Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 24-02-2023

New energy, momentum in India-Guyana bilateral relations

[Delano Williams, Adrian Narine and Office of the President photos]

Georgetown comes alive with the return of Mashramani

[Photos by Adrian Narine, Delano Williams and Office of the President]

New energy, momentum in India-Guyana bilateral relations

- as VP Jagdeo, India’s VP hold talks on co-operation in agriculture, petroleum, other key sectors

HIGH-LEVEL exchanges between India and Guyana reflect new energy and momentum in bilateral relations, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has said.

Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo and India’s Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, during a meeting on Thursday, agreed to continue strengthening bilateral partnerships in various sectors including petroleum and natural gas, agriculture, agro-processing, education, healthcare, capacity building, ICT,

Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo and India’s Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, during a meeting on Thursday, agreed to continue strengthening bilateral partnerships in various sectors

renewable energy and climate change.

Jagdeo is in India on an official visit from February 20-25, 2023, at the invitation of the Vice President of India.

He is accompanied by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh.

According to an official press release from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the two leaders acknowledged the close and cordial relations shared by their two na -

tions, which are based on strong people-to-people ties, economic linkages and commonalities of approach on multilateral issues.

Vice-President Jagdeo also met with External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar and Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar.

He is expected to meet with President of India, Her Excellency, Droupadi Murmu, today, as well as the Ministers of Health and Family Wel-

fare, Chemicals and Fertilisers, Petroleum and Natural Gas, and Housing and Urban Affairs.

He is also attending the World Sustainable Development Summit being organised by The Energy Research Institute (TERI) in New Delhi from February 22-24, 2023.

The visit by Guyana’s Vice-President follows that of President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali back in January as the Chief Guest of the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.

Resilient, united revellers defy rain to light up Georgetown - as Mashramani costume, float parade returns with widespread participation

By Naomi Parris and Clestine Juan

CLAD in the colours of the Golden Arrowhead, Guyana’s pride and na -

ramani parade.

The parade and other Republic Day festivities returned after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year, revellers, mas-

“Mixing and mashing as one Guyana.”

Despite intermittent rainfall, Guyanese of all ages and from all walks of life were seen flocking the roads ways all in anticipation of seeing

braved the downpour determined that the show must go on.

One such patron was Abiola Dowding, who shared her excitement with the Guyana Chronicle.

“I’m excited, the weather had us a little bit uncertain, but everything looks good and I’m excited,” he said.

Dowding who is also a food vendor, related that while she was out to enjoy the electrifying festivities, she was also hoping to earn a few extra dollars, providing food and beverages to those hungry and thirsty “feters.”

“I’m also excited because I am able to come out and make little more cash, because we need it now and after so long we didn’t have a mash,” she said, adding: “We have a good turn out and everything is looking nice.”

shared her Mashramani experience with this publication.

“Oh my gosh, the atmosphere is so exciting. People are having the best time, I think after about three years without Mash, it’s more exciting than ever, I see a lot of the children enjoying themselves on the Ferris wheel and the merry go round.”

She added: “I love the music, I love the energy.”

tional flag, scores of patrons flocked the streets of Georgetown on Thursday, for the return of the Mash-

querades, entertainers and other creatives were once again able to showcase their talents under the theme:

the flamboyant costumes and the extravagant floats.

While some sought shelter under umbrellas, others

Meanwhile, an elderly woman, Elizabeth (only name given) shared that she has always looked forward

for the Mashramani celebrations and the pandemic had dampened her spirits.

“Well, Mash was so boring for the past three years and it’s so nice to have it back. You know nobody could have come out and everybody had to go about their business,” the woman shared.

This year, she had anticipated a grand comeback and was certainly satisfied when she saw the massive crowd of revellers and floats.

“It isn’t bright, you know we have the little showers, but the show must go on,” Elizabeth said.

This publication also caught up with the United States Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch who

The American ambassador further praised Guyana for its celebration of its people and culture.

“I think that there are so many rich traditions and the culture has so many aspects to it… I think more celebrations of the various peoples of Guyana will need to reoccur. I think Guyana already does a very good job of celebrating Guyana and its different cultures,” Lynch said.

Revellers were dressed in

One patron, Abiola Dowding

United States Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch

The panel of judges (Photos by Delano Williams)

Minister Charles Ramson energising his revellers

Biden considers first offshore wind auction in Gulf of Mexico

THE Biden Administration said Wednesday it is considering the first-ever lease sale for offshore wind energy in the Gulf of Mexico, a key part of a push to deploy 30 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030 to help fight climate change.

The proposed sale, which could take place as soon as this summer, includes areas offshore Lake Charles, Louisiana and Galveston, Texas, for roughly 3.6 gigawatts of electricity, enough to power about 1.3 million homes.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) plans to open a 60-day public comment period on Friday. The area offshore Lake Charles could be modified and possibly shrunk based on the comments received, and BOEM may decide to offer only one of two lease areas proposed off Galveston.

The Gulf is the nation’s primary offshore source of oil and gas, generating about 97 per cent of all oil and gas

production on the US Outer Continental Shelf, according to BOEM.

The National Ocean Industries Association, which represents both traditional oil and gas offshore energy companies and wind power, said that offshore wind, along with regular and predictable offshore oil and gas leasing, can help the Gulf of Mexico expand its “remarkable and irreplaceable energy portfolio.”

The Biden administration set a goal of deploying 30 gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030 using traditional technology that secures wind turbines to the ocean floor, enough to power 10 million homes.

Additionally, it announced plans in the fall to develop floating platforms in the deep ocean for wind towers that could vastly expand offshore wind in the United States, with up to 15 gigawatts of electricity from floating sites by 2035 to pow-

er five million homes.

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, who announced the proposed sale Wednesday, said there is “no time to waste in making bold investments to address the climate crisis.” Building a strong domestic offshore wind industry is paramount to meeting that challenge head on, she said.

Scientists say clean electricity such as wind power must replace electricity from burning coal, and gas as soon as possible to reduce the severity of climate disturbance.

Danish wind developer, Ørsted is already investing in infrastructure and vessels in the Gulf region for its planned US offshore wind farms.

Hayes Framme, the head of new markets and supply chain for Ørsted, applauded the proposed sale and said the company is assessing these new opportunities. The Gulf of Mexico has long experience in the offshore energy industry and that will benefit projects in the new lease areas, Framme added.

The Interior Department recently held lease sales for offshore wind projects in New York and New Jersey, North Carolina and South Carolina, and the first-ever Pacific sale off the shore of California.

Wind speeds in the Gulf of Mexico are not as strong as along the California coast or the Northeast coast of the US.

Just one mile per hour or metre per second difference in the speed of the wind makes a big difference in the power generated by a wind turbine. Multiplied over a field of turbines, these siting decisions mean real differences in the profitability of a project.

But the wind does blow at

just the right time along the Texas coast — in the early evening as solar energy is fading, according to Crystal Shen, a senior project engineer in the renewables group at UL Solutions.

A wind farm in the Gulf would be close to towns and cities that need a lot of power, including Houston, and diversifying sources of electricity could relieve congestion on the grid, she added.

Other big factors for deciding where to build include how much port and transmission infrastructure there is, and whether the seafloor allows for drilling, Shen said.

The waters in the Gulf are shallow enough for traditional technology that secures wind turbines to the ocean floor. The proposed lease areas total nearly 302,000 acres.

Josh Kaplowitz, vice-president for offshore wind at the industry group American Clean Power, said the proposed sale will continue the legacy of energy production in the Gulf of Mexico, providing Americans with an affordable clean energy supply.

The sale remains tentative; Interior said it will decide whether to proceed after the public comment period in late April. (Jamaica Observer)

Resilient, united revellers defy rain to light up...

of Region 10 as well as the different activities of this region such as logging, tourism, athletics, bauxite, mining and agriculture. Additionally, a core part of the float included a depiction of the six different ethnicities of Guyana.

All of the 21 floats had distinct features and were guided by an overarching theme which, in most cases, showcased the unique features of Guyana.

FROM PAGE 3

colourful costumes, dazzled in glitters and moving to the sound of Chutney, Calypso, and Soca while showcasing the rich creative arts which is a major part of the celebration of this unique festival.

The Parade started on Main Street and proceeded up Church Street before going along Vlissingen Road to Thomas Lands to the ending point at the National Park for judging.

The costume band and float parade had to perform in front of a panel of judges while being cheered on by the spectators.

The criteria for judging included adherence to category, safety, punctuality, uniformity, use of Guyanese music, fit and finish, craftsmanship, creativity, display, impact and much more.

The judges watched each costume and float closely, especially observing the revellers’ footwork and their aesthetic expression as they went around the park once.

ROAD MARCH CHAMPION TO BE DETERMINED

Much attention was placed on the deliberate use of local music to express the portrayal of the theme for the costume band. The music played also helps to determine the road march winner.

The first float to arrive at the National Park was the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports led by Minister Charles Ramson with the Golden Arrowhead tightly in his hands. The revellers were guided by the theme: “Celebrating in Unity,” which depicts Guyana’s six ethnic

groups, rich culture and our love for sports.

Up next was Region 10

depict a variety of visuals.

The costume designer paid homage to their home-

which showcased the heart of Guyana, under the theme: “Mixing and Mashing as one Guyana,” which aimed to

town, Linden which is the originator of Mashramani in Guyana.

