Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 20-09-2023

Venezuela’s recent statement a threat to regional, international peace

— Guyana urges neighbouring country to pursue peaceful means to address concerns it might have

— maintains waters in question form part of Exclusive Economic Zone

The following is the full statement by the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana in response to a communique from issued by Venezuela: The Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana is compelled to respond to a Communique issued today by the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela which complained

of Guyana’s intention to put up for bid certain oil blocks in the waters adjacent to its coast, and concluded with a threat to “apply all the necessary measures” to prevent operations licensed by Guyana in these waters, which Venezuela claims as its own.

Guyana considers this a threat not only to Guyana but to regional and international peace and

security, as well as to all of Guyana’s current and potential investment partners.

Guyana has no doubt that under international law the waters in question form part of its Exclusive Economic Zone, where Guyana alone enjoys sovereign rights over the resources in the sea and beneath the seabed. If Venezuela disputes this, then it is

obliged by the United Nations Charter and the Charter of the OAS to employ only peaceful means to seek a resolution. Both Charters prohibit the threat or use of force against another State.

Guyana therefore implores Venezuela to honor its obligation to pursue only peaceful means to settle any dispute it may have with

Guyana, including adjudication before the International Court Justice, where Guyana has sought confirmation of the land boundary between the two States. Allowing the Court to decide any other dispute between the parties would ensure a resolution that is peaceful, equitable and in accordance with international law.

Collective action needed to push global efficiency, renewable energy

— financing remains a major hurdle, President Ali says

Over $20B in road works to be executed soon

— applaud government for strategic planning

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— as bids open for projects in Regions Four, Five and Six

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Over 200 CAPE students to benefit from new $103M QC wing

— facility boasts eight classrooms, washrooms and a home economics laboratory

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Dr. Jagdeo: Infrastructural development being pursued without ethnic considerations

Key stakeholders forecast ‘brighter days’ owing to economic growth

The President of The Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali

Key stakeholders forecast ‘brighter days’ owing to economic growth — applaud

government

for

strategic planning

GUYANA’s outstanding mid-year performance is not going unnoticed, as many key stakeholders are commending the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government for ‘taking the bull by the horn’ and steering the nation down the path of growth and progress.

Owing to the rapid expansion of the economy, both in the oil and non-oil sectors, Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman, Komal Singh, said that Guyana’s future is surely bright.

Even though Guyana is now an oil producing nation, Singh took time to laud the efforts of the government to ensure that the economy remains vibrant and sustainable.

“Guyana is on the right path to avoiding the oil and gas curse,” Singh related in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, on Tuesday.

While highlighting the

sprout of the agricultural sector under the PPP government, he said that the country is on the right trajectory to becoming the “bread basket” of the Caribbean and reducing the regional and local food-import bill.

The unprecedented growth that Guyana is undergoing did not come easy, as the country faced many hurdles, especially in 2020 such as the dreadful COVID-19.

According to the PSC Chairman, the nation is able to see new heights and transform because of the great leadership skills exhibited by President, Dr. Irfaan Ali.

“In spite of COVID-19, 2020 elections… our economy continues to do great… Notwithstanding that, none of that could be possible if we don't have great leadership and I think right now Guyana has the right leadership of President Ali…,” Singh firm-

ly said.

The PSC Chairman then went on to say: “He [President Ali] creates an environment for the private sector to thrive, for the private sector to be encouraged [and] to have the confidence that their investments are going to be secured and not trampled upon.”

As the Chairman of the PSC, Singh affirmed that the private sector will continue to work hand in hand with the government to provide strategic development plans that are aimed at evolving Guyana.

Also welcoming the local

economy’s massive expansion, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Kester Hutson, said that he is happy that the government is not focusing solely on the oil and gas sector.

Meanwhile, Director of Business and Entrepreneur Development attached to the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, John Edghill, commended the PPP/C government for its progressive approach of utilising the oil revenues to improve the traditional sectors.

Referring to these sectors as Guyana’s backbone, especially given their renewability and sustainability, Edghill said: “I believe that oil revenue that we use to develop and hone in on those sectors [traditional] that have brought Guyana to where it currently is…”

Apart from the tremendous investments being poured into certain industries, the director turned his focus to the work being done in order to enhance the quality of life for all Guyanese, despite the obstacles that the PPP/C government has encountered.

While underscoring the threats to democracy in 2020 and Guyana’s position today, he said: “It shows that we have resilient leadership in the country because it did have a very rough start.”

The development that Guyana is undergoing is a product of the transformative

agenda that is being set in place by President Ali.

This is according to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Office for Investment (Guyana Invest), Dr. Peter Ramsaroop.

“Guyana has always been a diversified economy, even prior to oil… we've been known for agriculture, forestry and mining… What Guyana is doing now is modernising these industries to ensure that these industries do even better than they did in the past,” he said.

Although Guyana’s traditional sectors were thriving prior to 2015, Dr. Ramsaroop said that the country was stifled under the former A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) administration.

“The economy was stifled between 2015 and 2020. All

Continued on page 5

‘Guyana reserves the right to pursue economic development’

— President Ali says in response to Venezuela’s objection to local oil auction — vows to protect Guyana’s sovereign rights

PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan

Ali, on Tuesday, reaffirmed Guyana's commitment to defending its sovereignty and sovereign rights over its territory, in light of recent objections raised by Venezuela regarding the local oil auction.

Venezuela issued a statement challenging Guyana's sovereignty, noting that certain maritime areas are not under Guyana's sovereign rights, and any actions within these areas violate international law unless agreed upon with Venezuela.

President Ali responded firmly, stating: "The Government of Guyana reserves the right to pursue economic development activities in any portion of its sovereign

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

territory or any appurtenant maritime territories."

He said too: “Any unilateral attempt by Venezuela to restrict the exercise by Guyana of its sovereignty and sovereign rights will be wholly inconsistent with the Geneva Agreement and the rule of international law.”

In April of this year, the world court ruled that the case Guyana brought before it seeking to affirm the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Award settling the boundaries between it and Venezuela was admissible.

This meant that the court could move forward with hearing the substantive case on its merits, of whether the 1899 arbitral award settling the boundaries of the two countries is valid and

binding.

The ruling marked the second time that the international court has rejected jurisdictional objections raised by Venezuela.

Guyana moved to the ICJ with its case in March 2018, challenging the non-participating Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela over its disagreement on the legal validity and binding effect of the 1899 Award.

Venezuela maintained that the ICJ was without jurisdiction to hear the case and refused to participate in the court proceedings.

The Spanish-speaking country had claimed that it is the “sole indisputable inheritor” of the Essequibo region and the Monetary Gold Principle.

Although Venezuela had claimed that the ICJ did not have jurisdiction to hear the substantive case, the country made a u-turn following the court’s December 2020 ruling on that aspect of the case. Venezuela on that occasion contended that Guyana had no standing in the matter. The court unanimously rejected Venezuela’s objection.

Guyana is seeking a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the location of the land boundary between then British Guiana and Venezuela, remains valid and that the Essequibo region belongs to Guyana and not Venezuela.

Collective action needed to push global efficiency, renewable energy

President Ali says

By Cassandra Khan

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan

Ali has identified financing as the foremost challenge in the transition towards a globally efficient world that is focused on renewable energy.

The Head of State was, at the time, responding to a question during the Clinton Global Initiative 2023 meeting.

He said: “The biggest challenge definitely would be financing. We're not short of ideas. There's growing technology, but the challenge is financing.”

President Ali also raised a more complex issue as it relates to what constitutes a just transition and what should be the outcome of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in relation to renewable energy. He said that he believes strongly that a constructive approach needs to be taken if this issue is to be addressed.

“We perhaps are in a position to speak on both sides

of the coin because we are a leader on climate change and we are a leader now in energy,” he said.

The President later highlighted five things that need to be part of the wider conversation.

According to him, these are: the role of petroleum producers, the companies and the countries around the renewable energy table, how do we ensure that there is greater budget support for research and development and a greater support for technology and bringing that new technology into the equation.

He added that, as a newcomer to the petroleum industry, Guyana is proposing and supporting a carbon tax and the removal of subsidies on petroleum producers.

“So those are the things that we're taking to COP and I think this balanced approach is critical. If we don't pursue a balanced approach, then we're not going to constructively tackle this problem,” he said.

Later, while responding

to a question about what would be the greatest accelerator for Guyana to attain its goal of being a completely renewable energy economy, President Ali said that collective action is required.

“Just to pick up from the issue of culture, and sustainable development, we have to first put things into context and I don't want to divorce Guyana from the rest of the region here because this requires collective action,” he said.

President Ali added: “The prosperity of Guyana must lead to the prosperity of the region. You have a situation where in Latin America and the Caribbean we need $2.2 billion to achieve four important SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), you have debt to GDP ratio of 117 per cent.”

DIFFERENT CONVERSATIONS

He explained that with the existing double digit inflation figures, resources are needed in order to move to-

wards a renewable transition and net zero.

According to President Ali, the issue is that the conversation surrounding net zero has suddenly changed.

“The conversation was

stopping petroleum. We will remove the balance from this conversation if every NGO, every actor has now shifted the goalposts from achieving net zero to stop in petroleum.”

Scanning the news earlier, he said it was all about the “dead stop to petroleum,” and not the transition to net zero.

To this end, he said the conversation on the transition

Continued on page 4

— financing remains a major hurdle,

More Region Nine communities receive solar PV home systems

HOUSEHOLDS in a number of communities across Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) were empowered with access to reliable, stable electricity as solar home systems were distributed.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud recently visited the communities of Achiwuib, Rupunau and Karaudanau, where he distributed a collective 446 solar panels to benefit each household in those communities.

The panels will also enable the children in the communities to learn more efficiently, with access to more resources.

In Achiwuib, some 134 panels were distributed, while 75 panels were distributed in Rupunau. Karaudanau residents received 237 panels.

The local government minister reminded that, as

Guyana undergoes massive transformation, it is important that citizens in every community across the country work in harmony to usher in the modernised socioeconomic layout, against the backdrop of President Ali’s One Guyana platform.

“The only way we can build a One Guyana is if all of us put our backs to the wheel. Tremendous development is taking place in this country, and it will grow every month, and every year. It is unbelievable what is happening in Guyana,” the minister said.

He assured residents in each village that they would not be left behind in the development of the country.

As the government continues to build out the infrastructure, as well as educational and health facilities to support this vision, the rights and livelihoods of indigenous

communities remain a top priority. Hence, the distribution of these systems ensures that indigenous people are kept abreast with the changing times. Access to electricity in the Amerindian villages complements the investments being made in expanding the reach of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) so that connectivity is an amenity that can be enjoyed by Guyana’s first people.

Additionally, in accordance with the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030 (LCDS), indigenous communities are benefitting tremendously from funds garnered from the sale of carbon credits, promoting a sustainable, green economy.

