Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 20-04-2023

President Dr. Irfaan Ali inspects the new Arapaima Pilot Boat in the presence of a MARAD pilot (Office of the President photo)

The Arapaima Pilot Boat

Skeletal remains suspected to be missing cop found

suspects tell police victim was lured, killed over affair with woman

By Clestine Juan

DETECTIVES from the Guyana Police Force’s Major Crimes Unit on Wednesday found the skeletal remains, suspected to be those of missing Police Constable Quincy Lewis, in a shallow grave at an area along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway.

Lewis disappeared in 2020 after leaving his La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara home for work.

However, the case was cracked wide open after investigators arrested two individuals who allegedly

identified a married couple as the prime suspects.

The couple allegedly lured Lewis to their home on the East Bank Demerara, where he was shot and killed. The couple then transported his body to the vicinity of the Splashmin’s Resort on the Linden/Soesdyke Highway, where they dumped it.

This newspaper was informed that the couple has since fled the jurisdiction.

On Wednesday, after combing the Madewini Sandpit area, police found the remains. The investigators have taken samples for DNA testing.

Crime Chief Deputy Commissioner (ag), Wendell Blanhum said investigators

Highway

had gathered evidence over the past several months.

“I wish to take this opportunity to commend the ranks of the Major Crimes Investigation Unit, who worked tirelessly along with the newly appointed head of the Cold Case Unit to achieve this breakthrough and offer closure to the family of the deceased. The Guyana Police Force will also use all legal avenues available to ensure that the other two suspects are extradited to Guyana to answer to the allegations in relation to the death,” the Crime Chief said.

Lewis, a serving member of the Guyana Police Force since 2015, was stationed at the Agricola Police Station, East Bank Demerara.

This newspaper reported that Lewis was last seen alive on the afternoon of June 19, 2020 when he

left in his friend’s car, PTT 7541, to report for work. His cousin, Revon Jor-

don, told this newspaper that he initially thought Lewis was in-line, seeing that he was a policeman, which was all part of the job.

However, a few days later, the owner of the car Lewis borrowed visited the family, looking for Lewis. The vehicle was not returned, and Lewis had yet to answer his cell phone.

Lewis’ relatives not only became worried, but they were suspicious and decided to call the Agricola Police Station when they found out that he never reported for duty.

On June 26, 2020, Lewis’ family filed a “missing person” report at the La Parfaite Harmonie Police Station.

An investigation was duly launched, and a review of CCTV footage of various points on the Demerara Harbour Bridge showed that Lewis did cross it, presumably on his way to work.

A few months later, Lewis’ cell phone was found along Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD) Public Road, with the screen cracked.

Press Association condemns ‘dastardly’ attack on reporter by PNC/APNU official

THE Guyana Press Association (GPA) has condemned the most “dastardly and pathetic expletive-laced” attack on Guyana Chronicle journalist, Tamica Garnett by Chief Scrutineer of the A Partnership for National Unity, Carol Joseph.

Joseph was contacted by the journalist on Wednesday, for a comment on which areas the party would be contesting for the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGEs).

The journalist followed all common journalistic practices by first greeting the politician and providing an identity before proceeding to say what the purpose of the call was.

Joseph, however, interrupted the journalist and enquired again, “you from Guyana Chronicle?” to which the person responded, yes.

The APNU member then proceeded to say: “No darling. F*** Chronicle. Ayo don’t f***ing call my phone, yall are too biased. F*** you!”

“This attack on Ms. Garnett marks a new low in relations between the media and the political directorate in Guyana,” the Press Association said.

The GPA called on Aubrey Norton, who is the PNC/R Leader, Chairman of APNU and Guyana’s Opposition Leader, to publicly apologise to Ms. Garnett, and issue a commitment that his party would not subject members of the media to such acrimonious and indecent outbursts by any of his members.

“Failure to do so would certainly make him complicit at minimum,” the Press Association said.

It went on to state: “The GPA fully recognises the diverse ownership and influence in a number of media houses, but at the same time condemns any attack on media workers to execute their duties.”

Investigators made the gruesome discovery after unearthing the shallow grave along the Linden/ Soesdyke

Missing: Quincy Lewis

$535M Arapaima Pilot Boat commissioned

By Trina Williams

WHEN the $535 million Arapaima Pilot Boat touched Guyana’s shores, it began modernising the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD).

This was according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Wednesday, at the commissioning of the Arapaima Pilot Vessel at the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard Headquarters, Ramp Road, Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

The 14-person PB Arapaima was custom-built by Ocea Shipbuilding Limited in France, following a needs assessment conducted by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD).

It is built from aluminum, which is about 30 per cent lighter than steel, strong, and has good corrosion resistance. This translates to higher speed, lower fuel con-

sumption and easier navigation.

Ten persons were also trained and certified in the operation of the boat.

This is in keeping with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) 2020–2025 manifesto’s goal for “Infrastructure Boom: Building for the Future.”

The brand-new ship is supposed to drastically cut down on how long it takes pilots to get the vessel out to sea.

In his feature address, the President emphasised that the “ageing assets” and “bad decisions” made by the previous administration in 2018 have cost the present government substantially, as they have had to spend $50 million a year maintaining the vessel brought by the opposition.

“We have aging assets. Bad decisions in 2018 by the last government led to

HPV mass testing programme to combat chronic diseases, cancer

–– Dr Ramsammy says women 30 years, above being targeted

CHRONIC diseases have accounted for 74 per cent of deaths in Guyana, and the Ministry of Health is working to lessen this percentage and ensure the population remains healthy.

Chronic diseases are defined broadly as conditions that last one year or more and require ongoing medical attention, limited daily activities, or both. Chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are the leading causes of death and disability worldwide.

Adviser to the Minister of Health, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, disclosed during a recent online programme, ‘The Guyana Dialogue,’ that a Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) testing programme for women ages 30 and older will be rolled out shortly.

He said the programme would be used as one of the frontline interventions to identify people at risk and provide immediate medical attention.

“More than 85 per cent of all cervical cancer are due to HPV 16 and 18 in Guyana, and therefore, if we could identify people who are HPV positive, we would identify people at risk for cervical cancer and maybe other cancers too,” he

the acquisition of what was supposed to be a new asset for just around $300 million. One year afterwards, we spent more than $300 million on spares, and that takes it to about $600-plus million. That vessel is costing us about $50 million annually to maintain,” President Ali explained.

However, the Arapaima not only comes with a year of free maintenance and warranty, but it is also expected that starting in the second year, maintenance of the ship will cost no more than $20 million and will use less fuel.

Noting that the maritime sector has always been the backbone of global trade, the President asserted that shipping has accounted for 90 per cent of Guyana’s trade, and thus, the sector is a vital and indispensable segment of global and national economies.

–– as part of efforts to modernise local maritime sector - President Ali says

President Ali said, “the economic transformation cannot be realised without the modernisation of its maritime sector”.

Further, he stated that Guyana had set itself on the path to not only develop its maritime sector but also help other industries in the economy, along with providing support to trade and commerce and ensuring maritime safety, all to support the country’s economic growth.

He added that the government is aggressively seeking the purchase of a marine firefighter vessel as part of its objective to improve the industry.

In addition, the President remarked that because shipping activity is growing exponentially—it increased by 30 per cent last year and has already surpassed that amount this year—the government is putting a lot of

effort into making shipping fast and efficient.

“Guyana is therefore moving rapidly to modernise its maritime sector to ensure that we are ready to operate in a modern economy,” the President asserted.

President Ali stated that work is being done on updating the hydrographic chart to maintain an efficient trade in the oil and gas field and strive to produce a modernised industry.

Further, he noted that in the past two years, the government had spent over $1 billion on marine navigation aids, including the building of 15 beacons in the upper reaches of the Essequibo River, and that more beacons are currently being built in the lower reaches, along with twenty-eight beacons in the Demerara River, all to facilitate safe and continuous navigation in the waterways.

The President added that because human resources are crucial to the development of the maritime industry, it is a provision of the agreements with France, the United States of America, and India that training facilities and modules be made available to individuals working in the maritime industry.

Moreover, in his address, the Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, added that the arrival of the Arapaima Pilot Vessel marks a “historic day in the Maritime sector of our country.”

He also stated that with the increase in marine traffic and commerce, “we must have effective systems in place to ensure the safety and efficiency of our environment.”

“Safety on our waterways is something that is of utmost importance to this government,” he asserted.

stated.

This measure would be complemented by frequent monitoring and the introduction of pap smears and cryotherapy, among other medical interventions, for persons with cervical cancer.

Additionally, the ministry is currently implementing HbA1c measurements in all primary healthcare centres to detect diabetes at an early stage.

“We do foot screening across the country. This year we expect to screen a child for vision and hearing. Just broadly introducing screening earlier and wider, so it reaches people wherever they live,” the health adviser relayed.

Meanwhile, a massive breast cancer screening programme will also be launched.“We already have a cervical screening programme that is reaching people nationally…We are educating men about prostate. It is a lot of work that is going on,” he further disclosed.

Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony also spoke about launching a wellness initiative that is geared towards promoting a healthier lifestyle among the Guyanese population.

