Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 24-06-2022

FRIDAY 24th JUNE, 2022

No. 106763

Potential exists for vaccine-production plant in Guyana SEE PAGE

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- President Ali says, following sod-turning ceremony for first African vaccine-manufacturing facility in Rwanda - project to be run by BioNTech targets COVID-19, malaria, tuberculosis vaccines

One of the major roundabouts being constructed as part of infrastructural works aback Little Diamond to Great Diamond, East Bank Demerara (Adrian Narine photo)

President Ali: Inequalities in combatting global crises must be examined SEE PAGE

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Aubrey Barker Road to get $80M enhancement SEE PAGE

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Flood-relief supplies distributed to Region Eight residents SEE PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

Aubrey Barker Road to get $80M enhancement - $30M to be spent on drain-desilting project in South, North Ruimveldt

At the head table are, from left, NDIA’s Chief Executive Officer, Lionel Wordsworth; Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha; Minister Within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues; Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar; Minister of Housing and Water Colin Croal; Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall; Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill, and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson (Elvin Croker photo)

By Jared Liddell PERSONS traversing the Aubrey Barker Road which runs through South Ruimveldt in Georgetown, are set to enjoy a smoother commute, as the critical piece of infrastructure is set to undergo a massive $80 million upgrade in a matter of weeks.

This was according to Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, following a ministerial outreach to South Ruimveldt, on Thursday.

The Public Works Minister said that bid requests for rehabilitation of the road have already been made public, with work expected to begin immedi-

ately after the project is awarded to a contractor.

“Phase one of the work to be done on Aubrey Barker which will be from Dynasty all the way to the roundabout, is already out for tender and works on that would commence in just a matter of weeks. I think that project is estimated to cost somewhere around 80 plus million dollars,” he said.

Minister Edghill reminded residents that the government is committed to addressing their various needs and bringing timely relief to any issue which they might have, starting with the major issue of adequate access to their communities.

The government has been

investing strategically to upgrade road networks across the country in keeping with its vision for transformational infrastructure.

Some $76.7 billion was allocated by the government for roads and bridges under the Ministry of Public Works in the 2022 budget. Of the $76.7 billion, $49.2 billion will be spent on roads, while the remaining $27.5 billion will go towards bridges.

The ministerial outreach on Thursday, led by Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal, came following an impromptu walkabout in South Georgetown by President Dr Irfaan Ali on Saturday. During

the walkabout, the President committed to the residents that their issues would be addressed.

Ministers Edghill and Croal were accompanied by Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha; Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar; Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues; Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson.

During the engagement, several residents raised concerns regarding security, better infrastructure, improved community grounds, and importantly, drainage and irrigation.

DRAINAGE The community is among the few in Georgetown that are prone to having high levels of water during rainy reasons; this is a matter which residents were deeply concerned about.

Minister Mustapha told the community that the government is committed to putting systems in place to tackle flooding and as such, he disclosed that the government will in the next few days commence its draindesilting project.

This major project, according to the minister, is expected to cost some $30 million and is set to tackle at least 21 streets and alleyways in the South Ruimveldt area.

Among the streets expected to be part of the project in South Ruimveldt are Greenheart Street; Baramita Street; High Palm Road; Cauliflower circle; Fern Drive; Blue Sackie Drive; and Spurwing Drive. In North Ruimveldt, Blue Mountain Road and Mittleholzer Street; Flying Fish Street; Spring View Avenue; Kaikan Street and Well Road will benefit from the project.

Minister Mustapha said that

the government is committed to not just providing this type of relief to residents of the community, but he believes that investments of this magnitude must give back directly to the residents within that community.

To this end, he said that the government will ensure that persons from the community benefit from the project.

He related that systems will be put in place to ensure that residents benefit directly from this large investment.

“We will not bring people from outside the community to do the work, we will work with you, you the residents we will work with. That is why when the President was here last Saturday, he said that he wants you to buy into this programme. This is your programme and we will facilitate you as the NDIA and the Government of Guyana,” Mustapha said.

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guyana CHRONICLE friday, june 24, 2022

Potential exists for vaccine-production plant in Guyana –– President Ali says, following sod-turning ceremony for first African vaccine-manufacturing facility in Rwanda

–– project to be run by BioNTech targets COVID-19, malaria, tuberculosis vaccines

By Rabindra Rooplall in Kigali, Rwanda PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that Guyana will work with countries like Rwanda to put the necessary framework in place for the establishment of a local vaccine-producing plant.

“We want people to come to Guyana and develop vaccine and treatment for diseases like malaria. It is important, as a country,

countries like Rwanda… work with them to build the regulatory framework and institutional and training facilities for highly skilled and capable human resources to transition into these new fields and areas.

“It is in that context that I was invited to the function and I am going to start discussions at the bilateral level.”

Dr. Ali said that his intention is to upgrade Guyana’s law-making and gov-

President Dr. Irfaan Ali and President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame greet each other at the sod-turning ceremony for the construction of the mRNA vaccine factory in the special economic zone of Gasabo District, Rwanda (Office of the President photo) that we respond to the needs and makes ourselves vaccine secure,” Dr. Ali said on Thursday, following a sod-turning ceremony for a new mRNA vaccine factory in the special economic zone of the Gasabo District, Rwanda.

President Ali, who joined the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame and other world leaders for the event, said: “I am on a forward-looking and proactive mission to work with

erning agendas, and invest in the requisite research to enhance the pharmaceutical industry in Guyana.

This is also on the cards at a time when the world is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the disparity in the manufacturing and distribution of vaccines.

President Ali said that part of his government’s overarching development agenda for the economy is to invest in healthcare and

education.

Further, he added that Guyana has already initiated talks with Barbados for the advancement of the health sector, particularly as it regards the establishment of a vaccine-producing facility.

“Prime Minister [of Barbados] Mia Mottley and I have had discussions already on regulations and the Attorney Generals of both countries are to look at the existing legal framework and what is needed,” President Ali said.

Vaccine-producing facilities, he said, will enhance the region’s ability to address diseases like malaria, typhoid and HIV/AIDS. He said BioNTech is an example of a company that countries in the Caribbean region could work with to realise the shared goals of expanding the region’s pharmaceutical industry.

At the launch of the facility, President Kagame said: “The ground breaking for BioNTech’s state-ofthe-art mRNA production facility is a pivotal milestone. We are happy to have BioNTech as a partner, and I applaud the company’s commitment to working with Africa on a continental basis to help secure our vaccine resilience for the future, and invest in new research to address the endemic diseases that disproportionately affect our people.

“Working with our partners, Rwanda intends to build on this investment to attract a vibrant biopharmaceutical research and manufacturing sector.”

The African Union and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention aim to have about 60 per cent of Africa’s routine vaccines produced locally by 2040.

NEXT MILESTONE Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-found-

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali (second from left); President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame (second from right) and heads of BioNTech, Ugur Sahin (at right) and Chairman of kENUP Foundation, Holm Keller (Office of the President photo) er of BioNTech, Professor Ugur Sahin, said: “We have reached the next milestone with the start of construction on the first African mRNA manufacturing facility based on our BioNTainers – just four months after we introduced the BioNTainer concept in February.

“This factory will be the first in an African network to provide sustainable production capacity for mRNA pharmaceuticals. Further, manufacturing facilities in Africa and on other continents are planned to follow.

The goal we pursue together with governments and regulatory authorities is to produce vaccines for Africa here with highly skilled professionals from Africa.”

World Health Organisation (WHO)’s Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the need for significantly greater local production of vaccines and other essential products in all regions of the world, especially in Africa which relies heavily on imported products and was left be-

hind in the global rush for COVID-19 vaccines.

“I welcome BioNTech’s efforts to establish manufacturing sites in Rwanda, Senegal and South Africa, as well as its plans to commence clinical trials of its malaria vaccine candidates later this year.”

The construction of the vaccine factory in Rwanda will enable the manufacturing of vaccines for domestic use and export to other Member States of the African Union at a not-forprofit price.

According to BioNTech, the manufacturing capacity for vaccines will be expanded incrementally by adding further manufacturing lines and sites to the manufacturing network on the African continent, to support the production of several hundreds of millions of mRNA vaccine doses.

The local production capabilities will further address vaccine uptake in Africa which has fallen short of expectations due to misinformation, logistical problems, a lacking sense of urgency in the population to name a few factors.

The Rwandan facility, with a size of about 30,000 square meters, will be initially equipped with two BioNTainers (one for the production of mRNA, and one for the production of the formulated bulk drug product).

The BioNTainers will be equipped to manufacture a range of mRNA-based vaccines to suit the needs of the African Union Member States; this could include the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and BioNTech’s investigational malaria and tuberculosis vaccines, if they are successfully developed, approved or authorised by regulatory authorities.

The estimated initial annual capacity of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine will be about 50 million doses.

The manufacturing of vaccines in the BioNTainers in Rwanda is expected to commence approximately 12 to 18 months after their installation.

The facility will be initially equipped with two BioNTainers, and is expected to employ about 100 staff by 2024.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

Flood-relief supplies distributed to Region Eight residents

THE government is sparing no effort in supporting persons affected by flooding countrywide.

