Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 16-02-2023

No. 106996

$35B for development of Amerindian, hinterland communities

- further $4.7B from carbon credit sale to be transferred to villages from next week

AMERINDIAN and hinterland communities will see accelerated development as the government plans to invest $35 billion in 2023, for infrastructural improvements as well as programmes that will improve the

well-being of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples.

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo made the disclosure while engaging Amerindian leaders on Wednesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

The massive provision is supplemented by the $4.7 billion (US$22 million) earned from the sale of a percentage of Guyana’s carbon credits to Hess Corporation.

“If you look at our budget expenditure

on health, on education, on roads in the hinterland, it’s going to be about $35 billion,” Jagdeo related to over 200 Amerindian leaders who were present at the engagement.

Syria, Türkiye get US$100,000 from Guyana

‘Clean sheet’ in O&G offers immense opportunities for innovation

Twelve wanted for Acts of Terrorism

- stemming from June 2022 unrest at Mon Repos market

their

The 44th Regular Meeting of Heads of Government of CARICOM was opened with firm messages of unification and the need for co-operation in key development areas from Secretary-General of the bloc, Dr. Carla Barnett; the outgoing Chairman of CARICOM, President of Suriname Chandrikapersad Santokhi; incoming Chairperson, Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Phillip Davis, and other distinguished speakers.

Guyana lobbies UNFCCC to create carbon credit compliance market

By Tamica Garnett

WITH 70 per cent of its carbon credits still to be sold, Guyana is pushing negotiations with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to create room for a compliance market for carbon credits, as the country continues to levy the benefits of its vast forested area.

This was according to Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, on Wednesday, in his update on Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strat-

egy (LCDS), which focuses on monetizing the role that Guyana’s forest plays in making the country a carbon sink.

After gaining US$220 million from its 2009 agreement with Norway to avoid deforestation, and selling 30 per cent of its jurisdictional carbon credits last year to Hess Corporation for at least US$750 million, Jagdeo said the next step is a robust compliance market.

“If we can have a compliance market then the price [for carbon credits] would escalate. We got really good

prices at US$15 per tonne of carbon credits for the 2016 to 2020. It would be US$20 for 2021 to 2025, and $25 between 2026 and 2030. Those are good prices compared to what is in the voluntary markets now. But it has the potential to go to as much as US$80 to US$90 per tonne,” the Vice President highlighted.

Guyana has more than 18 million hectares of forests, storing an estimated 20 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. For the past two years, Guyana has been working with the architecture

for REDD+ transactions to certify its carbon credits.

Last year, the Architecture for REDD+ Transactions (ART) issued REDD+ Environmental Excellence Standard (TREES) credits to Guyana, marking the first time a country has been issued carbon credits specifically designed for the voluntary and compliant carbon markets for successfully preventing forest loss and degradation – a process known as jurisdictional REDD+.

“We are the only jurisdictional scale country certifica-

TURN TO PAGE 4

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

$35B for development of Amerindian, hinterland communities

AMERINDIAN and hinterland communities will see accelerated development as the government plans to invest $35 billion in 2023, for infrastructural improvements as well as programmes

engagement.

The Vice President said a total of $8 billion will be expended to upgrade hinterland roadways. Also, 32 bridges are being constructed from Kurupukari to Lethem, which will im-

aside by the government after Amerindian leaders compiled a list of needs for their communities at the 2022 National Toshaos’ Council Conference.

“We want to make sure every community

working on since we got into office,” he underscored.

To this end, 157 tractors and trailers have been distributed to various communities; 23 will be delivered during the next few months.

Meanwhile, Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 made another major step-forward on Wednesday, when the process to transfer revenues from carbon credits sales to indigenous villages and local communities began.

A total of $4.7 billion will be transferred to over 200 villages and communities for investment in village priorities, as outlined in Village Plans put together by villages themselves.

2023.

A total of G$4.7 billion (15 per cent of US$150 million) was allocated for transfer to villages and communities. This number may increase as other agreements for the sale of the remainder of Guyana’s credits are concluded.

Ensuring a fair and equitable way to share these revenues across villages and communities was the topic of conversations between the National Toshaos’ Council and the government. Those discussions addressed considerations to achieve fairness across several factors were examined including size, tenure type, and population.

proved priorities via a vote of majority of those present at the village meetings.

VILLAGE PLANS AND OUTLINE PLANS

Now that the benefit sharing mechanism has started implementation, and money is being transferred to village bank accounts as they are being set up, villages and community can opt in based on their village plans.

that will improve the well-being of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples.

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo made the disclosure while engaging Amerindian leaders on Wednesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

The massive provision is supplemented by the $4.7 billion (US$22 million) earned from the sale of a percentage of Guyana’s carbon credits to Hess Corporation.

“If you look at our budget expenditure on health, on education, on roads in the hinterland, it’s going to be about $35 billion,” Jagdeo related to over 200 Amerindian leaders who were present at the

prove accessibility for residents plying that route.

“We’re putting in concrete bridges so that trucks can run in any season,” he explained.

Over 30,000 solar panels are expected to be delivered by the end of the year, benefitting all communities.

“That would be an important task, a promise that we made, but because of the delivery schedule, it’s coming from India, it’s taking some time to get here,” the Vice President said.

Discussions were also held with leaders to identify priority projects that were catered for in the $3 billion supplementary budget that was passed in 2022.

The money was set

get something from the $3 billion that’s there. That is separate from this money we are talking about today,” the Vice President said.

Jagdeo said the interests and affairs of Amerindians were neglected by the past APNU+AFC administration, as 2,000 Community Service Officers (CSOs) were left unemployed and work on the Amerindian Land Titling (ATL) project was stagnant.

Upon assumption to office, the PPP/C Government reinstated the CSO programme and rehired 2,500 persons and immediately began work on the land titling project.

“Even things that we did not put in our manifesto, we have been

This is the next step in a process of benefitsharing that was put together throughout the seven-month national consultation on the LCDS 2030.

As set out in the LCDS 2030 (Chapter Two), revenues from the sale of carbon credits will be invested through a combination of (i) national and multi-community projects and programmes; (ii) a dedicated 15 per cent of all revenues for investment in village plans, put together through village-led processes as set out in the LCDS 2030 (Chapter Two).

Initial receipts from the one carbon credit agreement completed to date will total US$150 million by the end of 2023 – with US$112.5 million already received and a further US$37.5 million to come in July

As a result of those conversations, a structure of equitable benefits sharing was determined as the best way forward to effectively reflect the development needs of villages with village population being the main determinant.

DEDICATED BANK ACCOUNTS

At Wednesday’s meeting, toshaos started the process of establishing dedicated bank accounts for the receipt of all carbon credit revenues.

Those revenues will become accessible to villages and communities after village-led processes are completed to produce village plans in accordance with the Amerindian Act and the LCDS (Chapter Two).

Access to finance can commence after villagers have met to discuss their priorities and proof is provided that the village has ap-

According to a press release from the Office of the President, as outlined in Chapter Two of the LCDS, Amerindian villages and communities will identify priorities for financing set out in their village plans or outline plans.

This will involve a process open to all adult residents as outlined in the Amerindian Act and in the LCDS 2030, where villages will be able to make their own decisions concerning village plans.

For those communities that already have plans, these can be used for this purpose with immediate priorities identified.

“Village plans are to be endorsed by the Village Council in keeping with the Amerindian Act and submitted to the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs along with the minutes of the Village General Meeting, where the plan was approved for use under the benefits sharing mechanism. The minutes of the meeting should make reference to this intent and commitment,” the Office of the President stated.

Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo engaging Amerindian leaders at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

- further $4.7B from carbon credit sale to be transferred to villages from next week

Over $400M set aside for persons in path of Gas-to-Energy Project

IN excess of $400 million has been set aside to provide compensation for persons living along the path where the gasto-energy project will be constructed.