The float depicted the map

One of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports floats which represented the six races in Guyana

Region 10 Democratic Council

One of the Police floats represented the queens and ambassadors’ pageants

The Beauty of Music

AMERICAN novelist Sarah Dessen once said:

“Music is the great uniter. An incredible force. Something that people who differ on everything and anything else can have in common.”

These words proved true last Sunday afternoon when thousands of Guyanese of all ages and from all walks of life gathered on the Kingston beach for Republic Bank’s 15th Mashramani Panorama competition.

Based on the interactions among those in attendance, they didn’t come to just support their favourite band; they had a genuine love for steel-pan music.

All divisions and disagreements were forgotten, and all eyes were fixated on the stage where bands in the youth and large cat-

egories used their creative talents to woo the judges and the audience.

Some added dancers, short skits and décor to boost the quality of their performance, much to the delight of the crowd.

Many excited Guyanese took up positions at the front of the stage where they sang and gyrated with each other, in many instances with people they had never seen or met before that day. This was unity; this was the magical power of music at work.

Music in all its forms, whether it’s the steel pan, the drums, or melodious singing on stage has always connected people. That is the true beauty of music.

The popularity of steel pan music in Guyana over the decades has fluctuated. However, within recent years, there has been evi-

dence of increasing interest at all levels in this art form, which can be traced back to the enslaved Africans who were brought to the Caribbean during the 1700s.

The only disappointment about last Sunday’s event was that it lacked school participation. The presence of a handful of school bands does not augur well for the future for this genre of music, particularly when the Education Ministry has indicated its full support for music, and when millions of dollars are being pumped into it.

In addition to the millions of dollars Republic Bank spends to host the annual event, the Ministry of Education has stepped forward to play its part.

Towards the end of January this year, the Three Miles Secondary School

in Region Seven, the New Amsterdam Secondary School in Region Six, and the Tutorial High School in Georgetown each received steel pans, which are to be used to boost and enhance their music programmes.

Administrator (ag) of the Unit of Allied Arts, Kurt Braithwaite had said during the handing over ceremony that the objective of the $19 million venture was to help get steel pan music back into schools. Some 34 secondary schools in the country are now equipped with steel pans, but it is unclear how many of them actually take it seriously.

Why so few schools participated this year is anyone’s guess, but the loss of practice time due to the COVID-19 pandemic may have been responsible. In years gone by, as many as

17 schools have participated at one time.

This year, Tutorial High School, North Ruimveldt and Queen’s College were among those participating in the youth category, and as expected, they each had their support base who happily cheered them on as they played. The latter’s steel orchestra was revived recently to take part in this competition.

The young pannists bounced and sang as their sticks hit the pans, unleashing a sweet melody.

Missing from the competition were West Demerara Secondary, The Bishop’s High School, President’s College, and Patentia Secondary School, which participated the last time around. The Guyana Police Force ‘B’ Division Youth Band, and GBTI Buxton Pride have been

regular participants over the years.

With all that is being done to keep this part of our culture alive, one can only hope that more youths pick up the sticks before next year’s competition; it would be a thing of beauty if all 34 schools participate in this activity.

We already have many talented pannists around, a steel pan museum established by the renowned Roy Geddes, scores of children who have developed the necessary skills, and those who can turn each drum into a masterpiece.

Like Trinidad and Tobago, the steel pan can become a treasured part of our culture, with the potential to significantly contribute to a One Guyana. However, this can only happen if we really want it to.

Former GDF captain is First Officer on JetBlue flight to CJIA

WHEN JetBlue flight #1965 with non-stop service from New York’s JFK to Georgetown landed at the CJIA on Thursday, Guyanese pilot Haslyn Peters was in the flight deck as First Officer (co-pilot).

According to a press release, this was Peters’ first flight home as part of the crew on a major carrier.

Growing up in Princes Street, Lodge, he always dreamt of joining this profession and was even nicknamed ‘Pilot’ because of his passion.

He attended Dolphin Government Secondary School and then The Bishops High after he wrote Common Entrance Exams (National Grade Six Exams).

Even though he was passionate about airplanes and flying, he only got the opportunity to go on an aircraft for the first time in 1995 when

his sister, Allison Peters, who was a flight attendant with the now defunct National Carrier Guyana Airways, asked one of the domestic pilots, Captain Astell Paul, to take him on a domestic flight.

Captain Paul took him on one of his trips to Kamarang and gave him the following advice: “Make sure this is what you want to do because it is not as glamorous as people say it is; it is hard work.â€

In pursuit of his dream, Haslyn worked at the National Bank of Industry and Commerce, now Republic Bank Limited, to start saving for flight school. With his parents’ financial assistance, he went to Trinidad in 1996 when he got his Private Pilot License from Briko Air Services Limited.

Upon his return to Guyana, he joined the Guyana

Defence Force (GDF) Standard Officer Cadet Course #30 in May 1997, graduating as the Best Graduating Student

in April 1998.

As an Officer with the GDF, Lieutenant Peters was chosen to raise the Golden

Arrowhead on Mount Ayanganna for three consecutive years, 1998 – 2000.

In 2001, Lieutenant Peters gained a Government of Guyana Scholarship from the GDF to attend the Sunrise Aviation Flight School in Ormond Beach, Florida, and was promoted to the rank of Captain when he returned to Guyana and began flying as one of their military pilots.

Captain Peters had the opportunity to be mentored by some of Guyana’s top aviators such as Captain Lloyd Marshall, Captain Egbert Field, Captain Patrick Nichols, Captain Russell Edun, and Captain Aziz Nizamuddin.

Captain Peters continued as a pilot with the GDF until his migration in 2009 to the USA, where he still resides with his wife Shelley LewisPeters and their two daughters, Judeyah and Jaliyah.

While living in the USA, Peters flew the EMB-145 and CRJ 700/900 for several Regional US Airlines on behalf of Delta Airlines, American Airlines and United Airlines, and was the Captain on the CRJ-900 for an American Regional Airline prior to joining JetBlue.

In November 2022, he joined JetBlue as First Officer on the Airbus 320/321. Haslyn continues to rely on the mentorship and career guidance from Captain Marshall who still plays an integral role in his life.

Even though Guyana no longer has a national carrier, Peters is honoured to be able to follow in the footsteps of his mentors by serving the people of Guyana in his current capacity with JetBlue.

The pilot and the rest of the crew will leave today on JetBlue flight #1966 for New York.

Guyanese pilot, Haslyn Peters

OP-ED: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is not without consequences for Guyana

By Rene van Nes

ON February 24, 2022, exactly one year ago, we all woke to a new world. On that day, in violation of all international laws and agreements, Vladimir Putin’s Russian Federation launched a “special military operation,” which was, in fact, a full-scale aggression against Ukraine, a peaceful country that had neither attacked nor threatened Russia.

After World War II, the world agreed on a mechanism to deal with conflicts between countries and the use of force. The only international body that can justify using force against a country is the United Nations Security Council, of which Russia is a permanent member. The 15 members of the Security Council can decide that the use of force by a country in self-defence is acceptable or decide to send a mission to restore peace.

Russia has since been condemned by 143 countries in the UN General Assembly for its illegal annexations, while only five countries have supported it. In the critical period preceding the Russian invasion, European leaders made every effort to convince Vladimir Putin not to commit the irreparable. Instead, Russia started a war of unimaginable proportions.

On February 24, 2022, at five o’clock in the morning, Russia sent columns of tanks and hundreds of planes and missiles to attack Ukrainian civilian and military targets, causing massive casualties from the very first days of the conflict. Russia has flouted international law and committed war crimes that are now documented. Russia is openly threatening to use its nuclear weapons, which would affect every living creature on the planet.

Since the Russian aggression, an estimated 200,000 civilians have been killed, including thousands of children. Dozens of Ukrainian cities have been reduced to rubble, leaving millions of Ukrainians homeless. The missiles sent by Russia has not spared hospitals, schools, theatres, daycare centres and churches.

Putin’s Russia has sent more than six million people into exile! Six million people who had to leave everything they had built, saved for, and cherished to flee from the devastation and Russian brutality. The vast majority of these families have now

found refuge in Ukraine’s neighbours: in Poland, Slovakia, the Baltic States and throughout the European Union.

A war on European soil seemed unimaginable; the fact it is happening moves every European citizen, each in their way. The older members of our families feel as if they are reliving the last conflict in Europe. The fear of the neighbour has returned, whereas it had disappeared after 1989 when the Berlin wall and the iron curtain came down. The younger generation sees their dreams shattered and fear that the values they treasure so much – the rule of law, democracy, free speech and equality may no longer be guaranteed for them.

For my part, I’ve spent the last ten years of my career working on conflict prevention and peacebuilding. The EU has been a peace project since its inception and has always promoted peace in the world. Not easy indeed, as I witnessed during my work in countries like Libya, Afghanistan, Somalia, Ethiopia, and many others. As a peacebuilder at heart, it pains me to see this aggression and violation of all human rights. There are and will be no victories here. This war will only know losers: in Ukraine, Russia, Europe and the rest of the world.

WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES FOR GUYANA?

The consequences of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine are very real, of course, in the first place for the people of Ukraine. Some Guyanese may wonder about the consequences for their country of this seemingly distant conflict, which is taking place ‘between Europeans’. Well, this conflict has direct implications for you too.

Firstly, the world has changed since 24 February 2022. It has become much more unstable. Russia has turned food and energy into a weapon, thereby willingly and knowingly cutting people off essential items. The destabilisation of the international order and the food and energy markets is felt throughout the region.

For example, many countries used to source their wheat from Russia and Ukraine, and are now turning to Canada and the United States for their imports. These markets are therefore in great demand with price increases

as a result.