Residents of El Passo/ Tumatumari, and Micobie, Region Eight, were the recipients of dozens of flood-relief hampers delivered by Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai.

There were eight households in El Passo/ Tumatumari which were severely affected by flash flooding in the region.

During an interview

with the Department of Public Information (DPI), a resident, Rapheal Davis, related that though the package being provided by the government cannot compensate fully for the losses, it demonstrates the government’s commitment to its people.

“We are glad that they are here and brought these items for us,” he related.

Minister Sukhai noted that the government remains committed to assisting persons in need.

“Government wants to let you know that you are

not alone, that our work extends across the country where rainfall is affecting many, many families again. We are hopeful that there will be no major outbreak of diseases or any erosion,” Minister Sukhai said.

On Tuesday, Minister Sukhai visited Mahdia and delivered hampers to flood-affected residents of Wrong Turn.

Currently, the government is conducting a major flood assessment across the country (DPI)

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai distributes flood-relief hampers to Region Eight residents (DPI photo)

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Inequalities in combatting global crises must be examined

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

- President Ali tells Commonwealth leaders, top executives during business forum

By Rabindra Rooplall in Kigali, Rwanda PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that there are four crises affecting Commonwealth countries, and there must be some balance in determining how to solve them.

President Ali was at the time speaking at the Commonwealth Business Forum (CBF) for Heads of Government and global Chief Executive Officers. The forum, held at the Intare Arena, was attended by Prince Charles and the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame.

The four areas of focus that were highlighted by President Ali are the energy crisis, climate crisis, food crisis and a crisis of inequality.

“Only today [Thursday], we saw the President of Rwanda trying to address the crisis of inequality in vaccination by private investment in the production of vaccines,” President Ali told the gathering of leaders.

President Ali had joined the Rwandan President and other Heads of State and officials to witness the sodturning ceremony for the construction of the mRNA vaccine factory in the special economic zone of Gasabo District, Rwanda. It is the

first such facility in Africa, and is designed to end vaccine inequality on the continent.

Moving to other forms of inequalities, the Guyanese Head of State said 70 per cent of the energy for the Commonwealth still comes from burning coal, and oil and gas, yet on the African continent, only 53 per cent of the population has access to electricity.

He contrasted that with Canada, which has the most diversified energy portfolio, and one of the lowest energy costs in the world. “…But, guess what, they have the highest per capita consumption in the Commonwealth, and perhaps one of the highest in the world,” President Ali said.

This, he related, raises the question in the energy scenario of what energy mix to sustain, and which to phase out.

Underscoring that Guyana faces its fair share of difficulties, President Ali said if there is no new development in the petroleum sector, then the monopoly that already exists is being protected for those countries that have been pumping oil for a long time.

Dr. Ali challenged the group of Commonwealth countries to address this is-

sue in a realistic manner.

“We have to have a balance in this discussion; between what is needed in the interim period, in terms of fossil fuel against how the transition (to renewable energy) happens,” he said.

In terms of climate change, Dr. Ali said that developing economies collectively require US$200 billion annually to deal with only adaptation costs, without even considering what is needed for mitigation.

“Where’s this financing coming from? In my own country, we have standing forests at 87 per cent coverage in the country - stores 90.5 gigatons of carbon – (and) one of the lowest deforestation rates in the world, if not the lowest, (at) 0.05 per cent,” he said.

He continued: “But guess what? A forest that has a value of $500 billion earns nothing. The IMF says that the price for carbon to be traded now is at US$75 per tonne. But the actual price is less than US$10. So this is the reality of the environment you’re living in.”

Additionally, he said that

when it comes to food security, by 2030, the global use of cereal and wheat is projected to increase.

“But guess what? Developing countries will account for 90 per cent of that increase. And what are we seeing? An increase of 20 per cent after the first quarter, and a projected 30 per cent at the end of the year for the consumer,” he said.

The Head of State added: “So, when we talk about energy, climate, food, we have to look at the inequality that exists in each category.”

The President noted, however, that there are opportunities for investment in each category.

“In CARICOM, I have the lead for agriculture and food security. So, I would like to see, out of this forum, not only concrete measures, but a commitment from all of us that we are going to identify, within the Commonwealth family, in the priority areas; in energy, climate change, food inequality. And I’m not even going to inequality technology, because that’s worse,” Dr. Ali said.

He added that there is a

President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau following the Commonwealth Heads of Government and Business Leaders Roundtable at the Intare Conference Centre, in Kigali, Rwanda (Office of the President photo)

need for investments that will force the international financial institutions to put money into it these areas,

particularly because of the “food catastrophe” that is on its way.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

Rwanda

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali is in Kigali, Rwanda to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOMG). The President is being accompanied by First Lady Arya Ali; Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd and the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Elizabeth Harper.

The theme of the meeting, “Delivering a Common Future: Connecting, Innovating, Transforming,” is most appropriate and relevant, especially in today’s world which is characterised by high levels of connectivity and where access to information and technology are key elements to drive the transformation process.

Guyana, in particular, is now on the cusp of a modernisation process and the development of linkages with the international community could

only enhance the country’s advance to modernisation and transformation.

Guyana will also benefit from other engagements at the meeting, including participation in the Commonwealth Business Forum and an activity on climate change.

The Commonwealth comprises mainly, but not exclusively, nations that were at some point in time colonies of Great Britain.

Guyana attained political independence from Britain some 56 years ago, but continue to embrace the shared values of democracy, good governance and respect for human rights.

The hosting of the meeting by Rwanda is not without some measure of controversy, given the country’s past human rights record and what many still consider to be human rights violations, especially as they relate to freedom of expression

and freedom of the press.

The most recent decision by the Kagame administration to accept asylum seekers from Britain to Rwanda as “transit centres” for re-education has also raised eyebrows, especially by human rights groups.

Rwanda had no historical ties with Britain, but was admitted to membership in 2009.

Mozambique also was given membership status in 1995, despite not being a former British colony.

Yet, Rwanda is generally considered as a country that has to a considerable degree left its fractured past behind and has now embarked on a process of modernisation.

Small and landlocked, with a population of about 13 million people and with support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, the country has

made significant economic and structural reforms and sustainable economic growth over the past decade.

Politically, the country has made some significant progress in terms of parliamentary and gender equity, with women currently filling some 61 per cent of seats, one of the highest in the African continent and for that matter, the world.

Guyana, like Rwanda, has made solid economic and social gains under the PPP/C administration and efforts are now underway to consolidate democracy and democratic rule, especially in the context of attempts made by the previous APNU+AFC regime, in collaboration with rogue elements from the GECOM Secretariat, to derail the democratic process in the March 2020 General and Regional Elections. Indeed, it took

the combined efforts of the local and international community, including the Commonwealth Secretariat, which was part of the Observer Group monitoring the elections before that attempt was foiled.

The Commonwealth Observer Group, it will be recalled, was headed by the late Owen Arthur, former Prime Minister of Barbados, who warned that Guyana could be expelled from the Commonwealth and become a “pariah state” for refusing to play by the democratic rules. Guyana, he said: “Cannot benefit from portraying itself as a pariah state and there are consequences that could ensue.

You can get suspended or expelled from the Commonwealth.”

Guyana is much stronger as a member of the Commonwealth and President Ali will no doubt seek to further

deepen relations with member states in his quest to encourage investment in the country’s booming oil and gas economy and at the same time seek to market the country’s eco-friendly and tourism potential.

The President is expected to travel to Suriname on his return to participate in the Suriname Energy, Oil and Gas Summit and Exhibition in Paramaribo on June 27-28.

The opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) will take place on Friday, June 24 and will culminate in a high-level meeting of Heads on Friday and Saturday. The meeting, originally scheduled for June 2020, was postponed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VICE News interview with VP Jagdeo rooted in deception

THE Viraat Sabhaa Guyana is convinced that the dialogue and interview done by VICE News with the VicePresident of Guyana, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, is rooted in deception.

The Sabhaa is firm in its conviction that the patriotism demonstrated by the Vice-President is second to none.

The despotic behaviour of VICE News personnel is a testimony to

their hate for our leadership. The pandits and leaders associated with the Sabhaa see that the accusation of corruption has no merit.

It is a deliberate attempt by VICE News to

destroy our social fabric and destablise our economic advancement. The Viraat Sabhaa also sees it as an act to distract our citizens from the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the March 2, 2020

general and regional elections.

The Sabhaa fully endorses the statement made by the President and encourages all of our Hindu families not to be distracted by

VICE News attempt to slander and stain our Vice-President’s reputation.

Yours sincerely, Pandit Ravi and the Viraat Sabhaa

OP-ED

guyana CHRONICLE friday, june 24, 2022

The fight against food insecurity in the Caribbean

By Lilia Burunciuc

THE Caribbean region, already hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and struggling with the impact of the climate crisis, now faces another serious problem: a food crisis.

Food prices around the world, including in the Caribbean, skyrocketed this year after the conflict in Ukraine broke out.

Both Ukraine and Russia produce a significant amount of the world’s grains, oilseeds and fertilisers. The expected shortfall in supplies has already caused price hikes for these food commodities.