Extensive agenda planned for India’s External Affairs Minister’s visit

AN extensive agenda that includes a business roundtable event, the creation of a joint private sector council, the signing of several agreements, and visits with the Speaker of the National Assembly to advance talks of parliamentary exchanges has been planned for the official three-day visit to Guyana by India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who arrives in Guyana on Thursday evening.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, ahead of the minister’s arrival, the Indian High Commissioner, Dr. J.K. Srinivasa, noted that discussions during the visit would focus on bilateral talks in several sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, defence, health and pharmaceuticals, technology and innovation, and energy including renewable energy.

“These meetings will underline the growing interest on both sides for stronger, trade and investment ties.

It is expected to solidify bilateral relations by improving high-level exchanges between the two countries. India’s growing friendship with Guyana is underpinned by mutual respect. We hope that this visit will address the main issues between the two countries and find solutions for their existing problems,” Dr. Srinivasa remarked.

While in Guyana, Dr. Jaikanshar will also engage with the local Indian diaspora.

Jaishankar will be accompanied by a business delegation from India, which will include the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), which will be involved in the business roundtable discussion that will be held on Saturday at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.

The business roundtable is expected to see the participation of over 80 top Guyanese companies.

Also on Saturday, Dr. Jaishankar will be paying a site visit to the East Bank-

East Coast road link project, attending the commissioning of the passenger ferry built by GRSE, and laying wreaths at the Non-Aligned Monument, Mahatma Gandhi Statue, and Independence Monument.

On Sunday, an India Diaspora Reception will be at the Marriott Hotel. This will be Jaishankar’s first visit to Guyana, but it forms part of a series of high-level bilateral engagements between the two countries over the past few months.

In January, President Dr. Irfaan Ali led a Guyanese delegation on a seven-day official visit to South Asia, while Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo subsequently visited the country in February, leading a technical team that advanced discussions with officials there on future co-operation in oil and gas initiatives.

Minister of Agriculture

Zulfikar Mustapha, the Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier God-

India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar

frey Bess, security advisers, and would’ve also visited India this year.

During the visit, officials from the two sides will also follow up on various discussions during the January and February visits to India and the growing friendship. Jaishankar’s visit to Guyana is part of a multi-country Latin America tour, with scheduled stops in Panama, Columbia and the Dominican Republic.

Corn, soya bean processing facility to be completed within three months –– Agriculture Minister says

THE drying and storage facilities for corn and soya beans currently being constructed at Tacama Landing along the Berbice River are expected to be completed within two to three months.

Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha disclosed this on Tuesday during an outreach at Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara.

The new facilities will provide employment opportunities and boost the nation’s food sector.

Minister Mustapha explained that the government spends almost $60 million to import the two products. However, they are now cultivating the commodities locally with the intention of exporting.

“We [government] have started the pro-

duction of corn and soya in the intermediate savannah, we started to build facilities there and in another two-three months, we’ll have those facilities complete. “We want to produce more…that is why we are expanding… those foods we have been importing, we want to start producing them locally and that is why we ventured into new crops,” the agriculture minister said.

Meanwhile, another $150 million was set aside in this year’s budget for constructing a wharf in the area.

It will provide easy river access to the land under cultivation, making it more accessible for farmers to transport their produce.

“Just under three years we have seen budgetary allocation to the agriculture sector

move from $13 billion to $32 billion. Why have we invested in it? Why have we doubled it? Because we see the need to improve the infrastructure in our country. We see the need to ensure that we prepare the agriculture area in a way that farmers can have it easier to produce,” the minister explained.

He confidently projected that Guyana would be self-sufficient in food production in the next two years.

Meanwhile, the trial of 125 acres of corn and soya bean was started by the government in 2021 and eventually reaped major success.

Private sector members are also key stakeholders in the monumental cultivation and production of corn and soya bean.

This is in line with the President’s initiative of helping to reduce the food-importation bill in Guyana and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

Minister Zulfikar Mustapha inspects the crop

The APA persists with distortion of facts to make itself relevant for the purpose of grant-funding

… secret attempts by the APA to deprive Indigenous Villages of progress must stop

THE Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) issued a release dated April 18, 2023, attacking the National Toshaos’ Council (NTC) and its Chairman Derrick John, a respected Toshao of an Indigenous village in Guyana. In the same release the APA attempts to also target Vice-President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, after being exposed for attempting to block finances from going to Amerindian villages.

This attack on the NTC Chairman, who was unanimously elected by Toshaos of over 200 Amerindian communities, should be strongly denounced. The APA may not like what the NTC’s Chairman revealed in his letter to the editor dated April 15, 2023, as the council called out the APA for filing a secret objection to the ART Secretariat, the international certifying body for Guyana’s carbon credits, without the prior knowledge or consent of the Indigenous peoples. This personal attack on the NTC Chair reveals the APA’s unravelling struggle to deflect from difficult questions including its inability to explain how would suspending the process for Guyana’s credits issued for 2016 to 2020 help our Amerindian Peoples fulfil the plans and projects they have developed for their own advancement. The APA has not answered this question because they cannot find an answer that makes sense or that is truthful.

Being unable to rely on facts, the APA resorts to disputing issues such as the number of LCDS 2030 documents they received, while avoiding the substantive issue of the overall consultations with thousands of Amerindians; disputing how many meetings they managed to attend, while avoiding the fact that there was broad-based engagement; and waxing lyrical about the structure of minutes of meetings, while avoiding their non-existent contributions to those meetings.

The APA purports to project itself as the sole arbiter

of what is right and good for Indigenous Peoples and the sole fighter for the progress and development of Amerindian communities. However, the facts expose this deception and the Guyanese populace is intelligent and well versed in matters that affect them.

The fact is that Amerindians in Guyana under successive PPP/C governments have made the most progress in every sphere of their lives. The track record of the PPP/C on Indigenous Peoples’ issues is unquestionable as summarized in the few points below:

FACT 1: STRONG COMMITMENT TO INDIGENOUS LAND TITLING UNDER THE PPP/C GOVERNMENT

Land titling has moved from six per cent in 1992 to 14 per cent by 2014, and from August 2020 the process has been resumed and is progressing. Successive PPP/C governments have stood in strong support of indigenous land titling and have the track record to show for it. While Indigenous Peoples in many countries have right of use of the land only, in Guyana where the Indigenous Peoples account for approximately 9.7 per cent of the population, Amerindians own land, including the forests and resources within their Titled Lands.

The APA has lied about the land-titling programme and has made every effort to stall the process over 20162020. When asked about the land-titling project by the Stabroek News, the APA’s Governance Coordinator, Laura George, was exposed for lying that the land-titling project started under the PNCR-led APNU+AFC Coalition government. When confronted with the facts at the last National Toshaos’ Council meeting in July 2022, she claimed that the Stabroek News misquoted her, a claim that the Stabroek News has since disproved.

The APA remained silent when the APNU+AFC Coalition’s Keith Scott dubbed Amerindians of Guyana as “avaricious” or greedy in no

place less than the National Assembly – a comment that was made after the National Toshaos’ Council (NTC) called on the Coalition to deliver on its promises and advance the Amerindian Land Titling programme. The APA also remained silent when Amerindians were told by the PNCR-led Coalition that if they benefitted from lands, they would have to forego benefits from Guyana’s oiland-gas resources. The APA said nothing when there were widespread objections to the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into ancestral and indigenous lands – objections grounded in fear of a return to the pre-1992 disposition where Amerindian land rights were not a priority.

A summary of the situation regarding land titling should capture the following relevant facts:

* When democracy was restored in Guyana in 1992 – bringing to an end 28 years of the PNCR-led dictatorship – a total of 74 villages, approximately six per cent of Guyana’s territory, were titled, but many had not been demarcated.

* From 1992 to 2010, demarcation proceeded for the 74 villages and a further 22 were titled, along with reformed legislation (including the 2006 Amerindian Act) and an improved policy/ regulatory framework built around a village-led process including elected representatives (Toshaos and Village Councils)

* In 2009, the original LCDS conceptualised the Amerindian Land Titling Project, which would address all outstanding titling requests, utilising money received under the GuyanaNorway Agreement and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

* In 2013, the project started, and during the periods 2013-2015, and 2020 to date, a total of 24 villages were demarcated. This is out of an overall project total of 28 demarcations to date.

* The 24 villages de -

marcated under the PPP/Cled government, including the two Certificates of Title prepared this year translates to 5,477 square miles or 1,418,741 hectares of legally held Amerindian lands.

* During the period 2015-2020, when the PNCR-led Coalition was once again in government, only two were hurriedly given their certificates of title after passage of the no-confidence motion. The APA supported this slow and diminished approach of the land- titling project and proffered no criticism during this period.

FACT 2: SUSTAINED SUPPORT FOR THE AMERINDIAN ACT AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT IN LEGISLATIVE PROVISIONS BY THE PPP/C

Guyana is one of the first countries in this region, and one of the few in the world, to have dedicated legislation for Indigenous Peoples. Successive PPP/C administrations have prioritized constitutional protections, legislative support and cre-

ated institutions that bring greater rights and benefits to Indigenous Peoples, empower governance and decision making at the village level and support regional and national representation of Indigenous Peoples’ rights through the NTC.