Access to international financing has become more difficult. Investment decisions by large multinationals may be delayed, given the uncertainties in the world.

The already fragile global economy, still reeling from supply chain disruptions because of the pandemic, has been set back even further, with the weakest and most vulnerable countries affected the most. The Caribbean, like so many other parts of the world, has felt the economic shockwaves of the invasion of Ukraine: food insecurity, inflation, disruption of supply chains in key markets (food, energy, fertilizers), for which only Russia is responsible.

Faced with the threat of food insecurity and poverty as purposely created by Russia, the European Union has strengthened its partnership with countries of the South in

the fields of health, education, and agriculture. The EU has made Euro 600 million available for food security.

Europe has also changed. The members of the European Union have strengthened their internal solidarity in the face of the Russian aggression and are united in their support for Ukraine. Ukraine has been granted candidate status for eventual EU membership, as has Moldova, another country in the region.

The EU cannot stand idly by in this conflict and finds itself forced to providing arms to Ukraine to help it defend itself against Russian aggression, as required by the UN Charter (Article 51).

The EU did not reduce its ambitions to fight the effects of climate change. On the contrary, it is more committed than ever to becoming the first climate-neutral continent in the world by 2050 and to

reducing its dependency on Russian oil and gas as soon as possible.

We express our admiration for the Ukrainian people, who have been fighting valiantly for a year now to defend the values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, which lay at the heart of the European Union and of Guyana.

We also have respect for those few individual Russian citizens who have courageously and publicly expressed their rejection of the war and we are grateful to the Guyanese government for supporting resolutions condemning Russia for its illegal annexations and a murderous war that should have no place in today’s world.

Guyana may soon be well placed, as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, to play an even more important role in promot -

ing a rule-based multilateral world order with the UN at its centre. Guyana must also be commended for how it is handling its own territorial dispute with its neighbour by putting its trust in the international mechanisms to deal with conflicts of such nature.

The EU will continue to stand by the Ukrainian people in their fight, for as long as it takes, to preserve their right to independence, and territorial integrity and for their fundamental human right to live in peace and security.

We will continue to support Ukraine with financial, humanitarian, military and energy support and we will support the reconstruction of Ukraine.

We count on the support of Guyana to stand shoulder to shoulder with the EU and those countries defending human rights and condemning this senseless Russian aggression.

Syria-Türkiye earthquakes: Food, shelter and medicines among latest aid deliveries

AID continues to roll into northwest Syria, with 53 trucks crossing from southern Türkiye on Thursday, the United Nations (UN) reported in its latest update on response to the devastating earthquakes that struck the two countries on 6 February.

The trucks carried items from the World Food Programme (WFP), the International Organi-

is expected to arrive on Friday with medical supplies from its hub in Dubai, which will be delivered into northwest Syria from Türkiye.

A nearly $400 million humanitarian appeal for Syria is currently around 27 per cent funded.

VISITING AFFECTED PEOPLE

Meanwhile, in Türkiye, UN Resident Coordinator Alvaro Rodriguez travelled to areas affect-

sation for Migration (IOM) and the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, including food commodities, shelter, hygiene, and other supplies.

Most of the trucks, 47, went through the Bab al-Hawa crossing and the remainder entered through Bab al-Salam, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told journalists in New York.

In total, 335 trucks or lorries have made the journey from Türkiye into northwest Syria since February 9, he added.

MEDICAL SUPPLIES DELIVERED

Also on Thursday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) shipped another 34.5 metric tonnes of surgical supplies and essential medicines through the two border crossings.

WHO said a third charter flight landed in the Syrian capital, Damascus, on Monday carrying 33 tonnes of medical supplies and equipment to treat injuries, in addition to medicine for chronic diseases, cholera treatments and patient monitors.

Another charter flight

ed by the earthquake, meeting with authorities and first responders.

Mr. Rodriguez visited a tent city in Kahramanmaras, where 5,000 people have been taking refuge.

“He said he was struck by the scale of the devastation, but praised the response by the government, the international community, and Turkish citizens,” said Mr. Dujarric.

The top aid official was also in Turkoglu, where he spoke with Syrian families displaced by the earthquake.

UN disaster assessment teams remain active in southern Türkiye to support the coordination of urban searchand-rescue operations and assist in the needs assessments.

A liaison team in Ankara is also working with Turkish authorities, who are leading the response, said Mr. Dujarric.

The UN launched a $1 million flash appeal to assist more than five million people in Türkiye for three months. As of Thursday, it was less than five per cent funded. (United Nations News)

Diaspora in the US urged to participate in Guyana’s rapid development

THE Guyanese diaspora in the United States of America was encouraged to partake in Guyana’s transformative developmental agenda.

This is in keeping with the government’s desire for each Guyanese, home and abroad, to meaningfully partake in the continuing efforts to ensure more political, economic, and social development of the country.

To mark Guyana’s 53rd anniversary as a republic, the Consulate General of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, New York City, hosted a reception to commemorate the celebration.

Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn RodriguesBirkett lauded the diaspora in the US for the determination and resilience demonstrated over the years towards the advancement of Guyana.

“We all, as Guyanese at home and abroad, have a role to play. We must not only want change. We must be that change. I take this opportunity to thank you the Guyanese in our diaspora not only for coming but for the contributions you have made and continue to make…We must always ensure that our Guyana is united,” Ambassador RodriguesBirkett stated.

With the rapid pace of development in Guyana, she urged the diaspora to utilise the skills they have acquired to help develop the nation.

Under the leadership of President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Guyana is cultivating a better today and tomorrow, where equality, equity, and democracy will prevail.

Ambassador RodriguesBirkett lauded the leadership of Guyana’s past and current presidents who have worked hard over the years to ensure Guyana remains resilient today.

Adviser on Investments and Diaspora Affairs, Fizul Yusuf emphasised that the diaspora plays an important role in Guyana’s development during this new era of development.

Yusuf added, “You the diaspora are surely not forgotten. Our government is committed to ensuring that the diaspora is included and part of the changes in Guyana. You too can go back and enjoy Guyana and live your dream of returning and being a part of the ‘One Guyana’ vision.”

The diaspora holds an important role and will continue to do so towards the development of Guyana.

Today, many Guyanese are enjoying a better life which is

a result of the government’s prudent policies and slew of initiatives.

Guyana is one of the leading oil-producing economies that has gained international recognition from world leaders and investors.

He added that the country is on a progressive trajectory of ensuring development in all sectors.

“Today, the Guyana that you knew in 1970 is not the same. Our Guyanese heritage and tradition remain strong and intact. Our country is ever-changing for the better. The massive infrastructural developments with new roads, our housing sector is moving apace, and new hospitals to improve the healthcare.”

The President Ali-led administration continues to work aggressively to ensure that the transformation in Guyana benefits all, where every Guyanese regardless of race, religion, and political affiliation can live as one.

Consulate General, Michael Brotherson underscored that the attainment of Guyana’s republic status remains a significant milestone for the nation.

This particular observance comes at a time when Guyana’s development trajectory is in overdrive as is reflected in the government’s current policies and programmes.

He added that “over the past 53 years, the people of Guyana through our dedication, diligence, and patriotism have built a nation of profound worth and accomplishments.”

Presently, Guyana is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies which has achieved a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of approximately 62 per cent in 2022, alongside some of the world’s largest economies.

As a result of such development, the nation has taken on leadership and other roles in several aspects of regional and international affairs.

Guyana is one of the leading nations in the Caribbean for its massive infrastructural boom and exemplary environmental practices, including its global advocacy and leadership which regards combating the directorial effects of climate change.

The President Ali-led government continues to lead the food security efforts in CARICOM to help lower the high food import bill by 25 per cent by 2025.

Importantly, Guyana is ranked as one of the top 12 places to visit in 2023 due to its tourist destinations and

adaptation of green tourism practices.

Through the visionary leadership of President Ali, Guyana continues to make significant progress in all areas of development.

Moreover, the country is set to achieve much more growth in the years ahead.

“I wish to urge all Guyanese groups and diaspora members here to continue to promote the spirit of co-

operation, love, peace, and harmony as our nation continues to climb to an era of unprecedented economic prosperity. All of these are embodied in President Ali’s progressive vision for a One Guyana,” Ambassador Brotherson highlighted.

Ambassador Brotherson noted that Mashramani is one the most anticipated and festive events each year across the region.

Commissioner of GECOM, Sase Gunraj, Ambassador Zulfikar Ally, and

members of the diplomatic corps were also in attendance.

Consulate General, Michael Brotherson

North Rupununi to become commercial hub

NATURAL Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat, has said based on the current trajectory of Guyana’s development, the North Rupununi is set to become a commercial hub in Region Nine.

The minister was at the time speaking during an engagement with residents of Annai, Region Nine, on Thursday.

The minister urged residents to strive to preserve Guyana’s rich heritage, culture and traditions, in main-

taining our identity amidst the large-scale infrastructural and other development taking place.

He reminded that the Linden to Mabura Hill Highway, which is already under construction, is set to bring major economic opportunities for persons living in Region Nine.

“That spells significant opportunities for Region Nine and for the people of Region Nine. Most of the traffic coming from Brazil will flow through here, going

into Linden and to Georgetown. We need to prepare and equip ourselves for this development.”

Additionally, the minister said these developmental waves will have a ripple effect, resonating in sectors such as education and health.

To this end, he assured that a secondary school for South Pakaraima is set to be constructed soon, bringing improved access to education for the children there.

