Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09-02-2023

(Adrian Narine photo)

Construction of 50 luxury wooden houses to begin soon

- President Ali announces

By Shamar Meusa

IN the next three months, construction will commence on 50 luxury wooden homes in Guyana, as the country pursues the development of its first luxurious wooden-home settlement.

This surprise announcement was made by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, in his feature address at the launch of DuraVilla Homes on Wednesday

afternoon at Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara.

“In order to celebrate the luxury of wood; wood is not cheap, in order to celebrate the luxury of wood, we will be embarking on our first luxurious wooden home settlement in Guyana, where only those who want luxury will reside.

“Focusing on young professionals, we intend to work on a specific project of 50 homes all wooden,” he said.

The Head of State re-

green, and eco-friendly resort-style luxury housing settlement.

“This facility would not only have luxury homes made out of 100 per cent Guyana timber and labour, but will have trees from our forests planted within the community to give you the full Amazonian luxury style living,” Dr. Ali said.

able in Guyana.

This initiative comes just after the revival of the forestry sector here following five years of zero investments in the sector by the previous APNU+AFC administration. During the coalition’s tenure, the sector’s annual revenue decreased from around US$40 million to US$10 million.

lated that it will feature designs from Guyana’s colonial heritage mixed with modern architecture, all part of a completely

This, he related, will serve as another initiative to promote Guyana’s timber to those in the niche market of luxury.

He added that many have an illusion that wood is cheap, but it is not, although it is afford-

Since entering office in 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government has listened to stakeholders in the sector and framed a new set of incentives to ignite, re-energise and reposition the sector.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali (Adrian Narine photo)

Modern air corps, coast guard on the horizon

- President Ali says, encourages army to carefully evaluate global challenges, social, economic issues

By Cassandra Khan

GUYANA’S military capacity will soon be enhanced, as efforts are underway to strengthen the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF’s) Air Corps and Coast Guard, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has said.

In his address to officers at GDF’s annual officers conference at Base Camp Ayanganna, Dr. Ali said, continuous investments are being made to safeguard Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), as it is responsible for generating significant revenues for the economic and social transformation of the country.

The Head of State also promised improved personal development and welfare benefits, including access to scholarships, housing, and health benefits for officers of the GDF.

Dr. Ali said the government has to evaluate how the military is represented in the various embassies and high commissions across the world.

The Head of State related that having interacted with some GDF officers, he believes that this is the right time to do retraining, retooling, and reeducation, especially for those posted to the borders.

Dr. Ali said that out of the conference he wants to see a manual that would guide and be used to train every officer being posted to the border.

“I believe strongly that they should be very knowledgeable. Part of their mandate should be doing special lectures and classes in the schools within those districts… but if they are not aware themselves, then they are in no position to teach,” President Ali said.

He related that the GDF officers must understand what is taking place globally and regionally, as well as how it affects the country, their duties, and what they do.

“Peace and security are under threat in the world. Civil conflicts continue to afflict South Sudan and Yemen. These conflicts create debt, despair, despondency, and fuel migration.

“Recently, you would have seen a number of citizens from the African regions being trafficked through the entire region and that is a cause for international condemnation, concern and investigation. As our country continues to develop economically, socially and physically, we are going to be a prime destination, a target destination for this type of migratory effect of war,” Dr. Ali

said. The effects of the war in Ukraine are being felt around the world as it has triggered uncertainties in the supply of grains and led to an increase in energy, fertiliser, and food prices.

President Ali said that this is an important concern for national defence because the effect of the food crisis and energy crisis is being seen globally.

“It is important that as decision-makers and leaders in the GDF, you evaluate these challenges and threats and you evaluate them in the context of the environment in which we operate.

“It is not that we are not facing the conse -

quence of this threat on our borders. We know what is taking place in terms of Venezuelan migrants coming in and primarily, it is a result of the food crisis and social challenges. So, we have to understand where these crises are heading and how it will affect our work and what we need to do in preparing ourselves for these challenges,” he related.

President Ali reiterated Guyana’s position concerning the conflicts and events ongoing in the world.

“Guyana rejects the use of threats or use of force in settling disputes between states. Guyana supports the peaceful resolution of conflicts… Guyana

also subscribes to respect of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. Guyana advocates for Latin America and the Caribbean to be a zone of peace,” he related.

Additionally, Guyana is committed to the defence of people and the promotion of democratic norms and values, and supports efforts at regional collective security.

President Ali said that states are still confronted with non-traditional threats, such as transnational criminal networks that are responsible for drug trafficking, the smuggling of arms, contraband, and gang violence.

Environmental hazards also have the po-

tential to undermine national security across borders, so combating these threats must involve regional and international coordination and cooperation.

Due to this, Guyana has taken the decision to join the Regional Security System (RSS) increases Guyana’s expenditure in security, but also improves the ability to cooperate, connect and have access to better resources.

President Ali said the GDF must be able to develop a strategy concerning the food, energy, and fuel crises, so that at any time Guyana is faced with it, the country would have proactive approaches to deal with the challenges.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali addresses GDF officers

Canal farmers to benefit from enhanced drainage

FARMERS from Canal No. 1 and 2 on the West Bank of Demerara (Region Three) were given the assurance that they will soon benefit from improved drainage systems.

coupled with the lack of effective drainage continues to pose major challenges to their livelihood.

One of the major issues faced was the lack of maintenance to major canals and drains in the area.

Kevon John, a farmer from Canal No. 1, related that while works are executed to dig canals and trenches, the lack of maintenance has resulted in the infrastructure becoming deplorable.

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha met with farmers from the area to discuss some of the issues which they face.

While the farmers acknowledged the government’s efforts to advance the sector, they related that constant rainfall

“As much as you are creating new drainage for us, I’d like to see the maintenance of the said trench that is being dug. I have trenches right now by me that were dug, but they are getting back bad because they need maintenance. Farmers also need assistance with internal drainage. If we have to assist with fuel, we can once the machine is made available,” the farmer said.

Another farmer related that while the Neighborhood Democratic Council (NDC) is

responsible for some of the maintenance work, they have not been able to execute those works effectively.

Farmers also noted that as a result of flooding, their infrastructure was also affected. One farmer said that like many other farmers in the area, sections of his farm were sinking.

While responding to issues raised, Minister Mustapha said a holistic approach is needed to deal with the issues faced in the area and committed to making the resources available to commence the needed work.

“Here in Canal Polder, we have one objective which is to have maximum production. In order

to address these matters, we have to look at them from a holistic view. The middle trench that you spoke about, we will do it.

“The NDIA will do it, but there are people who don’t want that trench to be done. They are saying that they don’t want the machine to go there. If we have permission tomorrow, we’ll make a machine available before the end of the week to start those works,” the minister said. He further related that funds have been made available for the construction of a multimillion-dollar pump station at Belle Vue that will offer major relief to farmers in the area.