Head of Guyana’s Gasto-Energy Taskforce, Winston Brassington made the disclosure during day two of the International Energy Conference and Expo, at the Marriott Hotel.

He said some 75 acres of land have been acquired from 65 persons, paving the way for the commencement of the pipeline construction.

From its inception, the government made a commitment to ensure that agreements are made with the residents.

The path that has to be cleared for the pipelines is in the vicinity of Nouvelle Flanders, West Coast Demerara, to Wales, West Bank Demerara.

Meanwhile, Brassington explained that the government will pay ExxonMobil an annual fixed sum of $55 million over a 20-year period from the time the project comes on stream.

The project is intended to supply 50 million cubic feet of gas per day from the Liza Facility to the Wales Development Zone.

“This payment is intended to allow Exxon to recover the expected $1 billion investment over time. So, we are paying for the amortization of the pipeline infrastructure, and not the gas, which is considered free. This $1 billion covers everything that Exxon will spend on the pipeline,” Brassington disclosed.

Therefore, the money includes the cost of laying the pipeline, as well as other endorsing works, such as the upgrading of roads and bridges to improve access to the sites, the establishment of a material offloading facility, site preparations of 100 yards, and contingency works.

“We believe that this $1 billion will be adequate to get this project done, particularly given that almost all the works have already been awarded,” Brassington noted.

Further, to facilitate the viability of the project,

Brassington explained that the country’s transmission network must be improved. This means that Guyana’s current electricity grid will be improved by 300 megawatts coming from Wales.

The gas-to-energy project will entail over 200 km of an offshore pipeline bringing gas from the Liza Destiny and Liza Unity Floating Production fields onshore.

Upon arrival at this West Coast Demerara facility, the pipeline will continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the Natural

Gas Liquid (NGL) plant to be constructed in Wales.

It is expected to have a 25-year lifespan and will bring a plethora of benefits to Guyanese, including job creation, improved electricity access, foreign investment, and energy security.

The 2023 budget allocated some $43.4 billion for the project which is set to significantly lower the cost of electricity, triggering rapid growth in industrial activity, and promoting a smooth transition to renewable energy sources countrywide. (DPI)

Guyana lobbies UNFCCC to create carbon credit...

FROM PAGE 2

tion in the world. Our forest carbon is the highest quality forest carbon in the world, because we’ve had 10 years of robust monitoring reporting, verification systems in place,” Jagdeo related.

He added: “And that is why it has such a great value. We managed to sell 30 per cent of that to Hess for a minimum of US$750 million. Because if the prices move as is traded for the secondary markets, we would be able to share the upside. So, this

is potentially at US$2 billion dollars deal.

“[The remaining] 70 per cent of our credit. We have a number of people who are trying to buy those credits. We are a bit cautious now but soon we will enter the markets further. These credits are CORSIA certified, and CORSIA is a compliance market.”

CORSIA refers to the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, a global scheme to address emissions

from international air travel.

Agreed on in 2016 by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), it obliges airlines to monitor and report their emissions from 2019 and to purchase emission reduction units, such as carbon credits, generated in other sectors, to cover any growth in CO2 emissions above 2020 levels from 2021.

In Guyana, funds garnered from environmental preservation measures such as carbon credits can be used to fund adaptation and mitigation measures to address climate change.

Guyana’s coast is highly affected by rising sea levels caused by global warming. So, the country is in great

need of funding to put in place climate resilient infrastructure.

“The significant amount of funds required for adaptation is over maybe US$2 billion dollars just for flood control and water management, in Guyana’s case, which is our biggest vulnerability. Some of our climate funds will be used for that purpose. Some will come from the oil and gas industry.

“We can’t wait for climate funds or adaptations funds to come through the global mechanism. I think most country in the regions are waiting for that and it will be a long wait a hundred years. We don’t have time for that,” Jagdeo said.

Head of Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy Taskforce, Winston Brassington

‘Clean sheet’ in O&G offers immense opportunities for innovation

- TOTALTEC founder tells local stakeholders, advises that companies must differentiate in order to move beyond Guyana’s borders

By Clestine Juan

FOUNDER of TOTALT-

EC’s Oilfield Services, Lars Mangal, on Wednesday said that the local content legislation is one of the greatest drivers of growth for native businesses, affording them the opportunity to lay the foundation to tap into international markets, access world-class experts, and set their companies up for long-term success.

In his address to participants at the second annual International Energy Conference and Expo at the Marriott Hotel, Mangal said that Guyanese companies must think “big and long term” in their vision and business strategy.

The Local Content Act sets out several areas in which companies are mandated to use the services of local businesses.

It outlines 40 sub-sectors

which would legally require oil companies to procure goods and services as well as employ specific percentages of Guyanese in their day-to-day operations. It also sets out what defines a local company.

According to Mangal, the “energy industry is extremely competitive on multiple levels” and local content is the “driving economic diversity in Guyana,” which is transformative to the business landscape.

He said that such transformation is evidenced by the Guyana Shore Base Incorporated’s (GYSBI) recent commissioning of the US$25 million heavy-lift berths, which will bring more jobs to the sector with the building out of support services and other things.

“I suggest there are many more possibilities for enhanced competitiveness for a new generation of Guyanese

companies on the global stage. Realising those would require strategic support through local content legislation.

“Our situation is unique. Guyana is starting from a clean sheet in developing its oil resource at a time when there is significant pressure to move away from hydrocarbons as an energy source,” he said.

Mangal posited that this “clean sheet” offers unique opportunities for innovation and technology introduction locally, while also developing capacity and gaining experience that could open the door to local companies going international.

“We want these operators and international service companies working around the world, when faced with a new project, to say ‘we have experience with this from working with a Guyanese company, and we want to

bring them into the project,” the TOTALTEC founder said.

He urged attendees to consider the upcoming multimillion-dollar gas-to-energy project at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD), and Guyana’s priority of “low-carbon development,” which they had heard quite a bit about at the conference.

According to Mangal, this will be a “world-leading project” which will efficiently develop power delivered to environmentally responsible end users, with performance metrics never seen before.

On this note, he suggested that Guyanese-owned companies aspire to be successful in the energy industry outside of Guyana.

Mangal added that significant pressures around the world for responsible development while moving away from hydrocarbons, create a unique environment to establish leadership beyond

Guyana’s borders.

“This is where the role of government is critical in crafting local content legislation. Develop, compete, grow locally, but with a vi -

sion to build capacity to expand and compete internationally. Only the best companies who differentiate themselves will move outside of Guyana,” he said.

Founder of TOTALTEC’s Oilfield Services, Lars Mangal

Capable People

The PPP/C administration has been placing much emphasis on Amerindian development.

Amerindians have historically been disadvantaged by both the colonial and PNC administrations, but they remain a proud and resilient people.

Despite the economic hardships, Amerindians remain the largest growing segment of the population and now constitute roughly 10 per cent of the total population.

One of the planned initiatives by the PPP/C administration to advance Amerindian development is the injection of $35 billion this year into various hinterland communities. This is also supplemented by $4.7 billion, which hinterland communities will

receive as part of the government’s commitment to ensure that Amerindian communities benefit from revenues generated by the country’s massive forest resources.

President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has pledged his wholehearted commitment and that of his administration to improving the lives of Amerindians.

In its 2020-2025 manifesto, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has promised to safeguard the rights of Amerindians.

The document expressly states that “emphasis will be placed on infrastructural development in villages, creating job opportunities, improving social services and enhancing the rights of Indigenous Peoples.” Already, sev -

eral initiatives have been executed in keeping with those manifesto promises.

Owing to the government’s work and the most recent projects outlined in Budget 2023, the National Toshaos Council had said that the fiscal plan is a demonstration of the government’s ability to prudently manage our country’s diverse resources, as well as making conscious investments in sectors that will immediately impact our daily lives.

