Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09-09-2023

Guyana’s blackout woes a result of APNU+AFC’s shortsightedness

discarding Amaila Hydro, lack of investments resulted in power supply and demand almost at same level, Dr. Jagdeo says

ATTEMPTS to obstruct the People ’ s Progressive Party (PPP) Government’s goal of providing cheaper electricity will be futile, Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has affirmed.

During a live interview on Friday, he blazed the former A

Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) administration for its “shortsightedness” and drive to put the coalition ’ s interests ahead of Guyana ’ s citizens

“

Since 2017 , we would have had cheaper, stable pow-

er They [ APNU + AFC ] killed Amaila [the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP)],” the Vice-President said He further remarked that because of the growing demand for power , especially under the APNU + AFC , one would think that they would

have put something in place that would stand as a substitute for the Amaila Falls Hydropower station (AFHP). However , the coalition did nothing within its five years in office, he said Turning his attention to the multibillion-dollar power

plant that was brought in under APNU + AFC ’ s rule , Dr Jagdeo said that not only was it illegally funded, but there remains many operating issues with the plant

“Now, we’re buying seventeen 1x7 megawatt power plants to tie us over another maybe 27 megawatts of power , and that has to come in by December 4 emergency power ,” adding : “ So , hopefully it will carry us until the gas-to-energy project is completed.”

He added that his government is barely getting by in this regard, solely because of the opposition’s failure to invest in proper power supply.

Dr Jagdeo went on to explain: “They told me a couple of days ago , after we refurbished a lot of the sets Our installed capacity now is about 170-something megawatts of power and the peak demand because of this heat and the people turn on AC It is 172 megawatts.”

The Vice-President emphasised that the country’s capacity and demand are almost on par, therefore, if one unit needs to be taken offline for repair, it will have an adverse effect due to the APNU’s shortsightedness

Addressing the untruths that are being spewed about the revolutionary gas - to - energy project that will soon come on stream, Dr Jagdeo said: “And now they ’ re [ APNU + AFC ] trying to sabotage even that project like how they sabotaged the Amaila Falls.”

The Vice - President debunked a range of “false narratives” that were being pedaled by nay-sayers concerning the AFHP , noting : “ They [ APNU+AFC] killed that The lies they told about Amaila Falls.”

Specially addressing the untruth that the cost of electricity would have doubled, the Vice-President explained that it would be the opposite and the electricity costs would be slashed in half

“In fact, at that time, the cost of electricity was 30 cents per kilowatt hour We are going to buy power at 10 cents per kilowatt hour Our cost of generation was over 20 cents So, it would have cut the prices by half,” he said

Combatting other skeptics who were spewing the rumour that the project would have “dried the river,” Dr Jagdeo said that a reservoir would play a key role in avoiding this

The Vice-President went on to say: “Every country in the world has a reservoir, so in the low season you have water in the reservoir, etc…, and in the peak you would have had

more power but at the lowest period , you would have had more power than what we supply through the whole GPL….”

Dismantling another untruth that Guyana had US$2 billion debt, Dr Jagdeo said that they did not own the Amaila Falls and they were just buying power “

All we had was a contingent liability , where we guarantee the price that GPL will pay the price when they receive the bill There was absolutely no debt to that,” he firmly asserted

BRIGHTER DAYS

Late last year, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali presided over the signing of the US$759 million contract to begin work on the much-anticipated Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project expected to be completed in 2024

This is expected to be one of the largest civil infrastructure projects undertaken in Guyana ’ s history ; it will include a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) Plant and the 300 - megawatt ( MW ) power plant at Wales on the West Bank Demerara

Speaking at this year ’ s CERAWeek energy conference, Dr Jagdeo outlined Guyana’s ambitions to utilise the estimated 17 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of associated gas in the Stabroek Block

“We’re having a different kind of conversation to move to monetize this gas,” Jagdeo said, adding: “They’re [Exxon] doing some studies and we are also getting some external help to do a gas strategy, but we believe that ’ s the next [energy] wave because we believe that Guyana has a huge potential for becoming a gas producer.”

When complete, the GTE project will be a huge leap forward for Guyana, reducing the price of electricity by an estimated 50 per cent and increasing the reliability of the power grid This represents a significant step forward for a nation that has suffered from energy insecurity throughout much of its history and a landmark moment for Guyana ’ s independence from expensive imported fuel

The 2023 national budget allocated G$43.3 billion to advance construction of the plant and associated facilities

The gas project should start lowering household electricity costs by as much as half when it comes online in 2024 or 2025 , although many more improvements will also be required to fully modernise the infrastructure of the electric grid and improve reliability.

Guyana’s economic prospects remain region’s best

–– country on course to record double-digit growth again next year –– ranks among countries that recorded lowest reduction in inflation rate when compared to last year, latest ECLAC report shows

GUYANA ’ S economic growth projections remain far above its counterparts in the Latin American and Caribbean region, the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) has revealed in its latest economic survey, titled: “Financing a sustainable transition: Investment for growth and climate change action”.

Reflecting on the developments that have set Guyana on this course, ECLAC said, in 2020, six investment projects in Guyana were announced, including an oil exploration project by the United States company, ExxonMobil, for US$10 billion

To give an idea of the size of these projects with respect to the country’s economy, in 2021 , Guyana had a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$6.816 billion, and a population of roughly 800,000

Two energy sectors — coal, oil and gas and renewable energy— became more important in 2022, owing to higher global energy prices, and also to the ongoing energy transition efforts

The growth in coal , oil and gas mainly came from large projects announced in Guyana and Mexico , which, together totalled over US$22 billion, and accounted for 93 per cent of the total for

projects in the sector

This significant growth has already led to a surge in employment opportunities and foreign investments, effectively boosting Guyana’s economic prospects

The country is on course to recording real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 25 per cent this year, and maintaining this economic performance in the new year, when it is projected to record economic growth of more than 20 per cent

Also, in June 2023, Guyana was among a total of 26 countries which reported an inflation rate that was lower than at the end of 2022.

“ The largest reductions were recorded in Chile, Costa Rica , Guatemala , Guyana , Honduras, and Trinidad and Tobago, where inflation was down by more than four per-

centage points ,” the report said

Guyana has undergone a remarkable economic transformation , experiencing a threefold increase in the size of its economy since 2020, according to President Dr . Irfaan Ali , during a recent press conference

The news of Guyana ’ s GDP surging from $1.1 trillion in 2020 to an impressive $ 3.1 trillion by the end of 2022, has positioned the nation as the fastest - growing economy in the world

The Head of State had said that the momentous growth can largely be attributed to the successful commencement of oil production at the Lisa Unity Floating , Production , Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, marking a new era of

prosperity for the country

“Guyana’s economy has almost tripled since the end of 2020 , with our nominal GDP moving from 1.1 trillion in 2020 to 3.1 trillion at the end of 2022 Of course, this is largely owing to the startup of oil production at the Lisa Unity FPSO Guyana is now the fastest - growing economy in the world,” the President said

This extraordinary accomplishment , he said , comes in the face of a challenging global crisis that has inflicted human costs , and exposed vulnerabilities in the global food and energy supply

While global inflation peaked at 8.9 per cent last year , and is projected to remain elevated at 6.1 per cent this year , Guyana has emerged as a beacon of economic strength

President Ali further revealed that Guyana is poised to continue its exceptional growth trajectory in the coming years

Guyana’s non-oil growth is estimated to reach an impressive 7.9 per cent this year , building upon the remarkable 11.5 per cent growth achieved in the previous year

The President also underscored the government’s commitment to prudent fiscal management, as evidenced in

the significant reduction of Guyana’s debt-to-GDP ratio

By the end of 2022, the President revealed, the ratio stood at 24.6 per cent, which was demonstrative of the government ’ s responsible handling of the country ’ s financial resources

Guyana is the only country on course to record double - digit growth this year , as well as 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

President Ali highlighted these achievements, stating:

“ In our first budget , more than 200-plus taxes and fees imposed by the APNU+ AFC government were fully removed

The electricity and water subsidies were restored, benefitting over 28,000 pensioners ; we increased old age pension by 61 per cent, restored and increased the

‘ Because We Care ’ cash grant ; and restored the Disciplined Services onemonth tax-free bonus that was previously removed by the APNU + AFC government.”

Private, public-sector investments pivotal to creating holistic healthcare system

–– President Ali says, as Eureka Medical franchise opens new, urgent-care facility

WHILE critical investments are being made to transform public infrastructure in order to improve Guyana’s healthcare delivery, private sector collaborations will position the country to achieve a holistic healthcare system.

This is the belief of President , Dr Irfaan Ali , who, on Friday, joined the management of the privately owned Eureka Medical Laboratories to commission its new urgent care facility in Georgetown

The Head of State , during his remarks at the opening ceremony , said that Guyana has the potential to craft a healthcare system that will be resilient and second to none in the

region

He said: “To do this, it requires the integration of all our healthcare services. It requires the public sector and the private sector to work in a seamless way to facilitate each other’s development and to ensure at the end of the day, quality of care and quality of service matters the most.”

While lauding the investors, the President urged them to pursue further investments in other areas within Guyana ’ s health sector “I do not see the investment in healthcare by all the stakeholders in Guyana as competition, I see it as part of a holistic infrastructure that supports the vision of the country and that vision

is to build a healthcare system that is second to none,”

Dr Ali said

The government has embarked on a programme to examine the economy and competitiveness within the country ’ s healthcare sector

According to the President, the programme will also examine the special services offered to the populace, such as testing, diagnostics , treatment and services that are outsourced.