“This year, we’ll start construction of a new pump station at Belle Vue that will cost over $500 million to help boost the drainage system here. We are also looking to develop a new drainage structure through the ‘C’ line so that farmers there can get proper drainage.

“We’ll do the Hopelike canal at the ‘B’ line that the Vice-President spoke about. Those structures will help you because we want to make these areas as productive as they once were. These areas were developed to produce for the country but over the years, the infrastructure has deteriorated. We have to rebuild and rehabilitate these structures. This is why

we’ve increased budgetary allocations,” Minister Mustapha said.

While responding to requests with raising the level of farmlands, Minister Mustapha said that engineers from the NDIA will develop a programme to assist in this regard.

“I am willing to do those works to help the farmers. The NDIA will do a programme to see how many farmers need this form of assistance. I have to say that we cannot do all the work at one time or give endless hours because we know many people have very large acreages but we will do those works to avoid flooding,” he said.

A farmer raises an issue

A farmer from Canal No. 1 Polder engaging officials on an issue

Election petition appeal lacks material facts and should be thrown out -AG tells court

ATTORNEY-GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., on Wednesday, asked the Court of Appeal (CoA) to throw out the case filed by the APNU+AFC concerning Election Petition 88 of 2020, which was dismissed by the High Court two years ago.

The case was filed by Claudette Thorne and Heston Bostwick to challenge the ruling of Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George, S.C., who had dismissed the petition due to serious non-compliance with the Constitution of Guyana, electoral law and other infringements.

In his oral submissions to the CoA on Wednesday, Nandlall said that, in addition to the absence of material facts, no foundation has been laid in the petition to establish any grounds upon which the elections can be vitiated.

“The appellants’ submissions are quite narrow in their compass when compared to those which they canvassed in the court below. They seem to have abandoned their frontal challenge to Order 60, redirecting their focus to challenging Parliament’s delegated power expressed in Section 22 of the Election Laws (Amendment) Act.

“No doubt, their implicit reasoning is, if the delegation is improper, then everything which flows therefrom would fall away,” the AG said.

Nandlall further highlighted that there is absolutely no evidence contained in the petition to suggest that the results produced by the recount process is different from that of the original results derived from the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections.

As a result of this, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the presidential candidate for the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), was deemed to be elected as President and was so declared by the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission, in accordance with Article 177 (2) (b) of the Constitution of Guyana.

“One cannot discount from this equation, the composition of three Government nominees, three Opposition nominees and a Chairman appointed by the President from names submitted by

the Leader of the Opposition, with this Chairman being vested with a casting vote. So, the representatives of the political parties on that Commission agreed to the terms of Order 60 and obviously professed to be bound thereby.

“It is therefore an act of great reprobation for the appellants, who are clearly representatives of the APNU+AFC, whose nominees sat on that Commission, to now try to impugn Order 60 and the results flowing therefrom because those results do not favour them,” AG submitted.

It is against this background that Nandlall asked

the court to dismiss the appeal with an appropriate order in respect of costs.

The CoA adjourned the case until March 22, 2023, for further submissions.

The applicants, filed the appeal some 18 months after the CJ handed down her decision.

Among other things, they are contending that the Chief Justice erred in law and misdirected herself when she misapplied the doctrine of strict compliance.

Another claim is that the Chief Justice erred and misdirected herself when she failed to consider the objective of the petition in making her decision based on

the content of the Affidavit of Service.

Thorne and Bostwick had asked the lower court to determine the legality of the March 2 elections, and the results that led to the declaration and allocation of seats in the National Assembly.

They sought an order directing the Chairman of

the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh, to declare former President David Granger the winner.

This is the APNU+AFC’s second attempt at challenging the results of the elections. Their other petition, Election Petition 99 of 2020, was thrown out by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in October 2022.

The applicants in that case were Monica Thomas and Brennan Nurse.

The CCJ ruled that the CoA does not have the jurisdiction to hear and determine the appeal filed to challenge the dismissal of that petition.

In January 2021, it was dismissed by the Chief Justice due to late service, non-service, or improper service.

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C.

Opportunities for All

THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has been implementing strategies and policies that promote and support the development of every Guyanese, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, creed, political persuasion, or any other personal features or preferences. This is being done with inclusion as its guiding principle.

As evidenced throughout the previous two years, the Dr. Irfaan Aliled administration’s goal has been to fulfil both the short-term and long-term requirements of each person by creating an inclusive system and agenda,

all under the banner of “One Guyana.”

The PPP/C’s efforts to promote unity in society have gone beyond rhetoric, as indicated by its investment in programmes such as the education cash grant, the GOAL scholarship programme, and the creation of parttime jobs, among many other things that target the entire Guyanese people and not just one section of society. This contrasts with the previous A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) administration’s fruitless attempts at fostering “social cohesion.”

In fact, according to President Ali, the main

objectives of the “OneGuyana” initiative are to increase social equality, guarantee that everyone has the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives, and reduce inequalities in access to the legal system, employment opportunities, healthcare, and educational opportunities.

The Head of State has stated that the “OneGuyana vision” aspires to ensure that every citizen is given a dignified existence, with due respect for their rights and equality before the law.

The development that is taking place in front of us and the government’s intentions are obviously very different from the

portrayal and the lies that some social groups are spreading in an effort to polarise the Guyanese society and destabilise the nation.

President Ali has repeatedly said that the approach of his administration to decision-making is one of stakeholder engagement, which could pave the way for realisation of the ‘One-Guyana’ vision.

“Together, we are going to embark on the journey of prosperity with all of you; the achievement of peace and prosperity; this is a golden opportunity to attain that objective. We will succeed and make proud all those whose struggles were im-

portant in achieving our independence.

“The future belongs to us. The naysayers wish to break our stride, but the evidence is overwhelmingly clear that Guyana is surely… on a fast track to peace and prosperity. Let us keep it that way under the umbrella of One-Guyana,” the Head of State said.

The government has already removed the VAT from water, energy, and data in addition to allocating billions of dollars in the form of various grants to ease the economic conditions caused by COVID-19 and other economic factors

The government

has also conducted outreaches in various communities to meet Guyanese directly in order to determine what problems exist and how they could be properly addressed in the event that the existing programmes do not directly address the requirements of citizens.

To date, the government has travelled to every region and held discussions with residents in places such as Buxton and Linden, which are well-known APNU+AFC strongholds, and has no plan of deterring from its thrust to create opportunities for all Guyanese.

First 1,000+ modular timber homes project launched

- President says target market must extend beyond Guyana’s borders

SIGNALING that Guyana’s market is no longer the final stop for local products, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali said it is time to employ the country’s strength in the forestry sector to tap into opportunities in the international market.

The Head of state made those remarks during the launch of the first 1,000 modular timber homes by DuraVilla at Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara.

Dr. Ali said that what was being witnessed is another dimension of the country’s housing drive, as it is now positioning itself as an export industry.