The Caribbean relies heavily on food imports for domestic consumption and to supply the tourism industry. As these price increases transmit to local markets, those previously barely able to afford a nutritious diet might not have enough money to do so anymore.

The World Bank’s domestic food price inflation dashboard shows that at least four Caribbean countries – Dominican Republic, Guyana, Haiti, and Suriname – have experienced food price increases higher than five per cent every month between March 2021-2022.

Suriname witnessed food price increases of over 30 per cent in this period and ranks among the worst affected countries globally based on this indicator.

In Haiti, 45 per cent of the popula-

tion are facing crisis or emergency and in the higher income countries of the English-speaking Caribbean, 40 per cent of the population are reported to be food insecure.

The ongoing crisis in Ukraine may further deteriorate the food security situation in the region.

IMPORTANCE OF FOOD SECURITY Food crises are bad for everyone, but even more so for the poorest.

The first thing families with low income do during the food crisis is switch to cheaper food that fills the stomach but is usually less nutritious.

And when nutritional needs are not met, people have lower productivity and inadequate nutrition has irreversible effects on a child’s physical and mental development.

Thus, the crisis we are witnessing today may affect not only the individual but also the longer-term growth prospects of countries within the region.

PATHWAYS TO RESILIENT AGRI-FOOD SYSTEMS AND FOOD SECURITY Given the high stakes, it’s critical for the Caribbean to come together and take action.

Building on the World Bank’s experi-

ence from the past pandemic and food crisis responses around the world, Caribbean governments could consider the following set of priorities.

In the short-term: 1. Keep food trade flowing by avoiding export restrictions- in the space of a few weeks, 35 countries have imposed food-export restrictions, covering 21 per cent of the world’s wheat trade. While this number is below the peak of 74 per cent reached during the 2008-2009 global food crisis, this is a worrying development for the food imports in the Caribbean. It is critical that regional policymakers dismantle trade barriers and avoid counterproductive export bans, to maintain the flow of food across borders and not contribute to the development of a full-blown global food crisis.

2. Respond rapidly to emergencies by jumpstarting agricultural production and providing social protection. In the aftermath of natural disasters that damage food systems, it is critical for governments to provide short-term relief to prevent losses of lives and livelihoods while laying the foundations for long-term economic growth. For example, the World Bank is supporting the government of Haiti in the aftermath of the earthquake and acute food insecurity, providing employment opportunities, rebuilding infrastructure and delivering other critical support.

There are several instruments that the Caribbean countries could access to receive emergency funding.

In the medium-term: 3. Invest in Climate-Smart Agriculture to boost productivity and build climate resilience. Climate-smart agricultural

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World Bank’s Director for Caribbean Countries, Lilia Burunciuc solutions include the use of high-yielding crop varieties and animal breeds resilient to heat, drought, pests, and diseases, coupled with climate-proof irrigation and drainage infrastructure, as well as sustainable land management. If adopted, it has the potential to transform the Caribbean’s agri-food systems.

In Belize, we are working with the government and farmers to increase food production and facilitate the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices.

4. Strengthen linkages to tourism. Before the pandemic, only one third of the demand from the hospitality and tourism industry was covered by domestic producers in OECS countries.

As tourism is expected to rebound in the next few years, there is a bigger see page 8

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guyana CHRONICLE friday, june 24, 2022

The fight against food insecurity ... from page 7

unrealised potential.

With investments in upgrading production systems, agro logistics, and marketing, domestic farmers could consistently supply fresh and minimally processed food all year round and receive better prices. This is the rationale for the OECS Agricultural Competitiveness Project, which aims to support food producers and small and medium businesses in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

5. Diversify agricultural export revenues through value chain development.

Larger countries in the region have the potential to develop and strengthen competitive value chains for high-value products, for example, highly perishable fruit and vegetables, seafood, and spices. To reduce post-harvest losses and boost export revenues, countries could also benefit from investment in agro-processing and agro-logistics facilities.

In Jamaica, we are working with the

government to provide financial and technical support to key agricultural institutions and tourism enterprises to develop more reliable linkages with buyers and markets.

During my travels in the Caribbean, I met Deles Warrington, an award-winning farmer from Dominica. He shared with me his optimism for the future of agriculture in the region. In his words, when people put their heads together, assist each other and share technology, tremendous success can be achieved. I cannot agree more with Deles.

Building productive and resilient agri-food systems in the Caribbean will require partnerships, strong policies, strategic investments, and capable institutions. However, the payoffs– measured in growth, food security, nutrition, natural resources, and climate change mitigation – are eminently worth it.

At the World Bank, we stand ready to support the region in this endeavor.

10,000 persons register for WIIN programme

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

SOME 10,000 persons have so far registered for the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) programme, according to Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud.

“I’m very happy to announce that the response to the women’s innovation investment network has been overwhelming.

Thank you for choosing WIIN! The numbers have touched 10,000,” Minister Persaud said.

According to the minister, the majority of the 10,000 registrants are women, and they are from every region of Guyana.

Although all 10,000 registrants could not be accommodated, Minister Persaud said that there will be a second phase of the WIIN programme, where they will be accommodated.

“We are looking forward to you being a part of this programme, even if we cannot accommodate all 10,000 this year.

We will be keeping you on register, so that you will have your opportunity, through the WIIN programme,” Minister Persaud said.

She related that there will be a newer course in the second phase, which will be added to the complement of courses.

“To those of you who chose to register for WIIN, don’t be worried if

you haven’t heard from us as yet,” Dr. Persaud said.

The minister reminded persons that there is a hybrid system which allows learning both Online and in person.

“We are making every opportunity available to you, so that you can be trained; free of cost. It can change your life; you can become an entrepreneur; your own business owner.

And, of course, we will be very proud of you when you are complete.

“We don’t leave you like that; you get all access to our business resources, and our female business incubator, and free WIIN app to advertise your business,” Minister Persaud said.

L a u n c h e d i n M a y, 2021, the WIIN programme was established as a direct response to the need for more women to enhance their capacity in order to be gainfully employed.

The programme is designed to facilitate both the advertising and marketing needs of womenowned businesses across several sectors in Guyana.

Not only does it provide opportunities locally, but may open doors globally, since it is available for free download anywhere.

Dr. Persaud was quoted in a press release in 2021 as saying: “The WIIN App is perfectly poised to tangibly support women in growing their

businesses by increasing visibility, and raising their business profile, using an ICT platform at absolutely no cost to them.”

Minister Persaud went on to add: “I urge women across the country to use this App to allow more and more people to appreciate the excellent work they have been doing, and to use the high-quality products they have developed. I am proud of where our Guyanese women entrepreneurs are, and I want the world see them, and applaud them too. Share the WIIN app; use it, and let all see that it’s made by Guyanese women for the world.”

Primarily, the app caters to participants who would have benefitted from the extensive training done in their respective fields through the ministry’s platform, but could also be utilised by all women to showcase their ventures.

Among the categories featured on the app are, but are not limited to, health, beauty and wellness, fashion, food, arts and craft, event planning and décor, media, graphics designing, photography and videography, printing, stationery, janitorial, academic, transportation, gardening, landscaping, construction, tech and media, entertainment, e-commerce an even automotive repairs.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud

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guyana CHRONICLE friday, june 24, 2022

Karrau Creek farmers to Swan village to benefit from get 25 black giant birds enhanced water supply

IN responding to the immediate needs of farmers in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, on Thursday, announced that the ministry will be providing 25 black giant birds to each household in Karrau Creek Village.

The minister made this announcement during an engagement with farmers, who met recently with President Dr. Irfaan Ali. Farmers at the meeting informed Minister Mustapha that they need better drainage systems for their farmlands, extension services, management of wild animals, materials for shade houses, as well as access to funding, farming tools, planting materials, and

technical support to expand their cultivation.

As an immediate intervention, Minister Mustapha told the farmers that the ministry through the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), will provide 25 black giant birds to each household

by July month end.

He also said that the Agriculture Ministry will assist the community with setting up a shade house, and will provide inputs and Acoushi ant bait free of charge.

A team comprising officers from the GLDA, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), and the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) is scheduled to return to the community within a week

Farmers gathered at the meeting (DPI photo)

–– with construction of new well

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha (DPI photo) to conduct an assessment.

Minister Mustapha said he is also committed to ensuring farmers benefit from improved extension services, including monthly visits by extension officers from the GLDA and NAREI. Some $2.6 billion in agriculture-related projects are ongoing across nine of the 10 administration regions, the biggest of which is the $569 million dredging of the Pomeroon River mouth which is going to open up 8,000 acres of land for rice and cash crop farmers and residents.

Those projects form part of the overall works catered for in the $22 billion budget set aside for the Ministry of Agriculture.

RESIDENTS of Swan Village on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway will soon be the beneficiaries of improved water supply, following efforts by the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) to drill a new potable water well to serve the community.

The existing water-distribution system at Swan is a low-producing one that currently cannot supply the entire village adequately.

A site visit was conducted by GWI one year ago and it was determined then that the community needed a new well.

Residents of the community were engaged by GWI’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shaik Baksh and other company officials who visited the area recently.