“ We have significant quality in human resources and quality in infrastructure in this country When you look at the gains, we have made in healthcare delivery it is tremendous as to what we have achieved in a very, very short time,” he

contended

However , Dr Ali reiterated that private sector investments will play a key role in the country’s achievement of its targets to improve healthcare locally

“The government is on an extensive expansion of healthcare facilities across the country, and we do not see that in any way conflicting with investments in the private sector because there are niches that no public health can offer … and if we are to build a national healthcare infrastructure that will be export earning oriented, then we have to get all of these facilities firing on all their cylinders delivering at an optimum level,” Dr Ali said Eureka Medical Labo-

ratories was established in Guyana on March 5, 1995 by Mr William Andrew Boyle, a microbiologist and Dr Karen Gordon-Boyle, a medical doctor

The franchise has since blossomed into one of Guyana’s premiere medical institutions securing a sizable laboratory market share with operations in Georgetown ( main office ), New Amsterdam , Rose Hall , Parika, Charity, Anna Regina, Linden and Bartica.

While offering some insights into the new facility, Mr Boyle said that patrons can expect exceptional service

“I promise you the best service ever We’re here to give you the kind of service that’s not only internation-

ally recognised but a service that you’ll be proud to say you’re Guyanese,” he said

The facility, Mr. Boyle said, is a complete package that will offer effective and efferent service

“Urgent Care Services will enhance the medical care in Guyana This is exactly what we have here Eureka urgent care and pharmacy is a one-stop shop , which is linked to hospitals,” he said

The facility offers comprehensive sexually transmitted infections ( STI ) testing , HPV testing, testing for bacterial contaminants and many others while providing faster services to patients with non-life-threatening medical needs.

President Dr Irfaan Ali

‘Guyana Together’ campaign launched

–– to promote tolerance, acceptance of LGBTQ persons

THE Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) Guyana, along with several partners, on Wednesday launched the “ Guyana Together ” campaign , which aims to encourage tolerance and acceptance of the country’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) population.

The campaign was launched at the Guyana Marriott Hotel in Kingston , in collaboration with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), the Black Entrepre-

neurs Association ( BEA ), and the Guyana Press Association (GPA), with over 60 other local civil society and private sector organisations endorsing it

According to the Managing Director of SASOD, Joel Simpson, the campaign is a grassroots public education campaign which aims to increase acceptance and respect for LGBT+ persons in a measurable way, over a specific period

While he noted that the first phase of this campaign would go on for about two years, he revealed that work

on developing the campaign began in April 2021 To support this, Simpson highlighted that a lot of communication research, including a poll which was released last year, was done to get a feel of where the country is in terms of acceptance “ We already had some baseline data because the first national poll on issues related to LGBT people was done in 2013, so nine years later it was a good time to come back and check to see where we were,” he said

Added to this, he highlighted that findings from the most recent poll showed an increase in acceptance from 19 per cent in 2013 to 34.5 per cent and overall, it was found that acceptance and tolerance had increased to 74.5 per cent while hatred

reduced from 25 per cent to 12 per cent

He added that with that, they were also able to get a sense of where people stood on the legislative issues and found that some 54 per cent of the people polled support decriminalising intimacy between consenting men in private

A significant majority of the population, he remarked as well believe that LGBT+ issues should be a priority for the government

To this end, he said that this campaign is where their aggressive lobbying for law reform needed to start However, for this to happen, there must be an increase in social acceptance and subsequently, legislators will follow

Meanwhile , public relations consultant for the

campaign, Nazima Raghubir, told the gathering that the campaign is geared towards inviting Guyanese to join the national conversation to learn more about the LGBT community and what it means to treat everyone with respect

“ While this campaign will uplift the experience of gay and ‘trans’ people, we will focus equally on the growing number of allies in Guyana who are breaking the silence by speaking up and calling on our fellow Guyanese to respect our gay and ‘trans’ friends and loved ones,” she said

Beginning this week , Guyana Together will launch a national television advertising campaign bringing powerful stories of LGBT persons, thus sparking conversations

Against this backdrop , Simpson remarked that it took some time to find good

stories of acceptance and resilience from persons who were willing to go public

“All the stories that you see are real people , still living in Guyana, no hidden faces, no fake names or anything of the sort . So, these are people’s real lives they’re sharing with the entire nation and these stories are going on national television on social media and eventually too on radio,” he added

SASOD Managing Director Joel Simpson

NAREI hydroponics project could start mid-October

MINISTER of Agriculture , Zulfikar Mustapha , on Thursday , evaluated the ongoing infrastructural works on the much-anticipated hydroponics project, which is being integrated into the current shade house project at the National Agricultural and Extension Institute (NAREI), Mon Repos, East Coast of Demerara.

The project is being executed by the Israeli Company, KARLICO Inc The systems are being developed for the cultivation of high-value crops including fresh herbs, lettuce, and other green vegetables

Minister Mustapha told the Department of Public Information ( DPI ) that the high-value crops that will be cultivated in the hydroponics system will be exported

As part of the project ’ s first phase , a 2,000 - square - metre , cutting-edge system will be set up by the company The system comprises a cold room, packaging space, harvesting tools, irrigation controllers,

fertiliser mixers , a water recycling system, and emergency water storage

“According to the manager here, he said that, mid-Oc-

tober, they should have plants in these 2,000 square metres There will be lots of hydroponics techniques that will be used here to produce leafy

vegetables They will export out of Guyana in the Caribbean and North America mostly,” Minister Mustapha underlined

The project will use a three-phase hydroponics production system based on nutrient film techniques and soilless production systems, with an estimated cost of US$15.750 million

Minister Mustapha noted that last October, the government was in discussion with several investors from Israel who had expressed interest in developing a large-scale hydroponics project

“ This came about from the last Agri-Investment Forum and Expo we would have had last year This was one of the companies that indicated that they would come and invest in this country,” the minister disclosed

Back in December 2022, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked between the government and the Israeli Company, KARLICO Inc . for the development of the major project. (DPI)

New GTT Fibre customers could cut internet bills

–– after company announces new initiative

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company ( GTT ) has announced its latest offer to Fibre ready areas, the “three months free plus free installation ” initiative which offers customers the opportunity to save up to $ 65,000 on their internet bills.

According to a press release from the company, this campaign demonstrates GTT’s commitment to providing affordable and high-quality connectivity to its valued customers

This offer provides new customers with the incredible benefit of receiving the third, sixth, and ninth months of their GTT Fi-

$675M set aside for new concrete roads at Matarkai

RESIDENTS of communities within the Matarkai sub-district, Region One are poised to benefit from the construction of concrete roads which are expected to be completed by the end of 2023, with an investment of approximately $675 million.

Speaking at the recently commissioned $244 million concrete road in Matthews Ridge, Minister

bre subscription free of charge

To qualify, customers simply need to sign up for GTT Fibre, and once installed , ensure timely and full payment of their previous month’s bill.

“ This straightforward process makes enjoying the benefits of GTT Fibre easier than ever ,” GTT said Chief Operating Officer of Home Solutions and Fixed Networks at GTT, Eshwar Thakurdin, expressed his enthusiasm, saying: “At GTT, we understand the importance of reliable and affordable connectivity, especially in today’s digital age After achieving a national mile-

stone of seamless access to over 150,000 homes and businesses in June 2023, this campaign exemplifies our dedication to our customers , providing them with significant savings and a seamless internet experience We are proud to offer this exceptional opportunity to Guyana.”

“GTT Fibre has earned a reputation for being Guyana’s largest and most reliable network, delivering lightning-fast internet speeds and unmatched service quality,” GTT said

To take access the company’s new offer and start saving , customers can visit https://gtt gy/Fibre369 and enter promo code 369.

of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, stated that these roads will encompass areas such as Port Kaituma and Matthews Ridge

He highlighted that infrastructure improvements will be undertaken on the access road leading to the newly constructed wharf at Oronoque in Port Kaituma

“Throughout the region [Region One] every sub-region will benefit from concrete roads under the hinterland road programme,” the minister said

He further reminded the residents of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s commitment at the recently concluded National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference to allocate resources for the continuation of roads in the hinterland

Minister Croal reaffirmed the government ’ s dedication to ensuring critical infrastructure is in place in the hinterland, which will improve the lives of the citizens

“That is where the resources are going that we get from the oil revenue We want to ensure your lives are improved,” he reiterated

This year, under the Ministry of Public Works, some $5 billion was allocated for the construction and rehabilitation of hinterland roads in Regions One, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine, and 10

Another $1.4 billion was earmarked for the completion and rehabilitation of airstrips at Eteringbang , Karisparu , Ekereku , Paruima , Imbaimadai, and Matthews Ridge.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal recently commissioned a new road in Matthews Ridge, Region One

Inside of the hydroponics project at Mon Repos

Ongoing works on the hydroponics project

Chief Operating Officer of Home Solutions and Fixed Networks at GTT, Eshwar Thakurdin

Guyana’s Economic Resurgence

GUYANA, the jewel of South America, is undoubtedly on a transformative journey toward economic prosperity and reduced unemployment

A recent report by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) titled, “Regional Overview: Global and Regional Economies at a Crossroads” paints a picture of a nation poised for greatness

The cornerstone of this resurgence is the flourishing oil and gas sector, which has become a driving force behind Guyana’s economic development As the report highlights, unemployment rates have steadily declined, from 15.6 percent in the first quarter of 2021 to 12.4 per cent in 2022, with a promising projection of 11 per cent for men and 14.4 per cent for women in 2023 , according to the International Labour Organization (ILO).

