Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 17-07-2023

Thousands of jobs created through foreign direct investments –

AS Guyana maintains its position as the leading Foreign Direct Investment ( FDI ) destination in the Caribbean, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has said that this has led to the creation thousands of jobs here

The Head of State was at the time responding to questions from the Guyana Chronicle at a recent press conference where he said that the direct and indirect benefits of these investments in Guyana are the jobs that are created

He indicated that for example , there are currently a number of hotels under construction which has created multiple jobs, which puts more disposable income in the hands of more families in the country

Added to this, he said more companies such as call centres have increased

their capacity by thousands , which adds more individual, community and national wealth and has increased spending

“You have more spending in the economy, you have more demand for service, more demand for service increases supply Supply of services increases revenue, increased revenue trigger spending So, it’s a cycle So, FDI is an important indicator also in the confidence that investors have in the country,”

President Ali said

Dr Ali said not only is Guyana the leading FDI destination, but it is a telling sign of the confidence some international investors have in the country, its leadership and the direction in which the country is going

Additionally, President Ali said that investors also look at the economic, po-

litical stability and security before investing and the increased investments speak to the greater level of interest being shown here

Against this backdrop, he said that for quite some time whenever he travels, the team would have to dedicate time during every trip to meet with investors

“There are always multiple requests from different private sector organisations [and] governments Right now, we are trying to schedule a state visit the DR [ Dominican Republic] private sector and the president is awaiting,” he said

With that, he went on to add that multiple private sector leaders came to Guyana and have established relationships here, even as he noted that the government has been invited to multiple engage-

President Ali says

ments internationally with the rapid growth that has been seen in multiple areas

President Ali said :

“That is because of the interest. You are seeing this every time you travel The requests that are there on our agenda here

locally, the requests for meetings and so on. So, the FDI is also an indication as to the confidence in the economy.”

Aspiring pilot among Region Four NGSA top performers

By Naomi Parris

NICHOLAS Mohamed’s dream of becoming a pilot fuelled his determination to be among the top performers at this year ’ s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).

Mohamed emerged as the top pupil for the Golden Grove Primary School located on the East Coast of Demerara with 504 marks and will be attending Queen’s College when the new school year begins in September

The lad during a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle shared that he followed a rigorous study schedule to maintain his grades in the classroom and to prepare for the examinations

“ I followed a strict timetable that I created , which was when I got home From six, I would study all the way to nine, take a break, study to 12

and wake up in the mornings from five and study until six, after I get ready and come to school,” he told this publication

While his schedule was ‘tight’ and left little room for play, Mohamed said he was supported by his family , friends and teachers

“From my family, I got lots of support but from

friends, I got friendly competition,’ he said Describing himself as very competitive and confident, Mohamed disclosed that although there were tingles of anxiety during the days leading up to the examination, he remained optimistic and assured himself that he was unshakeable

“I was confident, there was a little bit of fear but I had to remind myself everyone is counting on me and I cannot let them down.”

Recalling the moment he received the results , the assertive lad said he was overwhelmed by emotions

“When I found out, I honestly didn’t know how to feel, I was excited, joyful, and kinda sad I didn’t make [ it ] in the top 10 for the country, but I was happy.”

As he prepares for secondary school in Septem-

ber , Mohamed disclosed that he is ready for his new academic journey and intends to work even harder to maintain his grades

“I’m not fearful about anything , I plan to keep my grades up , above 95 per cent, that’s my aim.”

With his eyes set on his dream career, he plans to grasp all the knowledge he can “ I would really love

to become a pilot ever since I was in nursery school I was always fascinated by the sight of seeing planes I always wanted to have that feeling of flying from one country to another and enjoying the calm skies,” he said Sharing a bit of advice to those who will be writing next year, he said: “study more, less play.”

He added that the pressure of preparing for a major examination can sometimes be hard , and sacrifices will have to be made, but those hard times will fade and the final results will be worth it

“Many nights, many times you’ll feel like crying , but push through it, endure the pain and in the end, there will be good results,” he added.

President, Dr Irfaan Ali

Mohamed along with his classmates who also did exceptionally well at this year’s NGSA

Nicholas Mohamed

Central monitoring mechanism for public service delivery in the works

–– President Ali announces; says it will pave way for greater accountability, efficiency

By Clestine Juan

TO improve public-service delivery in Guyana, President Dr Irfaan Ali is spearheading the establishment of a central monitoring mechanism to bring about greater accountability, transparency , and efficiency in the country’s public sector.

It is expected to captivate citizens and instil renewed confidence in the government’s commitment to their needs

In his address last Thursday to the newly appointed members of the Public Service Commission (PSC), President Dr Irfaan Ali said that the People ’ s Progressive Party/Civic-led government plans to introduce a national call centre where citizens can report on their experiences and concerns regarding public-service delivery

“ There ’ ll be some numbers there that persons can call in the national call centre and report on the way they were treated, or report on how they felt about the service,” he said

This centralized feedback system aims to empower citizens, giving them a voice and the ability to contribute to the evaluation and improvement of public-service delivery.

“Every single health centre will have a minimum standard, and the administrators of those centres will be responsible for keeping those centres at that minimum standard,” he added

This commitment to establishing baseline standards indicates a desire to improve the quality of service across all public service delivery points, ensuring that citizens receive consistent and reliable services, regardless of their location

The central monitoring mechanism

will play a vital role in holding service providers accountable By collecting feedback from citizens, the government will have valuable data to evaluate the performance of public offices and facilities

President Ali highlighted that this feedback would be used for performance evaluation, stating, “That will go against the providers of the service and their performance evaluation.”

This approach reinforces the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring that public servants are held responsible for their actions and the level of service they provide to the public

The introduction of the central monitoring mechanism aligns with the government’s broader vision of a results-oriented governance system

President Ali stressed the importance of accountability, not only for the government but also for those responsible for implementing policies

“ Government will be held accountable when they go to the polls Government faces the electorate, but those who are charged with implementing policies also must be held accountable and that is the system we are moving towards,” the Head of State said.

This focus on accountability promotes a culture of responsibility within the Public Service, whereby individuals are aware of the impact of their actions on citizens and strive for continuous improvement

By gathering feedback from citizens, the President explained that government can identify areas for improvement, address shortcomings promptly, and ensure

that services meet the expectations and needs of the public

By involving citizens in the evaluation and improvement process, the Irfaan Ali-led administration aims to create a Public Service that is responsive, efficient, and aligned with the needs of the Guyanese people

Through this mechanism, the government seeks to build trust between citizens and the public sector, fostering a collaborative environment where the voices of the people are heard, and their concerns are addressed

This is a part of the PPP-led government’s broader vision for a world-class Public Service to match ongoing transformation in Guyana

Earlier this month , President Ali while delivering the feature address at the La Primavera Banquet Hall in Ontario, said that Guyana is on track to undergo a remarkable transformation as it aims to build a world-class service sector with a strong emphasis on creating a unique national brand and harnessing advanced technologies

Addressing the misconception that Guyana should replicate the development strategies of other countries, President Ali said: “What is wrong with us developing our own model? We must have the ability to design and propel our own brand That is what is going to make us different.”

President Ali further underscored the importance of identifying the core values, principles, and societal structure that define the Guyanese identity and recognising these “soft issues” as fundamental to building lasting prosperity

To fulfil its vision, the government acknowledges the necessity of moderni-

sation and the integration of advanced technologies, he pointed out

President Ali highlighted the crucial role of upgrading Guyana’s records management system, incorporating biometrics, electronic identification cards, and passports, while embracing robotics and other cutting-edge technologies

Despite the associated costs , the President expressed the urgency of harnessing available technology to propel Guyana , stating , “ We have to transform everything that we have learned to do all our lives onto an electronic platform.”