The exercise, according to GWI, was fruitful, since residents turned up in large numbers even

CEO of GWI, Shaik Baksh and other company officials inspect the ongoing work at Swan (GWI photo) as they were promised a better supply of potable water.

This promise to the people of Swan Village is materialising with the construction of the well.

A contractor has already been assigned to the project and drilling of the well has already begun.

It is estimated that this will be completed within a month’s time.

Meanwhile, the

pipe-distribution network to serve the community will be outfitted with stand pipes at a later date.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is expected to be drawn up and signed by the GWI and the village.

Residents of Swan expressed gratitude to the Government of Guyana and the GWI for this embarking on this important venture.

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West Demerara woman allegedly ‘busted’ West Canje duo reportedly with ‘ganja’ reportedly admits to selling weed nabbed with $1.6M in ‘ganja’

A 31-year-old woman of Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara (WCD), is currently in police custody after she was allegedly nabbed with over 219 grams of cannabis, hidden under a pile of wood in her yard.

According to a police release on Wednesday, law enforcement officers were conducting raid exercises at Cornelia Ida, where they made contact with the woman who was in her yard at the time.

“The ranks requested to carry out a search on the woman’s premises to which she agreed. A search of the house unearthed nothing of evidential value.

“However, a further search in the yard between a pile of wood alongside the house revealed a bulky black plastic bag which contained the suspected cannabis,” the release said.

It is alleged that while under caution, the woman not only admitted ownership of the cannabis but also told the ranks she sells “weed.”

According to the police release, the wom-

an reportedly said, “Officer can I trust you? I does sell lil lil weed here, a boy does drop it but me done deh in trouble so me ain’t want put he in no trouble...”.

She was arrested and escorted to the Leonora Police station, where the cannabis was weighed and amounted to 219.2 grams.

The woman is presently in custody pending charges.

The reported cannabis seized by police

School girl allegedly found with ‘ganja’ in socks A 12-year-old female student from the Three Miles Secondary School in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) was, on Wednesday, nabbed with two ‘Ziploc’ bags of cannabis inside of her socks.

According to a police release, on the day in question, around 13:00 hours, the acting Head Mistress of the said school received a

‘tip-off’ that students from Grade Seven were in class with narcotics.

“As a result, she carried out a search and unearthed two zip lock (sic) transparent plastic bags containing cannabis concealed in the socks of a 12-year-old female student.

“The student was questioned and she related that she got the cannabis from her friend, another 12-year-old

female student of the said class who claimed that she stole it from her father,” the release said.

According to the police, when the father was contacted he admitted ownership of cannabis, which he used to smoke.

All parties were interviewed by the police, and by the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) on Thursday.

TWO West Canje, Berbice residents were, on Tuesday, arrested with $1.6 million worth in cannabis, during a raid

by Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), the agency claimed.

According to a release from CANU, Kevon Sandy, 20, of Republic Drive, West Canje, Berbice, and Prince Todd, 20, of Sandvoort, West Canje are currently in custody assisting with investigations.

It is alleged that, on the day in question, CANU officers conducted an operation at Sandvoort, where they intercepted the two suspects.

“One of the individuals had a bulgy salt-bag in his possession. A subsequent search of the bag revealed the suspected cannabis,” the release said.

The men were escorted to CANU’s Headquarters along with the suspected narcotics.

Prince Todd (left) and Kevin Sandy

The reported cannabis The three parcels amounted to 5.33 kg, CANU claimed, adding

that the street value was approximately $1.6 million.

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Shipment delay causes lengthy wait for new passports THE Central Immigration and Passport Office, on Thursday, said there has been a delay in the provision of passport and other immigration document services due to the shortage of materials.

In a statement issued by the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the office said that while it continues to provide passport and other immigration

document services, it is attempting to do so within the normal time frame of five working days.

“The COVID-19 Pandemic and other recent world events have caused the disruption of countless supply chains. The Guyana Police Force’s Central Immigration and Passport Office has been affected by this disruption in the supply chain of material,” the release said.

The report also announced that the delayed shipment of materials will arrive in late August after which there will be some normalcy.

In the meantime, the Central Immigration and Passport Office said it remains “unwavering in its commitment to work assiduously to ensure that things are back to normal in the shortest possible time.”

The Central Immigration and Passport Office Headquarters at Camp Street, Georgetown.

Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre receives orthopaedic equipment

(From left) MoFA Foreign Service Officer, Fariza Hassain, and PRRC’s Stacy Johnson flanked by well-wishers WITH continued support from Guyanese abroad, the Diaspora Unit of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MoFA), on Thursday donated several orthopaedic items to the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre (PRRC).

In a statement issued by the Diaspora Unit, it was disclosed that the kind contribution was made possible through Patsy Downey and Faiyaz Alli of the United Kingdom (UK), with assistance from Guyanese in the United States (USA) and UK.

“We are currently observing Rehab Week, so we are thankful for this donation and we are also opened [sic] to contributions of this kind by anyone who wants to support the centre,” said Administrator of PRRC, Ashford Ambedkar.

Venezuelan gang allegedly robs Eteringbang businessman SEVEN armed Venezuelans, on Thursday, allegedly broke into the Eteringbang Landing, Cuyuni River house of a 24-year-old businessman, and stole cash and raw gold.

According to a police release, the victim, Ronnel Sam was away in Venezuela, when the armed gang invaded his house on Thursday, around 03:30 hrs.

Enquiries by law enforcement disclosed that the suspects, who were reportedly armed with handguns, went to Sam’s business place where he sells fuel, and held his workers at gunpoint.

The suspects allegedly carted off about two kilograms of raw gold along with an undisclosed amount of cash.

“No shots were fired and no one was injured,” the police release said. An inves- Inside the victim’s home which was tigation is ongoing. ransacked by the Venezuelan gang

guyana CHRONICLE friday, june 24, 2022

Judge to sum up evidence in ‘Two Colours’ murder retrial

COME next Tuesday, Justice Jo-Ann Barlow is expected to sum up the evidence in the retrial of Lennox Wayne, called ‘Two Colours,’ who is accused of murdering cosmetologist Ashmini Harriram.

Wayne is currently on trial at the Demerara High Court for the capital offence of murder. He has denied that, on July 10, 2014, at Lusignan Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara (ECD), he murdered Harriram.

The accused is represented by attorneys-at-law Ronald Daniels, Kiswana Jefford and Edriana Stephens, while prosecutors Lisa Cave and Latifah Elliot will present the state’s case.

On Thursday, the defence and the prosecution made their closing arguments. Justice Barlow then set July 28 as the date she will sum up the evidence.

Following the summing up on Tuesday, the judge will hand over the case to the 12-member jury for consideration of the verdict.

The murder case was first tried in 2017 before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow and a 12-member jury at the Georgetown High Court, but ended in a hung jury.

Justice Barlow subsequently ordered a retrial, and the matter was listed to Lennox ‘Two Colours’ be heard during the January Wayne 2021 session of the Demerara Assizes.

The case later came up before Justice Sandil Kissoon and was sent for retrial after the jury also failed to arrive at a verdict.

In April 2021, Wayne’s co-accused, Melroy Doris, had pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to five years.

The Guyana Chronicle had reported that Wayne was allegedly the triggerman, while Doris was the taxi driver who drove Wayne to the scene of the crime to execute Harriram.

It is also alleged that following the act, Doris reportedly transported Wayne back to the city where the victim’s phone was handed over to one of the two persons who had contracted the duo to carry out the murderous act for a price tag of $2.5 million.

The two men were reportedly contracted by the brother-in-law of the hairdresser and an accomplice who wanted her dead, after they suspected that she had disclosed concealed information about them.

They reportedly believed that it was she who had informed the police of a drug operation in which they were engaged, resulting in the narcotics being seized.

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Chinese film festival launched Ambassador Guo Haiyan

Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr.

IN celebration of the People’s Republic of China and Guyana’s 50-year partnership, the Chinese Embassy, earlier this week, launched its film festival at MovieTowne Guyana, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

The festival will feature a series of family-oriented animation, science fiction, and action films all geared toward keeping movie lovers on the edge of their seats.

Speaking at a simple launch ceremony, China’s

and natural spirit,” she said.

The festival will conclude on June 26. The 2019 animated film ‘White Snake’ will be the final film shown for the festival.

‘White Snake’ is an adaptation of a Chinese legend that tells the story of a young adult white snakedemon ‘Blanca/Bai Suzhen’ who loses her memories while being disguised as a human woman.

She falls in love with a snake hunter. This unlikely love match stirs up some family drama as the

Moviegoers in the MovieTowne theatre on Wednesday (Delano Williams photos)

Ambassador in Georgetown, Guo Haiyan, said that cultural and peopleto-people exchanges are an important part of the relationship between Guyana and China.

With this in mind, the Ambassador said it was the Embassy’s vision to share with Guyanese a few films that showcase the unique and vibrant Chinese culture.

“Film is a window to show a country’s culture

two now share a forbidden love.”

Other movies that will be featured before the final day are ‘Vanguard’ on June 24 at 18:00 hrs, the ‘Wandering Earth’ at 15:00 hrs, and ‘Hi, Mom’ at 17:45 hrs on June 25.