He noted that the preservation of our forests, and

developing our natural resources are key to ensuring sustainable development, and commended the instrumental role that the indigenous communities play in this regard.

“We need to ensure that we provide world-class healthcare, education and infrastructure for our people. In order to do that, we have to ensure that we exploit and develop our natural resources in a sustainable and responsible way, while ensuring that our environmental credentials are intact.

“We’re ensuring, through the Low Carbon Development Strategy that our forests are preserved while we maintain a sustainable path

towards development,” the natural resources minister noted.

Meanwhile, United Kingdom’s Minister of State with responsibility for Overseas Territories, the Commonwealth, Energy, Climate and Environment, Zac Goldsmith, highlighted that, in recognising the impact of climate change, it is crucial to source the root of the problem, which he clarified is the treatment of our natural resources, and that the key to addressing climate change is by repairing this relationship.

He urged the residents to continue along this path of preservation, as Guyana serves as a model for the rest

of the world in forest conservation.

Further, Lord Goldsmith added that the primary aim of his visit is to explore opportunities to strengthen the relationship between Guyana and the UK.

British High Commissioner, Jane Miller, reaffirmed her dedication to engaging Guyanese and finding ways to strengthen the bilateral relationship between Guyana and the UK for the betterment of all.

Concluding his visit to the community, Minister Bharrat also handed over educational paraphernalia to the students of the Bina Hill Institute. (DPI)

Natural Resources Minister, Vickram Bharrat, has said based on the current trajectory of Guyana’s development, the North Rupununi is set to become a commercial hub in Region Nine

We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes

US, UK, EU and Canada say in marking one year since the start of Russia’s attack on the country

See full statement: TODAY, Ambassador the United States of America, Sarah-Ann Lynch; the British High Commissioner, Jane Miller OBE; Canadian High Commissioner, Mark Berman, and Ambassador of the European Union (EU), René van Nes, solemnly note on the day that marks one year since the commencement of the war against Ukraine, Russia must held accountable.

We all remember the fateful day when Russia’s premeditated, unprovoked, and unjustifiable full-scale invasion

Ukraine shocked the collective conscience democratic nations around the world. But we also remember how the Ukrainian people inspired the world as they defended their country from aggression.

Russia’s brutal, fullscale invasion was a blatant violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity enshrined in the United Nations Charter.

In October, Guyana joined 143 other countries at the United Nations that stood up for those principles and against Russia’s assault them.

We commend Guyana reaffirming the UN Charter, for supporting and co-sponsoring UN resolutions condemning Russian aggression against Ukraine adopted March 2, 2022 (A/ RES/ES-11/1); on the humanitarian consequences of aggression against Ukraine adopted March 24 (A/RES/ ES-11/2), 2022; and on supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity on October 12, 2022 (A/RES/ ES-11/1).

Today, as we mark the tragic start of the invasion, the United States and our partners reiterate

our steadfast solidarity with the People and Government of Ukraine in the face of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression. We will stand with them for as long as it takes.

We unequivocally condemn Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine. The United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the EU have imposed sanctions intended to cripple Russia’s ability to finance the war against Ukraine, enact costs on Russia’s elite, and diminish Russia’s economic base. Export controls and airspace restrictions have cut off Russia’s access to vital technological inputs and atrophied their industrial base.

To date, the international community has provided hundreds of billions of dollars in security, humanitarian, economic, and emergency assistance aid to Ukraine and Ukrainian people since the war begun.

The events of the past year demonstrate that Russia’s actions against Ukraine undermine those basic international principles vital to peace and security- that the borders and territorial integrity of a state cannot be changed by force, citizens in a democracy have an inherent right to determine their country’s future, and all members of the international community are bound by common rules with consequences if they break their solemn commitments.?We also note that some Russian citizens have stood up to decry their government’s aggression, and we ad -

mire their courage.?

Today, in the face of the global challenges we know that safety and shared prosperity comes through partnership, not aggression. We affirm that countries that respect human rights, uphold the rule of law, and support inclusive and accountable governance for all their citizens, produce the best solutions to the most difficult problems.

As the free nations of the world strive to uphold democratic principles that form the cornerstone of a free, independent, and sovereign society, Ukraine is a powerful example of a democracy rising to the occasion with resolve, courage, valor, and steadfast determination.

Finally, make no mistake that our support for Ukraine and its people who are bravely defending their homeland is ironclad. Furthermore, we call on Russia to end the brutal onslaught against its neighbour. Russia chose this war – and the world is responding to hold Russia accountable for the atrocities it is committing in Ukraine.

We want this war to end as quickly as possible – on just terms that respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. A democratic, prosperous, and secure Ukraine is in the interest not only of the people of Ukraine, but also of the democratic nations of the international community.

CARICOM Heads seeking collaborative approach on regional transportation

CARICOM Heads of Government will explore working with companies servicing the Caribbean to find a solution to the current transportation woes facing the Community.

“We’re looking at what kind of construct we can bring into play, recognising that there are existing companies that are servicing our islands, and how we can work with those existing entities to seek to alleviate the current challenge,” Prime Minister of Dominica, Roosevelt Skerrit, said Friday.

He was addressing a press conference at the conclusion of the 44th CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Nassau, The Bahamas.

In response to a question from the media, the Prime Minister said that intra-regional transportation is an ongoing discussion and that the Heads

of Government had received a report from the President of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

In his address at the opening of the meeting on February 15, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Terrance Drew, highlighted the difficulty and high cost of travel within the Region and called for greater collaboration to make it easier for people to move.

“Coming to this meeting in the beautiful Bahamas is an example of a disconnect between our countries. A number of delegations had to transit through Miami, and perhaps overnight there before flying to our sister CARICOM-member destination. It should take less than 24 hours to move from country to country within our Region,” he argued.

Among the objectives of the Community’s Transport Policy

identified in Chapter Six of the Treaty are the organisation of efficient, reliable, affordable transport services throughout the Community, as well as the promotion of cooperative arrangements for the provision of transport services.

Prime Minister Drew acknowledged the work being done by the Caribbean Development Bank and other key players “to seek a sustainable solution to bridge the gaps that exist and breathe life into the provisions of Chapter Six of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.”

Reliable intra-regional transportation and connectivity are also key elements of the Region’s quest for food security.

“If we don’t have transportation, then all our efforts would be in vain. In this regard, reliable transportation by sea and by air is impera-

tive and urgently requires attention. It is imperative and urgently demands attention,”

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, the Hon Gaston Browne said last year at the

Agri-Investment Forum in Georgetown, Guyana. (CARICOM Today)

Nigerian men arrested for cocaine bust at GPO

TWO Nigerians were, on Wednesday, arrested by the Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU) for allegedly attempting to traffic over one pound of cocaine in a box through the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC).

In custody are Michael Emmanuel Ude, 33, of Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara and Gift Obioha, 26, of Laing Avenue, Georgetown.

According to a CANU release, on the day in question, ranks, while

on duties at GPO, intercepted Ude who was attempting to post a box containing several items.

“A subsequent search

of the box was conducted in the presence of the said individual, which led to the discovery of a whitish substance suspected to be cocaine,” the release detailed.

Ude was arrested and escorted to CANU’s headquarters along with the suspected narcotics, which tested positive for cocaine and weighed approximately 1.1lbs. (482grams) with a street value of $400,000.

Further investigations led to Obioha’s arrest, as the probe continues.

Michael Emmanuel Ude

Gift Obioha

The cocaine seized at GPO

Cultural explosion in Essequibo - as country celebrates Republic Day

By Indra Natram

THERE was an explosion of colours, with Guyana’s culture on full display, as thousands of persons gathered at the Anna Regina Car park in Region Two (Pomeroon- Supenaam) to celebrate Guyana’s 53rd Republic Anniversary.

The atmosphere was filled with colours, sweet soca rhythms and street dancing.

Thousands of persons joined revellers and celebrated the day in carnival style. The floats featured picturesque portrayals and well-designed costumes.

This year, the Suddie Public Hospital stole the show with both its road parade and costumes.

In the large category there were floats from the Regional Administration, Police Youth group and the Anna Regina PPP cluster. In the small category, there were floats from the Department of Education revellers, Regional Health Services, Team Mainstay and the Guyana Power and Light (GPL).

Joining the fun was representatives from the Jaigobin Hotels and Celeste Boutique.

The floats were led by the Department of Educa -

tion, followed by the Guyana Power and Light, Guyana Police Force Youth Group, Anna Regina PPP/C party district, then Team Mainstay and the Regional Democratic Council. Some revellers joined along the route.

The revellers danced their way to the Anna Regina Car Park and were cheered by thousands of persons who flocked the roads to admire the procession. As the revellers and their colourful, creative floats arrived at the car park pulsating rhythms produced by the flute and drums of the traditional masquerade band engulfed the atmosphere.

The road show and float parade began at Three Friends Bridge, some three miles from Anna Regina and moved to Anna Regina for the final judging.

Some of the floats depicted Guyana’s flora and fauna and coincided with the theme, “Mixing and mashing as One Guyana”.

The day’s activity ended with everyone socialising celebrating the 53rd Republic Anniversary.

Persons who gathered to cheer the revellers on said they were happy to come out and witness the float after two years.

Scenes from the Mashramani costume and float parade in Region Two

Scenes from Republic Day flagraising activities across the country

Georgetown comes alive...