Prisoner says he lit fire to ward off mosquitoes – police

THE police are currently investigating a fire incident that occurred in the Brickdam lockups on Sunday which resulted in a mattress being burnt.

“ Stephan Howard , a prisoner, when questioned today related that upon entering the Brickdam lockups yesterday (202307-15 ), he discovered a lighter and a piece of toilet paper inside the cell, and due to mosquitoes biting

him, he lit the piece of toilet paper around 06:40hrs this morning and placed same on the cell door

About 10 minutes later, he realised that the toilet paper had fallen on the mattress on the floor of the cell and the mattress ignited into flames, which he (Howard) successfully extinguished by throwing water from a plastic bottle he had,” the police said in a press release

It added that Howard has since refused to co-operate with investigators

“Stephan Howard then shouted out during the interview, stating that the police should do what they had to do since he had nothing more to say An ‘ entry ’ was made in the Station Diary to this effect.

He also refused to put his story in writing and also refused to go on a video interview.”

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (Adrian Narine photo)

Fire destroyed the Brickdam Police Station in October 2021 (File photo)

Aspartame sweetener ‘possible carcinogen’ but safe in moderation

THE sweetener aspartame is a “possible carcinogen” but it remains safe to consume in moderation and at already agreed levels, two groups linked to the World Health Organisation (WHO) have declared.

In reviews released last Friday, the WHO’s cancer agency deemed the sweetener – which is found in diet drinks and countless other foods – as a “possible” cause of cancer, while a separate expert group looking at the same evidence said it still considers the sugar substitute safe in limited quantities

One review came from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a special branch of the WHO The other report was from an expert panel selected by WHO and another UN group, the Food and Agriculture Organisation

(FAO).

The guidance on the use of the sweetener remained unchanged

“We’re not advising consumers to stop consuming [aspartame] altogether,” the WHO’s nutrition director Dr Francesco Branca said

“We’re just advising a bit of moderation,” he said

In a press conference ahead of the announcement, Branca tried to help consumers make sense of the seemingly conflicting declarations, especially those who seek out artificial sweeteners to avoid sugar

“If consumers are faced with the decision of whether to take cola with sweeteners or one with sugar, I think there should be a third option considered – which is to drink water instead,” he said

In its first declaration on the additive, the Lyon-based IARC said aspartame was a “possible carcinogen”. That classification means there is limited evidence that a substance can cause cancer

It does not take into account how much a person would need to consume to be at risk, which is considered by a separate panel, the WHO and FAO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), based in Geneva

After undertaking its own comprehensive review, JECFA said last Friday that it did not have convincing evidence of harm caused by aspartame, and continued to recommend that people keep their consumption levels of aspartame below 40mg/kg a day

It first set this level in 1981, and regulators worldwide have similar guidance for their populations

Several scientists not associated with the reviews said the evidence linking aspartame to cancer is weak Food and beverage industry associations said the decisions showed aspartame was safe and a good option for people wanting to reduce sugar in their diets

The WHO said that the existing consumption levels meant, for example, a person weighing between 60-70kg (132-154 lbs) would have to drink more than 9-14 cans of soft drinks daily to breach the limit, based on the average aspartame content in the beverages

“Our results do not indicate that occasional consumption could pose a risk to most consumers,” Branca said

He said the WHO is not urging companies to remove aspartame from their products entirely but is instead calling for moderation from both manufacturers and consumers

In a statement announcing the assessment results, Branca noted that cancer is a leading cause of death globally with one in six people succumbing to the illness each year

“Science is continuously expanding to assess the possible initiating or facilitating factors of cancer, in the hope of reducing these numbers and the human toll,” he said

“The assessments of aspartame have indicated that, while safety is not a major concern at the doses which are commonly used, potential effects have been described that need to be investigated by more and better studies,” he added. (Al Jazeera)

Soft drinks containing the sweetener aspartame pack shelves at a grocery store in California, United States (File: Mario Anzuoni/Reuters)

Low-cost loan programmes on the cards for Guyanese farmers

WITH Guyana looking to modernise its agriculture sector and increase its food production, the government has disclosed plans to bridge the financial gaps faced by farmers across the country.

At a press conference held last week, the country’s head of state, Dr Irfaan Ali said that “focused” programmes will be established to support farmers

“We are working on bridging the financing gap for low-cost loan programmes that will help rice , poultry and other farmers

Focused programmes to support capital formulation for farmers incentives, tax benefits to facilitate land , acquisition of land and equipment to modernise farms and open up opportunities for higher production and high yield,” he said

Also, new lands will be made available to increase food production of new high-valued crops, poultry, rice and other subsectors

“We are opening up new lands; approximately 260 kilometres of farm-to-market access road, fair weather road and all-weather road We have been able to open up more than 50,000 acres of new land for production,” the president announced

Agricultural diversification has been an important pillar in pushing the government’s food security agenda, and as such, billions have already been expended over the past four years to improve farm infrastructure

“We are working towards building resilience in our agriculture Therefore, we have invested tremendously in the maintenance of

drainage and irrigation systems and farm-tomarket roads From 8.4 billion in 2019 to 19.7 billion in 2023 This is to increase investment in drainage and irrigation, a 135 per cent increase,” President Ali said

Already, an agreement has been made with Demerara Bank Limited to provide loans for poultry farmers across Guyana at an affordable interest rate

Farmers who wish to access loans , $500,000 or less, can do so at an interest rate of 3.5 per cent

While loans of between $500,000 - $1 million can be accessed at a four per cent interest rate, loans of between $1 million -$5 million are being offered at a 5.5 per cent

interest rate

Guyanese

The president further highlighted the role Guyana is currently playing as a leader in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to address the region’s food import bill and other industry woes

“ Guyana has emerged as a leader in CARICOM , advancing the agri -food system agenda We are now a leading voice in prioritising food and energy security, and climate mitigation adaptation internationally We have positioned the agriculture sector as an expanded, diversified, modern, resilient and competitive sector, with a 150 per cent

increase in the budgetary allocation, moving from 13.3 billion in 2019 to 33.2 billion in 2023,” he said.

Guyana, he added, has undergone tremendous transformation, and is now renowned for the modernisation, resilience, and diversification of its agriculture sector and food production

And as the government continues to pour investments into the sector, President Ali disclosed that plans are afoot to ensure that young people and women are included in the agricultural diversification and agricultural plan.

Three-year-old boy to receive care at top US burns facility

SHIV Thompson , who recently sustained second-degree burns to 50 per cent of his body, on Sunday evening left Guyana for Texas, where he will receive specialised medical care

The child was accompanied by his mother, Sonia Thompson

Sita Sugrim, the local representative for Saving Hands Emergence Aid (SHEA) Charity, who provided this publication with the update, said that it is unclear how long the child

will be in the US

She said that burn cases are usually time-sensitive, so everything, in terms of treatment, happens quickly

“As soon as they land in Texas, there will be a team awaiting him They’ll start the evaluation immediately, and treatment starts immediately And so, sometimes based on the injuries, then we’ll know what needs to happen,” Sugrim said , adding that this would determine, among other things, how much therapy he

needs

SHEA Charity is an organisation that aims to provide financial assistance, and coordinates free or low-cost treatment to address the emergency medical needs of individuals in impoverished countries

farmers

President Dr Irfaan Ali

ASHTON Chase , an indomitable Guyanese of African descent who inscribed his name in Guyana’s history as a founding member of the nation’s two very first political formations -the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) -- died this past week at the ripe and full age of 96

During his long life, Chase saw race relations play out over decades, from British Guiana (BG) the Co-operative Republic, in a country of people of African and Indian descent who never had any prior problems coexisting with other fellow citizens of Amerindian, Chinese, European, Portuguese or Mixed Races

Chase had his problems with colleagues on both sides of the national political divide, but never followed those fellow former early members of the PAC and the PPP who crossed the floor to play the race card against the party that gave birth to their not-so-colourful

political careers

Instead, he concentrated on making his contributions in the legal and trade union fields , helping document the travails of the Guyanese working class and trade union movement, instead of joining the small but loud legion of those who made a career of biting the hands that fed their political careers

Unlike others, Chase never changed his name to look or sound different than who he really was, nor did he ever profess any of the pure personal and political hatred that others looking like him spewed against fellow founders like Dr Cheddi Jagan and Mrs Janet Jagan, who led by matrimonial example in a movement that first attracted them, that brought all races together in one party, for the common struggle to free what the PPP has always considered ‘ One Guyana.’