‘Vanguard’ will be shown on June 26 at 15:00 hrs, while ‘White Snake’ will be shown at 17:30 hrs.

Admission to all events is free.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

Simone Dowding readies for children’s drama workshop

Dowding has decades of experience in local theatre

L O N G S TA N D I N G member of the local entertainment industry, Simone Dowding, can hardly wait for the opportunity to, once again, be able to host a children’s drama workshop in which she gets to pass on her knowledge and skills in acting.

Under her company, Purple Arts Productions, Dowding conducts the workshop annually when schools close for the July-August vacation period. Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, she opted not to do it for the past two years. She is happy for her return since the last staging in 2019.

She couldn’t be happier that she’s once again going to be with the children, even as she chose to work with a smaller group this time. In previous years, Dowding would have a class with about 40 children.

This year, her class size will be reduced to 20. The actress is still mindful of the pandemic, albeit restrictions are less aggressive than before.

Come July 2 to August 28, the workshop will teach children, ages 9 to 16, the basics in costume and stage management, playwriting, directing, and acting. It also helps them master the arts of listening, breath-

ing, and stage geography.

Every Saturday from 10:00 hrs to midday, the Theatre Guild Playhouse in Kingston, Georgetown, will see children heavily involved in the practical aspects of drama.

“It’s going to be mostly practical because you don’t want to burden the children with literature.

You just want them to enjoy themselves,” Dowding told the BUZZ in an interview.

“The workshop helps to build their foundation and self-esteem. I am elated and I can’t wait to work with the children; they’ve been locked away for so long, so it’s a whole new breath of fresh air for them. They will go back to school rejuvenated and ready to work,” Dowding shared.

The workshop will culminate in Emerge 9, a grand stage show featuring the children.

Explaining how the workshop all got started, Dowding recalled wanting to do something in theatre after being trained for many years.

She eventually formed her company with the introduction of the children’s workshop. Children pay a small tuition fee, but even those who cannot afford the money are taken in by Dowding, who said she has a fond-

Simone Dowding

ness for children.

Having graduated from the E.R Burrowes School of Art and other institutions, she ended up with a total of 13 certificates and won Theatre Guild’s Best Actress Award in 2012 for the play ‘Old Story Times’.

Through her company, Dowding works primarily with children and

seeks to provide them with opportunities that she never enjoyed as a child.

Having worked on the popular production ‘Link Show’ over the years, Dowding has also done ‘House of Pressure’, ‘Miriamy’, ‘Eleventh Finger’, and ‘Jezebel’, just to name a few shows.

Bill Cosby assaulted teen at Playboy Mansion, jury finds

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(BBC) - COMEDIAN Bill Cosby sexually assaulted a teenager at the Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles in 1975, a jury has found.

Judy Huth testified to the civil trial that Cosby, 84, had forced her to perform a sex act on him at the venue when she was 16 years old.

The jury also ruled that Cosby must pay Ms Huth, who is now 64, $500,000 (£407,000) in damages.

Less than a year ago, Cosby walked free from prison after his sexual assault conviction was thrown out.

More than 50 women have come forward with abuse allegations against

the man once known as ‘America’s Dad’, charges he denies.

The civil case against Cosby in Santa Monica, California, was the first to go to trial and represented one of the last remaining legal actions against him.

Filed in 2014, it was delayed for years by Cosby’s criminal proceedings.

Ms Huth’s suit alleged that he brought her and another underage friend to the infamous mansion, lured her to a bedroom and forced himself on her.

When she resisted, he forced her to perform a sex act on him, she testified.

In tears on the stand, Ms

Huth told the court she felt “mad, duped and foolish” after the incident, as her lawyers presented a photo of her and Cosby inside the mansion.

Cosby was not required to appear in person at the trial and never did, but the court saw a 2015 deposition

by Ms Huth’s attorneys, in which the comedian said he did not remember her and would not have pursued sex with a minor.

Lawyers for Cosby sought to poke holes in Ms Huth’s claims, noting she had initially said she was 15 at the time of the incident, but changed that detail weeks before the trial.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

They claimed Ms Huth had offered her photo with Cosby to tabloids and others in search of a payout.

Jurors were also shown a videotaped 2016 deposition of late Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, a close friend of Cosby in the 1970s, who said it would have been “very unusual” for underage girls to be allowed inside the mansion.

Known to millions for his portrayal of TV dad ‘Cliff Huxtable’ on ‘The Cosby Show’, the comic has faced accusations of sexual assault, misconduct and rape stretching back to the mid-1960s.

In 2018, he was convict-

(Credit to GETTY IMAGES)

ed of drugging and molesting a woman at his home in 2004 and sentenced to three to 10 years in prison.

The conviction, how-

ever, was overturned by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court last year. He was released from prison after serving nearly three years.

Beyoncé, Drake and the revival of 90s house music (BBC) - “I’m on that new vibration,” sings Beyoncé on her new single, Break My Soul. “I’m buildin’ my own foundation.”

The foundation of her new sound actually dates back to the diva house movement of the 1990s, with its deep grooves, soaring melodies and insistent four-four beats.

She even shares the writing credits with Allen George and Fred McFarlane, composers of the timeless house classic ‘Show Me Love’ for Robin S. Weirdly, Break My Soul neither samples nor quotes their song. It simply uses the same bass sound, a preset on the infamous Korg M1 keyboard. But Beyoncé has always been careful to acknowledge the black creators who have influenced her.

Sending a few royalty cheques to the creators of Show Me Love (or to their family in the case of McFarlane who died in 2016) is a very Beyoncé gesture.

The release of Break My Soul comes just a couple of days after Drake’s similarly club-inspired new album, ‘Honestly, Nevermind’.

Tracks like ‘Falling Back’ and ‘Massive’ also draw on the hypnotic bass and chunky piano chords of 90s house, with Drake enlisting an all-star cast of house and electronic music producers like Gordo, Rampa, Black Coffee and Alex Lustig.

The question is, why now?

Part of the answer is, almost predictably, the pan-

encing the Great Resignation. A prominent sample of New Orleans bounce musician Big Freedia then urges listeners to “release the stress” and “release your mind” before a gospel choir turns up for the song’s ecstatic climax.

“With all the isolation and injustice over the past year, I think we are all ready to escape, travel, love, and laugh again,”

Big Freedia said she was “honoured” to be included on Beyoncé’s new single

demic. Like Lady Gaga and Dua Lipa before them, Drake and Beyoncé are eulogising the redemptive power of dance in an unrecognisable world.

“I just quit my job... they work me so damn hard,” mutters Beyoncé in her lowest register, refer-

Beyoncé said in a recent interview about her forthcoming album. “I feel a renaissance emerging, and I want to be part of nurturing that escape in any way possible.”

Drake’s album is more concerned with relationships (guess what everyone,

he’s a bit sad about them) but even he promises to “throw a party for my day ones”, while bragging “I’m a night owl, this a different mode”.

There are dozens of different genres that Drizzy and Queen Bey could have chosen to soundtrack their dancefloor escapades. But both are smart enough to know the extra cultural weight that house carries.

It emerged in a Chicago venue called The Warehouse, which initially operated as a members-only club almost exclusively frequented by black and Latin-American gay men.

“It wasn’t meant for straight people at all,” recalled house pioneer Jesse Saunders last year. “We’re talking the ‘70s. When you’re young, Black, Latino and gay, you have no place in Chicago, because Chicago is one of the most segregated cities in the country, if not the world.

Nobody wants you in their club. Nobody wants you partying. So they built their own... just for gay men, not even gay women.”

The club’s star DJ was Frankie Knuckles, who would use a reel-to-reel tape to create loops and

“pause button remixes” of his favourite disco tracks, making them last a little longer.

In 1983, he acquired a drum machine to enhance his mixes, and that combination of stripped-back, insistent beats with elements of cult disco classics defined the house sound.

The music’s sexuality was “blunt” and “blatant”, wrote Bob Stanley in his book ‘Yeah Yeah Yeah: A History of pop music’.

“That rush to orgasm was clear in its ebbs, flows and jump cuts between dark chords and uplifting piano breaks.

“Unlike disco, this wasn’t music made by musicians, it was made by clubbers for clubbers.”

By the late ‘80s, it had broken out of underground clubs and made its way onto the pop charts, helped by artists like Inner City, the Pet Shop Boys and Madonna, whose house anthem ‘Vogue’ became a worldwide number one in 1990.

The music’s origins in black and queer spaces has often been overlooked. But Beyoncé makes it explicit in Break My Soul, embellishing her familiar theme

of self-empowerment with a rap from Big Freedia, who has been a fierce advocate for LGBTQ+ [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer+] rights after experiencing homophobia in the early days of her career.

“We weren’t treated equally, being that we were gay,” she told Billboard magazine last year. “We were working for chump change. Over time, things started to change, but in the beginning, it was not so easy. It was not so accepting.

“People were in shock that they had these gay artists out in New Orleans that’s doing bounce music and making the girls shake all over.”

By building a bridge to black and queer subcultures, and releasing their music during Pride month, Beyoncé and Drake are doing more than just plundering their record collections for ideas.