Among the measures, which the NTC highlighted were the impending increase in the education grant to $40,000; improved land tenure security for Indigenous Peoples with the allocation of $500 million for the continuation of the Land Titling project;

completion and furnishing of the NTC Secretariat at a cost of 69.7 million; improvement of hinterland roads to the tune of $5 billion, which will improve access, and the $500 million allocation to construct and equip ICT hubs in Amerindian villages and communities, bridging the digital divide.

The NTC also referenced the $1.4 billion allocation for improving water access through the continued upgrading and extension of water systems; $4.7 billion that will go towards programmes and initiatives that will improve the livelihoods of Indigenous Peoples, and the $91.8 million allocation for the hosting of annual National Toshaos Conference.

All of those interven-

tions and more show the government’s commitment to fulfilling its manifesto promises, while at the same time, bridging the gap between the coast and hinterland.

Now granted more resources as a result of the sale of Guyana’s carbon credits, Amerindian leaders have more means to advance development directly through consultations with villagers and other key stakeholders.

In responding to questions surrounding the government’s intention regarding the utilisation of those funds, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo was firm in his position that Guyana’s indigenous population are smart people who are more than capable of putting together village

plans that cater to their own best interest; however, he acknowledged that the government will be more than willing to provide technical assistance to any village that requests such.

Amerindians and hinterland communities are an integral part of our national development process and even as the country is poised to benefit from higher levels of earnings, thanks to the emerging oil and gas sector, the government is committed to ensuring that such revenues are utilised to upgrade the physical and social infrastructure of communities in all the 10 regions of Guyana, including our hinterland and Amerindian communities.

Prime Minister Phillips committed to enhancing welfare of all

Dear Editor, SINCE assuming office as Prime Minister two and a half years ago, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has since become a remarkable leader in the execution of his duties. He had the choice of following in the footsteps of other Prime Ministers before him, but he did not.

Instead, he carved out his own niche which allowed him to be flexible and at the same time candid with the public.

His transition from being the Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to Prime Minister and to politics was smooth, which leaves little or no doubt in the minds of many of his political and leadership skills.

Brigadier Phillips did not become the Prime Minister by chance or by accident, he was carefully selected by members of the PPP because of his talents as senior military personnel and because of his ability to lead as he had done in the army.

Despite his lack of political experience, many believed that Prime Minister Phillips was the right person for the job, and they were right. But is there a “right” person to be the Prime Minister of Guyana?

The answer is yes, mainly because he is the ideal person with the ideal set of skills necessary to fulfil the role of Prime Minister.

The former Chief of Staff of the GDF possesses a wide range of qualities, an impeccable integrity, a cred-

ible and pragmatic politician and a leader with vision and the ability to compromise.

Cool, calm, and enthusiastic, Brigadier Phillips has surprised many of his sound leadership style, his requisite skills, knowledge and understanding of the role of Prime Minister and the first Vice- President.

In many of his visits to various rural communities, he told the residents that his most important mission as Prime Minister is to work closely with President, Dr Irfaan Ali and the Cabinet to solve their problems, improve their lives, and unite and develop the country.

Since becoming Prime Minister, the former army chief has exhibited all the characteristics of a gifted politician and a leader who

adapts readily and easily to new situations.

He is a keen listener and an extremely good communicator with very strong analytical and negotiation skills.

Self-motivated, original, creative, and judicious, and having an advanced vocabulary, Brigadier Phillips is always concerned with right and wrong, good, and bad. Sociable, and known for his unique and clever responses, he is unwilling to accept authoritarian pronouncements without critical examination.

Not only is he a strong believer in good governance, accountability, and transparency, but he is also an unyielding advocate of an animated opposition that would not criticise for the sake of criticising, but one

that would genuinely highlight tangible problems and articulate sound policies.

Prime Minister Phillips is a firm believer of the government’s commitment to inclusiveness. To this end, he has brought on board persons from other political parties, welcomes criticisms and values and respects those who may disagree with him on positions taken.

Owing to the Prime Minister’s military experience and his superb management style, President Ali has entrusted Prime Minister Phillips with enormous responsibilities such as the leader of Government Business in the National Assembly, the telecommunications sector, the National Data Management Authority (NDMA),

Public Utilities Commission (PUC), and the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC).

The Office of Prime Minister is also responsible for the energy sector which in part includes the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), the Hinterland Electrification Company Inc, (HECI), as well as the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA).

A son of the soil, Phillips is a competent, trusted, and valued member of President Ali’s team who is instrumental in assisting in providing policy direction to advance the welfare and development of all the people of Guyana, regardless of race, ethnicity, or party affiliation.

Yours sincerely, Dr

Asquith Rose

Energy Conference confirms Guyana swimming in oceans of black gold!

ATTENDING Guyana’s 2023 International Energy Conference and Expo is quite an experience for Caribbean journalists from a region where Trinidad & Tobago was, for over five decades, the only major global exporter of oil & gas in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) before the “black gold” was discovered in Guyana’s deep blue waters a decade-or-so ago.

The second annual conference of its kind, this year, attracted over 800 delegates among over 1,200 guests at the conference’s opening on Tuesday – Valentine’s Day on the social calendar—and Trinidad & Tobago’s Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Rowley cut the ribbon to get the ball rolling under the theme: “Harnessing Energy for Development.”

This year’s conference was more Caribbean-oriented than the pre-

vious two, with opening statements by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo of Guyana; St. Vincent & The Grenadines Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves; Suriname President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, Dr. Rowley and ex-Colombian President, Ivan Duque.

Later, representatives of ExxonMobil and Hess Corporation— two of the three major investing O&G companies in the biggest offshore Stabroek Block (6.6 million acres or 26,800 square kilometers large) — provided an update on their plans to produce up to 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd) in four years, plus more welcome news for those who truly believe that Guyana is already a big world player on the global energy platform – and with much, much more to come.

ExxonMobil pledged to ramp-up production

from its current 380,000 bpd to 400,000 bpd and said it’s “on track” to reach the million-bpd target by the end of 2027; Hess CEO, John Hess, said Guyana has a unique opportunity to become a role model for oil-producing and developing countries worldwide, as nations forge ahead with various energy transition and development issues.

One troublesome issue he identified was the International Energy Agency (IEA) regarded as “the dual challenge” of a “structural and energy supply deficit,” as the world “requires approximately 20 per cent more energy by 2050, while also aspiring to get to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.”

Hess explained further that “over the next ten years, the world will have to spend US$500 billion each year to ensure global O&G efforts intensify to meet

demand,” adding: “For the last five years, only between US$300 million and US$400 million was spent,” way short of what’s needed.

But it was the regional content of speeches that most impressed Caribbean journalists, especially the positions taken by Presidents Ali and Santokhi and Prime Ministers Gonsalves and Rowley.

Between them, the four CARICOM leaders— led by PM Rowley and President Santokhi and supported by PM Gonsalves, President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo— painted a future Guyana national landscape of wide and full cooperation between oil and gas and other energy producers, that could see a new global energy coalition in which Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago and Suriname’s natural gas meet the region’s electricity needs for the next 100 years.

Presentations on day one also allowed Guyana’s leadership and top national energy officials to clarify issues they felt were either misunderstood or deliberately misrepresented by political and press critics at home, including: Why the government “has no choice” but to “keep a lopsided PSA” (Production Sharing Agreement) signed with ExxonMobil by the previous APNU+AFC coalition, which it now criticizes in opposition; why Guyana’s green credentials will not be dulled by offshore drilling and extraction; why indigenous communities were being directly paid their share

of a US$750 million carbon sales agreement with Hess; why a gas-to-energy project currently underway is important to reduce citizens’ electricity bills, and why the government felt the local agents for Transparency International (TIGI) “lack credibility” as their annual reports reflected what Jagdeo called “selective transparency,” according to which party was in office.