“That is the development that the PPP/C government, and our president is bringing to the Amerindian people. Rest assured that all the development

you are seeing happening in Georgetown doesn’t mean we have forgotten our Amerindian brothers and sisters. We will be by your side, step by step to ensure that all of your livelihoods will prosper,” Minister Persaud assured.

Each system features a 160-watt solar panel and a mobile charging facility, among other basic fittings.

This distribution exercise falls under the Solar Home Systems Project, which saw 30,000 units being acquired through a US$7.2 million line of credit agreement between the Government of Guyana and Government of India via the Exim Bank, and will be distributed to the hinterland households, as well as several Amerindian villages along the coast.

Some $1.8 billion was allocated in Budget 2023 to roll out this exercise. (DPI)

Collective action needed to push global efficiency...

From page 3

to net zero is far different from stopping petroleum.

Additionally, he asked about the plans to ensure that in the transition, there is just reward for those countries who are keeping their environment and their forests and ensuring that their forests contribute to the climate equation.

“I think that Guyana… where we are going to achieve the 100 per cent renewable is not only for us, we want to create an energy hub, a regional energy hub, in which we are a net exporter of energy, most of which must come renewable,” he noted.

He related that 35 to 40 per cent of the world is still having their energy source from coal which he identified as the first target that needs to be eliminated.

Speaking on his approach to the hyper politicisation of renewable energy and all the roadblocks faced in politics, he said it all comes back to the question of the balanced approach.

“If we want to have a frank and constructive conversation, you have to have everyone in the room and the President just pointed to the fact that we have technology that can cut emission by 25 per cent. The cost to get to where we want to be in 2030 is simply prohibitive; the money is not there,” he said.

He related that they have to get those in the coal and petroleum sectors to make some commitments along the line of research and development technology, the carbon tax and also look at the removal of subsidy.

“So we need them in the room,” he said.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali

Several CARICOM Heads, over 100 regional businesses expected at upcoming AgriInvestment Forum and Expo

THE numerous opportunities emerging from the Agri-Investment Forum and Expo are expected to grow as this year’s event will attract several Heads of State from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and over 100 businesses from across the region.

The Agri-Investment Forum and Expo will be held from October 20 to 22, under the theme, “Achieving Vision 25 by 2025.”

According to a press release, following preparations for the upcoming expo, the Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Tuesday, visited the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) to conduct a site visit.

Saying that this year’s expo will be bigger and better, Minister Mustapha in an invited comment, announced that a number of Heads of State within the CARICOM region are expected to attend.

“He also said that several corporate bodies and investors from Guyana, across

the region and internationally have also registered and will be participating in this year’s event,” the release said.

“Leaving out local businesses, we’ve already had expressions of interest from

Key stakeholders forecast ...

From page 2

sectors, not just agriculture. I mean, the Granger administration had no plan, no direction, they almost torpedoed… the sugar industry with the firing of all the sugar workers.

So we [PPP] had to rebuild all of these sectors,” he said.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF), in its recent report on the Article IV Consultations, showed that Guyana’s economy is on the rise, and credited this to the government’s modernisation plans and implementation of prudent fiscal policies.

According to the IMF, Guyana has experienced record real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, with a staggering 62.3 per cent increase in 2022 – the highest in the world.

The growth is expected to continue in 2023, with a projected 38 per cent increase in real GDP, as Guyana continues to build its image as a top destination for investment.

Pointing to sectoral achievements which drive this

growth, the IMF report highlighted that oil production is ramping up with the coming on stream of a third oil field, and growth in the non-oil sector, which is supported by the implementation of a fast-paced public investment programme focused on providing transportation, housing, and flood management infrastructure, and raising human capital.

Spillovers from oil and construction are supporting growth in the services and supplies sectors, while agriculture, mining and quarrying are also performing well.

After a strong 2022, in the first half of 2023, real non-oil GDP grew by 12.3 per cent. The report stated that the outlook for medium-term growth is better than ever before, as the country’s oil production will continue to expand rapidly with three new approved fields set to come on stream between 2024 and 2027, and a sixth field is expected to come on stream in the first half of 2028.

over 100 businesses from within the region. We hope that by the end of the registration period, October 5, we’ll have those persons confirmed,” the minister related in the release.

Speaking on the layout

of the exposition, he said:

“Similar to last year, we have areas for agro-processors, large agricultural machinery, a farmers’ market, and a live animal display. We also have larger booths for corporate businesses that

are being set up.”

He added that the forum aims to cater for every category of persons involved in the agricultural sector.

“As it relates to the forum aspect, we will be having several panel dis -

cussions and presentations by a number of officials from Guyana and across the region on critical areas such as food security, women and youth in agriculture, financing in agriculture, and the integration of climate-smart technology into the sector,” the minister explained in the release.

Speaking on the potential opportunities, he stated that a number of investors, who attended last year’s expo, have been coming to Guyana to invest in agriculture.

“Last year, an investment group from Israel attended the expo. That same group is currently constructing the largest hydroponic farm in the Caribbean in Mon Repos on the East Coast of Demerara. So, this expo will further display not only Guyana’s agricultural potential but also that of the CARICOM region. It will propel us as we move closer towards achieving ‘Vision 25 by 2025’”, the Minister said.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha and other officials at ACCC examining the site map

Making Waves

PRESIDENT, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, continues to make waves on the international arena. His latest address at the United Nations General Assembly has been well received by Heads of State and policymakers across the globe.

Speaking at the UN sponsored High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development and 78 Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, President Ali again highlighted the importance of the developed world to show greater understanding of the challenges faced by the developing countries.

According to the Guyanese President: “We will not have a world where every-

one everywhere enjoys their full human rights, peace and security and is free from poverty and hunger unless the right to development is realized and respected.”

The problems faced by developing countries are structural and can only be addressed by the collective resolve of the richer nations to make available the required financial resources based on agreed commitments.

So far, only a handful of countries are making meaningful efforts to honour pledges made at several international fora such as the summits on Sustainable Development and at the Conferences of Parties (COPs) to mitigate the impact of climate change.

It is important to recall that the United Nations way back in the 1960s designated the 1960-1970 period as the first United Nations Development Decade. This was followed in 1964 by a United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) but despite several other development conferences, the issue of poverty and underdevelopment still persists.

President Ali must be commended for pushing the developmental agenda along the lines of a new global human order as envisioned by the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan which was in fact adopted by the United Nations General Assembly several decades ago.

In this regard, President

Ali is right on spot. The global financial architecture is out of sync with the needs of the developing world.

‘Our international financial architecture is out of sync with the needs of developing countries and must be reformed. Developing countries are faced with higher food inflation - five per cent higher than the rest of the world in most cases, President Ali told the world gathering of leaders.

In the case of Latin America and the Caribbean, a whopping $2.2 trillion is needed to bridge the financial gap in four critical areas of the Sustainable Development Goals, namely access to water and sanitation, energy, infrastructure and sustainable cities.

Guyana is fortunately in a relatively better position vis-a-vis other countries in the region, thanks to our oil revenues and, as such, in a better position to make strategic interventions in several areas of human development. Per capita spending, for example, in education, health and security have increased significantly.

Huge sums of money are spent on poverty alleviation measures including subsidies on water and electricity for pensioners. Age-old pensions have been increased and further increases are on the cards. The country has been making substantial progress in the areas of sustainable human development along the lines of the ‘One Guyana’ concept as

envisaged by President Ali. Guyana's development is inextricably linked to that of other countries, many of which are still reeling under the impact of rising food prices occasioned by climate change and supply-chain disruptions due to the war in Ukraine and the Covid-19 pandemic. But, as repeatedly stated by President Ali, Guyana’s increasing oil and gas revenues will be used to promote regional development, especially in the key areas of food, energy security and climate change.

President Ali is certainly making his presence felt on the global stage, as he continues to promote his agenda of a better world based on the principles of economic and social justice.

PANCAP offers HIV clinicians, other medical professionals free webinars for remainder of 2023

AIMING to educate persons on sexual health and tackling the HIV epidemic, the Pan-Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) will be providing a series of free webinars throughout the remainder of the year.

According to a press release, this is being done in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

These webinars are

open to HIV clinicians as well as other interested medical professionals.

“As we continue to shape the regional HIV response through enhanced knowledge generation, sharing, and learning among PANCAP members, it is hoped that this webinar series will certainly increase learning opportunities among HIV clinicians as they are exposed to conventionally accepted best practices throughout the Caribbean region and wider afield, with regard to the delivery of best quality evidenced-based treatment

and care for People Living with HIV (PLHIV) within the CARICOM region,” Dr. Shanti Singh Anthony, PANCAP’s Knowledge Management Coordinator, underscored.

The first webinar titled: Promoting Sexual Health and Wellness in Primary Care, was held on September 14, and was facilitated by Dr. Keosha T. Bond, an Assistant Medical Professor in the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, at the CUNY School of Medicine.

Dr. Keosha T. Bond, Assistant Medical Professor in the Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, at the CUNY School of Medicine

Dr. Shanti Singh Anthony, the Knowledge Management Coordinator, PANCAP

An urgent call to action: Revitalising the agenda for sustainable development OP-ED

By Roberto Valent, Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean of the UN Development Coordination Office, and Yeşim Oruç, UN Resident Coordinator

EIGHT years ago, member states gathered at the United Nations to adopt the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At mid-point we must urgently turbocharge the fulfilment of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development— while viewing the agenda as much as a commitment to human rights as it is a development plan.

Agreed to in 2015 by 193 countries, the 2030 Agenda represents humanity’s roadmap to ensure a dignified life for all people to live in peace while taking care of our planet. Despite having the knowledge, resources and technology needed to achieve these ideals, we are progressing at a rate too slow to attain them: SDGs are off track.

The alarm bells have already been ringing with what the UN Secretary General has termed a polycrisis: Eco-

nomic instability, the pandemic, conflicts, more and more people on the move, destructive climate events and biodiversity loss, among other issues. These crises have negatively impacted the

progress of the 17 SDGs and their 169 targets, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean, where an alarming 27 per cent of the targets have regressed.

We are at a crossroad, but

PANCAP offers HIV clinicians, other...

From page 6

It was said that the webinar focused on the essential components of sexual health history and provided tips for facilitating patient-focused discussions on sexual health.

It also discussed the promotion of sexual health and wellness among sexual and gender-diverse populations.

The primary objectives of the first session were to define barriers that may prevent providers and patients from discussing sexual health issues, identify elements of a comprehensive sexual health history using pleasure-based approaches and discuss

strategies for having conversations about sexual health and wellness.

“PANCAP invites medical professionals particularly HIV clinicians to take full advantage of the training opportunities being offered through this FREE webinar series so that they can broaden their knowledge and equip themselves with the requisite skills to professionally deliver high-quality care and treatment to PLHIV within the region,” the release stated.