FROM PAGE 2

Guyana’s Stabroek Block produced 11.5 million barrels of crude oil in January 2023

EXXONMOBIL produced 11.5 million barrels of crude oil from the Stabroek Block’s Liza projects in January, marking a strong open to 2023.

Production averaged 372,000 barrels per day (bpd), according to data from Guyana’s Petroleum Management Programme.

The Liza Phase One project, supported by the Liza Destiny floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel, averaged 146,000 barrels per day (bpd). It produced 4.5 million barrels over the full

month.

The Liza Phase Two project, supported by Liza Unity, averaged 226,000 bpd. It produced seven million barrels over the full month. Output from the block peaked at 400,000 barrels on January 12, its highest ever daily production.

The Stabroek Block is forecasted to produce 374,000 bpd in 2023. This will be impacted by the start-up of the Payara project. The Prosperity FPSO has left Singapore for its journey to Guyana and will take Stabroek Block output capacity to 600,000 bpd.

ExxonMobil is the operator of the Stabroek Block with a 45 per cent stake, supported by Hess (30 per cent) and CNOOC (25 per cent). ExxonMobil has discovered 11 billion barrels of oil-equivalent there, and plans to place six FPSOs offshore Guyana by 2027. (OilNOW)

The Liza Destiny FPSO

IQ Studios sets sights on creating avenues for talented youths

By Dillon Goring

WHEN Roy Samuels decided to open IQ Studios several years ago, he didn’t only want to focus on recording tracks, dubs and drops for anyone who walked through his doors. He strongly believed that he needed to channel his energy towards creating musical legends.

For him, this was no money making venture, but rather a golden opportunity to lay the foundation for youths, particularly those from underprivileged communities, who have the level of musical talent that is required to make it big both locally and internationally.

We at Buzz recently spoke with the music producer to get an insight into the impact the studio has had and is having on the lives of musicians and the Guyanese society as a whole.

Although the studio is small, it has been doing well. Kwasi Ace and Michelle ‘Big Red’ King are among the more established artistes who have chosen to record their music there.

“If I was to put a number to it, I would say that

we have the largest traffic of recording artistes in the country because of our strategic location,” Samuels said. The studio is located in the heart of the city in the Mini Mall on Robb Street between Camp and

Alexander.

Recalling the journey that led him to where he is today, Samuels said that his musical career began at the age of 17 and several years later he left Guyana for Trinidad and Tobago, where

he studied that island’s music culture.

He said he returned home after a number of years as he simply couldn’t make it in the twin-island republic, largely due to his nationality.

When he returned, he acquired a renewed passion for music and the music industry, and that’s when the birthing of IQ Studios began.

come to the studio aren’t rich people. They come from depressed homes, and many of them, if you leave idle, they could venture into crime “, Samuels said.

He sees himself as a guidance counsellor who is using his studio to deter young people from a life of crime.

Samuels explained that because of his passion for helping young people to make something great of themselves, many of the young musicians see him as a father figure.

According to him, music must not only be seen as a hobby, but also as an avenue through which one can earn an income.

He outlined that one of the most important things to note, in his opinion, is that Guyanese artistes have an inferiority complex when it comes to music. He believes that having international exposure would be the best solution as it would market the artiste as well as our genres of music.

Samuels explained that his focus centres around youths from depressed communities and several of them have so far passed through the studio.

“We are trying to give guidance to youths across the country. We are trying to develop a new breed of artistes,” he said, adding that most of his clients come from the Sophia area.

“Most of the artistes that

“Our goal at IQ Studios is to be able to have our artiste sooner than later start to tour and even work with not just my studio. I believe that a good leader does not bring up followers; we bring up great leaders and I want one day for some of the same persons passing through the studio, to be able to go into larger studios and encounter persons with greater experience and benefit from it. So, we are working on those persons that are showing interest in Guyanese music to work with them and give them exposure,” Samuels told Buzz.

He attributes his strength in the music business to strong and lasting relationships and having a great people-friendly rapport.

Legacy Entertainment under which the studio falls, will be hosting a series of activities during 2023.

Music producer Roy Samuels

Jermaine Jordan, one of the artistes who records at IQ Studios

The inside of IQ Studios (Delano Williams photo)

Roy Samuels (right) with two of his artistes (Delano Williams photo)

Puerto Rico’s ‘Left-Ovr’ wins 2023 Wacken Metal Battle Caribbean — local band, ‘et tu Brutus’, earns ‘honourable’ third spot

“MY ears felt the sting of the battle until recovery 48 hours later and my mind is still on this historic event staged in Guyana,” long time rock musician, Jude Mendonca, expressed following the successful hosting of the prestigious Wacken Metal Battle Caribbean (WMBC).

A drummer of local rock bands ‘Pearls To Swine’ and ‘Burning Bush’ back in the 90s, Jude is still very much an avid lover and supporter of the local rock scene.

He was high in praise for the just concluded event at the The Black Magenta - Georgetown Club produced by his nephew Gavin Mendonca and fellow rock musician, Gavin Singh.

The WMBC is part of a larger, global battle of the bands (The Wacken Metal Battle), which is hosted annually as one of the main attractions of the Wacken Open Air Festival in Germany.

Here, bands from around the world get to represent their country on the “grandest stage for heavy metal in the world,” according to Mendonca.

The winner of the event this year was ‘Left-Ovr’ from Puerto Rico. The band will head to Germany this August to compete and represent the entire Caribbean rock scene at the festival.

“So much more was had than simply a battle and placements of the respective participating acts at this event. There had to be a winner but there were no losers as all of these folks from the respective bands made new acquaintances, friends and fans from within our local fraternity which has blossomed in the last five years as a result of the proactivity of a chosen and dedicated few,” Jude shared.

According to him, ‘et tu Brutus’ earned an “honourable spot of third place… finishing in front of a young and hungry extreme metal quartet, Ravech from Suriname in fourth place and the seemingly ageless and hard rocking quartet, Down the Line from Guadeloupe in fifth place.”

All of the contenders or bands longed for the grand opportunity to venture to Germany and play on one of the stages amongst heavy metal’s elite of independent acts that won their respective battles and to enjoy some of the finest majors, including Iron Maiden headlining the huge bill of bands in August.

“Et tu Brutus was deserving of such for not only their perseverance and having been life-long fans of heavy metal, but for delivering an awesome performance; being warmly received in that of which was of a collective of many years of indulgence and construction.”

Jude further shared that Mindscape Laboratory was the “most technical, progressive and intensely superb in nature” that caused them to earn second place.

“Many congratulations to the big-guys in Left-Ovr from Puerto Rico. They do have a unique and appealing formula...All in all - the Wacken Metal Battle Caribbean 2023 was a huge success and definitely made a huge impact on the entire Caribbean Rock Scene,” Jude told Buzz.

Being passionate about this multi-plex genre of music and being a subscriber for 38 years and counting, Jude has especially enjoyed making life-long friends and meeting some of the “coolest, like-minded folks on this planet.” He and the promoters are

grateful to everyone who contributed to this memorable experience, especially Justin and Mia and all of the sponsors.

“Hats off to the respective organisers…and the Director of the Wacken Metal Battle Caribbean, Jerry Orie, from Suriname. A hi-five to the sound engineers and stage crew revolving amongst those from both Guyana: Devon Roberts and Ray, and Trinidad: Alan C. Tiah. A shout-out to the respective individuals (including Lee FungA-Fat) who performed the tasks of loud on-stage introductions.

“A thumbs-up to the judges which included Sievan Siewsarran and Jignesh Khatri (vocalist and bassist of the inaugural battle winners, LYNCHPiN from Trinidad) who had to make…an impartial decision on the victor of five great acts, four of which came as visitors to the shores of Guyana for the first time, all delivering a killer 20-minute set [comprising] four original songs of interaction and they were most entertaining,” he said.

A member of Puerto Rico’s ‘Left-Ovr’, drink from the Wacken Horn to celebrate the band’s win

‘Left-Ovr’ band members doing their thing on stage

Rock fans having the time of their lives during one of the performances

The final photo of

Sweet Panorama Vibes

LAST Sunday, scores of excited Guyanese of all ages gathered on the Kingston Beach for Republic Bank’s 15th Mashramani Panorama Steel Pan Competition. The sweet vibes, coupled with the cool breeze from the Atlantic Ocean, created the perfect party atmosphere. In the end, GBTI’s Buxton Pride was declared the winners of the youth category. They were followed by Tutorial High School, while the Queen’s College Steel Orchestra and the Police ‘B’ Division Youth Band tied for third. For the large band category, the Guyana Police Force was dethroned by GTT’s Kunjaz All Stars. These Adrian Narine and DPI photos captured some of the scenes from the competition and the Soca Fete after party, which was held shortly after the results were announced

Music producer says Jamaica could learn from Trinidad’s Carnival

JAMAICAN music producer and businessman, Romeich Major, is calling for “proper investment” to be made in the local dancehall industry after highlighting how different stakeholders have come together for Trinidad’s Carnival.

He hailed the twin-island republic’s Carnival as “crazy”, “fun”, and “amazing”.

The Romeich Entertainment and Romeich Wear boss said it is not about comparing both countries, but rather about sharing knowledge.

Romeich was among stars, including rapper Nicki Minaj and former West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle, who were in Trinidad and Tobago for the festivities which came to a climax on Monday and Tuesday.

“TRINDAD #CARNIVAL!!!!! All I can say it’s crazy, it’s fun,” Romeich wrote in a post on Instagram on Monday.