He said: “It is now positioning itself as an export industry, earning foreign exchange, enhancing Guyana’s reputation as a reliable and qualified supplier of housing products and a supplier of prefabricated houses.”

Dr. Ali reiterated that

housing exports could become a major foreign exchange earner for Guyana, so the government intends to give the necessary support to facilitate expansion of the vision and expansion of the market in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

This support will include bringing the financial institutions on board to support and back the housing programme locally and in the region.

“I said before that the Guyana Market is no longer Guyana, Guyana’s market is the world market. We don’t only have wood, we have the best quality wood in the world,” President Ali said.

This is one of the reasons why the investment made by DuraVilla is so important, he reasoned. The Head of State thanked several regional leaders who have been embracing the initiative.

He went on to say that not

only is the product that has been created a timber home, but it is also a home that meets all the international requirements that countries like Barbados need to withstand hurricanes and earthquakes.

“That is no easy accomplishment, and everything is engineered locally,” President Ali said.

The Head of State added that Guyana must position the prefabricated housing industry to respond to natural disasters. As such, he mentioned that if natural disasters are to wipe out hundreds of homes, homes should be ready for deployment.

Added to this, the Head of State said that the government has committed to promote partnerships and catalyse private sector participation.

“In our manifesto, we committed to promote partnership and catalyse private sector partnership in housing.

This is an example of that partnership, this is an example of the government working with the private sector for a vision beyond Guyana,” Dr. Ali remarked.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of DuraVilla Homes Guyana Inc., Rafeek Khan told the gathering that this initiative was birthed quite some time ago and last year a model house was built and displayed at the Energy Conference, where the Barbados Prime Minister saw it and asked that two homes be shipped to Barbados.

After those homes were shipped, the company acquired a contract with Barbados for 100 of these structures.

Additionally, the company also signed a contract with St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada has expressed interest in procuring these modular homes.

“While in Guyana we

have these various building concepts, export is where we need to go to get better value for the products that we are promoting,” Khan said.

He added that there is significant growth taking place in the forestry sector, and this initiative further pushes the growth of the non-oil sector.

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat commended DuraVilla and related that it is a demonstration of partnership between

the Government of Guyana and the private sector.

Bharrat added that it is also a true demonstration of President Ali’s commitment to grow the non-oil economy and not make the same mistake like many other oil producing nations have made.

He said that the government will continue to facilitate investment in the forestry sector, while also sustaining Guyana’s forests.

One of the model homes (Adrian Narine photo)

FOUR witnesses including former Police Division 4 ‘A’ Commander, Edgar Thomas were, on Wednesday, crossexamined by former Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO), Roxanne Myers’ lawyer, Nigel Hughes, about their testimony in the ongoing Presidential Commis -

Commissioners lambaste Hughes over questioning of witnesses

cause they were interfering with Mingo’s work.

On Wednesday, when Thomas took to the witness stand under oath, he was grilled by Hughes on a series of questions related to March 5, 2020.

Specifically, the attorney asked Thomas if he was “implying” that Myers had “ulterior mo-

actually happened during the elections and report accurately on what transpired.

“I don’t think that is fair for the witness… You’re asking him to draw an inference or make an implication, which at the end of the day, the Commission can make from the evidence,

“With all due respect, as counsel to this commission, I have to ensure as a duty to you (CoI) to ensure that the material presented to you is material and is reliable. And that doesn’t include opinions or answers which may be informed by suspicions and that kind of thing, which is what I think that question opens the door too. So, I respectfully ask you to reconsider whether such a question should be posed to this witness at all,” Senior Counsel Sophia Chote, of Trinidad and Tobago said in reply.

After deliberating, the tribunal decided not to allow such questions to be put to the witness under cross-examination.

GECOM IT Manager, Aneal Giddings; Rosalinda Rasul, who served as an elections observer for the American Chamber of Commerce Guyana (AmCham) and Assistant Registration Officer of GECOM, Alexandra Sophia Bowman were also cross-examined by Hughes during the hearing.

sion of Inquiry (CoI) into events surrounding the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

While she had opted not to testify in the CoI, Hughes was granted permission to cross-examine witnesses who had testified about the actions of Myers and others during the vote count.

Thomas had previously testified that on March 5, 2020, ranks and officers from at least three sections of the Guyana Police Force converged at the Ashmin’s building in the midst of a bomb scare, to clear the building even after concerns were expressed about the safety of the Statements of Poll (SoPs).

During one of the CoI’s hearings, GECOM’s Chief of Security, Ronald Stuart, had provided details of how the now infamous bomb threat was designed to remove party agents from witnessing the tabulation process for Region Four.

Stuart had testified that he was summoned to the Ashmin’s building by Myers to get everyone out of the tabulation room be-

tives” when she asked him to clear the Ashmin’s building.

However, Thomas said he is “unable” to answer the question. He was also backed by CoI’s Chairman, Stanley John and commissioners — former Chancellor, Carl Singh and Senior Counsel Godfrey Smith, who warned Hughes to be careful with his line of questioning.

“Mr. Hughes … we’re giving you the specific underpinnings of allowing you to cross-examine identified persons. Notwithstanding the fact that your client has a right and decided to remain silent, was to deal with anything imploratory of your client that was mentioned by the witness.

“I don’t believe that it was our intention that you can set yourself at large on the totality of events, disregarding the fact that a lot of what you’re questioning is not imploratory of your client,” Commissioner Singh said.

However, Hughes told the Commissioners that it was his understanding that the scope of the CoI was to determine what

which has given… It is not for him to say he (Thomas) may have suspicions.

The hearing will continue today February 9, with GECOM Commissioner Sase Gunraj being cross-examined by Hughes.

Thus far, former Min-

ister of Health, Volda Lawrence; APNU+AFC activist Carol SmithJoseph; APNU+AFCappointed commissioner on the Local Government Commission (LGC), Nicola Denise Trotman; former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings; former Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield; former GECOM District Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo; and GECOM staff members Sheffern February, Denise Babb-Cummings, Carolyn Duncan, Enrique Li-

van and Michelle Miller, along with Senior Superintendent, Phillip Azore have all opted to remain silent and not testify. The CoI was provided with details of how some GECOM employees participated in the suspected plot to divert votes to the APNU +AFC instead of safeguarding the electoral system. Witnesses have testified about the actions of Lowenfield, Myers, Mingo and Livan during the vote count. Some of the GECOM employees are before the court on electoral fraud charges.

Former Attorney General, High Court Judge and Acting Justice of Appeal in the Eastern Caribbean, Godfrey P. Smith; the Chairman of the CoI, Retired Justice of Appeal of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Stanley John and former Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh

Attorney-at-law Nigel Hughes and his client, Roxanne Myers

GECOM to request Police investigation of duplicate registration transactions

THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) will be calling in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to investigate three cases of duplicate registrations, which were committed during the ongoing cycle of continuous registration.