The Amerindian Act 2006 charts a clear pathway for securing land titling for Indigenous villages and empowers villages to plan for the development through a process of self-determination. The Act also outlines the role of the National Toshaos Council in representing Amerindian people. These legislative provisions

have all been mainstreamed in the forest carbon credits programme. The Act allocates sub-surface rights for small- and medium-scale mining operations to Amerindian villages.

The APA, instead of supporting the facilitation of conditions needed for greater rights and benefits, quietly conspired with the APNU+AFC Coalition to redefine what is indigenous, to include non-Amerindian communities – a move that would have set back the rights of Indigenous Peoples. It was the PPP/C that led the fight to resist this.

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

Ineffective Leadership

LEADER of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, has faced significant backlash for his leadership of the People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R), which appears to be disintegrating, judging from its recent showing on Nomination Day.

The party’s support has evidently dwindled significantly even in stronghold areas such as Georgetown and Linden, where the numbers of supporters were paltry in comparison to the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic’s (PPP/C)’s “sea of red.”

Moved by what he observed on Monday,

PNC/R member James Bond criticised Chairman of the APNU and Leader of the People’s National Congress/Reform, Aubrey Norton, for being slothful and abandoning the party’s grassroots supporters.

“Let me be on record today, April 18, 2023, in saying I’ve never seen, in my 10-plus years of political life, a lazier bunch! I entered politics seeing comrades work; today, the level of activism and militancy is ZERO!

“It’s a shame that under the leader who symbolises the grassroots, those who are supposed to work with him have abandoned the grassroots. Not to worry, though. Long

live the PNC,” Bond said on his Facebook page.

Norton has faced increased scrutiny as more members of his party have spoken out against him. Some have accused him of being too authoritarian and not listening to the concerns of his colleagues.

Perhaps the PNC/R had very good reason to overlook him for the leadership role on several occasions in the past.

The challenge for the PNC is for the party to break out of the current mold and to collectively demand better of its leadership, instead of resorting to attacks against persons, especially Afro-Guyanese

who choose to seek better.

On Nomination Day, former Mayor of Georgetown, Patricia ChaseGreen; former PNC/R Councillor Trichria Richards; former independent city councillor for the Albouystown/Charlestown constituency and popular radio announcer Malcolm Ferreira, and many others joined the PPP/C ahead of the Local Government Elections.

The crossover of Chase-Green and other prominent figures has been seen as a major blow to the Opposition, which has since resorted to a campaign to discredit their former members’ credibility.

During the live broadcast, the President expressed his disappointment at the negative comments made by some leaders in politics, particularly calling out Norton for his statements of “great cause for concern.”

“I’ve been reading comments from the Leader of the Opposition, someone who speaks about democracy and inclusiveness, and some of the statements that are attributed to him and that he’s making are of great cause for concern.

“For example, using comments like money as a disposal for Black support. That is disparaging. You should care to respect

our Afro-Guyanese brothers and sisters, and this is what you would say to them, that they can be bought?

“That backward type of politics; that disheartening type of politics is something of the past. That can’t win anymore in the future, Mr. Norton. That can’t bring people together. That age-old strategy of yours has died understanding this,” the Head of State said. He posited that Afro-Guyanese have the capacity to think and analyse for themselves, especially for the upcoming LGEs and the 2025 General and Regional Elections.

The APA persists with distortion of facts to...

The PPP/C government has also led the way in creating constitutional provisions for the establishment of the Indigenous Peoples Commission (IPC), a landmark move that underscores the importance our government places on Indigenous Peoples’ development, ensuring that it is at the highest level of the Constitution. It must be noted that it was under the former government, to which the APA is aligned, that there was a move to reduce the representation of elected Amerindian leaders on the IPC. According to a Committee of Appointment report brought to the National Assembly in March 2018 by the former administration, moves were afoot to reduce Amerindian representation on the 15-member commission to 30 per cent – meaning that of the 15 members, three representatives are from the National Toshaos Council. It was the PPP/C that resisted

this effort and withheld support, where a two-thirds majority vote was needed in Parliament, to stave off this move. Again, here, the APA was silent.

FACT 3: EMPOWERING INDIGENOUS LEADERSHIP THROUGH THE NTC

The Amerindian Act outlines the role of the NTC to represent the Indigenous peoples of Guyana. The NTC is the national body that represents all Indigenous villages in Guyana, as set out in the legislation that governs Indigenous Peoples matters in Guyana: The Amerindian Act 2006. Part IV, Sections 38-43 of the Act outlines the role and functions of the National Toshaos’ Council.

Toshaos and Village Councils (the wider body elected to manage the affairs of the village which is headed by the village Toshao) are elected at the village level in keeping with Part III of the Amerindian Act. Toshaos

then represent their villages at meetings of the NTC.

Among the functions of the NTC as detailed in Part IV of the Amerindian Act, is to: “coordinate and integrate the activities of the villages on a national basis” as stated in Section 41 (h), and “to prepare strategies and plans for the protection, conservation and sustainable management of village lands and natural resources” as stated in Section 41 (e). By virtue of the provisions of Part IV of the Act, including Section 41 (h), collectively these legislatively enshrine the powers of the NTC, to lead on, guide and endorse the LCDS and approach to carbon financing in Guyana.

At the annual NTC Conference in July 2022, all elected Toshaos present (over 170 leaders in attendance) engaged with the LCDS team who joined discussions on the strategy and plans for the next phase. These discussions included reviewing the output of the consultations

and the process for, and progress on, issuing and marketing carbon credits.

A resolution was passed by the full NTC, with no objection, endorsing the LCDS 2030 inclusive of all its elements. The government and the NTC Chairman emphasized the need for toshaos to stay involved as implementation of the LCDS 2030 moves ahead, village plans are prepared or updated, and new opportunities arise.

In addition to frequent engagements with the NTC and other leaders, the Government of Guyana consulted with the NTC and all leaders of Indigenous villages across the country in February 2023 to update them on the process of marketing and sale of Guyana’s carbon credits under the ART TREES programme. The mechanism for disbursement of forestcarbon funds to communities was discussed, inclusive of the amounts to be received by each community and the systems they would put in

place to manage and account for the funds.

As of March 2023, villages across the country have chosen to ensure their village plans are ready for the investment of 15% of the money earned from the sale of Guyana’s ART-TREES credits. The remainder of the revenue is being invested in multi-community and national programmes and projects and this is an uncapped sum. All of this has been discussed in detail with all of the indigenous leaders who fully agreed to this process.

The APA appears to feel threatened by the NTC, which is why they have pursued an attack on the council and the chairman. Whilst they are quiet on the fact that they have a support base of a scattering of villages across two regions of Guyana, they often attempt to usurp the role of the NTC – the legitimate representative of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples.

FROM PAGE 5 TURN

A strong NTC, which the PPP/C government has

always supported, threatens the APA’s machinations. As evidenced by their press release of April 18, 2023, they are unrelenting in their unjustified attacks on this representative non-governmental organisation for the sake of defending their financial survival and their affiliation to the PNCR-led APNU+AFC Coalition.

FACT 4: SUSTAINED BUDGETARY SUPPORT FOR SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENT AT INDIGENOUS VILLAGE LEVEL

At no time in Guyana’s history have Amerindians had more support than when successive PPP/C administrations have been in office.

The PPP/C government has a strong track record of investments in Indigenous villages in areas of health, education, infrastructure, ICT access, hinterland electricity, and water supply.

Every village is engaged in the process of identifying

Op-Ed: India deepening ties, expanding economic co-operation

By Dr. K. J. Srinivasa

THE relations between India and Guyana have always been cordial and strong, ever since the two nations formally established diplomatic ties more than 50 years ago, but they have deepened, in recent years, through bilateral relations punctuated by exchange visits at the highest levels.

This ever-growing friendship is expected to assume new heights with the visit from India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, a distinguished diplomat who has been masterfully representing India’s interests on the global stage on a variety of complex issues.

Minister Jaishankar’s visit to Guyana from April 20–24, 2023, follows closely on the heels of the official visits to India by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali in January of this year and VicePresident Dr Bharrat Jagdeo in February 2023.

During his visit to India, HE President Ali was conferred with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (Indian Diaspora Award) by the President of India, HE Droupadi Murmu and held discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a wide range of issues, including energy cooperation, infrastructure development, pharmaceuticals, health care, technology and innovation, and defence corporations.

After his visit, HE President Ali, in a briefing with local journalists, reported that “We are examining the government-to-government relationship and governmentto-government opportunities for [oil] exploration and production,” adding that: “There was tremendous interest in having close collaboration between the two governments on research and development, technology transfer, building out of our agri-food system, the echo system surrounding our food production and agriculture and enhancing productivity of our agriculture sector.”

On his part, Honourable Vice President Jagdeo told the Indian media corps that while the India-Guyana relationship has always been strong, Guyana is working on expanding this relationship and was keen to recognise India’s growing presence and respect in the international community while pointing out that, inevitably, India will be representing the Global South.

