Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 21-11-2022

Granger ‘robbed youths’ of opportunities

- Bond says; praises President Ali for ‘exceptional job’ done so far

ATTORNEY-ATLAW and former APNU+AFC party representative, James Bond, in a recent

interview, said that Former President Da vid Granger robbed youths of opportunities during his stint as

Head of State.

In an interview with the Big Smith News Watch, Bond said he was “no fan of President

Granger” and added that he believes the former President did a great in justice to young people. During the interview,

he related that in 2015, he was asked about some of the things that he was disappointed with during that time:

one of the issues was that not enough young people were in parlia ment.

Elvin Croker photo

‘Prepare to be part of Guyana’s massive transformation’

- President Ali charges Nations University graduates

PRESIDENT, Dr. Ir faan Ali has charged hundreds of gradu ates of Nations Uni

versity to prepare themselves to be part of the massive trans formation taking place in Guyana.

In delivering the feature address at the university’s 2022 graduation in the di ploma, bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre Sat urday evening, Dr. Ali told the graduates that they are living in a country that will be “second to none” by 2030 and beyond.

The Head of State underscored that Guy

ana will not only have a diversified economy that will be able to withstand all of the global shocks, but the country will also func tion on “cutting edge technology” and will have all the high-end and high-paying jobs.

He said the government is working assiduously on ensur ing the country be comes a world leader in various sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, educa tion, environment, and biological and ecological services, among others things.

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

A section of the gathering at the Nations University graduation ceremony at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre on Saturday evening (Office of the President photo)

Safer, more accommodating

vendors say, as works commence on installation of lights, washrooms, police outpost at Stabroek Market

By Cassandra Khan

JUST one day after a visit to the Stabroek Market by President, Dr Irfaan Ali, vendors and consumers have started to feel safer and a bit more comfortable, as works have commenced on the installation of se curity lights, wash room facilities and a police outpost at the market.

With the Christmas season upon us, it is ex pected that the Stabroek Market will be a hub for commerce, as persons commence their tradi tional shopping sprees.

Given that those ac tivities most times run into the night, persons said it is pleasing to see that efforts are being made to make the area

safer for consumers and vendors.

The Guyana Chroni cle, on Sunday, visited the Stabroek Market and spoke to several vendors and passersby who commended the President and his gov ernment for the work they have been doing.

Nerlene Sumner, a vendor, said that the

Government of Guyana is doing a great job, and that she feels safer with the lights and the com ing police outpost.

She also related that there was a great need for toilet facilities, so she is happy that the market will soon be equipped with those.

Ronald Roach said that he feels comfort able with the lights be ing put up and the ones that have already been set up at the market.

“In the night, the place does dark and a lot of bad things does happen around the turf, so at least with the light people will feel much safer,” Roach said, commending the President for honouring his commitment in 24 hours.

He said that this is at

least an improvement and the police outpost would add to security in the area. Roach said that he feels happy that the government is look ing out for people.

Trevor (only name given), a coconut ven dor, and Melinda (only name given), a fruit

vendor, both said that this makes them feel safer and that it is a great intervention by the government.

Johnny (only name given), said that there is still room for more improvement and more lights.

“But this is a start, it is a good initiative,” he admitted.

Debbie (only name given), normally hangs out at the market with friends. She told this publication that the lights are for people to see and be guarded against robbers. She said that the initiative is good, noting that when it is dark people can not see what is tak ing place, but with the lights, people will be able to see.

Ingrid, a shoe ven-

dor of 20 years, said that in the light, many things can be avoided since the market is unsafe. She said she is happy that there will be toilets and a police outpost, and commended the gov ernment for its inter vention.

‘robbed youths’ of opportunities

and former APNU+AFC party representative, James Bond, in a recent interview, said that For mer President David Granger robbed youths of opportunities dur ing his stint as Head of State.

In an interview with the Big Smith News Watch, Bond said he was “no fan of President Granger” and added that he believes the former President did a great injus tice to young people.

During the interview, he related that in 2015, he was asked about some of the things that he was dis appointed with during that

time: one of the issues was that not enough young people were in parliament.

According to Bond, he had registered this view publicly since then, not ing: “I said there’s not enough young people, I

don’t know if there’s a distrust for young peo ple.”

He went on to say that people must understand that youths make mis takes, but with guidance, they could be good.

“You got to give young people the opportunity and that is something he robbed young people of during his presidency,” Bond said.

He further noted that there were many things that he could critique about the Granger Pres idency, a lot of which made supporters in their main constituencies dis gruntled as they were not seeing their representa tives.

Bond said that these constituents did not see the President follow ing the campaign season along with several other party leaders.

“As a President, he

robbed Region Four of his presence,” he said.

Meanwhile, during the interview, Bond spoke on a number of issues including politics and President, Dr. Irfaan Ali’s presidency.

He related that Presi dent Ali is doing an ex ceptional job and has surprised lots of people throughout his tenure thus far. He admitted that he never expected the im pact the President would have in touching the nontraditional bases.

“And he has been able to reach out to the non-tra ditional base, that is com mendable and it shows that he wants to govern

Guyana and not just gov ern for his supporters, that’s a good indication,” Bond said.

On that note, he added that one other credit that must go to the President is his leadership in the global sphere. Bond went on to say that President Ali has become a world leader in a number of are as inclusive of agriculture, tourism, the extractive industries and more.

He further stressed that even though he may be a part of the People’s National Congress/Re form (PNC/R), he can say that the President has been doing a good job.

-

Fruit vendor Melinda

Vendor Ronald Roach

Coconut vendor, Trevor

ATTORNEY-AT-LAW

Attorney-at-Law, James Bond

Region Nine ‘agri’ output to increase

THE Ministry of Agricul ture, on Saturday, launched its Agriculture Improved Support Programme aimed at offering critical support to hinterland villages to boost agricultural produc tion.

The programme is funded

by the International Fund for Agricultural Develop ment under the ministry’s Hinterland Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture De velopment (HESAD) Project.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha launched the programme at St. Igna

tius, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), during a ceremony which saw farmers from approxi mately 16 villages benefit ting from $22 million worth of agricultural inputs and ge netic improvement material.

Minister Mustapha, while offering remarks at the ex ercise, said that the govern ment remains committed to ensuring farmers in every part of the country benefit

from the resources available.

He said that the inputs being delivered resulted from a commitment made by Pres ident, Dr. Irfaan Ali during an outreach to the region last August.

“The President came to Region Nine to ensure we develop this very impor tant sector. He met with the farmers and listened to their needs. He made several commitments and today we

are here to deliver on those commitments because when this government makes a commitment, we always deliver on it. The agriculture sector is the only sector that can ensure a country has food security.

“As a government, we are aiming to be a net ex porter of food and become the centre of production in this part of the hemisphere, especially in the Caribbean. We believe that Region Nine has the potential to produce more and make a valuable contribution to our national production goals,” Minister Mustapha said.

He added that the gov ernment was working to make the necessary resources available to enable farmers to boost production in hopes of one day satisfying local and regional demands for agroprocessed commodities and high-value crops.

“Food security is high on the government’s agenda, so we are working to ensure you have the necessary inputs to produce. We want you to be able to produce more than what you are producing now. As a government, we are working to diversify and ex pand to be able to satisfy lo cal and regional demands for agro-processed commodities and high-value crops. We are also making the necessary fa

cilities available to increase the value of your products,” Mustapha said.

Last August, President Ali, while in the region, said officers from the Agriculture Ministry would be working with communities to develop their food security strategies in a way that will make their food production both resil ient and sustainable.