According to a press release, this decision was made on Tuesday, at a statutory meeting, following deliberation on findings from an internal investigation in which three cases of persons who were already registered applied again for registration using different

source documents with different dates of issue, names, and dates of birth.

GECOM reminded the public that the

National Registration Act, Chapter 19:08 as amended by Act No. 26 of 2022, stipulates legal provisions for registration offences and the

associated penalties.

In this regard, GECOM said it is of crucial importance to note that the registration laws have established penalties for registration offences, with provision for fines of up to $5 million and imprisonment of five years.

“The Commission takes this opportunity to formally notify all concerned that, henceforth, all cases of duplicate registrations will be reported to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for investigation, and consequent action in keeping with

the relevant legal provisions,” the release stated.

GECOM also reminded the public that deliberately providing false information, fraudulently obtaining an identification card, fraudulently using an identification card, falsely alleging the loss or destruction of their identification card and applying for a new card while in the possession of an identification card, presenting false information or documents containing false information for registration, or withholding information about an

existing registration, and knowingly applying to be registered more than once are registration offences.

Some of the other offences under the National Registration Act also entail permitting or inducing another person to use an identification card in order to impersonate a registered person; destroying or defacing identification cards or documents, making false objections or statements in relation to an entry on a list along with impersonating GECOM registration officials.

Motorcyclist dies after crashing into parked truck

A YOUNG man who was on his way to work early Wednesday morning, lost his life after he reportedly lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into a parked truck on the Auchlyne Public Road.

Dead is 24-year-old Kelon Anthony Scott, of Limlair Village, East Berbice Corentyne.

According to reports reaching this pulication, Scott was proceeding west along the southern lane at an alleged fast rate of speed on motorcycle CL 9962, when he lost control and collided with a lorry bearing registration number GLL 1193, which was parked on the road.

As a result of the collision, the motorcyclist fell onto the road surface where he received injuries

about his body.

He was picked up in an unconscious condition by the public-spirited citizens and taken to the Port Mourant Public Hospital where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty who pronounced him dead.

Meanwhile, the young man’s mother, Annie Scott

told the media that she was still trying to come to grips with the devastating news.

She said her son was heading to his worksite at the Albion Estate. She added that she later received a message indicating that he was involved in an accident and died on the spot.

The woman related that her son recently decided to part ways with his motorcycle after witnessing an accident on the Alness Public road. However, two days later he collected the keys.

She related that she would even talk to him on numerous occasions about being careful with the motorcycle after noticing a number accidents over time. He was described by family mem -

bers as hardworking, funny and caring.

Dead: Kelon Anthony Scott

Scott’s remains are

at the Ramoo Funeral Parlour awaiting a postmortem examination.

Investigations into the accident are ongoing.

24-hour laboratory services now available at Suddie Public Hospital

Mark Mc Lean, said that, indeed, more and more tests were available at the laboratory at the Suddie Public Hospital.

He commended the efforts of the staff at the laboratory, who are said to be always willing to help.

Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, said that the current government was investing heavily in the region’s health-

care system since she has also been getting positive feedback from patients.

She said that millions of

dollars were being spent to ensure that quality service is provided to the people of Region Two.

TO better serve the residents in the Pomeroon-Supenaam Region, the Regional Health Service is operating the laboratory service 24 hours a day at Suddie Public Hospital (SPH).

This was disclosed by Government Regional Democratic Councillor (RDC) Arnold Adams while delivering the health and sanitation reports at the February statutory meeting.

Adams told his fellow RDC councilors, on Wednesday, that healthcare delivery in the region was improving.

He said to better deal with emergencies and daily cases, the hospital has implemented prompt services at the laboratory.

He mentioned that the laboratory service works until 21:00 hours at the Charity Oscar Joseph Hospital instead of being closed at 16:30 hours.

Adams said that many tests are now available at the laboratory that patients previously had to travel to Georgetown to access.

Hepatitis B, rapid plasma reagin (RPR), Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Thyroid, typhoid PSA, dengue, cholesterol tests, malaria, H. pylori, the complete blood test (CBC), urine testing, and leptospirosis, are among the tests available.

During his report, he mentioned that the pharmacy service was available on weekends and public holidays.

For pharmacy services, he said pharmacists were serving the public up to 21:00 hours on weekdays and up to 14:00 hours at weekends and public holidays. Adams stated that the days of waiting for hours for essential services were over.

Further, he said that four new registered nurses would be joining the Suddie Public Hospital.

The X-ray department at the hospital and the electrical services were also upgraded. He boasted that the x-ray department at Suddie was the first in the country to have a digital x-ray system.

“Persons in the region are enjoying better-boosted health care delivery services. There are no long lines, the services have improved, and things are getting better,” Adams said.

Opposition Councillor,

RDC Councillor, Arnold Adams, during his presentation

Sol opens US$2.8M facility at Mandela Avenue

- PM reaffirms govt’s commitment to work with investors to build Guyana

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has said that interventions made by the government over the last two years have resulted in the strengthening of the business climate and the diversification of the economy.

In his address at the opening of the new Sol Guyana Incorporated’s US$2.8 million Shell Service Station at Mandela Avenue, he said: “The government is committed to ensuring the provision of an enabling environment and incentives for the expansion of new and existing businesses by removing obstacles to business growth, fostering an environment for investment, and empowering businesses…”

High on the agenda, according to the Prime Minister, is the creation of a more competitive economy with expanding

opportunities.

To this end, he highlighted the direction of the government in strengthening “the business climate beyond just the burgeoning oil and gas industry.”

The Government, the Prime Minister said, supports an economic model that sees private sector investment as the key driver of sustainable growth.

“We also acknowledge that much of that growth comes from the activities in the contributions of the private sector. Therefore, we understand the need to empower and enable our private sector through measures such as increased access to financing to foster greater business activities and investment in the country,” Phillips said.

PARTNERSHIPS KEY TO DEVELOPMENT

The Prime Minister also emphasised the significance of co-operation between the government

and the private sector in order to realise the full potential of the nation.

He noted that the government is committed to working with the private sector to continue to create employment opportunities in all regions of Guyana.

“As we work toward the building of our country in preparation for our promising future, we are ever committed to ensur-

ing greater access to jobs for all Guyanese while also focusing on higher education, vocational skills, and higher disposable income.

“As we know, the public sector is a major source of employment for our people. Still, in every country, governments must form strong partnerships with the private sector to provide employ-

ment and drive economic growth,” Prime Minister Phillips related.

INVESTING IN GUYANA

During his remarks, he also lauded the investment of Sol Guyana Inc., which signals confidence in Guyana’s development since it aligns with the development and expansion thrust of the government for the benefit of its citizens.

“I urge that this organisation continues to explore investment and expansion opportunities that will contribute to the transformation of Guyana while also remembering the importance of investment in the lives of the people in the communities in which they operate,” Prime Minister Phillips said.