As is always the case in politically-divided Caribbean societies, press coverage in some cases looked or sounded like the critics and some sections of the local press were singing from the same hymn sheet.

Two of the four daily newspapers concentrated on stories government supporters would find negative, one with no front page news on the first day and the other with a front page story highlighting three protesters with placards demanding “50 per cent royalty” as “our fair share” with “no Exxon robbery!”– and both highlighting a statement from the Guyana Press Association (GPA) accusing conference organisers of an “attempt” to “restrict” the local media from “free access” to “delegates coming from free, open and democratic societies…”.

One also carried a whole-page “BLUNT” (but unattributed) advertisement accusing the Guyana government of being in bed with Exxon to ensure the PSA is not renegotiated – and claiming President Ali “has abandoned Guyanese who trusted

him…”

The other two dailies highlighted what they considered good news from day one: The conference being a showcase for investment opportunities across all sectors; Guyana being touted a Caribbean model for state energy security; how the Natural Gas-to-Energy project “will power economic growth”; Brazil and Suriname being interested in cross-border energy cooperation with Guyana (including using hydro power for electricity); Brazil, India, Kuwait and Qatar showing interest in bidding for the 14 new Guyana oil blocks up for sale; and the ex-Colombia President saying economic and energy transitions will make Guyana a leading Caribbean nation.

Day one of the international energy conference was derided by a perpetual Doubting Thomas in one column in one newspaper as a “Pappy Show,” while the day turned out to be more than expected by those who believe the facts and figures that back the oil companies’ and government’s assurances that Guyana’s oceans of black gold will truly make CARICOM’s largest nation the Oil Dorado, which can be a good example to the rest of the world on how new energy can energise and enrichen a country and its people for near eternity, if done well-enough as being undertaken by Guyana today.

American Airlines to be written over treatment of regional, local leaders

THE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation has expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to the Prime Ministers of St Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago on their departure from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri, on Wednesday February 15, 2023.

A ccording to the ministry, all government protocols were in place to facilitate the departure of the leaders.

Despite American Airlines having been written to prior to the arrival of the Prime Ministers in Guyana, for them to be accorded the courtesies of checkin on departure from

the VIP Lounge, the airline refused to acquiesce to the ministry’s request and insisted that the Prime Ministers leave the lounge to present themselves to the check-in counter.

The Government of Guyana had previously protested this position taken by American Airlines against its own senior government officials, but they have continued to pay scant

‘Deeper’ ports could significantly reduce shipping costs

- Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base Inc. investor says

By Naomi Parris

regard to the government’s requests for entitlements to the positions held to be respected.

It is the government’s intention to formally communicate its displeasure of this most recent action by the airline that has caused embarrassment not only nationally, but also to the country’s regional friends.

THE Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base Inc. (VEHSI) will not only transform Guyana’s energy landscape, but also has the potential to become a major player in the country’s commercial trade industry, Director of Guyana Oil and Gas Support Services, Nicholas Deygoo has said.

Deygoo, during a presentation on day three of Guyana’s Energy Conference and Expo 2023, at the Marriot Hotel, said while the facility was conceptualised to complement the rapid growth of the oil and gas sector, there is great potential to diversify.

ject of a larger port facility that includes the oil and gas shore base section as well as a commercial port, for shipping containers, fuel tank firm and an industrial facility, for companies which want to lease space to do business close to the port.

Works have already commenced on the project and so far an artificial island is being built in the Demerara River.

This new island is part of the reclaimed land that will be transformed into an estimated 44-acre megaproject to create the shore base facility.

This facility will form part of the port of Vreed-enHoop. The project is currently in the sand key reclama-

oil and gas industry, but will also cater to all sectors that require a port facility.

“We did studies that showed if we can have deeper ports here, it is possible we could bring down the cost of shipping at least around 1012 per cent,” Deygoo said while addressing several experts and potential investors at the International Energy Conference and Expo.

The idea, he said, is not to only bring value to the country’s domestic growth but also provide incentives that can benefit the average citizen.

“For a country that has a certain amount of items manufactured, but if you go to the grocery store and you pick things up off of the shelf you’ll see a lot of importation. That 10 to 12 per cent can have a huge impact on the average person’s daily spending,” Deygoo related.

The Vreed-en-Hoop Shore base Inc. is a sub-pro-

tion and compaction phase.

During this phase, the dredger, M.V Galileo Galilei, will continue the process of adding reclaimed material to create the artificial island on which the new terminal will be constructed.

Deygoo believes the northern half of the facility can be transformed into a port for commercial shipping.

“Everything north of that is possible expansion, which means it’s possibilities for businesses in general cargo, general purpose shipping, possibilities in a tank farm and liquid bulk storage, general industrial area, or other types of work activities.

“We are actively enticing clients who want to help develop this and get into discussions with us,” he added.

Once completed, the facility will not only service the

Meanwhile, as construction is ongoing, land mass will continue to be expanded. Works began back in June 2022, these entailed dredging the access channel in the Demerara River, including the deepening/widening of the existing nautical channel, berth pockets, and turning basin.

The project managers have hailed this phase a success and the upgraded channel has been handed over to the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD).

The VEHSI is currently the largest Guyanese private sector investment in the oil and gas sector and is expected to cost over US$300 million.

VEHSI. which is 15 per cent owned by Belgium company, Jan De Nul, is part of NRG Holdings Inc., which is 100 per cent Guyanese owned company. NRG was birthed out of a consortium among Boyer from National Hardware Guyana Ltd, Alphonso from ZRN and Mohamed of Hadi’s World.

Director of Guyana Oil and Gas Support Services, Nicholas Deygoo

Works are currently progressing on the artificial island

GMSA partners with Labour Ministry to advance sensitisation on labour laws, services

THE Ministry of Labour and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) teamed up to host a seminar on the conditions of work, occupational safety and health requirements, apprenticeship, and employmentexchange services.

The seminar, which was hosted at the Regency Suites Hotel, Hadfield Street, Georgetown, is part of a collaborative effort to provide a better understanding of and compliance with the labour laws and the ministry’s services.

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton underscored the importance of practising health and safety as the country undergoes massive transformation.

The Board of Industrial Training, which falls under the purview of the ministry, remains committed to providing various technical and vocational training

programmes to persons and placements of apprentices in various companies.

“Those two things, I believe, will be very useful for the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association

and its members,” Minister Hamilton said.

Meanwhile, the President of the GMSA, Rafeek Khan, highlighted that health and safety remain critical in today’s workplace.

Energy Expo opens free to the public

He noted that more emphasis should be placed on

applicable safety gear at the relevant companies and industries.

Khan said management must lead by example when it comes to wearing safety gear in the factories, construction sites, and elsewhere, noting: “It should be natural. We should want to treat health and safety as something very, very important. We should want to treat our labour laws and compliance as something very, very important, regardless of which sector may be leading the charge.”

Additionally, Chief Labour Officer, Dhaneshwar Deonarine said the seminar forms part of the ministry’s continuous efforts to build fruitful partnerships with the business community and the GMSA.

This aligns with Sus -

tainable Development Goal number 17, which speaks to “partnerships for the goals.”

He added that the ministry sees this partnership as a way to encourage, promote, and ensure compliance with labour laws related not only to the conditions of work, but also to occupational, safety and health across the country. Similar seminars were held in 2021 and 2022, when over 8,500 employees were reached.

Some of the participants at the seminar included representatives/companies from the oil- and-gas industry, forestry, agriculture, agro-processing, poultry, pharmaceutical, arts and craft, education, machinery, and construction sectors.

THE exhibition aspect of the International Energy Expo and Conference will be opened free of cost to the public from 09:00hrs to 18:00hrs today until Friday.

According to the organisers, free access will only be

granted to the exhibition site in the Marriott compound, which features some 188 booths, comprising 70 international entities and 83 local businesses.