This decline in unemployment is no accident The government has embarked on a determined mission to target unem-

ployment through swift initiatives like the part-time jobs initiative Their commitment to creating 50,000 jobs by 2025, as outlined in their manifesto, demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing this critical issue

Moreover , Guyana ’ s investment in skill development is proving to be a game - changer The implementation of Board of Industrial Training (BIT) programmes and the provision of over 20,000 scholarships have significantly enhanced the employability of the Guyanese workforce, opening doors to a brighter future

In addition to the oil and gas sector, Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is poised for a remarkable growth spurt of 37.2 percent in 2023 with the arrival of a third Floating, Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessel The diversification of resources is a clear governmental priority, with substantial investments in non-oil and sustainable sectors, including

agriculture The non-oil economy grew by an impressive 11.5 per cent in 2022 and is set to increase by 7.9 per cent in 2023

Agriculture, services, and construction have been the driving forces behind this growth, boasting increases of 11.9 per cent, 9.0 per cent, and 26.3 per cent in 2022, respectively These sectors are projected to maintain their positive trajectory in 2023, with expected growth rates of 7.2 per cent, 5.6 per cent, and 17 per cent, respectively

Guyana’s energy landscape is equally promising, with the arrival of the third FPSO vessel, Prosperity This vessel is expected to significantly boost daily oil production, reaching nearly 600,000 barrels a day in 2024. This will substantially augment Guyana’s annual revenue, opening new possibilities for development and prosperity

While the IDB ’ s report is laudable , it’s crucial to acknowledge the skepticism voiced by Dr Bharrat Jagdeo , General

Secretary of the People ’ s Progressive Party Dr Jagdeo believes the unemployment rates reported by the IDB are conservative and may not fully account for the challenges faced during the previous administration’s tenure It’s vital that these concerns are taken seriously and addressed comprehensively to ensure a more accurate assessment of the situation

In conclusion, Guyana is undoubtedly experiencing an economic renaissance , with unemployment rates decreasing and promising growth in various sectors This transformation is a testament to the government’s dedication to improving the lives of its citizens However, it’s essential to remain vigilant, consider all perspectives, and work collectively to achieve the nation’s full potential Guyana ’ s future is indeed bright , and its journey towards development is a source of optimism and inspiration for us all.

One thing you can’t get away from is the track-record of the PNC

Dear Editor,

At yesterday’s PPP/C press conference, General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, in response to a mischievous editorial in the media, boldly stated that “the one thing you can’t get away from is the track record of the PNC.”

That basic track record , and I add the most predictable thing about the PNC-APNU, is rigging elections As Jagdeo said, “One million editorials cannot change that fact.”

While rigged elections are the most egregious of APNU behaviour , other kinds of conduct must never be forgotten Chief among these is that during its 28 years of authoritarianism, the PNC made this country not only bankrupt, but also made us the object of derision throughout the Caribbean and the wider world National bankruptcy is not just words Those who had to endure it, meaning the entire population except for the family and friends of the PNC top brass, starved day and night for years.

Note that in 1980, our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) stood at US$600 million

which then shrunk steadily from thereon to US$374 million in 1992 Effectively, in 12 years under the PNC, our GDP shrunk by US$226 million or by 38% The total public debt in 1985 stood at $8.6 billion with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 438% Guyana was the only country in the world that had a lower per capita income at the end of the 1980s compared to the end of the decade!

Economic data alone, however, cannot fully capture what the PNC (now head of APNU) did to this country All food imports had to pass through government agencies staffed by PNC comrades Imagine for groceries you had to go to a place called Knowledge Sharing Institutes (KSI’s), most of them located in PNCdominated localities

With a PNC card, you were able to uplift your full shop list Without a PNC card, you got a quarter pint of cooking oil, one pound of flour, one onion, and two “flegs” of garlic Foreign missions had to come into to Guyana to share out milk and biscuits to starving school children

Under the PNC dictatorship, no one who did not have a PNC party card

could get a proper government job or get promoted Those who were non - PNC comrades in the public service were usually deported to places far away from their homes and families Teachers who spoke up against authoritarianism were deported to remote places in the interior, were denied leave, and instead of being promoted, were very often demoted

I know some young people who did not have a PNC card but who had six, seven, and eight GCE, or even A’ Levels, who had to cut cane or who had to become “smut hunters and cleaners.” Instead of working with chalk or pen, they worked with a bucket of soap water and a toothbrush.

Except for technical subjects , the University of Guyana was completely taken over by PNC and WPA activists Those friendly to the PNC and WPA were immediately imported from abroad when they graduated Others, even though not political in any way, had their application summarily rejected, or completely ignored, with no reply offered

These days , the APNU has a new master trope. It is race, race, and more

race Everything is race, ranging from the defence of an “altar boy” motorcycle thief to the new PSA If it rains Vincent Alexander could magically reduce that to race! If a vendor’s black pudding spoils, David Hinds in Arizona can link that to what happened in 1730.

If there is too much salt on your French Fries, Norton is quite capable of connecting that to racial oppression If a man stumps his toe, Nigel Westmaas can explain that in terms of the historical dynamics of race and class

You might not believe it, but the culture of rigging elections by the APNU (with slavish assistance from the AFC) is explained and defended on the grounds of race In that narrative, it is suggested that rigged elections are justifiable because of “historical reasons.”

If that were a defensible position, most of the world would be rigging! In closing, I can say that the one thing the APNU does not want you to do, is to examine their track record.

Sincerely, Dr Randolph Persaud

Editor Navendra Seoraj

These people say they are impeccably clean

IN my Thursday offering, I quoted the following words from a foreign based organisation named Oil and Gas Governance Network (OGGN): “All of OGGN’s directors’ work on a pro bono basis for the benefit of all Guyanese.”

One is so annoyed at that statement that harsh and condemnatory adjectives should be used in rejecting this claim of “benefit of all Guyanese.”

I am going to cite Professor Clive Thomas to rebut the second part of that emanation from OGGN The so-called directors in this group signed a letter published in the November 17, 2020 edition of the Stabroek News demanding that the government get out of the fossil fuel industry

Apart from the OGGN founders , the signatures also included the two sisters from the Veira family – Vanda and Danuta Radzig; co-owner of the Stabroek News, Isabelle DeCaires; Dr Nigel Westmaas, among others

I quote from that infamous missive: “We are deeply concerned that the government’s policy to pursue economic development based on oil and gas is bad for Guyana Oil and gas production are an existential threat to Guyana

“We cannot support government’s policy to produce oil and gas In light of the above we call for a national moratorium on all petroleum operations in Guyana – offshore and onshore and an immediate transition to 100 per cent renewable energy system with net zero emissions.”

You don’t have to go to high school to understand these words An industry that can be a life changer for Guyana should be

immediately scrapped And who are asking for this cessation? Don’t take my word for it, go and read the signatures

They are people who have lived comfortable lives in developed countries that became developed because of the fossil fuel industry and whose economy is based on gargantuan consumption of oil These countries have huge military industries for fighting war and those sectors drink oil

Enter Professor Clive Thomas Almost all of the people in OGGN and those who signed that November 17 letter and those in the anti-oil lobby are anti-government, so is the professor. But he differs fundamentally on the importance of oil to Guyana’s future In an interview with David Hinds he used these two words to describe his rejection of the call for Guyana to quit oil production – “crass inhumanity.”

Thomas , as an economist , studying Guyana for the past 50 years, pointed out to Hinds the importance of the oil income to the alleviation of poverty He went on to point out that, finally, Guyana will be on its way to a future of greatly reduced poverty

How does one square Thomas ’ point with the claim by an anti-oil group named OGGN that it is working for the benefit of all Guyanese? How can one strive to bring a good life to Guyanese when they don’t want the oil industry and Thomas is saying that the oil economy is the gateway to removing poverty?

Let ’ s examine the politics of OGGN more closely. Two statements force one to conclude that OGGN is either a hypocritical body or a comical outfit The first statement

is taken from the July 29 post on its website, it goes like this: “OGGN has no political association.”

For an organisation that has no political association, it is always on the same wavelength with people who hate the government It appears that the only people in the world that has not heard about the following saying are the people in OGGN – “show me your company, I’ll tell you who you are.”

For a group that has no political association, it certainly pushes its mouth into anti-government intrigue OGGN put its name to a letter in the Stabroek News of August 3, 2023 expressing no confidence in the cybercrime unit of the police force And who are the other names attached?

The usual suspects of course - people that condemn the government every fortnight in the letter pages of the newspapers These are

the people that have not used one word to condemn the election rigging of 2020 These are the people that want the state to drop 20 murder indictments against a young girl who allegedly set a fire to a dormitory and to substitute an arson charge instead

And why was there no confidence in the police ? Because the cybercrime unit has failed to respond to a gargantuan comicality in which a group named Red Thread said a businessman and his son paid someone $10 million to hurt Red Thread

These people in OGGN who cannot understand a simple political act designed to get publicity want to lecture Guyanese on the intricacies of EXXON’s oil contract. The second statement is in the newspapers of July 28 in which OGGN described by one of its directors as people that are impeccably clean. Clean in what?