Chase saw it all -- and whatever warts may be ascribed to him -- to the

very end maintained the personal dignity of opting to silently observe instead of being adversely publicly critical of the paths taken in office by the party he founded and lived to be the Last Man Standing (from the political pioneers who formed the PAC and the PPP).

His was a classic example of a citizen who played his part and maintained his dignity to the very end, instead of ever making it appear he had any regrets about the contributions he made alongside the Jagans and others of all races who joined the PAC and the PPP to liberate Guyana from colonialism and build a better future for all Guyanese

Ashton Chase’s death drew condolences and sorrowful expressions, but all who mourn should also consider that he lived happy enough to die, having seen his early sacrifices alongside others from the tender age of 20, had finally started to bear full fruit with the discovery of oil

The Last Man Standing Data Credibility

Dear Editor,

REFERENCE is made to Ramesh Gampat’s letter in the Stabroek News edition of July 15, 2023, with the caption, “Many have questioned the veracity of the statistics Guyana produces.”

In his letter, he sought to, according to him, “help readers interpret the data in economic terms.” He was referring to an article by this author which was published by this author following the debate between the undersigned and the Economic Adviser to the Leader of the Opposition

Let me acknowledge that Mr Gampat is a distinguished Guyanese scholar I have read some of his academic work, including, for example, his study on “Estimates and Ethnic Distribution of Guyana’s Building Stock.” So, I would like to thank the writer for his commentary on my work, which I appreciate

To question the credibility of datasets is not unusual and unreasonable coming from seasoned researchers and academ-

ics However, one would agree that there has to be a reasonable basis upon which to credibly do so For example, is the methodology flawed?

The last time this author questioned the credibility of a report was an assertion that was reported in a World Bank fact sheet And, I believe I had a reasonable premise Below, I present an excerpt from a letter wrote to this effect, as an example for your readers

In an updated fact sheet published by the World Bank on Guyana , dated October 6th, 2022, and last updated on November 2, 2022, the bank highlighted that “in 2020, 71.6 per cent of Guyanese households had experienced income loss compared to January 2020 levels – with the most severe impact typically found in low-income households.” (See the link to the full report here: https://www.worldbank org/en/news/factsheet/2020/09/02/ the-world-bank-in-guyana).

My contention is that the World Bank’s estimate of 71.6 per cent is farfetched, given that there are a number

of other factual and methodological considerations that were evidently NOT employed by the bank I have since engaged the bank’s country representatives and other technical officers to offer some clarification on how they derived this estimate In response to my concerns , the bank ’ s technical team pointed me to the source from which the estimate was used in the Factsheet in respect of the estimated number of households that experienced a loss of income– that is, the COVID-19 socioeconomic online survey conducted by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

Having examined the source of the information and methodology employed by the IDB, the credibility of the WB’s Factsheet is now even more questionable In this regard, the methodology employed and the findings of the IDB ’ s report to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 across the Caribbean, it was found that 71.6 per cent of the households reported an income loss in April 2020 Careful to note, however, is

and gas and its management by a PPPled administration in the safe hands of technocrats and politicians of all races with the common aim of building a One Guyana For All

Fortunately, in the new Guyana paradigm since 2020, this will most likely not be the end of the Ashton Chase story, as his example is one most worthy of following at this juncture when losers in politics turn on each other and throw vile insults at former supporters looking like them who choose unity over race and the future before the past

Ashton Chase has proceeded on his ultimate journey to the land from where no one has ever returned and his memory will be sustained in the history of Guyana and minds of Guyanese today and tomorrow as a quintessentially honest politician who had always essentially put patriotism, people and party before persons and/ or profits.

that the IDB’s survey was based on 1,691 respondents with a mean household size of five persons, thus, giving rise to 338 households This sample size represents 0.23 per cent of the population and 0.15 per cent of the total households in Guyana (2012 census data), respectively

As a rule of thumb, for surveys of this nature a good maximum sample size is around 10 per cent of the population As such, it would appear that the World Bank (WB) grossly misrepresented the IDB’s survey in its updated Factsheet.

Most notably, the bank did not qualify the above statement in its factsheet, nor did they make any reference to the source of that information which was the IDB’s survey or included any footnote explaining the methodology used by the IDB, and more importantly to clarify that the 71.6 per cent household is not for the entire country; rather, it represented the findings from a very small sample

So, with this in mind, I would be happy to be edified by Mr Ramesh Gampat on some of the underlying premises upon which the credibility of the dataset produced by the Bureau of Statistics, Ministry of Finance, and the Bank of Guyana, is questioned.

Yours respectfully, Joel Bhagwandin

Editor Navendra Seoraj

Extreme weather highlights need for greater climate action

SCORCHING temperatures are engulfing large parts of the Northern hemisphere, while devastating floods triggered by relentless rainfall have disrupted lives and livelihoods, underscoring the urgent need for more climate action, the UN World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) said on Friday.

According to the UN weather agency, June witnessed the warmest global average temperature on record, and heatwaves have persisted into early July.

Torrential rains and floods have resulted in dozens of fatalities and affected millions in the United States, Japan, China and India.

‘NEW NORMAL’

“The extreme weather – an increasingly frequent occurrence in our warming climate – is having a major impact on human health, ecosystems, economies, agriculture, energy and water supplies,” said WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas.

“We have to step up efforts to help society adapt to what is unfortunately becoming the new normal,” he added.

DEADLY NATURAL HAZARD

Heatwaves, amongst the deadliest natural hazards, kill thousands of people each year.

Elevated temperatures raise the risk of forest fires, as seen recently in Canada, which lost over nine million hectares of forests in 2023 till date, far surpassing the 10-year average of about 800,000 hectares. The resulting pollution and haze spread across much of the northeastern United States, impacting the health of millions.

Above-normal temperatures, with the mercury rising more than five degrees Cel-

country’s third largest island, together with a new daily rainfall record two days ago.

“It’s raining like never before,” JMA said.

Meanwhile, the northeastern US, including New York state and New England has seen deadly torrential rains. New York issued a flash flood emergency and more than four million people were under floods alerts on 11 July.

Elsewhere, floods in

very well prepared when it comes to flood management measures. But many low-income countries have

no warnings in place, hardly any flood defense structures and no integrated flood management. WMO

is committed to improving the situation,” he said. (UN News)

INVITATION FOR BIDS

Ministry of Human Services and Social Security

The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security invites sealed bids from suitably qualified contractors for the execution of works for the following:

• Construction of Dorm Building at Mahaica Hospital

1. Bidders must submit one (1) hardcopy (original) and one (1) electronic copy (flash drive only) with an exact PDF version of the hard copy tender. Ensure the envelope of the hardcopy and the electronic copy are identically labelled. The electronic copy (flash drive) should be places in a smaller envelope and properly affixed to the hardcopy submission.

2. The Bid submission must not in any way identify the Bidder, and should be clearly marked on the top left-hand corner the supplies being tendered for. Bids must be delivered to the address below by 3rd August 2023 at 9:00am.

3. Each Bid must be accompanied by valid Business Registration, Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and National Insurance Scheme (NIS) certificates of Compliance in the name of the Business.