Honourable Minister Dr. S Jaishankar, who met with Vice President Jagdeo, was very upbeat following their engagement, tweeting:

“Delighted to meet Hon. Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, Vice President of Guyana, during his India visit. Discussed our historical relationship and greater opportunities in contemporary partnership, especially in trade, energy, agriculture, skills and people to people ties.” His tweet, aside from aptly capturing the discussion with the Honourable Vice President, which bodes well for expansion of economic cooperation, also underlined the historical relations between India and Guyana, which stretches back long before the two nations established diplomatic relations on May 26, 1966.

Though separated by continents, rivers, and seas, India and Guyana are deeply connected in spirit. On May 5, 1838, the first batch of 396 Indian immigrants aboard the Whitby and Hesperus arrived in Guyana to work on the sugar plantations during the indentureship period from 1838 to 1917 and saw an estimated 240,000 Indians brought to these shores. Historical records indicate that many came from presentday Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Today, their descendants account for the largest ethnic group in Guyana and have been credited with playing a significant role in the social, political and economic transformation of this land they embrace as home.

Part of this development can be credited to India, which has, over the years, provided over a thousand scholarships to Guyanese students to pursue studies in various disciplines aligned to priority areas of national development at the undergraduate and post-graduate levels as well as short courses through the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) schemes. This is just a small mention of India’s generosity towards Guyana.

India has provided significant assistance (US$25 million) to Guyana in the building of the Guyana National Stadium at Providence, East Bank Demerara; US$ 2.1 million in the supply and installation of 50 solar traf-

vaccines free of cost to scores of nations in need.

India’s service to humanity at the global level is worthy of note and emulation. It cannot be more accurately elucidated than by Guyana’s Foreign Minister, Honourable Hugh Hilton Todd, when he said the following:

fic lights; US$ 2.9 million in drainage pumps; and US$ 2 million in the setting up of the Centre of Excellence in Information Technology (CEIT) at the University of Guyana (UG).

Recently, India delivered to Guyana the MV MA Lisha, built through a line of credit cum project grant from India totalling US$12.77 million, that will serve the NorthWest region of Guyana. This ferry is expected to be formally jointly commissioned by HE President Irfaan Ali and EAM Dr S Jaishankar during his visit to Guyana.

India is also funding the construction of the OgleEccles Road link. When completed, this road will significantly reduce the time commuters travel within these locations, as well as open up areas for housing and commercial development. In addition, India has provided funding of US$17.5 million to upgrade the Suddie Regional Hospital, the West Demerara Hospital, and the Bartica District Hospital, and assistance for rice husk gasifiers and quick impact community development projects. Notably, this support from India and the growing friendship with Guyana have been underpinned by mutual respect and co-operation, acceptance of equal partners in business, non-interference in internal affairs, and respect for territorial integrity.

These values characterise India’s affairs in global business, politics, trade and diplomacy and are embedded in India’s values system, at the heart of which is the embrace of humanity. Here, India stands as a giant in the world. Many will recall, less than two years ago, in the throes of COVID-19, which was ravaging nations across the planet, India, notwithstanding its challenges, quickly responded to the cries of distress, and Guyana was among the first countries to benefit from the Vaccine Maitri (vaccine friendship) programme. And in keeping with its reputation as the ‘Pharmacy of the World’, India extended this magnanimous gesture, supplying portions of its OxfordAstraZeneca and Covaxin

“India has to take care of 1.3 billion people, in a democracy, with smooth transitions. Can you imagine having to take care of 1.3 billion people and still having the time at the policy level to say, ‘Let us look to see what

we can do for the rest of the world’ when multilateral institutions should be doing that; so I will dare say that India is a multilateral institution in its own right. When you think about their commitment to humanity, India is providing leadership at the global governance level and that is commendable for a country 75 years old. Think about it. In our lifetime, we have industrialised economies that were never colonised. Some were colonised centuries-old in terms of their post-independence but do

you get the same attitude and commitment and conviction as you get from India?”

For India, her motto is expressed in the Sanskrit phrase, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, “The world is one family”.

Warmest welcome to Honourable External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S Jaishankar and his delegation to Guyana, and it is the hope that the friendship and commerce between Guyana and India will grow and deepen to the mutual benefit of their people.

High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr. K.J Srinivasa

The APA persists with distortion of facts to...

needs and those needs are progressively met in annual budgetary allocations. Additional to this, Presidential Grants, and now earned revenues from carbon credits sales would further add to village development.

From August 2020, the PPP/C has allocated billions to Amerindian development, which allowed for: increase in the Presidential Grants to

villages; provision of agricultural support via trailers and tractors; and the 1,972 Community Service Officers (CSOs) who were terminated by the APNU+AFC Coalition government, with silent concurrence of the APA, have been rehired by the PPP/C government; restoring over $700million to Amerindian villages, and the complement of CSOs has since increased to 2,500. In 2023, alone,

billions are budgeted for the completion of 10 new schools in Amerindian villages and four new major hospitals; as well as a $5billion special allocation.

These are facts that the APA avoid because these facts do not support the fallacies that they peddle. Rather, the deception that they have stood by are being exposed; the NTC chair has done so in his letter to the editor

on April 15, 2023, and the PPP/C government has done so on several occasions.

FACT 5: RESPECT FOR FPIC

The PPP/C government has always emphasized the important role of consultations with Indigenous villages. In relation to the LCDS 2030 consultation, the consultation started in October 2021, and remained open for the entire duration of the ART-TREES consultation period and was not closed until after the (extended) ART-TREES consultation period was closed. The LCDS consultation was extended to seven months, and the LCDS 2030 was only finalised in July 2022, well after the ART-TREES consultation period had concluded. All inputs from those who participated in the national consultation, including on ART-TREES and benefitsharing, were taken on board.

Only when all these processes were completed did Guyana move ahead with the final stages of issuing credits for 2016-2020. All of this was publicly communicated throughout the process, and more in-depth conversations took place with a wide range of stakeholders, including elected representatives of indigenous peoples and those who participated in the Multi-Stakeholder Steering Committee.

There is now significant support for turning this progress into practical results and impact for indigenous peoples and local communities across the country, who have already received a total of US$22.5 million and are following their own villageled processes to determine whether and how to deploy these resources for the betterment of their own villages and communities.

CONCLUSION

For over two years, the APA has been invited to participate in, and to help lead, consultations across Guyana concerning the LCDS and ART-TREES. However, the APA was very selective in engaging in the consultations that it has now raised grievances about.

Further, the APA was asked to join other stakeholders on the LCDS Communications Sub-Committee– yet

did not attend meetings or participate in any way. They neglected – even when asked – to come up with suggestions on addressing some challenges such as identifying translators fluent in local languages, thereby leaving this work to others.

Furthermore, the APA was asked – like other members of the Multi-Stakeholder Steering Committee -- to lead consultations. Unlike other members of the Steering Committee who led consultations, and gathered inputs and feedback, the APA never fulfilled this responsibility. After the consultations were completed, other members of the Steering Committee discovered that hundreds of the copies of the LCDS, given to the APA to help with consultation, were sitting in the APA’s headquarters in the city. Yet now the APA raises unspecific complaints about a consultation it did not participate in and seeks to drown out the views and voices of indigenous leaders and other local stakeholders who did take part.

Truth be told, the APA survives by presenting themselves as the ‘saviours’ of the Indigenous Peoples. The only way that they are able to attract certain types of donor financing is by creating a situation of need, and one that warrants them to ‘save the people.’

The APA has a reputation of attracting large sums from a broad range of donor organisations, and there is very little to show for it at the village level. Concerns have been expressed by several Indigenous villages, that only a minimal amount of that aid goes to villages. The vast amount of this aid allegedly goes towards expensive charter flights, high-end hotel bookings, and paying super salaries. The very fact that the APA has no means of income but from grant funding that is secured by painting a role for themselves, shows their agenda. They are able to pay themselves handsomely by showing Guyana in a bad light, by pulling down elected indigenous leaders, and by blocking earned finance to 242 Amerindian villages. The APA should publish its financial statements from multimillion

dollar donor contracts from various development partners and this would undoubtedly reveal many of the concerns that Indigenous villages have been expressing about the association.

THESE ARE THE FACTS

1. The APA consulted no one but themselves, flouted FPIC and disrespected village decision structures, in filing its complaint to the ART Secretariat to suspend carbon credits payments to Guyana, especially its indigenous population.

2. The APA has not justified how the stopping of payments to Amerindian villages would benefit the villages - specifically credits from eight years ago (2016).

3. The APA continues to be silent on their track record of use of donor financing totally devoid of transparency and reporting to the constituency they purport to represent.

4. Why should the carbon credit payment to villages be stopped until the APA says it is okay to proceed? It is unclear as to who has appointed the APA to be chief spokesperson for Indigenous Peoples.

5. How can the views of the APA’s office staff, of approximately 10 persons be made to represent a population of Amerindian Peoples of close to 100,000 persons who have elected their own legal representatives under the Amerindian Act?