“We are working with many communities in Re gion Nine to enhance your food production system, to build your capacity, and to build your food production system in a more structured and market-oriented way. To improve the conditions under which we do farming and many communities across the region are embracing this new push in terms of agricultural expansion and food security,” the Head of State said.

Farmers from the vil lages of Shulinab, Meriwau, Sandcreek, Awarenau, Muru ranau, Rupanau, Katoonarib, Baitoon, Potarinau, Quiko, Parikwarinau, Aishalton, Shea, Baitoon, Taushida and Koshebai (South Pa karaimas) benefitted from breeding bulls and boars to improve their villages’ genetic material; cassava sticks; coconut seedlings; shadehouse materials; a trac tor and implements which included a cassava planter, harrow, a disc plough and a roam plough, as well as an ATV.

The ministry also signed a contract with the Sand Creek Village Council valued at $4 million for the implementation of a cas sava germplasm bank and the supply of farm tools support for the region.

(Ministry of Agriculture)

- following distribution of key inputs to farmers across 16 villages under new programme

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, along with farmers from several villages in Region Nine

Health Ministry resumes distribution of free hearing aids

one’s hearing regularly.

He informed those gathered that the govern ment through his Min istry is now providing free hearing aids to those with hearing issues. He did not state when the distribution started.

He said persons had to pay as much as $60,000 to access one.

AS he launched the Men of Mission (MOM) programme in Region Two on Satur day evening, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, announced the resumption of the countrywide distribu

tion of free hearing aids.

During his address to a large gathering of men in the Essequibo Techni cal Institute (ETI)’s au ditorium, he emphasised the importance of testing

At the time, Minister Anthony was speaking about “Lifestyle Medi cine”. He explained that persons can prevent many sicknesses and diseases by conducting regular check-ups at the health centres and hos pitals.

He said that earlier this year, his ministry had boosted the audiolo gy services being offered and is now offering pa tients free hearing aids.

“I want to reassure … persons living with hear ing impairments [that] the ministry will ensure that the aids are now available free of cost,” Minister Anthony said.

He noted that the pro gramme was implement ed several years ago, but was stopped.

According to the minister, his ministry has collaborated with several international non-gov ernmental organisations (NGOs) and foundations to ensure that the free aids are available.

He said that his min istry has examined a

number of options to restore this particular programme so that Guy anese can benefit.

Minister Anthony added that while some peop le are born with congenital defects that lead to hearing impair ments, others can de velop these issues at various stages of their lives. As such, he urged persons to get regular check-ups.

“Make it a habit and do your regular checkups. Check your ears and ensure that everything is going well. The ser vices are provided free of cost,” he added.

He also urged the men in attendance to

exercise regularly, and to ensure they practice a healthy lifestyle.

Meanwhile, Region al Health Officer, Dr Ranjeev Singh, said that the Audiology De partment at the Sud die Public Hospital is equipped and has the necessary re sources to help patients.

He, therefore, echoed Minister Anthony’s call for persons to make use of the services being of fered.

Dr. Singh used the opportunity to urge persons to take their infants and young chil dren to the department to have their hearing tested.

Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony

Fighting for unity

SINCE being elected to office in 2020, the government has been investing in initiatives to foster unity amidst continuous attempts by persons locally and overseas to sow discord by peddling racism and discrimination.

However, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has re peatedly rebuffed those attempts and has pledged to continue working on dismantling every single chord of discrimination against Guyanese and to promote unity. It was out of this desire that his “One Guyana” initiative was born.

President Ali, leading from the front, is now on a mission to create a pathway for peace and harmony that will unite all Guyanese and advance the growth and development of the country.

Many have embraced

the President’s vision and have applauded him for taking this bold step.

Last week, dozens of Christian leaders (both lo cally-based and members of the diaspora) signalled their interest in partnering with President Ali on his initiative. The group met with the President at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, at Liliendaal.

This is very notewor thy, particularly since the church has the ability to foster community cohe sion.

According to Pastor Ejaz Nabie, the event’s aim was to discuss the President’s vision for “One Guyana” and unity, with a specific focus on the Church’s role in ad dressing racism, reconcili ation, and nation-building.

This is just one of many groups of religious leaders whom the Presi dent have met to discuss

these important national issues and his plans for corrective action.

President Ali, during the recent meeting, em phasised the importance of his vision and said that its objectives can be achieved if everyone works together.

“What there is, is a great yearning to come together; a great enthusi asm and energy to come together. There is a great opportunity for us to fuse ourselves together; that is what the ordinary people want. There are, however, a select few out there who drive a narrative that is far different from reality,” President Ali said.

He believes, as we all should, that the govern ment and the Church have interconnecting roles to play in the development of Guyana, and can work together to ensure Guy anese lead meaningful

lives.

According to him, the engagement “should be the beginning of a system of interaction and com munication to create a pathway.”

The religious leaders left the engagement satis fied with what they had heard, as after acknowl edging the importance of the dialogue, they pledged their collective commit ment to do their part in promoting unity.

In February this year, President Ali met virtually with more than fifty reli gious leaders from North America.

Like he did during the recent meeting, he told them that they had a vital role to play in creating a unified nation. He indi cated his willingness to work with them.

President Ali first outlined his desire for a united Guyana during

his inauguration speech, when he said: “In my service to Guyana, I will not see a nation divided by ethnicity; I will see a nation cemented in unity. This land of Guyana is our common homeland; it is our common heritage. And every citizen within it is equal and will be treated equally.”

It is clear that he had thought long and hard about this delicate subject, and had decided from early that he was prepared to fight for the good of his country and his people.

Everything he has done from then to now is in keeping with that promise he made on Au gust 8, 2020.

One can see the Presi dent’s genuine attempts to unite Guyanese and give everyone access to a good life, based on all that he has done since taking office.

He has used every op portunity he could to play up the need for a united Guyana and the benefits this would have for all Guyanese.

From the implementa tion of various economic measures, community visits and engagements with persons from all walks of life, President Ali has shown that he is “the people’s President” and has no interest in disunity, discrimination or racism.

For him, the focus is promoting unity among citizens, ensuring that everyone benefits from the rich resources of this land and everyone has the opportunity to live their best life. He is focused on the mission and, based on his approach, he will not rest until the work is done.

The fight for a united Guyana continues.

GECOM on track to host transparent LGEs

Dear Editor,

SINCE August 2020, the Guyana Elections Com mission (GECOM) has undertaken several con current activities aimed, centrally, at re-modeling and improving the or ganisation’s previously sullied image while read ying itself for the hosting of the overdue Local Government Elections (LGEs).

The associated success

of the work of the Com mission, led by Chair woman, retired judge, Claudette Singh, is par ticularly relevant and mer its objective discussion or the award of credit where applicable.

Notable is the concom itant existence of a volatile environment strongly in fluenced and characterised by numerous continuously irrational positions being directed from the ‘core

hub’ of leading Opposi tion political elements and their agents.

One must, therefore, associate GECOM’s initial tricky period of cautious incremental progress, with the need to recover from the debacle of key op erational managers placed before the courts to an swer charges associated with electoral fraud; their flagrant abuse of discre tion, disregard for adopted

precedence or legal deci sions, and the need to reverse the impact of these persons on required or ganisation culture.

In examining the sig nificant work undertaken and completed to ready itself and the nation for the March 2023 scheduled LGEs, One must appreci ate that the Commission’s measured success and de livery thus far were not without conflict and chal

lenges.

Guyanese, by now, are fully aware of the roll out of the PNC’s book of tricks to create a mirage of problems due to their general unwillingness to contest LGEs. These are evidenced by the consist ently destabilising pursuits when in and out of power.