4. Interested bidders may uplift the bidding documents from the Accounts Department of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Lot 357, Lamaha & East Streets, Georgetown from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday upon a non-refundable payment of Two Thousand, Five Hundred Dollars (G$2,500.00) each. The method of payment will be Cash.

5. A bid security of two percent (2%) of the tendered sum is required in the form of a Bank guarantee or a bond from an Insurance company licensed by the Bank of Guyana.

sius (41 degrees Fahrenheit) above the long-term average, are forecast in the Mediterranean region over the next two weeks, as well as in many places in North Africa, the Middle East and Türkiye.

A widespread heatwave is intensifying in the southern United States, with high temperatures likely in numerous places, according to the US National Weather Service, which says a few locations could even register all-time temperature records.

RAINING LIKE NEVER BEFORE

Heavy rains and flooding have caused severe damage and loss of life in several parts of the world in recent days.

WMO said the Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued heavy rain emergency warnings for the Fukuoka and Oita prefectures, on Kyushu, the

northwest China killed a reported 15 people, and northern India, roads and bridges collapsed and houses were swept away as rivers overflowed during heavy monsoonal rainfall and flooding, claiming dozens of lives.

HIGHER RISK

The UN agency also highlighted that while developed countries have increased level of preparedness, such as warnings, and management of floods, low-income countries remain vulnerable.

“As the planet warms, the expectation is that we will see more and more intense, more frequent, more severe rainfall events, leading also to more severe flooding,” said Stefan Uhlenbrook, WMO Director of hydrology, water and cryosphere.

“Developed countries like Japan are extremely alert, and they’re also

6. Suppliers and contractors of all types must be registered in the register of bidders at least seven (7) days before taking part in any procurement proceedings at the link located on the NPTA’s website (https://bidders. npta.gov.gy/registration)

7. Bids shall be opened by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board in the presence of bidders’ representatives who wish to attend at 9:00am on 3rd August 2023 at the address: 49 Main & Urquhart Streets, Georgetown or may request a video link from npta. procurement@finance.gov. All late bids will be rejected.

Submission of Bids: Chairman, National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, Ministry of Finance

Lot 49 Main & Urquhart Streets, Georgetown, Guyana.

For Bid Clarifications and Examination: Procurement Department, Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Lot 357, Lamaha & East Streets, Georgetown. Tel# 226-1013

Permanent Secretary

Extreme weather events, such as floods, heat and drought, affect millions of people and cost billions annually (WMO/Kureng Dapel)

New products, experiences diversifying Guyana’s tourism sector

THE creation of new products and experiences brings vast diversity to Guyana’s evolving tourism sector, and Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Kamrul Baksh remains adamant that all regions should develop products that will benefit their communities.

He made the dis -

closure during a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), as he stressed the importance of establishing more goods and services to appeal to foreigners and to even local businesses.

“We’re developing products across the 10 administrative regions.

There is no concentration in any partic -

ular area because all the regions have great products,” the director stated.

In March, the GTA along with the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) and other stakeholders launched the Discover Essequibo Circuit Development project.

This project is aimed at creating, revitalising,

and boosting tourism services in Region Two.

Similar circuit-development projects have since been launched in a number of villages in various regions, while more are on the GTA’s agenda to be established.

The creation of these new products and experiences will give both local and international

Miner’s decomposing body found floating in pit at Puttering backdam

POLICE are investigating the suspected drowning of Jerome John, a 53-year-old miner (address unknown), which occurred between July 14 and 16, at Puttering Backdam, Middle Mazaruni River.

According to a statement, the scene was visited by police at about 11:00 hours on Sunday.

“Enquiries revealed that the now deceased man was employed as a pitman by Sebastian Chase, a 30-year-old miner of Pomeroon, on his 4-inch land dredging operation.

According to Chase, on Friday (July 14) at about 18:00 hours, John left camp, heading to 'Top Side' to see his girlfriend (identity un-

known at this time). Thereafter, the victim did not return.

Today (Sunday) at about 08:00 hours a miner contacted Chase, and told him that the deceased (Jerome John) was seen floating in an old mining pit in the backdam. The matter was reported to police, who promptly responded,” the statement said.

Upon arrival at the scene, John's body was seen floating in an old mining pit, face up. The body bore no visible wound, and due to the state of decomposition, the rank was unable to determine if there were any marks of violence, the statement added.

The deceased's body was then fished out of the mining pit.

travellers a wide range of options to choose from.

“Our aim is to create a diversified product. So, it is diversified, it’s resilient, strong, competitive in the market and that’s what we want to develop here,” Baksh explained.

However, these products are created on the basis of a criteri -

on called the ‘Product Market Match.’ This is done on the basis of location, the people living in the area, and how the product fits into the village.

According to Baksh, within the last three years, the GTA has launched 27 new tourism experiences in the country. (DPI)

One of the eco-lodges located in St Cuthbert’s Mission, Region Four

Beautiful view from a tourism destination located on Fort Island

Measures finalised for three-day Harbour Bridge closure

–– free shuttling of commuters from Vreed-en-Hoop junction to ferry stelling, among plans

THE Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, on Wednesday, gave all assurances that arrangements are in place for the upcoming three-day closure of the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB).

The meeting followed a public announcement made a month ago

The bridge will be operational until 23:58 hours

on Monday, July 24, and work will commence on the structure on July 25 It is expected to be reopened on July 28

According to the Public Works Minister , the aim of the engagement was to meet all the stakeholders, including truckers, business owners, police and coast guard ranks, airline officials, medical personnel and minibus

drivers to discuss the way forward so as to ensure a smooth flow during the three-day closure

“This stakeholder engagement this afternoon is designed to ensure that that interruption is prepared for [ and ] we address all the factors that need to be calculated and worked through to mitigate the fallout from the non-operational hours of

the bridge To ensure that there is public order [and] to ensure that everyone who needs to get to their flight to depart Guyana gets there on time,” he said

He said further , that the consultation provided a platform for all stakeholders to address their concerns and hear what plans the management of the DHB has put in place for Region Three and other regions that require the use of the bridge during that period

The minister stated that they will be racing against time to ensure that the DHB is back in operation by , or before , the stipulated time

He noted that the original proposed time frame for this project indicated that works would have taken a maximum of seven days to complete; however, because of the nature and use of the bridge, the time has shifted to a

minimum of three days, at which time other maintenance works will be done

He also said that while they expect interruptions, they hope to have as little as possible

Meanwhile, the DHB’s Chairman, Ravi Ramcharitar said: “The works on span 9 was planned since last year, and it’s in the interest of public safety that we are replacing span 9 It’s not just a decision that was taken lightly; we recognise that the existing span 9 is in a terrible state mechanically, and it needs to be replaced.”

The outcome of the consultation engagement resulted in several assurances being given by officials to stakeholders

They included notifying the public that the suppliers of goods have started taking steps to ensure there are adequate supplies to Regions One, Two , Three and Seven ; a commitment from the

Guyana Police Force that its ranks will work with citizens to enhance public order and safety; a continuous shuffle of commuters from the Vreed - enHoop junction to the ferry stelling in more than two 30 - seater buses and the 24-hour availability of the crossing between Wales and Grove

The suggestion of buoys being placed as signals for the water-taxis to stay in their lanes to avoid collisions will be addressed and action will also be taken to ensure that the Mayor and City Council engage persons around the Stabroek Market area to keep the lanes open for a smooth flow of traffic for those three days.

Moreover, in case of an emergency, the minister noted that a water ambulance will be in place to facilitate medical emergencies during the closure.

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill (centre) and bridge officials listen to the views of stakeholders, ahead of the three-day bridge closure (Japheth Savory photo)

First Lady’s Kingston Seawall Project to be completed in eight weeks

THE sprucing up of the Kingston Seawall, a significant initiative under First Lady Arya Ali’s National Beautification Project , is making substantial progress despite a few minor setbacks.