Reflecting the reality in Guyana, one based on facts, does not serve the APA. The attack by the APA on the Chairman of the NTC, and the carbon credits programme has taken the APA’s narrow self-interest to a more destructive level. This time, they are taking away ‘bread’ from the Indigenous Peoples and securing their own personal financial standing by doing so.

This must stop. The APA cannot destroy indigenous peoples’ livelihoods and get away with it. The APA must do better and not continue to be driven by political affiliation and their misguided approach to justifying their relevance for the sole purpose of attracting donor financing.

Min. Sukhai tells UN forum: Investing in Indigenous Peoples essential to achieving SDGs

INVESTING in Indigenous Peoples is essential to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) and creating a more inclusive and equitable world.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, expressed these sentiments while delivering remarks at the 22nd Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The session is themed “Indigenous Peoples, human health, planetary and territorial health, and climate change: a rights-based approach.”

Minister Sukhai said: “The full implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People is important in addressing the systemic inequalities and discrimina-

tion they face.”

She said the theme for this year’s forum underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address the complex and intercon -

nected challenges experienced by Indigenous Peoples.

It was highlighted that they face severe vulnerability to climate change and environmental degradation,

Carol Joseph verbally attacks Chronicle journalist

A PARTNERSHIP for National Unity (APNU)’s chief scrutineer, Carol Joseph, on Wednesday, hurled expletives at a Guyana Chronicle journalist, Tamica Garnett.

Joseph was contacted by the journalist for a comment on which areas the party would be contesting for the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGEs).

The journalist followed all common journalistic practices by first greeting the politician and providing an identity before proceeding to say what the purpose of the call was.

Joseph, however, interrupted the journalist and

enquired again, “you from Guyana Chronicle?” to which the person responded, yes.

The APNU member then proceeded to say: “No darling. F*** Chronicle. Ayo don’t f***ing call my phone, yal are too biased. F*** you!”

The journalist was dumbfounded by the response and could only manage to say, “wow.”

Joseph, who once served as Petroleum Adviser at the Natural Resources Ministry under the APNU+AFC, is before the court for alleged electoral fraud.

She is also before another court for the alleged theft of $6.1 million from the

Police seize cannabis in NWD road block exercise, two arrested

TWO men, Levon Lynch and Roy Chan, both 39, were arrested with 1114 grams of narcotics at about 04:05 hours on Wednesday morning after police in Regional Division One intercepted a vehicle at a roadblock in the vicinity of Falls Top Village, North West District (NWD). According to police, an assistant superintendent along with a detective inspector, a detective sergeant and three other ranks were on patrol duty

See page 10

potentially threatening their existence.

“Despite their invaluable knowledge and practices that can contribute to the development of effective climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies, Indigenous Peoples are among the least heard in global climate discussions. “This forum plays a critical role in elevating Indigenous Peoples’ voices in climate change and sustainable development discussions, as their contributions go beyond their knowledge and practices, encompassing unique perspectives on social, economic, and cultural issues,” the minister empha-

sised.

She noted that world leaders must continue to ensure Indigenous Peoples’ meaningful involvement in decision-making processes to guarantee that their needs, priorities, and rights are accounted for and respected.

The minister highlighted that CARICOM is home to several Indigenous communities and continues to play a vital role in the region’s social and economic development.

Minister Sukhai noted that the region had significantly benefitted from their agriculture, medicine, and natural resource management knowledge.

“They also play an important role in one of the region’s most important economic sectors, tourism, by offering cultural experiences that not only support the local economy but also create employment opportunities for their communities and promote cultural awareness and understanding,” she added.

To this end, she noted that CARICOM recognises these invaluable contributions and will continue to develop Indigenous Peoples, policies and practices that promote sustainable development, environmental justice, and respect for human rights.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai at the 22nd Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, UN Headquarters, New York

A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)’s chief scrutineer, Carol Joseph Mahaica Abary Rice Development Scheme (MARDS) while being a member of its Board of Directors.

The package of cannabis that was seized by police

GMSA elects Ramsay Ali as President

THE Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Products Limited, Ramsay Ali, was, on Wednesday, elected President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) at its annual general meeting (AGM).

The AGM was held in two parts, as is customary. On March 31, 2023, thirteen board directors were elected through an electronic voting process that saw a blended attendance

of members in person and virtually.

On April 19, 2023, the president, three vice presidents, and treasurer were elected.

The remaining members were elected to form the Board of Directors, which included the chairpersons of the various sub-sectors.

The Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Products Limited, Ramsay Ali, was elected unopposed as President of the Association.

He will be supported by Rafeek Khan, immediate past president of GMSA and managing director of Durable Wood Products Inc., as first vice president; Vasudeo Singh, group finance director and deputy chief executive officer of Demerara Distillers Limited, as second vice president and treasurer; and Orson Ferguson, chief operations officer for business solutions at GTT, as third vice president.

Mr. Ali’s professional

career began in 1988 with a background in sales and marketing.

Over the years, he has worked with entities such as Colgate Palmolive, Banks DIH Ltd., and then Sterling Products Limited.

Mr. Ali has given his time to help non-profit organisations such as the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association, where he serves as chairman, the Georgetown Cricket Club, and the Scouts Association

of Guyana, where he is the vice president.

For years, Mr. Ali has made invaluable contributions to the GMSA, where he aggressively pushes for success and development in the manufacturing sector.

He is the brainchild of GMSA’s Uncapped Marketplace and continues to support small and micro enterprises in their development, marketing, and other pertinent areas.

GMSA President, Ramsay Ali

30 Moblissa farmers complete agro-processing programme

AFTER a two-day agro-processing programme, 30 farmers from Moblissa (West), Soesdyke/Linden highway, recently completed agro-processing training in pineapple, pepper, and green seasoning at the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA), Mon Repos, East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

The exercise, which was facilitated technically by GSA and organised by the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), is in keeping with the Government of Guyana’s effort, through the Ministry of Agriculture, to build,

Consistently, the capacity of entrepreneurs to maximise the market potential for their products through agro-processing.

After the training, the participants could produce a hot sauce, pineapple jam, and green seasoning to be marketed under the brand ‘ Moblissa Farmers.’

The Moblissa farmers

are engaged in the cultivation of pineapples, hot peppers, and leafy crops. This training is expected to equip the farmers to utilise the facilities at the Watooka Agro-Processing Facility, Linden.

Additionally, on March 3, 2023, 32 agro-processors at Moblissa (West) received capacity-building training. They were provided with crucial information that will help with decisions in the areas of butter cassava, pepper, green seasoning, pineapples, and cherries

for the fresh and processing developing industries.

During the training exercise that Brijesh Singh, GMC Extension Manager, conducted, it was highlighted that the group of farmers could boost their economic and social livelihood by contributing toward the agro-processing industry.

It is believed that the Watooka facility and other institutions will play a pivotal role in developing the community, largely farmed by youths and nuclear families.

Police seize cannabis in NWD ...

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in the vicinity of Falls Top Village, North West District, early Wednesday when they conducted a ‘Road Block Exercise’ and intercepted a Black Toyota Fielder Wagon bearing registration PYY-7254.

Police said: “The passenger in the front seat was observed throwing a bulky black parcel out of the vehicle. As a result, one of the police ranks picked up the parcel in the presence of the other police ranks as well as the driver and passenger of the intercepted vehicle.”

The police then asked the passenger, Lynch of Citrus Grove, Port Kaituma, why he threw the package out of the vehicle, and he remained silent.

A search was conducted on the Lynch and a .32 Taurus Pistol with one magazine containing six rounds of.32 ammunition and a copied licence for the said firearm were found.

Police opened the parcel, which contained a quantity of leaves, seeds, and stems suspected to be cannabis.

Lynch and the vehicle’s driver, Roy Chan of Port

Kaituma, NWD, were both told of the offence and cautioned.

They were arrested and escorted to the Port Kaituma Police Station with the suspected cannabis, which, when weighed, amounted to 1114 grams. The suspected narcotic was marked and lodged pending analysis.

The firearm and ammunition were also lodged with the station sergeant for safekeeping.

Police said the suspects are in custody, assisting with the ongoing investigation.

President Guard laid to rest

–– President Ali, Cabinet Members attend funeral service

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan

Ali and several members of his Cabinet, Wednesday morning, attended the funeral service for the late Police Corporal Avandel Kevin Narine.

Corporal Narine, who was attached to the President Guard (PG) service, died in a vehicular acci-

dent on Sunday morning along the East Bank Demerara public road. Also in attendance were Deputy Police Commissioner ‘Operations’, Ravindradat Budhram; Head of the Presidential Guard (PG), Assistant Commissioner, Edgar Thomas; Commander

Regional Division 4 ‘A’, Assistant Commissioner Simon McBean; Force Welfare Officer, Woman Superintendent, Allison Moore, along with several other senior police officers.

‘Nations’ trains over

2,600

women as part of WIIN programme

–– continues supportive efforts by sponsoring recent ‘We Lift 3’

NATIONS Incorporated has congratulated Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, and team for hosting Guyana’s largest women business expo, ‘We Lift 3’.