The Expo is geared at helping persons to better understand the industry and

ways in which they can benefit and participate in the sector.

The second edition of the much-anticipated expo and conference opened on Tuesday with over 1,200 participants scheduled to be present.

Some of the participants at the seminar on occupational safety and health

Indigenous Peoples highly capable of planning how to utilise their resources

WARNING against condescension and prejudice towards Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, on Wednesday, affirmed that it will be up to the people of the respective Amerindian villages to make their own decisions on how they will utilise the funds they receive from Guyana’s sale of carbon credits.

The Vice President emphasised that Guyana’s indigenous popu-

lation are smart people who are more than capable of putting together village plans that cater to their own best interest; however, he acknowledged that the government will be more than willing to provide technical assistance to any village that requests such.

Jagdeo expressed those remarks in response to a question following his presentation on Guyana’s Low Carbon Development

Strategy (LCDS) at the 2023 Energy Conference and Expo being held at the Marriott Hotel, Kingston.

On Wednesday, Toshaos across Guyana began the process to receive finds due to the villages as a result of a multi-year deal that Guyana signed last year with Hess Corporation for the sale of jurisdictional carbon credit for at least $750 million.

Questioned about the Indigenous Peoples

having the necessary capabilities and resources to put together the plans for the utilisation of the money, the Vice President passionately responded that the Amerindians are more than capable on their own.

“You can’t be condescending when we’re dealing with Indigenous People. We believe we can make decisions on our own at the coastal level, so why would we think that they can’t make their decisions on how to use the money? They have to do consultations with their people,” the Vice President said to resounding applause.

“At the village level, the people have to utilise the resources for their own development plans. It is up to the villages to decide themselves how they want to utilise the resources,” Jagdeo said.

He related that it is the government’s hope that the funds will be utilised in food security and job creation or income generation initiatives, in accordance with what the government often advises for plans created under the Amerindian Development Fund, a separate budgetary allocation that the villages receive annually.

“That is where we would like to see it go,

but they can use it for social purposes. They will have to make that decision. The government would like to see them focus on food security and income generating activities, but it is up to the villages how you utilise your funds, that is local democracy,” Jagdeo said.

He added: “They’re very far from the coast and many of them don’t benefit from services that a lot of people on the coast benefit from. They live in remote areas so we hope that job creation activities will see some stimulation.”

Amerindian communities in Guyana are set to receive 15 per cent of the funds from the carbon-credit deal.

The injection of a portion of the funds directly into the villages is part of recognising the stewardship role that Amerindians have played in the maintenance of Guyana’s forest, interior communities and hinterland ecosystem.

The carbon-credit deal is part of the realisation of the benefits of Guyana’s LCDS, which seeks to monetize the benefits provided by Guyana’s vast forests. An expanded, updated version of the LCDS called “LCDS 2030” had received resounding

support from Guyana’s Indigenous community.

Though just 15 per cent of the carbon credit funds will be going directly to the Amerindian villages, Amerindians are still expected to benefit from the utilisation of the other 85 per cent of the money, which will be focused on climate adaptation needs across the country.

The money is expected to see a high level of scrutiny and transparency, with annual audits of all spending by the central government as well as by the indigenous villages.

“One of the things we want to prove to the world is that these funds will not be squandered, or stolen, that they can be deployed for development. So, every bit of it has to be audited. Right now they’re [the Toshaos] establishing separate bank accounts for their villages. So if these funds are placed into separate accounts we can have them audited,” the Vice President said.

He added: “Similarly, at the government level, the funds will go through a separate audit, probably with some international verification to show that they are done. The transparency in the use of the fund will remain.”

- VP Jagdeo says, affirms gov’t stands ready to provide technical assistance wherever necessary

Twelve wanted for Acts of Terrorism —

Stemming from June 2022 unrest at Mon Repos market

ALMOST a year after unrest at the Mon Repos market, East Coast Demerara (ECD), where vendors were robbed, beaten and had their stalls and valuables destroyed, the Guyana Police Force (GPF), on Wednesday, issued wanted bulletins for twelve individuals believed to be perpetrators of the acts.

According to the GPF, wanted bulletins were issued for several persons for Acts of Terrorism, Contrary to Section 309 (A) (1) (b) (ii) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01 which occurred on the East Coast Demerara on the 28th of June 2022.

In this regard, the GPF is seeking the assistance of the public for information about the whereabouts of these persons to be prosecuted for the aforementioned offence.

“Terror and mayhem were unleashed on persons on the East Coast of Demerara in June last year, during which several vehicles were burnt, and a number of stalls were ransacked and looted at the Mon Repos Market, ECD. Roads were blocked by burning debris, and scores of persons were beaten and robbed during the acts of terror committed by 'protestors',” the GPF noted.

Among those on the 'Wanted' list for Acts of

Terrorism are: Walkie Glasgow of Golden Grove, ECD; Trotman Tixey, alias 'Quincy' from Nabaclis, ECD; Sukie Reginal from Golden Grove, ECD.

Meanwhile, the others only known by their 'alias' on the 'Wanted' list are: 'Carlos' from Golden Grove, ECD; 'Ray Ray/Lilly' from Golden Grove, ECD; 'Nedd' from Golden Grove, ECD; 'Blammi' from Golden Grove, ECD; 'Dave' from Nabaclis, ECD; 'Burke' from Nabaclis, ECD; 'Layne' from Nabaclis, ECD; 'Kaldin' from Enmore North, ECD; and ‘Peters’ from Haslington North & Victoria, ECD.

NOTICE

GUYANA ELECTIONS COMMISSION

PREPARATION OF REGISTERS OF VOTERS FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) will commence an exercise to prepare Registers of Voters for all of the 80 Local Authority Areas in Guyana regarding entries on the respective Preliminary Lists of Voters. This exercise will commence on Monday, February 13, 2023 and conclude on Sunday, February 26, 2023. In this regard, relevant extracts from the Preliminary List of Voters (PLE) have been posted at (i) prominent locations in all of the constituencies of the respective Local Authority Areas, (ii) all of the Offices of the Electoral Registrars, (iii) all of the Offices of the Assistant Electoral Registrars, and (iv) on the GECOM website.

Criteria for Inclusion in the Registers of Voters

Anyone who will be 18 years old or over by May 22, 2023, and is a Guyanese citizen by birth, descent, or naturalization or is a citizen from a Commonwealth country living in Guyana for one year or more is eligible for inclusion in the Registers, providing he/she is living in a Local authority Area.

Making Application For entry in the Registers of Voters

Every person whose name does not appear in the Relevant Preliminary List of Voters, who believes themselves to be qualified to be registered as a voter for that particular Local Authority Area, can apply between 13th February 2023

and 19th February 2023 (inclusive) to the relevant Assistant Electoral Registrar to be registered.

Making Application for Correction/Transfer

Any person whose name appears on a Preliminary List of Voters, whose particulars/address are incorrectly stated in that list, may lodge an application in writing with the relevant Assistant Electoral Registrar, in the prescribed form, between 13th February 2023 and 19th February 2023 (inclusive), for the appropriate correction/transfer to be made.

Making Objections

Any person whose name appears on a preliminary list to, between 13th February 2023 and 22nd February 2023 (inclusive) may lodge an objection in writing with the relevant Assistant Electoral Registrar, in the prescribed Form, to the inclusion of any person on the grounds that, by reason of the facts stated in the objection, such person is not qualified to be registered as a voter for that Local Authority Area, Any person who would be eligible for inclusion in the Registers is required to check the relevant Constituency List and: -

• Make a claim to entry, if his/her name is not on the list, by applying for registration.

• apply for a transfer if he/she is listed in a Local Authority Area/ Constituency, but now reside at an address in a different Local

OFFICIAL OPENING HOURS

Authority Area/Constituency.