Historically, after more than two decades of the PNC Government of Guy ana, the PPP/C held LGEs

in 1994, almost imme diately after winning the support of the electorate in the democratic process of 1992.

The PNC did every thing to prevent the hold ing of LGEs under the PPP/C Government. How ever, immediately after they went into government in 2015, they went to the National Assembly and all by themselves, passed

In service to the nation

Dear Editor,

OVER the last few weeks, I was approached by sev eral prominent and emi nent Guyanese appealing, advising, urging, suggest ing, and pleading that I enter into formal service for, or on behalf of the nation.

“Isn’t it time that you now serve the nation,?” one person enquired.

The term “formal” was

used because it is widely known that I “served” the nation voluntarily for over 50 years, much longer than current politicians on both sides. I entered ser vice combatting electoral fraud; promoting Guyana abroad; engaging in chari table activities; reporting on diaspora community affairs; commenting on na tional and diaspora mat ters, among other altruistic

services without seeking monetary rewards.

Some leading Guyanese suggest that I should now use my vast experience and skills to formally serve the nation as a paid adviser, consult ant, diplomat, Minister of Government, technocrat or in some other capacity.

I am not averse to for mal service. But I have not been approached to serve the nation in an official

GECOM on track to host...

FROM PAGE 6

the laws to amend the continuous registration process making the voters’ list legal for six months to hold LGEs.

They did what they wanted with the list and held LGEs in 2016, us ing sinister manoeuvres to create subtle strate gic advantages such as Gerrymandering with the boundaries of Local Authority Areas (LAAs), without consulting with the PPP/C or other rel evant stakeholders.

Notwithstanding, the PPP/C while observ ing the anomalies never made excuses and went to the polls on both oc casions and whipped all the other contestants. In the current setting, the Guyanese people are also witnessing the convenient excuses emerging from other “pseudo” contest ants, and acolytes of the coalition, such as the WPA and AFC who have joined the bandwagon trying to survive under a camou flage of pretending to be relevant. They will not contest because they are shell organisations.

The WPA has been reduced to a paper group, while the AFC is a ‘dead wood’ or rather, effec tively ‘dead meat’ given their demonstrated loss of purpose. The few rem nants of the remaining

hopeful in their executive are currently hanging on, depending on the nowand-then forms of con descending and baseless media critiques.

As for the PNC, they will contest the LGEs because they will be look ing to stay afloat in the political stream. The PNC will not want to remove itself totally, because they do not want to fall by the wayside without having a measure of the work they need to do going forward. More so, party and Op position Leader Aubrey Norton do not want to be replaced by default in the PNC.

Consequently, the PNC, surprisingly, is now forced to accept that con stitutional change is re quired before the removal of the alleged impugned names from the voters list. It was the PNC leaders who institutionalised elec tion rigging machinery in Guyana.

It took almost three decades for the people in Guyana to resist election rigging in this country. Again, it took five months of keen struggle and a united people along with the unflinching support of the international com munity to stop the PNC/ APNU+AFC from steal ing and rigging elections in this country in 2020.

While Guyana is

a God-gifted country, thousands of our citizens were forced to flee our dear land because of the brutal, murderous, and discriminatory practices orchestrated by the PNC. To undermine the role of GECOM as a key player in the cycle of democratic establishment of power, Granger made a desperate attempt to give back total control of GECOM to the PNC.

His illegal self-imposi tion of Patterson as Chair man of GECOM coupled with the employment of alleged riggers, particular ly those before the court for fraud and highly ques tionable activities, evi dences the confirmation of the PNC’s attempt to re-institutionalise rigging in this country.

As our country con tinues to develop eco nomically and politically, thousands of persons in the diaspora are returning to their homeland. Guyana is a safe and strong paradise, with no recurring threats of earthquakes! No hur ricane! And a rejected PNC! So, let us welcome our people back home with open arms as proud people and allow them to contribute.

GECOM must bring on the LGEs.

Yours respectfully, Neil Kumar.

capacity. Politicians ap proached me in the past to provide free service to pro tect democracy and some of them were not ungrateful.

Dr Jagan approached me to join his administra tion, but I declined. He must have felt obligated to me for decades of struggle against rigged elections and rights abuses. I felt those who fought the dictatorship at home should get first

preference of position and were more deserving. And at any rate, I was committed to academic research, rather than bureaucratic service.

Another President ap proached me to provide public relations service to his administration. I also declined his generous offer because what was being asked of me was not my thing. I prefer to be fair, balanced, objective, and a

professional commentator and reporter rather than en gage in certain questionable activities on behalf of any government.

Since the change of administration in August 2020, I was never asked to serve, but if asked, I would be willing to serve, providing I have compe tence in the field.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Adolescent Folly (Part I)

IT is natural for adoles cents to be intrigued by their changing bodies. But they are far from ready for physical and emotional relationships.

Some young people fall into sexual encounters because no one explained the benefits of abstinence and the pitfalls of socalled “first love” (it

hardly ever lasts). In the following story the names of people and places have been changed to protect identity.

Fifteen-year-old Den

ise and her friend Helen stood in the noisy bus park debating what to do. One girl needed a South bus, the other, a bus to Albert town, but Helen would

not let Denise go.” Follow me, nah? Please. I have to know why he broke up with me. This thing is bug ging me, girl.

Denise saw tears well ing in her friend’s eyes. She wanted to help but had to get home. “Look girl,” she started, “I tell you I can’t go – loose me hand; my mother’s relying on me to cook the food, I got homework to do, and besides, he’s not worth it, look how long I tell you he’s a good- for-nothing.” But after some further per suasion, Denise relented. Switching off her phone, she ran for the bus with Helen and followed her to Cedars yard, a well-known junky hotspot.

I repeatedly tried my daughter’s cell phone as I sit at work, imagining she is on her way home from school. When she reaches, she will start cooking. I already measured the rice, washed the peas and put them to soak for the stew.

It rings once, cuts off, and now it goes straight to voice mail. That’s strange. However, I can’t waste time. I have work to com plete and a report to write for tomorrow’s meeting. I’m sure Denise will be fine. Let me focus. But it’s not like Denise not to answer, she is always charging it, so it can’t be the battery.

I wonder if it’s lost or stolen. Uh-oh, here comes the C.E.O. I better get my head down and focus on this work. The phone thing will have to wait.

The small alley leading to Cedar’s yard was barely visible from the road but opened up to a large enclo sure of makeshift homes sheltering several families. In the yard, young men frolicked and played cards while women hung out washing and held babies akimbo. Others sit about drinking beer, laughing and talking, while chil dren ran around playing cricket or “ketcha.” People

claimed Cedar’s yard had two things going on 24/7: Loud music and drug sell ing.

They couldn’t find Helen’s ex on the day the girls visited. His aunt said he moved back to Berbice, and Helen wasn’t the first young lady to come look ing for him. As the girls turned to leave in disap pointment, a young man ran after them. He was tall, slim, and about 20 years old - dressed casually in a stringed vest and jeans. His handsome face beamed. He had a phone number for the missing two-timer. Did Helen want it?

No, she didn’t, it was over, but this young man seemed nice. Both girls admired his manner and friendliness. He gave them his number. Just ask for Keith, he told them, as the girls giggled and departed in better spirits than they’d arrived.

When the “phone thing” happened a couple more times, I asked Den ise why it was so hard to get her. “Oh, my battery died,” she’d say, “I turned it off but forgot to turn it back on.” We have con versations here and there about the importance of me knowing she’s safe. Charge your phone at night, and you wouldn’t have that problem. I say. Denise says, “Okay, mum.” Her words comfort me, and I feel assured. That’s my re liable, considerate daugh ter.