It was said that participants for the first webinar were from Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts and

we still have the opportunity to course correct. Countries' commitments must be more ambitious and urgent. At the SDG Summit this week, States presented credible and urgently needed plans to rescue the 2030 Agenda.

To achieve real impact, countries must adjust national budgets and mobilise resources internationally. The global financial architecture must be updated and made more equitable, especially for Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS). This includes increasing the availability of long-term financing and taking measures to alleviate the debt of countries in the region.

At the national level, we identify six priority areas that have significant transformative potential: strengthening social protection systems and decent work; transforming education; promoting digi-

talisation; facilitating access to clean energy; reforming food systems; and addressing climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.

Already in July this year, in presenting its Voluntary National Review of the SDGs, Guyana enjoined itself firmly to this Global Agenda and especially to the principle of “leaving no one behind.” The United Nations team in Guyana is motivated by this commitment and ready to support the government and people of Guyana in furthering action towards achieving the SDGs for all people in Guyana.

In so doing, we should be guided by a human rights agenda that puts the rights of children and young people, especially of girls and young women, at the forefront. According to Amina Mohamed, UN Deputy Secretary-General, “Investing in women and

girls is a powerful path to accelerate the full achievement of the SDGs. It is also the most underused. The 2030 Agenda can only be achieved when women and men are genuinely treated as equals; when women and girls live lives of dignity and security, lives that are free from violence.” Our common future is at stake, and we have a seven-year deadline to turn things around. The risks of not accomplishing the SDGs are consequential, which is why we need to significantly increase ambition and action. Future generations will judge us by the decisions we make today, and we cannot afford to disappoint them. We must be steadfast in our determination to create a more sustainable and just future.

Nevis, Dominica, Jamaica, Haiti, Belize, Turks and Caicos, British Virgin Islands, United States of America and the United Kingdom.

The next scheduled webinar will be on September 28, 2023, at 11:00 hours and will be facilitated by Dr. Omar Sued, Advisor in HIV Treatment and Care for PAHO. He will be presenting on the topic: Critical Interventions to Scale up HIV Care and Treatment and Early Linkage to Care.

To register for this FREE webinar, use the link: https://register. gotowebinar.com/register/1197449960069235808

Roberto Valen

Yeşim Oruç

Over $20B in road works to be executed soon

— as bids open for projects in Regions Four, Five and Six

A NUMBER of road projects totalling some $20 billion will be rolled out, benefitting several villages within Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The Ministry of Public Works (MoPW) officially opened bids for reputable contractors to execute several works in those regions.

Regions Four and Five are set to see an investment of some $11.6 billion, while Region Six will see an investment of almost $9 billion for the development of roads and streets.

In June 2023, the Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, had told this publication that his ministry, and the Government of Guyana, continue to work diligently to improve and enhance the lives of all Guyanese.

According to him, in the first half of 2023, his ministry was “miles ahead” of what was promised in the manifesto.

“In the first half of 2023, we have been able

to get a lot of work done in the communities across Guyana, by ensuring that we provide these communities with proper roads, streets and bridges. Accelerated works were done on

some of the major projects, such as the Ogle/Eccles roads and we were able to get work started on the Sheriff Street to Orange Nassau on the Railway Embankment.

“We were also able to get the project procurement process moving on the Grove to Timehri upgrade, and we have received the approval of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) for the Soesdyke-Linden Highway,” he had said.

While the significant infrastructural developments have contributed to the enhancement of the out -

look of Guyana, Minister Edghill said that Guyanese should look forward to a lot more development within their communities and the country for the remaining six months.

“Guyanese should expect more investments in our road network. We are getting ready to build 300 roads on the East Coast of Demerara, another 100

on the East Bank of Demerara and in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) we will be doing another 300,” he said, adding:

“In Region One, we have an allocation for over a billion dollars’ worth of work, which includes all the community roads in the Matarkai sub-districts of Port Kaituma, Matthews Ridge and Mabaruma. We will be working on several roads in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) as well.”

Along with that, the minister informed this publication that the residents of Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) should also expect significant infrastructure projects, with an allocation of over $1.6 billion.

He also said that more than 40 new roads will be built in the area. According to the minister, the residents of Region seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) should also expect major work on the region’s infrastructure.

“We have an allocation for over a billion dollars to do infrastructural development there in Region Seven, and we will be engaging the residents of Bartica soon,” he said.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, interacting with a worker while visiting one of the ongoing road projects in June 2023

Milestone achieved with Protected Areas Commission's new Lethem office

— environmental progress in alignment with LCDS 2030

TO increase their presence in protected areas nationwide, the Protected Areas Commission (PAC) commissioned its new Lethem Office, which was done by its Chairman and Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud.

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on August 26, 2023 which included the Commissioner of the Protected Areas Commission, Mr. Jason Fraser, and Mr. Samuel Ebert, Chief Technical Adviser of the Guyana Protected Areas System (GPAS) Phase III Project, PAC Board Members, senior staff, representatives from the RDC and, most importantly, stakeholder communities.

Situated in Lethem, the PAC’s inaugural hinterland

office in Guyana covers an area of around 200 m2. This new office plays a crucial role in enhancing the management of protected areas in the region, particularly for the Kanuku Mountain and Kanashen Amerindian Protected Areas.

Persaud, in his remarks, stated that the completion of the new office building and supply of needed equipment are reflections of partnership at the international level, and partnership at the local level in fulfilling a very important mandate as outlined in the Protected Areas Commission Act.

The Chairman of the PAC Board posited that the Commission’s mandate was central to the government’s developmental agenda, as

it outlines how biodiversity and ecosystem services are deployed for the benefit of the country, especially in communities in proximity to /near to protected areas.

In commenting on the funding facilitated by the German Development Bank KfW, Mr. Samuel Ebert, Chief Technical Advisor of GPAS Project stated that Phase III comprises three components including support of Effective Protected Area Management (Infrastructure and equipment), Resource Use Regulation, and Capacity Development.

Mr. Ebert added that GPAS Phase III builds on activities and outcomes established from the partnership between the Government of Guyana and Ger-

many, through the implementation of GPAS Phase I and GPAS Phase II. GPAS Phase I and II focused more on promoting sustainable livelihood through smallgrant projects in various Amerindian communities, elaboration of management plans for protected areas, infrastructure development on a smaller scale and capitalisation of funds for long term financing of protected areas development.

The approximately 60 million GYD building was funded by the German Government via the Guyana Protected Areas System Project - Phase III. The office is well equipped, boasting a fourwheel drive vehicle, two All-Terrain Vehicles, and three motorbikes. The Guy-

ana Protected Areas System (GPAS) Project represents a collaborative effort between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, facilitated by the German Development Bank KfW.

Phase III of this initiative, which commenced in 2018, focuses on fortifying the management and administration of protected areas along with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030, at the site level. Among its key components are the construction of ten structures within Shell Beach, Kanuku Mountain Protected Areas, and Kaieteur National Park. Thereby recruitment of administrative staff and additional rangers including capaci -

ty-building initiatives for PAC and other stakeholders are prioritized.

The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development contributed since the inception of the project in 2006 a total of up to 2.7 billion GYD (approximately 12.36 million Euros), underscoring the significant investment in the protection and conservation of Guyana’s natural heritage.

The Protected Areas Commission remains committed to working closely with international partners and stakeholders to advance Guyana’s environmental and conservation trajectory in keeping with the LCDS 2030.

The Protected Areas Commission’s new Lethem Office

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Protected Areas Commission’s new Lethem Office

2015-2020: Another failure for the MCC

THIS is part 12 of my series tracing the political evolution of the Mulatto/ Creole class (MCC). Part 11 was published on Sunday, September 3, 2024, titled “Returning to the political suicide of the MCC in 2023.”

You may have missed some salient points in the 11 columns gone by if you haven’t read all. I will repeat those points here. After global circumstances after World War 2 favoured decolonisation, the MCC prepared itself for political power in British Guiana.

Armed with the belief that philosophically, culturally, intellectually and anthropologically it was best suited to lead Guyana into a post-colonial zeitgeist, the MCC, through its civil society entity, the League of Coloured People (LCP) positioned itself to take power.

The LCP created a political party named the National Democratic Party (NDP). The reality hit the MCC that it needed to form alliance to take power. The NDP did not have the staying power that the MCC thought it

would have.

So the MCC founded a political party much more powerful than the NDP. In the formation of the NDP, there was a minimum presence of Portuguese folk and Portuguese business people did not pour money into the venture. The beginning of the 1960s told a different story. The MCC founded the United Force (UF) with the Portuguese presence and Portuguese money dominating.

The NDP looked like child’s play compared to the UF. The UF had big names, big money, media houses that it owned and formed a tight alliance with the CIA in the US to topple the Cheddi Jagan government. Jagan was

violently removed by the America Government and the UF became the junior member in the government with the PNC in 1964.

There was always anthropological tension between the MCC and the dark-skinned African population of British Guiana. That tension destroyed the relation between the PNC and NDP and the PNC and the UF. Forbes Burnham and the PNC found the UF insufferable. The racial factors in the relation had to lead to implosion. The 1964 coalition imploded and the PNC no longer wanted the UF as a partner. So the PNC rigged the 1968 election and did away with the UF.

This was the second

time the MCC lost outfirst with the NDP, then with the UF. There was a third time. The MCC threw its support for President Desmond Hoyte with Hoyte’s open, capitalist policies and his dissolution of the Burnhamite fortress inside the PNC. For more on how the MCC behaved under Hoyte, see the Stabroek News column of September 2 by Ralph Ramkarran entitled, “Explore all tools for free and fair elections.”

There was to be two more occasions. That made it five. The MCC lost out when Burnham devastated the WPA and when an infusion of Indians into the AFC diluted the MCC presence in

that party. Nevertheless, the MCC came to power in 2015 with top MCC remnants in the WPA and MCC personality David Granger having a strong presence in the 2015 administration.

But it was déjà vu all over again. There was to be a sixth occasion of MCC’s loss of power in Guyana’ political history. The MCC was living through daily nightmares from 2015 because Mr. Granger did not have a strong political personality like Forbes Burnham, Desmond Hoyte, Cheddi Jagan, and Bharrat Jagdeo and chose not to take a hands-on approach to the exercise of power.

The 2015 regime then became a disguised form of African rule. The 20152020 era did not see MCC power saturation.

The two MCC personalities in the WPA- Drs. Roopnaraine and Thomas were sidelined and the AFC had a hard time controlling the PNC. So frustrated was the AFC that it held a retreat at the Conference Centre with a oneitem agenda – to dilute the vast power of the ministry

of the presidency. The retreat was a miserable failure.

The MCC has a congenital defect. It cannot embrace the working class African population and it is uncomfortable having camaraderie with African working class leaders who lack colour and middle class status.