And if their new records encourage people to check out Cece Rogers’ ‘Someday’, or Marshall Jefferson’s ‘Move Your Body’, or The Nightwriters’ ‘Let The Music Use You’, well, that can only be a good thing.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

Stranger Things Season 4 is bigger, better, scarier

CRUISING back into Hawkins, the small Indiana town, everything appears normal on the surface as residents carry on with their lives. But something is amiss.

It’s been three years since we last saw NETFLIX’s megahit horror series, ‘Stranger Things’.

In the series itself, only six months have passed.

The strange beings which emerged previously are still very present.

Stranger Things is an American science fiction horror television series created for NETFLIX by the Duffer Brothers. The series is set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, in the 1980s.

The first season, set in November 1983, focuses on the investigation into the disappearance of a young boy, Will Byers, amid unexplained supernatural events occurring around the town.

Spoiler alert!

The new season con-

tinues with Joyce (Winona Ryder), Will (Noah Schnapp), Jonathon (Charlie Heaton) and Eleven (Milly Bobby Brown).

Eleven, the main character with unexplained supernatural gifts, moved to sunny California in hopes of escaping the torment of the ‘Upside Down’, an alternate world accessed through a portal.

In the new environment, a powerless Eleven tries to navigate high school as an average teenager. This isn’t exactly the life she imagined as she has also lost her supernatural gifts and is more vulnerable than ever.

Constantly bullied and tormented in her new school, Eleven finds it difficult transitioning to this new space.

While she has a familiar face around her, Will, her adjustment is still not smooth.

She still, however, finds time to write her boyfriend, Mike (Finn Wolfhard) who still lives in Hawkins.

The people Eleven left

back in Hawkins have also changed. Her friends grew apart. With Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) now a part of the basketball team and Max (Sadie Sink) battling to stay above board, the group of friends we come to love over the last three seasons has split.

Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) and Mike have found a new passion in the video gaming world, “Dungeons and Dragons”. Meanwhile, Nancy (Natalia Dyer) is a budding investigative journalist at the school’s newspaper while Robin (Maya Hawke) and Steve (Joe Keery) remained close friends, working together at a local store.

A new threat emerges from the alternate ‘Upside Down’ world which sees the team rekindling their friendship to save their small town. Where are the adults in all of this? Volume 1 of Season 4 has wrapped up. Volume 2 will air on July 1.

The adventure continues.

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Ferocious Ramsey stops Mexican to reach IMMAF Pan Am Heavyweight finals ...Shenese Bobb to fight in women’s lightweight finals

By Rawle Toney in Monterrey, Mexico (Compliments: GYMMAF, Team Mohamed’s & National Sports Commission)

CONSTABLE Carl Ramsey, attached to the Guyana Police Force’s Tactical Service Unit (TSU) was in a no-nonsense mood yesterday when he came

up against Mexico’s Juan Rodriguez in the semi-finals of the men’s Heavyweight division of the IMMAF Pan American Championships in Monterrey, Mexico.

Ramsey was focused and had a very intimidating entrance to the Octagon as he roared and flexed his muscles; all while being draped with the Golden

Arrowhead.

Rodriguez, who was first introduced, had a resounding applause from the small crowd at the Gimnasio Nuevo León.

However, the crowd was brought to silence when referee Horacio Villanueva brought the bout to a start, as Ramsey launched a brutal attack on his Mexican counterpart with bunch

of ferocious strikes.

Realising that Ramsey was seemingly better on his feet, Rodriguez took the fight to the ground, but didn’t realise that the Guyanese had more superior in the grapple position as well.

It was all Ramsey throughout the first round, as the Mexican looked gassed as the round came to an end.

Sensei Troy Bobb, standing in Ramsey’s corner, was encouraging his fighter to go for the finish in the second round after noticing Rodriguez inability to withstand the ‘GT’ fighter’s attack.

But, as fate would have it, Rodriguez refused to come out for the second round, handing Ramsey and Guyana their first victory at an International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) event.

After the fight, acting Police Commissioner, Clifton Hickens, congratulated the fighter, while encouraging him to stay focused and return home with the gold.

The show is far from over for Ramsey and Sensei Bobb, with the Guyanese now shifting his attention to face Trinidad and Tobago’s Jeremy Rudolpho in today’s finals.

Rudolpho is bigger than Ramsey and a bit more technical than the Guyanese policeman and showed some bit of his strength in his first round TKO win over Marco Mendez of Mexico.

For what its worth, Ramsey said he’s prepared to leave it all in the Octagon as he starts a new sports rivalry between Guyana and the Twin Island Republic.

Meanwhile, Shenese Bobb, the lone female on the three-member team, will compete in the finals of the Women’s lightweight division, where she will face an experienced Samantha Teutle of Mexico.

Bobb was scheduled to fight the division’s semi-finals against Ivana Garcia yesterday, but the Mexican failed to make the 155lbs limit for the weight class.

As it relates to the Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GYMMAF) protest of Trevlon Clarke’s defeat following his Men’s Welterweight division to Uruguay’s Cristian Sanchez, the IMMAF, according to information reaching Chronicle Sport, has upheld the ‘ground and pound’ TKO third round defeat.

The GYMMAF argued that Clarke was poked in the eye during the second round, which is dubbed an illegal move.

However, GYMMAF officials in Mexico said they met with the IMMAF who had review the fight and said that while it was unfortunate that the Guyanese was indeed poked in his eyes, the act was not willfully done by the Uruguayan.

Three athletes, all members of the Guyana Police Force, are representing Guyana at this year’s IMMAF Pan Am Championships which raps up today in the City of Nuevo León.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

Third Test at Headingley...

Mitchell & Blundell hold up England again ENGLAND’s bowlers were once again held up by New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell and Tom Blundell on day one of the third Test at Headingley.

Mitchell, who already has two centuries in the series, ended 78 not out as the Black Caps recovered from 123-5 to reach 225 without further loss.

Blundell made 45 not out, combining for an unbroken stand of 102 with Mitchell to follow partnerships 195 in the first Test and 236 in the second.

After losing the toss, England - 2-0 up in the threematch series - bowled admirably on a flat pitch but were left to rue the decision not to review an lbw decision against Mitchell.

Had they done so he would have been out for eight.

Earlier, Stuart Broad had Tom Latham caught at first slip in the first over and debutant Jamie Overton bowled Devon Conway off an inside edge for his first international wicket.

Spinner Jack Leach took two wickets, including the remarkable dismissal of Henry Nicholls, caught at mid-off via a deflection off non-striker Mitchell’s bat.

The day ended in the gloom under the floodlights, but Mitchell and Blundell survived a further 10 overs against the new ball to leave the Test finely poised.

England thwarted on Headingley return This Test saw cricket return to Headingley after the racism scandal which engulfed the sport last year following the testimony of former Yorkshire all-rounder Azeem Rafiq.

The county were banned from hosting international matches last year but had that right reinstated in February when it was deemed they had made progress with the required improvements.

Those in attendance witnessed a more traditional day than England fans have

Daryl Mitchell celebrates reaching fifty for the third time this series (Visionhaus/ Getty Images)

become accustomed to in the rip-roaring start to their new era under captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum.

New Zealand scored at just 2.5 runs per over, a complete contrast to the staggering final day of the second Test at Trent Bridge, when Jonny Bairstow’s pulsating 77-ball century fired England to a famous win.

In the first first two sessions in particular, England’s bowlers were impressive.

New Zealand opted to bat on a flat pitch under blue skies but were 123-5 at tea.

However, in Mitchell and Blundell they have two batters who can take no blame for the fact New Zealand have lost the series.

Mitchell’s only mistake came when he missed an inswinger from Matthew Potts playing across his pad. Stokes opted not to review but the technology suggested the ball would have hit middle stump.

England’s bowlers impress The fact New Zealand were able to work their way back into the day was largely down to that error, rather than poor England bowling.

Broad, a day after announcing he and fiancee Mollie King are expecting their

first child, gave England a perfect start by finding the edge of left-hander Latham from round the wicket.

He also removed Kane Williamson for 31, the skipper’s return after missing the second Test with Covid-19 ending with a thin edge to wicketkeeper Ben Foakes.

Overton was given his cap by his brother Craig, who was also in the squad but left out of the final XI, and bowled with lively pace.

Potts went wicketless but conceded only 28 runs from 20 overs, while Leach produced one of the best holding, first-innings performances of his interrupted Test career, conceding 2.68 runs per over after trapping Will Young lbw for 20 with his first ball.

Later, when Nicholls cracked the ball into the bat of Mitchell and it comically looped into the hands of Alex Lees, it was a welcome stroke of luck for one of England’s most unfortunate cricketers.

Leach has missed Tests for concussion, illness and selection in recent times could argue he is worthy of the fortun Mitchell and Blundell dig in again Mitchell and Blundell have now scored 593 runs together in five innings in this series - the most in a series against England since South Africa’s Graeme Smith and Herschelle Gibbs amassed 677 across nine innings in 2003.

Mitchell and Blundell batted as they have done in the previous two Tests, calmly and rarely looking troubled.

