeper/batsman.

To date, fifty-two young players from all three counties of Guyana have benefitted from the donations, which include three junior gear bag, two trophies, four arm guards, twenty-one bats, two boxes, four helmets, nineteen pairs of cricket shoes, thirteen pairs of batting pads, two thigh pad, one bat rubber and nineteen pairs of batting gloves.

In addition, two clubs in the Pomeroon area benefitted from two used bats.

Pomeroon, Leguan and Wakenam Cricket Committees and Cotton Tree Die Hard also received one box of red cricket balls each while RHCCCC received two boxes of balls, fifteen white cricket shirts, one pair of junior batting pads, one pair of wicket keeping gloves and a set of stumps and bails.

The Essequibo Cricket

Board also benefitted, along with the Town of Lethem.

Cricket-related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana.

Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients.

Anyone interested in contributing can contact Anil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718 664 0896.

HOSTED by the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA), the visiting USA Tri State U-19 team won their fourth consecutive game on their Guyana tour when they beat a strong GCC U-21 side by three wickets in an exciting last ball finish Tuesday at Bourda.

In a game reduced to 37 overs due to a slow over rate by the tourists, West Indies U-19 player Mavindra Dindyal scored a commanding 82 from 69 balls with seven fours and three sixes but no other batter reached 20 as GCC reached 190-8 in 37 overs.

Surya Thurnmella took 3-22 and Siddant Rai 3-27 for the USA Tri State who replied with 194-7 in 36.5.

Utkarsh Srivastava scored 58 from 64 balls with six fours and Prannav Chattipalayam made 48 from 47 balls, with five fours and a six as they both continued their good form on Guyana soil.

Krisna Singh had 2-36 for the home team.

Yesterday, the visitors had a rest day while the series continues today with a day/night game under lights at the DCC ground. (Sean Devers)

Hutson, indicated that his Association is pulling out all the stops to ensure that Guyana is well represented at this year’s Games despite the challenges being faced to get the full team there.

During an invited comment, Hutson revealed that the team was unsuccessful in acquiring their visas and hence they are trying to get a charter from Antigua to Nassau.

The long-serving administrator was grateful for the support and shared, “Athletics would like to express

gratitude to Mr. Jamie McDonald and Fitness Express for assisting us in a big way.

Getting our team to the Bahamas is by no means an easy task, as it is a very huge bill to see us get there, and every contribution, adds up. Mr. McDonald has always been supportive of us and we are very thankful for his continued backing.”

McDonald, in brief remarks after handing over the company’s contribution to the Team Manager and Council Member of the AAG, Mr. Keith Campbell, shared

that Guyana has a very good chance of doing even better than 2022 when the nation ended the 49th edition of the Games in Jamaica, with seven (7) medals.

“Athletics in Guyana is really going places and I am sure that with the consistent work the AAG has been putting in, we will certainly reap huge rewards in short order. This year’s team is a talented one and we at Fitness Express would like to make our contribution toward its success.”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Thursday April 06, 2023)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) 59 games

(2) MI, CSK

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who were the 2009 IPL champions?

(2) Who were the losing finalist in IPL 2009?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Dhaniram (at left) handing over the gear to Beharry.

Utkarsh Srivastastava scored 58 at Bourda yesterday

Sabor Restaurant & Catering sponsors Guyana Junior women’s hockey team

Sabor Restaurant & Catering has thrown its support behind the Guyana Under-21 women’s hockey team.

The support comes as the team prepares to make its first ever international appearance, which is at the

2023 Junior Pan American Championships scheduled for 10 – 18 April, in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Sabor is a young and very trending food outfit making a splash in the local food market.

The Guyana team features six players with prior

international experience in captain and sweeper, Makeda Harding; defender Kirsten Gomes; midfielders Madison Fernandes, Clayza Bobb Sarah Klautky, and striker Abosaide Cadogan.

The rest of the team features a diverse group with ages rang-

ing from 20 down to Makaylah Poole at just 13 years of age. While the team intends to do its best to represent Guyana well, the youthful age of many players make it a perfect developmental squad for future international competitions as they gather experience.

Proprietor of Sabor, Mr Janiel Lee, indicated that the company was excited to be able to contribute to the wellbeing and betterment of young Guyanese. He indicated that there are often not enough opportunities especially for your girls to

participate in sport and compete internationally.