The First Lady recently visited the area , which is undergoing major rehabilitative and enhancement works and expressed her optimism that the project will be completed in approximately eight weeks

In a Facebook post, the First Lady said: “Although we had some minor setbacks , in just about eight weeks this project will be completed and I am excited to see the joy it will bring to many of you, particularly our children.”

She also highlighted the importance of improving regulations in the area, par-

ticularly regarding security and vending

“During our walkabout, my team and I immediately noticed damage to, and theft of, some of the lanterns and other amenities which were installed These are intended to benefit you, the Guyanese people , and so it is your responsibility to ensure you take care of them,” the First Lady said

In response to the security concerns , the Guyana Police Force has established a permanent presence in the area Perpetrators will face the full force of the law so as to ensure a safer environment for all visitors

The National Beautification Project not only aims to enhance the scenic qualities of Guyana’s roadways and urban and rural spaces, but it also strives to foster a more environmentally friendly

society

Visitors frequenting the area will soon enjoy additional amenities, including access to free Wi-Fi and a restaurant area , enhancing their experience

In recent months , two parks have been developed and handed over to the residents of La Jalousie on the West Coast of Demerara ( WCD ) and New Amsterdam, Berbice Furthermore, three other parks are currently under development at Diamond/Grove on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), Tuschen on the East Bank of Essequibo, and Corriverton in Berbice

Moreover , the ongoing enhancement works at Kingston Seawall will transform it into a prominent hub for commercial and cultural activities, further adding to its appeal.

Sections of the seawall which were targetted as part of the beautification project

An aerial view of the seawall (Office of the First lady photos)

First Lady Arya Ali (centre), her team and key officials for the project, during the site visit

US$15M Aiden Hotel on track for completion in first quarter of 2024 –– President Ali

CONSTRUCTION of the highly anticipated US $ 15 million boutique-styled hotel at Robb and Oronoque Streets is well underway and President Dr . Irfaan Ali on Sunday confirmed that the project is on track for completion early next year.

The hotel , owned by Guyanese company Arimu Investments Inc., promises to redefine luxury accommodation in Georgetown

Set to be operated under the renowned Best Western Hotel and Resorts franchise, it will feature 149 “ smart rooms,” President Ali said in a Facebook post

These technologically advanced rooms will boast internet-powered electronic devices and household appliances, providing guests with an unparalleled level of convenience and connectivity

Arimu Investments Inc.,

helmed by directors Geraldo and Lorenzo Alphonso , is no stranger to success

With investments in mining, real estate, and business, the company has demonstrated its commitment to Guyana’s development.

Geraldo Alphonso, in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle two years ago , highlighted the booming economy and the subsequent rise in demand for quality accommodations, which would make this venture a timely and strategic investment

The Aiden Hotel, a trendy collection of laid-back boutique hotels known for their cool and casual charm , is set to be a standout property within the Best Western franchise Standing tall at nine stories and spanning 74,000 square feet, the Aiden Midtown Georgetown will offer “ smart rooms ” designed to cater to the modern travel-

ler’s every need

In addition to the Aiden Hotel , Arimu Investments Inc has secured the franchise for the Sure Stay Plus Hotel, another Best Western gem This world - class , 100 - bedroom hotel will be strategically located in the heart of Georgetown, capitalising on the city’s business-friendly climate and projected economic growth

Major players in the hotel industry, including Sheraton, The Element, Delta Marriott, Hyatt Hotels Corporation , and Radisson Hotels , have recognised Guyana’s potential and are investing in its vibrant hospitality sector

With its unique blend of luxury, technology, and local charm, the US$15 million boutique-styled hotel is poised to captivate visitors, providing an unforgettable experience in the heart of Georgetown.

An artist’s impression of the Aiden Hotel

Guyana-EU Business Chamber to be registered soon

WITH Guyanese businesses showing more interest in the Europe market, a Guyana-European Union Business Chamber is expected to be registered soon to facilitate better business relations.

This was disclosed by the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Guyana , René Van Nes , during a recent media engagement

In May 2023 , during EU ’ s Europe Day celebration in Georgetown , Van Nes had disclosed that they would soon launch the EU - Guyana Business Chamber which he noted would focus on strengthening ties between Guyanese and European businesses

According to him, this chamber would also facilitate European companies that are setting up, or active, in Guyana and would support Guyanese business-

es to navigate the European market

During last week ’ s interview , Van Nes was asked whether they have received any calls from Guyanese businesses interested in entering the European Market

In response he told reporters that while they are yet to receive specific proposals to enter the market, there are a number of Guyanese businessmen who have expressed an interest in learning more about Europe and the opportunities that exist in the EU

“I do receive Guyanese businessmen that want to know more about Europe but I have not been approached with the very specific and concrete proposals saying I want to export this product to the EU,” he said.

On that note, he indicated that opportunities exist

He explained that Guyana benefits from duty-free exports to the European market through the existing economic partnership agreement which stipulates that businesses would need to comply with certain health standards but would not be made to pay duties

Meanwhile , Van Nes told reporters that he hopes that with the new chamber coming soon and also with British Airways coming on board, there would be increased trade between Guyana and the EU

“I do hope indeed that with the chamber in the future and also British Airlines which facilitates it , and let ’ s hope that there will be other European airlines that will follow… that we can promote more trade between Guyana and the EU,” he remarked

President Dr Irfaan Ali and EU Ambassador to Guyana, René Van Nes, share a light moment at a recent event (Guyana Chronicle file photo)

Man found dead after confrontation at Soesdyke bar

THE police are investigating a report of an alleged murder committed on Yoel Valenzuela, a 40 - year - old labourer who resided at Timehri, East Bank Demerara.

According to a statement, the alleged murder was committed by three suspects (names withheld) around 04:30hrs on Sunday morning at the Soesdyke Junction , Linden Highway

“Investigations so far revealed that on 2023/7/15 at about 20:0 hrs , Yoel Valenzuela [ now - deceased], along with his son John Valenzuela, age 17, his cousin Ameria Campo, age 34, and John Campo, age 21 , all of Timehri ( Public Road ) went to Ragu Sports Bar at Soesdyke where they were imbibing alcohol

One of the suspects , known to the witnesses ,

approached Yoel Valenzuela ( now deceased ) and started arguing with him

John Valenzuela confronted the suspect, and an argument ensued between them John Valenzuela pushed and cuffed the suspect to his mouth

The suspect , in the company of other friends, confronted the now - deceased man and his relatives Valenzuela and his relatives ran out of the bar, followed by the suspects

Yoel Valenzuela ran south of Soesdyke public road and turned up the Soesdyke - Linden Highway , followed by the suspects, while John Valenzuela , Ameria and John Campo ran farther south along the Soesdyke Public Road , followed by friends of the prime suspect,” the statement said

It added that a 32-yearold self - employed man

of Kuru Kururu , Soesdyke - Linden Highway , claimed that around 05:3 hrs this morning, he went to urinate at the Soesdyke Junction when he saw the lifeless body of Yoel Valenzuela and he reported same to the police

Crime scene investigators examined Valenzuela’s body, and a wound was seen above the left ear , and another was seen on the right side of the back The area was checked , and what appeared to be blood stains were seen

The man was escorted to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where his body was examined by a doctor who pronounced him dead on arrival

One suspect is currently in police custody Police are looking for the other suspects as investigations continue.

Pilots being trained as GPF seeks to establish air wing

THE Guyana Police Force ( GPF ) is looking to establish an air wing as it seeks to reform and modernise its services to more contemporary policing, while enhancing its capacity.

This was announced by Acting Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, during the force ’ s 184th Anniversary Awards Ceremony held Thursday last, at the Police Officers’ Annexe, Eve Leary, Georgetown

According to the “top cop,” two pilots attached to the GPF are currently undergoing advanced training in Miami, USA

“They have completed

a single engine and they are now going and complete the double engine and we ’ re doing well in that regard,” the commissioner reported

The air wing, he said, will either be established in conjunction with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) or separately Additionally , aeronautical engineers are being trained to complement the pilots for the force’s air wing.