• apply for a change of name if he/she has changed his/her name since he/ she was registered.

• apply for corrections if there is incorrect information on his/her National ID Card or in the PLE.

Source Documents:

Eligible persons must be in possession of the following source documents, as may be applicable, to conduct any of the above transactions: -

1. Original Birth Certificate or a valid Guyana Passport for persons applying for registration.

2. Original Marriage Certificate and original Birth Certificate – in the case of a name change by marriage. Original Deed Poll and original Birth Certificate – in the case of a name change by Deed Poll.

3. Original Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Registration issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs and original Birth Certificate/valid Passport – in the case of persons seeking to become registered by virtue of having acquired Guyanese citizenship via naturalization/ registration.

4. Original Birth Certificate/Valid Passport and the Birth Certificate of one Parent for Citizens by Descent.

5. Original Birth Certificate/valid Passport/Marriage Certificate/Deed Poll/Naturalization Certificate/ Certificate of Registration to substantiate claims for corrections.

All Offices of the Assistant Electoral Registrars will be opened:Mondays to Fridays from 15:00 hours to 18:00 hours. Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 hours to 14:00 hours.

For further information contact GECOM on the following numbers 225-0278-9, 226-6557/8/9, 223-9650 or visit the GECOM Website at www.gecom.org.gy

Scenes from day two of the International

International Energy Conference and Expo

[Adrian Narine and DPI photos]

Syria, Türkiye get US$100,000 from Guyana

FOLLOWING the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake which struck Türkiye and neighbouring Syria on February 6, 2023, resulting in thousands of fatalities, injuries to civilians and destruction to infrastructure, President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali immediately wrote to the Presidents of both countries conveying solidarity and support on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana.

According to a press statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Government of Guyana has since taken a decision to contribute US$50,000 to Türkiye and US$50,000 to Syria to aid the relief efforts underway.

The contributions will be channelled through the United Nations. United Nations Secretary- General, Antonio Guterres, on Tuesday issued an appeal for humanitarian

funding to bring urgent relief to approximately five million Syrians.

The Secretary-General announced that US$397 million is needed to address humanitarian concerns over the next three months, up to May 2023, in priority areas such as shelter, healthcare, food and protection. The Secretary-General is expected to shortly make a similar appeal for Türkiye.

People searching for survivors under the rubble following an earthquake in Diyarbakir, Türkiye (REUTERS/Sertac Kayar)

GDF hosting Conference of American Armies

many years.

Colonel Eduardo D’Avila of Brazil thanked the GDF for their support of the conference and extended appre-

ciation to the delegates for attending to discuss mutually important issues.

The CAA aims to promote social cohesion, im -

prove hemisphere security and strengthen inter-American friendships among militaries.

THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is hosting the Conference of American Armies (CAA) and Senior Officers from Nicaragua, Spain, Brazil, Mexico, Belize, Canada, Panama, and the US are participating in the 3-day conference which commenced on Tuesday.

Chief-of-Staff (ag) Colonel Omar Khan, greeted conference attendees and expressed best wishes on behalf of President and Commander in Chief, Dr. Irfaan Ali, and Brigadier Godfrey Bess. He stated that the conference is opportune, arriving at a time when Guyana is

undergoing rapid revolutionary development and that it is therefore an important arena for promoting collaborations.

Col Khan further stated that Guyana is grateful for having gained full membership in the CAA after having been a special observer for

(Seated centre) Chief-of-Staff (ag) Colonel Omar Khan flanked by other military officials at the Conference of American Armies

HOPE FOR WEST INDIES!

Barbadian leads ODI team; Powell to lead T20 side

Cricket West Indies (CWI) today announced Shai Hope as the new captain of the West Indies men’s One-Day International (ODI) team and Rovman Powell as the new captain of the West Indies Men’s T20 International (T20I) team. Hope, the wicketkeeper/batter and Powell, the batting allrounder, will take over from Nicholas Pooran, who stepped down from the positions last November following the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia.

The first assignments for both captains will be the upcoming tour of South Africa in March when the West Indies face the Proteas in three ODIs and three T20Is from 16 to 28 March, following two matches in the ICC World Test Championship Each captain will be heavily involved in strategy and planning leading up to the next ICC World Tournaments. In ODI cricket, the West Indies are likely to need to qualify for the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, with the qualifiers scheduled to be held in Zimbabwe in June. In T20I cricket, the West Indies will be hosting the next ICC T20 World Cup with the USA in June 2024.

Hope is selected as ODI captain after demonstrating strong leadership on and off the field and experiencing the vice-captain role over a number of Series since 2019. He became vice-captain for a second time in June 2022 and played his 100th ODI for the West Indies against India in July last year. Hope has played 104 ODIs and was recently selected in the ICC, ODI Team of the Year

for 2022.

Hope said: “It is a tremendous honour and privilege to be appointed captain of any West Indies team. To lead a team, that is of such incredible significance not only to myself and my teammates but to our legion of fans the world over, is something one dreams of as a child. The rich history and legacy that our region and our brand of cricket is so famous and loved for, requires no intricate explanation. I would like to thank CWI for entrusting me with this immense opportunity. To navigate West Indies cricket in the right direction will be my fundamental priority and a task that I shall be unwaveringly committed to. With the support of my team-mates and our dedicated fans, I look forward to a long and fulfilling tenure as captain of the West Indies One-Day International team.”

CWI’s Selection Panel recommended Powell as T20I captain, referencing his demonstrated leadership acumen and tactical ability when acting as the West Indies T20I vice-captain and as captain for Jamaica in 2022 with double success in both regional competitions. He led Jamaica winning firstly the Caribbean Premier League with the Tallawahs in September before captaining the Jamaica Scorpions to the CG United Super50 Cup title in November.

Powell said: “I’m truly humbled and grateful to be given this amazing opportunity to lead the West Indies. For me, this

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

a huge vote of confidence and I see this as the greatest honour of my career.

To be asked to ‘carry the flag’ for the people of the Caribbean, there’s no bigger role in cricket in the region — a job previously held by some of the greatest servants of West Indies cricket. I also want

to thank CWI for allowing me to guide the team in the coming years as we set sights on the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which we will be jointly hosting with the USA next year. I’m a passionate cricketer who believes in leading from the front and always giving 100 percent.

MATCH SCHEDULE IN SOUTH AFRICA

21 to 24 February: vs South Africa Invitational XI at Willowmoore Park, Benoni

28 February to 4 March: 1st Test at SuperSport Park, Centurion

8-12 March: 2nd Test at the Wanderers, Johannesburg

Thursday, 16 March: 1st ODI at Buffalo Park, East London (day/night)

Saturday, 18 March: 2nd ODI at Buffalo Park, East London (day/night)

Tuesday, 21 March: 3rd ODI at JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom

Saturday, 25 March: 1st T20Is at SuperSport Park, Centurion

Sunday, 26 March: 2nd T20I at SuperSport Park, Centurion

Tuesday, 28 March: 3rd T20I at Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg (night)

(1) What was the result of the recent WI/ZIM Test series?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Series?

American Racing Tips Gulfstream Park

Race 1 Delahave

Race 2 Bobby’s Gift Race 3 Chief Rocka

Race 4 Six Feet Apart

Devcon Construction and Industrial Supplies and Services sponsors boots for Victoria Kings youth teams

Victoria Kings Football Club received a quantity of football sneakers from Devcon Construction and Industrial Supplies and Services on Monday at the firm’s head office, located at 21 Robb and Albert Streets, Georgetown.

The firm’s Managing Director, Nolan Lancaster, reassured the executives of the club about his company’s commitment to Victoria Kings Football Club particularly the youth department where his passion lies.

The boots received yesterday will be used by the club’s junior players who are preparing for the GFF Namlico Under-17 tournament and the U-13, 15, and U- 20 competitions as slated in the Guyana Football Federation Calendar of Activities for 2023.