New treatment options available locally for cancer, other diseases

PATIENTS suffering from degenerative and neurological diseases like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, Arthritis and Cancers, among others, can now access stem cell therapy and immunotherapy treatment locally.

The Woodlands Hospital, last weekend, officially launched the treatments. Speaking with DPI, Dr. Pramod Tembe, Internal Medicine Specialist and Fellow in stem cell and regenerative medicine, said he has benefitted from the treatment and is happy to bring it here.

“I did this therapy in 2019 in India, and five years I am out of pain and my functional mobility has tremendously improved, so now it is my time to give it back to the society, especially to Guyana because I’m here for the past more than 18 years,” Dr. Tembe said.

He added: “I have gone through the pain, I don’t want any, so I can understand the patient with arthritis, patients with degenerative diseases, debilitating diseases so I could understand their pain.”

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Stem cells are unspecialised cells that can regenerate and grow into different lineages like forming muscle cells, heart cells or neurological cells based on the needs of the patients.

Stem cells can be found in various parts of the body like the bone marrow, the fat underneath the skin, in the umbilical cord, in the embryotic fluid, muscle, brain and other parts.

“The incredible capacity of the stem cell is to such an extent that because of the renewal properties and because of the regeneration property, if a patient has degenerative

diseases like, neurological diseases, non-degenerative diseases or neodevelopmental diseases for example Parkinson’s disease, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, ALS, a patient has a massive stroke, a patient is bedridden or in wheelchair, in these patients where there is no treatment as such, we can use the stem cells from the patient’s own body,” Dr. Tembe explained.

After the blood sample is collected from the bone marrow, it is sent to a laboratory where it is converted into stem cells, certain “growth factors” are added and then it is reinstalled into the patient’s body, so that it reaches a targetted organ.

After the cells start regenerating over a period of time, the person can be free of the disease.

“One thing I would like

to emphasise, is that this treatment which we are going to offer, they are not going to, after I give the stem cells, tomorrow I’m going to start walking, it is not going to happen like that, remember these cells are very, very small and they grow over a period of time, six weeks to six months the patient would start to get the response slowly, because the growth of the cells is one millimetre per day,” Dr. Tembe further explained.

Immunotherapy can also be used to treat a number of diseases including cancers by basically helping the immune system target the cancer cells and kill them.

“In woodlands hospital, what we are going to do is when we get such patient, we are going to take the blood sample, and then we are going to take the biopsy sample from the tumor, then we are go-

ing to, sensitise the tumor cells…basically we are going to teach these cells to identify those cancer cells and we are going to develop a receptor, not only that which is going to get attached to the T cells and we are going to multiply those T cells and then send them back into the body so they can find the cancer cells where they are hidden and kill them,” Dr. Tembe stated.

Additionally, Dr. Tembe disclosed that the Woodlands Hospital is currently in talks with government and insurance companies to be able to provide these treatment options at a more affordable cost than other countries.

Woodlands is offering these options through a collaboration with Fidelity Healthcare Ltd, a registered medical company in Trinidad and Tobago.

Internal Medicine Specialist and Fellow in stem cell and regenerative medicine, Dr. Pramod Tembe

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips joins other officials in the ceremonial opening of the new Sol Guyana Incorporated’s US$2.8 million Shell Service Station at Mandela Avenue (Office of the Prime Minister photo)

Steel, cement subsidies to be distributed in new week

- housing project contract to be rolled out over next two weeks

By Naomi Parris

THE distribution of vouchers for the steel and cement subsidies will be rolled out as early as next week, according to Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal.

“The final team is going through the final set this week, so as early as next week, they will commence issuing vouchers for that project,” Croal told reporters on Monday.

The programme is being administered through the Ministry of Housing and Water’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).

The incentive caters to home builders constructing homes below $6 million and up to $25 million.

Further, in the interest, of transparency, Croal stated that a special board has been established to oversee the distribution of the vouchers.

“We have already done

approvals, and in the interest of ensuring that there is transparency there is a board that is dealing with those aspects of approval.”

According to Minister Croal, suppliers across the various regions have already been secured.

“We have already done the procurement of the suppliers, and we have sought to ensure that we have suppliers in the region, and that helps with the village economy too.”

He added, “For example if you are in Region Six, you can source a supplier in Region Six.”

Through this initiative, Guyanese constructing homes to the tune of $6 million and below could benefit from 80 lengths of ½ inch steel rods, 60 lengths of 3/8 inch steel rods, and one sling of cement. In comparison, builders with estimates of above $6 million and $25 million will benefit from two slings of cement.

At the opening of International Building Expo 2022, President Dr. Irfaan Ali first announced the government’s plan to implement the programme to continue the government’s aggressive agenda of making homeownership more affordable and boosting the quality of life of Guyanese.

To be eligible to benefit from the cement and steel

programme, applicants must own their land, have permission for construction from the requisite local government authority in their area, and have an approved plan and an estimate for their construction.

CONTRACTS

Further, as a part of several initiatives and programmes to support the aggressive housing drive

across the country, Minister Croal revealed that the ministry would be signing hundreds of contracts over the next two weeks.

“We’ll have a number of new projects that will come on stream. Very shortly we will be awarding those. It’s going through the awarding stage; we have already gone out to tender, and they have already completed an

evaluation, so that will tell you how far along we are with that aspect.”

He added, “One can expect within two weeks or so we will be awarding hundreds of contracts, at least for 21 new areas, so that is one aspect.”

Aside from the new projects, Croal pointed out that several ongoing projects are near completion. These projects include the Eccles to Diamond four-lane highway, which will be completed by mid-year, and the Eccles Industrial Site Access Road.

“We have another ongoing project, that is the industrial access road at Eccles, that is being done in phases and by different persons. On that project, we had to put in concrete drains, and then we will move to asphaltic concrete. About $1.2 billion is being spent in that area. And all works is expected to be completed next month,” Croal said.

Maritime Administration takes safety campaign to Regions Three, Seven

THE communities of Fort Island and Aliki along the Essequibo River, on Wednesday, underwent a thorough session on maritime safety, safety while traversing the rivers and overall responsibility while operating both large and smaller vessels.

This is in keeping with the Maritime Administration Department’s (MARAD)’s continued efforts to promote maritime safety, according to a press release from the Ministry of Public Works.

During the session, officials also focused on categories of vessels to be licensed or registered, age requirement for licensed boat captains, enforcement of fines, unscrupulous speedboat operators, and consideration for the cost of licences for vessels transporting produce from communities.

Residents, especially boat operators who welcomed the session and urged that such be continued, were also given the opportunity to make recommendations to MARAD on ways to

improve safety on the waterways.

This initiative is in line with the government’s quest to improve safety practices in the local maritime sector, which has been emphasised by Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, who has urged the safety of all persons on board every departing vessel.