“It’s amazing, but most of all everyone comes together, especially all artistes, promoters, and, in my view, even the government, and trust me, this help and benefit the country so much,” the businessman said, adding, “Sometimes it’s not about comparing but sharing knowledge.”

There have been longheld views that dancehall lacks proper investments and support from the Government, especially at a time when many in the space have expressed

that the genre needs urgent revitalising.

This is in light of the fast rise of other genres of music globally, including Afrobeat.

Locally, Government officials have long-criticised the lyrics being used by some dancehall acts that purportedly contribute to violence and other social ills.

Others in the industry have pointed to the disunity among artistes and producers as a hindrance to the genre’s further success, as well as the socalled American-styled beats being used in some songs.

According to Romeich, “We have a product call[ed] dancehall that’s so powerful.

“We, the country of Jamaica, just not utilising it the right way, and we need more proper investment from the persons who can!!!” he declared.

He pointed out, for example, that in Trinidad, there are scores of parties in three weeks, non-stop, with no fear of the events coming to a premature end due to the authorities pulling the plug.

Continuing, he said such events have “nonstop security for the people”, with beautiful set-up for these entertainment activities.

“Yoo, I am amazed, no lie!!!! 2024 me a forward again!!!” said the clearly enthused businessman.

“The Caribbean is one of the most amazing plac-

es to live, so all we need to do is make use of our cultures and spread the beauty of our countries,” Romeich added.

He also called on his followers to “stop making media and news show the negativity only”.

Romeich added: “We as people have way more power than them, so show the beauty of each of your countries!!!”

Amassing more than 300 comments, many of his followers agreed with his observations on what Jamaica could learn from the staging of Carnival in Trinidad.

“I’m so glad someone of your status from our island came through and saw the energy T&T offer to not just the locals, but international feters as well,” wrote one person.

“As you said, dancehall has so much potential. But badmind a kill wi a Jamaica bredda,” he opined.

Said another social media user: “I was saying this the other day when I saw the prime minister leading from front when it comes to dancehall.

“But our leaders just hate dancehall so and love everybody’s culture.”

In disagreeing with some aspects of those sentiments, Romeich responded, “They (our leaders) don’t enuh, but maybe someone needs to take [the] lead and structure some ideas to them.” (Loop News)

Romeich Major (Photo: IG via romeichentertainment)

Australia survive nailbiter to beat India and reach final

AUSTRALIA are through to the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup after beating India in a thriller at Newlands.

A first-innings total of 172 for four proved just marginally out of India’s reach, despite a terrific middle-order effort that took the game right down to the final few deliveries.

Perhaps the big turning point in the match came when India’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur suffered a freak run-out when her bat stuck in the ground as she looked to run it in.

And with the captain back in the dugout, the need for quick runs at the death proved slightly too much for India to manage

as they fell agonisingly short.

The start of the reply saw runs flow, but Megan Schutt had Shafali Verma trapped lbw for nine and Ash Gardner removed Smriti Mandhana for two to put the Aussies well on top. And a run-out of Yastika Bhatia strengthened Australia's grip on the game.

India’s decision to play an extra batter saw Harmanpreet Kaur join Jemimah Rodrigues out in the middle at number five, and the pair set about launching a counter-attack.

The 59 runs that India amassed in the Powerplay is the most an Australia attack have conceded in the

first six overs of a match since the last Women’s T20 World Cup back in 2020.

And Kaur and Rodrigues put on 69 runs in an electric partnership that put India ahead of the rate before Rodrigues flicked a bouncer through to the ‘keeper’ to depart for 43 from 24 balls.

The brilliant Kaur brought up her fifty in style, but disaster struck moments later when she was run out in bizarre fashion for 52 just when it looked like India were favourites to go on and win the game.

And with Kaur removed, there was just too much work to do for the lower order, as Australia

finished strongly to win by five runs.

Earlier, it was Australia who won the toss and opted to bat and the good news for India was that Kaur was out in the middle for the toss after rumours that she was feeling too unwell to play.

The sickness bug did mean that India were missing Pooja Vastrakar, with Sneh Rana brought straight into the team in her place, while there was an interesting tweak to the balance as they opted to add another top-order batting option in Yastika Bhatia.

Australia also shuffled their pack, bringing Alyssa Healy back after injury and opting to replace Ala-

na King with the left-arm option of Jess Jonassen.

And the returning Healy stroked the first ball of the innings for four to spark a solid opening partnership that made it through the Powerplay unscathed and built a 52run stand.

India finally made the breakthrough, with Radha Yadav tempting Healy down the wicket and Richa Ghosh pulling off the stumping, with Healy departing for 25.

And Beth Mooney reached her half-century before falling just moments later, caught by Shafali Verma who had dropped the opener earlier in the innings.

At 92 for two in the

13th over, Australia would have been confident of pushing on to a big score. And Ash Gardner’s quickfire 31 from 18 certainly didn’t hurt those aspirations.

But Deepti Sharma cleaned up Gardner and Shikha Pandey removed the dangerous Grace Harris for seven as India kept things tight going into the final over.

A late flurry saw Meg Lanning finish unbeaten on 49 with new batter Ellyse Perry not out on two as Australia reached 172 for four – a strong but not insurmountable total for India’s talented batting line-up. (ICC Media)

Rawlins leads Bermuda to T20 Qualifier warm-up....

From page 32

apiece, while former captain Kamau Leverock and Derrick Brangman took one wicket each.

In reply, Bermuda reached their target for the loss of four wickets in 15.5 overs. Jones led the way with an unbeaten 19 not out, with Rawlins (16), Tre Manders (14) and Leverock (13) also

contributing.

Bermuda flew to Argentina from Tampa, Florida, where they cut short their participation in the T20 President Cup campaign after losing two players – Matty Watson and Charles Trott – to injuries during training.

A broken ankle has forced Trott to return

home, while Watson is awaiting the result of a shoulder scan.

The team has been boosted by the arrival in Argentina of all-rounder Justin Pitcher, who was not part of the Florida trip. He made four not but did not bowl in Tuesday’s win.

Bermuda will take on

an Argentina XI in a second warm-up game on Wednesday with the Qualifier proper beginning on Saturday, when Bermuda face Cayman Islands before taking on Argentina the following day.

Bermuda will also face the Bahamas, Belize and Panama in Argentina after Suriname withdrew, with

the top three teams joining Canada for the Americas Region Qualifier Finals in Bermuda in September. The winner of that will clinch the last T20 World Cup qualifying spot in the region. Next year’s edition will be co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States.

Team Diplomats top Team Parliament 6-3

THE Diplomats prevailed 6-3 over Team Parliament in a football match on Tuesday night to mark the 70th anniversary of Guyana’s Parliament at the Everest ground.

Decked in blue, the Diplomats were led by Jessica Teasdale who

English Racing Tips

netted a hat-trick as the Diplomats surged ahead with three unanswered goals in the initial exchanges.

The first half ended 5-0 in favour of the Diplomats, before Team Parliament enjoyed a better second-half, scoring three goals, while conceding

one.

Teasdale got support from MVP Rick Jan Molanus with a double and Edwin Martinez with a solitary strike.

Azumah Roberts netted a double for Team Parliament, while Roberto Gibson scored the other.

Molanus received a trophy for being MVP, while Teasdale received same for scoring the most goals.

Team Diplomats lifted the champions trophy, while players on both sides were presented with commemorative medals.

The game was

played in a festive atmosphere and was attended by politicians from the government and opposition benches, members of the diplomatic community, representatives of corporate Guyana and fans and stakeholders of football.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday February 24, 2023)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) 30 Tests

(2) WI 3; SA 20; Draw 7

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which WI batsman has scored most Test runs against SA to date?

(2) Which SA batsman has aggregated most Test runs against the WI to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

England heavy favourites to end South Africa's wobbly campaign

HEAVY FAVOURITES..

ENGLAND have reached six women's World T20 or T20 World Cup semi-finals, won four of them and had one washed out. South Africa have been there twice, and lost twice.

There is little reason to believe that trend won't continue when the teams meet in their semi-final at Newlands today. No doubt England expected to be here. The South

Africans wouldn't be human if they weren't surprised to have made it this far.

Unbeaten England steamrolled their way into the knockout rounds by beating West Indies, Ireland, India and Pakistan. South Africa crashed to a shock defeat by Sri Lanka in the tournament opener, were fortunate to catch New Zealand on an off day and beat them, lost to Australia, and laboured to victory over Bangladesh.

Wednesday's double-header, also at Newlands, offered a stark illustration of the teams' different worlds.

England hammered Pakistan's bowling to all parts to total 213 for five, the record score in the history of the tournament. They won by 114 runs, another record. A more complete, emphatic performance would be difficult to find.

South Africa's bowlers brought their end of the bargain by restricting Bangladesh to 113 for six. The home side won by 10 wickets, but their turgid chase took 17.5 overs. The required run-rate, 5.7 at the start of South Africa's reply, climbed to 7.10 midway through the innings. And that against a side who have gone home winless. "We made it look a lot harder than it was," Laura Wolvaardt said afterwards.

The South Africans will face their toughest test yet trying to contain England's powerhouse batting line-up, who have scored more runs

in the tournament than any other team. The English hit 72 fours and a dozen sixes in the group stage - more than anyone else, and amounting to more than 60% of their total runs.