15 per cent increase in air traffic seen at CJIA in 2023

FOR the year 2023 so far, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) has seen an increase of 15 per cent in passengers travelling into Guyana when compared to last year’s statistics.

This is according to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CJIA, Ramesh Ghir, who related that it has been a good year for the airport, in terms of travelling numbers.

“So, to date, we have about 60,000 more passengers and based on the bookings and the projection, we are going to finish the year with close to maybe 70,000 or 80,000 more passengers than last year which is 15 per cent higher,” he explained.

CEO Ghir said that the increase is due to the economic activities and events now being hosted by Guyana.

Additionally, the Airport

is currently undergoing construction to facilitate a stateof-the-art commercial centre designed to further enhance the travel experience of passengers. This is part of the government’s comprehensive approach to transforming the airport in alignment with the country’s recently elevated

stature.

Works on the modern commercial centre are 50 per cent complete with a March 2024 deadline.

Ghir, in a recent interview, told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the upgrade was in line with providing passengers with a first-class experience.

“Passengers usually dwell at the airport for long periods of time and so they look forward to these concessions and services, which are available at the airport as part of their airport experience. It is a custom that is currently experienced at airports worldwide and forms part of the passenger expectation.

“The duty-free shops, restaurants/bars, kids’ play area and other amenities are what contribute to an enjoyable and convenient way to spend time at the airport for the passengers. We believe that by offering passengers an expanded and convenient location to shop, dine, and relax during and before their flights, we can create a more positive and memorable airport experience. This is in line with our commitment to providing a world-class service to our passengers,”

he explained.

The facility will house 15 concessions including currency-exchange facilities, a restaurant and bar, food concessions, duty-free shops, kids’ play area, and ATMs. It will also include business,

VIP, and executive lounges, as well as a presidential suite and a state-of-the-art conference room.

Additionally, the CEO noted that the upgrade will create new avenues for major investments.

Guyanese better off under PPP/C Gov't

Dr. Jagdeo says

By Trina Williams

POURING cold water on

claims that the People ’ s Progressive Party / Civic (PPP/C) government has

excluded Afro-Guyanese from the country ’ s developmental agenda, PPP General Secretary , Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, enlightened the public on the brighter days under the current administration

During a press conference at Freedom House on Thursday , Dr Jagdeo challenged the untruths in a letter written by Opposition - nominated Commissioner of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Vincent Alexander

In the letter, Alexander claimed that the PPP / C Government refused to involve the representatives of 40 per cent of the electorate in decision-making processes.

While addressing this claim, Dr Jagdeo said that Alexander’s logic implied that failure to engage the opposition means that the PPP / C Government does not care for Afro-Guyanese

“ Now , clearly , if you look at this , you will see a pattern of behaviour and

this is to justify an engagement where President Ali must meet with the PNC or the opposition because somehow if he doesn’t meet with the opposition , Afro-Guyanese interests cannot be accommodated in this government, which is false narrative,” the PPP General Secretary said

Highlighting the double standards in the letter, Dr Jagdeo went through a list of actions done by the former A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government and how it affected the lives of thousands of Guyanese, including Africans

Reflecting on how the APNU + AFC government neglected the sugar industry and made enormous decisions without consulting anyone, Dr Jagdeo posed the question as to whether his party while in Opposition or even the sugar workers were consulted when the government decided to shut down a number of estates and terminate thousands of employees

While citing whether Afro-Guyanese had a voice in the massive closure of the estates , he said : “ No The decision was made by a small group called the Cabinet at State House this is APNU,” adding that the people of Guyana had no say in that decision

“ Was the Opposition [PPP] consulted?” he asked, adding that they weren ’ t engaged even when APNU imposed hundreds of taxes on the backs of Guyanese

After listing just a few of the measures taken, Dr

Jagdeo said that when a political party is appointed to serve Guyana, the sole role is to work on the interests of the people

The PPP General Secretary went on to say: “Now, APNU did not work in the interest of 90 per cent of Guyana...,” adding that the remaining 10 per cent comprised of the rich and those who profited from questionable implementations

Dr Jagdeo said that the current voices that try to taint the name of the PPP are those same persons who substantially profited under the APNU+AFC regime.

Addressing the favouritism that occurred under the previous administration, he related: “They can’t get the sweet of government anymore, but people of every race were affected.”

Dr Jagdeo then referenced Alexander and indicated that at that time, he was not being proactive as he is now

He further called out Alexander who is the Chairman of the International Decade of People of African Descent – Guyana ( IDPAD - G ), for allegedly excluding other Afro-Guyanese

“If you see the Rastafarian community, they say they were excluded cause they didn ’ t want to campaign for the 2020 elections,” Dr. Jagdeo related

More employment opportunities, house lot allocations , assistance for children are now on the horizons for Afro - Guyanese, he said, unlike what obtained under the APNU+AFC rule.

PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo (Delano Williams Photo)

Cricket carnival kicks off with ‘Welcome Vibes’ at CJIA

CRICKET Carnival 2023 events, on Friday, kicked off with its first event of many, ‘Welcome Vibes’ at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), where passengers were greeted with music, snacks and drinks as they got off the elevator at the airport.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond and teams from the Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) were on the scene welcoming tourists and Guyanese returning home.

“So plans are going really well. We are working to ensure that the events run smoothly and that they are safe. We know that this time of the year, last year we had record breaking arrivals and participation in these events…so we wish to repeat that record this year,” she noted.

Minister Walrond thanked the staff of the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce for pulling the first event together. She also thanked the staff of the CJIA for their support.

Mohamed related her excitement to go to the events scheduled for the period, and said that she expects them to be even better this year.

Jasmattee Dalloo, said that she was not aware of the Cricket Carnival events; however, for the time that she is here, she will go to events that she is able to go to.

“I am trying to see as much as I can get to see beautiful Guyana; whatever I can make myself available for I will go to,” she related.

Minister Walrond said that the event was part of the diversification of Guyana’s tourism product where the country will host sports events and other kinds of cultural events.

“This entire cricket carnival season will highlight fashion, Guyanese art, food and the music that is an integral part of the Guyanese culture,” she said.

Minister Walrond noted that they are working to ensure the various events are executed smoothly and safely.

The Guyana Chronicle spoke to a few passengers on the flight who said that they are excited for this year’s Cricket Carnival events.

Bibi Mohamed, travelling with her husband and daughter said that she expects the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) to win this year.

“I watched the cricket last year, I have hope in GAW this year. So far our boys are doing well, so I expect them to give us the winning trophy this year,” she said.

Dalloo is travelling with her family to surprise her sister for her 60th birthday. She has not celebrated with for over 30 years.

She is happy to be back in Guyana, to explore and experience the ongoing development within the country.

Events being coordinated by the Tourism Ministry also include the One Guyana Concert, two chutney events, Pan on the Avenue, the Regional Food Festival and the Carnival Road Parade.

Bibi Mohamed, with her husband and daughter (Delano Williams photo)

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, at the CJIA, welcoming passengers (Delano Williams photo)

Jasmattee Dalloo and her family (Delano Williams photo)

Women account for 43.7 per cent of house lot allocations

Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) awaiting allocation.

WOMEN have accounted for 43.7 per cent of house lot allocations since the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) was elected into office in 2020

According to a post made on Facebook by the Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, a total of 11,373 women have been allocated lands.

In August, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, revealed that in a span of three years, more than 40 new housing areas were established, including several other initiatives that were developed through partnerships with international organisations.

The minister made these remarks as members of the National Assembly debated the motion to increase Guy-

ana’s debt ceilings.

He said while the PPP/C promised to deliver 50,000 house lots over their first term in office, nothing about the construction of homes was mentioned in the manifesto.

However, Croal told the National Assembly that recognising the need to fast-track homeownership and the necessity, the government also made construction a priority of the PPP/C government.

“To date, in under three years, 2,154 houses [are] under construction, of which close to 1,000 are now complete and have been handed over to new beneficiaries, new homeowners who have that opportunity to start a new life in a new environment,” Croal said.

As the Housing ministry continues its initiatives to further ensure it meets its goal of allocating 50,000 lots by 2025, the recently concluded International Building Expo saw about 2000 house lots being distributed

Additionally, in July, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, while conducting a walkthrough in the new West Central Mall in Leonora, announced that some 7,000

house lots were being developed in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), as part of the PPP/C government’s drive to provide 50,000 house lots to Guyanese by the year 2025.

The development of lands in the region will help to address the backlog of 14,000 applications for Region Three, currently sitting in the database of the Housing Ministry’s Central

“In this NDC [Stewartville/Cornelia Ida] alone, we are talking about the development in this area here alone, about 1,500 acres of land; 1,500 acres of land would give us here and there, 7,000 new house lots,” President Ali had said during a prior engagement.

The infrastructure costs, on average, to develop 1,500 acres of land is close to $10 billion, the Head of State said, “…and this is not 10 years from now. These are projects that are in the immediate pipeline, projects that have already started,” Dr Ali said.