“This is a celebration of the achievement of women across Guyana who have completed skills-based training through the Women Innovation Investment Network Initiative (WIIN) and the over 200 women-owned businesses showcased at the We Lift 3 event this year,” the private educational institution said in a press release.

The institution went on to state: “It has been a joy for Nations Incorporated to be involved from the early days of the WIIN programme, training over 2,600 women in courses such Childcare, Care for the Elderly and Garment Construction, amongst many others.”

Nations continued its efforts by sponsoring ‘We Lift 3’. Liam O’Toole, Nations Incorporated’s Chief Operating Officer and Mischka White-Griffith, the K-6 Principal, were present at the opening ceremony of ‘We Lift 3’ to celebrate the event with the participants, WIIN

graduates, and the 200 women-owned businesses.

“Nations wishes Hon. Dr. Vindhya Persaud and her team, including the coordinator of GWLI, Mr. Sanjay Pooran, all the very best in 2023 and looks forward to supporting the expansion of WIIN to include business development, entrepreneurship and project management related courses. Our hope is to see an increase from the 200-women owned businesses on display this year to over 500 in We Lift 2024,” the institution said.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali comforts a relative of Police Corporal Avandel Kevin Narine, during the funeral service at the Memorial Garden’s Funeral Home, Princes Street, Georgetown.

Nations Incorporated has congratulated Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, and team for hosting Guyana’s largest women business expo, ‘We Lift 3’

Barbados, Trinidad increase interest in fresh produce from Guyana

Agriculture Minister reiterates gov’t will continue to find markets for farmers

BARBADOS and Trinidad have increased their interest in having fresh produce from Guyana supplied to their markets.

This was according to Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, during an outreach to Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara, on Tuesday.

The minister said this in response to concerns raised by farmers and residents, who are recording excess produce due to the lack of markets.

Residents said that they made their way to the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) for assistance but were unsuccessful in receiving any feedback.

Minister Mustapha said that the GMC has an obligation to help farmers get markets for their produce,

and had even reported to him that it had been finding markets for farmers.

However, according to the minister, if it was a case of those officers not providing feedback to farmers, his ministry will seek to rectify that issue.

Mustapha went on to say: “A number of Caribbean countries especially Barbados, they are looking now, they want fresh produce from Guyana to go across there, so there are already markets in the Caribbean for farmers’ produce.”

He related that they are working now and meeting with these countries to remove all non-tariff barriers which caused produce from Guyana to not go into the market.

Against this backdrop, he said that, recently, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister

who was in the country for the oil and gas conference had said that they too were very eager to have Guyanese produce go to Trinidad and Tobago.

“Trinidad and Tobago was the hardest country for us to export our produce; they had all kinds of laws there, all kinds of barriers; now they are working to remove those barriers,” he told the farmers.

Additionally, the Agriculture Minister said that they have also been working very closely with the authorities in Barbados along with Antigua and Barbuda.

He said: “So we have to work with the farmers… there are enough markets out there for our farmers’ produce to go there and we will work with you to find the markets.”

A section of the gathering at the Ann’s Grove village office on Tuesday (Ministry of Agriculture photo)

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha (second from left) and team from the various agencies, as they addressed the farmers’ concerns, on Tuesday, at Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara (Ministry of Agriculture photo)

1,400 graduate in WIIN vocational training programme

THE largest group of graduates, totalling 1400 under the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) training, recently received their certificates.

Over the course of two days, the women from Regions Three and Four were formally accredited. The majority of them had no formal qualifications prior to starting the programme and are now on their way to finding work or starting their own business.

These ladies and a handful of men completed training across nine courses, namely, Child Care, Care for the Elderly, Graphic Design, Patient Care, Garment Construction, Television and Video Production, Microsoft Office Suite, Home Management, and Administrative Assistance.

Child Care and Care for the Elderly each recorded over 300 graduates, while Patient Care and Graphic Design had over 200 graduates each.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, highlighted, “We have started the initiative of the Day and Night Care and Early Childhood centres. We are encouraging you to complete the levels three and four which will equip you with the knowledge and training on special needs children and early childhood.

I am also encouraging you to start consortiums and groups and you can register that group to open your centres.

All these centres need to be registered and licensed with the Childcare and Protection Agency. It is a good initiative, many parents are looking for safe environments to leave their children so we are encouraging solid training, good environments, safety and security for children and compliance.”

Minister Persaud reminded the prospective business owners that the WIIN in business clinic is available for start-ups, sustainability, and business plans.

One of the graduates, Monifa Abrams, noted, “This is my

second year in Care for the Elderly programme. Care for the elderly is a passion and I try to do my best with this certificate to open my own care centre. I must thank the Ministry of Human Services and all the workers that helped us achieve this certificate and help other young women like me to move up in life.”

Shaliza Alberts, who completed the Graphics Design course, explained, “it was a good opportunity because I plan to open my own business. It has taught me a lot in the business I want to do so I will definitely be heading into the second phase. I want to thank the Minister and the Ministry of Human Services for this chance and I want to encourage women to go after their dreams with this programme.”

This year, WIIN is expected to train over 6,000 persons.

Vulnerable individuals with no formal qualifications or means of achieving academic success, through vocational training, will be given the opportunity to get on the right path to earning.

Planning in final stage for Exercise Tradewinds 2023

MILITARY representatives from the United States and several partner nations are gathered in Georgetown for the Final Planning Conference (FPC) for Exercise Tradewinds 2023.

Exercise Tradewinds is a United States Southern Command-sponsored multinational Caribbean security exercise designed to expand the region’s capability in several areas.

It will take place in Guyana from July 14–28 and will include the participation of 17 partner nations, three allied nations and several regional organisations.

The FPC is the culminating event for all planning for the exercise. It will provide planners with the space to have a last check on the status of planning and preparation for the event’s execution and to finalise, publish and distribute all essential exercise plans and

documents. It will also allow all concerned to resolve remaining issues and endorse the final planning product.

Commandant of the Guyana People’s Militia, Colonel Trevor Bowman declared the conference

open on Monday, welcomed the participants, and communicated the Force’s commitment to working with all its partners for yet another successful hosting of Exercise Tradewinds.

A class of WIIN graduates share a photo opportunity with Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud

A section of the gathering for the Final Planning Conference of Exercise Tradewinds 2023

New GCCI president plans to modernise operations, support microbusinesses

Focuses on growing economy with e-commerce, cybersecurity

By Trina Williams

KESTER Hutson of Dapper Technology Incorporated, who was just elected President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), has plans to modernise the organisation’s operations, as well as support companies of all sizes, even microbusinesses as they grow and find a place in Guyana’s quickly developing economy.

Hutson, among other things, wants to not only help these businesses but also offer meaningful solutions to problems that business owners often encounter.

The new president’s agenda includes several vital subjects: e-commerce, cybersecurity, and financial access.

In an invited comment with the Guyana Chronicle, he stated that e-commerce is crucial to Guyana’s economic and commercial landscape.

He said that when used effectively, it can help companies reach a larger audience.

Additionally, he noted that it is about time “we divert from the traditional ways of conducting business and gravitate to a digital platform.”

Cybersecurity can be defined as safeguarding internet data against loss and destruction. It includes private information, protected health information, sensitive data, data about intellectual property, and systems for governmental information.

According to the newly-elected president, a foundation for digital resilience is essential for sustained economic and social development, especially in the era of rapid information technology expansion and digital network transformation.

Hutson further said that there is still a need for more awareness of the value and necessity of cybersecurity in Guyana.

He said this needs to change through adequate education, which the GCCI fully supports, while noting that Guyana is at the height of exponential growth and that the importance of data protection at this time is vital.

“We want to ensure that businesses are well protected,” he asserted.

According to Hutson,

no matter what type or size of business you run, if your email is hacked, “you and your company” are at risk, meaning that one should not gloss over the importance of cybersecurity.

Currently, Guyana still relies heavily on paper-based systems for data storage. However, the use of electronic data management systems and electronic financial transactions has been growing rapidly across the nation, and with more and more services moving online, there is an increasing demand for information protection, particularly in financial information.

As he expressed excitement about his role, Hutson acknowledged that with about 800 members, “my responsibility is to ensure that we advocate for a smoother and easier way of doing business in Guyana.”

The new GCCI president noted that he intends to continue offering a platform for companies to reform and evolve, with diversity as its key focus, while upholding the chamber’s credibility.

Furthermore, he added that the GCCI will keep offering its members business solutions that include ethical business conduct.

Additionally, Hutson said that for the businesses to develop, GCCI would supply them with the necessary resources and connect them to agencies that would aid them in becoming more informed.

Hutson and the other members of the Executive Management Committee (EMC) were elected during the GCCI’s new 21-member council’s first statutory meeting on March 27.

The new council members were elected during the GCCI’s 133rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Wednesday. During this meeting, remarks were delivered by Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar and former President of the GCCI, Timothy Tucker.

Other members of the GCCI’s EMC are Senior Vice-President, Richard Rambarran; Junior Vice President, Gavin Ramsoondar; Secretary, Kathy Smith and Treasurer, Orson Ferguson, along with Tucker.