The MARAD team will conclude this segment of its safety awareness campaign in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) on Friday.

Police Mounted Branch, K-9 Section re-introduce Park Patrols

- Deputy Commissioner Budhram says

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER of Operations, Ravindradat

Budhram, announced, on Wednesday, that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) would be reintroducing Park Patrols around Georgetown by utilising the resources of its Mounted Branch and Canine Section.

The initiative, Budhram noted, is aimed at using the Force’s Mounted Branch and Canine (K-9) Unit at their maximum capacity to maximise public safety.

He charged the ranks to keep fit and equip themselves through the various courses and training programmes provided by the GPF. The department is currently being expanded throughout all of the regional police divisions.

The Mounted Branch and K-9 Section were formed in the 1900s and played a crucial role at that time.

The branch was formed for various reasons, including maintaining street or -

der, providing Presidential escorts and crowd control during protests, strikes, and shows; combating crime; detecting explosives; retrieving illegal arms and ammunition; and apprehending perpetrators, among others.

Deputy Commissioner “Ops” also met with the officer-in-charge of the Mounted and Canine Section, Deputy Superintendent, Rockwell Delph; second-incharge, Assistant Superintendent, Devon Gordon; Ad-

ministrative Officer, Inspector Carl Saul, and all other ranks of the Department at the Police Sports Ground on Wednesday morning.

During discussion, all ranks were urged to maintain discipline and be of service to the citizens of Guyana and strive, at all times, to make it a safer place for all.

When contacted by this publication, Deputy Commissioner Budhram explained that mounted officers are best used in high-traffic areas, since ranks also enjoy a high vantage point up to 10 feet above the vantage of other people and ranks. This allows officers to see more people and for more people to see them.

He explained that the Mounted Unit and Canine (K-9) Unit are excellent “beacons” to a community. People frequently want to come up to the horses where they otherwise wouldn’t to an individual officer. This allows for better information gathering, increased intelli-

gence, and increased public confidence.

“Where an officer in a car may move through an area so quickly that others don’t or can’t notice it, a horse is much more noticeable and likely to be seen. An officer on horseback is as valuable to a situation and the department as several ranks on foot,” he noted.

uty Commissioner also explained that K9 dogs could save the lives of police ranks because they are fast, effective ways to stop a fugitive, and highly trained dogs can ‘sniff out’ well-hidden illegal substances that would go undetected by a human.

“All-in-all police departments can do much better

Budhram explained that mounted officers would work with ranks on foot, in cars, and on bikes, making for safer public venues.

Meanwhile, the Dep -

policing when they have a highly functional K9 unit because it gives officers much more flexibility when dealing with difficult situations.”

(On horse) Deputy Commissioner of ‘Operations’, Ravindradat Budhram, with officerin-charge of the Mounted and Canine Section, Deputy Superintendent Rockwell Delph, with another rank at the Police Sports Club Ground, during Wednesday’s meeting

Police Mounted Branch and K-9 Section will be re-introduced as Park Patrols

Motie, Chase pushed for win but Zimbabwe hold on Scoreboard

CMC – Spinner Gudakesh Motie and Roston Chase tried to force a dramatic finish, but West Indies met resistance from the bottom half of the Zimbabwe batting and had to settle for a draw in the first Test on Wednesday.

Motie bagged a career-best 4-50 from 24 overs and Chase snared a miserly 2-9 from 12 overs to send a few jitters through the Zimbabwean dressing room after the Windies set them 272 to win in a minimum of 49 overs on the final day of the contest at the Queen’s Sports Club.

The Caribbean side were, however, frustrated in their attempt to grab an unlikely win when debutant wicketkeeper Tafadzwa Tsiga, not out on 24, remained unflappable for two hours and the hosts reached 134 for six when time expired.

The result meant the two-match series remained

level at 0-0 and created huge expectations for the second Test, starting on Sunday at the same venue.

“After losing a whole day, I think it was a commendable effort from us to get close to a victory, so well done to us,” West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite said after play.

“But also Zimbabwe batted very well. I think overall, I’m pleased with the team effort.”

Motie gave West Indies an early breakthrough when he had opener Tanunurwa Makoni caught behind for nine, but Innocent Kaia and Chamu Chibhabha added 47 for the second wicket to ease the early tension.

But Motie engineered a period of instability when he got Kaia caught at mid-wicket for 24 and Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine caught behind for 17, while Chase got Chibhabha caught at slip for the top score of 31 in between, as Zimbabwe

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Thursday, February 09, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD

- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) QPO, Port-of Spain, 2000

(2) Jimmy Adams & Andy Flower

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who is the first WI to score a Test hundred against Zimbabwe?

(2) Who is the first ZIM player to register a Test century against the WI?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

sunk from the comfort of 83 for two to 83 for four.

West Indies again found first innings century-maker Gary Ballance an immovable force and he spent over an hour at the crease to take the Zimbabweans past 100 before Chase got him caught behind for 18 and Motie followed up with the scalp of Brad Evans lbw for a duck next over.

With almost 40 minutes of play remaining, there was still a chance for West Indies to cut a path to victory, but Tsiga and Wellington Masakadza batted through the remaining time to save the day for the home team.

Earlier, West Indies continued from 21 without loss overnight, and tried to score quickly to hasten a declaration, which came on 203 for five after lunch with Raymon Reifer leading the way with 58 and Jermaine Blackwood supporting with 57.

RACING TIPS

American Racing Tips

Aqueduct

Race 1 Warrior Richard

Race 2 Dee Bo

Race 3 Cupids Girl

Race 4 Outlaw Country

Race 5 Lifetime Of Chance

WEST INDIES 1st Innings 447- 6 dec’d

ZIMBABWE 1st Innings 379-9 dec’d

WEST INDIES 2nd Innings

(overnight 21-0)

*K Brathwaite lbw b Masakadza 25

T Chanderpaul b Evans 15

R Reifer c and b Masakadza 58

J Blackwood c wk Tsiga b Masakadza 57

R Chase c wk Tsiga b Evans 14

K Mayers not out 17

J da Silva not out 9

Extras (b3, lb1, nb4) 8

TOTAL (5 wkts, 60 overs) 203

Fall of wickets: 1-32, 2-50, 3-157, 4-174, 5-180.

Bowling: Nyauchi 16-5-38-0; Masakadza 23-5-71-

3; Evans 12-2-41-2; Mavuta 6-0-30-0; Nagarava

3-0-19-0.

ZIMBABWE 2nd Innings (target: 272)

I Kaia c Brathwaite b Motie 24

T Makoni c wk da Silva b Motie 9

C Chibhabha c Blackwood b Chase 31

*C Ervine c wk da Silva b Motie 17

G Ballance c wk da Silva b Chase 18

+T Tsiga not out 24

B Evans lbw b Motie 0

W Masakada not out 0

Extras (b8, lb3) 11

TOTAL (6 wkts, 54 overs) 134

Fall of wickets: 1-14, 2-61, 3-83, 4-83, 5-119, 6-120.