He added: “In the medium term, if you have an occupancy of 50 per cent in five to seven years, then convert 3,500 [50 per cent of 7,000] by an average

of $7 million and you will see the volume of transaction[s] that we’re talking about just in this locality.”

Under the government’s turn-key initiative, some 200 housing units are expected to be constructed in Anna Catherina and Meten-Meer-Zorg, targetting low and moderate-income earners.

Further, under the Inter-American Development (IDB) funded Adequate Housing and Urban Accessibility Programme, 25 core homes have been constructed for vulnerable families in Lust -en-Rust, Onderneeming, La Parfaite Harmonie, Recht-Door-Zee and Westminster.

Those new developments, President Ali said, will be complemented by a $52 billion (US$260 million) new Demerara Harbour Bridge.

Guyana’s thrust to enhance energy reliability, efficiency a strategic imperative

–– Prime Minister Phillips says; points to other areas of sustainability and overall economic development

By Cindy Parkinson

AT an Energy Mixer held under the theme “ Delivering the Energy Benefits: The Transmission and Distribution System,” the Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier ( Ret ’ d ), Mark Phillips , responsible for Guyana’s energy sector, explained the government ’ s plan to upgrade its electricity infrastructure, while addressing members of the American Chamber of Commerce of Guyana and other stakeholders during his presentation at the Guyana Marriott Hotel

The Prime Minister explained that significant investments and initiatives, both in the short and long term, were underway as part of the Government’s broader efforts to bring Guyana into the 21st century

To achieve this, he said platforms, like the event, “ are essential for stakeholders in the industry, as we work to understand the role we all play in building a sustainable and prosperous energy future for all”.

According to him , in light of the government’s broader measures to bring Guyana into the twenty-first century, there are considerable short - and long-term investments and activities that are currently in progress

He added that , in order to ensure that plans , including investments, become reality, more events, like the Energy Mixer , are “essential for industry stakeholders, as we work to understand the role we play in building a sustainable and prosperous energy future for all.”

While the Prime Minister believes that a country ’ s ability to flourish depends on its energy industry, he also stated that “ it is the bedrock upon which our economic prosperity, social progress, and wellbeing of our people depend.”

The Prime Minister also pointed out that Guy-

ana Power and Light (GPL) has significantly improved since the People’s Progressive Party Civic government took office in 2020

He explained, “GPL has since undertaken extensive work on its transmission and distribution system and launched various initiatives to enhance its overall functionality and efficiency , addressing the historical problems of inadequate maintenance and frequent disruptions.”

He also pointed out that , by moving Guyana to the next level of development , there needs to be an energy mix, which, according to him, will give “Guyana thrust to enhance energy reliability, efficiency, sustainability, and overall economic development; this is a strategic imperative.”

gave a detailed explanation of the medium - to longterm goals , such as the Gas to Energy Project, a $1.8 billion initiative that aims to provide 300 MW of power by the end of 2024 and help address the energy crisis He further stated that there are three critical components to this sizable project: “first, laying a pipeline that will bring gas ashore; second, building a power plant; and third, rebuilding the transmission and distribution system.”

Upgrading the current transmission network was also highlighted by him as crucial for the effective completion of the largescale projects

Prime Minister Mark Phillips also spoke about Guyana ’ s commitment to adopting a low-carbon strategy, saying that “over the short , medium , and

long term , we will , as a government, fund numerous projects aimed at greater utilisation of clean and green energy more solar, more wind, more hydro.”

According to him , “ it will contribute to cleaner and greener energy use across the nation within the next decade.”

Finally, the Prime Minister stated that, in order to create 500 MW of power, Guyana plans to adopt an energy mix that is made

up of sustainable energy sources by 2030 By doing this, the rising demand for electricity would be met while maintaining environmental responsibility

He also assured Guyanese that the government will keep on working with Guyana Power and Light (GPL) to bring sustainable energy not just to households but also to the industrial and commercial sectors throughout

Guyana

Brigadier Mark Phillips

The Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), Mark Phillips addresses attendees at the Energy Mixer event on Thursday evening at the Guyana Marriott Hotel

Over 6,000 businesses positioned to access opportunities in O&G sector ––

By Cindy Parkinson

THE Centre for Local Business Development launched an updated “Supplier Registration Portal” on the new “Centre Hub” to assist the country’s broader economic development due to Guyana’s fast-growing economy.

The Centre for Local Business Development is Guyana’s go-to source for

information on the oil and gas industry, local business development, professional networking, and policy advocacy. The Centre Hub currently has over 6,000 businesses registered with it, with two-thirds of those being local Guyanese businesses.

During her presentation on Thursday, the Director of the Centre for Local Business Development, Dr. Na-

tasha Gaskin-Peters, said, “Today, we stand proud to be unveiling the Centre Hub, Guyana’s largest online business directory, which will continue to support the development of local content and local suppliers in the country. As a Centre, we continue to work towards inclusive economic growth and business support. The Centre Hub, with its updated features, will continue to

after registering with ‘Centre Hub’

local businesses through group discussions and received their feedback on the portal. In addition to those discussions, she also said, “meetings were also held with ExonMobil, the prime contractors, government ministries, the diplomatic communities, and the business associations. Based on these engagements, the portal was updated with new features.”

Guyanese companies and the entire private sector here in Guyana.”

Given the significant growth that is expected in Guyana, Dr. Peters said that the launch of the Hub is definitely a necessary tool for business owners.

The Director of the Centre for Local Business Development, Dr. Natasha Gaskin-Peters, during the launch of Centre Hub (Delano Williams photo)

She also stated that “the Centre Hub, or as some may say, the Hub, is no longer the Supplier Registration Portal since we want to focus more on the business aspect of this portal. So, the human innovative features of the

According to Dr. Gaskin-Peters, “when the Centre launched the Supplier Registration Portal back in 2017, it was the first electronic business directory in Guyana. The aim of this portal was to ensure that suppliers had access to updated procurement opportunities in the oil and gas sector. Today, the Centre Supplier Registration Portal is the premier platform seek-

help us along the journey.”

Over the past year and a half, the director said that the Centre engaged with several

Hub will continue to bring added benefits to companies, especially our local

ing contracts, partners, and purchasing goods not only in the oil and gas sector but in many other sectors, such as the mining and agriculture sectors.”

She further added that, since the Supplier Registration Portal was launched in 2017, it has been addressing the rising needs of Guyanese firms by providing training and mentorship for expansion. According to her, the company has boosted regional competitiveness and promoted inclusive economic growth.

Additionally, Dr. Gaskin-Peters said that the Centre’s integrated approach helps Guyanese businesses benefit from offshore oil and gas opportunities as well as business expansion while maximising skills transfer and technology development.

The Centre is funded under the Greater Guyana Initiative by the Stabroek Block partners: ExxonMobil Guyana, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited, and CNOOC Petroleum Limited Guyana.

Audience consisting of members from the private sector, ExxonMobil Guyana, Hess Guyana, CNOOC Petroleum Limited Guyana, contractors, and other officials  (Delano Williams photo)

Courts unveils mega plans for 30th anniversary in Guyana

THE Unicomer Group’s retail and home store Courts is commemorating 30 years in Guyana, with official celebrations set to begin this month.

Opened in 1993, Courts has become the staple brand in affordable home furnishing. This month’s festivities focus on celebrating its customers and employees for 30 years of support.

During the month, customers will experience super savings and deals on

all things “Home” at the “Courts Home Event.”

At Courts, September is also the month in which the selection of the winner of “Operation Home Transformation” the national home makeover competition, will occur. This competition has received over 150 entries from across the country and the team at Courts is currently in the evaluation stages to select a winner.

The winner will receive a room transformation by

Courts worth an impressive $750,000 or more. The lucky person will be chosen next week, and the transformation will be revealed at the “Customer Appreciation Event” scheduled for September 22nd at the Courts Mega Store on Main Street. The day-long event will be ‘littered’ with the usual prizes, surprises and fantastic deals for customers that shop at the Mega Store or any Courts branch on that day.

Courts Guyana, through

its parent company the Unicomer Group, has achieved tremendous success in the retail business and is the leading provider of furniture and appliances in most of the markets in which they operate.

Sub-Regional Managing Director of Guyana and the Dutch Caribbean, Mr. Vincent Gordon shared, “the Courts brand has long been a household name in Latin America and the Caribbean. It is intrinsically linked to not only the provision of high-quality products, but it is also lauded for its commitment to the communities in which the stores operate. In Guyana, we continue to build on this pledge as we pride ourselves in being a good corporate citizen. This can be seen in our investment in numerous projects in the areas of sports, education, culture, and heritage. Additionally, our annual events like the Courts Christmas Light Up, which is just

around the corner, and our Courts Optical Brighter View programme are but a fraction of the programmes we support that enhance the lives of our customers and staff alike.”

For the last 30 years Courts has been associated with quality and affordability and the company pledges to continue to bring quality products at an affordable price, and always guarantee the quality through after-sales service and support.

The Unicomer Group operates in 26 countries from its headquarters in El Salvador, and has over 15,000 employees. The company offers its customers the widest and most modern line of products and financial services across the countries of operation.

The retail brands of Unicomer include Courts, Courts Optical, Ready Cash, Ashley Furniture Home store, RadioShack, Lucky Dollar and Servitech.