Yet Nat Sciver-Brunt is England's only representative among the top 10 run-scorers in that tournament at number one with 176 in four innings at a strike rate of 147.89. Sixteen players, including South Africa's Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, have made more runs than England's next best batter, Amy Jones, who has scored 99

in three innings. But just 26 runs separate Jones, Heather Knight, Danni Wyatt and Alice Capsey, England's next highest run-scorers, from Jones - an indication of the team's batting depth. It will help the home side that only Australia had a better economy rate in the group games than their 5.71. Even so, Sophie Ecclestone was the joint-leading wicket-taker with eight and had the second-best economy rate, 3.81. Marizanne Kapp was one of five bowlers who were one wicket behind Ecclestone, and Ayabonga Khaka and Kapp were fifth and sixth in the run-rate stakes at 4.63 and 4.65.

Whichever way the numbers are spun, it's difficult to see a clear advantage for the South Africans. They are going to have to play exponentially better, and England exponentially worse, than they have so far in the tournament if the result is to be different from what is expected.

(Cricbuzz)

Liverpool and Everton fined for 'mass confrontation' during Merseyside derby

LIVERPOOL and Everton have both been fined by the Football Association following a "mass confrontation" during the Merseyside derby on 13 February.

The incident occurred in the 86th minute of the Reds' 2-0 Premier League win at Anfield.

The FA said both clubs failed to ensure their players "conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and refrained from provocative behaviour".

Everton have been fined £40,000, while Liverpool are fined £25,000.

The Toffees received a heavier penalty following a previous charge during their home game with Crystal Palace earlier this season.

Players from both sides, including some substitutes, were involved in the incident.

It followed an initial disagreement between Andrew Robertson and Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, with both players receiving yellow cards for their involvement.

In a statement, the Football Association said:

"An Independent Regulatory Commission imposed their fines during a subsequent hearing, and its written reasons will be published in due course."(BBC Sport)

England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt

The FA said Liverpool and Everton players were involved in a "mass confrontation" at Anfield

Panama become final team to qualify for Women’s World Cup

HAMILTON, New Zealand – (Reuters)-Panama became the final team to book their ticket for the upcoming Women’s World Cup after they defeated Paraguay 1-0 in the final qualifying play-off at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton on Thursday.

Panama, who will play at the World Cup for the first time, will be in Group F with France, Jamaica and Brazil.

This year’s World Cup, co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia from July 20 to Aug 20, will be the first edition to feature 32 teams.

Substitute Lineth Cedeno secured a sensational victory for Panama with a 75thminute goal after she headed home a free kick played into the box by captain Marta Cox.

Cedeno, who came off the bench in the second half, collected a yellow card for taking off her shirt during the goal celebration.

Portugal and Haiti were the other two teams who booked their spots at the World Cup from the final qualifying play-offs that were

held in Auckland and Hamilton.

World No. 1 United States are the defending world champions after they beat the Netherlands in the 2019 World Cup final in France.

The US received a boost of confidence ahead of their title defence as they beat Brazil 2-1 to clinch their fourth consecutive SheBelieves Cup title on Wednesday in Frisco, Texas, less than 150 days before the World Cup.

Forward Mallory Swanson flicked in the game winner off an assist from Rose Lavelle in the second half,

her seventh goal of the year, and the Americans hoisted the trophy after previously beating Canada 2-0 and Japan 1-0 in the round-robin tournament.

It marked quite a change from their demoralising run towards the end of 2022, when they recorded three straight losses for the first time since 1993, in friendlies against England, Spain and Germany.

“The whole time throughout the tournament, while we’re in camp, we’re talking about (how) it’s not just about this tournament it’s about

preparation for the World Cup,” coach Vlatko Andonovski told reporters.

“The fact that we were able to do well against such great opponents – all three of them, Canada, Japan and Brazil – is very motivating for us going forward because we believe that we still have a few things to fix and get better from it.”

With only two more matches expected before the US World Cup roster is announced, there is scarce time left for players to distinguish themselves. Many will return to their NWSL clubs ahead of the top-flight American league’s March 25 kick-off.

Forward Alex Morgan, who slipped one past the Brazilian goalkeeper in firsthalf stoppage time, has all but punched her ticket as one of a handful of veterans expected to anchor a young squad.

“All I can say is she’s a true winner,” said Andonovski.

“Great leader, winner and she always comes through when you need her.”

Everton and Leeds charged over brawl in Premier League game

LEEDS United and Everton have been charged over the mass brawl during their Premier League game last weekend.

Four players were shown yellow cards after the incident towards the end of the first half of Everton's 1-0 win.

The clubs have been charged by the Football Association with improper conduct and for failing to control their players.

The brawl was sparked by Everton winger Dwight McNeil reacting angrily to a tackle from midfielder Tyler Adams.

McNeil - who was guarded by a steward after being pushed over - and Adams were booked, along with Everton's Abdoulaye Doucoure and Leeds' Weston McKennie.

On Wednesday, Ever -

Commentary great John Motson dies aged 77

JOHN Motson has died at the age of 77, the BBC has confirmed.

Over a 50-year career with BBC Sport, Motson provided commentary for a plethora of iconic moments, most notably in football.

Motson covered 10 European Championships and as many World Cups for BBC Sport. He retired in 2018.

He had worked on BBC Sport's flagship Match of the Day programme since 1971 and commentated on close to 2,500 televised matches.

Tributes to Motson from across British football followed after news of his death was confirmed on Thursday.

Former Leicester City, Everton, Barcelona, Tottenham and England striker Gary Lineker, the host of Match of the Day, tweeted: "Deeply saddened to hear that John Motson has died.

"A quite brilliant commentator and the voice of football in this country for generations. He'll be very much missed. RIP Motty."

Kevin Campbell, who has worked alongside Motson, said: "Rest in Peace John "Motty" Motson an absolute legend and gentleman."

ton were fined £25,000 by the FA following a "mass confrontation" during the Merseyside derby on 13 February.

Asked whether the incidents point to a lack of discipline or a spirit the manager likes to see, Dyche told BBC Sport: "Things get blown up

nowadays but no-one got sent off and there wasn't anything too malicious.

"It was one of those things, a touchy moment in the game when people get involved. You don't want to see it all the time - it so happens it has been in recent games.

"That isn't the norm, but you can't ask for passion then not accept it when it comes. Sometimes it is aggressive and that moment sets something off. There wasn't anything too nasty or over the top."(BBC Sport).

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher posted: "RIP John Motson. An absolute Legend of the game. So many of us grew up listening to this man describe the action and goals on MOTD & cup finals. Sad loss."

"RIP John Motson," tweeted Gary Neville.

Everton, Fulham, Bournemouth and Brentford were among the first Premier League teams to pay tribute to Motson. (Sportsmax)

Panama players celebrate after defeating Paraguay 1-0 to qualify for this year's Women's World Cup

Everton and Leeds players clashed in the 42nd minute of their Premier League match

Legendary sports commentator, John Motson

Unchanged England aim for seventh consecutive win

England have named an unchanged team as they aim for a seventh successive win in the second Test against New Zealand.

The tourists had monitored the fitness of pace bowlers James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Ollie Robinson following the 267-run win in the first Test.

"It's been a chilled buildup, a time for lads to get any stiffness out of the body," said captain Ben Stokes. "We had to hear from the bowlers who played in the last game to see how they were and they are absolutely fine."

Though England's firstTest win at Mount Maunganui finished with a day to spare on Sunday, there were still doubts over the recovery of the pace trio, in particular Anderson and Robinson.

All three men bowled in Wellington on Wednesday, but did not take part in optional training on Thursday as wet weather forced England to practise indoors.

Stokes said he had sent text messages to the bowlers to check on their fitness before the Friday start (22:00 GMT Thursday) and that all three had been encouraged by the green colour of the Basin Reserve pitch.

"I'm not going to lie, the bowlers were licking their lips," all-rounder Stokes told BBC Sport. "They might have been stiff yesterday, but after they looked at the pitch felt a little bit looser.

"It looks like the lines for the wicket have been painted on the outfield, but I think that's generally how the pitches do look here at the Basin.

"You can't read too much into it because the ball can nip around but it can also be incredibly flat. The pace of the wicket can be a huge advantage to the batters."

Anderson, England's alltime leading wicket-taker, takes his place in the side after returning to the top of the world bowling rankings

at the age of 40.

"I just can't see him stopping," said Stokes. "He's just relentless with everything that he does. We're very lucky to have him.

"He's rightfully back at the top. I know sometimes those rankings don't mean much to people, but in our opinion he has been one of

he best, if not the best, for longer than what these rankings say."

Anderson and Broad, 36, will play in their 134th Test together on the same ground where they were first united as a partnership 15 years ago, famously replacing Steve Harmison and Matthew Hoggard.

"You might say 15 years is a long time ago, but when you're world class you expect people to play for 15 years," said Stokes.

"Those two in particular are an unbelievable example for people to aspire to be. Not only kids who watch the game, but also people who are in this team now, aspiring to go on to achieve what those two have done."

England are chasing an 11th win in 12 Tests. Their current streak of six suc -

cessive wins has not been matched by an England team since 2010. If they make it to seven in a row, it will be their first such run for 19 years.

New Zealand, meanwhile, need to win this final Test to avoid suffering a home series defeat for the first time since 2007.

They will have pace bowler Matt Henry available after he missed the first Test to be at the birth of his child.

"We've played some good cricket in our conditions and also in other parts of the world for a long time," said New Zealand captain Tim Southee.

"We've had a great couple of days to train, refresh and look forward to this match. I know the pitch looks green but it's usually a pretty good surface. (BBC Sport)

Key Aussie white-ball stars return for World Cup audition

ALLROUNDERS Mitch Marsh and Glenn Maxwell have been named to make their international returns in an ODI series in India next month that will give Australia an early look at conditions for their World Cup campaign later this year.