Deputy Commissioner of Police for ‘Administration’, Calvin Brutus, had disclosed that these ranks are being trained at the Art Williams and Harry Wendt Aeronautical Engineering School, Ogle, East Coast

Demerara

“

We have two engineers… a male and a fe-

Moruca sub-district villages receive transportation, equipment

SEVERAL villages within the Moruca sub-district in Region One recently received buses, tractors, boat engines, and generators from the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and the United Nations (UN).

Minister Pauline Sukhai, and Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal handed over the gifts during the Regional Toshaos and Community Democratic Council (CDC) Chairpersons Conference, at the Santa Rosa Secondary School

The two buses were handed over to the villages of Karaburi and Mora They were each procured at the cost of $3.7 million and $3.8 million, respectively.

The buses will provide transportation, bringing great ease to community members, specifically schoolchildren

Additionally, the tractors were handed over to the Santa Rosa, Rincon, and Koko Area Councils The heavy-duty vehicles were bought for $6.7 million each The buses and tractors were funded by the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs

Meanwhile, health services within the Moruca sub-district are expected to run more efficiently, as Waramuri and Manawarin each received a 40 horse-power boat engine and a generator for their health facilities

The generators were donated by the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) and will be a source of back-up

electricity

The engines will help the villages to transport patients to the Kumaka District Hospital for emergency and other medical purposes

During the feature address at the conference, Minister Sukhai urged the village leaders to invest heavily in their communities with the funds that they receive from the government. (DPI)

male at an advanced stage of completing their programme too ,” Commis -

sioner Hicken disclosed This will bring the GPF up to par with its

counterparts within the Caribbean region and farther afield. (DPI)

Commissioner of Police (ag), Clifton Hicken

The tractors that were given to the three councils

The bus for Mora Village

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

IRISH RACING TIPS KILLARNEY

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

THISTLEDOWN Race 1 Gray Royalty Race 2 Congratsjensen Race 3 Insaciable Prince Race 4 Strike One Race 5 Lady Jasper Race 6 Lake Radio Race 7 Power Banker Race 8 Midnight In Ohio

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS GREYVILLE

08:15 hrs Let's Not Linger

08:50 hrs Kashkaval

09:25 hrs Poppy Of Bayeux

10:00 hrs Shifting Path 20:45 hrs Rockingthetimeaway

Sports Minister Charles Ramson to Open 2023 MSC Academy today

By Sean Devers

FOUNDED in 1902 by a Barbadian Tailor, the Malteenoes Sports Club, in 1993, inaugurated the first ever Cricket Academy in the West Indies with the Malteenoes Cricket Academy which spanned the duration of July/August school vacation, with accommodation provided for the out-of-town players.

Today, at 09:30 hours, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson, will officially open this year’s Academy at the club’s Thomas Lands facility.

The Academy will be in operation, from Monday to Friday, during the period July 17 to July 29 from 09:00 hours to 15:00 hours.

President of the Club, Deborah McNichol explained that the Academy was important for developing young boys and girls, both on and off the field.

Cricket skills, etiquette, the Laws of cricket, dealing with the media, mental and game awareness, among other topical areas, will be taught during the two-week Academy and matches will be held.

“Funding the programme is the most challenging aspect and we (MSC) are still seeking sponsorship to fund different areas of the Academy like refreshments, water and cricket balls” said the first ever female President

of a Club that participates in First Division cricket.

Some of the sponsors of this year’s Academy are: The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Fireside Grill n Chill, Office of the President, Bistro Café and Bar, Star Party Rental, Jumbo Jet Autosale, Desinco Trading, Exotic Printz 592, Guytrac, Trophy Stall, Val’s Construction, Vnet and South Atlantic.

In 1992, Michael Welch, who was at that time the General Manager of the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company, negotiated and secured a grant from Northern Telecom and this enabled the Club to construct the accommodation on the ground floor of the building for housing the proposed Academy.

With the blessings and support of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), the Malteenoes Cricket Academy was launched in July

1993 in recognition of the Club’s motto “Our Youth, Our Future”.

It was inspired by the fact that cricket in Guyana and the West Indies seemed to be a game where the basic skills, knowledge of the game, confidence and pride were being taken for granted in all quarters, with no apparent prescriptions nor blueprints for remedial action.

MSC’s principal intention was to add to the National grid, at least 150 young proud confident individuals, on an annual basis.

The plan was for the GCB to take it over after the first three years but this did not happen resulting in the Academy being run by MSC up to 2003.

After a break the Academy was reintroduced in 2016 on a much smaller scale but was again interrupted in 2017 due to the unavalibity of Coaches who

were occupied with CPL duties

In 2018 a scaled down Academy was held but the Pandemic halted the Academy for another two years before it restarted last year when Lomar Seecharran was named the best batter in the 12-17 age group while Rakeeb Latif was the best bowler in the 7-12 age group.

Both of the players were involved in the just concluded DCB U-13 Franchise cricket tournament.

The Academy has produced Test players Ramnaresh Sarwan, Ryan Ramdass, Colin Stuart, Narsingh Deonarine and female Test player Indomattie Gordial-John along with former USA Captain Steve Massiah who played two ODIs for the US while Karran Ganesh, who attended the first Academy, also represented the USA.

Alcaraz beats Djokovic in Wimbledon final

(BBC) - Carlos Alcaraz

won the Wimbledon men's singles title for the first time by ending Novak Djokovic's recent dominance with a stunning victory.

Spain's Alcaraz, 20, fought back from a nervy start to win 1-6 7-6 (8-6) 6-1 3-6 6-4 against the defending champion.

Djokovic was going for a fifth straight win, an eighth men's triumph, and a 24th major, all record-equalling feats.

playing in only his fourth grass-court tournament, said.

"Even if I lost, I would have been proud of myself. To be able to play in these stages of these occasions, as a boy of 20 years old, is really fast.

"I'm really proud of myself."

Alcaraz, who won his first Grand Slam title at the US Open last year, celebrated by falling flat on his face after taking his first match point, and kicking a ball into the crowd.

The majority of a packed Centre Court, which included the Prince and Princess of Wales, actor Brad Pitt, and two-time winner Andy Murray, rose to their feet to acclaim the All England Club's newest champion.

Becker in 1985, and 20-yearold Bjorn Borg in 1976.

"You never like to lose matches like this, but I guess when all the emotions are settled, I have to still be very grateful," said 23-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic, who broke down in tears during his on-court speech.

"I won many tough matches here. Maybe I have won a couple of finals I should have lost, so maybe this is even-steven.

"It is a tough one to swallow when you are so close. I lost to a better player; I have to congratulate him, and move on, stronger, hopefully."

Fantastic final proves to be a feast

The pair have been two of the leading players on the ATP Tour this year, and jostled for position as the world Number One.

Djokovic won the Australian Open and French Open this year to move ahead of Rafael Nadal's tally of 22 major titles, knowing another victory would equal Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 victories.

At the opposite end of

the career scale, Alcaraz was aiming to prove not all of the younger generation can be overawed by Djokovic's greatness.

He broke for a 2-1 lead, which led to Djokovic smashing his racquet on the net post and, continuing to play with power and variety, served out a stunning victory after four hours and 42 minutes.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Monday July 17, 2023)

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

But the 36-year-old Serb was outlasted by top seed Alcaraz, who underlined his class by winning a second major title.

"It is a dream come true for me," Alcaraz, who was

As tradition now dictates, Alcaraz ran up the stairs from the court to his box, and embraced coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, along with his family and friends.