Courts staff reviewing entries for “Operation Home Transformation” as they get ready to pick a winner

ENGLISH RACING

10:30 hrs

11:05 hrs

AMERICAN RACING

GULFSTREAM Race 1 Heaven In Mind

Race 2 Saint No More Race 3 Trotting Gear Race 4 Chapalu Race 5 R Harper Rose

Race 6 Black Belt Barbie

Race 7 Marilyn Race 8 Bentornato

CANADIAN RACING TIPS

WOODBINE Race 1 Speedy Johny Race 2 Quiet Intent Race 3 Alicia's Kid Race 4 Rosebud's Hope Race 5 Hockry Race 6 Blueberry Fields

Race 7 Luxuriate Race 8 Rock Emperor

Remembering Heath Streak, Zimbabwean sporting hero

By Mark Nicolas

He was a magnificent cricketer who battled hard on the field and refused to play the political gam

AT the start of the 1995 English summer, my last in first-class cricket after 18 years

worked the family farm. Denis, his father, briefly served time in prison for raging against Robert Mugabe's land-reclaim initiative that took much of the Streak farm, a magnificent place in Matabeleland about 50 miles from Bulawayo. His mother, Shona, stayed calm and

a war.

Of course, it was the war at home that did for him. Made captain of Zimbabwe, he refused to play the political game. Specifically and publicly, Streak objected to the quota system that demanded at least five black players in the national team. His refusal to toe the line cost him his job. Upon the announcement of his sacking (the board's explanation was that he had resigned), 13 white players stood down from the Zimbabwe team. Streak later returned to the side, albeit briefly, before retiring at 31 years of age.

In 65 Tests he took more than 200 wickets, bowling out England at Lord's and Pakistan in Harare. In one-day cricket he scored 2000 runs and took 200 wickets - remarkable.

Between 2000 and 2004, Heath Streak led Zimbabwe to 22 wins in 89 international matches •

Alexander Joe/AFP

with Hampshire, we were engaged in a pre-season "friendly" with Sussex. Stationed at cover-point was our newly recruited overseas player: thickset and strong, with a deceptive turn of speed, and the most wonderful eye for the ball.

The Sussex opening batter cut hard to an area just behind point for what appeared to be a certain boundary off the first ball of the match. The fielder, who was naturally right-handed, threw himself to his left just as a goalkeeper might, and the ball smacked into the palm of his left hand. In one movement he rolled his body 180 degrees, sprung upright like a big cat threatened, and with the ball now cleverly transferred to his right hand, he took aim. The throw was wizard, flat and screaming, and hit one stump flush with the sound of perfect contact echoing around the small and empty ground. It was a breathtaking moment.

That man was Heath Streak. It was with the heaviest heart that I read earlier this week of his passing aged just 49. I knew little of the cancer or of his new life but I knew him well back then and did not meet a better man. Modest and quietly spoken, his simple life as farmer, hunter and cricketer had become a complex one of leadership, politics and punishment. He kept sanity through wonderful parents, an extraordinary wife and lively children. He lost some battles but the hardest for any of those loved ones to take was the last one.

I first met him as a boy who played cricket in the bush with the kids whose parents

strong through the traumatic experiences of those bewildering days, and somehow the Streaks managed, with about a tenth of what they once had, to keep a few cattle and make a turn from a small safari park.

On my various cricket tours and holidays to Zimbabwe, their hospitality knew no boundary. In 1990 with an England A team that included the likes of Michael Atherton and Graham Thorpe, we stayed a couple of nights to ride horses, swim, play tennis and barbecue. Denis was a good enough seam bowler to have played for Zimbabwe himself, and on one balmy afternoon, we set up stumps and took guard against a couple of Streaks, each of whom made us think and, occasionally, even duck and weave. As the sun set, beer was drunk and the fire burned, and we told stories in the evening shadows and laughed until the stars in the sky laughed with us.

Streak junior was a magnificent cricketer, all power, wit and will. Hampshire lost the first three Championship games of the 1995 season, and while reviewing the roles of every player in the team, I urged Heath to drop the modesty and get us winning a few matches. He did, and how! We went on a splendid run, climbing the Championship table to near dizzying heights before settling on the right place for our talent pool at the time, somewhere around mid-table. He bowled a heavy ball fast-medium, swung it late and never gave an inch.

He smashed it long but was rarely in for long enough to fully justify that keen eye. He fielded as if he were fighting

Having taken over the captaincy of the weakest team in international cricket in 2000, he led them successfully, winning four in 21 Tests and 18 of 65 ODIs. "Our talisman who single-handedly won many games for us," wrote Henry Olonga, the Zimbabwe seam bowler, in his autobiography.

Distressingly, Streak became embroiled in controversy when found to have taken bitcoin for information provided to a potential corruptor. He emphatically denied match-fixing. Having played with him and come to understand the character and beliefs that drove him forward, such an act would seem impossible.

In essence, he made a mistake and fell foul of the ICC's anti-corruption code. From it came an unfairly long eightyear ban, but even that could not wither his desire to return to coaching when it was over.

Perhaps the cancer within came from the stress of an always challenging life played out mainly against the odds.

It is heartbreaking to think of what Heath had been through and how early he has gone. Cricket can wrap its arms around you or spit you out on the sidewalk of life.

I cannot help but think of Denis and Shona, Nadine and the kids, these fabulous people and their loss. They know best that this was a man who gave everything to every moment of his time on earth and that Zimbabwean sport, cricket in general we can say, owes him a great debt.

For Denis, at least, there is the tiniest consolation. In 1995-96, he and Heath played a first-class match for Matabeleland together. Not many a father and son can say that. Right now, we can only say goodbye to our African friend and wish him peace at last and for evermore. (Cricinfo)

Bumrah rejoins Indian team

ACC announces reserve day for Pakistan clash

JASPRIT Bumrah has rejoined the Indian team after a brief hiatus from Asia Cup duties, in view of the birth of his first child.

He arrived in Colombo early on Friday, just in time for India's first Super 4 match against Pakistan on Sunday. His arriv -

al coincides with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) announcing a reserve day for the upcoming crucial match.

Due to the persistent

inclement weather in Colombo, the ACC has rightly decided to designate a reserve day for Sunday's fixture.

In case the weather affects the game on the scheduled day, it will continue on Monday from where it left off. It's worth noting that there are no reserve days allocated for the other Super 4 matches due to back-to-back games, but the final will have a reserve day in case of rain.

Bumrah had left Sri Lanka immediately after India's initial game against Pakistan on September 2, causing him to miss the second league match against Nepal on September 4. However, his return aligns perfectly with the team's first Super 4 contest.

On Friday evening, Bumrah was scheduled to join the team for a practice session at the R Premadasa Stadium. Anticipating inclement weather, the Indian team may have to practise indoors, as they did on Thursday, unless the weather improves later in the evening, which has been the re-

cent trend. Fortunately, there has been no rain in Colombo since Friday morning (at the time of publishing), raising hopes for a productive evening practice session.

The weather outlook for the upcoming week is not very promising, with Colombo expected to receive heavy rainfall, including a 90 per cent chance of rain on Sunday. This explains the ACC's decision to arrange a reserve day for such a crucial match. The India-Pakistan league game, it may be recalled, had to be abandoned due to rain.

On Saturday, during Sri Lanka's second

Super 4 game against Bangladesh, there is an 85 per cent chance of precipitation. The weather is set to play a significant role as the championship enters its critical phase. Following the game against Pakistan on Sunday, India will face Sri Lanka on September 12, and Bangladesh three days later, on September 15. The sole remaining Super 4 match will be between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on September 14, leading up to the final on September 17. All these matches will take place at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

SCHEDULE OF THE COLOMBO LEG:

September 9: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh

September 10: Pakistan vs India

September 11: Reserve Day

September 12: India vs Sri Lanka

September 14: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka

September 15: India vs Bangladesh

September 17: Final

September 18: Reserve Day (Cricbuzz)

Jasprit Bumrah

US Open 2023 results… Coco Gauff beats Karolina Muchova

- Aryna Sabalenka edges past Madison Keys

By Jonathan Jurejko

AMERICAN teenager Coco

Gauff reached her first US Open singles final by beating Karolina Muchova in a semi-final disrupted by climate protesters.

Gauff, 19, wrapped up a 6-4 7-5 win over Muchova, and will face second seed Aryna Sabalenka in today’s final.

Four protesters chanting for the end of fossil fuels had interrupted the Gauff-Muchova match for 49 minutes.

One man glued his feet to the floor on the Arthur Ashe Stadium with some chants of "kick them out" towards the protesters.

Security escorted three out, but it took longer to the remove the fourth. The United States Tennis Association said all four were in New York Police Department custody.

The drama was confined

hard-court season.

“Some of those points, it was so loud, I don't know if my ears will be OK. Please be louder; this is crazy,” Gauff told the crowd in her on-court interview.

“I grew up watching this tournament; it feels so special. But the job is not done.”

WITHIN TOUCHING DISTANCE OF DESTINY

Ever since Gauff burst on to the scene as a 15-year-old phenomenon in 2019, she has been heralded as a future major champion.

Now she has earned another opportunity to reach the pinnacle of her sport while still a teenager, after a gutsy win over Muchova at Flushing Meadows.

Gauff, who turned 19 in March, is the youngest American woman to reach her home Grand Slam final since Serena

wearing Extinction Rebellion T-shirts, glued themselves to the floor.