But the MCC is more uncomfortable with Hindu and Muslim leadership. By genetic make-up, the MCC cannot accept Indian control of governments in Guyana and Trinidad. Since the opponent at the gate is the Indian, the MCC is forced into a continuous marriage with dark-skinned Africans and their leaders because after all they are not Indians and they are Christians and have Western culture in them.

So, when the PNC and AFC lost the 2020 election, that loss became the most (I repeat “the most”) devastating tragedy in the evolution of the MCC. The MCC then became an insane critic of the post 2020 government. Part 13 will be forthcoming shortly.

Region Two head teachers get $56.6M grant for school improvement

— funding aims to promote better education delivery in classrooms

By Indrawattie Natram

THE joy was evident on the faces of head teachers in the Pomeroon-Supenaam region as they received cash grants totaling $56.6M to help them manage their schools. Some 87 schools in the region are benefitting.

During a brief ceremony at the Anna Regina Secondary School, Education Minister Priya Manickchand instructed that the funds be used to purchase janitorial, field, and office supplies for the classrooms. The cash grants were delivered based on direct requests made by teachers from various schools.

“The cash grant is not given as a way to take away your ability to complain. I am giving you this because our children need it; if you can go out and buy what the children need when they need it, imagine the service you will be providing to those children,” Manickchand said.

The Minister expects head teachers to spend the cash grant wisely since it's the first time it's being given. Teachers were provided with a list for purchasing guidance. The minister emphasised that the money should be uti-

lised by head teachers to make classrooms more conducive for children's learning with the aid of learning materials. Every school across the country will be given money per term.

The minister stated that the Ministry will continue to offer necessary resources to foster learning in schools. She mentioned that the Ministry of Education is providing an investment as an extra service to improve education delivery in Guyana.

“With investment must come better results so I expect a better matriculation rate coming from this region; I expect head teachers to supervise more and visit the classrooms ensuring that teachers are doing their work,” Manickchand added.

Region Two Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, expressed happiness that teachers in the region are benefiting and called for transparency in the process. She anticipates seeing changes in the classroom environment from teachers.

According to Regional Education Officer Shondelle Hercules, the initiative will help teachers make sure that every classroom in every school is a conducive environment for learning. The mammoth initiative, ac -

cording to Hercules, will enhance curriculum delivery in Guyana, be relevant to each school's needs, improve quality, and achieve equity. According to Hercules, classrooms will be furnished better to enhance productivity and improve learning outcomes, thus improving student performance and results.

A number of head teachers thanked the Ministry of Education for their initiative.

Head Teacher of Abram Zuil Secondary Jerome Rajpersaud said the initiuative is a great way to improve the classrooms and that the cash grant will go directly to the children.

The initiative was welcomed by Ms. Chandradai, the head teacher of Charity Secondary, who also thanked the Minister of Education. According to her, it means that teachers can buy what they require, whenever they require it.

Mrs Rajkumarie Kanaya, the head teacher at Adventure Nursery, expressed her approval of the idea as it eliminates the need for teachers or parents to use their own money to buy supplies.

According to Wakapoa's teacher Dale Atkinson, it will enhance Yarasharima's ability to provide education to

children. According to him, having cash is crucial when living in a rural area.

Head teacher of Abram Zuil Secondary Jerome Rajpersaud along with head teacher of Charity Secondary Chandradai Singh

Teacher of Wakapoa Dale Atkinson and head teacher of Adventure Nursery Rajkumari Kanaya

Regional Executive Officer Susannah Saywack (at left) handing over a cash grant to Headmistress Rajkumari Kanaya. Also pictured is Regional Education Officer Shondelle Hercules

Region Four Chairman accused of assaulting wife — police investigations ongoing

POLICE are currently investigating an alleged assault involving executive member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and Chairman of Region 4 (Demerara-Mahaica), Daniel Seeram and his wife.

Police Commander Simon Mc Bean told this publication, on Tuesday, that Seeram’s wife made a report and alleged that the former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) captain assaulted her causing actual bodily harm.

“There were counter allegations of assault by both parties,” the Commander also stated.

Last year, Seeram was released on $20,000 bail for a charge of threatening behaviour allegedly committed against his father-in-law, Shaheed Hamid. Seeram appeared before Magistrate, Alisha George, at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court.

The charge read that, in early March 2022, he committed the act against his 50-year-old father-in-law at MovieTowne, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown.

Seeram’s defence counsel, Roysdale Forde S.C., made an application for reasonable bail for his client. Considering the circumstances given, the magistrate granted the application and released Seeram on $20,000 bail.

This newspaper had previously reported that during the incident involving Seeram and his father-in-law, Seeram reportedly brandished his weapon to threaten Hamid.

Security personnel at the establishment intervened and escorted Regional Chairman Seeram out of the building.

Hamid later reported the matter to the Turkeyen Police Station. This newspaper was told that, on the same day Hamid issued his report, Seeram visited the Alberttown Police Station and did the same, claiming Hamid brandished a firearm at him during the altercation.

It is alleged that Seeram told the police that he went to MovieTowne to speak to his wife about an ongoing issue between them. He instead met the woman’s father and the exchange ensued.

Daniel Seeram

Mid-Year Report: $1.6B spent on advancement of ICT sector

THE Government of Guyana is committed to keeping up with technological advancements and improving its services to meet citizens' needs in an ever-changing era.

A total of $1.6 billion was spent in the first six months of 2023 to improve the nation's ICT sector.

The Ministry of Finance’s Mid-Year Report highlighted that the government trained some 627 persons in ICT at various levels of proficiency, where they learned the basics of computers, navigating the internet, and performing office tasks using the Microsoft Office suite.

Commendably, a total of 573 persons are on the government radar to be trained by year-end.

To date, several ICT hubs have been constructed and made operationlised in many of the hinterland communities. These hubs are being equipped with computers and free WiFiGY access.

Additionally, some 2,500 students are benefitting from the Guyana Coders Initiative – a flagship programme launched earlier in 2023 by the government in partnership with the United Arab Emirates period. The aim is to train at least 150,000 Guyanese in the fundamentals of computer coding over three years.

Upon completion, these students will receive a certificate and are primed to continue their pursuit of a career based in an ever-digitising workspace.

It must be noted that visually impaired persons have also received ICT training through the job access with speech (JAWS) software, to equip them with IT skills to compete in the labour market.

Meanwhile, the government also began the implementation of the national electronic identification system (eID). This ISO-certified International Civil Aviation Organisation accepted card system is a robust one as it will facilitate the integration of identification services across the public and private sectors.

It is deemed to support resident identification, enable the utilisation of fingerprint verification and validation of individuals, as well as facilitate the issuance of work permits.

The major investment in this sector provided by the Ministry of Finance is aimed at creating efficiency, bringing ease to the business world, and most importantly, opening up opportunities for persons in far-stretched regions.

Teachers who send children home for hairstyles will face disciplinary proceedings — Minister Manickchand says

MINISTER of Education, Priya Manickchand, reaffirmed, on Tuesday, that pupils and students should not be sent home for violating or appearing to violate a school's hairstyle policy and anyone who disregards this instruction will face disciplinary action.

The Education Minister, in a post on her official Facebook page, said: “I was clear enough in writing. Children are not to be sent home for any breach or perceived breach of any school’s hairstyle rule. And any person so doing (sending children home) will face disciplinary proceedings.”

In January 2023, the

Ministry of Education announced that students and pupils across Guyana can no longer to be suspended or sent home for the way they wear their hair.

The ministry issued a “memo” on the subject following months of consultations and discussion with stakeholders.

“In keeping with the guidelines provided in the Ministry of Education’s Manual of Guidelines for the Maintenance of Order and Discipline in Schools, learners must not be sent home or suspended, denied entry to school or access to teaching and learning, sent to the Department of Education,

administered corporal punishment or any other forms of punishment for having a hairstyle that is perceived to

be a breach of the school’s rule,” the memo reads.

Further, the memo highlighted: “Headteachers are

reminded that their main priority is to ensure all learners are in school, and are being taught with the aim of reducing any further learning loss.”

Additionally, should a student’s hairstyle be deemed inappropriate, discussions must be held with his or her parents/guardians.

In 2022, the Education Minister had announced plans to overhaul school rules that disproportionately affect learners, based on gender and ethnicity.

This decision was made by the ministry after sections of the public bemoaned a “hairstyle memo” issued by the Ministry of Education, granting a “one-day permis-

sion” for the relaxing of hair rules to allow for females to wear their hair as they desire on International Women’s Day.

Since then, the Education Ministry has been actively engaging learners, parents, teachers, and members of the public to decide on an appropriate and acceptable solution to this issue.

On March 11, the ministry launched an online survey to record the opinion of stakeholders on current policies that govern hairstyles in the public school system. Some 4,000 persons had participated in that survey.

President’s College students ‘rocking’ their desired hairstyles on International Women’s Day 2022 (Ministry of Education photo)

Infrastructural development being pursued without ethnic considerations

— Dr. Jagdeo challenges claims of bias; says projects are being rolled out across the country for the benefit of everyone

THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government remains committed to its objective of enhancing infrastructure across the nation, rather than being influenced by ethnic considerations, General Secretary of the PPP, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has said.

Dr. Jagdeo, during a press conference last Thursday, addressed “baseless” claims made by known APNU+AFC affiliate and Attorney-at-law, Nigel Hughes.

The PPP General Secretary drew a stark contrast between the PPP administration's approach to development and that of the previous APNU-led government.

Dr Jagdeo said that Hughes, in a social media post, had critiqued the allocation of infrastructural projects in Region Five. Hughes had questioned the distribution of roads between African and Indian communities in the region.

“Unlike the APNU-led government, our policies are driven by the need to improve infrastructure throughout the nation, without any influence of ethnic considerations.

“The issue is that we don't do the ethnic count when we decide on capital works. We have made it clear we are fixing all the roads, community roads in the entire country, particularly along the Coast,” the General Secretary said in response to Hughes' claims.

Dr. Jagdeo provided tangible evidence of the

PPP government's commitment to equitable infrastructural development.

He pointed to specific instances where substantial improvements were made in both Afro-Guyanese and Indo-Guyanese communities, such as Enterprise, Foulis, and Melanie.

“We are doing roads in Indo-Guyanese communities, in large numbers, and in Afro-Guyanese communities,” he added.

To illustrate the government's commitment to equitable development, Dr. Jagdeo cited tangible examples from Afro-Guyanese and Indo-Guyanese communities.

Dr. Jagdeo said; “When the ministers visit, the President visits, or even without anyone visiting, we are doing these roads because the idea is that we will fix every single road that needs fixing, and we are at it.”

He backed his remarks with facts, noting: “We have done over 2,500 roads since we got into office and another 800 are scheduled to go to tender now on the east coast [of Demerara]… 300 roads that we are doing in Ber-

bice, 26 are going to be done in New Amsterdam and just earlier this year, we did 24 at a total cost of about $1.7 billion.