Denise got use to turn ing off her phone after school and visiting Cedar’s yard with Helen. She had to see Keith. If she hur ried, she could still start the food before her mother got home. Keith made her laugh. She liked his com pany, his attention and his handsome face and style. It wasn’t long before she wanted his tender touch and the strength of his warm body against hers.

“She’s a straight ‘A’

What the world’s children need

By Vanessa Cort

AS in each year on No vember 20, World Chil dren’s Day is celebrated “to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s welfare,” according to the United Nations (UN).

On this date in 1959, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child and three decades later adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

them and many more are forced to endure untold suf fering not of their own doing.

Worldwide, children in conflict areas are subjected to both physical and psy chological trauma on a daily basis. They must often fend for themselves when parents are killed or otherwise inca pacitated and the prospect of death at any time from bombs or gunfire, looms large.

151 million children world wide have lost one or both parents and most of the chil dren without parental care live in Sub-Saharan Africa.

act, tomorrow it will be all children. It is past time to put children at the centre of climate action.”

This year, the day was celebrated under the theme: “Inclusion, for every child,” and UNIICEF declared that young people are raising their voices on issues that matter to their generation. They are calling on adults to address climate change, education, mental health and to bring an end to racism and discrimination. They are seeking “a more inclusive world.”

As human beings, chil dren are entitled to certain considerations, particularly as they are the future of our nations. Their health and well-being must be society’s prime concern.

While their rights are enshrined in the UN Declara tion, many have yet to enjoy

The shortage of food, potable water and health care makes these children vulner able to diseases, malnutri tion and in extreme cases, starvation.

Such is the case in those countries where drought and flooding have led to the death of livestock and the destruction of crops and homes. Millions of children are now at risk in Africa and Asia, which is home to three-quarters of the world’s children.

Research shows that the number of children without parents is rising and in our society, we can see children living on the streets, either as a result of broken homes, lack of parental supervision or escaping the spectre of physical and sexual abuse.

According to SOS Chil dren’s Villages, an estimated

However, the group notes: “Contrary to popular belief, becoming orphaned is not the primary driving factor resulting in children needing alternative care, it is simply one of many factors. Children who are separated from their families or are at risk of separation, tend to experience more than one risk factor at a time.”

Risk factors include poor health; socio-cultural issues such as family break downs, divorce and remar riage, abuse and violence. But at the top of the list is poverty, which is said to be the number one risk factor for family crises leading to family breakdown and child abandonment in Africa, Asia and Latin America. And figures show that 570 million children (18 years old and younger) are living in extreme poverty.

Even more alarming is a statement by UNICEF’s Ex ecutive Director, Catherine Russell, that one billion of the world’s most vulner able children are at extreme risk. In a dire warning, she said: “If the world fails to

Here, the executive di rector, speaking at the In tergovernmental Panel on Climate chan ge (IPCC), was referring particularly to the devastating effect of climate change on the environment. She pointed

out that almost every child across the globe has been exposed to climate hazards, such as heatwaves, drought and flooding.

Ms Russell issued a clarion call for every coun try “to commit to ensuring child-centred adaptation is the centre-piece of all climate plans as a matter of the highest priority.”

This includes critical areas that support chil dren’s well-being such as water and sanitation; health, nutrition and edu cation; social policy and child protection. She also stressed the need for at tention to the most mar ginalised and vulnerable children from the poorest communities.

Region 10 residents enthusiastic about opportunities in ‘agri’ sector

A Regional Information Fair was hosted in Region 10 to boost employment and provide residents with vital information regard ing the government’s pro grammes and develop ment initiatives.

Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill, in his remarks addressed the im portance of youth involve ment within the agriculture sector and reiterated the PPP/C administration’s con tinued commitment to job creation in Region 10.

The government is on a nationwide job creation

student of the Linden Tech nical Institute, Emile Per saud, who said that both the information fair and the minister’s great remarks ignited a flame within him to explore a career in the agriculture sector.

He said: “It was quite informative. Since Linden is mostly agriculture-based, it is very vital, and we have everything right here to get stuff done. Hemp being introduced can also be very vital in raising the econom ics of Linden in the whole.”

Another Lindener, Na teshia Drakes, commend

“What the minister said today, was good. It enlight ens us about a lot of things we never knew about. We received a lot of informa tion today. I hope that the people here understand the privilege they have in Lin den here. Not only can we become doctors or lawyers or nurses, we can also be self-employed,” she said, adding: “This hemp farming is a very good thing for us in Linden because we have a lot of farmlands.”

Similarly, Bradley Fred ericks also expressed con tent at the knowledge gained

drive. Earlier this year, 1,000 part-time jobs were launched in Region 10. Residents were elated and welcomed this opportunity as a pathway to financial stability.

Jobs were offered in evolving government min istries such as health, agri culture, education and local government.

Edghill said: “This gov ernment was bold and brave enough to put the legal and administrative framework in place to ensure job crea tion for our people, to get involved in something that is meaningful, economically viable, and good for the de velopment of our country.”

The Department of Pub lic Information (DPI) spoke with a few patrons and ex hibitors at the event. They expressed gratitude at the opportunity to engage the minister as well as receive the information.

One such patron was a

ed the “10 Forward Civic Group” for organising the fair before dubbing it a very good initiative.

She said: “I think it was a good initiative to showcase all that the vari ous ministries have to of fer, because, a lot of the times people don’t have this knowledge.”

Moreover, Jada Dan iels, another student of the Linden Technical Institute, highlighted the importance of creating awareness of investing in the agriculture sector’s benefits.

“It was very enlighten ing. Before I came to this fair I didn’t know that much about hemp in general, but I came here and learned a lot about how it is processed, and manufactured,” she related.

Dawn Hector, of Block 22, said that the information fair exposed her to valuable information to which she had no knowledge of before.

from the information fair, saying: “I found it very in teresting, and I think it will be especially useful for the younger folks so that they can grasp the opportunity and develop themselves.”

The Regional Informa tion Fair and Town Hall meeting featured presenta tions from Senior Research Scientist at the Agriculture Ministry, David Fredericks, and Principle Legal Adviser of the Legal Affairs Minis try, Ronetta Sargent, who enlightened the gathering on the benefits and regulations of hemp cultivation.

Following the presen tations, Minister Edghill also undertook one-onone sessions with persons to listen to their concerns and facilitate any inter ventions wherever pos sible. Additionally, repre sentatives from the vari ous ministries were also in attendance at the informa tion fair.

The Regional Information Fair and Town Hall Meeting was dubbed a success by the patrons

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill

- express confidence in ongoing initiatives following information fair, town hall meeting

Energy efficiency essential to Guyana’s development -

PM Phillips says

PRIME Minister, Briga dier (Ret’d) Mark Phil lips, on Saturday morn ing, accompanied Presi dent, Dr. Irfaan Ali on the Regional Kilo Walk in commemoration of CARICOM Energy Month 2022.

In delivering brief re marks, Prime Minister Phillips said that the walk is a signal of Guyana’s continued efforts to foster resilient lifestyles.

“We used this walk to send a clear message that we have to be more re sponsible in the use of en ergy. In the sense, energy efficiency is important. We have to embrace renew able energy,” he said.

He made reference to the Low Carbon Develop ment Strategy 2030, em phasising the importance of making concentrated ef forts to reduce the vulner abilities of climate-change impact.