Mr. Lancaster, who started following the club in his teens, once said, “My first experience with the Kings was at my hometown ground in BV where I saw them play a brand

of football comparable with what we see on TV”

The construction firm has been the largest sponsor for VKFC since coming on board seven years ago. Over the years the organisation have contributed significantly to the club’s Elite Team which plays in GFF Elite League, the top tier of Guyana’s senior men’s football. Victoria Kings received its first Elite League Kit in 2017 from Devcon Construc-

tion and Industrial Supplies and Services. A complete Joma Brand Kit was sponsored.

The firm has demonstrated its willingness to support the club in different areas over the years despite the club having finished in the bottom half of the last two senior leagues. The Management and players wish to thank Mr. Lancaster for his commitment and support to the club as we strive to return as the number one team in Guyana.

Professional Meet Management for Jefford Classic Mile

- Prize structure revised to reward athletes finishing first to fifth

PRESIDENT of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), Aubrey Hutson and founder of the Jefford Track and Field Classic organisation, Edison Jefford, met Tuesday evening to formalise several important features of the upcoming Jefford Classic Mile scheduled for Sunday, March 12 at the National Park.

Key among the items on the agenda was the use of the professional Meet Management System to electrically produce the times and results for each race. In a press release, Hutson said that this technology will raise the profile of the event and bring it in line with the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) standards.

Hutson said that the IAAF has been pushing affiliates to support more meet organisers in an effort to promote athletics and generate increased competition. He said the initiative from

Jefford was well received and it is somthing that the athletes have been yearning for some time based on feedback he has received.

“We are proud to be associated with the Jefford Classic Mile because we are very serious about supporting our local athletes. We see this event as a serious one on our calendar for athletes because they have complained that there are not enough road races like this for them, “Hutson said.

“We need the Golden Mile and I am happy that it is on and I applaud what Jefford is doing. This is a good competition and it will help athletics in Guyana to rise,” the AAG president continued.

Jefford had previously stated that his aim was the resuscitation and rebranding of the prestigious Golden Mile under his brand. He had indicated that

West Indies women go down to India

CMC – West Indies suffered yet another blow to their semi-final chances at the ICC Women’s Twenty20 World Cup when they slumped to their second defeat in Group 2, with a six-wicket loss to powerhouse India here Wednesday.

Entering the contest at Newlands as underdogs, West Indies never really lifted their game and their 118 for six from their 20 overs after choosing to bat first was never enough, allowing India to complete a comfortable chase with 11 balls to spare.

Former captain Stafanie Taylor top-scored with 42 at the top of the order and vice-captain Shemaine Campbelle chipped in with 30, but West Indies flattered to deceive after being well placed at 77 for one in the 14th over.

“Obviously, we didn’t get as much runs as we were looking for,” Campbelle lamented afterwards.

“We tried to get at least 150. I think 150 would’ve been a good fighting total for us today.

“One of our top three have got to

bat through to the end to finish it off … if one of the top three bat through to the end I think we will get the runs we’re looking for.”

India found themselves in a small tangle at 43 for three at the start of the eighth over after off-spinner Karishma Ramharack (2-14) removed both openers Shafali Verma (28) and Smriti Mandhana (10).

However, 19-year-old wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh struck an unbeaten 44 off 32 balls while captain Harmanpreet Kaur gathered 33 from 42 balls, the pair combining in a 72run, fourth wicket stand to erase any chance of a West Indies comeback. The defeat for the Caribbean side was their 15th straight in T20

the competition is to give middle distance athletes a signature event to call their own.

In addition to the Meet Managment System, it was also disclosed via the press release that the races will be streamed live. According to Jefford, the vision is to have a big screen stream the races for patrons present and those tuned in via social media all over the world. This will be a mammoth undertaking because the team is trying to figure out our source of power as well as the strongest internet connection possible and its range to have this done around the circuit of the National Park.

“We have a very active social media presence and we will leverage that to showcase our athletes to the world while also giving our corporate sponsors the mileage they deserve for supporting our athletes. The aim is to make the event as big as

Internationals and left them fourth in Group 2 without a point, with matches against Pakistan and Ireland remaining.

With their win, meanwhile, India joined England on four points, both remaining unbeaten and within touching distance of qualifying for the final four.

Choosing to bat, West Indies lost their captain Hayley Matthews for two with four on the board at the start of the second over, edging a backfoot drive through to Ghosh.

Taylor, in only her second international in five months after recovering from injury, came together with Campbelle to stabiise the innings in a stand of 73 for the second wicket.

While Taylor struck half-dozen fours, her knock required 40 balls and Campbelle also batted slowly despite counting three fours, her innings needing 36 deliveries.

Both fell four balls apart with a

possible, we are therefore trying to make our dream of what the event should look like possible,” Jefford said.

He added that because of those features, much work has to be done to improve the optics of the event, including branding. The organiser said that the entire aura of the Jefford Classic Mile must be in line with what is seen internationally to ensure that Guyana looks good to the world. Importantly, Jefford also disclosed that the prize money for the Open Categories will now be stretched to fifth place to reward more athletes while first to third will get medals. He said the same will apply for the training and educational grants for the athletes under 20 years old. There will also be a special prize for athletes who break the four-minute barrier, and all the top results from this year will become meet records.

run added in the 14th over from Player of the Match, off-spinner Deepti Sharma (3-15); Campbelle taken at short third man on the reverse sweep and Taylor lbw on review after playing across.

When Chinelle Henry was run out for two in the next over after coming up just short on a second run, the innings was tottering on 79 for four but Chedean Nation lashed 21 not out from 18 balls in a 35-run, fifth wicket stand with Shabika Gajnabi (15) to eke out precious runs at the back end.

In reply, Verma provided the early impetus for India by punching five fours in a 23-ball cameo, posting 32 for the first wicket with Smriti Mandhana (10).

Once Ramharack drew Mandhana down and had her stumped in the fourth over, India lost three wickets for 11 runs off 22 balls before Ghosh and Harmanpreet led the recovery.

Leandro Trossard (centre) has scored seven goals so far this season

President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), Aubrey Hutson (right), and Edison Jefford exchange the regulations governing the upcoming Jefford Classic Mile

Sears 20/20 vision centre partners with Victoria Kings

Sears 20/20 vision cars has come on board with the Victoria Kings football club of the East Coast of Demerara.

The team is in preparation mode for the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)/ Namilco nationwide Under-17 tournament set to begin shortly.

The company donated a quantity of footballs and two pairs of goal-keeping gloves earlier this week to Secretary/Media Relations Officer of Victoria Kings Football Club, Calvin Marks.

According to Marks, the gesture is a welcome one that holds great value for the side especially at this critical juncture when the team is in its final phase of preparation.

He thanked Sears 20/20 vision centre for recognizing the talent pool on the East Coast and more specifically the Victoria Kings.

MVP sports sponsors women’s development football league playoff

THE much-anticipated Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Women’s Development Football League Playoff will kick off this month with a new sponsor - MVP Sports and Urban Life.

MVP’s Managing Director, Ian Ramdeo, made the official announcement this morning at the company’s main branch at Giftland Mall, Plantation Pattensen, Turkeyen, Georgetown, in the presence of President of the Women’s Football Association (WFA), Andrea Johnson and a small group of league players.

Ramdeo noted that his company is focused on the development of women in sports in 2023 and that the league’s partnership agreement was signed following months of discussions with the GFF.

Melissa

Allicock headlines Patrick Ford Memorial Int Boxing Card

By Sean Devers

SUNDAY night is boxing night at the National Gymnasium, as the Guyana Boxing Association’s (GBA’s) Patrick Ford Memorial International Boxing Card is slated to commence from 19:00hrs.