“So that's 50 roads in New Amsterdam itself that will be done this year. We are spending 1.6 billion dollars in Linden, so just imagine how many roads would be done there probably, another 40 roads

in Linden,” he said.

Dr. Jagdeo went on to challenge Hughes’ accusations and added that it was imperative to consider the overall development plans for each region.

“If you go to Linden and say, let me see Region 10 budget, how many are being done in Indian communities, your conclusion would be no, none, be -

cause it's mainly in Linden. So, this is what they do often and his argument about ethnic discrimination is hollow; it can be disproved easily,” he said.

Dr. Jagdeo said that in the hinterland regions, $6.5 billion will be spent on roads this year.

Shifting his focus to address the larger issue at hand, he addressed the perception that certain groups, including PPP supporters, Indo-Guyanese, Amerindians, and those of mixed heritage, were being marginalised when it came to government contracts and infrastructure projects under the APNU+AFC government.

He said: "The irony of this is that it seems as though if you're PPP or

Indo-Guyanese or Amerindian or mixed people, then you don't have a right to have contracts or roads or anything else.

The General Secretary did not mince words when he accused the APNU of pursuing a "racist policy."

He highlighted the contradiction of APNU members accusing others of racism while allegedly practising and perpetuating racism themselves.

The General Secretary, however, said that he welcomes political discourse firmly grounded in facts and evidence, and added that the PPP has “no interest in talking about lies where there is no factual basis for assertions.”

PPP/C General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo Attorney-at-law Nigel Hughes

Xinhua think tank report highlights China’s contribution to global human rights governance

BEIJING, Sept. 19 (Xinhua) -- China Society for Human Rights Studies and Xinhua Institute, Xinhua News Agency's namesake think tank, released a report on China's practice of and contribution to global human rights governance on Tuesday.

The report titled, "For the Common Value and Dignity of All Humanity -- China's Practice of and Contribution to Global Human Rights Governance," was released globally through relevant websites, periodicals, and social media.

It comprises four parts, namely, "China's Practice of Participating In Global Human Rights Governance," "China's Contribution to Promoting the Development of World Human Rights," "Chinese Wisdom that Enriches the Form of Human Rights Civilization," and "China's Plan to Improve Global Human Rights Governance."

The report comprehensively and systematically reviewed and presented China's practice of and contribution to global human rights governance since the founding of the People's Republic

of China, notably since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China.

China has been playing a responsible role in human rights affairs at the United Nations, engaging actively in global human rights governance, striving to promote the healthy development of the international human rights cause, thus becoming an in-depth participant in international mechanisms, a co-constructor of governance rules, an active advocate of exchanges and cooperation, and an essential promoter

of governance change, said the report.

In the development process of the world human rights cause, China is not an outsider, but a constant practitioner, it said.

With concrete actions, it said, China has laid a solid foundation for advancing global human rights protection, protected a safe environment for global human rights protection, safeguarded fairness and justice in global human rights governance, and promoted exchanges and mutual learning between different human

rights civilizations, thereby contributing significantly to promoting the development of world human rights cause.

In light of the great historic achievements of China's human rights practice, the report characterized China's human rights development path as having four distinctive features, namely, the people-centered nature of human rights endeavors, autonomy in human rights practice, comprehensiveness in human rights promotion, and sustainability in human rights development.

It said that while mak-

ing a consistent endeavor to push forward its own human rights cause, China also takes concrete actions to push for greater fairness, justice, reason and inclusivity in global governance on human rights.

Guided by such concepts as solidarity and cooperation, development promotion, multilateral governance, inclusiveness and mutual learning, China has continuously contributed Chinese wisdom and plans to improve global human rights governance, the report added.

China's growth to rebound in Q4

CHINA'S credit is expanding again. The country's total social financing increased by over three trillion yuan (about $412 billion) in August, the second-highest level recorded in history for the corresponding period.

The significant improvement in credit in August was primarily driven by recent policies. Most of the improvement came from an acceleration in government financing, which increased to 1.18 trillion yuan in August from 0.41 trillion yuan in July and 0.30 trillion yuan in August last year.

In addition to better credit data, the economic data for the last few weeks have generally shown encouraging signs: the consumer price index turned positive again while the producer price index has shown consistent improvement over the past three months.

And while the manufacturing purchasing managers' index improved to 49.7 with key components such as production and new orders being above 50, export and import growth have also improved. Data points so far seem to suggest the economy is stabilizing and starting to recover from its slump in second quarter and in July.

These positive economic signs emerged after China strengthened its countercyclical macro policy support

since mid-August.

China's policy support has gone through two stages after the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee changed its assessment of the economy.

During the first stage from late July to early August, the government issued a series of policy guidance papers promoting consumption and investment, the private sector, and welcoming foreign investment. These policies contain important components of the government's new structural reform agenda.

During the second stage, from mid-August till present, the policy announcements

have been different given these are concrete measures with a direct, measurable impact on certain sectors of the economy. Also, the China Securities and Regulatory Commission's recent measures — cutting stamp duties and transaction fees, controlling the pace of initial public offerings, encouraging dividends and buybacks while limiting insider sales — are based on earlier consultations with market participants, and the size and breadth of announced measures have exceeded market expectations.

Two types of policy, fiscal policy and property sector policy, are what matters most right now to China's

economy.

China's fiscal stance has effectively tightened by almost 2 per cent of GDP in the first seven months: Yearto-date the fiscal deficit was at -2.5 per cent of GDP as of July 2023, compared with -4.3 per cent in July 2022, by our calculations. This is mainly because last year's government borrowing and spending was front-loaded in the first half of the year, while this year's borrowing has been more balanced between the first and second half of the year.

Government bond issuance accelerated in August. And increased borrowing should pave the way for the government to intro -

duce more spending measures, including for public investment, in the next few months.

The change in the policy tone of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee vis-a-vis the property sector has paved the way for further policy easing, especially in tier-1 and many tier-2 cities where various purchase and borrowing restrictions still apply. Tier-1 and tier-2 cities account for more than half of housing sales nationwide; as such, policy changes in these cities will have significant implications on the housing market.

On Aug 31, the People's Bank of China, the coun -

try's central bank, and the National Administration of Financial Regulation jointly issued a series of easing measures for the property sector, which includes lowering minimum down payment ratio and mortgage interest rate, easing criteria for first-home buyers and interest rate cuts for existing first-home mortgage loans.

The interest rate cut on existing mortgage loans could boost consumption to a certain extent. A 100 basis point interest rate cut on the 38 trillion yuan of outstanding mortgage loans could save Chinese consumers 0.4 trillion yuan a year, equivalent to roughly one per cent of annual retail sales.

The near-term impact might be greater because many borrowers increased mortgage loan repayment this year owing to high interest rates. But the rate cut will also reduce the incentives for early repayment.

Based on our forecast, the third quarter of this year should be the low point of growth in the year at 4.6 per cent, while the fourth quarter growth should improve to five per cent thanks to intensified government policy support since mid-August, especially that targeting the property sector. (The author, Mr. Xiong Yi is Chief China Economist at Deutsche Bank)

Over 200 CAPE students to benefit from new $103M QC wing

— facility boasts eight classrooms, washrooms and a home economics laboratory

APPROXIMATELY 200 Queen’s College sixth form students will now benefit from a new block, equipped with the necessary amenities to further their education.

Dubbed the Doodnauth Hetram block, it aims to honour and commemorate the former principal of the school, who served from 1963-1969.

The $103.5 million block features eight classrooms, washroom facilities, and a home economics laboratory.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, said that the aim is to provide safe and comfortable facilities to equip students with the skills needed to contribute to a modern society.

“As I commission this block, I want you to remem-

ber that it is not the block that matters, but what comes out of the block…each of you here that will matter to this country. Your government promises that you will never be forgotten as students, at Queen’s College or at any other school, and that any day we are working hard to change out the quality of education you get for the better, and you are going

to feel that daily,” she said at the commissioning ceremony, held at Queen’s College, on Tuesday.

Queen’s College, like many other schools across the country, has undergone a series of transformation to enhance the quality of education delivered. This momentum will continue, as the government works to create an education system

and sector that is second to none.

Minister Manickchand added that, in crafting well-rounded students, it is imperative that extracurricular activities and clubs remain active and operational, which remains a priority of the government.

Also delivering remarks was Chairman of the Board of Governors,

Marcel Gaskin, and Principal of the school, Rajkumarie Lall, who said that the new block brings great relief to both the administration and the students, as they will accommodate classes, eliminating the issue of cramped spaces. The contract for this block was signed in July 2022, and awarded to Ograsein & Sons.

Approximately 200 Queen’s College sixth form students will now benefit from a new block, equipped with the necessary amenities to further their education

Gabon partially suspended from the Commonwealth pending restoration of democracy

given to a full suspension of Gabon from Commonwealth membership. They urged the Secretary-General to maintain her Good Offices engagement with Gabon, including the provision of technical assistance, with the goal of rectifying the

situation and facilitating Gabon's return to democracy.

The Group called upon Gabon, as a Commonwealth member, to uphold the core values and principles of the Commonwealth and to conduct credible elections as soon as possi-

ble, within a maximum of two years from August 30, 2023.

Furthermore, the Group issued a strong appeal to Gabon to ensure the personal integrity, safety, health, and human rights of former President Ali Bongo Ondimba, his family

members, and members of his government.

CMAG meetings are convened by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, with secretarial support provided by the Commonwealth Secretariat.

THE 63rd Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) convened this week in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly to deliberate on key developments within member states.

CMAG, established in 1995, serves as a guardian of the fundamental political values of the Commonwealth, comprising a rotating group of foreign ministers from eight nations representing diverse regions, in addition to the foreign minister of the Commonwealth Chairperson-in-Office, who hosted the preceding Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

Chaired by the Hon Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Trade and Tourism of Samoa, the meeting on Monday, September 18, 2023, saw the participation of ministers from Barbados, Canada, Ghana, Mauritius, and Rwanda, alongside representatives from Belize, Malaysia, and Malta.

In the CMAG's final statement, ministers collectively expressed concern regarding the

political situation in Gabon, vehemently condemning the unconstitutional removal of the elected government from power. They called for the swift restoration of democracy, lauding the Secretary-General's timely assessment of the situation and her provision of technical assistance during the transition processes.

The Group extended their gratitude to the Secretary-General for her Good Offices initiative aimed at seeking a democratic resolution to the Gabon crisis. In alignment with the steps outlined in the Millbrook Commonwealth Action Programme on the Harare Declaration, ministers resolved to partially suspend Gabon from the Commonwealth until democracy is restored. This partial suspension encompasses exclusion from Commonwealth Councils and all intergovernmental meetings and events, including ministerial gatherings and CHOGM.