Alcaraz is the third youngest man to win the Wimbledon title in the Open era, after 17-year-old Boris

Before an eagerly-anticipated men's final between the top two seeds, Djokovic further ramped up the excitement by predicting a "feast" between a pair with equally "hungry" appetites for success.

A compelling contest, full of quality, drama and momentum swings, lived up to the hype.

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Clive Lloyd & Viv Richards (8)

(2) Sunil Gavaskar (13)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What are the best Test match bowling figures by a WI against India to date?

(2) What are the best Test match bowling figures by an Indian versus the WI to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Sports Minister Charles Ramson with MSC’s President Deborah McNichol at last year’s Academy (Sean Devers photo)

Carlos Alcaraz, of Spain, with the winners trophy after his victory against Novak Djokovic, of Serbia, in the Gentlemen’s Singles Final match on Centre Court during the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club at Wimbledon on July 16, 2023, in London, England (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)

Digicel Schools Football U-18 2023 Georgetown leg…

Dolphin to face Excelsior Academy in Final

DOLPHIN Secondary will face Excelsior Academy in Wednesday’s Region four (Georgetown) final of the 2023 Digicel schools football tournament.

The two earned their spots in the final by varying routes on Saturday at the Ministry of Education Ground on Carifesta Avenue.

In the first semi-final, Dolphin had to assert their authority to beat off a pugnacious West Ruimveldt 2-1

Dolphin opened the scoring in the 14th through Gerry Burnette, and continued along their play style to the half, but were caught offguard when Elijah Marcus (50th) minute leveled things

up. It took Burnette a 61st minute strike to put Dolphin back ahead, a goal which proved decisive until the final whistle.

Excelsior, on the other hand, had to go to penalties to earn their spot in the final against Charlestown.

The eventual winner’s Tyrese Lyle scored in the 2nd minute of play, before Tyler Lyle (50th) brought the game level.

The game went topsy-turvy when Excelsior’s Antonio McArthur was red-carded in the 72nd, leaving them down to 10 men to hold off the Charlestown attack, which they did.

And when it came down to penalties, it was Excelsior which won 4-2.

In the earlier games at the same venue, New Campbellville won 7-0 against North Ruimveldt Multilateral, with goals from Jevon Pluck (2nd, 25th and 07th) as well as Dalon Wray (32nd), Marlon Moore (70th), Jarrel Smith (75th), and Mikkle Mills (78th).

East Ruimveldt Secondary also beat North Georgetown, 6-0, thanks to a pair of braces from Daniel Sutton (5th and 13th), Onesi Dunn (22nd and 53rd), and single strikes from Dennis Fowler and Traniel Jack.

Over at the National In-

CWI Rising Stars U-19 men’s championship…

surance Scheme Ground, Richard Ishmael won by a walk-over from Tutorial, while Tucville were 7-2 winners over St. Winefride's.

The winners had goals from Akil Barrow (8th, 24th and 39th), Dequan Flatts (18th), Jamal Leomile (55th), Dwayne Kellman (60th) and Sahle Butts (69th).

St. Winefride’s had Jeremiah George (16th) and Rodwin Hubbard (29th) on target.

Meanwhile, Wednesday’s final will be preceded by the third-place playoff between West Ruimveldt Secondary and Charlestown Secondary from 16:00hrs.

Trinidad in command of Jamaica, Guyana struggling against Barbados

CMC – Rajeev Ramnath’s half-century helped put Trinidad and Tobago in command of their contest against Jamaica, on the second day of the Rising Stars Under-19 men’s championship on Sunday.

The right-hander topscored with 63, as T&T, resuming the morning at Sion Hill on 43 for one, were dismissed for 191, to carve out a first-innings lead of 39 runs.

Trinidad’s bowlers then stunned Jamaica’s top order to leave the second innings in tatters on 31 for three, heading into Monday’s final day.

Ramnath received support from Olando James, the only other batsman on Sunday to pass 20, with 28 from 76 balls, including four fours.

Reon Edwards (3-40) and Tamarie Redwood (3-64) both grabbed three-wicket hauls, however, to restrict

T&T’s lead.

At Park Hill, Barbados were building a strong platform for a victory bid on Monday after managing to secure a crucial first-innings lead of 119.

After declaring on 302 for nine on Saturday’s opening day, Barbados then turned Guyana over for 183, with Isaiah Folkes (2-5), Joshua Dorne (2-34), and Saurav Worrell (2-44) all claiming two wickets each.

Resuming the morning on two without loss, Guyana struggled for partnerships, despite decent knocks of 32 from Jonathan Rampersaud, 31 from Aryan Persaud, 30 from Shamar Yearwood, and Rampertab Ramnauth’s 27.

In their second turn at the crease, Barbados reached 29 for one, to stretch their overall lead to 148 runs.

And at Arnos Vale, Windward Islands suffered a lower-order collapse to concede

Hetmyer cameo helps Orcas remain unbeaten

CMC – Shimron Hetmyer lashed an unbeaten cameo to help Seattle Orcas to their second win on the trot, with a 35-run victory over San Francisco Unicorns in the Major League Cricket tournament here Saturday night.

The left-hander pummeled an unbeaten 36 off 30 balls, a knock which helped fire Orcas to 177 for four off their 20 overs, South African Heinrich

Klaasen top-scoring with 53 from 31 deliveries.

In reply, Unicorns started strongly before fading and being dismissed for 142 in the 18th over, Pakistan leg-spinner Shaab Khan hitting 37 from 23 balls after entering at Number Six.

Orcas top the standings with four points, with Texas Super Kings and Unicorns both on two points.

Choosing to bat first at Grand Prairie Stadium,

Orcas were carried early by Shehan Jayasuriya (33), who put on 44 for the second wicket with Nauman Anwar (30), before adding a further 47 for the third wicket with Klaasen, after another South African, Quinton de Kock, perished for seven in the second over, with nine runs on the board.

Klaasen, who struck four fours and three sixes, then powered the middle overs in a 54-run fourth

wicket partnership with Hetmyer, the West Indies left-hander in turn putting on 23 off 14 balls in an unbroken fifth-wicket stand with Shubham Ranjane (10 not out).

Hetmyer belted a four, and two sixes, but struggled to get the ball away inside the last two overs.

Openers Matthew Wade and Finn Allen then both struck 28, as Unicorns made a positive start to get up to 86 for two at the half-

first innings lead to Leeward Islands, before hitting back when they bowled a second time.

Resuming from their overnight 85 for five, Windwards lost their last five wickets for 23 runs, with Tarrique Edward adding only two to his 25 at the start.

Off-spinner Onaje Amory was outstanding with five for 31, while leg-spinner Mich McKenzie ended with three for 23.

However, Windwards wasted little time in getting stuck into the Leewards second innings, reducing them to 85 for six at the close, and a lead of only 118 runs.

Kirt Murray (3-21) and Tarrique Edward (3-24) spearheaded the Windwards attack with three-wicket hauls, while Malique Walsh resisted for Leewards with a top score of 38 from 81 balls, with two fours and a six.

way stage.

However, seamers

Cameron Gannon (4-23) and Andrew Tye (2-27) scythed through the middle order, as Unicorns lost their middle and lower order in a

shocking collapse.

Shadab blasted two fours, and two sixes in a rearguard effort, but perished in the 18th as the third of Gannon’s victims.

Dolphin Secondary School goal scorer Gerry Burnette(2)

Left-hander Shimron Hetmyer

Young ‘ruggers’ end RAN U-19 XVs win less

GUYANA’S disappointing performance at the Rugby Americas North (RAN) men's under-19 XVs tournament concluded on Saturday with the young ‘ruggers’ finishing win-less in the entire event.

The RAN youth competition was hosted at the Mona Campus in Jamaica, and in addition to the Guyanese ending win-less, they failed to score any points in the entirety of the tournament.

In their last match against the Cayman Islands, the young rugby players suffered their biggest defeat, losing 50-0.