From left: Junior Vice-President Gavin Ramsoondar; Secretary Kathy Smith; President Kester Hutson; Senior Vice-President Richard Rambarran and Treasurer Orson Ferguson

National athlete aims to prioritise youth development, community progress

– campaigns under umbrella of ‘One Guyana’ for LGE

By Trina Williams

WITH the growth and development of Guyanese youths at his focal point, national athlete, Jeremy Garrett, has thrown his hat into the ring for Local Government Elections

(LGE) as a People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) candidate for South Ruimveldt Park and Industrial Estate, constituency 14.

“The youths of Guyana are my motivation,” 23-year-old Garrett told the Guyana Chronicle in

an exclusive interview.

Given the national athlete’s track record as a role model for youths all across the country, who have their eyes set on becoming renowned sportspersons, he noted that if he could leverage his existing talents to -

wards helping the people, it would mean a lot to him.

“I hope to achieve progress, [and] I hope to achieve development within the communities,” he said.

When addressing how he intends to prioritise

what issues are plaguing their area and how he can make their voices and concerns heard.

According to Garrett, “Guyana would have trusted me to lead the country on several occasions, and all I’m asking for is the communities to give me that same confidence and trust to lead them…”

‘Guyanese to the bone’ are some words that can describe this candidate, as he stated that no matter where he was in the world, his country was always near and dear to him.

matters, such as unemployment, that scourge some of these marginalised communities, Garrett stated that he would push for vocational courses to be easily accessible to the people, especially youths.

He also stated that regardless of one’s background, he will fight for all, affirming that even a person who has dropped out of school will gain employment if elected.

Additionally, on the topic of infrastructure, the national athlete said that he would ensure that community grounds and the roads, bridges, health facilities and education delivery buildings are in great condition.

The slogan “One Guyana” is what Garrett used to assert how much he is targetting a collective leadership approach. With the words “communication is key,” the national athlete said irrespective of who is on the council, he cares about bettering the constituency he is contesting in and Guyana as a whole.

Moreover, Garrett said that he would also advocate for the growth of small businesses within the South Ruimveldt Park and Industrial Estate area, if elected.

Intending to apply a hands-on approach, the national athlete stated that he plans to go into these communities and speak face-to-face with the citizens to understand

Garrett, who has been playing for Fruta Conquerors Football Club and Guyana over the years, has balanced his life on the field with his time at Chase Academy.

He excelled at both the Caribbean Examinations Council’s (CXC) Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). While studying and competing for Louisiana State University (LSU) Eunice on the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) circuit, Garrett earned a Rehab Science Diploma.

Also, he promised that under his reign, there would be monthly business exhibitions in the South Ruimveldt Park and Industrial Estate area, along with his encouragement to outsiders to come and support these small businesses.

Garrett also mentioned that he would assist in getting grants for those small business owners.

Moreover, when asked how he feels about naysayers and the harsh criticism he has faced over the past few days, he affirmed that if people were to listen to every piece of judgement from others, they would never achieve their dreams.

“My plans for the future are to see nothing but progress and development…” he asserted as he explained that he aims to better the lives of the Guyanese people.

PPP/C Candidate for Constituency 14, Jeremy Garrett

GCB, GOG, MCYS 3-day U-19 cricket

E’bo holds advantage going into final day

By Sean Devers

Essequibo, spearhead by a 11-wicket match haul from their captain Aryan Persaud and an unbeaten 40 from Myhiem Khan, holds the advantage going into the final day of the opening round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Government of Guyana (GOG) and Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS) three-day U-19 tournament today at Bourda.

Essequibo resumed yesterday on 51-4 in reply to the GCB Select X1 209 all out and overnight batter, Shaahid Vieira, added six to his overnight 28 before he fell to Ezekiel Wilson for 34.

But only Thaddeus Lovell 32, Skipper Aryan Persaud 11 and Ronaldo Schouten 21 reached double figures as Essequibo made 134 in hot conditions.

Wilson finished with 3-37 and got support from Chanderpaul Ramraj 2-16, and Dillion Ramsaroop 2-20.

With a lead of 75, the GCB Select X1 were dismissed for 157 with Rashad Gaffur 13, Kevin Kisten

28, Sachin Balgobin 16, Nityanand Mathura 30 and Ezekiel Wilson 25 all getting starts on flat track without going on to something substantial.

Wilson, who reached the boundary twice and Mathura, whose 30 came from 70 balls without a four, put together 35 in the biggest stand of the innings after they came together when Kisten was dismissed at 74-4.

Matthew Pataya ran out of partners to finish unbeaten on 18 as left-arm spinner

Persaud followed up his 5-69 in the first innings with 6-53.

Essequibo, needing 162 to win, were 70-1 in the second innings after losing Harold De Matos for four before Shaahid Vieira not out on 19 with one boundary and Khan, unbeaten on 40 from 59 balls with seven fours, saw their team to the close.

Today is the third and final day and play is scheduled to commence at 10:00am

South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 09:00 hrs Winter Greetings 09:35 hrs Black Egret

10:10 hrs There She Goes

10:45 hrs Beguiling

English Racing Tips

Cheltenham

08:30 hrs Lone Star

09:05 hrs La Renommee

09:40 hrs Deeply Superficial

10:15 hrs Rose Of Arcadia

10:50 hrs Komedy Kicks

11:25 hrs Pink Legend

12:00 hrs El Elefante

Newmarket

08:50 hrs Once More For Luck 09:25 hrs Kathab 10:00 hrs Creative Force

10:35 hrs The Foxes

11:10 hrs Britannica

11:45 hrs Liberty Lane

12:15 hrs Harry Magnus

Chelmsford City

12:30 hrs Cue’s Beau

13:00 hrs Marlay Park

13:30 hrs Kentucky Kingdom

14:00 hrs Simply Sondheim

14:30 hrs Jamira Bridge

15:00 hrs Concorde

15:30 hrs Kiss My Face

Irish Racing Tips

Tipperary

11:00 hrs Edwardian

11:35 hrs Beaumadier

12:10 hrs Albert Park

12:40 hrs Newfoundland

13:10 hrs Saltonstall

13:40 hrs Secret Sauce

14:10 hrs Magic Charm

American Racing Tips

Keenland

Race 1 Lady With A Cause

Race 2 American Rascal

Race 3 Now That Ican

Rock

Race 4 Sailor’a Return

Race 5 Peach Cobbler

Race 6 Summer Splash

Race 7 Royal Parronage

Aqueduct

Race 1 Greatest Love

Race 2 American Gentleman

Race 3 Runninsonofagun

Race 4 Welcometomyworld

Race 5 Winning Connection

Race 6 Victorious Wave

Aryan Persaud followed his 5-69 with 6-53 yesterday at Bourda (Sean Devers photo)

Junior Lady Jags miss out on Concacaf with draw against DR

Guyana under-20 women's side concluded their campaign in the Concacaf qualifiers last night with a goalless draw against the Dominican Republic.

Needing to top their group in the qualifiers that were contested in the Dominican Republic, the Guy-

anese won their other two games 6-0 and 10-0 against Suriname and Dominica, respectively.

However, Dominica Republic also won their two matches against the opposite with a better goal difference, so the Guyanese had to win to see

DDL through Pepsi brand gives grassroots boxing a boost

themselves qualify for the flagship youth women tournament in the region.

The match was dominated for most parts by the home side and although Guyana had some moments of brilliance, neither team could've found the back of net.

New Era/Exxonmobil Linden Under 18 Football…

New Silvercity crush Harmony

5-1, LTI Whip Wisburg 4-1

By Joe Chapman

New Silvercity Secondary School romped past Harmony Secondary 5-1, while Linden Technical Institute scored a 4-1 win over Wisburg Secondary when play in the New era/ ExxonMobil

Linden Under 18 football tournament continued at the Wisburg Secondary School ground on Tuesday afternoon.

In the first game, Rawle Henry got the double, after netting as early as the 6th minute to send his New Silvercity Secondary team ahead before Latrell John doubled the score in the 25th minute of the game.

Henry added his second goal after play resumed in the second period gaining a 42nd minute goal, before teammates Morvin Cort (50th minute) and Clinton Charles (55th minute) took the score to 4-0.

Harmony pulled one back through Jayden Johnson in the 62nd minute of play.

In the second game Tuesday, Dixie Peters got an early goal for Linden Technical Institute in the 4th minute and five minutes later Byron Kendall made it 2-0.

But before the first half ended, Wisburg Secondary were able to reduce the deficit through a

strike by Raja Braithwate in the 30th minute.

Kamarr McLaren restored the two-goal lead for LTI in the 49th minute, after which Phillip Lawrence, in the 53 minute, ensured a solid win for the LTI boys.

The competition continues today with a double-header when, in the first game at 14.30hrs, Christianburg/Wismar Secondary face Harmony and the other game from 16.00hrs is between Mackenzie High and Kwakwani Secondary.

Tomorrow, Harmony Secondary take on Linden Technical Institute in the lone fixture at 14.30hrs.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Thursday April 20, 2023)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) 74 games

(2) CSK & KKR

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who were the 2011 IPL champions?