Moreover, ministers emphasised that if Gabon fails to demonstrate acceptable progress within two years, consideration will be

Gabon official national flag

Milex distributor, DeSinco Limited, partner with Carnegie to promote healthy cooking

TO highlight the importance of thinking about nutrition when cooking, Milex distributor, DeSinco Limited, and Carnegie School of Home Economics, recently rolled out an extensive training programme.

The programme was driven by four pillars: providing students at the Carnegie School of Home Economics with training about dairy nutrition and how dairy food is

produced from grass to glass, providing students training in how to eat healthy and cook nutritious meals from scratch, organising a cooking competition to support the learning activities and enabling the students to implement their knowledge in real life, a statement from DeSinco said.

The company explained that the training focused on healthy eating habits, nutrition and where the food

comes from, and it targetted the school’s commercial cooking classes.

The training was conducted by an Arla team that was in Guyana at the time to work on the project.

According to DeSinco, dairy expert Christoffer Madsen, who is the Senior Manager at Arla Foods, delivered a full educational experience on dairy and the Arla company from the farm in Den-

mark, to the table in Guyana.

Mette Kristensen, the nutritionist for Arla foods, also had a very interactive session with the students.

She provided training on healthy eating habits and nutrition importance in our everyday lives with a focus on dairy, including the foodbased dietary guidelines recommended in Guyana.

This was not only an informative session for the

students, but the DeSinco and Arla team rolled out a cooking competition for the students which will be part of their final grade, the statement added.

For the competition, students were asked to create three-course meals, inclusive of an appetizer, main course and dessert, but their challenge was ensuring that each recipe contained Milex Milk.

“Traditionally Guyanese recipes are not milk based, especially our savory foods, so it was a good challenge that the students were very excited about. The commercial cooking classes were split into six teams and given four hours to create their meals and they did not disappoint in this challenge,” the statement said.

The competition was held in Carnegie’s kitchen and was overlooked and judged by the Deputy Head of Carnegie, Tandika Griffith; Head Chef at Amici, Vibert Rodrigues and members of the DeSinco team.

The students made everything from eggnog to metemgee to Panna Cotta, an Italian dessert made of sweetened cream thickened with gelatin and molded.

Each team went a step further and did over the top presentations of their dishes, nicely laid out on beautifully decorated tables for the judges to taste. The students and their meals were all impressive.

The winning team included Vanetta Gordon, Vanecia Henry, Marion Budburgh, Samiya Ramdial and Nikitta Rossan.

“The perspective and learnings of the initiative are big as the students will be part of the Guyanese food sector. These students now make a difference on healthy eating habits and thinking about nutrition when cooking and this can help us all to become stronger from within,” the statement said.

Milex Milk is produced by Arla Foods, one of the largest dairy companies in the world. It is a farmer-owned cooperative in Denmark, producing milk that is natural, nutritious, and produced in a responsible and sustainable way. It is part of the Arla Foods sustainability strategy to promote healthy eating habits and support local societies.

The winning team and the Milex-inspired dishes they made

A Carnegie student prepares a meal during the Milex Cooking Challenge (DeSinco Limited photos)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wedneday September 20, 2023) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Alzarri Joseph-18 wickets (SLK)

(2) Kyle Mayers-4/4 (BR vs SLK)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who claimed most wickets for the GAW in last season’s CPL?

(2) What were the best bowling figures by a GAW player in a single game in CPL 2022?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

RACING TIPS

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

GREYVILLE

08:10 hrs Rodriguez

08:50 hrs Time Together

09:25 hrs Reckless Love

10:00 hrs National Star

10:35 hrs Fort J'adore

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

CHURCHILL DOWNS

Race 1 Oath Of Allegiance

Race 2 Puckered Race 3 Saint Antimo Race 4 Spuns Son Race 5 Stormquest Race 6 Mischevious Gal Race 7 Coppola

IRISH RACING TIPS

Spain players who have been boycotting team turn up for international duty

SPAIN players who had said they are boycotting the national team have turned up for international duty.

Players launched the boycott after the Spanish Football Federation's former president Luis Rubiales kissed Jenni Hermoso after the Women's World Cup final last month.

However, there are still doubts over whether the players will play in forthcoming Nations League games.

Spain play Sweden on Friday then face Switzerland on Tuesday.

Six players living in Madrid arrived at a hotel in the capital city before leaving to join up with the rest of the team in Valencia, where they will train before heading to Sweden on Thursday.

The six include five players from Real Madrid - Olga Carmona, who scored the winning goal in the World Cup final win over England, Misa Rodriguez, Oihane Hernandez, Teresa Abelleira and Athenea del Castillo, and Atletico Madrid forward Eva Navarro.

Bar Del Castillo, the players have all said they support the boycott.

Asked by a reporter if she was happy to be in the squad, goalkeeper Rodriguez replied "no" as she arrived at the hotel.

A number of Barcelona-based players - including twotime Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas - have also travelled to the camp near Valencia.

When asked by reporters at Barcelona airport how she felt about the situation, Putellas replied: "Well, bad."

Barcelona team-mate Mapi Leon also expressed disquiet when asked by reporters, saying: "We have to talk long and hard about if we are coming to a safe place or not when we have been forced to come.

"We have been forced to come. But if they want to sanction us [for staying away], then we have to come."Spanish journalist Guillem Balague says the players have reported to the camp because of the legal repercussions of not turning up which include being banned from the national side and fines.

The players are expected to meet with the federation and government to continue negotiations having previously called for changes to the federation.

Victor Francos, the head of the Spanish government's national sports agency, told SER radio station if the players did not show up "the government must apply the law".

The Spanish government also wants to see their newly crowned world champions qualify for next year's Olympic Games, with the two finalists from the inaugural women's Nations League qualifying for Paris 2024.

"We want there to be changes, for them to be quick, for the confidence of the players to be restored and, most importantly, what we want is to see them play and see them win," government spokeswoman Isabel Rodriguez said on Tuesday.

Sweden coach Peter Gerhardsson said the potential boycott had not affected his side's preparations for Friday's Group A4 match.

"Naturally, we'd like to have that information, but it isn't anything that I need for this training session or for tomorrow," he said.(BBC Sport)

Olga Carmona (pictured), Misa Rodriguez, Oihane Hernandez, Teresa Abelleira, Athenea del Castillo and Eva Navarro arrived at the Alameda Barajas Hotel

GFF President commends Berbice Association for successful implementation of M-FAP

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde has commended the Berbice Football Association (BFA) for the successful implementation of various Members Financial Assistance Programmes (M-FAPs) funded programmes, including the recently concluded Summer Grassroots Programme and the current Senior Men’s League.

President Forde, along with General Secretary Ian Alves, Technical Director Bryan Joseph and Competitions Director

Troy Peters met with executive members of the Berbice Football Association, including President Abeja Trotman, on September 16 at the Guyana Teachers’ Union Hall in

New Amsterdam, East Berbice, Corentyne.

The GFF team received a comprehensive overview of the association’s football programmes, including the recently concluded GFF Summer Grassroots Programme, the ongoing Academy Training Centre, and the Senior Men’s

League.

“It was therefore a great opportunity to spend some time with President Abeja Trotman and his members learning more about the remarkable work they are doing to grow the game across the association,” President Forde shared after the meeting.

The federation’s Nine Regional Associations have received millions in funding and gear to support grassroots camps and senior men’s leagues in Berbice, Linden, Berbice, Essequibo, and Georgetown through M-FAP, which was launched by President Forde in 2020 with the approval of con-

gress.

M-FAP is playing a crucial role in advancing football across Guyana by enabling associations to effectively implement training programmes and competitions for all age groups, which aligns with President Forde’s overarching objective of professionalising and expanding the game to make it more accessible to children all across Guyana.

“The M-FAP is building a solid legacy within the body of the Berbice Football Association. The ongoing Senior Men’s League, the grassroots programme, the Academy Training Centre programme are all resourced through M-FAP and is [sic] being executed successfully by the BFA Ex-

ecutive Committee,” President Forde added.

The discussion during the meeting also focused on the association’s continued compliance with the GFF’s regulations, particularly in terms of good governance and transparency.

Additionally, football clubs Cougars, New Amsterdam United, Paradise, Monedderlust, Fyrish, Rosignol and Ithaca received essential football gear, including bibs, cones and balls.

President Forde and his team will be visiting associations in the coming weeks to receive updates on implementation of the M-FAP and GFF Club Charter Programme. (GFFrelease)

Eight players and officials charged und Emirates Cricket Board Anti-Corruption Code

ON behalf of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), the International Cricket Council (ICCI) has charged several players and officials for breaching the ECB Anti-Corruption Code during the T10 League.

Eight players, officials and team owners are charged with breaching various counts of the Anti-Corruption Code. The charges are in relation to the 2021 Abu Dhabi T10 League. The said tournament took place between 19 November, 2021- 4 December, 2021. Six teams played in the tournament.

They pertain to attempts made to corrupt the matches in the league. These attempts were disrupted. ECB appointed ICC as the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (DACO) for the purposes of the ECB’s Code during the tournament. Thus, ICC are issuing these charges on the ECB’s behalf.

Those charged include: Krishan Kumar Chaudhary (co-owner of a team):

Article 2.4.5 – Failing to disclose to the DACO (without unnecessary delay) full details of any incident, fact, or matter that comes to the attention of a Participant that may evidence Corrupt Conduct under the Anti-Corruption Code by another Participant.

Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Article 2.4.7 – Obstructing or delaying a DACO investigation into possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Parag Sanghvi (co-owner of a team):

Article 2.2.1 - Placing bets on the results, progress, conduct or other aspect of International and Domestic Matches.

Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in

relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Ashar Zaidi (batting coach):

Article 2.1.1 – Being party to an attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly matches or aspects of matches in the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.

Article 2.1.4 – Directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any Participant to breach Article 2.1.

Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the DACO full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Rizwan Javed (domestic player):

Article 2.1.1 – Being party to an attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly matches or aspects of matches in the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.

Article 2.1.3 – Offering a Reward to another Participant in exchange for that

player engaging in Corrupt Conduct.

Article 2.1.4 – Directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any Participant to breach Code Article 2.1.

Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the DACO full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Saliya Saman (domestic player):

Article 2.1.1 – Being party to an attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly matches or aspects of matches in the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.

Article 2.1.3 – Offering a Reward to another Participant in exchange for that player engaging in Corrupt

Conduct under the Code.

Article 2.1.4 – Directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any Participant to breach Code Article 2.1.

Sunny Dhillon (assistant coach):

Article 2.1.1 – Being party to an attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly matches or aspects of matches in the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.

Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the DACO full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Nasir Hossain (Bangladesh player):

Article 2.4.3 – Failing to disclose to the DACO receipt of a gift worth over

$ 750.