Bowling: Roach 3-0-16-0; Motie 24-6-50-4; Joseph 5-0-19-0; Holder 5-1-13-0; Brathwaite 4-0-10-0; Chase 12-6-9-2; Mayers 1-0-6-0.

Result: Match drawn.

West Indies defeat Sri Lanka in low-scoring thriller

THE West Indies defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in a low-scoring thriller at the Western Province Cricket Club.

Sri Lanka scored 107 all out in 20 overs thanks to Nilakshi Silva, who topscored with 29 (26) followed

by Harshitha Samarawickrama 16 (20).

Hayley Matthews finished with figures of 4-0-17-3 followed by Afy Fletcher with 4-0-12-2.

West Indies got to the 108run target with two balls to spare, thanks to a top-score of

46 (48) from Skipper Hayley Matthews and 16 (14) not out from Chinelle Henry.

Bowling for Sri Lanka, Kaveesha Dilhari finished with figures of 3-0-11-1 and Malsha Shehani with 2-0-11-1.

Speaking after the match, Hayley Matthews told CWI

Media, “It was good to have a decent all-round performance today from a personal perspective. From a team aspect, I think the bowlers did a fantastic job to restrict them to 107, as we know they’ve got a couple batters who can really fire up. We still have areas to

improve on, but the win will no doubt give us a boost heading into our first official match against England on Saturday.”

The West Indies will take on England Women on Saturday February 11 at Boland Park in Paarl. First ball is at 3:00pm local/Zimbabwe time (9:00am Eastern Caribbean/8:00am Jamaica)

The eighth edition of the marquee event will begin on

10 February with hosts, South Africa taking on Sri Lanka. West Indies have been drawn in Group 2 alongside England, India, Pakistan and Ireland. Newlands, Cape Town; Boland Park, Paarl; and St. George’s Park, Gqeberha are the host venues for the tournament with both semi-finals and final to be played in Cape Town on 26 February.

LeBron James becomes NBA’s all-time leading scorer

(BBC)

Los Angeles Lakers star, James, hit 38 points in a 133-130 defeat by the Oklahoma City Thunder to surpass Abdul -Jabbar’s mark of 38,387, set in 1989.

Abdul-Jabbar initially broke the scoring record in April 1984, eight months before James was born.

“To be able to be in the presence of a legend and great as Kareem, it means so much to me,” said James.

The 38-year-old, who needed 36 points to break the record, did so with a fadeaway jumper at the end of the third quarter and he finished the match with a career total of 38,390.

An emotional James raised both arms in celebration while 75-yearold Abdul-Jabbar, who was at the match at the Lakers home court, stood and applauded

There was a brief break in play for a ceremony to mark the achievement, with James taking a microphone to make a speech on court.

“Everybody that has ever been a part of this run with me the last 20plus years, I want to say thank you so much because I wouldn’t be me without you. You all helped. Your passion and sacrifices helped me to get to this point,” he said.

“And to the NBA to Adam Silver, to the late great David Stern, thank you very much for allowing me to be a part of something I always dreamed about. I would never in a million years dreamt this to be even better than what it is tonight.”

Abdul-Jabbar ceremoniously handed over the ball to James to recognise his new record in front of a cheering crowd that included tennis legend John McEnroe, mu-

sic stars Jay-Z, LL Cool J and Bad Bunny, boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. and actor Denzel Washington.

“I thought it had every chance of being broken. It just had to have someone that the offence focused on continually,” said Abdul-Jabbar, who retired in 1989.

“LeBron’s career is one of someone who planned to dominate this game. You have to give him credit for just the way he played and for the way he’s lasted and dominated.”

Four-time NBA champion James is in his 20th season in the NBA, having been drafted first overall by hometown team, Cleveland Cavaliers, in 2003.

The forward joined the Miami Heat in 2010, winning two titles, before returning to lead Cleveland to the only NBA title in their history in 2016.

He has been with the Lakers since 2018 and helped them win the 2020 title, which was also the fourth time he has been named NBA finals MVP.

Two-time Olympic champion, James, has won four regular season MVP titles and appeared in the NBA finals 10 times.

Abdul-Jabbar played in the NBA for 20 seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks and Lakers, during which time he won six titles, six regular season MVP crowns and was named finals MVP twice

Asked after the game whether he is the best NBA player of all time, James said: “I’ll let everybody else decide who that is or just talk about it, but it’s great barbershop talk.

“Me personally, I’m going to take myself against anybody who’s ever played this game. But everyone’s going to decide who their favourite is.”

- LeBron James has become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s long-standing record.

LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakers shakes hands with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar after breaking his all time scoring record of 38,388 points during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on February 7, 2023 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California.

Pipeline cycling meet set for this Sunday

THE Beacon Cafe has announced that they are proud to be a part of the development of cycling as they unite with team Kaieteur Attack Racing Cycle Club to sponsor, this Sunday, a race event titled Paceline.

This event will be a criterium and will be held in the Inner Circuit of the National Park. It is scheduled to start at 08:00hrs and refreshment will be available after the event.

Registration fee is $1,000.

The race sequence will see riders in the Novice Race, where cyclists will be given a chance to race and ride for one

lap with whatever bicycle they have The females, juveniles and veterans 50 + will be riding together for six laps while the seniors, juniors and veterans U-50 will be riding together for 35 laps.

Prizes will be awarded to the first six seniors as well as the top three in the Junior, Juvenile, Veteran U-50 , Veterans 50+ and Female catrgory.

Presentation will be done on the following day, Monday 13th February, 2023, at the Beacons Café, located at the corner of Quamina and Carmichael Streets.

GTTA meets with Deputy Chief of the Chinese Embassy

THE Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) and the Chinese government, last Thursday, sat down for a meeting to discuss the sport’s shared vision and continued partnership between the two entities.

Mr. Chen Xilai, Deputy Chief of the Embassy, invit-

ed club president, Godfrey Munroe, and team to discuss overseas and local training stints for players at all levels at high yield training centres in China in 2023 as well as training opportunities for officials.

The discussion also included having high-level coaches visit Guyana to

work with national teams, technical support and combined efforts on projects which will be geared to impact the livelihood of members of communities.

Several other initiatives were discussed including a goodwill tournament similar to the one held last year to celebrate 50 years of bilat-

eral engagement between the two nations.

A review of some initiatives inclusive of the donation of equipment to the national programme and the schools programme in partnership with the Ministry of Education was presented by the GTTA president.

Mr Munroe also took

the opportunity to convey greetings on behalf of the Minister of Education, the Hon. Priya Manickchand.

According to Munroe, the Minister is keen on having China’s support for expanding the national table tennis schools project as part of the Ministry’s plan to have each student exiting

the schools system exposed and oriented to sports, languages and knowing how to play at least one musical instrument .