Mitchell was able to attack Leach more effectively than any of his team-mates, using the reverse sweep and reaching his fifty by thumping the spinner for one of two straight sixes.

Having accumulated well, Blundell was given out caught behind off Joe Root’s off-spin on 31 but overturned the decision on review. (BBC Sport)

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Uitvlugt, North Ruimvedlt winners in latest round of MILO Football

The Milo schools football tournament continued on Wednesday despite early morning rains (Adrian Narine Photo)

UITVLUGT and North Ruimvedlt moved onto the next round of the MILO schools football championships by winning their respective matches in differing manner on Wednesday afternoon.

Playing against Ann’s Grove, Uitvlugt were eventual winners in a see-saw

encounter.

A hat- trick from Rockliff Anderson in the 3rd, 36th and 66th minute, alongside a single strike from Germaine Cummings in the 31st minute, ensured the win.

The battle was not an easy one as Isaiah Alphonso’s brace and Naron Jerrick’s in the 43rd minute made the

West Demerara side work for their win In the battle of the Ruimveldt teams, North beat East on penalties by 4-2.

With the scoreline deadlocked at 2-2 at the end of regulation time, the North were better when it came to the spot.

Akeem Perreira (28) and

Calvin Bowlin (66) were the scorers for the eventual winners while Ome Harris (46, 56) scored for East Matches continued yesterday afternoon from 17:00hrs with Golden Grove Secondary playing Buxton Secondary, and at 18:30 hrs, Dolphin Secondary against Charlestown.

Argentine courts to try Maradona doctors, nurses for homicide

(REUTERS)-Eight people who took care of football legend Diego Maradona will be tried in Argentina courts for homicide, according to a ruling released this week, following an investigation into his November 2020 death due to cardiac arrest.

In the 236-page document seen by Reuters, the judge in charge of the case questioned “the behaviours – active or by omission – of each of the accused, which led to and contributed to the realisation of the harmful result”.

The ruling said that eight people, including doctors, nurses and a psychologist who cared for Maradona at the time of his death, are accused of “simple homicide”, a serious charge that means taking a life with intent.

A medical board appointed to investigate Maradona’s death concluded in 2021 that the star’s medical team acted in an “inappropriate, deficient and reckless manner”.

Maradona was consid-

Diego Maradona died of a heart attack at his Buenos Aires home, aged 60

ered one of the greatest soccer players in history, though the diminutive player (nicknamed “Pelusa” for his long mane of hair, and “D10S” as a play on the Spanish word for “God” using his jersey number) battled drug and alcohol abuse for years.

Mario Baudry, a lawyer for one of Maradona’s sons, told Reuters that the World Cup winner was “in a situation of helplessness” by the time of his death. Maradona died on November 25, 2020, at the age of 60.

“As soon as I saw the cause, I said it was homi-

cide. I fought for a long time, and here we are, with this stage completed,” he said.

Argentine prosecutors launched investigations shortly after Maradona’s death at a house near Buenos Aires, including ordering searches of properties of his personal doctor, and probing others involved in his care.

The defendants named in the ruling were Maradona’s neurosurgeon and personal doctor, Leopoldo Luque; psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov; psychologist Carlos Diaz; nurses Gisella

Madrid and Ricardo Almiron; their boss Mariano Perroni; and doctors Pedro Di Spagna and Nancy Forlini.

The defendants have denied responsibility for Maradona’s death. The judge said that lawyers for some of them had requested the case be dismissed.

Vadim Mischanchuk, an attorney for Cosachov, said they would appeal the decision, adding that the psychiatrist’s area of care had no relation with Maradona’s cause of death.

“A guilty party is being sought at all costs, and objectivity is being lost,” the lawyer said.

Reuters could not immediately reach the defendants or the other lawyers for comment.

The crime of “simple homicide” in Argentina usually leads to a sentence of eight to 25 years in prison, according to the country’s penal code.

There is no set date for the trial yet.

Sir Jackie Stewart urges Lewis Hamilton to retire from F1

SIR Jackie Stewart has urged Lewis Hamilton to retire from Formula 1 to protect his legacy, adding it was “a pity” the seven-time world champion did not go out at the top and suggested Hamilton might wish to focus instead on the fashion industry.

Stewart, 83, has been critical of Hamilton in the past and his latest comments are likely to irritate the 37-year-old, who recently rebuked those questioning his commitment to Mercedes.

Despite a difficult start to the 2022 season following a long period of dominance, Hamilton said it was “not in his DNA” to quit and insisted he was “100 per cent” committed to getting the Brackley team back on top.

Stewart, though, believes Hamilton should have retired already. “He has done extremely well,” Stewart told The Convex Conversation podcast. “He came from modest beginnings. His father had four or five jobs to afford his karting before Ron Dennis picked him up because he was so good at karting and took him to McLaren and got him winning grands prix. He is very talented.

“And when it came time to leave McLaren, it was his decision, not Ron Dennis’, it was Lewis Hamilton’s decision, to go to Mercedes-Benz because he saw the potential. And now he has won eight [seven, sic] world championships.

“But anyway, he’s now struggling a little bit because he’s had a new teammate [George Russell] who has been quicker than him in qualifying so far this year, which is going to be hard for him to handle.”

Stewart added: “I think it’s time for him to resign.

He’s got music, he’s got culture, he loves clothing and the rag trade would be absolutely suitable for him. I’m sure he’ll be very successful because he’s been earning a huge amount of money — rightfully so because he’s been the best of his time.

And that’s the best you can do. Juan Manuel Fangio, way back in the 1940s and 1950s, and [Tazio] Nuvolari

Sir Jackie Stewart tells Lewis Hamilton to retire – (Getty Images)

and [Rudolf] Caracciola in the 1920s and 1930s, there’s always somebody up there, whether it was Jim Clark in the 1960s… Juan Manuel was the smoothest, bestest [sic] I’ve ever seen, I carried him to his final resting place. “[But] Lewis is in that group of the Ayrton Sennas and the Alain Prosts — or even the Jackie Stewarts maybe. He’s carried the sport very well. I’d like to see him resigning now. It’s a pity he wasn’t resigning at the top but I don’t think that’s going to happen now.

But nevertheless it’s wiser to stop than go through all the pain of not being able to do what you did before.”

Hamilton lies sixth in the championship after nine races of the 2022 season, 98 points behind leader Max Verstappen, although Mercedes were more competitive at the most recent race in Canada where Hamilton finished third, his joint best result of the year.

In April, Hamilton said he was committed to turning the team’s season around.

“Just because we’ve hit a rough patch, it’s just not in my DNA to back out,” he said. “We are still world champions and we can fix this. It’s just going to take longer; it’s going to take a painful year.

“I think, ultimately, this is going to be a painful year that we’re going to have to ride out together with belief that we can rectify it at some point, maybe through the year or even the worst case scenario, at least for next year.”

The season continues at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, Hamilton’s home race, next week.

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

Rose headlines Team Guyana for 3x3 in Guadeloupe THE Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) has confirmed via a release to the media on Wednesday, that a four-man 3×3 National Team will compete at the inaugural Caribbean Under23 Games in Guadeloupe Guyana will be among eight countries participating in the 3×3 Basketball event at the Games scheduled from June 29 – June 3 at the Gymnase De Boisripeaux in Les Abymes.

The Caribbean Games are being organised by the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC). The five-day meet fulfills the dreams of sports leaders in the Caribbean to organise multisport games for the region.

The Southern Games staged over a decade ago in Guaracara Park, Trinidad, featured only Athletics and Cycling.

The Caribbean Games,

Captain Stanton Rose, Yonnick Tappin, 3x3 Coordinator Sileena Arjune, Kimol Grimmond and Timothy Thompson

however, will feature seven disciplines – Athletics, 3×3 Basketball, Cycling, Futsal, Judo, Swimming, and Netball, with demonstrations of handisport and e-sport.

The Guyana 3×3 Basketball U-23 National Team will be led by team captain, Stanton Rose, Timothy Thompson,

Yonnick Tappin and Kimol Grimmond.

The Head of the 3×3 Basketball Delegation will be the GABF Youth and 3×3 Coordinator, Sileena Arjune.

All four players along with the 3×3 Coordinator returned from Suriname Tuesday after successfully securing their

French Visas which will allow them to enter the French territory of Guadeloupe.

The GABF organised four friendly games against the Suriname 3×3 U23 National team where Guyana defeated Suriname 3-1.

Guyana lost Game one, 1522 but, bounced back by handing Suriname three consecutive losses, 21-11, 18-7, and 18-16.

GABF Secretary-General, Patrick Haynes said, “A Caribbean-oriented multi-sports event was a long time in the making, and we at the GABF are pleased to see that it is finally set to become a reality this month. These Games will afford our athletes an opportunity to compete against the region’s elite athletes and provide another valuable opportunity for them to gain international experience in competition.”

The National Teams were previously placed in pairs taking into account their FIBA

Women’s Development seeks to unlock and nurture new talents

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF), on Tuesday, launched the GFF Women’s Development League, as part of its ongoing efforts with UEFA Assist, the Danish Football Union (DBU) and CONCACAF, to support the growth of women’s football in partnership with the Guyana National Women’s Football Association (GNWFA).