“We have committed ourselves to reducing our carbon footprint by 70 per cent by 2030. As I speak to you today, I am aware that the Conference of Parties extended their ne

gotiations by one day,” the Prime Minister said.

He related this is to fa cilitate further discussion with regard to a solidified approach in extending as sistance to those countries heavily affected by climate change.

In an invited comment, British High Commis sioner, Jane Miller, em phasised the importance of hosting these types of events to increase aware ness of energy efficiency.

She said: “I think it’s really important. Around the world, we are encour aging people to walk to work; having environ ments, and having cities designed where people can walk instead of using cars. So, I think that energy effi ciency is really important. COP27 is ongoing, and we are hopeful that we can come up with strong, resilient solutions for the planet.”

The Kilo Walk was hosted by the CARICOM Secretariat in collabora tion with the Guyana Ener gy Agency and the Carib bean Development Bank, to bring awareness to the

importance of renewable energy and energy effi ciency, as well as to pro mote healthy lifestyles.

It commenced with a guided 15-minute aerobic warm-up, and the proces sion was led some three miles around the vicinity of the Secretariat.

Chief Executive Offic er (CEO) of GEA, Dr. Ma hender Sharma; Deputy Secretary-General Alexis Armstrong, and represent atives from the respective agencies also participated in the walk.

CARICOM Energy Month is being observed under the theme “Our Future is Electric.” (DPI)

Adolescent folly...

FROM PAGE 8

student,” I said to the girls at work one lunchtime. We were sharing family pictures on our phones. “We function as a team in our house and keep to a system.”

My colleagues listened, admired, agreed and en vied. “No, I am not Super Mum,” I said. But at halfpast four, when I called Denise’s cell phone again, it went to voice mail.

Keith’s once-alluring charm was quickly wear ing off Denise. He was no better than Helen’s ex. “Stay a little longer, nah?” He told her as she rose to put on her skirt.

“I tired of half-hour here and ten minutes when you have time – I gan find a next girl.” She stared at his slim, tiresome body

sprawled across the bed. He was always tired yet he didn’t work. Was he on drugs? As she departed, she turned and told him, “Suit yourself.”

“Where is everyone?”

I asked Novell as I entered the kitchen at lunchtime. “Oh, dem girls went to the Mall,” she replied. I took a seat and unwrapped my sandwich. Novell looked serious, and a strange ten sion permeated the room.

She began, “There’s no easy way to tell you this; I’ve seen your daughter visiting a man in Cedar’s yard; it’s the same girl in the photo…I thought you should know.” She got up then and left the room.

That day my heart broke in two. I backtracked in my mind. Where did I go wrong? There must

be some mistake. Not my sweet Denise? Then I re membered the phone thing. She’s been lying to me, and I’ve been too eager to believe what she says and too busy to check up and follow through. Our relationship was never the same after that incident; I found it difficult to trust her. We are working to repair the damage, but it is a long process. [See part II in Tuesday’s edition]

If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com

A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGEN CY, MINISTRY OF HU MAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips flanked by Head of GEA, Dr. Mahender Sharma; Deputy Secretary-General Alexis Armstrong; British High Commissioner Jane Miller and other representatives

New Amsterdam to be marketed as ultimate tourist destination

- through new operator, Countryside Tours

By Naomi Parris

COUNTRYSIDE Tours, a new tourism operator based in New Amsterdam, Berbice, will soon begin operations, offering a new, unique expe rience with tours around the ancient county.

Travis Issacs of Country side Tour, in a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle, shared his plans for the emerg ing tourism sector in Region Six.

“Countryside Tours is rela tively new, we are only offer ing small tours to New Am

region is still growing, there is immense potential to offer a new experience to visitors and tourists.

“The potential for tourism development is great in Region Six…potentially, we know it’s going to blow up wide, because we have been following and working in the tourism industry and a lot of people would have already gone to the Essequibo, they would have already went to Rupununi several times,” Issacs said, adding: “People are looking for new places to go and new places to experi ences.”

erator that offers a riverine tour along the Canje River.

Hamid related that while the body has been in existence to promote and sell the region, there is still some challenges with marketing.

“The sector is upcoming, we have a lot to offer but there is marketing, there is a lot of monuments, there is a lot of history, but it’s a lot about marketing and getting people to come and appreciate what we have to offer in Region Six,” she said.

The tourism committed was formed recently to further

sterdam, and we are marketing the package under historic New Amsterdam,” he related.

Issacs said that the tour was first conceptualised in 2019, but its launch was delayed due to the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The tourism operator said: “We had this idea to do Coun tryside Tours three years ago; we did all the work to get it started, but then of course the pandemic hit. So, we paused a little bit there, but we are hoping to get it off the ground come January 2023.”

In the meantime, Coun tryside Tours is offering small tours around the municipality, visiting several monuments and historic landmarks around the town, including its iconic municipal market.

Once officially launched, Countryside Tours will extend its tours beyond the region’s central town.

“Some other tour pack ages that will come online will include the Number 63 Beach. Some people are also interested in going to the riverine areas like Orealla and Siparuta.

“We are hoping to pick up people from Georgetown, maybe tour them along on the route, there are some things on the route in Region Five and then bring them to New Am sterdam,” Issacs said.

He related that while the tourism community in the

Meanwhile, Keisha Hamid, President of the Regional Tour ism Committee (RTC), said: “Currently, tourism in Region six is growing, we have been at it for the past four years.”

The region, as it is, has only one licensed tourism op

advance development in the region’s tourism sector.

“We have a newly con structed tourism committee of five executive members, and we are constantly to market what we have and our products,” Hamid said.

Travis Issacs of Countryside Tours (Delano Williams photo)

The Indian Arrival Monument is anticipated to be one of the main attractions (Delano Williams photo)

Keisha Hamid, President of the Regional Tourism Committee (RTC) of Region Six (Delano Williams photo)

Minister Croal leads MoM walk-a-thon exercise in Mabaruma

FOLLOWING the official launch of the Men on Mis sion (MoM) initiative in Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini), on Satur day, a walk-a-ton exercise was held Sunday morning to encourage health and fitness amongst men within the region.

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, partici pated in the activity, which started at Independence Road Junction in Mabaruma and concluded at the Airstrip Tarmac.

He was joined by Re gional Chairman Brentnol Ashley and Regional Ex ecutive Officer (REO) Ti karam Bisesar; Regional Commander, Senior Superin tendent Himnauth Sawh and other disciplined services members, as well as repre sentatives from the health, education and agriculture departments and other stake holders.

A brainchild of President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the initiative aims to address social and other issues affect ing men and boys through much-needed mentorship, guidance, counselling, and economic empowerment

programmes.

During brief remarks on Saturday, Minister Croal said the event is part of a co-ordinated national effort designed to address men’s mental, social, psychosocial and economic chal lenges.

Minister Croal has therefore called on men

and boys across the coun try to make use of the op portunity to be better role models for the younger generation, to be better fathers, husbands, partners and employees.

“Men on Mission is a path to a new you if you take it. You will find listen ing ears and helpful hands

to guide you on this new path. But you must act. Our government has heard your unspoken cries for help, and today we are presenting you with a real and tangible op portunity to turn your lives around,” he said.

Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley spoke of the high incidence of suicide

within the region, mostly among young men.

He added that there is also a high school dropout rate among boys, a very wor rying issue.

The regional chairman has, therefore, urged the Community leaders to col laborate with the disciplined services and other organi

zations to create mentor ship and empowerment pro grammes targeting young men and boys within com munities.

He said that the Re gional Democratic Council (RDC) would also play its part in ensuring these is sues are tackled in a holis tic manner.

Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal and Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley, along with other officials, lead the walka-thon exercise on Sunday as part of the official launch of the Men on Mission initiative in Mabaruma, Region One

Brazil nominee Ilan Goldfajn elected IDB President

voting power is propor tional to the capital in the Bank subscribed by his or her country. Governors are typically finance ministers, central bank presidents, or other high-ranking economic authorities.

The Board of Governors holds annual meetings to review Bank operations and make key policy decisions. It also occasionally holds special meetings, including to elect a president.

ILAN GOLDFAJN was elected president of the In ter-American Development Bank (IDB) on Sunday during a Special Meeting of the Bank’s Board of Governors.

The meeting was held at IDB Headquarters in Wash ington, D.C., with delega tions attending virtually and in person.

Nominated by Brazil, Goldfajn will take office for a five-year term.

As president, Goldfajn will manage the operations and administration of the Bank, which works with the public sector of Latin America and the Caribbean. In addition, he will chair the Board of Executive Di rectors of the IDB and the Board of Executive Direc tors of IDB Invest, which

works with the region’s pri vate sector.

The president also chairs the Donors Committee of IDB Lab, the Bank’s labora tory for innovative develop ment projects.

To be elected president, a candidate must receive a majority of the total voting power of the IDB’s mem ber countries as well as the support of at least 15 of the 28 regional member coun tries (26 borrowing member countries, plus Canada and the United States).

The IDB has a total of 48 member countries, with of fices in all borrowing coun tries as well as in Europe and Asia.

The Board of Governors is the Bank’s highest author ity. Each member country appoints a governor, whose

Goldfajn will be the IDB’s seventh president. He follows Reina Irene Mejía Chacón a.i. (2022); Mauricio Claver-Carone (2020-2022); Luis Alberto Moreno (20052020); Enrique V. Iglesias (1988-2005); Antonio Ortiz Mena (1971-1988); and Fe lipe Herrera (1960-1971).

The Inter-American De velopment Bank is devoted to improving lives. Estab lished in 1959, the IDB is a leading source of long-term financing for economic, so cial and institutional devel opment in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The IDB also conducts cutting-edge research and provides policy advice, technical assistance and training to public- and pri vate-sector clients through out the region.

COP27: Commonwealth SG welcomes historic outcome on loss, damage

FOLLOWING two weeks of extensive negotiations at the UN Climate Change Conference COP27, nearly 200 countries have agreed on a set of key outcomes, including the establishment of a fund to address loss and damage due to climate change.

Welcoming the develop ments, the Commonwealth Secretary-General (SG), Patricia Scotland, stated: “I welcome this historic outcome from the COP27 summit and applaud the tire less negotiators who have helped bring about this sig nificant step forward. This is an encouraging day for all Commonwealth mem ber countries – including

climate-vulnerable small states, least developed coun tries, developing countries, and indeed for all the world.

“The Commonwealth stance on loss and damage has been unequivocal. When Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting met in Kigali, Rwanda earlier this year in June, they were united in their call for scaledup action and financing to address loss and damage re sulting from climate change.

“This follows on a long history of global advocacy on climate change, ever since Commonwealth leaders is sued the Langkawi Declara tion on the Environment in 1989, which underscored the need for worldwide collabo

ration on climate change to avert permanent and irrevers ible damage to our environ ment and way of life.

“However, while I wel come today’s developments, the threats around us con tinue to intensify. We must work together to ramp up climate action and ambition, recognising that we are all in the same storm, and the only way for us to survive is by steering in a common direc tion and taking bold, coura geous actions, together.”

The Commonwealth covers 56 diverse mem ber countries from five geographical regions, in cluding 33 small states, 25 of which are small island developing states.

IDB President, Ilan Goldfajn

RACING TIPS

South Africa Racing Tips Greyville

08:20 hrs New Orleans

08:55 hrs Prince Of Taranto

09:30 hrs Royal Kitty

10:05 hrs Immeasurable 10:40 hrs Barbatti

English Racing Tips Kempton

08:10 hrs Jupiter Allen 08:40 hrs Blow Your Wad 09:50 hrs Mr Yeats

10:20 hrs Le Cameleon 11:25 hrs Moulins Cler mont

Musselburgh

08:50 hrs Hold Unyo Your Line

09:25 hrs Bents Hollow 09:57 hrs Idilico

`0:30 hrs Monte Igueldo 11:05 hrs Cuban Cigar 11:35 hrs Kiss My Face

Ludlow

09:05 hrs Earth Cry 09:35 hrs Born At Mid night

10:10 hrs Fantomas 10:45 hrs Only Money 11:15 hrs Glance At Me 11:45 hrs Sea The Clouds

American Racing Tips

Laurel Park

Race 1 Peyton Elizabeth Race 2 B West

Race 3 Appraisal

Race 4 Jackie’s Quest

Race 5 One America

Race 6 At The Gate

Race 7 Nuclear Option

Verstappen wins in Abu Dhabi

(BBC) - Red Bull's Max Verstappen won the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi as Ferrari's Charles Leclerc beat the Dutch man's team-mate Sergio Perez to secure second in the championship.

Leclerc, who was Ver stappen's title rival earlier this year before Ferrari's season imploded in a flood of errors and reliability failures, held off Perez on divergent strategies to take second place.

Sebastian Vettel's final race ended in disappoint ment, the four-time champi on bemoaning what he felt was a poor strategy from Aston Martin.

Vettel took the final point for 10th place after Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes retired from fourth place with three laps to go.

Hamilton's result means he has finished a season without a win for the first time in his career - ending a record only he held.

Verstappen's win was his 15th of 2022, extending the new record he has set this year for wins in a single season.

"It was a good race," said Verstappen. "It was all about

tyre management. I think we looked after the mediums quite well and then on the hard tyres managing until the end.

"A 15th win of the season is unbelievable. It's been re ally enjoyable to work with the whole team and to be able to achieve something like this. I know it is going to be hard to replicate but it is also

very good motivation to try and do well again next year."

Vettel's 299th and final race fittingly ended in the points, although it could and should have been so much better for the German after qualifying five places ahead of team-mate Lance Stroll but finishing two places be hind the Canadian in the race.

The 53-time race winner's one-stop strategy worked against him, but the point was at least some reward at the end of a weekend strewn with tributes for the retiring 35-year-old.

"You know how it is. I wish I could have got a cou ple more points. I enjoyed the race. Bit of a different warm-up to get to the race but when the lights went off, it was just the race," Vettel said "It's a big day, a big

Yadav blasts India past New Zealand

(ESPNCRICINFO) -

Virat Kohli termed it as "another video game innings" on Twitter, and with solid reason: Suryakumar Yadav bashed 111 unbeaten runs out of the team's total of 191, on the way crashing 11 of the 18 boundaries India hit, and seven of their nine sixes, while facing just 51 balls. In a terrific display of creative and fearless T20 hitting typ ical of him, Suryakumar helped India plunder 72 off the last five overs. This, despite not getting to face a single delivery

in the final over, where Tim Southee got a hattrick.

Hardik Pandya just watched from the oth er end as Suryakumar toyed with an internation al bowling line-up which he made look ordinary. And with 192 to get, New Zealand's chase only kept crawling from the start: their powerplay fetched just 32 runs with only three boundaries, laying perhaps the perfect foun dation for them to floun der; and at 85 for 3 after 12 overs with Glenn Phil lips gone, the required run rate of above 13 an

over meant the match was all but decided.

Suryakumar defies logic, the bowling, and everything else

In what is turning out to be a defining year for him -- he is already the highest run-getter in T20Is in 2022 -- Suryaku mar's second T20I centu ry of the year was perhaps different only in that it came in a winning cause.