Paceman Jhye Richardson will also make a long-awaited international return, while David Warner, Ashton Agar and Pat Cummins – who all this week returned to Australia from the Test tour – have also been named.

Cummins returned home this week due to what a Cricket Australia spokesperson termed a serious family illness, but is targeting a return ahead of the third Test next week.

Marsh (ankle) and Maxwell (broken leg) have both missed significant time after undergoing surgery during the home summer but are set to feature in the three-match tour with matches in Mumbai, Vizag and Chennai following the ongoing Test campaign Both Maxwell, who has

been back playing in the Sheffield Shield this week for Victoria, and Marsh, who is expected to make his return in the Marsh One-Day Cup this weekend for Western Australia, will be important cogs for the 50-over World Cup being held in India in October-November this year.

It is one of two bilateral one-day series Australia are set to play in India before the World Cup, with the other in September just prior to the tournament.

Richardson is also back in the mix after an injury-en-

forced lay-off from international cricket that also saw him miss the closing stages of the KFC BBL with a hamstring injury and has not played since the start of January.

The 26-year-old has also not played for Australia since the white-ball leg of their tour of Sri Lanka last year. A career of huge promise, which has already seen him play 36 times for Australia, has been consistently setback by injury.

Josh Hazlewood, who captained Australia in an ODI

last summer, has been ruled out of the series due to the Achilles injury that has seen fly home early from the Test series.

"It would be great for Josh to be part of this series but we have taken a conservative view ahead of a very important winter in England of which he will be an integral part," selection chief George Bailey said.

Cummins will lead the side in just his second series in charge after having the one-day job added to his Test duties last summer following Aaron Finch's retirement.

Warner has been named despite also heading home from Delhi this week after being concussed and suffering a hairline fracture in his elbow during the second Test

Travis Head appears certain to re-join him at the top of the order having thrived as an opener during Australia's most recent ODI series in November, admittedly against a fatigued England team that had just won the T20 World Cup.

Marsh was sidelined for

three months after undergoing keyhole surgery on his left ankle to repair a long-standing injury, while Maxwell fractured his leg in a freak accident at a birthday party in November

The pair both also hold contracts in the Indian Premier League, which kicks off a week after the ODI series concludes.

Warner, Richardson, Adam Zampa, Cameron Green and Marcus Stoinis are the other ODI squad members who will stay on for the IPL –with Hazlewood also holding a contract – but Cummins and Starc are skipping the lucrative tournament due to the busy schedule

"With the World Cup just over seven months away, these matches in India are an important step in our preparation," said Bailey.

"Glenn, Mitchell and Jhye are all important players in what we think the squad might look like come October."

Australia are set to ramp up the frequency of 50-over matches played over the com-

ing months, at the expense of T20 Internationals, due to forthcoming World Cup. It is the final part of a host of major events in 2023 for the Aussie men, coming on the back of the India Test tour, the Ashes and potentially a World Test Championship final.

Qantas Tour of India 2023 – ODIs

March 17: First ODI, Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, 7pm AEDT (D/N)

March 19: Second ODI, Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy Stadium, Vizag, 7pm AEDT (D/N)

March 22: Third ODI, MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, 7pm AEDT (D/N) Australia ODI squad: Pat Cummins (c), Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa. (Cricket. com.au)

James Anderson (centre) and Stuart Broad (right) will play together on the ground where they played their first Test as a pair, 15 years ago

Allrounders Mitch Marsh(left) and Glenn Maxwell

WICUA Secretary Johnson lauds CCUA for producing top quality umpires

WEST Indies Cricket Umpires Association (WICUA) Secretary, Vivian Johnson; Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) President, Shiv Persaud; Ontario Twilight Softball Cricket League (OTSCL) President, Azeem Khan; and of-

World Cup duo among 29 players chosen for high performance camp

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Cricket West Indies has chosen 29 players to train at the High Performance Camp at Coolidge Cricket Ground here, in preparation for next year’s ICC Under-19 World Cup in Sri Lanka.

The group includes the duo of left-handed batter, Jordan Johnson, and right-arm fast bowler, Isaiah Thorne, both of whom featured at last year’s Under-19 World Cup staged in the Caribbean.

Johnson scored 69 runs from four appearances while Thorne grabbed four wickets from four outings.

A third player, top-order batsman Justin Jaggessar, played two Youth One-Day Internationals on the tour of England two years ago, but failed to turn out in the World Cup.

The camp, which got underway Tuesday and runs until March 9, will focus on “targeted coaching sessions and physical preparations” and will also include three 50-over practice matches.

ficials of the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs, Hardatt Ramcharran and Kim Sue were among the special invitees when the Canada Cricket Umpires Association (CCUA) held its Appreciation Lunch last Sunday at District Lounge, Pickering, Ontario, Canada.

The CCUA also used the occasion to present certificates to several of its members who were successful at different levels of its examinations while a few received WICUA certificates.

In brief remarks, WICUA Secretary, Johnson, lauded the CCUA for its role in producing top quality umpires over the years, pointing out that the

governing body, which the CCUA is affiliated to, is proud of the achievements.

Johnson urged the CCUA executives to continue their excellent job while congratulating all the recipients of certificates.

SCA president, Persaud, also spoke glowingly of the relationship between his entity and the CCUA, describing it as a “family” since three executives of the SCA also serve in the same capacities on the SCA. An elated Persaud also referred to two of his executives on the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL), Vice-president Dharmendra Kumar and his wife Dina Jaipersaud attaining their CCUA Level One umpiring status.

OTSCL President

Khan, who presented a plaque to the CCUA, pointed out that the umpires, under the aegis of the CCUA, are doing a tireless and unthankful job but have been excelling in their endeavours over the years. The plaque read: “In recognition of the Canada Cricket Umpires Association for their dedication to umpire and scorers training and the promotion of cricket in Canada.”

Speaking on behalf of the OMSCC, Kim Sue also paid tribute to the CCUA, complimenting the standard of umpiring by its members and wished the association well in its future endeavours.

CCUA president, Albert Ramcharran, promised that the Appreciation Lunch will return to being an annual affair

after it wasn’t held for the past two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other reasons. He reminded those present that the CCUA Annual General meeting was set for Sunday, March 5 while the annual training seminars start the following weekend, March 12. Both will be held at Number 43 Police Division, Scarborough, Ontario.

Among those collecting certificates on Sunday were Ramnarine Prashad, who is a fully qualified West Indies umpire and Dina Jaipersaud, one of two women who wrote the CCUA Level One exam last year. The other, Indira Singh, who also passed the exam, wasn’t present at the function. (Frederick Halley)

“This camp is all about the importance of the development of West Indies cricket and this is laying the foundation for the future of our game in the region,” said chief youth men’s selector, Robert Haynes.

“This is not just about playing in the ICC Men’s U19 Cricket World Cup next year, but also about developing the overall player on and off the field.

“We have some very talented players in this group and we know they will do very well. We still have the age-group tournaments later this year where more players can put in performances and earn selection.”

The selection of players was based on their performances during age group tournaments last year and further opportunity will be provided to impress selectors during CWI’s age group tournament later this year.

Meanwhile, Rohan Nurse, the former assistant coach of the West Indies Under-19s, has been appointed as the new Talent Pathway Manager by CWI, and has been tasked with designing and spearheading the players preparation for the Under-19 World Cup.

CWI said Nurse will “lead the day-to-day management of the development squad as part of his wider high-performance role managing our best young talent across the region.”

He will be joined during the camp by assistant coaches Nikita Miller and Rohan Clarke; specialist wicketkeeping coach, Nick Wilton; high performance manager, Graeme West; coach development manager, Chris Brabazon; along with Steve Liburd, the West Indies Women’s Under-19 head coach.

SQUAD – Jacen Agard, Jewel Andrew, Brian Barnes, Solomon Bascombe, Golcharan Chulai, Mavindra Dindyal, Joshua Dorne, Tarrique Edward, Reon Edwards, Justin Jaggessar, Deshawn James, Orlando James, Jordan Johnson, Devonie Joseph, Jaden Lorde, Micah McKenzie, Joshua Morris, Stephan Pascal, Jatario Prescod, Andrew Rambaran, Rampertab Ramnauth, Tamarie Redwood, Nathan Sealy, Isai Thorne, Devin Tyson, Yanique Watley, Steven Wedderburn, Adrian Weir, Trevaun Williams.

Recipients of certificates pose with CCUA executives and special invitees

Ramnarine Prashad collects his WICUA certificate from CCUA Secretary, Vivian Johnson

Dina Jaipersaud receives her CCUA Level Certificate from CCUA Education Chairman, Matthew Francis

Guyana fast bowler Isaiah Thorne

Australia survive

to beat India and reach final

See page 27

Rawlins leads Bermuda to T20

Qualifier warm-up victory

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina, (CMC) – England pro Delray Rawlins led from the front with a four-wicket haul as Bermuda continued their preparations for the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Qualifier with a six-wicket victory against an Argentina XI here Tuesday.

Bermuda bundled out the hosts, who opted to bat, for 77 in 17.2 overs, with Sussex left-arm slow bowler Rawlins, the team’s new captain, finishing with four for 10 from four overs.

Rawlins was well supported by Malachi Jones and Zeko Burgess, who claimed two wickets

Continued on page 27

See page 27

Sussex left-arm slow bowling all-rounder Delray Rawlins

The victorious Diplomats Team (Photo: News Room)