Mr. Chen shared a quote which forms part of the Chinese philosophy “It is joyful to play alone but it’s more joyful to play with others”

GGA schools outreach programme reaches Regions 6 & 8

THE Guyana Golf Association (GGA)/Nexgen Golf Academy continued their phenomenal start to 2023 as they continue to target schools across Guyana, this time targeting students of Regions Six and Eight.

Students and teachers hailing from Monkey Mountain, Paramakatoi, Kato and Ķopinang had their first experience holding a golf club and the joy on their faces was a sight to behold as they quickly became adept at hitting a golf ball

GGA president, Aleem Hussain, regarding the outreach said, “We met with

diate result was implementation of the sport in several schools.”

With this latest outreach, the Ministry of Education Unit of Allied Arts and the Guyana Golf Association has now teamed up to reach eight out of the ten regions in just over a year, an amazing result for the development of the sport in a country where it was always viewed as an elite and expensive game, with no access for the general public who could not afford private club membership.

Another session is planned for Region Six next week when over 300 students will receive oneon-one training from Nexgen Golf Academy coaches. Inter-classroom competitions will be followed by

an inter-school tournament while a national tournament will be held soon afterward. Additionally, at the recent Ministry of Sport Award ceremony, the Guyana Golf Association was nominated for Association of the Year and Aleem Hussain was nominated for Sportsman of the Year in recognition of accomplishments in 2022.

The efforts of the GGA was also noticed on the world stage as invitations for our junior golfers to participate in the American Junior Golf Association world tournament over the next 5 years were extended but, according to Hussain, “At our current stage of development, we elected to defer participating until next year.”

Kaieteur Attack Racing Cycle Club members

Minister of Education and her team on January 12 and, since then, we have vis-

and interacted with 19 schools and 33 PE teachers from Regions Six, Eight ,

and 10. Equipment, balls and training were provided to all schools and the imme-

GGA president, Aleem Hussain, alongside students of Regions Six and Eight, and a teacher

MediPharm partners with Jefford Classic Mile

MediPharm Inc., the exclusive authorised representative and distributors for Vitabiotics Limited and Meyers Organics Private Limited in Guyana, announced its partnership yesterday with the Jefford Classic Mile, scheduled for March 12 at the National Park Circuit.

The company announced that it will be sponsoring the event under the renowned Wellman and Wellwoman brands. The top three finishers from each category will benefit from hampers of assorted products. In addition, Medi-

Pharm will also sponsor the first place cash prizes in the Open Category.

“We are proud to be associated with the Jefford Classic. We believe in what this brand has done for local athletes and as such we believe this partnership is very important. We are very serious about supporting our local athletes and this event,” the Managing Director at MediPharm, Shevani Persaud, stated at a simple presentation ceremony yesterday.

Founder of the Jefford Classic, Edison Jefford,

thanked MediPharm for their support and indicated that the event will be historic and memorable as all the other signature events of the renowned athletics brand.

“The kind of atmosphere and competition that we provide in athletics is second to none in Guyana. Our track record speaks for itself. We will continue to combine athletics and entertainment at this event. We will also ensure that athletes have the right to be called the best one-milers in Guyana while giving the corporate community, civil society and other patrons

the opportunity to watch them perform,” Jefford said. The Jefford Track and Field Classic is Guyana’s biggest grassroots athletics event. The brand is undertaking the resuscitation of the Golden Mile, which was a prominent historic athletics race held at the National Park. The Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) has sanctioned the event that was rebranded The Jefford Classic Mile. The programme will feature six categories and twelve male and female one-mile races.

GBF to be represented at CBC/CONCENCABA Assembly in Miami

Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) vice president, Rawle Toney, and Technical Director, Sileena Arjune, will represent Guyana in Miami on March 13th and 14th

at two important assemblies.

On Monday, March 13, the two will be part of the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Assembly, while on the following

Future Stars and Bent Street among winners Rock Futsal C/Ship

day, the duo will be delegates at the Central American and Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CONCENCABA) Assembly.

Both the CBC and CONCENCABA will hold elections to decide on a new executive committee to govern the game of basketball in their respective regions.

While one of Toney’s purposes at the Assembly will be as a voting delegate for the two-day event, Arjune will attend the FIBA Plus workshop.

FOLLOWING the latest round of matches on Tuesday night, Bent Street, Gold is Money, and Future Stars have all advanced to the next round in the inaugural edition of the Rock Futsal Championship, which is being contested at the National Gymnasium, on Mandela Avenue. Bent Street enjoyed a 3

-1 win over Vryheid’s Lust 3-1 while Gold is Money downed Albouystown 4 – 2

Future Stars edged Mocha 3 – 2 thanks to goals from Lennox Young, who bagged a brace to go along with Keron Solomon’s solitary strike.

The winner of the tournament will pocket $500,000 and the championship tro-

phy. On the other hand, the second, third, and fourthplace finishers will receive $250,000, $150,000, and $100,000 respectively.

On the individual side, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) will receive one motorcycle. Similarly, a patron will receive one motorcycle on the night of the final.

Arjune will join other technical directors from National Federations affiliated with FIBA at the programme that is designed to assist national federations’ development of basketball in their countries by helping them create a sustainable strategic focus.

The FIBA PLUS Strategy and Planning programme is one of the initiatives undertaken by FIBA as part of its 2019-2023 strategy to “Empower National Federations” to reach their full potential.

The GBF held its elections on Sunday, January 29, when Michael Singh and Patrick Haynes were re-elected unopposed for their positions of president and general secretary, respectively, for the GBF.

Toney, president of the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA), along with president of the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) Jermaine Slater, and former female national player, Sonia Rodney, are the three vice presidents of the GBF.

Deputy Audit Manager at the Caricom Secretariat, Chavez Branche, is the new treasurer, while Quincy Baird, GTT’s Accounts Payable, Treasury and Tax Manager, will serve as the GBF’s Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer.

Dennis Clarke, Deon Ferrier and Leona Kyte were named the three ‘At Large Members’ of the GBF.

MediPharm Managing Director, Shevani Persaud (third, right) makes the presentation to Edison Jefford in the presence of the MediPharm team, (from left) Mark Shakoor (Marketing Manager); Prem Tulsie (Transport Officer); Ria Dass (Marketing Executive) and Romel Sookram (Inventory and Logistics Officer).

Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) technical director, Sileena Arjune

Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) vice president, Rawle Toney

A scene from the Bent Street (black) and Vryheid’s Lust encounter at the National Gymnasium in the Rock Futsal Championship

Motie, Chase pushed for win but Zimbabwe

See page 20

See page 22

Roston Chase picked up a couple of wickets (Feb 07, 2023•Associated Press)

From left: Deidre Edghill, Godfrey Munroe, Mr. Chen Xilai and Mr. Ishaka Jackman