Suryakumar brought out his trademark scoop for four over the wicket keeper's head just fourth ball despite being beaten for two consecutive de

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Monday November 21, 2022)

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Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Michael Holding-11/107 (Melbourne, 1981-82)

(2) Merv Hughes-13/217 (Perth, 1988-89)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which WI wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals in Tests against AUST to date?

(2) Which AUST wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals in Tests against the WI to date?

liveries before it. Typical T20 stuff: swing and a miss, but not bothered about next ball.

Ishan Kishan kept struggling after Rishabh Pant fell for a low score for which he had jostled himself, but Suryakumar knew he had to go only one way, especially with rain in the air. The rest of India's batting scored 69 in as many deliveries - there were 11 extras too in the total - and that told the story of how many miles ahead Suryakumar was of his team-mates.

His first six came off Mitchell Santner, as he fetched a ball from wide outside off only to slog sweep and deposit it over fine leg. Then came the lofts over the off side: Santner's first ball off the 11th over was scythed behind point, and Ish Sodhi's first of the 12th was placed to deep extra cover with high elbows.

But Suryakumar had reserved special treatment for Lockie Ferguson: with

thank you to everyone. Lots of smiley faces which is nice. I'm sure I will miss it more than I feel right now."

Verstappen dominates as Leclerc earns runner-up consolation

Verstappen dominated the race and his victory was never in doubt but the fight between Leclerc and Perez made for a tense finish to the race.

Ferrari chose a onestop strategy for Leclerc, the same as Red Bull with Verstappen, while Perez stopped twice.

That left the Mexican to come back from a 23-sec ond deficit in the final 24 laps if he was to beat Le clerc in a fight that would be decided on whoever finished ahead, as they went into the race tied on points.

Perez closed on the Fer

rari at a second or so a lap and more for a while, but Leclerc measured his tyres with skill to cross the line 1.3 seconds ahead.

Many will feel he de serves second in the cham pionship, as he has driven an outstanding season, win ning three races to Perez's two, and has had an inferior car to Perez for the vast majority of the year.

"We got it," Leclerc said over the radio, obvious ly delighted. "Good job, guys."

It was small conso lation for Leclerc in a season in which he was 46 points ahead of Verstap pen after just three races only to see his hopes evap orate in the following few events as Ferrari suffered a series of strategic errors and engine failures.

eight overs to go and India's total still under a hundred, he drove and whipped the fast bowler for a four and six, respec tively. That was Act 1 of Suryakumar vs Ferguson.

Suryakumar brought up his fifty off 32 balls in the 16th over, and with time running out, got into Southee to start the 17th: a six swung across the line over midwicket, and a whip to the same region for four, albeit helped by a misfield. Two balls later, he ad justed to thrash at a short ball outside off despite making room early.

Runs came from ev erywhere: inside-out lofts over cover and mid-off, and whips and

flicks over fine leg. The platform for Act 2 of Suryakumar vs Fer guson had been laid: 4, 0, 4, 4, 4, 6 in the 19th over. The third boundary brought up his hundred off 49 balls, but three other shots were jaw-drop ping: the first four was sliced over short third after opening the bat face very late, the fifth was tickled over the wicketkeeper in spite of the short length and the ball rising close to his shoulder, and the six was flung over short third again as he opened the bat face to a length that seemed too full to even have a go.

Max Verstappen finishes the year with a single-season record 454 points

Suryakumar Yadav is chuffed with his century (Getty Images)

(BBC) - Host Qatar opened the 2022 FIFA World Cup in calamitous fashion, eas ily beaten by Ecuador in a humbling defeat at Al Bayt.

Felix Sanchez's men have been together in camp for the last six months to pre pare for the tournament and work on tactics, but a ner vous and disjointed perfor mance led to a Group A loss.

With the Africa Cup of Nations champions, Sene gal, and three-time finalists the Netherlands to come, this looked like Qatar's eas iest game on paper but they were totally outplayed.

A dramatic opening to the contest saw Enner Valen

cia's header from close range ruled out for offside by the video assistant referee, but the South Americans did break the deadlock shortly after.

Qatar's erratic goalkeep er, Saad Al Sheeb, brought Valencia down in the box and the ex-West Ham for ward stepped up to convert the spot-kick.

It got worse for the host as Valencia powered in another header before half-time to leave the Al Bayt Stadium silenced at the break.

Many supporters who had left the stadium at the interval did not return, leav ing the ground around half

empty for much of the sec ond period.

It contributed to a flat atmosphere both off and on the pitch, with Romario Ibarra's curling shot being pushed out by Al-Sheeb.

Star men Almoez Ali and captain Hassan Al Haydos were both substituted with 20 minutes remaining, and the side were unable to mus ter a shot on target.

Qatar's dream turns to nightmare

After the controversies and conjecture, a football was finally kicked in the Qa tar World Cup, 12 years on from being named as hosts.

A day that began with real excitement with the

opening ceremony, Qatar's dream turned into a night mare as they became the first host in the competition's history to lose their opening game.

The Asian champions, a tournament they won back in 2019, offered no threat in the final third and were unable to test Ecuador goal keeper, Hernan Galindez once.

South Africa have been the only host not to make it out of the group in 2010, but Qatar could follow as the second with two difficult games left to play.

Ecuador, meanwhile, have set themselves up in a superb position to progress,

extending their excellent re cent form to one defeat in 16 games and keeping a clean sheet in their last seven.

They were clearly the better side and had the ball in the back of the net after 160 seconds, but Valen cia's close-range header was ruled for offside by VAR.

There was confusion as to why the goal did not stand, but Felix Torres' ini tial challenge with the goal keeper fell to Michael Es trada in an offside position.

Ecuador were all over Qatar, whose goalkeeper Al Sheeb was particularly shaky and he brought down Valencia, who coolly rolled in the penalty.

Qatar barely had a sniff and their first shot came in anger when defender Abdelkarim Hassan strode forward but his effort from range was blazed wildly over.

Star man Ali, who scored nine goals in the Asian Cup triumph, struggled to get into the game and headed wide, while Pedro Miguel header did the same in the second half.

With much of the crowd already leaving to go home, Akram Afif and substitute Mohammed Muntari both smashed over to bring to an end a disappointing opening evening for Qatar.

Ecuador open world cup with win over host Qatar Camels, fireworks and Morgan Freeman

- FIFA World Cup 2022 opens in Qatar

THE 2022 World Cup kicked off on Sunday with a visually striking open ing ceremony at Al-Bayt Stadium ahead of the tournament's first match between host, Qatar, and Ecuador.

American actor Mor gan Freeman featured in the festivities alongside Qatari YouTuber, Ghanim Al-Muftah.

South Korean pop star Jung Kook sang Dreamers, the tournament song, along side Qatari singer, Fahad Al Kubaisi, at the stadium in Al Khor.

With just under 90

minutes remaining until the opening match of the tournament, the ceremony kicked off with Oscar-win ning actor, Freeman, narrat ing a video about football's ability to unite.

The build-up to the first World Cup to be held in a Muslim country in the Middle East has been over shadowed by a number of controversies, including deaths of migrant workers and treatment of LGBT people in Qatar.

During the first dance routine, Freeman was greet ed by cheers as he appeared in the stadium alongside Al

Muftah, who was born with the rare Caudal Regression Syndrome.

"Everyone is welcome," Freeman told the crowd.

One of the dance rou tines featured giant walking kits of the 32 teams com peting in the tournament and the mascots of previ ous World Cups alongside La'eeb, the 2022 mascot.