It was a one-sided af-

fair, and the Cayman Islands secured their first and only victory in the tournament.

The match was referred to as the "fifthplace final" since both teams had been win-less leading up to that point.

Prior to their match against the Cayman Islands, Guyana had faced Trinidad and Tobago, resulting in a 33-0 loss on Thursday. They followed it up with another defeat against the host country, Jamaica, losing 37-0.

Jamaica had been undefeated until that point in the tournament.

In their opening match of Pool B on Wednesday,

the local team, seeded sixth, suffered a 48-0 loss against Bermuda.

The championship final that was played on Saturday saw the favourites, USA South against the second-seeded Jamaican team. It was a tightly-contested match, but USA South emerged victorious with a narrow 18-15 win.

Before their departure, it was noted that the Guyana team is a fairly young squad that included a few 15-year-olds. The team’s main objective was exposure.

Troy Yhip, Treasurer of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), shared with Chronicle

Sport that he is proud of the boys, because, although they lost, they

showed some heart in their very first outing, and he is certain that the

Milex National Junior Chess Championships…

team has great potential, and will continue improving.

Couchman, Sandiford take early lead

face Alexander Zhang. Zhang fought valiantly, but was defeated in the end.

Sandiford then came up against qualifying champion Ethan Lee. The duo had faced each other in the qualifiers, at which time the match came to a draw. However, Sandiford was victorious on Saturday.

Couchman and Sandiford are both on 3.5 points. The other players in the Top Five are Matthew Singh on 3 points, Oyeyipo on 2.5 points, and Ronan Lee on 2 points.

champion and qualifying champion are down on points, but can still make a comeback if the leading players are not careful in the remaining five rounds.

Sandiford is a seasoned competitor, with many years of experience and trophies under his belt, but may risk being surpassed by up-andcoming Couchman, who has displayed solid and consistent prowess in the game.

KYLE Couchman and Keron Sandiford are off to a brilliant start in the Milex National Junior Chess Championships, leading the tournament after four rounds.

The Milex-sponsored National Tournament is a round-robin event with ten players vying for the title of National Junior Cham -

pion. The time control is 90 minutes, with 30-second increments. Games will play between July 14th and 19th at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

Couchman, a student of Queen's College, has won three of his four matches, defeating qualifying champion Ethan Lee, Alexander Zhang, and defending champion Ri-

cardo Narine. He drew his match with Oluwadare Oyeyipo.

Couchman’s signature Ruy Lopez did not fail him when he faced Oyeyipo in Round Three, as neither young man allowed the other any chance to gain an advantage. As is typical with such an opening when played well, the game ended in a draw by

agreement, when both players surmised that they saw no advantage to be gained from the equally-matched end position.

Couchman went on to play white against the defending champion, who conceded defeat and resigned after Move 26.

Sandiford started the day with 1.5 points as he went to

The reigning junior champion Ricardo Narine, and qualifying champion Ethan Lee are on 1.5 points. Alexander Zhang has 1 point, and Kishan Puran is yet to earn a point.

The players had a much-needed and wellearned rest day on Sunday, before they return to the board today. With five rounds to go, the championship is still wide open.

Going into Round Five, both the reigning junior

With five rounds to go, there is still room for surprises in terms of who will take home the title. While the leading players have established a strong lead, they must keep their wits about them and stay focused to maintain their advantage until the end of the event.

The Guyana Chess Federation extends gratitude to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport for once again providing the venue for the tournament, and to the event’s title sponsor, De Sinco Limited, under their Milex brand.

Keron Sandiford (left) against Alexander Zhang

Kyle Couchman

Play between Guyana (left) and T&T during the RAN under-19 15s in Jamaica last weekend

President Ali, PM Phillips endorse

‘Kares One Guyana’ T10 Blast

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan

Ali on Friday met with the organisers of the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast, which will be played in Georgetown on July 29 and 30.

President Ali, the tournament’s patron, recommitted his support of the tournament, noting that it is an event that will bring many people together from varying communities under the ‘One Guyana’ banner.

The President also unveiled the specially-made hand-crafted winner’s trophy.

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who was also present, pledged his support of the tournament.

The tournament features 32 teams drawn from various geographical locations.

Preliminary matches will be staged at the Police Sports Club, the Guyana Defence Force, Queen’s Col-

lege Ground, YMCA, and Transport Sports Club, while the finals will be held at the Everest Cricket Club Ground on July 30.

To progress to the championship match, a team must win three matches on Day One, and their semi-final on Day Two.

They will then qualify to compete for the first prize of $1M cash, and the specially crafted One Guyana trophy.

The organisers are grateful for the support of Kares Engineering, which quickly committed to being the title sponsor, and Mohamed’s Enterprise, which funded the first-place prize, and offset the transportation cost for Team Moruca.

They also wish to express their gratitude to Banks DIH, through GT Beer, for fuelling the weekend; Star Rentals; Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc.;

ENet; Regal Stationery and Computer Centre; V-Net Communications; Trophy Stall; Premier Insurance; Cricket Zone USA; Beacon Café; Continental Transport; the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; the National Sports Commission; RS53 RestoBar and Lounge; Jacobs Jewellery & Pawn Shop; First Change Builder Inc; Impressions Inc; and Sicko Mode.

The first-ever champions will pocket $1M, while the losing finalist will collect $300,000.

The two losing semi-finalists will walk away with $100,000 each. There will also be prizes for outstanding individual performances.

Additionally, there will be a celebrity match before the championship match, where the winning side will be rewarded $200,000, which will be donated to a charity

of their choice.

The celebrity match could feature President Ali, former national and international cricketers, entertainers, sponsors, members of the media, athletes, former and current government ministers, and other influential persons in Guyana.

The organisers wishes to remind that players will not only walk away with their pockets filled, as there will be numerous instant prizes for the fans who participate in cricket novelty activities.

At the same time, the children will be pampered with free rides, games, and treats in the Banks DIH Fun Zone.

There was a change in fixtures to accommodate the usage of normal mud pitches, as unanimously requested by participating teams.

Round of 16 matches commence at 13:30h at

all five venues, while Super Eight matches start at 16:00h, and will be at QC, Police, and Guyana Defence Force Grounds only.

The semi-finals and final are on July 30 at Everest Cricket Ground.

ROUND OF 32

FIXTURES:

Matches starting at 09:00h

1. Eccles All Stars v Hero Riders - Queen’s College Ground

2. Ministry of Human Services and Social Security v Bartica Bulls - Queen’s College Ground

3. Avinash All-Stars v PB Contractors - YMCA

4. Continental Transport v Moruca XI – Guyana Defence Force Ground

5. Eastsye v Airport XI – Guyana Defence Force Ground

6. The United Crew v Spartan Strikers – Guyana Defence Force Ground

7. Village Rams v Young Steppaz – Transport Sports Club

8. Ministry of Housing & Water v Central Stars –Police Sports Club Matches starting at 11:00h:

9. Ariel XI v Movements Family – Queen’s College Ground

10. Big B’s Blairmont Blazers v MS 13 XI – Queen’s College Ground

11. Team Corruption v Upsetters – YMCA

12. Guyana Power & Light v Laluni – Guyana Defence Force Ground

13. Name Brand v Storm Chasers – Guyana Defence Ground

14. Tarmac Titans v EC Express – Transport Sports Club

15. Diamond Gunners v Region Three Police – Police Sports Club

16. Avery Lounge v V-Net Vipers – Police Sports Club

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, and Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips display the winners’ trophy along with organisers Yusuf Ali (far left) and Akeem Greene (far right) at the Office of the President on Friday (Photo: President. Dr. Irfaan Ali)

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, and Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, along with organisers: Yusuf Ali (far left) and Akeem Greene (far right) at the Office of the President on Friday (Photo: President. Dr. Irfaan Ali)