(2) Who were the losing finalist in IPL 2011?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

IN support of amateur boxing's bright future, DDL's Pepsi brand strengthened its partnership with the sport in 2023 through substantial funding that exceeded $1million.

This came as a timely boost for the Guyana Boxing Association’s (GBA) under-16 programme, which has benefitted consistently and consecutively from DDL since 2011. And, the Mike Parris- dubbed tournament has been extremely successful with

the likes of Olympian Keevin Allicock and IBA world ranked sisters, Abiola and Alesha Jackman, being nurtured by the developmental initiative.

During a press brief and presentation yesterday at DDL’s Little Diamond headquarters, GBA's Assistant Secretary/Treasurer, Seon Bristol, called on corporate Guyana to fuel more success stories by taking a page out of DDLs book and support boxing development.

The GBA was awarded the sports association of the year for 2022 and the incredible figure of 16 under-16 tournament’s hosted definitely helped the decision.

Schemel Patrick, Brand Communications Manager, lauded the success and thanked, “the GBA for continuously organising this successful programme. This is our 12th year and we want to continue to partner. We pledge to continue supporting amateur boxing.”

GCB, GOG MYCS 3-day U-19 Inter-County Cricket…

Thorne in Demerara’s side!

- Bowler grabs 7-32 as Berbice beat Demerara

By Sean Devers

Eleven wickets fell inside the morning session at Everest on day two of the second round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Government of Guyana (GOG) & Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sports U-19 three-day inter-County cricket tournament yesterday.

Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Thorne, in an incisive bout of fast bowling, grabbed a career best 7-32 as Demerara were bowled out for 101; Jonathan Rampersaud supported with 2-22. Berbice, set 105 to win, reached 107-1 to win inside two days with classy lefthander Rampertab Ramnauth hitting six fours and sixes from 81 balls to spearhead the win with the bat after Throne’s exploits with the ball.

Hemendra Gurdayal, who stroked three fours in 28 and, together with Ramnauth, added 48 for the first wicket before Gurdayal fell to Alvin Mohabir.

Zeynul Ramsammy, with two fours in his undefeated 24 and Ramnauth, the leading scorer in the 50 overs format, saw their team

to an emphatic win.

Earlier, Berbice resumed on 111-6, 11 runs behind Demerara’s paltry 122 and it took the home side just 4.4 overs to dismiss the lads from the Ancient County who lost their last four wickets for just eight runs to be bowled out for 119 in 42.4.

When overnight batter and captain, Rampersaud, was run out for 13 at 112-7, Berbice lost three wickets at 119 runs in a horrendous start to the second day.

Leon Cecil, Salim Khan and Jeremey Sandia all fell for ducks as Krisna Singh got rid of Cecil and Sandia while Honenkirk sent Khan packing to the delight of the raucous home fans.

Singh finished with 3-28 while Hohenkirk (2-22) Mavindra Dindyal (2-18) and Alvin Mohabir (2-31) were the wicket-takers for Demerara who began with a slim lead of three.

When Demerara began their second innings, Thorne struck in the third over with the score on eight when he removed Jaden Campbell for an 11-ball duck and in sweltering heat, Demerara were 8-1.

It was soon 9-2 when

Lawrence Pellow (6) had his stumps knocked out by Thorne who also had Mohabir caught behind for a duck at 9-3.

When ‘the big fish’ Dindyal, who faced 11 balls and batted for 20 minutes without scoring, edged the fiery Thorne to the keeper at 10-4, the partisan gathering was stunned into silence.

Anthony Khan was trapped LBW for a duck by a rampaging Thorne without addition to the score while Thorne collected his sixth wicket when he sent first innings topscorer Rivaldo Phillips’ stumps for a walk at 22-6.

When senior Inter-County batter Shamar Yearwood, who hit a boundary in his 11, was bowled by Rampersaud, Demerara were wobbling on the ropes and by lunch were 35-7 as 11 wickets fell in the first session.

After the interval, Anthony Lim was the only batter to offer resistance, hitting five fours and a six in 42 and shared in a 59-run last wicket stand with Nehemiah Hohenkirk whose unbeaten 22 included three fours after the pair had joined forces with Demerara on 42-9.

GOA constitutes Disciplinary, Finance and Appeal Committees

THE Executive Committee of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) convened three sub-committees in its first move to address constitutional obligations.

In a release to the media yesterday, Secretary-General of the G.O.A, Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon indicated that the three very important Committees were established according to due process.

Pursuant to Article 23 of the GOA ’ s Constitution, a Finance Committee needed to be established with the meeting unanimously

agreeing and ratifying Garfield Wiltshire, Michael Singh, Godfrey Munroe, Steve Ninvalle and Emelia Ramdhani as the members.

Pursuant to Article 24, the meeting discussed the process in establishing the Inaugural Disciplinary Committee which later unanimously ratified Cristy Campbell, Sharon Small, Lennox Braithwaite, Ayanna Watson and Dwayne Scott as its members.

Pursuant to Article 25, the meeting discussed the process in establishing an Appeals Board with the unanimous ratification of members Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, Ni-

gel Niles, Keavon Bess, Capt John Flores, Latoya Herbert, Franklin Wilson and Lorraine Ince

The release concluded that, “The Executive Committee (of the GOA) wishes the respective Committees the very best during

their tenure as the members all work together in the best interest of sport in Guyana.”

The release stated that the new Executive Committee is committed to ensuring that the Constitution is followed and adhered to.

Boyce & Associates

Relay Festival slated for April 30th at Eve Leary

fans witnessing 11 exciting relay races and four individual events.

Boyce stated that he has extended invitations to all clubs to compete at the AAG-sanctioned event “which is designed to showcase the talent within the athletics arena in Guyana.”

ning relay team. Twenty thousand dollars and ten thousand dollars will go to the first and second runners-up.

and this competition is just another of those that we are committed to.”

Top athletes will be vying for cash prizes when the Boyce and Associates Relay Festival runs off on April 30 at the Police Progressive Youth Club ground, Eve

Leary. These and other details were disclosed yesterday during the formal launch of the inaugural event at the Banks DIH Limited Sports

Club.

According to chief organiser, Colin Boyce, athletes are scheduled to get into the blocks from 13:00hrs for the fixture which will see

He stated that the cream of the nation’s athletes inclusive of teen sensation and CARIFTA Games gold medalist, Tianna Springer will be in action on race day.

According to Boyce, each race will have $70,000 up for grabs with $40,000 being rewarded to the win-

Chess grandmaster sees ‘promising talent’ in Guyana

GUYANESE chess players battled against their strongest-ever opponent when they challenged English Grandmaster, Nigel Short, MBE, on Tuesday evening during a chess exhibition at State House.

The 20 players who battled represented the best U-30 players in the country, including the likes of Candidate Master Taffin Khan, Fide Master Anthony Drayton and WCM Sheriffa Ali.

Short was able to win all the games with ease, but he said that he was relatively impressed with the talent on display.

“I saw some good players today (Tuesday evening), I saw some players with quite promising talent.”

Short, who was once ranked third best in the world, a phenomenal achievement, said that the local players need opportuni-

ties and encouragement to advance.

“They need to understand that chess is an inherently difficult game, not something you can do on a Saturday afternoon and get away with…to become a good chess player you have to study and play”.

According to the Englishman, Guyana needs to continue focusing on nurturing its talent. He lauded the drive of the federation and said that its focus on youth development was the necessary route.

“I think it’s very good that the federation has a focus on young players and it’s the way forward.”

He said that with the talent that the country possesses and the strategies in place by the proactive federation, Guyana could become a regional powerhouse in the next few years.

He said that the country’s chess-play-

ing population must increase to achieve this. There also needs to be more competition and an increase in the number of arbiters.

“I think there are not enough qualified arbiters. You can’t rely on two or three people, the pool has to increase.”

Overall, the grandmaster feels that Guyana is on the right path and he said some very positive things are happening.

“The wheels are turning.”

PRESIDENT ALI’S SUPPORT

Meanwhile, President Dr Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley witnessed the chess exhibition.

Earlier in the day, the President met with the executives, while he made a sizeable donation to the federation.

In conclusion, Boyce then thanked Water Beverages Manager, Colin King, on behalf of conglomerate for being a major sponsor of the event.

Meanwhile, King stated that “Banks DIH is always happy to be associated with activities of this nature and magnitude. As corporate citizens, we have always fulfilled our mandate of empowering our people in every sphere of endeavour,

Noting that the weather is very humid, King posited that Rainforest Water is the preferred product the athletes, officials, and patrons can use to keep hydrated so that they can perform to their optimum.

Notes: Registration, which closes on April 26, is set at $1000 for each athlete. Admission is set at $1000 for adults and half the price for children under 14. Only athletes 16 years and older will be eligible to compete.

The GOA executive committee

Banks DIH Colin King (left) hands over the sponsorhsip cheque to Colin Boyce

Grandmaster Nigel Short in battle against some of the best young Guyanese chess players

President Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Mia Mottley, and Education Minister Priya Manickchand pose with Grandmaster Nigel Short, members of the Guyana Chess Federation and some of Guyana’s best young chess players