Article 2.4.4 - Failing to disclose to the DACO full details of any approaches or invitations received to engage in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Shadab Ahamed (team manager):

Article 2.4.6 – Failing or refusing, without compelling justification, to cooperate with any investigation carried out by the DACO in relation to possible Corrupt Conduct under the Code.

Six of the chargedKrishan Kumar Chaudhary, Parag Sanghvi, Azhar Zaidi, Rizwan Javed, Saliya Saman and Sunny Dhillon - have been provisionally suspended and all have 14 days from 19 September 2023 to respond to the charges. (ICC Media)

GFF President Wayne Forde (centre) with GFF officials and stakeholders of Berbice football

(Photo: GFF)

Former first-class batter and Canada’s 2003 World Cup player Fazil Sattaur dies at 58 — Albion CC pays respects to its fallen hero

By Sean Devers

FORMER Berbice and Guyana first-class batter

Abdul Fazil Sattaur passed away at the Brampton Civic Hospital in Ontario; Canada, on Monday, where he had migrated to in 1995. He was 58.

Known as the `Terminator’ in cricketing circles, Sattaur leaves to mourn six brothers, three sisters, a son, four daughters, and three grandchildren. His passing was caused by a brain stroke.

Sattaur suffered his first stroke six years ago and returned to Guyana three times since then, the last of which was in early 2020 when he seemed to be recovering well.

His funeral will be held today at 1:30 pm after Dhuhr Salah at the International Muslim Organisation (MIO)

65

An aggressive middle-order batter who began as an opener, Fazil Sattaur played 10 first-class games for Berbice and Guyana between 1984 and 1990. Scoring 372 with a highest score of 94.

The swashbuckling batter also played 16 List ‘A’ games

The right-handed Sattaur was a pugnacious batter who enjoyed playing his shots and scored at a rapid strike rate against loose bowling.

He played for Guyana as an opener in 1988 in Barbados when he also played the role as a part-time wick-

et-keeper in that game.

‘Satts’ hit Joel Garner for five fours in a Shell Shield Regional first-class match and said that during a Shell Shield game against Barbados, he hooked Malcolm Marshall off the front foot for four without wearing a helmet and Marshall asked if he was a madman.

Sattaur, who played for Berbice at the senior Inter-County level at a time when the final was given first-class status before 1990. He played club cricket in Berbice for Albion and for Everest in the city in the 1990s. His ODIs were the 2003 World Cup in South Africa against Kenya, Sir Lanka & Bangladesh

Meanwhile, The Albion Community Centre Cricket Club is deeply saddened by

the death of Sattaur

“The news of Fazil Sattaur's death is very sad and we at the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club would like to express our sincere condolences to his family," said Vemen Walter, president of the Albion. Community Centre Cricket Club.

"Sats as he is known by his Club mates has served Albion's cricket with distinction in the 80s and 90s before migrating to Canada.

“Whenever he visited Guyana it was a must for him to be at the club and was always willing to impart his knowledge to the young cricketers" Walter also disclosed.

Walter further stated, "Sats was a very humble person who gives 100 percent in everything he does. He

Deos dominate Canada Trophy Stall tournament

always had his club at heart. I remember when I first started managing the Albion first-division team as a teenager, he was the club's captain and although he was a national cricketer at the time, the respect and support he proved to me was [sic] admirable.

“Albion has lost a great son.

“Although death is inevitable, it is never easy to lose a loved one; however, we must console ourselves that God knows the best and readjust our minds to embrace such a situation. We pray that God will grant comfort to the bereaved family during this very difficult period and may the soul of the deceased RIP." Walter concluded.

ON Saturday last, the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) hosted the Canada Trophy Stall Golf Tournament. In the end, Arnal Deo emerged victorious over his competitors; Brian Hackett and Kassim Khan were also winners in their respective flights. The Deo family in particular were a regular feature as Arnal Deo, Maurice Deo and Bholawram Deo were among the winners as well.

The results for the tournament were as follows:

Flight 0-12

Kassim Khan - Gross 73, HC 5, Net 68

Patrick Prashad - Gross 81, HC 12, Net 69

Mike Mangal - Gross 78, HC 6, Net 72

Flight 13-20

Brian Hackett - Gross 88, HC 18, Net 70

Joseph John - Gross 86, HC 15, Net 71

Mahesh Shivraj - Gross 87, HC 14, Net 73

Flight 21-36

Arnal Deo - Gross 91, HC 28, Net 63

Maurice Deo - Gross 94, HC 26, Net 78

Bholowram Deo - Gross 90, HC 21, Net 69

Overall Best Net - Arnal Deo 63

Best Gross - Kassim Khan 73

Dave

Scott is most impressive performer at Linden Regatta — Randy Belle and Neil Gonsalves split honours in F1 category

By Joe Chapman

DAVE Scott was the most outstanding performer at this year’s Linden ‘Cricket Carnival’ Regatta which was organized by New Era Entertainment with title sponsors Sheriff Security Inc. and staged at the Kara Kara Blue Lake in Linden on Sunday last.

On a sun-drenched afternoon, Scott dominated the proceedings with six impressive wins, three each in the 90HP class and the 200HP category respectively, and even took a third position

in the highly anticipated big FI race where Randy Belle and Neil Gonsalves split honours in the two hyped-up races.

Among those who mingled with the drivers and spectators during the exciting races were Government Ministers Anil Nandlall and Juan Edghill.

Scott took control from the first 90Hp race in which Wellington Gonsalves was second to him, and Wellington Gonsalves followed that with third place in two other races. Clint Gonsalves placed third, then second in two oth-

er 90HP events.

In the 200HP races where Scott grabbed all three pole positions also, Wellington Gonsalves came second in two other races with Clint Gonsalves holding down two third-place finishes and Antawn Gordon one third position.

Wellington Gonsalves however was the winner in two 15HP races, with Joel Gonsalves gaining second in all three, as Kelvin Mannie placed third in all three also; a third 15HP race was won by Adon DeSilva.

Clint Gonsalves took

honours in the two 40HP races, beating Shane Gonsalves and Steve Ramcharra into second and third places respectively on both occasions.

However, there was not the deciding third F1 race which was a disappointment since both teams strongly felt their drivers Randy Belle and Neil Gonsalves would have come out on top among the ‘big boys’ throw down.

In the lone Jet-Ski race, Udah Kand emerged the winner from Don King and Maksim Dmitriven, respectively.

Nearest to pin - Joseph John

Longest Drive - Ravindra Harry

Speaking at the end of the tournament was LGC Vice-President Brian Hackett, who said, "Trophy Stall has been a very good supporter of the Lusignan Golf Club and has been hosting tournaments annually for the last 15 years without exception.

“Their tournaments are usually well-attended. We look forward to this tournament every year as we work with Trophy Stall to improve golf and make it more prominent in Guyana. The tournament was exceptionally attended by more than 23 golfers."

Hackett also noted that Victor Sunich of Trophy Stall Canada, has indicated that he is very pleased to be part of the golf club and that he will be looking forward to sponsoring a second tournament towards the end of this year. Hackett also shares that the LGC welcomes Sunich and appreciates his gesture and ongoing commitment to ensure that golf remains popular in Guyana.

Trophy Stall is a long-time supporter of golf and all sporting activities in Guyana. The sponsor is committed to continuing to be a part of the growth of golf in Guyana. Trophy Stall is the premier seller of a wide range of trophies and sports memorabilia in Guyana.

Flashback: The Guyana team in Barbados for the 1988 Shell Shield tournament (Sattaur is at right standing)

The Winners row

Siraj gives a fiery conclusion to an unfinished business

IT wasn't perhaps needed at all but adrenaline-charged Mohammed Siraj did it anyway - unsuccessfully chasing a firstball four from Dhananjaya de Silva all the way to the long-on fence to provide a bit of comic relief amidst what was rapidly turning into a humiliation for Sri Lanka. On either side of that boundary in the fourth over were wickets that not just fetched a handful of records for Siraj but also effectively sealed the fate of the 2023 Asia Cup final.

In overcast Colombo, India's new-ball pair wasn't probably all disheartened at losing the toss. The brief spell of rain just before the scheduled start time meant there was some assistance for fast bowlers, unlike in previous games, and Jasprit Bumrah had already made early inroads in the opening over. Siraj then ominously began his day with a maiden, beating the outside edge of Kusal Mendis four times in

the space of those six balls. The pressure was mounting on the hosts, and something had to give.

Pathum Nissanka became Siraj's first victim, uppishly driving a length ball - an outswinger - to the right of Ravindra Jadeja at backward point. Sadeera Samarawickrama was undone by a cracking inswinger next, one ball later, that nipped in after pitching outside off, beat the inside edge and hit him on the front pad. Siraj dished out another full delivery to greet Charith Asalanka and tempt him into a drive. The batter duly took the bait, and chipped it straight to Ishan Kishan at cover.

Siraj had struck thrice in four deliveries, and the four from de Silva on the hat-trick ball was much-needed relief for Sri Lanka in more ways than one. Short-lived though. On the final ball of the over another fuller delivery followed, another outswinger, in the channel outside off, that the batter should have ideally

let go but instead nicked behind to give Siraj his fourth of the over.

At 12/5 in just four overs, there was no redemption for Sri Lanka, but Siraj had some unfinished business. "Last time, against Sri Lanka in Thiruvananthapuram, I had taken the first four wickets [three], but couldn't get the fifth," Siraj said in chat with the official broadcaster in the innings break. "Then I realised that you only get what's written in your destiny, and

Brathwaite struggles continue with failure against Middlesex

LONDON, (CMC) – West Indies Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite continued to struggle in the English County Championship, recording yet another failure for Warwickshire on day one of their clash with Middlesex.

The right-hander, who joined the West Midlands outfit until the end of the season, made only three as the visitors finished on 72 for four in reply to Middlesex’s meagre first innings of 121 at Lord’s.

He was one of four wickets to tumble – brilliantly taken in front of the cordon by wicketkeeper John Simpson off Irish seamer Tim Murtagh (3-17) – as Warwickshire plunged to 43 for four.

Captain Will Rhodes then propped up the innings with an unbeaten 36 off 66 deliveries, in a 29-run unbroken fifth wicket stand with Ed Barnard (nine not out).

The 30-year-old Brathwaite has managed only 42 runs from his four previous innings for Warwickshire, following his late call-up for the final four games of the championship.

At the Oval, Brathwaite’s West Indies counterpart Kemar Roach went wicket-less for Surrey as Northamptonshire finished on 171 for six, on an opening day restricted to 63.4 overs due to the

weather.

The veteran seamer sent down 13 overs which yielded 28 runs but no wickets, leaving 20-year-old pacer Tom Lawes to star with three for 47.