Jung Kook and Fahad Al Kubaisi performed together before Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani deliv ered the opening speech in Arabic.

"People of different rac es, nationalities, creeds and

orientations will gather here in Qatar and around screens on all continents to share the same exciting moments," the Emir told the crowd.

Saudi Arabia's crown prince and the Presidents of Egypt, Turkey and Al geria, as well as the United Nations Secretary-General, were among world leaders in the tent-shaped stadium ahead of the opening match.

The 30-minute ceremo ny ended with a fireworks display and another dance routine before the Qatar and Ecuador teams took to the pitch to start their warm-ups.

After all the challenges, allegations and doubts this was Qatar's opportunity to welcome the world and present its case to a global audience of billions.

Despite its location plonked in the middle of a barren desert wasteland far away from anywhere, the Al-Bayt stadium does pro vide a jaw-dropping setting for the opening of the most controversial World Cup in history. It's easy to see why it was chosen, designed in the shape and colours of a colossal Bedouin tent, home for nomads across the region. It is an architectural

gem.

Inside is just as eye-catching. A sea of ma roon white with a large dash of yellow behind one of the goals where the Ecuador fans had gathered.

Opening ceremonies can seem an unnecessary distraction before the main event but this seemed dif ferent and important. After all that has gone before, the Qataris could not afford to slip up.

Persuading Morgan Freeman to narrate the show live in the stadium felt like a real coup. The mix of tradi tional and modern elements was seamless, featuring mascots and songs from previous World Cups a nice touch.

An appearance from South Korea's K-pop mega star, Jung Kook, brought the youngsters to their feet but the biggest cheer was for the Emir of Qatar when he arrived and waved to the crowd.

The country's ruler wel comed people of all beliefs but there was no acknowl edgment of the controver sies that have dominated the build-up.

The Qataris we spoke to were also reluctant to engage in more negative topics, but they were both proud and excited. For the organisers, perhaps a brief sigh of relief.

AL KHOR, QATAR - NOVEMBER 20: Qatar World Cup mascot La’eeb is seen during the opening ceremony prior to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group A match between Qatar and Ecuador at Al Bayt Stadium on November 20, 2022 in Al Khor, Qatar. (Photo by Hector Vivas - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

AL KHOR, QATAR - NOVEMBER 20: Fireworks explode during the opening ceremony prior to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group A match between Qatar and Ecuador at Al Bayt Stadium on November 20, 2022 in Al Khor, Qatar. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Fisherman cart off inaugural ANSA McAL East Coast Cup softball

FISHERMAN were crowned the inau gural winners of the Ansa McAL Bureau Inc Over-40 East Coast Cup softball tourna ment, played on Sat urday at the Lusignan Community Centre ground, East Coast De merara.

The final saw Fisher man defeating Mix-up by an emphatic seven wick ets in the 15-over affair, Needing 85 for victory, after limiting their op ponents to 84 for six in the allotted overs, Fish

erman reached the target in 9.3 overs with Keith Fraser undefeated on a quick-fire 28. Skipper Zameer Hassan and Troy Ramsaywck contributed 22 each in the winning effort. Suresh Ramdin was the best bowler with two for eight.

Earlier, Mix-up bat ting was led by 28 from Nandram Samlall while Lloyd Rupall and Ram din supported with 19 and 17 respectively. D. Thomas (two for 10) and Reid (one for eight) were the main wicket-takers.

Both the winners and runner-up were presented with trophies as well as

One-Guyana President’s Cup...

man-of-the-match Ram din; Fraser for being the game’s top-scorer and

Keen contest expected as tournament gains momentum

- Players grateful for exposure

The One-Guyana President's Cup con tinued over the week end with some exciting and surprising match es in the ongoing in ter-ward stage within Regions Two, Three and Six.

The most shocking result wass easily Pari ka's win via kicks from the penalty mark against powerhouse Den Amstel at the National Track & Field Center on Friday night.

The Region Three inter-ward match was goalless at full-time be fore Parika held their nerve to slay the mighty Den Amstel 5-4 via pen alty kicks and shock the entire West Demerara.

In the other match of the night, Stewartville made no mistake in their win over Crane. Stew artville took the lead in the 12th minute before doubling their advan tage in the 15th min ute which they mainted throughout the 90.

On Saturday, match es continued on the Es sequibo Coast at the Anna Regina Mulilateral ground. Dartmouth Vil lage managed to fire an incredible 14 goals past Capoey Village in their enterprising win. In the feature match, Henriet ta got the the better of Mainstay with a hard fought 4-2 victory.

Captain of Henrietta, Devon Hardy, shared

with Chronicle Sport that he would've loved to had a much easier win but a win is a win at the end of the day. He also expressed his appreciat ed for the One-Guyana President's Cup by say ing, "We have the talent but not the exposure. This (tournament) gives us an opportunity to step into the limelight. We are taking it one match at time but I hope this tournament continues in 2023 and grows bigger and better."

Forward Sheldon Pitt, who notched a vital goal in Henrietta's win, was eager to share his excitement in being part of this inaugural tourna ment and was adamant

that his belief of Region Two winning the overall tournament be known.

Meanwhile, in Re gion 6, South New Amsterdam thumped Orealla 8-0 at the AllSaints ground. Alis tra Rowe and Leon dra Williams netted a brace each in the rout. The results of the oth er matches last week end will be featured in a subsequent report. The One-Guyana Pres ident’s Cup is a collab orative effort between the Government of Guyana, the Guyana Football Federation and the Kashif and Shanghai Organisa tion.

Thomas, the best bowler. Arjune. The tournament was

organised by ANSA McAL’s representative Chandradat Arjune.

East Coast defeated East Bank by 7 wickets

Skipper Mickel Sharma displayed an excellent allround performance to take his team to victory as the Demerara Cricket Board under 15 Inter Associa tions tournament second round continued.

At Queen’s College ground, East Bank won the toss and elected to take first strike scoring a quiet 57 all from 17 overs of their reduced 35 overs.

The match was reduced due to late start

Keshan Singh was the lone batsman to score dou ble figures (13) with East Coast’s Sharma claiming

4 for 2 from one over with support from Udesh Jaikar ran (3 for 17) and Kyle (2 for 18).

East Coast, in reply, raced to their target losing only three wickets.

Opener Munesh Outar top scored with 15 while Sharma chipped in with 12, Keshna Singh, Roupie Raja ram and Dilshan Latchman collected one wicket each. East Coast won by seven wickets.

Matches continue on Wednesday with East Coast playing George town at Queen’s College ground.

ANSA McAL’s Chandradat Arjune (right) hands over the winner’s trophy to a representative of Fisherman in the presence of other players

Man-of-the-match Suresh Ramdin is rewarded for his efforts

DCB U15 Inter Association Tournament…

East Coast Skipper Mickel Sharma

Camels, fireworks and Morgan Freeman

Harve, Missigher take South American 10k glory

Winston Missigher came out on top yesterday in the South American 10k

President’s Cup...

Keen contest expected as tournament gains momentum

AL KHOR, QATAR - NOVEMBER 20: General View of the Opening Ceremony prior to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group A match between Qatar and Ecuador at Al Bayt Stadium on November 20, 2022 in Al Khor, Qatar. (Photo by Chris Brunskill/ Fantasista/Getty Images)

- FIFA World Cup 2022 opens in Qatar

Morgan Freeman and Ghanim Al-Muftah took part in the ceremony

Attoya Harvey and Win ston Missigher were win ners of their respective classes in yesterday's South American 10k. Details in tomorrow's edition

Captain of Henrietta, Devon Hardy