Thirty-seven teams from across the country will participate in the development league, which runs from June to October and leads up to the second consecutive edition of the GFF-GNWFA Women’s Super16 Cup, starting in November.

This translates into about six months of non-stop competitive football for senior women players in Guyana – a first in the nation’s history.

The tournament has been part-funded with EUR 35,000 from the DBU, via the UEFA Assist programme, providing materials and apparel to 37 clubs around the country.

“We are delighted to have supported the Danish Football Union in this important project via the fourth pillar of UEFA Assist, where we connect UEFA member associations with federations from outside of Europe to help develop football,” said

3×3 U23 Caribbean Ranking position.

Then the teams and their spot were drawn to define the matchups.

Group A: Guyana, Saint Lucia, Cuba, Guadeloupe, Group B: Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Suriname, Jamaica The top two teams from each group will advance to the

Semi-Finals while the rest will compete for the 5-8 spots.

In the Semi-Finals, the top two teams from each group will face the second team of each opposing group (1A vs 2B and 1B vs 2A).

The semi-final winners will qualify for the gold medal game, while the losers will play for third place and the bronze medal.

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CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Seated from left: Assistant Technical Director, Bryan Joseph, GFF president Wayne Forde, UEFA’s Chris Milnes and Women’s Football President, Andrea Johnson, along with some participants of the League

Chris Milnes, International Relations Project Specialist at UEFA. “I want to congratulate the GFF and CONCACAF for all the hard work that they are doing to develop women’s football. This is also a key priority of UEFA Assist, through which we have developed specific programmes to help promote and empower women in football both on and off the pitch,” Milnes added.

GFF president, Wayne Forde, urged the participating players to “enjoy every moment” that the tournament will bring, especially given that national team staff will be scouting for

talent for the senior women’s national team.

“We are very excited to take on further step of the development of women’s football here in Guyana, and much of this would not have been possible without the generous support of our international partners,” President Forde said, thanking UEFA Assist and CONCACAF. The logistics of the tournament will be managed by the GNWFA, with the organisation’s president, Andrea Johnson, also extending gratitude on behalf of the association to the GFF, UEFA Assist and the DBU.

We are elated about this opportunity,” Johnson said. “We are getting to that place where we want to be as it relates to women’s football. This league will be a remarkable one because we have some spectacular players coming from all the clubs.”

In the first match of the season, Guyana Police Force women beat Fruta Conquerors women 4-0 at the GFF National Training Centre, with a first-half brace from Lady Jags star, Annalisa Vincent and second-half goals from Shantel Greene and Melina Larson.

(Friday June 24, 2022) COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Ridley Jacobs & Khaled Mashud (Dhaka, 2002) (2) 136-Mahmudullah (Mirpur, 2018) Today’s Quiz: (1) Which Bangladeshi scored a century in his country’s very first Test match?

(2) How many BANG batsmen were dismissed for ‘ducks’ in the recent first Test against the WI? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

Confident Windies seek series sweep against Bangladesh in second Test so we have to be on it.

We’ve got to work hard again.

“We can’t mentally just think we’re going to score a big total and then get them out. The batsmen had two days to practice and the Bangla-

CHILLED: Captain Kraigg Brathwaite and his deputy Jermaine Blackwood share a laugh on the final day of training before the second Test. (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

GROS ISLET, Bangladesh, (CMC) – Marquee seamer Kemar Roach enters the second Test against Bangladesh here today poised to become only the sixth West Indies bowler in history to reach 250 wickets, but captain Kraigg Brathwaite said the looming achievement would not cloud the side’s focus in their quest for a series sweep.

Barbadian Roach, who turns 34 at month end, picked up seven wickets in the opening Test which West Indies won by seven wickets in Antigua last Sunday, to move alongside the legendary Michael Holding on 249 wickets.

One more wicket will put him in the highly vaunted club which comprises Courtney Walsh, Sir Curtly Ambrose, Malcolm Marshall, Lance Gibbs and Joel Garner but Brathwaite assured that milestones were secondary to the match result.

“Going into the game we’re not studying milestones. As a group, we think about our own team plans and funny enough, if you do the team

plans well, milestones may come,” Brathwaite stressed here Thursday.

“We know Bangladesh will come fighting hard again so I think we’re really focussing hard on our plans and everything else will take care of itself.”

He continued: “I think the main thing is attitude.

I think we’ve developed a really good attitude towards preparation for the longer format and we need to just keep it up. I think the England series was well done. We fought hard the first two games and obviously got the win in the last game.

“This one, we started well but for me what is key is that consistency is always important. As I said, Bangladesh will be coming hard this game – both the batsmen and the bowlers – so we can’t take it lightly.

“The attitude of the players has really improved and it’s just to keep going and never take things for granted. We’ve got to keep our feet on the gas and keep working hard as a group.”

West Indies shocked England 1-0 in the threeTest series last March

and a win in the second Test at the Daren Sammy National Stadium will see them remain unbeaten in the longest format this year.

However, Brathwaite remained wary of stumbles which have plagued the Caribbean side in the past. Last August, they won the opening Test against Pakistan by one wicket only to succumb in the second Test by 109 runs.

He said it was important to approach the game with the same intensity as the first Test, while bracing for a backlash from Bangladesh.

“Focus is very big and then attitude. I always speak about attitude.

We can’t take things for granted,” he pointed out.

“That second Test against Pakistan – that’s the example we brought to the guys. We started the series well against them and then obviously Pakistan won the second game.

“It’s having the attitude that the first game is gone. I think that is history. And we know Bangladesh are going to come and fight again

desh batsmen are going to be finding ways to combat our pacers so it’s about just having that focus and not taking things lightly.

“We’ve got to stay on the gas and we’ve got to work hard and just keep

that attitude in the right place for every ball, every hour, every session … then the results will take care of themselves.”

West Indies earlier this week named an unchanged 13-man squad for the Test.

28

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 24, 2022

Ferocious Ramsey stops Mexican to reach IMMAF Pan Am Heavyweight finals ...Shenese Bobb to fight in women’s lightweight finals

Story on page 23

Guyana’s Carl Ramsey in full control of his Men’s Heavyweight MMA encounter against Mexican Juan Rodriguez in Monterrey

CG United Women’s Super 50 semi-final..

Jamaica bundle out Guyana for 23 to secure spot in final

VANESSA Watts and Chinelle Henry both bagged five wickets as Jamaica completely outplayed Guyana in the second semi-final of the CG United Women’s Super50 tournament on Thursday.

Off-spinner Watts and seamer Henry combined to great effect as Guyana were bowled out for a record low 23 runs in 11.2 overs in the match reduced to 38-overs per side.

Watts got four of her five wickets via the leg-before-wicket route as she bowled wicket-to-wicket aiming for middle stump.

Meanwhile, Henry’s pace and line caused major problems for the home town batters – including the spectacular dismissal of captain Shemaine Campbelle whose stumps went flying out of the ground. Watts

Chinelle Henry celebrating a successful LBW appeal

finished with the hugely-impressive figures of 5.2-1-5-5 while Henry was also brilliant with 6-3-18-5.

In their pursuit of the small target Jamaica lost two wickets in their run chase. Rashada Williams top-scored with 12, ironically the only batter in the match to reach double figures.

Watts was extremely delighted with her match-winning performance: “It’s down in the back end and I’m happy that I got some wickets and it paid off for my team. I’ve been, according to the team’s plan, putting the ball where the team wants me to, and the wickets are coming,” she said.

Henry was just as elated and spoke of the team plan. She said: “In our team meeting, the coach said to leave everything out there (on the field) and we had a discussion to do it over by over, so today we did come out and execute. Since the World Cup (in New Zealand) I really have been putting in the work, I know the part I play for Jamaica Cricket and West Indies so I know I can come here and show my class.”

Jamaica, who earlier won the T20 Blaze tournament, will now look to secure the “double” when they take on Barbados in the final tomorrow from 9:30am Eastern Caribbean (8:30am Jamaica Time). Both teams have played unbeaten in this format and will enter the final brimming with confidence.

Shenese Bobb will fight in the finals of the women’s Lightweight division at the IMMAF Pan Am Championships

FIFA approves 26man squads for World Cup in Qatar FIFA has approved 26-man squads for this year’s World Cup in Qatar.

The move is in line with recent national competitions and is an expansion on the 23-man squads that had been used before the coronavirus pandemic.

FIFA also said up to 15 substitutes can be named for a game, meaning no player misses out - something England head coach Gareth Southgate had called for.

“I think everybody has to be available for all the games,” he said in April.

Southgate added: “If the squads are going to be bigger then it needs to be a situation where everybody is able to change on a matchday.”

The deadline for all 32 countries competing to submit their final squads is 20 October - 30 days before the first game between Senegal and the Netherlands at the Al Thumama Stadium.

FIFA also said that no more than 26 people - up to 15 substitutes and 11 team officials, of which one must be the team doctor - will be allowed to sit on the bench.

England begin their campaign against Iran on the opening day, 21 November, at 13:00 GMT, while Wales - who are drawn in the same group - face the USA later at 19:00 GMT.

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FRIDAY, JUNE 24, 2022