The team travels out to Barbados on Friday 7th April and will face Canada in their opening match on Tuesday 12th April after a few training sessions on the artificial hockey pitch in Barbados.

Everest beat ACS by 47 runs

By Sean Devers

IN sweltering heat under blue skies at the Everest ground yesterday, the home side handed the visiting American Cricket Society their first defeat when they won by 47 runs.

Led by 32 from 36 balls with six fours from Test batter, Tagenarine Chanderpaul,

a quick fire 31 from 16 balls with four sixes from Junior Sinclair, Everest made 184 in 29.5 overs.

A pugnacious 38 from 19 balls three fours and two sixes from Richie Looknauth and 23 from opener Chanderpaul Hemraj, also assisted in the total.

Off-spinner Keon Lake had 5-32 and got support

from Karan Ganesh, who had had 3-31 for ACS.

ACS, in reply, could only manage 137 despite 32 from Kevin Boodie.

Sinclair returned with the ball to take 4-28, with 3-13 from fast bowler Clinton Pestano.

Asked to bat on a good track and fast outfield with a strong breeze blowing across

the ground, Chanderpaul and Hemraj added 43 before Ganesh removed Guyana's newest Test player.

Hemraj and former Test opener, Rajendra Chandrika (10) steadied things before left arm spinner Treston Carmichael dismissed Hemraj, whose 23 included a four and two sixes.

Ganesh quickly sent back

Chandrika and had Matthew Nandu stumped for 15 as two wickets fell in the space of four runs to leave the Camp Road team on 86-4.

Akshaya Persaud (4) and Ushardeva Balgobin (1) were removed by Lake as Everest slipped to 119-6 while Lake struck again when he removed Pestano (2) and Sinclair, who blasted four

straight sixes to leave Everest on 127-8.

Looknauth began the 28th over with a six and four in an over from Lake which cost 17. However, Lake had the last laugh when he removed Looknauth at 184-9 before Keon Joseph (0) was run out leaving Nial Smith unbeaten on 19 with two sixes.

Off-Spinner Keon Lake had 5-32 at Everest yesterday (Sean Devers photo) Junior Sinclair hit out in his explosive 38, then he followed up with 4-28 to take the Man-of-theMatch award (Sean Devers photo)

Proprietor of Sabor, Mr Janiel Lee, spends a moment with the Guyana under21 Hockey players

No VISAS for CARIFTA Team; AAG looking for charter - Fitness Express contributes towards expenses

See page 26

Hetmyer blitz in vain as Rajasthan fails to conquer Punjab Kings

CMC – A fighting 36 from embattled Guyanese left-hander Shimron Hetmyer narrowly failed to get Rajasthan Royals over the finish line, and they fell to a five-run defeat against Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League on Wednesday.

Chasing 198, Hetmyer struck one four and three sixes from 18 balls before he was run out going for a non-existent second run, with 12 needed off the last three balls of the contest at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.

Dhruv Jurel supported with 32 not out and tried to win the match for Royals

with West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder in tow, but England international Sam Curran held his nerve, and he delivered a clever final three balls to earn the Kings their second win in two matches and second in the standings.

Both teams were unchanged, and Kings got off to a brisk start after they were put in to bat, benefitting from a solid opening stand of 90 from their captain Shikhar Dhawan, whose unbeaten 86 off 56 balls was the top score, and Prabhsimran Singh with 60.

There was little else from the rest of the batting, and Kings posted a competitive

197 for four from their allocation of 20 overs.

Holder was the most successful Royals bowler with two for 20 from his allotted four overs.

Royals stumbled to 57 for three at the end of the Power Play, and Australian pacer Nathan Ellis inflicted further hardship with a spell of four for 30 in his four overs that had them wobbling on 124 for six after 15 overs.

Hetmyer and Jurel linked up for a stand of 62 that brought them within touching distance of victory, but neither had the gumption to finish the job.

Sabor Restaurant & Catering sponsors Guyana Junior women’s hockey team

AG CARIFTA Games Team Manager, Mr. Keith Campbell (right), receives Fitness Express’ contribution from Manager, Jamie McDonald

Shimron Hetmyer and Dhruv Jurel added 61 off just 26 balls• (Apr 05, 2023•BCCI)