“I just treated it like a rain delay,” Gauff told ESPN.

“The only thing which was harder was that we had to leave the court, and didn't know if it would be five minutes or an hour."

After the protesters were finally removed by police, the players resumed the match nearly 50 minutes after the previous point.

The pair continued to hold serve in the second set, until what had slowly developed into a gripping contest suddenly burst further into life.

Gauff broke for 5-4 but, like in the first set, could not serve out, and needed to show all of her will to get over the line.

With most of the focus on Gauff, Sabalenka had been quietly and efficiently getting on with business.

The 25-year-old, who will become the new World Number One after the tournament, had not dropped a set on her way to the last four, but had to find a different way to win against Keys.

Keys, who was the runner-up in 2017, showed her pin-point quality from the baseline, and hit an array of winners in a one-sided opening set.

ing to the first-to-10 match tie-break.

Sabalenka thought she had won at 7-3, like she would in a normal tie-break, and had to regain focus to reach the US Open final for the first time.

“Somehow, I don't know how, I turned around this match, and it really means a lot to be in the US Open final for the first time," she said.

(BBC Sport)

to the tennis court in the second semi-final, where Australian Open champion Sabalenka dug deep to beat Madison Keys 0-6 7-6 (7-1) 7-6 (10-5), and prevent an all-American showpiece in New York.

It will be sixth seed Gauff's second attempt to win a Grand Slam singles final after finishing runner-up to Poland's Iga Swiatek at the 2022 French Open.

Gauff could not convert a match point when serving at 5-4, but broke Czech 10th seed Muchova to seal victory, after winning a 40-shot rally to create the sixth opportunity.

Gauff raised her fist after clinching the win, signalling her defiance and fight, as the home crowd erupted.

After letting out another roar of celebration, she made a heart sign to the fans as a thank you for helping her get over the line.

Ultimately, the way Gauff finally secured victory was testament to her own resolve, and a mental fortitude which she says has developed over a successful North American

Williams in 1999.

It comes after she has enjoyed the best period of her career on the North American hard-court swing.

Winning her biggest singles titles in Washington and Cincinnati was the perfect preparation for the US Open, and she has continued to thrive in front of expectant home crowds in New York.

Gauff made a fast start against a tight-looking Muchova, who was aiming to reach her second major singles final, after also being beaten by Swiatek at the French Open this year.

A slew of mistakes from Muchova contributed heavily to a 5-1 deficit, and once she settled, which enabled her to pose questions of Gauff's forehand, fought back to 5-4.

However, a poor service game from the Czech gifted the opening set to Gauff, and the drama of the protest came shortly afterwards.

The players were taken off court after the first game of the second set, because one of the protesters, who were

By contrast, Sabalenka was spraying the ball, and produced a series of unforced errors to benefit her opponent.

Sabalenka had won only one of her previous six Grand Slam semi-finals, including defeats when she held leads at this year's French Open and Wimbledon.

Flinging a racquet towards her team early in the second set illustrated her frustration, and her body language throughout indicated her stress levels.

But she showed extraordinary determination to fight back and earn what must be one of the most satisfying wins of her career.

Keys served for the match at 5-4 in the second set, but she was broken to love as Sabalenka won 12 points in a row to turn the tide.

Although Keys regained composure to save two set points at 6-5, Sabalenka dominated the tie-break to force the decider.

The pair battled for supremacy in a tense third set, exchanging breaks in the seventh and eighth games, lead-

Coco Gauff is bidding for the first major singles title of her career

Aryna Sabalenka fought back from a break down in the second and third sets against Keys

Thompson-Herah confirms form, Jackson flirts with WR

BRUSSELS, (CMC)

– Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah returned to form with a season-best 10.84 seconds to win the 100 metres at the 47th Allianz Memorial Van Damme here Friday, as World champion and fellow Jamaica Shericka Jackson clocked a meet record to win the 200m.

The 31-year-old Thompson-Herah, whose form caused her to miss out on the Budapest World Championships last month, got to the line first ahead of countrywoman Natasha Morrison who clocked a season-best 10.05.

Great Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith finished third in 10.97.

“It was a tough season but I’m glad that I’m back in my sprinting form,” said Thompson-Herah.

“A couple of nights ago I ran 10.92 in Bellinzona and I’m happy to improve that result tonight.

“I feel healthy and in tonight’s race I was able to keep swinging and punching until the finish line. With the shape that I’m in I hope to get a good result next week as well.”

Jackson, meanwhile, who repeated as 200m champion in Budapest, stormed to a time of 21.48 to comfortably beat Bahamian Anthonique Strachan, who clocked 22.31, into second.

American Jenna Prand-

ini finished third in 22.47.

Chasing the elusive World record of 21.34 set by legendary late American Florence Griffith-Joyner, Jackson missed out in another dominant performance, but set a new Diamond League record and the fourth-fastest time ever.

“Running here today was very good. I am very happy with my race,” Jackson said afterwards.

“For me personally it is just to show up and especially in front of such an amazing crowd. You just have to put in your best and that’s what I did today.

“It felt really good tonight. I definitely feel like I´m getting there, closer to that record. But it’s also

important to have some fun and I really had fun tonight.

“It’s amazing to run against such a strong field and everyone did good tonight but for me personally, it’s important to have fun.

“And you know the crowd was just really loud and supportive and I really love that. It helps with the sprinting and I’m really enjoying the sprinting.”

Another Jamaica Rusheen McDonald tasted success on Friday when he captured the men’s 400 metres in 44.84 seconds while countrywoman Shanieka Ricketts won the women’s triple jump with a leap of 15.01 metres.

The Jamaican pair of Janieve Russell (53.80)

Superb Johnson hundred makes WI U19s safe

DAMBULLA, Sri Lanka, (CMC) – Jordan Johnson struck his second hundred of the series, as West Indies Under-19s forced a draw with Sri Lanka Under-19s on the final day of the opening Youth Test here Friday.

Unbeaten overnight on 54, the left-hander carved out a splendid 149, which helped the Caribbean side post 309, all out, in response to the hosts’ 432 for eight, declared at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.

The knock followed up his 105 in the second Youth One-Day International, just over a week ago at the same venue.

The 18-year-old Johnson faced 207 deliveries, striking 11 fours, and a brace of sixes.

Batting a second time, Sri Lanka Under-19s finished on 122 for four, with Ravishan Nethsara

lashing a breezy 50.

With West Indies U19s starting the day on 119 for three, still 313 runs in arrears, the visi-

123 runs.

The Jamaican first extended his fourth wicket stand with fellow Jamaican Steve Wedderburn

France make perfect start in quest for a first Ruby World Cup title

Once Johnson was seventh out, West Indies Under-19s lost their last four wickets for 22 runs, as off-spinner Vihas Thewmika claimed six for 78, while left-arm spinner Vishwa Lahiru finished with three for 61.

West Indies U19s then struck early, when fast bowler Isai Thorne had Captain Sineth Jayawardene caught at the wicket without scoring off the third ball of the innings, with a run on the board.

France made the perfect start on their quest for a first Rugby World Cup title as they beat three-time champions New Zealand to delight the Stade de France in Paris.

The hosts had to fight deep into the final quarter as tries from New Zealand wing Mark Telea inside the opening minutes of both halves threatened to wreck the opening-day party.

Ultimately, though, Thomas Ramos' relentless boot and a well-worked try from Damian Penaud edged them clear of the enterprising, if fading All Blacks.

A 73rd-minute penalty from Ramos finally put France out of seven-point range on the scoreboard and the home fans could celebrate in comfort as their players hunted for a crowning try.

They found it with three minutes left as Melvyn Jaminet gathered fellow replacement Maxime Lucu's teasing chip.

France will continue their Pool A campaign on Thursday against Uruguay before meetings with Namibia and Italy.

tors were still under pressure to produce a strong batting performance, in order to avoid any late hiccups.

However, Johnson rose to the occasion, once again, with a superb innings which ensured West Indies limited their first innings deficit to

(41) to 110, before putting on another 96 for the seventh wicket with Nathan Edward (36).

Wedderburn faced 104 deliveries, and counted two fours and a six in a patient knock, while Edward struck four fours in an 83-ball knock.

Nethsara then held the innings together, posting 38 for the second wicket, with opener Pulindu Perera (13), before Sharujan Shanmuganathan (26 not out), and Dinura Kalupahana (22 not out), added a further 41 in an unbroken fifth-wicket stand.

The second “Test” gets underway on September 12 at the same venue.

Victories in all three would guarantee them top spot and a last-eight meeting with the runners-up from Pool B, which contains Ireland, South Africa and Scotland.

New Zealand, who had won all 31 of their previous pool-stage game at World Cups, will know from painful experience that all is not lost.

Four years ago, at Japan 2019, they beat South Africa in the pick of the pool-stage matches, only to watch the Springboks become the first team to lose their opening game and go on to lift the William Webb Ellis Trophy.

France's players stayed out and and soaked up the atmosphere of blaring Euro-disco and late summer heat after the final whistle.

In seven weeks it will be autumn, but the stage will be the same. The result and, perhaps more importantly the resolve, will harden belief that this golden generation could be the one to finally lift the silverware that has escaped them in three previous finals.(BBC Sport)

and Rushell Clayton (54.10) rounded out the podium in the women’s 400m hurdles.