Karun Nair top-scored with an unbeaten 51 while opener Hassan Azad struck a patient 48, the pair posting 55 for the third wicket before the innings declined.

had a fifer in 16 balls - his first and the joint fastest in ODI cricket. He went on to register a career-best haul of 6/21 eventually, wrecking Kusal Mendis' stumps in his sixth over with a devious inswinger.

wickets."

nothing more, however hard you try. So, my plan was to keep it simple and execute my line and length, and I kept getting the wickets today."

Like he said, Siraj stuck to his plan beautifully to setup the Sri Lankan skipper next. After three full and wide deliveries, he sent Dasun Shanka packing with the one that was pitching in line of his middle-stump. Shanaka was beaten by the late movement and his offstump took the beating. Siraj

"When I play white-ball cricket my only attempt is that I would try to swing the new ball at the start. But here, there wasn't a lot of swing on offer in the initial matches. Today it swung, so I tried to make the batters play as much as possible. It's a nice feeling when it catches the edge. I have not picked up a lot of wickets with my outswing - today I got a lot of wickets with my outswing, so that felt good.

"Today I was getting so much swing that I tried to make the batters drive, bring them forward and get their wickets. That was my plan. I didn't chase after wickets, but the conditions did a lot of work for me. If you keep hitting the wickets with one line, you will keep getting

Siraj could have had a seventh too if not for a tough missed chance behind the stumps, but it all still felt "like a dream" in helpful conditions. Sri Lanka were blown away for just 50 in front of a stunned home crowd, a target that took Indian openers only a ball above the sixth over to meet.

India captain Rohit Sharma reserved highest praise for the 29-year-old who shattered a handful of records in flipping around a very ordinary performance against Nepal earlier in the tournament. "I never thought the ball was going to be doing that much [but], again, it comes back to the skillset of the individuals. Siraj has to be given a lot of credit. That's very rare, you don't see many guys who can move it in the air and off the pitch. He's coming of age," Rohit said at the presentation ceremony. (Cricbuzz)

Double-header clash in Linden

Mayor’s Cup Under-21 basketball championship today

TWO deciding matches in this year’s Linden Mayor’s Cup Under- 21 basketball championship featuring Group C teams from the Christianburg Wismar Secondary and Linden Foundation Secondary at 14.30hrs and the other in Group B bringing together Mackenzie High and Harmony from 16.00hrs will be played this afternoon (Wednesday) at the Retrieve Hard Court.

These two matches will determine the teams advancing to the threeteam playoff finals and the first game pits Christianburg Wismar Secondary ‘Multi’ against the Linden Foundation Secondary to

go through, after both won their games against the Marcia Craig Educational Institute.

Christianburg Wismar gained a walkover victory over Marcia Craig, but Linden Foundation scored an easy win in their clash with Marcia Craig Educational Institute on Monday by a 51-27 margin.

Game two in Group B will see Mackenzie High who turned back the challenge of New Silvercity Secondary, facing Harmony who lost to New Silvercity Secondary. MHS, who will go through safely once they win this game, as Harmony are seeking an upset victory to force a FIBA Classification Rule

determination, to have an unlikely chance of moving forward in this three team battle for a place in the playoffs finals.

Kwakwani Secondary will take on Linden Technical Institute for the top spot in Group A on Friday after beating Wisburg Secondary in their only game played so far, while Linden Technical Institute won their clash also against Wisburg Secondary.

This nine-team tournament was divided into three groups of three and the top teams are going through to three- team playoffs finals starting next Wednesday.

India pacer Mohammed Siraj

West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite recorded another failure

PM Cup softball tournament

4 R Lioness to open defence against Police at Lusignan

DEFENDING champions

4 R Lioness will open their campaign in this year’s Prime Minister’s Cup softball tournament against Police when the women’s category of this year’s extravaganza bowls off at the Lusignan Community Centre ground next Thursday, September 28.

The opening fixture, in the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc organised tournament, which is scheduled to get underway at 9.30 am, is one of four among the eight competing teams which will be played simultaneously at the East Coast venue on the national holiday.

The other games will see Invaders clashing with Arrowhead Strikers, Crabwood Creek Rising Stars battling with Highway Challengers and Kuru Kuru Panthers opposing Number 64 Knight Riders.

Following a lunch break, the four winners will vie for a place in Sunday’s final in two semi-final showdowns, set to commence at 1.30 pm. Winners of game one meet winners of game two while the game three winners come to grips with the winners of

game four. The final is set for the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground, Queenstown.

A notable absentee in this year’s tournament is last year’s inaugural runners-up Trophy Stall Angels, who lost to 4 R Lioness, the latter winning convincingly by nine wickets in their 12-over affair, played at the Guyana National Stadium.

Chasing 101 for victory, after limiting Trophy Stall Angels to 100, 4 R Lioness achieved the required target in 9.4 overs with Tamica Wilson (40 not out) and Amanda DeFreitas (23) sharing an opening stand of 85.

This year’s winners are assured of $300 000, an increase of $100 000 from last year’s prize while the runners-up are guaranteed $25 000. The player of the final will receive a trophy while the player of the tournament will be rewarded with a 32” Smart TV. Unlike the three men categories (Open, Over40 and Over-50) which will see the use of Trophy Stall balls, the women will compete with Supreme balls. Meanwhile, the stage is set for the bowl off the men’s categories (Open, Over-40 and Over-50) on Friday, September 29 at various venues

around Georgetown and East Coast. The draw for these categories will take place on Sunday at the DCC pavilion, starting at noon and all participating teams are asked to send representatives to observe the proceedings. A meet and greet is also planned for the afternoon of Wednesday, September 26 at the same venue. The GSCL Inc organised tournament, which is in its seventh year, has the blessings of the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. (Frederick Halley)

Head Coach Omar Khan names Lady Jags squad to face Antigua and Barbuda today

GUYANA’s Senior

Women’s National Team

Head Coach Omar Khan has unveiled his first squad selection since assuming the top job in early September.

Today,, Guyana will make their first appearance in the inaugural Road to Concacaf W Gold Cup against Antigua and Barbuda. The 19-member team includes goalkeeper Chante’ Sandiford and young midfielders Jalade Trim and Sandra Johnson, who are making their debut on the senior team.

Coach Khan has expressed his confidence in the chosen players, emphasising that the selection process took into account several crucial factors, including the players’ performance, versa-

Campbell, Ramsammy part of strong Guyana contingent for CAC

A FORMIDABLE team of fitness athletes is set to depart for Aruba today to represent Guyana at the 50th edition of the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships.

This is according to a statement released by the Guyana Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation (GBBF) recently.

The release stated that the team comprises reigning two-time Mr. Guyana (bodybuilding) Darious Ramsammy; three-time CAC silver medalist and six-time National Men’s Physique champion, Emmerson Campbell; reigning Ms. Bikini champion, Hannah Rampersaud, along with last year’s CAC Bikini silver medalist, Christina Ramsammy.

Podium dwellers at last year’s edition in Barbados, Nicholas Albert, Rawle Green and Julio Sinclair, are also part of the unit.

The team will be managed by the federation’s president Keavon Bess, who stated that he is optimistic of the chances of the charges who can emulate last year’s performances.

In 2022, the team bagged a record 12 medals.

Together, the team secured five gold medals, six silver medals and one bronze medal. The most at a single CAC Championship by a national team.

Remarkably, Rosanna Fung used her sharp physique to slice through the athletes in the wellness categories and secured the much coveted ‘Pro card. In doing so, the 23 year-old became the second female from Guyana and the first since 1979 to become a professional bodybuilding athlete.

Guyana is pencilled to host the annual championships next year after a successful bid in 2021 in El Salvador.

tility, and their potential to make a positive impact on the team’s success.

The squad - three goalkeepers, four defenders, nine midfielders and three forwards - reflects a balance of experienced players and promising young talents, ensuring a blend of skill, leadership, and fresh energy on the field.

The Lady Jags have their sights set on securing victory and claiming the top spot in Group A of League B. This group includes strong contenders such as Antigua and Barbuda, Suriname, and Dominica. The first-place finishers from each League B group, totaling three teams, will advance to the 2024 W Gold

Cup Prelims.

The full squad is below.

Goalkeepers

Chante’ Sandiford

Raven Edwards- Dowdall

Ludesha Reynolds

Defenders

Rylee Traicoff

Savanna Mondesir- Singh

Shennel Daniels

Brianne Desa

Midfielders

Alleia Alleyne Dylana Makarowski Ghilene Joseph

Hannah Baptiste Masani

Springer Jalade Trim Sandra

Johnson Stefanie Kouzas

Samantha Banfield

Forwards

Anya Tribune

Otesha Charles

Shyla Murray

Flashback: Last year’s champions 4 R Lioness pose with their winnings

Darious Ramsammy and Emmerson Campbell

Guyana Lady Jags

THE Jamaica Tallawahs will head to Qualifier 2 of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) following a comprehensive five wicket defeat of the Saint Lucia Kings at the Providence Stadium last night.

The Tallawahs won the toss and opted to field first and that proved to be an inspired decision as they ripped through the Kings batting to restrict them to 125/9.

Jamaica Tallawahs charges ahead after defeating St. Lucia Kings

The Kings never adapted to the slow track and this was made harder when they ran into a Fabian Allen Playoff masterclass as the all-rounder led the way for the Tallawahs taking 4/25.

The Kings were always up against it from that moment and the Tallawahs duly wrapped up victory inside 18 overs having been given a great foundation by Brandon King and Alex Hales.

The Kings had their mo-

ments with the ball while trying to defend a modest 12 run target, Matthew Forde took a career best 4/19 but that was as good as it got for the Kings.

Earlier the Tallawahs had suffered an initial setback when they lost Mohammed Amir to injury three balls into the match but the remaining Tallawahs bowling attack made light of the absence of their talisman.

Both Colin Munro and

Johnson Charles fell inside the PowerPlay as the Kings innings went struggled to get going with wickets falling outside the PowerPlay.

Green picked up his second wicket to remove Bhanuka Rajapasa before Nicholson Gordon got in on the act. The fast bowler removed Shadrack Descarte for four to leave the Kings in trouble at 59/4 at the halfway stage of the innings.

Wickets continued to fall at regular intervals and

when Fabian Allen removed Sikander Raza and Roston Chase in the 16th over the Kings were all at sea. Allen added two more wickets in the 18th over to end a brilliant spell with 4/25.

Just when it appeared the Kings were on the brink of being bowled out Khary Pierre and Peter Hatzoglou got them up to 125 to give them something to bowl at.

In reply the Tallawahs all but confirmed victory when King and Hales raced

to 43 in the first four overs. King eventually fell for 30 and Hales for 24 but the damage was done.

The honour of seeing the Tallawahs home fell to Raymon Reifer who took the drama out of the chase with a sensibly constructed 30 not out.

The Tallawahs victory now means that they head to Qualifier 2 on Friday night at the same venue. (CPL)

Left-arm spinner Fabian Allen led the way for Tallawahs by grabbing 4/35 (CPL Photo)