Guyana’s first Olympian in Boxing since John Douglas in 1996 Olympics, 23-year-old Keevin Allicock, will battle 27-year-old Samuel Greene of Suriname, for the Featherweight title in an eagerly anticipated re-match.

The Guyanese pugilist defeated the Dutch boxer in the Terrence Ali National Open Boxing Championships last December and Greene is coming for revenge.

Held in memory of Patrick Ford, who died on November 13, 2011 at age 54 after winning the WBC FECABOX featherweight title in 1979 and the Commonwealth featherweight title in 1980, this tournament will include boxers from Guyana, Suriname, Barbados, St Lucia and Trinidad & Tobago.

Speaking on the ‘Sean Devers Sports Watch’ Radio programme

on Tuesday night, Promoter of this year’s event, Albert ‘Mc Donald’ Robinson, encouraged fans to come in their numbers since entrance fee was just $1,000 for ring side and $500 for stands.

“There will be a drinks and Food Bar inside the Gymnasium while music will be provided by a sound system and the GDF Band Corps” added the promoter, who explained that since the Cliff Anderson National Sports Hall is being rehabilitated, the Gymnasium was used.

Guyana’s top boxers Allicock; NSC & GBA’s Boxer of the Year Desmond Amsterdam; Colin Lewis, and Troy Glasgow, in addition to the Jackman siblings (Abiola and Alisha) will be a part of 12 bouts carded for the night.

It promises to be a night of fistic fury and riveting action is expected in the fights which will have ‘Ring Girls’ displaying the rounds.

Guyana’s Jamal Eastman will come up against Domelzo Schet from Suriname while another Surinamese, Greene, will be battling Allicock.

Quincy Boyce of Guyana will fight another pugilist from Guyana’s Dutch Neighbors, Richard Evert, while Brian Harris, who won a ‘Triple Crown’ in the Terrence Ali National Open Boxing Championships last December, will match gloves with T&T’s Jaden Castillano.

Joel Williamson will trade punches with Bajan Jeremiah Toussaint, while Colin Lewis will oppose Nathan Debesette and Troy Glasgow could provide a slug-fest against Surinamese Leandro Dongo in a clash of the big men.

Amsterdam, who won bronze at the AMBC Elite Championships in Ecuador and bronze at the South American Games in Paraguay, will go toe-to-toe with Trinidadian Nickelle Joseph while Jullius Kesney will do battle with Bajan Ju Sean Shepard.

In the female bouts, St Lucian

Sears 20/20 vision centre is located at 101 Regent and Cummings Streets, Georgetown.

“This year, MVP Sports is looking to focus our attention more on assisting where we can with the development of women’s sports. We have been a supporter of the GFF for football and sports in general over the years and hopefully this year we can continue to do so in a bigger way and in a different way. We are very happy to be a part of this tournament and looking forward to many more in the future,” Ramdeo shared.

The league was launched in June 2022 with 37 teams from across Guyana with the objective of promoting and empowering women in football. The competition continues with 12 teams in the playoff round to crown the league champions.

Ms Johnson thanked Ramdeo and stressed that the sustainable development of women’s football cannot happen without the support of the government and corporate Guyana.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to MVP sports for this timely and generous contribution towards women’s football development. We believe this playoff format will bring an exciting conclusion to what has been a very exciting tournament. The GFF women’s football development programme is making tremendous strides both locally and internationally,” Johnson noted.

Nikaela Khodra will match skills with Trinidadian Leeann Boodram; Abiola Jackman will fight Bajan Kamara Stuart while her sister Alisha Jackman will contend with Shawnelle Hamid from the Twin-Island Republic.

President of the GBA and Director of Sport, Steve Neville informed that the three Bajans are already here while the lass from St Lucia, Nikaela Khodra, who will be going to compete (along with the Jackman siblings) at the 2023 IBA’s women’s World Boxing Championships in India from March 15 to 31, is expected here tomorrow while the contingents from Suriname and T&T are expected to arrive Guyana on Saturday

A press conference is set for tomorrow at 11:00hrs at the La France Restaurant and bar, Charlotte Street, Georgetown.

She added: “We are now in a place where we have active competition for young girls and senior female players. The GFF’s 2023 national football calendar reflects the significant increase of female competitions as compared to any previous year in our football history. For us to fully implement the 2023 season we need the government of Guyana and corporate Guyana to follow the example of MVP Sports, who is in fact a small company, but yet making a huge investment in sports and, by extension, on the lives of our young men and women.”

The partnership between MVP Sports and Urban Life builds on a highly successful delivery of leaguebased competitions for women and underlines the company’s strong record in corporate social responsibility

League player Shamya Daniels, a defender attached to the Fruta Conquerors Football Club, said her team has been training in anticipation of the playoff round.

“We are training very hard and preparing for this tournament. I am looking forward to great competition and also winning this tournament.”

The Women’s Development Football League is a pathway to the national programmes.

Players who impress coaches will be invited to train with the national teams. (PRESS RELEASE)

Secretary/Media Relations Officer of Victoria Kings Football Club - Calvin Marks displaying the goal-keeping gloves and one of the footballs with Melissa and Nadira of Sears 2020 Vision Centre

of Sears 20/20 Vision Centre donated two goal-keeping gloves to Victoria Kings Football Club for its youth programme.

Guy, B’dos, Suriname, St Lucia, T&T to battle on Sunday

Keevin Alicock & Samuel Greene of Suriname will battle in a much-anticipated re-match. (Sean Devers photo)

$4.3B Sport budget

THE Government of Guyana continues to show their commitment to sport with H.E. President Irfaan Ali overseeing a total of $9B invested thus far in sport since taking office.

This year’s mammoth budget of $4.3B for sports, which was announced by Senior

last year with 21 of those being outfitted with lights, has been allocated another $250m this year for the continued improvement of community grounds across the country.

President’s Ali promise of making Guyana a regional hub for sports began to take massive strides in 2022. Dr. Singh mentioned that, “Beyond the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2022, we saw at the Regional level the return of the Inter Guiana Games to these shores after a five-year hiatus.”

Dr. Singh also mentioned that the part-

West Indies Test Squad for two-Test Series in Zimbabwe

MVP Sports Managing Director, Ian Ramdeo (extreme left) stands with GFF officials and team representatives

…Gabriel, Warrican and Motie recalled to 15-member

SEE PAGE 27

The Cricket West Indies’ (CWI) Men’s Selection Panel Tuesday announced the 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test Series in Zimbabwe, starting on 4 February. The Selection Panel recalled experienced fast bowler Shannon Gabriel, as well as left-arm spinners, Gudakesh Motie and Jomel Warrican.

Gabriel has taken 161 wickets in 56 Tests, placing him joint 12th in the West Indies all-time wicket-takers list and more recently was the joint-leading wicket taker in the CG United Super50 Cup for the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in November last year.

Shannon

Test against

Test of the two-match Series victory against Bangladesh. Jayden Seales is unavailable for selection following a knee injury and subsequent surgery, while Anderson Phillip is also unavailable due to injury.

Gabriel’s last Test Match was against Sri Lanka in November 2021. Warrican’s last international appearance was also in Sri Lanka in December 2021 when he played in both matches in the Test Series. Motie made his Test debut for West Indies in Antigua in June 2022 in the first

Lead Selector, The Most Hon Dr. Desmond Haynes said: “This is the start of the international calendar for 2023 and we will hope to start with a win. We appreci-

SEE PAGE 26 SEE PAGE 25

ate ment other play soil port looked anticipate have spinners Australia, rican.

Bolt missing millions from investment accounts

mission

unshakeable the presented the leadership Culture, Honourable MP, sport will transform forever.

Bissoondyal

Dr. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the

MVP sports sponsors women’s development football league playoff

HOPE FOR WEST INDIES! Barbadian leads ODI team; Powell to lead T20 side