World 200m champion Shericka Jackson

Left-hander Jordan Johnson hits through the off-side during his hundred against Sri Lanka Under-19s on Friday (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

By Ged Scott & Mike TaylorBBC Sport

WARAWICKSHIRE's latest recruit, Kraigg Brathwaite says county cricket is still "important", and would encourage any player to come and play in England.

The West Indies Test captain made his Bears debut against Surrey last Sunday, little over 12 hours after flying in from the Caribbean.

It is his fifth short stint in county cricket, and he says all the spells have been a key part of his "learning".

“I have no Test cricket until January, so it came at a good time,” Brathwaite said.

“But I would always encourage our players to go and play cricket anywhere,” he told BBC Radio WM. “It is all part of the learning.

“Guys can play in the Championship and go though all the different processes; failure, success. That's how you learn.

“Playing against Surrey

and other good county teams is important to get in that frame. County cricket; any four-day cricket, it gives you the balance.

“Franchises are good, because it enables the guys to make a living.

“But, for the guys who aren't in the franchises, it's important you get any cricket you can. And any cricket in England is always challenging.

“You always learn playing any game, and [it's] always good playing first-class cricket.”

Although they have five T20s and three one-day internationals against England in December, West Indies does not play another Test again until January, when they face Australia at Adelaide and Brisbane, before switching back to white-ball action for three more T20s and three ODIs.

“We've not got a great lot of Test cricket,” said Brathwaite. “We don't have another Test until we play

Australia.

“They're the Number One in the world, so we've got to be ready.”

FIFTH TIME IN COUNTY CRICKET

Warwickshire is the fifth side Brathwaite has played for in the County Championship.

He had two games with Yorkshire in September 2017, four for Nottinghamshire in August and September 2018, three for Glamorgan in September 2019, and six games for Gloucestershire in April and May 2021.

Such was his enthusiasm to return to England, he even gave up the chance of playing cricket back home in the Caribbean.

“I had a tour to be on for Barbados; a select team to Bermuda,” he said.

“I had to cancel that, which was a shame, as I had a young team I was looking forward to leading.”

It meant a hurried arrival, and a less than happy outcome.

Warwickshire is the fifth English county Kraigg Brathwaite has represented

After Warwickshire won the toss and put Surrey in to bat, Brathwaite spent the first day fielding, as the reigning champions piled up nearly 400 runs.

He then had little over an hour's batting out in the middle over the next two days, as he made scores of 16 and 9 in the Bears' second successive defeat, and their biggest of the season, by an innings and 97 runs.

Now he will have had to knuckle down for a bit of net practice to prepare for the Bears' final three games against two of the bottom three clubs, Northamptonshire at home, starting on

Sunday, Middlesex at Lord's, and the final home game against Somerset.

Warwickshire should be safe from relegation, 49 points clear of danger, but they are hopelessly out of form after three successive batting collapses, are injury-hit, and will be missing Sam Hain for the last two matches following his callup by England for ODI duty. But Brathwaite will be ready. And prepared. He is also not using last week's rushed start to his Bears career as an excuse.

“I arrived only on Saturday evening,” he said. “But I was in a good space; I'd had

some rest. It's not like it's something I'm not used to, given all the travelling we do in cricket.

“For me, I keep it simple; I'm all about routines and sticking to that. That does not change for me here in county cricket.

“Four-day cricket, like Test cricket, is all mental. Having your mind in the right space is always important.

“The aim is always to score a hundred, and most of the time you don't, but it's always about keeping a strong mind, and thinking you will.”

T&T, Panama, Guatemala off to winning start in League A

TRINIDAD & Tobago,

Panama, and Guatemala all emerged with home victories to kick-start League

A of the 2023-24 Concacaf Nations League on Thursday.

The day started with Trinidad and Tobago edging Curaçao 1-0 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain.

Curaçao created majority of the scoring chances in the first half, but, overall, the finishing of the two sides was off target, leaving things scoreless going into intermission.

Trinidad and Tobago started to take control in the second half, creeping closer to goal, including a Reon Moore shot that flashed just wide in the 74th minute.

The decisive score came in the 87th, and it was from 19-year-old debutant, Nathaniel James, who took a nodded down-header from Ryan Telfer, and cranked a shot into net for his first Soca Warriors goal.

There was still work to do, though, to secure the three points, and goalkeeper Denzil Smith made sure of it, making a one-on-one save against Curaçao’s Jearl Margaritha in the 90th to nail down the win.

Panama started with a 3-0 win over Martinique, at the Estadio Universidad Latina in Penonome.

It was an ideal start for the Canaleros, as Jose Fajardo made it 1-0 in the 9th when he finished off an inch-perfect pass from 2023

Gold Cup Best Player Award winner, Adalberto Carrasquilla.

Panama remained on the front foot, but would have to wait until the early stages of the second half to extend their advantage to 2-0. Ismael Diaz struck in the 47th, thanks to a cross from the

right wing from Eduardo Guerrero, allowing Diaz to nod home a header.

Martinique looked to pull a goal back, and almost did so in the 86th, when a superb back-heeled pass set up Mickael Biron with a golden opportunity, but the shot-stopping ability of Panama's goalkeeper, Cesar

Samudio proved pivotal.

Cecilio Waterman then put the finishing touch on the Panama win with a strike in the final seconds of stoppage time.

Rounding out the day was an all-Central American contest between Guatemala and El Salvador at the Estadio Doroteo Guamuch Flores in Guatemala City, Guatemala, where the home side secured a 2-0 triumph.

It was all Guatemala at the start, and after Nathaniel Mendez fired over the crossbar in the 7th, Carlos Mejia opened the scoring in the 15th, by heading in a chip from Alejandro Galindo, making it 1-0 to Guatemala.

Mendez was then clipped in the El Salvador area in the 28th, leading to a penalty for

the hosts, but Rubio Rubin’s effort was swallowed up by El Salvador's custodian Tomas Romero.

The spot-kick save sparked the El Salvador attack, and they nearly evened things up when Amando Moreno went just wide in 44th with an effort.

Guatemala reasserted their authority to start the second half, and Mejia was a whisker away from a second, but was unable to connect on a cross, with the goal gaping wide open for him.

Guatemala kept pressing, and the big insurance goal came in the 78th on a hammered left-footed shot from substitute Pedro Altan, doubling the lead, and wrapping up the three points. (Sportsmax)

Panama in action against Martinique

Kraigg Brathwaite: Warwickshire and West Indies batter says county cricket still ‘important’

Demerara Cricket Club are inaugural champions

THE curtains fell on the first Republic Bank Guyana Limited (RBL)-sponsored Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Under-23 inter-club national championship on Friday at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) Ground on Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, where Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) defeated Essequibo by a huge 124 runs to clinch the inaugural title.

Essequibo, which was represented by a combination of players due to their lack of active clubs, won the toss, and sent DCC in to bat. DCC took up the challenge, and amassed

274 runs for 9. Openers Sachin Singh, and eventual man-of-the-match Brandon Jaikaran posted 68 for the first wicket, before Singh was dismissed for 42 (43), that included three 4s and three 6s.

Rajendra Ramballi took three wickets for 48 runs from 10 overs for Essequibo, while Natron Gill took two wickets for 33 runs from five overs.

In reply, Essequibo managed a meagre 153-7 from their 50 overs. Carl Gilgeous top-scored with 43 runs, while Quincy Sampson was the next best contributor with 31 runs.

Bowling for DCC,

Ezeikel Wilson took three wickets for 28 runs from his 10 overs, while skipper Beaton, who failed with the bat, chipped in with the ball capturing two wickets for a miserly 13 runs from his 10 overs.

Following the win, coach Darien Best noted, “It’s a surreal feeling to win this inaugural competition, and I am so proud of the guys. As I have been preaching all season, everyone has been chipping in and stepping up when needed. Major kudos to the team!” (Calvin Chapman)

Omar Khan appointed as Lady Jags Head Coach

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has announced the appointment of Guyana-born Omar Khan as the new Head Coach of Guyana’s Women’s National Football Team, the Lady Jags.

Khan, who is a UEFA ‘A’ Licence holder, brings to the job a wealth of experience, having worked with

several clubs in the Netherlands, his most recent appointment being Head Coach of RKSV Spartaan Football Club. He is also a qualified Sports/Performance Psychologist.

The 49-year-old Khan was born in Guyana, but migrated to the Netherlands when he was four. He has coached several recognised European pro-

fessional players, including Georginio Wijnaldum and Memphis Depay.

A release from the GFF quotes Khan as saying, “I am very excited to return to my roots after so many years, and I look forward to continuing the positive developments of the staff and players.

“After good discussions with the GFF, I

am happy with the opportunity and the confidence for this job.”

Wayne Forde, President of the GFF, was also quoted saying, “We are happy to welcome Coach Khan to our team; he brings tremendous experience to the role, and I am confident that he will achieve the established targets for the team, and the women's game in Guyana. I

would like to wish him every success in his new role, and assure him of our complete support.”

Khan will be in arriving in Guyana very soon to take up his appointment as Lady Jags prepares for the upcoming Road to CONCACAF Women's Gold Cup 2023.

GCB Cricket Operations Manager (ag) Anthony D’Andrade (right) is seen presenting the championship trophy to DCC captain Nikosi Beaton

New ‘Lady Jags’ Head Coach Omar Khan